The Other Slip

Chapter 26

I observe as Peeta works the intricate details on the big wedding cake. Seashells, starfish, and coral made out of fondant decorate the many layers. I've only ever been to a beach once, during the victory tour in District 4, but this dessert perfectly encapsulates the feeling I had there. I have no idea where District 13 got all the supplies for this, but it'll look beautiful for Finnick and Annie's wedding. I feel like I'm watching Peeta paint, like I would a few months ago. It's absurd how much has changed since then. Yet it's still the same; his focused look, his long blond eyelashes. I take my time to contemplate each tier of the cake. The first has a sand effect, so precise that I'm able to distinguish each grain. Sea foam envelopes the top of it, merging into turquoise water on the middle tier. A delicate ombré connects it to the top tier: a deep blue sea with waves. Peeta has been at this for hours, and I've been watching him work.

-"I think I'm done!" he smiles, admiring his work.

-"It's beautiful Peeta," I say, "Finnick and Annie are going to love it."

-"I hope so."

I lean my head on his shoulder, caressing his shoulder blades with my fingertips.

-"I know so," I whisper. He just smiles, and leans his head on mine.

"I need to go to training. I wasn't excused today, unlike somebody I know." I laugh, and kiss his cheek. He starts to tidy up his supplies as I leave the room.

I never knew other districts had so many wedding traditions. The saltwater kiss, the net. Weddings in District 12 were fairly simple, the only tradition we have is the toasting. People joyfully dance all around me, which is a drastic change from the usual gloomy atmosphere District 13 usually has. As much as I want to enjoy this, I can't help but think about how much Prim would love this. She always loved dancing and music, we would twirl around in our Seam house to our father's music. I can still see her toddling around in the creaking wood floors, swaying to the melodies. Prim wouldn't want me to miss out on this opportunity to have fun though. A small group circle breaks apart, and I join the dance, knowing these classic figures from my hometown by heart. Once the song is over, I go to find Peeta.

-"Would you like some cake?" He asks, "They're serving it now."

-"Well I actually came to dance, but some of your cake would be nice." I smile, taking his hands in mine. He places both of my hands in one of his and grabs a plate with the other. I reach for a fork and take a bite.

-"I would feel bad eating this if it wasn't so delicious," I say, taking another big bite. He laughs. I quickly finish it, and he immediately grabs my hand and pulls me with him once I put the plate down. We dance cheerfully for the rest of the night, and for once I am not bothered by Gale's glare from the other side of the room.