Chapter 19 – Be Careful What You Wish For

AN: Thank you for your patience. My eternal gratitude for my faithful reviewers who the time to write a review [pistonsfan75, Shellibug, MaidenAlice, IcyPinkLemonade, jcurley85, Singertoheatrandsoul, Kpfan72491, LACR, mar071, pumpkinking5, Liabelen10, B Dizzy, Nai1987, J, hstrywlk, jmjames and guest] I look forward to reading all your comments. This chapter is rated R for strong language and contains Wayne Herlihy, Haymitch and Peeta's POVs. I don't own The Hunger Games blah, blah, blah. You know the drill. Any grammatical errors found is due to my inability to edit my own work. Lol On with the show––

Wayne Herlihy POV ––

The day before

The door to my shop suddenly burst open hard enough to rock items in my store. "What the hell, Haymitch," I uttered as the beat of my heart rocketed then slowed. 'I'm getting too old for this,' I mumbled in my head. After the dog attacks any loud noises or sounds startled me. I knew that the Peacekeepers announced that the district was clear I just didn't believe them. I hated Peacekeepers. Granted Darius hailed from 12, I couldn't trust him. It's too bad since I knew his father growing up. He was a decent guy for a Seam.

Not that I hate any opinion on the Seam folk. I pretty much lost interest or cared about the divide when I lost my son to the games and my little girl died from pneumonia. The death of my children traumatized my wife that she lost the will to live. Since then the social divide between Seam and the Merchants weren't an interest to me. I had my business to attend to. This was my life.

"Sorry, Wayne," he apologized. I squinted my eyes making sure I saw what I saw. He had one hand grasped around Gale Hawthorne's wrist in a tight grip. The kid looked in pain and angry. A bruised formed on his left eye and he sported a busted lip.

"What happened to him?" I asked. This was the second time in a few hours that Hawthorne appeared on my doorstep. First time was with Garrett and now with Haymitch. The kid was popular, I guess.

"He had a fight with someone he thought he could beat," Haymitch explained. I snickered and reminded myself to get details later. I was more curious as to why they darkened my doorstep.

"What's going on?" I asked. There was a look in Haymitch's eyes, anxiety and indecision. "What's he doing here?"

"It has to happen now?" Haymitch announced. I was stunned for a second not understanding him, but then I drew a breath when realized what he meant. 'What, now?'

"What do you mean?" I asked needing to make sure I heard what I heard.

"Can someone tell me what's going on?" Gale asked, nervous and angry. "What has to happen now?"

"Haymitch, oh my God. Does everyone know?"

"Listen, I just found Hawthorne here lurking about," he explained. "This is the perfect moment for him to 'disappear.'" So many things passed in my mind. 'Oh, shit. I'm not ready for this. Can we do this? Are we ready?'

"Shouldn't we wait for Jay and the others to––?"

"I don't have time to ask everyone for permission," Haymitch said. "We do this now while we still can." Hawthorne's face grew from annoyance to awareness. His posture changed.

"But the MockingJay ––"

"I'll deal with him," he returned. "I think right now he has other pressing matters to address."

I was stumped and conflicted. I've known Haymitch most of my life and I knew that he didn't make decision lightly without thinking of the consequences. Every plan and decision we made was discussed over and over until we exhausted every thing that could go wrong. It wasn't a guarantee that nothing could go wrong but…this was to soon and I still had doubts of sending a young kid for our mission.

"I have everything he needs to––"

"Hello, is anyone going to ask me if I'm ready to do this? Do I have a say?" The kid was perceptive he knew that he was about to go on his mission.

"No," both Haymitch and I responded.

"You volunteered. So that means you when we tell you whether your ready or not." Haymitch said.

"But I haven't seen my family. I haven't even said my good-byes." He said with a look of panic and indecision.

"Are you having second thoughts in volunteering?" Haymitch asked.

"NO…I just…I didn't think that it was going to happen today, right now."

"To bad. Welcome to the rebellion," Haymitch muttered in sarcastic manner.

"Are you sure Haymitch?"

"Yes," he returned without any hesitation.

"Give me a few minutes to put everything together." I walked back to my storage room and lifted a panel from the floor. I peeked down at the hidden room. A few minutes later I supplied Gale the equipment and gear he needed for his journey.

"You need pack light. Once you cross the fence you're on your own," Haymitch instructed him. "Don't leave evidence behind. Clean up after yourself. Bury everything you use or eat."

Since he wasn't prepared clothes wise, I gave him a new jacket and a cap. The weather at night was cold and since he couldn't light a fire, we knew he needed a thermal and water resistant clothes to protect him from the weather and severe temperature change. I handed him a new quiver and bow.

Gale waved me off. "I'll be using my bow and stuff I left in the woods," he declared. It made sense that he wanted his own equipment. However…

"You still should take this," I said as I handed him another set of arrows.

"Can I at least see my family before I leave?" Gale asked. "I know I can't talk to them but I want to see them one last time?"

Haymitch sighed. "No, Gale. You knew the conditions when you volunteered."

"I know, I just. This is happening too fast." I felt sorry for him. To his family, he would be declared dead. What a terrible thought to lose someone in death, but during a wild dog attack? It was horrifying.

I sighed? "What's wrong?" Haymitch inquired.

"I just feel…overwhelmed," I said. "I understand that this is a perfect opportunity but…"

"I know you have reservations, but we have to do this now," Haymitch announced.

"Why? Why can't we wait and go with our other plans?"

"Yeah, why not?" Gale asked. I could tell he wanted to postpone his departure.

"Just trust me," Haymitch said. "I have my reasons. We have to act now." I trusted Haymitch and his judgment. If he needed to proceed ahead of schedule, I wasn't about to question him further. If shit fell and everything soured, I didn't have to shoulder the responsibility and fallout. This was all on Haymitch.

Suddenly, a low humming sound penetrated the air. Just as Gale was about to walk out, Haymitch grabbed him by the arm. "Stay," he ordered him like a puppy.

"But I want to see––" Gale reacted with anger and defiance.

"You're supposed to missing presumed dead," he reminded him. "How are you supposed to leave tonight if someone sees you?" Gale paused for a moment. I could see the cogs in his head working. Haymitch was right. "Stay here and don't look out the window."

Haymitch and I ran outside to investigate its' origin. We looked around as others ran outside the buildings looking around for the source. "Look," Haymitch pointed to the sky. I raised my head.

"Shit, what is that?" I asked. High above us were two small drones suspended in the air hovering above the town.

"Well, that's new," Haymitch said under his breath. "I've never seen those before."

"I have," I admitted.

"Huh, where?"

"There were hovering above us during the dog attacks," I explained. "I think they belong to Snow. I mean, it was too coincidental that they just show up in time for the attacks."

"What do you mean?" Haymitch inquired. "Do you think they're armed?"

"No," I continued. "They just hovered above the town doing nothing."

Haymitch leaned over and spoke soft and quiet. "Do you think Snow was taping the attacks?"

"I couldn't see if there was a camera taping everything that happened? They were to high."

"Shit." My sentiments exactly as Haymitch read my thoughts. The drones continued to hover above the town moving around from street to street as if it was accessing the damage. With nothing else to do, we returned to the shop.

"You know what this means?" Haymitch started as he explained to Gale what we saw. "Snow has drones flying all around District 12."

"Oh, shit," Gale exhaled.

"You need to be careful and be on the lookout for them."

"At least it's not an attack drone," I conveyed. "It's probably a seek and survey probe recording video to spy on us."

"You have one advantage," Haymitch said. "It's so loud you can hear it coming from a mile away."

We waited until the dark of night to proceed with the plan. In the meantime, Haymitch alerted everyone of what he was doing. There were no objections since everyone had other problems or was too traumatized to care. I felt horrible for Jimmy. His son Graham and Sonja were dead. And Peeta was missing. Nate and Heath were lucky to have their family safe and unharmed. He couldn't locate Garrett. He was beside himself as he looked for Katniss and Peeta. So it was up to Haymitch and myself to dispatch Gale and help him cross the fence.

When it turned dark and curfew was enforced, Haymitch and I snuck towards the Victor's Village. Once we reached Haymitch's home, I watched and listened to Gale as he argued for a few minutes trying to find a valid excuse to delay our plans. For the past hour, he gripped about not giving him time to see his family before going on his mission, saying good-bye or have time with his girlfriend.

"What's going to happen to my family when they think I'm dead?" he asked. "I think we should tell them. This is going to crush them." Oh my God, why hadn't he disclosed his concerns and worries before then? I rolled my eyes.

"Gale, your family will be cared for, I promise," Haymitch said.

Each time he spoke he grated my nerves and wore out my patience. Haymitch had more patience or he had other things on his mind as he looked dazed and ignored Gale. Me, the whining and insults had to stop.

"You know, Hawthorne you've been whining about how you've been mistreated by the Merchants and the Capitol," I started. "Waah, waah, waah, poor me the Merchants live better than I do. I don't have enough food to eat for me and my family."

"Well, it's true," he seethed in anger. "All my life I've watched more Seam children get reaped because of your advantages. You won't allow any Seam citizen to have a business."

"And yet here you are," I said confronting the much taller young man that I had to look up to him. "You're given an opportunity to go on this mission and what do you do when the time arises for you to step up and take responsibility? You're trying to find excuses to not go." He had the biggest chip on his shoulder hating anyone and anything Merchant and Capitol.

"This is too soon," he stumbled with his words between anger and anxiety. "I'm not ready." I lost my patience. I turned to him.

"Remove the jacket, give me the cap," I instructed him.

"What?" He looked stunned and puzzled.

"Give me the jacket and cap," I repeated. "Since you're not ready, I guess you not man enough for this mission. You're wasting our time." I knew I hit a nerve. He stepped back in defiance. "Well, what's it gong to be?"

"I'm not saying that I don't want to go I just didn't want to go now," he admitted.

"Let me tell you something Hawthorne," I said. I wanted to go home and go straight to bed. It had been a long and difficult day. Heath and Peacekeeper Darius were compiling a list of dead and presumed missing. It was too soon to make the announcement because they wanted to make sure it was accurate. Dealing with Gale gave me second thoughts about sending him. He was volatile and unreliable for the mission. At this point, I would have agreed to send Garrett's daughter instead. What were we thinking sending Gale?

"If you intend to join us. This rebellion against Snow, you need to take orders like a soldier. If the MockingJay tells you do something for him, you do without whining or looking for excuses. Remember, you volunteered for this, if you don't want to go then we'll find someone else who is willing to do now without question and not acting like some spoiled child."

Gale's shoulders sagged in defeat. He remained quiet until we were ready to let him go. Haymitch looked outside his window. "Come on, it's time," he announced. Gale took a deep breath. "But before you go," Haymitch continued. He reached over onto Gale's front jacket. "When you get to 13, make sure that they see this pin on you. Don't lose it. Your life will depend on it."

On Gale's outer jacket was a MockingJay pin. "I'm serious, Gale. Don't lose this pin, ever." Gale nodded his head.

Haymitch chose the hour when Gale was to cross the fence. Since we needed the cover of night, it also meant that we couldn't see the fence behind his property without alerting the Peacekeepers. High above us the moon shone, it beamed lighting the field behind his home.

"The fence is on," Gale said in a whisper. "How am I suppose to––" Even at the last minute, he was still making excuses not to go. Haymitch held a long black pole in his hand that was at least four feet long. On one ended, it was rubberized as he held onto the stick in a strong grip. It looked heavy.

Without a word, he stuck the stick onto the fence. The low hum from the fence was silenced. "It's off," Haymitch announced.

"Are you sure?" Gale asked with great trepidation. Haymitch exhaled long and hard.

"Gale, do you really think I would jeopardize your life knowing how this mission is very important not to just us but to everyone in District 12?" Gale remained uneasy. "I knew your father. I would never hurt his eldest son or anyone for that matter."

"Sounds like you have trust issue, Hawthorne," I snickered.

"Can you blame me?" he retorted back. I gasped in disgust.

"Oh for God's sake," I expressed with impatience. I walked over to the fence and pulled back the metal mesh. "See! It's off."

Gale sighed in resignation. "Just one thing, Gale," Haymitch said. He reached into his jacket and pulled out small device. "This is a radio. You are not to use it at all unless you're in danger and have no options. If you do, you risk having the Peacekeepers finding your location since it'll send a signal."

"Then what's the point?" he said confused.

"We will at least know how far you've gone. We can track your progress. We told you from the beginning that this mission was dangerous and one way. Once you step beyond the fence you are on your own." Gale nodded his head. "Also be on the lookout for the drones. We don't' know how many are out there."

"Good luck, Gale," I said. "May the odds be in your favor." I shook his hand and wondered if that was the last time I would ever see him again.

"You can't turn back," he reminded him. "Just remember that the MockingJay is depending on you to reach 13. Map your way there so when the time comes we need to evacuate 12, we won't be blindly wandering in the forest." Something in Gale's face changed, a tick of recognition or understanding of the gravity of his mission. Why he was being sent, his purpose. Thousand of lives depended on his success. Haymitch shook his hand as well.

Gale crossed the fence and stopped for a moment to look back. Then he disappeared into the dark woods. I exhaled a breath I didn't realize I was holding. I almost choked as I took a breath inhaling the cold air into my lungs. Suddenly, I felt something bubbled in my stomach. It would remain there until…I don't know when or how long it would remain there.

"What do you think, Haymitch," I started. "Do you think he'll make it?"

I turned to find Haymitch staring into the inky dark sky. The moon hovered above us. It was a beautiful evening. Its' night like this that I miss my wife, son and daughter wondering how tall they would have been and if they took after me or my wife. I choked back the sob that threatened to escape from my chest. I miss them so much.

At home, I was restless wondering how Gale was doing. It was a hug responsibility to send a young man on this mission, but it was necessary since he was the rare few we trusted to send and had the ability to survive in the woods. I doubted Jimmy would send his daughter, Katniss on such a risky endeavor.

The next morning I woke up tangled in my bed sheet soaked with sweat. I thought I had a nightmare but I couldn't recollect if I had dreamt at all. My body ached and my mind was fuzzy. Then, I remembered what transpired yesterday––the dog attacks and sending Gale Hawthorne to find the location of District 13's hideout. The whole day was overwhelming. District 12 resumed as normal except there was nothing normal about today. The Justice Building courtyard was filled with District 12 citizens having to register their family for the mandatory census. We were catalogued like cattle.

A wave of sadness filled me as I remembered Haymitch telling me of Jimmy's loss. I should visit my friend but what do you say to a man who lost almost half of his family––two dead and one missing presumed dead. I sighed. It was useless and pointless to open shop since Darius declared that all work and activity ceased for the day. He recognized that we were all grieving for the lives lost. Had Cray been in charged the work would have started as usual.

I held a mug of hot coffee with both hands appreciating the warmth it emitted. I didn't know what to do since the death of wife and children. Work was all I had and focused on. "Maybe I'll start a new hobby," I snickered to myself.

Suddenly, a noise outside disrupted my thoughts. I looked out my window as I watched people––men, women and children run towards the Justice Building. "Oh hell," I said out loud. "Please tell me someone's not being whipped at the Justice Building courtyard." Locking the door behind me, I ran towards a crowd of people gathering around the building. In the middle of the courtyard step was a familiar figure surrounded by Peacekeepers.

"Oh, shit," I said eyes wide open in shock.

Haymitch POV ––

The night before

I closed my door behind me leaning on the cool wood as it supported my weight. I was tired––exhausted physically and mentally. The day was…I was at loss for words to describe what happened today. Never in my wildest dreams had I ever thought that Snow would seek retribution against us, District 12 for MockingJay's video. It hasn't been more than 48 hours since the broadcast and so much has happened.

Snow acted quickly and deliberately sending us, not just District12 but the rebels a message. His arms were long and heavy. No one would be spared if we rebelled. He was willing to sacrifice his own men to prove his point.

A sharp knock on the door startled me. 'Who could it be at this hour visiting me?' I opened the door.

"Haymitch," Jimmy greeted me. He looked worn down physically and in spirit.

"What are you doing here?" I asked as he walked into my home. "Why aren't you at home with your family?"

"I just came from there. I couldn't stay knowing that Peeta and Katniss are still missing." He sat down, laid his elbows on his knees and cradled his head with both hands. He was a broken man. "I keep thinking both Graham and Peeta are going to walk through the door as if nothing as has happened. I just can't believe they're both gone."

"Jimmy, don't give up on Peeta," I said. In my head it was logical to assume that he was dead since and Katniss both hadn't turned up, but my heart conflicted and warred with my mind. "The fact that they haven't found their bodies is a good sign, Jimmy."

"I can't…I can't give my self that kind of hope," he admitted. "It's killing me inside, Haymitch. I failed him. I waited too long to protect him from his mother." I wanted to agree with him but…why criticize and berate him for failures and sins past? It wouldn't help bring Peeta back if he was dead. "I failed to protect him against Snow."

"Well, that was something beyond your control," I stated. "This was not your fault. Snow went after Peeta because he was felt threatened. Imagine, he was scared of a sixteen year old boy's popularity and character."

"What do you mean?"

"Jimmy, he didn't just go after Peeta because of the video." He looked back stunned and puzzled. "He went after Peeta and Katniss because of what they represented. He saw a young man who stood up against Cray. He saw Panem defying the Capitol. He saw hope and defiance in Peeta."

"He was being whipped to death. How was that defiance?" Jimmy spat in anger. "He almost died."

"You're not getting it," I said as I mustered all the strength left in me. "As a father, you saw your son unjustly punished for a crime he didn't commit. To Snow, he was power shifting. Even Jay saw it." Jimmy flinched.

"Fuck Jay and his cause," he roared. Oops, maybe it wasn't the right time to mention our leader but I was trying to make a point. I had to remember that at this moment Jimmy was a grieving father not a rebel fighting for Panem's future.

"Listen, Jimmy," I stated calm and firm. "You and I know that the districts are unsettled and on the verge of annihilation if don't band together. Jay is our leader, but Peeta and Katniss they represent hope––two young kids fighting for love and a future. Panem needed an inspiration and that's who Peeta and Katniss have become in Snow's eyes. And he can't control it, he can't control them."

"But they're…missing. They might be dead." He sobbed as he fought tears brimming in his eyes from failing.

"No, you have to stop thinking like that," I said. "I refuse to."

"I don't know, Haymitch," he sighed. "I'm just so tired."

"Then, go home," I ordered him.

"I can't," he stated. "I can't sleep, I can't eat. I keep seeing Graham and Sonja on the ground bleeding to death. I keep thinking that Peeta shared the same fate. What if he's body is out there?" I tried not to imagine the painful way Peeta and Katniss may have suffered. Seeing Graham and Sonja's mangled body was enough to haunt me for the rest of my life.

"You need your strength," I encouraged him. "Go home o your family." What's left of it. "You still have Rye and your grandson, Tyler to think about. They need you."

"I can't go home yet." Jimmy stood up. "I can't go back yet. If Peeta is still alive and is hurt I need to look for him." I nodded my head in understanding.

"Well, if you're going to walking around then you better be careful," I said. "You broke curfew coming here. If any Peacekeepers find you walking around, you know the penalty."

"I don't care," he said. "I won't be able to sleep if I go home."

"Do you…do you want me to help you?"

"No, Haymitch," he shook his head. "You have your own responsibilities. If you get caught with me… you're a victor. You have an important and major role in this district. I'm…expendable."

"No one is, Jimmy," I spat. "You're just as important as anyone. You're a very lucky man to have raised decent and strong boys. I envy you of that." He smiled. "Just be careful and remember that Rye, Delly and Tyler still need you. No one is expendable."

I locked the door behind me remembering this time since I didn't want a surprise visit from anyone especially from Jay. My anger brewed and festered thinking about the damaged he caused by broadcasting his video in the middle of Snow's announcement. Wasn't that just the night before? A lot happened in the last twenty-four hours. I needed sleep. No, I needed a drink.

Just as I settled my aching body on my comfy chair with a large bottle of whiskey in my hand, the monitor activated signaling that I was getting a message. "Geez, can someone give me a fucking break?" I yelled as I walked over to my monitoring room. I was startled as I expected Snow's usual logo didn't appear on the screen.

On the monitor was a dark silhouetted image of a figure wearing a hood. What startled me was a large black logo, the image of District 13 loomed behind him.

"Hello, Mr. Abernathy," a deep raspy voice spoke. His true voice was disguised as it was warbled and hollow. I swallowed a ball of saliva that gathered in my throat.

"Fuck me," I said and chased the words with a large swig of whiskey. "To whom am I speaking to?"

"Who I am is not important," he said.

"Oh, I disagree with you," I pointed out. "You're my first contact with 13 if you really are from 13."

"You doubt my validity?" I kept quiet for a few seconds. "I assure you. I am not trick or trap." I harrumphed in indignation. I wasn't born in a cabbage patch to fall for any devious trick from President Snow.

"Prove it. Who is your contact in the Capitol?" Suddenly, the weight of the whisky bottle felt heavy. The liquor didn't help as I hope it would numb me. I felt aggravated, impatient and angry.

"I cannot divulge that information in order to keep my contact safe," he responded.

"Bullshit." I was also exhausted and hungry. Two things that combined with alcohol made me uncooperative…volatile. "I need verification and confirmation. "Listen, if you really are from 13 then you need to know that Snow sent mutt dogs and they attacked our district. I'm tired, angry and have no patience. I don't have time to play games. If you really are from 13, give me a fucking break and prove it."

"I don't have any contact in the Capitol," he said. "I have contacts in the districts."

This was the test. Rebels indentified with each other by saying, 'Who is your contact in the Capitol?' Any rebel who needed confirmation or verification had contact in the districts, never in the Capitol. Would had it been easier to say something about the MockingJay? That was too easy. "My contact is with The MockingJay in District 12."

His answer startled and frightened me. I sighed after my heart even out. "What do you want?"

"We are aware that your district has been attacked. Since contacting the MockingJay we have been monitoring you?"

"How?"

"That is information I am not allowed to divulge." Fucking District 13 and their games. They had been hiding in their district for so long, I wondered if they really knew what has been happening in Panem. I couldn't trust them completely.

"It's late just tell me why you contacted me and not Jay?"

"Jay?"

"The MockingJay," I sighed in frustration and impatience. "Jay, MockingJay? You know damn well that we can't say her or his name."

"We realize that District 12 has become a focal point for President Snow."

"Well, we have you and Jay to thank for that," I said with enough sarcasm I could muster. "That kid didn't deserve to used by both you and Jay."

"We meant well––"

"Fuck your intentions," I spat.

"Listen, Abernathy, what's is done," he said. "We need to focus our energy to do the right thing for everyone."

"And pray tell what is the right thing?" I couldn't wait to hear his resolution.

"You should hand over Peeta to us?"

"What?" I roared. "I'm not going to hand over Peeta to you like he's…some thing to play with."

"I'm sorry, I should have chosen my words more…delicately," he apologized.

"Fuck delicate. What do you want with Peeta that you want me to hand him over to you?"

"He's gained quite a reputation amongst the people of Panem especially the Capitol."

"You mean he's like some damn celebrity in those horrible shows they produce?"

"Yes, his ratings and popularity are just as high as…Finnick O'Dair."

"Wow, I didn't' realize he was that popular," I said feeling tired and overwhelmed by the news.

"Demographically speaking women between the 18 – 30 find him alluring. His innocence and naivety desirable." Great now Panem wanted to sleep with him like he was something they can buy or auction off.

"I still don't understand why you want him?"

"It's obvious that Snow attacked your district because of the MockingJay's video. He wants Peeta but he realized that he can't control him. You know how he operates. If he can't control Peeta like he controls his victors, he's probably already threatened him. Him and anyone close to him––his family and friends." I sucked my breath in surprise. Only a few knew your fate was after surviving and winning your arena––you were whored out to the highest bidder. "And since Peeta is out of his grasp, your district was target as an example. He struck quickly and hard making sure to intimidate anyone from joining the rebellion."

"So you want to take Peeta out of the equation by handing him over to you guys?"

"Yes, he'll safe here. I got a source telling me that he's missing presumed dead, but we know better."

"What do you mean? You've seen him?"

"Yes, he and the Everdeen girl crossed the fence and are stuck in the forest. They taken shelter so there are okay for now."

"Oh, thank God," I sighed in relief. The weight in my chest and shoulders lifted. Peeta and Katniss were alive. I was glad that he's with Katniss. They would protect each other.

"I'm sorry, but there is something else you need to know?"

"What?"

"There's a group of Peacekeepers looking for them."

"Fuck. How did they know they were out there?"

"I assumed you saw the two drones flying over the town earlier today? Snow implemented surveillance drones as of today."

"So they are Snow's drones?"

"Yes, they're Snow's with a little spy ware installed. You see, we too have access to the video feed installed on the drones. So what Snow see and records we see as well." I couldn't discern who was worse, Snow for spying on us or 13 for manipulating our lives as well. Now they want Peeta. I knew why. "So we were thinking since Peeta is declared dead––"

"Presumed missing until proven otherwise," I interrupted.

"We will provide safety for him and for Ms. Everdeen as well."

"And?" The hooded figure was quiet as waited for a response. "I know that there's more than just giving sanctuary to Peeta for…safeguarding his well-being. What do you want from him?"

"I…we will train him to fight for…with us. As a symbol along side with the MockingJay, we will tape a few propos to aid our cause. Think about it with Peeta beside the MockingJay what better inspiration to rally the districts for our cause."

I closed my eyes and counted up to ten. 'One, two, three, four––fuck this.'

"No," I said in a firm voice.

"You know that Peeta doesn't have chance in surviving if Snow gets a hold on him. He has already taken the lives of his brother and sister-in-law. If Peeta resists further, he will wipe out the rest of his family by sickness or an accident. Snow will find a way."

I knew he was right but to turn Peeta over to them? They, District 13 were using and manipulating Peeta as well. But what choice did Peeta have now?

"I promise that Peeta and Katniss will be safe from Snow," he said.

"I can't just hand over Peeta and Katniss to you without their consent. And you will just as worse as Snow if you forced him to go with you. Give them choice," I demanded. They could just as persuasive and knowing Peeta at this point, he would go with them willingly if it meant to keep his family safe. The hooded figure sighed.

"Peeta is underage, I understand, but I know that his father would freely give consent to ensure his safety."

"His father just lost his son and daughter in-law. I don't know if he's going to just let Peeta leave like that."

"I understand. But a parent will do whatever it takes for the safety of his children, that I know, Mr. Abernathy. As for Ms. Everdeen, Katniss doesn't need parental consent. She is of age to decide her fate. And by my guess, if Peeta volunteers to join us, I have no doubt she would follow him as well." The decision was out of my hands, but I wanted the kids to decide what they wanted. Everyone has already taken so much from them.

"How soon do you want an answer?"

"Time is of the essence, Abernathy. Once Peeta and Katniss returns it is prudent that you prepare them as soon as possible." We discussed the logistics of how and when they would be delivered to 13. Too bad I had sent Gale sooner than we planned for it wasn't necessary to have sent him to leave the district. I flinched thinking about how his family was taking the news of his 'death.' But then I realized that he needed to map the way to 13 once we needed to evacuate the populace.

I knew something was up when Snow had cut the Peacekeeper presence in half. I just didn't realize the extent of his fear of a sixteen-year old boy's popularity that he acted quickly and decisively targeting the district and not just Peeta's family.

All night I twisted and turned in my sleep. For once I decided to remain sober. I needed to be focused when Peeta and Katniss returned. I just hope that stayed clear from the Peacekeepers who are still after them. I didn't know how long I slept but the next thing I knew there was a knock on my door. The banging sound continued and I could hear voices accompanying it.

"Garret, it's obvious that he's still asleep," Lily's voice filtered into the morning air. "Let's leave him alone and come by after a more suitable hour." I raised my head and searched for my clock. Did I have a clock anywhere in my bedroom? It had so long since I slept in the master bedroom, I had forgotten where everything was located. I flinched as I inhaled the musty odor of the bed sheet and pillows that were in need of a wash or two.

"Daddy, are you sure it's okay for us to be here this early?" Prim spoke. Smart and thoughtful kid, unlike her father. 'Go away.' 'I mentally transmitted to them hoping they would leave.

"Garrett," Lily's voice was strained. "You just can't walk in his house." Little did she realize how many people walked into my home uninvited. Didn't I lock my door last night?

"I'm worried about him, Lily," Garrett said in a hushed voice. "I just want to make sure he's okay. You know how much Peeta means to him." I flinched. Was I that obvious of my…affection for Jimmy's youngest son? I admitted that he's…different––not bad or weird but special. Had I had a son, I would like him to be just like Peeta.

Grudgingly, I sat up from my bed. I wiped my eyes of morning gunk and belched. My mouth tasted chalky and my stomach ached from not eating all day yesterday. And like a bad habit I formed over the years, I reached over to my bedside drawer for a bottle of scotch or whiskey. There was none. Just empty bottles that had collected years of dust and memories. I was off to a good start.

I sighed. There was no point in ignoring them. With my hands cradling my head and my elbows propped on my knees, a familiar fragrance wafted the smell of coffee into my room. My body was alerted as the scent of eggs and bacon assaulted my senses. Like a dog, my mouth salivated and my stomach lurched.

"At least they brought breakfast," I commented to myself. I stood up and noticed from across the room a tall freestanding mirror. Who I saw reflected on the glass was someone who looked like me. I didn't recognize him. His clothes were rumpled and creased. He needed a shower and a shave. An offensive odor filled the room. Sniffing my arms pits, I realized it was me. I stunk and reeked from not having bathed in the last 48 hours.

Had it just been Garrett I would have gone downstairs and greeted him, but with Lily and Prim present, I didn't want to offend them.

"Good morning, Haymitch," Lily greeted me as I walked down the stairs forty-five minutes later after taken a long hot shower. "I hope you don't mind our intrusion."

"It's okay, Lily," I said with sincerity. "You can barge into my home anytime if you bring me breakfast. I could smell the egg and bacon all the way upstairs."

Lily chuckled. "Well, if you cleaned your kitchen once in a while, I think I might be tempted to make dinner too."

"I don't understand how you ended up with Lily, Garrett," I teased. "She too good for you."

"Hey, get your own wife to do your meals," Garrett teased back. "Maybe if you shaved and showered more often, you'd be married too, you drunk."

"Daddy, don't be so mean," Prim gasped. Garrett chortled.

"Not that your presence and grub isn't appreciated, mind telling me why you're all here so early in the morning?" I asked them as I stuffed my mouth with eggs and bacon.

"I was wondering if you don't mind letting Lily and Prim stay with you for a while," Garrett started.

"Why, what are you up to?" This was indeed unexpected. Garrett had never asked for a favor especially that involved his family.

"I heard a rumor that Katniss and Peeta crossed the fence and I'm going to go and find them," he explained. "Who knows if they ran into trouble? I can't just wait at home. I need to know if they are really out there and not…"

"Garrett, trust me. I know they're out there in the woods during the dog attacks. Who told you that they were out there?"

"Peacekeeper Darius," he answered. "He suspected it and didn't report them so…" Should I tell him that a group of Peacekeepers are looking for them? And that they were probably sent by Snow? I debated in my mind if should tell them. I was so engrossed in my thoughts that I had burned my mouth from sipping the coffee.

"Good damnit, fucking hell that's hot," I muttered as I felt the tip of my tongue with my fingertips.

"Haymitch, watch your mouth," Lily scolded me. "And stop being gross in front of my daughter." She batted my hand away from my mouth. "Put some ice on it."

"Swowwy?" I returned unable to feel my tongue. Prim giggled. For a few minutes I waited for my tongue to return back to normal. Just as I was about to reveal my information to Garrett, a barrage of sounds penetrated the air. Someone was banging on my door hard that the hinges shook from the impact.

"Who can that be pounding on my door so early in the morning," I groused. My home was no longer my sanctuary I realized as how much visitors I was getting lately. "Keep your pants on." The banging continued. "What the hell do you wan––" I said as I pried my door open.

"Mr. Abernathy, I don't mean to be rude but I need your help," Rye said as walked passed my door and into my living room. "Oh, I'm sorry, I didn't realize you had company." He noticed the Everdeens sitting in my dining room. "Hello, Mr. and Mrs. Everdeen, Prim." He addressed them. Jimmy had raised his sons well as they were polite and respectful. Well, I didn't mind Peeta commandeering one of my bedrooms and turned it into an art room even if he didn't ask for permission. He didn't steal anything. So the kid had one flaw. Thank goodness because he truly is too good to be true.

"I'm sorry to be barging in so early but Peeta and Katniss might still be alive," he said. There was a look of anxiety and hopefulness in his face. "I need your help. I want to cross the fence. Someone told me that they were outside the fence when the dog attacks started. And now, I think they're stuck out there."

"Now, hold on, Rye," I said. "Slow down."

"No, you don't understand. Peeta might still be alive," he started. "I don't want to wait or slow down." Rye was frustrated and impatient. All day all he heard from everyone including his father was that Peeta was probably dead. He had already lost his older brother. He couldn't or didn't want to believe that he also lost his younger brother. "And don't tell me I'm delusional and living on hope. I just can't idly stand by and wait for something to happen. I need to find him for dad." Living on hope was a devastating and cruel way to live. "I don't care if you don't believe me."

"Rye, we believe you," Garrett started. "I too know that Peeta and Katniss are alive. And I know that you're dying to go out there and find them but you're not familiar with the woods. You could get lost."

"I'm not talking about looking for them deep inside the woods. I just want to walk around the perimeter…wait for them to come back."

"It's too risky. A peacekeeper might spot you. Besides, I was telling Haymitch that I was about to cross the fence to look for them myself."

"Oh, I want to come with you," Rye asked. "I promise I'll do everything you tell me to."

"Rye, I don't think your dad would like the idea of you endangering your life like that," I reminded him.

"Damnit, I'm doing this for dad," he seethed in frustration gritting teeth. His face turned red as he was flushed with anger as well. "He's already given up hope."

"It's not a good idea for both of us out to be out there," Garrett commented.

"Listen, please let me do this," he begged. "I promise not to wander too far away from the fence." His anger replaced with desperation. "He's my brother. I can't lose him too."

"My daughter is out there with Peeta," Garrett reminded him. "I understand your impatience and frustration."

"Then you have to let me go with you, please." I never knew if Peeta were close to his brother. They were brothers by birth but that didn't necessarily mean that they were close, but after today I'd never doubt their relationship.

"Garrett, I know both of you want to go out there to them," I said. "But I suggest you send Rye––"

"Haymitch, I know the woods better than him," Garrett returned in an indignant manner as though I had insulted his ability.

"And if the Peacekeepers find you, how do you think Lily, Prim and Katniss will feel?"

"Rye has family too. He's going to be married in two weeks."

"But Rye isn't involved with our––"

"Okay, okay," he interrupted me. "I get it. I have other responsibilities." Oops, I had almost forgotten that we had company. I didn't know whether Lily knew Garrett's involvement in the rebellion. She had to have known. I just didn't know how much she knew like the mission we…I sent Gale.

For a few minutes, I left Rye with Garrett as he explained what to do once he was over the fence. I didn't need to be involved with the details as I still have yet to tell Garrett that I sent Gale ahead to 13 after informing the rest of our group, but I had excluded him. Well, it wasn't intentional since I couldn't locate him at the time.

Half an hour later, Rye crossed the fence. He looked scared, excited and hopeful at the same time. "I hope that we're not making a mistake sending him," Garrett expressed his concern as we watched Rye disappear amongst the trees.

"I don't think we would have been able to stop him," I said. "He would have found a way across the fence so at least I'm grateful that he looked to us for help." May God forgive me if anything happened to him. Jimmy will never forgive if me he got hurt or caught.

It had been only one hour when Rye's voice startled me. Both Garrett and I jumped from our seat and ran out to the back of my property. "Haymitch!"

"Oh my fucking God, he found him," I muttered to myself as I grabbed the electrical demagnetizing pole. Katniss looked unhurt. Oh, shit. Peeta had large gashes on his upper torso starting from his shoulders. They were a sight to see. "Oh my God, Peeta, Katniss. Thank you God you're both okay,"

"Katniss, oh my God," Lily screamed. "Garrett, she's alive." There were tears in her eyes. Her family sprinted towards them. Once they reached her, they encircled her in their arms, laughing and crying in relief and joy.

"Katniss, Peeta. You're both okay. Thank God," she added. "Where have you been?"

Once the reunion was over I dreaded breaking the news I still have yet to tell Peeta. After a few exchange I told him everything that had happened the day before. I will never forget the look on Peeta's face as I told him about Graham and Sonja. The light in his eyes dimmed, his complexion pale and his mouth gaped open and closed.

"No, no…no," Peeta repeated. He blinked his eyes for a few seconds allowing the heartbreaking news to register. "Graham and Sonja? Are you sure?" Rye nodded his head in confirmation. "No…no…no," he repeated as he shook his head. "They can't be."

"I'm sorry, Peeta," I reached out to console. He flinched backwards.

"Peeta?" Katniss spoke her voice soft. Nothing registered in his face as if he blanked out the world around him. He ignored everyone.

"Dad?"

"Dad's fine, Peet," Rye answered. "Tyler is at the bakery. We thought we lost you when you didn't come home last night. Peeta?"

Katniss reached out to comfort Peeta. Just as she was about to touch him he turned and ran. I was so stunned that it took me a few seconds to realize that Peeta ran out with Katniss and Rye right behind him. Once I managed to clear my head, I ran out the door. I could see Rye and Katniss running after him, calling his name but he didn't stop. He kept running. Damn, he was fast as he out paced them leaving them behind to catch up to him.

Peeta POV ––

"No, no, no," I chanted as I ran leaving everyone behind me.

"Peeta, stop." Katniss and Rye yelled. I ignored their cries and ran faster. 'This can't be happening.'

My throat felt tight as I breathed through my mouth. I hardly felt the tears that tracked down my face. There was an ache in my belly as if someone punched in the gut and stabbed me in my back. 'Oh my God, oh my God, Graham…Graham and Sonja are dead.' It couldn't be true.

I ached all over as if I carried world on my shoulders. Once I reached the outskirt of the town, I ran straight to the butcher shop. I was not prepared to see the damage and carnage that the dogs left behind. "Graham," I screamed. "Graham!" I ran past the doorway and stopped.

'Peeta, don't go in there,' a voice screamed in my head. I gasped in horror as I took inventory of the damage. Desiccated and rotting meat littered the ground. The smell of dried blood reeked in the air. The smell was so pungent that I nearly vomited on the spot.

Someone grabbed my arm but I shoved him away. "Peeta, what are you doing here?" Rye's voice penetrated my mind. "You shouldn't be here." He grabbed both arms locking me into place preventing me from moving.

"Let go of me, Rye," I gritted my teeth in anger and annoyance. I shoved him back dislodging his tight grip on my forearms.

"Peeta?" Katniss appeared beside him. "Oh my God." She placed a hand over her mouth and nose as she noticed her surroundings. There was broken furniture everywhere. Shards of glass littered the floor. And the blood, there was so much blood that you couldn't walk a single step without staining your shoes.

My skin felt as though thousands of ants were crawling all over my body. My face pinched from pain. "So it's true. Graham and Sonja are dead?" I needed to see it for my self. I couldn't believe that they were dead. Rye nodded his head. He fought the tears that threatened to fall from his eyes. "Where's Tyler?" Where was my nephew?

"At home with Dad and Delly," Rye answered. "They're safe and unharmed." Thank God. "Peeta, let me take you home."

Home? How could I go home with Graham and Sonja gone and who knew how many are dead as well?

"How many people died yesterday?" I asked. I wasn't prepared for an answer but I asked anyway.

"I don't know exactly. A few are missing."

"I don't understand."

"Some were taken, grabbed and dragged into the woods." I closed my eyes.

"How many?" I repeated. 'How many died because of me?'

"I don't know the exact count, Peeta," he said. "Dad and I were busy grieving over Graham…and for you."

If all this happened yesterday, why didn't Katniss and I see them in the woods? It's as if they disappeared. "Come on, I know Dad will so happy to see you."

Dad? Home? How could I go home knowing that this was all my fault?

"Peeta?" Katniss touched my arm. I flinched in response. How can she bear to touch me knowing that all those people died because of me? Graham and Sonja were dead because of me. As if she read my mind she spoke, "This isn't your fault. You can't blame yourself."

"I can't?" I spat in anger. "I…I…I did this. This is my fault." I turned and ran out the building. I had to fix this before it got worse.

A large crowd was gathered at the courtyard of the Justice Building. For a few seconds, my mind reeled back to that day. The day Cray stripped the shirt off my back and bound me to the post. I experienced a moment of déjà vu. People around me gasped and stared. I had forgotten that I was shirtless with a wound across my chest. Everyone I knew was present. Why were they there?

I ran past the crowd running up the Justice Building steps. Four Peacekeepers blocked my path as I expected. "Halt, step back. No one is allowed in the building. Anyone trespassing will be arrested and fined," he stated as if he had rehearsed his lines over and over.

"I need to speak to Peacekeeper Cray," I informed him.

"I don't know where you've been kid. Peacekeeper Cray is no longer the Head Peacekeeper for District 12." Huh, when did that happen?

"It's Peeta, Peeta Mellark," someone said in the midst of the crowd. "He's alive."

"What's he doing?" I turned around to find a group of people behind me. In front of the them was my mother. She looked surprised and angry. 'What did I do now to have raised her anger?'

"He looks awful."

"What happened o him?" Questions flew into the air.

"Peeta," my mother's voice penetrated my hazy mind. "Where have you been?" I ignored her. "What are you doing making a spectacle of yourself. People are staring." Mom stood besides the Berridges. Agatha positioned herself beside her with a look of horror in her eyes.

"Get away from me," I said in low but firm tone as she approached me. She reached out to touch me. "Don't fucking touch me." I felt anger, fury and fear all at the same time. My nerves were raw and heart broken. Why wasn't she with Dad grieving together? Then I remembered they weren't together anymore.

"How dare you to talk to me––"

"Leave me the fuck alone," I screamed just as Rye and Katniss caught up to me.

"Peeta, what are you doing here?" Rye asked as he stared back at Mom.

"What he's doing is embarrassing himself and me for that matter."

"Who gives a fuck about you," Rye seethed back his teeth clenched.

"Rye? Why are you talking to me like that? I'm your mother." He laughed. Meanwhile, Katniss hovered beside me. Her hand suspended close to my arm. "And what is that Seam whore doing here?"

"Stop calling her that? She's not a whore," I yelled. "She has a name and it's Katniss Everdeen."

"Peeta, calm down. It's all right," she tried to soothe me.

"No, it's not. I'm sick and tired of this bullshit. She has no right to treat you like dirt from underneath her shoes. What right does she have to treat you like that? Calling you names that are uncalled for?" I heard whispers around me. The courtyard was quiet, deadly quiet that I could hear my heart beating against my chest. I placed a hand over my breast feeling my chest as if it was about to explode.

"Peeta?" Dad appeared before me. I was happy to see him but the pain of knowing that Graham was gone overlooked my joy to see him alive and well.

The Everdeens and Haymitch came into view as well. Everyone that I knew was present. Madge, my classmates from school and even the Hawthornes were gathered in the courtyard. "Kid, you need to calm down," Haymitch said as he approached me. I ignored him. I ignored everyone as the world focused on Katniss. I was so focused that I didn't see a flying device hovering over the courtyard.

"She's Seam and I'm Merchant, what does that mean? I'm blond, her hair is dark." I stared at the crowd before me as I listed the physical difference between Katniss and me. "People are dead whether their Seam or Merchant. Their blood is the same, your grief is the same. We bleed the same."

My throat tightened as I fought for words. "People are dying everyday in Panem from starvation, neglect and injustice. And we're divided amongst ourselves because of what? I'm blond and she's not? Who the fuck started this crap? I want to know why I can't fall in love with a girl with dark hair and gray eyes? Where is it written that I have to marry a girl with blond hair and blue eyes? Who created the hierarchy that Merchant is above Seam as they are lesser than we are? Who the fuck made it a rule that we are better than them?"

It was so quiet that not a single person moved or reacted. They were stunned and shocked by my outburst. "I want someone to answer me. Show me why Merchants are better than Seam. Show me empirical proof that they are lesser beings and should be treated with disrespect and hostility."

"It's just the way it is, Peeta," Mom answered. She stood proud and arrogant making me ashamed of her behavior.

"It's just the way it is? That's fucking bullshit," I screamed back. "Mrs. Everdeen married a Seam. She's blond and blue eyed and yet she's treated like some pariah after marrying Mr. Everdeen. Did people lose their IQ's suddenly that they forget that she's Merchant like me. And what about Prim?" All eyes to turned to Katniss' little sister.

"Look at her. She can practically be my little sister." Prim smiled back at me. Her sweetness and kindness softened my anger to a degree. "You all should be ashamed of yourself. I don't know when this happened or why it happened. All I know is that people whether you're Merchant or Seam died yesterday. People who were loved and had families, Merchant and Seam blood was spilled yesterday. Their blood ran red in their veins and yesterday it was spilt. Who cares if they were blond or dark hair, they were living breathing people who mattered."

"Peeta, it's not that simple," Mr. Everdeen said.

"What do you mean, it's not that simple?"

"You're talking about years, decades of social prejudice and divide. All of us were raised to believe in the separation of classes."

"Why? I want you to give me a good reason why it's all right to treat Prim like she's lesser than us. She lives and breathes the same air as me, was born and will die same way as any Merchant. Both Merchant and Seam are reaped the same way." That wasn't completely true since most Seam kids had more tessarae than Merchants because of our advantages. Seam kids polluted the lottery bowl, their names outnumbered the Merchants. "Is my blood different than yours?" I picked at a scab that formed on my shoulder. Katniss gasped in shock as I rubbed my wound collecting blood on my hand. I was so angry that my pain threshold was nonexistent.

"See this?" I pointed to the blood that covered my hand. It dribbled down my fingers and into the palm of my hands. It reminded me of the lives I took the day before. "Is my blood different than yours. Is it special?"

The crowd shook their heads both Seam and Merchant. "All I know is that all my life, all I wanted was to fall in love and marry the girl of my dreams. It shouldn't matter if she's dark hair living in the Seam. It shouldn't matter that her skin is darker than mine. We as a people deserved to live a life free from tyranny and injustice. Aren't you all sick and tired of living in despair and fear? Shouldn't we be not fighting amongst ourselves? We have a common enemy––"

"Peeta," Haymitch started. "You shouldn't––"

"I shouldn't what say things that people are afraid to say?" I interrupted him. "I shouldn't talk about the fact that our lives are not our own but belongs to Snow and the Capitol." The crowd gasped in horror. I was committing an act of sedition against President Snow. And I was doing it publicly with a large crowd witnessing it. I had nothing to lose. Snow made his threat real murdering my brother and sister-in-law. They were the sacrificial lamb further making his point. I wasn't stupid. The dog attacks in town was too coincidental. The attacks occurred the day after the MockingJay's broadcast. I thought I had time but it seemed that President Snow made sure I got his message.

He wanted me. Well, he can have me if surrendering myself ensured my family's safety. I couldn't live with the guilt of people dying because of me. I had already spilt blood on my hands.

"Peeta, son. You need to stop," Dad said, his eyes begged me to stop. 'I'm doing this for you and Rye.' If anything else happened, I couldn't live with myself if they died because of me.

"Peeta Mellark," Darius' voice startled me. I turned around to see his Peacekeepers flanked beside him. My eyes grew wide from surprise. "It's good to see you, Peeta." Katniss grabbed my hand as Darius approached me. The guards beside him were tall and imposing. I was glad that Darius replaced Cray. However, he was still a Peacekeeper.

"You know, your father has been worried sick looking for you. You gave him quite a scare."

"Darius," Dad started. The new head Peacekeeper raised his hand in a 'stop' motion as he gripped his rifle with his other hand.

"Mr. Mellark," he addressed Dad. "I'm glad that your son was found alive. However, I must now escort him into the building for questioning." I felt my world shifted. This was like with Cray all over again. This, however, was what I wanted.

"Questioning," Dad said in a startled and panicked tone. "For what? I just got him back. He hasn't committed any crime."

"I believe that I have over a hundred witnesses who can testify that your son has made remarks against President Snow. You know by law that I have to detain him for questioning."

"No, you can't," Katniss spoke. Her hand gripped mine tight as if she was afraid to let me go.

"Questioning for what?" Haymitch asked. He knew why I was going to be questioned.

"I have to arrest him and question him. See if he is going to commit a crime against President." It was likely to see if I was in any way a part of the rebel faction that was forming in the districts.

"He's just a kid, for crying out loud," Mr. Everdeen exclaimed. "He's a baker's son."

"I'm sorry but I must," Darius concluded as he gestured for his men to escort me inside the building. This was it. No more games or threats. Snow can't hurt my family or anyone I love.

"No," Katniss repeated. I gasped in horror and surprise as she placed herself in front of me. "Hasn't he suffered enough in your hands? Cray punished him for a crime he didn't commit."

"This is of another offense. He spoke against President Snow inciting discontent. I have to take him in."

"Over my dead body," Katniss added.

"And mine," Rye said as she stood next to her.

"Katniss, Rye it's all right," I said. I couldn't bear if they got hurt trying to defend and protect me. "I have to go with them."

"Shut up, little brother," Rye snickered back.

"Think about Delly and Tyler," I reminded him of the family he had to care for.

"I am thinking of them," he answered back. "How can I live with myself if anything happened to you? I already lost one brother."

"Me too," Prim announced as she stood next to Katniss and grabbed her hand. 'Oh, God what are they doing? They're going to get hurt because of me.'

"Primrose and Katniss Everdeen," Lily shrieked at her daughters. "Get away from there this minute." I turned to see Mrs. Everdeen. There was a look shock, despair and fear on her face. Mr. Everdeen grabbed her arm preventing her from approaching us.

"Garrett, do something," she begged him.

"You children put me to shame," Mr. Everdeen said as he walked over to us. "I'm sorry Peeta." I didn't understand why he was apologizing. "I'm sorry that I didn't see what you've been doing. What you're trying to do. I didn't see until now." He stood behind me and placed a hand on my shoulder. I flinched from the contact. I was sweating profusely as beads of sweat dripped from my head and down to my neck. The sun wasn't even shining above us yet.

"I'm sorry Darius," Dad spoke as he stood behind Rye. "If you're taking my son, you're going to have to take me in too."

"Dad, what are you doing?" I panicked.

"What I should have done the first time."

"Hell, if you guys insist on getting arrested, you can count me in too," Haymitch sputtered.

"Everyone move back," Darius ordered as he lifted his rifle. "I order you to move away from Peeta now. This does not concern the rest of you."

"You're wrong," Rye bellowed. "The last time my brother went in there alone, he was accused of murder without any evidence to support the charge."

"And he was punished unjustly for a crime he didn't commit," Katniss added. Several Peacekeepers left their post and gathered behind Darius. The situation was getting out of control.

"Stop, stop," I cried out and stood before him. "Please don't hurt anyone. I'll come with you willingly. Everyone please don't do this."

"No, Peeta," Dad muttered. "If he takes you then they'll have to arrest me too because I won't let them take you from me."

"I'll be all right, Dad," I said to him. My eyes pleaded for understanding. "I know what I'm doing."

"So do I, and you're not going anywhere," he returned. "I'm afraid once I let you go with them, I'll never see you again." That was I was counting on. "I'll failed you so many times in your life, Peeta. Never again."

"I'll give you ten seconds to disperse," Darius continued. "Do not make this more difficult than it already is. Peeta is willing to come with us––"

"Peacekeeper Darius," Mr. Undersee spoke. He walked over to where we gathered. Everyone around us had a bird's eye view. The acoustics designed around the courtyard made it clear for everyone to hear every word and sound. If a coin dropped, you heard it ring in the air. As walked up the steps his footsteps rang like bell tolling. He joined us then addressed Darius.

"I think that Peeta has suffered enough," he said. "You can see that the young man is injured and needs medical attention. Just let him go home with his family. He and his family have suffered enough."

"That is no excuse––"

"Why are threatened by a sixteen-year old boy? Look at him, what damage can he do against Snow? He's injured and suffered so much loss. What do you want from him?" Katniss spoke out with anger. "Why can't you just leave him alone?"

"He has outwardly spoken to against President Snow. I cannot let that kind of transgression pass."

"Peacekeeper Darius," Mr. Undersee intervened. "The boy is obviously in pain and not himself. You can't take him seriously."

"Mayor Undersee, it is best that you step back and not involve yourself in this matter," Darius suggested.

"Darius, I understand that you must abide by the rules and laws set that you are sworn to obey," he spoke. "You have performed admirably containing and maintaining peace here in 12. Please step aside just this once. He is just a boy––"

"Who outwardly spoke against the Capitol and Snow in front of hundreds of witnesses," he interrupted. "I have to do my job, Undersee. If it wasn't me in charge he would already have a bullet in his head for his 'transgression.' I have to take him in." I could see other Peacekeeper agree with him. I committed a crime of trying to incite a mob. I had to be taken into custody.

"Then you leave me choice as well," he sighed as he stood beside my Dad. "You'll have to take me in too."

"And me," Madge Undersee cried out as she ran up the stairs and stood next to Katniss. A look passed between the girls. Suddenly, large groups of people approached the steps.

"Me too," Mr. Maurtagh said as he positioned himself between Haymitch and Mayor Undersee. I was surprised by his support as he was my District 12 school principal. He was a mild mannered man that hated confrontation. Whenever there was trouble between Seam and Merchant in school, he sided with Merchant no matter who was at fault.

"And me." Mr. Cartwright stood behind Mayor Undersee.

"You also should take me in for questioning," Coach Gennaro stated. "If Peeta spoke against Snow, I am guilty as well." I'm stunned into silence. Rye and I eyed each other wondering what possessed our wrestling coach to support me. Mr. Gennaro was Seam. It was rare for any Seam to possess a teaching position in our school, but since he was a former wrestling champion, the position was opened to him. He never spoke ill of the Merchants but he did favor Seam in our wrestling team.

"And me as well," a dark hair man spoke. He was in his early 30's. I remembered seeing him with Gale Hawthorne––a classmate. The crowd grew from 10 to 20. Then a few seconds later both Seam and Merchant gathered on the steps in front of the Justice Building. By now, there were at least a hundred people behind us. I gasped in horror as groups of Peacekeepers surrounded us.

"Everyone, turn back. Do not get involved in this matter," Darius stated.

"What are you going to do, Darius," Haymitch asked him. "Are you ready to arrest all of us?"

"This kind of display is what I'm trying to avoid, Haymitch," Darius returned. "Just let me interview Peeta, keep him contained for the night. Let me do my job. I promise you no harm will happen to him."

"No," Dad said. He stood his ground beside me. "You're not taking him alone. By law, he is to be accompanied by a parent since he is underage. Cray ignored that rule and look where it got him."

"Darius," an elder Peacekeeper spoke from behind him. "What are you waiting for? Just grab the kid and get him inside?"

"Shut up, Melton," Darius yelled. "I'm trying o resolve this peacefully without getting anyone hurt."

"You're a mistake," Melton returned. "President was wrong to give you command when Cray was replaced."

"You'd be wise to shut up or else I'll lock you up for disrespecting my authority."

"You're just like them," he spat. "You wear our uniform but you reek District 12 filth. If you don't have the stomach to do you job then I will do it for you." He walked past Darius and shoved Katniss aside to reach me. Angry, I shoved him back.

In return he used the butt of his rife and struck my face. Pain exploded on the side of my head. The world swayed and tilted. "Stop, Melton," Darius commanded him. His ordered was ignored as Melton grabbed my right arm and cuffed it. "I order you to stop."

"No," Katniss yelled as she reached out to me. Melton shoved her again causing her to land on her backside. Mrs. Everdeen ran to her daughter's side and knelt beside her.

"Don't touch her," I hollered. "Katniss!" I tackled Melton onto the ground. "Don't touch her again or I'll swear I'll kill you."

"Peeta, stop," Dad screamed. Melton was at least six inches taller but as a wrestler it would have been not problem for me. Unfortunately, the pain in my head hurt and I'm exhausted. He took advantage of my weakness and managed to brush me off him. As I lay there on the ground, I'm propped on my elbows looking at him as he hovered above me.

"I'm going to end this," he said between clenched teeth. He reached on to his side arm and raised his gun to my head.

"No." I heard Katniss scream. I closed my eyes as I knew this was it. No more guilt, heart ache and feeling that I had failed protecting my family against Snow. I waited for pain and darkness. Suddenly, Melton collapsed onto the ground falling onto his knees first. He had a look of confusion and pain etched on his face. My hear beat so fast I struggled to breath.

Melton swayed sideway and crashed onto the ground as he landed face down. Blood painted seeped onto his armor at the center of his back. A barrage of screams filled the air. I turned my head. Darius walked over to Melton his rifle in his hand. He knelt beside the older Peacekeeper checking his pulse.

"Damnit," he muttered under his breath. Then, he stood up. "Clear the courtyard. Now!" his voice boomed into the air. He turned to the guards beside him. "You're dismissed."

"But sir, what about––" one of them spoke.

"I will handle this from here," he said brooking no argument. "Well, I just gave you an order, soldier."

"Yes, sir," they responded. They turned and left Darius alone.

"You saved my boys' life," Dad said. Shocked, I turned to Darius.

"Why?" I asked him. At the courtyard I could hear several Peacekeepers ordering the crowd to away from the steps and leave the vicinity.

"Everyone go home." Several Peacekeepers ordered them. "There is nothing for you here to see. Leave now." Katniss was beside me in an instant as she knelt next to me grabbing my hand.

"Peeta, are you hurt?" I shook my head. 'Not physically, only my pride.' She touched my shoulder. "You're bleeding again. I need to get you home so Mom can treat you."

"I'm fine, Katniss. Nothing serious or fatal. Just add a bruised tailbone with the rest of my injuries." I added injecting humor as I rubbed my aching backside.

"He was taking the situation into his own hands. He meant to kill you, Peeta," Darius explained. "I didn't want this to escalate that far. I didn't' want this to happen."

"You did the right thing," Mayor Undersee stated.

"Oh, shit," he muttered. "How am I going to explain this on my report?"

"I'll corroborate your report if you need a witness."

"Just tell President Snow the truth," Haymitch advised him. "Don't embellish or leave out any details. As Undersee said, there are many witnesses to back you up."

"Are you going to be okay?" Mr. Everdeen asked. "I mean you just killed one of your own."

"I've met resistance from him since my appointment as Head Peacekeeper. I won't stand for any disobedience during my command. I don't care how long he's been a Peacekeeper." He sighed. "I just didn't think it would come to this."

"Thank you, Darius," I said as I stood up with Katniss' help. My legs felt weak and wiry. I was ready to collapse. I stiffened in surprise as Katniss enclosed her arms around my waist placing her head on the crook of my neck. She trembled for a few seconds as she muttered something underneath her breath. I couldn't hear her since my own heart pounded in my chest. I squinted feeling an ache on the side of my head wondering if I'll ever stop hurting or getting injured. Having her in arms calmed me for a few seconds.

"This wasn't personal, Peeta," he returned. "I was only doing my job. I wouldn't have let anyone hurt you. Not on my watch."

"Thank you, Darius," Dad stated relief and joy in his tone.

"Don't thank me," he returned. "I still have to turn him in for questioning."

"But––" Dad started.

"Listen, all of you," he said in a firm manner. "I don't want to fight you. If you had just let me take Peeta inside to question him like I'm supposed to, we could have prevented this. I know you don't know me let alone trust me, but there is at least one thing you should know."

"And what is that?" Haymitch inquired.

"This is my home, our home," he said. "As long as I am head Peacekeeper, I want all of us to get along." Everyone looked skeptical as we thought the same thing. Could we trust him to not be just like Cray? And as if he read all our minds he blurted, "I'm not Cray."

"Dad, please let me do this," I said as I anticipated my Dad's objections. "My Dad can come with me, right?" Darius nodded his head.

"Yes, I'll allow your father to accompany since by law a parent has to present when a minor is being interviewed or questioned. Cray knew that but ignored it." Mentioning the former head peacekeeper made my stomach turn. "I promise all of you that Peeta will be safe with me," he stated. "He won't be going anywhere." That was wishful thinking on his part for I knew once he turned in his report, Snow will be displeased, livid at the outcome. I wasn't safe anywhere. Even I knew Darius couldn't protect me.

I pulled back to release Katniss from her embrace. "Go home, Katniss. Everything is okay for now."

"No, I want to go with you," she said her eyes pleaded with me. "I don't trust him."

"Katniss," I started. "I'm going to be okay. My Dad will be with me."

"And, I will be going with him as well," Haymitch said as he turned to Darius. "If that's all right with you, of course."

He shrugged his shoulders. "If that's what it's going to take to make you trust me then fine. You can accompany Peeta and his father."

"I still want to go with you," Katniss requested. "Let me go with you."

"Katniss––" I objected.

"Please, Peeta," she continued. Her fingers dug into my waist. "I made a promise that I would send you home to your Dad safe and in one piece."

"And you did."

"Not until your interview is over," she persisted. "Not until your safe and in your home, I need to make sure you're not seriously hurt. I'm not letting you go."

"Mr. Everdeen?" I turned to her father. "Tell Katniss to go home with you."

"I'm sorry, Peeta," he said with a smirk on his face. "She's of age to do what she wants and no amount of me trying to convince her to go home is going to work. She' stubborn like her mother." Mrs. Everdeen harrumphed.

"Like father like daughter, you mean. She's more like you than me, Garrett."

"Prim? Mrs. Everdeen?" I turned to them for some assistance. Her mother sighed while Prim smiled. "What?"

"You wanted her to be your girlfriend since you were five, Peeta," Prim snickered. Katniss gasped her eyes wide from surprise or pleasure. I couldn't tell. I released a frustrated sigh. "She's your girlfriend now. It's only right that she will stand by you. Just let her."

I stared back at the girl of my dreams. I didn't know if I should kiss her or shake her and make her see reason. First she didn't want me as she repeatedly denied my attempts to form a friendship with her. I was resolved to live with that. I had given up. Now, she wanted me. Now, that I didn't have anything to offer her but a life with President Snow as my shadow. Now when my life was precarious and I was endangering everyone.

"Please," she mouthed, her lips red and plump and her eyes pleading. Her hair was a mess as if a bird built a nest in her locks and her face smeared with grime and sweat. She was never looked more beautiful.

She's going to be the death of me.

AN: Thank you for reading this chapter. I hoped you enjoyed it and wasn't disappointed with the outcome. Also, work has been pretty hectic so I'll do my best to update as soon as I can. Thanks again for your patience and your interest in reading 'Destiny.' I hope you had a great weekend.