@gladiatefm
they had tried to shield aster--tried to keep her from seeing what snow wanted everyone to witness. aster insisted she was fine, threw up a smile and was ready to walk right into that party. but alex could see it in her eyes--he hadn't been fast enough.
but she was learning the game well, had split from their side to mingle, to make friends and charm and do everything she had to in order to get an edge in the games. alex would have been proud...if it were any other circumstances. for the longest time, alex had lingered close by, concerned only for his sister--even above himself. but as time passed, they became increasingly aware of concern for someone else.
apollo.
it's why he found himself trying to track down the other victor, scanning the faces of those in the party for him. he had to be here...where is he? he finally spots apollo, weaving his way through the crowd to grab his arm and pull him to a quiet spot--away from the capitol, away from the cameras and those too big smiles. their hand doesn't leave apollo's arm, even as they speak, their voice a low whisper just between the two of them.
"i know you're not okay, i can tell you aren't. so don't try to bullshit me and say that you are just...talk to me."