A/N: Hello everyone! How are you? As for me, well, I'm still alive. I'm so sorry for the very long update, there were so many problems back then, and activities. I almost died at early October; virus attack. Thankfully I didn't turn into zombitch, and yes, if you wonder my body is very weak, my immune system is a lot weaker than most people. Then, there's college, I'm forced to write something I don't particularly like but I must do it no matter what, thesis and final assignment as most students do in their last year. Also, special thanks to my beta DragonDaemon93, you always been so helpful and thank you for sticking up with me. *hug*
Lastly, I just released a novel last month (Yaayyy!), so most of my attention is focused there, and I really hope all of you can help me promoting it by liking it and give 5 stars on nulisbuku books / view / rubrum-labyrinth ( don't forget to erase the space), Join this group in facebook www . facebook groups / 496586480381948 / (Rubrum Labyrinth, don't forget to erase the space too), and followed me on twitter dforduchess (erase the space) . I'll be really grateful if you all do. If I get at least thirty followers, likes, and join the groups, I will add a new chapter sooner. But be patient, since you all know how lengthy my chapters are.
Anyway, enjoy your New Year's gift chapter and thank you for being my faithful readers! Love u all!
Disclaimer: Hunger Games belongs to Suzanne Collins.
Blame it on the kiss
Green trees, beautiful sky, giant hills, amazing rocks, and incredible ruins… everything is so perfect… Everything is beautiful… He's beautiful.
"Are you alright?" My husband's voice takes me out of my musings.
"Yeah? Why wouldn't I be?" I tried to sit from the bed and rubbed my eyes tiredly.
"You're smiling and giggling in your sleep. Should I be worried?" he mocked me as he handed me a glass of water.
"I dreamt about the peak in floating city, smart ass," I took it and gulped it all in. Well, besides the peak I also dreamt about him standing there and smiling softly at me, and I know right when it started that it's only a dream, but I'm glad I didn't wake so early. Oh goddamnit, what is wrong with me?
"Yeah, it's unforgettable, huh?" he sat near my foot as he dried his hair with a clean towel. And I just realize that he looks so fresh with his sleek hair which means that he had just finished taking his bath.
"I told you," I put the glass on the table next to the bed and avert my eyes from him. "How long I was out?"
"Almost twelve hours," he smirked and rubbed the towel playfully to my face. It was actually really painful but it woke me more.
"Hey!" I protested as I pushed his arms.
Yes, I'm still Katniss Everdeen and he is still Cato… whoever, or so I thought. I mean, after all those years rivalry and attempt to killed each other, we're now a newly married couple. Insane, right? Well, whatever, there's no turning back now.
It's been three days since our honeymoon and right now we're heading back to our new home straight in Capitol. I would like to call the honeymoon a normal vacation if only we act really normal, but it didn't. I mean, nothing really happened between us, and yes, like a new wed couple we have to maintain the act in front of the public, especially because most people know about us, so we occasionally call our pet names in front of them and kiss. And damn, it eventually becomes a habit in three days, even though it's just a peck, but it's… somehow fun and calming. Fortunately we don't need to pretend that we're having sex, since when we go in to our tent every night, we really were beyond tired and hit the mattresses as soon as we touch them. I pat myself since I choose the right location.
But this pace of relationship is really scared me.. I mean, only a few months ago he was my enemy, then he became my friend, then somehow my best friend and now, husband. And I don't know if it's only for the sake of acting or he just really lives up to his promise when he said he'll treat me well after we married. He became very attentive to me. For example, he always asks how am I doing every time I wake up, he voluntarily brings me food or water, when I fall he helps me up and checks me carefully. But still, his dirty mouth never shuts up. And thankfully he never said that he loves me again, even though it's just a joke.
"What is it?" Cato asked curiously when we finally arrived at the Capitol and sit in his car.
"Nothing," I lied. Actually I anticipated about our new apartment very much. I'm afraid that it will not be what I expect. I mean, this is the selfish and arrogant Cato who always does everything according to his taste. So I think I'm not going to be surprised if our new apartment arranged in a very masculine way.
"Are you sure? You probably catching cold, which is funny for a fire girl," he mocked me and started the engine. Our luggage was safe in the back seat.
"Please, shut up and drive," I chuckled.
After several minutes driving and chatting about some different things, we finally arrive at the new apartment. And to my surprise, the building floor is lower than Cato's previous place, it's also more isolated since it's located almost in Capitol border line. And when we finally enter the building I almost ask to my new husband if this is a joke, because the place is far from luxurious. It's simpler but in a nice way.
The owner of the apartment welcomes us herself and said that it's an honor for her that two heroes of all Panem choose to live at her place. After that she take us to our place which is in 20th floor (the highest), and after Cato thanks her and said that we can take it from here she said to have a nice day and left us be.
"So, what do you think?" Cato asked as he closed the door behind him.
I placed my backpack on the floor and look around in amazement. "It's perfect," I whispered. The size of the place was normal; not extravagant or too small. The living room, kitchen and the dining room are in one place, which I liked since I'm not really into anything too complex. The wall covered with beige color and all the furniture is dominated by white. It's simple but warm and nice. And the lightning is remarkable; the windows are huge so we really don't need to turn on lamps during the day, and we can see the city view on the west and the mountains and woods on the east.
"Glad to hear," he walked pass me with our luggage. "Why don't we look around?" He asked as he placed all of it in our living room, near the couch. I nodded eagerly and followed him.
We checked the bathroom which its wall in mustard color, the study room that looks very comfy and I'm sure that I'll be so exciting about finishing my reports here in weekends or on breaks (Cato said he had some extra mattress and with some arrangement he can change the room into a guest room when someone comes to visit), and finally our bedroom. I love it.
"How do you find this place?"
I laughed since I'm very happy right now and throw myself to the bed. The room was painted a soft green color, the floor and most of the furniture is wooden and not marble like the rest of the rooms, there is wool carpet, and our bed is dominated in blue.
"Well, Rue and Foxface helped me with the place and the decoration, I asked them to arrange everything with anything you'll like," he explained proudly, and I'm sure that it's because he's satisfied to see me this happy.
"You don't mind? I mean, I like it, but what about you?" I support myself with my elbow so I can see him clearer.
"Nope. I'm done with anything luxurious, and this all really - ridiculously simple," he said as he crawled to the bed. "But I like it," he smirked at me teasingly.
"Really?" I teased him back seductively.
He nodded. "Besides, there's a fitness center, pool, and bar on the penthouse, I can use them for good," he added as he clicked his tongue.
"I see," I responded in mock seriousness.
"Yep," he suddenly leaned and kissed me, on my lips. It really surprised me. I mean, there's no one here to impress, and we talked about it. It doesn't last long and he pulled back as soon as he started. I'm about to ask what that was all about but to my surprise, he closed the gap between us again and pressed his soft yet hard lips onto mine, passionately.
"Cato," I said stupidly.
"Yes?" he whispered into my mouth. Oh, his breath is really warm and smells like mint.
"Why did you kiss me?" I murmured in confusion.
"Why did you kiss me back if you didn't like it?" he chuckled.
What? I kissed him back? I tried to focus and gather the situation I'm in. Oh God, since when was I on my back? Since when were my arms are around his neck? Since when were his arms is around my waist? Since when did this usual and fake kiss turns into something more passionate and, whats worse, since when did I opened my mouth and he open his? SINCE WHEN DID I HUNGRILY CAPTURE HIS LIPS WITH MINE?
"Hey, enough!" I pushed him with all my strength. I'm not mad, I'm just shocked.
Cato literally jumped off the bed and stood. He looked calm as usual while I probably look the opposite, flustered and blushing. That pissed me off.
"Sorry, got carried away by the room," he placed both his palms into his pocket and look at me apologetically.
"We're going to sleep together, should I be worried?" I asked in concern.
"It's not going to happen again, I swear," he pulled his palms out again and makes an X sign with his arms.
"Okay," I decided to give us a chance and nodded. Even though I felt some… disappointment?
"By the way, we still need a lot of things like kitchen set, toiletries, and I don't know…" Cato looked around nervously. Is he also affected deeper than I thought of the kiss? Well, he seems rather cute when he looks like this, and vulnerable. "Wanna go to buy them all?" he then asked casually, recovering himself.
"Shopping?" I asked back.
"Yeah," he nodded.
"That probably a good idea," I got off the bed and head straight to the opened door. We need to leave this room before one thing leads to another, and it leads by lust, not love. That will make the situation worse. And we don't need all the drama.
We go back into the car again. This time I drove while Cato just sat beside me, picking different CD's and talking about random things that I responded to eagerly to forget the previous event.
"Okay, what do we need first?" he asked as he pulled out the trolley. We arrived at the store and thankfully it's not full like it' usually is on Saturday and Monday.
"Why don't we start with kitchen set?" I suggested as I tucked my left arm on his right elbow. We need to look like a couple in front of public.
He agreed, so we walked to the kitchen set area. We looked at different things on the rack around us as we walked; we talked and joked about them. And when we finally got there… Well, I'm a girl, so it's kinda hard for me to choose which one is the fairest stuff since if there are guests coming to our home I want to welcome them with the best. And by best I didn't mean expensive…
"Pick one already, we've been around in this section for fifteen minutes," Cato's voice snapped through my busy mind. I glanced at him and found that he was starting to feel annoyed and impatient. This is why I don't like shopping with boys.
"There are so many options. Here, let me show you," I tried to assure him that this is necessary and grab two different plates. "This one will be look too old for us, and this one is weird," I lifted my arms so he can take a closer look on both of them.
"They look the same to me," he scowled.
"What?" I asked him in disbelief. "These are totally different! Are you blind?"
"It's just plates. Are we going to do this for the others too?" he protested.
"Probably," I lifted my shoulder.
"What?" he shrieked and it was kind of funny, I almost laughed.
"Help me then, share your opinion, you're great with taste right? What's wrong with you?" I smiled and tried to compromise. Well, playing house once in a while is fun, and I do want to be a good wife.
"I'm just tired," he grunted like a little boy. Really, with that huge body of him but with that expression, I really don't know if I should laugh or groan.
"What do you want to eat for dinner?" I choose to smile again.
"Roast chicken would be nice," he answered instantly.
"Okay. Why don't you help me through all these so we can go home earlier, then we go to the food section and buy ingredients for roast chicken," I offered.
"You're going to cook it for me?" he arched one of his eyebrows mockingly.
"Obviously," I nodded innocently.
He gave it a thought for a while. "Deal. But you better cook them right!" he… threatened.
"I'll try," I nodded firmly.
After that we continued shopping and I'm so glad and thankful that he really tried to help me through all the stuff. Well, he grunted once or twice, but that's okay, despite his tiredness at least he tried. If he hadn't and had grunted all the way, our shopping would have probably ended badly since I would have been mad at him and it would probably have ended in a fight.
"Why don't you take a bath and I'll cook," I told him when we finally arrived back at our new house. Quietly, I fell impatient to decorate with the new things we just bought. But, first things first.
"Okay," He unpacked one of the plastic bags and pulled out his new towel. "You know how to make it, right?" he asked concernedly, probably afraid that my cooking will kill him.
"Of course," I nodded confidently and started to put the ingredients on the kitchen table. Liar.
He saluted me and walked happily to the bathroom. I wave my knife at him and waited until the bathroom door closed. Then I faced back the un-cook food.
"Damn, why didn't I ask her to write it down?" I looked and touched all the things I must process and sighed in frustration. Yes, back at the store I asked the lady the recipe but since I'm too busy to remembering it on the way, I totally forgot about it now. Great.
Eventually, Cato finished his bath, decorated our house with the new things as I ordered while I remain cooking in the kitchen, and by the time he finished and everything arranged neatly, the food is done.
"It tastes weird," he commented after his first gulp and I know that he somehow tried to stifle his laughter.
"I know, I'm sorry, I never made one before," I quickly apologized and just laughed. He laughed too. "I promise I'll learn," then I added bashfully after we're both stopped laughing.
"That would be nice," he nodded in agreement. "And it's better than camp food or Clove's, and on the bright side, our new dining set matches perfectly with the food," he said teasingly. Well, in a nicer way, he probably tried to compliment my first attempt.
"So at least it's edible. And are you going to keep eating that?" I asked concernedly since he keeps eating. There are no dangerous ingredients in it but I'm afraid it tastes so bad and that just make me shy. What a wife, he probably thought.
"I don't see why not," he shrugged and put another piece in his mouth. "And you, take responsibility," then he moved his chin towards my own plate and smirked.
Oh my, is it that bad? I cut the meat slowly, and finally put a little piece first to my mouth. "It's…" I talked as I chewed, "weird," I admitted poorly.
"Weird," he scoffed and saluted me with his knife.
Next morning was quite peaceful, I mean, we got used to the fans, and last night I slept while Cato was watching his favorite movie and joined me at… I don't know, passed midnight perhaps? And when I woke up he was still sleeping peacefully while holding his pillow. So I made him a sandwich (that I can do well), and left a note saying that I left early for work.
My teammates and Haymitch asked about our honeymoon details and it's kind of annoying since they bugger me all day and stay curious about everything. They finally shut up slightly when I handed them the souvenirs we bought from the floating city. I escaped to Cato's base before lunch to also give his teammates the souvenirs and just hang out, but they also didn't help at all. Glimmer kept glaring at me and the others wouldn't stop talking, even Clove.
"Katniss?" someone called me as I ate my lunch in the cafeteria alone. Before, I had trained longer since I had been gone for more than a week, I needed good exercise to keep my body and skill in shape. So when I finished and had gone to the cafeteria, the lounge was almost empty because everyone was back at work again.
"What do you want Peeta?" I wiped my mouth with the tissue. I don't even bother to look up from my chair because I already recognize his voice.
"Can we talk a bit?" he asked nervously, forcing me to finally look at him. He looked worried and a bit… pitiful and skinnier. Is he alright?
"Fine," I finally nodded and glanced at the chair next to me.
He smiled a bit and sits down. "First, congratulation for your marriage," then he lured his right hand to me.
"Thank you," I shake it in hesitant and pulled my hand first.
"And I want to apologize since I made some ruckus," he then apologized. "Well, Jasmine and I…"
"It's passed. Nothing is matter right now," I tried to smile and shook my head to let him know that it's alright, I don't care anymore, and I don't want to hear anything about him and Jasmine. It's so weird, the man I still love, sitting in front at me and congratulating me for my marriage with our ex-arch enemy.
He looked in doubt for a while after I cut his words. "So how was your honeymoon? I heard you went to the ruin in floating city," he managed to ask calmly.
"It was refreshing, thrilling, and beautiful," I explained shortly. "It was very romantic," I lied. It's very uncomfortable and I really wish he'll leave me alone.
"I see," he nodded. Then we both sit in silence. "You know, my duty in west is almost over. I'll be back in 20th division in no time," he broke the ice and tried to speak casually.
"Oh," was my only response.
"You don't mind do you?" his brows knitted together in concern.
"I don't see why you can't get back to us. It's your job," I took my glass and sipped a bit of orange juice.
"I can't wait for it," he talked slower and his expression softened.
After that, I didn't see him coming. "Hi hunny," but Cato just suddenly came between us, pulled a chair and sat next to me.
"Hubby, hi," I said and smiled as he put his left arm around my shoulder and let him kiss me. I'm getting more and more used to playing house.
"I overslept, why you didn't wake me?" he moved his lips from mine and kissed my forehead lightly.
"Well, you're sleeping like a baby, so how could I?" I shrugged and offered him my orange juice. He gulped it all.
"Rough night?" someone across us interrupted. I look back to front and found Peeta was looking at us. I almost forgot he was there. How was that even possible?
"Yeah," Cato responded instantly. "Well what do you know, lover boy is here," then he looked at him and gave him an evil smirk.
Peeta smiled awkwardly. "I should probably go, my jet is about to take off," He stood up and waved at us.
"Yeah, why not," Cato nodded and grinned.
"Bye," and I just waved my hand.
"What did he want?" Cato asked after he's gone and looked at me seriously.
"He just congratulated us and apologized," I replied and started to finish my meal. I don't know why I lied, I didn't tell him about Peeta will be back soon to my division.
"He should be," my husband released his hand from me. I just realized that he carried some papers, mission details papers. He studied it for a bit while I was eating. "Look, Brutus said that there's this very important assignment for me and my team, and we really have to go and check, besides, it's already passed our honeymoon time," he finally faced me again and explained.
"You want to ask my… permission?" I asked awkwardly.
"Kind of," he shrugged and smiled naughtily, as if he gave me a sign that if I will talk about this issue deeper I will regret it.
"Well, sure. I mean, it's our job," so I decided to let it go.
"The problem is, we will probably get really busy and none on my team know until when," he then sighed and wiped some sauce on my lips. "But you will not get lonely aren't you? This is just a platonic wedding afterall? It's not like you're going to miss me," he then added slowly.
"Yeah," I swallowed my last bite.
"Yeah as for… I can go?" he asked doubtfully.
"Yeah, you can go," I lifted my glass, poured some water, and looked at him assuredly.
"Okay, thanks," he smiled. Then he looked at his clock. "I'll check on you real soon if I can, alright hun?" He kissed my cheek briefly, stood up, and left the cafeteria.
"Whatever," I mumbled and drink my orange taste water'.
Two months had passed. My marriage still lasted, and it's fine, I guess. Cato is rarely home due to his work. At first he came home three or twice in a week, but as time goes it decreased into once a week. And now, it's been more than two weeks since I last saw him. As his wife and his partner, of course I'm worried about him, I feel so concerned. Everyday, all I think about is him, like is he okay, or does he eat properly, or even, when will he finally home again?
"Hey," I sighed in relief when my phone call is finally reaches him. It's already more than a week since I talked to him. He's gone too far away where the signal from our satellite can't reach him. I did the right thing to keep in touch with Brutus so that I can know his schedule, and today his schedule is to get back here, at Capitol. He only got two days in Capitol for transit though, so I don't know if he could come home, but it's worth a try.
"Katniss?" he sounded shocked, probably because he just landed from his jet, turn on the phone, and the first call is from me.
"Yes," I responded and smiled to myself. Okay, maybe I do miss him a bit, our small apartment is too big for me alone.
"Hi how are you? I just got back to Capitol," he laughed, both nervously and happy.
"I know, that's why I called," I told him.
"By the way I haven't got the chance to say thank you for the tons of dried food you sent us when we're away. The kids are very thankful since we were on ransom crisis and the food just came on time," he then added enthusiastically.
"I'm glad I could be of some help," I gave myself a pat on my back. Then before he manage to speak again and my courage run away, I asked him: "I was wondering if you can come home, just for tonight?"
"Why?" he sounded calm, and I know that he's trying to figure it out, or just playing with me.
"It's our 100 days anniversary," I told him patiently.
"I completely forgot," he responded in guilt. Ouch. "And, do you really want to celebrate with me? Isn't that for real couples?" he asked doubtfully.
"Well, we're real partners, and friends, so there's nothing wrong with keeping the bond," I tried to explain and kept my tone as cool as possible.
"So you mean you'll break our bond if I don't come," he teased me, I can imagined him smirking right now.
"Probably," I can't help to teased back.
"Okay hun, I'll try but I can't promise. If you somehow get your hands on my schedule, you know that I only get two days with tight schedule, right?" he talked persuasively. I hate when he calls me hun when it wasn't even real and he wasn't even here, and I feel disappointment start to build within me because he can't promise, but at least he's honest.
"Yeah, and if you're not going to come, please notify me sooner since I just got back from north. So it's a very exhausting day," I tried to sound nice.
"Okay. I'll contact you if I can't come so you can rest early," he told me in understanding.
"Thank you," I said before I finally end my call.
I probably feel like this because I owe him so much, and well, he is now my friend. And partner. And husband. Everyday I want to make sure that he's not sick and get his rest sufficiently, and if he home, we can probably refresh our mind together by going somewhere, or if he have some problems he can tell me straightly and I can directly give him some advice, that's the least I can do.
/
I feel restless as I change the channel on the TV. I glanced at the clock on the wall to my right. It's almost midnight. I'm worried that Cato will come at any moment now and that the food already cold, so while waiting for him I reheat them, make sure the plates arranges neatly, and the champagne… well, fine. When I finished all of them I look back at the clock. It's already more than one o' clock.
"Cato, you asshole!" I grunted impatiently as I took my phone and try to call him. It's not active. "You didn't call!" then I threw the phone angrily to the couch. I'm too tired and too piss off to clean all the food and the decoration right now, so I decided to clean them on morning and head to the bedroom.
/
I could feel something soft on my lips, and a very calming and comfortable touch on my forehead. As if someone caress me there. Is this a dream? I already fell asleep, right? What time is it? Damn, why do I feel so exhausted?
"Hmm?" I tried to open my eyes.
"Hello fire girl, you're going to burn me aren't you?" an image of a blond handsome man caught in my eyes. "Sorry, I lost my charger and my cell got lowbat, but it's fine now," his eyes are so.. dangerously blue.
"What?" I mumbled and try to gather my thoughts.
"Just go back to sleep," he smiled and said softly, both of them look and heard very nice to me.
"Cato?" I flinched. Is this my husband? Is this even real?
"Sshhhh," the man is shushing me. "Sleep," then the sensation on my forehead gets more and more comfortable until everything gets dark once again.
/
When I wake up in the morning, there's no sign that someone ever come into my room. But when I got out, almost all the roast chicken is gone, there's only some leftover on a clean dishes, and everything is already cleaned up. And there's a bouquet of pink roses on the middle of the table. I took them, smell them, and laughed happily. No one ever gave me a very pretty bouquet before.
Suddenly, my phone ring, and I assume it's Cato right away. Damn him, make me furious and flatter at the same time.
"Hello?" I picked up the phone with enthusiasm.
"Katniss?" but it's not Cato's voice.
"Peeta?" I confirmed the voice owner. How could this be? I changed my cell phone number, but how does he know my house number?
"This is probably sounds weird and so out of the blue, but can you come home to district 12?" Yes, it's him, and yes, he sounded desperate and lost.
"I beg you pardon?" did I mishear him?
"Katniss, my mom died, and my father… I could really use a comfort from a close friend right now?" he begged. I felt a pang in my heart, and sympathy. But he's not my business anymore. My relationship is over with him!
"Well, call Jasmine," I suggested coldly.
"We broke up, okay, right after your wedding. I really don't have anyone right now," he snapped, leaving me blank. "Forget it. You don't have to come, sorry to even bother," then he hung up.
"Peet-" it was really late when I realize about what just happened. "Damnit," I slammed the phone back to its place. After that I prepared everything I need for the journey to District 12, I text Foxface to let her know that I'll take a day off, and depart by jet, it's faster.
/
"Katniss?" Gale is the first person who welcomed me when I arrived at my house. No sign of mom and Prim.
"Hi," I kissed his cheek quickly and head straightly to my room.
"You came?" he followed me.
"Yeah," I replied as I put my back pack on my bed and pulled out a decent funeral outfit.
"Does Cato know you're here?" Gale asked suspiciously.
"Well, I haven't told him, I rushed here as soon as I heard from Peeta," then I pulled out my make up bag.
"Umm," Gale looked confused, I know that he fakes it, his true intention is to mock me.
"Don't get me wrong," I face him as I undo my braid.
"I'll… try," he shrugged. "You're mother and Prim just took of, I went back earlier since they forgot to lock the house," he then added after I'm glaring at him.
"Then I think I'll meet them there," I walked to the door, preparing to close it since I need to change clothes.
"Go then, he looks dead," Gale understandably back off and head down the stairs.
/
Peeta's house is almost empty by guests when I got there, I think I'm already too late. Even mom and Prim already took off too. Peeta's dad is nowhere in sight, but I found my ex sitting on his backyard. Watching to the distant blankly.
"Peeta," I called.
He slowly turned his head at me. And when he figured that it's me, he stands up. "Thank you, this means the world," He just held me tightly.
I hugged him back sincerely. He looks so pale and his eyes are so red. "I'm so sorry about your mom," I patted his back.
"Yeah," he let me go and forced a smile.
"Are you okay?" I asked in concern.
"You think?" he chuckled.
"You look miserable," I tried to tease him.
"I figure that early," thankfully he is not offended. "Can you accompany me for a while?" he then took my palm in his.
"I guess I can, if it just for a while," I shrugged.
/
After my visit from Peeta, I went back to my house, greeted my mom and Prim. Gale still here. After taking a bath and changing my clothes, I text my husband in the garden while I waited for my mother and sister to finished their cooking for supper.
Cato called me right after he received my message. Figures.
"You're where?" he asked furiously.
"Peeta's mom is dead so I attended the funeral," I tried to explain calmly.
"Do I have right to say that I'm still your husband and you can at least tell me before you go?" he asked again with an accusing tone.
"I know, I'm sorry. It didn't really occur to me, I was in a rush," I shook my head in shame even though he can't see it and apologize. He's right. "I was at his place for just a half an hour, I'm at my house right now. I will spend a night here and depart tomorrow morning," then I added, hoping that it will make him more relieved.
"So I guess he does still mean so much for you," Cato sighed, still sounding pissed.
"Don't say that," I warned him.
"It's true, right?" he ignored it and pushed the issue further.
"Yeah, but, don't make this sounds worse. I tried to get over him but he is still my friend, Cato," I tried to reason, and it's the truth. I am trying to get over Peeta. "And I'm so sorry to not let you know or asked your permission earlier," then I apologized once again. "I'm sorry hubby," and added pleadingly, and probably cutely.
"You think by calling me hubby I'll forgive you?" he chuckled sarcastically.
"No, but at least you softened," I teased him.
"You need to check your ear," he snapped again. I thought about what I have to say so he wouldn't get madder at me since our situation is already bad enough. But to my shock, he suddenly sighed. "I'm sorry too, for getting so late last night," His tone was not soft, but there's definitely no anger in it.
"At least you ate my chicken," I recovered quickly and chuckled.
"It's really delicious. You made it?" he asked brighter.
"Yeah, I'm so proud," I responded cheerfully. "And the flowers, it's really beautiful, I even took one to accompany me on my journey," then I told him as looked at my left hand, one of the pink roses from my hubby held there.
"Really?" he sounded shocked but glad.
"I swear," I assured him.
He sighed again and kept quiet for like five seconds. I can hear his breath but oddly I didn't say anything to interrupt. "Don't do what you did today again, okay? At least tell me before you rush to somewhere. I'll send you money for your journey home, 'kay? And I insist," he said firmly.
"Yes sir," I responded right away. If I rejected his offer he'll be probably mad again. "So I guess you're still very busy huh?" I asked slowly.
"Very," he replied immediately.
"Okay then, I'll see you when I see you," I said. If he really is busy that means he can't spend too much time on the phone, right?
"Yeah, take care fire girl, try not to burn anything," he chuckled.
"Yeah you too," I smiled half heartedly and waited until the phone call ends.
"There's no saying I love you or stuff?" suddenly, Gale appeared from out of nowhere. I'm sure he eavesdropped.
"Oh shut up Gale," I waved my hand at him jokingly. "What?" then I realized that he is studying me carefully.
"Are you alright?" he asked seriously as he putted his palms in his pants pocket.
"Tired from work, but fine," I shrug and gave him a small smile.
"Are you happy, with him?" he asked again, and I know that him here means Cato.
"Yeah, can't you tell?" I replied calmly, tried to hide my nerves. Why on earth he asked that? And… am I happy with Cato? Well, yeah, I guess.
"Not yet, I guess," Gale shrug and his playful smile is back. One thing I like about Gale, he always knew when to stop. Except for once or twice.
Something good smells from the kitchen. "Dinner is ready!" I heard Prim chirp to notify us.
"Let's eat, I'm starving!" I titled my head and lead Gale to our dining room.
Two months passed again after Peeta mom died. Mutts getting rocks lately, causing us to work harder and twice tired than we already had. I'm so busy, and so is my husband. I haven't seen him since our 100 days anniversary, he really went to the area where phone call couldn't reach, so I must bear with it. He usually calls me once a week, to ask how I'm doing and requesting me to go shopping and send some stuff to him. But lately, I've been quite occupied with my team and individual work, and sometimes I'm forced to miss his phone call.
"You're blood pressure is low, and sooner or later the cold will take you down," Rue looked at me worriedly as she finished my check up. I do feel a bit dizzy since a week ago, probably because of my tight schedule, I didn't eat properly, and I did catch a cold but it's almost heal. And Rue, well, she'll never miss anybody's sickness.
"Nonsense," I waved my hand as if it was nothing and got up. I feel light headed when I straighten myself, but I tried to cover it with stretching my body. But it gets worse.
"You miss him aren't you?" Rue said softly. "But this is not the right way to deal with your problem," she added because there's no response from me.
"I guess," I mumbled. My head is killing me, I could literally feel something bang my head over and over.
"You fought so hard, even in your day break and that's so not healthy, Katniss," she complained as she also stood. "I wonder why Haymitch let you," and grunted about our mentor.
"I better go now. Thanks for the med-check Rue," I tried to get away from her and leave the room. But suddenly, my vision got blurry and I lost control over my body.
"Katniss!" I heard Rue yelping behind me.
I think I'm… faint…
/
I opened my eyes heavily. Some awful smell came in through my nose, and everything is white. Where am I? I tried to move my body and thank God it responded. I moaned when a sharp pain attack my head, thankfully it's just for a while. Oh great, I know where am I, at the damn hospital.
Then suddenly, I could hear some commotion from outside of my half opened door. Three men argued. One of them blames the two for my anemia, the second defend himself by saying that it was my fault, and the last take the neutral side.
"Guys, I can hear you," I told them loudly.
My door room now opened widely. I could see Cato, Haymitch, and our superior.
"I can take my wife home now," Cato then glared at both of them. "Right?" he asked coldly.
Our superior left. "Sure," But Haymitch nodded in understanding, tap his shoulder, and walk away after he gave me a meaningful glance.
Cato walked confidently to my room. To tell you the truth, I'm still so weak and trying so hard to process my surrounding. "Grab on sweetie," so when Cato whispered, and put his arms around my back and knees, I just automatically circling my hands on his shoulder and let him take me anywhere.
Next thing I know, I already laying on the bed in our apartment.
"Your temperature was very high, you really over work yourself," he sighed heavily as he caressed the top of my head lovingly. I must have been imagining things.
"Shut up," I told him and swallowed my saliva. My mouth tastes bitter.
"You really need to take care yourself," he said seriously as he lowered his head so we are face to face.
"Oh please! Where you've been all this time when I need you! Now you show up and thought that you can just fix everything?" I punched his shoulder pathetically and protested poorly. I couldn't even be angry properly.
"I'm working," he took our bed cover. "And yes, I'm sorry if I was such a lousy husband, a total dick," spread it. "I'm not even sure if this is really you talking," and covered my body as he laughed.
"You betcha," I mumbled lightly as I closed my eyes again, while he tidied the bed cover and wrapped me warmly and comfortably.
I think I woke up at the next morning. Better, at least I could think clearer. Cato lay beside me when I looked to my right, sleeping soundly. When I glanced to the small room on our curtain, I figured that the sun is just rising not long ago. I try to scoot to my husband since I feel a bit cold, but to my surprise, he opened his eyes when he felt me moving. Instinct, I guess. When he's on a mission he can't let his guard down even when he sleeps.
"Hey," he smiled sleepily at me.
"Howdy," I smiled back while he rubbed his eyes, trying to wake himself.
"How are you feeling?" he asked and turned his back from me to take something from the table.
"You're the guy with the thermometer," I said when he faced me again with a thermometer in his hand.
He carefully put the thermo in my ear, waited until it beeped and studied the result. "Well, your fever is gone. But we have to make sure it wouldn't come back for three days and I have booked a week for you to bed rest," he reported and smiled widely.
It's like a dream. I mean, I haven't seen him for days, even weeks, hell, months. Now he's here. My husband, my best friend. I did miss him a lot, his smirk, his laughter, even his bad mouth and attitude. I think my eyes are playing tricks on me, since his hair looks blonder and his eyes are so enchanting. Foxface was right, he is a beautiful sight.
"I see," I nodded.
"And for me, if you ask," he added arrogantly.
I feel so relief. "That's nice, you can also have a break," and for the first time, I can feel some strength left in my body.
"I know," he smirked. "Let me get you your breakfast, I just need to reheat it. And it's already past six anyway, time to wake" He got up from bed swiftly.
I wished I could do the same. But I felt a bit of nausea when I sat up, even though I did it slowly and carefully.
"Where are you going?" Cato stopped on his way and looked at me in confusion when my feet are on the floor.
"Watching TV. I'm bored," I replied. He walked to the bed again, bowed down next to me, and slipped his arms on my back and knees. "Wait, no need to-" I tried to stop him. It's been a long time since he acts like this, so I feel a bit shy.
"Shut up! You'll do the same," he laughed and lifted me up.
"Carry you in bridal style when you sick? I guess not," I teased as he walked to the living room with me in his arms.
"Well, you're very pitiful right now, so…" he mocked back. "Just joking. This is my obligation," then added quickly after he figured that I'm frowning. I see, obligation, so he don't have a choice. Well, at least that's good news.
"Thanks," I said as he put me on the couch and even switch on the TV for me.
He mumbled and walked to the kitchen. To reheat our breakfast, and when he finished, I almost got a heart attack at the food he brought.
"That's… how did you?" my eyes widen as I stare at my mother's chicken soup.
"I asked your mother how to make this," he smiled in satisfaction and about to feed me.
"It's okay, I can eat this by myself." He is done so much already.
"Okay," he carefully handed the bowl to me. "Do you want to eat that until you heal?" and asked.
"Well, no…" I shook my head. It's really good for my taste and health, but I'll get bored if I'll eat it every time. "But I don't mind it for lunch," then I added.
"Chef Cato is at your service," he took my spoon forcedly and put the soup inside his mouth joyfully.
Three days passed. I really feel better right now. Sometimes I still feel my head pounding lightly and my feet are still rather weak, but I'm fine.
"Good news, fever is gone, I think you'll be fine," Cato told me the good news at the fourth morning.
"Thank God,"I sighed in relief. "That means I can start to work next week right? I can't just sit still at home while our country is in a grave danger from mutts attack," I added jokingly as I took the thermometer from him and studying my own temperature.
"Yep. By the way do you feel healthy enough to go out with me?" he nodded and suddenly asked out of nowhere. "And don't lie," he warned.
"Well, yeah," I replied. "But where?"
"Do you care to buy some ice cream with me?" he asked mockingly with butler attitude.
"Count me in," I laughed as I took his hand that he offered before.
So after that we went to the nearest grocery store and bought some ice cream.
He chose vanilla. "What in the world is that?" and asked in awe when I pick mine. I noticed that he never said fuck again, sometimes he did but he tried not to let it escaped his mouth.
"Don't be mean. It's green tea and it's actually nice," I pinched his upper arm and put my ice cream into our trolley. "Whoa, that's a lot," then I response shockingly when he suddenly took another bucket of ice cream, the biggest.
"What? Today is really hot," he looked at me innocently, which I know is a fake.
"Are you going to finish them all by yourself?" I ignored his joke and asked concernedly. I mean, does he even serious?
"Probably," he scowled.
So I let him then. We back to our apartment a couple of minutes later. Oddly, Cato didn't press the elevator button on our floor, but to the rooftop.
"We're not going to our room?" I asked, starting to feel suspicious.
"No, let's eat all of this on the pent house," he suggested cheerfully, which I know also a fake.
"We'll get stomachache," I also faked a protest.
"Not listening," he covered his ears and acting cutely. It's the first time I see him like that, another different side of him. I chuckled and hold his hand in mine. He smiled at me and squeezed it lightly.
"SURPRISE!" then, when we just come out from the elevator, a bunch of people is suddenly surround us and showering us with party crackers and stuff.
I startled and like, blank for a couple of seconds. "Mom, Prim, Gale, Darla…" then I studied them all. "Dad?" yelled in disbelief. "What are you all doing here?" and happily hugged all of them, started with my both younger sister.
"Because we miss you, sissy!" Prim hold me playfully.
"And because we know that you are sick," while Darla sweetly kissed my cheek.
"Ask question later, lets just party!" My mother looked so enthusiastic and wave at us to one of the gazebo near the pool. It's been years since the last time she comes to Capitol, so she must've been feel so exciting. When we get to the gazebo, I realized that a buffet of lunch already lay there, and some fruit punch.
"How could this even possible?" I whispered at Cato cheerfully as we took our seat.
"My dad learned that you're sick, so he set this all up," he whispered back at me.
"Really?" I glanced at Cato's dad thankfully. He sat next to my mother, both of them chat casually.
"Yeah, are you happy?" Cato asked after we both sit.
"I'm thrilled," I laughed at him and said with overload enthusiasm.
My get well soon party lasted until before the sunset. My mom had to get back soon because she had a lot of work to do, so Prim had to go home with her. Actually, my mom, Cato and I, persuaded Prim to stay at Capitol longer so Cato and I could take her to some place for recreationally, but she refused because she said that she have to take care of our mom. My sister is so angelic. So since Prim can't stay over Darla also refused Cato and I offer too. She would go another day with my father in law in a business trip before coming back to district 2. And Gale, he said he still have some business here, but he wouldn't tell me, and he reject when Cato and I asked him to stay over at our house, his reason is because he's just staying at Capitol for another night.
"Thanks for coming Gale, look up my mother and Prim when you're already home, kay?" I tiptoed and hugged Gale.
"Always catnip," he hugged me back and kissed my hair. "I'm just glad that you're alright and… happy…" then he said again after we broke our hug."With him," my best friend-brother, titled his head and looked over my shoulder.
I turned around and found Cato hugging and kissing Darla lovingly. I smiled to myself, faced Gale back, touched his face and gave him a brief kiss on his right cheek.
"Well, see you next time then?" my father in law smiled widely when I escort him to our apartment door.
"I don't know what to say, it's such a privilege and.. I'm just really happy with you here," I said gratefully.
"I'm your dad now, don't worry about asking me for anything," he grabbed my shoulder and squeezed it. So I guess I will really call him dad, from now on.
"Thanks for set up the whole thing?" I smiled thankfully.
"Me?" Dad brows knitted together. "Cato was the one who set this up. He called us and he even paid for all expenses, he said we'll make you feel better if we come. He was really worried about you and practically begged me to come and blabbered about he's being a responsible husband," he then explained to me softly.
"What?" I startled. He just smiled.
Did Cato lie? Why would he lie? Because he's ashame that I will mock him for being soft? Or because… he doesn't want to get any credits from me?
"What?" I asked at my husband when we're finally alone again in our apartment room. I just finished drinking my medication.
"Are you sick again?" he stared at me concernedly from the couch.
"No," I shook my head. "The doctor said that I must finished all my medicine right?" and set the glass back to the kitchen table.
"Damn, how could I forget," he shrug and get back to watch the news again.
"It's alright, no need to remind me again, I can remember my own medicine," I told him as I walked over and sat next to him.
He glanced at me then faced me fully And to my surprise, he touched my face with his palms, and studied it closely. "No fever, blush comes back, and eyes…" he stopped as he staring right to my eyes confusedly.
"What?" I mumbled. "Eyes what?" I repeated.
"Nothing," he let me go. "I'll just watch the TV for while, you go on ahead, don't stay up late," he caressed my head and turned his attention back to our flat screen.
"Okay," I replied and stood up.
As my head touched the pillow, my medicine works it magic. I felt so sleepy and was sent to sleep right away. I dreamed about, my dad. My real dad, in my house at district 12. In that dream I'm sick too and he takes care of me, he sings for me… It's a very beautiful dream.
When I wake up the next morning, Cato is not at our home. No email and no text from him either. But then I got out of my room, found my magically delicious pancake and milk on the dining table, and a note, with a ticket of theme park.
I have some errands to do. Go bath, dress nicely, and meet me at the theme park on 3.
I giggled and set the note back to its place. Then I finished my breakfast and do what the note said.
/
For the fourth time after I arrived at the theme park, I checked my own reflection on the window glass near the mirror house at my right. I look fine. I'm wearing my blue jeans, a very girly purple blouse with flower patterns and double latched spaghetti straps, white canvas kitten heels with black vine pattern, and sling my postman leather bag on my right side. I applied my compact powder, light mascara, brown eyeliner, a bit of blush, and nude lipstick on my face. I even spray some sun-in to my hair so it looks healthier. It's been so long since I have a date, so I want to look pretty and make my date partner (in this case my husband) happy, feast his eyes (I hope).
Cato had not arrived yet and it's not his fault, I came 15 minutes earlier because I'm afraid that I'm going to be late. It's not a holiday so the theme park is not as crowded as usual. While I'm waiting for him I thought about his errands and something like that. I even wondered where was Gale right now and who is he was with just so I can stop worrying about how I look.
"Wow!" I heard someone mocking me from my left.
"Yeah, right," I mocked back as I faced my husband who is finally came. He looks handsome as usual with his same color with mine blue jeans, white t-shirt, and dark flannel shirt.
"I don't know you can do your own make up. The fire girl transformed to a flower girl," he teased as he walked at me. I walked at him too.
"Shut up," I could do the same but I can't wait to play, so I decided to lose it.
"Okay," he laughed and put his arm around my shoulder. "So, where to?"
"Umm…" I pretended to think even though I already know what I wanted from the start. "Jet coaster?" and glanced innocently at him.
"Jet coaster it is!" he nodded in enthusiasm and led me to the ride.
So, we really enjoyed the jet coaster, and after that, another series of extreme rides. We decided that the cable car will be the last so we can enjoy the scenery before closing time. I really had fun today, so much thrilled! We played, we joked, we even did some pranks and dared each other, it's so silly! I even had to do my hair into a ponytail so it wouldn't get in the way and I could be more active. I can't believe when he told me that it's almost sunset and we better get on the cable car before closing time.
"It's pretty," I looked outside from our compartment, amazed by the light trick that plays by the sun. Everything is illuminated.
"Yeah, prettier than you," my husband who sat in front of me stuck out his tongue goofily.
"Really?" I scowled at him, pretending to be offend.
"Why do you care when you've already fallen for me?" he sighed annoyingly and leaned deeper to his seat.
"Well, if I already fell for you then that means I must care," I argued. "And no, I haven't fallen for you," and make a correction.
"I don't believe you," he smirked naughtily.
"You are gorgeous," I admitted. He grinned arrogantly. "But you're so brutal, and cranky, and evil…" then I added nastily.
"Just to you," he titled his head.
"Damn right," I nodded hard.
We laughed. "Proof it, that you haven't fall for me," he suddenly dares me again.
"With what, genius?" I crossed my arms.
"Come here," he lured his hand and gestured me to come to him. So I stood up and walk to him. "Sit," I froze when he tapped his thighs.
"No," I refused immediately.
"We don't have enough time, wimp," he snickered and used the annoying tone he used to do when we're still enemy.
"Alright pussy," so I do the same and coldly sit on his lap, hoping that my sudden agreement will make him nervous.
"Whoa," he startled a bit when I even placed my hands on his shoulder. I can smell his musky perfume.
"Are you scared now, little boy?" I teased innocently.
"Be gentle with me, fire girl," he laughed and placed his hands on my waist. Okay, now what is his deal? "Let's just kiss and see if you said was true," Cato smirk again, evilly.
"I'm sorry?" I repeated, I probably misheard.
"Are you scared, that if you kiss me you will really fall for me?" he straightened himself so his head was not to far from mine.
"Hmph, just don't fall in love with me," I teased back bravely.
"Fine," he whispered softly, and one of his hands goes up to my cheek and caresses me there.
Damn, his voice, his touch, his eyes… Why do I feel nervous? Probably because it's been a long time since we kissed. And well, in my opinion we never really kiss since it's only his lips touching mine, there were never a feeling there. Well, except for once when we are carried by situation.
He move closer to me and I close my eyes as he pulled my head to him. And when our lips met, it always feels the same like before, there is no awkwardness, we just do it naturally. Since he said that it was a dare so I think I must kiss him fully, I mean, not plain like it used to, since he do the same.
When our lips apart for only one brief moment, he looked at me longingly. Something I haven't seen on him, something I have only seen on someone expression when they are really kissing. After that he kiss me again, this time rougher than before, he consumed my entire lips on his, he doesn't even need his tongue to make me open my mouth. Then he freely enters his tongue and I gasped, sending some air to his mouth. He trailing my inner side mouth, every bit of it, and it drives me crazy. I returned the favor as I bit his lower lips, licking it, sucking it hungrily. He suddenly pulled me so close so I hugged him tighter. Our bodies are pressing to one another. My breast press against his chest, and my thighs wraps around his lower area. He runs his hands on my back as I run my fingers on his criminally blond hair.
He suddenly broke the kiss. His face looks so flushed, his mouth is slightly open. He is out of breath, and he looked at me passionately. It's mesmerizing, and I can't take any longer to not kiss him again. This time, I'm the one who takes the lead. Without wasting another seconds, I captured his lips with mine, really rough.
"Ah," he gasped in shock, but quickly kisses me back.
"Em," I gasped when I suddenly feel something touched my bare back, he slipped his hands there. I thought I would be angry, but to the contrary, I feel pleasure. So my hands leave his head and start unbuttoning his shirt impatiently, and when it finally opened I slipped my hands under his t-shirt and run my fingers on his abdomen and muscular chest. Damn, I knew it, I knew that his bare skin and muscle will feel so good! Then, I felt something bumped my most sensitive area and I automatically flinched and jumped away a bit from him at the first touch, but he eagerly followed my head movements with his and in no time, our lips meet again. I'm not a kid. I definitely know what that was, it was his groin. Was he turned on by me? But I definitely turn on by him, my nipples are hardened and I can tell that they were getting more sensitive. He moaned occasionally now, and I tried not to because I don't want to sound vulnerable, since it's his dare anyway.
Then, I felt something touch my hair tie, and suddenly my hair is loose. And the most surprising is, Cato hand is now at my left shoulder, he pushed my straps down in rush and now caressing my bare skin. His lips are even starting to leave mine and now trailing my chin, my neck, my collar bone, and stopped on my shoulder. He licks it, and damn I moaned a bit louder than I should. Then he suddenly bites it and sucking it in, making me gasped in pain and pleasure.
"Cato.." I yelped as I run my fingers on his chest again.
"You want me to stop?" he asked huskily and stopped biting me.
"We're at… public place," I told him desperately, almost out of breath. I always know that he is a good kisser and if I really kiss him it's probably hard for me to let him go since it will be very addicting. Now I know that it's right.
"I know. Do you want me to stop?" he asked and right after that he licks, trailing my shoulder through my neck and the back of my ear with his warm and intoxicating tongue.
No.
Then suddenly, we heard a loud bang noise from the door. We broke our kiss and faced the source of the voice confusedly.
"Sorry, to interrupt, sir, madam, but the ride is over, and it's almost closing time," there, the maintenance man inform us awkwardly and shyly. He clearly knows who we are. "We can run it once again if you like, for one last time?" he then added doubtfully.
Cato and I stared blankly at him, still trying to gather our thoughts. Then we look at one another and abruptly laughed.
"No, that won't be necessary," I told the maintenance man between my laughter while Cato is trying so hard to put my strap back to its place.
"You like that didn't you?" he asked mockingly when we finally outside and start walking out from the park.
"No I didn't," I shook my head and tried to restrain a smile or blush.
"Uh huh," he pretend to believe it and took my hand in his.
"I mean it," I said seriously.
"Anyway, it's embarrassing that we got caught," he laughed.
"Well, if it's embarrassing you shouldn't have ask me to do something like that in the first place," I responded in annoyance.
He stopped walking. "Easy, I said it's embarrassing that we got caught, not the kiss…" and explained to me patiently.
"Oh," I mumbled. Now I get it.
"Do you happen to be mad because I said something you didn't want to hear?" he then asked curiously.
Damn.
Thankfully, my cell phone is suddenly ring. I stuck my tongue at my husband as I reached it from the bottom of my bag, while he scowled at me jokingly.
"Katniss Everdeen?" I answered the phone. My other hand is still in his.
"Captain Everdeen, we're from Capitol General Hospital, we would like to inform you that one of your teammate Peeta Mellark is badly wounded from his last mission and now we have to put him in ICU. We think that we have to inform you first. We also run out of blood and there is no donor right now. You have the same type with him, so if you willing to save him please come to the hospital immediately…" the women on the phone informed me.
Yep, that's it! What do you think? The lemons will be in next chapter, so look forward to it. Oh, and please don't forget to like my novel, join its group and its twitter, it will help me a lot and gets me motivated to write more. So please, I practically beg you…
Anyway, thanks for reading, please review. I see you at the new chapter, and HAPPY NEW YEAR! Peace!