Chapter 22 – Aftermath 2, Days Numbered

AN: Wow, 324 reviews. Thank you for those who wrote a review, alerted and favored 'Destiny.' We still have a lot of chapters before this ends. My heartfelt thanks and gratitude to pistonsfan75, wonderishome, MaidenAlice, booksandlove1, jroseley, pumpkinking5, LACR, Aqua Rules, J, Kpfan72491, Nai1987, IcyPinkLemonade, jmjames, B Dizzy, and guests. Every single one of you inspire me to continue writing this story. Thank you so much. So moving forward, this chapter contain Gale, Jimmy and Peeta's POVs and is rated R for foul language. FYI, the rating for this story is M so keep that in mind for those who are or will be offended with the future chapters. Also, Hunger Games belongs to Suzanne Collins and by no means am I making any money writing this.

On with the show ––

Gale POV ––

When I saw him, I froze. He was unaware that he was twenty yards away from me as he had his head turn. I kept my hands still as I held my breath and drew my arrow at him. The buck stared back eye-to-eye as if he was communicating with me. "I got you," I whispered. Exhaling a slow breath the arrow flew. I missed. The arrow missed the buck by a yard. For two days I followed knowing it would lead me to water. It did. The food rations Mr. Herlihy packed in my backpack I reserved incase I ran out of game to shoot or snare. Who knew what terrain and conditions lay ahead before I reached District 13. Before I could redraw another arrow the buck was long gone. I was too tired to track it again. I wiped the sweat that stuck to my forehead. The air was humid and thick.

"Too big anyway," I muttered to myself. "I'll be wasting a lot of meat." In reality I sucked with a bow and arrow. Snaring game was what I did best. However after three days of eating rabbit, I was hungry for heartier meat. At moments like this I miss…Katniss, my best––my ex-best friend and hunting partner.

I wondered whether she shed any tears when she was told I was 'dead.' I shook my head. Thinking about her while I was out here was futile and dangerous. I needed to concentrate. Being out here gave me nothing but time to think. The MockingJay was right, I needed to prioritize what was important to me. I remembered our conversation a few nights ago when I crossed the fence behind Haymitch's backyard. It was a night I'll never forget.

Flashback ––

It was dark. The forest was quiet that I didn't hear a single cricket or animal sounds. The silence unnerved me. I walked for a few minutes as I tried to adjust my eyes. I didn't understand why Haymitch insisted that I left at the dead of night with the moon as my only source of light. Then from high above me I heard the familiar humming sound––a drone. It pitched and ascended into the dark inky sky. I ducked into grove of tall trees as I expelled air through my mouth trying to even out my breath. Well, I guess leaving at night was a good decision.

Suddenly something in the sky floated in the air. It was a metallic silver object with a parachute. I recognized it. The parachutes were used during the games as sponsors gave gifts to their tributes inside the arena. It landed 5 yards ahead of me so I ran towards it as it fell onto the ground.

Suspicious, I looked around me to make sure it wasn't a trap. Finding that the coast was clear, I picked it up and opened it. Inside was a rectangular shape object with a small screen. I looked around to see if there were any markings or design to help me identify to whom it belonged to. It could be from District 13 or from Snow for all I know.

"Hello, Gale." My heart jumped so hard and fast I lost my breath for a second.

"Who are you?" I asked. The stranger wore dark clothing from head to waist his face hidden inside a hood. His voice was disguised.

"Just calm down and lower your voice," he instructed me. I couldn't tell where he was as the room behind him was dark.

"You know who I am, Gale." The stranger knew me. His appearance startled and frightened me. "I don't mean to alarm you but this was the only way I could get in contact with you without revealing my location." I knew that voice. It was the MockingJay. My eyes grew wide from fear and anxiety. Was this a trick? The drone just flew recently making his appearance suspicious in my eyes. I may be slow but I'm not stupid. Snow could have sent the device to trick me. I remembered Haymitch's warning to not trust anyone that also meant anything I encountered.

"You tell me," I returned. He was going to have to prove himself to me. I couldn't jeopardize the rebellion because I got stupid and was careless.

"Okay, I can understand that you're suspicious and you have every right to be." I kept quiet. Truthfully, I'm scared out of my wits. I had never expected that a few days ago I was leaving District 12 without any notice. Nothing prepared for the quick turn of events. I never got to say good-bye to my family. Albeit, I wasn't going to say anything since I was sworn to secrecy, but I was hoping to hug them before I left telling them I loved them––especially my mom. I knew my 'death' would devastate her.

He sighed and tilted his head. "Your name is Gale Hawthorne."

"No you tell me who you are. Don't fucking play games with me. Who are you?"

"I am the MockingJay––"

"Prove it." I spoke into the device. I felt dumb talking into the object.

"I am the voice of the MockingJay," he started. His voice was the same but that didn't mean Snow knew how to mimic him. It was the same technology. I needed more proof of who he was. "You've heard my broadcast for the last several months."

"All of Panem has, it doesn't mean a thing. Snow probably heard them too." He sighed. I detected his impatience and frustration. "What proof do you need?"

"I don't know," I sputtered. I wasn't sure what to believe.

"Listen, Hawthorne," he said. "I don't have time for this. I just wanted to talk to you. And also to say thank you for volunteering since I didn't get the chance."

No one knew that I volunteered––only the men involved in setting up the mission.

"I feel…I think I don't need to tell you how important this is. What you are doing is dangerous but necessary." Though his disguised, low-pitched voice irritated me, his words helped soothe my anxiety and fears. "This may be the most important thing you will ever do in your life. The fate of the people in District 12 is in your hands."

"I didn't know, sir," I said. When I volunteered all I really thought of was the possibility of leaving the district, to explore outside District 12. Looking for the ill-fated District 13? I didn't believe in their existence.

"We have been trying to unite the districts to join our cause. We cannot fight Snow and the Capitol alone. We need District 13's support. We need all of Panem if we are to succeed."

"I understand," I asked.

"Do you? Do you realize the importance of what you're doing or about to do?" He paused as if he was collecting his thoughts. "I've been watching you for weeks. All I've seen so far is that you have caused a lot of damage to some people's live." I dropped my head in shame and anger.

"You're a good man, Hawthorne," he said. "But you really need to concentrate on your priorities. Your obsession with the Everdeen girl has got stop."

"Who the hell do you think you are?" I seethed in anger. Everyone had a comment or opinion of my relationship with Katniss. "How would you like it if someone took your girl away from you?"

"So, is that what is important to you? Trying to romance a girl who I observed is not interested in you romantically. A girl who is…or was your best friend until you ruined that friendship because you insisted that she belongs to you? This is your priority––working hard for a relationship that doesn't exist."

"You know nothing of my relationship with Katniss," I retorted.

"Then why are you here? Why did you volunteer?" I'm stunned into silence. "You can't tell me? Then I guess you should go home if that is where your head is."

"You…you can't make me go back," I blustered as the feeling of panic and anxiety consumed me. I was already 3 days away from District 12. I couldn't go back now. It would be humiliating.

"I know that many have spoken to you about your…behavior. It is not fitting for the people I need for our cause. I need strong men and women who will fight with me at a moment's notice. To know that what they are doing is bigger than whom they are and believe what they are fighting for. I don't need the antics from a little boy whose main concern is his own personal needs and throws a temper tantrum when he doesn't get what he thinks he deserves. You are the not man I need to fight besides me. I need fighters, soldiers."

I thought of my behavior since Snow's party––the night I beat up Ivan and all the days after. Thinking back I knew intellectually that I was wrong to have treated Katniss badly, expecting her to choose me because we grew up and hunted together. I took it for granted that she wanted to get married. I never thought she would fall for a Merchant especially Peeta Mellark. The thought disgusted me. She could have picked any Merchant and she chose…him.

"I can't trust you to do what needs to be done if your mind is back at District 12. If I thought that you're main purpose was because of your family and your future, I would let you go but since it is not the case, then I think…no, I believe that you are not who I need for this mission."

"You can't make me go back," I challenged him.

"Don't think I would send men after you if I knew you've become a liability."

"But I thought that sending me was the only option."

"Well, things and circumstances have changed. All I have to do is send word to District 13 that you're becoming a problem and they will send men to get you and send you back to 12 before you can blink."

"Then what am I doing here?" I was confused.

"It is obvious that you did not listen to our objective for this mission. Let me refresh your memory. You are out here to find a clear and safe path incase we need to evacuate District 12. We need to know if they can survive out here, if there is enough water supply and food. We need to know if all of District 12 can survive the walk to 13. We can't be stumbling out here blindly without securing the way." I hadn't thought of that. I knew I was supposed to reach 13 to get in contact with them but to lead 12 to them? I guess I wasn't paying attention. "We have to think of the women, children, old and the infirmed that we are trying to save."

Suddenly, the drone returned broadcasting itself as the familiar hum filled the air. I hid behind a tree. After a few minutes, the drone left the area disappearing into the horizon. "Sir," I started.

"Call me Jay," he returned. With the moon as my light source, I noticed that Jay wore all black from head to waist. He even wore dark black gloves. There wasn't a part of him I could see––his skin color, eyes and face hidden behind the hood.

"I can't undo what I've done and the hurt I caused to my family and...to Katniss," I confessed.

"And to the Mellark family especially their youngest son, Peeta," he added. I flinched, as I wasn't prepared to let go my grievances against Peeta. He did steal my girl that was a fact I couldn't let go.

"I have no time or energy to be refereeing whatever grudge you have against Peeta. And until you get over…whatever it is you have against him. I'm afraid that you cannot be a part of my cause––the rebellion against Snow and the Capitol. At this moment, right now I need you to decide what is really important to you––chasing after a girl whose heart belongs to another. Or seeing the bigger picture––join me in my cause to fight for your future, your sibling's future where there will no longer be any more Hunger Games. No more men like Cornelius Snow who thrives on our suffering and hard work. We are people who deserve to be treated humanly and not as slaves."

"Admit that your feelings for Everdeen are not returned and reach inside yourself and be man enough to let her go." 'I love Katniss,' but my mind quickly echoed. She had been the only thing I wanted.

"What do you want your legacy to be about––that you pined over a girl who doesn't want you or be part of something that made an impact in Panem's history."

His words stunned me. "Think about it Gale, think long and hard. You're father died in a mining accident. He was part of this revolution. He wanted to give you and siblings a better life and future. What do you think he would be encouraging you to do with your life?" I missed my dad so much. I wished he were here to guide me. "You're father was good man, Gale."

"You knew my father?" He nodded his head. I wondered if the rumor was that was true that Jay was from District 12.

"Make something out of your life that he would have been proud of." I thought of my dad who I loved and admired. His death not only devastated mom but me as well. Upon his death I became the head of the family. Mom did her best to provide for us but she was…I hated to admit that she was female and resources was not available to her. I'm relieved that she didn't resort to selling herself to the Peacekeepers for that was the last resort if she became that desperate. I knew I had to grow up quickly and I did. But emotionally I did not mature as I clung to things I couldn't have and reacted like a child with a temper tantrum.

"Before I let you go, tell me once and for all, what do you want in your life?"

End of Flashback ––

My stomach grumbled so I reached into my pack and bit into a piece of beef jerky that was stored in my backpack. "Make something out of your life that he would have been proud of." Those words stuck to my head. Would my dad be proud of what I've done in my life? What have I accomplished? By my age, he was already married with a child on the way. He and mom had survived their reaping age and married quickly. They had waited a year before she became pregnant making sure that they were equipped with a home to raise children into the world. Me, I was still single having fun while I waited for…but while I waited I carried on with girls taking them into the slagheap without thinking of the consequences. I was careful but accidents could happen.

I wasted my time waiting for Katniss, taking her for granted that she wanted me while I slept with other girls. I had accomplished nothing. No, he would have been ashamed of me.

Haymitch, Mr. Everdeen and even mom had lectured and scolded me for my behavior towards Katniss and…Peeta. God I hate that Merchant so much. I sighed realizing that in order for me to let go of my feeling for Katniss, I also had to let my anger and resentment for Peeta go as well. It was a good thing that I'm out here and not back home. The quiet, solitude and with time and distance it will help me get over…them. I prayed and hoped that it was true. That time healed all wounds––my broken heart and ego.

By day five I was lonely, irritable and tired. I miss home and my family. Being out here alone made me realize what I had taken for granted. I swore once I found District 13 I would make amends to damaged I caused to Katniss, to our relationship. She was important to me and I had to live with the fact that she didn't want me the same way I wanted her. I still have to reconcile my resentment and anger with Peeta Mellark. But if am to mend my relationship with Katniss I knew that would have to be my first step. Well, and the fact that I have to ask for her forgiveness.

The next couple of days were the same. Miles of trees and foliage lay ahead of me. Once or twice I was tempted to use the radio asking Haymitch or someone to find me and take me home. Then, I remembered Jay's words, 'What do you want your legacy to be about––that you pined over a girl who doesn't want you or be part of something that made an impact in Panem's history."

I couldn't give up. I'm tired, my body ached from sleeping on the ground and I needed a bath. My beard even started to bother me, as I wasn't used to having so much facial hair. In the mines, it was mandatory not to have a beard as it would catch fire if the coals were accidently lit. Hair was the first thing that burned quickly as I lost my eyebrows once or twice. I rubbed my chin feeling my facial hair. It felt weird. I was so engrossed with my thoughts I wasn't aware that someone had been following me. I heard him before I saw him.

"Stop, raise your hands in the air and turn around," the intruder instructed me. I raised my hands high and turned.

Jimmy POV ––

I'm so exhausted in mind, body and spirit. There was only so much that a human can handle before his will and spirit is shattered, broken into pieces. I felt this and wondered how much my youngest son Peeta could withstand anymore before the weight of it all changes him. The last bombshell was Graham's will making Peeta Tyler's legal guardian. I was surprised and yet not at the same time. I knew that my eldest was writing up his will incase…but it never dawned on me who he was giving his custodial right's of his only son, Tyler to. When Heath announced the news I thought 'What the hell was Graham thinking? To burden his sixteen-year old brother Peeta who was still in school and of reaping age such a life altering responsibility?' It made more sense to me that he would have Rye become Tyler's legal guardian.

I looked at Rye. He displayed no emotion not a single facial tick on his usually expressive face. Ordinarily, he was quick to express all his emotions whether they were happy, sad or angry. His face I could easily read unlike Peeta's who hid himself from the world. I only knew two things of him––his love and devotion to Katniss Everdeen and wanting to own the bakery. But even with his adoration for her he never once intimated his plans for his future––his love life.

Now, he was the sole guardian to his 10-month old nephew, Tyler. I read the look of panic, disbelief and fear on his face when Heath made the announcement. I didn't blame him. I'm still reeling from the news days later. Delly's mother, Augusta was kind enough to babysit Tyler while Peeta was in school. I couldn't take care of him while I worked in the bakery. Even Agneth, Sonja's mother agreed to watch over him a couple of days during the week. The only person I objected to babysitting Tyler was Evelyn. I couldn't trust her with him. Our last parting words on the night we buried Graham was still fresh in my mind.

Flashback ––

"Peeta is too young, irresponsible and not capable enough to take care of Tyler, James," she said. Everyone had left the bakery and she returned an hour later to hound and harass Peeta. "It is obvious to everyone that Graham was not thinking straight when he made him Tyler's legal guardian to my only grandchild."

"And pray tell, who do you think should take custody of Tyler?" I goaded her. "Rye?"

"No, he's barely getting married," she scoffed. "He's not responsible either."

"You just said he's getting married, Evelyn," I muttered back. "What makes you think he and Delly don't have plans to have children right away? And they are responsible enough." I looked forward to having more grandchildren to fill the hole in my heart. No one could replace Graham but seeing my sons with their offsprings would bring joy and peace to my life.

"Are they? That's too soon. They should settle into married life as a couple before bringing a child into their marriage. They aren't ready."

"Oh, you mean like we did?" I reminded her. She was being hypocritical since after our wedding she insisted that she wanted children right away. We had just turned eighteen and a week passed before she made her intentions clear. And just as always I had indulged her. So by the time we were twenty-one Graham was one and Evelyn was carrying Rye.

"We were married and we were ready to have children," she insisted. 'So she thought,' I said in my head. I was scared shitless when she first told me she was pregnant with Graham. Nothing prepared me for the long sleepless nights while working during the day at the bakery. And, the changes…oh God I remembered the changes that occurred. She went from loving, sweet and gentle to…a woman I hardly recognized by the time Peeta was born. The hardship and difficulties of everyday life changed her.

"You presume and assume to much. You don't know your sons at all," I said.

"I'm going to do whatever it takes to get Tyler and raise him on my own," she announced. 'Over my dead body.'

End of Flashback ––

I didn't have the heart to tell Peeta what his mother was planning. There was so much turmoil in his young life that I needed to resolve this. I was at a loss for what do so when Heath walked into the shop I took advantage of his visit to ask for advise.

"Heath, I'm so glad you stopped by," I said as I closed the register after finishing with the last customer. It had been a slow day. A few days after the mass funeral it was so busy I was overwhelmed as both Peeta and Rye returned to school. Rye almost talked me into letting him drop out of school to help me since my other helper Anton was killed during the attacks. Anton had graduated from school and needed work so he worked the morning hours at the front while I worked in the kitchen waiting for Delly, Rye and Peeta to return from school. I had hired him soon after Graham…Graham went to work for his in-laws.

Thoughts of my eldest son filled my mind all day. I miss him. I miss his loud blusterous laugh when he told a joke, I miss his steady and calm voice when I'm in a state of panic and need comfort. The days during Peeta's recovery I sought his support since I had thrown their mother out of their lives. I should have divorced her years before but I lacked courage. It took my son to get a beating from Cray to open my eyes.

"Well, I'm in the need for your famous sourdough loaf and croissants," Heath said. I bagged a loaf and six pieces for him.

"This is on the house," I stated as I handed it to him.

"Oh, that's not right, Jimmy," he returned shocked.

"I need to talk to you and since there is no one here I want to ask you legal advise."

"I think I have an idea what you want to know," he started. "Can Evelyn take Tyler away from Peeta?" I nodded my head. "Well, Peeta has two strikes against him, she is right he is young."

"There are boys in this district just as young as him that have children and have rights to their child's well being," I interrupted.

"Yeah, but they are the biological parent to the child in question. Peeta is Tyler's uncle." He looked discouraging that my heart sunk. "And Peeta has no prospects of marriage, he's not contracted to anyone."

"I will not––"

"You do realize what Evelyn is trying to do to Peeta?" he inquired. I'm too tired to guess or wonder how her mind worked as I shook my head. "If Peeta is contracted or engaged to be married, Peeta has a strong case to keep Tyler as his legal guardian. She's forcing Peeta to accept the contract to Agatha Berridge."

"I am not going to sign any such contract," I said between clenched teeth. "Besides, Graham and Sonja had specifically chose Peeta for guardianship. I thought it's legal and binding."

"It is to some degree but because of his age which he is still eligible to be reaped and his single status, Evelyn can and will contest the guardianship. She can file special circumstance and claim that…Peeta is young, irresponsible and maybe a danger to her only grandson." 'What the fuck?'

"She wouldn't dare accuse Peeta of hurting Tyler." I shook my head feeling tired, angry and frustrated. "Why can't Evelyn just leave us be? Why must she pick on Peeta? I just don't understand how anyone, any mother could be so vindictive and cruel to her own son?" I'm lost for words and comprehension of her treatment to Peeta.

"There is only one thing you can do for Peeta," he said. "Your divorce is being processed so it's not final yet."

"I know that it will take at least six months for it to be final." I couldn't wait for that moment to happen. It was sad to admit that I wanted their mother out of our lives.

"Well, while you waiting you add the child abuse to your divorce," he suggested. "You'll also need witnesses and written statements to back it up."

"I don't know if I want to put the boys through that kind of scandal." To my shame, I had let Evelyn abuse the boys physically, emotionally and mentally. I ignored and turned my head each time she laid a hand on them, especially Peeta. Who wanted to admit that a husband let his own wife abuse they children? I was a coward.

"Jimmy, you need ammunition against Evelyn if you want to help Peeta keep Tyler." I hated playing dirty. I didn't want to air out our dirty laundry either. My divorce was supposed to quiet and simple. "Don't think that Evelyn is going to do what it take to win even if it means that the divorce will get nasty. She air out all your weaknesses and claim that you were an incompetent husband and father." I wouldn't put it past her if she did put up a fight. I had nothing to hide and even if it meant I was open to ridicule and humiliation. I needed to do this for Peeta.

"The only think I can think of is that your divorce needs to happen soon and fast. If you can get Evelyn out of your lives sooner then later, she can't contest the will if she is out of your lives. It helps getting it finalize now but you need to added child abuse and child endangerment as reasons why you divorced her." I stated irreconcilable difference as the main reason I divorced her but now I needed to add physical abuse as well. This was what I had hoped to avoid.

That afternoon when Peeta, Rye, Delly and Katniss came home from school, I visited Haymitch. Our conversation was short and to the point. I knew he had some influence and contacts in the Capitol. Speeding up the divorce proceedings was my only option. My heart ached and mind exhausted from the past few weeks. This was my life––hanging on a thread waiting for the shoe to drop as Peeta's life was now in danger.

As I walked my way back home from visiting Haymitch, I spotted Peeta at the edge of town. Curious, I followed him. Where was he going when he was supposed to be at the bakery? I was about to call him and take him home when he stopped at a small clearing. On the patch of land tall grass and flowers grew––wild flowers of daffodils, dandelions and daisies. He bent down and knelt on the grass. He looked puzzled like he was trying to decide something as a hand reached up to scratch his head.

For a few minutes I watched him as he first picked a batch of daisies, then dandelions and daffodils placing them on the ground in separate piles. Next, he grabbed a few green stems and laid them next to his flower collection. After a few seconds he sat down and started to create a floral arrangement of the wild flowers. From my position, I could see his face, his tongue curled upwards to his upper lip. He reminded me of the first time he frosted his first cake. He was only twelve at the time his face deep in concentration and hands steady. I knew he was a far better designer and baker than I could ever be as the cake he frosted was nothing at all I expected. It was perfection.

When he was satisfied with his arrangement, he laid the bouquet on the ground and dug into his pant pocket. In his hand was a dark green ribbon. With a lot of care he wrapped the flowers with the ribbon making a large bow to tie it off. He was so pleased with his creation that he looked at it for a few seconds and smiled.

I was fearful and scared for tonight's party, the Celebration of Youth dance that Snow held every year before the reaping ceremony. Ordinarily I was concerned but this year I was afraid to have Peeta out of sight even for a few hours. Whenever he was away from me, something bad has happened to him. Thus, which is why I asked Haymitch to attend the party. I didn't trust anyone to watch over Peeta and I knew that Haymitch cared for my son. He would protect him if need be. I couldn't lose another son or anyone else I cared about. Should I feel guilty that I'm hovering over him? I didn't care.

Peeta returned to the bakery entering through the back to ensure that Katniss didn't see his surprise for her. My heart leapt thinking about the fact that he had done the improbable––date the girl that he had been in love with since he was the age of five. He had accomplished the impossible––developed a relationship with a Seam girl, the daughter of my first love. There were so many odds against him, his mother, the prejudice that existed between Seam and Merchant and most of Katniss herself. She was stubborn at first, but no one can deny that there was something, an attraction between that even fate intervened.

At the bakery, Peeta and Katniss were…it was hard to describe them. It was obvious that the attraction was mutual as they both were sweet and attentive towards each other, but at the same time they was something between them. With Peeta it was a look of disbelief and shyness and as for Katniss? She appeared anxious and tentative.

If there was one thing I wanted in this world, the one thing I wished for is that Peeta survives not only his reaping years but have the chance to find love in his life. Before Katniss, I fear that his dream of her was unrealistic as Seam and Merchant relationships were looked down upon. A relationship between the two was socially unaccepted. It was evident as Lily was abandoned and disowned by her own family. With Evelyn out of our lives, it is with certainty that Peeta will have the chance to be with the one girl he had ever wanted. And if fate is kind, she will love him equally as he has loved her.

Peeta POV ––

Days before the Celebration of Youth party

"Hi Peeta," a tinny voice spoke from behind me. I flinched before I turned around after grabbing my books and lunch bag from my locker.

"Um hi, Sally," I returned. Sally was classmate in my social studies class. She was tall, big boned and…scary. Not ugly scary but Amazonian scary as she stood four inches taller than me. 'Why was she speaking to me?'

"Madge told me that you were back in school today," she said as she thrust her chest towards me. Mind you, she was an attractive girl with long straight blond hair and blue eyes. "I wanted to visit you at the bakery but my father wouldn't let me. I heard about your brother Graham. I'm really sorry, Peeta."

"Um…thanks?" I muttered under my breath. It hurt thinking and talking about Graham. My mind couldn't reconcile with his death and that I'm now the legal guardian for my nephew, Tyler.

"Is it true that your brother made you your nephews legal guardian?" News traveled fast but then again I wouldn't surprise if my own mother tattled to anyone who listened to her.

"Yes, it true," I admitted. It was better that I confirmed it rather than have them gossip about me.

"Poor baby," she said as she took a step forward causing me to step back so her chest wouldn't land on my face. "You know if you need any help babysitting I'm available any time after school." Her voice was soft, wispy. "I babysat all my brothers and sisters. I'm really good with babies."

I gulped. The hallway felt small and constricting as the air turned warm and stuffy. "Thanks for the offer but I have all the help I need." Sally was about to place a hand on my chest when…

"Peeta," Katniss' voice startled me. "Sweetie, I'm starving. I was wandering what was taking you so long." I frowned. Since when did she start calling me sweetie? I liked it. I was someone's sweetie and the words escaped from none other than Katniss Everdeen.

Sally turned around. I swore she had steam coming out of her ears. "Everdeen," she greeted her not so politely. "I was talking to Peeta when you rudely interrupted us." She took a step towards her. Not to be intimated Katniss glared at the much taller classmate. She grabbed my hand and pulled me towards her. Not wanting to create a scene, I needed to diffuse the situation before it escalated.

"Sally," I started. "Thank you for condolences. As for Tyler, I have all the help I need. Come on, Katniss. Let's eat." I tugged at her hand trying to get her attention. She turned to me her eyes stared into mine. I pleaded wordlessly to let it go but she didn't budge. "Katniss?" I lifted her hand and kissed her knuckles. She gasped in surprise as did Sally. "I'm really hungry." I really wasn't but it was necessary to distract her.

"Okay," she sighed. Without taking notice to Sally, Katniss yanked my hand and dragged me outside. 'Sheesh, since when did she get so…possessive and commanding.' I wasn't used to her behavior which puzzled me.

It was odd sitting with Madge, Katniss, Prim and Delly underneath their tree. My mind wandered as I realized the changes that occurred since Snow's party; so many changes at such a short time. I was overwhelmed by it. For example, at the bakery while Katniss was at the front, I made a mistake of asking Delly for a favor. I didn't realize I was making a relationship faux pas. It all started when I asked her a simple favor.

Flashback –

I sighed as I swept my hand across my head trying to tame my hair. I suggested to Delly or rather asked her to cut my hair but was startled as she glared at me. 'What did I do now to have her send that look at me?' Geez, women are so complicated.

"You want me to cut your hair?" she shrieked.

"What? My hair is getting too long."

"Um…Peeta," Delly said in a slow and firm manner. "Now that you have a girlfriend. Who I have to remind you is very possessive about your hair. I think you should ask her to cut it for you."

"Well, it's not like I knew she could cut hair, Delly," I said in an exasperated tone. "How would I know that?" I mean she helped me shave my face, which it didn't necessarily mean she knew how to cut hair. Right?

"Oh, Peeta, you got a lot to learn," Delly snickered. 'What does that mean?' "Once you get a girlfriend she…" she pointed to Katniss who was in the other room. "She has dibs on your hair, your clothes and even what you eat." 'Since when?' a voice snickered in my head.

"That's not right," I started. "That sound controlling if you ask me––"

"It's not that we're trying to control you but more like…looking at your best interest." I was still confused, what does having a girlfriend have to do with my hair, my clothes and what I eat? "Just trust me and don't do anything with your hair and if you do decide you want to have it cut, ask your girlfriend."

I looked over to dad and Rye who turned back at me with a look of amusement on their faces. I turned to them for an explanation and help. They weren't any help at all. 'Whatever.'

End of Flashback ––

For some reason Dad invited the Everdeens and Cartwrights for dinner. I tried not to fuss and worry over my clothes and the way I looked, but somehow I managed to take everything single piece of clothing out of my closet trying to figure out what to wear. It's not like I had to impress Katniss. We were dating.

I just left Tyler's room when Delly called out to me as I carried him in my arms. "Peeta, you look lovely," she said in her sisterly way. "Give me Tyler and go change your shirt."

"Huh, What? Why?" I wore a pair of dark gray pants with a white shirt. "What's wrong with what I'm wearing?"

"Go back and where the light blue shirt," she ordered me. "Katniss will love you in the blue shirt."

"Rye, why is your fiancée telling me what to wear? I don't see her telling you what to wear." Rye snickered at me.

"Actually I did," Delly announced. Rye wore a dark red shirt and dark blue slacks. "See we match." She twirled around modeling her pink dress and beige color patent shoes.

"Just don't argue with her and do what she says," Rye said in resignation as his eyes rolled. I opened my mouth to disagree. "Just do it, Peeta."

"You'll thank me later," she whispered in my ear. Huffing in protest I stood my ground for a few minutes but I gasped in surprised when Dad appeared. He walked out of his bedroom wearing a blue shirt with a pair of dark brown pants.

"Thanks for picking out my clothes, Delly," Dad said in gratitude. "I didn't realize that I had nothing clean to wear so I want to thank you for doing my laundry and ironing my clothes for this evening. You saved me a lot of time." I snorted in disgust and amusement. "What? Did I miss something?" Dad's eye went back and forth between Delly and me. Rye laughed.

"You're welcome," Delly gushed. "I like dressing the Mellark men." She turned to me. "Katniss will take over now that she's your girlfriend. 'Oh, I don't think so.'

The Cartwrights were first to arrive. When the Everdeens appeared, my heart skipped a beat. Katniss wore a dark blue dress that I have never seen before. She looked…beautiful. My hands shook when I gave her a bouquet of flowers I personally hand picked. She blushed and thanked me. I smiled realizing that we matched in color––her dark blue dress with my blue shirt and dark gray coordinated together like we were a couple.

Dinner was surprisingly pleasant and peaceful without mom present. I didn't realize how much stress and drama she created whenever things didn't go her way or whenever she was displeased with something or someone. It was always so toxic around her. The only sad moment was when dad kept looking over at Tyler who was missing his parents.

After dinner, Tyler fidgeted like as if he knew I was leaving. I was loathed to leave him since he was still adjusting to his environment and me as his…uncle/legal guardian. He was easy to love as it took mere hours for me to get attached to him. He was mine.

'I promise, Graham,' I swore in my head. 'I'll take care of your son as best as I can, for as long as I can.'

Reluctantly I left him in good hands with Katniss' mom who stayed after dinner. Mr. Everdeen and dad invited their buddies for a game of cards. I felt guilty leaving Tyler but Rye insisted. "You know I would go with you but who else can take care of Tyler? Dad's been busy working all day and he needs a break."

"I'm surprised that Delly let you stay"

"She feels bad for dad so she's okay with me staying to take care of Tyler. Besides, he's my nephew too, you know." I momentarily felt guilty that I was keeping Tyler to myself. "I don't mind really."

Surprisingly, Haymitch was at the dance to greet us. I knew he lied when he said that it was mandatory for him to attend. However, having him there put me at ease.

At the party, I tried to catch my breath as my companions tricked me into dancing with them. I knew I couldn't say no to Prim with her big blue eyes pleading with me. How could I deny her? Even Katniss did her best which was shocking since the last time I asked her to dance she…I shook my head of that memory not wanting to ruin the evening. It was bad enough we stood a few yards away from the whipping post that was decorated with ribbons and lights to disguise its' true purpose. I'll never forget that night remembering how my heart shattered at Katniss' behavior and treatment.

All in all it wasn't too bad of an evening, as I knew the girls were poking fun at my attempt to dance. 'I never claimed to be a great dancer,' a little voice sounded in my head. But, with watching Katniss, the look of joy and laughter on her face was worth making a fool of myself. I had never seen her so relaxed and at ease with herself. She looked happy.

"You did invite Katniss to my wedding, right?" Delly asked. I stumbled and righted myself as her question startled me.

"I didn't think I had to," I told her. Delly sneered at me.

"Peeta, she's your girlfriend now. Of course, you should ask her to be your date."

"Delly, I wasn't about to just take her without asking you." I was puzzled. Wasn't there some rule or protocol about inviting guests to a wedding?

"Oh for crying out loud, I expected her to be your date, Peeta. She is your girlfriend, right?"

"We just started dating, Delly," I reminded her. Heck, three weeks ago she didn't even want me around her.

"Well, you're taking her and it's final." She poked her finger to chest. "I'm the bride and I get what I want and I want you to ask her." 'Sheesh, she's bossy. When did she get so pushy all of a sudden?' Then a thought occurred to me.

"What about the toasting? I thought you wanted it to be family only."

"She can attend too," she returned. "Who knows maybe in the near future I'll be attending your wedding and toasting." She winked at me. My heart plummeted. After Snow threatened my life, I didn't think the odds were at my favor as I was ready to forfeit my life to protect the people I love. Granted at the time, I didn't realize that Katniss was playing my pretend girlfriend, then Graham died and I became Tyler's legal guardian. I knew what I had to do to protect my family but now…I had more responsibilities and people to protect––adding Katniss and Tyler in my life.

Snow never gave me a deadline to find out the MockingJay's identity as I assumed he wanted to know before the reaping ceremony. I was in a conundrum as my life became more complicated––I'm dating the girl that I had been in love with since I was five and I became a father all within two weeks. I had a lot to live for and a lot to lose. I wondered when he was going to collect what he thought was due to him––MockingJay's identity in exchange for the lives of the people I love.

The party was fun as I danced with Prim, Delly and Madge. I was hesitant to dance with Katniss as images and feelings of that night caused me to doubt everything that had happened between us. It was illogical but with the pills, sleepless nights and nightmares I'm exhausted mentally and physically. Everyday was a struggle to get up and move as my life hanged on a balance between Snow's threat and the weight of everything I have endured. But I'm weak when it came to Katniss. She stood at the edge of the dance her face displayed fear and hope. Was she thinking of the as night as well? Words stuck to my throat as I struggled to ask her to dance with me. My knees buckled, my stomach ached and my throat dry as I raised my hand to her.

'Dance with me,' I mentally sent to her. There was look of relief on her face as I led her to the dance floor. Her hand was small and warm against my own. Not wanting to assume too much I placed both hands on her small waist my fingers wrapping around her. She smelled of lavender and vanilla as I hoped she didn't catching sniffing at her like a dog on heat. She felt and smelled intoxicating.

"Katniss?" I said as I felt heat rise to my face. There was slight cool breeze in the air but nothing could extinguish the fire that she arose in me. Even after all this time, it only blazed higher and stronger with each new day as I've gotten to know her better.

"Yes?" My throat tightened.

"I wanted to tell you something when you first arrived but…" I said. "I didn't want anyone to hear me…and I didn't want to embarrass you."

"What?" She looked startled and alarmed.

"You look…beautiful….and…" I stuttered. I flinched as I thought I was cured of that affliction. She had that affect on me.

"Thank you," she returned with a big smile on her face.

"And thank you for coming with me." She sighed.

"I'm glad I came too. It wasn't because I didn't want to…" Her face flickered with emotion. I knew that she was tentative when I asked her to be my date. I tried not to react as I normally did when she rejected me. I knew her refusal to come with me was out of fear. She was afraid of how people would react especially the Merchants. Everyone by now knew we were together as boyfriend and girlfriend but that didn't mean it was accepted. To me I didn't care. I knew how much time I had left with Katniss before Snow reaped me.

I'm not stupid or naïve to believe that once I told President Snow the Mockingjay's identity my life was my own again. I was dead the moment the video was broadcast as Snow targeted me. Literally, what little time I had left was all I thought about. I was going to make the most of it.

"I know, Katniss. I know." I winced as she laid her head on my injured shoulder. 'Damnit,' a little voice said. I wanted her close but I didn't want to assume that she did.

"It's okay, Katniss," I said. "My shoulder is still tender. You didn't hurt me." 'Fuck it.' I pulled her body close to mine feeling her breasts against my chest as I clasped my hands on the small of her back. I waited for her to resist or pull back. She didn't to my relief. For a few minutes we danced pressing her body close to me while I ignored everyone and everything around us. However, a few minutes later, loud voices disrupted my time with Katniss as I heard Agatha Berridge's shrill voice yelling at someone.

"Move aside, Delly Cartwright or I'll––"

"Or you'll what?" Delly interrupted her. "You need a reality check if you think that Peeta after all this time ever wanted you. I don't know what Mrs. Mellark has been telling but you should know by now that Peeta won't be or will be contracted to you no matter how much you want it to happen."

"Get out of my way."

I tuned them out closing my eyes as I took a deep breath. I didn't know what or why Agatha had a sudden interest in me. I was not completely oblivious to the attention I had been getting since getting whipped by Cray. Granted when I was growing up I aware of the girls that flirted with me. I ignored them since my only focus was Katniss. She was all I ever dreamed about. The reality of us getting together was impossible and unrealistic, as my mother had time and time again reminded me.

"You will never have a relationship with Katniss Everdeen or any Seam girl. I will never allow it."

Thus, I was resolved to never having her as a romantic prospect in my life because truthfully she scared me. Not just because of her strong personality and beautiful physical looks, she intimidated me. Why would a girl like Katniss Everdeen want me?

After my talk with Agatha I approached our group. Katniss looked angry. I didn't blame if she watched us from afar knowing or reading Agatha's body language was pretty obvious.

"I'm sorry, Katniss," Agatha apologized. I couldn't tell if she was sincere since I didn't know her enough and only time would tell if Agatha would finally leave me alone.

As I expected Katniss looked back at her with suspicion but accepted the apology nonetheless. It seemed that we had captured an audience as half the attendees were looking at us. With the incident diffused I turned to Katniss.

"Katniss?" I reached out and grabbed her hand. She clasped mine tight and firm as if she was afraid to let me go. "I need to speak to Haymitch for a few minutes."

"Oh, why?" Her anger at Agatha was replaced by curiosity

"I need to verify something that Agatha told me. Family stuff," I explained.

"Katniss, let's go," Prim said as she grabbed her hand.

"We won't take too long," I told her. I didn't want her out of my sight or proximity but I needed to talk to Haymitch and I couldn't wait.

"Go on, Katniss," Haymitch said. "I'll keep those hyenas away from Peeta if that's what you're worried about." He pointed behind us. At the opposite end of the courtyard were a group of girls staring at us…at me. Katniss was reluctant to leave but Prim convinced her.

"We'll be over there," Katniss pointed to Madge and Delly at the dessert table. She left dragging her heels as her eyes lingered towards me.

"So what do you need to talk about that needed privacy?" Haymitch asked.

"I was talking to Agatha," I started. "She told me something that really bothered me."

"Oh and what did she say?"

"She said that my mom was planning to contest Graham's will and my guardianship to Tyler. She wants to take him away from me." I didn't know whether to be angry but then I realized that getting mad at her was futile. 'Why should I be surprised?' "Can she do that?"

Getting Tyler was a complete surprise. I was afraid at first. What did I know of raising a child? I had a hard enough time raising myself.

Haymitch didn't look surprised. "Sorry, kid."

"You knew? How?"

"Don't get mad but…your dad visited me earlier today. You're mom…well, she argued with your dad saying that you're too young to be raising her grandson." That's true I couldn't argue that fact. "She said that he would be better off being raised by her." Her interference appalled me. She didn't even take good care of me let alone wanting to raise Tyler. How dare she? I saw visions of Tyler with bruises on his face and body––her screaming and yelling at him saying how useless he is. I envisioned her berating and belittling his character––saying things to make him feel worthless and unloved. I couldn't let that happen to him.

Her audacity made me angry, furious beyond anything I felt before. "She can't have him. She's talking about him like he's property to hand over. Why is she doing this?"

"You're asking me? If your dad can't make any sense and she was his wife, how would I know?"

"Does she have a case, Haymitch? Can she do it? Take him away from me?"

"You're dad and I are working on it, Peeta." He sighed. I looked at him for the first time in weeks. Haymitch appeared worn down like he usually did when he came back from the Capitol after the games. I felt bad for him caught in our family troubles especially with me.

"I…I want to thank you Haymitch." He looked startled. "Thank you for being there for me. You're not even family and I feel like…you are." He blushed. Something I've never seen him do ever. "You've been very supportive and helpful especially being there for my dad. I just wanted to thank you incase…"

"Hey, kid," he interrupted me as silence fell between us. "I know things look bleak right now. I promise you, Peeta. I promise that things will get better." I was skeptical. I just didn't know how to get out of my situation without anyone getting hurt or killed like Graham. "Just don't give up. You have Katniss and now Tyler and they are depending on you."

"Well, I don't know about Katniss. Tyler is my main priority and concern now."

"I get it, kid. I do. But remember you have lots of people to help you, listen to you and support you. Don't forget that."

"I guess," I muttered as I shrugged my shoulders. Is this what I felt like being a dad, a parent––thinking of your child's safety, health and well-being beyond your own? Can I do this on my own?

"Listen, Peeta," Haymitch said. "It's going to be long and hard fight with your mom if she pursues this. Just like I said remember that we…" He pointed to the girls at the dessert table. "They…Katniss and Delly, even Prim will be right beside you. You're biggest supporter, your Dad will never let your mom take Tyler away from you."

I flinched. It was rather a moot point if…when Snow reaps me within the next two weeks. "Whom should I talk to about setting up a will?"

"Peeta? Why would you need one?"

I sighed breathing air through my mouth. "I'm a parent now. I should think of Tyler's future in case something happens to me." Haymitch looked pensive. He tilted his head.

"It's a responsible thing to do."

I dug my hands inside my pant pockets. It was a good thing I took my pill earlier since Agatha destroyed the bottle. "Are you okay, Peeta?" The scars on my shoulder ached and stung.

"Yeah, just…overwhelmed, you know."

"I know, you've been through a lot so it's okay to feel that way." He placed a hand on my shoulder. "You're going to be okay, Peeta." I wished I believed him.

We walked back to the girls. When we approached them I noticed that Delly looked defensive as Katniss scowled at her. Both Madge and Prim were laughing. "What's so funny?" I asked. Katniss jumped.

"Shit, Peeta," She bellowed. "You scared me."

"Katniss, are you okay? You're face is all red." Her complexion was unusually pink. I waited for her to explain but she was tongue tied as I watched her open her mouth and close it again. I wanted to laugh at her behavior but thought better of it since I didn't want her to think I was making fun of her. She just looked…adorable, as it was obvious that she was flustered. I couldn't believe that she and I were dating––that we were on a date right now at this moment. I was on a date with my girlfriend Katniss Everdeen. 'Please don't wake me if this was a dream?'

Before she had a chance to explain, the Capitol monitor turned on. "God damnit, I forgot about this part of the evening," Haymitch said.

"Good evening, children of Panem."

I didn't forget. I knew that Snow was about to make his usual speech like he always did year after year during the party.

"On this night two weeks before the reaping, I am pleased to join you in your celebration for your sacrifice and bravery," Snow prattled using the same speech that one can mimic him word for word.

"God I feel sick," Delly said. I turned to look at her. She appeared pale like she was about to throw up.

"Me too," Haymitch added. "He's up there pontificating, fattening up the fatted calf ready to be slaughtered. I'm quite sure he appreciates of the sacrifice that––"

I cringed trying to stop the feeling of something bad was about to happen. I was optimistic as I held my head high, but it was fleeting when the screen flickered. My world crashed before me as the image of a mockingjay appeared on the screen.

"This is the voice of the MockingJay." 'Oh God no. Not again.' On monitor stood the MockingJay dressed in black from head to toe. Every part of him was covered that no one could see his face underneath the hood he wore. He was tall and slim.

"No, no, no, no, no," I chanted. Someone grabbed my upper arm. I felt numb and cold all of the sudden as my hands went slack.

"What the fuck, Jay," Haymitch screamed. 'What the fuck, indeed.' Above us the drone hovered. To my surprise I looked at the sky and realized that another drone floated above us. This drone however, was silver and metallic in color unlike the other drone which was white. The new drone was smaller and lighter in design with a camera built on the bottom of the body. I could have sworn it was aimed at us. I turned back to the screen.

"Good evening citizens of Panem to the beautiful coast from District 4 to the majestic forest on District 12. I am the MockingJay." The courtyard was quiet as well as everyone looked stunned. "We are at the mercy of a man who doesn't care about you or your family. Snow doesn't care about your children, their welfare and future. Why are we subjected year after year to hand over our precious children for their entertainment?" Around us the number of Peacekeepers doubled, then tripled as they surrounded the courtyard. No one noticed as everyone was mesmerized staring into the screen.

But I noticed them. Instead of rifles they pulled their tasers from their belt harness. "Do you know where you children are tonight? They are gathered together to celebrate their death not for their bravery but as a sacrifice likes animals to a slaughter." The screen changed as images of children are shown in each district dancing and partying. "This is what Snow wants you to see and believe. But in truth, they are killing our children, our future and our hearts and souls. Let me show you how the children of Panem are truly living today."

The images changed and in its' place are children from each district. From District 3 an image is displayed of a large factory room with children as young as eight assembling or separating parts. They wore dark gray overalls, gloves and a hat. "Children from 3 work right after school until night so that citizens in the Capitol, District 1 and 2 have luxuries for their homes such as running hot water, electricity and every conceivable appliance to make their lives easy for them while they live under horrible conditions like unsanitary drinking water and barely food to eat."

The image changed to District 4. Children are taught to swim and fish. They are seen working as they gut fish, and haul the catch the fisherman catch after being out to sea for weeks. The amount of fish they caught looked as if they could feel a whole district, but as the camera pans it displays the horrible conditions of the dilapidated homes and town.

Again the images changed showing the desolate and horrendous conditions in which children work. This time it displayed a large piece of land with tall trees that it looked like it was District 12, but I knew it wasn't. On the screen it showed the images of the children from District 7 working inside another factory building. This time the young workers are sorting out woods chips placing them into piles. Behind them were bins for woods chips, shavings and firewood. The children also wore uniforms wearing eyeglasses, gloves and hard hats.

While the screen continued to play, Peacekeeper Darius was ordered to turn off the monitor. However, he should have remembered that the monitor was designed with a safety feature that prevented it from being tampered with. As a Peacekeeper reached around the back of the monitor he was electrocuted as tried to remove the power capable off. The voltage from the electricity caused his body to fly ten yards into the air making him land on the cold hard ground with a loud thud. The video continued to display images of children in District 8 as young girls are assembled in a large room. They are gathered together working on sewing machines or laying rhinestones on colorful material. Other girls were seated sewing by hand. Another imaged appeared as children are outside in a field handing picking vegetables. The images continued as children from other districts are depicted working and doing manual labor alongside adults with the sun beating down on them.

"Not but not least, let me show how the children of District 12 are living." In reality the children on 12 didn't work so the MockingJay showed us walking to school and in our classrooms. "Yes, you are seeing that these children do not have a manual labor force. This district is amongst the poorest and underprivileged. And do you know how Snow rewards them?"

On the screen displayed the day of the dog attacks. Video taken from the drone, it showed men, women and children running and screaming as dog attacked then dragged them into the forest never to be heard or seen again. The images lasted for another two minutes as Peacekeepers are shown fighting them. I sighed in relief. "Not only are living they within the levels of poverty they were under attack not just a few days ago. And do you know why? I'll tell you why. The citizens of 12 were being punished. They were made into an example."

Everyone around us gasped. "The mutated dogs were sent by Snow to keep them in their place because I dared to show the citizens of Panem how we are being treated––we as a nation are treated like animals, not human being who deserved to not to live our lives as slaves. We have the rights to well paying jobs to ensure food, shelter and the basic fundamental things that we deserve––freedom. Freedom to work in better conditions, freedom from producing food, clothing and materials only to be given to the privileged citizens of the Capitol. They are not better than us."

He stopped to show images of the Capitolites in their well-made clothes, and well furnished homes. Things produced by District 7 and 8. "This suppression must come to an end. We need better leaders and officials who will look to our interests for our children and our children's children. We need democracy not dictatorship, to not be ruled by one man and a district. Snow must be detained and charged for murder and tyranny. In last 73 Hunger Games we lost 1679 children for their entertainment." The screen changed showing the names of children from the 1st to the 73rd games. "This barbaric and disregard for human life must end. It must end now. Who will join my cause and fight with me?

If you don't want to fight for me, then think of your family and loved ones. If you need reason to fight then fight with him…" An image appeared. It's me again being whipped by Cray.

"Haymitch?" I called out to him. "How could he…why is he doing this?"

"I'm sorry, kid." He appeared sad, furious and incredulous. "I didn't know he was going to do this again. I didn't." Why was he apologizing? It wasn't as if he made the video.

"He was treated unjustly for a crime he didn't commit. He nearly died but he didn't. He survived. Because you know why? Because this young man bears the strength and courage of a hundred men. He was tortured and abused and yet he still fights everyday for himself and his family. Everyday this kind of treatment occurs." Another image appeared of a young man with his arm around another person who looked like him, a brother. "These two young boys were incarcerated and turned in to Avoxes. Why? They hadn't eaten for days and stole a piece of stale bread. Their home burned down to the ground because their family couldn't pay their taxes as well. Do you want this to happen to you and your family?"

Then the image returned to me. "Instead of apologizing to this young man, to add insult to injury Snow sent his dogs to him, to his town, his home. His torment continues." The video changed to the scene on the Justice Buildings steps. From the point of view I could see me shirtless, dirty and wounded from the dog attack. Peacekeeper Melton raised his rife and aimed it at me.

"I can't believe him." I heard Haymitch mutter under his breath. His eyes were hard and his fists clenched to his sides. "If…when I get my hands on him––"

"Peeta," Katniss said as she clutched my hand tighter.

"Oh shit," Madge added.

"I'm going to kill him," Haymitch continued.

Then the video darkened before Darius shot Peacekeeper Melton. It was replaced by image after image of people living in the streets, children begging for food and homes destroyed. "These are the conditions that President Snow doesn't want you to see as the citizens of Panem struggle day after day, week after week and year after year. So yes, Snow appreciates the bravery and the sacrifice that is enforced upon us. How long must we continue to live like this?"

I'm paralyzed and speechless. Once again I'm being used and manipulated both by the MockingJay and by President Snow. "There will come a time when you need to decide what you want for your future and children's future. Join me––"

The video ended as the screen turned black. Suddenly, Darius was next to Haymitch. He leaned over and spoke to him so low that I couldn't hear him. Their eyes aimed at me as they spoke.

"Thanks Darius," Haymitch said to him. "Let's go Peeta." He placed a hand on my elbow.

"What's wrong?" I asked.

"I need to get you out of here but first…" He gestured to the drones. "Make sure those things clearly see you. Look straight at it."

"Why?" Katniss asked.

"Just do it, Peeta and I'll explain later," he huffed exasperation and frustration obvious in his demeanor. The attendees around us were stunned and in the state of shock as they whispered to each other. They stared back at me.

"Which ones?" I inquired. Haymitch looked dumbstruck.

"What do you mean which ones?" I pointed to the smaller metallic one behind the large white drone.

"Fucking hell!" he exclaimed. "Both, just look at both of them" I strained my neck and glared at both drones making sure it saw me. From a distance I could see the camera lenses adjust and move as I started to walk out of the courtyard.

"Prim, Delly we're leaving," Katniss announced. "Sorry, Madge."

"It's all right I understand," she returned. Suddenly a large group of people rushed into the courtyard. It was our classmate's parents collecting them to take them home.

"Madge," Mr. Undersee bellowed. "Oh thank God you're all right." She ran to her father and hugged him. "Are you all right?" She nodded her head.

We headed straight home with Haymitch at the rear looking back. I turned my head to find Darius looking at us as he disappeared from my sight. "What's going on Haymitch?"

"Not now Peeta," he said his voice firm. "Just trust me and I'll tell you everything."

The door to the bakery was ajar. Scared, I released Katniss' hand and ran inside. The front store was in shambles as chairs were overturned. There was a card game in progress with half empty glasses but no one was around. There was large crack on the monitor as if someone threw something heavy onto the screen. "Dad, Rye," I shouted scared out of my wits.

"Mom, Dad," Katniss screamed.

"Upstairs, Peeta," Rye yelled from above. I took the stairs two at a time with Katniss and Prim at my heels.

Inside the living room I found Dad on the sofa with his elbows resting on his knees as his hands cradled his head. Rye stood next to Dad his arms crossed. "What happened?" I asked. Katniss' mom was holding a sleeping Tyler as she stood next her husband. "Rye?"

"What happened over here?" Haymitch questioned. Dad kept his head down and eyes closed. I could tell he was angry. It didn't surprise me since he too saw the broadcast.

"Dad, what's going on?" He ignored me or was too angry to reply. "Rye? What happened?" I repeated.

"I don't know. I was upstairs with Mrs. Everdeen when something happened downstairs."

"You mean you didn't see what happened?" Haymitch asked with a look of disbelief on his face.

"Haymitch, watch our language," Mrs. Everdeen admonished him. "I'm going to the other room so you guys can talk. Just keep your voice down." She left the room. I wanted to check on Tyler but I knew he was in good hands. "Prim, Katniss why don't you both join me."

"Mom!" Prim whined.

"I'm staying, mom," Katniss stated as she grabbed my hand. "I'm not going anywhere."

"Prim?" She gestured to youngest daughter to follow her.

"You guys are not fair," she said. The room was quiet as they both left the room.

"Rye, you want to fill me in since your dad and Mr. Everdeen are so talkative right now," he mocked them. "Well?"

"Uhm..." Rye hesitated. "I mean…I was in the bathroom, you know. Doing my business. By the time I ran down stairs whatever it was, was over. The place was a mess and someone threw a bottle at the monitor."

"What was over?" Haymitch inquired. "Will someone please just tell me what the hell happened?"

"Dad?" I called out to him. Suddenly, he stood up and hugged me, tight that I thought I was going to pass out. "Dad, you're scaring me."

"I saw the video, Peeta. That's what happened?" Then he released me and stared at Mr. Everdeen his eyes were cold and hard. "You swore to me that…Jay wasn't going to use Peeta again."

"Jimmy, I promise you…he didn't, I swear and kept my promise," Mr. Everdeen swore.

"Just a minute," Rye interrupted. "You guys know who the MockingJay is?" Both Haymitch and Mr. Everdeen remained quiet. The silence answered his question.

"Well, what the hell?" he asked. "All this time you guys knew."

"Really, Rye. Why do you think we've been having all those card games? Did you honestly think that your dad knew how to play––"

"Holy shit. Did you know Peeta? Did Graham? That Haymitch, Dad and…Mr. Cartwright, and Mr. Everdeen were in involved with the rebels? I heard rumors that he was in 12 but I just thought it was just a rumor."

"Fuck, Rye. Keep your voice down," Haymitch sneered at him. "Why don't you just announce it for all of District 12 to hear?" Rye looked chastened.

"Will everyone just focus," Dad said between clenched teeth. "My only concern is Jay using Peeta again after he promised that he wouldn't."

"He didn't break his promise," Mr. Everdeen said with a tinge of frustration. "I know that he made a mistake the first time but we need to hear his side as to why Peeta was in the video. For all we know District 13 could be using Jay. He wouldn't go back on his word."

"Then, care to explain the video which Peeta was practically the star of the show?" Haymitch informed us. It was obvious that he and dad were really angry with him. "Didn't we all agree to not use the children for our cause; that we were just as bad as Snow if we started our campaign using Peeta to rally the districts."

"I think Jay was…forced to add Peeta on the video," Mr. Everdeen explained. "Maybe he didn't have a choice."

"I thought Jay told 13 our conditions."

"The last time we spoke…listen." He paused and took a deep breath. "We'll have a long conversation the next time I…we see him, he can explain everything." Mr. Everdeen stated. "You need to listen to his side. He's on our side."

"Dad, how could say that? He put Peeta on the spotlight, again," Katniss cried out. "He was already a target for Snow and now…the MockingJay is practically dangling Peeta's life in his face, like bait. Taunting him. Peeta didn't ask for this."

"Katniss, I'm sure that was not his intention," her father defended Jay.

"Intention or not, he shouldn't have done that in the first place," she seethed with anger. "Once was bad enough and then to do it again. He's…he's an asshole."

"Katniss, we taught you better than to talk like that," her father scolded her. "You don't have any idea what we're up against or what's going on."

Possessive Katniss was cute but angry Katniss was scary. I wouldn't want to get on her bad side. I reached out and grabbed her hand. "I don't care. You don't think that there will be any consequences because I'm guarantee you tomorrow Peeta will be probably brought in if not later this evening," she surmised. "President Snow will not let this go."

"Katniss, it's all right," I tried to soothe her.

"No, it isn't," she spat back. "It's like a pissing contest with those two. They don't care who they hurt." She turned to me. "Peeta, you know for a fact that Snow's Peacekeepers will be barging down your door. He will come for you."

"Well actually," Haymitch spoke. "Darius ordered me to take Peeta straight home."

"Why would he do that?" Dad asked bewildered and scared because he knew Katniss was right. It was a certainty that I will be interviewed within the next day if not the next couple of hours. I had to prepare myself incase I didn't make it back home after this incident.

"It wasn't his idea. It was a direct order from Snow," Haymitch informed us. The atmosphere in the room changed as tension mounted. No one said a word. What could anyone say?

"I don't like it," Mr. Everdeen stated. "Snow doesn't make a move or decision without a reason behind it. He's up to something. What's his next move?" 'Yeah…uhm, I'm gonna get reaped, that's his next move.' A voice answered in my head.

"What happens now?" Rye asked.

"We do nothing," Haymitch advised. "There's really nothing to do."

"I'm sorry, Jimmy," Mr. Everdeen directed to Dad. "I wish…there is something I can do––"

"You…you and Jay have done enough," Dad sighed as anger permeated his demeanor. Because of the low lighting in the room, it wasn't until this very moment that I noticed that a small bruise was forming on Dad's left eye. His face was red with fury.

"Dad?" I reached out to touch his bruise. He flinched when my finger made contact with his cheek. "What happened? Who gave you that bruise on your face?" He looked past my shoulder. Behind me, Mr. Everdeen had his arms across his chest.

"We just had a misunderstanding," her father explained. Dad scoffed.

Katniss gasped. "Dad? You hit Peeta's dad? Why?"

"The next time you…talk to Jay," Dad said. "You tell him to leave Peeta out of his videos. I don't care District 13 says. He's my son and I won't let you use him. So God help…"

"Dad, don't be angry with Mr. Everdeen," I said to soothe and comfort him. "It's not his fault." His head turned so fast I thought he gave himself whiplash. He looked down at my hand as it was clasped with Katniss' smaller hand.

"I think you should reconsider who you're dating, Peeta," he muttered in a low voice. Katniss gasped.

"What?"

"Ever since you been involved with…her she's caused nothing but pain and suffering––" I couldn't believe what he implying. Is this what they were fighting about––that my own father wanted me to break up with Katniss. "She's been nothing but trouble since she entered your life."

"Dad, that's not true," Delly spoke for the first time. She had been quiet standing next o Rye. "She's the best that has ever happened to him." The feeling of panic and anxiety filled me. "How can you say that?"

"Because it's true," he snapped back.

"Now hold on a goddamn minute," Mr. Everdeen exploded. "You leave them alone. Be mad at me all you want but don't blame Katniss for the things that happened to Peeta. They're innocent in all of this." Before Dad could refute him. Katniss let go of hand and ran down the stairs.

"Katniss!" I shouted at her. I turned to my father his eyes were hard and cold as steel.

"Let her go Peeta."

"What is wrong with you? We just started…you've known that I loved her since I was five years old. How can you say that to me?"

"You have to stay away from her," he demanded.

"Don't take you anger out on my daughter, Jimmy," Mr. Everdeen said. "They both don't deserve it."

"I'm trying to protect my son and that means she stays away from him."

"No, I will not stay away from Katniss. I didn't let mom's hatred for the Seam stop my feelings for Katniss, what makes you think you can dictate and order me to do the same? You shouldn't have said that," I said. "Katniss isn't the reason why all this is happening to me. You shouldn't have…" I'm speechless, hurt and angry. "What you did was cruel and unjust."

"Peeta get back here," Dad demanded as I turned around and headed towards the stairs. He grabbed my arm.

"I'll never forgive you for hurting her like that." I shrugged him off and ran after Katniss. You're no better than mom." He gasped. I didn't care if that hurt him because it was the truth.

Once outside, I scanned the streets. "Katniss! Where are you?" 'Please be okay.' I couldn't stand it if she decided to listen to my dad and broke up with me. "Katniss." I turned my head towards the direction of the Seam. From a distance I could see Katniss walking or rather limping away. "Katniss, wait."

I caught up to her just as she reached the edge of town. "Katniss, stop." She kept walking with her arms wrapped around her waist. "Please stop."

"Peeta, please leave me alone," she cried out between sobs and tears.

"No, damnit. Stop walking away from me." I grabbed her arm but she shoved me back so hard I stumbled. My ire grew as I lost patience. "Talk to me."

"Leave me alone and stop following me," she said her eyes filled with anger.

"So that's it we're done." She continued to ignore me. My heart plummeted as the reality of the situation hit me hard. I'll never forgive dad for this. Never. "Say something. Anything."

"Go back home Peeta. It's where you belong," she said her back towards me. It was happening, what I feared. "We shouldn't have…I shouldn't have…you and I was a mistake. Just get away from me."

"No!"

"You're dad's right. I'm bad for you. It's best that we stay away from each other," she said as she kept her pace.

"If you going to fucking break up with me have the guts to do in my face. And if you are, do it because you don't like me and tell me that you don't want me anymore and not because of what my dad said." My throat felt parched and tight. "Stopping running away from me and like a coward and tell me right now that we're done." I breathed through my mouth as I expelled huge gulps of air. She stopped.

"I…I can't do this," she sobbed with anger and frustration written on her face.

"All right I'll do it for you. We're done. I'm done. Thank you for confirming what I knew would happen once things got really hard between us. Thank for confirming what my mother said and believed––that we are not worth fighting for. That I'm not worth fighting for." I turned and ran.

I didn't know where I was going. I just needed to get away from her before she completely ruined me. I should be relieved since I knew what we had was fleeting and wasn't real. Breaking up with her now would makes things easier for me since I knew Snow was going to rig the reaping ceremony. I was next. The breakup was inevitable. I just didn't expect it to happen tonight. 'What was I thinking? I shouldn't have agreed to date her in the first place.' The odds were never in my favor.

I didn't know how long I had been walking in the dark and where I was. The moon hovered above me. My feet hurt and my heart ached. I felt as thought someone stabbed me in the chest and left the knife embedded to my heart. 'Cry me a river,' my cynical mind snickered. 'Stop with the melodrama and get over yourself. It's done and over with.' I felt like I was back in 4th grade when Holly Peters announced to our classmate that I was her boyfriend. Then a mere 3 days later she dumped me for another boy a grade older than us, not that I cared since I was mooning over 6th grade Katniss Everdeen. My relationship with her was over before it even started.

The next thing I knew I was at the cemetery. It was dark and cold as strong breeze circulated around me. I was too numb to feel it. After a few yards, I found myself at Graham's gravestone. I knelt down and touched the engraving, 'Graham Mellark, Beloved Son, Brother, Husband and Father.' "It should have been me," I said out loud.

"I miss you Graham," I sobbed as I wiped tears with the back of my hand. "I wish you were here." The cold wet grass seeped through my pants. I sat back as I closed my eyes and listened to the small animals and creatures near the cemetery. An owl hooted while crickets chirred a rhythmical pattern that was soft and soothing. The musical arrangement calmed my racing heart. I laughed to myself I realized I found peace and comfort amongst the dead.

The cemetery was desolate and eerily haunting but being here calmed me. I lay down next to Graham's gravestone not caring that the cold wet ground seeped through the rest of my clothes. I knew I was on borrowed time but I had hoped that I would at least spend it with Katniss. And now I didn't even have that.

I felt sleepy and tired that I was not aware that someone had snuck up on me. "Hello Peeta." I rose up from off the ground. I was startled as my heart raced against my chest again beating hard. I'm cold, wet and mentally numb. For the first time in weeks I realized that I'm alone with no one hovering over me. I didn't know if should be relieved or scared as the figure appeared from behind a tall tombstone. I gasped in horror and shock as President Snow walked towards me with two of his Peacekeepers flanking him with rifle in hand aimed at my head. Wearing his white outfit he stood out in the middle of the graveyard like a ghost beaconing me to my death.

AN: Thank you for reading this chapter. I was little stuck writing this chapter and how I was going to end it. So I hoped it didn't disappoint. All your comments and reviews are greatly appreciated. Until the next time, have a great rest of the week.