Chapter 35 – Evaluation and Training

AN: Many thanks to those who reviewed, favored and alerted 'Destiny.' I do apologize for not updating sooner than I hoped but real life keeps getting in the way. FYI, this story will be completed in due time. No,BDizzy, I will not abandon it. Never fear. This will be done. Thank you to the following for your reviews: Shellibug, Lhaine07, jroseley, DramionEverlarklover26, Cassie Sharpie, LACR, Tea4e, pistonsfan75, BDizzy, Nai1987, Browniangel, J, avidFanficFanatic, Mspriss523 and guest. All your reviews are greatly appreciated. You have no idea how much they mean to me.

This chapter contains Peeta and Katniss' POVs and is rated R. Hunger Games belongs to Suzanne Collins.

Peeta POV ––

Our kisses lasted until we both ran out of breath. Forehead to forehead, heat emitted between us like a furnace I felt hot and cold as the night air was chilly. I linked my fingers together and rested them on the small of her back. Light puffs of air escaped through her mouth her lips wet and swollen red like cherries. 'I did that,' I congratulated myself in my head. "Katniss," I whispered her name like a prayer. It felt good having her in my arms again. "Katniss."

"Shh," she returned. "Don't talk."

"But––" She interrupted me again angling her face and kissed me soft this time like she was savoring the moment. Her eyes were closed as she sighed into my mouth distracting me. She kissed me until I was breathless again. I was out of breath the first time I saw her as she rounded the corner at the airfield. Her face was filled with fear, concern then joy. She was rooted to the ground paralyzed. I walked up to her and wrapped my arms around her in a tight embrace as she melted in my arms. Hell, I've been out of breath each and every time I've seen her since I was five. Call me sappy, but even in her presence she knocked me to my knees leaving me breathless and in awe of her. She was perfect. She was real.

Not that I never acknowledged her mood swings, sullen and skittish behavior, she was far from perfect but then neither am I. The weight in my stomach and shoulder lifted causing me to sob like some big baby.

"Peeta?"

"I'm sorry," I choked back as my head was downcast. My eyes averted as I stared at…our feet. She wore low heel shoes. As I looked upward I finally noticed she was wearing a dark green dress that accentuated her curves. She looked beautiful.

"Stop saying your sorry, Peeta," she breathed through her mouth. "Don't say anything until I tell you too." I nodded my head as I couldn't deny her anything. She could yell, scream and beat me if she wanted to. I let her down and got her sister killed. I closed my eyes and waited.

I felt a finger on my chin as she lifted my head to meet her eyes. They were soft as tears brimmed her eyelids. Quietly and firmly, she traced a finger on my lips, nose and cheeks as she was mapping my face with her touch. She smiled as she flicked a wayward lock on my forehead. Her gray eyes stared into mine as she cupped both hands on my face. "I missed you. I missed you so much." I opened my mouth to respond back but she stopped me by placing a finger on my lips.

"Hey, what did I just tell you a minute ago. No talking until I tell you to," she scowled back. She was teasing me. Then smile wide and playful so I returned in kind as I closed my mouth around her finger swirling my tongue around the digit.

She gasped. "Argh, you're not playing fair," she whined as she pulled her hand back. "I have something to tell you so. So stop distracting me. I need to tell you something you need to know and I'm assuming there was a reason why you took us up here." I nodded my head like a good and obedient boyfriend. Did I also tell you that my girlfriend was not only beautiful but smart too? And she was mine.

"Don't look at me like that?" she scowled. My brows furrowed as I kept my mouth shut. She was so beautiful with her hair cascading down her shoulders. I missed the braid but this look was also so attractive that I couldn't concentrate. I couldn't believe that she was in the Capitol with me. I shook off the reason why she was here, as I didn't want to ruin this moment.

I couldn't help myself as I leaned down and kissed her cheek. "Peeta!" she whined again. I ignored her as my mouth hovered over her lips for a second. My tongue peeked out for a few seconds outlining her upper and lower lip. Then I proceeded to line my tongue down her neck. "Peeta. Peeta." I was lost in my need to reconnect with her emotionally. But my body had other ideas as I reached her breastbone. She shivered as my tongue and lips worried her skin. I was tempted to slide her dress and bra to one side as I remembered where we were and why we were at the Capitol. As always this was what her presence did to me, I was a goner. I stopped and rested my forehead on her chest breathing heavily.

Her hand played with the hair on the back of my head as I tried to recover my senses. I couldn't help but sniff at skin of her neck. She smelled of violets and pine. She smelled of home. As soon as I lifted my head she tightened her arms around me her head on shoulder nose buried. She shivered again.

"You're cold, I'm sorry––" I tried to pull back so I could give her my jacket.

"I'm not," she returned as she held me close not letting go. "I'm not."

"But you're shivering," I observed.

"I'm not cold," she explained. "Just hold me." I nodded my head finally comprehending why she was shivering. "And don't think I remembered you spoke when I told you not to."

I chuckled. We were in our own little bubble away from family and our home but being in her arms calmed and soothed me. I felt safe and loved. When she first told me she loved me I couldn't accept it at first not while I was headed towards the Capitol to participate in the games. At that time, my focus was Prim and the promise I made to Katniss and her mother. But now, here she was in the Capitol as Prim's replacement. We were both headed to the games to die.

Then she spoke and said something I hadn't expected her to say. I had hoped it was a repeat of three words I dreamt of her saying to me for as long as I can remember. Words said not out of desperation as we were being torn apart when I was reaped. I knew she loved me. I couldn't dare to hope but needed her to repeat it now that we were together again.

"Prim is alive, Peeta," she said so low and soft I thought I imagined it.

"What? That's not––" She sent me of look of disapproval as I started to interrupt her again. Saliva gathered in my throat. She nodded her head. I opened and closed my mouth several times. The last time I saw Prim, she was screaming and crying out to me. She looked scared. I hated that we had to separate but she was safer with the rebels. I had thought I sent her to her death. That it was my fault she was dead.

"Prim is alive," she repeated in my ear so no one could hear her. I knew it was true by the look in her eyes. She wasn't devastated as I thought she would be. I closed my eyes and tilted my head skyward. 'Prim is alive.' The words echoed in my mind over and over. She wasn't dead. 'Prim is alive.'

"Peeta, say something," Katniss said her eyes crinkled with concern as I finally opened my eyes and gazed back at her. I smiled so wide my chest felt like it was about to burst from joy and happiness. "Peeta!" Katniss screamed as I lifted her off the ground and twirled us around in circles. "Peeta, stop. You're making me dizzy."

"Prim is alive. She's okay," I chanted. Katniss giggled as I continued to spin us around. "She's okay, she's okay."

"Yes, she is and it's because of you," she reminded me. "You saved her. You kept your promise to keep her safe, Peeta. You didn't break it."

"But I thought…President Snow said––"

"It's a lie," I started as I proceeded to tell him everything. How the MockingJay sent his men and escaped with Prim. The weight lifted from my chest. It was too good to be true.

"Are you sure?"

"Yes, I was there when they made sure that Prim was safe from harm," she mentioned. "MockingJay's men has her hidden somewhere. They won't tell me where but Jay's men are with her now. Snow's peacekeepers will never find her. She's alive and well, Peeta"

'MockingJay's men?' She spoke as if she didn't know who he was. Didn't Mr. Everdeen reveal his identity to his own daughter? Before I could say anything we were interrupted.

"Hey, Peeta, Katniss? I don't meant to ruin your reunion but, you need to get back inside," he said. "Effie is having a stroke downstairs leaving you two not chaperoned."

I ignored him. I was too happy to care what Effie wanted or Haymitch interrupting us. Air filled my lungs, the cold filtering inside me as I felt invigorated. I couldn't save my brother Graham but I didn't break my promise to keep Prim safe from harm. I was elated.

I looked at Katniss. There was mirth and relief in her eyes. So I leaned over kissed her grabbing her small waist against me. She squeaked at first as my tongue invaded her mouth seeking entrance as she complied with my demand, returning kiss for kiss tongues caressing together. We pulled apart when we both ran out of breath. "You saved her Peeta, you saved her," she repeated in my ear. "I'll never forget what you did. Never. She's safe now." She stared into my eyes.

"Uh, kids. It's time to get inside," Haymitch pleaded. "Please come downstairs. I guarantee you don't want––"

"What is everyone doing up here?" Effie's shrill voice filled the air. "For God's sake, Haymitch, I asked you to do one thing." She walked up to Katniss and me. "You two cannot just go gallivanting without a proper escort." She grabbed Katniss' wrist and pulled her away. "It's late. You must be tired from the trip, Katniss. Lord knows those military hovercrafts are uncomfortable to say the least. I need you glowing and well-rest before I present you to your stylists tomorrow."

"Stylist?" Katniss gasped in horror her eyes wide.

"Peeta will need a lot of work to get rid of those bags under his eyes. Both of you need rest for tomorrow," she continued. "I will not have my tributes looking bedraggled. You are the Star-Crossed Lovers and need a lot of attention before being presented to the public."

Effie mumbled to herself about hairstyles, clothes, shoes and accessories. She ranted of things that needed to be done before the interviews. I followed my girlfriend who looked stunned and frightened at the same time. "This is your bedroom suite Katniss," she announced as Effie walked Katniss to her room. "Breakfast is at 7. We need to be at the stylists by 9 sharp. Traffic will be horrible. We cannot be late. So get some sleep." She pressed a hand onto Katniss' shoulder blade pushing her towards her door.

"Effie," Haymitch interject. "Give the kids a break."

"They can see each other tomorrow after the evaluations," Effie muttered. "They need sleep." 'Interviews, evaluations?'

"I want to say good night to Peeta," Katniss stated in resignation as she realized our reunion was over.

"Okay, but only for a minute," Effie said as she crossed her arms over her chest. She stood there for a few seconds not moving. Haymitch grabbed Effie by the arm. "Hey! I'm not leaving them––"

"Give the kids some privacy, Effie," Haymitch suggested. "They deserve it. They're not two kids who need a babysitter."

"But––"

"Leave them be," Haymitch demanded as he argued dragging her with him in protest. "Go on your own accord or I'll throw you over my shoulder."

"You…you wouldn't dare?" Her face lit up in fear and disgust.

"Try me, Trinket." Their voices vanished as they turned the corner. I smiled. They fought like a couple. I wondered…

The next thing I knew I was engulfed by strong lean arms as Katniss rested her head on my shoulder. She sighed as I felt her breath on my ear.

"I'm sorry, Katniss," I relented. "I'm sorry that you're here because of me."

"Peeta." She sounded weary and frustrated.

"You should be back home with Prim and your family." My heart felt heavy knowing that I caused this. Prim reaped and Katniss chosen.

"It's not your fault," she argued.

"It's because of me you're here. You were reaped."

"By Snow. Not because of you. You…it's not your fault," she repeated and sighed. She tried to appease me letting me know she didn't blame me when I knew truthfully she wouldn't be in the Capitol if she wasn't involved with me. "You really need to stop taking all the blame. Granted, I'm here in the Capitol, but at least I'm here with you."

"To die in the games, but I swear. I promise you. You're going…going home," I swore if it was the last thing I'd do.

"Peeta," she sighed resignation in her tone. She leaned over and kissed me soft and sweet. Our lips touched with such gentleness.

"Um…wrap it up, kids," Haymitch's voice filtered into my ears. I didn't turn around as I focused on Katniss. She looked tired as I felt but my mind was alert knowing she was with me again.

"I wish…" Katniss started as she toyed with a button on my shirt.

"What?" I asked as I leaned down and kissed her cheek.

"Nothing, never mind," she said. "We…we better get some sleep."

"You must be tired," I guessed as I rubbed her back with my hand. "I'll see you tomorrow." I wrapped my arms around her one more time. "I'll be across the hall if you need me." I pointed to the door opposite the hallway. I watched as she opened her door and entered her room. "Good night, Katniss."

"Good night, Peeta," she returned as she closed her door. I stood in the hallway for a few seconds.

"Peeta, get some sleep," Haymitch said he as entered the hallway. "You have a big day ahead of you tomorrow or rather today." It must be around past midnight closer to 1am and Effie mentioned that breakfast was at 7. With my baker's hours, I would likely be awakened at 5 since I was used to getting up early in the morning to do morning prep before the bakery opened.

After I brushed my teeth and changed my clothes, I turned the temperature to a comfortable setting that would match cool air seeping through an open window. It wasn't the same but necessary for me to sleep in. I twisted and turned in my bed trying to find a comfortable position. The bed was firm and luxurious with pillows and blanket fit for a Capitolite. I wasn't used to the luxury nor would I since this was not my home. I missed Dad and Rye hoping they were well and safe. I wished I had more time with them before I got on the train but…

I sat up on my bed gasping for breath as sweat beaded down my face from my forehead. I didn't realize I had fallen asleep with the last thoughts of my family. "Peeta?" a soft voice startled me. It was Katniss. I'd recognized that voice anywhere even in the dark.

"Katniss?" I inquired as I squinted my eyes adjusting to the darkness. "What are you doing here?" Not that I minded but she was in my room at the foot of my bed. I extended my hand to her. "Come here." She sighed as she crawled over to me. I lifted my blanket as an invitation with no thoughts of propriety. She was after all my girlfriend who I loved more than anything in the world. It felt right to be with her under these circumstances.

"Are you okay?" I asked as she placed her head my chest.

"I couldn't sleep," she admitted. "I'm not used to…" Her voiced trailed off. "So I hope this is okay…me here with you." I was speechless for once. How could I tell her that I wanted her in my bed when she closed the door behind her?

"How long have been in my room?" I wanted to ask, 'How long have you been watching me sleep? Did I moan and called out your name?' That would have been embarrassing.

"About an hour, I guess," she answered. "I just sat on the bottom of the bed and watched you sleep." I smiled. "That's creepy I know but…I miss you so much."

"Shh…it's okay, Katniss," I assured her. "I'm not complaining. Though you know that Effie will scold us if she found you here in my bed."

"I don't care," she returned as she adjusted her head on my chest. She was soft and yielding every inch of her pressed onto my side with one leg straddling my thigh. One more inch and her leg would be…

"Did you have a bad dream?" My mind felt fuzzy. "So…you want to talk about it?" It was hard to concentrate with Katniss in my arms as I realized that I had awoken from a nightmare. A dream that I couldn't remember anymore, but the lingering feeling of pain, fear and loss remained. "You were thrashing in your bed and moaning. I didn't know if I should wake you." So I was in midst of a nightmare not dreaming about her.

I didn't really want to talk but savor the time I had left with her. Why burden Katniss with my nightmares? I stayed silent as I rubbed a hand on her lower back.

"No tonight."

"Okay," she returned.

I didn't know how much time passed but the next thing I knew someone was nudging me awake.

"Peeta." Katniss voiced permeated my hazy mind as I opened my eyes. "Peeta, wake up." Rubbing sleep from my eyes, the image of Katniss appeared before me. She was dressed in a simple blue dress her hair brushed back. I smiled and grabbed her by the waist and pushed her onto the bed.

She squealed in surprise. "Peeta," she said my name with bated breath. I hovered over her looking at her face and hair. "Good morning." I felt peace settle into my soul for a few minutes. Relieved and relaxed I laid my head on her shoulder. "Peeta?"

"I don't want to wake up from this dream," I said as I tightened my arm over her waist.

"You're not dreaming, Peeta" she said as she kissed the top of my head. "I'm real and I'm with you in the Capitol."

"That's what I was afraid of," I confessed. I knew I was confusing her as I too was lost in my thoughts. She was here with me in the Capitol as a tribute just like me. Being with her here in my bed was both a dream and a nightmare.

"What is going on in here?" Effie blustered as she entered my room. "What are you two doing in bed together? This is so inappropriate." I raised myself on one elbow as Katniss sat up but remained in bed with me. I sighed then I sat up and joined her as Effie continued. "You should not be in here, Katniss."

Katniss scowled. I knew she was getting upset as her brows furrowed and her lips drew into a thin line. "This isn't behavior of a young lady."

"I'm not a lady," she seethed in anger. "Peeta is my boyfriend."

"Katniss, maybe it's best if––" I started.

"What's all the ruckus?" Haymitch entered the room. He was shirtless and wore sleep pants. I looked down and noticed he had no shoes on. He was barefooted.

"Abernathy!" Effie muttered. "First, I find Katniss in bed with Peeta. Then you come in here…you are inappropriately dressed. There are ladies in the room." Haymitch turned around searching the room as he rubbed his belly.

"Where?" he snorted. Katniss smirked in return.

"Well, I never."

"Effie, what's the big dead?" he inquired. "You can see she's dressed."

"It's doesn't matter. They should not be in bed together at all. This is unacceptable behavior," she maintained.

"You better get used to the idea of seeing Peeta and Katniss together in…behaving 'inappropriately.' he said calm and collected. "They are together, you know?"

"That doesn't mean they can behave like uncivilized and ill-mannered children who have no sense of propriety," she commented. "And you," she pointed at him. "There are young people in the room. You are their mentor. You lead my example. Put some clothes on."

Haymitch snorted. Bored and disinterested in getting a lecture, I stood and headed towards the bathroom. "Excuse me, Effie," started. "I'm going to take shower now if that's okay with you?" I removed my shirt in defiance. I heard Katniss gasped behind me as she stood up from the bed. I didn't wait for permission and walked into the bathroom.

After a long hot shower and a shave, we ate breakfast in silence. Effie fumed as she sat next to Katniss who sat across me as per Effie insistence. She continued to rant about propriety and decency, a trait that Katniss and lacked since she caught us in my bed. I didn't really see what the big deal was since we were both clothed. Nothing happened.

I stared at my girlfriend for a few minutes as she ate her toast. I was mesmerized by her hands and…mouth her lips pink as she ate quietly with a touch of jelly on the side of her mouth. Katniss blushed when she caught me staring at her. She was adorable. I was too transfixed with the image before me that I didn't realize that Effie was talking.

"Usually, we evaluate our tributes separately but with you two we…I have made an exception," Effie began. "Both Peeta and Katniss will be evaluated together." I heard my name which caught my attention.

"Why?" Haymitch asked. He didn't bother to shave or comb his hair; an affect that riled Effie to no end as she scolded him for his appearance.

"Both Katniss and Peeta must be evaluated together because as you said they are a couple," she explained. "And my tactic is to dress them as a couple."

"Oh God, you're not going to dress them alike…you know matching clothes," Haymitch asked in disgust. "They're tributes not dolls to play dress up, Effie."

"No, I'm not…of course not," she huffed in indignation. "They are going to be color coordinated."

"Same difference," Haymitch muttered under his breath as his sipped his coffee. I smiled and tried not to laugh. "What are you snickering about?"

"You two reminded me of…" I uttered. "You two argue like you're married." They reminded me of Graham and Sonja also Rye and Delly. I missed my family. I missed my dad.

"We are not…" Haymitch sputtered as if I insulted him. Katniss giggled as Effie looked affronted.

After breakfast we were ushered into another hover car and travelled into the city. "These are the best of the best," Effie gushed. "When word came that both you and Katniss were chosen, I had so many stylists volunteering to assist me. You two are the talk of the town, the crème de crème so to speak. Everyone wants their hands on you. Figuratively speaking." Haymitch grunted.

"How long is this going to take?" he asked.

"I don't know," Effie clarified. "It depends on Cinna."

"You got Cinna?" Haymitch inquired. "That's…he's been on hiatus for more than a year. How did you get him?"

"Well, like I said," Effie continued. "When Katniss and Peeta were chosen, the best of the best which is Cinna volunteered to help. You should be honored that he is working with us."

"Who's Cinna?" I asked. Not that I was interested or cared, but I needed to distract Katniss from her nervousness and anxiety. She sat rigid beside me.

"Cinna happens to be the most celebrated and famous stylist/designer of Panem," Effie gushed with pride.

I ignored Effie's rant as I sat next to Katniss. Though she looked calm and collected, I knew she was nervous and scared. I was too but I didn't want to alarm her. I drew from her strength. Her hands gripped mine so tight that my knuckles were white. I leaned over and whispered in her ear. "Hey, relax," I comforted her. "It's going to be okay."

"Don't leave alone, Peeta," she said.

"I won't I promise," I returned. "Not unless I can't help it. We're in this together…til the end." I kissed the back of her hand. She relaxed and placed her head on my shoulder.

An hour later, Katniss and I stood at a platform as stylists Cinna and Portia stared at us. The introduction to our stylists and designers was uneventful even though Effie gushed for a few minutes at their presence. "It is an honor to meet you both," Cinna said as he hugged us both first Katniss then myself. Portia followed suite as she introduced herself.

"You're in good hands," Effie said before she departed. "Trust them to take good care of you." I turned to Haymitch for confirmation. He just shook his head in agreement.

"You two will be okay," he said. "I trust Cinna." If that wasn't a convincing endorsement since Haymitch trusted only a handful of people in the Capitol.

Katniss' hand was clasped into mine while Portia and Cinna started to 'evaluate' us. They both stared at us up and down from head to toe.

"Strip," Cinna commanded. Katniss looked scared and angry at his request.

"No," she bit back.

"It's not like I haven't seen it all." Katniss bristled.

"I'm not going to stand naked in front of strangers," she seethed in anger.

"Okay, since modesty is something you covet," Cinna relented. "You can leave your undergarments on." He didn't look pleased but didn't want to waste time arguing with Katniss. So in the end, I stood there in my boxer shorts while Katniss wore her bra and underwear. I tried not to stare at her in her state of undress. My boxer shorts did nothing to hide my arousal if I did.

"They're both scrawny and need meat on them," Portia commented as she made notes on her datapad. "I want to know who cut his hair? It's atrocious and does not suit his facial structure. That jaw line and cheek bones requires a cleaner hairstyle."

She rifled her fingers through my hair. "It needs conditioning before we cut and restyle it."

"You're not cutting his hair," Katniss stated.

Portia continued to make notations on the pad ignoring her. Then she took out a measuring tape and made a few measurements, my waist, shoulders and in seam. "He's too thin and underweight for his height."

Cinna stood by and waited until Portia was finished with me then proceeded to evaluate Katniss. He approached and looked at her from head to toe. I didn't like the way he stared at Katniss his eyes roving to her breasts. Then he stepped back lifted her arms.

"She needs to have her hair cut, conditioned and straightened," he started. 'No,' my mind screamed. My anger surfaced. I loved Katniss hair the way it was.

"Her face needs exfoliation and tons of foundation to hide her blemishes." 'Blemishes? What blemishes?' Katniss' face was perfect.

"First we'll have her brows sculpted then trimmed." He tapped her brows. 'There was nothing wrong with Katniss' brows.'

"I'm surprised she shaved her armpits." Katniss blushed. "And since I can tell, she'll need to shave the rest of her." I gulped. Did he mean her…? Her cheeks turned pink only confirming what I guessed. Cinna leaned over and sniffed.

"Hey," I said in anger. "Watch it."

"She smells earthy and flowery," he said. "That needs to change. I want sexy and seductive."

"Katniss is plenty sexy and seductive," I spat. "She doesn't need all that. Katniss is perfect the way she is." Who were they to change Katniss' physical attributes? Who were they to dictate what we look like? "We were going into the arena to fight to the death. What does Katniss having her brows trimmed matter as we fight for our lives?"

"Peeta," Cinna said in calm manner. "In your eyes, she is perfect but you're in the Capitol now. You're in my world. We need to take every measure and advantage if you want to get sponsors in the arena."

"I don't understand," Katniss muttered. "Why do you need to cut Peeta's hair have to do with getting sponsors?"

"You're going to be presented for all of Panem to see as The Star Crossed Lovers of District 12," he stated. "You're reputation precedes you. There is an expectation of how you look."

"We look fine," Katniss bristled.

"You need to be…what's the word…" Portia interjected. "…polished. You're representing your district. A district that no one cares for until now."

"Peeta, Katniss," Cinna spoke. "We…Portia and I are the best at what we do. We can only do so much to help you and this is how we can. When you go into the arena, you'll need sponsors. So Portia and I are going to changer your physical appearance. What we do won't change who you are inside." I knew that. But being in the Capitol with all its glitter was a temptation. I didn't want them to change us, I admit. "In order for you to survive, you have to play the game. Do you understand?"

Politics. Cinna and Portia was talking about politics and the games that surrounded it. We were tributes after all, dependent on sponsors in order for us to survive in the arena. Dressing up and changing our physical looks was part of the game. I hated it but I was aware of the political games that Katniss and I had to participate in order to survive.

"And it's not like you have a choice," Cinna laid the rules on the table. "So don't fight us. You resisting will only hurt your chances in the end." I sighed in resignation. Cinna was right. I…we were helpless as we had no training like Districts 1 and 2 to fight in the arena.

"I guarantee you, Peeta," Cinna tried to appease me. "Me, changing you physically won't change who you are. Who you both are." He smiled. "You're very brave and strong together."

Together. I smiled to myself. Katniss and I were in this hell together.

Katniss POV ––

I gritted my teeth together holding a scream. When Cinna said he was going to change us physically I thought it was a haircut and ton of makeup to hide my 'blemishes.' What did I know? All day I was prodded, plucked and waxed in places I never imagined. After the evaluation, I was separated from Peeta. My breath grew erratic from anxiety. "Where's Peeta?"

"Don't worry, he'll be in the next room," Cinna said to assure me. "You'll see him when we're done."

"You're getting the best treatment from the best," Venia announced as she watched another stylist pluck my brows. It hurt. I thought that pain was excruciating. I was wrong. I was more than embarrassed when she appeared between my legs trimming my hair. Imagine my horror when I was waxed…down there. Holy mother of…why would they need to wax my nether regions? No one was saw it but me. 'Why would––?'

"Shit, that hurts," I cried out. And women do this all the time? Why?

"I guarantee that Peeta will appreciate your sacrifice," Venia gushed. "This will be painful afterward so I will give you a numbing salve to ease any discomfort after a few hours. Once he sees you with out any hair on your vagina, you'll see it was worth it." I blushed. My face grew hot as I felt heat rise to my chest. "Just give yourself a day before you let Peeta anywhere near you. You're skin is very sensitive right now. No sex for a couple of days."

Sex. She was talking about Peeta and I having sex. Whatever salve she used wasn't enough as I felt a burning sensation between my legs. Not the pleasurable kind but painful feeling on my nether region. It was on fire. I closed my eyes and concentrated on…Peeta. Having sex with Peeta. Peeta doing things I never imagined. Ugh…this was not helping.

"Fuck," Peeta screamed from the other room.

"Peeta? What are they doing to him?" I said in panic and anger. They were hurting him. I almost got to my feet when Flavius, another stylist explained.

"Well, you didn't think you are the only one getting waxed, did you? That young man of your is going to be gorgeous once Portia is done with him."

"Huh," I said in confused tone.

"Peeta is getting waxed himself," he continued. "All his body hair is being removed. You will love the results." 'All his body hair?' That also meant his hair on his… Granted I loved his chest hair. He didn't have a lot which I love but they were also removing his hair down there? Just the thought of him smooth to touch distracted me. Peeta was hairless everywhere? Oh my God….

The next hour, Cinna and Venia played with my hair. The process of conditioning and straightening my hair was painless. "Her hair is thick and luscious," Venia commented. I left like a dress up doll as I sat with a garment covering me since wearing underwear was uncomfortable. I fidgeted in my seat. 'Where is Peeta?' After my hair was addressed my whole body was scrubbed and exfoliated whatever that meant. The bath was soothing and relaxing.

I almost fell asleep in the tube when lunch was served. Peeta walked into the room with his hair coifed and slicked back. He looked so handsome my mouth dropped. He too wore a white gown as he kissed my cheek before he sat down next to me. I noticed that the hair on his arms were gone. Then, I pondered how he looked without all his hair…all over.

Heat rose to my face. "Katniss, are you okay?" Effie asked. I nodded head. "You look flush."

"I'm…fine," I stuttered. "I'm just not used to all the pampering."

"You both deserve it," Effie commented. Peeta and I ate silently as we were aware of our undressed state. I had to admit he did look handsome.

"You okay?" he asked as he twitched in his seat.

"I'm fine," I returned. "I just want this day over with." I had to stop myself from staring at his…

"Me too," he said. After lunch we were separated again. Cinna and Venia debated over color and material for my clothes.

"Red," Venia stated. "A red gown would make her look seductive."

"At her only interview she has to awe the audience," Cinna commented. "She has to be mesmerizing. She has to look perfect. We know that Peeta can charm a room full of people but I doubt Katniss is used to crowd full of Capitolites."

"Well, Haymitch and Effie can help her with that," she stated. 'Interview?' I had to give an interview? What the hell? That thought alone scared me. The next thing I knew was fitted to wear all sorts of shoes. High heels that were mostly uncomfortable. I could barely walk the first pair I wore that I dropped to my knees.

"I want you to wear these when you are in the suite," Cinna instructed. The shoes had heels at least two inches high. "Then when you feel comfortable I will give you another pair until you can wear higher heels." I flinched. For the life of me I couldn't understand why I had to train my feet to wear heels I'll only wear them for a couple of hours at the interview. I sighed and wondered how Peeta was doing. Our evaluation felt endless as hours passed.

By late afternoon I was bored and anxious. Luckily Haymitch pulled us away. "Sorry Cinna, but it's time," he announced. They shared a look between each other. I sighed in relief when Peeta appeared by my side.

"Hey, you look beautiful" he complimented. He looked…handsome. He wore a light blue shirt and dark brown pants––clothes he didn't wear when we left the residents. I myself wore a dark green dress that flattered my legs and figure.

"Thank you," I blushed as his eyes roved my body. It felt as though he was caressing me with his eyes. "You look very handsome."

"Come on, kids, it's time to go," Haymitch said. I turned to Cinna.

"Thank you," I said speechless as I fought to find words.

"We're not done, Katniss. I'll see you in a couple of weeks," he returned. "I won't see you since you and Peeta will both be in training."

"Thank you just the same," I repeated. I grabbed Peeta's hand as Haymitch led us out of the building. Once inside the car, I sagged and melted in to Peeta's arms as he held me around the waist. I didn't do much but stand and stood for hours as Cinna and his assistants worked around me. The ordeal made tired regardless.

"Where are we going?" Peeta asked.

"Nowhere. We're just going for a drive," he said as car travelled down lanes. "If you noticed we're not in the same car we came in from this morning." I didn't notice since I was too mentally exhausted to care. "I borrowed Cinna's car for this evening. No bugs."

"So this car is secure?" Peeta asked. Now they both had me intrigued.

"What's going on?" I inquired.

After a few minutes of silence Haymitch spoke. "I need to get you guys alone for a few minutes before heading back to our resident." He turned to a monitor and pushed a button. The screen came alive displaying the Capitol's insignia. "It was brought to attention that there was information that…the MockingJay didn't reveal before you left District 12, Katniss. Information he wanted to tell you after the reaping ceremony but didn't get the chance."

"Haymitch what are talking about?" I said. Peeta looked calm. It bothered me that he wasn't concern or worried. "Is this…is my family okay? Did something happen to Prim?" Now I was in sheer panic.

"Haymitch, just tell her," Peeta said as he grabbed both my hands into his.

"I can do better," he returned to the screen. I gasped. The MockingJay was on the screen with mom by his side. They were inside a room unfamiliar to me. Jay wore his typical outfit––all black from head to toe with a hood that hid his face. "We planned to tell you together with Peeta but since it happened this way, we didn't have a choice." 'We? Who's we?'

"Mom, what are you doing with MockingJay?" I asked. A thought popped in my head. No, it couldn't be. It was impossible. "What's going on?"

"Katniss, please listen," Mom started. "We didn't want you to find out this way with you so far away but it's our only opportunity."

"Mom why are you with Jay? Where's Dad? Did something happen to dad?" My world was tilted to its' axis as Jay pulled his hood from his face. The face I saw underneath the hood was my father, Garrett Everdeen. I was stunned and confused. 'No, no. This isn't real,' my mind screamed.

"Dad," I said his name in shock.

"Katniss, I'm so sorry. I didn't want you to find out this way," he started. "I was hoping both you and Peeta would be here in District 12 but…"

I looked at Peeta. "You knew? Why didn't you tell me?"

"I only found out yesterday, Katniss," he said. "I mean, I just found out Prim is alive as well."

"But how, when…I don't understand," I stumbled. Everything didn't make any sense. How could my disabled father be the leader of a revolution, an army that was fighting against Snow? How did I miss it?

"So you've been lying to me all my life," I accused him. "All those times when you disappeared into the woods before he accident. The nights you disappeared." I remembered moments and incidents when dad would disappear. The days and nights he didn't come home. "How were you able to pull it off?" I asked. "You disappeared for weeks?"

"Well, Cray couldn't tell the difference when Mr. Hawthorne took my place." Gale's father? He was similar to dad in height but it stopped there because that was all they had in common besides the dark hair and steel eyes. Dad didn't at all looked like Mr. Hawthorne who was much stockier in build. "Mr. Hawthorne would show up at the mines with his gear on."

I was flabbergasted. My mind swirled with questions I wanted to ask but couldn't formulate as the reveal mentally paralyzed me. "How could you keep this from me? From Prim?"

"Katniss, please understand," he began. "Keeping it a secret, it was the only way to keep you safe. I had never intended for you to get involved."

"But I am involved," I seethed in anger. "I'm the daughter to the most wanted man in Panem. Oh God, oh God. This is not happening. This is not real."

"I'm sorry, Katniss,' Dad said. "I didn't mean for all this to happen." 'For all this to happen.' I wrapped my mind on his words. I thought of everything that happened. Ivan, Cray, Gale and Peeta. Oh my God, Peeta. The video Jay broadcasted with Peeta as Cray nearly killed him. Nearly dying for protecting me.

"Katniss?" Peeta's voice permeated my mind hazy of confusion, pain and anger. I stared at my boyfriend, the Boy with Bread who had saved my life twice; Peeta who had loved me since he was five. He sat beside me giving me comfort and support even after what my father had done to him. Even after causing so much pain and trauma in his life. I couldn't face him so I hid my face with my hands. His hands rubbed my back they were soft and comforting.

"Katniss." I heard my mom's voice. "I know that you're upset." I'm beyond upset. I was stupefied. How does one recover when they found out that the MockingJay is their father, the leader of the rebellion? Poor Prim. She was probably clueless as well.

"Katniss," Dad cried to me. I ignored him and mom as they pleaded with me to talk to them. I didn't have the words or have the state of mind to have a conversation with them.

"Garrett, this is a lot for Katniss to absorb," Haymitch interjected. "It's…almost time anyway. We can't stay in this car too long." They bade their farewell. I was too numb to reply.

"Katniss, remember I'm still your father who has loved and protected you all your life," he reminded me. Yes, he was but he was also someone I didn't know who existed. He was a hero to some and an enemy to Snow and the Capitol. But most of all, how could I face Peeta knowing how much pain and damage my father has done to his family?

The ride back to the resident was eerily silent. Peeta kept an arm around my waist as I hid my face on the crook of his neck. I felt angry, lost, confused and guilty. How could Peeta want me after this revelation? Once we reached the underground parking, I ran out of the car and headed towards the elevator. Peeta called out to me as I ran ahead. "Katniss?"

I wrapped both arms around my waist. I felt numb all over. "Katniss?" he repeated as I dove into the elevator as soon as the doors opened. Peeta held a hand back to Haymitch. "Give us a moment."

"Sure, kid," Haymitch returned. Peeta pressed a number on the panel. I was so happy to see him last night that I didn't even recall what floor our suite was located. Once the door opened, I wasn't surprised that we ended up at the roof. Peeta always knew what I needed even before I did. It was what I loved about him.

He grabbed my hand led me out of the elevator. Normally, I would have been thrilled to have him to myself but…my head was downcast because I didn't want to see the look in his eyes.

"Katniss, talk to me," he muttered low and soft. He stopped near the edge of the building. I was close to tears as pain radiated from my chest, as the realization once again struck me. Garret Everdeen, my father was the MockingJay. I wanted to laugh and cry, scream and hit something to help me relieve the pain I felt. How could I have missed it?

"I don't know what you're feeling," he began. "If I found out that my dad was the MockingJay, I wouldn't know how to react or what to believe."

"How did you react when you found out?" I dared to ask.

"When I first found out, I was stunned," he explained. I snorted. "I mean my girlfriend's father is the MockingJay. Who knew, right? What were the odds that the father of the girl that I had been in love with since I was five, was the famous MockingJay?" He smiled soft and genuine. "I knew you were special. I mean I shouldn't be surprised because you're pretty extraordinary and remarkable. So why not your dad as well?" He was going to make me cry. He was so sweet and understanding. I didn't deserve it.

"Stop trying to make me feel better," I blustered as I kept my tears at bay. "Tell me how you really felt."

"I wasn't lying when I said I was stunned," he admitted. "When I got over that, I felt disappointed and sad." 'Sad?'

"Because I knew it was going to affect you," he said. "You didn't know, did you?" I shook my head.

"I swear Peeta I didn't," I swore to him. "This was a big shock to me as well."

"So at least I can guess that you're upset and maybe mad at your dad?"

"Yes, I'm furious," I muttered. "He's my dad…and he should have at least had the decency to tell me. I'm not a kid anymore. I've been taking care of our family for years. I trusted him. Why didn't he trust me?" I'm 19 well beyond the age to understand why and who he was. "You should be pissed…raging mad as hell."

"Why?" he shrugged his shoulders. "What's the point?" Argh…

"Why? What's the point?" I blustered. "Because of my dad, the MockingJay, he…if it wasn't for the video that he broadcasted we wouldn't be in this situation. All those people in district…that died." I breathed through my mouth trying to catch my breath. Graham and Peeta's sister in law, they were dead because my father. "That's why you should be mad." I waited for Peeta to get angry. He lost his family because of my dad's cause. A cause I never knew that was close to home. A cause that affected him the most. He should hate my dad and me. I closed my eyes and waited for Peeta to shatter my world and my heart.

"If you're looking for a reason to break up with me, it's not going to work," he smirked.

"What?" I was confused and scared. "I'm not trying to break up with you. If anyone should be upset it would be you and you breaking up with me." He smiled and shook his head.

"At least you're not running away," he teased.

"Peeta," I said as I smacked him on the arm. "This is not funny."

"It kinda is," he returned. Little did he realize I was tempted to run but I swore to be better for Peeta. He didn't deserve to suffer because I felt insecure or angry, anger that was mostly directly to my dad. "Katniss, I know you're upset that he kept this from you. It only stands to reason that you would be angry with him. I understand that."

"No, yes I am furious with him," I said. "I want to know why you're not? You who was affected most by his actions."

"Getting angry with your dad won't bring Sonja or Graham back," he stated. "Right now, what I want to focus on is the time we have left." I gasped. He was right. For a few minutes, I had forgotten our purpose for being in the Capitol. We're in the middle of enemy territory.

"If anything, you would probably be better off if I did break up with you." I gasped. "And not because of your dad but with your association with me. Snow got me where wanted me and you were safe." He shifted his feet. "Prim wouldn't have been reaped either so…"

"No," I blurted as I grabbed him around his waist. "Whatever you're thinking stop." I knew where this conversation was leading. I could feel tension rolling off from Peeta. "Don't you fucking dare. I need you."

"Katniss," Peeta sighed. "I wasn't going to break up with you, I wouldn't despite the fact that your dad is the MockingJay. I was just making a point." He pulled back and rubbed his hands on my upper arms. "Things…things just happened." 'To you.' I wanted to add. "And I swear and promise you that I don't regret a single moment if it led you to me."

I sobbed. "We're in this together now. We need to focus on us, not to place blame for circumstances beyond our control." That's when I broke into tears. He did this to me––Peeta made me weak and vulnerable opening my heart to love. Love I swore to ignore and avoid. "It's okay to be mad at him for hiding his secret. You're allowed. You love your dad…and you're proud of him as well. You know deep down inside your are." He smiled. I returned in kind smiling back. He was right, of course. I was proud of my dad but I needed to stay angry for a little while for he did keep this secret from me.

We stood at the rooftop encase in our own little world right in the middle of the city, the Capitol. "So if you are mad and frustrated with your dad, take your energy out during our training."

"Oh, I forgot about that," I admitted.

"Haymitch says we're a day behind everyone else because I lost…my original partner," he said. I sighed and wondered what my little sister was doing as I looked at the sky above us. I hoped she wasn't scared and was being well cared for.

That night I snuck back into Peeta's room. "Peeta!" I shook his shoulder as he lay sleeping. I couldn't help myself as I found myself back in his room again.

The curtains in his room were wide open letting the moon seep through. I could see the outline of Peeta's body underneath the blanket. I smiled and held a hand to mouth as I listened to him snore. It didn't sound like a freight train like my Dad's. It made me wonder how mom could stand sleeping next him with all the noise he made.

"Katniss, what are you––" I quickly dove under his blanket and invited myself into his bed.

"I'll leave early I promise," I swore as I laid my head on his chest and sighed. I couldn't sleep as I literally tossed and turned in my own bed. Once I knew everyone was asleep I bolted. I wasn't about to let anyone tell me what to do. Peeta chuckled his laugh reverberated causing his chest to rumble on my cheek. "Effie is not going to stop me from sharing a bed with you." 'Because who knew how much time we had left?' I didn't want to voice that out loud though I knew it was both in our minds.

"You're such a rebel," Peeta whispered. I giggled and shivered as his breath grazed my ear. Soon my eyes felt heavy and my whole body relaxed. The next thing I knew it was morning. Peeta's light snore woke me. We had somewhat shifted positions in our sleep as I lay on my side with his chest on my back and his arm around my waist. This was the second time I had awoken with his arms around me. The second time in days that I had a real good night sleep. Who knew being evaluated and learning that my father was the MockingJay would tax my emotionally as well as physically.

Reluctantly I tried to get out of bed without waking Peeta. However, his arm tightened around me causing him to press his body to mine. I gasped as I felt him. His…caught between my thighs poking me. For a few seconds I lay still then a minute later he moaned in his sleep. 'Holy mother fuc…' He felt big and hard. Not that I had a lot to compare to as I imagined the length and width in my mind.

Since meeting and falling for Peeta, I had never imagined or wondered about sex. The girls in my school whispered and gossiped about their experiences all the time. None of it interested me. I knew the mechanics of sex. Boy parts entered girl parts and that was it. I didn't understand the appeal until now. The feelings of lust and desire was new to me. And any thoughts of sex led to Peeta. As deftly as I could without arousing…I mean without disturbing him from his sleep, I slipped out of bed and returned to my room. But before leaving I kissed him on the forehead.

His skin was warm and soft. I was tempted to lie back in bed but remembered Effie's reaction when she caught us together. After a quick shower, I found on my bed a pair of track pants with matching shirt and coordinated athletic shoes. They were red and black with numbers embroidered into the shirts to identify which district we belonged to. They were ugly but comfortable. The pain between my legs from the waxing was minimal as I wore the tight fitting pants.

"Remember, don't reveal your talent," Haymitch instructed as we ate breakfast. "What is your talent, Katniss?" He wondered as we ate breakfast.

"Katniss is an expert with a bow and arrow," my boyfriend announced with a proud look on his face. "She can shoot a squirrel in the eye."

"And Peeta is a champion wrestler," I returned.

"Well, I know how to wrestle," he stated, "…but I'm not that great––"

"Yes, you are," I argued. "You beat last year's champion." Why was he doubting himself?

"I got lucky––"

"Peeta? You beat him fair and square,' I returned. "Don't put yourself down like that."

"It doesn't matter, you don't reveal your talent in under any circumstance," Haymitch argued. "No matter what happens, okay? Build up your strength, use weights and train with whatever weapons you are unfamiliar with." He was adamant and serious about his advice that we didn't argue back.

My nerves were raw as I sat next to Peeta in the hovercar. The trip to the training center was short as it was located near the center of the Capitol. The city was bustling with people and cars in the streets. The sight was intimidating. "Don't worry," Haymitch explained. "You can see outside the car but no one can see in." He must have noticed as I ducked my head from the window hoping no one could see us." Thank God. Everyone around me looked odd and ridiculous as people wore colorful wigs and clothes that were ostentatious. They reeked of wealth and privilege. These were the people who would be watching us kill each other for their entertainment. It was disgusting.

I sought comfort from Peeta as he held my hand during the ride. "One more piece of advice. Don't flaunt your relationship. I know how close you have become but that kind of behavior will only piss off other tributes," Haymitch advised us one more time. "Don't call attention to yourself and don't…don't instigate anything." He turned to Peeta. "You…are a target. A big one for all the tributes especially District 1 and 2. You upstaged them when Snow invited you to visit a few weeks ago. It wasn't a concern a couple of weeks ago but now that you are a tribute? Just watch your back.'

"They wouldn't dare do anything to Peeta before the games," I spouted in shock and fear. "Would they?"

"Well, it's been known that an 'accident' can happen,' Haymitch said. "It's not the first time but watch your back anyway." 'I wasn't letting Peeta out of my sight,' I swore in my head.

Now I was scared but I didn't want to alarm or worry Peeta so I kept my fears to myself. I had to remind myself that I was still an independent person even though I counted on Peeta for strength, support and comfort. I wasn't the clingy type but it didn't mean I didn't worry about him. Haymitch was right about one thing Peeta was a target. Snow made sure of it.

"And since Katniss is with me," Peeta reminded us. "She is a target as well. She also has to watch her back too." His hand tightened around mine.

"Keep your head down and stay low," Haymitch added. "You two may be favored amongst the Capitolites but it only means you're the first to be hunted down by every single tribute to take you both out of the running. So train hard and concentrate."

Both Peeta and I nodded our heads. We finally arrived at the training center. There were hundreds of people waiting outside the building. "Peeta, Katniss," a few people shouted at us. Haymitch escorted us to the entrance. "I'll be here exactly at 3pm to pick you up. Don't wander off anywhere. You're safe as long as you stay inside the center. Don't and really I meant it, don't leave the premises, ever." His warning was stern but clear. I just wondered why he needed to reiterate the fact. Why would we wander off?

Haymitch bade us goodbye. I proudly walked beside Peeta but I was also nervous that I nearly grabbed his hand for support then I remembered Haymitch's warning. 'Don't flaunt your relationship.' Peeta's face was calm but determined. We were greeted by two peacekeepers who then led us to the training facility. The doors in front of us were massive and tall nothing I have ever encountered before. The whole facility was grand and spacious but eerily cold and sterile. To Peeta, our surroundings didn't faze him. Once the doors opened, we both walked into the room together side by side. The room was huge with training equipment, numerous weapons on racks and stands. A running track circled the entire area. I eyed a bow and arrow off one of the racks. It was made of some sort of metal unlike the wooden one I used back at 12.

There were children from 12-17 years old exercising or doing some activity. The whole room stopped and turned to us. All eyes were on Peeta then to me. I stared at them back letting them know that they couldn't intimidate Peeta or me even though internally I was shaking.

"Come on, Katniss," Peeta said as he headed toward a weight bench. For an hour or two, we both used weights to strengthen our upper body. Peeta was remarkable as he pressed two hundred pounds easily. I admired the muscles on his arms as he lifted weights as a trainer spotted him. He wasn't tall like most of the male tributes but Peeta was strong and agile. His lean mass hid his strength well. He could easily carry me if he needed to. During the whole training Peeta was focused as if nothing bothered him. Me, I checked our surroundings, the people I knew I had to kill in order to survive. There was a little girl from 11 she was tiny, fragile and small. 'How could anyone think of killing her?' I asked myself. She reminded me of Prim at her age.

At noon, we were herded to a cafeteria where we selected our lunch. The food was an array of protein, vegetables, bread, dairy and fruit enough food to feed a district. Peeta and I chose to sit away from everyone isolating ourselves from everyone.

"So what do you think, Katniss?" Peeta asked his voice low so no one could hear us.

"Well, we definitely got the attention from 1 and 2," I confirmed. I was concerned with the two couples. We didn't know their names but they were eyeing us the whole time we were training especially the tall male blond. After lunch Peeta and I decided to peruse the weapons. I steered cleared from the bow and arrow as instructed.

Peeta picked up a sword while I toyed with a dagger. "I think we need to train with a spear or sword," he suggested. "We'll be fine as you pick them off with a bow but you need options." He swung the sword in his hand. I hated seeing my boy with the bread with any weapon in his hand. "Think you can manage with a spear?" I shrugged my shoulders.

"I'll be fine once I get my bow and arrow in the arena," I said.

"Katniss, you can't count on your bow alone," he reminded me. "What if you can't get to it?" He was right. So I picked up a spear and weighed it in my hands to try to get comfortable with it. Meanwhile, Peeta chose a sword type weapon with a short handle. "Okay, see if you can hit that target over there?" He pointed to a dummy 20 yards away. I took a deep breath then raised the spear near my head. From the corner of my eye, I noticed that we had an audience. Of course, tributes 1 and 2 stood in crowd snickering. I pulled my and back and threw the spear as hard as I could. It missed the target completely.

"See told you, pathetic," the tall blond smirked as he spoke to his female partner. "I get blondie and you get the girlfriend. They'll be dead before the end of the week. Blondie is mine." I was angry, upset and bothered by their assumption. Peeta and I survived and killed two peacekeepers all those weeks ago. We were formidable together.

"Katniss, don't pay attention to them," Peeta tried to distract me. "They know nothing of us. They don't know what you can do. You'll be fine." 'I'll be fine?' I didn't like the sound of that. "Listen, we have a couple weeks ahead of us. You need to build your upper body to throw the spear." So for an hour Peeta and I took turns with some weights. Each time he flexed his forearms and biceps I was mesmerized as sweat beaded down his forehead. "We'll build up your upper body strength everyday. It'll be useful for when you use your bow as well." An hour before Haymitch was to pick us up we ran around the track for stamina and endurance. Peeta kept pace with me never leaving my side.

Exactly at 3pm Haymitch arrived. He was quiet as he escorted us to the car. I noticed that he was the only mentor with bodyguards flanking us. This went on for the whole two weeks of training. My muscles from my arms and shoulders ached that I lay my head on Peeta's shoulder. "How was your first day?" Haymitch finally asked.

"We stayed out of trouble like you asked," Peeta answered back. I was too exhausted to speak. Between the weight training and running on the track, my whole body ached from head to toe.

"What did you learn today?"

"That the tributes from 1 and 2 are gunning for us," he returned. "Those tributes are the ones we have to watch out for in the arena."

"That's to be expected," Haymitch stated. "Just stay clear from them until the arena." Peeta nodded his head then tightened his arm around my waist. "I know you're both exhausted so we'll talk strategy tomorrow."

I took a long hot shower a luxury I appreciated to ease my aching bones and muscles. Before dinner, Haymitch introduced us to our fellow tributes as he showed us a video of the female and male tributes from each district. The only ones I was concerned with were tributes from districts 1 and 2, Cato and Clove. "Don't be naïve, Katniss," he stated. "It's not only Districts 1 and 2 hunting you, every capable tribute will come after you as well. The more entertainment, the better the sponsors."

I thought about the little girl from District 11. I doubted she was going to come after Peeta and me. What was she going to do throw acorns at us? She could barely hold a spear or be sufficiently trained with any weapons with the limited time we had. Odds were that she would be amongst the first to be slaughtered. My heart sank. I didn't know her but the thought of her death saddened and angered me. I shook the image from my head and concentrated.

"I thought Peeta was well loved in the Capitol?" I asked after I gathered my thoughts.

"Yes, he is," Haymitch answered back. "That doesn't mean that other tributes won't get sponsors as well. They need to be equipped if they are going to go after you. What's the point of reaping 24 boys and girls if they get sick or they starve in the arena? The game has to last for weeks to be entertaining."

Last year's Hunger Games lasted two months. The last tribute from District 8 hid for weeks as the tribute from 2 hunted him down. The gamekeeper upped the ante by removing the last two survivors and placed them in a desert. Weak from dehydration, the tribute from 2 finally tracked the tribute from 8 and finally killed him.

After our first day of training, every night for two weeks I dreamt that Peeta was killed in the arena. One the third night, Effie finally caught us that morning as I was draped over Peeta after the night of him comforting me from my nightmare. No matter how much she scolded us for 'sleeping' together I didn't budge. I was going to sleep with my boyfriend and there was nothing she could do or say to stop me. She was not going to deny me the only thing I wanted before entering the arena and whatever time I had left with him. Propriety de damned. Besides, who knew sleeping with him was something I had looked forward to.

I remembered one night after a week of sleeping together. I woke up with Peeta straddling me his head nestled underneath my chin. I felt him again as his length pressed on my upper thigh. The feel of him made me shiver that I accidentally woke him as I moaned in response.

"I'm so sorry, Katniss," Peeta said his eyes wide from shock. "I…didn't mean to––" He moved away from me leaving me feeling bereft and longing for him. "I…it has a mind of it's own. I can't help it––"

"It's okay, Peeta," I said. "I know you can't help it." I wasn't at all uncomfortable or embarrassed. As a matter of fact, I miss kissing Peeta. It has been a couple of weeks since we made out. Every day after our training, we were both so exhausted that we shared a few kisses between us. Either I was passed out in bed when Peeta finally turned in or he was fast asleep after I changed into my sleep clothes. "It's okay."

"Not it's not," he argued back. "I wasn't…I didn't mean to––" I sensed and heard the panic in his voice as if he did something wrong. That he took advantage of me.

"Peeta, you're my boyfriend," I reminded him. "I would be insulted if you didn't react to me that way." I teased him. "It's only normal, natural that our relationship would––" I gasped as Peeta hovered over me pressing his chest onto mine.

"Shh,..Katniss," he whispered then leaned down and kissed me. I moaned in response. Didn't I say I missed his kisses? The way he started soft and sweet then demanding as his tongue invaded my mouth taking my breath away. I groaned as he pressed his leg between mine pressing his cock onto my thigh. Oh my God, he felt big. For a few minutes we were lost in our own little world. I tightened my arms around his neck wanting more but not finding the words to express my desire for him. I felt his hand push my nightshirt to one side and groaned in appreciation. 'Yes,' my mind shouted. He massaged my breast as he continued to kiss me stealing my breath.

"Oh God, Katniss," Peeta gasped as he pulled away. "We can't. We have to stop." He whispered in my ear. He groaned as if he was in pain.

'What? Why? Didn't he want me? Wasn't I good enough?' Suddenly all my insecurities and fears surfaced. I remembered all those girls; classmates who were curvier and prettier than me. However, Peeta knew me as he watched my face. I turned my head because I didn't want him to see that I was close to tears. I felt rejected and humiliated. "Katniss," he said my name with such tenderness I almost wept. His blue eyes looked into mine. He raised his hand and traced my ear. "It's not because I don't want to. God I do." I sighed in relief.

"But why did you stop?" I asked.

"It's not safe," he said as he leaned down so close his lips brushed my ear. "The room is bugged." Oh God, I knew that there were listening devices in the whole suite, but in our own bedrooms. How…how sickening and disturbing that anyone would take great pleasure in watching us… Not that we were going to have sex. I wasn't ready. I remembered the night when his mouth sucked my nipple sending a tingle straight to my center. It was a feeling I wanted to experience again.

After that night, I felt frustrated and anxious. Sleeping with Peeta was something I never expected, but now something I looked forward to at the end of each day. Being in his arms, I felt safe. But as the days passed, our waking hours were spent on training and watching video of past victors. Not a single moment spared alone with Peeta. Haymitch or Effie either accompanied us wherever we went. I swore it was done on purpose per Effie's deviant plan to make sure we weren't behaving inappropriately.

On the ninth day of training, I was aggravated and frustrated. Poor Peeta felt the brunt of my foul mood. I was getting better with the spear but my aim was still off as it missed the dummy a foot away. Peeta was better at it after one week of practicing as he hit the dummy's waist. I scowled and complained bitterly to Peeta. "Oh someone's on the rag," Cato snickered. Clove joined laughing alongside him.

"Don't pay attention to them, Katniss," Peeta said. "They are just baiting you." Intellectually I knew it but my pride took over. I took a step forward and picked up another spear.

"Hey, Cato," I called him out. "You know what they say, all muscle shit for brains."

"Fuck you, Everdeen," he snickered back. "If you tire of blondie over there let me know. I can show you a really good time not like dickless over there. " He cupped his crotch and pointed at Peeta. 'How dare he––' My fury grew at his insinuation that Peeta was not man enough to satisfy me.

"Hey Cato," I shouted. "Sorry I don't my share. I'm surprised. I heard you prefers dicks over pussies." Everyone in the room gasped. After a few days in the training center, I heard rumors that Cato preferred men then women. It was rumor with no concrete proof, but I must have hit a nerve as he started towards me.

"Cato, stop," Clove warned him. He didn't listen as he ran towards me. "Cato."

Before he reached me, Peeta tackled him to the ground. Though he was at least six inches taller than Peeta, my boyfriend managed to push him face down on the ground with one arm behind him. "Let go of me, you mother fucker," Cato screamed. The fracas caught the attention of four peacekeepers. Peeta immediately released him and stood up. Cato followed suit as he rubbed his shoulders.

"What's going on here?" a peacekeeper questioned.

"Nothing, nothing is going on," Cato quickly answered him. "We're just messing around. Weren't we, Mellark?" Peeta nodded.

"Um, yes. Like he said, we're just messing around," he repeated.

"Disperse," he ordered us. "You know the rules, you cannot be in contact with each other. You'll have time in the arena. Until then, stay away from each other."

"Yes, sir," Cato complied.

"Come on, Cato," Clove said as she pulled him by the arm. "What were you thinking?" She said as she jabbed him with her elbow.

Peeta turned to me. I felt ashamed and stupid as I realized what I caused. Teasing Cato or baiting him wasn't a smart move. "Peeta?" I said his name after a few seconds. Whatever frustration I felt quickly faded when I saw the look on his face. He looked disappointed. "I'm sorry. It's just…when he started to talk about you, I lost it."

"Katniss, what's wrong?" he asked in concern. "You've been…distracted for some time now." I was surprised with his question. I thought he was angry and disappointed at me. He was concerned for my welfare not his own. He pulled me aside away from the training area. "Katniss?"

"I…I'm…just tired all the time," I admitted. "I know we have to train. It's important but…" I stopped. How do or should I admit that I miss him––Peeta, my boyfriend not Peeta my training partner and fellow tribute. I felt stupid and weak all of a sudden to admit that I needed him. This was not me. I'm stronger than this but I can admit that I am a girl in love so… "I miss you. Haymitch and Effie are around all the time. I feel like their smothering me. I mean, I understand we have to train, but…"

"I miss you too," Peeta confessed. He wrapped his arms around my waist. I leaned against him not caring who saw us. At the corner of my eye, I noticed the little girl from District 11 watching us from behind a pillar.

"I'm being stupid," I returned frustrated and anxious. "Forget what I just said." I turned to leave but Peeta tightened his arm around me.

"Hey, stop it," he said. "You're not being stupid. I miss you too but like you said this is important. In a few days we'll be entering the arena."

"I know."

"Okay, how about this," he started. "Why don't we take a break? We have an hour left before Haymitch picks us up."

"Can we?" I asked.

"Listen, if you think about it," he said. "This is the only time we're not chaperoned or accompanied by Haymitch and Effie. We can stop for an hour." I loved his idea. It wasn't ideal, but he was right this was the only time afforded us without our 'guardians or bodyguards.'

"What do you––?"

"Come on, I know where to go," he said as he grabbed my hand. He led us towards the smaller training rooms. It was close to the end of the training period. Most of the smaller training rooms were empty. Peeta looked into a couple of room to find them occupied. We finally found one. Peeta took one of the padded cushions on the floor and dragged it towards a wall. Once he laid it out, he sat down and leaned back against the wall. I immediately sat next to him as he wrapped an arm around my waist. I leaned my head on his shoulder.

"Do you think we'll get in trouble for hiding out here once they noticed we're missing," I asked. I didn't want to cause trouble but at this moment I didn't care.

"Probably, but…" he began. "What are they going to do? Kick us both out of the games?" I chuckled as I nestled closer into his embrace. He smelled of sweat and his own essence. I missed the smell of flour and vanilla on his skin. I sighed in contentment. This was what I missed––just the two of us alone not talking but sharing time together in silence. "You know if you want to take a nap, go ahead. I won't let anything happen to you." I nodded. I knew he would protect me even if it meant costing his own life. I wonder if he knew I'd do the same as well.

"No." I shook my head. "I don't want to waste this time by taking a nap." For an hour we sat together and didn't talk. We were both grateful for the time alone. I wished that we had more time together jus the two of us with no Effie or Haymitch to bother us. Then a thought formulated in my mind. I knew that our purpose in the Capitol was to train for the game, but I wondered after our training, if Haymitch could allow Peeta and I to have one last date. I don't mean going out to the city and eat at a restaurant but to dress up and have dinner alone just the two of us in the penthouse. Should I plan it as a surprise for Peeta if it was allowed? I shook my head. I wasn't good in making surprises so I asked him what he thought of my idea.

"I like it," he said. "I don't see why Effie or Haymitch would object. We're not leaving the Penthouse. And even if they did leave us alone, we still have to be careful what we say since the placed is bugged." I shuddered. I almost forgot about the 'bugs' hidden in the penthouse. It didn't matter as long as I get my date with Peeta.

For the next few minutes, we talked about our date. We were not certain it would happen but planning it eased my fatigue in body and spirit. Now if only I could get Haymitch and Effie to agree to it.

AN: I want to say thanks for those who have stuck with me. I appreciate your patience and understanding for not posting at my usual schedule. It's been a rough few months for me. Thanks again. I hope you enjoyed this last chapter since this and the next will be the only time Peeta and Katniss will have for private time before…the calm before the storm so to speak.

Thanks again for you patience. Have great day. I will update as soon as I can.