Katniss's face is livid. She glares at me making me feel small so I hesitantly glue my eyes back down to my food and refuse to look at her. I knew this was a bad idea, she must absolutely hate me now. I feel awful about it. Any trust that she could have built up towards me must be gone now. I don't know what could be running through her mind right now and how she feels about this. If I find her confusing then how confusing must I be? I do all this stuff to help her and try to get on her good side and then ditch her. She must think I've gone sour about her one upping me in training but in all honesty I'm so happy for her but also terrified for her. Her score has nothing to do with why I want to be coached separately, if only she knew the real reason. Oh well, she will find out tonight and hopefully understand.

I continue to keep my eyes down, feeling like Katniss is staring daggers at me. But then she pipes up.
"Good." She says dismissively as if it doesn't bother her.
Somewhere deep down under all the guilt and betrayal I feel coming from myself I feel slightly happy that it has bothered her. I know that sounds awful but she obviously cares about me in some way to be hurt by this move.
"So what's the schedule?" She asks, continuing to brush it off.
Now I do look up, at Haymitch gratefully.
"You'll each have four hours with Effie for presentation and four with me for content." He explains. "You start with Effie, Katniss." He says slowly while eyeing me questioningly.

After breakfast Katniss and Effie go off to Katniss's room while Haymitch leads me off to the sitting room. We take a seat across from each other and Haymitch begins to lounge around and tease me.
"So, what's the problem Peeta?" He asks sarcastically.
Well this is a change in his tone from his earlier mood. Maybe that swig of alcohol he took was a little too strong.
"Someone upset that a girl got a higher score than him?" He continues. "Jealous of Miss Everdeen are we?"
"Haymitch." I say quietly, leaning forward in my chair with my forearms resting on my knees, trying to be patient.
"Afraid she'll steal the spotlight?" He laughs, ignoring me.
None of this is true.
"Haymitch." I say a little louder.
"Or are we just plain tired of her attitude? I can relate to you on that one my boy." He rambles on.
"HAYMITCH." I snap, I'm very tired and short tempered this morning.
I didn't realise how bad it was. I'm tired of holding it back, I need to tell him now before I chicken out. That caught his attention, he frowns at me now attentively, waiting for me to continue.
"I'm in love with Katniss." I mutter.
Suddenly Haymitch cracks up laughing and claps in delight.
"Well finally! It's about time you admitted to your silly little crush." He yells.
"Shhhh! Haymitch!" I exclaim embarrassed.
"It's not a crush, I've literally adored her since I first saw her when I was five." I explain.
"Ooohhhh poor Peeta's got it bad!" He teases.
"Yes I do." I admit harshly. "And what do you mean 'It's about time'?" I ask curiously, dreading the answer.
"Well you'd have to be blind and deaf to miss that you like the girl!" He exclaims. "Anyone can see it in the way you look at her."
I feel myself blush, have I really been that obvious?
"Now don't tell me that you wanted me to waste my whole day just to tell me this?" Haymitch continues.
"No of course not." I say bluntly. "I think I know how it could help us in the interviews to get more sponsors."
He squints at me. "Okay, you might be onto something here, anything is helpful I guess." He says interested, but then he goes back to being typical Haymitch. "But first you need a drink. Someone's a little grumpy this morning."
I look at him confused.
"Here." He summons as he pulls his silver flask out. "Have some of mine and relax, it'll all be fine." He says casually.
"I'm fine thanks." I gasp in shock.
"Alright fine, well I'll at least get you a coffee because you need something to wake you up here so that we can get some work done." He says as if he's disappointed.
Then he clicks his fingers and an Avox comes running over to him.
"Get the boy a strong coffee." He grumbles.
The servant nods quickly like they're nervous and scurries away only to return a few seconds later with a large cup of steaming hot, black coffee and hands it to me.
"Thank you." I smile quietly. They nod again and disappear.
I screw up my nose as I sniff the thin, strong smelling liquid. But I do as Haymitch says and chugg down the awful drink anyway even though it burns on the way down because we do need to make some progression here. I nearly gag as I finish and Haymitch watches me in amusement the whole time. Instantly when I finish, I start to feel all buzzy and figity. Kind of focussed, but almost too intense. I don't like it but I carry on regardless because now it puts me in the mood to talk.

"So." Says Haymitch leaning back and clasping his hands together. "Now where were we."
"Um, I think I know how to get the audience to like me and Katniss." I recap.
"Ah yes, please proceed in telling me your masterful plan, because that girl could use all the help she can get when it comes to being liked." He says eagerly.
"Well, I was thinking, that I could tell everyone the way I feel about Katniss during the interviews tomorrow?" I ask nervously.
Haymitch nods thoughtfully. "I reckon it'd be good for both of us. Like you said, they love a good twist in the games, and what's better then an unfortunate tail of love? It would make me look sweet and her seem appealing." I explain hopefully.
Haymitch's face breaks out into a smile.
"Haha! Yes!" He shouts and pumps his fist in the air and rocks back in his chair. "It's perfect! I can't believe I didn't think of it myself!" He exclaims. "Your right! It's just what the audience needs." He beams proudly. "And it'll fit perfectly too, the way you guys have been coming across as friends. Now everyone will see that you wanted it to be more then just friends." He gets up and comes across to me. "Your a genius!" He whoops while shaking my shoulders.
"Thank you, I thought it would be a good idea." I smile sadly. "But Haymitch, I'm not going to be dramatic about it. I want her to know my true feelings." I say seriously.
"Aw how sweet." Says Haymitch sarcastically.
"Promise you won't tell anyone before the interview?" I sigh.
"Sure thing. Now onto the other important stuff." He says excitedly and returns to his seat after patting me on the back one last time.

"Firstly, Caesar will ask you all kinds of questions that will help us get to know you. He wants to help you. I'm sure he will ask something about your love life, so that covers that." He says determinedly. "Now you, Peeta, I feel will not need much help in answering these questions. You already have something about you that is just, as much as I hate to admit it, likeable." He continues thoughtfully.
"So, that's how I want to come across in my interview then? Likeable?" I ask.
That shouldn't be to bad, seems to be me, I can tie it in with staying true to myself.
"Yes, and if that's not ok with you, well then you can just suck it up. You see, you have this sort of, boyish charm, this, witty sense of humour that you cannot help but love." He expresses.
"So you want me to be myself?" I ask slightly confused, it all seems too easy.
"Well yeah, because it just seems to come naturally to you." He says like he's getting fed up.
Perfect. I nod in approval.
"No doubt they'll ask about your home life, you being a bakers son and all. Ask you things about how the Capitol is compared to District Twelve. I want you to answer honestly and truthfully, but carefully." He explains slowly.
It's almost like he's making this to easy for me.
"No problem." I shrug.

We spend a few hours practicing some questions that I am likely to be asked, the coffee hits me in full force and carries me, wide awake, throughout the morning. I get very good at smart comebacks and funny jokes, but I also manage to maintain a likeable character. Haymitch seems very satisfied with me by the end of it.
"Got it?" He asks contently.
I nod.
"Good." He smiles in relief. "That was easy, you annoy me with how perfect you are." He jokes.
I can't help but chuckle at this even though he means it probably.
"Now let's go get some lunch, lover boy." He teases, emphasising the last part as he stands up.
I snigger slightly agitatedly, but follow him back out to the dining room anyway. I didn't realised the time had passed that quickly but I suppose we are a little early too.

Lunch goes by quickly with some happy, idle chit chat between Haymitch and I. Until Katniss stomps in with a long skirt hiked up to her thighs and eats ferociously. It is a bit quieter now with just small talk to keep it from being silent. A while after Katniss and Haymitch leave for the sitting area Effie comes out from somewhere and rushes over to me. She grabs a few snacks and then ushers me down to my room.
"Sorry about that Peeta, you'll have to excuse me, Katniss had me busy right up until the last minute!" She sighs in exasperation. "I had a lot of tidying up to do after that young missus. Do you mind if I eat?"
"Oh no it's fine." I say politely.
Then she pulls out a random napkin from her pocket and starts to nibble away at a scone she picked up.
"My! That girl has terrible manners!" She rants in between mouthfuls. "She ducks her head, she hitches her skirt, she does not sit like a lady, her posture is terrible, she does not make eye contact whatsoever, her hand gestures are so uncoordinated and does she even know what a smile is?!" She exclaims.
I let out a breathy laugh and shake my head. I find all of this stuff cute about Katniss, the way she gets all defensive and seems modest. But I keep my mouth shut anyway.

After Effie is finished we get started. I go along willingly, trying on colourful but smart suits, adjusting my collar, how the jacket fits, how to cuff my sleeves, polishing my shoes and whether to tuck or untuck my shirt. Although I find this confusing since it is not the suit I will actually be wearing and also it is Portia who will call the shots on my look, I do not protest. I can see that Effie is tired so playing up will only make things worse.
"Now my dear boy." She starts as she pulls down my jacket sleeves. "There's really not too much we need to work on here besides how you sit." She explains. "You have the most charming smile." She squeals pinching my cheeks. "Cute little dimples, oh my!" She exclaims while still pinching my cheeks. This makes me slightly annoyed. "You have fantastic posture, strong, broad shoulders, must of been all of that heavy carrying back at the bakery, yes?" I nod as she circles me. "You are confident and make eye contact and well, everything just comes naturally when you talk Peeta." She smiles in relief.
"Thank you." I say humbly, not really knowing how to respond.
"Now, take a seat." She summons to the armchair behind me.
I sit as I always do, slouching with my legs spread wide apart in front of me.
"Ah ha!" She suddenly snaps. "See! That's what I mean!" She condemns as she practically pushes my legs together. "I know your a boy hun, but you need to sit with some dignity." She explains composing herself more calmly now. "Keep your legs together please." She instructs and I nod.
We run through a couple of proper phrasings of words too, and there are a few times where I find myself automatically self consciously slipping back into my sloppy posture so Effie will just smack my knees making me jump back to formality.
"Look, if it helps. Fold one of your legs to rest on top of your other knee." She suggests. "That way you will realise when you are slipping into poor posture more easily."
I do so and it does help. I feel more attentive like this too. I can lean forward more and it gives me somewhere to put my hands rather then having them awkwardly placed in my lap. I also feel like it helps the hand gestures to come more naturally.

"That's great Peeta." She gushes after a while. "I think we are done here, you were so much easier to handle then Katniss, thank you." She sighs.
"Your welcome." I say quietly.
"Trust me Peeta, the audience is going to love you out there. There's no need to be nervous." She encourages proudly, noticing my nerves. "Oh I almost forgot!" She suddenly exclaims. "Why did you want to be coached separately?" She asks obliviously.
I huff, not wanting to explain it all over again and not knowing if I could trust Effie to keep it a secret either. Plus I don't want to go through all the dramatics again.
"You'll just have to wait and see in the interview Effie, we got it all sorted." I say tiredly with forced kindness.
I can definitely feel the coffee catching up on me now. I'm getting tired and impatient and my eyes burn from staying open.
"Ohhhh I can't wait to know!" She squeals. "I'll see you at dinner." Effie smiles as she gathers her things. "We finished a few hours early so you have a few hours to yourself." She finishes and leaves.
"See you then." I say before flopping down onto the bed.
I really feel like I could just fall asleep right now I'm so tired. In fact, I feel like I'm just starting to drift off when I realise that I haven't showered today. I strip off the uncomfortable tuxedo and slip into the shower, now getting the hang of how to use it safely and not using just any old buttons. After this I slip on the same clothes I was wearing earlier. Feeling empty and tired of all emotions now that practically everything has been sorted out of my hands, I lie flat on my back on my bed. The last thing I remember is studying the ceiling rose again, which I seem to have taken a great fascination in, before I doze off.

Considering it is just a nap, this sleep is one of the best ones I've had since I got to the Capitol, that is until I am woken up by the sound of smashing and screaming. I moan and sit up, wondering what the heck is going on. I rub my eyes and sleepily wander out into the hallway still feeling half asleep. The crashing and banging is even louder out here and it's clearly coming from Katniss's room. Oh no, what's happened now. It is only then that I realise that I'm late for dinner. I sigh, expecting a lecture now and shuffle down the hallway as fast as my feet will carry me at this point in time.
"Oh! So nice of you to finally join us!" Growls Haymitch the second I round the corner. "It's good to see one of my tributes cares enough to show up."
I can tell both him and Effie are in a bad mood, probably because of Katniss.
"Where were you Peeta? It's very rude to show up late you know!" Snaps Effie.
"Sorry, I was asleep." I grumble.
She seems to soften up at this. Haymitch gulps back a whole glass of a strong fumed red wine, I don't know how he can handle such big quantities of that stuff.
"We were going to have the stylist here tonight but I told them not to bother coming when neither of you were here." Informed Haymitch dryly as I took a seat at the table.
"Help yourself." Effie smiled and motioned to the food layed out infront of us, she's clearly trying to lighten the damp mood.
As annoying as she can be, at least Effie tries.

I pile up my plate as we continue to here plates smashing. Effie jumps and winces whenever there is an extra loud ruckus. Eventually Haymitch snaps.
"Would you deal to that, please!" He calls and the red headed Avox girl goes rushing down the hallway.
Just as I'm thinking we are going to eat dinner in peace and quiet and then I can go back to my room early to sleep more, Haymitch pipes up.
"Ugh, that girl!" He exclaims angrily.
"What happened?" I ask dully.
"What didn't happen?" He replies sarcastically. "We tried everything. Every single blimmen angle that I could possibly think of and she got nothing. Absolutely nothing! She is so stubborn and defensive."
"Sounds like somebody I know." Retorts Effie under her breath.
I snort at this and Haymitch gives me a weird look. She's absolutely right, Haymitch and Katniss butt heads because they are both so strong headed and in their own opinions.
"She's just worried, she really wants to do well and she's worried about making an impression." I say calmly, realising that if I were to have a comeback at Haymitch it would probably start him off on another rant, the way he is tonight.
"Yeah? Well, she could be a bit more appreciative to the people trying to help her." He points out, and I do see his point.
"I have to agree!" Squeals Effie. "All we are doing is teaching her what is required and she won't accept it! If she wants to do well then she needs to play along."
"Yes but Katniss doesn't like to be forced into things. Maybe you need to let her try and figure it out herself, only give her some suggestions to guide her in the right direction and that way she won't be so defensive." I explain tiredly, they should know this by now.
"Why have you always gotta be so perfect and right about everything boy?" Slurs Haymitch angrily suddenly as he leans across the table towards me.
Clearly he just crossed a line with his drinking for the night.
"Haymitch!" Yells Effie, he sits back but glares at me.
What is his problem?

By now the smashing has died down but I also don't want an argument to spark up between Haymitch, Effie and I and I can feel a tension rising.
"I'm not that hungry and I'm really tired, so I'll see you tomorrow. Excuse me." I say bluntly before anyone has a chance to say anything else.
Both my mentors look at me confused as I leave without having barely touched my food and head back to my room. I don't like the way they were talking about Katniss. Yes, I know how she can be, it even tests my nerves at times but they should know by now after having spent all this time with her how to deal with her and they should be really trying hard with her, they've only got one more day and this girl really has a good chance at winning I believe, so they need to have faith in her. I strip down to my boxers furiously, burrow into bed and fall asleep instantly as soon as my head hits the soft pillow.

I awaken to consciousness to the sound of hushed voices.
"Should we wake him up?" One whispers.
"No! He looks so peaceful and cute." Another softer one squeaks.
"Don't be foolish! Of course we have to wake him up! He's already over slept by an hour!" Yet another says harshly.
What? My eyes dart open and I see no other then my prep team looming over my face up intimidatingly close. I jump back a bit in shock, sit up and bring the covers up over my naked chest defensively. Magnoli, Emil and Aquea all burst into laughter.
"How did you get in here?" I stutter. "Well it's not like the door is exactly locked now is it? Silly!" Giggles Magnoli.
I nod, I knew they were coming today but it's not like I expected them as soon as I opened my eyes.
"Right, let's get started!" Claps Aquea.
I clamber out of bed realising that they have seen me naked before and I don't really care anyway so why does it matter if I'm in boxers?
"Ohhhh! Can't we just send him out on stage like this!" Cries Magnoli, practically throwing herself at me and wrapping her arms around my torso.
I swear she sounds like she's sucked too much helium. Emil lunges forward and prizes her off me with great difficulty as she continues to stroke my abs. I laugh self consciously.
"Sorry about her." He apoligises.
"It's ok." I chuckle. "Yes, very good. Anyway! Shower time! Let's go people, move!" Says Aquea like he's in a rush.
"Can't I at least eat first?" I ask dumbfounded.
"Mmmm, I guess so if your quick." He says starting to fidget impatiently.
"What time is it anyway?" I ask.
"It's already 9am, hurry up!" He presses.
"9am?! What could possibly take like seven hours to do?" I ask shocked.
"Oh you'll see." Says Emil with a smirk.
"Just think yourself lucky you aren't Katniss." Adds Magnoli.
"Okay." I huff and pull on some comfy but stylish fat pants and walk down to the breakfast bar shirtless.

"Good morning Peeta!" I here Effie call from the sitting area.
I turn and see her and Haymitch in there deep in discussion.
"Morning." I smile as I pile chocolate chip pancakes onto a plate.
I guess last nights little stand off is forgiven.
"You better get going, you've got a big big big day ahead of you!" Effie exclaims. "But don't worry, you'll get to see your girl on fire later." She teases.
At first I'm confused by this but then I realise that she means Katniss and I look at her in surprise. She only winks at me and smiles kindly.
"Good secret keeping Haymitch." I joke.
"She has a right to know, and she wouldn't stop bugging me." He retorts.
"Don't worry, I think it's sweet, your secrets safe with me." She says kindly.
I look at her thankfully and head back down the hall munching on my pancakes.

Before I'm even fully through the door I hear Aquea ranting again.
"Finally! Now get in the shower!" He instructs sternly and impatiently while basically pushing me all the way into the bathroom, stripping me down, shoving me into the shower and turning it on so that a violent stream of hot and cold jets blast me and then suds me in a rosy smelling sent.
Oh no, this is like the first time all over again. I'm still chewing on breakfast because he forced me in here so suddenly. I hop from foot to foot dodging the two extreme temperatures until finally Emil comes and drags me out of the steamy area. I don't like how he makes me use all the electronic things to dry myself but I have to put up with it.
"Tell me, why do I smell like a girl?" I grumble as Aquea comes in to finish rubbing me down, as if the blow driers didn't do a good enough job.
"What do you mean?" He asks.
"Well roses aren't exactly manly now are they?" I point out.
"Well the President absolutely loves his roses, so I thought that maybe it would give you some luck tonight!" He exclaims joyously.
"Oh." Is all I can think to reply.
"I've got it! I've got it!" Squeals Magnoli as she comes sprinting into the bathroom holding some kind of dress bag.
"Oh yay!" Squeaks Emil jumping up and down clapping his hands vigorously causing his corkscrew blue curls to bounce up and down making him look like a cartoon.

"Calm down, Calm down!" Orders Aquea sharply. "We still have much to do!" He exclaims while he ushers me out into my room.
"I guess so, and I suppose that Portia is meant to be the one to dress him." Sighs Emil as he slumps in behind Aquea.
"But I can't wait to see it!" Pouts Magnoli.
"Too bad." Snaps Aquea.
I assume they are talking about my suit. They get to work, polishing me, moisturising me, coating me in who knows what kind of balms. I feel so soft and smooth and flawless after so many hours of their treatments. But why? What's the point? I'm wearing a suit and then going into the arena where I don't care at all what I look like. I guess I will never fully understand the Capitol. Once they are done with all their treatments I'm aloud to put a towel on. Magnoli begins to shape and clean my nails. When she offers me the choice of a colour coat or clear coat I suggest neither and she looks so disappointed. Aquea works on my blonde hair, gelling and styling it into some kind of flicked over, curled around poof. And Emil stands back picking out any flaws that need fixing while they do so. Aquea was right to rush me in one way, the whole process takes a lot longer then I thought it would. They move articulately but precariously. I don't resist anything but the nails until Magnoli pulls out what I assume to be a make up brush.
"Woa, woa, woa, woa. What do you think you are you doing?" I ask her as nicely as possible while pushing the brush away from my face.
"Your make up of course!" She says like I'm dumb.
"But I thought Portia said no make up and for me to look natural?" I question desperately.
"Yes but that was for the Opening Ceremonies you see." Explains Emil. "There you needed to be recognised and the light of the fire made you look fabulous anyway. Tonight, there will be close ups and the lighting is all different."
I huff.
"Come on! It's only going to be very basic!" Pleads Magnoli.
"Fine." I groan.
She sets to applying a thin layer of foundation over my pale complexion but I refuse blusher and highlighter.
"Please, I'm not a girl! You already made me smell like one!" I beg her.
"Awww!" She whines with a puppy dog face and her big green eyes.

Although it took a long time, we still finish getting me prepped for Portia with plenty of time to spare.
"Told you there wasn't any need to rush." I smirk at Aquea.
"Oh just sit down and don't do anything to ruin that pretty little face." He fusses.
Pretty? I haven't seen it yet and although yes it needs to be something, but pretty is not the right word. We sit waiting on my bed with the prep team doing any final check ups as we wait for Portia to arrive. Every time I move a single inch they tell me to sit still.
"Can I at least put on underpants?" I protest, wanting something to do.
LI guess so." Huffs Emil.
I spring up gratefully and go to the wardrobe.
"Careful!" Calls Magnoli.
I ignore them.
"See I'm fine." I shrug as I walk back out.

Portia arrives soon after and Magnoli literally screams in delight. "Yay! Now can we put it on him? Please!"
"Yes sure." Smiles Portia. "Nice to see you Peeta." She greets me.
"You too." I say happily.
"How are you feeling?" She asks in concern. I go to answer but I'm interrupted by the prep team manipulating me into my suit. Grabbing and lifting my arms and legs eagerly. Magnoli gasps.
"Close your eyes!" She squeals. "I want it to be a surprise!"
I do so and can feel them buttoning up my shirt, doing up my tie. There is some adjusting of my coat and I feel the sleeves get rolled once while Portia instructs the preps. I feel someone slipping on socks and shoes.
"I can do up my own shoes you know." I chuckle.
"Oh, no need." Shrugs Emil simply.
Then I hear them all sigh and step back. Someone guides me somewhere then I here Portia speak.
"Open your eyes." She says calmly.
They show me myself in a full length mirror. To be honest I don't see how I look that different from normal. Not in a bad way, like I look better, just they've still kept me recognisable. It's like they've just evened out all the bumps in me. I can't even really notice the make up, it pretty much just covers my freckles. But there is something they have managed to do which draws out the bright blue in my crystal eyes causing me to look striking. I guess it's just because everything else looks so perfect now.  It's almost like I shimmer, but not in a feminine way, in an attractive way.
"Don't you look handsome!" Breathes Portia. "Thank you. Really guys, thank you it's amazing, your all brilliant." I gasp.
Gesturing to myself as I turn to face Aquea, Magnoli and Emil, suddenly aware of how unappreciative of the prep team I have been. They all beam proudly.
"And Portia, you are the best stylist I could have asked for." I smile feeling relaxed.
She just looks like she's going to cry and burst with happiness and proudness.

I redirect my attention back to the mirror. They have dressed me in a jet black suit, the jacket, pants and shirt all this colour, with flame accents on the sleeves and ankles. The jacket is edged with a crisp red. Along with shiny leather shoes. I actually feel like I stand out and can be confident, I look good.
"So how are you feeling?" Asks Portia nervously.
"I'm okay actually." I nod reassuringly although it's partly a lie, I'm alright with everything except one thing.
I'm about to tell the entire country my feelings towards Katniss, and I'm very nervous about that. How am I going to get it out?
"You know the kinds of questions they'll ask? About your score of an eight, about your life.... There's so many things!" She lists protectively.
"Yes thanks Portia I'm fine." I smile with a chuckle at her worry. "Me and Haymitch went over everything."
"Haymitch and I." Corrects a squeaky voice.
I turn to see Effie standing in the doorway. "It's almost time to go." She informs us looking down at her watch, but then she sees me and gasps. "Oh Peeta, you look wonderful! Like I said, they're going to love you out there."
"She's right." Portia beams as she comes over to me and rubs my arm.
The prep team just stand back and admire their satisfactory work.
"Alrighty, let's go then." Sighs Effie. "You ready?"
I nod happily and we all follow her to the elevator.

We get to the elevator at pretty much the exact same time as Katniss and her team. I can't believe my eyes. She looks truly gorgeous, amazing, stunning, no word can describe it. She looks like she's from another mystical world. Her body is covered in dainty flame patterns and it shimmers and her hair is carefully woven into a plate with threads of red ribbon through an intricate design wrapping her head, her dark makeup draws out her best features perfectly. But her dress is truly enchanting. It is entirely covered in jewels and precious gems of red and yellow and white and a touch of blue which reflect and sparkle in the light making perfected fiery movements be thrown off of her. Clearly we are still sticking with the fire theme. At least I think this might be the first time since the reaping that we won't be seen in matching clothes. I want to talk to her but I keep my distance because she doesn't seem to want to know me, I can't blame her, I still feel so terrible.

We head down being engulfed in Effie in Haymitch's complements and praise. They are both dressed up for the occasion, if that is even possible for Effie considering what she wears on a daily basis. I talk to both of them openly as they both seem to be in good spirits, Katniss however seems to avoid Haymitch like there's no tomorrow. She tolerates Effie even though she clearly annoys her but she can't stand Haymitch. It's probably because he's so nit picky with her, although the funny thing is that that is just the kind of thing that she would do. Katniss also seems extremely on edge and nervous throughout the wait, I just wish I had a way to comfort her but things have just been far too awkward between us lately, especially since she now must hate my guts.

By the time we reach the ground level, tributes are already lining up to take the stage.
The stylists are sent off to their seats but just before she goes Portia whispers in my ear. "Keep an eye out for me."
I go to thank her for her encouraging help but she is already gone. Although it may sound terrible I don't feel the need to look to her for guidance, this interview is out of her hands. We are to be sat in a huge arc around the stage throughout the interviews. Being from District Twelve, Katniss and I will go last, me dead last. The only thing that I'm not too happy about is that by this time the audience is going to be bored out of there minds and tired. I guess I'll just have to make a huge impression, and what I plan on saying will most definitely do that. As we wait in line I do start to get really nervous. Can I do this? Will I actually be able to make myself say it? How will she react? Especially now. I feel my palms getting sweaty, my knees shaking and my breathing short, rapid and shallow. I try to block out the thoughts before I chicken out but they just keep coming. Focus on the other content Peeta, you want to be witty and charming, likeable. Be yourself, and hope that the people will adore you. When the moment comes for you to say it, just say it and it will all be over. I try to keep calm but right before we parade onto stage Haymitch comes up behind Katniss and I, places a hand on my shoulder and growls at us.
"Remember, you're still a happy pair. So act like it." Then he shoves me onto stage only to be blinded by the bright lights of the City Circle before I have time for any concern. I guess he said that for my benefit because Katniss just looks bewildered by it. But he's going to be disappointed by our efforts because we have no choice but to walk single file onto the stage and take our seats, with no other interaction whatsoever. I make my way to my place easily and steadily feeling quite confident now, whatever will be will be. Just think, I have to do this. I'm not doing this for me, I'm doing this for her. I have to get it out there and then everyone will love her. Saving her is my dying wish, remember. I can't not do this, now I have no choice. Katniss on the other hand looks like she's about to faint and I'm actually surprised she makes it to her seat without falling over.

Even though it is evening, the circle looks as though it is a midsummer's day. There is a risen seating unit for prestigious guests, the stylists taking up the whole front row. They will each be shown on screen as their tribute gets admired. A large balcony has been reserved to hold the Gamemakers off to the right and the rest of the space above the pavement is pretty much taken up by camera crews. But the ground and side streets are packed to the brim with Capitol citizens. Everywhere else around the country everyone's eyes will be watching through screens.

Caesar Flickerman, the man who has hosted the interviews since many years before I was born, springs onto stage looking exactly as he does every other year. Clearly the Capitols methods of surgery have been part of his regime. Same face, unchanged, under heavy coats of pale make up, same navy suit dotted with tiny lights to look like the clear midnight sky. His hairstyle remains the same but he changes the colour for every Hunger Games. This year he sports a powder blue colour and it also appears on his eyelids and lips. He looks freakish like a clown. His skin is clearly pulled back and filled out and he appears to have a slim physique under the perfectly fitted suit. Unlike home, where wrinkles and a full belly are a miracle, they are undesired here in the Capitol. The way Caesar acts and talks and moves reminds me a bit of some kind of cheeky pixie. He's rather short and bounces around the stage energetically and always seems hyperactive. He cracks a few jokes to get the crowd going but quickly moves on to the business end of the evening, what everyone wants to see.

First, the girl from District One strides to the centre of the stage to greet Caesar. She wears a flowing gold see through gown that trails to the ground and her long, blonde hair is out in curls. It brings out her intense green eyes. Before she has even spoken I can already tell that her angle is sexy. It easily works for her with her long, slender figure. Caesar works his way through all of the three minute interviews, from introductions until the buzzers go off, doing his best to make us all look good and cover our mistakes. I'll give it to him, at least he tries to help. He laughs at even the lamest jokes and reacts perfectly every time, putting us at ease. I work hard on sitting respectably as Effie told me and out of the corner of my eye I can see Katniss sitting like a lady which is strange to see coming from her. As the districts slip by it is clear that each person is playing up some kind of angle and suddenly I'm extremely curious as to what Katniss's might be. She isn't exactly the most open person and she's quite shy so I'm nervous for her, I even feel worried and sorry for her. The scary career boy from two, who I think will be the hardest to convince of my plan, is a relentless killer, I'll have to watch out for him. I see Katniss getting more and more nervous due to little gestures such as wiping her hands on her dress as time passes on.

Suddenly we are at District Eleven before I know it. Rue looks absolutely adorable in a little dress with wings as she flutters her way over to Caesar. She looks even more vulnerable in this state. Caesar talks sweetly with her and compliments her score. The one thing that sticks out from her interview to me is when Caesar asks her what is her greatest strength going to be in the arena.
"I'm very hard to catch." She had said matter of factly without hesitation. "And if they can't catch me, they can't kill me. So don't count me out."
I found this so cute and funny yet also extremely true.

My mind is in a blur leading up to Katniss's interview but suddenly her name is called and she's walking majestically over to Caesar and I am fully alert. She shakes his hand as the crowd applauds. I knew they already loved her but she still needs to convince them. Her face is sombre and it is clear how nervous she is.
"So, Katniss, the Capitol must be quite a change from District Twelve. What's impressed you the most since you arrived here?" Asks Caesar perkily.
Her face goes completely blank. Oh no, I think. Come on Katniss, you can do it, it's a simple question! Her eyes scan the circle and finally rest on the stylists, obviously she's looking at Cinna for reassurance, but I can't take my eyes off of her.
"The lamb stew." She eventually blurts out.
Caesar laughs and the rest of the audience hesitantly does too even though I'm not sure if she meant it as a joke. But it is funny because I remember how quickly she chugged that meal down.
"The one with the dried plums?" Caesar asks and she hurriedly nods. "Oh, I eat it by the bucketful." He gushes and turns sideways to the audience, mock horror on his face and his hand on his stomach. "It doesn't show, does it?" He asks.
They shout reassurances at him and applaud with laughter. See, Caesar is doing the perfect job of helping.
"Now Katniss." He says sternly. "When you came out in the Opening Ceremonies, my heart actually stopped. What did you think of that costume?"
I sit on the edge of my seat silently egging her on.
"You mean after I got over my fear of being burned alive?" She asks.
There you go! She earns a huge laugh from the audience which comes real and naturally.
"Yes. Start then." Chuckles Caesar.
She looks nervous for one second before she speaks.
"I thought Cinna was brilliant and it was the most gorgeous costume I'd ever seen and I couldn't believe I was wearing it. I can't believe I'm wearing this, either." She exclaims.
It's weird hearing such girly things coming from Katniss's mouth but strangely I think she is being honest. She lifts her skirt and spreads it so all the gems are exposed for the audience to see its intricate beauty. She still has her eyes fixed on Cinna as the audience drools over her dress. Suddenly she spins slowly in a circle. The effect this has on the dress is mesmerising.
"Oh, do that again!" Squeals Caesar, echoing everyone here's thoughts.
Katniss seems to be in some brilliant rhythm now because she lifts her arms and spins around multiple times, breaking out into a dazzling smile as she does so. First slow, but getting faster and faster, causing her skirt to fly out and it looks like she is consumed in flames. The audience hoots, whistles and cheers but then she stops and clutches onto Caesars arm as she stumbles for balance.
"Don't stop!" He urges.
"I have to, I'm dizzy!" She giggles.
Wait, what? Katniss, giggled? This is so strange yet so great to witness. Maybe it's the nerves and dizziness or maybe she's actually growing in confidence.
Caesar laughs as he firmly holds a protective arm around her shoulder. "Don't worry, I've got you. Can't have you following in your mentor's footsteps."
Everyone erupts into fits of ecstatic applause as the camera finds Haymitch who has clearly become famous for his head dive off the stage back at our reaping. God, that seems so long ago. He chuckles quietly and good naturedly waves the cameras back to Katniss.
"It's alright." Caesar reassures the crowd. "She's safe with me. So, how about that training score. E-le-ven. Give us a hint what happened in there." He presses.
Katniss glances up at the Gamemakers balcony and bites her lip.
"Um.... All I can say is, I think it was a first." She hints sheepishly.
The cameras are on the Gamemakers who are agreeing light heartedly.
"Your killing us." Says Caesar dramatically as if he's in actual pain. "Details. Details." He says poshly.
Katniss comedically addresses the balcony, she's doing such a good job now. "I'm not supposed to talk about it, right?"
"She's not!" Yells one of them.
"Thank you." She breathes. "Sorry. My lips are sealed." She shrugs.
"Let's go back, then, to the moment they called your sisters name at the reaping." Caesar says more calmly and cautiously now, the whole audience quietens. "And you volunteered. Can you tell us about her?"
Katniss's face turns stony and just as I think she's about to close off she looks back in Cinna's direction and softens a bit. Why can't I do that for her?
"Her names Prim. She's just twelve. And I love her more than anything." She says in a dark tone.
The whole circle is entranced in what she has to say now.
"What did she say to you? After the reaping?" Asks Caesar with a duller mood.
Katniss pauses a second and swallows. "She asked me to try really hard to win." She gets out.
"And what did you say?" Caesar prompts gently and tentatively.
This is when Katniss closes off. I see her tense up and freeze. "I swore I would." She says in a deep voice.
"I bet you did." Confirms Caesar, squeezing her encouragingly.
Then the buzzer goes off, and she did it! Yes! I don't know what angle she played but she had the audience wrapped around her little finger! They applaud wildly as she regains her seat gratefully.
"Sorry, we're out of time. Best of luck, Katniss Everdeen, tribute from District Twelve." Echoes Caesar.

I'm so relieved for Katniss that I almost forget that I have to go up for my own interview and I'm slightly confused when Caesar first calls my name. I wipe my hands on my pants discretely once to rid myself of any last minute nerves as I make my way over to Caesar. Just be yourself Peeta. Remember, you don't want to resort to their ways. Make them love you. Once I've touched hands with Caesar I seem to come back to myself and it all comes naturally.
"Peeta! So lovely to meet you!" Greets Caesar.
"You too, it's an honour to meet the great Caesar." I beam widely as I clutch his hand and shake it strongly.
He laughs modestly at this comment and then dismisses it with a light wave of his hand.
"So tell us, what's it like getting to meet and see people from all the other districts?" He asks and gestures around the ring of tributes.
"Well, you know, coming from a family of bakers, I automatically view things in a slightly different way." I tease. "Bread is pretty much my life." I admit as a joke on myself. Then I start on an explanation of how all the different tributes are like the bread from their districts and some of the similarities I can see in them. The audience loves it. I have them already from the get go, they're shouting and laughing and calling out my name. "So, as you can see, this is how I spend my days and view the world." I joke.
It's tempting to add some witty point to relate this to the arena but I can see that being a touching subject and I don't want to take any risks.
"Ah yes, I see." Chuckles Caesar as the crowd dies down. "And what's it like at home? Is it very different to here?" He asks.
I don't want to talk about home, not everything there is exactly rosy but I don't want to lie either, so I focus on the Capitol instead. "Oh it's so different back there." I exclaim. "So many strange little things that you wouldn't expect! Take the showers for instance. I had never had one in my life, only baths, until I hopped onto that train. I thought that was complicated, but then when I stepped into the showers here in the Capitol, it was a whole new surprising experience again!" I laugh and some of the audience mutters a few slightly understanding approvals and share a few quiet laughs. "Tell me, do I smell like roses?" I ask Caesar, remembering my first shower here and my most recent one too with a quiet chuckle to break the tension and lighten any confusion.
He gives me a slight, hesitant sniff. "Why, yes! Yes you do!" He exclaims. "Do I?" He asks.
I sniff back. "Yes." I laugh, and then playfully sniff my arm and then him again while he does the same. "You definitely smell better then I do." I state jokingly as I point briefly to him.
This brings down the house. They are in love with it. Since the audience is in raptures I take a brief moment to look around. Portia is laughing her head off with the rest of the city, Effie is clapping ecstatically and vigorously and Haymitch is nodding at me with a huge, entertained smile and giving me two thumbs up.
Finally Caesar manages to calm everyone down and moves on. "And speaking of home, is there a lucky girlfriend back there belonging to someone?" He urges, nudging me with his elbow and wiggling his eyebrows.
Crap, this is it. There will be no other chance. Suddenly I'm so nervous all over again that it's overwhelming. I'm aware of Katniss sitting right there watching me. I aware of the whole country waiting for an answer. I'm not feeling so easily, flowingly confident now. I'm also wishing that we were sitting because my legs are shaking again and I feel like I'm about to fall over. My palms sweat in anticipation. I have to warm into this. I hesitate for a second, thinking of what to do and all I manage is an unconvincing shake of my head. Don't chicken out Peeta! Remember, this is what you want, it's what you have to do.
"Handsome lad like you. There must be some special girl. Come on, what's her name?" Presses Caesar.
I sigh. There won't be a better chance then now, I have to do this in order for Katniss to be able to win. "Well, there is this one girl. I've had a crush on her ever since I can remember. But I'm pretty sure she didn't know I was alive until the reaping." I admit honestly.
I approach all the questions a lot more cautiously now to get the best affect out of my answers. A sound of sympathy emanates from the crowd. Perhaps some of these people actually understand where I'm coming from, but others are just sorrowful naive Capitol citizens. This is my chance to get all my feelings out there for Katniss. My last chance. I have to get it right, bring it from the heart, for her. Maybe at least that way she will be able to tolerate me or even be my friend again. Wait, no, not again, I mean for the first time, she's never liked me anyway.
"She have another fellow?" Pouts Caesar.
"I don't know, but a lot of boys like her." I say.
It's true, I don't know what there is between her and Gale or even any other boys but a lot are at least interested in her, they always talk about her.
"So, here's what you do. You win, you go home. She can't turn you down then, eh?" Suggests Caesar as if it's straight forward.
"I don't think it's going to work out. Winning won't help in my case." I explain.
"Why ever not?" Caesar asks, blindly confused.
This is it, right now, I have no choice but to say it. It's for the best Peeta. I feel myself blush bright red in embarrassment. "Because.... Because.... She came here with me." I manage to stammer out.