The Photograph
Peeta's reply to his best friend, Finnick. Since his last letter to Katniss, he has moved to another state, keeping his distance from Katniss to respect her wishes. Has he moved on?
P.S. Suzanne Collins owns The Hunger Games Trilogy.
5 June
Dear Finnick,
The Grinch, huh? I wonder how Annie will be when she gives birth. You better be on your best behavior because she's going to curse your pretty little dopey face to no end when she's pushing your baby out. I'll make sure to video the whole thing when you pass out.
Seriously, no need to beg, brother. You know I'll be there. You and Annie have been there for me throughout my life. You're closer to me than my family - you are family. There's nothing more that I could ask for from a best friend. During my best and my worst, you've encouraged me and nurtured me to be better. A thank you will never be enough for how much you loved me as a family.
Also, I can't miss the birth of my godson. I'm so excited to meet the little guy!
Don't worry about the brownies too, I'll bring them. I'll make some sticky toffee pudding for you too, even though I can't stand how sweet you want them. You might as well eat some sugar cubes, Finn.
Well, I'll see you next week. My supervisor agreed to an extended leave for me since we do have more cattle here than people. I'll be whatever you need me there, bro. You know I'm the best and fastest at changing diapers at the hospital. I'll school you, brother.
Give my best regards to Annie. She's going to be an incredible mother.
And you're going to be an excellent father soon. I can't believe it. I'm beyond happy for you, Finn. This is the life that you have always wanted, and now it's here.
See you both on Saturday.
Love,
Peeta
...
P.S. I did see the magazine, and I'm really proud of Katniss. She made it, Finn. I knew she had it in her to achieve such an impossible feat. She's the most hardworking person I know. Driven and intuitive. That's how she brought out the best part of me when we were together. I still miss her, Finn. I never stopped missing her and loving her. Being loved by her, even if it was brief, is a precious gift to me. It still hurts, brother. But I cry less now and handle the heartache and guilt better. Every night, I look up at the night sky, wondering if she's looking at the same set of stars. We used to do it a lot, you know? Go up the rooftop of the hospital at the end of my shift and watch the sky together from sunset until late. We could just talk and build dreams for hours. Every night since I left, I wish her the best in life - willing all the love in my heart to bring her a beautiful and peaceful future from now on. For goodness to find her wherever she is and align the stars in her pursuits. That is all I can do now. Love her from afar.
Thank you for reading! Big things in the following letter. Unknown to each other, Katniss and Peeta will be in the same place again after months of being apart.