Haymitch had been planning to present a better picture to Effie than he had before the reaping. Unfortunately, last night he decided he would be a lot happier about cleaning up if he had a drink first. One drink led to another, and he's being woken up by having water tossed over his head. Katniss is standing over him, scowling, and he and his place are a terrible mess.
He gets mad at her and she fights back. He hasn't had the pleasure of fighting with anyone since his brother died. Katniss is nothing like his brother, except she pisses him off just as quickly. At least she's never woken him by farting in his face.
Peeta walks in, breaking up their argument with the uncomfortable silence that springs up between him and Katniss and all around any room they're in together. He tells them they need to get it together for the cameras and Katniss gets defensive quickly and leaves.
"The girl has no idea how to argue," he says.
Peeta laughs quietly. "Make sure you wear something clean. Effie will be here any minute."
Haymitch isn't sure he likes that knowing look from Peeta as he leaves, but what can he do?
He takes a shower, makes some quick passes with a painfully dull razor, and wears the cleanest outfit he can find. He decides to meet Effie in the square of the Victor's Village, rather than in the house. He thinks of that expensive cologne he smells on Finnick during his Capitol trips, and how that must be what Effie thinks a man should smell like. Next time he sees Cinna, he's going to ask about that.
He's sitting on a bench overlooking the trees, after pacing the square for a while. He's lost in thought, remembering.
A hand lands on his shoulder, and he instantly reaches for his knife.
"Hello, Haymitch."
He stands up, takes her in his arms.
"Effie."
She's slight. She feels so breakable, like a manufactured piece of Capitol art come alive. She smells like orange flowers and cinnamon.
He releases her and sees she's wearing a wig as orange as a pumpkin. He laughs.
"Sweetheart, that's the worst wig yet."
She steps back and swats him with her long, flat purse, but she's smiling.
"Well, despite your boorish manners, I think you look almost dashing."
Haymitch spreads his arms, gives her a good look. "Almost, huh?" He places his hands on her shoulders and says, "You look good. I think I missed you," then lets his hands drop.
"I missed you, too, Haymitch. I have to go make sure Peeta and Katniss are ready." She stands on tip-toe and kisses his cheek. "I'll see you on the train," she whispers, and minces away, heading for Peeta's.
Haymitch hurriedly packs and is sitting on the bench again with his suitcase when it's time to go.