The Games We Played
A/N: Hello readers! Happy (early) Valentine's day! Here is chapter 19 – my gift to you. I hope you enjoy ;)
yuntani: the Coin twist - it was fun knowing was coming. Rory & Prim are cute! Cato admitted his love, will Peeta tell Cato? As for Clove and Gale, I can't say right now ;) Finnick is an obstacle for our lovers sadly. A peacekeeper shot Peeta maybe? We may never know….
CupcakeSprinkles14: Here's the update. Sorry it took a week.
movetotherhythm: I like the little touches that reference the novels as well. Coin's secret had been an idea of mine since I sent my kids to the arena. Makes you wonder if she has more, right?
MangoMagic: Yeah, the original version was better. But had I gone the other route, would Finnick have tried anything with Peeta? Do you wonder what other secrets Coin may be hiding? Our young lovers have a plan to keep that damn Finnick away, but will it work?
lincolnlog89: So much drama in one chapter is a good thing, right? ;) As for Leonitus, you might catch a glimpse of him here in this chapter. And I like blunt hilarity as well. Although, I'm not sure this chapter has much of that.
Chapter 19: Peeta Awakes, Cato Proposes
He's not sure how he got here. The last thing he remembers is seeing Peeta being taken out of the hovercraft under a sheet. Peeta's face was really pale and his hair, normally curly against his forehead, was lying flat and wet looking. Cato vaguely remembers Gale, or was it Rie, calling out his name before everything went black. Damn, his head really hurts.
He takes a moment to look around. He's lying on a bed, but the room isn't his and Peeta's. The small room is white but the only rooms in District 13 that are white are … in the hospital. He's in the hospital! Wait, why is he in the hospital? Before he has a chance to figure it out, the door to his room opens and Dr. Aurelius enters.
"Ah Cato, you're awake!" he says joyfully, walking over to the bed. "The others will be happy to know that. How are you feeling?"
"I'm good I guess. My head hurts. What happened?" Cato asks.
"From what I understand from Gale and Rie, who brought you in by the way, you had gone to the hangar to greet the returning team. Apparently, when the stretchers came out, you passed out and hit your head," Dr. Aurelius explains. "With your previous head injury, I had you put in this room for monitoring,"
"I see," Cato says. "How's Peeta? He was on one of the stretchers, right?"
"Peeta is a very lucky young man. The bullet fragmented of the bulletproofing of his uniform. Several pieces of that fragmentation entered his body, barely missing his left kidney and the spinal cord. Unfortunately, one piece did nick the renal artery causing some heavy bleeding. If Finnick hadn't been there to apply pressure, Peeta may well not be here today," Dr. Aurelius explains. "Due to the time it would take to get him to proper medical attention, a medic on board the hovercraft that picked him up put him in a medically induced coma. He was hoping to slow down the bleeding until he arrived here and I could take care of him. Peeta is in the room next door, recovering from surgery, under watch for infections. If you'd like to see him, I'll take you there in a moment."
Cato listens to Dr. Aurelius explain about Peeta's injuries as tears slowly fall down his face. When he offers to take Cato to see Peeta, Cato jumps at the chance. "Please, yes, I want to see him," Cato says.
Dr. Aurelius helps Cato off the bed and the leave the room together. The hall is filled with Mentors, Tributes, and families. Cato gives them all a small smile as he is led to Peeta's door. Cato opens the door to see Fennel sitting in a chair next to Peeta's bed. When he sees Cato, he stands up and leans over Peeta. "Cato's here now son. I'll be back later," he whispers as he kisses Peeta's forehead. As Fennel leaves the room, he places a hand on Cato's shoulder. "It's good to see you up and walking around again," he says before walking out the door.
Cato walks over to Peeta's bed and sits down in the chair just vacated by Fennel. He leans forward and takes Peeta's hand in his own. "Oh Peeta, this is not how I pictured your homecoming – you shot and me knocking myself out fainting," he says sadly. "Then again, I didn't imagine telling you I loved you by blurting it out the way I did either."
Cato sits by Peeta's side for hours, just staring at his pale face, which was easy to do with the head of Peeta's bed angled up. He can hear the others out in the hall talking. He knows he should let other people spend time with Peeta, especially his family, but he can't bear to leave the other boy's side. It's only when Dr. Aurelius forces him to leave for dinner that he gets up out of the chair. He leans down, kisses Peeta's forehead as Fennel had done earlier, and promises to return very soon.
Stepping out the door, he is nearly knocked over by Posy. He picks up the small girl and holds her close. She wraps her arms around his neck, neither one speaking. He looks up at Gale and sees that his eyes are as red as his own. Next to him is Clove, her eyes red as well.
"Dr. Aurelius sent everyone down to dinner before going in to get you. Posy wanted to wait for you so we did," Gale says.
The 4 of them head down to the dining hall to join the others. What greets them is shocking. Their normally long table is now even longer to include the mentors and the families. It's reminiscent of their first night in 13.
Cato Grabs his dinner and takes the seat between his father and Peeta's. Across from him Gale and Clove sit next to their mothers. Cato turns to Fennel to apologize for monopolizing Peeta's room, but Fennel speaks first.
"It's okay Cato; I know what you're going to say. But the family got to see him while you were still out. We knew that when you woke up, you'd want to be with him, you'd need to be with him," Fennel tells him. "I gave my permission for you to stay with him at night as well."
Cato nods. "Thank you Mr. Mellark," he says quietly. He turns back to his dinner and tries to eat. He ends up mostly just pushing it around on his plate. He's startled by the next voice he hears.
"Son, just go be with him. Everyone here knows how you feel about him and will understand," his father says. "Take advantage of this time. We don't know when Coin will put an end to the free time she's allowing for us to deal with Peeta being shot."
Cato doesn't think twice before he thanks his dad and runs back to Peeta's room. He's met at the door by Dr. Aurelius.
"I see you're back," he comments. "Did you at least eat?"
"As much as I could given the circumstances, sir," Cato replies.
"You need to eat Cato. You're no help to Peeta if you don't take care of yourself," Dr. Aurelius says. "Try to get some sleep while you're in there. Don't want a repeat of this morning."
"Yes sir," Cato says anxious to be with Peeta again.
Dr. Aurelius chuckles as he waves Cato into the room before walking away.
Cato enters the room and sees a cot set up for him. He has no plans on sleeping that far away from Peeta. He walks over to Peeta's bed and sits on the edge next to Peeta's leg. He looks at all the wires and tubes connected to the young boy's body.
"Hello love, I'm back, just like I promised," he says taking Peeta's hand in his own. "Here's the thing, I need you to wake up soon. I miss you. I miss your beautiful smile that lights up a room. I miss your beautiful blue eyes staring back into mine. I miss your laughter, your strength, and your gentle touches. And I miss your kisses too," he says brushing Peeta's curls from his eyes. Cato decides to talk to Portia about giving Peeta a haircut. "You're dad gave me permission to stay here with you so neither one of us will be alone."
There's a knock on the door before it opens. Cato turns to see Clove walk in.
"I'm not staying muscles, I just wanted to give this to you in private," She says as she walks over and hands him Peeta's necklace. "I ran as fast as I could to get to Peeta when we heard Finnick say that he'd been shot. Finnick is a mentor as is Enobaria and both are part of our squad. Are you insane giving him that ring?" she asks. Then she lays a hand on his arm when she sees the hurt in his eyes. "That wasn't fair of me. Peeta explained to me why you gave it to him. And don't freak out on me, but Peeta knows about the whole 6 month deal. I had to tell him once we found out that he had to share a room with Finnick." She sees the acceptance of Peeta knowing to the anger of Finnick sharing a room on Cato's face. She decides not to tell him about seeing Finnick in Peeta's bed. Hell, she's not even sure what had happened. They could have switched beds for all she knew. "I better go, Gale's waiting for me. Promise you'll come find me if you need to talk."
He looks at her. She was right; he really messed up giving Peeta the ring. He hopes Peeta isn't mad at him for the problem's he caused. Then he realizes Clove's waiting for a response. "Yeah, I promise Clover. And thank you," he says.
She smiles at Cato. "You're welcome Muscles. Don't stay up late," she says before leaving.
Cato looks down at the two tokens in his hand. He can picture Glimmer smiling and shaking her head at him, teasing him about what he's done. But he also knows that she'd be the first one to encourage him to just follow through with the whole getting married deal. Rue would be right behind her, giving Cato that knowing look she always had. Thresh would just cross his arms over his chest and chuckle at the predicament Cato finds himself in. He puts the necklace back around Peeta's neck, careful not to move him too much. He remembers that Peeta had given him the pocket watch and a letter that he'd yet to read. After all that had happened, he wanted to know what Peeta had written. He pulls the chair over to the bed and pulls the two items out of his pocket and opens the letter, wondering if Peeta had found the one he tucked in his bag.
Cato –
If someone had told me that I was going to meet someone in the Hunger Games that would change the outlook on my life, I would've laughed in their face. But then you were there and everything I ever thought was never going to change, got better.
It was when I nearly lost you in the arena that I changed. I spoke of my past, something I swore I'd never do. You became my rock, my light in the darkness, my protector. I honestly think I would've lost my mind after Glimmer's death and the Jabberjays had you not been there, holding me.
And now I have to leave you. But do you know what's keeping me from falling apart at the seams? The thought that I get to come back to you, that you'll be here waiting for me. It gives me something to hold onto. I look forward to your arms holding me again.
I want you to do one more thing for me. If I don't come back right away, I want you to try and get some sleep. Just please try for me.
Love,
Peeta
Cato smiles. Peeta knows him so well. And had he read the letter the night before, he would've tried – for Peeta. He folds the letter and puts it back in his pocket.He lays his head on his left arm on Peeta's bed near the younger boy's hip, holding Peeta's left hand with his right.
He spends the next couple days like that, only leaving when Fennel, Maxamilian, Wheet, Rie, or Delly come to sit with Peeta and make him go eat. Sometimes Fennel brings him a sandwich and the two of them sit with Peeta. Fennel tells Cato stories of Peeta learning to frost his first cookie, the first time he kneaded a loaf of bread, and the first cupcake he decorated. He tells Cato that Peeta's first word was cookie followed by dada. He also tells Cato about the abuse Peeta suffered at the hands of his mother, the guilt that ate at him, and how he was going to spend the rest of his life making it up to Peeta.
Cato tells Fennel about meeting Peeta in the training center, how they got their high scores, how proud he was Peeta that night, and the argument the night before the arena. He tells Fennel how Finnick was trying to keep them apart before the games but backed down in the hovercraft on their way to 13. And how he still doesn't trust Finnick.
It was the fourth morning Peeta was in the hospital. Cato is sleeping in his normal position with his head on the bed, right hand holding Peeta's left when he's pulled from his slumber by the feeling of someone playing with his hair. When he opens his eyes, he looks up to see the most beautiful pair of blue eyes he's missed seeing. Then he hears a voice that sounds like music to his ears despite the raspy quality it has.
"Hey sleepy head, that doesn't look like a very comfortable position to be sleeping in," Peeta says quietly.
"Peeta!" Cato says breathlessly as he slowly sits up. "You're awake!"
"Well, thank you for pointing out the obvious," Peeta teases, his voice not as raspy. "What does a guy have to do to get a kiss from his boyfriend?" he asks arching his eyebrow.
Cato quickly stands and leans down, giving him a gentle kiss.
"That's better," Peeta says as Cato pulls away.
"How are you feeling?" asks Cato sitting on the bed next to Peeta.
"I can honestly say I've felt better," he admits. "I need to tell you something and it's going to upset you."
"If this is about you sharing a room with Finnick, Clove told me," Cato tells him hoping to relieve the guilt he hears in Peeta's voice.
"Okay. That was part of it…" Peeta begins.
"And I know that you know about the ring," Cato interrupts looking down at his feet missing the exasperated look on Peeta's face.
"Yes, and we can discuss that later," Peeta says laying a hand on Cato's knee trying to get him to look at Peeta. "Will you please let me tell you what I have to say? It's important."
Cato gives Peeta an apologetic smile, "Okay."
"Just so you know, I'm still upset about this so, yeah," Peeta says fidgeting with the blanket on his lap. "When I woke up in my bed in the bunker, I wasn't alone. At first I thought I was still here and District 8 was a dream. I rolled over expecting you … and saw Finnick." He looks up at Cato and sees nothing, no emotion on his face. "I jumped out of the bed and screamed at him. He claims I had a nightmare and wouldn't wake up." Peeta is worried how Cato will answer the next question. "Cato, please, am I really that hard to wake up?" he asks quietly looking down into his lap again. When Cato doesn't reply, Peeta begins to tear up the guilt eating away at him. He sniffles.
Cato hears and looks up at Peeta. "Oh baby, please don't cry," he says as he moves to sit next to Peeta. He puts his arm gently around him, feeling Peeta lean into him. "I'm sorry. I was trying to reign in my anger. I really want to go smash Finnick's face!" He kisses the top of Peeta's head. "And to answer your question, you are not that hard to wake up."
Peeta tilts his head to look at Cato. "You think he lied then? Why would he lie to me?" he asks confused.
"Simple. He wants you back," Cato tells him.
"But he said –" Peeta begins.
"He lied Peeta. It's not hard to understand," Cato interrupts. "You are just too loveable."
Peeta's cheeks turn pink. "No I'm not."
"But you are," Cato says tilting Peeta's chin. "I love you," he says before kissing Peeta's lips.
"I love you too Cato," Peeta tells him.
Cato leans down and captures Peeta's lips again, effectively cutting off anything else Peeta was about to say. "You love me," Cato says happily pulling away, foreheads still touching.
"I do. I told Finnick as well. I'm just sorry he heard it before you. As did Clove," Peeta admits sadly.
"I don't care. You just told me and I'm happy," Cato admits.
Peeta lays his head on Cato's shoulder and yawns.
"You're tired. Why don't you go back to sleep," Cato suggests.
Before Peeta can respond, there's a knock on the door before it opens and Dr. Aurelius walks in. He sees the two boys on the bed and smiles.
"Hello Dr. A.," Peeta says sleepily making Cato chuckle lightly.
"Good morning boys. It's good to see you awake Peeta. How're you feeling?" the doctor asks walking over to the side of the bed closer to Peeta. He sees Cato about to get off the bed put indicates to stay by holding up a hand. "Are you in any pain Peeta?"
Peeta sits up straight. "Not really. My back stings a little and I feel a little stiff." He replies.
Cato's stomach rumbles and is heard by all three.
"Cato, why don't you go down and see if Sae or Fennel has anything for you to eat," Dr. Aurelius suggests with a smile. "I'm just going to give Peeta a quick check and let him sleep. He looks tired. You can come back after you eat."
"Thanks Dr. A.," Cato says before turning to look at Peeta. "I'll be back, I promise," he says as he stands. He leans down and gives Peeta one last kiss. "I love you."
"I love you too," Peeta says smiling up at him.
Cato waves to them as he walks out. In the elevator he decides to take a quick shower and change his clothes before hitting the dining hall. Thirty minutes later, he's sitting at a table eating a breakfast sandwich Fennel had made to take up to him. Cato laughed as Sae chased Fennel out of the kitchen area with a ladle when Cato told them Peeta was awake. She had winked at Cato as she returned to work on lunch. As he finishes his sandwich, the doors open and his friends run in.
"Is it true? Peeta's awake?" Gale asks sitting next to Cato.
"Yes, he woke up earlier," Cato says as the others sit down around him. "His dad just left to see him."
"How do you think we found out Brainless?" Johanna says.
"So why are you here with me instead of seeing Peeta?" Cato asks a little confused.
"Do you think Dr. Aurelius would let us take Bread Boy out for a little spin and get a change of scenery?" Clove asks.
"We could ask, but where were you thinking and why?" Cato asks.
Foxface flashes a sheet of paper. "Do you remember our talk in the hangar?" she asks.
"Yeah, sure," Cato replies.
"Decided to get everyone in the loop," Delly tells him. "Peeta included."
"Got it," Cato replies. "I was headed up there now, why don't you all come with me."
"Let's go," Katniss says pulling Marvel up with her. "I hate not knowing what's going on."
They head to the medical center and see Dr. Aurelius and Fennel walking out of Peeta's room.
"Is everything okay? Is Peeta okay?" asks Cato.
"He's fine Cato," Dr. Aurelius replies. "Glad you're back and with friends. This is great. I won't have to repeat myself. Peeta's doing well. I want to keep him one more night for observation. He will have to take it really easy for the next week – no heavy lifting, no running, that kind of stuff. I feel real good about his recovery, but I also want to caution you all about over taxing him. He needs his rest. Any questions for me?"
"Actually, we do have one," Rie speaks up. "We were hoping that you'd let us take him to the gardens for about an hour. In a wheelchair of course, so he wouldn't have to exert himself."
Dr. Aurelius thinks for a moment making the group a little nervous. He turns to Fennel. "I'm okay with the short trip. But as his parent, you have a say as well."
"Please dad," pleads Wheet. "If we all go with him, we won't be keeping him awake taking turns seeing him in the room. And we're only asking for an hour."
"I guess it's okay seeing as Dr. Aurelius id fine with it," Fennel gives in. "But if Peeta looks tired, you bring him back immediately understood?"
"Yes, Mr. Mellark," they chorus making Fennel and Dr. Aurelius laugh.
"There are a wheelchair and a blanket in the closet in his room," Dr. Aurelius tells them. "Stop at the nurse's station and let them know when you're leaving please. I will be keeping an eye on the time."
It's decided Cato, Gale, Wheet, and Rie will go in while the other's wait in the hall.
"I'm not going in. I don't need to see Peeta Bread's pale white buns again," Johanna teases as the 4 boys open the door to go in.
Peeta gives them a questioning look as the door closes. "What the hell was JoJo talking about?" he asks slightly embarrassed and upset.
Wheet and Rie head to the closet, removing the wheelchair and a blanket. Gale moves the chair Cato had been sleeping in. Cato walks over to Peeta. "We're breaking you out of here for a little while," he says as he pulls the covers down. "Nice gown," he comments as he picks Peeta up bridal style. He sets him gently in the wheelchair before Rie tucks a blanket around him. They leave the room, Cato pushing Peeta.
It's Johanna that lets the blonde nurse at the desk know they're leaving. "Hey lady, we're taking Peeta Bread now. Be sure to note the time would ya?" she says slamming her hands on the counter. When the nurse turns around its Prim. "Primmy! I'm sorry about that. Would you please let the doc know what time we left?" she apologizes.
"Sure thing Jo," Prim says smiling. "Hey Peeta, good to see you up."
"Hi Prim," he replies. "Thanks."
They split into two groups to head to the gardens. They decide to head to the gazebo figuring it's far enough out of the way. Wheet helps Cato get the chair up the steps. Cato sits on the bench next to where he parks Peeta.
"Before we get down to business, I have a question I want answered," Johanna says as she sits next to Wheet, his arm wraps around her waist. "We have all heard about the big guy's confession. I think we're all dying to know if Peeta Bread there has admitted it himself to the big guy," she says staring at Peeta.
"Not that it's any of your business JoJo, or anybody else's for that fact," Peeta begins, taking Cato's hand in his own and giving it a squeeze. "But yes I have. Happy now?"
"About fuckin' time!" she exclaims while the other girls just 'Aww'.
"Not that I'm not glad to be out of that room and here with all of you again, but why exactly are we here?" Peeta asks once the girls have calmed down.
"Well, while you were getting ready to leave on your mission, Foxface found some 'interesting' info on our good President Coin," Delly says.
They all turn to Foxface.
"So I was cleaning out one of the rooms that were being used as storage to make room for the new refugees that keep arriving. Anyway, I came across an interesting box. Inside was this," she says holding up a piece of paper. "Actually, this is just a photocopy. But what it contains is Coin's birth certificate. Her parents were a Hunger Games Victor and our very own President Snow."
Everyone began speaking at once and Cato had to whistle to silence them. "Let her finish and she'll answer questions one at a time," he says giving the floor back to Foxface.
"Thanks Cato," she says before continuing. "I actually have copies of the birth certificate for everyone. And here's why, I don't trust Coin. There's something off about her."
"So, why'd you make us all copies?" asks Marvel.
"Like I said, I don't trust her. I want us each to have an insurance policy so to speak," Foxface explains. "But there's more. The box was unlabeled. I put the box in a hidden place to go through it better, to see what else might be hidden."
"You know, I thought it was a little strange that she only sent Katniss, Peeta, and I to District 12," Wheet begins. "She said it was 'to remind you what you're fighting for'. Like we needed reminding. And why didn't she send Rie, Delly, Madge, and Gale as well? Aren't we all fighting to free the districts and end the Hunger Games?"
"I have a theory," Foxface says. "You were going on a mission; she wanted you focused on that. They haven't been given one yet. I bet once they do, she'll send them."
"Wouldn't it have been more logical to send us all at once?" Madge asks.
"I thought about that. She couldn't send all of you because she let those three take someone along of their choice, a support. If she sent all seven of you and let you take someone, there wouldn't have been anyone here," Foxface explains. "It's her way of controlling us, ALL of us."
"But why would she want to control us?" asks Tavin, his youthful inexperience showing through.
"Because when we win the war, we'll show that we supported her leadership. With that, she takes over her father's position," Foxface says. "Once that happens, she controls all of Panem. Who knows what laws she'll pass? She could even use us to end the games by suggesting one more game – this time with the children of the Capitol. Snow has an orphaned grandchild as we all know. She can make sure the said child is entered thus ending any other family member from trying to usurp her position. All without ever admitting any relations."
"Makes sense," comments Katniss. "Is that why you copied the birth certificate? For proof of relation?"
"Partly," admits Foxface. "Like I said, I don't trust her. Plus, I have been trying to look at every possible scenario. I want to make sure we and our families are safe and protected."
"I'm curious," Johanna says. "Is it just this group you're telling? Because as a mentor, you could probably get the other mentors behind you as well."
"I'm glad you brought that up, Johanna," says Foxface. "I've made 100 copies – enough for the mentors, our families, and any others we may find as 'allies'."
With that last comment, the group begins to talk amongst themselves. Cato notices Peeta is beginning to look tired. Gale and Clove offer to go back with the couple. The others had decided to go to lunch. Once Cato got Peeta settled in his bed, Clove and Gale decide that they have something to say before Peeta rests. Gale goes first.
"So, Clove told me what happened in District 8 with Finnick. Peeta, it sounds like he truly hasn't given up on you."
"I know Gale," Peeta replies. "But what do you suggest that I do? I'm pretty sure if I kill him, it will be frowned upon."
"I have an idea," Clove speaks up next. "You may not like it, either of you, but it could be what you need to do."
"And what do you think will help this situation Clover?" Cato asks curiously.
"Simple. Peeta shows the ring you gave him," she answers. When she sees the look – is that fear? - Cato gives her, she continues. "I realize that neither one of you may be ready for that step, but just think about it for a minute. Point 1 – it will get Finnick to back down if he thinks you are committing to one another. Point 2 – the districts love the 2 of you. We all saw that in District 8 Peeta. If the districts hear that the two of you have decided to commit to each other, they could join the rebellion quicker thus ending the war sooner. It really is a win-win situation."
Peeta thinks for a moment before commenting. "Let's say we do this. What happens if they want to see the ceremony before joining the rebellion?"
"Ah, that is a good question," Gale says. "You two just preemptively say that you want to wait until after the war is over and Snow is gone."
Cato looks at Peeta conflicted. He would love to spend the rest of his life with Peeta but can he ask him to do something this drastic? This is just too crazy. Peeta interrupts his thoughts.
"Maybe you should talk to my dad Cato. Get him in on this. Then we can take it public."
"Wait! What?" Cato is confused. Does Peeta really want to do this?
"Go get permission from my dad. You kind of have to. I am only 17. I won't be 18 until July." Peeta says.
"Are you sure? Because it sounds like you're saying that you want to be with me, as in forever," says Cato still unable to comprehend what's going on. "I mean, there is no getting out of a marriage you know."
Peeta looks at Cato and understands what he's really saying. He gives it serious thought before speaking. "Do I wish we had the chance to do this in a better way? Yes. But Clove and Gale are right, it will help keep Finnick away and bring the districts to our cause. How many people know you gave me the ring besides the 4 of us?"
"Just Delly, Wheet, Foxface, and my dad." Cato looks at Peeta sadly. "I had to tell my dad Peeta. He's in charge of keeping that particular law back in District 2." Cato tells him.
"That's fine. If we tell him our plan and why we're doing it, will he be willing to start the 6 months from when we announce this?" Peeta asks.
"I can talk to him, but I honestly don't know if adding a couple of days is going to really matter," Cato says.
"Maybe I should talk to him," Peeta offers. "I might be able to convince him to add a couple days. A couple days could be all it takes to decide the war you know. But you still need to speak to my dad, get his permission. As soon as possible."
"Yay!" Clove exclaims. "And I will help plan the wedding with Bread Boy here. Don't worry, we'll keep it simple."
"Clove!" Gale and Cato exclaim at the same time making Peeta and Clove laugh. Gale and Cato join in.
Once the laughter dies down, Peeta speaks. "Actually, if we let it slip that she's helping us plan, it could prove to be helpful."
"This is so awesome!" exclaims Clove.
"Never really pictured you as a girly girl Clover. It's kind of nice," Cato admits with a smile.
"Don't get used to it Muscles. I'm doing this for Peeta," she tells him. "But I still plan on being your Best Woman."
"Hopefully this will help give Finnick a hint," Gale says trying to keep an argument from brewing between Cato and Clove. "I can't believe the nerve of that guy."
"I try not to think about it," Peeta says. "Otherwise he wins."
"Fine. I'll talk to Mr. Mellark first thing in the morning. Is everyone happy now?" Cato pouts. "And can we stop talking about Fish Boy?"
"Cato, love, really? Fish Boy?" Peeta just snickers. "As for my dad, tonight would be best. Just talk to him. Once he agrees, maybe we can figure a way to let the whole country know, get this war over. Now, can you guys go? I'm sorry but I'm really tired," Peeta says yawning.
Cato leans down and kisses Peeta. "I love you," he says so only Peeta can hear him.
"I love you too," Peeta replies just as quietly, smiling up at Cato. He watches as the three of them leave his room before he closes his eyes and finally succumbs to sleep.
Cato is freaking out. Again. Yes, he wants to stop Finnick. Yes, he wants this war over. Yes, he can see a future with Peeta and him happily married. But, did he force Peeta into this? Does Peeta really want to be bound to him? The more he ponders that question, the more he wonders if Peeta really does love him. Crap, another headache.
"Muscles you're overthinking this again. Just get Mr. Mellark's permission. It's that easy," she tells him.
"Great, that's easy for you to say. You're not the one that has to go ask for permission. Not that you'll ever have to worry about that, being a girl and all." He turns to Gale. "What do I say exactly? And what if he asks me if Peeta wants to do this? Because I honestly don't know if he does."
"Cato, just follow your gut instinct. Mr. Mellark will say yes," he tells Cato. "Clove and I will talk to Cressida and Castor for ideas on how to announce your engagement."
"And if you ask me, Peeta is in on the plan and even made suggestions. I would venture to say it's a safe bet he wants to do this Cato," Clove says rather gently.
"What if Mr. Mellark doesn't think we've known each other long enough? I mean, we only meet like a month ago. Is that long enough to want a committed relationship? That might help in this situation," Cato comments.
"Then just be honest with the man. Tell him you want his permission to marry Peeta someday in the future. He'll give you permission. Especially if you tell him about Finnick's interference of your relationship with Peeta. If you mention how he's just not getting the message that Peeta's with you, it couldn't hurt," Gale says.
"And save the rule about your ring unless you just absolutely need to use it," Clove adds. "I still believe you're overthinking this Muscles. We've all heard the man refer to you as family."
"Fine," Cato says resignedly as the walk into the dining hall. He spends the rest of the afternoon with Clove, Gale, Marvel, and Katniss in the special weapons training so that Peeta's siblings could spend time with him. Cato, Clove, and Marvel have decided to get lessons on how to shot a bow. By the time they leave for dinner, they can hit a stationary target. Cato runs to his room for a quick shower before dinner. After, Clove and Gale wish Cato luck with Mr. Mellark as he wishes them luck with their mission.
Fennel smiles at Cato as he approaches. "Hey Cato, is everything okay? Is Peeta alright?"
Cato hears the worry when Peeta's name was spoken. "Hi Mr. Mellark. Peeta's fine. He went back to the room to rest before spending time with Wheet, Rie, and Delly this afternoon. Um, there's something I need to talk to you about when you get a chance. It's important." He rubs his hand on the back of his neck.
Fennel sees the nervous gesture Cato makes. "Why don't you let me give the instructions for the morning set-up and we'll go talk in my room, okay?"
"Yes sir, that'd be fine," Cato replies. He still has no idea of how to go about asking the man for permission to marry his son.
Fennel returns a few minutes later and they head out to his room. Neither one speaks until they reach the room and are sitting down.
"Cato son, you seem rather nervous about something. Are you sure you're okay?"
"There's something I want to ask you," Cato admits rather quietly. "And I'm finding the words hard to come to me."
"You know you can ask me anything. You're like family," Fennel says reassuringly and encouragingly.
"That's kind of what I want to talk to you about," Cato admits looking down at his sweaty hands before taking a deep breath. He looks back up at Fennel. "I'd like your permission to ask Peeta to marry me."
Fennel sits back shocked. He knew this day was coming, but not so soon. From what he knows, he's pretty sure there is more going on that what has been said so far. "I don't know Cato," he begins slowly. "This seems rather sudden. Is there something going on that I should know about?"
Cato sits back as well, resigned to the fact that this was not going to be as easy as Gale and Clove told him it could be. "Yes sir, there is," Cato admits. He then goes on to tell Fennel about Finnick, starting with the events in training center to the most recent in District 8. "I realize how this may all seem, but I do love Peeta sir. And he loves me too. You should also know that just because I ask him doesn't mean that we'll get married any time soon." He adds the last hoping that it will sway Fennel to agree.
"That's quite the story. I had found out during the games about my son and Mr. Odair. Now you're telling me that the man knows that Peeta is with you and is trying to break you up." Fennel doesn't want his son with the older man but isn't sure that Cato and Peeta getting married is the answer either. At least any time soon. "If I give you permission to ask Peeta, just when do you see this wedding taking place?"
"After the war sir. Unless it ends soon. Then it would be 6 months or longer – when the time is right. I realize that Peeta and I haven't been together that long and that is why I think a long engagement would be better." If Fennel agrees but the war isn't over in 6 months … that's something he and Peeta can deal with together.
"That sounds fair," Fennel says smiling. "I'm really glad you don't just want to run and get married just to keep Mr. Odair away. I'll give you my permission on one condition that is non-negotiable. That condition is you wait at least 6 months before getting married."
Cato is relieved. "You have my word that there will be no wedding for 6 months – minimum. Thank you sir." Cato says happily.
"Go on and get out of here son," Fennel laughs. "I know you must be anxious to get back to Peeta after giving up an afternoon with him. Tell him I'll see him tomorrow."
They both stand up and shake hands. As Cato opens the door, he sees Hazel standing there ready to knock on the door.
"Hello Mrs. Hawthorne. Why don't you come in? I'm sure Mr. Mellark would be happy to see you. I have to go, Peeta's waiting."
"Okay, see you Cato," Hazel says.
Cato runs to the elevator with the sounds of Fennel and Hazel's laughter following him. He can't wait to tell Peeta what his dad said. The next step is to his dad to play along with the 6 month timeline. Cato opens the door and sees that Peeta has just finished eating.
Peeta looks up when he hears the door open and sees Cato standing there with a goofy grin on his face. Peeta smiles and asks, "So, how'd it go with my dad?"
"Nerve-wracking," Cato admits as he walks over towards Peeta. "I was so nervous. Oh, and I had to tell him all about Finnick. But he gave me permission to ask you to marry me. But I'm not going to do it here in this room. And I think we should wait until after we talk to my dad. Which we're going to do after breakfast tomorrow, hopefully."
Peeta smiles at Cato's rambling. "I told you he'd say yes though."
"You did. But he only said yes after the whole Finnick thing," Cato says.
"Doesn't matter, I was right," Peeta teases as he scoots over on his bed. "Now come snuggle with me!"
Cato kicks his boots off, removes his pants, and climbs on the bed. "Since when have you become so needy?" he asks teasing.
"Since I got shot," Peeta says as he lays his head on Cato's chest. "You were needy once too. Back in the arena when we got that bed."
"I miss that bed. It was really comfy," Cato says wistfully.
Dr. Aurelius knocks on the door and enters the room. He sees the two boys and shakes his head. "No funny business boys. This is a medical facility."
"Yes Dr. Aurelius," both boys say.
"I had heard from Prim that you came back before your hour was up, how were you feeling?" the doc asks.
"I was just a little tired and came back for a nap."
"Good, good. So, I've come to tell you that I'm going to let you leave tomorrow after your final check." Dr. Aurelius tells Peeta.
"Do you know when that might be? I'd kind of like to have breakfast with my family," Peeta asks.
"I think that can be arranged. Get some rest and I'll see you in the morning," Dr. Aurelius says as he backs his way to the door. He opens the door and nearly runs into Clove and Gale. "Don't stay long you two, Peeta needs to rest if he's going to eat in the dining hall tomorrow for breakfast."
"Yes Doctor," Clove and Gale say before they enter the room. As soon as the door shuts, they rush over to the bed.
"So big guy, how'd it go?" Gale asks Cato.
"Yeah, do I get to plan a wedding?" Clove just asks.
"It went fine and yes, he agreed," Cato tells Gale. "But, we still need to talk to my dad now. Which, if everything goes well, will be tomorrow after breakfast."
"Did you guys talk to Cressida or Castor yet?" Peeta asks.
"Right after dinner," Gale replies. "They suggest that you announce your engagement tomorrow at dinner."
"Are we certain we can trust them not to say anything to anyone before then?" asks Cato.
Gale rubs the back of his neck. "Yeah. We kind of promised they could film the announcement," he says. "And the wedding. As well as some of the planning events."
"What else did you promise them Gale?" Peeta asks knowingly.
"A private interview with the 2 of you once Peeta is all healed," Clove says looking down at her feet.
Peeta looks up at Cato. "I guess we could do that. It shouldn't be too bad. Not like Caesar."
"Well, we better be going now," Gale says pulling Clove with him towards the door.
"Good night boys," Clove says waving to them.
Cato and Peeta sit there quietly thinking about what was going to happen tomorrow. Cato takes Peeta's hand in his. "Peeta, I am so sorry about all this. I never meant to force this on you," he says sadly.
Peeta turns towards Cato. He puts his hands on Cato's face, forcing him to look at Peeta. "Cato, I am only going to say this once. I am doing this because I want to. I'm doing it for us as it protects us both. You won't get shunned and I won't have to deal with Finnick pushing himself on me. We're in this together." He says gently but forcefully as well.
"I love you Peeta."
"And I love you Cato. Let's get some sleep."
Dr. Aurelius walks in shortly after they wake up the next morning. After a quick check, he sends the boys off telling Peeta to take it easy. They go back to their room where they shower and dress for the day. They head down to the dining hall and have breakfast with the rest of the gang. When they finish eating, they head over to talk to Maxamilian.
"Good morning boys," Ceteria says as they walk up. "Peeta, it is so good to see you again."
"Good morning Mrs. Canelos. It's good to see you as well," Peeta tells her.
"Good morning mom," Cato says giving her a kiss on her cheek.
"You boys look like you need to talk. I'm going to go get Cleo and Gaius and take them to school now. Behave yourselves," she says as she gets up from the table.
As soon as she's gone, Maxamilian turns to the boys. "What's on your mind guys?"
Peeta and Cato proceed to tell him about their problems with Finnick and their plan to announce their engagement that night.
"So, I know you are aware that Cato gave me his ring already. Is it possible to fudge with the days just a little to make the 6 month deadline from today's date?" Peeta asks him hopefully.
Maxamilian sits back and looks at the two boys across from him, thinking. "You know, I don't have a problem doing that. So, tonight huh? And it'll be filmed? You boys have guts," he tells them smiling. "I guess I'll see you then. I still have classes to teach," he says standing up.
Meanwhile, in the prison wing at that time
Coin walks down the hall towards the room that holds Leonitus. She unlocks the door and goes in.
"Hello Leonitus. So glad you could join us and are awake now," she says.
"Coin," he replies.
"I'm here to make you an offer. You join our side and when we win, I give you whatever your black heart desires. But not until after I'm sworn into office. What do you say?" she asks.
"And what if I decide it's Peeta Mellark that I want?" he counter questions.
"That might be worked out," Coin tells him. It would mess with her original plans for the boy. But knowing what she did about the young man in front of her, this may be even better. "You will have to be kept in this cell for just a little longer. I'll make sure you're well fed and kept comfortable until the time comes to let you out. And when you do get out, you will have to avoid Peeta – but only for the time being."
"Fine, you have yourself a deal then," Leonitus says. "But remember Peeta will be mine."
"Sure, sure. I'll be back later to see if your needs are being met," Coin says before opening the door to let herself out. "Oh, you should know that it's not only Cato and you that want Peeta. I've seen the Finnick Odair watching him with loving eyes." She laughs as she walks away.
Back in the Hallway
Peeta and Cato watch him leave. Cato sees movement from the corner of his eye and gives a slight nod. He gets up from the table as Katniss and Marvel come over and begin to talk to Peeta.
Foxface came through for him. He's puts the map in his back pocket. He goes over and takes the basket from Greasy Sae and waves to Fennel who winks at him. He walks back to Peeta and sees the questioning look Peeta gives him as Marvel and Katniss discreetly walk away.
"It's a surprise," is all Cato says offering his hand to Peeta. As they leave the dining hall, neither one saw the sad look on Finnick's face.
The two boys follow the map to an unused wing that looked like it had been abandoned years ago. Foxface had found a virtual reality room and mentioned it to Cato the day before. When they reached the door to the room, they stop.
Cato turns to Peeta. "Do you trust me?"
"With my life," Peeta replies leaning up to give Cato a quick peck on his lips.
Cato pulls a bandana out from his back pocket. "I'm going to blindfold you for a short period," he says. Peeta just nods and Cato ties the blindfold over Peeta's eyes. He leans down and kisses Peeta before opening the door to the control room and grabbing the picnic basket. He leads Peeta into the room. They stop and Cato hands the basket to Peeta for a moment as he turns on a light and then the equipment – following the instructions that Foxface gave him. He finds the program he wants and enters the program. The door to his left beeps twice before opening. Cato takes the basket from Peeta and guides him into the room. He waits until the door closes before he pulls the blanket out of the basket and spreads it out. He puts the basket on a corner and turns to Peeta. He gives him another kiss, this one a little deeper than the previous, and hears Peeta moan. He pulls away.
"I'm going to take off the blindfold now Peeta. It's going to be a little bright, so be warned," Cato tells the shorter boy.
When Peeta opens his eyes, he sees a beautifully large, grassy meadow as far as the eye can see with colorful wildflowers scattered around. The sky, he notes, is a beautiful shade of sunset orange with wispy clouds floating by.
"Where are we?" Peeta asks in wonder, watching several butterflies flying by. "This is absolutely beautiful."
Cato is happy to see the joy on Peeta's face. He sits down on the blanket next to the basket. He reaches up and gently pulls Peeta into his lap.
"A special place. A place where our troubles are non-existent for a short time," Cato says softly, his head resting on Peeta's shoulder.
Peeta leans his head back to Cato's shoulder, "It's amazing. Truly. Very romantic."
"I'm happy you think so love," Cato says smiling. "Unfortunately, we don't have a lot of time here, so I thought maybe …," Cato says as he sits up a little straighter. He reaches into the basket and pulls out Peeta's sketch pad and colored pencils. "I'm hoping you'll want to remember our time here," he adds as he hands the items to Peeta.
Peeta's eyes widen and he smiles wide at Cato. "You are the most amazingly, wonderful, and thoughtful boyfriend a guy could have," he says placing a kiss on Cato's cheek. "What else are you hiding in that basket of yours?"
"That's going to remain a secret for now love," Cato teases.
Forty five minutes and 3 drawings later, Peeta looks down at Cato lying next to him. His eyes are closed, looking very relaxed, Peeta studies him. He jumps when Cato speaks.
"You all done love?" he asks.
"Yeah," Peeta replies.
"Good," Cato says sitting up. He looks at Peeta. "Close your eyes," he commands gently. Peeta immediately complies. Cato reaches into the basket and pulls out a box. He opens the box and pulls out a small cake that Fennel made for him. Cato woke up super early to sneak down to the kitchen area to ask Fennel to make a small cake for him. He admire the simple little cake with its white frosting and blue lettering. Cato pulls the ring he took from Peeta chain while he was in the shower from his pocket and sets it in the center of the cake.
"You can open those beautiful blue eyes now," Cato says as he keeps the cake hidden for the moment.
Peeta looks at Cato with a puzzled smile.
"Peeta, I realize I made a mess of things for us when I gave you my ring. But I have no regrets now. Since I met you, I have been the happiest I've ever been in my entire life. I don't ever want to let go of that feeling either. That sounded so much less corny in my head but I hope that you'll look past that and answer this one question," he says as he put the cake in front of Peeta. "Will you marry me?"
Peeta looks down at the cake. He recognizes it as his dad's work. Cato and his name are on the top of the cake with the ring and it looks like it reads 'will you marry me?' around the sides. He looks up at Cato, tears in his eyes. He realizes just how much trouble Cato went through to give him this moment. He smiles as the tears begin to fall.
"Yes Cato, I will," he says.
Okay, Peeta told Cato he loved him, Clove got them to announce their engagement, and Cato proposed. Was the proposal good? I thought it was sweet but it is my story. Is that some sort of self adoration on my behalf? lol
Curious as to what's in the next chapter?
Cato leaves District 13. More of Coin's secrets will be revealed! And one of them may have to do with one of the kids… There will be flashbacks and fighting as well. Stay tuned for chapter 20.