Hello everybody and sorry for the late(ish) post. Anyway, I can't believe this is it! It doesn't feel like it's over but it ain't over til it's over. I know I had mentioned that my epilogue might be two chapters long, but I'm afraid this is the only epilogue there will be for this story. I don't want to drag it out any longer and while it would have been nice to write Peeta and Katniss' wedding, we all know it's going to happen anyway. So, yeah. I hope this last chapter doesn't disappoint. Also, this chapter is in both Peeta and Katniss' point of view, which will be separated by a break line thing. Enjoy!

Disclaimer: I own nothing but the plot.

I watch Finnick fuss with his shiny bowtie, a tiny wrinkle etched between his brows.

"Finn, you're thinking too much. Surely this isn't the first time you've had to do a bowtie?" I ask, crossing my arms and watching him amusingly.

"I know, Peeta, thank you. But this is the bowtie, you know what I mean?" he says, looking at me through the mirror.

He finally drops his hands in frustration, a hiss escaping between his teeth. I chuckle softly and make my way to him and tie it for him. He gives me a thankful smile but I can see the anxiety in his sea green eyes.

"Thanks, Peeta," he murmurs, looking at his reflection once more and smoothing down the grey vest under his suit jacket.

I step away to give him space and frown at him.

"Finn, what's wrong? You're not being yourself."

"It's nothing, Peeta," he tells me firmly.

"Finnick, you're my best friend and I'd think I know when something is worrying you."

He squares his shoulders and lets out a deep breath, still avoiding looking at me.

"This is supposed to be the happiest day of my life, Peeta. But… all I feel is worry," he mutters, a pained expression taking over his face.

"Oh, no… please don't tell me you're getting cold feet, Finnick! I mean, I was equally pleased and surprised when you told me that you asked Annie to marry you since you never seemed like the marrying type before meeting her. But…" I whisper, feeling breathless.

But Finnick surprises me by snorting and rolling his eyes.

"Not me, Peet! Her! What if she suddenly decides I'm not good enough?" he asks, angst settling into his features.

I stare at him in shock, feeling immense relief wash through me.

"Finnick, she loves you. She would never leave you. I mean, have you seen the way she looks at you when she thinks nobody's looking? If it weren't absolutely adorable I'd find it mildly disgusting," I joke, hoping to soothe his troubled mind.

An affectionate look softens his expression and a hesitant smile curls the corners of his lips.

"She… she does?"

I nod silently, a smile taking over my own.

"Well, I'm sure it's no different from the love struck looks you give Katniss when you think nobody's looking," he jokes, grinning at last.

I feel my face burn and look away but not before narrowing my eyes at him.

"It's different," I mumble, swallowing nervously.

"Not really," he laughs before nudging me. "But you know I'm just teasing you, Peet."

I mumble under my breath and take a look out the window and into the backyard, where chairs were set up for the ceremony.

"Wouldn't you have the same worry, though?"

"What do you mean?" I ask, turning to look at him.

"Wouldn't you be scared of Katniss backing out of marrying you?"

"I haven't asked her to marry me," I tell him slowly, mystified.

He makes a noise and impatience and waves his hand around.

"Irrelevant! If you asked her, wouldn't you be scared that she would run out on you at the very last minute?" he asks, watching me intently.

A knot forms in my throat at the thought of having the chance to make Katniss my wife.

"Wouldn't you have a little voice at the back of your head, nagging you? Making you doubt?" he whispers, eyes shining.

"Yes," I hear myself whisper back.

"That's how I feel," he sighs, shaking his head.

"But Annie adores you," I argue, watching him slick his hair back.

"Katniss loves you too," he points out.

"Katniss has been much more… hesitant about love than Annie has," I tell him.

"You raise a fair point."

"Why are we even discussing this? This is your wedding, not mine. You have nothing to be worried about, Finn. If you'd like, I can go and check that the bride is still in the building," I smile, hoping to lighten the situation.

He rolls his eyes but waves his hand much more dismissively than he probably feels. I wave back at him and walk out of the guest bedroom and make way for the master bedroom, which is where Katniss, Effie and Annie are located.

I hear hushed voices coming from the room and knock softly twice. I listen to a pair of heels walk toward me and the door opens, revealing Katniss.

"Hi," I tell her, grinning.

Her face relaxes and gives me a shy smile but not before glancing at the women in the bedroom.

"It's just Peeta," she calls out before stepping out of the bedroom and closing the door behind her. "Thank you for saving me! I mean, I'm so happy for Annie but Effie is driving me up the wall."

I chuckle and try my best not to stare openly at her. Annie named her Maid of Honor, so she's wearing a strapless sea foam green dress that reaches the floor. A dainty gold necklace adorns her throat and wears simple gold studs in her ears. Her hair is gathered at the nape of her neck and she wears very light makeup, which only enhances her beauty.

"You're very welcome. Though I came mostly for Finn's benefit, he's freaking out that Annie's going to leave him at the altar," I say, giving my head a shake.

Katniss' eyebrows contract together for a second and stares at me incredulously.

"She'd never do that to him. I'd be more worried about him running out on her."

"Finnick would love to beg to differ," I chuckle. "You look gorgeous, by the way," I smile, unable to contain it any longer.

Color rises in her cheeks and she looks down coyly, glancing at me from below her lashes. I feel my heart skid in my chest and reach out to gently brush my thumb on her cheek.

"You look really handsome too, Peeta. Your suit gives your eyes a grey edge. But if you bother to look close enough…" she trails off, leaning closer to me. "You can see that they're actually the most beautiful blue ever."

I blush at her words and at the fact that she's standing so close to me. Sure, we've been living together for close to a year but nothing can ever prepare me for her closeness. My eyes linger on her lips, which are parted slightly and I want nothing more than to kiss her. But I hold back, knowing that she's going to get called back into our room to help Annie somehow.

Don't worry, Peeta, she's all yours. You can kiss her later.

She smiles at me and smoothes down my jacket lapels and soon her fingers flutter to my own bowtie. I know I tied it perfectly, so I'd just like to think that Katniss feels the need to touch me somehow; it's certainly flattering and it makes me love her even more.

"Katniss!"

She sighs and drops her hand to the side, frowning slightly.

"Hey… it's all right. It'll be over before you know it," I tell her, reaching out to give her hand a squeeze.

She gives me a grateful little smile before the door is wrenched open by none other than Prim. She gives me a wide grin and all but pushes Katniss to the side to hug me. I laugh and hug her back, enjoying the look of annoyance on Katniss' face; her eyes are narrowed and her lips are pursed and I find it all too adorable.

"Peeta! It feels like ages, doesn't it?" she asks, pulling away to look at me.

"Sure does, Prim. How are you? How's school?"

"It's all going great, Peeta! I absolutely love my classes," she replies, holding her hands behind her back.

Annie named Prim a bridesmaid and is dressed in a peach dress that falls a little below her knees.

"I'm so glad Katniss finally got it together," she said, glancing at her sister, who now has her arms crossed tightly across her chest. "All that's left for the two of you is to get married!"

I glance at Katniss, whose eyes are widened with alarm.

That can't be good, Peeta.

"Prim, please… don't be ridiculous," she mutters, grabbing her arm and pulling her back. "Come on, Annie needs us. See you in a bit, Peeta."

"Wait, wait!" calls out another voice.

Soon I'm facing a young blonde woman, also wearing a peach dress.

"Madge Undersee?" I ask, raising an eyebrow.

"Peeta Mellark!" she cries, staring at me with utmost disbelief. "I can't believe it's you! I'm such a big fan-"

"No, no... stop right there, Madge. I'm not an actor anymore but thank you," I smile at her, feeling myself blush.

"You're welcome," she whispers, still looking shell-shocked.

"I really must thank you for entering Katniss into the contest. If it wasn't for you and Prim, who knows who I would have ended up going out on a date with," I laugh. "I know Katniss and Gale didn't take it particularly well."

"They didn't. Gale just about blew a gasket," she giggles. "But it seems that it all turned out for the best."

"I must agree with you there, Madge."

"Maybe... you and Katniss will be the ones walking down the aisle next," she suggests, fidgeting with the flowers on her shoulder.

"I don't know about that," I say, frowning.

"Don't worry, Peeta. She loves you but she needs just to realize that she wants it too," she tells me kindly, pressing her hand on my shoulder.

"Thanks, Madge," I smile gratefully.

She drops her hand and sticks it before her, wiggling her fingers.

"Friends?"

"Friends," I laugh, extending my hand and giving hers a shake.

"Madge!" I hear Katniss call.

"Uh-oh," she says sarcastically, rolling her eyes.

"Madge, quit dilly-dallying. We need you in here. Peeta, off you go," Katniss orders. "I'm sure Finnick needs you."

I'm about to open my mouth to respond, but she closes the door just after Madge gives me an apologetic look. Tucking my hands into my pockets, I head downstairs to check up on the cake I made for Annie and Finnick, hoping it'll ward off the dread I feel.

"Prim! Why did you have to bring that up! You made it seem like I'm desperate to marry him or something!" I hiss at her.

I half expect her to start crying but all she does is roll her eyes.

"Give me a break, Katniss. Anybody can see that Peeta would love nothing more than to make an honest woman out of you," she answers, placing her hands at her waist.

"She's right, Katniss," Madge pipes up.

I turn to her and give her a scowl.

"Why don't you and Gale get married, then?" I challenge, feeling as if I'm being cornered.

She just laughs and shakes her head, golden curls spilling everywhere.

"You forget that Gale and I have only been dating for a little over half a year. Of course, you can't forget that he's in District 2 while I'm still here."

"You could move over there if you wanted to," I argue.

"I have my job here, Katniss. It wouldn't be sensible of me," she says, shrugging a pale shoulder.

I groan frustratedly and sit myself down on the floor.

"Don't tell me you wouldn't marry him?" Annie asks me softly, turning around to look at me.

She's looking radiant in her sheath dress, which was a gift from Cinna. It's a lovely white, with lace panels on the sides and bust. There are tiny pearls and multi-colored diamonds woven into the lace, which makes Annie look like a beautiful mermaid. Her hair is gathered up into a graceful knot and tucked over it is a frothy while veil that cascades down her neck and shoulders. She's wearing small pearl earrings and a simple pearl necklace rests at her neck. She's the very imagine of elegant and simplicity and I can't help but feel a little twinge of jealousy every time I look at her glowing face.

"It's not like he's asked," I murmur, looking away from her.

"It's not like you've made it known that you want to," Johanna disagrees, raising an inky brow.

She, like Madge and Prim, is wearing the peach bridesmaid dress and it too, was a gift from Cinna. It falls just below the knee and it's a one shoulder dress with small chiffon flowers sewn on the strap with a tiny pearl in the middle of each one.

"It's not… like it's ever come up," I tell her, glaring.

"Come on, Katniss," she says, rolling her eyes. "Have you given him any indication that you want to? You've never seemed particularly pro-marriage to me."

"That was before I met Peeta!" I snap.

I feel their surprised gazes on me as I look anywhere but their faces.

"I… must admit that the thought has popped into my head, once or twice," I admit, feeling my face burn. "But like I said, he hasn't brought it up and I don't want him to feel pressured…"

"Everdeen, are you kidding me?" Johanna asks, sitting up in the chair. "I think he hasn't brought it up because he knows your answer might not be 'yes.'"

"She's right, Katniss," Prim says softly, pressing her hand on my shoulder.

I swallow guiltily and finally force myself to look at them.

"I love him. Isn't that enough?" I whisper.

Johanna groans and shakes her head, covering her eyes.

"It's enough, Katniss. But there may be one day when that won't be enough for him," Annie says quietly, a sympathetic expression on her beautiful face.

"Peeta wouldn't leave me," I say, shaking my head.

"He wouldn't," Madge agrees. "But he would be unhappy."

I feel my heart twist cruelly in my chest. A person as wonderful as Peeta doesn't deserve unhappiness. On the contrary, I want to make him as happy as I possibly can.

"You already live together. Would it really be such a big deal to marry him?" Johanna points out. "I know you'd never leave him either, so why are you being so hesitant?"

"I don't know," I mumble honestly.

"Well, it seems like we've given you enough to think about," Prim says, pulling me into a hug.

I force a smile on my face and murmur something about 'checking that everything is ready downstairs.' I exit and press my back to the door, closing my eyes and exhaling deeply.

No, don't cry Katniss. But they're right, you know. I love him and we live together already, what's the big deal? I guess I'd never really thought about marriage. And to think of it as a possibility all of a sudden… well, it surprised me, is all. Katniss Mellark… it has a nice ring to it.

I open my eyes and walk away before one of them opens the door. I make my way downstairs when I pass Peeta in the kitchen. He has his back to me, but he's leaning over, as if inspecting something.

I stop abruptly and the noise alerts him of my presence. He turns around quickly and his face relaxes when he sees it's me.

"Hey," I tell him softly, walking into the kitchen.

He just gives me a small smile and tilts his head to the side.

"What are you doing here, Katniss? Aren't you supposed to be helping the bride get ready?"

"Prim, Madge and Johanna have that covered," I mumble, looking away from his face for a second. "Aren't you supposed to be with Finnick?"

"Nah, Haymitch is up there with him," he chuckles.

I watch him fidget slightly and raise my eyebrow at him.

"What are you hiding?"

"What do you mean?" he asks innocently.

I narrow my eyes at him and walk closer to him.

"Wait, stop. Okay, fine. I just… wanted it to be a surprise," he sighs before stepping to the side.

Sitting on the counter is the most beautiful cake I have ever seen. It has three layers, all painted with green and blue hues, like the ocean waves. At the base of the cake there's something that looks like sand, but I imagine it's something edible. It sparkles and it's then I notice the tiny seashells he's made out of fondant. They're all different pastel colors, with a subtle luminescence that makes them look like the real thing. There's a fondant boat in the middle layer, where a net hangs from and in it there's even tinier fish.

"Peeta… this is… amazing," I tell him, turning to look at him.

"You like it?" he asks bashfully.

"Do I like it? I love it! I knew you were talented but this…" I trail off, feeling speechless.

He smiles proudly and looks at the cake like a father would look at his child.

"So this is the reason why you've been coming home late," I laugh, looking at the cake once more.

"Well, yes," he admits. "I didn't know what we could give Annie and Finn… and I thought that a cake would be something we could all share together."

His generosity tugs at my heart and I reach out to him, wrapping my arms around his body.

"Peeta… marry me."

He had started to wrap his arms around me but stops.

Umm… that wasn't what I was going to say. I can't believe that just slipped out! Stupid Katniss!

I shut my eyes tightly and berate myself internally. I feel him pull away from me, his eyes roaming my face.

"Katniss," he says softly.

I open my eyes slowly and see him watching me carefully, almost as if he is guarding himself.

"That's not something you should say so lightly. I just might take it seriously," he warns.

I lick my lips nervously and try my best not to shy away from his intent gaze.

"I mean it, Peeta."

He raises a brow, as if in doubt.

"Really. I mean, to be honest with you, marriage was never a big priority for me. But all of that was before I met you. Ever since Finnick and Annie announced their engagement, well… the thought has popped into my head. More than I would like to admit, if I were honest with myself," I mutter, finally breaking eye contact with him and looking at the cake. "I feel so ashamed for thinking it, but I can't help but feel jealous when I look at Annie's glowing face. But at times like these, your thoughtfulness and love just surprise me when I thought it could no longer… and I want nothing more than to give a little bit back."

"Katniss," he speaks my name softly. "You don't have to force yourself to give me anything in return. I do all this because I take pleasure in it, not because I expect something. I love you and I want nothing more than to make you my wife but… not like this."

I turn to look at him and there's a sort of defeated look in his eyes, which causes my chest to tighten.

"But I love you," I hear myself whimper.

Confusion comes over his face as my eyes begin to water and before I know it, I'm sobbing miserably.

"Oh, Katniss… please don't. It breaks my heart to see you cry," he pleads, taking me into his strong arms and holding me tightly.

"You don't believe me!" I sniffle. "I want to marry you and you don't think I'm doing it for the right reason!"

"I'm so sorry, Katniss. I didn't mean to answer you like that. I just don't want you to back out at the last minute because you didn't think it through."

I pull away from his embrace and scowl at him.

"Do you really think I'm so thoughtless, Peeta? That I hold no regard for your feelings?"

"I didn't mean it like that, Katniss," he sighs. "I just meant that while something may sound like a good idea, it doesn't mean one should go for it. You have to think of all the possibilities and outcomes."

"I love you, Peeta. We live together. It's only natural that we take the next step together," I tell him stubbornly.

"Okay, fine. But what happens after that? Will you be ready to have children?" he asks frustratedly.

"I haven't thought that far into the future, Peeta…"

"Do you even want children, Katniss?"

"Do you?"

"Yes," he answers grimly. "I can tell by the look on your face that you don't."

"I… haven't thought about children," I tell him meekly.

He rubs his eyes tiredly and tenderly wipes under my eyes.

"Well, maybe it's something you should think about," he tells me softly, pressing the lightest of kisses on my cheek. "I should go check on Finnick before the ceremony starts."

I'm left standing alone in the kitchen as I watch him walk away from me. I close my eyes and slump against the counter.

That didn't go as planned. Not that I planned it, mind you. It just… slipped out. Stupid, stupid Katniss. Why can't you have his power of speech?

I let out a heavy sigh and turn to look at the cake once more.

Peeta crafted this with love. He formed each little seashell, giving them all a different pattern because no seashell is alike. Who would have thought that Peeta's hands would be able to do this? They're so big and strong… it just goes to show just how talented he is.

I look at the ocean waves, half expecting to hear them crash. I smile when I notice the miniature seagull perched on one of the boat's sails. I shake my head, beyond surprised.

He's so thorough. It's one of the things I love about him. I should have known that he would ask me about children… would having children really be a bad thing? I mean, I practically raised Prim. Maybe this would be Peeta's way of getting his own childhood back. I don't doubt that he'd be the most doting father ever.

For a moment I picture a child, a girl, with my hair but Peeta's eyes. She, like her father, would love to bake and would have all of his artistic flair. Then another child comes to mind, with his father's mop of hair but with my grey eyes. He would enjoy hunting and I would teach him all he would need to know. I'd share my book of plants with him and he, too, would add to it.

My breath catches in my throat as I realize that I want nothing more than to hold those children close to me, to pamper them with love.

I screwed this up. I should have waited at least one more day to spill that I've been thinking about marriage… now Peeta's not going to take it seriously the next time I bring it up. But I have a feeling I'll need to take the initiative the next time.

"Showtime, everybody!" Effie calls out suddenly.

I jump at her voice and smooth my dress down. This, too, was a gift from Cinna. It's strapless with a sweetheart neckline in a beautiful sea green color. It has small pleats on the bust and it gentle flares out from my waist. The material is soft and frothy and it makes me feel like a sea princess. Prim managed to wrangle my hair into a smooth "chignon" but left out a swoop-y part near the front which is curled to the back, giving me a glamorous look. I quickly check my reflection for any makeup smudges but I'm surprised to see none.

"Catnip."

I whirl around and find Gale smiling at me. He looks incredibly handsome in a grey suit and he holds out his arms. I smile and run to him, wrapping my arms around him tightly.

"Gale! It's so good to see you," I tell him genuinely.

He pulls away and laughs.

"It's good to see you too, Catnip. You look beautiful."

"You look great too, Gale."

"Where is she?" he asks, turning around to glance upstairs.

"She's with the other bridesmaids. They'll be down soon. Why don't you go and take a seat?"

"I'll do that. Catch up later, Katniss," he tells me, kissing my cheek and walking away.

I smile as I watch him go.

I'd been surprised when he told me he was moving to another district, but even more so when I found out that he told Peeta first. "It wasn't my news to tell," he said. Gale was impressed and thankful that he had a chance to tell me myself. Our goodbye was sad, but I knew it wasn't as if I would never see him again. Now here he is, back to brave a wedding for his Madge.

I hear heavy footsteps coming down the stairs and peek out, watching Finnick, Peeta and Haymitch descend.

"Haymitch, good to see you," I call out.

He turns to me and smirks.

"Good to see you too, sweetheart."

"Finnick, good luck," I tell him, giving him a brief hug.

He chuckles and grins at me.

"Maybe it's you two who need the luck," he winks before walking away.

Peeta's face flushes and he starts to walk away when I gently grab his arm.

"Peeta, wait. I'd like a few words," I tell him urgently.

He stops and looks at me curiously.

"Best man, you're supposed to be with the groom!" Effie reminds us.

"I just need to tell him something quickly, Effie," I say to her, hoping she understands.

"There's no time, Katniss! Surely it can wait until after the ceremony," she answers firmly before daintily climbing the stairs.

I turn to Peeta and look into his eyes for a second before wrapping my arms around his neck and kissing him. I seem to catch him off guard because he stands frozen for a second but soon his arms wrap around my waist and he's kissing me back as passionately.

We hear the sound of Effie's heels come closer and we pull away, staring at each other breathlessly.

"I love you. Go stand next the groom," I smile, gently pushing him away.

"But Katniss—"

"Go," I giggle but not before pressing a kiss on his lips.

He growls playfully but complies, turning go outside but not before turning around to give me a lopsided smile. My heart swells in my chest and I know that I've made the right decision.

"Bridesmaids, line up. Maid of Honor, you go behind them. Annie, wait ten seconds and then you follow. Is everything clear? Yes? Then let's get you married!" she chirps, exiting the house and heading into the backyard.

We all huddle for a moment around Annie, hugging her and kissing her, wishing her good luck. I finally stand behind Johanna, who's obviously trying her best to stand straight but she keeps fidgeting.

The music begins to play and Prim steps out. Five seconds later, it's Madge and five seconds after that is Johanna. I swallow nervously, hoping I don't trip but make myself focus on Peeta's face.

He's standing next to Finnick, looking incredibly handsome in his grey suit and sea green bowtie, which matches my dress. His hair is neatly parted and combed to the side. But even more than looking good, there's a certain happiness that just radiates from Peeta's body. You can see it in his face and in his eyes. It makes me weak in the knees and it takes all of my will to not toss my bouquet and run into his arms.

He's smiling a goofy little smile and I'm pretty sure the same love struck expression is on my face. For a moment, it feels as if I'm on my way to the altar to marry him and it looks like the same thought occurs to him because his expression goes solemn for a moment but not before I smile encouragingly at him.

Finally reaching the altar, the music gets louder as the bride starts to make her way down the aisle, but I find that I can't take my eyes off of Peeta.

Even as the ceremony starts and the bride and groom say their vows, Peeta and I keep looking at each other. His expression is so tender and full of love that it takes all of my control not to get on my knees and beg him to marry him.

I want to be the reason why he smiles like that. I want to make him smile everyday for the rest of our lives.

Finally, as the priest declares Finnick and Annie man and wife, I feel a knot in my throat as I watch them glow with happiness.

Turning to Peeta I mouth, 'I love you.'

He winks at me and mouths 'I love you too.'

As Finnick and Annie kiss, sealing their unity, the cheers and wolf whistles erupt.

But Peeta and I just keep looking at each other, in our own little world. I know that somehow, he understands what will soon follow for us.

As Annie and Finnick make their way down the aisle, we entwine our fingers together and he brushes his lips against my temple, sending shivers down my spine. I squeeze his hand as we walk after the bride and groom and I feel him sneak peeks at me. I look at him from the corner of my eye and grin.

I look forward once more, the promise of our bright and loving future hanging in the air before us.

And scene! I always knew that Finnick and Annie's wedding was going to take place during the epilogue but I'd wanted several other things to happen. For one, I wanted Mrs. Everdeen to make an appearance but I knew that was going to make the epilogue drag out, so I scrapped the idea. Secondly, I'd wanted to write Peeta and Katniss' wedding (as I mentioned earlier) but it's been done so many times and I'm sure my way wouldn't have been any more special. ;) Besides, they would just opt for a simple toasting instead of a big hoopla.

Thank you, thank you, thank you so much to everybody who has taken the time to read and review the story. Without y'all, I wouldn't have this far. It's been an incredibly journey and it wouldn't have been the same without my readers.