Chapter Eight: The Kiss
Flora was sitting on the couch reading a book she had found. She was keeping to herself as Effie was changing into her dinner outfit. It seemed like this woman had an outfit for just about anything. Deciding the best of it, she walked into the living room. The television was on. What looked like what seemed to be dancers on the screen. Flora was mesmerized by the dancers on the tv. They looked amazing and in sync with each other. It almost reminded her of the dream she had. She sat on the couch at the end. Leaning on the arm part. The couch was comfortable. She wanted to lay down on it but it felt rude. Hearing a happy voice of Effie as she entered the living room.
"Ah. I see you're watching the Capitol's dance team. They are really good." Effie spoke while sitting down. Flora could feel how close Effie was next to her. It seemed Effie picked a light red outfit today. There were no fluffy but frilly parts on her shirt. Flora nodded her head in agreement. They were good. She heard movements and looked over the couch. There were two Avoxs. Flora looked at Effie and frowned. "They were given to me when I became an escort." Effie spoke. Flora scoffed and shook her head. She stood up and went back to the bedroom she was staying in. She heard a knock not a moment later.
"Flora." Effie's voice came from the other side.
"Go away." Flora spoke. It wasn't harsh or anything. She was sitting by the window again. The door opened and closed.
"Look. I know you don't like Avoxs but it was either them working for me here or them being shipped off to be hung." Effie spoke. Flora frowned at this.
"So, their lives are spared because you took them in?" Flora asked as Effie nodded. "I guess that's a good thing." Flora added softly. She looked at her hands in her lap as Effie took one.
"Come. Dinner is ready." Flora followed Effie back out to the dining area. It was a mahogany table. 'Of course it is.' Flora thought. It seemed to be Effie's favorite kind of wood. It looked like a small roasted chicken with carrots, potatoes, and other different types of vegetables.
"That's a lot of food." Flora frowned at the sight.
"My dear, they join us as well." Effie spoke as the two Avoxs joined. This made Flora feel better. Maybe Effie wasn't like the other Capitol citizens. This woman actually treated these two like human beings.
"I would like to help clean up." Flora spoke once they were done.
"Nonsense dear. You need to get some rest. Big day tomorrow!" Effie piped up. Flora nodded her head lightly. She wasn't sure if she would be able to get some sleep.
Once she was done with dinner, she excused herself back to the bedroom. She found herself on the couch reading again by the lamp on the nightstand by the bed. The book was definitely a good read. She would have to ask Effie if she could borrow it if wasn't staying long. Her head kept slowly leaning down as if she was about to pass out. She shook her head a few times before walking around the room. She didn't want to go to sleep. Especially since the nightmares were new and harsh. She hated them. Not being able to get any goodnight sleep. Katniss' and Peeta's had started the night after the games. Hers however decided to creep upon her a week later. It always seemed to be the same nightmare but with different details in it. They always ended up with her being in the game again. Killing innocent children again. She frowned as her drowsiness was winning. Deciding to give up and crawl under the blankets. Maybe she won't have a nightmare tonight? No. It didn't matter where she was. They would always creep on her unexpectedly. She curled up while hugging the other pillow there next to her. The blanket up to her shoulders. She tossed and turned before her body decided to win and fell asleep.
Night had fallen. The stars dancing in the night sky. The moon is full and shining across the land. Flora was laying down in a field of flowers. The breeze was soft against her skin. She stood up and stretched her arms. She started by tossing her leg up and did a leap. Turning on the tip of her toes. Smiling at the feeling she was getting.
"Such beauty." A voice spoke. Flora turned on her heels and saw the woman in pink again. This time it was a lighter pink. It brought out the blue eyes more with the shade. Flora smiled and danced over to the woman. She felt her hands intertwined with the woman's as she was pulled in close. She was watching the woman closely before the gap between them was as close. She could feel her heart beating fast. Those soft lips.
"Effie…" Flora whispered softly against the lips before she was pulled away. Flora frowned as the woman disappeared again. She turned around and saw her. Little Rue. Laying on a bed of flowers. Hearing the song she sang playing in the wind.
"You guys have to win." Rue's voice echoed through the silence. Then an ear splitting scream happened. She looked around trying to find the source of the scream. She ran and ran until her lungs started burning. Hovercrafts started flying past her. Dropping bombs nearby. Flora ran towards the area that had fire and smoke. Hearing the screaming of people as she stopped by the edge. There was fire everywhere. Buildings burned down or fell over.
"Flora!" A voice she had come to know shouted her name. There she saw her. Effie was standing near her. Flora's eyes fell to the hands. There was blood pouring from Effie's stomach. The woman fell to her knees as Flora ran to catch her.
"No!" Flora shouted. Holding the woman in her arms. The blue eyes become glassy as another hovercraft flies by. Dropping a bomb over her.
"Effie! No!" Flora screamed. Thrashing about again before realizing where she was. She was safe in bed in the Capitol. It didn't stop her from breathing hard and fast. Flora placed a hand upon her chest and closed her eyes. Taking a few deep breaths to calm herself. Then there it was. There was a knock as the door opened.
"I heard my name. Are you alright?" Effie asked as she nearly ran over to Flora's side.
"I'm fine. Just a nightmare." Flora spoke. She felt her body shaking. Effie didn't have any of her makeup on and no wig. She had long dirty blonde hair that was sitting past her shoulders. She was so beautiful. In a silky looking nightwear. 'Oh. She is oh. No! Stop! Stop thinking about that' Flora mentally told herself. She had sweat across her forehead and still felt her heart beating hard against her chest.
"Are you sure?" Effie asked while touching Flora's shoulder. Flora jumped at the touch. It didn't seem to offend Effie.
I'm sure." Flora mumbled weakly. She was still sitting there as Effie was watching her.
"I can stay if you want me to." Effie spoke lightly. Flora felt her heart race at this. Her dream. Effie was in it and she kissed the woman. It wasn't the first time this happened in her dream either. Flora nodded her head lightly. She would have to keep her distance though. She scooted over in the bed and laid down. Effie crawled under the covers next to her. Gently placing a hand upon her shoulder again. Flora didn't move or anything. She just allowed Effie to do so.
"I'm sorry for waking you up." Flora whispered.
"Nonsense sweetie. I worry about you." Effie spoke lightly. Flora felt her face flushed as she turned on her side away from Effie. Not wanting the woman to see her face. She wanted to tell Effie she cared about her too. For some reason, the sound never left her throat. Instead, she had fallen asleep.
Morning had come. Flora was the first to wake up. She blinked a few times and saw that she was facing Effie. Her arms were around Effie's waist. Her head was against her chest. She was blushing at this before she slowly moved away. Not wanting to wake up the older woman. She had succeeded. She went over and sat on the couch. Not wanting to wake Effie up. Wondering if Effie knew how they slept. They will be going out today. After all, she needed a change of clothes. Effie had offered but they were different sizes. Hearing a knock, one of the Avoxs was awake as she walked over and gently shook Effie awake before leaving. Flora watched as the older woman sit up and stretched. Letting out a perky yawn if that was a thing.
"How long were you awake?" Effie asked.
"I couldn't sleep much." Was all she could say.
"I see. Well, get something to eat and we'll be off!" Effie smiled as she left the bedroom. Flora can only assume that the woman would be going to put on her makeup and wondered what outfit she would be wearing today. She fixed her hair and quickly ate some eggs. Sadly there was no apple juice. There was water however. She didn't complain. It was a luxury she didn't need. Effie had come in. She was wearing purple with some light blue. Flora loved the outfit. 'She's so perfect. Wait. Stop!' Flora blushed and looked to the side when she was caught staring. Seeing Effie smile from the corner of her mouth. The older woman had eaten a little bit before beaming.
"Ready?" She asked as Flora nodded. "Alright! Time to have some fun!" Effie piped up. Flora had followed the woman out of her apartment.
It seemed that the shops were only a block away. There were several Capitol citizens out and about already. She was hoping none of them recognized her. Had she never been so wrong in her life.
"Flora! It's Flora!" Several voices were shouting.
"Effie!" Flora shouted while people were swarming her. She had never had so many people around her. She was getting tunnel vision until she felt someone grab her hand and pull her away. She had never been more grateful for Effie. They had entered a shop.
"I should have thought about that. I am so sorry sweetie." Effie spoke. There was that nickname again. Flora waved her hand to let the woman know she was fine. Her hand was squeezed before it was let go.
"Oh! Look at this!" Effie was holding out different dresses and what not. Holding them up to Flora.
"Effie. I do like dresses, but I don't want to only own dresses." Flora spoke softly.
"Of course. You are right!" Effie clapped her hands once together before disappearing to another area. Flora took the dress Effie was fawning over. It was a yellow dress that had a black belt part in the center.
"How about this?" Effie asked while holding out what seemed like a suit. It had more of a feminine style to it. It was very dark blue as if it was black. Flora nodded her head with a smile. She spent the next half hour trying on the clothes. Showing the woman the outfits. It seemed she loved all of them. Then it was the yellow dress. She put it on and zipped up the back with a lot of frustration. She then stepped out. Hearing a gasp.
"You look so perfect in that!" Effie looked as if she would cry.
"I would like to wear it out." She spoke with a smile.
"Please do. I cannot help but stare." Effie was still smiling as Flora gathered the clothes she had chosen. It felt like a new wardrobe. She picked out a black suitcase with wheels to pack the clothes in. She had also gotten some necessities and a few pairs of shoes.
She had paid for the clothes and followed Effie out of the shop. The yellow dress felt nice. It was loose and she was able to move freely in it.
"Come. Back to the apartment. Your meeting with the President is soon." Effie spoke. She raised a brow. They still had time. Thinking that Effie wanted to do her makeup again. It was not long before they made it back. She set the suitcase by the bed. Flora heard Effie follow her into the bedroom not long after. She had her box of makeup again. Feeling the gentle hands touch her cheek. Her eyes met the blue ones and smiled at Effie. It was a genuine smile. Effie caressed her cheek with her thumb before digging through her box. Flora was wondering what that meant that she did. Pushing the thought to the side while closing her eyes as the Capitol woman began working on her face. There was a ring. Flora raised her brow as Effie went to answer it.
"Ah yes. I have started already. She's wearing a dress I picked out. I love it. Yes. Come right over!" Effie spoke. Flora was wondering who she was talking to.
"Sorry sweetie. It was Cinna. He is on his way here." Effie spoke.
"May I ask. Why am I the only one you call that?" Flora asked.
"Sorry. I did not realize. Want me to stop?" Effie asked. Flora shook her head.
"No. I like it. Makes me smile." Flora confessed and blushed. She was glad there was makeup on hiding it.
"Good. You have a beautiful smile." Effie spoke. It seemed this woman was always praising her on something. It makes her feel different. It felt odd. She was so used to people putting her down. Then there was Effie. Someone completely different was always putting her up. Effie was definitely different from the other Capitol people. She was kind to her since day one. Opened up her home to her during her stay in the Capitol. Calling her when she was in the district. Then again she did the same for Katniss and Peeta.
"Effie…" Flora spoke softly. The woman looked into her eyes and cupped her cheeks.
"Yes?" She was smiling.
"Thank you. For everything. I really appreciate you." Flora spoke softly. She could have sworn Effie was about to cry. Instead, she received a kiss upon her forehead before going back to doing the makeup. Flora was full on blushing now from this. Not knowing Effie saw it. She was saved by a bell that was rung.
Effie had left the room to answer it. Flora was fanning herself. Her heart was racing. She was trying to calm herself down. 'Why are you acting this way?!' She asked herself. What was this effect that the woman had over her. Pushing the feeling aside as Cinna came into the room.
"Cinna!" Flora smiled and stood up. He made a turn motion with his finger with a smile. Flora nodded and turned around.
"Yes, I have to admit. Not what I wanted but it looks wonderful on her." Cinna spoke.
"Doesn't it?" Effie smiled. Her hands folded together under her chin.
"Effie picked it out." Flora explained while sitting back down. Cinna walked up to her and touched her chin. Taking a look at the makeup.
"May I?" Cinna asked as Effie nodded. He took a red and orange eyeliner and drew something small on the side of her head by her temple. It was a small mockingjay holding a flower. "There. Perfect." Cinna added. "I shall wait out in the car. Be quick." Cinna gave Flora a hug before leaving.
"Come. Help me pick out an outfit. I want to match!" Effie gently pulled Flora into the other room. It was larger and pink. Very pink.
"Oh wow." Was all she could say as Effie smiled. Walking into the closet. Flora sat on the edge of the bed. She sank in. She wanted to lay in it but it seemed to overwhelm her with the strawberry scent. It didn't make her hungry, it calmed her for some reason. Effie was moving outfits around. Flora had finally looked into the closet. It was a walk in closet and it was huge. There were so many outfits that would probably last her a lifetime! The older woman held out a yellow dress with some orange on it. There were flowers embroidered on the bottom of the dress. Flora nodded her head quickly. It was like she had no shame or was comfortable in front of her. Effie was changing. Flora quickly looked away to give her privacy.
"Alright let's head out!" Effie spoke. She took Flora's hand and led her out. They arrived at the car as she entered it. Sitting next to Cinna as Effie was across her.
"Alright driver. Let's head out." Cinna spoke. "Haymitch is already there waiting." Cinna spoke as they nodded. Flora kept catching Effie's eyes on her before looking out the window. There were so many Capitol people. Were there more people here than in District Twelve? She wanted to know but decided not to. They had entered a gated area. She saw a huge white house building. There were also greenhouses on the side. Several of them. She had wondered what was inside of them. The car had come to stop as she was the last one out. The smell of roses was overwhelming to her. Wondering if she even liked the smell of it. Was Snow hiding something? She felt a hand on her lower back as she was led towards large oak double doors that were opened by servants. Once inside they were greeted by a man in a black suit. He radioed someone.
"The President is ready to see you now." The man spoke. Flora was frozen in place. She gulped.
"Are you going to just stand there or are you going?" The voice of Haymitch snapped her back. She nodded her head lightly and followed the man in the suit. They had entered another room. There he was. Sitting at his desk as he was eating a biscuit or a cookie.
"Please sit." He spoke as she did. She felt scared right now.
"It's come to my attention that you are of age now. Now, I can either have my citizens spend personal time with you or can find you a suitor." Snow started. He pulled out a piece of paper and handed it to her. She looked at it. It was a list of Capitol Citizen names.
"That is the list of suitors interested in you." He spoke.
"Most of these names are men." She spoke. Snow nodded his head. She was still looking at the names. One had caught her attention. Her heart was beating rather fast.
Effie Trinket.
"Yes, I know. If you wish to have a suitor, you have until the end of the month. Before the victory tour. Or if you wish to not marry someone, I can sell you off to my citizens. You are to attend the parties here in the Capitol to show yourself off. Hopefully there will be some buyers." Snow explained. Flora felt anger rising in her.
"Failure to do so will result in consequences." Snow had threatened her. 'What the hell would he do? He already threw her in the games.' Flora thought.
"You are dismissed." Snow spoke.
"Thank you Mr. President." Flora spoke as she gave him a bow before quickly leaving. She went straight outside to the car and got in. Hearing protests from Effie and Cinna.
"What outfit would you like to wear tonight?" Effie asked as Flora handed Cinna the list. He was looking over it.
"So, he gave you how long?" He asked.
"Until right before the victory tour." Flora sighed.
"Is there anyone on here you like?" He asked, raising a brow.
"Yes." Flora spoke.
"Oh! Do tell us sweetie." Effie spoke. 'It's you.' She thought to herself. She wasn't going to say anything.
"I'm not saying. I don't want someone who doesn't return feelings." Flora spoke as she rested her hands upon her lap. "Also, I would like to wear what I am wearing now." She spoke.
"Good. We are already here." Cinna spoke. Flora quickly turned her head in time to see flashing lights. Apparently there were reporters here already. She got out last again as Haymitch quickly left inside. She followed as well. There was music, people dancing, and food. There were too many people here to her liking. A man stepped in front of her and held out his hand.
"Finnick Odair. Dance?" He asked. Flora took his hand as she was led away from the others.
"Odair. You won the games at fourteen. Impressive." Flora spoke. The man nodded and smiled. He seemed nice.
"Thank you. I have my district to thank for. And my biggest supporter." Finnick spoke.
"Who is your biggest supporter?" Flora asked.
"The love of my life." He spoke while taking the lead in a waltz-like dance. Her eyes drifted off to catch the blue ones. They were looking at a glass that had some liquid in it. She was half listening to Finnick as half of her attention was staring at Effie. She quickly turned her head when Effie looked at her.
"Do I bore you?" Finnick asked.
"No sorry. It's just. I had just met with Snow." She spoke with a sigh.
"Ah. He did you as well huh?" He asked as Flora raised a brow.
"You have to find a suitor or get sold off." Finnick spoke. "It sucks being a Victor. You are desirable here. Many want you." He spoke softly as he turned her once before leading again.
"There's only one I want. I doubt the feelings are returned." Flora spoke softly. She had finally understood. Why did she keep dreaming about Effie? She had fallen for the poor Capitol woman.
"Does she know?" Finnick asked as he followed her line of sight.
"What are you talking about?" Flora asked stupidly.
"I see the way you are looking at her now." He chuckled at her. He waved his hand at Effie.
"What are you doing?" Flora demanded as Effie walked over to them.
"She wants to dance with you." Finnick spoke while taking the glass out of Effie's hand and walked away.
"I hate you Odair." Flora spoke. He smiled at her and raised the glass before walking away.
"Everything alright?" Effie asked as she rested a hand upon Flora's hip and pulled her close. Taking Flora's hand into her free one before they were close together and slowly moving side to side. Flora was avoiding eye contact.
"Yeah. Just. There are a lot of people here. I feel crowded." Flora spoke. Heat was rising in her cheeks as Effie laughed lightly. Her heart fluttered at the sound of her laugh. Her heart was racing again. She was so close to the woman it was making her heavy headed.
"Well, it is your party. People want to see you." She explained. Flora sighed and nodded.
"I'm not property." She spoke. She felt Effie led her away from the crowd and back outside. Flora felt like she could breathe again.
"Lets head back then. I'll tell Cinna and Haymitch." Effie spoke as Flora nodded.
It was not long since they left the party. It was pretty overwhelming for her. She had changed into the new nightwear she had gotten. It was dark green silk like pants and a button up shirt. She went into the living room to find Effie drinking a small glass of wine.
"Didn't the party have enough wine?" Flora raised a brow as Effie patted the spot next to her. Flora walked over and sat down next to her. The Avox girl had fumbled with the tv area before leaving.
"There wasn't any there. Also, I would like you to join me for a scary movie." Effie spoke. Flora felt the woman move hair behind her ear and smiled.
"What now?" She was confused.
"Oh. You'll see. Watch the screen." Effie explained. She was handed a blanket. She thanked the Avox guy as he left. She laid the blanket across her lap and over Effie's.
"Effie. What will happen if I tell Snow I want a suitor but not find one in time?" Flora asked. She was afraid of the answer.
"I'm not sure. I haven't met a Victor who disobeyed him. I suppose nothing good will come out of it." Effie spoke. "Why do you ask?"
"Because I'm not property." Flora spoke.
"But you are the Capitol's Flower!" Effie piped up.
"I'm no one's flower!" Flora snapped. She then frowned as Effie flinched. "I'm sorry Effie. I didn't mean that." Flora spoke. She gently touched Effie's hand and felt it squeezed.
"I hoped that at least." Effie started and then sighed. Looking away.
"What is it?" Flora asked.
"It's nothing. We should watch the movie." Effie replied. Flora felt like her heart was stabbed. She frowned and nodded. She was listening to the movie but looking at their hands. It then caught her attention. Effie had jumped and shouted at some scenes. Flora chuckled at them.
"How are you not scared?" Effie asked while glued to the screen.
"Effie. I was in the Hunger Games." Flora replied.
"True. Ugh. This movie is scary." Effie shivered at the scenes. Flora wrapped an arm around Effie's shoulder and pulled her close.
"Don't worry. I'll protect you, my pretty lady." Flora whispered into Effie's ear. She felt herself flushed as Effie turned to face her. Cupping her cheeks with both hands. Flora felt their eyes locked.
"Flora…at least please be my flower.?" Effie asked ever so softly.
"Yes." Flora spoke as her breath was shortened. She felt the gap closed between them as she pressed her lips against Effie's. Pulling the older woman onto her lap to deepen the kiss. There was a soft moan that escaped Effie's lips. It made her flush. Tightening her grip on Effie. Effie had then pulled back. Flora frowned at the loss of touch.
"We should go to bed." Effie spoke. Flora nodded her head.
"Effie, stay with me tonight? I sleep better in your arms apparently." Flora blushed at this.
"Of course sweetie." Effie smiled and took Flora's hand and led her to the bedroom. She felt her heart swelling as Effie wrapped her arms around her. She gave her a gentle kiss before drifting off.