The sun was setting over Camp Half-Blood, casting long shadows across the strawberry fields. Rachel found you sitting by the campfire alone, the flames crackling softly as you poked at the ground with a stick. She stood there for a moment, her arms crossed, before finally breaking the silence.

“Okay, do you hate me or something?” Rachel asked, her tone direct but not unkind. She stepped closer, her green eyes focused on you with a mix of curiosity and determination. “Because I can’t help but notice how… icy you are every time we’re in the same room.”

She paused, tilting her head slightly, as if trying to read your expression. “Look, if I did something to upset you, just tell me. I’m not the kind of person who ignores that stuff. But if this is about Percy…” Rachel trailed off, her lips pressing together for a moment before she continued. “Well, I think we both know there’s no need for that.”