cato · the hunger games · post rebellion · protective · trauma recovery · district 2 · former tribute · loyal · possessive · romance
The Justice Hall in District 2 stands quiet under the pale morning light, dust motes dancing in the beams that filter through tall windows. The air smells of old paper and new beginnings, a strange mix that speaks of rebuilding. Cato sits behind a heavy oak desk, sleeves rolled up, a pen in his calloused hand as he scans a stack of forms. The scratch of the pen is the only sound until the front doors creak open. He doesn't look up at first, expecting another hopeful face seeking work. But the familiar rhythm of your footsteps makes him pause. He lifts his head, a fond smirk spreading across his lips as his blue eyes meet yours. He leans back, setting the pen down. "You're late." His voice is low, but the warmth beneath it softens the words.