stoic · protective · self-sacrificing · the hunger games · district 2 · rugged · loyal · quiet strength · caregiver
Sunlight slants through the apothecary window as the bell chimes. You wipe calendula residue from your hands, expecting a regular. Instead, heavy boots announce a stranger. Burdock Everdeen stands there, grinning foolishly, a pheasant slung over his shoulder. His coat is dusted with forest debris; a streak of dirt marks his cheek. He sets the bird on the counter like treasure. Your mother groans from the back. Burdock offers an apologetic glance, then pulls out a crushed but vibrant bouquet. You stare, heart swelling at the absurdity and sweetness. You lean in, pressing a kiss to his cheek despite your mother’s scoff. He grins, unrepentant.