Disclaimer: This fanfic is rated 'M' for adult themes. I do not own any of the characters of The Hunger Games or of Pride and Prejudice.
Chapter 2:
"She is tolerable; but not handsome enough to tempt me."
- Pride and Prejudice, Jane Austen
Later that day, when they all were seated for the evening meal, Mrs. Abernathy persisted to badger her husband with questions of Mr. Odair.
"Mr. Abernathy, please do tell, is Mr. Odair of an agreeable nature?"
"My dear sweet wife, are we still to discuss Mr. Odair at the table?" Mr. Abernathy asked as he took a sip from his glass. "Was it not enough that I shared with you the good news of calling on him already?"
"Oh, Mr. Abernathy, how can you tease us so, we must know as much as we can of his looks and his nature. Is he a pleasant man?" Mrs. Abernathy whined as she clutched her knife and fork in her hands. "How are we ever to get him to marry one of our daughters if we know nothing of him?
Mr. Abernathy wiped his mouth with his napkin and sighed, "I know nothing of the preferences of young ladies. If I should say that he is of an agreeable nature and then you meet him for yourself and do not agree, what of me then?"
"Oh, Pappa!" Johanna huffed. "Must you treat us so?"
"Perhaps you should call upon Lady Undersee tomorrow," Mr. Abernathy suggested. "She has already had the pleasure of introductions with Mr. Odair and would provide a much better opinion of his looks and of his nature."
"Oh, what a wonderful idea Mr. Abernathy!" Mrs. Abernathy sang before her smile flattened into a frown. "If only you had informed me of this during our discussion earlier, I would have called upon her this afternoon."
"Oh please, Mamma, can we please visit with Lady Undersee tomorrow?" Portia asked.
"Of course my dear, we shall all go!" Mrs. Abernathy answered with a nod. "It would only be polite as we have not had their company for some time now."
"It will be such a pleasure to see Madge again!" Katniss agreed.
The Undersees resided at a large cottage on a sizable property located on the edge of town, which had come to be known as Undersee Lodge. Sir Elliot Undersee had acquired his fortune in trade when his family resided in the Capitol many years ago. Prior to selling his business to retire and make a life in the country, he was elected mayor of the town, which eventually earned him a knighthood. The Undersees had two children: a daughter, Madge, and her younger brother, Richard. Madge was of the age of five-and-twenty years but was considered quite plain in appearance compared the Abernathys and Everdeens. Fortunately what she lacked in appearance, she made up for with kindness and a pleasing disposition. Despite their difference in age, Madge had become Katniss' closest friend and confidant outside of her sister and cousins.
"That poor child, all alone with only the female company of her mother," Mrs. Abernathy said sympathetically. "At least Mrs. Undersee only has one daughter to worry over, although I would think she is having a most difficult time. If only Madge was more comely. She is not half as comely as my dear sweet Annie, nor is she half as good humored as my darling Johanna—"
"Mamma," Annie interrupted. "Madge has many a qualities that any suitor would find amiable. I would not fret too much over it for she is only of five-and-twenty years."
"That is not too many years from thirty. Spinsterhood is closer to knocking on her door than you think," Mrs. Abernathy huffed before taking a bite of her lamb. "Besides, my dear Annie, not everyone has been blessed with your grace and beauty," she cooed.
Of all her daughters, Mrs. Abernathy was most proud of Annie's countenance. It wasn't a secret that Annie's reputation for her beauty and her most agreeable nature was well-known throughout the country side. Many gentlemen had shown interest in courting Annie; however, unbeknownst to her mother, it was Mrs. Abernathy that kept most at bay.
"Then it is settled," Mr. Abernathy spoke through a mouthful of lamb, "and you can take the carriage tomorrow as well. Now, will you please allow me to finish my meal in peace?"
The next morning, the Abernathys and Everdeens climbed into Mr. Abernathy's carriage and set off to Undersee Lodge. Mr. Abernathy had declined his wife's insistence on accompanying them. Instead, he informed her that he had pressing business to attend to in town, but in actuality, he took the opportunity to lock himself away in his study to attend to his correspondence and indulge in his brandy, appreciative of the rare peace and quiet of his household.
As they approached the main entrance, they noted Lady Undersee and Madge patiently waiting to greet them upon their arrival. The day had proven to be a pleasurable one; only a handful of clouds dotted the blue sky and a warm breeze blew through the trees, causing their leaves to rustle as the songbirds sang their cheerful tunes.
"Madge!" Katniss shouted as she leapt from the carriage, completing ignoring the extended hand of the footman.
"Where are your manners, Kat!" Mrs. Abernathy called after her.
To appease her aunt, she slowed her steps before she dipped into a shallow curtsy to greet Lady Undersee and Madge before wrapping her arms around her friend in a tight embrace. When she pulled away, she assessed Madge's complexion as it had been over a month since she had last seen her for Madge had recently returned home from visiting her aunt and uncle in the Capitol.
"You look bright and well! I only hope your spirits match your appearance as much?" Katniss asked hopefully.
"Yes, of course, as much as I despise the long journey to the Capitol, I must admit that the time away from my mother proved to be quite uplifting," Madge whispered as her mother greeted Mrs. Abernathy. "Come, let us take a walk, the day is lovely and the air is fresh."
Madge linked her arm through Katniss' as she led her to the garden that surrounded Undersee Lodge. Katniss inquired about the trip, the families that Madge had called upon while in the Capitol, what new fashions the residents of the Capitol were now considering in style, and about the balls she had attended. The balls held in the Capitol were of a greater grandeur than those held in town, and Katniss had yet to attend one herself.
As they walked around the perimeter of the pond that Sir Elliot had insisted be well-stocked before purchasing the property, they paused to watch the water fowl as they swam across the glassy surface. It was then that their conversation inevitably settled upon the topic of marriage. In fact, that was the reason why Lady Undersee had insisted that Madge visit the Capitol, in the hopes of her daughter making acquaintances with the larger stock of gentleman that resided there.
"I am not getting any younger, Kat, so if I must settle for security and a roof over my head then so be it. I do not believe a marriage built upon love and happiness is in the cards for me."
"But Madge, how can you say that? You are still young and of a sensible intellect with so much to offer. You will make a fine companion, and any gentleman would be fortunate to have you!"
"You are too kind. If only I shared the same opportunistic views of one of such beauty and passion for life as yourself."
Katniss could not stifle her laughter for although Madge had the sincere intention of complimenting her dear friend, Katniss could not disagree more regarding Madge's generous portrayal of her otherwise spirited nature.
"I do not see what you find so amusing, Kat. It is true. If I had half your beauty and half your personality, my mother would not be as concerned as she is for marrying me off."
"But my dear Madge, if you do not marry for love or respect, then what shall become of you?"
"Do not worry about me. If I am lucky enough to contract a marriage then I will be quite content to fill my days with keeping my household of course. I needn't be at my husband's side all hours of the day, only when he requires me of course. Besides, if God sees fit, I hope to be blessed with children who will occupy my time and affection. If you strip down a marriage to the bare bones, is that not what it is, a contract of two agreeing parties, joined in union to better their livelihood?"
Katniss could not help but feel sorry for her friend's bitter and pessimistic outlook on marriage. If she was ever to marry, Katniss had hoped that it would be for mutual love and respect: someone who would match her in equality and not treat her as an inferior or as his property.
She and Annie had stayed up into the early hours of the morning on many occasions discussing their hopes for their futures, but it was clear that Annie was the complete opposite of Madge and desired nothing more than love and romance. If there was anything that Katniss was most sure of, it was that one day Annie would be able to fulfill her dream and find a partner who would not only provide for her the bare necessities, but supply her with all the romance and comforts she deserved.
As for her own future, Katniss could only hope to be half as successful as Annie, for her quick tongue and wit were seen as more of hindrance than an agreeable trait amongst eligible suitors.
Sensing that they would not come to an agreement on the subject of marriage due to their differing circumstances, Katniss tried to lighten the mood with her playful nature.
"Well, in the words of my dear Aunt Effie, if I am ever to find a willing suitor, I had better keep my mouth shut and force his hand to the parchment of settlement before he realizes the fire and spirit that lies beneath this deceptive mask," she laughed as she cupped her own cheeks and pushed against them in a comical manner.
"And what traits would this gentleman have to posses to captivate the heart of the illustrious Miss Everdeen?" Madge giggled, her mood already brightened by Katniss' humor.
Katniss brought her index finger up and tapped it to her pursed lips as she looked around the garden, as if she was giving the question hard thought.
"Well, to start, he must share the same enjoyments as myself, which includes walking, reading a diverse genre of literature, the ability to participate in intellectual conversation, and he must be able to hold is own against my quick wit, allow me the freedom to pursue what ever my heart desires, and last of all, possess the tolerance to put up with my Aunt Effie!" she ended with a full-hearted laugh.
"What an extensive list, Kat. I do not think such a gentleman exists!"
"Oh he does exist, Madge, you just have not made his acquaintance yet," she said with a knowing smile. "And neither have I."
"Can you hear anything?" Annie whispered as she placed her palm on the small of her cousin's back.
Katniss held her ear close to the door of her uncle's study before answering, "I think so…hush now!" She giggled lightly as she strained to hear the conversation on the other side of the heavy wooden barrier.
She was not blind to the irony of the situation as she and Annie stood huddled against the door of her uncle's study. It was but the previous afternoon that she had jokingly scolded her two younger cousins for the very same offense.
At least five minutes had passed since the arrival of Mr. Odair to Seamfirth. He had come to return the call from Mr. Abernathy in hopes of acquiring an introduction to the ladies of the house, yet he was disappointed when Mr. Abernathy had informed him that Mrs. Abernathy was away in town with their daughters.
In truth, Mrs. Abernathy had left for town with Primrose, Portia, and Johanna earlier in the day and was not scheduled to return until the afternoon. Mr. Abernathy did not see it as proper or fair to introduce only Annie and Katniss to Mr. Odair when he had five young ladies to match. In actuality, he was more fearful of his wife's rage if he had done so. He thought better of it and decided to put forth another means of an introduction.
"Mr. Odair, we would be pleased if you would dine with us in two days time, if your schedule would allow." Mr. Abernathy lightly tapped his finger to his lips as he waited for an answer.
"I must regretfully decline your invitation, Mr. Abernathy, as I shall be leaving Seaforth upon the morrow."
Mr. Abernathy's face fell slightly as he tried to contain his disappointment regarding Mr. Odair's refusal, but his determination to find a suitable husband for one of his daughters or nieces was too great, so he further probed Mr. Odair covertly in regards to his expected return to Seaforth Park.
"Then are you not to attend the ball to be held in town next week, Mr. Odair? I'm sure a gentleman such as yourself would be excited to become better acquainted with the eligible ladies of the area."
"Indeed, Mr. Abernathy, I have all intentions of attending the ball, which is the very reason that I must decline your offer to dine this week. I am to return to the Capitol to collect my sister and a few dear friends of mine who I wish to accompany me to the ball. My guests will be staying on a month or two to enjoy the countryside. Perhaps you and your family would like to join us one evening once we are all settled?"
"That would be most appreciated, Mr. Odair. I am quite sure my wife and daughters would be beside themselves to call upon you at Seaforth."
"I look forward to it with great anticipation." Mr. Odair extended his hand to meet Mr. Abernathy's in a firm shake before bowing to take his leave. "Until next week then, Mr. Abernathy. Good day."
"Good day, Mr. Odair."
The footsteps of Mr. Odair grew louder as he approached the door of the study. As to not be caught eavesdropping, Katniss and Annie quickly backed away from the door and hurried to the kitchen where they startled Mrs. Sae, who was hunched over the harvest table plucking away at the feathers of their soon-to-be evening meal.
"For heaven's sake, my dears! Where is the fire?" Mrs. Sae said exasperatedly.
"Hush, Sae!" Katniss whispered as she brought her index finger to her lips in hopes of quieting the elderly cook.
"Busy listening in on other's conversations again, are we?" Mrs. Sae scolded, although the playful nature of her voice betrayed her attempt at sounding strict. "You young ladies and your gossip," she huffed as she took a large handful of feathers and detached them from the carcass in one quick tug.
"Is the pot calling the kettle black?" Katniss countered as she cupped her hand to her mouth to prevent from giggling.
Mrs. Sae laughed whole heartedly and smiled back at Katniss mischievously for she was known for having eyes in the back of her head and the ears of a night owl; nothing transpired under the roof of Seamfirth without her knowledge.
Twelve years earlier…
Upon her arrival to Seamfirth, Katniss had become greatly overwhelmed by the sudden loss of her parents, the move to her new home, and her new family. She had taken to solitude in the room that she and Primrose were to share on her first night there. Katniss was both hurt and saddened by the ease with which Primrose warmed up to their aunt and their aunt to Primrose. She assumed it was because Primrose was of the same age as Portia and their aunt could not resist in treating the two as twins, for the girls shared the same golden hair and fair skin. Instead of sharing a bed with Katniss, Primrose had taken to sharing a crib with Portia to ease Mrs. Abernathy's nerves of Primrose falling out of the bed at night.
It infuriated Katniss that her aunt would suspect such nonsense; Katniss would never have allowed such a thing to happen, for they had shared a bed since Primrose's first year. Katniss knew that she was beyond capable of caring for her younger sister. It was due to her rash and quick temperament that she was unable to understand that her aunt's motives came from a place of love and years of motherhood rather than a slight to Katniss' own abilities.
She would not initially take her meals with the rest of the family in the dining room or join them in their everyday rituals. The world that Katniss had come to know and love and been viciously pulled out from under her and because Primrose was so young, no one truly understood how alone she felt.
As a result, she slept by herself most nights. It was only a few nights later that the nightmares had begun to plague her. The dreams were always of such a vivid and intense nature that Katniss would awaken with her bed sheets soaked in sweat as a scream escaped her lips or as she gasped for air. Her skin always burned with heat after as well, as if she herself had been caught in the fire that night and not her parents. She swore that as she breathed in to steady herself, the smell of signed hair and smoke were present all around her. Every time though, she would eventually come to and realize it was only a nightmare.
It was Mrs. Sae and her soft, yet persistent temperament that had eventually brought Katniss out of her shell. Although her aunt's attempts to forge a relationship with her were well-intentioned and sincere, it was not until a few years later that Katniss eventually warmed up to Mrs. Abernathy. Until that time, Mrs. Sae had dutifully stepped in to take charge of the maternal guidance that Katniss so desperately required.
Shortly after Katniss' arrival, Mrs. Sae began to notice that someone had been taking the previous day's leftover bread and cheese from the kitchen. It wasn't until the third occurrence when she had risen particularly early to light the fires for the day that she noticed the small child in her nightgown. Katniss had snuck down in the early morning hours to feed herself before returning to her room quietly like a ghost in the night. Something softened Mrs. Sae's heart when she noticed the dark circles under the child's eyes and how even under her billowy nightdress she could tell the child was skin and bones. This led Mrs. Sae to set out a plate of bread, cold meat, fruit, and cheese every night for the poor child before she would turn in for the night.
A week had passed before Mrs. Sae had finally beheld Katniss during the daylight hours. Mrs. Sae could feel two little eyes spying on her from behind the doorway to the kitchen one morning as she prepared the loaves of bread for the day. As Katniss watched Mrs. Sae knead, punch, and flatten the dough over and over, she eventually crept out from her hiding place from behind the doorway and sat atop the stairs to watch her. Acknowledging her audience, Mrs. Sae stopped to wipe her brow and dusted the flour off her arms before she stepped away from the table and patted the wooden stool next to her. Katniss startled, and her first reaction was to turn and run back to her bedroom; however something about Mrs. Sae's quiet nature drew her from her perch as she slowly shuffled to her side.
"Have you ever dealt with dough before child?" Mrs. Sae asked as she peered down at Katniss from the corner of her eye.
The small child looked up at her before slowly shaking her head. Mrs. Sae was pleased to see that the color had returned to the child's face, as well some plumpness to her little cheeks.
"Well, there is nothing to it really, now, if you're going to help me, I'll need you to come here and stand in front of me."
Katniss looked down to the dough and then back to Mrs. Sae and paused as she tugged at her bottom lip with her teeth. A minute later, she silently arose from the stool and shuffled her little feet to stand between the table and Mrs. Sae.
"Now, I've done most of the work already, but I feel as though this dough hasn't behaved properly. When you feel ready, I want to you form a fist and punch the dough right here in the middle."
Uncertainty crossed Katniss' face as her eyes went wide and she stared into the face of the old cook. She could see the deep wrinkles that had started to form at the corners of her eyes and around her mouth. Unsure if she was being teased or if Mrs. Sae was indeed serious, Katniss' mouth formed into a small frown as she furrowed her brow. Mrs. Sae only stared back seriously and waved a hand at the dough as if she was waiting for her to take action.
Katniss formed a small fist and brought it down into the center of the dough as Mr. Sae had instructed. It deflated instantly as it absorbed her tiny fist and Katniss was surprised at how cool it felt against her skin.
"Good," Mrs. Sae said with an encouraging tone. "Now, again, like you mean it."
Katniss withdrew her fist and looked to Mrs. Sae once more for reassurance before she tightened both fists and she began to strike the dough with such force that the table began to shake. As she struck the dough over and over, it was if a door had suddenly been unlocked and thrown open. The thoughts and feelings that she realized she had been holding back were now at the forefront of her mind.
Since the death of her parents, Katniss had yet to shed a single tear, and she was unsure why. Perhaps it was because she felt the need to show strength for her younger sister or because she regarded crying as a sign a weakness or because she knew it would never bring her parents back. She knew that people were supposed to cry over the loss of loved ones, especially from the loss of one's parents.
At times, Katniss thought that there was something wrong with her for showing no emotion, but she did not feel ill. She had once overhead her mother while she was speaking with a friend about a sickness of the mind where the inflicted individual would show no signs of physical distress for a doctor to diagnose. Perhaps that was what had plagued her, a sickness of the mind and of the soul, for although she did not feel any pain in her body, she had felt heaviness in her chest that had never been there before.
Her breathing began to quicken as her frustration continued to grow, as did the force of her blows to the dough. Bam! Frustration from the loss of her parents. Thud! Frustration for being so young and unable to take care of her sister and herself on their own. Whack! Frustration for having to leave her home and start over again with people that were more strangers than family. Smack! Frustration for losing herself the past few weeks. Bang! Frustration for not being able to be in control of her life, her feelings, or her future.
The harder she pressed her fists into the dough, the less heavy her chest began to feel. Soon enough, she realized that she no longer felt the intense weight in her chest but she had an overwhelming urge to cry. She inhaled a deep breath before she finally allowed herself to do so. Large tears began to form and roll from her face but she did not stop to wipe them from her cheeks. All the while, Mrs. Sae continued to watch as she gripped the table tightly to hold it steadfast.
Katniss' punches eventually subsided and became no more than limp slaps as her little chest heaved up and down in quiet sobs. Her tears had thoroughly soaked through the front of her dress and her eyes were red and puffy. She turned from the flattened mound of dough and wrapped her arms firmly around Mrs. Sae's middle, her little fingers digging into the old cook's fleshy body for dear life.
"There now, my child, let it all out," Mrs. Sae insisted as she smoothed back the loose hairs that had fallen out from Katniss' braid. The two stood in their embrace in the middle of the kitchen for quite some time. When Katniss' eyes had run dry and her breathing had steadied to a normal pace, she looked up to Mrs. Sae with appreciative eyes, no words could express how much she wanted to thank the kind old woman. "Now, let us not dwell on the past any longer. You are safe here, child, and you are loved. As for the dough, well, I believe he had what was coming to him," she added with a smile.
Katniss could not fight the smile that wanted to take root on her face, for she no longer had the strength to frown or cry, and for the first time since arriving at Seamfirth, she laughed.
She spent most of the days after following Mrs. Sae around like a shadow, observantly taking in everything the grey-haired cook did as she completed her daily tasks. In the evenings, Mrs. Sae would keep her company and quietly read to Katniss from the few books that she and Primrose were able to salvage from their previous home. The nightmares eventually lessened to the point that Katniss no longer awoke during the night, and from then on, she promised herself she would no longer live in the past.
"You had better watch your tongue, Miss Everdeen, you wouldn't want your aunt to catch you dishonoring your elders in such a manner," Mrs. Sae responded, continuing the playful banter they so often shared.
Before she could answer with a quick-witted reply, they heard the main door shut and both Annie and Katniss ran to the side window of the kitchen in an attempt to catch a glimpse of Mr. Odair before he rode off. As they stared at his retreating form, he turned is head ever so slightly to peer over his shoulder as if he knew he was being watched. A small grin formed upon his face, and after realizing that they had been caught, the two girls collapsed to the floor in a fit of laughter.
"Did you see his profile, Kat?" Annie asked as she smiled to herself. "And he appeared to be of an agreeable stature as well!"
Katniss smiled back at her cousin and could not be more enthused by Annie's apparent initial liking to Mr. Odair. She took Annie's hand in hers and pulled it to her cheek.
"Yes, my dear cousin, I do think he is quiet handsome and I know beyond any doubt that it will be you who claims his affections at the ball, I just know it."
"Oh Kat, you are too kind."
"And you are too humble."
Katniss pulled herself up to a stand and steadied herself against the windowsill as she helped Annie to her feet. Katniss noticed that Annie's lips had grown tight with uncertainty as she fettered her hands into knots. She grasped her cousin's hands again in hopes of steadying them and squeezed them gently.
"Come, let us find Primrose and we shall decide on which evening dress you should wear to the ball!"
Annie's face brightened as she entertained the idea and finally let out a small laugh as she nodded and followed Katniss down the hall.
"I wish I was as beautiful as you, dear sister," Primrose sighed while admiring Katniss through her reflection in the mirror.
Katniss had decided upon her favorite dark green evening gown to wear to the ball that evening and Annie had skillfully arranged her hair in an intricate braid that wrapped delicately around the crown of her head, mimicking an angelic halo. Katniss had teased Annie for attempting to give false hope to any admiring gentleman and a devilish grin overtook her face as she laughed to herself at the thought.
"Oh no, Little Duck, you are much fairer than I," Katniss beamed, tugging at one of Primrose's perfectly coiled curls. It bounced back in its rightful place immediately. "I wish I looked like you."
Katniss took after her father in both appearance and wit. Her olive skin and dark grey eyes made for an odd yet striking combination. It was the younger Everdeen who had shared their mother's coloring: fair, creamy skin with piercing, crystal blue eyes and golden hair that felt like raw silk to the touch.
Primrose chose a light blue evening gown that made her eyes stand out even more against her pale skin. Katniss fastened a ribbon in a matching color of her dress around the crown of her head to complete the outfit.
"There, you are vision of perfection," Katniss praised. "You look just Mamma when I used to watch her prepare for the balls in the Capitol."
Primrose turned from the mirror to look at her sister. Katniss had to fight off the tears that wanted to form at the back of her eyes. She was unsure of why she had mentioned their mother; it had been years since she had even thought about her. The realization that her younger sister would soon be old enough to be courted only made Katniss realize how much Primrose had blossomed into a lovely, accomplished young lady who was far beyond her years. Katniss had hoped that her aunt and uncle would delay it one more year, but if she was honest with herself, she couldn't agree more that Primrose was indeed ready to be introduced to society.
She looked to the ceiling to prevent any tears from falling before she gently kissed the back of Primrose's hand and smiled. "Now, try not to wrinkle your gown and do not touch your hair, I must find Annie to help Aunt Effie prepare her."
With that, Katniss left her sister in the bedroom that they shared and hurried down the hallway to Annie's bedroom where she could hear the squeals and fussing of her aunt. She was thankful that her aunt's attention was more dedicated to Annie during the preparations for the ball, as she was the eldest and therefore it was of the highest priority to find her a husband.
To prepare for the ball, Mrs. Abernathy had insisted that Annie be a vision of perfection. She had the servants fill the bath first with hot water, and Annie was instructed to soak in a mixture of milk and lavender. Following her hot bath, she had to plunge herself into a second tub filled with cold water, a process Mrs. Abernathy called skin polishing.
Katniss thought the process to be a ridiculous and unnecessary ritual. The look upon Annie's face as she helped her out of the ice cold water and stood in the room shivering was nothing she envied. Once dried and before they wrapped her in her small clothes, Katniss kept her cousin company as she was doused with vial after vial of sweet smelling lotions and powders.
As Annie stepped into her evening gown, Mrs. Abernathy shrieked, which caused everyone in the room to startle, "Good heavens, we almost forgot the corset!"
"Oh no, Mamma, please!" Annie pleaded.
"Come now my dear, we need you looking your absolute best if we're to impress Mr. Odair," Mrs. Abernathy said as she tightened the strings at the back of the unpleasant garment, whose purpose was to enhance the bosom and narrow the waist.
Katniss winced when her aunt gave the strings one last hard tug as Annie leaned onto the bed post for support to keep from falling over.
"Now, Kat my dear, please fetch one of my hair combs, I believe the lilac one will match best with the dress." Katniss turned but just as she reached the doorway she was startled again by her aunt's frantic voice, "Oh, and my pearl earrings too, yes that will do, hurry please, and thank you my dear!"
Katniss hurried to her aunt's bedroom to fetch the desired hair comb and earrings. She opened the jewelry box and was suddenly overcome with longing. Perhaps it was due to her earlier reminiscing of her parents but she wished she too had a family heirloom such as a hair comb or piece of jewelry that was to be passed down to her by her mother. She was not one to dwell on thoughts of material possessions, but she and Primrose had little to remind them of their parents except for the few books from their father and a few handkerchiefs from their mother.
Upon Katniss' return, Mrs. Abernathy was applying the finishing touches to Annie's perfectly coiffed hair; it was piled atop her head with a few curling tendrils that delicately framed her face. Katniss handed her aunt the hair comb and watched as it was firmly attached to the back of Annie's head.
"There, now all we need now are the earrings…," she spoke aloud to herself as she attached the dangling pearls from Annie's ears. "There! Now where are Portia and Johanna? I must tend to them. Heavens knows which evening dresses they might have chosen when left to their own devices."
Mrs. Abernathy quickly took her leave from Annie's bedroom in search of her younger daughters, leaving Katniss alone with her cousin. Katniss could not hold back her smile as she took in the vision of beauty before her.
"Oh my dearest Annie, you are beautiful! How could any gentleman resist you?"
Annie stood in front of the mirror to assess her mother's efforts but a smile did not reach her face.
"What is the matter? Are you feeling alright?" Katniss asked with concern.
"I feel fine, Kat, it's just…what if this is not enough? What if he doesn't approve of me?"
"What nonsense! How could Mr. Odair possibly resist you? And once you are introduced, you will only win his heart over more with your sweet nature," Katniss said as she wrapped her arms around Annie's waist and rested her chin on her cousin's shoulder.
"But how am I to compare to the ladies from the Capitol? What if that is where his preferences lay?"
"Nonsense! If that is what he preferred, he would have already found a wife now, wouldn't he? No, I assure you, you will bestow upon him the most desirable impression that he will not likely forget."
Annie's mouth twitched at her cousin's kind words and finally a shy smile found a home on her sweet face.
Upon entering the Town Assembly Room, Katniss could not resist the urge to scan the room for the likes of Mr. Odair. She was disappointed when she was unable to spy him in the large crowd; however, she did happen to discover Madge and her parents across the room.
"Look over there! Let us join Madge!" Katniss spoke as she tried to make her voice heard over the lively music and chatter of the crowd.
Annie and Primrose followed close behind Katniss as they wove their way through the boisterous crowd. Unbeknownst to Katniss, but not missed by Primrose, many of the gentlemen they passed had stopped to gaze upon Katniss as she hurried by them. Primrose could only shake her head at her sister's oblivious nature for she was laughably unaware of the effect she had on others.
When they eventually reached Madge and politely greeted Sir Elliot and Lady Undersee, they stood in a line as they watched the couples in front of them move about the floor in a merry dance.
"There are many agreeable gentlemen here this evening. We should consider ourselves grateful," Madge whispered just loudly enough to be heard by her friends.
"By whose standards?" Katniss teased as her eyes darted amongst the crowd again.
"One of these days, Kat, one of these men will catch your eye and you will have to guard your tongue," Annie replied with a hint of amusement in her serious tone.
"Who is the gentleman over there?" Primrose whispered as she nodded to the back of the hall, beyond the line of the engaged dancers. "I do not recognize him, is that Mr. Odair perhaps?"
At the back corner of the room stood Mr. Odair, leaning his forearm against the mantle of the fireplace, surrounded by a group of laughing and smiling ladies who varied greatly in age.
"Yes Prim, that would be Mr. Odair, the one with the copper hair," Madge described while trying to look discreet.
"Oh, he is quite handsome, is he not?" Annie said while studying him out of the corner of her eye.
"Yes, quite handsome indeed, Annie," Primrose agreed with a smile.
From their vantage point, it was clear to see that Katniss and Annie had been correct from their brief assessment of Mr. Odair, for he was of a very pleasing nature. His copper hair complimented his slightly tawny skin, surely a sign of his appreciation for the outdoors. According to Madge, his eyes were the color of fresh spring grass, which hinted towards his rumored Germanic ancestry. His carefree nature was also easily observed by his animated display as he conversed with those around him, all of whom appeared to be enraptured by his charm.
Standing off to the side of Mr. Odair stood another gentleman that Katniss did not recognize. He was almost of the same height of Mr. Odair, but he was noticeably broader in the shoulders and in the chest than his companion and of a much fairer complexion, with golden hair that fell in unruly curls across his forehead. The feature that caught Katniss' attention the most though was his unmistakably blue eyes, which she finally noticed had been watching her guardedly. She tried to hide the blush that she felt spread across her cheeks, for superfluous attention had always caused her to feel uneasy. Thankfully for Katniss, he was the first to halt his gaze as he turned to face the lady who stood beside him, who appeared to be the only one with whom he would converse.
"And the other gentleman with him?" Katniss asked curiously as she looked away, "The one with the golden hair who looks to be having the most dreadful time?" Katniss tried to stifle a laugh but was not successful. She remembered that Mr. Odair had mentioned he would be bringing back with him a party of close friends, therefore they must have been more accustomed to the high society of the Capitol and unfamiliar with any of those present at the Town ball.
Annie and Primrose both looked to the other gentleman and quickly covered their mouths to stifle their laughs. At that instant, the object of their amusement turned to meet Katniss' gaze again. Shocked, she immediately turned her back towards him to hide her embarrassment at being caught.
"Hush!" Madge scolded to interrupt their laughter. "That is Mr. Mellark, Mr. Odair's childhood friend, and the young lady next to him is Miss Glimmer Odair, Mr. Odair's younger sister. I do believe she is close in age to you, Kat, if you are not the same age."
Katniss turned her head slightly to study Miss Odair. She shared the same copper hair as her brother and was quite attractive with a fashionable air to her in her dusty rose evening dress. Unlike her brother though, she shared the same look of boredom and disdain for the company they were with, as did Mr. Mellark. Before Katniss turned her head back again, she noticed that Mr. Mellark was still staring at her.
"Well, it would seem to me that Mr. Mellark and Miss Odair share a mutual distaste for dancing. They make quite a joyful pair, do they not?" Katniss laughed again, this time not attempting to hide her amusement.
"Oh, you are quite terrible, Kat!" Madge chided. "My father and mother were well acquainted with his late father. They say he was a very kind and amiable man."
"If only he had left a better impression on his son," Katniss continued to joke.
"Perhaps you should cease from teasing him so, Kat," Annie interrupted softly. "Who are you to pass judgment on him so soon without conversing with him first? Besides, he is quite handsome, is he not?"
Katniss bit her bottom lip, as she was a custom to doing when she felt shy, as she looked to study Mr. Mellark again.
"I do suppose he is," she said with a smile, "However he would be more so if he would smile."
It was then that the crowd surrounding Mr. Odair began to thin, and not wanting to waste an opportunity for introductions, Mrs. Abernathy came with Sir Elliot and Lady Undersee to collect the ladies. As the group drew closer to Mr. Odair and his guests, Katniss attempted to keep her gaze away from Mr. Mellark but she faltered at one point and she noticed Miss Odair link her arm through his as they left to take a turn about the room.
"Mr. Odair, I would like to introduce to you Mrs. Abernathy of Seamfirth," Sir Elliot announced as he presented the ladies, who all dipped into curtsies.
"Mr. Odair, it is quite a pleasure to finally make your acquaintance," Mrs. Abernathy beamed as she stepped forward. "This is my daughter, Annie, my eldest, and the two younger ones are currently engaged on the dance floor. Oh, and these are my nieces who reside with us as well, Miss Katniss Everdeen and Miss Primrose Everdeen."
"The pleasure is all mine," Mr. Odair replied, his words smooth as silk as he bowed.
Katniss took note to the way his eyes quickly moved over the rest of the group before settling on Annie and once transfixed with hers, his eyes never left her face.
"Madge, let us find some refreshment, I feel parched and am in need of something to quench my thirst," Katniss said as she caught hold of Madge's hand and excused them.
Later, after sharing a glass of wine and two enjoyable dances together, Katniss and Madge agreed to rest as they sat on a bench to admire the couples dancing.
"Annie has done quite well for herself tonight, has she not? That is the second dance that she has shared with Mr. Odair!" Madge whispered.
"Yes, I would not hesitate to say he finds her quite agreeable. He has yet to take notice of any other lady here!"
At that moment, the music faded from a lively tune to an interlude as couples began to disperse from the dance floor.
"Oh what luck, Kat!" Madge exclaimed. Katniss made an attempt to turn her head to the side to see what had caught Madge's attention, but before she could, Madge grabbed her hand and leaned in. "Do not look now, for both Mr. Odair and Mr. Mellark are near you. Perhaps if we both are quiet we can hear for ourselves how Mr. Odair finds Annie!"
As much as Katniss frowned upon eavesdropping on the conversations of others, her curiosity was much too great so she sat as still as possible as to not draw attention to herself.
"Come Peeta, why do you refuse to dance and instead choose to sulk around the room with my dull sister? There are many pretty ladies present. Does not a one catch your eye? Come, I shall make introductions for you if you shall just tell me which one you prefer," Mr. Odair smiled widely as he gestured to the crowd around them.
"I am afraid I have no desire to make new introductions this evening," Mr. Mellark replied curtly.
"What of Miss Abernathy? Is she not the most beautiful creature you have ever laid eyes on?" Mr. Odair sighed as he stared at Annie across the room as she conversed animatedly with Primrose.
"Yes, you are fortunate enough to have danced not once, but twice with the only pleasing lady in the room."
"Oh Peeta, you must not be serious. What of her cousin?" Mr. Odair inquired as he raised his brow suggestively.
"Which one is she?" Mr. Mellark asked with no emotion and without taking his eyes away from the wall.
"She is the pretty one with the green dress and dark brown hair. Surely she did not escape even your gaze," Mr. Odair whispered. "And as luck would have it, I do believe she is seated just next to you."
With her interest piqued, Katniss turned her head slightly and caught Mr. Mellark, fully disregarding his friend's attempt to be discreet, as he turned his head and locked eyes with Katniss briefly before turning back to face Mr. Odair. "I thought she was your dance partner's sister."
"Oh no, Peeta, she is Miss Everdeen. Her and her younger sister reside with Mr. and Mrs. Abernathy at Seamfirth, the neighboring property to Seaforth Park."
"Miss Everdeen," Peeta repeated slowly before falling silent. He looked to be deep in thought until he furrowed his brow and clenched his jaw. "I see, well she is tolerable I suppose, but not quite enough to tempt me," he replied a clipped voice.
Katniss widened her eyes in shock upon overhearing Mr. Mellark's blatantly public confession. She bit her bottom lip before she turned her gaze to the floor to hide the blush of embarrassment that had spread across her cheeks. Sensing her friend's discomfort, Madge decided that they had lingered long enough.
"Come Kat, pay him no mind," Madge whispered sympathetically as she took Katniss' hand and arose to stand.
"It's quite alright, Madge," Katniss said, her voice steady and confident yet loud enough to be heard by those in close proximity to her. "If he had asked me to dance then I would have had to converse with him," she continued playfully as she turned to stare at Mr. Mellark, her chin raised high to show her indifference.
Mr. Mellark looked over once more to meet the stare of her icy grey eyes. Katniss was unsure, but she thought she noticed his blue eyes soften slightly for a brief moment and the corner of his mouth twitch before he turned back to Mr. Odair.
The words and actions of Mr. Mellark did not sit well with Katniss for the rest of the evening, no matter how hard she tried to put them past her. The smile she had fixed upon her face was merely a mask to hide her hurt at his lack of manners and blunt disregard for her appearance. It had cut deeply and wounded her pride. It puzzled her as to how a gentleman of such standing who would have been raised with the highest education and a regard for decorum could possibly treat a lady as such, but then it occurred to her, perhaps Mr. Mellark was no gentleman after all.
Author's Note: Hello! I hope you enjoyed this chapter and the introduction of Mr. Mellark although he's not off to a very good start, is he :) I'd like to say a big thank you to Court81981and streetlightlove for their continued support and feedback. A banner has been created by the talented Ro Nordmann and can be found on my tumblr under the "Fanfiction Inspiration" page, check it out!
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