A/N: My first Hunger Game fic and it is a one shot. This is Clato and the scene is from the first book when Clove dies. I believe that the Careers are still humans despite the fact that they are bloodthirsty and whatever synonymous word you wish to throw at them. I hope I managed to bring through the pain Cato felt.
R&R
Disclaimer: I don't own the Hunger Games
"Clove!" I scream as I burst into the clearing.
I throw my spear down onto the ground- a foolish thing to do but I am past caring- and kneel down beside her. I carry her limp body in my arms and I murmur nonsensical words to soothe her pain but her eyes say it all. I bend my head and allow the tears to slide down freely. Clove starts to froth at her mouth and I panic.
"Stay with me! Y-you'll be alright so," I plead but Clove smirks a little.
"It won't be alright," Clove croaks then she starts to cough.
I must admit, I am surprise she still has the ability to talk despite the bashing she got. Clove reaches her hand up to my cheek and it falters a little. I catch it and bring it to my cheek where she cups it and her trembling fingers caress it to the best of her ability. She manages to move her hand down and her thumb brushes against my lips.
"Cato, I…" her voice falters and she tries again, coughing up even more blood. My heart pangs at the sight. How much more can she take? How long more will she be able to hold on? "I love you."
She smiles faintly at me. A real and sweet smile that makes her eyes glows with happiness. I have never seen Clove smile so sweetly before and something in my heart softens and shatters. I am so entranced by her smile that it takes me a while to realize that her hand has become slack in mine.
"Clove, Clove," I whisper and then it becomes a howl of anguish and pain. "CLOVE!"
Even more tears slide down my cheeks and I grip her hand so tightly I hear something crunch but it is the least of my worries. I open my mouth to return her sentiment but my voice fails. I try again and again till I can speak without choking up with sadness.
"I love you too," I whisper back but it is already too late.
My words have fallen on deaf ears.