Okay, here's the thing. I'm so sorry for not updating faster it's not even funny. Really, it's not. You know it's not. Anyway, here's a shortish chapter because it's all I had time for. But it means I'll update sooner, IF YOU REVIEW! PLZ

And don't worry, I have many things planned for this story. If you have any ideas or helpful comments, please tell me in your reviews, THANKS! AND ENJOY!

PEETA POV

"I'm teaching you how to swim today," says Katniss, while we're eating breakfast. I had just asked her what we're doing today, and of course, she has to pick something I'm horrible at.

"But I can't swim," I complain.

"Don't be such a scaredy-cat," she tells me. And even though that joke is meant to be an insult, it still makes me chuckle at the bright smile at Katniss' face.

"You're gonna swim whether you like it or not." And with that, Katniss stands up and puts her bowl in the sink.

There's no fighting Katniss when her mind is set on something. I give in, and help her clean the dishes by drying them.

When we finish, I go behind Katniss and grab her waist. "Will I get to see you in a bathing suit?" I ask mischievously.

Katniss forces herself out of my grip, and turns around. "Maybe," she says, with a twinkle in her eye. Suddenly, I take Katniss in my arms, catching her by surprise, and kiss her.

She soon follows my lips with hers and wraps her arms around my neck. When I pull away, she asks, "What was that for?"

I shrug, "For being so irresistible that I can't stand it and do something about it."

Katniss' face reddens and she suddenly becomes shy. Then she hugs me, unexpectedly. "I love you," she whispers.

"What?" I ask even though I heard perfectly clear.

Katniss pulls back slightly to look up at me. "I know you heard me, Lover Boy." She smiles and leaves me in the kitchen, with just those words I'm still not used to echoing in my head.

KATNISS POV

Peeta and I are marching towards the lake, where my father used to take me. This is the first time I'm bringing him here, and I'm actually sort of nervous about it. I've told Peeta about it before, but I never thought of bringing him until now. I thought of the lake as my father and I's secret.

"How far is this lake, anyway?" puffs Peeta.

I sigh, rolling my eyes. I know Peeta can't walk as fast as me, with his prosthetic leg and all, but we've already slowed down enough, and he's been asking me how long it's going to take for about half an hour now.

I look back at Peeta, who's face is red from the effort it's taking him. I have barely broken a sweat, but because of the heat, I'm starting to.

"Just about thirty more minutes if we can keep up the pace." And by we, I mean he.

Peeta groans, but I know he'll keep going. He's stubborn like that.

Ten minutes later, I can see Peeta looks like he's about to pass out, so I suggest we rest. Peeta doesn't hesitate to agree.

We settle underneath a big oak tree and lean back against its trunk. Peeta is trying to regain his breath, so I pass him some water. "Thanks," he breathes. He gulps down half the bottle and hands it back.

"You okay?", I say, worried he won't be able to make it.

"Yeah, I'll be fine. Don't worry about me. Are you okay?" Of course, Peeta has to turn my worries for him into him worrying about me.

"Of course I am. Why would you even ask that?" I grin. He grins right back at me and stands up, pulling me with him. "Are you ready to go now?" I ask him.

"Yes, let's go. With this heat, I could use a dip." He wipes his forehead with the back of his hand and sighs. "Come on." He gestures for me to lead the way, which I do.

About half an hour later, we are nearing the lake, which is mostly hidden by some surrounding trees. I tell this to Peeta, who is so grateful that he even walks ahead of me, ready to reach our destination.

When we get to the clearing the lake is in, I smile, remembering all the memories I had here. I think of my father teaching me to swim, and I'm surprised when my cheek becomes wet. Quickly I wipe away the tears, but it's too late, because Peeta sees it.

He takes my hand from face and wipes away another traitor tear with his thumb. "What's wrong?" he whispers.

I shake my head, embarrassed. "Nothing, Peeta. I just remembered some things, that's all."

Peeta leans his forehead against mine, putting his arms around my waist. "Was it your dad?" His blue eyes stare intensely into mine.

"Yes," I whisper.

He strokes my hair with one of his hands, instantly calming me. "I'll be fine," I say. "And this doesn't mean I'm not teaching you how to swim, because I still am."

Peeta lets go of me and collapses on the grass, patting the space next to him. I sigh, laying down beside him. "Let's just enjoy the view first," he tells me, leaning on one of his elbows.

"Fine," I groan, letting him stall, for now. So, I just lay there, staring at the sky. I can feel Peeta's eyes on me, and I'm guessing this is what he meant by "enjoying the view."

"Peeta, I thought you meant the lake, not me. Enjoy the view of the lake." I look at him.

"But this view is way better. The lake's okay, but I like this one much better." He lays down and pulls me closer to him, with my head laying on his chest.

No one says a word for a few minutes. I can feel the heat from Peeta's body, and it makes me feel weird, in a good way. I decide maybe we should start to get in the lake.

I sit up and Peeta frowns. "Already?" he says, disappointed.

"Come on, Peeta, it's getting hot." I know that's not the only reason I stood up, though.

Peeta nods. "You're right. Might as well get it over with." He stands up and starts to take off his shirt, so I start to strip down also. I don't want to get my clothes wet, or else it will be a very uncomfortable walk home.

When I finish, undressing, Peeta is already in his waterproof boxers, courtesy of the Capital. I'm wearing a bikini, something I've gotten but never worn. Until now. Don't ask me why.

So sorry! If I had more time I would have written more, but unfortunately I don't. Also, I didn't want to keep you guys waiting, so I thought, a short chapter is better than waiting for a longer one, right?

Well, I hope so. I'll update as soon as possible. Please don't give up on me. Oh, and REVIEW!

I'll update faster, I promise, (if you review)