The Boy In Love // THG Peeta's POV

The Blush

The doors had barely closed behind us before we were engulfed by our prep teams, all gushing about the reaction we elicited. 

"Oh, you outshone them all!" crowed Milan directly into my ear, causing me to jump backwards, right into Katniss.

She steadied me before looking down and blushing furiously. I followed her eyes, wondering what could cause such a reaction, then finding myself mirroring her flushed expression at the sight of our still intertwined fingers.

I forced my stiff fingers open and we both drew away from each other simultaneously, massaging our numb hands. 

Letting out an awkward chuckle, I met Katniss' eyes. "Thanks for keeping hold of me. I was getting a little shaky there," I said with a smile.

"It didn't show," she assured me, "I'm sure no one noticed."

I blushed even deeper and ducked my head slightly. "I'm sure they didn't notice anything but you. You should wear flames more often," I smiled a little wider even as my cheeks grew steadily redder. "They suit you."

My compliment was rewarded with a warm smile as we exit the chariot. Then Katniss did something utterly unexpected. I was distracted by the chatter of my prep team when she stood on her tiptoes and planted a soft kiss on my cheek, right on my bruise, before she was ushered away by her stylist.

I snapped to attention, my spine ramrod straight as I brought a hand to my cheek. What the hell?

I was given no time to ponder this new development, however, within seconds I was enveloped in a cloud of people removing my costume and herding me to the elevators and asking me random questions.

I gave substance less answers to keep up appearances, but if you had asked me what I said I wouldn't have a clue. The only thing on my mind was the way my cheek seemed to be engulfed in flames, and not the fake kind either

Before I knew it, I found myself in my own quarters in the Tribute Centre, still utterly shell shocked, with strict orders to be ready for dinner in 20 minutes. Robotically, I entered the large bathroom off to the side of the bedchamber and placed my hands on the marble counter on either side of the sink. Finally, I let my thoughts catch up to me.

She kissed me. The moment the words crossed my mind, a fool's grin engulfed my face and I let out a breathless laugh. She kissed me! For a fleeting second, every one on my troubles dissipated like morning mist under the heat of my joy.

A strange feeling bubbled in my chest, until I felt fit to burst into laughter. I peered at myself in the large mirror opposite me, taking in the mirth that sparkled in my eyes. I cocked my head. Who was this person, this unfamiliar boy in the mirror?

He was so different from me, with those touches of makeup, a fresh face, an expression that spoke of pure, unbridled joy. I smiled wider before squinting at the other boy. You're a lunatic, I thought. It was just a peck on the cheek. Still, the smile remained.

I let myself simmer in the moment for just a second more before splashing some water on my face. After all, I had to look presentable for dinner. 

I changed out of the costume to the only outfit I found in my closet; which was simple, but far more elegant than anything I'd ever owned.

Just before leaving, I ran a damp comb through my blonde locks and noted that the smile was still there, along with that unfamiliar bubbly feeling. I shot myself a stern look. Keep it in check, Peeta. What would Tessa say? I could almost hear her sarcastic words: Please, Peeta, you look less like a giggling idiot (which is still not good) and more like a lovesick puppy. Honestly, I raised you better than that! Get your head in the game! Then I'd swat at her arm, which would result in more insults. 

At the thought of Tessa, my stupid grin faltered. 

But before I had a chance to ponder the cause, I heard a familiar voice.

"Peeta? You ready?"

I dashed to the door and pulled it open quickly, nodding in greeting.

"Well then come along!" Effie trilled, taking off towards the dining room at a brisk pace.

*****

Hiiiiii! Ohmygoshsorry! I have been so busy! Sorry for being late though. I would promise to stop doing that...but I'd be lying. Anyway, big news! I have a Percy Jackson fanfiction in my drafts that is this close to being published, and I would love it if you all would check it out! I started writing so I could have a place to pour all my sarcasm into, neither this book nor my HP fic has room for it, and I have no outlet for my endless sass! Ergo, Persassy. Also, I'm publishing a Dramione wedding night oneshot (for all you HP fans) with the amazing Always_a_slytherin, if any of you like smut check it out! Ok, I should end this too long author's note. Farewell, my sassy cantaloupes!

-Siren Song