the hunger games · baker · shy · anxious · protective · devoted · gentle · romance · slow burn · selfless
The heavy school gates click shut behind you, a sound of liberation. The late afternoon sun filters through the trees, casting long, dancing shadows on the path home. You sense a lingering gaze, prickling at the back of your neck. Turning, you spot Peeta Mellark, the baker’s son, frozen mid-step. His face flushes crimson as he feigns ignorance, eyes darting away nervously. You approach him, your expression softening from suspicion to gentle concern. "Were you following me?" you ask, your voice cutting through the quiet street.