His expression was thoughtful, and I was already plotting my escape. Fifteen minutes had passed and he had not said one word. I needed to get out of here, preferably un-noticed. Since that is currently an impossibilty - seeing as his eyes are rested right above my head - I figure an excuse is my only way out.
"When?" A calm voice startled me out of my thoughts. I look up to see a slightly grinning Peeta. Maybe there was hope, after all.
"When what?" I had a good idea on what he was asking. But he wouldn't like the answer.
"When did you decide you loved me?" He asked, impatiently. I considered his question. Not a bad one, but not one I particularly would like to answer. Not now. Not to him. His eyes bore holes into mine. No chance of escape now. Great.
"I..." Suddenly Gale's words rushed through my mind. She'll pick the one she can't live without. I hate him for how true those words are. And now, I'm fairly sure there was the tiniest bit of spite in his words. Spite towards me. The moment I found out they hadn't saved Peeta, that's when he knew. I'm sure of it. He's been testing me since then. I inwardly sigh. So he knew.
"Go on," Peeta encouraged, with a small smile.
"I knew when I realized what had happened. After the Quarter Quell, I mean. You remember that now, right?" I frown, if he didn't remember what really happened I wasn't sure what I'd do.
His face appeared troubled, and I knew he was concentratng on seeing the memory clear. "You didn't know about the plan, real or not real?"
I smile, more out of relief than of any happiness. Prim just died. She was taken away from me. No matter what, I wouldn't be truly happy for a long time. "Real."
"Okay..." He said slowly, "So, when exactly did you realize it?"
I smile grimly thinking of Gale. "When I realized they hadn't saved you. Nearly clawed of Haymitch's face. Just ask him."
He laughs, "Really? I just might have to ask him about that."
And I smile in return. The old Peeta was coming back. The Peeta I loved. The Peeta I can't live without. He may never be the same. Hell, no one will. The Capitol has taken many things from all of us. But right then, as I watch him laugh. I knew I lied.
I was truly happy for once in my life.
