The Dancer - Finnick Odair

XXVII

"The second parade"

It was time for the parade, Melissa was dressed in a top just like the one from the reaping but gold, and a skirt that reached her mid thighs the same color as the top. Her shoes were heels to make her two inches taller, that were white and had gold flakes. Her makeup was simple, with golden eye shading and gold glitter on her skin. Mabel had a jumpsuit on. It was white with gold petals on the shorts. The top had spaghetti straps. Finnick would be mad at the outfit choice because it was so short, but he would have to deal with it.

Melissa walked up to Finnick as he was talking to Mags and Johanna, with Mabel trailing her.

"Hey Jo." Melissa said, as she stood behind Finnick kissing his cheek before he gripped her hips.

"Mel." Johanna responded.

"Mags," Melissa smiled, as the elderly woman waved.

"Mabes." Johanna said, as she picked up, Mabel the six-year-old squealing.

"It's too short." Finnick whispered to Melissa, as he looked at Mabel's outfit.

"I know, baby, but Amethyst wanted her to wear it." Melissa said, scratching his hair.

"Mel, go talk to the boy on fire." Johanna said, as Mabel was still in her arms.

"Ok," Melissa said, as she was let out of Finnick's death grip on her hips.

"So, Peeta is it?" Melissa asked as Mabel was, standing next to her.

"Yes, Ms. Becker." Peeta stuttered.

"This is mine now, and don't bully the poor boy." Melissa heard Gloss say, as he took Mabel with him to his chariot he shared with his sister.

"Was t-that your daughter he took?" Peeta asked.

"Yes." Melissa said, in a monotone voice.

"And you're not going to go after him." Peeta questioned.

"No, I am not."

"Why?"

"Because I grew up with him, and Cashmere."