The Burrow was quiet for once as you sat on the porch, reading. Percy approached, hesitating before sitting beside you. His usual stiff posture betrayed a hint of unease.

“You’re not causing trouble with Fred and George today?” he asked, glancing at you.

You smirked. “Taking a break.”

A pause. Percy cleared his throat. “That’s… good.”

You studied him, amused. He was never this awkward. “Something on your mind, Percy?”

He hesitated, adjusting his glasses. “I just… appreciate your presence here.”

Your heart skipped. That was unexpected. “That almost sounded like a compliment.”

His cheeks reddened. “It—well, yes. It was.”

Silence stretched, thick with something unsaid. Then, as if catching himself, Percy straightened. “I should—get back.”

You watched him go, smiling to yourself. Maybe he wasn’t as composed as he liked to pretend.