Destiny - Heart of a Baker, Soul of a Hunter

by SalaciousNothings

Peeta Mellark, the baker's son saved Katniss Everdeen's life at the age of eleven when he threw the burnt bread one rainy day. She never thanked him let alone acknowledged his existence. She hated owing him but knew there would come a day when she would repay him. Little did she realize that her life was bound to his forever. It was inevitable. AU HG, OOC Everlark

31. Chapter 31 - The Tributes of District 12

Chapter 31 – The Tributes from District 12

AN: This is chapter little late but posted as promised. Thanks to those who left a review. It's always a pleasure to receive and read them. Much thanks to Aqua Rules, ArteMuS09, mar071, pistonfans75, BDizzy, Cassie Sharpie, LACR, Nai1987, pumpkinking5, jroseley, Mspriss523 and guests. I enjoy writing Katniss and Peeta's POVs but feel that other character are necessary to further the plot. So I hope you don't mind reading them as well. This chapter has Katniss and Peeta's POVs and is rated PG-13 for foul language.

Any mistakes found are mine. Hunger Games and all the main characters belong to Suzanne Collins.

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Katniss POV –

I stared at Peeta. His arms locked around his dad's waist. He looked calm like as if he expected the outcome. My boyfriend volunteered, he volunteered to save my sister Prim. I was surprised but I shouldn't be because that's Peeta; that he would volunteer to save Prim not because she was my sister but because he loved her as well. As if she was his little sister as well and I loved him more for it.

Emotions swirled inside my head––fear, relief, longing, despair and anger. One emotion battled with each other. When Prim's name was called I lost focus my mind shocked beyond despair. I forgot about Peeta.

Nothing or no one mattered but Prim. I watched as she was escorted by two Peacekeepers to the platform. She looked scared and alone as she stood on the platform her eyes brimming with tears as she tried to hold them back. I was so proud of her as she tried to be brave but I knew––she was scared. I aged out my reaping years so I couldn't volunteer. My world shattered. Strong arms and hands held me back. My feet numb and legs buckled.

Then, my heart imploded as Peeta volunteered in place of…I didn't remember who the Capitol escort called. All I knew was that Peeta yelled. "I volunteer as tribute." I thought my ears and eyes deceived me until he too was escorted to the platform. Peeta walked straight to Prim holding her in his strong arms. My heart and world stood on that platform their lives about to be sacrificed for entertainment. I was losing everything and everyone that mattered to me. Mind you, I love my dad and mom but Prim and Peeta, they were the heart of me. They made me a better person, a better sister and friend.

Saying goodbye to Prim was the hardest thing I had ever done. Rage and despair filled me. Words were hard to express as I struggled to comfort her. She needed to stay alive and survive, to let Peeta take care of her while I…

I didn't know to do or where to start. I couldn't make any promises or false hope. I was helpless for once in my life. How could I go on without the both of them? Peeta and I had decided to join the revolution, to fight Snow and free Panem. We were hoping to build a future together. How could I do that now when the two people I had hoped to have a future didn't have one? Even if I survived the rebellion what was the point of fighting for a future when they were what I was fighting for. Prim and Peeta was my future, my hopes and dreams of a life I dared to long for.

My tears fell uninhibited as I watched Peeta say goodbye to his family. He spoke to my mom promising to keep Prim safe and help her survive. I was torn in two––I love them both and I couldn't chose. The fact was that I could lose them both. Prim was sweet. She wasn't a fighter. Peeta was a survivor. I knew that he would kill if given the circumstance because I have witnessed it with my own eyes. Our time in the woods proved that he will take a life to preserve those he loved. But to take a life intentionally––that was different.

When Haymitch announced to give Peeta and me time alone, I sent him nod of gratitude. My hands were still clutched on the front of his shirt. "Katniss," he said my name with reverence and gentleness. "I'm so sorry," he whispered. His breath brushed against my lips. "Please don't be mad at me too. I can't…I can't take it if I leave here with you mad at me." His strong arms grasped my waist. "You know I had to do it because given the chance you would have done the same thing."

I was speechless because he was right. I would have volunteered for Prim but he did. He did it for her and for me. "I promise you that she will come home to you." He broke my heart, shattered it to a million pieces even more. What could I say to him? Save yourself and let my sister die? He reached over and wiped the tears that fell from my eyes. I couldn't stop crying.

"Peeta," I sobbed. "I…I don't know what to say." I didn't. My throat constricted and my heart felt hollow. I wanted both of them to come home to me.

"You don't have to say anything, Katniss," he said. "Just stay with me until I leave." I grabbed his face and kissed him long and hard pressing my lower body against his as I felt him harden. I gasped relishing the weight of him pressed against me. This may be the last time…no I refused to think that way. I won't lose him and my little sister. "Oh, god, Katniss. I want you. I wanted you for so long and now I can't––"

"Shut up," I said between kisses as our tongues and teeth smashed clashed each other. We both groaned in pleasure realizing that theses were our last minutes we had.

"Peeta," Haymitch appeared at the door and ducked his head when he saw us. "You have five minutes left." Then he led Prim to the other side of the room and turned around. This was all the privacy we were granted. It would do.

"Five minutes is not enough," I whined in desperation and need.

"It's not but it's enough to tell you that I wanted and loved you since the first time I saw you," he said. "Since then I never stopped thinking about you. How I wanted you to be girlfriend. How I wanted to bring you flowers and cake on your birthdays. How each time you took my breath away as we grew older."

"Peeta, I––"

"Please let me finish. I don't have enough time left." I nodded my head. "You were…are the only person I ever wanted, desired and loved. I loved you for so long that I can't even think of a time when I didn't. You were it for me.' My tears worsened the longer he spoke revealing his heart to me "I'm sorry that I…I was a coward. I should have approached you a long time ago but you scared me. But even when you scared me my fear of you was nothing in comparison to what I felt for you."

I smiled feeling warmth and joy bubbling inside me. He said words I needed to hear. "I love you, Katniss Everdeen. I always have and I always will. These last few weeks have been the best days of my life and I'll treasure them for the rest of my days. Thank you for being the best girlfriend ever. Thank you for caring for me. I'll die happy knowing that I had you in my life for a little while."

But as soon as he said the words I longed to hear he shattered my hopes. He was giving up his life for my sister. He pushed his way into my life and heart and he was also ripping me half at the same time.

"Don't you fucking dare," I said with heat. "You can't tell me you love me and…and give up."

"Katniss, I'm not about to let your sister die if I can help it," he sighed. "You would never forgive me if I lived and she didn't." I winced but said nothing. I couldn't image a life without Prim but then I couldn't imagine a life without Peeta either. I didn't want one with out the other––I needed and loved them both.

"You can't give up hope," I started.

"Katniss, there is nothing that anyone can do," he resigned to his fate.

"No, you're still alive and you need to stay alive," I challenged him. "You and I swore that we would fight together; to have a future together. You can't give up now."

"Katniss." There was defeat and resignation in his tone. "I can't make any promises––"

"Yes, you will." I dared him. "You are going to swear to me that you won't give up and sacrifice you life."

"I will if it means saving Prim," he debated. I loved him and hated him for saying that. "And there is nothing you can do to stop me."

"No, swear to me that you will not give up. That you will not give up on us." I grabbed his shirt bunching the cloth between my fingers as we were nose to nose and eye to eye. I adored every part of him starting with the freckles on bridge of his nose to his calloused fingers and down to hi stubby toes. He sighed and closed his eyes. So I kissed him gentle and soft––a kiss meant to be hopeful and filled with promise. He was a young man so I spoke to him and catered to his basic needs. The same needs I never thought I wanted from anyone, especially from the opposite sex. He awakened that part of me and that sweet promise of lust and desire. Emotions I knew I couldn't share with anyone but Peeta.

"Tell me what you wanted to do to me had we had our date tonight," I said as I grazed my mouth on his soft lips––teasing him.

He moaned in despair and longing. "Katniss, please don't."

"Peeta, I have never wanted anyone the way I wanted you," I confessed. "Now that you have me, tell me that we're worth fighting for." I was desperate to resort to any means to keep him alive. "Tell me that you want me and will do anything to stay alive. I love my sister, Peeta. You know that. But you need to know that I love you too. Damnit Peeta, you can't just waltz into my life, make me fall in love with you and tell me you love me and give up. "

"Of course I love you," he blurted between erratic breaths. "You're not playing fair. I'm about to get on a train, never to come back because I promised your mom that Prim will come home. You can't do this to me now. You can't say that you love me when I'm…I'm––"

"Well too bad because I do and I don't care if you think it's not fair," I said. "You're forcing me to chose between the two of you and I won't. Not if there's a chance to save you both." He had pissed me off. I couldn't let him give up now. Now that I had revealed my heart to him. "You're going to promise me to stay alive. We have a chance…we said that we're going to fight for each other. So you better not break your promise to me."

"Well, I already broke one promise," he confessed. "So you're not the first."

"What? I don't understand."

"I promised Haymitch that I wouldn't volunteer," he admitted.

"Why would you––"

"I was…I was sick and tired of people getting hurt because of me. My brother is dead, Katniss and it was my fault. And don't dare tell it wasn't because there is nothing that anyone can say to say it wasn't' my fault." I was stunned by his confession of guilt. Even if I knew he was wrong, he was just as stubborn as me. If Peeta believed it was his fault that Graham was dead because of him, nothing on earth would make him change his mind or disproved it.

"It still…I don't understand how you think by volunteering would do anything to protect us," I said in calm manner. "I just can't believe that you were going to do it. How could you do that to me?"

"I wasn't. Haymitch made me swear...to promise not to sacrifice my life by volunteering. Somehow he knew what I was planning."

"Well, he was right to that because…because you're an idiot," I replied back. "I'm glad that he did that. And you did break his promise."

"I had to. I did it for Prim."

"I know, Peeta. But it doesn't mean that I can't be angry at you for volunteering even if it meant to protect Prim. I could lose you both."

"I wanted to keep you and everyone safe, Katniss," he uttered with defeat and resignation. "He's been threatening every single person I loved, and then Graham was killed during the dog attacks. He…Snow could do anything to anyone I loved. And he managed to find a way…he rigged the lottery. He chose Prim. And so don't tell me that it was just by chance that it happened. He knew… he knew me and I played right into his hands."

"I understand why you would do that…to volunteer to keep us safe, Peeta," I admitted. "But it would have been for nothing had Prim not been reaped and you volunteered. You would have volunteered and he could come after us once you were…dead."

"You don't know that."

"You were…are threat to him," I said. "Had Prim not been chosen and you volunteered, I would have never forgiven you for sacrificing your life and leaving me behind to mourn for you. And once you're were dead, I can assure you that nothing on earth would have stopped me from finding a way to kill Snow."

"You can't say that," he bellowed. I jumped in shock. Peeta had never raised his voice to me. But I could tell he had reached his limit of patience as I did as well.

"I can fucking tell you that…that's what would have happened," I promised him. "But now here we are…so instead of just you going to the Capitol, Prim is going as well."

"I'm so sorry, Katniss," he muttered under his breath.

"There is nothing to be sorry about," I said. I didn't' blame him. I blamed Snow because he did find a way to get Peeta in the arena. He found Peeta's weakness…his love for family, his love for Prim and for me.

"Katniss, can we please not fight now? I'm…this maybe the last moments we have together and I don't want this to be my last memories with each other."

"I'm sorry, Peeta," I said with remorse and guilt. "I didn't mean to pick a fight with you."

"Ordinarily, fighting with you is just something we'd do because that's what couples do," He caressed the tip of my braid with fingers. "And I would have looked forward to making up with you but…"

"I know it's almost time," I reminded him so I had to choose my words carefully. To say something and give him hope––to not give up. "Peeta, I…I love you. I should have told a long time ago but I was afraid it was too soon to tell you incase you didn't believe me."

"Katniss, please don't say it now if you're don't mean it," he groaned in frustration. I flinched. "I can't take it if you were only admitting it because you want to make me feel better."

"Hey, since when do I ever say anything and not mean it," I said to him. "I'm not good with words…I don't know how to express myself. But when I finally admit and tell you that I do love you…I fucking mean it and if you don't believe me I'll fucking rip your––"

"You're so romantic," he said in jest. His eyes teased me. "You're the only girl I know that can tell me you love me and threaten me at the same time." He leaned over and whispered in my ear. "You're so fucking hot when you get angry and bothered." I shoved him with both hands in mock anger.

"Seriously," he added. "I love you Katniss. Thank you for making me happy. Even for a short time." I wanted him to stop talking as if his life was over. Even if he resolved to sacrifice his life for Prim, I couldn't give up and neither should he.

"I love you too, Peeta,' I said calm and firm. "I know why you broke your promise to Haymitch but––" He groaned and close his eyes in frustration his nose flared and lips formed into thin line.

"Katniss––"

"No, you look at me, Peeta." I waited until he opened his eyes. They were crystal blue and bright. I could stare into his eyes all day long if granted the time but I didn't have it.

He was beautiful and so handsome with his luscious blond hair coiffed and lips ruby red. He wore a simple dress shirt and pants with soft leather patent shoes. He exuded strength and manhood with a hint of boyish charm that drew attention to the opposite sex both young and old. He was everything I never knew I wanted or desired. How could anyone compete with him in my eyes and heart?

"I make no promises I can't keep, you know that," I began. "But this I promise you. I won't give up. I won't just as long as you don't either." I held my tears at bay as my throat threatened to choke and ache. "I need you to live just like I need Prim to live. I can't, won't live a life without either of you. So you need to promise me…to swear to me that you will live and survive even if…even if…" I could admit it. Saying the words would make it come true. I wasn't a superstitious person but I couldn't take a chance. They both had to come back to me but if one didn't I need one to survive.

"I can't…I know you," he said in despair. "You'll never forgive me if something happened to Prim…you'll resent me for living."

I didn't know if that was true. All I knew was that I needed them both. Call me selfish but that was all I concentrated on. I couldn't afford to lose one.

"Peeta, I refuse to believe the worse right now. If I did…I wouldn't be able to function," I confessed. "That's why you both have to fight to stay alive. Stay alive long enough for us to get you and Prim before you reached the Capitol."

"That's not your call," he said. It wasn't. I wasn't sure anything could be done but I had to believe it. Something tugged at my chest like a tap to remind me that I was running out of time. So I didn't want to talk anymore or argue with him.

I leaned over and kissed him memorizing his lips and tongue as it sought entrance. I needed to remember his kisses and how he tasted sweet and savory with a hint of mint. I molded his body against mine to carve his essence into my soul. I didn't know when I would see him, kiss him or touch him again but I swore in my head that this not the last time. It couldn't…I wouldn't let it be our last time.

Haymitch coughed. "It's time."

Prim walked towards us and gave me on last hug. My heart ached as I watched Prim stood beside Peeta taking his hand like a lifeline. I knew with certainty that he would protect her for I never doubted it.

The next thing I knew Effie, the reaping escort reappeared. "Ladies and gentlemen, it's time," she said with her Capitol accent. She was odd woman with a colorful wig and foppish clothing. She stuck out like a sore thumb. I wonder what she looked like without the layers of makeup. She was unaffected by the people around her. What did I expect from her for she was Capitol.

I hugged Peeta and Prim in my arms. "Bye, Katniss," they both said at the same time. My heart stopped for a second. Blond hair and blue eyes, two people I loved most in the world were being taken away from me.

"Please take care of yourself, Katniss," Peeta said as he kissed my forehead.

"I love you, Katniss," Prim said.

"I love you too, little duck," I returned.

Peeta held me one last time. "I love you," he said in my ear for no one else to hear. "I'll keep my promise so you need to stay alive as well." I nodded my head. Then they were gone.

I ran out of the Justice Building and headed towards the bakery. Mom and Dad called out to me but I ignored them. I ran to the one place that reminded me of Peeta. From the outside, a group of people gathered outside the shop. "What's going on," I asked but no one answered me. Then I heard crashing sounds of glass breaking and screams. Without any hesitation, I ran inside. Jimmy, Mr. Mellark was in the midst of rage and anguish throwing bowls and overturning the prep tables. I never saw him in such fury. I didn't recognize this man in front of me; he wasn't the gentle and soft-spoken man I knew.

"Dad," Rye spoke from behind me. Devastation and anguish was written on Jimmy's face. I felt his pain as well. I was in my own world of pain that I didn't' realize that he was bleeding his knuckles raw and red. I needed…comfort, but the two people who could give me that was on their way to the Capitol.

"Mr. Mellark," I said. "I…I…can I go to Peeta's room?" My throat hurt and my eyes swelled as fresh tears formed in my eyes. Mom objected but Jimmy interrupted her.

"It's all right, Lily. Yes, go ahead, Katniss." I ran upstairs, opened the door to Peeta's room and threw myself on his bed. Once my nose hit his pillow, I smelled Peeta. He smelled of sugar, yeast and a hint of his sweat and soap. There were always traces of dough underneath his fingernails. His hands were calloused after years of working at the bakery, kneading dough and scars from the ovens. I loved every single scar on him especially the ones he received from Cray.

I couldn't focus as I wondered how both and Peeta and Prim were feeling––scared, anxious and lost. A part of me didn't dare to admit that I was glad Peeta volunteered to help Prim. I knew he would protect her but who would protect him.

An hour passed as I fell asleep on Peeta's bed. "Katniss," Jimmy said my name as he shook me awake. "It's getting late. You need to go home."

"Where are my parents?" I asked as I noticed that the sun was setting. Rays of light filtered into the room like beams. Even though Peeta's bed was soft and comfortable my body hurt from head to toe. My mind jumbled from the past few hours as I remembered what transpired. I turned my head expecting to see Peeta sleeping beside me. I also half expected to see Prim by the doorway with a smirk on her face.

Peeta and Prim were gone. He wouldn't be downstairs kneading dough. Prim wasn't at home waiting for me. They were on their way to the Capitol. I thought it was just a nightmare.

"You fell asleep so I told them to head home," he explained. "I'll walk you back home if you're ready." I wasn't ready. I wasn't ready to leave the bakery knowing Peeta wasn't here tomorrow or the next. I wasn't ready to head home without Prim, greeting me and asking me about my time with Peeta. I felt empty inside. Jimmy noticed my hesitation to return back to the Seam. "Katniss, you need to go home to your parents."

I shook my head. They couldn't fill the void in my heart. "Katniss, they need you. They also lost their daughter too. Besides, you're all they have left with Prim…"

"What about you?" I asked as I wiped tears that brimmed my eyes. "You're all alone with Peeta…" I stopped myself. He didn't need me to remind him that Peeta was gone.

"Rye and Delly decided to stay with for a few days," he announced. "They'll put Tyler's crib in his room and they'll be sleeping in Rye's old room. They'll be back in an hour to pack some clothes they need. So you see, I'm not going to be alone. "

"I don't know if I can…" I wrapped both arms around my waist. "I miss him…I miss them both."

"I know," Jimmy agreed. "Listen, I know that I shouldn't ask but I need to know."

"What?" I inquired.

"Did you and Peeta…did you two discuss and made a decision about you know…"

"Yes, we did. We…we were both going to tell you, Haymitch and dad but this happened," I stated. Was it just 24 hours ago that Peeta and I decided to join the revolution that we would stand and fight beside the MockingJay? It all felt like a nightmare as I waited for Peeta to appear at the door and whisk me away for our date.

"Can you tell me what you both decided?" he asked and I told him. He looked relieved and in despair. "I wished we both got you out of 12 before the reaping. I should have suspected…I should have protected him better."

"You didn't know, no one anticipated this," I said. Jimmy was resigned. "Jimmy, I know that…I'm not asking for any favors but..."

"What are you asking, Katniss?"

"I want to meet MockingJay as soon as possible. Today, tonight I mean, " I blurted as watched the light from the window diminish and fade into darkness. "I need to know if he's going to do anything and if he…he is he needs to do it now." He turned his head and avoided my eyes. "He asked me to join his cause. Peeta and I were going…but Peeta is not here and I need to do something."

"I understand," he returned. "Listen, Katniss. You've just made a decision. We're already…MockingJay, Jay has put a plan in place. You can't be involved right now in case something goes wrong. Peeta is gone and you need to watch what you do or say. Snow will probably be watching you very closely from now on." I didn't think about that. Had he been watching us since Peeta and I got together––that would have been embarrassing. But none of that mattered now.

"But I want to help," I cried out. I couldn't sit by and wait. I needed to do something, anything.

"Katniss, you need to talk to your father and mother first," he said. "Let them know your decision." I agreed. Peeta and I planned to tell everyone at once with a condition––we wouldn't join the rebellion unless we met MockingJay. We needed to meet him face to face because we didn't want to blindly follow him without knowing his identity. We needed to meet and know the man who would alter our life.

"I will, I promise, but not now. I can't go home yet," I admitted as I grabbed Peeta's pillow off his bed and held it across my chest.

"Katniss," Jimmy sighed. "You can stay here as much as you like, but you need to let you're parents know. They need you to be home but I understand why you want to be here. Explain it to them."

"You'll let me stay?" I asked. I knew it wasn't right or proper. Peeta and I weren't engaged or married. My mom would be angry, but she didn't have any control over me. She hadn't for a long time. I think dad would understand but I still needed to head home to tell them. I had to explain that I couldn't sleep in a bed that I shared with Prim knowing she wouldn't be there. I sought comfort without Peeta with the presence of his family and things.

Once I arrived home I broached the topic to my parents. "Katniss, it isn't right to impose on James like that," mom argued. I knew she would object once I told her my plans. Dad kept silent. I was in my room packing a bag and things I needed for school. I didn't know how long I meant to stay with the Mellarks. I planned to stay for as long as Jimmy permitted it.

"Lily, I know it's not proper, but maybe we should let her stay with Jimmy," dad stated. Jimmy looked at dad for a few seconds. "I mean, what's the harm? We know where she'll be when she's not at school and…I think Jimmy could appreciate the company."

"Garrett, she's our daughter––"

"Who's in love with Jimmy's son," dad added. "If this will comfort Katniss…to be with Jimmy for a while, we should let her go." I was shocked by dad's permission to let me go. "It's not forever, Lily. And," he paused. "She's old enough to do what she wants."

"I can't stay here, mom," I continued. The house made me feel claustrophobic and anxious. I expected to see Prim in our room doing her homework or reading a book as she reclined on our bed. Her absence was overwhelming. Prim wasn't just my little sister, she was best friend.

"Besides I could use Katniss' help and company," Jimmy admitted. "Rye and Delly are staying also so…it's not an imposition for Katniss to stay in Peeta's room."

"James, they were barely dating," Mom argued back. "It's not like Katniss was Peeta's fiancée. It's not right that she would be staying with James. We're her family."

"We were planning our future," I interjected. "Dad, I already told Jimmy what Peeta and I decided so I'm going to tell you. We both decided together…that we wanted to fight because we believe in Jay's cause. Peeta and I couldn't see a future together with Snow and the Capitol controlling our lives. If he and I are the symbol of hope, we want to use our influence and have people join the cause."

Dad hugged me while mom gasped in anguish. I knew she didn't want me to get involved but it was my life and Peeta's life was at stake. "Are you sure?" dad asked. "I'm proud of you whatever you decide, Katniss."

"I need to get involved now more than ever," I said. "With that said, what is Jay doing to get Peeta and Prim off the train?"

"Katniss, now is not the time to discuss this," Dad stated.

"Why not?" I said in anger. Prim and Peeta were headed closer towards the Capitol with each passing moment. The risk and danger mounted.

"It's been a long and hard day for everyone," Jimmy stated. "Just trust your father and listen to him. There is a plan going on right now that is taking place. We can't tell you right now."

"But––"

"Katniss, focus. You need to be ready and sure of your decision. Peeta is out of our hands at the moment but I can assure you we are taking care of it. I am not about to let Snow get of hold of Peeta and your sister," Dad comforted me. "In the meantime, we need you focused and attentive, ready to take action when you're needed." I looked at mom, worry and fear on her face. It was my decision as she couldn't stop me from getting involved.

"I'll be ready," I returned. "When can I meet Jay?"

"Soon," he said. I grunted in frustration my patience thin.

"Haymitch will take care of them," Jimmy asserted. "He will protect them and help bring them home." I relented and sighed in aggravation because I needed or wanted better assurances of them coming home in one piece––before they reached the Capitol because once they were there, it was impossible to rescue them.

It didn't take long for me to pack a bag and my books for school. I reached underneath my bed to pack another pair of shoes when I found a sketchpad. I was puzzled because I knew that Prim took an art class. That's how she met Peeta and they became friends despite my objections. I held back a sob in my throat as I caressed the pad with my fingers. My little sister aspired to draw it was a hobby I never knew she acquired. I wished she had shared it with me but I guessed she was shy and embarrassed. She didn't possess a single artistic bone in her body. We would have had a great laugh at her attempt. I lifted the front cover and gasped in shock.

Tears slowly brimmed my eyes. The first drawing was of…me underneath my tree in school. The drawing was of me four years ago. How could I tell? The dress I wore now belonged to Prim or did belong to Prim as I was handed down once I outgrew it. I flipped over another page and it's another drawing of me with Prim by my side. It was us from the back view holding hands our hair in a braid. There was so much detail that it looked like a photograph as it was drawn in dark pencil––almost black in color. Then I turned the page and then another. There were drawing of flowers, items from the bakery, his family––his dad, Graham and Rye. Other pages were of the foliage around the town and buildings in District 12. However, the most predominant pictures were of me––sitting in chair in school, by the bakery doorway holding a squirrel in my hand and drawings of me in every emotion––anger, joy and sadness. I was everywhere in the sketchpad.

These were drawings that were made by Peeta. I thought back as to when the drawing pad was left behind––a week after he was whipped by Head Peacekeeper Cray. Jimmy had brought over some clothes and his drawing pad. I guessed he had forgotten and Prim kept it for safekeeping. I wondered why she never returned it to him.

As I continued to look at the drawing pad my heart grew heavy. This was his diary, a pictorial of his devotion and feelings for me. I didn't know whether to laugh or cry. I wished…I shook my head. I couldn't afford to feel sorry for myself. Peeta and Prim would have wanted me to remain strong for them. As I turned the last page, something bright orange fell onto the floor.

"Oh my god," I giggled as I picked up a pair of bright orange cotton socks. They had belonged to Peeta. I remembered his socked feet as he lay on the table as mom and Prim nursed him back to health. I tucked the pad and his socks into my bag because I didn't want to linger any longer than I had to.

"Do not take advantage of Mr. Mellark's hospitality," Mom warned me. I scoffed at her implication. What did she think was planning to do?

Back at the bakery, Jimmy served dinner that consisted of cheese buns and vegetable soup. I ate as much as I could, as my appetite was non-existent. Conversation was minimal since no one knew what to say or do. Jimmy and Rye was just as heart broken missing Peeta as I was. Even Delly was tongue-tied. Once I was situated into Peeta's bedroom, I lay on his bed and grabbed his pillow. The night air was chilly so I used Peeta's bright orange socks to cover my feet. Sleep evaded me even as I closed my eyes and clutched his pillow onto my chest. I wondered where they were which district the train was crossing. How Prim was feeling? I looked the window and stared at the moon. It hung high in the sky emitting light through the window. I wondered if I'll ever be able to sleep again.

A few minutes later, I heard footstep. The sound carried as it reached the staircase. The back door of the bakery opened and then closed. I looked down the street. It was Jimmy creeping down the alley. I recognized his blond head and broad shoulders even in the dark. What was he doing sneaking out at night after curfew and where was he headed? I quickly crept down the stair hoping to not alert Rye or Delly. I stopped at the bottom of the stair and listened to Rye's soft snore. I quickly exited the bakery. A few minutes later I caught up to Jimmy as I trailed behind him at a safe distance recognizing his familiar gait as he pressed forward.

He walked towards the mines entering the dark passageway. I continued to follow him until he reached a group of men gathered together with patches of light illuminating the area as oil lantern lit the dark passageway. Dad and Jimmy greeted each other. Two men––fathers who lost their children in the reaping ceremony commiserated together.

"Any news?" Jimmy asked his voice shook. He sounded tired and weary.

"Nothing yet, Jimmy," dad returned. A small radio sat on a dark oak table with a large sheet of paper underneath it. I could tell it was the map of Panem outlining each district. "The train just passed district 9."

"Where you able to get in contact with Haymitch?" Jimmy inquired. I placed a hand on my mouth as tried not to react in surprise and shock. 'What was happening?' my mind asked.

"Only for a few seconds. We couldn't risk getting our transmission discovered," dad acknowledged. "It's too risky. Someone might intercept our communication. I just hope that he has Peeta and Prim are with him when all hell breaks loose." Then it clicked in my head. They were planning a rescue mission, to get Peeta and Prim off the train before they reached the Capitol. "Just pray that the odds our in our favor."

The radio crackled. "This is Blackbird 1 we're in position," a male voice crackled across the radio. The radio went silent for a few minutes. Words were exchanged some of it I couldn't hear from my position. I couldn't stand the suspense any longer. I hated hiding.

"Dad, what's going on?" I asked as I revealed myself.

"Katniss, you shouldn't be here," Dad said his voice hard filled with anger.

"I shouldn't be here?" I repeated back. "I'm about to join your cause and help Jay you don't want me to know that you're rescuing Peeta and Prim?" He blocked my path as I was headed towards Jimmy.

"Garrett––" Peeta's dad interjected. "I'm sorry she must have followed me."

"Katniss, this is dangerous," Dad said. "What were you thinking following Jimmy here?"

"Why didn't you tell me?" I bit back angry and frustration in my voice. "Why didn't you tell me that you're planning on rescuing Peeta and Prim?"

"I wanted to get them off the train. Bring them home," Dad added. "Something could go wrong. What if the mission fails and you'll just be disappointed."

"I'd rather you told me then let me believe that you weren't doing anything," I said. "I've been going out of my mind with worry."

"Go back to the bakery," Dad instructed. "You need deniability if something goes wrong." I knew his logic but not knowing was killing me.

"Garrett, she's already here. Let her stay," Jimmy said. "She has every right to be here."

Dad turned to me. "You can stay on one condition," he demanded. I nodded my head in agreement. "If something goes wrong…if this fails. You will do as I say, no questions asked. I fear for your safety so you will say nothing to any one. I mean it, Katniss. You cannot speak to anyone what you have learned or hear tonight."

"I promise I won't say a word," I said. Who would I talk to? I didn't have many friends––Madge, Rye and Delly were the only people I knew. "So what's the plan?"

"I can't tell you just yet but you can only stay with that condition," Dad stated with finality. "I mean it, Katniss. If something goes wrong, no arguing or making demands. I want your word that you will do as I say. I know that you have agreed to follow Jay but until he introduces himself to you I am your leader." I agreed. It wasn't' as if I knew how to be a soldier in war I knew nothing about. My only reason to acquiesce was because of Prim and Peeta. I would do anything to get them back.

"Garrett, they're ready to strike," Wayne commented. It was odd seeing both Merchant and Seam gathered together. Though the Seam outnumbered the Merchants it was relief to know that there were Merchants who wanted to fight Snow.

"We're going in," a voice crackled on the radio. It was deadly silent for a few minutes.

"Remember you only have five minutes once you downed the drones," Dad stated. "Execute plan and pick up the packages." I hated that I didn't know what was going on. On the radio, I heard gave another order but because of the distance, it was hard to decipher what was said. Then suddenly there was a sound of an explosion, men screaming while the leader shouted orders.

"Go, go, go," he yelled. Gunfire and loud explosion blared from the radio. Everyone in the room held their breath. The gunfire, explosions and screams grew louder. It sounded like total chaos to me.

"I can't find them, neither of them," someone shouted. It was a female voice.

"Keep looking."

"Watch out." An explosion was heard after the yell.

"Dining area, clear."

"Sleeping compartments, clear."

"Peacekeepers incoming in two minutes." Gunfire continued.

"What the hell," Haymitch screamed. I recognized his voice. "What the fuck?"

"Where are they?" the leader asked above din of gunfire.

"Peeta and Prim? They're in their compartments," Haymitch returned.

"We looked there first. They're not there."

"Damnit," Haymitch cursed. "Did you look at the ––" Another loud explosion echoed on the radio. My hands trembled and my knees buckled. "What the hell was that?"

"We blew up the engineering room." I looked at Dad for an explanation. He quickly elaborated.

"The tributes trains have an engine front and back to more forward since it cannot turn around. Another train with a group of Peacekeepers usually are behind the tribute train. Serving as an escort and security. There only six are assigned to escort Prim and Peeta to the Capitol. Blowing up the rear engine will only detain them for a few minutes."

I gasped in panic. Too much was going on that I couldn't see. Listening to their ordeal was difficult, as I felt helpless.

"Haymitch," Peeta's voice echoed on the radio. "What's––" I strained to listen to his voice. He sounded panicked and scared. I sighed in relief to hear his voice but the feeling was momentary.

"Peeta!" he yelled back. "Get Prim and––"

"The escort train is here," someone yelled. "Get out now. Go." My stomach lurched as I heard a familiar scream. It was Prim.

"Peeta, what's happening," she screamed.

"Take her," Peeta yelled. "Get her off the train."

"You need to come with us," the leader barked. "We're here for both of you."

"I can't," Peeta returned. "Haymitch––"

"Peeta, get off this fucking train," Haymitch barked.

"Haymitch," Peeta screamed.

"Peeta, no," Prim yelled above the gunfire. "Let me go. Peeta, Peeta."

"Go Prim. Go with them," he hollered at her. "Don't argue. Just go. Someone take her." A few seconds passed.

"Peeta, Peeta," Prim screamed amidst the mayhem and noise.

"You'll be okay Prim," he screamed back. "Just go already." Then it was silence for a few seconds before loud crashing followed.

"Peeta, no," Prim screamed.

"What happened?" I yelled directing my question to no one in particular. No one answered me not Dad or Jimmy. The room fell silent. Something was happening to Prim and Peeta. Their fate was being broadcast from a tiny box that gave me no answers. Somewhere out there they were fighting for their lives and there was nothing i could do to help them.

---

Peeta POV ––

Since boarding the train, Prim has not left my side. I knew she was scared and so was I. I couldn't see any way out of this but I was certain of one thing––I was going to make sure Prim was going home. It didn't mean that I was scared shitless, but I wasn't about to reveal how frightened I was. She needed comfort and reassurance. I could give her that––Katniss would have wanted me to. I took a deep breath. Part of me was relieved that Katniss couldn't volunteer because I knew with certainty that she and I would be on this train together had she been called. But instead of Katniss, it was Prim who was selected.

Prim and I skipped lunch. Food was the last thing on our minds as we sat in the train stunned and scared. Everything was foreign to us. The compartment was lavishly decorated shiny and expensive looking. We were not accustomed to our new environment. At least Prim wasn't. She was so scared to leave my side that she didn't want to fall asleep on the sofa begging me to not leave her alone after I convinced her to take a nap. She relented after she admitted she was tired and hardly slept the night before.

"Don't leave me," she asked.

"I won't I promise," I returned. "I'll be here when you wake up."

While she slept, my mind lingered as I thought about my last moments with Katniss. 'She loves me,' my mind recollected. Was it true or spoken in desperation? I wanted to believe it but years of hoping and any feelings from my mother taught me to be wary. Katniss and I had only been together for a few weeks. For me to believe that she loved me was a moot point. I couldn't be distracted from my mission. I was determined to keep Prim safe and to make sure she survived the arena even if it meant sacrificing my life for hers.

But I indulged myself for a few minutes. As I thought about Katniss I knew she could live without me as she had before, but I also knew she couldn't live without her little sister. I wished I had told Katniss how much her last words meant to me––her parting gift. As I looked out the window the miles stretched before me taking me away from District 12––my home, my family and Katniss. I cherished the times and moments we had together. I would never forget it.

"Peeta?" Prim's soft voice disrupted my thoughts.

"Hm..yes, Prim? What is it?" I asked her.

"Thank you for staying with me." She looked small and fragile. I couldn't envision her taking a life in the arena. I was scared for her as she was the opposite of Katniss. Prim had her own strengths––she was a healer not a fighter.

"No problem, Prim," I said. "Do you feel a little better?"

"I'm scared," she shook her head her lower lip trembled.

"I know and it's okay to be scared," I confessed as I took her tiny hand. "You're going to be okay, Prim. I won't let anything happen to you." 'I promise you, you'll go home to Katniss if I have to kill everyone in the arena.'

"I wish…I wish Katniss was here," she muttered soft and low. I did too. I wondered what she was doing and coping. But before I could ponder about Katniss, our reaping escort stepped into the room.

Her name was Effie Trinket. Even though she was Capitol born and breed, I like her. We had never met before but seemed nice and oblivious of the horror we were about to endure. "Where is Mr. Abernathy?" she said in her Capitol accent.

"Haymitch?" I stated. "I'm not sure." I avoided being alone with Haymitch since I knew we were going to have a long talk. He was mad at me I was certain of that. I knew I broke my promise but…he shouldn't be surprised that I volunteered. How could I not volunteer knowing that Prim was called? I couldn't live with myself if I hadn't knowing that there was something I could do to save her. There was no guarantee that we would both survive but I would die trying.

"That man is going to be the death of me," she said in an exasperated tone. "He's probably off drinking in his compartment." I was about to dispute her assumptions but kept quiet since she didn't know that Haymitch gave up drinking months ago. Or at least he admitted it to me.

"I hope that both of you are enjoying the accommodations," she blurted.

"Thank you Ms. Trinket," Prim returned. "Everything is wonderful."

"Such a sweet and polite child you are," she said as she placed a hand on Prim's cheek. "Both of you are so mild manner and civilized. It's so surprising." Prim and I looked at each other. 'Civilized?' Did she actually thing we were barbarians with no manners?

"Thank Ms, Trinket," I snorted back.

"Peeta, please call me Effie," she muttered in saccharine tone.

"Anyway, as your escort," Effie started. "I'll be informing you of your schedule and how to interact in public as tributes of District 12. You have much to learn so observe your surroundings. We have a lot to cover." She handed out two pieces of paper. "I need you to answer this questionnaire in preparation of your interview with Caesar Flickerman and if you have any requests." My stomach lurched at the mention of his name. The last time I spoke to Caesar was weeks ago after my 'visit' with President Snow. I never thought I'd ever see the man again yet where I was about to fill out a questionnaire for him.

"Does the kitchen have any hot chocolate," I inquired. "I think it will help Prim relax."

"Of course, my dear," she said. "Anything I can provide for my tributes." A few minutes later, two mugs of hot chocolate were served to ease the tension we felt. I knew that Prim would enjoy it.

Prim drank her cup greedily. "This is so good. Can we have some more?" Her eyes twinkled in delight as her fear and anxiety disappeared for a few seconds.

"Not too much," Effie scolded her. "Everything must be experienced in moderation." So I handed her the rest of my chocolate. "Besides, I need you two to fill in these questionnaires."

The questionnaire consisted of our background, family, likes and dislikes. It was invasive asking about our interests and desires. Why did they need to know certain aspects of our lives when we were headed to death in a few weeks? Our lives didn't matter to anyone but our own friends and family. This exercise was useless so I left the form blank while Prim filled the form easily without hesitation.

"Peeta," Effie addressed me as Prim handed her form back to her. "Why have you not completed the questionnaire?"

"I'm going to be dead in a few months," I shrugged my shoulders. "Who cares what my favorite color is? Or what is favorite food and drink?"

"That is not the point?" Effie spit back.

"The questionnaire was created for people to know you better, get sponsors and for your stylist," she explained.

"You're not going to dress me up like a doll to parade around," I fought back. The last time someone dressed me I as fitted in tight clothes that cut off my circulation.

"Peeta." Haymitch announced himself. He looked tired, worn and pissed his mouth formed a thin line as his eyes looked hard. "Don't argue with Effie and answer the questionnaire. It's important that you abide with the rules right now."

"I don't care about the rule." I stared back as I defied him as well.

"Boys, let us not begin with arguing," Effie interjected as she tried to ease the tension in the room.

"Effie, Prim will you leave Peeta and I alone," Haymitch commanded. "I need talk to Peeta for a few minutes." I snorted. Talked? I doubted he wanted to talk.

"Prim, I will escort you to your compartment," Effie announced. "Supper will be served in an hour. So you can rest." Prim looked frightened as Effie held out her hand to her.

"I'll be right here, Prim," I assured her as I stood up and hugged her before she left the room. "I promise I'll be right here if you need me." She nodded and smiled. Effie held Prim's hand and walked out the room. I started before giving Haymitch an opportunity to yell at me.

"Yell all you want," I began. "You know I had to do it. You were confident that Snow wouldn't rig the lottery to get to me but he managed didn't he?"

"You broke your promise to me," he reminded me. "You swore to not volunteer. How could you––"

"Tell me, Haymitch," I said in a calm manner. Haymitch was tense. His anxiety and frustration was apparent in his demeanor. "Did you honestly think that I would stand by and not volunteer to protect Prim, Katniss' only sister when she was reaped today?" He remained quiet for a few seconds. He clenched his hands into fists fighting off his anger and frustration. "Had someone else been called you and I would not be in this train. I would be having a date with Katniss and Prim would be at home with her parents."

"Peeta, Snow wanted you," he stated a fact I already knew. "He knew he couldn't outright call our your name. So he did the one thing he knew to get you to volunteer––"

"He rigged the lottery and chose Prim," I interjected. "He could have named Delly and I would still be here with you in this train with her instead. He knew Haymitch. He knew me. He got me right where he wants me."

Haymitch sighed and sat down his hands cradling his head. "I know, kid. I know." He was resigned just as I was. Somehow I knew I would be on this train today. But he knew I was right because it didn't matter if it was Prim or Delly, I would have volunteered for either of them. "I'm so stupid. I should have seen this coming."

"I know you're mad at me for breaking my promise but I'm glad I did it." I sat down next to him. "I'm okay Haymitch. I was…resigned and accepted this possibility weeks ago. You know that."

"Fuck, kid," he said as he raised head. "That's dame noble or suicidal."

"I'm being realistic, Haymitch," I sighed. Even though I promised Katniss that I would do what I can to survive, the odds for me was slim.

"Peeta, I…we needed you away from the games," Haymitch stated. "You have to realize you're not just a target with Snow, tributes from Districts One and Two are going to go after you." I never considered that…other tributes would come after me. If that was case, it's fine as long as they left Prim alone.

"They better leave Prim alone," I said in heat in my tone. No one was going to touch and get near Prim, ever.

"What have you gotten yourself into? This is a mess. We had plans for you and Katniss," Haymitch ranted to himself. I wondered if he remembered that I was right next to him as his eyes glazed over. The door to the compartment opened and a peacekeeper walked in.

"Mr. Abernathy, you have a private communication waiting for you in your state room," he informed him. Haymitch looked stunned as he waited for the soldier to leave the room.

"Oh, I do? Who can it be?" He looked surprised. "Listen, kid. I'm stumped right now. I don't know what to do."

"There's nothing to do," I said.

"Peeta, don't give up just yet," he said. "I don't have any advise to tell you right now but make sure that Prim is always with you when we reach the Capitol." He didn't make any sense. Of course, I would protect Prim and keep her safe.

"Well, that's a given and expected," I said as I was confused by this advise. Besides, I couldn't forgive myself if anything happened to Prim while she was with me and not because she was the female tribute for District 12. She was also my friend as well. "I will protect her, Haymitch."

"I know that," he returned. "I got to take this call from whomever it is. I'll see you at supper." He stood up. Just as he was about to leave I called out to him.

"Haymitch?"

He turned around and faced me. "Thanks for not yelling at me."

"I'm still royally pissed at you for breaking your promise," he said with a smirk on his haggard face. "But I do understand why you did it." He winked as he left the compartment.

An hour later, we were served with the best food that the Capitol had to offer. Roast chicken and plump juicy vegetables on the side, fresh dinner rolls, tender steak with mashed potatoes and gravy. It was a feast to feed an army. Prim's eyes were wider than her stomach as she piled food on her plate. I knew what the Capitol was doing ––fattening the calf to be slaughtered. I didn't voice my opinion as not to frighten Prim more than she already was.

Just like dinner, dessert was plentiful as well. Prim couldn't decide what she wanted. "Prim, eat what you can," I told her. "There will be plenty of dessert to chose from once we reach the Capitol."

"Yeah, but," she started. "I don't how much time I have left once we enter the arena. I want to sample everything I can." She said that so calmly as she if she was not expecting to survive the games. It bothered me.

"Well, it's enough for the day," Effie commented when dinner was over. "Please get some sleep. Especially you, young man." She gestured to me. "We need to get rid of those bags under your eyes once you meet your stylists. They will be horrified at your condition."

"As for you, little lady." She pinched Prim's rosy cheeks. "You are perfection, but you still need more meat on your bones and sleep is critical."

"I'm not sleepy yet. Can Peeta and I just hang out?" Prim asked.

"Sure, just don't stay up too late," she recommended. I turned to Haymitch. He had been quiet all during dinner. He looked as though he had something in his mind. I tried to ask him but he just said that everything was fine. However, he did turn to me before I headed towards my compartment.

"Stay in your room tonight," he advised. "Don't wander off." I frowned. 'Where would I wonder off in a train?' I was about to ask. "And remember what I said, make sure Prim is close by."

In my compartment I lay on my bed. Wind and condensation pelted my window. I felt claustrophobic, as I couldn't open the compartment windows for air. I missed my home, my family––Dad, Rye, Delly and Tyler. I hoped that Tyler was well and adjusting to his new home with Rye and Delly. I missed Katniss so much that my heart ached from loneliness and despair. I was never going to see her ever again and I had to get used to it if I was going to help Prim go home to her.

A soft knock disrupted my melancholy. "Peeta," Prim's voice filtered from behind the door. I rose from my bed and opened my door.

"Prim, what's wrong?" I asked as I noticed her attire. She wasn't dressed for bed but changed into a pair of pants and shirt covered by a light jacket. An attire I wasn't accustomed to her wearing since she mainly wore dresses.

"I couldn't sleep," she admitted. "Is it okay if we talked for a while?" I detected her nervousness and unease. She wasn't used to sleeping in a train. I wasn't as well but hadn't gotten used to sleeping on foreign bed when I visited the Capitol.

"Let me get a jacket and go to the dining compartment," I suggested. The last compartment was engine room. Next to it was the dining area.

Unfortunately, the compartment was closed so I led her to another part of the train. The room was small but spacious enough to have seats facing each other.

"What is this room?" Prim asked as she seated herself across me. The compartment was not lavishly designed as our rooms. The seat cushions were hard and worn.

"This room used for other travelers who can't afford the luxury compartments," I explained. Though this was a tribute train other district citizens still traveled with us as they were dropped off their destination. However, I noticed that these rooms were empty and we didn't pick up other travelers.

"How are you holding up?" I inquired once I noticed that Prim settled in. I guessed that she was lonely and scared being in a place she was unfamiliar with.

She shrugged her shoulders. "Fine, I guess. I miss my family." I nodded in agreement as I missed mine as well. "You miss Katniss?" I sighed as my answer.

"I'm sorry if I'm keeping you up," she apologized. "I'm not used to being away from home."

"You don't need to explain Prim," I said as I tried to comfort her. "I was homesick when I visited the Capitol a few weeks ago. I'm glad that you feel comfortable with me."

"You're my friend and Katniss' boyfriend," she smiled. "We're almost family." 'Almost family.' How I wished I had the chance to make Katniss apart of my family. There was no point wishing on that fantasy.

We both fell onto silence as words failed us. Half an hour later, Prim fell asleep. I was about to pick her up and take her to her compartment when the train rocked jarring Prim awake. "Peeta, what's going on?" she asked as a loud explosion was heard.

"I don't know just stay here and don't move, okay?" I ordered her.

"Peeta," she cried out. Prim was scared. I needed to check out the noise but I could tell she didn't want to be left alone. Just as I was about to leave the compartment six peacekeepers passed us and headed towards the back of the train entering the sleeping compartments.

"Prim, I'm just going to look and I'll come back for you. I promise," I swore. She nodded her head. "Don't leave until I get back." I left the compartment. I heard gunfire and more explosions. It rocked the train a few seconds that I fell to my knees from the disturbance.

Screams, explosions and gunfire echoed in the air. Men in black attire fired their guns at the peacekeepers. I couldn't tell how many there were as I realized they were rebels. One by one the peacekeepers soldiers fell. A couple of rebel soldier were injured as others died from the gunfight. I ran passed them while the rebels tended to their injured companion after their battle. I needed to find Haymitch and get back to Prim who was probably scared to death.

I navigated my way into the living area. Haymitch stood next to a soldier in black gear from head to toe.

"Haymitch," I called out to him. He quickly turned to me. "What's––"

"Peeta!" he screamed. "Get Prim and––"

"The escort train is here," another soldier entered the room and yelled. "Get out now. Go." I heard a familiar scream. It was Prim.

"Peeta, what's happening," she shouted.

"Take her," Peeta yelled. "Get her off the train."

"You need to come with us," the man who stood next to Haymitch ordered. "We're here for both of you."

"I can't," I screamed as I looked at Haymitch. "Haymitch––"

"Peeta, get off this fucking train," he returned his eyes hard filled with anger.

"Haymitch," I screamed. I turned to see two rebels grab Prim as gunfire commenced.

"Peeta, no," Prim yelled above the gunfire. "Let me go. Peeta, Peeta." She struggled to free herself.

"Go Prim. Go with them," I hollered at her. "Don't argue. Just go. Someone take her."

"Peeta, Peeta," Prim screamed louder.

"You'll be okay Prim," I screamed back. "Just go already." She was gone as the men dragged her away but I could still hear her screaming.

"Peeta, no," Prim's voice echoed in the air.

"God damnit, Peeta," Haymitch yelled thunderous and menacing. "Why didn't you go with them? They risked their lives for you." He turned to the last rebel. "Take him. Go now before reinforcements arrive." The man in black grabbed my arm but I resisted him and stepped back.

"Fuck, Haymitch," I screamed back. "Did you fucking forget?" I pointed to my upper arm. "It's still in there." Haymitch's eyes grew round as the information sunk in his head. "I still have the tracker in my arm."

He turned to the soldier. "He's right. He can't leave. He would give your position away."

"Shit, what am I going to tell Jay," he returned.

"Just go. Now," Haymitch ordered. "While you still can." The last rebel ran out the compartment. I looked out the window and noticed that the train was slowing down.

"What's happening, Haymitch?" I asked.

"They detached the last compartment. We're being left behind," he explained. I looked out the window to see the front engine and the rest of the train disappear ahead of us. I sighed in relief. Prim was rescued. She wasn't going to the Capitol and trained for the arena. She was safe. The rebels had rescued Prim. Katniss was getting her sister back.

Just as our compartment stopped, a hovercraft passed from above us. A sickening feeling bubbled in my stomach. It was going after Prim's train. A minute later, far into the horizon just enough for me to see the hovercraft fired its' guns. I couldn't hear anything but I saw an explosion burst at the horizon. The craft turned around and fired again and again.

"Haymitch?" I said his name but couldn't voice another word. I didn't want to admit or voice what I witnessed because saying anything out loud made it true.

"They shot at the train," he guessed as smoke and fire appeared. "Oh fuck. They attacked the train."

"No," I said denial on my lips.

"What else could they be firing at, Peeta?" Haymitch stated. I couldn't face the truth.

I felt numb. I didn't know if Prim was safe or had perished when the hovercraft fired at the train. My legs buckled as I fell on my knees. I promised Mr. Everdeen and Katniss what I would protect Prim. Both Haymitch and I were too stunned to react as reality settled in. A few minutes later, a hovercraft arrived and we heard voices outside the compartment.

Four peacekeepers entered and aimed their rifles towards us. "Raise your hands and get on our knees, now," he barked. I didn't care anymore if the shot me dead at that moment. So I stood up and walked towards my captors. Prim was gone and I was headed towards the Capitol to train for the games.

"Peeta, what the hell are you doing?" Haymitch screamed.

"Don't get any closer or I'll shoot," the peacekeeper ordered as he aimed his rifle at my chest.

"God damnit Peeta do as he asked," he begged. "What the fuck are doing?"

"I…" I was speechless and tongue-tied. The only thing I knew was that Prim was gone. I had let her down and she was dead.

Just as I turned to face him I was struck on the back of my head. I don't remember landing on the ground or falling. All I remembered was Haymitch's face as he hovered over me. "Prim, I'm sorry," i said as I closed my eyes and felt at peace for a few minutes before the world tuned black.

---

AN: Thank you for reading his chapter and for your patience and understanding. I was going to leave Haymitch's POV but decided to post it on the next chapter. Sorry? Have a great rest of the week.