Her mother hands her a cup of chamomile tea that is dosed with sleep syrup. I see her eyes begin to droop after just the first half. She's sprawled out on the couch, her mother at the end of it, wrapping her injured foot.

Slipped on ice, huh? I don't think so sweetheart. I wanted to ask her what really happened, but I know there is probably a reason why she hasn't told us the truth yet. So instead, I just keep my mouth shut and make sure she's drinking all of the syrup.

Her mother is finally done. Katniss sits up, putting the empty cup onto the coffee table. Before she collapses of drowsiness, I volunteer to help get her to bed. She stands up and barely wraps her arm around my neck; because I am so tall, she starts to wobble. She won't be able to get up stairs before she is fully taken in by the medicine, so I just scoop her up in my arms and carry her up stairs. The warmth of Katniss in my arms is lovely. I wish I could stay in this position forever. Katniss in my arms, cuddled into my chest.

We finally reach her room, and carefully set her onto the bed.

"Goodnight Katniss." I murmur. I tried to turn but I couldn't. Not only because I couldn't stop staring at how angelic and innocent face looked when she's sleeping, but also because she kept her hand in mine, pulling me back.

"Don't go yet. Not until I fall asleep." She says with her eyes closed.

I'm surprised. I was sure that after the victor tour she wouldn't need me anymore. She'd have the company of her mom, Prim, and –Gale; to keep her safe. I don't know what to say.

"Almost thought you'd change your mind today. When you were late for dinner." I keep a hold of her hand, and sit on the side of her bed.

"No, I'd have told you." She says. She pulls my hand up and presses it against her cheek. Her skin was so soft.

Soon she starts to slip into sleep; her breathing becomes more slow and relaxed.

"Stay with me." Is all she manages to say before she is pulled into unconsciousness.

"As long as you will allow it sweetheart." I keep her hand in mine, while my other hand softly pulls the ribbon out of her hair; letting the braid fall apart. I sweep her hair away from her face, and lean down to kiss her lightly.

As long as Katniss allows it, I'll always be here for her. I would turn my back against the entire world just to make this girl happy. And it's all because— I love her.