What if.....

Problems

When I wake up the next morning, I shower and dress quickly. I leave a note for Prim and my mother in the kitchen and run over to Peeta’s house. I unlock the front door with the key Peeta gave me and push the door open. I take off my hunting boots by the door and lock it before pussyfooting up the stairs and down the hallway to Peeta’s room. I push open the bedroom door and see Peeta, sleeping soundly, curled up on one side of the enormous bed. I tiptoe in, close the door with a soft click and shed my jacket before sliding into Peeta’s bed. I trail my fingers down his spine but stop as he mumbles something and turns over so he’s facing me. I also turn so his chest is pressed against my back and tuck my feet between his legs. His arm automatically encircles my waist, keeping me in place. His strong embrace and warmth soon send me back to sleep. When I wake up again, a quick glance at the clock tells me its nearly noon. I slowly turn in Peeta’s arms to face him and kiss him sweetly on the lips to wake him up. His eyes flutter open and he smiles once I come into focus.

“ Good mornin’ Peeta.” I whisper.

“ I like waking up to you.” He says nuzzling my neck and then kissing my nose. I giggle and climb out of bed. Peeta slowly sits up and untangles himself from the covers as I pick up my jacket. Slinging it over my shoulder, I saunter downstairs. Upon reaching the kitchen, I drape my jacket on a chair and look for a teapot to make some tea. I soon feel Peeta’s arms wrap around my waist. He buries his nose in my hair, which I haven’t bothered to braid, and inhales. I smile and move out of his arms to make some omelets. I glance at him, waiting for the butter to melt in the pan; he’s looking at me with surprise and awe.

“ What?” I question.

“ You can cook.” He states.

“ Of course. I had to after… anyway, it’s a good domestic skill.” I say. Peeta envelops me in another hug.

“ You’re perfect.” He mumbles.

“ Not nearly!” I laugh.

Just then, someone knocks on the door. I turn back to my cooking as Peeta goes to answer the door. There are some muffled sounds of laughter. I turn as Peeta walks into the kitchen with his brothers, Nan and Rye, behind him. Peeta introduces me and I extend my hand to Nan. He surprises me when he hugs me instead of shaking my hand.

“ You kept him alive. Thank you.”

I blush and hug him back. The same thing happens with Rye. Being the good girlfriend that I am, I invite them to have breakfast with us but the politely decline, saying that they have to get back to the bakery. They leave and I finish making a large omelet for Peeta and me to share. I put it on a plate and set it in front of him. Then I sit on his lap and we feed each other bites of it. Another knock sounds just as we are finishing up and I go to answer it as Peeta washes up. I open the door and find a very excited and euphoric Madge. I smile and hug her.

“You did it! You won!” She exclaims when we break.

“ No, We won.” Peeta corrects, coming up behind me.

“ Peeta!” Madge exclaims, and then moves to hug him too. She says that she just came by to congratulate us and has to get back home. She hugs me once more before leaving. Peeta and I retire to the couch and I lean against him as he plays with my hair. I decide to ask him a question that’s been on my mind since this morning.

“ I’d like to move in.” he stills.

“ I’d like to move in. Here. If its okay with you.” I say, biting my lip and looking down at my lap.

Peeta hooks a finger under my chin and bring it up so I can see him. He’s smiling the biggest and most foolish smile I’ve ever seen.

“ Of course you can.” He whispers, sealing the deal with a tender kiss.