Third Person's POV.
The next day, Gemini woke feeling utterly refreshed and giddy to see his Nana. He met Percy downstairs, and soon, the trio was headed out for breakfast. Percy took Gemini and Nana to a beautiful, sunlit cafe known for its exquisite pastries. The conversation was light and easy, a perfect blend of Nana's gentle stories and Percy's quiet, attentive listening.
Afterwards, Percy's driver drove them towards the sprawling university campus. Just as Gemini was trying to understand why Percy would bring them to the university—it was hardly a thrilling backdrop for Nana's final morning—he saw Ohio standing there, waving enthusiastically.
Percy stopped the car and got out, allowing Ohio to slide into the front passenger seat. He leaned in, his gaze serious. "Remember, Nana's flight is this evening. Don't make her late. Have fun."
Ohio flashed a mischievous grin and held up a sleek, black credit card. "Orders received, Commander. We'll be on time, but with a few more bags than expected. Is that okay, kind Sir?"
Percy simply nodded, a hint of amusement in his eyes, before stepping away. And just like that, the driver was taking them away from campus again.
When did Ohio and Percy become such good friends? Gemini wondered.
It turned out Percy's black card had been with Ohio since yesterday morning, and now they were going on a shopping spree. Percy's orders were simple: Ohio was there to make sure Gemini didn't hold back on spending, especially on his Nana. And Ohio knew exactly how to follow instructions, particularly when they were about spending money.
"Okay, Bunny, today is about spoiling the MVP of the River's family," Ohio announced, turning around in her seat. "Percy said, and I quote, 'If they hesitate, remind them the card has no limit.' So, zero hesitation, got it?"
Gemini laughed, a joyful, unburdened sound. " Only Percy would say something like that. And Ohio, you are way too happy about this. Should I be scared?"
"This is the best feeling in the world! The sheer power of the black card, Gem! It's intoxicating! You'll feel it soon."
The rest of the morning was a luxurious, whirlwind adventure. They started with clothes. There was nothing Ohio didn't make Nana try on, pulling her through high-end boutiques and department stores. Ohio bought everything and anything she thought Nana needed: cashmere scarves, a beautiful new coat, comfortable yet stylish walking shoes, and a stunning pearl necklace.
Nana protested sweetly at first. "Oh, my sweet bunny, this is too much. You kids need to save your money for school! I can't accept this."
Gemini, with Ohio egging him on, just hugged her. "It's from Percy, Nana. It's a thank-you for coming all the way here. He won't accept anything less. Just let us spoil you, okay?"
He was enjoying it almost as much as Ohio. Watching Nana's face light up with genuine delight over a perfectly tailored jacket or a new purse was its own reward.
Afterwards, they ate lunch in a very fancy, almost silent restaurant before heading directly to the airport. The goodbyes were tearful but happy, with Nana assuring Gemini she'd see him again soon.
When Gemini finally got home to Percy's apartment that evening, it was nearly eight o'clock. He felt utterly exhausted but emotionally full.
He walked into the silent apartment and found Percy sitting on the sofa, a book open on his lap, looking as if he'd been waiting patiently all evening. Percy stood up as soon as Gemini entered the house.
"Did everything go smoothly?" Percy asked, his gaze searching Gemini's face.
"Perfectly," Gemini managed, dropping his bag. He took three steps across the room, driven by a surge of pure, speechless gratitude. He couldn't articulate the feeling: the thanks for the cake, the friends, the luxury shopping, the amazing birthday, and the quiet comfort of the night before. All the words—thank you for your kindness—seemed too small, overwhelming, too transactional.
Instead, Gemini walked right up to Percy and simply hugged him. It wasn't the tired, falling-into-place embrace from the night before kind of hug; this was a purposeful, arms-wrapped-tight hug. He buried his face in the soft fabric of Percy's shirt and let his actions do the talking.
Percy, after a momentary stiffness of surprise, returned the hug just as tightly, his hands settling firmly on Gemini's back. He didn't ask any more questions.
"I'm glad," Percy murmured, his breath warm against Gemini's hair.