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sparklingdust4612 · 3 years ago

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Author/creator: @sparklingdust4612

Card number and prompt: Card 1, Unwanted gift.

Title: Gag-Gifted

Rating: E

Warnings: A lot of swearing, smut, Older!Peeta and mentions of sex toys)

Summary: Written for @talesofpanem Everlark Holiday Bingo 2021.

It's secret Santa time at the office and Person A (Katniss) has unfortunately picked their personal work enemy, Person B (Peeta/CEO Mellark). Prompt by @creativepromptsforwriting

Word count (if applicable): 2,830 words.

Author’s/Creator’s notes: There is an employer/employee dynamic going on with a lot of mutual hate/thinly disguised attraction. And hey, I wrote smut so you've been warned. Anyway, enjoy 😅

Song Inspiration: Take you to hell - Ava Max

Movie Inspiration: The Hating Game

“MISS EVERDEEN!”

Katniss cringed visibly as she stood up from her seat and walked out of her cubicle, wondering why her boss was yelling her name.

He really needs someone to pull that stick out of his ass.

She knocked on his office door, smoothed her pencil skirt, and waited.

“Come in,” he sounded breathless, husky, and inherently sexy…Katniss shook her head to get rid of the train of thought. She couldn’t think that way about CEO Mellark, for one thing, he was her boss and she hated his smug ass for crying out loud!

“Ms. Everdeen,” he nodded, looking sinfully sexy in his navy suit. It did wicked things for his shocking blue eyes…

“I received a…gift, let’s say and I am not happy with either the gift or the accompanying note,” he said bluntly and she gulped. I am glad I didn’t give him what I originally wanted to give him. Hmmm, maybe Johanna gave him a sex tape or something? The explanation seemed plausible until Peeta opened his drawer and pulled out a familiar box. A very familiar box.

“Explain this to me, Ms. Everdeen because I have racked my brain and can’t come up with anything that would result in my secret Santa gifting me this,” he motioned towards the box of extra large vibrating dildo in her favourite green colour.

“I um,” she couldn’t come up with an articulate response and the smug asshole took it as his victory.

“Very well, I have no choice but to send this gift along with the note to Mr. Everdeen, he is well I presume?” Peeta smirked and she nodded nervously. If her father saw the box AND read the note, she can say goodbye to any respect he had for her along with passing the gossip material to his golf buddies.

“Peeta!” she hissed, trying to snatch the box but it seems he knew what her next move would be as he swiped the box and stood at his full height, holding it over her head.

“It’s Mr. Mellark to you, Ms. Everdeen, I am above all, still your goddamn employer,” he grinned looking very pleased with himself and she scowls at him.

“Mr. Mellark, sir, with all due respect, I am twenty fucking six and I no longer can be grounded by my father or anyone,” she growls, trying to get the damn box by jumping towards it and losing her balance. Fucking heels! I am going to set them on fire as soon as I go home.

Of course, he holds her wobbly form upright while keeping the box out of her reach.

“You’re not my mother or teacher that you can tattle to my father about shit,” she snapped and Peeta blinked before a slow smile spread across his entirely-too-gorgeous face.

“You’re right, I am not your mother or teacher and you’re a damn grown-up for heaven’s sake,” he says and pushes her to sit on his desk.

“Which is why I will teach you manners the way you teach them to a grown, stubborn woman,” he snarled, his eyes darkening and her own eyes widened.

“Wait what?” she asked but she lost all control of her mouth when the blond moved in and captured her lips in an aggressive kiss. It took her a while to process what was happening before she clamped her mouth shut and tried pushing him away.

That made Peeta growl before he dove in again and bit her earlobe hard, causing her to moan embarrassingly loud. He took it as an invitation and kissed her again, biting her lower lip hard enough to hurt. Damn, what got his boxers in a twist?

“Mr. Mellark, sir-“ her words are cut off by his low groan and he pulled away, leaving them both panting hard.

“I like that, keep calling me ‘sir’ or ‘Mr. Mellark’,” the asshole grinned. She huffed and crossed her legs in an effort to control her growing arousal. Traitorous body!

“In fact, I also like you sitting there, looking angry at the world but with flushed cheeks, messed up hair, and those delectable lips all swollen and red,” he winked and she started fiddling with her braid, trying to contain a pleased smile. Jesus almighty what the fuck did he do to me? I hate hate HATE him and yet he made me feel like I am falling and drowning all at once…

“Whatever,” she scowled at him and his eyes moved to her face and then her shirt which conveniently was unbuttoned at the top. Sly bastard!

Getting off his desk, she stomped towards the door before being pulled back and shoved against the wall.

“Did I dismiss you?” he gritted out, pressing his body flush against her, trapping her between his strong body and the wall. She shook her head ‘no’, staring intently at his shoes, feeling a rush of excitement run through her.

“Look at me,” he hissed, cupping her face and forcing her to look in his deep blues.

“I am going to teach you how to treat your superiors, Ms. Everdeen and you’re going to take it all with a smile on your pretty face,” he told her, rubbing his hardness on her thigh.

God, he’s turned on by me? I just hope he doesn’t realize how much I want him to bruise my beef curtains…

He gave her another hard kiss on her swollen lips and she instinctively kissed him back, whining when he abruptly pulled away from her.

Smirking like the dickhead she knew he was, Peeta stalked towards his desk and pulled out a scrap of paper with something written on it. Katniss gulped when she caught sight of her own handwriting.

“You, Ms. Everdeen, will read this aloud while I screw that stubbornness out of you,” he chuckled darkly, stalking towards her like a predator. She doesn’t move and as much as it bruises her pride to admit, she really wants him to make good on his threats.

“And since I am your boss, you’ll have to follow my orders too,” he mocks and she bit her lip to stop herself from screaming ‘Yes, please, god yes!’

“Alright, take off those torture devices first,” he motioned towards her heels and she sighed in relief. Glad he doesn’t have the heel fetish or my feet would’ve ceased working.

Taking off her heels, Katniss shuddered when he pulled the elastic securing her braid and placing wet kisses on her neck and shoulder.

“Oh!” she gasped when he found a sensitive spot even she wasn’t aware of. Peeta of course realized that too and started paying more attention to that spot while slowly unbuttoning her shirt.

It’s not fair he gets to touch me and I can’t, oh wait, he never told me not to.

The thought is enough to make her pull away, turn around and pull him down for a kiss, finally admitting to herself that she had wanted him badly since she walked in to apply for a job. And not to mention, fantasized about his handsome smug face as he did wicked things to her.

“Take it off,” he said gruffly and she gulped and let the shirt fall on the ground.

But being as impatient as he is, Peeta started trailing his fingers up her thighs, so slowly that she felt delirious with want but he wouldn’t touch her there.

“Peeta!” she groaned and he stifled a chuckle, no doubt amused by her neediness.

“Unhook your bra and take it off slowly, then I want you to take that lacy little thing you call underwear off and give it to me,” he murmured in her ear, moving his fingers softly over her drenched underwear.

Katniss squirmed against his fingers, desperately seeking relief but he removed his hands and grinned cheekily.

Aroused and pissed, she took extra time taking off her bra, trailing her fingers down her breasts and down her thighs, mewling softly.

“Fuck it!” he exclaimed huskily and pulled down her thong, stuffing it into his jacket pocket before getting rid of his pants.

His haste made Katniss smirk, and she felt victorious as Peeta tripped over his pants and nearly tore off his button-down.

“You’ll pay for this,” he simply said, as if he told her a fact like ‘I have a meeting today’ or something, and Katniss knew he would have his fun. I should never have messed with him…

“How do you like this, Katniss? I’ll make you regret ever picking me as your work enemy, make sure you feel how angry I was each and every time you pissed me off with your attitude,” he said with a devilish smile, pulling her flush against his now naked body.

She arched her back with a moan, loving the feel of his heated skin against her own as he fondled her tits and pinched her nipples until they were tight oversensitive buds.

“Read it, I want to hear you read it,” he hissed lowly and she nodded and brought the paper in front of her face.

“To not-so-dearest CEO Fuckface Mellark,” she whispered, moaning when he ran his fingers along her slit.

“Nice and wet, aren’t we?” he asked cockily, gathering the moisture and spreading it over her nipples. “I think the only reason you used to antagonize me so much was that you were frustrated, weren’t you Kitty?” he whispered, squeezing her dripping pussy softly. “Keep reading!”

Moaning loudly, she focused on the paper again, ignoring how madly turned on she was.

He lifted her up and her legs wrapped around his waist as if it wasn’t the first time they were doing that.

“Merry Christmas. It is I, your secret Santa. I know you’re my boss and all but I’ll be honest in this because I know you’ll never find this letter,” she groaned, realizing the other, real gift she wrapped in the same damn coloured paper must still be home. This is what you get for wrapping two gifts in the same-

She wailed loudly as he pushed them towards the wall and took a nipple in his mouth.

“Peeta raging bitch Mellark, you aren’t Apollo, the sun god, so stop acting like a superior prick because the sun definitely doesn’t shine out of your ass-“ she mewled loudly as he began thrusting his fingers in her overflowing cunt.

“Apollo huh? How can you think of someone else when I am finger fucking your slick as hell pussy?” he teased, pulling his fingers out and trailing them up to her body making her squirm and her mouth groan.

“Since we have established you aren’t god’s gift to humanity AND the sun doesn’t shine out of your windward passage, I have decided to gift you with something you desperately need- ohhhh God, Peetah!” she screamed when he finally thrust his cock inside her. He started thrusting in and out at a pace that would have been punishing, but she was so turned on by that point that he had her screaming in pleasure.

“So I am gifting you this monster dildo in my favourite colour so you can work out some tension whenever you feel the extra need to act like a colossal dickhead,” she panted out, and the last part turned into a long drawn out moan as he hit that spot that made her yell incoherently and squeeze her eyes shut.

“And know…that I gave the, the toy to ensure nothing crawls up your ass and dies and you stay in a sunny, happy mood-“ Katniss’ voice quivered as Peeta moaned loudly, thrusting faster and harder if that’s even possible, making her see the goddamn stars. God even the sounds he makes are so damn hot I can use them as a soundtrack for self-loving sessions.

He groaned, pressing down on her clit and she screamed in ecstasy, her voice raspy due to all the screaming. She squeezed his cock while coming down from her high and he came with a shout, painting her walls with his thick, hot cum.

They clung to each other, catching their breath and Katniss read out the last of her note.

“Because you really need to stop acting like a high and mighty douchebag whose got a permanent stick jammed up your ass, with i-swear-they-are-sincere wishes, your secret Santa, K,” she said softly and Peeta started shaking. Geez, I sure pissed him with the ending I guess.

It took her a few short moments to realize he was laughing. Honest to god shaking with laughter and tears pooling in his eyes. Just what I needed to see, those damn tears make his eyes appear so blue it feels like God crafted them out of Zircon gems.

She smiled at his face because he really did look adorable with his tousled sweaty curls, flushed cheeks, and throaty chuckle. His amusement was infectious, apparently, and Katniss found herself joining him in his mirth.

“Oh god! I don’t remember laughing that hard in years!” he wheezed, putting her down and wiping his eyes.

“It really wasn’t that funny,” she snorted.

“Well I appreciate the sentiment and I am pretty sure I can find some use for your thoughtful gift,” he teased, locating his briefs and pants.

Katniss smiled and they dressed up in silence, the question of what will happen next hanging in the air. Maybe he isn’t as bad as my mind made him seem.

“Will I see you again tomorrow?” Peeta asked, kissing her softly and she grinned and smacked his arm.

“You see me every day, I work here after all. But I really gotta go now, Peeta, people will be suspicious!” she sighed and Peeta’s smile turned wicked.

“They already know what happened here since both of us weren’t the least bit quiet so you can stop trying to look acceptable because the only person you need to impress is me and I am plenty impressed,”

“Don’t act so smug,” she snarked, and Peeta knelt and helped her put on her heels.

“I’ll see you later, Mr. Mellark,” she said, opening his office door.

“You know you don’t need to be so formal with me now that we know each other so intimately. But in all honesty, you look absolutely dick-timized,” he gave her a smile that says i-screwed-her-good-and-am-proud-as-fuck-about-it before adding, “And Katniss, from now on, you’ll be staying in late and helping me with more job-related work.”

“What? But that’ll mean you’ll have to, I don’t know, give me a promotion or something because there’s no effing way I will work extra for no added benefits,” she told him, eying him warily. I really hope he doesn’t mean he wants me to stay as his personal slampiece or something. What’s worse is, I don’t think I’ll mind…

He chuckled like the arrogant twat he was. Great, Peeta the proud prick is back.

“Don’t tell me you arent ad-dickted to the feeling of your boss’ big fat cock buried deep inside you. You don’t have to pretend you don’t want a piece of me on a regular basis now that you have had a little taste. I am quite the catch you know, everyone says so,” he beamed as if he didn’t just talk about his apparent superiority.

“And I like ‘em half baked,” he winked and Katniss’ mouth dropped open.

“And what does that mean?” she retorted, crossing her arms and scowling.

“It means I like them younger, all ambition, feisty behavior with a hot body. Younger women are more, half baked bread and I love that, it’s my favourite,” he shrugged like it wasn’t a big deal and Katniss’ mouth dropped open in humiliation and outrage.

“So, I wasn’t the only one,” she said, sounding so bitter she couldn't believe it could sound that way.

He doesn’t answer, choosing to pick at his cuticles.

I changed my mind, he is most definitely, 100% the way my mind made him seem, she thought irately.

“Good to know, Mr. Mellark, good to know. I am not your personal skank no matter how much you pay me for it so you can forget any gland-to-gland combat happening anytime soon,” she hissed before stomping towards his office door.

“Dismissed!” comes his way-too-cheerful voice as she stomped out of his office, stewing in silent anger. Just when I thought he was a decent person, ugh! I hate that-that…

“And Katniss, I was just messing with you, I am not one to take advantage or sleep with my employees. With that out of the way, I want you in my office, five PM, every day,” he said gruffly and his office door closed loudly.

He’s so fucking frustrating! If that’s how you wanna play Peeta Mellark, we’ll play it your way.

And with that thought, her scowl turned into an evil grin as she thought of all the ways she could drive him insane, including but not limited to fuckable lace panties and fishnet stockings.

#everlarkholidaybingo2021 #everlark fanfiction #Everlark oneshot #CEO Peeta Mellark #Finance Manager Katniss #older!Peeta

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jlalafics · 3 years ago

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Prompt- Peeta is Katniss’ boss. They f*** the night before her first day of work, having no idea who each other are. How does the big reveal go down?

“Katniss, you’re right over here—” Madge Undersee, HR Manager, led her to the whitewood desk with a computer and phone. “Breakroom is down the hall and to the right. All conference rooms are upstairs, and my office is on the third floor. I’m extension 212 on your phone should you have any questions.”

Katniss smiled brightly. “Thanks.”

“Of course!” The pretty blonde beamed. “Welcome to the team.”

Katniss rested her coat at the back of her chair before sitting down in front of the wide computer screen. She then reached into her bag, pulling out her portfolio and a mug, a photo of her and Prim, her little sister, printed onto it.

Her little sister had presented it to her as a congratulations for her new position.

A buzz of her cellphone caught her attention and looking out to make sure no one saw her; Katniss spun her chair around to look at its screen.

‘Where the hell did you disappear to last night?!’

Her face went red as she texted Johanna, her best friend, quickly:

‘I’m sorry! Met the hottest man…and things progressed.’

The memory of waking up this morning in a stranger’s bed rose from her mind, her cheeks heating. Katniss barely had time to take in the luxurious penthouse before rushing out to go to her apartment to shower and change for her first day.

‘Oh, did a little celebrating, didn’t you?’ Johanna responded.

‘More like a lot of celebrating.’

‘How was his cock?’

Katniss snorted. ‘I won’t be walking properly for days.’

“For days, huh?”

She froze, recognizing the deep timbre of the man’s voice. It had quivered against her skin as he came inside her…repeatedly.

Swiveling, Katniss found her one-night stand standing before her, suited up and looking fucking delicious.

“Peeta—” Madge rushed over and gave him a smile. “—this is our newest employee, Katniss Everdeen. Katniss, the CEO of Mellark Industries, Peeta Mellark. You’ll be assisting him in anything he needs.”

Oh shit.

Peeta smirked, plucking the phone from her hands, and quickly looking at the screen.

“I don’t usually allow phones out on the desk, but I’ll allow it…this time.” He typed something quickly before giving it back and giving her a sly wink. “Welcome to Mellark Industries, Katniss. Looking forward to working with you.”

With that, he walked into the office—right in front of her desk.

Madge excused herself to head to a meeting.

Looking down, Katniss read the message, her knees almost giving way:

‘If she hadn’t rushed off this morning, I would’ve gladly provided her with an ice pack.’

FIN.

#anon #ceo!Peeta #one night stand Everlark #Everlark #Everlark ficlet #Everlark fanfiction #there will be a SECOND night

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goddessofdawns · 3 years ago

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Dark Days Announcement post!

Here we are again! I'm creating a new themed day on my account.

I would just do this on one day of the weekend, however because of the shifts I work, it has to be over both days.

So I'm here announcing Dark Days!

This weekend will purely be for dark themes and concepts with any character I write for.

Examples of dark concepts:

Stepcest (Stepdad, stepbro), noncon/dubcon, mafia au, boyfriends dad, father in law, some aspects of ceo au and babysitter au's, I'm also including dads best friend au's and anything like that.

Fandoms/characters I will write for:

Harry Potter: Remus Lupin, James Potter, Sirius Black, Fred Weasley, George Weasley, Draco Malfoy

Marvel: Loki Laufeyson, Thor Odinson, Bucky Barnes, Steve Rogers, Pietro Maximoff, Wanda Maximoff, Natasha Romanoff, Tony Stark, Helmut Zemo, Sam Wilson

Maze Runner: Newt, Thomas, Gally, Minho

Hunger Games: Peeta Mellark, Finnick Odair

Criminal Minds: Aaron Hotchner, Derek Morgan, Spencer Reid

Shameless: Lip Gallagher

All posts for dark days will be tagged appropriately, you are responsible for your own media consumption.

Tags to block:

#jays dark days

#jays dark thoughts

#jays dark days #jays dark thoughts #i really hope this doesn't flop #cause i'm so excited for this

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everlarkficexchange · 5 years ago

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Everlark Fic Exchange: Masterlist

Springtime Edition (2020).

The King's Mistress by @eiramrelyat

Prompt 9: Katniss is a commoner and peeta is a cruel king. He wants katniss to be his mistress. How will they fall in love is up to you. [submitted by anonymous]

Stay with Me Just for Now by @booksrockmyface

Prompt 10: katniss and peeta are best friends who were in a friends w benefits arrangement in the past. now the hunger for each other is coming back. [submitted by anonymous]

A Quiet Announcement by @albinokittens300

Prompt 11: in panem au where everlark isn’t reaped and peeta knocks up katniss. [submitted by @sunflowerslyf]

Prompt #12: by @endlessnightlock

Prompt 12: katniss walks out of the fitting room wearing only a bikini to ask her friend if it suits her but it isnt her friend at the other side of the door but peeta. [submitted by anonymous]

When You Were Mine by @pitualba2015

Prompt 20: Peeta is the CEO and katniss is his secretary. They have an affair and katniss gets pregnant but when she tells peeta he doesn’t believe her and accuse her of trying to trap him. What will he do when he realize his mistake and how will he win katniss back. [submitted by anonymous]

Two Households by @everlarkandhistory

Prompt 22: Set in early 20th century. Katniss and Peeta are from two rival families who have been enemies since forever. They have a chance meeting which led to them falling in love. They are completely unaware of their identity. Will their love survive or will their relationship crumble. [submitted by @mysteriouslycraftyreview]

Operation: BREAD (Bring Revenge on Everdeen to Avenge Dad) by @alliswell21

Prompt 23: Rumor: MrEverdeen crossed fence dividing Town and Seam, kidnapped Mrs Everdeen making her his commonlaw wife. Years later, Mellark sons plan to avenge their father by raiding Seam and kidnapping one of Everdeens daughters for one of them to take as a wife! Does Katniss “volunteer,” does she escape, how do the 3 brothers decide what to do with her since they didn’t plan it all out well? [submitted by @567inpanem]

lying in the bed we made (if it wasn't us) by @archersandsunsets

Prompt 26: the night before the Quarter Quell, in the sleepless dark, Katniss and Peeta allow themselves to indulge in the bittersweet dream of a future they’ll never have together (“if it wasn’t us, what would you do?” “I’d want to marry you” “tell me”) [submitted by @rosegardeninwinter]

The Proper Response by @madetofly

Prompt 29: Post-MJ, Growing Together. Peeta is finally showing his affection and love for Katniss as they heal and reconnect. Katniss, being Katniss, seems to act like she doesn’t appreciate this, and is less than enthused. Peeta, taking this like an adult, stops showing her with the affection and tries to show her his love in other ways. Katniss, however, does not appreciate him stopping those things and set out to try and get him to continue it again because she misses it. [submitted by @albinokittens300]

All the World's a Stage by @katnissdoesnotfollowback

Prompt 31: “We never see you two so much as kiss in public but last night we all heard you having sex.” Submitted by Buttercupbadass

Misconceptions by @awkwardeverlark

Prompt 35: No reaping AU. At 19, Katniss considers marrying Gale for practical reasons; the fact she just heard the baker’s son toasted and was assigned a house at the edge of town has nothing to do with it... maybe. What happens next? (was Peeta really married or was it his brother? Does she marry Gale? Does Everlark ever talk? Will Peeta cheat if he’s actually married? Can Katniss admit she loves the Boy with the Bread? Is this forbidden love?) is up to you. [submitted by anonymous]

No One's Gonna Need You More by @ambpersand

Prompt 36: Frustrated and stressed out Single dad!Peeta needs a fuck desperately. His best friend, Katniss, unwittingly offers to help him out. Things get murky with repressed feelings, but one thing’s certain, Peeta can’t keep his hands to himself anymore and Katniss is all too willing to oblige at the drop of a hat, regardless of place, time and her own emotions, as long as he keeps whispering all his sexy, filthy thoughts into her ear. [submitted by anonymous]

Vidua by @darkhorse-javert

Prompt 44: Believing that taking a new young bride every 5 years will keep him youthful, Snow arranges to marry wife #12 from D12. In the hours between the ceremony and the wedding night, he drops dead. 16-yr-old Katniss returns to 12 but now she’s “Widow Snow.” Can she ever be Katniss, district huntress again? With all that $, wedding gifts, etc that were sent on the train with her? [submitted by @567inpanem]

Fortune Favors the Brave by @ambpersand

Prompt 46: Pacific Rim inspired AU with drift compatible Everlark (or not if you’re inspired by angst). I really just want to see more of that aspect of Pacific Rim explored than what they did in the movie and what better way to do it than with Everlark! [submitted by @katnissdoesnotfollowback]

Fate Takes a Break by @ally147writes

Prompt 50: everlark discovering on their date that they've missed each other their whole lives (living in the same city, went to the same high school, going to the same halloween and nye parties, were set up before by different friends but stood each other up, shopping at the same store, etc.) [submitted by @sunflowerslyf]

I Choose You by @wendywobbles

Prompt 51: Katniss E, the Valedictorian of Panem High school, is perfect in all fields of life. And that is the crush of awkward, average in studies, not so popular, never had a girlfriend, often bullied Peeta M. Not only does she have a very popular friend circle but also a handsome, popular boyfriend Gale H. Will she even want to be his friend? Is his crush doomed to fail? Eventual Everlark. [submitted by @white-dandelion-seeds]

The Change by @alliswell21

Prompt 59: Growing up Peeta started loving her. It was a gradual thing that happened throughout his childhood and into his teens. But something changes when he hits puberty. Her scent has heightened, he can spot her from miles away. He gets a bit possessive. But the biggest thing is when his body starts to heat up and even just the thought of you gets him hard for days. He finds out the family secret of his werewolf genes, something his parents thought passed him. How can he go by with his day and be with her without scaring her away by humping her because of his heat. [submitted by @animekpopxx]

By The Moonlight Side by @endlessnightlock

Chapter 2

Prompt 61: Peeta knew better, but he did stupid things when he got drunk. Now he’s caged at the animal shelter in his wolf form. And, omg, Katniss Everdeen let her little sister drag her in to see the dogs?! He knows he shouldn’t, but teen hormones. He just wants to lick her hand. Get a tummy rub. Hump her leg. Sleep on her bed. Omg, they take him home!!!! He needs to let his dad know where he is. Omg. He needs to figure out his bakery shift. “God, don’t let Katniss catch me licking my balls.” [submitted by @567inpanem]

Maybe Tomorrow by @katnissdoesnotfollowback

Prompt 62: one night stand!everlark sleeping together the same night a terrible snowstorm hits the city and everything gets shut down with no way to get home. perhaps a two night stand? [submitted by anonymous]

Genesis by @rosegardeninwinter

Prompt 66: Everlark post apocalypse, katniss and peeta are neighbors and the only two that make it to katniss's father's bunker in time. Over the course of several years the two have grown quite close having no one else, but now provisions are running low. Do they face the unknown outside or stay put, knowing they only have food to last another week? [sent by anonymous]

Sunset on Grass by @alliswell21

Prompt 67: Her parents said that it was just a childhood crush and that she will outgrow it. But why does her heart flutters. When she’s finally old enough to get a job, she immediately gets a part time job to be close to him. Will is pursue her love against people’s negative views because he’s so much older than her. Or go for it and make him fall in love with her. Age Gap Older!Peeta. [submitted by @animekpopxx]

A Taste of Rebellion by @acpoe82

Prompt 68: Dark Coffee Shop AU - Capitol Peeta runs a Coffee/Pastry shop in the poshest part of the Capitol. Near by President Snow’s Mansion. Capitol!Katniss is a frequent customer. Things in the Capitol begin to deteriorate as the rebellion drags on. Are they sympathetic to the rebel cause? [submitted by @oakfarmer12]

You're Not Alone by @sunsetsrmydreams

Prompt 70: Peeta picks up a hitchhiker in the mountains one night, only to find it's his childhood best friend and now escaped convict Katniss Everdeen. In a panic he calls police but after hearing her side of the story comes to believe she didn't actually murder anyone. Everlark on the run. [submitted by anonymous]

Forever and a day... by @thegirlfromoverthepond

Prompt 73: I am a simple woman: I just want Katniss Everdeen content and loved and washed in moonlight I don’t care how you do it. [submitted by @rosegardeninwinter]

The Most Unlikely Serendipity by @albinokittens300

PART 2, PART 3, PART 4

Prompt 75: An in-Panem arranged marriage a/u where Katniss is slightly older than Peeta. [submitted by @endlessnightlock]

Shots Make Me Sing by @sunsetsrmydreams

Prompt 81: Katniss finds her soulmate at her bachelorette party (aka Peeta)(Happy ending please) [submitted by anonymous]

when we’re underneath the lights my heart’s no longer broken by @omercilessmoon

Prompt 92: High school musical au: katniss and peeta as troy and Gabriella. [submitted by anonymous]

December nights in June by @viloula

Prompt 110: AU. Everlark live across from each other in fancy New York (or the like) penthouses. With all those large windows, they see each other daily and know the other's routine and all he/she does, but they've never met. A chance meeting occurs. What will happen? The circumstances of their living arrangements/any backstory and what happens between them is up to you. [submitted by @acpoe82]

High Heels at Midnight by @hutchhitched

Prompt 134: Visual Prompt. To see it go HERE [submitted by @javistg]

must work hard, tolerate cats by @mendontprotectyou

Prompt 140: In Panem AU where Peeta is a Mail Order Husband. As the youngest son of a merchant class Capitol family, he has accepted he will never inherit the family bakery. But when his family contract him to an arranged marriage to further the business he will never own, he escapes by signing up to a programme to relocate and marry a district woman. Why Katniss needs a husband, is up to the author. Everlark endgame :) [submitted by @louezem]

Notes:

Fics organized by prompt number.

Masterlist compiled on May 11, 2020. Subject to change. New works will be added as they’re posted to the @everlarkficexchange.

Looking for updated versions of the multi-chapter fics? Try our AO3 Collection

#springtime edition 2020 #masterlist #our fics

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thehopefuldandelion · 5 years ago

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Not Him

part 2

part 1 is here on ao3. here on fanfiction.net

thanks to all who supported me in part 1 specifically @lovely-tothe-bone and @tindomrl

everlark.

I do not own any of these characters:)

***

A day later and I still hadn’t process the fact that just yesterday, Gale and his “intern”, Madge, were in my bed. Gale cheated on me. So what, maybe I had some erotic thoughts about Peeta. I hadn’t actually gone through with them. He’s my boss anyway. I can’t think like that.

Shaking that thought away, I focus on getting ready for the day. Another day ignoring Peeta, another day without Gale. I get dressed quickly in a pencil skirt and button up shirt with a black suit jacket. The more conservative today, the better.

The apartment seems, empty, without another soul here. The tv which used to drown out the blaring noise of honking cars is silent, no dents in the couch to be seen. I don’t have to cook breakfast for two people, instead just for me. One singular person. I suck in a breath and release it. In all honesty, the apartment might seem empty, lonely even, but I don’t miss Gale. As our relationship dwindled and tottered over the edge, we became more like roommates. I can’t even remember the last time he touched me romantically. Pass by pecks and simple questions with simple answers is the only interaction we really had near the end. No wonder he cheated on me.

I should probably be making a bigger deal out of this but I’m too exhausted to care. Gale seemed done with me so why should I still keep rekindling the tiny fire we had? I push all these thoughts that have haunted me since last night far back into my overwhelmed brain and hope that today goes smoothly.

Shit. There goes the milk spilling all over the floor. Yeah today is not gonna be smooth. I don’t have time for this. Shit. Shit. Shit. I hear the toaster pop! meaning the toast is done, burnt, of course. And as I spread butter a chunk slides down my freshly ironed shirt. Fuck. On my way to the bedroom, pretty much jogging, I bump my hip into the chair, hard, (that will leave a bruise) causing me to stub my toe on the door post.

“Aghhhhhhhhh,” I scream in pain and frustration.

I guess this is the world punishing me for some odd reason. Dang. I’m late. I mean I do need this job, but I won’t have to see Peeta anymore so it’s kinda a win-win. Not really, in the end it would be a hard loss and a joyful win. Stop thinking, Katniss. You need to get to work. Yikes. This day sucks.

***

“Good Morning, Katniss,” Peeta greets me while sipping a cup of coffee. Black.

“Hello, Peeta. How was your night?”

“Wonderful. Isn’t it such a lovely day?” He says looking straight at me. I noticed he didn’t even glance out the clear windows. “And how are you on this beautiful day?”

“Uh, it’s great...I’m great,”I respond while gritting my teeth. I can’t stand his kindness. He peered at me, his face in disbelief, turning his head slightly.

He almost scoffs and then says, “Ok, Katniss. Whatever you say.”

What is he? A psychopath? Telekinetic? Wouldn't be surprised.

“Oh, and Katniss? You have a stain on your shirt.”

Fuck.

Over the past week of working at this hell-hole, I observed Peeta giving me looks, unsettling but not in a vicious way. I almost want to relish in the tingling feeling they bring from head to toe. What is wrong with me. My brain and heart are sending two very different signals to my body. I need to throw all thoughts of Peeta in the sudden absent trashcan in my baffled brain. Can anyone find that missing trashcan?

“Katniss?” I hear someone call from behind me.

My chair swivels around and I see a jubilantly smiling Peeta fixated on me, or more particularly the stain. Ugh, that freakin stain. He pulls a hand from behind his back and I see he’s holding a shirt. I give him a befuddled look and he quickly stammers to explain what it’s for.

“Uh, I always have an extra button up with me and was wondering if...well if...if you wanted to wear it until tomorrow. I mean, obviously, you can change when you get home. You don’t actually have to wear it until tomorrow.” He rubs the back of his neck with his hand and blushes a deep shade of red. “So, if you’d be interested, I uh-”

I save him the embarrassment by grabbing the shirt out of his hands and running to the bathroom. He gives me a bewildered look and I almost want to laugh. But I don’t. Because I hate him. Right? Right. Lie. And me borrowing his shirt is just because I have no other option. Right. Lie.

Slowly unbuttoning my shirt, I imagine what this would feel like if it was a different situation with Peeta unbuttoning it for me. Oh god. A shoot of pleasure settles in my lower half. What is this man doing to me?

The white button up smells of dill and almost, if I’m not mistaken, cinnamon. The sweet smell wafts into my nose making me hungry. As expected, I am engulfed in the shirt, enveloping me in warmth and...love? That’s bizarre. I never associated Peeta and love. Those two never intermingled in my mind. With the shirt tucked into my skirt and having splashed frigid water on my face, I walk, no, speed-walk towards my desk.

Peeta pops his head out from his office and is about to say something when he looks at me. His mouth opens a few times but no words form. Ok then. “K...Katniss, uh, um, I, uh, can you-

The phone rings distracting me momentarily from his stammering.

“This is she.”

“Yes, he is here.”

“I’ll transfer you now.”

I turn to Peeta, seeing him still utterly flabbergasted, and say, “Katie’s Cakes on line 1, Mr. Mellark.”

Recovered, he answers, “Thank...Thanks, Katniss.” In a blink of an eye he is back in his office with the door safely closed.

I snort to myself and wonder where else the day will lead.

***

My head is throbbing. Countless phone calls and a trip to the coffee shop down the street later and its 6pm, and I’m still at work. Honestly, a pint of Ben and Jerry’s and Netflix are calling my name. Ugh, I can’t wait to go home. I should've brought some Advil. Mentally adding that reminder for next time.

A quick glance around the office assures me I’m the only one here. Hallelujah. I’m starving. Maybe there's something in the break room. As I open the fridge and bend down to reach some leftover cookies form a party, I hear a gasp and someone run out of the room. Huh. That’s odd. My head hurts and I’m hungry so I guess I’m hallucinating. Eh, it happens.

Oh my God. These cookies are heaven on earth. I moan as I take a bite. Another gasp. What the hell. It can't be me...can it? I start to investigate. My thought process is that if it is a demon or ghost, at least I can die and never have to come here again. The only lights on are from my cubicle and...wait that's weird, why are Peeta’s office lights on. Hmm.

As I turn the corner to get to his office, I bump into a something hard.

“Oof.”

“Are you ok, I’m so sorry Katniss.”

It takes me a second to regain my bearings. “Peeta? What the fuck?”

“Ah, I didn’t mean to bump into you,” he says with a slight blush on his cheeks. He then offers his hand for me to take and helps me up. I brush the dust from the ground of my skirt.

Ok, then.

“It’s fine Peeta. I’ll survive.”

“CanIbuyyoudinner?”

“What?”

“Uh, can I take you out?” he says.

“As a date?” I inquire him. There is no way in hell I would go on a date with Peeta Mellark. Right?

“Um,” he rubs the back of his neck, the blush spreading from his cheeks to his ears, then neck. “I guess. I was thinking more of an apology. For bumping into you, that is.”

“Ok,” I say slowly, reminding myself this is not a date. Yes, definitely not a date. “When?”

“Now?”

“Uh, um, sure. Yes, now is fine.” I say quickly trying to cover up my stammering.

I walk over to grab my purse and put on my jacket. “So where, were you thinking?”

“I have something in mind,” he tells me with a glimmer of mischief in his eyes.

***

We end up at a bakery about 2 miles outside of city limits. I was confused at first, until Peeta told me he grew up around here and worked at this bakery until taking over Mellark Enterprises from his dad. The bakery is small and homey, wood tables slightly worn down from years of use. The counters are stained, each stain telling a story. It seemed like a nice place to grow up, full of love and laughter, something I never understood.

Peeta lets me try a variety of pastries, all delicious and mouth watering.

“I actually own this bakery.” Peeta tells me.

“So that’s why we are in here safe and sound and not arrested for breaking and entering.” I tease him.

He laughs and looks me in the eyes. “I don’t come here often enough, being CEO of a company and all,” he says while stabbing his fork into a muffin. “It’s peaceful out here. Almost like, everyone has taken time to reflect on their lives and go about their days how they want too.”

“So, what I’m picking up on is you didn't want to be a CEO of a multi-million dollar company.”

“Honestly, no.” He breathes out. “I wanted to be a famous painter and if that didn't work out I’d just stay here, spending the rest of my days baking.”

“Makes, sense. Painter you say? Just how good are you?” I laugh.

Peeta shrugs his shoulders. “I’m not terrible.” One of his curls has fallen over his eyes and it takes all my restraint to not reach my hand over and brush it back.

Hours later we were still talking and laughing. I was having a great time.

“No, way. You actually said you were the doctor and flew around in the TARDIS. I can’t believe she considered that that was true.”

“Oh, yeah. She was mortified. Best blind date I’ve ever been on.”

“Well, I wouldn't have run off,” I blush.

“Good to know,” Peeta says in return, giving me a look of hope.

We both just peer at each other, lost in thoughts of our own. The silence isn't awkward per se, it’s almost satiated.

“Well, I should get home. I do have work after all.”

“Of course, Katniss. Thanks for joining me. I hope this evening was apology enough,” he says kindly.

“It will suffice,” I tease.

“I’ll see you tomorrow?” he asks, almost sad to see me go.

“Tomorrow. Good Night, Peeta.”

“’Night, Katniss.”

I drive away feeling strange. Do I like my boss? More importantly, do I like Peeta Mellark?

***

After hanging up my coat and setting down my purse, I shimmy of my skirt, keeping Peeta’s button up on, I jump into bed and spread out like a starfish. This day is over. Finally. As my eyes become heavy and I drift off into a deep slumber, my phone pings!

From: Unknown 11:46

Hey Katniss, this is Peeta. I just wanted to know if you got home safe.

From: Katniss 11:47

Hi Peeta. I did thank you for your concern. Sleep Well.

From: Peeta Mellark 11:49

Sweet Dreams, Katniss.

I turn off my phone, not even considering what the message implies. It’s been a long day and the last thing I need to worry about is Peeta and I’s relationship.

I remembered to set my alarm last night, luckily, so I won't be late for work. I am still wearing Peeta’s button up. Slowly, but surely, I get out of bed, shower, and eat breakfast. I turn on the tv, because I need some distraction. Opening the window next to the fire exit, allows for some much needed air into the apartment. A familiar voice draws me out of my mental to do list for today.

Holy Shit.

Peeta is on tv. Why didn't I know about this? I’m his secretary for god’s sake. Caesar Flickerman who hosts Good Morning Panem is asking him questions about everything, from his favorite food to his love life.

“So, Peeta. What's it like being the CEO if such a profitable company?”

“Uh, it’s great. Hard work, but it’s good,” Peeta says with a somber look on his face. I think back to our conversations last night. He never asked to be CEO, but it was thrust upon him like a teacher giving homework.

“That’s awesome, Peeta.” Caesar leans back in his chair preparing to ask the next question. “Tell me, you were just added on “Forbes Top 10″ and given the title of “Panem’s Most Eligible Bachelor”. Anyone out there who catches your eye?”

Peeta has a slight hesitation in his voice before looking the camera in the eye and saying, “No, not really anyone at the moment.”

“Aw, c’mon Peeta. There must be one special someone. You can tell us.” Caesar inquires.

I see Peeta gulp nervously and blink a couple times. “Well, there is this one girl. I’ve loved her since forever, really.”

The audience, including Caesar, perk up at this. “Here’s what you do, buy her some flowers and chocolates and win her heart.”

“She’s not really that type of girl, plus I think she hates me.”

“Ah, well that's too bad,” Caesar shrugs. “Her loss. Am I right folks?”

The audience abounds in laughter and claps. Who is this mystery girl? I mean I hate Peeta, or used too, but it can't be me. Can it? Shaking those thoughts away, I turn off the tv, and grab my jacket and purse. Time to start the day.

***

Peeta’s office is still locked. I’m assuming he is still at Good Morning Panem. These past few days have been, strange. From breaking up with Gale, realizing I don't hate Peeta, and finding out he loves this mystery girl, I just don't know what to expect from this job anymore. My mind can’t process this abundance of, in a way, drama. Hey, I’m anti-social. What can I say?

Sticky notes with phone numbers and lists can be found on almost every surface of my workspace. I try to eliminate the countless number of them as the day drags on. No sign of Peeta. It’s boring without his tacky humor and clever remarks.

I decide to call Annie to get me out of this slump.

“Hey Katniss! What’s up?” Annie asks. “Peeta likes, no, loves someone and I think it's me. What do I do?” I say shakily, unsure of what to think of all these conflicting emotions.

I hear Annie giggle and then regain her composure. “Hi to you too. And I don’t know, Katniss. Just ask him on a date and if he says yes then he likes you.”

“But, every time I even consider doing something like that with him, I’m brought back to all the times in our childhood when he was just rude and infuriating.”

“Sounds to me that you might like him back, Katniss. You do know, that when a guy teases you it usually means he likes you. That could explain why he was how he was in middle school and high school,” Annie explains.

It makes sense, but I can’t justify that for his true feelings. The only way to figure this out is to confront him. Crap.

“You have a lot of thinking to do Everdeen. I’ll see you tomorrow for zen, yeah?”

“Yup, thanks Annie for the much needed clarification,” I say gratefully.

“Of course. Anytime, my friend. See ya.”

“Bye,” I hang up.

I go to the closest cafe for my lunch break, needing to get out of the office, and forgo an afternoon pick me up for a sandwich. It’s not as delicious as the sandwiches at Peeta’s bakery, but it does the job of filling my stomach. The bread isn't fresh and the meat was probably cut a week ago, then frozen, and don't even get me started- wait, when did I become a food connoisseur?

I throw away the trash and walk back to Mellark Enterprises, hit the elevator button for the 8th floor, and continue in my secretary duties. I see Peeta’s office door open and something compels me to talk to him.

“Hey, so I saw you on tv this morning,” I say to a slightly surprised Peeta.

“Uh, yeah,” There he goes rubbing the back of his neck again. “What did you think?”

“You did great, I mean, you always do,” he blushes at this. “Mystery girl, eh? Caesar Flickerman had to bite tooth and nail to get that out of you.”

“She’s something special, indeed. I don’t think she knows I like her,” At this, Peeta gives me puppy dog eyes.

Clearing my throat, I respond, “I was wondering if you were free, possibly tonight? There’s this movie that came out that I’ve been dying to see and wanted to go with a friend.”

“Yeah, I would love to, Katniss.”

“O-Ok cool,” I say as I shoot finger guns at him. Finger guns...really Katniss?

Flustered and slightly embarrassed, I leave the office and sit down at my desk.

***

We meet up at the theatre and head straight for concessions. My stomach grumbles at the savory smell of popcorn and melted butter, salty pretzels and bubbly soda.

“What do you like Peeta?” I ask him curiously.

“Oh, I myself love a classic bucket of buttered popcorn and M&Ms,” he says confidently.

“Mmm, sound delicious.”

“Do-Do you want to share Katniss?” Peeta inquires me nervously.

“It is a large bucket of popcorn; I don't think I could finish it on my own. Sure, we can share.” I have to remind myself this is not a date. I kinda wish it was though.

Before I even have a chance to get my credit card out, Peeta is already paying for our snacks.

“Peeta!” I scold while hitting his arm jokingly. “I should pay. I invited you, after all.”

“Too late, Katniss,” He says as he taps my nose.

We both look away nervously, embarrassed by our intimate actions.

About halfway through the movie, we stop passing the popcorn bucket and I feel drowsy. I wake up by someone softly calling my name.

“Katniss, Katniss. Time to wake up.”

Quickly, I realize my head is on Peeta’s shoulder and my arms are wrapped around his. How did that happen.

“I didn't want to wake you. Your slumber looked peaceful, sleeping beauty.”

“I’m so sorry, Peeta. I swear I didn't mean to fall asleep on your arm,” I apologize.

“It’s ok. You can fall asleep on me any time you need to,” He tells me smiling without a care in the world.

I gasp. “U-Uh, o-ok Peeta. Thank you for the offer.”

On our way out, I turn to him and give him a peck on the cheek. Then, like a cheetah, I dash to my car, leaving Peeta speechless. What is happening to me?!

***

3249 words later and this is the product. Hope you enjoyed!

#nothim #everlark #The Hunger Games #au #fic #thehopefuldandelion

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everlarkbookclub · 5 years ago

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The Everlark Book Club would like to nominate the following fics to @everlarkficbackfriday as part of the Fic Back Friday community challenge:

Have Heart, My Dear by monroeslittle (@argyledpenguin)

In-Panem AU. Rated M. Multi-chapter (complete).

Katniss "convinces" Snow, and is forced to marry Peeta.

That First Day by @peetasbunmyoven

Modern AU. Rated “NC 17ish.” One shot.

I can see her.

She doesn’t look real from this distance.

The flames of the bonfire dance. In an undulating roll they flicker the color of rust and gold releasing smoke into the sky. She seems to disappear behind them. With the glow they cast along her skin she might as well be fire herself.

Taking my time I watch her. Just for a minute. It’s something I’ve found myself doing for years now.

She tosses her head back. Brown strands swing as she smiles wide with her laugh thick and sweet in her throat. It makes me smile back.

I love that sound.

I’m going to miss it.

A Knock on the Door by @javistg

Canon Divergent. Rated T. Multi-chapter (complete).

“Soon after I go to bed, there’s a quiet knock on my door, but I ignore it. I don’t want Peeta tonight. Especially not with Darius around.”

What if Katniss had opened the door?

Pumpkin Spice(x) by @papofglencoe

Modern AU. Rated E. Multi-chapter (complete).

I hate that somewhere in between childhood and now we’ve learned to keep secrets from each other.

Like: I’m hopelessly in love with you.

Or, in her case: I’ve been shopping at the Brown Bag It for sex toys and condoms to use with some dickwad boyfriend who is not, and will never be, you.

The Executive Agreement by lauralulubee (@lauramwriter)

Modern AU. Rated M/E. Multi-chapter (complete).

Katniss lied on her resume to get her current position at The Mellark Corporation. What happens when the CEO of the company discovers she has lied?

*****

Image source

#EverlarkFicBackFriday #ficbackfriday #everlark fanfiction #fic recs

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hutchhitched · 3 years ago

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Peeta Mellark, CEO, Chapter 2 (Crisis)

Summary: Peeta Mellark is lonely. Left a few weeks before his wedding, he's spent his time building his company and ignoring his needs. Then he meets Katniss Everdeen, and she changes all that.

Chapter Summary: Peeta really likes pie. What he doesn’t like is having his life disrupted.

Chapter Rating: T

Author’s Note: In the midst of election and pandemic craziness, I offered up some WIPs in a charity auction in November 2020 for @what2finish. Through the generosity of the bidders, four different WIPs will be completed by the end of the year. This is the first of the four. Thank you to @betheflame for choosing my story. I hope you enjoy it.

Chapter 1 originally posted for @everlarkficexchange‘s 2020 Spring Exchange.

Read on AO3.

#everlark #everlark fanfiction #peeta mellark #katniss everdeen #w2f #what2finish #peeta mellark ceo

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andthisisthewonder · 7 years ago

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Amendments

I wanted to try my hand at a trope I enjoy but have never written before. Let’s see how it worked out, lol. Rated M for sexy reasons.

As the applause for Peeta’s speech died down, Mr. Mellark lifted up his drink to toast his son. There had to be over three hundred people in the room, but Peeta’s voice and hands were steady. Winning over a crowd was what he excelled at.

“Thank you for trusting me to take over as CEO,” Peeta said into the microphone. “I promise to give everything I have to this company. While we will miss your dedication, passion, and leadership, I promise there are only bright days ahead for Mellark Tech.”

More applause. A few whistles, probably from his closest friends Finnick and Johanna.

“Now I need to take a moment to thank the most important person in my life: my beautiful fiancée, Katniss.”

Katniss smiled and ducked her head as everyone swiveled in their seats to find her table.

“She has been nothing but patient and encouraging these past two months as I worked nights and weekends to prepare for my new role. She knows how often I lose track of time when I’m in the middle of a project, so thank you for always making sure I ate dinner. While she may not know her way around the kitchen, there’s no one better at ordering takeout.” The audience laughed, and he flashed them a charming smile. “I’m so proud to have you by my side as I take this next step. I promise to make time for you, for us, even as I continue to work hard to support your shopping habit.”

More laughter. A few men in the room elbowed their wives.

“Thank you for coming out this evening to celebrate my father’s retirement. Enjoy dinner! And don’t forget, it’s open bar.” He winked and walked back to his table to thunderous applause.

Katniss stood when he reached his chair. She leaned in for a hug, pressed her mouth against his cheek, and whispered, “I’m going to stab you with the salad fork.”

“I doubt you know which fork that is,” he said under his breath as they sat down.

“Any sharp object will due at this point.”

Moments later, the first course was served. Katniss picked up the wrong fork, winked at him, and dug into her garden salad.

This was going to be a long night.

He had brought this upon himself with the jabs he had made during his speech. The audience viewed it as a little teasing between a man and his soon-to-be wife, but Katniss saw it for what it was. He had cut her down in front of everyone, remade her into the wife he wanted: harmless and silly. Insubstantial.

The truth was Katniss knew how to cook quite well. He had never tasted her cooking due to the personal chef he employed, but on more than one occasion he had come home from work to find Katniss making herself dinner. His plate, prepared to his specifications by his chef Sae, always waited in the oven.

Katniss didn’t have a shopping habit either, although he suspected she might develop one out of sheer boredom. She spent most days reading, practicing archery at the country club, or volunteering at a variety of charities around the city. There wasn’t much else to do. He wouldn’t let her work.

By the time the main course arrived, Katniss had downed two glasses of wine and had barely said a word. Clove Arlington, seated on her other side, tried to strike up a conversation several times, but Katniss either offered one word answers or deferred to Peeta.

He should have known she’d crack sooner or later.

Halfway through the filet mignon, Clove turned to Katniss and said, “I meant to tell you sooner. Your dress is absolutely stunning. Who designed it?”

“Six thousand dollars,” Katniss said without missing a beat. She stabbed a piece of steak and shoved it in her mouth.

“Excuse me?” Clove asked.

Peeta touched Katniss’s arm, but it was too late. The words came tumbling out.

“The dress cost six thousand dollars,” Katniss repeated. “That’s what you meant, right? You ask for the designer, look up the cost, and the next time I see you, you’re wearing something that cost an extra thousand.”

The other men and women at the table fell silent. Katniss raised her eyebrows and took a healthy gulp of wine.

“Honey, we talked about this,” Peeta said with a sheepish what-can-you-do glance around the table. “She’s not good at taking compliments.”

“It’s by Cinna.” Katniss tapped her chandelier earrings. “You want to know how much these cost too? I’ll give you a hint. They could feed a family of four for a year.”

“I’m sorry,” Peeta said. He rested his hand on her knee and squeezed. “Katniss grew up in a...different environment. She’s still learning what qualifies as an appropriate topic of conversation.”

“My apologies,” Katniss said. “I forgot we’re not supposed to discuss money out loud. We just quietly compare our networths based on what everyone wears and drives.”

His chair screeched against the ballroom floor as he stood. He yanked Katniss upright, much too brusquely to be considered polite, but anger clouded his judgment.

“If you’ll excuse us,” he said.

As they made their way across the ballroom, Peeta shot everyone who made eye contact a smile to reassure them there was nothing wrong. For all they knew, he was headed into the bathroom for a quickie with his fiancée.

Like he’d ever sleep with her. Like she’d ever let him.

They had almost reached the exit, when Cashmere fucking Laughlin stepped in front of them. Peeta cursed whatever deity had it out for him and came to an abrupt halt.

“Peeta!” She threw her arms around him, forcing him to let go of Katniss. “I feel like it’s been forever. You haven’t introduced me to your fiancée yet.”

“Of course,” Peeta said, switching on the charm. “Cashmere, this is Katniss. Katniss, this is Cashmere.”

“We go way back,” Cashmere said, sticking out her hand. “Friends since elementary school.”

Katniss looked from Cashmere’s face down to her hand and back up again. She shot Peeta a look as if to ask, Really? Normally, Peeta would call her out on her rudeness, but in this situation, he’d let the niceties slide.

Cashmere dropped her arm back to her side and returned her attention to Peeta.

“My computer has been giving me such trouble the past few days. You must come over and take a look at it.”

Katniss stiffened. Peeta drew her into his side, and for once, she didn’t fight him on the physical contact.

“I’m sure you could hire someone to fix it,” he said.

“Do you have any idea how much they charge?” Cashmere asked, as if she couldn’t afford to simply throw out the defective computer and buy ten brand new ones. “Besides, who better to take a look than the new CEO of Mellark Tech?”

Peeta gritted his teeth. “I’ll have to check my schedule.”

“I’m free this Wednesday,” Cashmere said. “Maybe you could stop by after work?”

“Like I said, I’ll have to check if I’m available.”

“If you’re planning on fucking her, could you let me know ahead of time? I’d hate to let your dinner get cold,” Katniss said in the sweetest voice she could muster. She almost sounded like the doting fiancée he billed her as.

Peeta shut his eyes and let out a breath. He opened them just in time to find Katniss pressing her cheek against Cashmere’s.

“It was wonderful to meet you,” Katniss said, before sweeping past Cashmere and out the exit.

Cashmere looked over her shoulder. “What the fuck?”

Peeta walked as calmly as he could, but as soon as he reached the lobby, he picked up his pace and caught Katniss by the arm. “We need to have a conversation. Now.”

The second ballroom was empty, so he tugged her through there into the attached bridal suite. He slammed the door behind them and locked it.

“Are you trying to make me look like an idiot?” he demanded.

She came to a stop in front of the large oak table in the center of the room and spun around to face him. “You don’t need my help with that.”

“You’re embarrassing me.”

She shrugged. “You embarrassed me.”

“No one gives a shit about what I said.”

“I care!” She kicked off her heels. He dove to the left to avoid being struck. “Those heels are the most painful shoes I have ever worn. God forbid I wear something practical.”

“We’re at my father’s retirement party,” he reminded her. “You couldn’t exactly wear your hiking boots.”

She glared at him. “I know what I’m expected to wear. I read the contract.”

She probably had it memorized. When he had approached her with this arrangement, she had disappeared with the contract for a full twenty-four hours. He had half expected to find it leaked online, but she finally resurfaced with a list of amendments.

The section about her physical appearance had been too broad. She worried what he’d make her do if she didn’t get specific. No surgical alterations. No cutting or dying her hair. She had complied with the rest of it though: high heels, a new wardrobe of skirts and dresses, make-up everyday, manicured nails. When they met, her nails had been short and unpolished. He had made her grow them out.

She went through an entire afternoon of waxing, plucking, and exfoliating. He should have sprung for a full body massage to end the day, but it hadn’t occurred to him until she’d come home with a scowl carved into her face. Red and raw, she disappeared into her room where she took her dinner.

None of the changes she made to the contract had bothered him, although he had fought her on nearly every single one. While her stubbornness impressed him, it also pissed him off. He was offering her an incredible amount of money for a six month engagement and two years of marriage. Not only did she get a weekly allowance and have access to his credit cards, but she’d also receive a large lump sum upon the finalization of their divorce.

Strangely enough, the money was the only part of the contract she had never complained about. Guess she was content with the number of zeroes.

“You’re acting like an insufferable asshole,” she said. At his stony face, she amended, “More so than usual.”

“You’re too sensitive. It was just a quick speech. They thought it was funny.”

“I don’t want to be a joke,” she snapped. “I have to coexist with these people for the next two years. Half of them believe I’m some simpleton from Hicksville, USA while the other half think I’m a gold-digging slut you picked up off a stripper pole.”

He smirked. “I did find you at a strip club.”

“I was the bartender!” she yelled.

He stepped in front of her, and she scowled at the invasion of her personal space.

“I’m sorry I embarrassed you,” he said, annoyed that he actually meant it. There was something about her that he couldn’t avoid when he got close like this. He had kissed her a hundred times and held her close, but it was all for the public eye. When they were alone, when he looked at her for too long, his skin felt hot and prickly. She really was quite pretty, even without makeup. But tonight, god, tonight she looked fucking amazing. It didn’t help that Cinna’s dress put her breasts on display. He ached to touch him.

Fuck. He hated when he fell into this train of thought.

“No, you’re not,” she said. “You think I’m your pet. You think you can dress me up and treat me however you want so long as you’re paying me. It makes me sick.”

His jaw dropped. “I don’t think that.”

“If you want to fuck half the women in this city, fine, but don’t parade them around in front of me. It’s insulting.”

“That wasn’t my fault.”

“Are you going to fix her computer this week?” she asked, arching an eyebrow. “Take a look at her hardware?”

The truth was Cashmere hadn’t been lying when she said she hadn’t seen him. It had been over a month since he’d slept with her. Or anyone else for that matter. He wanted to blame the long hours he had put in at the office, but he had a nagging suspicion it was something else entirely.

“You’re just pissed that the landscapers finish on Sunday,” he said, anger making him too hot in his suit jacket. That was the real reason he had added those insults to his speech tonight. That fucking landscaper who somehow always ended up working with his shirt off.

Katniss frowned. “What does that have to do with anything?”

“Your lover won’t be around the house anymore. Will you start meeting him at hotels?”

“What the hell are you talking about?”

“That asshole. Gale Hawthorne.”

“Oh.” Her smile was smug. She held up her hand at least six inches above Peeta’s head. “Tall, dark, and handsome.”

He grabbed her wrist and crushed it between their bodies. “Are you sleeping with him?”

“No.”

“Don’t lie.”

“I’m not!” She tried to pull away, but she had nowhere to go. He had her trapped between his body and the table.

“So that massage he gave you was just part of their services? Will I find it on the final bill?”

The corner of her lip curled up. He couldn’t tell if it was the start of a sneer or a smile. “I knew that made you jealous.”

“It didn’t make me jealous. It pissed me off.”

Yesterday, a strange urge to spend time with her had sent him home during lunch. He knew how bored she was when she had no volunteering scheduled. When he’d arrived, he’d found her in front of the pool, lounging on her stomach in the tiny orange bikini he had picked out for her to wear on their honeymoon. Gale knelt at her side, an open bottle of sunblock on the ground. Peeta couldn’t find a streak of sunblock on his fiancée’s back. Gale had rubbed it in well.

As soon as he cleared his throat, Gale sprang to his feet, but Katniss had merely looked up and greeted Peeta as if another man’s hands hadn’t just been all over her.

“You know the contract states--”

She cut him off. “Yes. I know the contract says you can continue fucking whoever you want while I have to live like a goddamn nun for two and a half years.”

It was unfair to expect her to remain faithful when he saw whomever he pleased, but this was the world he lived in. The wife stayed home, pretended not to notice, while the men did whatever they liked. He didn’t want to get married. He was only twenty-eight, and he enjoyed being a bachelor.

“I liked flirting with him,” she said. “And he liked staring at me in a bikini. We never did anything more than that massage.”

“Would you have if I hadn’t come home?”

“No, Peeta. I’m not going to break that contract. No matter how much of an asshole you are.”

This wasn’t a new insult. Hell, she had called him that a few minutes ago when they first came into the room. But for some reason, in that moment, it stung. He had given her everything, but she couldn’t stand him.

“Why do you stay if you’re so miserable?” he asked.

“Because you sign my sister’s tuition checks.”

Finally, he let go of her wrist, but instead of backing away, he placed his hands on the table, one on either side of her.

Her gaze dropped down to his lips then back up so quickly, he wondered if he imagined it.

“Right. I forgot about the whole martyr older sister thing.”

“You wouldn’t understand. You hate your brothers.”

He didn’t mind Graham who had zero interest in the company. Rye was a different story. It was actually his fault that Peeta was in this mess in the first place. Peeta was more intelligent, more capable, and infinitely more charming, but their father had originally tapped Rye to take over as CEO. Mr. Mellark claimed Rye was “more stable.” Peeta liked to party, liked to go out with a different woman every week, and Mr. Mellark worried he wouldn’t take the position seriously.

Enter Katniss Everdeen, the bartender Peeta had met while on vacation in California. It wasn’t enough to have a steady girlfriend or even a fiancée. He had to marry her and prove to his father and the rest of his family that he was capable of commitment. Rye still sat on the Board of Directors, and he was less than thrilled with their father’s decision. If he found out that Katniss was a fake, if he suspected anything was amiss, Peeta could lose everything.

To be fair, Katniss had never said or done anything to risk Peeta’s position. Yeah, she was rude and sarcastic, but everyone knew she didn’t come from money. No one expected her to fit in.

“So you’re doing all this for your sister?” Peeta asked. “Such a sacrifice.”

“I spent half my childhood in unwashed clothes that barely fit. I spent it hungry and angry, and I did everything I could to shield Prim from the worst of it. Now that I have the chance for a lifetime of financial security for me, Prim, and her future family, of course I’m going to take it.”

Peeta didn’t know what to say. Katniss had alluded to a rough childhood, but she had never given him any details.

“Prim’s future family?” he asked, deciding to ignore the rest for now. “Not yours?”

“I’m never getting married. Not for a second time, at least.”

He wanted to ask why, but he knew she wouldn’t say. When they first met, she had brushed off his attempts at conversation, uninterested in a guy that frequented a strip club. But as the night wore on, he paid less attention to the stage and more attention to the gorgeous brunette who kept supplying him with Jack and Cokes. When he returned the next night, she had been happy to see him.

That was the worst part. She had liked him in the beginning. Everything changed when he gave her that contract. She’d been closed off ever since.

“I’m not going to Cashmere’s,” he said. “This week or any week.”

“Maybe Glimmer then?” she asked. “Clove’s been eyeing you too.”

He narrowed his eyes, annoyed that he was trying to be honest with her, and she was acting like a brat.

“You’re jealous,” he said.

“Of those women? Not a chance.”

“No, you’re jealous that I can have fun and you can’t.” He slid his knee between her legs. For whatever reason, she let him. “Is this why you’re so cranky? No one to get you off?”

“I bought a hundred and fifty dollar vibrator with your credit card,” she said with a smug smile. “I’m all set.”

“Get on the table.”

“Is that a command?”

He squeezed her hip and she hopped up onto the table, her dress riding up her thighs. He yanked her forward until she was pressed against him.

“What are you doing?” She tried to look annoyed, but she had already hooked her foot around his leg.

“I thought I could help.”

“Sorry. Rich, blond assholes aren’t my type.”

“Weird. Brunettes with smart mouths are mine.”

He hiked her right leg up around his waist. She watched his hand disappear beneath her dress.

“Oh.” The noise escaped his mouth involuntarily. “You’re not wearing underwear.”

“Can’t have pantylines,” she said. “My fiancé’s the new CEO. I don’t want to embarrass him.”

He ran a finger over her lips, surprised at how wet she was. She had an amazing poker face. He never would have guessed she was as turned on as him.

When he reached her clit, she gasped and closed her eyes, her head falling back. He leaned into the table, his pants growing uncomfortably tight, and kissed her neck.

“Do you want this?” he asked.

He slid a finger inside her and bit down her earlobe.

“Katniss, tell me what you want.”

When she remained silent, he yanked his hand away. She squeezed her legs around his waist to keep him from walking away.

“Touch me,” she said.

He grabbed the back of her neck and pulled her into a fierce kiss, their first without an audience. She tasted like the red wine she’d been nursing all night, sweet and bitter all at once. She shoved his suit jacket off his shoulders and wrapped her arms around him. When he yanked on her hair to force her head up, she bucked against him. He kissed a trail along her neck as he pulled the straps of her dress down. With one final tug on the bodice, the dress slipped down her stomach, revealing a tiny strapless bra.

She unhooked it herself and dropped it on the ground. It was all the permission he needed. He cupped the back of her head before lowering her onto the table. Finally, after an entire night of staring at her chest, after months of wondering how they’d feel in his hands, he palmed her left breast and lowered his mouth over the other.

She moaned as he sucked on her nipple, his teeth just grazing the sensitive bud. The back of her feet dug into his ass as she tried to pull him closer. He was two seconds away from climbing on top of her when she abruptly sat up. Her cheeks flushed, her updo ruined, he couldn’t remember a moment when she’d been more beautiful.

She unbuckled his belt and slid it out of the first loop of his dress pants. He grabbed her wrist, and she stopped.

“This is what I want,” she said.

His mouth was back on hers, his belt halfway off, when someone knocked on the door. She froze. Peeta turned around.

“Mr. Mellark?” asked an unfamiliar voice. “Are you in there?”

Peeta cleared his throat. “Is there something you need?”

“I’m sorry to bother you, sir, but your father’s been looking for you.”

“Thank you. Let him know I’ll be right there.”

He plucked Katniss’s bra off the floor and handed it to her. Using a little more force than necessary, she pushed him away with her foot. She slid off the table and hooked her bra back into place.

He could practically see the wheels turning in her head as she adjusted her dress. He couldn’t tell what’d she decide, what she’d regret.

“I’m not putting those heels back on,” she said.

“Fine. Walk around barefoot. Everyone knows you have no manners.”

She narrowed her eyes. “But I’d hate to embarrass you in front of your mistresses. That wouldn’t be very classy of me.”

They stared at each other. Something important had shifted between them, but he couldn’t read her expression.

“Let’s make a deal,” he said. “You be a good girl for the rest of the night, and I’ll use my mouth when we get home.”

She yanked on her heels and curtsied. “I hate you,” she said with a wide, fake smile.

He took the chance and kissed her. Instead of pushing him away as he feared she would, she leaned into him and kissed him back. He nearly sighed with relief.

“I know,” he said, letting her go. “Fix your hair before you come back out. You’re a mess.”

She swept past him in her disheveled state, right out the door and into the ballroom. He wanted to be annoyed, but he was too turned on. As he pulled on his suit jacket and fixed his belt, he imagined her in his bed, fisting the sheets as he went down on her. He wanted to watch her fall apart, hear the two syllables of his name break on her tongue.

Then, he wanted to bury himself inside of her.

He thought he had been prepared for this. He had been so careful when he drew up that contract, certain he’d get to maintain his bachelor lifestyle while finally taking control of his father’s company.

He wasn’t certain of anything anymore. The only thing he knew for sure was that for better or for worse, he and Katniss were stuck with each other for the next two years.

He looked forward to it.

#everlark #i wrote this

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