{ CHAPTER 1 }
When I open my door, I see the redheaded girl collecting my uniform and boots from where I had left them on the floor before taking my shower. I want to apologise for getting her in possible trouble earlier. But then I remember that I'm not supposed to speak to her unless I'm giving her an order.
I speak apologetically, "Oh, sorry, I was supposed to get those back to Cinna. Can you please take them to him?" She avoids eye contact, gives a small nod, and heads out the door. Her sleek fiery hair swaying as she exited the room.
"W-wait," I stammer, expecting my small voice not to be heard. But as soon as I turn away I see a glimmer of red in the corner of my eye. The mysterious red-head bowed, her eyes finally meeting mine. For the first time, I am able to admire her mossy eyes. They were dull, lifeless.
But I intend to fix that.
"…What's your name?" I ask. She shakes her head dismissively, opens her mouth and, to my absolute horror, points to the gaping hole where her tongue should've been. I stare in morbid fascination, for a moment I am unaware of her uncomfortable squirming that my staring had caused.
Suddenly, the terrible memories come flooding back. The woods, the hovercraft, and the girl screaming for help. I stare into her deep emerald eyes, but I wanted something deeper.
Her breath quivered as I stepped forward. I forced her back, pinning her against the wall by her bare shoulders. I took a moment to drink in her beauty, combing my calloused hand through her silk-like hair. Before I could move another muscle, the girl goes to the tip of her toes and presses her soft lips on the corner of my jaw.
My mind draws a blank, all my rushing thoughts coming to a halt. My face feels like it had been engulfed in flames, hot and red, just like her hair. Her long, silky hair.
"I…" I am at a loss for words, nothing seems to come to mind. So instead of talking, I take action.
I push her hair out of her face, and to my surprise, I'm greeted by two red cheeks. I smile, giving her a rough kiss, not caring whether or not I'm doing it right. In my mind, there was no right or wrong. There was only her. She smiled against my lips, not letting anyone know how much she craved that gentle touch.