Chapter 1

Katniss's POV

I walk silently through the woods, keeping an eye out for any game to shoot. These trees give me solace, which I need today more than any other. This particular May morning is the second anniversary of my husband, Peeta's, death. Days after he had lavished me with birthday gifts, I found him slumped over his easel, dead of a heart attack at only 35.

The funeral had been quick. I was a complete mess, shutting myself off from the rest of the District and the country of Panem. Only my beloved children Eric and Clementine, at the time only 4 and 1, respectively were anywhere near me. And Haymitch Abernathy, my old Hunger Games mentor.

These last two years of sadness have reminded me of the depression my family had gone through after my father's death. I deal with it now as I did then: go hunting. Feed my family. But even with the fame and annual royalties from winning the Games, it isn't enough. Not enough without Peeta's beloved bakery still running.

As I approach my father's private lake and the outhouse beside it, I suddenly am startled to see a stranger drinking from the pool of water. I must have stepped on a leaf or something, for he jumps up, startled and whirls around.

I get a good look at him. He has curly black hair, a wide but boyish face and deep piercing green eyes. Definitely on the young side – likely 25 or so.

I lower her bow to my side, eyeing him suspiciously. "What's your name?"

"Anton," the young man replies.

"Well, Anton, this is kind of unofficial private property, or hadn't you heard?"

"I'm sorry, I didn't know," Anton quickly apologizes. "I'm not from around these parts. I'm passing through on my way from District 4."

I blink. "That's where my mother lives." A pause, and then I ask: "Are you a sailor?"

"Fisherman, actually. I've been roaming the districts looking for fresh water bodies. The oceans in Four have been suffering from pollution – if we want to keep our industry going, we'll have to get inventive." He holds out his hand. "Anton Yelcandle. And you're Katniss Mellark."

I'm not surprised he knows who I am – the whole country knows.

"I heard your husband passed away about two years ago. I'm sorry for your loss."

I nod stiffly. It's still hard to hear the condolences from people, even when they are trying to be compassionate. I had never been one for compassion until Peeta entered her life.

"How long will you be in town?" I ask.

"A couple of months," Anton tells me. "It may be awhile before I get a decent enough haul."

I glance at the sun. "Well, it was nice to meet you, Anton. If you'll please excuse me, I have to get back to my children."

"See you around," Anton expresses. I nod and give a small wave before disappearing into the trees.