"Mommy, I found this at Haymitch's house! We were cleaning his attic and I found this box with you name on it! He told me I could give it to you!" Katniss' 6-year-old daughter piped up from the house entrance. Katniss eyed the dusty box suspiciously. Peeta's muscles tensed- he knew what it was. Lux, Katniss and Peeta's daughter, handed Katniss the box. Katniss took it and sat down on the couch. She opened it to find nothing but papers and envelopes. "What is this?" she asked no one in particular. Peeta sat beside her. "It's um.. it's letters. From everyone... Haymitch and I, we didn't want you to see them just yet, but I guess he thinks you're ready now.." he explained. Katniss held one of them and began reading it.
Dear Katniss,
If you're reading this, it's because I didn't make it. And I'm sorry. I know you didn't want me to fight, but I had to. I had to fight for Panem. For your future children. For the children of Panem. If you're reading this, then I'm guessing the war is over and you're safe, probably with Gale and Peeta and Mother. I'm sorry I couldn't be there with you at the end of the war. I hope you're not mad at me. I love you, remember that. I'm with Rue now, in a better place watching over you. I love you with all my heart. Remember the song we sang the day this all started?
Deep in the meadow,
Under the willow,
A bed of grass,
A soft green pillow.
Finish it for me.
Love always,
Prim.
Tears formed in Katniss' eyes as she thought about her sister. Her sweet, kind sister. She closed her eyes and put the letter beside her, between her and Peeta. Her hands fell upon another, this one concealed in an envolope.
Katniss,
I'm sorry for leaving you, but I couldn't face District 12. Too many memories, too much pain. I'm fine now, in District 2. I have a good job and an paid well. I have a son, 6 years old. He is well. I want to see you again. Give me a call whenever. I miss you, Catnip.
Love,
Gale.
Katniss swallowed hard and inhaled deeply. Her left eye let out a tear and Peeta put his arm around her. She put it on top of Prim's letter and dug through the box. She unfolded another one.
Katniss,
I haven't heard from you in a while. Gale misses you, and so do I. I just want to say thank you for fighting for our generation. If it weren't for you, our son would have to go through the Games. You're his hero. He admires you, and so do Gale and I. Give us a call, please.
-Madge.
This one left Katniss speechless. Peeta gave her a faint smile. His eyes were soft and warm. "She's alive, Katniss." Katniss got another one of the letters and opened it.
Dearest Katniss,
I hope you are well. Finnick is alive, and our son is healthy. His name is Finn. There's a picture of him in this envolope. He is quite a looker, like his father. We would love to hear from you.
-Finnick, Annie & Finn Odair
Katniss smiled. She added the letter to the pile and unfolded the last one.
Hey Katniss,
Long time no see. Did you miss me? I know we were never really 'friends,' but you can give me a call whenever. I'd love to hear from you and Peeta. Maybe you could even visit sometime.
-Johanna Mason
