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 5:
"My good opinion once lost, is lost forever."
- Mr. Darcy, Pride and Prejudice
Katniss was unusually quiet during breakfast the next morning, lost in her thoughts as she nibbled on a slice of toasted day-old bread. Her attention swayed in and out of the various conversations that were being had at the table and she was half listening when her aunt began to prattle on to no one in particular about whether or not they should serve more fish dishes during the evening meals.
The sound of a chair scraping against the floorboards lifted Katniss out from her daze as she watched her aunt grasp her husband's forearm, preventing him from taking a bite of his poached eggs. She descended upon him excitedly with various inquires such as what types of fish were in season and where in town it was possible to purchase the finest stock, for she had heard a rumor that Mr. Odair was quite fond of trout.
Katniss shook her head at her aunt's display before she returned to her dry, bland toast, slowly retreating back into her mind as she stared at her empty teacup. The previous night as she laid upon her pillow, waiting for sleep to claim her, she recalled her introduction to Mr. Cray and could not prevent herself from reminiscing about his pleasant smile. She had been quite astounded by his agreeable manners, for she had assumed most officers to be a crass nature as a result of their line of duty. He had a distinct refined air to him that piqued her interest. But then there was the cold and disgruntled exchange between Mr. Cray and Mr. Mellark that she found peculiar still. It was plain to see that the two men had shared a history, for no two gentlemen would rightfully treat a stranger as such, if they were not provoked.
She was convinced that she had sensed a hint of envy pass between the two, but jealousy over what? Beyond his wealth, what more was there to be envious of with regards to Mr. Mellark? And what reason could Mr. Mellark possibly have for being jealous over an officer? Perhaps he looked down upon Mr. Cray for his choice of profession; it wouldn't surprise her. It would not be the first time she had witnessed the baffling man's scrutiny upon someone of inferior rank.
The curiosity that consumed her had regrettably kept her awake well into the night, and it continued to pester her the moment she awoke from the rooster's crow at daybreak. Her imagination ran wild with possible accounts for their association with one another, but when she could not come up with a reasonable explanation, she furrowed her brow in frustration. Katniss was so deep in thought that she startled, dropping her bread to her plate, when the floor creaked and one of the servants crept between her and Annie, her arm outstretched with a piece of paper in her hand.
"Excuse me, madam, but there is a letter for Miss Abernathy, from Seaforth Park." Annie's eyes brightened as she took the letter and opened the seal with the tip of her knife. Katniss watched with great interest as her cousin's eyes skimmed over the written words she could just make out through the thin paper.
"A letter?" Mrs. Abernathy shrieked as her fork went clattering to her plate. "Oh thank heavens! It must be from Mr. Odair!" She grasped hold of her husband's arm once again and shook it frantically. "I knew he could not resist my Annie's grace and beauty! We are saved!"
Mr. Abernathy withdrew his arm from his wife's hold and reached for the flask that he kept tucked into the pocket of his waistcoat. "Good heavens, my dear, it is not even nine o'clock! Allow me at least one drink before you begin your squealing."
However, Annie's face fell slightly as she continued to read the letter silently to herself. Concerned, Katniss leaned over towards her cousin, but she still could not decipher the elegantly scripted words. "It's from Miss Odair," Annie finally declared as she brought her thumb to her teeth and began to nibble on her nail. "She has invited me to dine with her this evening, but her brother has been called away to the Capitol on business and will be departing this afternoon. Mr. Mellark is to accompany him so she is desperate for company." She set the paper down on the table and Katniss plucked it up immediately and her eyes scrolled quickly down the page. "Papa," Annie said, turning to face the end of the table where her father sat buttering a roll. "May I have the carriage?"
Mr. Abernathy set down his knife and cleared his throat. "Why of course my—"
"Absolutely not," Mrs. Abernathy interjected as she threw her husband a disapproving look. "She shall go there on horseback."
"Horseback?" Annie and Katniss cried out in unison.
"But Aunt Effie, what is the matter with the carriage?" Katniss frowned but her aunt paid her no mind as she spread a thin layer of peach preserve over her toast. When she did not respond, Katniss' face softened as she looked to Annie with sympathetic eyes. As fond of horses as Annie was, riding was not one of her strong suits. It would take her twice as long to arrive at Seaforth given her lack of confidence in the saddle. How could she be so careless? Katniss returned her stony gaze to her aunt as she awaited an answer.
"Katniss, my dear, you can see Annie to the edge of the property if you wish, seeing that you are concerned for her wellbeing, but do not dawdle afterwards. I will expect you back as soon as possible. If Mr. Odair should happen to pay us an unannounced visit on his journey to the Capitol, I would have this house spotless." Johanna and Portia giggled as they cast Katniss haughty looks. "That goes for you girls as well." Mrs. Abernathy frowned as she gestured to her two other daughters with her teacup. "I expect all of you to help with the mending and with tidying up the house. Anything we can do to help your sister secure this match."
Katniss bit her tongue. If her aunt was so concerned with securing a match, then why had she been so adamant on denying Annie the carriage? Knowing that arguing would get her nowhere, Katniss hurried to finish her meal and stalked away from the table without another word.
Once Annie had changed into more appropriate attire that her mother had deemed fit to dine in the presence Miss Odair, she collected her belongings and met Katniss at the front of the stable where a horse was waiting. Katniss offered Annie a hand as she slung herself up into the saddle and took hold of the reins as she led the horse out of the stable. Not wanting to distract Annie from her concentration on keeping upright atop the horse as its hindquarters swayed to and fro, they traveled in silence until they approached the meadow that bordered the north side of the property. When Katniss looked up to the sky, she began to grow weary of the darkened, ominous clouds that loomed upon the horizon. She glanced up at Annie and took note of her equally apprehensive stare.
"Are you sure you will be alright? I can see you to the gates of Seaforth if it would put your worry at ease."
"No, that will not be necessary. I would not want you to face Mamma's wrath on my account. I shall be quite alright I assure you." Annie leaned down stiffly and patted the horse's neck. "We'll take it slow, won't we?" The horse let out a gentle yet reassuring snort.
Katniss released a hearty laugh. "Your mother's wrath, much like your own, rivals that of a milk drunk kitten. I would not worry about it. I am more worried for you, my darling. How are you to manage the likes of the glimmering Miss Odair all on your own?"
"Oh enough," Annie chuckled as she shook her head. "You jest about it now, but what will you do if one day you must come to consider her family?"
"Not if, my dear cousin, rather when."
Katniss looked out to the meadow, which was dotted with smatterings of yellow and pink and blue, as though she was searching for something. This was her favorite place. She found herself drawn to the simple yet breathtaking array of wildflowers that seemed to appear out of thin air each spring, bringing with them the promise of a new beginning, and above all, hope. She drew strength from the quiet comfort she felt when she laid amongst the tall grass, which allowed her to calm her mind and forget the obligations that awaited her back at home.
As they approached the gate in the stone wall that boarded Seamfirth, Katniss said, "I suppose if we are lucky, it shan't be long before you are to call her sister, bestowing upon me the unfortunate consequence of having to indeed regard her as family." Katniss huffed dramatically and shook her head. "I don't think I shall ever be able to forgive you!"
"Oh you are terrible, my dear cousin," Annie lightly scolded as she pulled the edges of her cape closer together to fend off the slight chill that blew in from the east. "But I would not change you for the world." Katniss slowed the horse to a stop before she opened the gate and ushered the pair through. "Thank you, Kat." Annie grabbed hold of the reins and tightened her grip before she hesitantly signaled for the horse to proceed.
"I shall see you later this evening and we can discuss how positively riveting your visit with your future sister-in-law was!" Katniss called out as she bid her cousin farewell with one last wave. Annie turned her head slightly and nodded, too frightened to take her eyes off where they were headed, but the smile on her face shown brightly despite the gloomy skies that continued to roll in.
By the time Katniss returned to the house, she had to hurry her way through the kitchen entrance to escape the fat raindrops that had begun to fall. Once safely under the protection of the roof, she grabbed a kitchen cloth and began to wring out her hair. Her thoughts were with her poor cousin who was certain to be caught in the thick of the storm and she silently cursed her aunt for her foolishness.
"Your aunt is quite the clever one, if I do say so myself." Katniss turned from the doorway to find Mrs. Sae mindlessly plucking a goose carcass as she stared out the window.
"Are you mistaken? My Aunt Effie…clever? If anything, poor Annie will arrive on the doorstep of Seaforth soaked to the bone and on the verge of catching a cold, no doubt! She will have to stay the night!"
The corners of the cook's mouth twitched into a roguish grin. "Precisely."
A few moments later it dawned on Katniss. That had been her aunt's intention all along. She frowned in disapproval; did the woman know no bounds? "Even so, I do not believe she can reasonably take credit for making it rain."
"No, I would not give her credit for much at all really, but do not tell her so." Mrs. Sae chuckled as she continued to clean the goose clean. "Besides, the woman claims that if you put enough pressure on a lump of coal, it will turn into pearls!"
The skies had finally cleared overnight and the next morning during breakfast, another letter arrived from Seaforth Park, but this time addressed to Mrs. Abernathy. Katniss recognized the script immediately and reached out for the message before her aunt could acknowledge it. After hastily unfolding the paper, she sank back into her chair as her eyes quickly skimmed over her cousin's words.
"Besides a sore throat, a fever, and a headache, there is nothing much the matter with me!" Katniss looked up to find her aunt cheerfully humming to herself as she slathered a thick layer of peach preserve onto her scone. "This is ridiculous," she huffed before she turned to her uncle in earnest.
"Oh enough with the dramatics, child," Mrs. Abernathy muttered around a mouthful. "This is precisely as I had planned."
Mr. Abernathy pursed his lips as he outstretched his arm and Katniss placed the letter into his awaiting hand. "Good lord, woman," he grunted before refolding the paper and placing it into the pocket of his waistcoat. "Does your knack for the art of match making have no boundaries?"
"Mark my words, my dear, I would be quite surprised if we are not hosting a wedding by the end of the summer as a result of my actions."
"Or a funeral," he mumbled under his breath as he absentmindedly patted the front of his waistcoat in search of his flask. Mrs. Abernathy shook her head dismissively as she continued to hum a merry tune to herself.
Primrose sputtered her drink as Katniss shifted her gaze to her sister and grimaced in a half-hearted attempt to stifle a laugh. The banter she witnessed each day between her aunt and uncle was enough to make any outsider assume they disliked each other. But it was the slight gestures and silent nods that at times went unnoticed that concealed their true affection and respect for one another. It was as if her aunt and uncle had forged a true understanding that none other would ever comprehend.
Katniss sighed as she sipped her tea. No one, not even her sister or Annie, would ever truly understand the inner workings of her mind, or the worries that plagued her most days. It was the fear of loss, and a future of being alone, that etched the almost permanent furrow between her brow, but also caused her to care so deeply and passionately for those around her that she loved. It fueled her desire to protect them fiercely, no matter the cost to herself, whether it be her happiness or physical wellbeing. It was an inevitability she had accepted long ago.
"Well," her uncle said he let out a long breath. "If my poor Annie does die, it will be comforting to know it was in the pursuit of Mr. Odair."
Mrs. Abernathy bristled at the comment before she waved he husband off with a flick of her wrist. "Oh come now, my dear, people do not die of colds. It is the perfect opportunity to allow Annie to become better acquainted with her soon to be sister-in-law. What be a slight discomfort from a cold when the prospects of calling Seaforth Park her permanent home in only a few months time?"
It troubled Katniss that her aunt was so certain in her assumption of Mr. Odair's affections with Annie. True, he did demonstrate a strong attraction to her, but if Annie was to for sure cement a match with Mr. Odair, it was his sister that Katniss knew would need to be won over. Miss Odair would need to be convinced that the Abernathys were an agreeable family to which to be related, but in Katniss' opinion, they were not yet in the clear for being considered an "agreeable family" by the Odairs.
"Well, I think I've had quite enough," Katniss said as she dabbed the corners of her mouth with her napkin and tossed it onto the table. "Since it seems I am the only one to show true concern over poor Annie's health, I shall go to her myself to ensure she is comforted and on the mend."
"Why yes, please do so, my dear!" Mrs. Abernathy exclaimed with a glint in her eye. "And do report back to me at once as to how well my plan is progressing. Oh, and you can take the carriage if you wish."
Katniss brought her hands on her hips and frowned. "No, I think I would rather walk."
"Walk?" her aunt protested. "You will look a filthy mess by the time you arrive at Seaforth after tromping through those muddy fields!"
"Precisely," Katniss mocked in a tone to match her aunt's own words. Before Mrs. Abernathy could utter another word, she turned on her heel and caught a glimpse of her sister's smile as she exited the room to collect her coat.
By the time Katniss arrived at the doorstep of Seaforth, she had proven her aunt's prediction accurately. Her stockings and the hem of her skirt were soaked through and soiled with mud, and the loose strands of hair that had fallen out of her braid clung to her dampened skin as a result of briskly crossing field after field and springing over mud puddles along the way. Her windblown cheeks felt cold to the touch yet her face was flushed, but in the sunlight her skin glowed from the warmth of her exertion. However, she took no heed to her appearance and walked proudly through the main hall of the spotless mansion as she followed closely behind at the heels of the servant who lead her to the drawing room.
"A Miss Everdeen," the older gentleman called out as he ushered her through the doorway.
Katniss' eyes were immediately drawn to the sheer height and magnitude of the vaulted ceilings that were adorned in intricately carved moldings, which were covered with gold leaf, causing them to shine brightly. The crisp, pale green silk curtains tumbled down in loose, carefree folds that draped the floors, flanking the impressive almost floor to ceiling windows that allowed the sunlight to fill the room with a heavenly glow.
A quiet cough that echoed throughout the room brought her attentions back to the three inhabitants that were seated at a table at the center of the room. Both Mr. Odair and Mr. Mellark rose to their feet at once to greet her with a bow which Katniss returned with a shallow curtsey. Miss Odair, however, did not pay her guest any mind and continued to fan herself lazily as she gazed out the window, an indifferent look upon her face.
"Miss Everdeen!" Mr. Odair called out. "What a pleasant surprise!"
"Yes, it is sir, for I was led to believe that you were away at the Capitol to attend to matters of business."
"I was, but as luck would have it, I had to return to retrieve a document of significant importance, and upon my arrival I found your poor sister drenched to the bone and shivering upon my doorstep. Come! You must join us, we are about to take tea and—"
"Good heavens!" Miss Odair shrieked as her critical eyes took in Katniss' appearance. "If I'd known any better, I would assume by the look of your hem that you walked here!"
"That I did." Katniss suppressed a grin as she dipped her head and curtsied to her host, which Miss Odair returned with a slight nod of her chin.
"You walked here unaccompanied? And in such foul weather?" Mr. Mellark's question took Katniss off guard and her eyes darted towards him.
His stance was awkwardly stiff, which accentuated the breadth of his shoulders, and even from her vantage point across the room she observed that the muscles of his jaw were tensed as though he was desperately holding back the urge to scold her for her actions. But what perplexed her most was the genuine concern she was certain she sensed in his voice, despite his hardened face.
"I assure you, Mr. Mellark, I was in no danger. I have traveled the route to Seaforth on more than one occasion, and besides, I am quite fond of walking. For me, three miles is merely a pleasant stroll. The fresh air does wonders for improving one's health and temperament, if given the chance." She hoped Mr. Mellark had taken heed of her words, for they were aimed directly at him and his confounding disposition.
"And what wonders it does for ones complexion as well," Mr. Odair added with a glint of good humor and kindness to his tone. "Please, do take a seat and rest yourself."
"No, thank you. If you would not mind, how is my cousin?" Katniss remained steadfast and wrung her hands nervously in hopes that she had not offended Mr. Odair. "I would very much like to call upon her first, to verify her condition and comfort her if need be."
"Yes, yes, of course! My apologies, I shall take you to her at once." Mr. Odair strode towards her and motioned for Katniss to follow him. Before she exited the room, she looked over her shoulder and caught sight of Miss Odair as she leaned over to whisper something into Mr. Mellark's ear. The giggle that soon followed caused Katniss' lips to flatten into a disapproving thin line. Her distaste for Miss Odair only deepened.
Once outside one of the guest rooms, Katniss thanked him as Mr. Odair left her with a bow and a cheerful smile before he took his leave. She found her cousin strewn across the bed sheets, her body flushed and damp from fever. When Annie noticed Katniss' presence, her eyes lit up but when she opened her mouth to speak, she was overtaken by a violent cough.
"My dear one," Katniss cooed as she shrugged off her coat and fell onto the mattress beside her cousin. She stroked her cheek gently and an alarming heat radiated off her skin to warm her fingertips. "How are you feeling?"
"I am certain I appear worse off than I feel. Honestly, the apothecary attended to me last night and I am feeling much better after the draught he prescribed. Bed rest and a good night's sleep will do wonders." Annie managed a weak smile as Katniss brushed the hair from her cousin's face.
"Well, you are fortunate then for you could not be in better hands here with the likes of an ever doting Mr. Odair." Katniss scrunched up her nose in jest as Annie swatted at her forearm. "His sister however, well, she was just as hospitable as always."
"You are terrible, my dear cousin. But I must confess, you are correct in your assumption. Mr. Odair has been a most gracious host and if I dare confess, he has made a point to check in on me himself every hour, on the hour."
"Then I am safe to report back to your daft mother that her plan is unfolding well?"
Annie shook her head as she feigned displeasure, but Katniss could just make out the hint of a grin before Annie pulled the sheet up to cover her face. Katniss laughed as she laid her head down onto the pillow next to Annie, her body sinking into the downy cushion of the mattress. Her eyes fluttered shut as she allowed the warmth of the bed to envelop her and it was not long before her physical exhaustion had caught up with her, pulling her under as she freely gave way to sleep.
A knock on the door startled Katniss awake as she grasped at the sheets surrounding her. It took a few moments until she realized where she was, Annie's angelic face sleeping soundly next to her. Katniss rose to her feel and smoothed out the wrinkles of her dress before gingerly prying the door open to find one of the servants waiting patiently.
"Mr. Odair has sent me to inquire if you would care to join him and his guests for dinner?"
Katniss turned to check on her cousin once more, who was still soundly fast asleep, and decided it was best to leave her be. She closed the door gently behind her and as she followed the servant down the staircase to the dining room, she hastily combed out her hair and braided it once again, tucking the end in on itself to form a loose bun.
She felt refreshed after her afternoon nap and once the scent of freshly baked bread and roasted quail invaded her senses, her stomach grumbled in anticipation. Mr. Odair was seated at the head of the table, flanked to his right by Mr. Mellark and to his left by his sister. The men appeared engrossed in a serious discussion as Miss Odair tipped back her glass, draining it empty before setting it down on the table.
Katniss cleared her throat and all eyes turned towards her. "Good evening," she greeted.
Mr. Odair sprang from his seat and clasped his hands. "Ah, Miss Everdeen! Please do join us for dinner." He gestured towards the open seat next to Mr. Mellark, and both her face and appetite fell at once. "And how is your dear cousin faring? Better I hope?"
"Yes, indeed, she claims to be feeling much better." Katniss remained standing and could feel the intense scrutiny of both Mr. Mellark and Miss Odair, no doubt once again judging her soiled appearance and bedridden hair. She did not care to be in the presence of such company any longer than was required of her, so she straightened her posture and lifted her chin. "If you would not mind, sir, would it be possible to have two plates brought up to my cousin's room so we may dine together? I fear she is feeling quite lonely up there all by herself."
Mr. Odair stroked his jaw as he considered her offer, but then nodded in approval as he called for one of the servants to bring out a tray. "Does your cousin have a preference for quail or for lamb?"
Katniss smiled at the thoughtfulness of his endearing gesture. "Oh I am certain she will be content with whichever you choose."
"Very well, then, I shall see to it that your meals are brought up shortly. Oh, and I shall have a room made up for you at once. You are more than welcome to stay here as my guest until Miss Abernathy has made a full recovery, I insist. I have already dispatched a servant to Seamfirth to fetch you both fresh clothing, along with a letter to your aunt to assure her that you are both in good hands."
Katniss could only imagine her Aunt Effie's face when she read the message, from Mr. Odair himself, with regards to Annie's state. "No, please do not trouble yourself on my account. I am quite content staying with my cousin in her room. Please accept my humble gratitude for your generous hospitality to us both. I hope you enjoy the rest of your meal and good evening."
Mr. Mellark was at his feet in an instant and took a step towards her before he hesitated, clenching his fists prior to crossing his hands behind his back. Katniss arched an eyebrow as she studied him intently, folding her hands in front of her expectantly as she tried to understand the reasoning for his newfound manners.
Mr. Odair chuckled as he flashed her a knowing look. "Please give your cousin my regards. I am thankful that you are here to comfort her, for I am certain my meager efforts to brighten her spirits pale in comparison to yours. Good evening, Miss Everdeen."
He bowed and looked to his sister who was delicately dabbing her lips with her napkin. Miss Odair took her time, folding her napkin thrice and creasing it against the table before she folded her hands in her lap, glancing up at Katniss to grace her with a curt nod.
Katniss fought back the urge to roll her eyes at the forced gesture and responded with a terse smile instead before her gaze shifted back to Mr. Mellark once more. The intense blue of his irises still fascinated her every time, as though she was drawn to them like a moth to a flame, and she wondered if she would ever get used to their vibrancy.
"Sleep well, Miss Everdeen," he spoke sinuously, his voice pleasantly low in timbre, which caused a shiver to travel down her spine.
The moment Katniss was free of the dining room she flung herself against the wall in the dimly lit hallway and sighed in relief. She would rather walk upon burning embers than sit through an awkward meal with the likes of Mr. Mellark and Miss Odair, whose haughty looks and passive yet condescending comments were meant to belittle Katniss and no doubt get under her skin.
As she collected herself, she could not help but overhear the woman's shrill voice as it echoed through the dining room and out into the hall.
"Did you not see how she arrived this morning? Or are you as blind as my brother? What civilized lady would dare show up uninvited and looking like a wild beast that crawled out of the woods? And her complexion! Have you ever seen such a shade? Does she not own a bonnet?"
"Oh, come now, she obviously cares deeply for her cousin, enough so to walk over three miles to inquire about her health. I am sure her appearance was the least of her concerns," Mr. Odair reasoned. "I know how you feel about the matter, my dear sister, but I found the ruddiness of her windblown face quite lovely, wouldn't you agree, Peeta? It complimented her striking grey eyes quite well."
Miss Odair's laughter filled the air, drowning out any attempt Mr. Mellark had at answering his friend's inquiry. "Are you sure as to where you affections lay, my dear brother, for it seems to me your ailing guest may have some competition."
"Nonsense," Mr. Odair hissed.
"I would have to disagree with you," Mr. Mellark finally answered. Katniss' ears perked up as she inched closer to the door to make out his words above the idle clatter of flatware and plates. "I did not find her lovely at all."
The blunt confession caused a ball of discontent to form in her throat and she had to bite her fist to keep from screaming out her frustration with regards to the man's infuriating behavior and lack of propriety. Miss Odair snickered and Katniss could only imagine the grin that was most likely plastered across her smug face.
Katniss had had enough; she did not wish to hear anymore. But before she could stomp off down the hall to stew in her anger, Mr. Mellark's voice filled the hall once again.
"She was radiant."
Katniss awoke the next morning feeling exceptionally well rested and her mood greatly improved. Perhaps it was due to the plush feather mattress, or the overabundance of pillows and blankets that cocooned her throughout the night, or perhaps even the sheer size of the bed, which was large enough to sleep all of her cousins and sister quite comfortably. But it most certainly was not due to the compliment that Mr. Mellark had bestowed upon her the previous evening. No, it most certainly was not.
"I assure you, my dear sweet cousin, I am feeling much better today. Please give my regards and gratitude to our hosts."
"Are you certain?" Katniss placed a hand to Annie's forehead and was relieved to find her skin dry and cool to the touch. "You look much brighter today and your spirits lifted. A certain pair of sea green eyes would not have much to do with your speedy recovery, now would they?"
Annie gasped at her cousin's bold remark and swatted her hand away, but the smile that threatened to overtake her face said otherwise. "Perhaps…a little."
"Mmm hmm."
Katniss winked as she strode away from the bed and over to the vanity to study herself in the mirror. She smoothed out a few loose hairs that had managed to go awry and shook out the skirt of her dress. She was thankful that Mr. Odair has sent a servant to Seamfirth to fetch both Annie and herself fresh sets of clothing, for as much as she wanted to wear her soiled dress to breakfast to spite Miss Odair, she was glad for the clean scent and familiar fabric of her favorite dress.
She had no doubt that Primrose had selected it for her. It was a simple dark green dress made of cotton, but the color reminded her of the balsam trees that surrounded her old home, with their fragrant evergreen scent that she missed and loved dearly. The second reason the dress held so much meaning to Katniss was because it was the only dress she owned that no one else had worn before.
Her aunt had offered to have new dresses made for her on numerous occasions, but Katniss did not want to burden her aunt and uncle with unnecessary expenses, not when it was more practical for her to unpick and refurbish her cousin's dresses that they had outgrown or no longer wanted. But this dress, Primrose had persuaded her to have it made, which meant it was tailored to her slight curves perfectly.
Katniss peered up to find Annie watching her reflection in the mirror. "What is it?" She frowned at the way her cousin arched a brow in her direction and tapped a finger to her lips.
"I did not say a word."
"Precisely," Katniss said as she folded her arms across her chest. "What is it?"
"You look beautiful." Katniss frowned as she waited for Annie to continue, bracing herself for the inevitable "but" to follow. "And I am quite confident that dress will attract the attention of certain pair of reserved blue eyes."
"I haven't the slightest clue as to what you are talking about. Rest well, my dear sweet cousin." Katniss' voice was thick with sarcasm as she left Annie chuckling away in her bed and shut the door behind her.
She entered the drawing room unannounced and quietly padded towards the bench across from Mr. Odair, who appeared to be transfixed on something outside. Miss Odair was leaned up against the pane of the large window, fanning herself as she too stared out at the manicured gardens. Mr. Mellark was seated at a writing desk in front of the window with his head bowed down, but she could just make out the line between his furrowed brows as he concentrated on his task.
As a businessman, she assumed a man of his rank spent most of his time writing correspondence. She was momentarily mesmerized by the sharp, quick flicks of his wrist followed by the long, fluid strokes of his hand as his pencil glided across the paper. Perhaps he was not engaged in tending to his business as she had previously thought, for his hand was moving far too rapidly and sporadically to be writing.
"Ah, Miss Everdeen!" Miss Odair called out as she raised her arms into the air in mock enthusiasm. "I am so thrilled you could join us this morning, and I do say, what a lovely dress!"
"Thank you," Katniss murmured as a flush took over her cheeks. "Good morning, Mr. Odair, Mr. Mellark." She curtsied to the two men before she focused her attention on the expansive shelves situated at the back of the room that were lined with books.
Mr. Odair stood and bowed, beaming back at her whilst Mr. Mellark lifted his head briefly, eliciting a grunt of acknowledgement. But she was astonished when his head shot up again as though he had not seen her the first time. She watched his throat bob as he swallowed, his eyes raking over her body, starting at the hem of her dress and ending at her questioning eyes. Her blush crept down her neck under his scrutiny and she fidgeted with her fingers, wrapping them around and around before she dropped her gaze.
"Good morning, Miss Everdeen," he finally spoke as he rose to his feet and bowed.
Mr. Odair coughed lightly and gestured to the bench across from him. "Please, have a seat. How did you sleep? You appear to be well rested this morning. I hope your cousin slept soundly as well?"
"Yes, sir, we both did. She is looking much better today, and has confessed to me that she is indeed feeling much better. She also asked me to send you her gratitude for your hospitality."
"Please, do not think anything of it. I am more than happy that I can be of service."
Miss Odair stood from her perch and began to pace back and forth in front of the window, fanning herself and sighing audibly as Mr. Mellark lowered himself back into his chair to continue with his task. "Do write your dear sister about how much I miss her. It has been too long since we have seen one another."
"I have already written to her of your affections in my last letter," he replied curtly, not lifting his head or halting his hand as he spoke. Katniss found her budding curiosity for what he was working on, which required such focus, starting to chip away at her indifferent façade. She found herself watching him with rapt fascination as the muscles of his face tensed and relaxed, obviously deep in concentration.
"Miss Everdeen," Mr. Odair said, startling her from her trance. "Could I perhaps interest you in a round of cards?"
Katniss smiled back politely but shook her head in response. "I regret to inform you that it is still too early in the day for me to be a worthy opponent. However, your library has caught my attention. Would you mind if I immersed myself in a book instead?"
"Of course not, please do! I feel they are underused in this household…I-I…what I meant was, not that I am not fond of reading, it's just that—"
"It is quite all right, sir, I understood your meaning." Katniss rose to her feet and strolled to the back of the room to the bookshelves. Her fingertips ghosted the spines as she skimmed the titles, thoroughly impressed by the size and variety of the collection. She settled upon one she was unfamiliar with and brought it back with her to her seat across from Mr. Odair.
She had barely finished the first paragraph of the introduction before Miss Odair strutted by her, waving her incessant fan in front of her face. "I do say Mr. Mellark, I have heard the library at Spring Haven would put this one to shame, am I correct?"
Mr. Mellark did not look up. "I did not think you were one to take interest in literature. But with regards to your inquiry, yes, the collection of books and manuscripts at Spring Haven is thrice the size of the one here."
"I do believe I am quite versed, by my own standards, but you are correct in your assumption," Miss Odair replied. "I much prefer the arts: music, dancing, painting…oh! Mr. Mellark, would you dedicate your next sketch to me? I am quite an admirer of your work."
"As I am quite aware."
Katniss' interest was piqued upon hearing that Mr. Mellark held an interest in sketching. She would not have considered it to be the hobby of such a man. It was then that she realized the fluid movements of his hand indicated that he had been occupying his time by drawing.
She continued to watch in secrecy as Miss Odair hovered about the room, striding past Mr. Mellark numerous times in an attempt to capture his attention. She had to hold back her amusement at this game of cat and mouse, although Mr. Mellark seemed completely oblivious that he was the object of pursuit by Miss Odair. Or if he did, his appearance of indifference spoke volumes with his respects to the woman's efforts.
"I have also heard that your private collection of portraits and statues at Spring Haven is to be rivaled by none. Oh how I wish I could witness it myself someday." Miss Odair sighed as she lowered herself gracefully onto the bench in front of the window, placing herself in full view of Mr. Mellark. "Perhaps I should call upon your sister! I am convinced that she is lonely and starving for company these days whilst you are here."
"I assure you my sister is quite content," Mr. Mellark replied.
"Ever the doting brother," Miss Odair mumbled under her breath. "Tell me, does she still play the piano forte? I recall her skills to be quite remarkable. She is already such an accomplished young lady, I would not be surprised if she has already been approached with offers from many a gentleman."
There was a noticeable shift in Mr. Mellark's disposition when his hand froze in place and his grip on his pencil tightened. "My sister is still far too young to be out in society. She has much to learn and does not yet possess the qualities of an accomplished woman."
No longer able to bite her tongue, Katniss looked up from the page she had been occupied with for the past ten minutes. "And what qualities do you believe a woman should possess to be considered "accomplished"?"
Before Mr. Mellark could humor her with an answer, Miss Odair clucked her tongue. "To be so, a woman should possess an extensive knowledge of music, singing, drawing, dancing, have an understanding of the modern languages, and of course, have a certain refined air about her. Only then can she deserve the word and be considered a desirable match by any respectable gentleman."
Katniss wrinkled her nose in distaste at the superficial and silly accomplishments that Miss Odair deemed reputable to be considered "desirable." She was fully aware that the comment had been aimed directly at her and her lack of such accomplishments, with the exception of singing. However, instead of engaging the woman further Katniss remained silent, hoping the topic of conversation would shift to something more stimulating in nature. Unfortunately, luck was not in her favor as Mr. Mellark cleared his throat to speak.
"It is of my opinion that a woman must possess much more. To be considered well rounded in both mind and body, she must express an interest in reading and writing. Demonstrate that she has an imagination and a love for the outdoors. She must exhibit kindness and concern for the well being of others. All of these qualities, my future wife must possess. I refuse to lower my standards and settle for someone who does not inspire my mind. I seek a lady with compassion, taste, and above all, intelligence."
Katniss found herself at a loss for words, taken aback by the fervor and intensity with which Mr. Mellark's spoke of his desires for his future wife. However, the longer she considered his answer, the more she came to realize it infuriated her. His expectations were impossible; she did not believe this so called "desirable" woman of his existed or ever would. "I regret to inform you, Mr. Mellark, but I have never seen such a woman. Such perfection does not exist."
He finally looked up from the desk and studied her carefully. "I did not say that I seek perfection. Every person is known to have a defect in their character, and for some, that defect can cause them to be blind to the good qualities of others."
Katniss bristled at the insinuation, her pulse quickening as she slammed her book shut and jerked up to her feet. She crossed her arms over her chest as she strode towards Mr. Mellark, planting her feet firmly in front of the desk. "Have you considered, sir, that perhaps your defect is a propensity to hate everyone?"
The room filled with an eerie silence as Mr. Mellark stared back up at her. She could feel the eyes of Mr. Odair and his sister upon her back, but she did not waver from her stance. She was not about to back down for proprieties sake.
"Perhaps yours, miss, is to willfully misunderstand others," he retorted, his eyes ablaze with an intensity she had never witnessed from him before. For the second time that day, he had rendered her speechless. She pursed her lips as she dismissed the meaning behind his words. Of all people, she considered herself to be an excellent judge of character.
Not wanting the building tension between the two to amount to much more, Mr. Odair clapped his hands together, effectively breaking their intense stare. "Miss Everdeen, could I interest you in a cup of tea? Yes, I do believe tea is in order."
Before Katniss could return to her seat, Mr. Mellark thrust his hand in her direction, a folded piece of paper between his fingertips. She turned to see if anyone else had noticed, but they had not, both brother and sister occupied in their own hushed discussion.
Katniss hesitated for a moment before she took the paper from him, baffled by the unexpected gesture. She lowered her hands and carefully unfolded it, but her eyes widened in both awe and disbelief as she took in what he had sketched. It was like staring through a mirror. It was her. Every minute detail was carefully depicted, every strand of hair and every line of her forehead, but what fascinated her most was the way he had captured the silvery grey hues of her irises.
She looked up to find Mr. Mellark still watching her, but when she opened her mouth to ask him the meaning of it, a knock at the drawing room door broke her attention away from him as it creaked open.
"A Mrs. Abernathy, a Miss Abernathy, a Miss Abernathy, and…a Miss Everdeen," the elderly servant called out before bowing and returning to his post at the doorway. Katniss stiffened and held her breath as her aunt and two cousins flounced into the room, bright eyed and cheerful. But when she spotted her sister behind Portia, she sighed in relief and moved to greet her before settling down once again on the bench.
Miss Odair's mouth gaped open before she closed it hastily. "Are we to host every member of the Abernathy family in the country today?" she said with a click of her tongue.
Katniss pursed her lips when she spied Mr. Odair shoot his sister a reproachful stare. Mr. Mellark, of course, was still seated at the table and made no indication of standing to greet her family.
"Oh, what an elegant drawing room!" Mrs. Abernathy sighed as she tugged off her gloves and crossed the room to the open bench across from Katniss. She ran a hand across the rich, velvety fabric of the armrest before she turned to her hosts with wide eyes. "And such expensive furnishings!"
Katniss balked at her aunt's inane comments with regards to Mr. Odair's obvious wealth and lifted her gaze to watch the reaction of Miss Odair, who she was certain was staring at her aunt with judgmental eyes. As expected, the young woman's face was void of any warmth, her tight-lipped frown speaking volumes with regards to her annoyance to the unexpected guests.
"Thank you, madam, I am fortunate enough to employ the services of talented decorators from the Capitol whose services have been instrumental to outfitting this humble estate. Would you care to call upon your daughter? I believe she might be awake by now if—"
"Oh please do not bother yourself. I am certain she is feeling much better, and after the letter you sent last night, I am quite confident in her condition and that she is in good hands whilst she is here."
Katniss frowned at her aunt's neglect to visit her own daughter. If there was ever a woman more focused on marrying off her daughters, it was surely to be her aunt.
"Mr. Odair," Mrs. Abernathy spoke. "How are you enjoying your time in the country? It is quite wonderful here, would you agree? And such lovely company once you have had the time to call upon your neighbors."
"Why yes, I do wish to meet the neighbors and the families from town. They all have welcomed me warmly and with open arms."
"What better way to further your acquaintance with you neighbors than inviting their families over to dine, or for a ball even!"
"Oh please, Mr. Odair! Will you? Host a ball? Here at Seaforth Park?" Johanna shouted in excitement. Portia jumped to her feet and clasped hands with her sister as they waited in earnest for Mr. Odair to respond.
"Johanna!" Katniss hissed, embarrassed by her younger cousin's foolish behavior and lack of tact. "Hold your tongue! Have we not already burdened Mr. Odair and his generosity enough?"
Mr. Odair stood and approached the young ladies with his hands behind his back and a wide grin upon his face. "Why yes! I do believe a ball to be a marvelous idea." He turned slightly to peer over his shoulder at Katniss, a reassuring smile upon his face. "When your sister is feeling better, I shall call upon you both to pick a date. What shall we celebrate?"
"Oh, oh!" Mrs. Abernathy called out as she rapidly fanned her flushed face. "We have been meaning to prepare a coming out ball for my dear niece, Primrose, for she has recently come of age. Is she not a pretty young thing?"
"Aunt Effie!" Katniss exclaimed in horror. How could her aunt have the audacity to suggest such a notion? Neither her aunt nor her uncle had approached her yet to discuss her sister's future. Did they not think it proper to consult her first? Katniss puffed out her chest in anger; it did not bode well with her when others took it upon themselves to plan either her or her sister's future. Besides, the responsibility for such an event was to be taken upon by the family. Her aunt had stretched her neck well beyond the lines of propriety by the mere suggestion.
"What a wonderful idea!" Miss Odair called out, but the malicious grin that quickly followed was not lost to Katniss. "It is settled then, brother! We shall have a ball within a few weeks time. That should give us more than enough time to send out the invitations, and oh! We shall order the finest linens from the Capitol! It shall be the most splendid event this town has ever witnessed!"
Katniss narrowed her eyes as the ostentatious woman rose to her feet and sidled up next to Mr. Mellark and placed a gentle hand upon his forearm. "Perhaps we can invite your sister. Oh I do miss her so!"
Katniss' eyes widened at the sight and she could feel the blush begin to creep up her neck once again. Could this ridiculous woman not see how the man flinched at her touch? Or how he did not show an ounce of interest in her silly decision to agree to a ball? Miss Odair was beyond obvious in her affections towards Mr. Mellark and something about the notion made her skin crawl.
Katniss shook her head to rid herself of the ridiculous thought. Why should she care who persuaded him? It should not matter to her. Besides, she had other more pressing matters to attend to. It was apparent that poor Primrose would become a mere afterthought once the preparations began to take place, and Miss Odair would see to it to turn the purpose of the event from her sister's coming out to rather furthering her own popularity and vanity.
As the room began to fill with idle chatter, Katniss threw herself up and out of her seat. "Stop!" The room quieted instantly and Mrs. Abernathy's mouth gaped open in astonishment at her niece's sudden outburst. Katniss took a steadying breath, but she could feel every pair eyes upon her, no doubt waiting to see what her next irrational move would be.
"What could possibly be the matter?" Mrs. Abernathy huffed as she turned to Miss Odair and shook her head ruefully. "I must apologize for my niece; she is not herself.
Katniss spun on heel to face Mr. Odair. "Please, sir, do not think I am ungrateful for your hospitality and generosity. It is just that I feel we have not asked my dear sister herself if she is content with this arrangement. I feel it would be wrong if we did not consult her first."
All eyes shifted to the quiet girl sitting at the end of the bench and Katniss could see her sister's hands twitch uncomfortably from the sudden attention. Primrose looked to Katniss, as if pleading for her to tell her what to do, but Katniss shrugged her shoulders in response. This was not a decision she could make for her sister, no matter how great the urge was to protect her from this group of proud peacocks who all but wanted to use her one chance to truly make an impression on possible suitors and procure an ideal match, just so they could flaunt their wellbeing and riches.
But if she did want this, Katniss would not be able to live with herself if she kept her from this once in a lifetime opportunity. The more she considered the idea, the popularity and connections the Odairs—and even Mr. Mellark—had would certainly attract more prospective suitors for Primrose than the Abernathys could ever hope to. As much as she hated the circumstances, her aunt was right. And if hosting a ball pleased Mr. Odair, then it would only better Annie's chances too in sealing a match.
Primrose was still staring idly at her sister, waiting for a sign. Finally, with the slightest dip of her chin, Katniss nodded. She smiled back at Katniss before turning to Mr. Odair. "I would be honored to have you host my coming out ball."
"Then it is settled!" Mr. Odair beamed as he strode towards Primrose and wrapped his hands around hers. "You shan't worry about a thing; my dear sister and I will look after all the details and it would do me great honor if we could have an evening gown fashioned just for you." He cocked his head over his should to face Miss Odair. "My dear sister, we shall call upon Mr. Cinna!" He turned back to the group of women who were staring up at him in awe as though he had offered them the world. "He is the finest designer in the Capitol, and we shall not spare any expense. Whilst he is here, why not have him outfit all of you lovely ladies with new dresses just for the occasion!"
"Good heavens!" Mrs. Abernathy gasped. "Did you hear that?" She spun to face Johanna and Portia who both appeared light headed as they fanned themselves with their hands as a result of the overwhelming excitement. "We shall all have new gowns for the occasion!"
"Brother," Miss Odair hissed as she narrowed her gaze at him, her lips flattened into a disapproving line. "For all of them?"
Katniss rolled her eyes. As much as it pained for her to admit, she agreed with Miss Odair. Her brother's generosity was certainly his most admirable trait, but it was also his downfall. If it wasn't for a grounded hand to steady him and keep him from indulging those around him, there was no doubt in her mind the lengths he would go to bring a smile upon anyone's face.
"Hush now, it is settled," Mr. Odair said as he raised his hand up to halt any further protests. "It is my gift and I would be greatly dishonored if anyone would refuse." When no one pressed him further, he clapped his hands and grinned brightly at his guests. "Now, if you excuse me, I must relay to your dear sister this wonderful news. I am confident it will help to brighten her spirits!"
Katniss sank down onto the bench once again and dropped her shoulders in defeat. As she leaned back to stew in her thoughts, she remembered the paper that was still clenched in her hand. She released her grip and smoothed out the crinkles and as she glanced down once again at the sketch, she found her attention drawn to the one person in the room who had still yet to utter a word.
Mr. Mellark hadn't moved from his spot but when their eyes met, her heart fluttered wildly in her chest. She could not help but notice the ever so slight twitch at the corner of his mouth as his jaw tensed. Had he been watching her the whole time? Her cheeks flushed at the realization and she straitened her posture as though it would somehow redeem her embarrassing display of her resistance to the ball.
But the longer she stared back at him, his gaze never leaving hers; she began to realize that not much escaped the ever constant scrutiny of his watchful eye. It was as though he could read her every thought, every hope, every desire, with just a glance into her eyes. An unsettling feeling surrounded her, as though she was bare to him, like she was an open book that he was so intent on reading from cover to cover.
Had she mistaken him? Was Madge right in her suspicions that perhaps there was more to Mr. Mellark than he cared to exhibit whilst in the company of acquaintances? If she was an open book, he was most definitely the opposite, closed and bound and hidden behind lock and key. If only she could get a glimpse into what was behind that steely gaze of his. What was he hiding?
If she was to ever quench her sudden desire to understand him, perhaps a ball would be the perfect place to begin.
Author's Note: First off, my apologies for such a long wait for this chapter. I know a lot of you were curious as to whether or not I had abandoned this fic, but no! This story is slowly becoming my main focus once again so thank you for your patience. So, I'd love to hear your thoughts on how things are progress between these two!
Fun Facts from Jane Austen's Time:
- "Coming Out" balls, more commonly known now as Debutante balls, were held when young ladies, deemed to have reached an age of maturity and completed education, were officially introduced at court. This meant the young lady was eligible to be married and the purpose of the ball was to display her to potential suitors and their families. The age when a young lady was deemed "mature" was not based on years, but rather the parent's consideration of her physical and emotional development. Once "out", young ladies were expected to be married off within two or three years, if they were, they and their parents were considered "failures". Yikes! Hence the seemingly crazy behavior of Mrs. Abernathy to get her girls and nieces married off!
- During this time, women were expected to be modest, well accomplished in the arts: reading, writing, needlework, dancing, singing, playing instruments, languages…the list goes on. So when Mr. Mellark lists off his rather unexpected list of attributes he wishes for a wife (someone who speaks their mind, witty, intelligent, enjoys the pursuits of the outdoors), in his own way he is rebelling against the norm, as to the kind of woman he would be expected to marry. Men had just as many expectations of them as young ladies did!
A big thank you and shout out to my support group (I feel they help to keep me sane for sure!), to Court81981for her beta skills and comments that make my belly ache with laughter and to Streetlightlove1 for pre-reading and giving me the confidence boost to keep writing. They both contributed to the last round of PiP, along with many other talented authors that you should most definitely check out!
Any feedback is greatly appreciated because I love hearing from you all! Also, I'm on tumblr (pookieh) if you want to come by and chat!
Thanks for reading!
