There was no part of Prim that actually wanted to go back inside, even though it was possible that someone would see her and Gale kissing and not behaving like good tributes. The Penthouse sometimes felt so small and depressing that it was hard to breathe, and although they were still sealed in at the Ball, at least they were outside. The air wasn't as clean in the Capitol, and Prim missed her home, and the way the trees and flowers scented the air this time of year. She wondered how her mother was doing, if anyone was going to take care of her now that everyone she relied on was away. She thought of Gale's mother too, and his siblings and she hoped that they were eating enough, and not too worried yet. If Peeta's plan didn't work, if the Games ended with a new winner, Prim hoped that it was Gale; he deserved to go home.

It was difficult to be happy for too long while in the Capitol. Every time Prim found comfort in something, she was quickly reminded that it would be over soon. In only a few days time, she would find herself in the arena, thrown to the wolves and then the Ball wouldn't matter—the pretty clothes, the luxurious environment, the people she had met—none of it would truly mean anything and Prim found herself wishing that she could run away. Still, she couldn't help but think that none of this would be happening if she had just taken her place when she supposed to the year before.

When Gale agreed that it was time to leave, Prim was ready to get up on her own, but Gale looped his jacket around her and pulled her up instead. She couldn't hold back the small giggle that escaped her lips because that truly was a smooth move. Gale was unbelievably sweet and Prim felt very lucky to be with him. She took hold of his arm and went back inside with him. The Ball was still crowded, and Prim hadn't expected any less, although she didn't see Katniss or Haymitch anywhere, but she did catch a glimpse of Peeta looking very cozy with a pink-haired girl. She smiled, happy that he seemed to be doing okay after the break up between him and Katniss; Prim had been worried about him.

“You're not so bad yourself,” she said, although she did think that Gale had been a fantastic date and when she wasn't worrying about the future, she'd had a wonderful time with him. She smiled when he kissed her cheek and then the elevators doors finally parted. Prim took Gale's hand and pulled him inside, and since they were completely alone now, she kissed him the way she had wanted to in the garden. “Thank you for tonight,” she said once she pulled away, her cheeks a bit pink from being so bold. "You made everything...perfect."