Chapter 2
After we are escorted to the justice building, my parents come to say goodbye. My mother is excited. "We might finally have a victor! She's a survivor that one!" Did I hear that right? I know katniss is good, but did she just rank her above me? Her SON? She didn't even seem to care that I was going. To be slaughtered. Did she care? I gave up trying to understand her years ago.
"Peeta", my father says. In it are all of his emotions. Love, fear, pain.
"I love you too. I'll miss you. If I don't come back..."
"No, Peeta. Of course you will come back. You will come back because Mrs. Racter still needs her cake. " He's trying to convince himself. We all know I'm not coming back. I already promised myself I'll keep Katniss alive at all costs. I love her.
"Here, take this with you, as your token." He hands me a little ball of hardened dough. Not even edible anymore. But I know this is exactly what he gave Cassida when she was reaped.
We sit there in silence, until I break it saying, "Dad, you know I love katniss right?" He nods very slowly. "Well, she feeds her family. Without her they will starve. Please watch after them. Please?" He nods again. "Thank you. " He stands up and takes my mother's hand. "Finally! I was getting bored." Wow, that stung. I can't believe she said that. I'm going to die, and she's concerned about her entertainment. Nice of her.
When my brothers come in, they're serious for once. Asher gives me a thoughtful look, as he always does, before speaking. "You're keeping her alive, aren't you. " I nod. It wasn't even a question. More like a statement. "Peeta, you could live. You could come home. And you're giving it all up for a girl you've never spoken to." Another statement. "Well Peeta Bread, I'll miss you." I smile at the old nickname. "I'll miss you too Asher."
Then I look at Zander, who gives me a small smile. "I'll miss you too. I should've volunteered. Its my fault you're sitting here."
I shake my head. I could never stand watching that.
You're an awesome brother. I love you Peeta. " I nod and give him a hug. It's about then I start crying. Wonderful. Zander and Asher leave, and I'm left in peace.
Well, until Delly comes in and starts crying.
"Oh Peeta. You're my best friend. You can't leave me. How could they do this to us?"
"I know Delly. I feel the same way. But, I guess I'm glad it's me and not some little twelve year old. And who knows. Maybe I'll come back." I feel really bad lying to her. But she can't know what I'm planning, or I would never even get to the arena.
She nods and goes to leave, but turns back around and kisses my cheek. "I love you like a brother Peeta. Don't forget that. And I'll be watching you. Good luck"
I watch her leave. Now, I'm completely alone. Until the peacekeepers come back and escort me to the train. And we're off.