Writing Is Hard

The roof, she always seemed to end up on the roof. The warm breeze blowing through her hair as she paced back and forth. Hands shaking, breath barely controlled and thoughts askew. She’d only wanted a friend, that’s all she and Finnick had been. And while that could’ve developed into something more on its own, now there was no chance. She was suddenly in yet another situation where she had no autonomy, no choice if she wanted to stay alive.

He sat on a lounge chair near the parapet walls, thinking, silently tying and untying the knots from a piece of ratty old rope. She didn’t dare glance at him as her heels bit into her feet from pacing. Every step burning her pinched toes, not that she could spare a thought on the familiar pain. The city shouted from down below, hunger games parties and cheers echoing the streets. That was nothing compared to the silent roar of thoughts on the roof they occupied.

After hours and hours of the same routine, she finally snapped. Ripping the heels from her feet and throwing them at one of the walls. She bit her cheek so as to not scream in frustration. Her perfectly crafted nails almost snapped as she squeezed her fists. He let out a sigh that sounded defeated. “Doing nothing and pacing around isn’t gonna help us.” He finally said, his hands stopping for a moment. “Well what am I supposed to do Finnick? Run away? Kill myself? I’m pretty sure I wouldn’t be the first to try and they’d stop me before I could.” She argued, anger and fear bubbling up in her chest.

“You know that’s not what I’m saying.” He sighed, stuffing the rope back into one of his trouser pockets. “Well then what do we do? Tell me what to do.” She practically, finally looking over at him defeatedly. He stood, making his way over to her and offering his hand. She took it, huffing as he squeezed gently. “I really like you y’know.” He said softly, bumping his shoulder into hers.

“I like you too Finn, but that isn’t really gonna ease my concern right now.” She replied, still chewing on the inside of her cheek as she looked down at the concrete under their feet. “Then tell me what’s freaking you out, let's work it out together.” He offered. “What’s freaking me out?” She laughed bitterly, finally meeting his eye. “-is that you’re my friend and I’m gonna have to have sex with you against my will.” She grimaced. “Are you nervous that I’m gonna be bad? Or too rough?” He asked, reaching over to fix a stray hair on her forehead.

“No of course not I just—“ she paused, taking a breath. She didn't want to yell at him. He was being so sweet about everything and he was in the exact same situation as she was. “I’m upset we don’t have a choice. I trust you, you’re my friend but that doesn’t mean I’m at that point yet with you.” She explained, causing him to nod. He took a beat before speaking again. “I feel the same. I mean you’re a gorgeous girl don't get me wrong, but that doesn’t mean we’re at that point together.” He agreed. “But then again peach, we don’t have much of a choice here.” He sighed once again, his hand drifting to cup her cheek.

“So what do you think we should do?” She asked, leaning into his touch as she looked up at him. “Well, we have a couple options.” He began. “We could refuse, but that’ll just result in him killing someone each of us loves. Could be Mags or your sister, neither of us could handle that.” He laid out, she scrunched up her nose slightly at the idea as he continued. “Or we could go with it. Take it into our own hands and make the decision to go all the way together before we’re forced to in front of an audience.”

She blinked at the thought. “Wait, sorry, You’re saying we could– or should… consensually have sex beforehand? Like to get to know each other's boundaries?” She asked in clarification. He nodded and gave her a small shrug, his thumb running over her cheek once. “It’s obviously not ideal but I mean, either we do that and get it over with or it happens and we’re not ready.” He clarified with a saddened smile. “It’s up to you peach, I’m not trying to pressure you into anything you’re uncomfortable with.” He assured, his thumb moving over her cheek soothingly once more.

She thought for a moment, it made sense, although it would probably be incredibly awkward. “I’m not really used to the whole consensual thing. It’s never been my choice before.” She half warned. “It's ok, I’m pretty inexperienced in that department too.” He laughed to himself. “Could we just start with kissing maybe?” She suggested in a slightly embarrassed tone. Starting slow was probably for the best, especially since they were both so new when it came to healthy sex experiences. His face melted just slightly, those signature dimples appearing as he smiled wider. “Yeah honey, we can start with kissing.”

“How about we go back to my place? I think I’ll have an easier time getting you in and past everyone than vice versa.” He suggested, his hand slipping from her cheek and down to her hand again. She gave a simple nod, squeezing his hand back. He led her to the elevators and pressed the button for the district 4 quarters. She chewed the inside of her cheek the entire way down. Was he even attracted to her? How would this work? Oh god, what if she wasn't good at kissing and she didn't know it?

When the elevator opened, the living quarters were surprisingly barren. “Mags probably has the kids practicing their skills for scoring. She likes to take them back down to the skill areas in the gym when she can.” He shrugged as he led her inside. The layout of the rooms was similar to the district 2 quarters. Same dining area and the same open living room. He led her down a hallway to the room that was hers on her own floor. Opening the door it was a simple bedroom. Dark blue silk sheets on the bed, cyan, sea green and gold accents around the room. A dresser with a box and vase of flowers on the top. A black chaise lounge chair near the corner with a blanket and a book sitting on the top.

“Let’s sit,” he said gently, bringing her over to sit on the edge of the bed. “I won’t bite, promise.” He teased, squeezing her hand gently once more. “I know, I know, I’m just kinda nervous, I dunno.” She mumbled, looking down at her lap and their intertwined fingers. “We’re gonna go at your pace. Nothing you don’t want.” He assured further. “And if you wanna stop or feel like something's wrong or too much, you just push me off or tell me ok?” He smiled, turning further towards her.

His hand came up to caress her cheek and jawline once more. His eyes studied her face with the same look he always gave her. Soft, safe, non-threatening. “You just tell me if anything’s too much, ok sweetness?” He murmured softly, leaning closer. She nodded just slightly, her eyes slipping closed. For a second she just sat like that, lashes resting on her cheeks, she could smell his cologne, a certain kind of musk that wasn't overpowering. Seasalt and fresh air, just like the air in district 4. Finally he captured her lips in a gentle, lingering kiss. Going slow so as to not startle her. Her chin tilted up slightly as she kissed back clumsily, making him smile against her lips. “Easy sweetheart, take it slow.” He whispered as he pressed another kiss to her lips. His free hand came up to frame her face and cup her jaw.

It happened again, and again, and again. Until she was practically putty in his arms, more relaxed, more used to the sensation of kissing him. Her brain not going one thousand miles an hour but instead speeding at a crawl. His tongue finally swiped her bottom lip, just quickly enough to make her heart jump. Enough to make him smile into the kiss once again. So he did it again, but this time he lingered just slightly. Savoring how her lipstick tasted and how she made the tiniest noise in the back of her throat.

“Relax baby”, he mumbled into her mouth, making her open up just enough to earn him access. Suddenly she wasn’t just kissing him anymore. This was full on making out, and she was enjoying it more than she realized she ever could. One of his hands moved from her face, settling on her waist and pulling her close. Her hands reacted before her brain could process, landing on his chest and lightly balling up his shirt. She made another small sound as he nipped at her bottom lip. He only grinned, continuing his assault on her lips.

“Finn—“ she mumbled into the kiss, unable to even open her eyes as she further melted into the kiss. He pulled away just slightly, “you need to stop?” She shook her head lightly and he pressed a kiss to her lips again. Moving slowly to her cheek and then focusing on her jaw and neckline. “So sweet”, he whispered into her skin as he licked, nipped and kissed her skin. Her brain felt thoughtless in a way she hadn’t experienced before. While usually there was nothing, now there was just him. His hand in hers, his lips on hers, the way his fingers dug into her waist as he kissed her neck.

She felt a small whine slip out once again and he chuckled. Pulling her even closer until she was straddling his lap. Her thighs on either side of his as his hands moved down to hold her in place on her lower back and ass. “My pretty girl”, he murmured as he pulled his head up to press another firm kiss to her lips. She murmured his name in another whiney tone, making him grin once more. “Do you need more from me angel?” He asked, causing her to nod.

Carefully, he rocked his hips up into her once, watching her reaction. The growing sensitivity between her thighs caused her to bite her lip. So he continued, letting out a few quiet grunts as he moved. She in turn, leaned down and pressed a few desperate kisses to his lips. The room felt too hot, too desperate, too stifling. His hands wandered to her back, carefully moving to undo the zipper of her intricate dress.

He pulled away to stare shamelessly as the fabric pooled around her waist. “God damn” he murmured, his fingers gently tracing up the divit of her spine. She was completely bare in front of him, shivering slightly from both his touch and the anticipation. Before she could speak, he dove in like a hungry shark. Once again kissing and nipping at her neck and jawline, one hand moved from her back. Carefully sliding up until he was massaging her breast and causing her breath to hitch. One of her hands moved from his chest to tangle in his hair, tugging just slightly. He grinned against her skin at the feeling.

That lasted for a while too, him teasing her and kissing her as he ground up against her. Until she felt like she might actually explode from the feeling between her thighs. “Can I touch you? Please baby?” He asked breathlessly, making her nod dumbly as he moved to lay her down onto the silk sheets. Hovering over her, he leaned down to press a surprisingly sweet kiss to her lips. His hand however, traveled downwards. Pushing her panties aside to circle that little sweet spot that every client before had ignored. Having someone else touch that spot felt so different, so much more intense. Her body responded to his touch almost instantly, hips following each movement of his fingers, breath hitching as she tried to kiss him back.

He broke the kiss, leaning down to whisper in her ear. “That’s it sweet girl, god you’re so good for me.” He praised, applying a bit more pressure so that her gasps switched to soft moans. “You can do better than that peach.” He teased as she struggled to even keep her eyes open. “Tell me how it feels.” Her brows creased together as her mouth opened to speak before her thoughts caught up. “S’ good— so so good Finn”, she finally breathed.

Muscles in her stomach began tightening as his fingers continued their movements. His hard cock pressing against her thigh through his dress pants. “Have you ever been fingered pretty girl?” He asked, earning a nod of her head. “I’m gonna add a finger ok?” He warned, tugging her panties down her thighs. She whined as he continued and then again as he carefully sunk two fingers to her. Working in and out, curling just slightly as her back arched a bit against his chest. She couldn’t help but grind a bit against his fingers. Tugging him down by his hair for another kiss.

“Doing so well, peach.” He praised, leaning down to press another few kisses to her lips as she demanded them. The pressure building in her lower abdomen. When he pulled away he could see the haze already in her eyes. Suddenly, his hands left her and she opened her eyes in frustration. “Finn—!“ she frowned, obviously frustrated. “I’m not letting you cum until we cum together sweetheart.” He grinned, bringing those two fingers to his mouth and sucking them clean. She gasped just slightly and he smiled wider.

He slowly rose up, discarding his shirt in one motion. She bit her lip as she watched, shamelessly letting her eyes rake over his form. He was probably the prettiest thing she'd ever seen. Unbuckling his belt, unbuttoning and unzipping his trousers, He let them fall to the hardwood floor. He shoved his boxers down as well, making her eyes go wide. “S’ not gonna fit.” She murmured, mostly to herself. He let out a boyish laugh, moving to press a sweet kiss to her cheek. “It’ll fit baby.” He assured. He settled between her legs, one arm braced beside her head. “Remember, you tell me if anything’s too much ok? If you say stop, I stop.” He whispered, looking down at her with so much concern in his eyes. Alongside something she couldn’t quite identify.

She nodded, her knees kissing the sides of his torso. So he resumed the same routine, reaching down to play with that little spot that made her go dumb. Kissing her lips, her neck and her collar. Eventually, aligning himself up with her entrance. She gasped out a groan as his tip pushed between her folds, her hands flying to his shoulders. “Shh it’s ok, you’re ok sweetheart.” He soothed, “do you need to stop?” He asked carefully. She shook her head, “no, it’s just a lot, keep going.” He nodded.

They stopped and started as he moved deeper inside her, allowing time to adjust to him. He was so big, and while he gave her plenty of foreplay, it was still a stretch. Finally when their pelvis’s connected, they both let out a breath. His head dropped to her shoulder as she adjusted, taking a moment to breathe. “Tell me you’re ok?” He asked in a strained murmur. “I’m—it’s fine. Just please go slow ok?” She requested softly, earning another nod from him.

He pulled back just slightly, pushing back in just enough to elicit a small sound from her. So he did it again, and again. Slowly and carefully, aiming to not hurt her. He pressed soft sweet kisses to the crook of her neck as he moved. Finally hearing her murmur the word “faster”. So, his hips started to rock back and forth at a faster pace. Her hands began to slowly roam his body, memorizing every inch she could.

Then as he began to go a bit deeper, he hit a spot that she had no idea existed. A sweet spot that felt like anything but pain. A spot that made her brain feel like mush and her body tingle all over. One of her hands tangled in his hair again as she focused on that feeling, beginning to make the sweetest sounds he had ever heard. She pulled him up for another kiss, their kiss swollen lips meeting as they both saw the look of bliss on each other's faces.

Her pussy fluttered around him and he let out a groan against her lips that made butterflies appear in her stomach. He was so pretty, the kind of pretty she had once thought impossible. “Fuck— peach.” He breathed out against her lips. His hand came down between them as he began to move just a bit faster. Circling her clit as he sucked on her lower lip. Breaking away with another groan as her pussy fluttered again.

“Finnick—“ she began, cut off as he nodded “I know pretty girl.”

There was heat and pressure pooling in her stomach and growing more intense by the minute. Before she could even adjust to the feeling it finally all came to a head. The heat rippled up her body, down to the tips of her fingers. Electric sparks jolting her every few seconds. Her moans were desperate, only Finnick’s name over and over. She pushed against him as the feeling enveloped her. The dullness of her acrylic fingernails scratching making white lines appear across his freckled back and shoulders.

Her walls were clenching and pulsing around him, so much that he was abruptly thrown into his own high. His hips stuttered and finally, his cock filled her, spurting out warm ribbons of white that coated her inner walls. He collapsed on top of her, his head once again in the crook of her neck. Panting and shaking as they both came down from their highs. The silk sheets were absolutely ruined but neither of them really cared much.

“You ok?” He asked finally, only getting a lazy nod in return as she laid with her eyes closed, just trying to catch her breath. He smiled tiredly, pressing a kiss to her forehead. “I need words peach.” He chastised gently, making her smile. “M’ ok” she mumbled tiredly. “Gimme 5 minutes, then we can clean up ok?” He said, nuzzling into her warm skin again. “M’kay, whatever you say.” She smiled back. They laid in silence for a few moments, catching their breath and in her case, trying to regain her mind.

When she opened her eyes again, she just saw his bronze hair and freckled shoulder. He was so… big compared to her. Draped over her like the world’s warmest weighted blanket, his body covered most of hers. Her hand came up to lightly brush over his skin once more, he was so warm too. He flinched just slightly “Your fingers are cold pretty.” He mumbled into the crook of her collarbone. “They’re always cold, you know that.” She whispered back, gently tracing shapes and patterns into his skin.

After a few more moments of quiet, he spoke up again. “I wonder if you’d be allowed to come see me back in 4 now.” He thought aloud. “I kinda doubt it, I mean communication between districts is so limited. It doesn't make sense for Snow to allow something like that.” She replied, looking up at the ceiling of his room. “Yeah but you're supposed to be my girlfriend or whatever now right? Well I mean when the press comes out and all.” He said as he pulled himself up just enough to look at her. “We are but that doesn't mean we’ll get any special treatment.” She said, raising a brow as he smiled down at her. “Oh please Peach,” He grinned “Special treatment might as well be my middle name.”

The presidential palace was something of legend. She'd been there once before for the grandiose party to end her victory tour, but seeing it in the regular daylight felt eerie. Walking up the marble and stone steps and through the gardens as Furisha fussed behind her. Fluffing her dress and making sure she looked absolutely perfect, not that she was allowed to look anything other than perfect most days. Hebe had mentioned the outfit inspiration was something called a ‘Jellyfish’ she assumed that was some sea creature. Every hem on the dress scrunched up just slightly, reminding her of a lettuce leaf. The baby blue fabric was light enough, flowing around her like she was submerged in water. The top came around her neck in a halter while the sleeves had slits starting at her collarbones and ending at her wrists just above the cuffs. The skirt looked like the waves of the ocean with ruffles coming to her knees in the front and dragging behind her in the back.

The path led her to an enormous set of double doors that two Avoxes opened for them. A woman waited inside with a practiced smile and an electronic tablet. “Miss L/N, we've been expecting you. Please, follow me this way.” the woman said with that familiar unsettling cheer of a capitalite. She looked back to Furisha who nodded and motioned for her to follow the woman. They walked through hallways with blood red carpets and gilded gold ornamentation all over the walls. Everywhere she could see there was a vase filled with white roses, all identical and in full bloom. Avoxes stood at every door with their mouths covered in red masks, pin straight in starched and pressed uniforms. A shiver went down her spine as she noticed that most of their eyes already looked dead.

The woman led her to what seemed to be a waiting area, motioning her to sit down on one of the velvet couches. “The president should be with you momentarily, please take a seat.” She sank down carefully, watching as the woman typed something onto the tablet. “Please don't hesitate to ask if you need anything.” The woman said before bowing slightly and leaving them alone in the large waiting area. How was she supposed to ask for anything if nobody but Furisha was there? Not that she really wanted or needed anything but still. The grandfather clock on the wall ticked loudly as she sat there silently, tortuously alone with her own thoughts and worries.

Why had the president summoned her? Had she not been doing a good job with the ‘Clients’ he sent her? Was she in the press too much for his liking? Had her family done something rebellious against her knowledge? So many ‘What if”s swirled through her brain. She knew not to let herself slip away into the sweet nothingness like before. But oh how inviting the idea seemed. Sitting in the almost silent room almost reminded her of that little room of the justice building before the games. Although that room smelled of stale cleanliness while the presidential mansion smelled of sickeningly sweet roses and the essence of fear.

A touch on her shoulder, everyone always seemed to be touching her. Looking up though, she saw a pair of familiar blue-green irises. “How are you always here when I need a hand to hold, hm?” She asked as he sat down next to her on the couch. “Guess I'm just luckier than most with my timing.” Finnick said, his hand coming to rest on his lap. “What’re you doing here?” She asked, concern ebbing at her expression. “My meetings got cancelled for the day at the last minute, I only found out at breakfast this morning,” He shrugged “What about you? I thought you said you had a photoshoot.” He questioned. Her brow furrowed just slightly as she chewed the inside of her cheek. “Same thing happened to me. Do you think…Maybe he–” His hand moved to rest on her thigh “I wouldn't guess why, you'll get yourself all worked up. I'm sure it's nothing bad.” He assured. She nodded, pursing her lips and looking down at the velvet carpets under their feet. His hand took hers gently, squeezing just enough to keep them both grounded. Almost as soon as she opened her mouth to speak again, the large doors at the end of the room opened. The same woman from before stepped out and smiled too wide.

“Mr. Odair, Miss L/N, Please follow me. The president will see you now.” The woman spoke cheerily. Finnick gave her a look that screamed ‘This is a bunch of Bullshit’ but stood and offered his arm anyway. She took his arm as she stood, slipping hers through. They walked into an office, or more appropriately, the lion's den. President Snow sat behind a large dark wood desk, standing as they approached. “Ah, if it isn't two of my favorite victors.” He said with faux kindness and warmth in his tone. Finnick bowed and she curtsied before Snow motioned to two chairs for them to sit in. “Please have a seat.” He said as more of a command than an offer.

Her arm slipped from Finnick’s as they sat, she crossed her ankles instead of her legs, remembering a tad bit of the etiquette Furisha had drilled into her brain. Snow smiled at her with those too white teeth. “First, I must say you look beautiful today, miss L/N.” He complemented, making her stomach turn as his eyes raked over her body. “Thank you sir, That's very kind.” She replied with a smile she tried to make look genuine. “And Mr.Odair, I hear you've been doing very well during some of your recent fishing trips. My congratulations.” Snow said to Finnick who also gave his thanks. Although all of them knew that Finnick hadn't been home in a few months. The stories of the big catches and sailboat rides were just crafted propaganda like most other things in the news.

“I have to say, I'm surprised to hear you two apparently have so much in common.” Snow commented, sending a jolt of electricity down her spine. “Two of my prized victors, seen at almost every party together this season.” He said, his snakelike gaze roaming over them both. “It almost makes one think there's something going on there.” She took a sharp breath but Finnick beat her to speaking. “Just friends is all Sir. We have similar interests.” He reassured, sitting further forward in his chair. Snow raised a brow looking at her and earning a nod. “Hm. Friends. Well that's a bit disappointing.” Snow commented, his brows quirking up in curiosity. A small spark of interest returned as two Avoxes brought in a tea tray and a tower of hors devours.

One poured a perfect cup of tea in front of Snow, adding just the right amount of cream and no sugar. “How do you take it miss L/N?” Snow asked as the Avox stood straight holding the embellished teapot. “Cream and sugar please.” She said quietly, biting the inside of her cheek again. The Avox made her tea carefully, making sure not to spill a drop. “ I take it the same.” Finnick said before he was asked. As their tea was poured. Snow took a sandwich and some sort of pastry off the tray. The Avoxes bowed once their duties were done and quickly scurried out of the tense atmosphere of the room. It was quiet once more as she held the warm teacup in her hands, feeling the raised gold details under her fingers.

“The capital makes quite the pretty penny off you two you know.” Snow said as he sipped his tea. She could practically feel Finnick thinking next to her, she wanted to reach over and take his hand. She just kept running her fingers over the cup however, she couldn't risk any kind of friendly contact. “I’m sure the capital citizens are appreciative of the system in place for them.” Finnick said calmly, his words calculated. “Yes, definitely.” She piped up.

“Requests have been down in the last few weeks when they should be up.” Snow revealed “Rumors are afoot. Rumors that make customers hesitant to spend time with either of you.” She understood at that moment. Why they were summoned, why he was speaking to them both. Snow wanted this friendship, this… situation between them to end. She looked up at Finnick to find him staring ahead. “You’d like us to stop being seen together? Sir?” She asked, causing Snow’s smile to widen.

“Compleately the opposite my dear,” Snow grinned, making her stomach sink. “I have plenty of victors to sell alone. I don't have any to sell together quite yet however.” Finnick flinched at that. “I'm sorry sir, I'm not sure I understand.” She said in a murmur. “Simple, my diamond.” Snow started, his voice almost mocking. “Mr. Odair and yourself will announce your public relationship. The capital and districts will be delighted and certain capital citizens will purchase you both as a pair. Most to watch, some to participate.”

The horses stomped on the concrete of the holding area. Applause thundered out in the amphitheater. Lyra and Buck looked wonderful, both in stunning red uniforms. Reddish jewels sparkled all over them and Lyra wore a sparkling red veil in her hair. Buck had jewels glued on one side of his face, mimicking rocks coming from his skin. Callum had really outdone himself, even if he was a total asshole.

Lyra held her hand as her makeup was touched up. She herself was all done up in a little red dress, tights, heels and red lipstick to match. Brutus was in a red sleeveless turtleneck. It was certainly a way to show they were a team, definitely a bit on the nose. “You know the plan?” Buck asked Lyra. The small girl nodded, “Pretend to stumble, you catch me. I come off cute and you seem strong.” She said, a smile climbing her cheeks. Buck just nodded, not looking too amused by any of the fanfare.

“Tributes mount up, I repeat, tributes mount up.” A voice spoke over the speakers. “You’ll do great sweetie” she assured Lyra, then looking at Buck and just giving him a simple nod. “Make sure you look tough.” Brutus advised as Buck lifted Lyra up onto the chariot. She stepped back as the timer for the first chariot to go began to count down. Before she could even think, a shoulder bumped into hers. Looking up, it was Haymitch from District 12.

“You put on quite a show here last year.” He said, almost tauntingly. She laughed uncomfortably, “Yeah… guess I did.” He took out a flask, taking a big sip from it. “Don’t worry kid, most parades aren’t remembered anyway no matter what you do.” He said as he began to walk off. Her brows furrowed in confusion but before she could even attempt a thought on whatever that interaction was, a familiar hand found her back. “Hey Peach” Finnick grinned down at her.

“Hey” she said with a smile “Your kiddos doing ok?” She asked, nodding over to a boy and girl both dressed as some sort of aquatic explosion. “Eh, they’re not the most talkative pair this year. Both seemed pretty focused, y’know Academy kids. I’ve known the girl for a bit, her name's Annie. Pretty shy, not too talkative but she’s sweet.” He shrugged, nodding over to Buck and Lyra. “How about yours? Anything particularly special?” He asked, causing her to sigh. “My little girl is 14, wants to be just like us-“ she said, making him snort, “and the boy is a kid I’ve known since he was little. Really focused, very driven like your kids.” She explained.

“Sounds like our hands are full.” He grinned. “How are you planning to make them likeable?” He asked teasingly. She rolled her eyes with a smile and the first chariot started. “You know how it is, chess moves.” She said over the sounds of hooves. He pulled her just the tiniest bit closer, his hand moving to her waist. “You’re gonna start more rumors.” She chastised lightly, a small blush coming to her cheeks. “Oh whatever, we’re friends. You worry way too much.” He grinned down at her.

“Maybe I worry just the correct amount.” She said with a slightly raised brow. He laughed and pressed a kiss to the top of her head, gently squeezing her to his side. “You gonna be at that sponsor's dinner tomorrow? Or did you get the night off with the kids?” He asked, watching as the last chariot with the district 12 kids rolled out. “I think I’ve got the night off. Why do you have to go to some dinner?” She asked. His smile widened just slightly and he shook his head.

“Wanna meet up on the roof after dinner? Mags says it’s usually pretty vacant. We can watch people on the street or just actually talk a little.” He asked. A few butterflies fluttered around in her stomach but she nodded. “Yeah that sounds nice… what time?” She asked. The crowds cheered louder as Snow stepped up to the podium. A shiver went up her spine at seeing the President. Dread replacing the butterflies that had been flying around her stomach.

She could feel her heartbeat speed up as Snow spoke, but then Finnick’s voice sounded in a murmur near her ear. “Don’t go anywhere ok? Stay here with me, don’t listen to a word he has to say.” He instructed. “Let’s plan what we’re gonna do tomorrow hm?” He suggested, gently turning her to stand in front of him with her back to the amphitheater. “You wanna bring a book to read together?” He asked softly.

She pursed her lips but nodded “Uh yeah, I’ll bring something.” She confirmed. “What do you wanna read? Maybe something about home? I’ve only ever been to district 2 the one time.” He suggested. The thought of home made her relax a bit more. “Only if you bring something about district 4. We can teach each other about home.” She requested, much to his delight it seemed. Those perfect dimples creased his cheeks as he smiled again. “Yeah peach, I’ll teach you about home. Everything and anything you want to know.” His hand gently took hers, absentmindedly stroking small circles into his skin with his thumb. “Are your hands always kinda cold?” He asked quietly. She shrugged, “Circulation issues from the games. Either too hot or too cold.” His other hand took hers, warming it between his palms.

“You’re gonna need me around for a space heater then hm?” He teased gently, grabbing her other hand to warm it as well. It made her lips twitch up into a smile. “You incorrigible flirt.” She teased back gently as he smiled so prettily down at her. The crowds cheered louder as Snow finished speaking, fireworks exploding in the air. She flinched hard, the sound was just a bit too similar to cannon fire. He leaned down and pressed a kiss to her forehead. Comforting and grounding, she could smell his cologne. “Remember, eyes on me pretty. Don’t let yourself go away.” He murmured against her skin.

She looked up at him again as the sounds of horses trotting and capitalites cheering roared in the background. “You’re far too good to me.” She smiled up at him sadly. His hand gently squeezed hers before he wrapped an arm around her shoulders again. “Maybe I’m just exactly what you need right now. Someone by your side who cares.” He said as he brought her back to his side. He held her close to him as the chariots began to return. “Tomorrow night? 7pm?” He asked, earning a nod from her. “Yeah 7pm should work just fine. I’ll bring a book about home and a blanket to sit on.”

He chuckled “It’s a date. Now how about you go talk to your kiddos. That little one seems pretty excited.” He smiled wider, waving at Lyra who looked like she might just burst into flames on the spot. It made her giggle to herself “I think she has a little crush on you.” She teased, looking up at him as his arm squeezed her slightly and slipped off her body. “Who doesn’t nowadays peach?” He joked back, winking at her before they both went to tend to their tributes. She once again could practically feel Brutus rolling his eyes as she walked over.

“Did you see us? Oh my gosh, the cheering was so loud!” Lyra beamed as Buck helped her down from the chariot. “I saw, you did amazing. I’m sure all sorts of sponsors saw you too.” She encouraged as the young girl pulled her into a hug. She pet Lyra’s hair gently, wanting to keep her spirits up. Brutus clapped Buck on the shoulder in encouragement and Furisha fluttered around in excitement. “And Finnick Odair saw me too! This is like a dream come true, do you think I could meet him sometime?” Lyra asked as she pulled away from the hug. She smiled to herself, fixing an out of place hair on the teens forehead. “I’ll try to make it happen.” She assured the girl.

The group was led into the tunnels on the amphitheater and towards the awaiting cars. Most of the rest of the day was reserved for relaxation for the tributes. She however had a photoshoot unfortunately. The car dropped everyone else off at the tribute center and Hebe got inside. As usual, she was primed and preened over as soon as they got to the studio. A photographer placed her in no less than a dozen ridiculous looking outfits and changed her makeup three separate times. By the time she got back to the tribute center she was dead tired.

She got to her room and fell asleep in her full makeup and outfit on top of her sheets. Waking at some ungodly hour with a headache and a dry mouth. Squinting at the clock it was 4:36AM, lovely. She peeled herself off the bed and trudged into the bathroom. Her makeup looked like she had been in a windstorm and her hair just looked plain odd. She shed the pink dress Hebe had put her in hours before. Kicking off the stockings on her legs and starting the shower. It was only lukewarm when she got in but she began to scrub her face anyway.

The reminders of the day went down the drain. She peeled the fake lashes on her eyes off and let them fall on the tile by her feet. Her hands looked like she had gotten into a fight with a tube of lipstick until she used soap on them. She smiled tiredly as she chose peach body wash. The sudsy foam covering her body and washing off grime. After a few minutes she finally felt clean again and turned off the water. She sighed as she stepped out and toweled off. Looking in the mirror, she caught sight of the familiar scars on her ribcage. Her fingers danced over the marks of those horrific glowing worms. A shiver went up her spine as she tore her eyes away.

She did the usual things, drying her hair and brushing her teeth. Then going back to her bedroom and pulling on a pair of underwear and a random nightgown from one of the drawers. She climbed back into her bed and shut her eyes again. This time however, flashbacks danced behind her eyes once more. Sand, ice cold water, the little girl from 7 smiling, blood on her shoes, running as screams echoed around her. She felt a hand on her shoulder just as her own name echoed through her brain, a scream from Finch.

She shot up out of bed, her eyes wild and unfocused. She took shallow quick breaths and she looked around in a panic. “You’re ok, it’s ok dear.” A sickly sweet voice assured - Furisha. Her eyes closed again as the escort pet her hair and talked and talked and talked. Finally as she opened them again, it seemed the world wasn’t going to collapse. “Are you alright darling?” Furisha asked, only earning a nod from her. “Breakfast is in a few minutes and then training starts for the children. You have a sponsor lunch and a magazine interview.” The escort informed.

“Thank you, I’ll start getting ready for breakfast.” She said, dragging a hand over her face. Furisha nodded and stood up, walking to the bedroom door and pausing for a moment. opened her mouth to speak but for once, decided against it. The door opened and closed behind her. She flopped back down against her pillows, covering her face with both hands and groaning. The nightmares just couldn’t stop, would they ever stop? It was almost annoying if it wasn’t so traumatic.

She got up after a few minutes and rummaged through her drawers. Eventually finding a sheer red shirt, little dress made of Jean fabric, red tights and a pair of black boots. It was a cute outfit, not that she would be allowed to wear it past breakfast. Maybe she could change back into it for her little rendezvous with Finnick. She changed, brushed her teeth and hair and placed a black headband in her hair to match her shoes. Making her way out to breakfast, she could already hear Brutus, Buck and Lyra arguing about something.

“I’m telling you, I get first kill! That idiot from 7 is basically begging for it!” Buck growled as Lyra pouted. “But I want sponsors to think I’m cool! I’ve gotta get some blood under my nails or in my hair or something!” The small girl argued. She sat down at the breakfast table, repressing the urge to roll her eyes at the conversation. “Can I get some mint tea?” She asked an avox who immediately hurried off. Mint tea was good for nausea right? The current conversation was definitely making her lose any semblance of an appetite. “I don’t see why it matters who kills first, just make sure it’s impressive. I mean Miss Princess over here killed somebody with a damn rattlesnake.” Brutus shrugged, stuffing some sort of meat into his mouth.

She sighed, pinching her brow “can we not?” She pleaded gently as the avox and back with a small teapot and a teacup. She grabbed a roll and began to butter it as Brutus laughed. “It matters because you get more sponsors if people like you!” Buck complained. “I mean did you see how many Finch got last year? Or Ammo? They both made out like bandits because they showed they were stronger than everyone else.” He continued. “And where are they now huh? D-E-A-D” Lyra spelled out. God she could really use some nausea medicine. She poured herself a cup of the mint tea, slightly scalding her tongue on the first sip. “For the love of- just make sure you actually make allies today.” Brutus groaned.

“The pair from district 1 looked particularly strong. Perhaps a career pack is a good idea again.” Furisha suggested as she sipped her coffee. “And we already have a friend on their team. Aerith styled for us last year.” She smiled, although it wasn’t clear why. Aerith wasn’t really nice to anyone, so they weren’t friends in any sense of the word. “Oh my gosh the costumes last year were to die for!” Lyra practically melted. “The jewels and the sequins— Ugh!”

Suddenly a peacekeeper walked into the room, walking straight up to Furisha. He leaned down, whispering something in her ear. Her face went blank, but she nodded. “Yes, yes alright.” The escort said with a nervous smile. The peacekeeper nodded and walked out of the dining room. Everyone turned to look at Furisha who let out a nervous laugh.

“What’s wrong?” She asked, setting down her teacup. Furisha looked at her like a deer in headlights for a second before finally getting it together. “Plans have changed for you dear. Instead of your sponsor Lunch, you’ll be having lunch with President Snow today.”