luxheroica:

The first time Vex begins to suspect that Percy is deathly ticklish, they’re pressed against a wall together and trying desperately not to be seen by the cadre of guards searching for them. It’s not the circumstances under which Vex would like to get Percival up against a wall, considering she’s cramped and sweaty and streaked with blood, but she’s appreciating it nonetheless. 

She shifts slowly, trying to ease the cramps in her knees. Her elbow brushes up against Percy’s side. He jerks away, makes a small noise at the back of his throat. They both freeze, eyes wide in terror. At last Vex breathes. One long slow breath. Two. 

It seems they haven’t been noticed. 

She smiles, apologetic, at Percy. He returns the look, boyishly sheepish. It’s endearing. “Sorry,” he mouths, knowing she can read it. 

Vex very carefully doesn’t move. 

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