BOMBSHELL - Finnick Odair

11

Ember

The crowd leaning over the railing screamed as my stylist and I walked under.

I gave them a big smile and wave, causing the screams to erupt into an even louder echo. "Play up your part with the people," She encouraged.

I nodded, knowing sponsors would be important. Not that I would really struggle in that area. Thanks to my skimpy outfit I had been dressed in.

She directed me through a pair of double doors and into the holding area. I immediately tried to search for a familiar face in the mass of horses and people.

My eyes caught sight of one standing with Katniss towards the end of the chariot line. I smirked, knowing the bet the other victors had on who could make the girl the most uncomfortable.

My money's on Johanna.

But that didn't mean I wouldn't try. My heels clicked against the marble floor as I made my way over to the pair.

"Katniss," I interrupted the two, snaking my arms around Finnick. She seemed already displeased with his presence and his lack of attire.

Finnick, playing along, wrapped his arms around my waist and pulled me in for a kiss on the cheek.

"Ember," she said, looking away from us to nothing in particular. Clearly feeling uncomfortable with our PDA. I gave Finnick a sly smile.

"I wanted to congratulate you on your engagement," I smiled.

I really knew it was more of a publicity stunt. And I think she understood that I did too.

"Actually, you know, Fin," I started, mocking the Capitol's nickname for him, "they kind of remind me of us."

Katniss straightened her back, understanding the intention behind the comment. Finnick hummed in agreement.

"Although, it is a shame about your wedding," he said with fake empathy.

He then grabbed ahold of my waist with both hands and suddenly dipped me, my hair dangling inches from the floor. I couldn't help but to let a gasp escape my lips. "Tell me, Katniss," he said, eyes still on mine. My smile faded a little, suddenly feeling very serious due to our close proximity in very little clothing.

He turned his head to face her, "Is Peeta as good of a dancer as I am?"

He pulled the both of us back up, my face showing how startled I felt with it's tinge of red. My necklace flung out from under the neck of my dress and I instinctively grabbed at it. Katniss must've noticed this movement because she eyed the accessory hanging around my neck.

"Where did you get that?" She asked, changing the subject and pointing at my necklace.

I grabbed the flower pendant in between my fingers and glanced down at it, "It was my Mother's."

Finnick felt the mood shift and kept his mouth shut for once. She took a step closer and reached out to touch it. "May I?"

I nodded, letting her run the pad of her thumb across it. I gave Finnick a wary look, Had I done something wrong? He shook his head to ease my worry.