Chapter 42 –– Revelations and New Mysteries
AN: Thank you to my followers and reviewers. You have been very patient and understanding. Special thanks to Cassie Sharpie, LACR, jroseley, mar071, Nai1987 and J. Your comments and reviews are especially appreciated and an inspiration. This chapter contains Katniss' POV and is rated R for strong language. Hunger Games belongs to Suzanne Collins. Any mistakes found are mine.
Katniss POV ––
"I'm really sorry, that your pizza night was spoiled," Effie lamented. Her head was turned towards the window. Before us was Snow's mansion, his home where he stayed during the training days before the Hunger Games opening. It was highly fortified with 10 ft walls surrounding the 10,000 sq ft. home. An army of Peacekeepers roamed his estate even when he wasn't residing there. His estate was a grand but also an imposing site with security cameras and dogs.
"Me too," I responded. I looked forward to some private time with Peeta after the interviews. But for now, I was more concerned for him as he had a strained look on his face. He was hurt but trying to hide his pain from us.
The interview wasn't as bad as I expected.
I sighed and thanked the heavens that they were over. I was relieved that Caesar Flickerman interviewed us together. I turned to my boyfriend whose head rested on my head cushion behind him. I wrapped my arm around his waist while my hand was clutched to his. I watched Peeta struggling to breath. I wanted to go back to the penthouse but that wasn't happening.
"I'm sorry," he said to me as he leaned over and whispered in my ear. His breath tickled.
"Why?" I asked as I rubbed my hands on his back for comfort. Touching Peeta soothed me, but it didn't quell my racing heart. I was going to meet President Snow face-to-face, something I that I never imagined.
"I was really looking forward to having pizza night with you," he said as he kissed my forehead. His lips were warm to touch. I was concerned since the night was cool and breezy. "You okay?"
"Me? Peeta, you were assaulted. You might have a broken rib or two."
"I don't think I do," he returned. "You feel warm." I was warm and cozy leaning onto him but I was far from warm as a cold feeling settled in me.
"I'm fine, Peeta. I'm concern about you. We still have to attend the Tribute dinner tomorrow. I really have a bad feeling…the last time you went to an event you…" I stopped. "You disappeared for an hour."
"What?" Effie said. "What happened?"
"I don't remember. I know that I was at a party and the next thing I knew I was back in my bed," he admitted. "I…I remembered that day waking up in my bed half naked and not remembering how I got back to the suite. My chest itched for days." 'His chest itched?' He forgot he told me that.
"Anyway," Haymitch interjected. "We're together, we stick together. No wandering off. I don't like this at all. All of us invited to dinner with Snow."
"I don't think Snow will do anything," Cinna stated. "I think he's just mad because of Katniss'…dress."
"That was ingenious, Cinna," Effie said in a pleased manner. "The audience was mesmerized." I wasn't aware of the 'surprise' Cinna planned for my dress, but I had to admit I had fun as I twirled around, a smile on my face as my dress lit on fire. It was an exhilarating feeling at the time. Is this the reason why both Peeta and I were summoned for dinner? Why? I didn't understand why it would upset Snow.
"By the way, Cinna did you think that was a good idea?" Haymitch inquired. "I mean President Snow already is upset with Peeta. You practically elevated Katniss' popularity. I mean she did a fine job out performing everyone in the Talent Program." That remark was stated with sarcasm. If you didn't know Haymitch, you would have thought he was complimenting me, but he wasn't. His eyes were narrowed and his nose flared.
"I have my reasons," Cinna said with a wave with hand. "I had instructions and that's all I'm going to say."
"Instructions?" Effie inquired. "By whom. Lighting Katniss' dress was…brilliant and ingenious. She is the talk amongst all the designers."
"That's what I'm afraid of," Haymitch sighed. He looked unhappy and displeased. I wondered why? "Listen, I really don't care you play dress up doll with my tributes because that is your job and entice sponsors," Haymitch began. "But you basically put both of them on every tribute's hit list. You are going to damn well explain––" The hovercar eased to a gentle stop and a knock on the side door all startled us. It was good thing since I detected that there was an argument that was going to escalate between Cinna and Haymitch.
Before Cinna could explain further the hovercar door opened. I took a deep breath. Peeta's fingers tightened around my hand. "I feel sick," he announced his complexion pale. I didn't think he meant it metaphorically but literally. "I feel nauseous." I was right. But hen I felt nauseous as well.
Everyone all filed out of the car. Peeta exited last as he tried to get his bearing. "Haymitch," I voiced my concern diffusing his anger towards Cinna. I placed a hand at Peeta's elbow; which startled him for a moment before he reached over and placed an arm around my waist. "He needs to be checked out now!" I demanded. "He really might be hurt." My voice was tinged with anger and concern.
"I'm okay, really Katniss," Peeta voiced his voice raspy. "I think the wind was knocked out of me. I need to sit down someplace…someplace where the room isn't moving."
Every step he took was painful. We ended up standing in the middle of a large atrium. Pillars of white marble surrounded us with white glazed stone floors. The brightness was overwhelming. "Hey, we're here. Anyone home," Haymitch shouted in the air.
"Abernathy," Effie screeched. "That's rude."
"Well, so is keeping us standing here," he argued back.
"You didn't have to scream."
"Snow invited us to dinner, Effie. Now he has Katniss and Peeta here because Cinna––"
"You two need to simmer down," Cinna added. He was calm and collect––his attitude and demeanor different from Haymitch. Effie was curious, excited and worried, I could tell. Suddenly a man appeared dressed in black completely opposite the interior of the home. He stuck out like a fly trapped in a cup of milk. I recognized him; he was also one of the men that was at Talent Program. He was a GameMaker like Seneca Crane.
"Why am I not surprised," Haymitch commented as the man walked towards him with his hand extended in greeting.
"Abernathy," he said with a big toothy grin on his rotund face. He was big man not just by physicality but by the way he also carried himself. I didn't trust him but then I didn't trust anyone in the Capitol.
"Plutarch," Haymitch returned as he shook his hand with an air of contained civility.
"Cinna, Effie," Plutarch extended hand to them as well. "I am pleased that you have joined us to for dinner." Then he turned to Peeta and me. "Peeta Mellark, Katniss Everdeen, I am Plutarch Heavensbee. I am President's Snow counsel, advisor so to speak."
"He is also second to Seneca Crane," Haymitch said. "…as head Second GameMaker." I shook his hand. Peeta extended his arm too far causing him to double over.
"What's wrong?" Plutarch asked.
"One of your flunkies assaulted Peeta," Haymitch explained. "It was unnecessary and uncalled for."
"I see," Plutarch commented as he turned to the soldiers that flanked around us. "Which soldier may I ask assaulted Peeta?" Haymitch and I quickly pointed to the culprit as he stood behind us.
"You," Plutarch directed to the soldier. "You are relieved of duty until further notice. Leave the compound. I will deal with you later." The soldier looked surprised and shocked. "Did I not give you an order? Leave now and you are confined to your quarters." Plutarch addressed us as soon as the peacekeeper departed. "My apologies. Peacekeepers have strict instructions to not a lay a hand on the new tributes."
"That doesn't seem to stop them," I said with fury.
"Again, my apologies. He will be dealt with severely." He extended his hand and walked sideways towards two large doors. It was ceiling length high and very wide. "Please come this way."
"Plutarch, Peeta needs to be treated," Haymitch blurted. "I want him to see a doctor. The peacekeeper hit hard that I'm afraid his ribs might broken or fractured." Peeta was strong and fit but weeks of trauma weakened him. He was still trying to gain some weight. The weeks at the Training center helped build our endurance and stamina. Peeta injured before the games could weaken him.
"I see," Plutarch returned. "I will escort Peeta to President Snow's private physician."
"I'm going with Peeta," I announced as I held his hand with a tight grip.
"I'll want to accompany Peeta as well," Haymitch demanded.
"Snow will be expecting everyone––"
"I am not going to leave Peeta alone in this…this place," I countered with steel and resolve in my tone. "I am going with him." Peeta smiled at me. I wanted to ease the tension in his shoulders. I didn't want to be parted from him as well.
"I don't feel comfortable being…separated from my tributes," Haymitch added. "They are my responsibility until they enter the arena. You know this Heavensbee. This is outside protocol."
"President Snow knows protocol, Abernathy," he said. "He wrote it. However, I will allow you to accompany Peeta to see a physician. I will not have him address Snow if he is hurt."
"You are wise and magnanimous," Haymitch said with a tone of sarcasm.
Effie and Cinna were escorted through the door while Plutarch walked us through another part of the mansion. We entered through a long corridor and ended up at the end of hallway standing in front a glass door. Plutarch knocked then proceeded through the door. "Please give me a moment to summon Dr. Carlyle. She's usually in attendance when President Snow has his meals," he explained then entered to another door.
"Must be nice to have a doctor at your beck and call," I muttered under my breath.
"Not as nice as you think," Haymitch countered. "Snow has a doctor living with him all time incase some tries to poison his food or if he gets injured. It's a thankless job and he can summon you anytime he pleases."
"Oh," I returned. "Still, getting any medical attention in the Seam is difficult and non existent if it weren't for my mom. But, there is only so much my mom can do with her training."
"How you holding up, kid?" he turned to Peeta.
"It's hard to breath," he said. The butt of the rifle was made of wood but encase in metal. Metal against bone and flesh was not a contest. Peeta would have bruises; I didn't doubt it. I was afraid he had broken ribs from the assault. Suddenly, Plutarch appeared.
"Dr. Carlyle will be here momentarily," he said. "I need to talk to Snow as to why our dinner has to be delayed. Dr. Carlyle will call me when she is done checking out Peeta's injury." He exited leaving us alone. "I will be back shortly."
I looked around the office. One side of the room was a bed, several cabinets filled with bottled of medication with names I couldn't pronounce. On another side of the office was a wall filled with diplomas.
To my surprise a petite woman appeared. She wore a conservative dark blue dress with half sleeves and her skirt was mid-calf length. "Hello, Peeta. I'm Dr. Roberta Carlyle but you can call me Bertie." She smiled, a warm smile that was genuine and sincere unlike the Capitolites I've met. Her appearance surprised me as she was not dressed like Effie, adorned with numerous jewelry, gaudy wigs, heavy makeup and ostentatious clothing. Bertie was normal, like someone who lived in any of the districts in Panem.
"Mr. Abernathy, your reputation precedes you," she said as she shook Haymitch's hand.
"All good, of course," he countered back with humor. Haymitch was no slouch to Capitol politics. I have seen him use his charm with the rest of them.
"It is an honor to meet you, Peeta." She blushed. 'Honor?' "And I'm pleased to meet your girlfriend, Ms. Everdeen as well." She nodded towards me. I was surprised and pleased that she addressed me as his girlfriend not his female tribute partner. I didn't know why.
"It is very nice to meet you," Peeta returned. "Though not under these circumstance. I would shake your hand but…" he sighed.
"It's okay, Peeta," she said. "Let me look at your injury. We don't want to keep Corn––President Snow waiting."
"Heaven forbid," Haymitch muttered under his breath. Peeta attempted to unbutton his shirt but he struggled with the first button that Bertie reached over to help me. I wouldn't allow it. Bertie may be a doctor but she was also a woman, an attractive woman with long dark hair in a ponytail with blue eyes and high cheekbones. She reminded me of Madge but with dark hair and fair skin.
"Excuse me," I said. "I'll help Peeta." My voice was stern leaving no room to argue. Haymitch snickered. Peeta winced as he removed his arms from his sleeves. I gasped as I placed a hand over my mouth after he removed his shirt.
"Phew," Haymitch whistled. Peeta bowed his head and looked down onto his stomach. There was a slight reddish mark that radiated from his upper stomach to his lower ribs. Bertie with gloved hands gingerly touched the bruises. He flinched upon contact.
"Are you having trouble breathing?"
"A little," he responded. "I can't remain upright without feeling any pain." She moved her hand upward towards his heart.
"I will need to do an scan to see if there is any damage," she accessed as she turned around. A few seconds later, she returned with a devise and scanned his stomach and ribs. She turned her head towards a monitor. "Well, Peeta. There is reason for your discomfort. You have a slight fracture on your lower ribs."
My face grew dim anger apparent as my lips drew into a straight line. I fought to contain my rage. Peeta extended his hand to me to comfort me. It shook so I took it immediately even though it didn't quell my anger. He needed my comfort not my anger so I held it. Haymitch was quiet. His reaction bothered me. "Lie down, Peeta. I will take care of the fracture so you need to stay still." Bertie placed a half circular mechanism over Peeta's stomach and lower ribs. The machined whined and buzzed. I could tell Peeta felt relief instantly.
"How's Peeta?" Plutarch appeared. He spoke to Bertie and Haymitch.
As he lay on his back, my hand stayed firmly to his. Peeta closed his eyes. Though the procedure wasn't painful, he winced from uneasiness and anxiety. My lips landed on his warm forehead. When he opened my eyes, blue met steel gray. I didn't know how long the procedure was but the next thing I knew it was over. "You will need to lie down, no sudden movement," Bertie instructed as Peeta sat up afterwards. "Dinner with Snow is out of question?" I inwardly gasped, pleased that Bertie recommended rest for Peeta.
"He won't be able to join us for dinner?" Plutarch stated the obvious.
"I'm afraid not," Bertie said. "Peeta will need to rest and lie down as I said. He'll recover faster if he rested."
"Snow is expecting Peeta for dinner," Plutarch informed her.
"Well, if he expects Peeta to make to the games, he has to rest," Bertie argued. "He needs bed rest. He can rest in one of the guest rooms."
"I want to stay with Peeta," I stated.
"You're expected to dine with Snow, Katniss," Plutarch reminded me. I flinched at the idea having dinner with Snow without Peeta by my side even though Haymitch, Effie and Cinna were there.
"I'm not hungry." I wasn't at moment because I was too scared and worried for Peeta. He would be alone.
"Katniss, you need to attend––" Peeta mentioned. I didn't like him idea resting alone in the mansion away from me.
"I will not be separated from you," I insisted. "Peeta, please. I don't like it here. I'm not going to dinner without you."
"Katniss––"
"Peeta, I won't be able to eat or concentrate. I'll be worried sick."
"I'm just going to rest and not move," he tried to convince. "The sooner the dinner is over, the sooner we'll get out of here."
"No."
"Katniss," he repeated. "You have to go." I shook my head. Haymitch turned to Plutarch.
"You are not going to change Katniss' mind," he stated. "She's staying with Peeta. There is no point arguing with her, Heavensbee." I was defying Snow's request. I was scared to be parted from Peeta. What could Snow do to me?
"I don't think it's a good idea for Peeta to miss the dinner," Plutarch insisted.
"I will have their dinner delivered while Peeta rests," Bertie informed Plutarch. "I wouldn't be demanding that he rest if I didn't think it was necessary, Plutarch. I am looking to his best interest if you want him to be able to attend the games."
"You will need to answer for defying your…Snow," Plutarch said to Bertie. He looked displeased at her demands.
"I will deal with him," she returned. "In the meantime, I will take Katniss and Peeta to a room to rest."
"Peeta, we won't be far," Haymitch said. "I know you both can take care of yourselves. We'll be out of here in no time, so just eat and rest."
As Bertie ordered, dinner was wheeled into the room while I lay my head on Peeta's shoulder. "You feeling better?" I inquired as I sat up. Peeta nodded his head. I missed his warmth so I leaned down and kissed him chaste not wanting it to escalate any further especially here. Peeta moaned and grabbed my shoulders demanding more kisses. I giggled. "No funny business, Peeta." He flinched as his stomach felt tender. His fractured ribs were healed but he was still in pain and sore. "Honey, don't move."
"This was not how I wanted out night to end?" he told me. "I wanted a repeat of last night."
"Me too," I confessed. "We can, we will later." The promise of sex later eased my mind as my body reacted and remembered his hands, lips and tongue exploring me. But now was not the time for reflection of our night together, especially at Snow's mansion. For all we knew there could be cameras in the room.
"I'm glad Bertie healed my ribs," he said. I needed to change the topic.
"Do you think Snow is mad at us because of the fire thing," I inquired.
"The fire thing?" he teased me.
"You know what I mean, Peeta," I smiled then blushed. "When Cinna lit my dress on fire."
"While you twirled around like a Girl on Fire?" I smiled as he repeated what Caesar said about me––I was a Girl on Fire. Then my smile faltered.
"I'm serious, Peeta," I admitted. "Now all of a sudden Snow demanded that we join Haymitch for dinner. And here we are." I gestured to the room.
"I really don't know," he confessed. "All I wanted was to have a quiet dinner back at the penthouse. We would be eating pizza by now."
"I know," I sighed. "I was looking forward to having some time alone and the eating pizza. It sounded wonderful."
"You hungry? They did leave dinner for us," he reminded me. We ate peacefully for a few minutes. I had to admit dinner was delicious and filling. After dinner we wanted to step out of the room to get some air to find that the door was locked. I shouldn't be surprised since I didn't think Snow would Peeta and I roaming around his home unescorted. We lay back on the bed with my head on his shoulder and his arm around me.
"I wonder how everyone is doing?" I asked.
"I wonder what they are talking about?"
"Snow is probably grilling Cinna about my dress." I shrugged my shoulders. Peeta looked down at the dress I wore. It was beautiful. The fabric clung to my body, every dip, curve and angle. I didn't like dressing up but seeing Peeta's reaction was worth it. He made me feel beautiful. "I thought it was really neat, something to make us stick out from the other interviews but now…with Snow asking us to join them tonight. I feel like there is something going on."
"What do you mean?"
"Cinna. He's like playing a game with Snow and we're the game pieces," I explained. "And Haymitch is really mad at him. I can tell." Peeta agreed with my observation but didn't voice it. I was right about one thing, something was up and Peeta and I were right in the center of it. I like Cinna he wasn't at all like the other stylists, but lighting up my dress made me wonder what the motivation was. Was he using me like MockingJay used Peeta?
I knew by the look on Peeta's face he was worried, about me and the implication and consequences of Cinna's actions. He was hurt and worried. I didn't want to add more stress so sat up on my elbow and looked at him. He looked tensed so I leaned down to kiss him. It was short and sweet but welcomed. I wanted more.
From out of nowhere, we heard a giggle. Peeta and I both sat up. "Who's here?" I asked. My question was met in silence. "We heard you, so you might as well reveal yourself." I had acute hearing. As a hunter I developed the skill.
Peeta placed a finger over his lips motioning a 'shh' sound as he got up from the bed. He walked towards a large window. The view of Snow's estate was probably beautiful but I didn't care. Behind one of the curtains appeared to be someone hiding. I looked around and grabbed…a heavy wooden bookend.
Peeta pulled the curtain back and someone screamed, the sound was so tinny and high-pitched it pierced my eardrums. The interloper was a…girl of 12 years of age. She was a tiny girl with ash blond hair and crystal blue eyes.
She had both hands covering her mouth and her wide eyes locked onto Peeta. "Hi, Peeta," she greeted like she knew him her smile toothy and eyes radiated adoration.
"Have we met?" The girl nodded her head.
"You don't remember me? I'm Amelia," she told him. Peeta looked puzzled as if he was trying to remember.
"You said the next time you'll be at the Capitol you would paint me."
"I'm sorry, Amelia? But I don't remember meeting you." She pouted.
"Amelia, I'm Katniss," I introduced myself.
"I know who you are" she gushed. "You're Katniss Everdeen. All my friends in school are styling their hair like yours." She turned around to reveal her hair in a single braid. "You're really pretty." I smiled and thought of Prim. Her personality and character reminded me of my little sister.
"Do you live here?" I asked. Since Peeta couldn't recollect meeting Amelia, I needed to know how they met, and maybe get the answers to the hours when he lost time and his memory.
"Of course, silly," she said. "I live with my Grandpa." Both Peeta and I were stunned. The young girl in front of us was Amelia Snow, his granddaughter. I didn't know what I was expecting. Of course he had family. They existed. He forced the districts to celebrate his newly born grandson birth announcement. But meeting and seeing Amelia shocked me.
"When mom told me you were here, I knew I had to see you," Amelia commented. "She told me I couldn't but…I snuck in anyway."
"Mom?" Peeta repeated. "You're mom?"
"My mom is Dr. Carlyle," she announced.
"Oh, not Snow?" I asked. "She goes by Dr. Carlyle?"
"That is her professional name. Dad said that mom only uses her married name when they go out at social events." So not only was Bertie Snow's personally physician she was also his daughter-in-law. It made perfect sense for her to live in the mansion.
"So you met Peeta before?" I continued.
She giggled. "Yes, I snuck out of the mansion under my grandpa's nose. I snuck out and met Peeta at Mr. Flickerman's party," she informed. "You were nice to me and we talked." 'Great.' It was evident she had a crush on Peeta not that I blamed her.
"Oh, so we met at Mr. Flickerman's," Peeta reiterated. "…and then what happened?"
"What do you mean? What happened?" She looked puzzled. "You don't remember?"
"You see, Amelia," I said. "Something happened to Peeta that night. He felt sick and woke up the next day not remembering."
"Oh, you don't remember talking to me?" Peeta nodded his head.
"I'm sorry. I don't but if I did I would never forget a pretty girl like you," Peeta complimented her. She giggled. Leave it to Peeta to make a girl feel pretty and special. "I'm really sorry I don't, but you can help me remember."
"I can?"
"Yes, do you have any idea what happened to me? I mean, that's if you know anything."
"Well, we were outside at Mr. Flickerman's gazebo. I followed there because you looked tired. I surprised you and introduced myself."
"I don't remember that," Peeta admitted. "Anything else?"
"Well, I admitted that I snuck out the house to meet you. You were very nice. Because not a lot of people like my grandpa, but you were nice to me even when I told you who I was."
Of course, women and children loved Peeta. He was kind and sweet even if you related to monsters like Snow and his own mother. He didn't judged people by their DNA or heritage. It was definitely one of the reasons why I fell for him. He didn't see my dark hair, olive complexion and gray eyes. He loved whom he loved.
"Anyway we were talking for a while, when a server came so I had to hide. He offered you a drink," she continued. "You were thirsty so you accepted it. I didn't know what it was but a few minutes later you got sick and…"
"And what?" Peeta inquired. There was a look of trepidation on his face, like he was expecting the worse.
"You fainted. I tried to wake you up, but I got scared and hid when two men showed up and carried you away." I gasped. "I was scared for Peeta so I followed them."
"Where did they take him?" I asked as fear crept into my spine. I grabbed Peeta's hand.
"Not far. Just beyond the gazebo and placed him on bench near the fountain," she pressed.
"Then what happened?"
"Well, they…um…" She turned her head.
"What?" I asked with a tone of impatience and anger in my voice.
"They…took off his jacket and started to undress Peeta." She blushed. "They didn't talk much. Then, one of them had a piece of paper."
"Paper?" Peeta inquired.
"Yeah, they pressed onto his chest. I thought maybe you were bleeding or something but you weren't. They pressed the paper on our skin for a while. And they kept looking at their watch."
"And then?" I piped.
"They peeled the paper off him and sprayed him with something. It was glittery and it left a mark on his chest." Peeta felt for his chest absently. I recalled him telling me that his chest itched for days, but after a while the itching stopped.
"Did you know the men who took Peeta?" I asked.
"No, but I think they weren't from the party or Mr. Flickerman's guests."
"Why would you say that?"
"They were dressed in a uniform." Peeta gasped. The more we knew the worse it got.
"What kind of uniform," I asked.
"It was plain and ugly. They wore all black pants, shirt and shoes. And they had on these really weird glasses. Oh, their faces were painted black too," she added. "I've never seen anyone dressed like that before." Wild thoughts ran through my head. Who would mark Peeta and why? We needed to talk to Haymitch and let him know what we discovered.
Suddenly the bedroom door flew opened. "Amelia Esmeralda Snow, what are you doing here?" Dr. Carlyle or rather Amelia's mother questioned her. "I knew that when I couldn't find you in your bedroom, that you would be here." She walked up to her daughter and grabbed her hand. "What do you think your grandfather will say if he knew that you snuck in here? Do you remember the last time you snuck out to see Peeta? Do you remember what he said if you disobeyed his order? Wait until your father comes home."
"But mom, I wanted to see––"
"No, excuses. You will go to your room right now, young lady," she shook her head when Amelia was about to interrupt her. "No lip. I don't want to hear it. You don't know how much trouble you are in. Go, now." Amelia took a step but turned back to hug Peeta before she excited the room. "Amelia!"
"I'm going, I'm going, sheesh," she muttered underneath her breath. Then she defied her mom and pulled Peeta's arm causing him to lean down. Amelia quickly kissed Peeta on the cheek and ran out the room. 'Oh my god.' Her laughter hung in the air.
"I'm sorry about that," Bertie said. "When Amelia found out you were both here, well I couldn't stop her. She's very stubborn and…hard to manage at times."
"It's okay, Dr. Carlyle," Peeta said. "She's at that age to start defying authority. You remember what it's like to be a teenager."
Bertie chuckled. "You're legally still a teenager yourself Peeta," she reminded him. "I doubt you fought and went against your parents a lot." Peeta blushed which confirmed her suspicions. He hated confrontations and fighting. He lived in a house of suppression and abuse. Peeta standing for himself usually ended with a smack in his face and bruises on his body. I imagined a life of taking care of Peeta. In time we would have married. The thought of marriage didn't scare me anymore. I never imagined wanting that life with anyone. This thought saddened me because I knew I wouldn't.
Bertie cleared her throat. "How are you feeling?" she asked.
"Better, thank you for not forcing me to have dinner with your…with President Snow," Peeta stated.
"He's my father-in-law even I don't like having dinner with him," she snorted. Katniss and I looked surprise. "Just because I married a Snow doesn't mean I like what's he's doing. I'm a physician, I save lives not enjoy children kill each other for entertainment."
Before she could continue Plutarch appeared. "Dr. Carlyle, I see that Peeta is doing better. I was asked to see if he and Katniss could join us for dessert. President Snow has been patient and understanding but will insist on seeing them before they leave."
"Peeta, are you up to it?" Bertie addressed him. He wasn't and he would never be ready to meet Snow but what choice did he have? If Peeta prolonged it, he would end up seeing him later and he might end up meeting him without Haymitch and me. Peeta still had nightmares from his last encounter.
"Yes," Peeta sighed with an air of resignation.
"I'm right here, Peeta," I reminded him.
My heart beat so hard and fast, I thought that everyone could hear it. "You'll be all right Peeta," Plutarch said. "Just be truthful and pleasant, nothing will happen." He spoke with a soft tone as he led us to Snow. The walk felt like a death march. I had my last meal and moments with Peeta and now we were being led to our demise.
"You mean the like the last time Peeta was here, nothing happened," I said my voice filled with sarcasm and anger.
"You'd be well advised to contain your…anger and cynicism," Plutarch admonished me. "You are his 'guest' please act accordingly and you will be fine."
We entered through two large doors. Inwardly I sighed in relief as we entered the dining room to see Haymitch, Cinna and Effie seated at the dinner table. I could tell Haymitch looked relieved at the sight of us still intact and unharmed.
"Mr. Mellark, Ms. Everdeen, please have a seat and join us," Snow said. The dinner table was cleared of the main course and was replaced with platters of dessert. The layout was a sickening display of over indulgence that could feed an entire district alone––chocolates, candied fruits, tarts, pies, cakes and everything you could imagine were served. Despite the extravagance display, Effie had that practiced look on her face that I learned to read from the weeks of being in her presence. She was tense, anxious displaying a smile that didn't reached her eyes. She was scared while calm and usually unaffected Cinna looked tensed and ill at ease. Gone was his air of confidence that belied his personality and character––he was angry. I sensed it in his eyes.
Dessert was awful. I couldn't taste anything or enjoyed it. Peeta felt the same, as his food remained half eaten. Ordinarily I've appreciated the things the Capitol had to offer because I knew my time was short, limited to hours. Being and loving Peeta was all I wanted. I no longer struggled to eat because food at the Capitol was plenty.
"Before you leave, I'd like a word with Ms. Everdeen," Snow announced. I choked on my own saliva. My stomach lurched and my throat constricted. "Alone." Haymitch and Peeta stood up to protest.
"President Snow, I must remind you of the protocol you yourself wrote," Effie started as she stood up from her chair folding her napkin into crisp even folds. "By your decree 'No one person with influence or high class and rank can be in contact with any of the tributes as not to be seen as taking 'favoritism' before the games. Any contact meaning dinner, conversation and gifts are not to be allowed or granted. There are no exceptions. Breaking this law is punishable by removing said party of his or her wealth, status and all privileges as a citizen of the Capitol. Guilty party will be striped of their citizenship and banned forever.' This invitation…" she paused. "…your request for dinner to both Peeta and Katniss is direct defiance and you have broken the rules you have written, Mr. President. Sir." Haymitch smirked and looked in awe at Effie. "If anyone of one the other mentors caught wind of…Mr. Mellark and Ms. Everdeen in your presence and in your home, then you yourself has broken your own covenant."
I swore I thought Haymitch was going to walk over and kiss Effie right in front of us. I would have done so myself, but I was paralyzed with fear. Effie basically put President Snow in his place and prevented me from having a private conversation with him.
"Ms. Trinket," Snow began his eyes narrowed in anger. "Thank you for reminding me of the rules that I wrote which––"
"President Snow," Plutarch interrupted. We all gasped at his abruptness and the devil may care attitude Plutarch had with Snow. "I believe that Ms. Trinket is right. It was an oversight on our part that Peeta and Katniss are here. You do not want to overstep or appear having any favoritism. It is a law you have written and had upheld until now."
The room fell silent. "Well, dinner was awesome but it's time that I take my tributes back to the penthouse to get some sleep. Big day tomorrow. Lots to do and videos to watch. Food to eat and drink. Got to make sure my tributes are well rested for dinner tomorrow night," Haymitch rambled. "Thank you for dinner by the way. The food was exceptional as usual."
"President Snow, it has been an honor to have been a guest in our home which you have extended to us," Effie added. Cinna stood up ready to depart. He didn't utter a single word.
"Kids, let's go," Haymitch commanded. Not one to linger, and to get the hell away from here, I grabbed Peeta's hand. He looked pale.
Snow's voice boomed, "Remember what I said, Abernathy." I felt a chill run up my spine.
We hurried along the corridor. I was so determined to leave quickly to not notice that Amelia was on the second floor stairway watching us depart. Once we were secured inside the hover car both Peeta and I exhaled in relief. The tension on his shoulders eased but there was a pained and anxious look on his face. "Are you both okay? I'm sorry that I couldn't get Dr. Carlyle to release you and send you back to the penthouse."
"It's okay, Haymitch," Peeta said. "We're fine. I'm happy that we're all together again." I didn't know why, but I felt something in my gut. It was one more day before the games. Tomorrow night was the Tribute dinner. My instinct told me somehow big was going to happen. Everyone was tense and acting odd. Haymitch didn't drink anymore but his behavior disturbed me. I learned that when he was nervous he twitched. He twitched a lot these past few days.
I pushed all thoughts in the back of my mind. "You guys enjoy the rest of the evening," Haymitch announced as the hover car stopped at our destination.
"You guys are not staying?" Peeta asked. Not that I didn't appreciate his concern. I wanted Peeta all to myself this evening. Having Haymitch and Effie staying was the last thing I wanted.
"No, not tonight," Haymitch responded. "I…you two need more time alone before going into the arena. Effie and I will back tomorrow night to stay." This was my last private time with Peeta. I had to make it count.
"Is something wrong?" Peeta asked. "I feel like something's wrong." I felt it too. Haymitch kept eyeing Cinna and sending looks of anger at him. Effie was tense too but remained composed. We exited the car. Peeta leaned his head inside.
"Nothing's wrong kid. I know this was not how you wanted the night to end," Haymitch sighed.
"But if you need anything, please don't hesitate to call," Effie added. They were all too accommodating. I didn't like it––how they were behaving after their talk with Snow. Something was definitely wrong and Peeta and I sensed it.
"Don't you worry about anything," Cinna added. "Please enjoy the rest of your evening."
"I want to know what President Snow talked to you about," Peeta demanded.
"Peeta, you have enough to worry about," Haymitch implored. "Just trust me when I say everything is fine."
"Or it will be," Cinna muttered underneath his breath as he eyes turned towards the window. Haymitch glared at him. There was definite tension between Cinna and him.
"Now, scat. Get inside, make sure to lock up and don't answer the door to anyone," Haymitch instructed. "Effie and I will call you tomorrow morning before we arrive." He waved his hand like he was shooing us away. "Enjoy your evening. What's left of it."
"Haymitch," Peeta said his name firm and with resolve. "You promised me no secrets." Haymitch flitted his eyes at me for second then flinched.
"I'm not keeping any secrets," he returned. "And if there is something I need you to know…you know what? I'm your mentor. Do what I damn tell you to do. Go upstairs and…enjoy whatever time and privacy you have left." Haymitch then shut the window and the car sped off.
Once we entered the suite, Peeta turned to me. "Please tell me it wasn't my imagination," he started. "Something is wrong. I know that they are up to something."
"I know," I agreed. "I sensed it too, but what can we do?"
"He said…Haymitch…I know he's trying to protect us," he admitted. "But I'm sick and tired of being left in the dark. I trust Haymitch but these last couple days, he's been weird."
"Haymitch is weird, "I said adding a bit of humor.
"You know what I mean, Katniss. I know you sensed it too. Even Cinna…" He sat down and leaned back on the couch. I remained quiet not sure what to do or say. So I sat beside Peeta and lay my head on his shoulder. He was tense, we both were. I knew what I wanted to do to ease his mind but didn't know how to ask or proceeded to…comfort him. I imagined standing up and stripping but felt uneasy and uncomfortable. Besides, Peeta looked tired, and frustrated.
"I'm sorry, Katniss," he said. "I'm worried about Haymitch and ruining our evening." He grabbed my hand and kissed my fingers.
"It's been a long day, I understand," I said. "I agree that he is keeping something from us. And you're not ruining our evening." The night was still young. I felt shy all of a sudden. It wasn't like I didn't want to be alone with Peeta. I had been dying to be alone with him all day. I kissed his cheek.
"Are you hungry?" he asked his eyes burned bright as he sat up. I shook my head and licked my lips. Peeta's eyes grew wide.
"You want to watch some programs?" Again I shook my head and kissed his fingers. I wasn't good with words. Now that we finally had sex, I was shy and embarrassed to ask him to take me to bed.
"Hm…we're all alone with no chaperones. What shall we do without ourselves? Do you want…to bake a cake? Or how about some Cheese Buns, they are our favorite." I giggled. I didn't have to say anything. Somehow, Peeta knew what I wanted but I was too shy to ask. He always waited for me, never assuming or pressuring me.
"No, Peeta. I don't want to bake a cake." I reached over and unbuttoned his shirt.
"Oh, I know. We can play cards," he quipped as he snapped his fingers. I smiled. Peeta looked relaxed. I was happy to see my boyfriend, not Peeta Mellark the male tribute of District 12. He was Peeta Mellark, the baker's son; the Boy with the Bread––the boy I loved. With soft eyes and a gentle smile, he leaned over and kissed me, sweet and chaste.
I groaned when he pulled back. "Katniss?"
"Yes, Peeta?" I said my voice raspy and breath harsh. He whispered in my ear.
"There's been something I wanted to ask you for a while," he admitted. "I've had this thing for a while. Something I wanted to do with you but was not sure if…" He bit his lip. "I didn't want to assume or impose. I mean, I'm boyfriend but the thought of me…I didn't want to break your trust." He rambled. What he wanted was important to him.
"Oh? You know you an ask me anything, Peeta." He blushed from cheek to ear tips. He looked sweet, innocent and adorable. "I trust you, Peeta. More than anyone."
"Thank you," he said. "But maybe you should hear me out. I've been wanting do this with you for a long time."
"Just ask me and if I'm not comfortable, I'll let you know," I said. Now he had me curious. I was started to get frustrated but I knew I needed to be patient as he had always been patient with me.
"Katniss––"
"What?" I whined. He was killing me.
"Can I draw you…naked?"
"That's it? You want to draw me, naked?" Goose pimples appeared on my skin.
"Well, I always imagined or fantasized what you look like, but now I know," he said. "I didn't or couldn't imagine before."
"You mean you never tried drawing me naked before we met?" I teased him. Peeta had a fertile imagination. He could have easily drawn me naked if he wanted to. He frowned.
"No," Peeta admitted. "I didn't want to do that because I…it would be disrespectful of me. And creepy." I smiled and laughed as I launched myself to him wrapping my arms around his waist peppering face with kisses. We ended up on the floor with me on top as I straddled his legs. He was instantly hard. "Is it okay?"
"Yes, yes. It's more than okay, but we need to do something first," I demanded as I stood up and unzipped my dress in front of him. The dressed pooled around my feet leaving me with a pair panties and bra set that matched. It was orange in color. Peeta's eyes bulged from his sockets.
"What?" he panted as he slowly raised himself of the floor.
"First one in the shower gets to be on top?" I turned my head. "Then you can draw me naked." I sprinted towards his bedroom with Peeta at my heels.
AN: Thank you for reading this chapter. My next update will posted next Friday. Have a great weekend.