He saw everything in her, so why is he so intrigued by her.
Word Count: 3,621.
*Reader is from a prestigious family in the capital. They have been best friends their whole lives and dating for years now. Cearo means Sorrow. Follows the film loosely, but as canon as possible.
*Warnings: Genral Hunger Games Canon Warnings. Death. Etc. Some Suggestive Themes. Possessive Behavior. Not Proof Read.
Masterlist
Part Two.
The Night after the Reaping
(Y/N) sat with Tirgirs and Grandma’am at the table while Coriolanus paced the dining room in front of her. She tapped her fingers against the table, the tips of them wrapped in gauze from Tirgirs when she arrived with the bloody raw skin picked off around her nails. She knew Coriolanus was having a meltdown about his tribute, sure most everyone was, but all she could think about was Wovey. She looked so small and sweet, reminding her so much of Wilby. She had already cried to Coryo in the back room of the academy while nervously snacked on whatever he grabbed off the buffet on their way out.
“You saw her. She's underfed, unstable.” “The dean said it's not just about winning.” “Everything is about winning! If not the games then the crowd!”
(Y/N) was tuning them out at this point, she knew Coryo needed to win this for their future. She was not about to let him lose everything he fought so desperately for to Highbottom’s distaste for his last name. They needed a spectacle. The capital loves anything showy and daring, and that they could work with. “I wouldn't sing a note for you if I was her.Imagine it was your name they pulled and you were ripped from your home! I’d just wanna know somebody still cared about me.” “She's district, Tigers. She knows we hate her, and she wants us dead.” “Don’t discount her just because she's district, Coryo. You might have more in common with her than you think.” (Y/N) watched the cousins discuss Lucy in front of her.
“Why don't we go meet them tomorrow at the train station Coryo?” They both turned to her, eyes the size of pancakes at her suggestion. “They get here tomorrow, why don't we go there, meet Lucy and Wovey. The Dean said we have to help them win over the capitol hearts, but so do we. What if we show the capital how caring and dedicated to our tributes we are. If we show them we feel something for them, they will too, boosting their incentive to watch the games. Plus we can show them we care about them, like Tirgris said. All I’d want is a friend.”
Coryo walked over to (Y/N) and planted a long kiss on her lips, his smile contagious. “You’re Brilliant (Y/N/N). That's my first lady of Panem.” He pulled her up and dragged her back to his bedroom, grin on his face. She loved when he called her his.
—
They waited hand in hand at the train station, both taking turns squeezing the other's hand in reassurance. Coriolanus had picked her up that morning, both clade in their academy uniforms. She had brought Wovey a scone and a small juice box wrapped in one of the many handkerchiefs her mom had given her years ago. He had a rose pinned to his coat, as did she, and one in his hand for Lucy, a peace offering.
They stood and watched as the tributes were taken off the train one by one, waiting to see their tributes. (Y/N) watched for Wovey as Coriolanus spotted Lucy, dragging (Y/N) by the hand over to her.
“Welcome to the Capitol.” Coryo extended his hand with the rose out to her, his eyes locked on Lucy Grey’s.
“When I was little my mother used to bathe me in buttermilk and rose petals.” (Y/N) watched as Lucy Grey plucked a petal from the rose and ate it. Eyes never breaking contact with Corilanus.
“Tastes like bedtime.” Her thick accent made her seem so kind. Even with the bizarre actions. “You two look like you shouldn't be here.” Lucy snickered a bit. We shouldn't be, (Y/N) thought.
Then (Y/N) spotted Wovey. Breaking her hold on Coriolanus’ hand to walk over to her.
“Hi Wovey!” (Y/N) knew her voice went up an octave, it always did around Wilby. “Welcome to the Capitol! I’m (Y/N) Cearo, your mentor!” Wovey looked at her inquisitively.
“Hello….” (Y/N) smiled at her even wider. She was smaller than Wilby height wise, big eyes looking up at (Y/N) with so much fear.
“Here, I brought this for you.” She crouched down to her height and held out the small package for Wovey, her eyes lighting up immediately at the colorful gift.
“What is it?” She looked between her and the package. “It's a snack, I know you probably haven't had anything since the reaping and so I packed you one of my brother’s favorites! And my boyfriend’s, the other boy in the red over there but don't tell him I said nothing.” She winked at the small girl as she took the little gift from her with a small laugh.
“I promise I won't.” Wovey clutched the snack to her chest, the older boy from eight nudging her along to the truck meant to take them to tribute holding. As Wovey and Lucy got into the truck (Y/N) saw Coriolanus trying to ask the peacekeepers if they could escort their tributes when all the sudden one of the boys ran off.
“Come on.” Coryo grabbed her hand and dragged her onto the back of the truck, both staying turned away from the guards.
“What’s a matter pretty boy, you in the wrong cage?” one of the male tributes taunted. Coryo instinctively pushed me behind him as he turned to look at the tribute addressing him.
“No, this cage is delightful.” Coriolanus tried to sound kind, she assumed, but if anyone didn't know him they might find it condescending, as the other boy did.
She heard the other boy yell and was knocked to the ground as Coriolanus was shoved against the back wall by Reaper.
“Ill kill you right now!” Shouted the boy, Reaper she heard someone call him. “He’ll do it too, Reaper killed a peacekeeper back in eleven.” “Quiet Dill!” “I say we kill him! Her too.” “I’m in.”
(Y/N) sat on the ground looking at the people around her nervously as they plotted her and her boyfriend;s “Are you okay?” (Y/N) looked up and saw Wovey sitting with her gift on her lap above her and next to her she saw Lucy, who was looking at her shoes, when she suddenly spoke up.
“Y’all got family back home? They’ll kill them if you hurt either of them. Then you.” She locked eyes with (Y/N) for a brief moment, then looked up at Reaper and Coriolanus.
“Besides, he's my mentor. I might need him.” The short red headed girl leaned over Lucy’s lap to get in her face.
“How come you get a mender?” She practically spat in her face.
“Mentor.” (Y/N) spoke up. “You all get one. I’m Wovey’s mentor.” She said from the ground still.
“Oh, and we’ll just trust you, right?” the girl replied back sarcastically.
“We’re just here to help you guys.” Coryo spoke up this time. As he looked between Lucy, her, and the redhead, Coral if (Y/N) remembers correctly from reaping day.
“Why aren't our menders here?” Coral asked, looking also between the four other kids.
“Just not inspired I guess.” Lucy smiled as she looked back down at (Y/N) on the floor, suddenly she felt a little insecure under the gaze of the girl who, even on her way to her death, looked so put together. (Y/N) stood up and dusted herself off, looking at Coryo then down again to Wovey’s toothy grin at her.
Suddenly the truck started to rattle and shake as it tilted upwards.
“Alright, hold on!” Coriolanus grabbed the bar in front of him as he reached for Lucy. (Y/N) reached out and grabbed Wovey along with the district eight boy and then grabbed the seat. (Y/N) was practically clutching Wovey in her lap as the eight boys held her legs,the younger still clutching the gift still to her chest, as they started to slip.
‘Coriolanus!” (Y/N) looked up at him as she screamed. Feeling the boy slip and fall as she still held Wovey. When suddenly the truck reached peak height and all four of them started to fall, all three tumbled down the rocks into the zoo exhibit.
(Y/N) landed first, still holding Wovey surprisingly, then was immediately crashed into by Lucy and Coriolanus.
“Ow…” She held her head as she sat up. “Are you okay?” she looked at Wovey.
“Mmmhmm, so is my gift!” Wovey smiled at the girl, she stood up and tried to offer (Y/N) a hand in getting up.
“(Y/N)! Are you okay!” Coriolanus had pulled himself and lucy up and wiped the dirt off himself. He immediately ran over and picked (Y/N) up off the ground by her armpits and started dusting her off, she felt like a child.
“I’m fine, just a few scratches. Are you two okay.” They locked eyes for a minute as they checked each other over.
“Excuse me! Hello Sir! Hello Ma’am!” (Y/N) and Coriolanus turned towards the voice neither of them could miss from outside the cage bars. Lucky Flickerman. Coriolanus’ neighbor and dear friend of (Y/N)’s family. Great, she thought, more people to tell her dad she was out here. He’s gonna love this one. “Yes you two, in the red! Who are you! And why are you in there with them! We’re live, the capital is watching!”
“Oh great, live television coverage. My dad will love this.” (Y/N) rolled her eyes, sweeping off the dust from her outfit. Even Coriolanus looked shaky with the knowledge the capital was watching their performance.. (Y/N) took his hand in hers and gave it a squeeze.
“Own it.” Lucy said to the two of them, though with the look she was giving him, (Y/N) felt it was more towards Coriolanus then her. Coriolanus locked eyes with her, a smile on his face.
“May I introduce you to my neighbors?” If his grin wasn't enough, the second Coriolanus dropped (Y/N)’s hand in exchange for putting the rose he bought in Lucy’s hair, she felt extremely uncomfortable. The way they looked at each other was interesting for two people who just met, at least in (Y/N)’s opinion. When he proceeded to take Lucy’s hand in his was when (Y/N) started to feel like maybe she was third wheeling her own boyfriend.
“Maybe you can introduce Wovey as well, (Y/N).” Coriolanus looked back at her as he started to walk Lucy over to the cameras. Leaving (Y/N) standing alone. Well with Wovey, but without her boyfriend. Maybe (Y/N) would have thought more about it if it wasn't for the small girl next to her.
“Well, that's something you don't see everyday! They're holding hands! Who are you sir, what are you doing in the cage here?” (Y/N) heard Lucy say as she turned her attention to Wovey, she had almost forgotten her job here.
“Wovey, would you like to say hello to the capital?” (Y/N) crouched down to the small girl’s height. Wovey looked at the cameras and then back to (Y/N).
“Can I open my snack first?” Wovey looked up at her with the biggest eyes.
“Of course, would you like help?” Wovey nodded and (Y/N) gently unwrapped the small package. She handed the scone to Wovey and opened the juice box for her. Wovey looked at the snack and then shoved about half of it into her mouth.
“Don’t choke now!” (Y/N) laughed at the face she was making, cheeks stuffed and face smeared with blueberries. (Y/N) pulled a, less extravagant, handkerchief out of her bag and whipped the girl’s face. “Here, you keep this one for later.” (Y/N) took Wovey’s arm and tied the handkerchief around her wrist in a bow.
“Now isn't that pretty, all the capital will be copying this soon. You’ll be a trendsetter!” Wovey raised her arm to inspect the bracelet as she ate the last of her scone, taking a large sip from her juice box with a smile.
“That was the best thing I have ever eaten. Thank you Miss. (Y/N).” Her toothy grin made (Y/N)’s heart melt.
“Well, are you ready to say hi!” (Y/N) tried not to dwell on the fact this poor girl was probably going to die after she just ate her first scone. She’d have to bring her another one. At the very least. Maybe too. Wovey nodded and took her hand as they walked over to Lucky, Coriolanus, and Lucy.
“(Y/N)! (Y/N) Cearo! How are you? Does your dad know you're in here?” Lucky recognized her right off the bat, she knew he would, they have dinner at the same restaurant every weekend.
“If he didn't before he does now!” She laughed along, playing up a smile as the cameras rolled. “To be fair, no one said I couldn't be here though! Plus I wanted to make sure my tribute, this beautiful young lady here, got the introduction she deserved!” (Y/N) crouched down again to Wovey’s heigh, taking both her hands in her own.
“And who might this be?” Lucky also crouched down and pointed the mic towards them both.
“My name is Wovey and I’m 12 years old.” Wovey spoke shyly, earning aws all around.
“Well Wovey, aren't you just the sweetest thing? And what district are you from?”
“Eight.” Wovey nervously shifted a bit in place with the spotlight on her.
“Well, that's great. For the record I think you both are about to be whisked away.” (Y/N) turned to see the peacekeepers coming to get her and Coriolanus. She turned back towards Wovey as she stood up. She could hear Lucy talking to Coriolanus.
“Be safe, I will bring you some more food soon. I promise.” Wovey nodded and ran over to Bobbin as (Y/N) and Coriolanus were dragged out of the Zoo by the peacekeepers. (Y/N) could hear Lucky closing out his show. Her dad was gonna kill her. — They both got a slap on the wrist for what happened and told to get back to the academy as soon as possible. What was worse punishment was the walk back to the academy. He held her hand, the same one he held hers with. Which was fine, she gets it, or at least she guesses she does. Their future relies on making sure the capital thinks he cares about Lucy, but he didn't have to be so convincing. Although she herself couldn't help but care for Wovey. So she guess she got it, in some way. What she couldn't stand was the smile on his face. He looked so. Happy. Like meeting Lucy Grey Baird was the best thing that's happened to him yet. Did he smile like that with her? Has he smiled at her like that? Of course he has you've talked of marriage and kids. Just last night he held you in his arms, not her. He loves you.
Or at least, that's what (Y/N) was telling herself to feel better.
As they walked into class to take their seats Dean Highbottom spoke up. “You two’s little excursion was in violation of about five different Academy rules, Mr. Snow and Miss. Cearo. Chief amongst them endangering Capital Students.” Coriolanus looked between the class and Dean Higbottom, his face reading one of shock.
“What? Who?” (Y/N) looked down at her shoes. She couldn't think of a single time either of them had been in trouble in class. Especially herself.
“Yourselves. I'm moving for the gamemakers to disqualify you both as mentors.” (Y/N)’s head shot up at that. Wovey.
“That’s not fair!” Her voice spoke before her brain caught up.
“You said we had to get our tributes to perform, not that we had to stay away!” Coriolanus fought back as well.
“I’ll add insubordination as well.” Dean Highbottom added, still not looking at either of them.
“Holding their hands, introducing them to people, guys. You make them look as if we’re one in the same.” Clemmie spoke up next, (Y/N) shooting a look at her from her seat.
“They both didn't show those people anything they didn't already know!” Serjanus spoke up next. The anger in his voice as a previous member of the districts. (Y/N) felt bad for what was happening now.
“I don't need your help, Serjanus.” Coriolanus’ voice sounded angry too. This was all getting out of hand, but he went wrong.
“That the tributes are human beings, just like us.” Serjanus continued even though Coriolanus told him to stop.
“We just wanted to make sure our tributes knew we were there for them.” (Y/N) spoke up now, she knew this fighting was unnecessary but she was in this now too. At least for Wovey’s sake.
“It's because people know, deep down, that winning a war ten years ago doesn't justify starving people’s children, taking away their freedoms, their rights!” Serjanus’ voice was rocky at the end, his feelings on the matter strong. They knew the games were wrong. No one wanted to admit it but him.
“Snow fell down in the cage. It fell down in the cage but it landed.” Dr. Gauls' voice silenced the whole class. “On Stage.” She stepped down to the bleachers to look at the class.
“You're good at Games, Mr. Snow. You too Miss. Cearo.” She smiled at them and (Y/N) felt a shiver down her spine. “Maybe one day you'll be a gamemaker, like me.” (Y/N) knew she should take the praise as an honor, but she felt uneasy in the woman's presence.
“If the games continue at all.” Dean Highbottom replied to her, tapping mindlessly at his paper.
“Oh, they’ll continue. With performances like young Mr. Snow and Miss. Cearo in that zoo.” She stepped down a bit more, turning her attention to Corilanus and (Y/N). “and I came here to ask your star mentors a question.” The class around them started to mummer.
“What are the Hunger Games for?” Dr. Gaul may have said she asked you both, but her stare locked on Coriolanus. Which (Y/N) felt relief for.
“They are to punish the district for their uprising, to commemorate the end of the war.” Coriolansu answered.
“Commemorate the… dull dull dull.” Dr. Gual started. “Punishment can take many forms. Why not drop bombs! Cancel food shipments. Stage executions? Why Games?” She looked around the class now, waiting for an answer from Coriolanus.
“Shouldn't we be asking ourselves whether or not the games are right?” Serjanus spoke up again now. (Y/N) looked at him. He was right, but that's not what the games are for.
“You don't like my games?” Dr. Gaul now turned to Serjanus, eyes wide with interest. “Some of those kids were two years old when the war ended, the oldest of them only eight. The capitol is supposed to be everybody’s government now. It's supposed to protect us all. I don't see how making children fight against each other is protecting anyone!” “That sort of Sympathy may interfere with your mentoring assignment.” “Perhaps the Capital students are ill-suited to be mentoring tributes. Perhaps the game's times have passed.”
“The Hunger Games are a performative way to instill fear.” (Y/N) spoke up now. “After 13 was destroyed they were instilled as a reminder that the people, the rebels, who turn against the capital are against Panem in whole, and the capital will do what it takes to protect Panem.” (Y/N) looked up at Dr. Gaul, waiting for a reaction.
‘Now that's a different take Miss. Cearo. A strong one.” Dr. Gaul’s stare made (Y/N) uncomfortable to say the least, but all eyes were on her now.
“I say performative because theyre a show, you want us to have our tributes perform, you want people to be invested in the games. We were simply trying to push our tribute's popularity ratings by showing the capital who they're watching.”
“Dean Highbottom is wrong.” Now Coriolanus was speaking up. “My classmates too. Serjanus may be onto something though. Maybe we should be viewing those tributes as human beings. I mean you saw those kids at the zoo. They just wanted to get to know Lucy Grey. If we need people, we should be letting them get closer to the tributes before the games. To make the stakes personal. Who will watch the games if they care what happens to the tributes.” (Y/N) was proud of Coriolanus, he would make a great public relations specialist if not president.
“Everyone.” (Y/N) replied. “Everyone loves a good competition. Sports were popular in the old world, and maybe people chose and rooted for specific teams from each sport. Everyone wants someone to root for.”
“Especially if they thought the tribute they cared about had a chance of winning. We need people to invest.” (Y/N) was liking this side of Coriolanus, even if she knew it was just for the Plinth prize.
“Look, I know Lucy Grey may not win in the arena but if you give her a chance, I would bet the Plinth Prize she can win people’s attention.”
“I’d like you to write up a proposal of these thoughts tonight, Mr. Snow.” Dr. Gaul was gleaming at Coriolanus. Yeah, (Y/N) had spoken up too but she was okay with not having Dr. Gaul’s attention on her.
“Wait.” (Y/N) turned to Clems as she now stood up. “You mean you might actually use his ideas?” Now she was just feeling ignored.
“If it helps the ratings, why not.” Dr. Gaul replied with a eerily cheerful tone.
“Coriolanus and I are class partners, Dr. Gaul. We do all our assignments together.” (Y/N) watched as Dr. Gaul laughed at her friend.
“It'll be an interesting test.” She said as she began to walk out of the class.
This will be an interesting experience indeed, (Y/N) thought to herself.
The Ballad of Snakes, Songbirds, and Sorrow. Part One.
A Coriolanus Snow x Fem!Reader FanFiction.
He saw everything in her, so why is he so intrigued by her.
Word Count 3,381.
* Reader is from a prestigious family in the capital. They have been best friends their whole lives and dating for years now. Cearo means Sorrow. Follows the film loosely, but as canon as possible.
*Warnings: Some Suggestive Themes at the Start. Possessive Behavior. Mentions of pregnancy/ Wanting Children. Not Proof Read.
Masterlist
Part One.
“Coryo?“ She mumbled against his skin, eyes straining upwards towards the young man's face from her position on his chest, chin pressed to his bare chest as sleep evaded them both.
“Hmmmm” he mumbled back, hands wrapped around her waist as he enjoyed the comfort of her skin against his.
“I know I ask this a lot, but tomorrow, once you win the plinth prize, nothing changes between us right?” Her begs for reassurance were something Coriolanus enjoyed. They made him feel wanted. Reminded him that she wanted to be with him, not just forced to be.
“Nothing will ever change this (Y/N). What we have is special, I wouldn't give you up for all the money in the capital.” He kissed her forehead, blue eyes staring down at her sweet face.
(Y/N) Cearo. His childhood sweetheart. His best friend. She was the fuel to his fire. He couldn't imagine a life away from her, let alone a world where they weren't attached at the hip. Through the Dark Times, Through the Academy. He had been graced with her presence throughout his life.
“Not ever for all the chocolate in the capital?” She raised a brow up at him, a smirk evident on her face. She squished her cheek back into his chest, he smiled at the warmth of her skin.
“Never, but don't tell Grandma’am that. She'll be disappointed.” The fake gasp that left her made Coriolanus chuckle.
“You don't think Grandma’am would miss me?” She looked up at him again. Big doe eyes holding a false look of offense only she could muster. He chuckled at her again.
“I dare say she wouldn't even miss me if someone promised her that much chocolate.” They both laughed now, bed shaking slightly with their shared moment.
“Well hopefully we won't have to find out since you've practically already won. Just have to decide what you'll buy first.” She chuckled again, settling back down into his arms.
“I'll probably buy Tirgis a new dress, Grandma’am a box of chocolates, obviously, maybe some new shoes finally.” Perhaps a ring for you. He wanted to say. Coriolauns craved nothing more than making her his in every way possible. He craved the idea of their marriage, promising herself to him for all eternity. His very own first lady of Panem.
“All very fine choices, Coryo. Of course how could I ever doubt you’d not have it all planned out already.” and boy did he have it all planned out. The Plinth Prize was far more than enough to cover his University tuition and make a few frivolous purchases. Maybe not the ring he’d wish to buy her truly but one pretty enough it’d make their peers envious. He could replace it with something more fitting in time. Not that that would matter to her in any way, she was always the sentimental type. The torn up photo of them as children in her mirror compact to prove so.
“Coryo?” He hummed back in response. Blue eyes now closed as he tried to prepare for the morning to come. “You know I love you, right?” Her voice was hushed, another question asked for reassurance, which he loved.
“Of course I do. Why?” He knew her answer. She said it every time he asked.
“Because I do.” She said it so plainly. So simply. He loved it.
“Well get some sleep then lover, we have the reaping tomorrow.” He heard her grunt, knowing the sleep was already taking her out. Tomorrow was to be the start of the rest of his life. He’d have the Plinth Prize. The Girl. The Name. All of it.
“Goodnight darling.”
______________________________________________
By the time he woke up the next morning (Y/N) was long gone. She normally woke up before him to run home and get ready for the day. He’d meet her at her door to walk to school together.
Coriolanus got up and got ready for his day. Cold shower. No breakfast. Lost shirt. The works. Thankfully Tirgis had come through for him and fixed up one of his fathers old shirts for the day. His Grandma’am even gave him two red roses for him and (Y/N). Today was one of the rare days he and his fellow students were not to wear their uniforms at the school, for the reaping, though it only made him worry more for his appearance. Nonetheless, Snow always lands on top, he would remind himself as he walked to (Y/N)’s Family’s Home.
(Y/N) and her family lived in a fair sized home. Two streets down from Sejauns and his family and 4 blocks from him. They lived in a fairly large townhome. (Y/N) and her brother practically have their own floors for their bedrooms. William Cearo, (Y/N)’s younger brother. He was only 12 and he considered Coriolanus his ‘best friend’ whenever he went to visit their family home. She was a good match come time Coriolanus became president. Upstanding student, wealthy family, all he could ask for in a partner. Along with the added benefit she had been one of his only friends his entire life.
As he approached the house out came (Y/N). Deep plum coat, black dress, one she had already had him approve of two nights before, and black heels. All accompanied by the large black leather bag with her initials imprinted on the front that she took everywhere.Her hair was up in a twist on the back of her neck. Pity, he didn't do enough damage last night to keep it down, or at the very least show off what all their peers already knew. She practically skipped down the stairs to him, crashing into his arms and sealing their greeting with a kiss he knew her father would disagree upon.
“Hi Coryo” She smiled as she looked him in his eyes. Her soft gaze made his heart swell. “I brought you a gift!” She exclaimed. Letting go of him to dig through her bag, pulling out a neatly wrapped parchment bundle. “Two blackberry and cream scones. I know they're your favorite and you’ll need something to keep your stomach calm for the reaping.” She held them out to her. Big eyes and even bigger smiles. He’d die without her, he swore it.
“Well it just so happens I brought you a gift as well.” He held out the rose hearing her gasp of approval. “Technically it's from Grandma’am but as I’ve delivered it I am including myself.” He stepped up to her, pinning the rose neatly to her coat lapel.
Another sign she's all mine. His inner thoughts stirred with delight.
“It’s beautiful. I will have to thank Grandma’am for it when I see her next.” She handed him off the scones, neck craned to look down at the rose. “We better start walking before we are late to the reaping. Or at least before Willby sees you out the window.” She looked at the watch he hadn't even noticed she was wearing.
“We’re gonna be a half hour early if we start now darling, you know this.” He protested, yet fell into step with her while unwrapping his treat. He’d never admit that without her spoiles he’d starve to death in class. She always brought him whatever treat her chefs had come up with that morning. Though scones were his favorite. He broke off a bite as she linked her arm through his for their journey. As they walked he got about half way through the second scone when she abruptly held a small glass water bottle to his mouth.
“They're dry.” Was all she muttered as he took a small sip from her water.
“You’re going to be a fantastic mother” Coriolanus chuckled as they continued to walk. Eyes watching her as she shoved the bottle back in her bag.
“Hopefully one day. I always loved the idea of a big family. After university, obviously. Stay at home mom, I’d like at least two.” She looked up at him, judging his reaction he assumed. Coriolanus pretended to think for a moment.
“I can work with two. I’d need at least one boy though, carry on the name obviously.” It was his turn now to judge her reaction. She chuckled.
“Well I can’t control the gender. Although I’d like girls. I think youd be a fantastic Girl dad.” His smile brightened ten fold.
“So you do.” He stated, practically stopping their stroll.
“Do what Coryo?” She stopped with him. Arms still interlinked, both too caught up in each other's eyes. They were only about 100 or so steps from the school now. Coryo took
“So you do want to have kids with me.” He knew the answer. They had talked about all of this before. Kids. Marriage. His strives for the presidency.
“Obviously.” There it was again. The simplicity of her words. “After University and once you’ve married me, obviously. Then while you become president we can announce our first pregnancy, which will not only cause joy for the people of Panem, as everyone loves a good love story, it will also show the county you also have something to fight for as their president.” Ah yes, her plan. She was brilliant. She had plans to major in Public Image and Relations in University. Not a popular choice in their peer group but he had to hand it to her, one she would excel in prominently.
“Oh so you wanna have kids with me for Panem and its citizens?” He watched her eyes roll as she turned to drag him towards the school doors.
“Oh obviously Coriolanus, I only want to have your babies for Panem Mr. President.” They both laughed to themselves as they walked through the doors, arms interlocked. Mr. President, he liked that.
“Snow. Cearo.” Clemensia smiles as she approaches the two. Coriolanus opens his other arm to the dark haired girl.
“Good Morning, Clems.” (Y/N)’s tone is still cheerful but Coriolanus can hear the anxiety start to take over as the reaping nears. (Y/N) hates the games, he knows this. She understands the games keep people in line though.
“Good morning, (Y/N). How is your brother?” Clemensia was terrible at small talk. Her voice made Coriolanus cringe. She sounded venomous even when he knew she was just trying to be considerate.
“He is good. He just got a new train set so he was up all night blasting its horn.”
They walked into the main auditorium and (Y/N) immediately dropped his arm to give Sejaunus a hug as he approached the group. Coriolanus had to hold back a scoff as she did so.Was it hypocritical of him to be jealous as he still had his arm linked with Clemensia? Probably, though he did consider Sejanus a friend but no friend was good enough to touch his girl.
“Good morning (Y/N/N) You look stunning today as usual.. Good Morning Coriolanus. Clemensia.” Sejanus greeted as (Y/N) wrapped herself back into Coriolanus’s arm. He felt better back with her by his side. He nodded back to Sejanus in greeting.
“Spill it, Sejanus!” Arachne’s prissy voice rang towards them. Another voice Coriolanus couldn't stand. In fact he couldn't stand most of the women in his peer group’s voices.
Sejanus shook his head as he scoffed.
“Oh, no, I’m not going to ruin my father’s big day. No one here actually likes him but they do love his money… you know what that’s like, don’t you, Arachne?” Coriolanus felt the shakes of (Y/N)’s shoulder as she silently snickered along with Sejanus’s comment.
Arachne rolled her eyes and ran off to find someone else to bother. As Clemensia walked off to find her seat Sejanus looked at you both.
“Look, I know you have had high hopes for this Coriolanus but… there’s no prize. Not anymore.”
He couldn't tell if you both had the same visual reaction but he could feel his own eyes widen and feel your grip on his arm tighten, head lifting off his shoulder. He stood there searching Sejanus’ expression for any signs of mockery. He looked down at you, hoping maybe you were in on this sick joke. But your expression held fear as you stared at Sejanus.
“What?” he asked, words dark and airy, looking almost angry. (Y/N)’s grip on his arm tightened ever more. He was thankful for it. She grounded him.
“I’m so sorry—”
Before Sejanus could finish his sentence, the trumpets announcing the reaping blared throughout the hall and all the students made their way to their seats. Coriolanus, as much as he didnt want to, slipped away from you letting you sit first before taking the seat to your right. Sejanus sat at (Y/N) 's left, eyes full of pity. Clemensia sat next to him on his right. All turning their attention to Dr. Gaul.
Her speech falls upon Coriolanus’ deaf ears. All his plans were ruined within seconds. No Plinth Prize means no University. No means to provide for his family. No Presidency. God forbid no (Y/N). His thoughts eat at him. No Money. No Power. No Glory. His own fear of failure devours him. He felt (Y/N)’s hand slide across his lap, the movement breaking him from his thoughts. Looking down only momentarily to see it,hands interlocked she pulls his hand to her lap where she cradles it. Rubbing her thumb soothingly along the skin. He knows she can practically hear his thoughts. His grip tightens in hers.
Dr. Gaul introduces Dean Highbottom, an old friend of his dad, inventor of the games.
“I can’t believe they still allow him to speak in public,” Clemensia said to Coriolanus’ right.
Dean was a known substance abuser and an all over terrible person in most everyone's eyes.What his dad saw in him as a friend Coriolanus would never understand. Though what could he say when one of his best friends was District afterall.
“My own twenty-four top prospects. All waiting to hear the results of your hard studying in this prestigious institution, eager to know who’s won that Plinth prize, no doubt. And a golden future, with it.However… I’m here to tell you all that there’s been a change this year.”
(Y/N) squeezed Coriolanus’ hand back as he tensed.
“One last assignment to prove your worth,” Highbottom announced, a grim look on his face. Coriolanus did his best not to shift in his chair. “The esteemed citizens of the Capitol simply aren’t watching anymore. And if the games are to continue at all, there must be an audience, no?” Professor Highbottom smirked, Coriolanus watched him turn, looking over to him and his friends.
“Head gamemaker Dr. Gaul has stepped in to… incentivize patriotic values with her own unique flair, starting with you. The Plinth prize will no longer be determined by who has the best grades.”
Coriolanus sucked in a breath. Heart pounding.
“Instead, it will be decided by who is the best mentor in the hunger games. As the reaping begins, I will allocate each one of the top twenty-four Capitol students a district tribute. A figure behind the scenes—one who must persuade them to perform for the cameras.”
He heard (Y/N) gasp. Archance let out a scoff. Sejanus’ face morphed into one of disgust. Visceral reactions from the crowd.
“Your role is to turn these children into spectacles. Not survivors… victory in the games is only one of the considerations. Your entire future rests on this last project.” Highbottom continued.
Corilanus zoned out again as Archane complained of her chances of getting an unworthy pick. He was fucked. This was God's sick way of tormenting him. He sat near frozen, eyes still staring up at the podium.
“Oh, and I must warn you… anyone caught cheating to give their tributes an unfair advantage… Well, they’d just have no future at all.” Highbottom looked dead at him this time. He knew that his professor never favored him, but at this rate Coriolanus was starting to take it personally. The professor clapped once.
“Here we go! Let the reaping ceremony begin.” Highbottom sat between Coriolanus and Clemensia’s feet on the bleachers. He started calling off the names after each victor was announced. (Y/N) was shaking slightly. She had started picking at the skin around her fingers, a nervous trait he had seen her do many times, normally he would take the time to stop her but at the rate he was about to join her in picking his own.
“Sejanus Plinth, the male tribute from district two.” He saw his friend's eyes darken. (Y/N)’s shocked face turning to face their friend. “You got the pick of the litter.” Archane’s voice snickered. Behind the group.
“You forget. I'm part of the litter.” Sejanus’ voice held anger. Coriolanus felt bad for him at that moment. He probably knew that boy. Coriolanus saw (Y/N)’s hand move to comfort Sejanus, soothingly rubbing his arm lightly. Sejanus reached up and held his hand over hers to stop her movement, Coriolanus could see it shaking as he rested it over hers. In that moment Coriolanus couldn't find it in himself to be jealous of interaction.
The reaping continued. Female from 3. Male from 3. Female from 4. Male from 4. And so on till the Female from 8, a tiny girl no older than 12, Wovey.
“Female Tribute from Eight. (Y/N) Cearo.” He heard her gasp. Saw tears well in her eyes. Sejanus gasped. The two locking eyes across the girl.
“She's no older than Wilby, Coryo…” Her whisper to him broke his heart. William meant the world to her and if she has already correlated Wovey with him she’s going to have a terrible time mentoring the sweet looking young girl.
They sat in silence the rest of the reaping. His name is not yet being called. Sejanus shifting uncomfortably in his seat. (Y/N) picking at her fingers till they undoubtedly will bleed.
Male from 10, Female from 10. Male from 11, Female from 11. Male from 12, Female from 12…
Lucy Grey Baird.
She was beautiful. Even Coriolanus could deny that. Her dress was covered in colors and her corset decorated in flowers. He had never seen an outfit quite like it before.
“And the runt girl from twelve goes to Coriolanus Snow.” Highbottom announced, even though him and everyone in the room already knew that from the fact he was the last unassigned mentor in the group.
“What is that dress? Is she some sort of clown?” Coriolanus rolled his eyes at Archanes unnecessary comments.
Suddenly on her way from the stage the girl stopped and seemed to have shoved something down another girls dress. The victims screams echoing through the speakers as she rolled in the ground. A snake slithering out from under her dress.
The girl reached the stage and the mayor slapped her across the face. Coriolanus abruptly stood. Startling (Y/N) and their friends in the process. Then the signing started. First a small girl in the back. Then her…
“She's singing? Is she out of her mind?” Archane scoffed again.
“You really must learn when to shut up, Archane.” (Y/N)’s voice spat back at the girl. If Coriolanus wasn't so caught up in his tribute’s performance he would have snickered or at least kissed his girlfriend on the cheek for the snide comment but in this moment he was completely mesmerized by the girl on the screen. Her voice was beautiful, nothing like his Grandma’ams horrible morning renditions of the national anthem. Not like the soft and sweet voice of (Y/N) he would hear as she rocked William to sleep as a baby. No, it was something special. She was something special. As Lucy Grey brought her signing to an end her scream rattled through the speakers of the program.
“YOU CAN KISS MY ASS.” As she bowed with a smile all Coriolanus could think of is how beautiful she looked. She was his ticket to the prize, and she had the perfect potential.
He just had to get his songbird to sing again.
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