His fingers wind through hers, as easy and instinctive as breathing. "You don't think it's better to have food now rather than end up out there and get hungry?" But he's moving towards the door again, giving a sharp whistle for his dog when he gets there. Mrs O'Leary immediately leaves off from harassing the neighbours (lovingly), bounding over to the two demigods.

Shadowtravel is a disconcerting darkness these days, but the warmth of Mrs O'Leary underneath him and Annabeth behind him helps counteract it. And then they're at the turtle head, the sense of peace there immediately washing away whatever lingering uncomfortable feelings are left.

She doesn't need it, but he helps Annabeth down anyway. "I never get sick of it up here."