Chapter 39 – Rebels and Volunteers

AN: My apologies for not updating for close to three weeks. Real life and work has kept me busy. Hopefully, now that all my major projects are completed, I will be able to update weekly. Can't make that promise but I will try. Thank you to my faithful readers and reviewers. All comments are greatly appreciated. You don't know howmuch they mean to me. Everyone who has ever reviewed Destiny has given me inspiration to continue writing this story. I read them ever so often when I felt uninspired. Thank you.

A special thanks to Shellibug, pistonsfan75, pumpkinking5, Nai1987, Mspriss523, LACR, DramionEverlarkPeetatoLover27, Cassie Sharpie, mar071, J, and guests. I appreciate for taking the time to write a review. I always look forward to reading all your comments. You guys are awesome.

This chapter contains Jimmy, Effie, Peeta and Katniss POVs and continues to be rated M. Disclaimer: The Hunger Games and main characters belongs to Suzanne Collins.

Jimmy POV ––

'Two more days,' a voice repeated in my head.

"What did you say, Dad?" Delly addressed me. She looked tired and worn but she insisted on working straight after school. Today she had the worse case of morning sickness. Her face was drawn and pale. I adored her more as I couldn't ask for a better daughter-in-law and she was also carrying Rye's baby, my second grandchild. She knew I needed help and here she was sick but working at the bakery. Tyler was upstairs with Mrs. Cartwright, Delly's mother. Since losing Peeta I was short handed as my other worker found work in District 8.

"Nothing, Delly," I said. She looked back at me with a concerned look on her face.

"It's two more days until the games and school is out for the year," I explained. It was mandated that once the games began everyone was required to watch and school was closed until the fall. "I didn't expect…" I stopped as words failed me. How does one explained the loss of one son through death and the other to be reaped. The odds were insurmountable but it happened.

"I understand, Dad. I understand," Delly returned.

I was tense, anxious and scared. Two more days and the games were commencing. I recalled my last conversation with Jay, not Garrett but the leader of the rebellion, the persona who had come to my house one night to discuss his plans to rescue Peeta and Katniss.

Flashback –– two days prior

My eyes strained from looking at Jay's plans. It was long and detailed. Rye sat beside me reading the file as well. I didn't want him involved but I didn't have much choice since I followed him that one night. He was involved whether I like it or approved his decision. I couldn't deny him his right to fight and protect his family. I had done the same keeping my involvement a secret all these years. Not even Evelyn knew.

Jay told us to read and memorize the plan because once we were done he was deleting the file. There so much that could go wrong, but it was our only option. The option that could save or end Peeta and Katniss' life if anything gone wrong. There was so much at stake, involving people I didn't know who would risk their lives to rescue them. Brave men and women, young and old willing to risk their lives to save my son. The MockingJay commanded his soldiers obeyed no questions asked.

"Does Haymitch know all this?" I asked. "Does he know what you're planning?"

"He will," Jay returned. We were sitting in my bakery after hours, playing a game of cards just the three of us with Lily upstairs keeping Delly and Tyler company. It didn't look suspicious since it just looked like were commiserating and sharing our pain of having Katniss and Peeta at the Capitol. Besides, it was also true as well. There was a bond and kinship between the Mellarks and Everdeens, a friendship once forged by the love of one woman. Now it was cemented by Peeta and Katniss.

"I want to go help rescue Peeta," Rye stated out of the blue. I closed my eyes. For days Rye had been quiet and somber. His usual exuberant and happy-go-lucky personality was…gone. I knew once he saw the plans he wanted to help Peeta and Katniss. To volunteer and rescue them.

"Rye," I sighed and opened my eyes. "I need you here with me and Delly. Think of your unborn child. Peeta––"

"I couldn't volunteer, Dad," Rye screamed in frustration. His breath was erratic, his face etched with pain. "And even if I could…Delly. She's pregnant." He wasn't making any sense. His screamed alerted Lily and Delly as they ran down the stairs.

"Rye, Dad, what's going on," Delly asked as she held Tyler in her arms.

"Jimmy?" Lily inquired. I stepped forward preventing Delly from approaching Rye. My second son had a temper, unlike Peeta. Rye needed to rant, his frustrations and anger. His need to help his baby brother was important to him, but he also needed to realize that his priority was now with Delly and their unborn child. I'm proud and pleased that he wanted to help but his own family must come first. Peeta would have told him and wanted it that way. To not sacrifice his life for him.

"I didn't protect Peeta, Dad," Rye sobbed. His words stunned me as his anger turned to anguish.

"What?"

"I'm his older brother," he panted, tension on his shoulders and his posture rigid. He was scared as well. "I should have protected him. All the shit that happened to him, shouldn't have happened. Where was I? I should have been there with him to protect him." His shoulders slumped.

"Rye?" I said. "There was nothing you could have done."

"He's my baby brother. Graham is gone and Peeta…I can't lose him. I should have stopped him, done something to help him. He's been hurt, drugged, whipped. And I…I did nothing but watch it all happen."

"Listen, Rye," I said, calm and with a firm tone. "Peeta knew what he was doing. The moment he helped Katniss, that night changed his life." I turned my eyes to Jay for a second. "For bad and for good. He wouldn't, he doesn't regret it. Even with all the shit that happened to him. It got him what he always dreamed and wanted, he got Katniss."

"I know but why all that? To go through and experience all the trauma and pain. Why did all that happened to him?" Rye sighed. "I mean there are easier ways to a court a girl, Dad."

"That's Peeta, Rye. He never did things the easy way."

"Or fall for a girl as stubborn as him," Lily added, tears brimmed her eyes. "I know a lot happened to Peeta, things that no young man should experience, but I'm glad it was him that saved Katniss that night. She would have…if Peeta have never gotten to her in time before Ivan…"

"Lily, all that doesn't matter now," Jay interjected. "We need to focus on now, and any hope or future we have. I am grateful for Peeta as well but––"

"Now, Peeta's in the Capitol as a tribute with Katniss. I want my brother to come home, but knowing Peeta, he won't." I nodded my head. "He'll sacrifice his life for hers. How did all this happen?"

"Things happen for a reason," I added. "I'm his Dad, and I…haven't done a great job of protecting him…from his own…" I stopped myself. I couldn't continue to punish myself for past hurt or transgressions. My focus was now and the present like Jay said. Even his own mother hadn't bothered to ask about him. I didn't know what she was doing or how she lived, but she should at least have inquired about Rye and Peeta, her only children. We had kept Delly's pregnancy a secret in the mean time. I didn't' need or want the stress or the aggravation from her interference and lack of compassion.

"This plan has to work. It will work," I amended. "Peeta and Katniss will be rescued. We just have to have faith and trust in Jay's plans."

"Rye, just to assure you," Jay started. "I will be there to make sure everything goes according to plan. Peeta and Katniss will come home. I swear it on my life."

I gasped in surprise. How could Garrett manage…leaving District 12 with Darius not knowing? But that was his problem to solve, it was not my concern. All I wanted was Peeta to come home alive and well.

"Once they are rescued," Jay continued. "They will need to go into hiding indefinitely like Prim." I should have known that was the consequence. Peeta and Katniss couldn't come back to 12. They would be labeled as fugitives and become targets from both Snow and District 13.

Jay had informed me that he was planning and executing the rescue mission without 13's help. Coin demanded that Jay not rescue Peeta and Katniss. She didn't feel that they were assets to the cause not realizing that Katniss was the MockingJay's daughter. I had thought she would jump at the opportunity to use Peeta for her own agenda.

Jay's response and reason for the rescue was, "The murder of children has to stop. Coin said that if I rescue Mellark and Everdeen, then I must rescue all the others. The logistics of rescuing all of them was suicidal. But I can at least rescue Mellark and his girlfriend. They are an asset. People in Panem look up to the Star-Crossed Lovers of District 12. They are an inspiration. They represent hope. I need them by my side to rally the citizens of Panem to our cause." Coin disagreed. Too much trouble. She wasn't certain that Peeta and Katniss would participate or volunteer.

She didn't like the fact that Jay was a better influence. Once thing Coin hated was not being in control. In other words, she couldn't control Peeta and Katniss to do her bidding. Like she couldn't control MockingJay. It was her way or not way at all. She sounded too much like Snow for my taste.

Coin pretty much said that Jay was on his own. Which was fine with him and me. Jay had spies and allies in the Capitol. He didn't name or reveal their identities which at the moment I didn't care. As I said, all I wanted was Peeta to be rescued before he and Katniss entered the arena. His plan had to work.

End of Flashback ––

"Where is Rye?" I asked. I almost made the deliveries myself, not wanting Rye to be out of my sight, but he was a young man who can take care of himself. My fear of losing him outweighed and overshadowed logic and reason. I was afraid that he would walk out the door and never come home. Losing Graham and Peeta made me paranoid.

"He's making a delivery, remember?" Delly reminded me. I tried to stay busy and keep my mind off of Peeta but nothing worked. Now, with Rye determined to join the rebellion, I was beyond scared, anxious and angry. Mad at myself for not preparing my boys for the war we were about to escalate. If…when not if, Peeta and Katniss were rescued there would be retribution. It was inevitable that Snow would retaliate. District 12 would suffer, we had to be prepared for it.

Ten minutes later, I sighed in relief as Rye walked through the door. Delly gasped in surprise. "Rye, what took you so long?" I asked, trepidation and fear in my tone of voice as I left the kitchen and walked to the storefront.

"Rye, what happened?" she shrieked, a look of horror and fear in her face. I turned to find him sporting a busted lip as blood trickled down his shirt.

"Arlo Thirby happened," he explained as his tongue traced his upper lip.

"Arlo?" I repeated his name. "Isn't Arlo one of your classmates?" Delly appeared with a wet cloth. She gently placed it on top of the cut soaking blood as it oozed from his lip. Rye winced upon contact. "He's in your grade. A friend of yours?" Arlo was actually a bully, not known for his brains.

"He was never a friend to me or Peeta," Rye spat back.

"What happened Rye?" I was losing patience. And my fear and nerves were raw and open.

"I was coming back after my delivery," Rye began. "Minding my own business when Arlo got on my face."

"About?"

"Peeta," Rye continued. "I ignored him even when he was talking shit about Peeta." Arlos was jealous of my boys. They could have any girl they wanted. They were smart, charming and handsome. Arlo hated Peeta because of Agatha Berridge, the one girl that Evelyn was determined to contract Peeta as his wife. And, to make matters worse, it was a well-known fact that Arlo's parents were hoping to contract Agatha for him, but she was interested in my youngest since both Graham and Rye were already taken.

"But?"

"He wouldn't leave me alone even when I walked passed him," he explained further. "I was fine until he started saying shit…" He paused. "Arlo was saying that Peeta was too weak and had no experience against the tributes from Districts 1 and 2." His breath became erratic as tears brimmed his eyes. He wiped them with the back of his hand.

"Arlo kept pushing that Peeta wouldn't make it in the arena," he sobbed quietly. "He said that Peeta should just kill himself…" Delly wrapped an arm around his waist. For the first time in weeks, I noticed that his clothes hung loosely around his waist and shoulders. Rye had lost weight and I hadn't noticed. I was so focused on Peeta that I practically ignored my second eldest son.

"I walked away but he came after me, pushing me so I pushed back." I was impressed. Arlo was 6' 4" and weighed like a horse. He had big hulking arms and shoulders all due to his work packing and lifting packages and luggage at the train station. Arlo's work required manual labor lifting heavy objects.

"I couldn't stand it anymore so I tackled him to the ground. Making sure that he didn't get up until he stopped talking about Peeta." I was impressed and proud of Rye. "I finally stopped him from trash talking about Peeta so I let him go but Arlo sucker punched me so I…"

"What, Rye?"

"I broke his nose," he stated. "He's never going to talk shit about Peeta ever again. I made sure," he spat back. "I told him I'll break his arm the next time––"

"Rye," I sighed. Violence was never the solution to a confrontation, but Arlo did instigate the situation. "Go upstairs and change your clothes. His attire was a mess, his shirt was smeared with dirt, blood and grime from wrestling Arlo to the ground. I tried to hide the smile on my face as Delly walked Rye upstairs. I was upset and proud of him for defending his brother.

The hours and days flitted by. I'm anxious and scared. Every day after I closed the shop I entered Peeta's room and lay on his bed. My heart is sore from sadness, grief and despair.

Word spread that Garrett Everdeen tripped and fell from helping a neighbor fix his roof but in truth he needed an excuse to be kept at home for a duration when he wouldn't be disturbed while he was 'convalescing.' In the meantime, MockingJay was on the move with his men to rescue Peeta and Katniss.

So here I am waiting, churning in my own impatience and desire to join him in the mission. But I couldn't. I was the baker of District 12, people knew me. Had I disappeared people would had noticed. Even Rye couldn't help as he was my son, who was a visible presence in the bakery. He couldn't disappear and his absence unnoticed.

I turned off the lights and closed the shop. Tomorrow was first day of the Hunger Games. Two days previous Peeta participated in the interviews. My eyes glued to the monitor as I watched him speak to Mr. Flickerman. He looked calm and different, I couldn't put a finger as to his change, the way he spoke and carried himself during the interviews impressed me. He was witty, charming and pleasant. The Capitol loved him, the citizens loved them both. Though Katniss struggled in her interview she managed herself well enough that she complimented Peeta's calm nature and demeanor as she was aloof, defiant and strong. Whoever dressed them knew them––their personalities and character. They fitted like two pieces of a puzzle, interlocked by their strength and love for each other. It showed in their eyes and how they interacted with each other.

"Dad?" Delly's voice interrupted my train of thought.

"Delly, sweetheart what's wrong?" I asked. She looked pale but with her complexion there was a strained look on her face. There was also something else, fear. She looked scared.

"I can't find Rye." Her words paralyzed me.

"What do you mean you can't find Rye?" I started to panic, my breath uneven and harsh. 'No, no, no. no.'

"He said he needed air so he went out for a walk," Delly sniffled. "I wanted to go with him but he didn't want me to so he left by himself.

"How long has he been gone?"

"About an hour," she replied. Rye wouldn't leave, he was just taking a walk I tried to tell myself. "But you should know something else.

"What Delly?" She started to cry, big fat tears ran down her cheeks.

"You know the bags he prepared for us…the ones we need just incase?" I nodded my head.

"They're missing," she cried out in anguish. I ran up to her as she was about to fall to her knees. "I understand why he left, Dad. I do. We've been talking for days how he wanted to help Peeta. I didn't want him to go but I couldn't stop him even if I wanted to." I understood as well, but it didn't make me less angry for sneaking off without saying good bye to me let alone his wife who he had just married weeks prior. Did he forget that he was soon to become a father as well?

But Rye knew me. I would have tried to stop him. It was selfish of him to leave Delly, his wife and mother of his first-born. He lost Graham and he needed to help rescue Peeta. I would have done the exact thing if I were in his shoes.

"He'll come back, Delly," I promised my daughter-in-law. "He'll bring Peeta back home to us." I closed my eyes and held on tight to the only family I had left, Delly and Tyler. All my sons were gone, how I could go on without them? I pray that I would never find out.

Effie Trinket POV ––

"Oh, Cinna," I gushed. "There are no words to describe the clothes you created for Katniss and Peeta." I stared at the attire my tributes were to wear for the Tribute Dinner and for their interviews. To say I was impressed was understatement. "They are...masterpieces." Peeta's suit matched Katniss' dress by material and color. It had exceeded any expectation I had when I first collaborated with Cinna. I had been admiring the clothing when something caught my attention.

"Cinna, what is this?" I said as my finger outlined a pin shaped like a bird. "I've never seen this before. Is this something new?" It looked familiar.

He snorted and smiled at me. "It belongs to Katniss. A classmate gave it to her before she boarded the train as a good luck charm."

"I don't know. It looks too rustic and provincial against your design," I commented. "It doesn't really belong with the outfit." Katniss' dress was blue with a shade of dark blue silk screened of the pin––a bird with an arrow between it's beak. I didn't realize it until I looked closer to the dress. Meanwhile, Peeta's suit was also blue but darker than Katniss' dress. His pristine white shirt was designed to be worn without a tie with wing tips at the edge of the collar. Together they would look majestic and sophisticated––two qualities that didn't come to mind to be worn by two tributes from District 12, one of the poorest districts in Panem.

The pin bothered me. I didn't know why. Actually I knew why but I chose not to ignore it. I heard rumors of a man named after a bird rebelling against the Capitol. "Cinna, do you really think it's a good idea for Katniss to…be wearing that pin on her dress?"

"Why not?" Cinna asked.

"I'm not dumb or blind, Cinna," I informed him. "Don't think I know what you…" I stopped and pulled him away from Portia and their other assistants. "Cinna, you are playing with fire."

"I don't know what you are talking about?" he continued to play dumb. I have known Cinna for most of his professional life. I had admired his work as a designer. Working with him was the highlight of my career. I didn't want him to waste his talent and genius for a hopeless cause. There were whisper of riots and small insurgents in the districts.

"Cinna, please," I begged. He turned his head.

"Portia, dear," he addressed his team. "I need a few minutes to speak to Effie alone." Once we were alone he turned to me, his eyes betraying no emotion. "What is it you think I'm doing, Trinket?"

His use of my formal name stunned me. Cinna never uttered it unless we were in business talks in front of the public or he was annoyed with me. I guessed the latter. "Cinna," I sighed in frustration and trepidation. I love Cinna, he was a man of great integrity. It took a lot to anger him but his dismissive and nonchalant manner annoyed me. He was disarmingly charming, poised under pressure and projected calm wherever he went or talked to. He was my friend but still a mystery to me.

"What is it about the pin that bothers you so," he asked.

"I'm not completely blind or deaf to the situation or whispers about…" I stopped and chose my words carefully. It was treason to go or talk against President Snow. "…the events happening in the districts. No matter how Mr. Flickerman and his media try to not broadcast video of the riots and attacks at the main production facilities. Capitolites like myself do know that there is upheaval and discontent in the districts."

At some events I attended there were 'discussions' of the rumors and floating around––that a man dressed in black was a leading a small army of rebels attacking production facilities in each district and confiscating materials and supplies reserved for the Capitol. Since then security doubled in each district's main production facility. Little did I realize that Snow was doing the opposite for District 12.

"Oh, Effie," Cinna sighed in amusement. "Why don't you just speak plainly and say what you mean? The districts are rebelling against the Capitol. There is a revolution against Snow and the Capitol. We, Capitolites are headed to war against a rebellion that has existed for a long time. Discontent is not the word I would use how the citizens of Panem feels about their life and living conditions. They are angry and unhappy with Snow. They want to usurp him or want him dead. And I don't blame them."

"Cinna," I shrieked. "Don't talk like that. If word gets out that you're talking––"

"And that is all I am doing, Effie," he stated in a nonchalant manner. "I'm just talking about the rumors of the 'events' happening in the districts. You cannot be that ignorant or naïve that the people of Panem are miserable and unhappy with Snow's regime."

"It is not our concern or place to be involved, Cinna," I said. "You are committing treason and loyalty to the rebellion––"

"I don't know what you are talking about. We are only talking. Having a conversation––"

"Cinna, please. The pin on Katniss' dress," I started. "I know that that is the symbol for the Mockingbird––"

"MockingJay."

"What?"

"The pin is a MockingJay, not a bird," he corrected me with an amused look on his face. "I'm surprised you are even aware of his existence."

"Whatever, bird or jay," I huffed in annoyance. "You know the penalty for cavorting with––"

"I'm quite aware of the penalty for cavorting with criminal and enemies of the Capitol, Effie." He waved his hand in dismissal. "We need to stop this conversation. You are my friend as well as my associate, but there are parts of my life that does not concern you."

"You are endangering yourself and throwing away your future."

"A future that is mine to throw away," he retorted. "It is best for our friendship and working relationship that we end this conversation." But I wasn't having it. Cinna was important to me not just a business associate because it was true that he is my friend. So I pressed further to get to my point.

"You are one of…or better yet, the best stylist and designer that the Capitol has ever had. Why would your throw away your future and align yourself to a lost cause? There is no future with them." I didn't understand him.

"You know nothing of my background, Effie," he began. "I may have lucrative and bright future in the Capitol, yet you do not know my humble beginnings, my family history and where or how my life began."

"Cinna?"

"I have no love or loyalty to the Capitol or President Snow. If you feel unsafe or feel that you should not work with my anymore then it is best that after this arrangement that we do not work together anymore."

"Do…does Portia and the others know about...?" I hesitated to complete my sentence.

"I would not endanger anyone working with me. I would have worked alongside you but you kept you in the dark. This…" He paused. "…is my life, Effie. Just as you do your work for the Capitol I shall do mine. My only question to you is what are you going to do now that you know?" I blinked a few times as Cinna waited for a response. Did you think was going to turn him in? That I would betray him?

"I know you have a lot of ties to the Capitol," he started. I shook my head.

"I don't, Cinna. Just like you, you don't know my history as well," I returned. "I work for the games and my family has made a fortune working with Snow but that does not mean my loyalty lies with the Capitol. My work is just a means to an end. This is all I know." I had cut ties with my family business. I didn't want anything to do with them but being a Reaping Escort was all I knew.

"Then you must make a choice, Effie," Cinna said. "War is coming. I don't know if the rebellion will succeed but if it does, your work as an escort will be over. All these years of escorting children to their death has not endeared you to anyone in the districts. You will be escorting Peeta and Katniss to their death. They are loved and adored in Panem. You love them."

I closed my eyes. For years I ignored the pain in my heart of what my job entailed. It was true that I sent children to their deaths year after year, but ignorance and denial was easier to swallow.

However, after getting to know Peeta and Katniss, I knew they were different. They had crept into my heart. I saw them for who they were––two kids ready to die for each other. I could see it their eyes. It took one conversation with Katniss to make me realize that I couldn't keep my heart harden any longer because I had grown to love them.

Flashback ––

Days prior to Tribute Dinner

"Effie?" Katniss' soft voice startled me. "Can I speak to you for a few minutes?" I was stunned by her soft and shy behavior. The Katniss I knew was not standing before me but a glimpse of a shy and vulnerable girl that I never knew existed. This was Peeta's Katniss––the one Haymitch and Peeta were only privy to. Usually she was abrasive and unaccommodating to any suggestions I had. She fought with me about her behavior and un-lady like language.

"Sure, darling?"

"Can we go to my room to talk?" she suggested. I had finally had given up trying to separate Katniss and Peeta from sleeping together. Haymitch was right, who was I deny them the time they had left to be together. I could feel and sense the tension and anxiety between them. It was heartbreaking.

"What do you want to discuss?" I led her to her bedroom. Both Peeta and Haymitch were watching previous Hunger Games after returning from the training facility. I realized Katniss excused herself in a ruse to talk to me.

"Well, I know that Haymitch told you that I'm trying…I wanted to make dinner for me and––"

"Peeta and me," I corrected her. She scowled back. I didn't mean to anger her but…

"For Peeta and me," she repeated in spite. Then her demeanor changed. "Sorry, I just…I'm trying to be romantic which I'm not good at. Back home, Peeta and I had to sneak around to be together so we didn't really had any chance to date properly." She sighed and bit her lower lip.

"What is it you need?" I surmised. It was obvious she needed help.

"I was wondering…um…if you could help find a…" Her voice became soft and low that I didn't hear the end of her sentence.

"Speak up, Katniss," I said in a firm voice.

"I've already set up our dinner plans but I was wondering if you could help me find a dress for me and something appropriate for Peeta on our first dinner date." She said the words so fast I almost didn't catch it. "I've never done this before and I want it to be perfect and special for Peeta." Aw, how sweet.

"Why, Katniss. I would be honored to find you a dress for your date with Peeta," I gushed in excitement. "Do you want me to get you some lingerie as well?" Katniss' eyes grew wide and round like saucers and her cheeks tinged a slight pink hue.

"I don't want to…that's not necessary," she stuttered.

"My dear girl, you're planning a romantic dinner with your boyfriend. It's obvious––"

"Stop," she blustered. "I just want a dress. I don't want to talk about…" She avoided my gaze as she turned her head.

"Katniss, there is nothing wrong with my suggestion. Don't be embarrassed that I made a suggestion or conclusion of how your night with Peeta will end. Isn't that the point of why Haymitch and I will not be sleeping here tomorrow night?"

Katniss blushed some more. "I'm…we've…"

"Katniss?"

"Peeta and I have never…" They have never? It never dawned on me that she were still…pure. That Peeta and Katniss had never had sex.

"You mean to tell me that you have not slept with Peeta yet?" She nodded her head. Why or how that has not happened was a mystery to me. "What do you and Peeta…I mean you have insisted in sleeping together I had assumed that you were doing more than sleeping."

"Well, we haven't," Katniss uttered with anger and embarrassment. "And it wasn't any of your business." I nodded in agreement. Here I thought they were having sex when all that time they were literally just sleeping together. "I don't have to explain anything to you. Just because, because we're not having sex doesn't make me love him less. He's always been a gentleman, never pushing for more than makes me uncomfortable. And I love him more for it. So don't, don't––"

I raised both my hands in surrender. "Katniss, I'm not making fun of you or trying to embarrass you. I just assumed…I'm sorry that I did assume that you were sexually active with Peeta when actually you weren't. It's just Peeta is so handsome and passionate. If I were you, I don't know how long I could have kept my hands to myself. I mean, he's gorgeous and dear Lord one cannot help but admire his arms, chest and––"

She sent me a glare and hard look. "Don't even look at me that way. You know I speak the truth. Do you have any idea how many women have requested…"

"Requested what, Effie?" she growled.

"Well, both you and Peeta and well sought after," I added. "It should come to no surprised how much people want Peeta and––"

"No one is touching Peeta," Katniss seethed in anger. "He's mine."

"Yes, Katniss," I agreed. "He is yours as you are his. There is no question of your love for each other but that doesn't necessarily mean that others won't admire or fantasize about you and Peeta. Under the circumstances why both of you can make a fortune with your love story. The fact that you both are still––"

"Ew…" she reacted in disgust. "That's just not right. All I want was to have a date night with my boyfriend before we…I want all my moments I have left with him to last a lifetime. My sex life with Peeta is no ones' business." She was angry and close to tears. "I don't want to talk about this anymore."

"I'm sorry, Katniss," I said. "I don't meant to be disrespectful of your relationship with Peeta when I suggested the lingerie. I thought it was a foregone conclusion of how your date night would end." I detected embarrassment but something else with Katniss' behavior. "Do you want to talk about it? I mean, it will be your first time with the boy you love. It should be special." Katniss her eyes turned. "You know you can talk to me. I won't make fun of you."

"I don't need help," she muttered under her breath.

"Katniss." I took her hands hoping she wouldn't fight me. "You're first time with Peeta will and should be special. I know he will be gentle with you. He will take care of you for I suspect that he is kind of young man. I'm sure his other girlfriends––"

"I'm his first too," she blurted anger written in her eyes then it widen in shock at revealing Peeta's virginity as well. "Shit!"

"Peeta is also…why that is so––"

"Yes, stop making a big deal out of it. He hasn't had sex with anyone either."

"I don't understand how a boy like him can still be––"

"Stop talking like that like he's…. He is and there in nothing wrong with that," she sneered.

"Of course, there is nothing wrong. I'm just saying with a handsome and virile lad like Peeta I'm just surprised that's all."

"He…Peeta had a crush on my since we were in school. He waited for me even though…even though there wasn't any chance for us to be together," she explained. She continued to describe the social divide in District 12. The Merchants versus Seam. The privileged versus the poor. How Peeta didn't see her olive skin, dark hair and gray eyes as a difference to his own physical attributes––pale complexion, blond hair and blue eyes. As a matter of fact, he loved her even more because of it.

"He only wanted me and…I never wanted anyone but Peeta." I swooned. They were The Star Crossed Lovers of District 12. They were the love story that the Capitol adored and admired. I fell in love with them––my tributes. That had never happened before.

End of Flashback ––

"So think about it, Effie," Cinna disrupted my thoughts. "In two days time, you will be escorting Peeta and Katniss to the arena, to fight for their lives. For what? And for whom? They are two young kids in love and they know that they will die in there. Is this what you want to continue? To send children to their death for entertainment."

Before I could answer four Peacekeepers appeared at Cinna's shop. Their presence startled and shocked me. And as usual Cinna was a cordial to his 'guests' even though I sensed defiance and irritation in his demeanor. "Gentlemen," he addressed them. I tried not to snicker. His tone was filled with sarcasm. "And what brings you to my humble establishment?"

"Are you Cinna?" one tall and lean Peacekeeper spoke with a gruff voice. Cinna in return merely nodded his head. "We are here for you. We are also looking for Ms. Effie Trinket as well." I gasped in shock.

"I'm Effie Trinket," I announced myself. Fear bubbled in my stomach. Why were they looking for me? Without another word the tall Peacekeeper handed me a pristine white envelope with a melted wax emblem of a white rose as a seal. I gasped in shock and anticipation. It was President Snow's signature envelope. To receive an invitation was one of great honor, but after learning of Cinna's involvement, I was afraid of it––to know its' content. He had one for Cinna and Haymitch had one with his name on it as well.

I stood staring at the envelope not realizing how much time had passed. I lifted my head to see Cinna reading his invitation. "What does it say?" I asked my voice shook from nervousness.

"Open yours up and read it yourself," Cinna returned. I tore at the envelope carefully and slowly. One thing we learned from his invitations, if you opened one of Snow's famous envelopes, if not careful you received one of the most painful and deepest paper cuts. Its' edges were sharp. As an RSVP you needed to take the invitation with you as proof of ownership whether it was blood-stained or not.

Once opened I took a deep breath. 'You are cordially invited to attended dinner with President Cornelius Snow…' My eyes blurred and my throat tightened.

"Cocktails at 7 and dinner at 8 in the Cypress Room," Cinna read his note. I nodded my head in confirmation. "At Snow's Mansion. We will be picked up at our respected residents accordingly."

"What do you think this means?" I asked Cinna. "He…President Snow has never broken protocol by inviting the escort, stylist and mentor of any tribute ever."

"Are you sure we are the only ones invited?" Cinna inquired.

"Cinna, dinner is in the Cypress Room," I informed him. He sent me a blank stare. I had been inside the mansion twice in my life. Once with my parents years ago and the other time when I became employed as Reaper escort. The Cypress room was small as dining accommodated 6 people. Haymitch, Cinna and I were three and Snow would be four as attendants for dinner. It was a room for an intimate setting and for not a large party.

"I don't know what to make of this, Cinna."

"I don't either," he sighed. "But…"

"What?" Cinna had a look on his face, a glint in his eye. "I need to talk to Haymitch."

"Haymitch? Why?" Was Haymitch also involved with the rebellion? I was surround by insurgents––Cinna, Haymitch and whoever else they associated with. What have I gotten myself into?

"Where is he at this moment?"

I was annoyed. "How would I know? I don't' keep track of that man," I muttered. "You do remember that is he the mentor to Katniss and Peeta not my friend but an…associate."

"You know you complain about Haymitch like along suffering girlfriend," he snickered. "I swear sometimes you two act like you're married. Like my parents."

"What a horrible and…horrible––" I was out of breath. The idea of Cinna criticizing me over Haymitch and the implication of our relationship was more than business was…horrible.

"You said that already." He smiled. I wanted to wipe that smug look off Cinna's face.

"Do not ever joke like that about Haymitch and me. That man wouldn't know how to treat any women, any decent woman with any respect or decorum. He's…he's a barbarian…and a drunk."

"Once you get him to stop drinking. Get him to take a decent bath and dress him like a respectable human being, he can be a handsome man."

"No amount of sobriety or otherwise would make that make appealing to any one," I snickered. With the invitation in my hand I felt nervous, anxious and admittedly scared. Why was Cinna, Haymitch and I summoned to have a private dinner with President Snow?

"Cinna, I just thought of something?" I asked with panic and anxiety bubbling inside me.

"What?" he returned with equal concern. "What's wrong?"

"I just realized. What am I going to wear tomorrow?" Cinna just rolled his eyes. "What? It's a valid question."

Peeta POV ––

Something tickled my nose. There was also a slight pressure on my side as I lay on my back. I opened my eyes slowly to find my girlfriend, Katniss hovering over me.

"Good morning," she greeted me. Her hair cascaded over her shoulders draping around her beautiful face. She looked happy, sleepy and tired. I didn't blame her since we made love for hours reveling and exploring each other bodies.

"Good morning," I returned, my voice hoarse and rough. She laid her head on my shoulder her naked body pressed onto my side as one leg straddled mine. I felt achy, relaxed and alive at the same time.

"How are you feeling?" I winced remembering that I was her first as she was mine. I was afraid to hurt her but it was inevitable.

"Sore and…happy," she sighed her breath tickling my skin. Memories of the night before surfaced in my mind that the lower partion of my body reacted to her proximity, especially since her leg was pressed on to my cock. My body couldn't help but react as I hardened causing my cock to jut upward. She giggled. Katniss Everdeen giggled. "Peeta?"

"I can't help it," I said not embarrassed at my predicament.

"I've never seen it do that before," she guffawed.

"You better not have," I returned as I turned her over and flipped her on her back nestling my length between her legs. She gasped in shock.

"Peeta," she said my name so soft.

"I know you're sore and we're not going to do anything right now," I stated even though I was ready for another round. The last thing I wanted to do was give her more discomfort. So leaned down and kissed her, her eyes, forehead and cheek before kissing her lips.

She moaned in response and wrapped both her legs around my waist. "Katniss, honey," I hissed. "That's not helping."

"I said I was sore, Peeta," she repeated. "But that doesn't mean I can't…" She stopped and blushed. I watched her as her cheeks turned pink. My Katniss was not good with words; she was a girl of action. My eyes rolled to the back of my head as her hand snuck between our bodies and grasped my cock with her strong fingers.

"Katniss, Katniss," I repeated as she rubbed her hands up and down to the base of my cock––squeezing me with her delicate but firm fingers.

"I want you to come, Peeta," she said her voice husky and low. My world tilted on its' axis as I lost brain and bodily function. I fell on the bed beside her, satiated and relaxed. The next thing I knew Katniss was beside me hovering over me again. "Hi."

"Huhm," I returned. "You're getting really good at doing that." She repeated our position as she laid her head back on my shoulder. I kissed the top of her head.

"I had a good teacher and I wanted to return the favor," she said. We remained quiet for the next few minutes savoring the private time we had left before Haymitch and Effie returned to the suite for breakfast. This was what I dreamt and fantasized with Katniss––making love to the girl I had a crush on for the better part of my life. I tried not to think of the future, one without her an empty life without Katniss. I knew it was over once Prim was reaped. My dream dashed never to come to fruition. I never thought I had the chance to make love to her, ever.

But this as all we had now. Stolen moments before entering the arena. Days instead of years. Katniss would live and survive because that was my only reality. She needed to live, she deserved to.

Bang, bang. The door to my bedroom rattled. "Peeta, Katniss, it's time to get up," Haymitch said though the door. This was déjà vu. "And don't make me send Effie after you. I will if both of you are not at breakfast in half an hour."

At breakfast, I couldn't help but stare at Katniss nor could I stop myself from touching her. Effie had a big smile on her face while Haymitch snickered at us. Effie leaned over and whispered in Katniss' ear. Whatever she said caused Katniss to blush from cheek to ears.

"Gentlemen, if you'll excuse us. I need to speak to Katniss for a few seconds before you have them for the rest of the day, Haymitch."

"Don't keep her too long, Effie," he returned. "Tonight is the interviews and I need to prepare both Peeta and Katniss for them."

"I am quite aware of that Abernathy," she quipped back. "I need to speak Katniss about the interviews as well. Posture is everything, it reflects on your stature."

"Good luck," Haymitch shouted back. "Good luck trying to turn Everdeen into a lady in mere hours before the interview. I don't expect miracles." Once they left and were out of hearing distance Haymitch punched me in the arm and dragged me to the viewing room. "You dog. I can't help but congratulate you for somehow making Everdeen become a human being…"

"Shut up," I seethed between clenched teeth. "Don't talk about Katniss like that."

"Hey, I'm just teasing you Peeta," he said back. "I like Katniss when she's not scowling half the time. But you know I'm right that she needs to ease up if she expects to get sponsors."

"You will do everything you can to make sure that does, Haymitch. Please promise me that you make sure she survives," I begged.

"Peeta, what about you?"

"Haymitch, I'm not coming back. I know I'm not and I'm okay with it. I want Katniss to live. She has to live." My heart felt heavy. I knew what I was sacrificing. It was important to me that Haymitch made sure that Katniss was provided for in the arena. I would do everything I could to make sure she survived. I was prepared to die.

"And what about Katniss?" he asked. "Does she know your grand plan to sacrifice your life for hers?" I turned my head. "Look at me Peeta. I know that I'm both your mentors, I'm supposed to make sure one of you is supposed to survive but there is no guarantee that I can keep Katniss alive once you're….gone."

"Haymitch, I know my odds. Katniss has a better chance of surviving. I need you to promise me that when I'm dead you will do everything you can to make sure she lives," I pleaded.

"I can't promise that Katniss will come out alive from the arena, but I will promise you that I will do everything in my power to help her," he swore to me. "But in the meantime, I need both you and Katniss to stay alive as long as you can. I mean both of you, not just Katniss." He placed a hand on my shoulder to comfort me.

"Peeta?" Katniss called out to me as she entered the room. "What's going on?" She had a look of concern on her face. Then her look of concern turned to anger which she directed to our mentor. "What did you do, Haymitch?"

"Nothing, nothing," he said as he raised his hands. "Why is it that you think I'm doing something to Peeta? Why am I the bad guy?"

"I'm okay, Katniss," I said. "Haymitch and I was talking about…home. I miss my dad and my brother, Rye." I lied. She quickly wrapped her arms around me. I haven't given dad and Rye any thought. I was too busy training, too busy thinking about my last days with the girl I love. I did miss them.

"I miss my family too. Mom, Dad and Prim," she added. "I hope…she is okay that whoever she is with are taking good care of her."

"I'm sure that your…that Jay placed her in good hands," Haymitch comforted her. "That you an rely on. You don't need to worry about Prim. You need to focus today."

For an hour or so, Haymitch spoke to us about the interviews, giving us pointers what to say and what not to say. "Just be yourselves," he advised. "Though I don't know how that is going to help you Katniss. I don't mean to be disrespectful but you lack finesse and tact when speaking to people."

"That's not helping her," I said.

"Well, I was being truthful," he returned in his defense. I was about to argue back when Katniss interrupted us.

"It's okay, Peeta," Katniss spoke. "Haymitch is right. I'm not good with words. I get defensive when I get nervous or backed into a corner."

"Listen, if Mr. Flickerman asks you a question and you don't feel comfortable. Just take a deep breath, take you time if you have to. Think of something that relaxes you. There are no wrong answers just be truthful and get to point. Don't elaborate or embellish." He turned to me.

"That goes for you too, Peeta," he suggested. I wasn't concern about me I was more worried about Katniss. Public speaking was the last thing she needed.

Later we were escorted to the training facility. Nothing unusual happened. We were left alone. The tributes from District 1 and 2 were absent to my relief.

Both Katniss and I were so in tuned to our proximity that it was hard…difficult to concentrate. Any contact, brush of her skin made me want to drag her home and replay our night together. Teaching her to wrestle was out of the question. Lunch came and went.

An hour later, Seneca Crane appeared at that center. He wore a tailored suit fitted to his lean form. For years I had watched him orchestrate the games in the arena. He was bigger than life to me on screen, but now that I have finally seen him. He appeared to be a lean man. He wasn't what I had expected. "What's going on?" a male tribute asked. No one answered him.

"Good afternoon, tributes," Crane addressed us as he clasped both hands in front of him. "Please line up according to district from 1 to 12 and follow me." I was tempted to grab Katniss' hand but stopped myself.

He led us to a small room with twelve benches that seated two per seat. To my shock and surprise Cato and his friends were present while six Peacekeepers armed with rifles were situated in the room.

"Sit on the bench according to your district number assigned," Crane instructed us. Katniss and I walked around until we found a bench with the marking of '12' on the bench. "You are all probably wondering what is going on. Today, at this moment you will be displaying your talent. You can pick any weapon or method you want. There is no limitation. Do the best you can because your score will determine your popularity with the Capitolites. The higher the score, the better chances of getting sponsors."

"Wait, I thought that was scheduled tomorrow," Cato spoke.

"Why wait? If you not prepared now, you won't be prepared tomorrow," he snickered back. One by one a tribute left the room until Katniss and I was left.

"You're shaking," I observed. Katniss hands shook as it lay on her lap. No longer caring and we were alone, I grabbed her hands. "You're going to be okay, Katniss. This is the time when you can use your bow. No one will know how you got the score. Just do what you do best. Like Haymitch said about the interview. It's the same thing. Take your time and focus."

"It's not," she said. "What if I mess up on both our interview and talent––"

"You won't," I interjected. Sweat beaded her forehead. I wiped it with the cloth on my sleeve. "Katniss, remember to take your time. Take a deep breath and concentrate, focus. Imagine yourself are in the woods. Imagine Crane as wild dog if that will help."

Katniss smiled and laughed. "You can do this," I encouraged her. "Just don't think about the interview with Mr. Flickerman. That is later on tonight, just focus on this. And once the interview is done, we'll back at the suite in our own room, alone. I promise."

"Thank you," she said in return as she squeezed my hand. "You always know the right things to say."

"If that was true," I started. "I would have asked you out a long time ago." The thought saddened me. Had I enough courage back then, would Katniss been in my life? Would she had said yes and been my girlfriend? Would Ivan have ignored her because she was already mine? So many 'what ifs' swam in my head.

"Female Tribute from District 12, Katniss Everdeen," a voice sounded from a speaker. She stood up still clasping my hand.

"Hey, not that you need it but," I began. "Good luck." I squeezed her hand one last time and let her go. The door opened and she acquitted in the room leaving me alone.

Minutes passed. I didn't understand what was taking so long. I started to get worried.

"Male Tribute from District 12, Peeta Mellark." When my name was announced, I sighed in relief because it meant that Katniss was done. All this time I was worried about her that I didn't think about what I was going to do once I was in the presence of Crane and the rest of the GameMakers. 'Shit.'

I walked in with my head high and my shoulders straight like Effie instructed. I needed to exude confidence. It didn't matter since Crane and his cronies were all but ignoring me. They were too busy stuffing their face with food and drink.

So I had an idea. I looked around and realized that there was glass partition separating me from Crane and the gamemakers. It was not there before the program began or ever. I wondered what caused them to erect the shield. I took a deep breath and made decision.

I walked up to a 100lb metallic kettlebell that were used for lifting weights. With all the strength I could muster I lifted it and threw it across the room. It landed and hit a weapons rack. I smiled to myself as I was pretty impressed at the distance. However I realized that neither Crane or any of his associates were paying attention to me. I was being ignored and I knew that my performance didn't impress them. So I got mad at myself and Crane. In my anger I lifted another 100lb bell and threw it at the glass partition that shielded the gamemakers. The impact startled and stunned them. The glass itself had small crack not enough to break. Crane in return raised a finger and waved it side to side as if he was reprimanding me. This angered me more to be scolded like a child. How dare these monsters play with our lives, force us to kill each other for entertainment while they watch us die. I thought of Prim and Katniss. I thought of the injustice, poverty and lives ruined because of Snow and the Capitol.

So I raised another bell and tossed it exactly on the same spot. I threw another then another. Not stopping until I shattered the glass. My aim was true and exact. The glass wall came tumbling down showering Crane and company with like a waterfall. I got their attention. By the time I was done, there were five 100lb metallic bells in the upper deck destroying tables and chairs. Their little party slash get together was over as I ruined the meal and dishes that was served. My right shoulder, bicep and arms were sore. I turned around and walked out of the room.

Soon enough, we were sent home in preparation for our interviews. Katniss and I didn't have time to commiserate about our talent show as Haymitch escorted us home.

"I'm sorry, guys," Haymitch said once were back at the suite. "No one knew that Crane was going to do the talent program today. This had never happened before. I wished they had given you a heads up."

"It's okay, Crane actually made a good point," Katniss said. "It wouldn't have mattered if we were prepared or not. At least that part is over with." I knew Katniss was worried about the interviews. The talent program was nothing compared to being interviewed with a live audience and the rest of Panem watching you.

"I won't bother to ask what you guys did," he mentioned. "I'll find out later so we'll discuss your scores after the result presentation later this afternoon. In the meantime, you have a date with Cinna and Portia." Katniss sighed in distress. She hated this part. She didn't have anything against Cinna, it was just that she hated spectacle of being dressed up like dolls for a children's tea party. I was not fond of it as well.

Before dinner Katniss was whisked away with Effie and Cinna. Portia looked me over from head to toe. "Peeta, you do not look rested," she observed. "You have dark circles under your eyes and you look pale." Well, I understood the dark circles comment since…both Katniss and I kept ourselves up for most of the night. Making love to her, it still left like a dream to me but I winced as I felt the scratches she gave me on my back and the loves bites all over my chest. I tried to not to leave any marks or bruises on Katniss' skin but I couldn't help myself because I too left imprints of my desire for her on her skin as well. I recalled one medium size bruise on her left breast. I had marked her no doubt about it.

"Peeta, are you even paying attention?" Portia scolded me. "I want you to lie down in your bedroom and take a nap for at least an hour." Huh, nap. Alone in my room. What was Cinna saying to Katniss? Did he instruct her to take a nap as well? "You need rest young man. I heard from Haymitch that you've been pushing yourself in the training facility."

"But––"

"Don't argue with me."

"I don't think I can sleep…" She turned around and handed me a small clear vial with tiny white pills inside the container.

"No pills, please I can't––"

"Okay, no pills but try Peeta. The interview can be quite taxing. Trust me you'll feel better once you take a little nap. If you have trouble sleeping I can give you a low dose sleep pill." I started to panic, sleeping was the last thing I needed or wanted to do.

"Peeta?" My breath was erratic and harsh as my mind spun and room around me blurred. I haven't slept alone in my bed for the past two weeks. Portia took me by the elbow and led me to my bed. "Lie down and close your eyes." She turned around and went to a console which controlled the lights and air conditioner. Suddenly music filtered into the room and the scent of lavender floated in the air. "This will help. Just take a deep breath and try to relax. You will be asleep in no time." She left the room and closed the door behind her.

I took my off my shoes and sat on the bed. "I can do this," I muttered to myself. I've slept on a bed without Katniss for most of my life. 'I can do this,' I chanted in my head.

Katniss POV ––

I should be happy and relieved but I'm not. Once the Talent program was over relief turned to anger. I knew what I had done was wrong and dangerous. One did not threaten the Head GameMaker with arrow shot to his head. But I was so livid. Days of frustration, stress and anxiety bubbled inside me. When I 'displayed' my talent with the bow and arrow, Crane and his fellow GameMakers ignored me. How were they to rate my talent if they ignored me? Of course, why how could they be rate me when they were busy filling their stomach with food and wine––while thousands of people in Panem were starving they were eating to excess. I was sickened at the sight

So the next thing I knew, because it's all hazy to me now, I pointed an arrow to an apple that was placed in the mouth of a roasted pig. I drew my bow and released the arrow hitting the apple and narrowly missing Crane's precious head. The men were stunned into silence. Not waiting for a response, I curtsied and left.

I hoped that Haymitch wouldn't be too angry with me though I suspect he'd be secretly impressed. As for Peeta, I was more worried about him and the talent he was going to display. We never talked about and I wished we had.

After returning to the penthouse we were escorted to our bedrooms in preparation for the interview. I started to feel anxiety and panic, two emotions I tried to hide. I was prepared to train and fight to the death to protect Peeta. Surviving the games and living without him would haunt me until the day I die. But the notion that I would be speaking on live TV scared me more than anything. I knew my strengths and weakness. I was not emotionally equipped or trained to handle public speaking.

"Katniss, stop fidgeting," Cinna said with firm voice and a whole lot of patience. He was currently spray painting and covering the marks and bruises Peeta peppered all over my skin from neck, chest, arms and legs. He was voracious in his love making. I couldn't ask for a better first time with Peeta as my lover. I never knew such pleasure. It was Peeta or no one at all. "Stay still this will be over if you stopped fidgeting." I scowled back as I stood in front of him wearing nothing but panties, a thong no less. I swallowed whatever embarrassment or pride I had left since Cinna has seen me naked.

"You look tired," Cinna began. "…but also very happy." I blushed because he knew who had left the markings on my skin as I had enjoyed receiving every single one of them.

"I'm very happy for you, Katniss," he uttered his eyes warm and soft. "It's rare to be happy in your situation. It's not ideal. You and Peeta have been reaped together. There has never been tributes like yourselves, two lovers fighting together in the games."

He looked sad. "But it is obvious that there is love between you. It shows…no your love glows like the sun when you are together burning bright that it's heartbreaking, knowing what you both will face. And in a way, I envy you." He dropped the air gun and picked up a fan. "You'll be dry in a few minutes."

"Why?" 'Envy?'

"The love you have for Peeta," he continued. "It is strong and true, built on a solid foundation of trust and friendship. You compliment each other, his calm to your fire." I nodded my head because I needed Peeta's calm personality, not Gale's fire and anger. I was too hot headed and stubborn like him. Both our fire would have extinguish whatever feelings we would have had for each other had I submitted to his desire to marry me.

"Peeta is lucky to have you, you know that right?" I smiled but I wondered if it was true. Since my association with Peeta, my family and I had brought nothing but pain and death to his, so much trauma and anguish was wrought to the Mellark family especially to Peeta. "No matter what you think, you were destined to be together."

"You believe in destiny that fate controls our lives?" I inquired.

"You're with Peeta, are you not? Despite the social barrier, you both crossed a line that was forbidden and socially unacceptable. If that is not destiny or fate, what is it then?"

"I never thought of it that way," I admitted. "I just wanted to be with Peeta. I didn't care about society or class barriers. I just love him." Though my attraction to Peeta was physical as well, I didn't blame his classmates who adored him for his curly blond hair, crystal blues and dimples on his cheeks when he smiled. I fell for him not knowing it. "The odds––"

"It was never about odds, Katniss," Cinna interjected. "Fate, destiny. There are some things in life you can't fight. Fate. Who would have thought that a blond haired, blue eye boy would falling love a girl with dark hair and gray eyes. That social barrier was meant to be crossed. It was not something you could fight. That is destiny."

"I don't believe in fate and destiny controlling my life," I countered. "I love Peeta. It's simple as that."

"I disagree with you," he returned firm and matter of fact. "People come and go in life. Some extraordinary and others not. You and Peeta are exceptions––you both are extraordinary meant to be more than who you are. You just don't know or want to face it. Peeta is hope and you, Katniss are the Girl on Fire." He looked into my eyes. "You have fire that inspires and to be admired, just like your father. "

"You know who my father is?" I was shocked. He nodded his head.

"You are so much like him," he commended. "I would die for him because I believe in him and his cause."

"I'm surprised that you are…involved," I admitted. "I though all Capitolites are…"

"Selfish, arrogant, privileged," he supplied the words I couldn't admit to say. "I have to admit that a majority are but there are few who do not like Snow. Or how the way he runs the country. Suppressing and taking advantage of the poor, while the rich ride on the back of the oppressed. Just be careful who you talk to, Katniss. Never reveal your background to anyone. Trust no one."

I wanted to know more but we were interrupted as Portia ran into my bedroom. As she opened my door, I heard a crash and a thud a commotion that sounded all to familiar. "Come quick it's Peeta," she said panic and fear filled her eyes. I quickly grabbed my robe and tied the sash around my waist. I didn't' want anyone to get an eyeful.

"Peeta" I yelled as I entered his room. His bed was empty, he was nowhere to be seen. "Where is he?"

"What's going on?" Haymitch asked as he entered the room with Effie right behind him.

Portia pointed to a corner of the room behind a curtain. There huddled in the corner with arms around his legs and his head buried on his knees was Peeta. "Peeta?" He sobbed. "Peeta, what's wrong?" I knew what was wrong. On some nights he woke from a nightmare, awakened from dreams from his experience with Snow, Cray and Ivan. He didn't have them often. Since sleeping together he barely had them. I sat down next to him and laid his head on my lap. He whimpered in his state or half awareness and sleep.

"What happened? I asked Portia as I ran my fingers through his hair. It was soft to touch, I never imagined it to be silky smooth between my fingers.

"Nothing. I mean," she said. "He was taking a nap. He looked tired. I was just checking up on him when I entered the room, he was thrashing on the bed. It looked like he was having a nightmare so I tried to wake him."

"A nap?"

"Yes, I told him he needed rest." Which I agree he needed rest but… "So I got to sleep––

"How? He can't sleep unless…I'm with him. He has nightmares."

"I didn't know that. Peeta didn't say anything. So I turned on some music and…" I closed my eyes and hope that she didn't drug him.

"What did you do? Please don't tell me you drugged him?" I asked, panic in my voice tinged with anger.

"I…I didn't' exactly drugged him but I filled the room with lavender and a mist of sleeping agent to help him sleep," she admitted. "It's harmless but effective." Haymitch sighed in frustration.

"Portia, how could you––"

"Haymitch, what's wrong?" Effie asked. "Portia was obviously trying to help Peeta sleep."

"The kid has an adverse affect to sleeping agents," he explained. "He was traumatized when Snow tortured him. He gets nightmares about his experience with Cray. The kid knows more trauma than he should for his age. The last thing he needs are drugs to help him sleep."

"Portia, you still drugged him. You may not have pushed pills on him but it's still the same," I said as I held onto my anger. "I know you meant well." Peeta groaned "Peeta, honey. It's me Katniss." He opened his eye. There blood shot and bleary.

"Katniss?" he grumbled. "What happened? Why are we on the floor." He noticed Cinna, Portia, Haymitch and Effie in his room. I blushed when I realize that Peeta was in his very tight fitting boxer shorts that displayed his assets. That and the fact his skin was mottled with bruises and scratches from my fingers nails. Souvenirs of our night together. Peeta was proud of them but I didn't want Effie or anyone to see the evidence of our time together.

"How are you feeling, kiddo?" Haymitch asked as he knelt over us.

"Like someone hit me over the head with a rolling pin," he answered. He winced as he sat up and touched the back of his head. "Why are we on the floor?"

"You don't remember?" I inquired. "What was the last thing you remembered?"

"Can we get on the bed first? The floor is cold," Peeta said. I helped him off the floor as I wrapped an arm around his waist and led him back to his bed. He pulled me onto his lap as he sat down on the mattress.

"Do you need anything, Peeta? A glass of water, perhaps?" Effie asked.

"Please? My throat feels dry and mouth chalky for some reason," he answered back. Effie left the room.

"Everybody give him some space, Cinna, Portia, can you leave us for a few minutes?" Haymitch asked. "I need to speak to Peeta privately."

"I'm sorry, Peeta," Portia said as she closed the door behind her.

"Why was Portia apologizing?" Peeta inquired. I picked up shirt and helped him dress. It may be only Haymitch in the room but Peeta was still half naked and I'm the only one who should see him that way.

"She didn't know Peeta?" I began. His brows rose in question. "She wanted to help you sleep so she put a sleeping agent with the lavender mist she filtered into the bedroom."

"Oh, okay," Peeta responded. "I didn't mean to scare anyone. I get nightmares sometimes. It's no big deal."

"Peeta, you are about to go into the arena," Haymitch reminded him. "It's critical that you get a decent night of sleep before you in there as well as during the games. I know that being with Katniss helps but…you can't depend on her to be there incase––"

"Haymitch why does it sound like we're going to be separated? This is the second time you insinuated that we might be separated inside the arena?" I asked. My plans was to stick to Peeta for as long as I could. We were a team, nothing or no one was going to separate us.

"Because there is a possibility it might happen," he insisted. "Listen, you've been training together, sleeping together 24/7 but you need to face the fact that you might get separated. You need to think of a contingency plan incase it might happen."

"Haymitch is right, Katniss," Peeta agreed. I was about to argue with him but he stopped me. "It's better that we plan something incase we do get separated. I'm nor saying that it will happen all I'm saying is that it might happen."

"I don't like it," I admitted. Talking about being separated made me feel like it was bound to happen––that we were tempting fate. Fate. There was that word again. Since getting together with Peeta, we have never been separated just once from my stupidity and insecurity. I swore he would never be out of my sight now that we were heading to the arena.

"We need to figure out how to help you with your nightmare," Haymitch said. There was something else I sensed in his demeanor but I chose not to question it. Not in front of Peeta. "I know it can't be helped but having nightmares in the arena might be detrimental to your survival."

Effie entered the room with a cup of tea. "I guess sleeping or taking a nap right now is out of question," Peeta stated. "I couldn't if I tried." The dark circles under his eyes were very prominent. I felt guilty for keeping him awake for half the night. Well, not that guilty but…

He took a sip and sighed. "What know now, Haymitch?" Peeta sought his counsel. He looked better not pale from when he first awoken from his nap.

"Why don't we just step back and relax," he suggested. "I know you don't feel tired, but you do look like you need sleep."

"Why don't you and Katniss stay in here and lie down," Effie commended. "I agree with Haymitch that you both need to take a nap."

"But what about Cinna and Portia, what will they do?" I asked.

"They have plenty do, don't worry about them," Effie insisted as she waved her hand. "They too have to prepare Haymitch and I. We are in your team. If you look good we must as well."

I turned to Peeta. "Do you think you can sleep even for a little while?"

"As long as you stay with me," he said as he shrugged his shoulders.

"Then it's settled, Haymitch announced as he manhandled Effie towards the bedroom door.

"Hey, get your hands off me," she cried in disgust. "I can leave the room on my accord."

"Then move, woman," his voice boomed in the air. Peeta and I giggled. Just as Haymitch was about to shut the door behind him he had to have his last word.

"And both of you," he said as he stuck his head behind the door. "No hanky panky. The purpose of a nap is sleep not sex––" His head disappeared and the door slammed shut. Effie's voice could be heard but it was muffled so I couldn't hear what she was saying to Haymitch.

Peeta was already shirtless and lying on the bed. He had arm extended towards me. As I lay down beside him he pulled at my robe. "Off," he commanded. I shrugged off the offending garment and laid my head on his shoulder.

"Haymitch said no hanky panky," I giggled. My body was on fire. Memories and images of Peeta making love to me surfaced in my head. My skin tingled with anticipation but Haymitch and Portia were right, he needed sleep and as much as I wanted to make love to him again. Sleep was a priority.

"I'm exhausted, Katniss," Peeta confessed his voice soft and raspy. I looked up to see his eyes half closed. "It's your fault I'm tired, you know."

"My fault?" Just hold on damn minute…

"Yeah, I couldn't control myself. And it's all your fault. You're so beautiful," he teased. "I wasn't about to give up a chance to make love to you over and over last night. I love you so much."

"I love you too." I blushed as heat rose to my chest and face. That tingly feeling gathered in my center. "Well, you're a grown boy and need to control yourself. Nap now and I'll reward you later after the interviews."

"Promise?"

"I promise." I lay my head back down on his shoulder as he kissed the top of my head. Seconds later, Peeta was fast asleep. It didn't take long but I followed after him.

AN: Thank you for reading this chapter. Please feel free to write a review. All mistakes found are mine. I hope to have another chapter posted by this Sunday. Thanks for sticking around as well. Have a great rest of the week.