Her silence was unusual, and not just when speaking to him. She had never been one to suffer for lack of words, even now her brain was full of words. Of things to say to Mr. Adlard. She just didn't have any she could bring herself to actually say. She couldn't think of any that might make the whole situation better.

Annabeth had kept walking as she spoke, feeling the need to do something. To have something other than her surely impending doom to think about. For this wasn't once of her romance novels, this was real life. The concept of love when applied to real-life was nothing but pointless frivolities. Relationships were built of benefits, not love. Even on the faint chance that Percy might like her back, he would get nothing out of pursuing her. He was a wizard - on that, from her basic understanding, who held higher rank within their government. She was a muggle and not even one with a large dowery. When Mr. Adlard stop, her hand had slipped from his arm as she continued to move, far to caught up in her own head to realize that he had stopped.

Flattered. Highly regarded. I value your friendship. Caught off guard.

The words spun in her head and the heat died out her cheeks and the sudden coldness left her uneasy. Those were things someone said before rejection and despite her brazenness in admitting her feelings, she wasn't ready for rejection. None of her daydreams had ever included him rejecting her - admittedly probably because she never expected to confess.

"I think I should walk myself home now, Mr. Adlard," she blurted, interrupting whatever he might be about to say. If you would be so kind as to forget this ever happened that would be lovely. We can remain being friends like nothing ever happened."

"Goodbye, Mr. Adlard." With a dip of her head she turned and started to walk, restraining herself from running home as she very much wished too.