Undercover Sweetheart [everlark]

fourteen

Peeta
My chest hurts. Most people believe that heartache isn't actually physical pain. But in reality, it's of two components: physical and emotional. And as much as the sinking feeling in my stomach bothers me, the pain of rejection is much worse to endure.

The only reason I stay away from Katniss is to let myself heal. Get over her, but I know that can't happen. I've had a crush on her for eleven years. I can't erase what has become a piece of my DNA.

She's also shallower than I thought.

It's inconceivable to me that I was alone in feeling something during that kiss. It was more intimate than I'd ever connected, more powerful than the Capitol, and more unforgettable than a revolution. I can't let go.

And I doubt she felt nothing. But in the end, I want whatever makes her happy.

The down side to taking time to heal is that Katniss doesn't want that. She keeps walking up to me in the hallways, at my locker, in class. She needs me, but she won't admit it. She's too proud. Maybe she and Gale were meant to be together.

About a week after talking to Katniss, I'm in English Lit class listening to an analytical lecture.

Suddenly Mr. Ambeson  pauses the lesson. "As an introduction to our next unit, you will all be responsible for a project."

The class moans in frustration. It's funny how so many kids hate each other, but unite on pro-laziness.

"That's right, a project. And it's on the mythology of lovers, namely Pyramus and Thisbe. I will pair you up with your 'theatrical lover', if you will. At that point you will both research exhaustively the stories and philosophies concerning the couple. The final result will be a collection of student plays depicting the legacy of Pyramus and Thisbe. Now I am going to post the partner list on the wall in moment." Walking to the nearest theatre wall, he stretches up to hang the paper.

A flock of teenagers crowd behind him like cattle. Although I'm in the crowd.

I take in my situation, after praying it's not Katniss.

Thank God. But isn't Johanna Mason the scary chick from District Seven? She owns an ax, and she's not afraid to use it. And she owns... boobs, but she's still not afraid to use them. A lot.

Oh dear. I'm in for a real treat.