Chapter 37 – True Colors

AN: Thank you for your patience. My apologies for not updating sooner. Last month was a busy month for me––birthdays, anniversary and work. As for my health, I'm feeling much better now and hope to update regularly. So…

FYI, this chapter contains Madge, Jimmy, Lily, Peeta and Katniss' POVs. Also, we have now reached the chapters that contain the M rating. Please turn back if you are offended. Hungry Games belongs to Suzanne Collins. I make no claims to her stories or characters.

Madge POV ––

It's a beautiful day in District 12. The warm sun radiated above us as cumulus clouds painted the blue sky. Life was back to normal after the reaping ceremony. Sighs of relief and prayers of gratitude were sent to faceless entities. Another year of living until the next time. One day after the ceremony school commenced and businesses reopened as if nothing has happened. Both Peeta and Katniss assumed were dead and casualties to the games their names never to be spoken like a taboo.

I watched as several Peacekeepers walked down the street patrolling. For weeks now their numbers were diminishing. I asked Dad if he knew what was going on.

"Dad, did Peacekeeper Darius say anything to you about the number of soldier that have left the district?" Dad looked at me as if I lost my mind.

"What are you talking about?" he asked in utter surprise.

"Dad, have you not been paying attention?" I said in an exasperated tone. "The peacekeepers? Their numbers have been lessening for weeks now. What's going on?"

"Sorry, Madge," he apologized. "I've been very busy." He was elusive and dismissive as of late. Every time I wanted to talk to him he was either busy or didn't have the time because he was doing 'district' business. I wasn't stupid. I knew that Dad was working or was a participant in the rebellion. I have known for years. How could he not be after my Aunt Maysilee?

"Dad, seriously? You expect me to believe you haven't noticed?"

He sighed. "Madge, please don't make a fuss," he whispered. I glared at him.

"Why are you whispering?" I asked. "We're inside our house. Who could be listening?" He remained silent. "Dad, answer me. How am I to take after you, to learn from you if you don't tell me anything? District 12 is my home too." Dad said he was going to groom me to become a mayor like him. I didn't like the idea at first––there was too much responsibility, too many lives depending on him, a task I didn't think I was strong enough to handle. But with both Peeta and Katniss being reaped and the rumor that the MockingJay was in 12, how could I not pull my weight? What would my aunt say to me––would she be disappointed in me? I gave Katniss the MockingJay pin to give her strength and courage. How hypocritical was I when I couldn't ask that of myself.

Dad looked annoyed, frustrated and angry. He should be. "Madge," he started.

"No," I uttered with a tinge of anger. "If you say I'm responsible and old enough to be married and be a wife, then I'm old enough to know whatever secret you been keeping from me."

"I don't…I'm not keeping any secrets from you," he denied. "I'm not. I am doing district business, I promise."

"Oh, okay then," I returned. I knew he was up to something so I pressed further. I wasn't going to stop until he told me the truth. So I baited him. "So where do you go late at night when you think everyone has gone to bed and are asleep?" I looked at him in the eye. "Are you cheating on mom?" I challenged him.

"What? No!" he blustered. "How can you say such a thing?"

"Well, then explain to me where you go after curfew?" He shook his head. "Dad?"

"I don't…I didn't want you to worry."

"I understand your role as a father and a husband. But you are also the Mayor, Dad…these are perilous times," I reminded him. "We need to tell me what is going on…I am not a child anymore." My voice faded. The idea of something monumental and life changing was scary but I needed to face it. "If was a boy, would you be holding back?"

"Madge!" he gasped in horror.

"I know that you love me as your daughter, Dad but admit it. You wanted a son first."

"No, no. Don't say that. That's not true. I never regretted you for being a girl."

"Then trust me and talk to me," I pleaded. "I'm your rightful heir. If something was to happen to you or this district, I need to be prepared. I want to help."

"You remind me of your aunt Maysilee."

"Dad, stop evading my equation," I muttered in angry tone.

He sighed in resignation. "What do you want to know?" I sat down in front of him across his desk. Finally! 'What did I want to know first?'

"How long have you known about the rebellion? How long have you been involved," I asked.

"Before you were born." Wow, I didn't expect that. I blinked and thought about it for a few seconds.

"Is it true that the MockingJay has been living here in 12?" He looked shocked and surprised.

"That's just a rumor––"

"Which seems to hold a grain of truth. People have seen him, Dad. Why would they lie?" I challenged him.

"They've seen him, who?"

"At night people are saying they see a man dressed in black in town and in the Seam."

"That's just a rumor," he persisted. "That probably some made up bedtime story––"

"Don't lie to me. How long have you known?" I insisted.

"For a long while. I can't tell you anymore than that so don't ask?"

"Do you know who he is?" He nodded his head again.

"I know and I can't tell you."

"Okay, I understand that." I did. A secret like that was dangerous to know. Anonymity kept the MockingJay alive for as long as he existed. So I wondered…

"Does Peeta and Katniss know? Who he is, I mean, his real identity?"

"As of last week yes, they both know now," he answered.

"Shit," I uttered beneath my breath. "Wow, that's incredible."

"Well, they both have the right to know since their lives were affected by his actions." He looked sad. It was an odd reaction. "And in time, you'll need to know as well, but in the meantime, I'll fill you in. But first, promise me you won't tell anyone. The MockingJay has been…hiding here for years here in 12. You must not tell anyone."

"Here in 12?" He nodded his head. So he was a resident and had been living 12. My mind swirled with faces and names of men who I suspect could be the MockingJay. The only one that made perfect sense was Mr. Haymitch Abernathy. My aunt's district partner when she was reaped 24 years ago. District 12's victor and drunk?

"Madge, please promise me you won't tell anyone?" he pleaded. "His identity and safety is paramount to his survival."

"Who would I tell, Dad? My best friend is gone," I scoffed him.

"Oh yes, Katniss, Katniss Everdeen," he said. "I'm glad you're….were friends with her, Madge. I know it was hard seeing her go––after she was reaped." That was an understatement. Though we never talked about it, she was not just my best friend. She was just like a sister to me. I was glad that I had the time to take to her cemetery to meet Aunt Maysilee. At that moment it meant a lot to me.

"Madge, it is important for you to be prepared," he started. "I'm sorry that I didn't keep you in my confidence that it was an misjudgment on my part. You are right. I'm doing to all this to protect you and Toby but I should realized that I'm also leaving open to possible danger."

"What kind of danger?" I was scared now. "Be prepared for what?" I asked for this but he was scaring me. I'm not brave like Katniss who hunted for game to keep her family alive. Everyone in the district knew it even some of the peacekeepers whom Gale traded with in exchange for their silence. As the mayor's daughter, I had privileges and I used them to my advantage but I was wise not to abuse it. 'Was 12 going to go to war against the Capitol?' My mind spun for a moment imagining the lives lost and ruined. We already suffered so much.

"I need you to watch over our family," he started. "You need to be prepared and pack one bag for three days of travel. Pack enough food and water for all of us."

"Oh, my God, Dad. Why?"

"Incase we need to leave, in the middle of the night or at moment's notice," he continued. "Don't ask anymore questions, please. The less you know the better, but this you need to know."

"But––"

"Madge, when or things go wrong I want you to get Toby and your mom out of 12," he said.

"What about you?" He was freaking me out. Leave without Dad?

"I'm not saying that will happen but I want you and Toby at least to be safe. I want you to take care of your brother. I will take care of Mom in case we get separated. Promise me that you think of your brother first."

"Okay, I promise," I swore. "But that won't happen. We'll be together."

"Good, just keep your promise," he stated.

"What about everybody?" I asked. "Does everyone know what's going on?" Dad looked peevish and winced. "Dad?"

"Only a handful know…to evacuate if or when necessary," he admitted.

"Dad?" I said in a horrified manner. "Why not?"

"If everyone knows…they might panic and alert the Peacekeepers," Dad said. "Or they might leave. Then we'll have Peacekeeper wondering why families are disappearing. We cannot have that kind of panic."

"But don't you think it's not fair for everyone to know?" I pressed. "You are supposed to keep all of us safe, not a handful of the privileged few." This wasn't right. "Dad?"

"I have orders from the MockingJay to keep a few trusted people informed," I said.

"That isn't right. That's wrong to have a selected few to know."

"I know honey but––" He sighed. "I have my orders. He's leading us. He's––"

"Well you need to tell him that what he is doing is not right. That only a few people know."

"I know, Madge but what can I do?" he stated. Dad was in a difficult position I couldn't blame him but it wasn't right what they were doing.

"So now that I have told you what is going on, I need your help," Dad said. "I trust you, Madge. You are a responsible and capable young woman. I'm very proud of you."

"Thanks Dad," I returned. "I'm proud of you as well. I didn't think you had in you to be involved."

"I didn't either but watching Jimmy and Garrett lose their children. It was terrifying watching and waiting each year for you. Toby is eligible in two years. I can't…I can't do that again."

"So that is why you joined?" He shook his head.

"No, I had always thought it was futile to fight, to fight an institution that is stronger, and bigger than us, but after watching Peeta and Katniss. Watching those two, they reminded me that life is worth fighting for. For you and for Toby. I had forgotten why I wanted to fight in the first place before I had children. They are the spark…that was needed to reignite what was extinguished when District 13 annihilated. They failed because they were on their own. They thought they had technology to fight the Capitol."

"But they failed anyway," I concluded.

"Their failure set us back," he admitted. "Everyone was disheartened and discouraged to try again. But a few remained and believed in the cause. One of them was the MockingJay and his men."

"He was named after the pendant, Aunt Maysilee's pendant? He used the pendant as his namesake and symbol."

"Yes," he said as he smiled. "You're Aunt Maysilee…she would be very proud of you. Giving the pendant to Katniss. It would have meant a lot to her."

So that day I packed bags for Toby and myself. I also packed provisions to last for three days. Each provisions to be carried by all four of us in each of our packs just incase we were separated. Heaven forbid. As I packed, I felt uneasiness and guilty. My dad was giving us a chance to survive but what about the others? It wasn't right or fair that I knew we were in danger. Others were left to fend for themselves incase we needed be evacuated. It wasn't right. So knew I had to do something.

Jimmy POV ––

"Damnit Rye, why do we not have flour in the canisters?" I barked. He poked his head from the storefront with a look of confusion and concern on his face.

"Dad?"

"Sorry, I'm sorry," I apologized. "I didn't mean to snap at you."

"I'm with a customer and I'll help you if you give me two minutes," he returned in calm and patient manner.

"No, no, stay out there, I didn't mean to be short." Rye nodded his head.

I never realized how I…we depended on Peeta at the bakery. Everything ran smoothly when he was here and his absence crystallized his role and importance that I took for granted. For example, it was always Peeta who filled the flour canisters and took care of the supplies whether it was yeast, milk or butter to be available. He basically ran the bakery while Rye took over the delivery and orders but it was Peeta who organized and made sure everything was at our reach. God, I miss my sons. I missed Graham everyday and now with Peeta…

I held back a sob stuck in my throat. Half my family were gone. I should be grateful that Rye, Delly and Tyler are back but with Peeta and Graham gone, that hole in my heart will never heal.

Garrett had spies in the Capitol. So everyday I waited patiently for news about Peeta. Anything. But one week has passed, I haven't heard a single word. I was losing my mind from worry and impatience. I wanted my son back and I wanted him back now.

"Dad," Rye called. "I need a moment. I need to talk to Madge for a few minutes. I'll be right back."

"What now? Rye, where are you––" He went out the front and excited the bakery as I listened to the bell ring letting me know he was out the door. "What the––"

I sighed. I was already late for a cake order and I didn't need a distraction or worry about Rye.

"Delly, do you have any idea what that was about?" I asked my daughter in law. Delly wore her uniform shirt with a skirt. I smiled as I noticed her hand on her stomach.

"Rye wouldn't say but he went out front to talk to Madge," she replied.

"Madge, Madge Undersee?" She nodded her head as her complexion turned pale within seconds.

"Delly, what's wrong?" I asked.

"I need to go to the––" She placed a hand over her mouth and ran upstairs to the bathroom. My poor daughter in law was having morning sickness throughout the day. Her illness was worse than I have ever seen. Worse than my ex-wife who was sick for her entire first trimester. Delly was sensitive to smell. She couldn't handle the smell of yeast or butter. If she was needed in the kitchen she wore a handkerchief over her nose. Poor Delly, carrying a Mellark baby is a labor of love. When born we are big and loud with the exception of Peeta who was small and slipped into the world quietly.

Peeta scared me when he was born. His quiet entrance into the world was completely opposite of his brothers. They yelled and screamed their lungs out, but not Peeta. I thought he was dead or sick. The doctor placed him in my arms. My heart stopped because he was so quiet like he was dead, then I sighed in relief as I held him in my arms as he took a tiny breath into his mouth and continued to sleep.

Delly having Rye's baby was a blessing. But losing Peeta now felt as he was being replaced by my new upcoming grandchild like as if Tyler replaced Graham.

I shook my head of these negative thoughts. I couldn't help it since that was all I thought about. How am I supposed to continue living my life without another son who I will bury if he didn't survive the games? 'Damn you, Garrett.' A few minutes later, Delly appeared she was pale and her eyes were blood shot. She had been crying.

"Delly?" I called out to her as she appeared dazed.

"Dad, is it okay if I lie down," she asked her hands shook. I nodded my head.

"You go ahead, Rye and I will take care of things down here," I returned. She was after all carrying my grandchild, the one replacing….

Minutes passed when Rye finally appeared. "Rye, what took you so long?" I said in an impatient manner.

"Sorry, Dad," he apologized. "Madge need to talk to me for a few minutes."

"About what?" I asked in curiosity. Madge was friends with Delly, not that it mattered to me that he was talking to him.

"Nothing, important," he returned. I stared at him for a few seconds. He sighed. "She wanted to know how we were doing with Peeta and Katniss gone. She was Katniss' best friend and Peeta's, you know?"

I didn't know that Katniss was Madge's best friend––a Merchant best friends with a Seam girl? That was…unheard of. But then I thought of Peeta in love with Katniss so I brushed my astonishment aside. Katniss was special and Peeta knew it.

During dinner Rye was unusually quiet and somber. Though he was attentive to both Delly and Tyler, I knew his mind was elsewhere. Since his conversation with Madge, he was at edge and anxious. After dinner I was exhausted but wired. I couldn't sleep as images of Peeta flashed in my mind. I was going to watch my boy die in the arena if Garrett did nothing to save my son and his daughter. But I knew him. His one daughter was away and presumed dead, while the other was participating in the arena. I knew he had to be planning something. It was the not knowing that was killing me.

I lifted myself off my bed. I had gotten used to sleeping alone since the moment I told Evelyn to leave us. There wasn't a transition or mourning period when she left our lives. It just ended.

For a week I avoided Peeta's room, passing his door without a glance. It hurt too much whenever I passed Graham's old bedroom, which now belongs to Tyler.

Both Delly and Rye decided that they would keep me company during Peeta's absence. They wanted to stay with me until the end. I was grateful as no words were spoken when they settled back into the bakery as if they had never left. I remembered the night when I was alone as both Peeta and Rye were gone. The bakery felt empty and the residence like a tomb. Never in my life that I had ever felt alone as the feeling of devastation enshrouded me like a blanket smothering the air I breathed. I wanted to die.

The door creaked as I pushed the panel slowly. Peeta's room was the same as he left it––the morning of the Reaping ceremony. He was different from Rye and Graham as he kept his room clean and tidy but that day was an exception. There were clothes on his bed, his closet door ajar and drawers half opened. I smiled as I noticed that his bed was fixed. Sad and weary I sat on his bed grabbing his pillow. Next to his bed was his desk. It was tidy with only a drawing pad on the table.

I debated whether to take a peek at his drawing pad––should I invade his privacy, would I find something personal and intimate? My argument lost as curiosity won over. Turning on a lamp, the room was lit. I took a deep breath and flipped a page over. I gasped in surprise and in awe. I knew Peeta could draw since he drew out his ideas for our cakes and desserts, but he never shared his drawings. I knew he was afraid that his mother would see it and tell him he was wasting his time. I'm ashamed of myself for not defending him as I realized his other talent––his love for drawing.

Flipping page after page, Peeta drew the bakery. He drew his brothers and me in the kitchen with our fingers knuckle-deep in dough; Graham removing loaves of bread from the oven, Rye at the register and me…trading with Katniss at the back door. The pad was filled with images of our lives in the past drawn with care and love. I did also notice the absence of his mother in the pages but her presence was clearly there as he drew images of himself with bruises on his arms and face, and pain in his eyes––images of Peeta when he was young and not able to defend himself. I passed those pages quickly.

I gasped when I picked up another drawing pad. Peeta drew a version of the bakery in his mind eye––larger displays cases, with rows and rows of bread, cookies and pastries. Was this his dream to expand the bakery as he took over? Making plans for the bakery? The drawing pad was a diary page after page filled with memories, scenes of the day and each of us in different tasks. We were whole and together. Tears formed in my eyes as an ache clogged my throat. I couldn't hold it together any longer as weeks of pain and anguish tore into my soul. Everything that I held back overwhelmed me as I cried bitterly at losing Graham and Peeta. They were my world and I had lost them.

A bit of time passed, the ache in my heart subsided––but the hole was forever deep and permanent. I wiped the tears from my eyes. The house was quiet but through the silence I heard soft footsteps trailing from the second floor to the stairs. It was Rye as his footsteps were firm and solid hitting the wooden floor with a slight thump. What was he doing at this late hour? I checked the clock on Peeta's desk––it's ten to midnight. Curious, I held my breath as I listened to his steps. He reached the first floor. A door opened making a sound––the creak came from the back kitchen door.

I stood up and looked out the window. It was Rye sneaking into the dark alley between the buildings. 'What the hell, Rye? What are you up to?' my mind asked. I watched and listened many a nights as Peeta stole out of the house. At first I was angry as I waited for him to explain the next morning. He wasn't forthcoming. But each time he left he looked at peace as I wondered where he stole off to. Who did he meet at such a later hour? The next time he caught him sneaking out the house I followed him. It wasn't easy since I lost him the first time as I tried to follow him. The second time I was successful wondering what my youngest son was doing sneaking off at night risking his life. Was he meeting a girl? He didn't head over the Slagheap. I lost my mind thinking that maybe he had volunteered in the rebellion without my knowledge. I was about to give a scolding of a lifetime when I realized that he was heading towards the Victor's Village. 'Why?' My eye grew wide as he walked Haymitch Abernathy's home as if he was expected.

This little rendezvous enraged me even further. What was the fuck was Haymitch doing?

I was ready to rip Haymitch's head off. When I arrived at his place, the house was dark and as usual a mess. He had lived that in beautiful Capitol-funded home for the past twenty odd years as his reward for winning his games. All of us thought he was lucky and fortunate but as the years passed we knew that he wasn't. Each time he left to attend 'business' at the Capitol he returned home different and hid in his home drinking himself to death. He was, angry, surly and in consolable.

On the dining table was Haymitch dead to the world a bottle of scotch tightly gripped in his hand a knife in the other. 'Where was Peeta?'

I was sick with worry. I crept up the stairs and entered the second floor. One door was slightly opened. Cautious, but in state of worry and panic I looked into the room. On the bed was Peeta fast asleep. He hadn't bothered to remove his shoes or his clothes. That night I realized that Peeta felt more at home with Haymitch than our own home. The thought saddened me. I knew then that I had failed him so I wasn't about to reprimand him for seeking comfort elsewhere. I was so distraught that it never occurred to me to look at the room closely. Had I been more aware I would have noticed the painting on an easel, tubes of paint and brushes on a small table.

I let Peeta continue to seek comfort and support from Haymitch. I was too proud and hurt to remedy our fractured relationship. But all that changed when Ivan and Cray appeared in our lives.

Now, my second eldest son was sneaking out the house like a thief in the night. Images of infidelity, a secret rendezvous at the Slag filled my mind. Was that why he was talking to Madge Undersee? They spoke openly in front of Delly, his pregnant wife as they colluded to commit adultery. The thought sickened me that Rye was capable of such betrayal, and with the mayor's daughter who happened to Delly's friend as well. 'When I get my hands on you Rye…' my inner voice seethed in anger.

I was surprised when Rye snuck passed a group of peacekeepers who were patrolling the alleyways. He impressed me with his stealth and patience. A few minutes later, I realized that Rye was headed towards the school. What an odd meeting place? But I could see the appeal because it was quiet and deserted. It had been years since I walked or been inside the school. My boys were well behaved and did well in school that I never had to set foot in the building but surprisingly, I still recalled my days there and was able to find my way inside the building.

I ducked when I saw another shadow appear following Rye. He didn't seem to be surprised he was there so I didn't feel worried for him. They disappeared behind two large doors that led to the gymnasium. Not wanting to alert my presence I snuck around to another entrance into the gym. I heard hushed voices which again surprised me. Rye wasn't meeting with Madge as I had thought.

"…think I'm kidding or making a joke?" Madge Undersee said. I recognized her voice. "You think I got you all here so I can joke about this?" I slipped into the room unobserved or noticed. Inside the gym were at least 20 Merchant and Seam classmates gathered together. The gathering was impressive since we all knew that they hated each other.

"Madge, all the rumors about the MockingJay being in 12, was just rumors. You have no proof," a male Merchant classmate stated.

"Okay, I get that you need proof but all of you agree that the Peacekeepers soldiers are slowly lessening in numbers. Why?"

Everyone agreed with a nod with heads. "Look all I'm saying is since…Peeta's incident we have been under attack. Those mutt dogs just didn't appear out of nowhere. They were Capitol-made. And we haven't had another attack since." A few classmates grumbled between themselves.

"So what are you saying? Why did you call this 'secret meeting?' " Rye inquired.

"Listen, you know my dad," she started. "He said something to me in confidence. Something I shouldn't repeat or tell you but, I saw the unfairness of my conversation with him."

"What did he say?" Rye spoke again.

"I don't want to start a panic or scare you guys, but…we need to prepare?"

"For what?"

"I don't know but he told me to pack a bag of clothes for three days and also pack provision like food, water."

"So he told you to pack but won't say why?" a skeptical classmate interjected his tone laced with disbelief. "You have to give us more than that." Others around him agreed. "Maybe he's sending you off something where like some marriage contract in another district." His last remarked was said in a snide manner. It was not uncommon to send daughters to other districts to marry them off if there was a better prospect. It wasn't frequent but it did happen. Madge would certainly make a good match since she did have a dowry to lure a good match for her.

"My dad would never do that do me," she retorted in anger. "I'm breaking a promise I made my own father to warn you incase we need to leave the district. I can tell you with great certainty that the MockingJay is real and is in this district as we speak."

"That's bull. Why would he be in this god forsaken district?" someone said. Rye stepped forward and stood next to Madge.

"Are you guys that stupid?" he muttered in anger. "Do you need a recap of what's been happening for the past three months? We were attacked by mutt dogs that came out of nowhere. We have never had any dog or animal attacks ever. People died or presumed dead because their bodies were not recovered. What more do you need that we are already under attack by the Capitol? Why wouldn't the MockingJay be here in his district? He started…he is the cause of all the shit happening to my family and this district. My brother Graham is dead and Peeta is in the Capitol."

"Well, he did volunteered," someone muttered low but enough to be heard.

"Are you kidding m?" Rye seethed in anger. "You guys can't see that we are being targeted and singled out amongst all the other districts. Are you guys that stup––"

"Rye is right. We have been singled out," Madge interrupted her voice calm and firm unlike Rye's who was filled with anger. "You cannot ignore that Peacekeepers are slowly leaving our district every week. The mutt dog attacks wasn't by chance or accident. I know everyone has heard rumors of small rebel groups fighting in other districts. They are not rumors, people. We will be going to war against the Capitol. I don't know when but soon."

"That's suicidal."

"You're crazy."

"Where are the rebels hiding out?"

"What are we going to do?" Several questions and comments were voiced some in fear other in excitement. Madge looked at Rye and he nodded his head.

"Listen," Madge started. "I know that…the Merchant and Seam have never gotten along. It was ingrained in us the moment we knew of each other's existence. I really have nothing against the Seam, I never have. But it was taught to us by our own parents and relatives. They never give you any reasons why but that it was the way of life. Never to be discussed or opposed. You have to ask yourself why?"

"Madge is right," Rye continued. "I never understood why I couldn't be friends with people other than the ones who had blond hair and blue eyes. The only difference between us is the color of our hair and eyes. So can't I be friends with any of you?"

"My best friend is Katniss Everdeen," Madge added. "You see us together hanging out during lunch. She's my friend and I don't see the color of her skin, eyes and hair."

"And everyone know that my brother Peeta loves Katniss," Rye concluded. "My blond haired blue eyed brother is in love with dark haired Katniss. They don't see the difference. They only see love between them. Can't you see there is nothing different between Seam and Merchant but our looks?"

"What both and Rye are trying to say is we need to work together," Madge stated. "If we want to survive and beat Snow we have to work together."

"Like that's going to happen?" a Seam classmate scoffed. "Why would you?"

"Hey, Madge basically broke a promise she made with her dad. She's here to help everyone. She could have just asked her Merchant classmates and friend to meet here, but she risking her life for you. So at least have the decency to listen and some respect for what she is doing."

"Rye, it's all right," she said. "I don't blame any you guys for doubting me." I couldn't listen anymore. As I snuck out of the gym, I took a look at Rye. I was so angry and proud of him at the same time. 'Why didn't he tell me what he was up to?' I would have understood his need to protect his home and family. Did he think I would I have stopped him from meeting Madge? Then I winced when I thought about my first reaction to him sneaking out of the house. I was ashamed that I judged him too quickly believing that he would betray Delly.

I sighed and tried to calm my heart. It was beating so fast I could feel it pounding on my chest. Once I was back my home I leaned against the door. I was exhausted mentally and physically. I was about to walk upstairs when Rye returned home opening the door causing it to hit me.

"Dad?" he said my name his voice shook like it did whenever he did something wrong or was being reprimanded. "What are you still doing up?" I smiled at my son, my brave and loyal son.

"Rye, we need to talk."

Lily POV ––

"Garrett," I called to my husband who hid in his shed. For days he secluded himself inside his little haven––the small wooden building behind our home. Ordinarily before the accident his haven was the woods with a bow and arrows on his back. Because of his disability, he tired fast and his strength waned. He never lingered far or long in the woods.

"Garrett, I know you can hear me." I was losing patience with him. I've lost Katniss to the Hunger Games and my youngest was far from home. I grieved as any mother who lost their children since both were taken from me. I didn't have to fake my grief or loss because I didn't know if I'd see Prim soon. It was too dangerous to bring her back home and hide her.

The minute I had Garrett alone I asked him what he was going to do to rescue our daughter Katniss. He wasn't forthcoming. His lack of communication angered me.

"So what are you going to do to get our children back?" I asked him. Garrett was quiet.
"Well? Say something."

"I…" he started.

"Garrett, our children, our girls are out there. Katniss is a tribute and my baby girl is company of strangers. Who is taking care of her? Is she scared and calling for me?" I was close to tears again. The moment Katniss was chosen I hadn't stopped crying. I felt as if my life was taken from me. I knew that I had failed them when they were younger so I strived to do better, be a better mother to Prim. My relationship with Katniss was fractured and it was my fault. I had failed her.

"I'm sorry, Lily," he said with such sorrow.

"I don't care if you're sorry. What are you going to do to get our children back?" I felt bad for him. But at the same time, I couldn't because my family was broken and was separated from me.

"Give me… please give me time," he returned. "Don't think I'm sick with worry over all this. I want my daughters back too but…" I knew what he wanted to say. That the fate of the rebellion was also his responsibility. But I am a mother first and I had already failed them and I wasn't about to do it again. I was in caught between my love and loyalty to my husband and children. My children's fate was in his hands. I won't fail Katniss and Prim again.

So I left him alone for nearly a week. I needed to confront Garrett it was time as the games were in a few days. Even Jimmy sought him out asking what Jay was going to do to rescue Peeta and Katniss from the Capitol. They conversed in the shed as I tried not to eavesdrop. But Jimmy's voice was loud and clear. I was forced to intercede and tell them to keep their voice down.

"Will you two have an adult conversation without yelling," I seethed anger. Everyone was stressed, angry and frustrated. "Our neighbors can hear you."

"I don't give a shit," Jimmy retorted. I gasped. He had never spoken in anger to me, not even when we were together.

"If you don't do anything, Garrett," he seethed in anger as he gazed back at Garrett. Jimmy's eyes were stormy black, his face flushed red and his teeth clenched tight. I have never seen like this out of control. "If I lose another son to your cause, God help me for there is nothing on earth that will stop me from ending you."

"Jimmy, please," I pleaded with him. "Garrett is doing the best he can." I lied through my teeth because it was untrue. I didn't know what my husband was doing, how or if he planned to rescue our children.

"I know you're angry. This 'cause' is bigger than us, Jimmy," my husband said in return. "This is killing me. This is not easy for me…I know what I must do but I also have responsibility to a lot of lives who I will risk in order to rescue Peeta and Katniss in the Capitol. I'm basically choosing between…"

"Should not be in question," Jimmy interrupted. "You can sacrifice Katniss for your cause but you will not sacrifice Peeta. And you know what else? The only son I have left is ready to fight for you. Are you going to take him as well?"

"He made that decision on his own," Garrett returned. "I had no influence. If he join us, I won't stop him."

"You son of bitch," Jimmy spat. Both men stood apart from each other––one man ready to strike out of anger and grief, while the other carried the fate of our children and Panem's future on his shoulders. Their relationship had been strained and it probably didn't help that our children were in love with each other. "We've been friends for a long time, Garrett. Our children are together, in love and fighting for their lives. This should not even be discussion of whether or not they should be rescued. It should be a discussion of how and when." Jimmy was right; it wasn't discussion or decision as to whether Peeta and Katniss should be rescued. It just had to be done––no debate, no discussion or opposition.

Jimmy stood with clenched hands by his sides. I had no doubt that he could hurt Garrett with a single punch. His life as baker made him physically strong with his upper body strength. I've watched him carry bags of flour with ease. However, I knew Jimmy, he was gentle hearted man, but when it came to his children. He would fight for them. The sons he knew he failed as they grew under Evelyn's harsh upbringing as I had failed Katniss and Prim. It was easy to see the parallels in our lives. He lost Graham as I had lost Prim but the difference was that his eldest was never coming home. He lost Peeta from the reaping just as I lost Katniss. Our similarities ended there. He still had Rye, his grandson Tyler, and a pregnant daughter in law.

"You owe me," Jimmy repeated as he turned around and left. "After everything I've done for your family. You owe me." I knew the debt he spoke about––an unanswered and unpaid debt.

"Garrett, please come inside the house I need to talk to you," I said in a calm manner. "Please." The door on the shed creaked open. Garrett had been rising and getting to bed late. I felt as though I was living with a stranger, not my loving husband and doting father of my children.

"I don't want to argue with you," Garrett said his voice shook.

"Will you please come back to the house with me and talk about this?" I begged him. It was bad enough I have lost Katniss and Prim, but now I too was losing my husband. "Please, my love."

We sauntered back to our house, walking a foot distance between us. We entered into our small empty home ––the sounds of Katniss and Prim's voice absent from within the walls. Their absence apparent as silence greeted us once we walked through the door.

Garrett sat down on his armchair. He looked tired; no he looked exhausted as if the essence of his life was drained from him. He looked as though life had defeated him, the light in his eyes dimmed and his complexion pale.

"Please don't be angry with me?" he pleaded. 'How dare he ask me to not react to our plight?' I had the right to be angry with him for not making any attempt to rescue Katniss and Peeta. "I need your support––"

"Support for what?" I snapped at him. "You've haven't said anything…done nothing to help Katniss and Peeta. You've been hiding in the shed since the day Katniss was reaped. I'm so angry with you."

"I've tried. Don't you think I've tried?" he sneered back. His desolation replaced by anger. Good, he should be angry. Garrett didn't have a temper, unlike me. It took a lot to anger him, Prim was like him.

"What do you mean you've tried?" He was cryptic. I hated that as the MockingJay he kept things from me. He held back in fear for my safety. So I let him keep secrets from me––like who was involved, how many men he commanded under his charge and the lives lost.

"I've let you keep secret from me," I started. "And I understood why, but this?" I shook my head. "Our children are involved. You're oldest friend's son has been involved even without his permission. I never faulted you for using Peeta even when I hated it. But this I will not stand and let you keep anymore secrets from me."

"Lily, you don't know what you're asking," he said underneath his breath.

"Yes I do," I said in adamant manner. "It is high time, you tell me everything. I have nothing to lose now. My girls…" My throat felt dry as I held back a sob. "I'm involved now. You will tell me everything."

"It's too dangerous––"

"I don't care," I yelled. "My children are in danger." Pain shot through my chest, an ache so deep it felt as though something had permanently settled in my chest.

"I'm sorry––"

"Stop saying you're sorry and tell me everything, now." I felt drained as I sat down on the couch falling backwards with hard thump. "I cannot take the silence, the not knowing what is gong on. You did that with Jimmy, you are not going to treat me the same way." A gush of tears fell from my eyes. "Just tell me if Prim is okay. That she is being cared for. That she is safe."

"Yes, I told you. She is safe and in good hands."

"But you haven't said anything in days. You've been hiding in the shed, not coming to bed," I accused him. "I need you. We need to be together in this."

"I'm sorry I haven't been there for you. But I have been trying to figure out a way to rescue Katniss and Peeta." I looked at him with skepticism. My faith in him shattered as I only observed him hiding in the shed. "Please listen. I have been working with…" He proceeded to tell me about the existence of District 13 and of Gale.

"You mean to tell me District 13 exist and that Gale has been alive all this time?" I said in shock and disbelief. But that was another matter I didn't want to focus on. I was happy for Hazelle then realized I couldn't tell her that her son was alive and well. I shook my head from my thoughts, I envied Hazelle for Gale being alive. It was petty of me to feel jealous.

"So I asked for assistance from District 13," Garrett explained. He said that he needed men and resource to rescue our children inside the arena. He had a plan but President Coin objected. "And their president said…she said that she would not risk her men or resource to get two kids out of the arena or the Capitol. If I was to rescue them I must rescue all of them. The repercussions of failing to rescue the others would dishearten and undermine our recruitment. She said…the district would see that if we only rescue Peeta and Katniss, we were favoring them above the others. And she is right, we are. If we are to rescue them, we must rescue all twelve tributes." He shook his head. "The logistics alone is impossible. It's risky rescuing two but twelve that's suicidal."

"Then why haven't you said anything?" I asked. "I understand as the leader of the rebellion, you take full responsible and the blame when things go wrong. But Garrett, it is time that you not just lead your men but also let them share your burden. Ask Jimmy, or tell your men about your plan. Don't rely on 13. You never had before."

"But we need them." I knew he had resource and contact in the Capitol.

"Do you really? Ask yourself, had 13 not existed, what would you have done? Who did you rely on?" Garrett stayed quiet for a few minutes. I left him to make tea for us, to let him mull it over in his head. He was a father besides being the leader of a rebellion––the two titles tore him in half. He reacted with his mind but fought with his heart.

When I returned to Garrett his back turned as he faced the cold fireplace. There were two frames with pictures of our girls. They were rare since we wanted a photo of them when they were young. I remembered Garrett working overtime to save enough money for new clothes as well as the photos. Katniss was 10 and Prim was 6. It was taken a year before the mining accident. The pain in eyes was evident. I saw the father of my children as he gazed at their portraits.

"You know what I was thinking that the rebels had the wrong person to be their MockingJay," I stated as tuned his head to me.

"Oh?"

"With your spirit and courage, my men should be following you," he teased. I scoffed.

"Don't joke like that," I said in return. "I'm hardly qualified nor do I want the responsibility. And I am far from courageous." I winced when I thought about the months I retreated in my mind when I almost lost him. I was useless and neglectful to my only daughters focusing on my husband.

"If anyone was to follow your path it would be Katniss, our little hunter." I smiled as the image of my eldest daughter formed in my head. Her skill will serve her well in the arena. I wasn't pleased that Garrett had taught her to hunt but under the circumstances it was a mixed blessing in disguise. She was the daughter of the MockingJay. Little did I realize that I had predicted Katniss' fate.

Peeta POV ––

Something warm but soft was pressed against my back as I lay on my stomach. It was Katniss with her face on my shoulder and an arm on top of my waist. The fragrance from her hair filled my nose. It was a mixture of Capitol soap and her own essence that was all Katniss. I lay there for a few moments relishing the quiet between us. She was asleep with no scowl on her face nothing marring her in repose. It's moments like this that I did not take for granted. In a few days, we are about to enter the arena to fight for our lives. I knew my life was over the moment Prim was reaped. She was going home. With Katniss it was no different.

I dreamt of this Katniss sleeping on my bed wearing….I gulped my throat working overtime as saliva gathered in my mouth. She wore the shirt I had on the night before. Two buttons unfastened revealing a fair amount of her breasts. Underneath the shirt she slept with only her panties as the blanket lay on her hip. They were skimpy black with lace. 'Geez, oh God. She wearing my shirt and just wearing panties.'

She looked beautiful with her hair cascading over her face. I closed my eyes treasuring the silence as I listened to sound of her breath escaping through her nose. A few seconds later, she moved and turned onto her back dislodging the blanket that covered her long legs. She was a tease and a temptress.

"Katniss," I said her name low and soft as I kissed her slightly opened-mouth ever so tenderly. This was how I imagined us waking up together in our bed back in District 12.

"Peeta," my name escaped her lips. I looked down to find her eyes sleepy but opened. "Hey."

"Hey," I returned as I hovered over her placing my forehead on top of hers. "I'm sorry."

"Why are––"

"I fell asleep when I shouldn't have. I noticed that you're wearing my shirt," I said in a teasing manner. "You look…sexy. I ruined our evening, didn't' I?"

"It's okay. You were tired," she said with a sleepy smile.

"But you went to so much trouble to arrange our date last night," I sighed as I placed myself between her legs. She gasped as she felt me on her stomach hard and erect. "And I fell asleep instead missing this." I touched the collar of my dress shirt. "I love seeing you in my shirt and I missed it."

"It's okay, Peeta––"

"No, it isn't because I had plans," I admitted. "I wanted to say thank you for last night, for letting me make dinner even though you already made plans for us."

"I wanted to make you happy," she confessed as she reached over and placed her arms around my neck securing me to her in a delicious manner. I rubbed myself once letting her feel me as I hardened some more.

"You did. You do. You make me happy all the time."

"Sometimes, I really wonder if I do," she confessed. "You do so much for me, taking care of me all the time. While I just get so impatient and frustrated, I take it out on you when I don't meant to." She looked unhappy. I didn't want her to be sad or unhappy.

"Katniss," I sighed. "When are you going to realize that you…just being with you makes me happy. Knowing that you're mine."

"But––" I interrupted her with a kiss. It was soft at first but after a few seconds it became heated that I lost my breath and sense of time. Katniss' eyes were glazed with desire. What time is it?" 'Huh, what?' my befuddled mind asked. "Peeta, what time is it?"

"It's around 5:50," I answered as I turned my head to look at the clock on the wall.

"You're up early. Did you sleep okay? Did you have a bad dream again?" she asked a frown on her beautiful face. I wasn't having that. Not after our perfect date which I ruined by falling asleep on her.

"I'm fine, Katniss" I returned. "Perfect. I just wanted to thank you for our date last night and stupid me fell asleep on you. I had plans to thank you and what did I do? I passed out."

"Peeta, you were tired," she reminded me. "We trained hard yesterday and then you cooked our dinner so yes, you fell asleep because you were exhausted."

"Still…" my voiced faded.

"Stop. Don't feel bad, okay. I understand," she said. "Besides, you said you wanted to thank me. Thank me how?" I smiled and licked my lips slowly and with purpose. She watched my mouth for a few seconds.

"Can we redo last night for a while so I can show what I had in mind?" I heard her gasp as I rubbed against her. "What I had in mind won't take to much time." I said as I leaned down and placed soft wet kisses on her chest my tongue trailing between her breasts. "Katniss?"

"Hm…"

"Katniss, stop me if you get uncomfortable," I requested. "I don't want to do anything you're not ready for." She nodded her head. "Okay?"

She licked her lips. "Okay."

I kept my eyes on her face watching to see any reaction to my ministration. With trembling fingers, I unbuttoned her shirt one by one. "You're so beautiful," I said mostly to myself but I must have said it out loud because she smiled at me. A smile so wide it lit up the room. I dipped my head on to her stomach kissing and licking her skin with a firm swipe of my tongue. Once I reached her belly button, she laughed…no she giggled––a sound only reserved for me.

"Peeta, that tickles," she said between pants of laughter. Her breasts arched upward into the air her nipples formed into taunt buds.

"Hm…" I moaned as I slipped one into my mouth as I sucked lightly around it. She gasped in surprise while she wrapped both hands around my head.

"Peeta!" she groaned in pleasure. The tone of her voice caused my cock to twitch in anticipation. My mouth made a popping sound as I released her nipple. "More, please?"

"Sorry?" I said as I kissed my way her body between her chest. Her laughter stopped as my mouth reached the edge of her laced panties. Puffs of air escaped from her mouth as she fought to breath. "Can I see you Katniss?" She nodded her head as her stomach tightened in anticipation. I placed both fingers at the edge of her underwear by her hips. I was speechless as I pulled her panties off of her. She had the presence of mind to lift her hips off the bed. She looked eager and scared.

"Peeta?" she said my name. I guess I was staring at her pussy for a while since I lost sense and reason. Katniss looked worried. For the life of me I was stunned at the vision before me. I was speechless as words failed me as well. She lay before me my shirt draped over her body, her pussy bare and glistening from arousal. I didn't know what to do first, touch her or lick her as my mind registered who was naked underneath me. Katniss Everdeen, the girl I loved all my life.

"You're so beautiful," I said. "I wish I had drawing pad––"

"Don't you dare draw me naked," she threatened me.

"Please, no one will see it but me," I teased her. "You're just so… beautiful." I was good with words but whenever she was with me, I lost mind and all my vocabulary.

"You said already," she snorted.

"Well, you are," I pouted. "You're…perfect." I reached down and touched her wet folds. They were smooth and soft. A bit of her skin was paler than the rest of her. I licked my lips my throat dry. Katniss was perched on her elbows her hair draped over her shoulders and legs wide open. She was giving her self to me like a gift to appreciate. "You feel soft and smooth." My index and middle finger parted her lips revealing a kernel of soft tissue nestled between them.

"Peeta, please?" she panted between harsh breaths. "I need…I want…"

I looked up to see her flushed face and eyes glazed over. So I ran my index finger up and down rubbing her. Her body shot off in a sharp angle that I had to place one hand onto her stomach to anchor to the bed. "Oh my God. Oh my God." I did it again once, twice three times and each time she became more wet and slick from desire. She shouted my name again when I pushed a finger inside her rubbing the upper wall of her pussy.

"Fuck Katniss, you're so wet," I commented as I continued to rub her hard and soft. In and out my finger disappeared inside her. For a few seconds I watched as she twisted her head from side to side, her left hand clutched on top my hand pressed against her belly while the other clutched at the bed sheet beside her. Her knuckles were white from gripping the cloth into her fist. She looked beautiful, out of control from desire. Then I pressed my thumb hard into the small ball of flesh causing Katniss to––

"Fuck, Peeta," she screamed from the top of her lungs. Her eyes were wide open like a wild animal as she fought to breath through her mouth. She was panting so hard I felt her breath on my hand against her belly. I continued to massage the inner walls of her pussy as her slick desire drenched my hands. She sat up her hair in disarray and her eyes transfixed on my hands between legs. "What are––" Her body arched when I pressed my thumb on the spongy flesh.

"Wait––" I shook my head.

"But I want to––" She hissed and her head and eyes rolled back.

"Oh, I've never…I don't if I can…again…"

"Oh, you will, baby. You will," I insisted as my fingers worked into her in and out rubbing the spot again and again. It didn't take long as her body launched off the bed again arching her back taking my hand with her.

"Umph!" she moaned. She landed with a slight thump on the bed. I was pleased with the results as I crawled over her and settled my self between her legs bending her knees upward. Her eyes were closed but she had a smile on her face.

"Thank for arranging our dinner date last night. How do you like my 'thank you?' "

She laughed. "Hmm…you're welcome. I really liked my…reward." I leaned down and kissed her. She whimpered as I pressed my erection between her center my boxer shorts soaked from her desire. The kiss became heated and intense as her tongue invaded my mouth. I slipped her shirt from shoulders. Katniss was completely naked. The thought had my mind spinning that I had to stop and look. So I sat up upon my knees and gazed down at her from head to her wet center. My hands were bracketed by her shoulders as I knelt between her legs. "Peeta?"

"You're the most beautiful girl in all of Panem," I complimented her. Katniss rolled her eyes. I smiled at her usual reaction to my compliment. "You don't believe me? I guess I'll have to prove it." I leaned and kissed her lips, nose, cheeks and forehead. "You…are…perfect." She snorted.

"You need glasses and your head examined," she replied as she placed a hand behind my neck at the base of my skull her fingers scratching my hairline. I was too mesmerized to argue the feel of soft body melding into mine. My cock ached to be inside her but I hesitated. We didn't have time. So I lay back on top of her and her legs wrapped around my hips.

"Oh God," I moaned as I pressed my cock between us.

"I love your hair when it get this long," she muttered underneath her breath. "I always hated when you got a hair cut." I didn't want to discuss my hair or anything for that matter so I kissed her again stealing her breath as I shoved my tongue into her mouth. "Peeta." Her voice was raspy and soft. She reached down to my boxer shorts and…

A knock on the door startled the both of us. "Peeta, Katniss," Haymitch's voice permeated the air. "I'm sorry to wake you but you need to ready in 30 minutes." I looked at the clock. It was 6:30. Time flew whenever I was with Katniss. Shit! We were always expected to attend breakfast at 7; then Haymitch would give a bit of time before heading towards the training facility at 8. This was our schedule.

I pressed my forehead in the middle of Katniss' chest. I could feel her breath on the top of head and hard beat of her heart on her chest. "Damnit," I cursed as my erection subsided. There was nothing like Haymitch's voice to ruin the moment.

"I'm sorry, Peeta," she murmured as her lips pressed into head. "I was hoping I could return the favor." Her voice was so husky. She reached down and slipped her hands inside my shorts and palmed my ass with both hands as she grinded her hips upward. My erection came back to life.

"Fuck, Katniss," I hissed as I lay beside her. "We don't have enough time." She sat up and turned to her side propping herself onto her elbow. She looked at my face then drew her eyes downward. It was obvious that I was pitching a tent in my boxer shorts. There was no denying it. I was breathing so hard I thought my chest was about to burst.

"Peeta?" she said my name low and soft. "Do you want me to––take care of you/" I sat up and was about to head towards the bathroom when she grabbed my arm. She pulled me back so hard I landed on the bed with thump on my back.

"Katniss, I need to––" I grabbed her hand as it descended towards my boxer shorts. "Katniss, don't––"

"Don't you want me to…I mean I want to…" She took a deep breath. "I want to see you."

"Fuck, baby," I said. "We don't have much time. And I can take care of…when I take a quick cold shower."

"No, I want to…touch you," she said her eyes pleaded. "It's your turn. I wanted to touch you last night. I mean, I wanted to…after what you gave me earlier." She was naked pleading with me to…I didn't know what she wanted. But this was not how I wanted to make love to Katniss. Not a quick fuck with only minutes to spare and knowing that Haymitch and Effie were just down the hall waiting for us. I wanted us to discover each other's body. I wanted to savor and take out time. I didn't want to hurt her. Because at this moment I was going to lose my mind and self-control, I wanted Katniss so badly I really could her hurt.

"Katniss, I can wait." I was about to stand up again when she sat up quickly not giving me time to think or act. The next thing I knew she straddled my legs and yanked the front of my boxer briefs releasing my erect cock from my confinement. She gasped as my cock jutted up into the air. "Shit." The pain between my legs was so excruciating that I grabbed my penis and started to rub up and down.

"No, I want to do that," she demanded as she replaced my hand with her own smaller and warm fingers. "Am I doing this right?" I nodded my head. "Why are you frowning? Am I hurting you?"

"No, baby," I stuttered my breath harsh from panting though my mouth. "You just need…you need to grip it tighter and go faster," I instructed her. "Just like that." her grip was firm.

"Okay, just tell me if I'm doing this wrong. I don't want to hurt you."

"You're not…fuck," I muttered between breaths. "Keep doing that." She continued to rub my cock with both hands and up and down. It wouldn't be long before… "Fuck, fuck." My mind couldn't reconcile the vision before me. Naked Katniss on her knees giving me a hand job. It was fantasy come true. My eyes rolled to back of my head as the world turned black for a few seconds. I was surprised that I didn't pass out. All I saw was the back of my eyelids and felt the harsh pounding of my heartbeat on my chest.

Katniss giggled. I opened my eyes to see a big wolfish smile on her face. I had semen all over my belly. She looked pleased with herself, smug even as she had one finger inside her mouth. She didn't––

She yelped as I grabbed her shoulders and pushed her on to the bed. Hovering over her, I kissed hard. She returned in kind by biting my lower but not enough to draw blood. Our kisses became more heated our tongue dueling for possession. She was fully naked and Peeta Junior was nestled between legs rubbing into her lower lips. She groaned in pleasure as my length rubbed against her. Oh dear God, just a little more and––

Bang, bang––my bedroom door groaned from it's hinges.

"Hey you, two cut it out," Haymitch screamed through the door. "I said get ready. You can fuck each other's brain out later this evening."

"Haymitch, that language was not necessary," Effie's voice joined his. "You leave them alone."

"We don't have any time for hanky-panky. They have all night later this evening. I thought you objected to them having sex."

"You didn't have to be so vile," Effie huffed in disgust. "I have no objections. It's just a matter of propriety––"

"We'll they need to get of out bed––" Their voices faded as they continued to banter with each other. I looked at Katniss. A few seconds later, we both laughed hysterically.

Katniss POV ––

It was difficult to leave Peeta but somehow I managed to go back to my room. I took a quick shower. While I was getting ready I tried not to focus on the sensation that Peeta left me. I wanted us to stay in a bed and continue pleasuring each other. I was disappointed that he fell asleep the night before, but Peeta was clearly exhausted and I knew he needed sleep. I couldn't fault him for that because I had the best sleep in a long while last night. Peeta waking me up the way he did was unexpected but appreciated.

He made me cum three times. The first time was when he sucked nipples. It was a small ripple in comparison to the two orgasms I had when he had his finger inside me. He kneaded me into submission as he found that delicious spot I never knew existed. I looked forward to making love with him, not the playful foreplay we have been giving each other. My body ached with anticipation for that moment when he finally made love to me.

Donning the clothes Effie prepared for me, I walked out of my bedroom barely containing my joy to see Peeta again, to be near him. To my surprise I found him already seated at the dining table. I hoped that my face was not red from the heat that rose on my face. A delicious ache tingled between my legs. But my smile faltered as I discovered that Cinna and Portia were joining us for breakfast.

This did not bode well when I saw the look Peeta's face. He looked calm but deadly serious.

"Good morning, Katniss," Cinna greeted me.

"Good morning, Cinna," I returned as I sat next to him. To my displeasure Effie sat next to Peeta with Haymitch at his other side. "What's going on?"

Haymitch sighed but Effie was gushing with glee. "Let me tell them, Haymitch," she prattled. "Since Peeta's tribute partner, your sister Prim was killed before arriving at the Capitol Snow cancelled the Tribute Parade." I looked at Peeta his clenched hands were on top of the table. He didn't look happy but then again neither was I because I knew where this conversation was leading.

"And now that the tribute count has been filled, President Snow reschedule the parade for this morning." My head blanked out for a second––the Tribute Parade. It was ceremony for all the tributes to be introduced in their glory for all of Panem to see.

"Your morning training sessions has been cancelled. You are to be dressed and then taken to the center of Capitol––to the Palladium where the program will be televised live."

"Our assistants will be here in hour," Cinna interjected. "All your clothes and accessories have already arrived." He pointed to the adjoining room. "I hope that you will be pleased with my work."

"Oh Cinna, of course they will," Effie stated. "All your creations are a masterpiece. They are very lucky. Both Peeta and Katniss know it, don't you dears?" Actually I looked forward to the training session with Peeta and not being paraded around like animals for all of the citizens to gawk at us. At least at the training facility, we were left alone. Our encounter with Cato proved that we would not be messed with.

"Thank you Cinna," Peeta said. "I'm sure that with your designs Katniss and I will represent District 12 well."

"You both are already the talk of the town, Peeta," Cinna added. "I and my team will ensure that both of you will not be forgotten. You will go down in the history books."

"Eat up and gather your strength," Haymitch advised. "You're going to need it."

For an hour, I was re-waxed, perfumed and made up with enough makeup to hide all my blemishes. "Okay, one last layer and you are done," Cinna said as a makeup artist lined my lip with lipstick. "You are a vision, Katniss." Cinna appraised me as he eyed me from head to toe. "It's not the color I want originally. This is just a preview of what's to come."

"I don't understand," I said as I stared at myself in a mirror. The person reflected back was me, but not me. She had my eyes and facial structure but with the black latex, make up and hair, I barely recognized myself.

"You will be wearing my masterpiece for the interview," he explained. "Don't worry about it for now. Just enjoy your time with Peeta." 'Peeta, where was he?' Was he dolled up to look unrecognizable as well? I hoped they didn't cut his hair. "Go on, Katniss. I bet you Peeta is dying to see you."

I was nervous. I didn't like the way I looked. Will Peeta? Growing up I never cared what I looked like at least I didn't care to dress for anyone. Peeta wasn't anyone.

"Katniss," Effie blustered as she approached me. "You look divine." I hardly thought wearing a full body suit made in latex divine. Everything felt tight and uncomfortable.

"Where's Peeta?" I asked. He wasn't in the room. I started to panic.

"He'll be here in a moment," Effie answered me. "Haymitch wanted to speak to him for a few minutes." I sighed relief. "And there he is." I looked behind me. Peeta wore the same black body suit. The suit molded his body to perfection displaying his muscular arms; the latex encased his legs and lean waistline. The boots he wore was knee length made of shiny, black material and added height to his stature. Unfortunately they slicked his hair back but he still looked sexy and deadly at the same time. He didn't look like my Peeta, the baker's son and my boyfriend. He was Peeta dressed in armor ready for battle. I couldn't wait to peel off the suit later.

"Cinna," Effie gushed. "They are…made to perfection. You have outdone yourself." Haymitch snorted.

"I'm quite sure Peeta and Katniss love being dressed to match like a pair of dolls," he scoffed.

"Be quiet, Abernathy," Effie sniped back at him. "You are ruining Cinna's moment. He's been working day and night for the past week for this occasion."

"Sorry, Cinna," he apologized. "Don't mean any disrespect. I just don't like this." They continued to speak but I lost focus as I stared at Peeta.

"Hey," he said into my ear as he took me into his arms. He knew I needed comfort and support. The hug was quick but firm pressing his chest into mine. His presence calmed me. "You look…different. I liked you better wearing only my shirt."

I blushed as I remember his touch and the look of awe and adoration in his eyes. A handful of butterflies fluttered my stomach. But before I could respond Effie interrupted us. "Okay my dears, it's time."

We were herded down the elevator and escorted to our hovercar. I noticed two extra cars following us as we headed towards the center of Panem, to the Palladium. "As I was telling Peeta," Haymitch started. "Don't speak to anyone, if anyone do approaches you. Just tell them 'I'm not obligated to talk to you'."

"Won't that seem rude," Peeta countered. "I mean, aren't we supposed to be nice to people to get sponsors?"

"You don't worry about that. That's my job," Haymitch returned. "Stay together no matter what. If you need to go to the restroom, have Peeta escort you and stand by the door." I nodded my head in agreement. "I mean it, don't wander off either."

"We won't, Haymitch," Peeta said as he gripped my hand tighter. The ride to the city was short. We could tell we were nearing our destination, as the noise from the palladium grew loud. It sounded like a thunderstorm. The closer we got the more nervous I felt. Peeta appeared calm and collect but he was from it. His hand trembled against mine.

Once we were inside, we were escorted by eight peacekeepers as they flanked us from both sides. "Is this normal?" Peeta asked Haymitch. He just shook his head. Cinna, Portia and Effie trailed behind us.

"I guess President Snow wants to make sure nothing 'happens' to the both of you," he said. "I've never seen such security before." He gestured to platoon of guards at the entrance of the palladium and the peacekeepers outside the main gate to hold back a mob of Capitolites.

"Peeta, Katniss," they shouted our names. There were young children in the crowd hoisted upon their father's shoulders. They threw white roses at us. The smell was overwhelming. I felt sick at the display and their adoration towards us. They were celebrating us as tributes knowing full well we would die in their arena.

"It's almost show time," Cinna announced. He looked around at the other tributes who were already aboard their chariots. "You don't need to do anything. Just be yourself."

Peeta stepped up into the chariot like had been doing so all his life. He turned and extended his hand to me. I took a deep breath and grabbed my lifeline. "Don't let go," I said gripping his hand into mine.

"Never," he said as he kissed my back of my hand. "You ready, Katniss?" I nodded my head. "Into the lion's den we go." Instead of feeling anxiety and fear, I felt a rush of anger flow through me. With Peeta by my side, I could do this and God help anyone who touched a single hair on his head.

AN: Thank you for your patience and for reading this chapter. I hope that it was worth the wait. And please read below for a sample or preview of the next chapter.

My thanks to those who favored, alerted and reviewed the last chapter. And thanks to following faithful reviewers, I so appreciated your comments – pistonsfans75, Cassie Sharpie, mar071, pumpkinking5, LACR, Nai1987, DramionEverlarklover26, J, Mspriss523, and guest. Thank you from the bottom of my heart. Hope you all have a great weekend.

Preview for Chapter 38…

…"I'm sorry, I'm so sorry," he said as he pressed his forehead against mine. I sighed in frustration but understood his remorse. He didn't need to explain. He felt guilty that I was in the Capitol with him. Even now, naked and desiring me with his hard length pressed between us, our breaths mingling, hot and harsh. My nipples were hard and taut my center soaked from longing. My body ached for him as no man has ever created this feelings of wanton abandonment. The desperate feeling for him to take me multiplied exponentially. What he had given earlier this morning was just a sample––the kind of desperation and lust my body yearned and begged to feel and experience. The secrets that lovers shared between them. I wanted that, craved it.