Chapter 45 –– Loyalties Revealed and Divided.

AN: Thank you for your patience. It has been a very long and busy two weeks that I barely had time to re-edit and post this chapter last weekend. Hopefully, this will be worth the wait. Thanks to everyone who left a review, alerted and favored the last chapter. Special acknowledgment and thanks to the following: B Dizzy, LACR, pistonsfan75, Cassie Sharpie, pumpkinking5, TwinK21, mar071, Alexandra June, kelmikmag, J, Nai1987 and guests. Thank you for the review and comments. THG belongs to Suzanne Collins. This chapter has Katniss and Peeta's POVs and is rated M for sex and foul language. Please note that this chapter is a bit longer than usual as there will no update this upcoming weekend due to the holiday.

Katniss POV –– hours earlier

I took a long hot shower while Peeta did the same in his bathroom. Though I was tempted to join him, he was still sore from the punch he received from the Peacekeeper earlier this evening. And to my frustration he had that look of longing and…lust in his eyes. An emotion I now recognized as I've learned to read him better.

I wanted Peeta, craved him but not at the expense of his health. He was still in bathroom when I entered his bedroom. My hair was a bit moist as I was still not accustomed to the hair dryer so I sat on the bed brushing my hair. "Hey," he said as he walked into the bedroom. My mouth salivated and my heart broke at the sight of him wearing a pair of dark blue pajamas that rode from his hips. In my estimation he looked too thin even though he was muscular and lean. My Boy With the Bread looked fragile and beaten as the bruises on his stomach magnified the fact.

"Peeta," I flinched in despair as I stared at the medium size bruises below his ribs. He looked down at himself. "Does it still hurt?"

"Amazingly, not really," he replied as he sat in front of me wincing as he crossed his legs. "It feels sore. I guess Dr. Carlyle healed it faster than usual." He poked himself. "See? I can touch it without feeling any pain. I just can't make any sudden moves, that's all."

I reached over to touch the bruises, his stomach twitched when my hand grazed his skin. His pajamas tented. I ignored his reaction to my touch as I was more concerned of his injury. "Peeta, why do you keep getting hurt?"

"I'm a magnet for trouble," he joked as he took my hands into his. "I'm okay, Katniss. At least I didn't have any broke ribs." I snorted. "It wouldn't have mattered because I doubt Snow will give me a pass. I'm just easier prey now injured and all."

"That's not funny, Peeta," I chided him.

"It's the truth," he said in a somber tone. "My life hasn't been the same since Ivan…" He turned his eyes looking at the window. From the window was a magnificent view that over looked the city. It was beautiful and captivating but I missed the woods, the scent of earth and foliage smothering my senses. He sighed. "I think fate led me here."

"I used to believe in fate, destiny," I interrupted him. "It brought you to me. I won't deny that. You and I, Seam and Merchant we beat the odds not because of fate but we decided to be together."

Peeta smiled. "Well, you fell for my charm," he teased me. " You couldn't resist me." I chuckled at his attempt of humor because he knew I resisted him long and hard.

"No I couldn't," I confessed. Peeta looked alarmed and surprised. "What? I'm admitting it. I couldn't resist you no matter how I tried. You…crept into my heart. That had northing to do with fate."

"You have to admit it was a bit of fate, Katniss. No matter how much you resisted or me persisting to love you even against the odds. We happened anyway despite Ivan, Gale, Cray, Snow and the reaping."

"Fate, destiny. It's all arguable and semantics," I returned. "We're together and that's all that matters."

"Despite all the things that happened to me, I don't regret it, Katniss."

"Peeta," I said low and soft.

"I got you, didn't I," he stated. "It was worth it." He reached over and caressed long strands of my hair as if he was mesmerized. "This is softer than I imagined." Undeterred, I needed to say something to him because later on today, we were going to be busy and prepped for the Tribute dinner.

"Swear to me at the Tribute Dinner tonight you won't get hurt," I said in mock anger. "I swear people in the Capitol are trying to weaken you before we head into the arena." Why did it feel like people were conspiring to hurt Peeta? I wanted to lock him in a room and keep him in there until we had to leave.

Peeta smirked. "It's not like I'm asking for it. I didn't ask for this attention." His thumb drew small circle on the top of my hand. The touch was innocent and intimate but my body reacted like it always did when he touched me. I wanted more time with him––a lifetime. I imagined our life together, endless frustration as women threw themselves at my Peeta.

"Right, like the way most of the women in Panem ogle at you," I snickered back. "They don't even care that you have a girlfriend, they still flirt and throw themselves at you." I hated it. Women, young girls and even a few men weren't subtle at the way they ogled and wanted to touch him. He was mine.

"Don't think I don't see the guys you who want you too," he said as his brow pinched together. I looked back at him dumbly. 'What guys?'

"What other guys?" I said in return. The only guy I knew that had interest in me was my friend Gale.

"Your classmates, my classmates," he replied. "The men in the Capitol, the other tributes I wasn't the only one who was…admiring you from afar," he said as he shrugged his shoulders.

"Peeta, I don't know what you're talking about," I quipped back. "The only guy I had my eyes on was you." I blushed at that admission. I had kept my eye on him even though intellectually I denied it. "As for our classmates, I knew most of those guys were only interested in taking me to the Slagheap. You would never do that." I knew he didn't have the reputation like most boys in our school, like Gale who practically bragged about it. Why he thought I wanted him disturbed and disgusted me. What made him think that I wanted him while he was slept with any willing girl that crossed his path?

"I knew you were different." He smiled––a big toothy smile with eyes that twinkled. Even with the room half lit, his blue eyes sparkled. "I mean, you…you annoyed me too." He smiled bigger. "I didn't understand why a handsome Merchant boy like you who was so kind and sweet would be attracted to me. I mean look at you. All the girls I knew practically drooled every time you just said hi to them. You were nice to everyone, even us Seam girls."

"All I ever wanted was one girl," he said as he took my hairbrush from my hand. "Turn around." I did as he asked. He brushed my hair gently as a few moments of silence passed between us. This time together was what we needed, to relax and find comfort. "I always wanted to do this. I wanted to run my fingers through your hair for the longest time." His lips grazed my ear as his soft breath sent tingles down my spine. I gasped as he pulled me towards him as I sat between his legs. I felt him hard on the small of my back then I remembered his injury.

"Peeta," I sighed. "Your ribs…" I moaned as he kissed my neck with his soft lips.

"It's doesn't hurt when I do this," he said as he bit my earlobe. I hissed in pleasure feeling that ache between my legs again. I wanted him as much as he wanted me. Discovering the heady feeling of sex made me insatiable. I never felt this before. I moaned again when he reached into my shirt and grabbed my breast tweaking a nipple between his fingers as the other one trailed down inside my panties.

"Shit," I said in raspy tone as he slipped one finger between my folds.

"You're so wet." I nodded. I felt the moisture between my legs drenched his finger.

"Peeta, Peeta." My mind shut down and my body reacted. I was wanton as I turned my head to kiss him hard. My hand reached over and grabbed his head while my other hand found my neglected breast. I mimicked his fingers on my other nipple. One more night, I had one more night with Peeta and this life would be over.

One finger slipped inside––the digit curled and rubbed a spot inside my channel. "Fuck, fuck," I chanted into his mouth.

"Not yet," Peeta mouthed. "I want you to scream my name." I shook my head. He teased me with his fingers, thrusting in and out then stopping. I whined in frustration. He continued to play with me and just as I was about to reach the peak he'd stopped.

"Peeta, please," I begged. "I need…I need…" I lost all train of thought as he thrust two fingers inside me. I moaned in appreciation.

"Do you have any idea?" Peeta started. "How long I wanted to do this, fuck you with my fingers, my mouth." I whimpered. "It's not enough now. Now that I know what you taste like, how you sound while I fuck with my cock." Then he stopped. The next thing I knew I fell backwards and landed on the bed on my back.

"Peeta," I said his name, dazed, confused and little angry. There was a knot in my belly and burning ache in my center. The bastard left me frustrated and unfulfilled. He was teasing me. I yelped when two hands grabbed my ankles and pried my legs apart. Peeta was on the edge of the bed on his knees. He yanked me towards him. "What are you––" My legs were perched on his shoulders and his head appeared between my legs. 'Oh dear God,' my mind sputtered in surprise. He couldn't want to…mesmerized he ignored me as he glanced at my sopping center. "Peeta, wait," I whispered. Like a man focused on a mission to conquer my body, he licked his lips and descended without any warning or permission granted. He captured me; I surrendered willingly.

I screamed as he latched his mouth onto my… "Shit," I screamed again. His tongue plunged inside my pussy then retreated as his lips sucked and tongue swirled my center. "Oh God, oh god, oh god," I verbalized in raspy tone. "Peeta, Peeta." I was in a state of euphoria not recognizing time or space. I never imagined this kind of pleasure. He hummed I keened. He suckled my clit; I ached my back in response. I was getting quite acquainted with the back of my eyes as the air thickened around me heating my skin. Breathing through my mouth was difficult as I tried to formulate words of gratitude and praise. Who needed words when a loud screamed sufficed? Who knew my boyfriend was a sex god?

Unabashedly I spread my legs wider. Time was non existent as the only thing I knew or felt was Peeta's tongue and mouth devouring me. "Yes, yes," I said over and over. Seconds or minutes later, I felt the pleasurable sensation explode in my center go up my spine as it also radiated to all my other extremities. More,' my mind demanded. I wanted to feel it again.

I opened my eyes and looked down to find Peeta gone from the foot of the bed. "Peeta?" With loose limbs, I twisted my body looking for my boyfriend. He leaned at the headboard with a smug and proud look on his handsome smiling face.

"Come here," he commanded as he patted his legs. There was a sheen of sweat on his forehead. His pajamas was gone as he sat naked on the bed his cock jutting between his legs. I licked my lips in anticipation. We never tried this position before with me straddling his lap. I guess it was less stressful on his stomach and ribs if he was on a sitting position and I did most of the work. I crawled on my hands and knees to get to him. Once I was hovering over his lap I kissed him while my other hand sought for his thick cock. He moaned in my mouth. I bit his lower lip as I situated myself on his lap not enveloping his cock inside me. I rubbed the tip of his cock near my opening. "Katniss, baby please." It was my turn to tease him.

But my impatience and lust got the best of me. I released his cock and hovered over him my slick center teasing him. Even with the slight motion had me reeling in ecstasy. Placing both hands on either side of his face, I kissed his lips again as I lowered myself onto him. His hands clutched on my butt check securing me into his lap.

I groaned loud and long. He felt deeper inside me in this position. "I don't know…I can't," I gasped into his mouth. His strong arms and hands set the pace as I moved up and down on his cock. Peeta's eyes looked downward to watch where we were connected. I followed his eyes as I looked down between us. Unfortunately the sight of his bruises on his stomach caused me to freeze. "Katniss?" his soft voice penetrated the haze in my mind. Words like pain, bruise and hurt hurdled in my head remembering his injury. We shouldn't be doing this but I couldn't help myself and obvious he couldn't either.

"Your ribs?" I reminded him. He leaned back.

"Keep going. You're not hurting me." He let go of my ass and grabbed my hands placing them above his head as it lay on a pillow. His eyes were half closed and lips with a lazy smile. Leaning forward to kiss him made me thrust deeper inside him. I circled my hips and he groaned in appreciation. I can be his sex goddess too.

I could have had this with Peeta––weeks of lust, desire and pleasure. I was too scared to want what we now had. I'm a girl reborn––a woman discovering love and desire. I wasted so much time. As the pleasure between my legs multiplied, I swiped negative thoughts from my head. All thoughts of regret vanished as Peeta sucked my right nipple hard causing me to close my eyes. I couldn't feel my legs as all sensation emitted between legs spread throughout my body. Peeta tightened his hands into mine. 'Fuck, fuck,' my mind cried in a litany of praises. Peeta was long and thick. He filled me in such a way that I swore he was touching my cervix. The ache was both pleasure and pain.

My heart hammered in my chest as the beat thundered in my ears. I panted through my mouth gasping for air. All my limbs tingled as my throbbing center ached then ebbed. My knees dug into the mattress.

"Shit, shit," I said as my lungs fought for air. My throat was dry. I tried not to pass out and falling on top of him incase I put too much pressure on his stomach and ribs. So I tipped over to the side and lay on my back. We were both breathing hard and fast. A few minutes later, I crawled to over to him resting my head on the chest. I wanted to freeze that moment forever, imprint in my mind never to be forgotten.

I must have fallen asleep because the next thing I knew, I was under the covers naked. The space beside me was bare. I sat up and felt for his pillow––it was cold to touch. A sob was caught in my chest. "Don't panic," I said to myself. "He's in the bathroom. Peeta?" The room was quiet. Quickly, I picked up a shirt that covered my body up to the middle of my thighs. I had a moment of clarity just enough to don a pair of boxer shorts that lay on the floor. I had to find Peeta.

Everywhere I searched––the kitchen first, the dining room and the rest of the suite. "Where would he go?" There was only one place he could be without leaving the building. So I ran up the stairs not bothering to take the elevator. Taking two steps at a time, I reached the rooftop floor within a few minutes. 'Please be there,' I said in my mind. Throwing the door open, I yelled, "Peeta." There he stood near the edge of the building. I so focused on finding him that I literally dismissed Haymitch's presence.

After a few minutes of scolding him we returned back to the suite. "Katniss," Peeta started. I sat on the edge of the bed my elbows rested on my knees while my hands cradled my head.

"Don't ever do that again?" I repeated without anger as I lifted my head to look at him. He kneeled down between my legs. We needed to stay together whether we were sleeping or facing the crowds of people in the Capitol.

"I'm sorry," he apologized as he palmed my waistline his fingers splayed around me. "I didn't mean to scare you. I just…" He looked sad, beaten emotionally as well as physically.

"Did you have a bad dream?" I inquired as I played with the hair on the back of his head. He closed his eyes and pressed his forehead against mine.

"Yeah," he responded. He didn't explain but just held me. I never pushed Peeta whenever he had nightmares because I knew in time he would share them with me. Just as he would never push me whenever I had bad dreams myself.

"Lie with me," I insisted. He must have been so tired because he didn't take off his clothes but at least removed his shoes. But before he lay on the bed he headed towards the bathroom. I sighed waiting for my heart to even out. It had been beating hard since I found him missing.

He returned a few minutes later with a cloth in his hand. "Peeta, what are you––" He sat by my feet and placed them on his lap. Gently he washed my feet from dirt and grime. Once he was done, he went back to the bathroom. When he returned, he removed his shirt and lay down next to me and I immediately situated my head on my spot––his chest. I wrapped an arm around his stomach avoiding his bruises. "Thank you," I said. He kissed my forehead. "What you were and Haymitch talking about?" I asked.

"Arena strategy," he replied.

"Like what?" I implored. I was miffed they were discussing matters that should involve me. "Don't you think I should have been included as well?"

"We didn't exactly talk about strategy," he confessed. "I needed to talk about stuff…like things I need done if I die in the arena."

"You're going to die in the arena," I proclaimed as I sat up to face him. I was angry and scared.

"Katniss," he said my name weary and resigned. "You know that only one person comes out––"

"And whose to say it's me? What if it's you?" I insisted. I had planned to make sure Peeta survived, but in the back of mind I denied or avoided the possibility of Peeta planning to make sure I did. I knew him. He would sacrifice his life for mine. I shouldn't be surprised that he was talking to Haymitch about the same thing I talked to him about––keep Peeta alive. Poor Haymitch. He must have the only two tributes who would sacrifice their lives for each other.

"I…I loved you for most of my life, Katniss," he professed. "I never wanted anyone but you. If you die, I have nothing. No one to love."

"That's not true. You will move on and find someone––"

"No, I won't. You don't understand. It's you. It's only been you and no one else."

"And you don't think it's the same for me. I never wanted this, Peeta. I told you, I told you I never wanted to fall in love. But I did. With you," I emphasized.

"I won't survive without you," he persisted. "You have Prim and your family. If…Jay succeeds to free Panem, you have a chance for a future––"

"Without you! No, you can't do that to me," I pressed. Tears brimmed my eyes. I love him but he was breaking my heart. "I never wanted anyone but you. You reached inside me, opened my heart to you. You have it now and you think in time I'll…I'll let someone else have it?"

"Katniss, you need to live and be loved––"

"By you and only you," I sobbed in my hands. When Prim and Peeta was taken to the Capitol after the lottery, everyday I held my breath because I knew in my heart that the MockingJay would rescue them. I didn't know why but I knew Jay who I didn't know then was my father, owe Peeta to save him and Prim by extension.

But now, we were entering the arena tomorrow. We were in the Capitol with no hope for a rescue. It was impossible. With that in mind, I was ready to die for Peeta but I should have realized that My Boy With the Bread. The boy who saved me years ago from starvation, who had inspired me to have hope and live from his generosity would die for me as well.

I launched my body over him trapping his form beneath mine. "You can't die, you have to live. You can't leave me all alone in this world without you. I won't let you," I stated anger, fear and love mixed together. I felt his hands rub my back. It wasn't enough. I could never get enough of him, his words, his kindness and love.

Suddenly a loud crash sounded from the living room. Alarmed, Peeta and I ran out of his bedroom to find Haymitch on the floor shards of glass all over the ground. A lone figure dressed in black stood over him. Peeta reacted quickly and without thought of his own safety. He ran towards the intruder tackling him around his midsection. "Peeta!" I screamed as I watched him wrestle the man to the ground. The intruder was taller and bigger than Peeta at least 20 lbs heavier. I feared for his life as the man held Peeta on the ground.

I looked around for an object to use. In the meantime, Peeta with his wrestling experience twisted and flipped the man over his head. He quickly righted himself and took a fighting stance with his hands in a fist. He swung at Peeta who ducked his move. Each time he took a swing Peeta avoided him. They completely fought while they ignored me. Because of this I had enough time to find an object to use as a weapon. I removed the poker from the fireplace. With enough strength I could gather I swung and hit him on his back and then his legs. He arched in pain and turned towards me.

Because he had refocused his attention to me Peeta grabbed him from behind and flipped him over his head. The intruder flew behind him landing on his head. And in an instant Peeta had in him in a headlock depriving the man air to breath. Peeta's face was hard and stern. The man flailed his arms like a fish out of water. The mask he wore remained intact but I could tell he was running out of breath as his body weakened under Peeta's stranglehold.

"Peeta?" I called out to him. He was so focused that he didn't hear me.

"Peeta," Haymitch's soft voice permeated the air. "Let him go. Don't kill him, Peeta. We need him alive to know who sent him. Peeta?"

"Peeta, baby please?" I pleaded. Hard blue crashed in to mine. "Please baby, let him go." His eyes softened and nodded his head. I immediately ran over to him wrapping my arms around his waist once he released the intruder. Haymitch had a hand over his head.

"You two go to bed," he ordered us. "I will take care of this." He walked over to a kitchen and returned with a long plastic rope.

"But––" Peeta said.

"I said now," he seethed between his clenched teeth. "You both need to act like nothing happened. I will take care of this. Don't say a word to anyone. Not a word."

"But what about––"

"Peeta, I don't know who this guy is and what he wanted," Haymitch stated. "But it's obvious he was here because of you or Katniss. Hell he might have been here because of the both of you."

"Why? How would you know that?" I inquired.

"Sweetheart, Cinna, Effie and I were invited to dinner last night," Haymitch pitched his theory. "Then the next thing we know both of you are escorted to the dinner by Snow as well. Peeta gets attacked and Snow…he threatened me, us for that matter."

"He threatened you? How? What did he say?" Peeta asked.

"It doesn't matter––"

"It doesn't matter? Of course it matters." Peeta screamed. "If you're right, Snow threatened you, who's to say that, that our visitor wasn't here for you or Effie?" He made a point.

"Because, you have always been the target," he surmised. "You're a threat to Snow. And with Katniss brilliant performance in the Talent Program and her act with the dress, she is now a target too." He made sense. The intruder moaned and Haymitch kicked him on the stomach. "Asshole."

"Did Snow threaten Katniss?" Peeta asked his voice shook.

"Snow threatened anyone associated to you, Peeta," Haymitch said. "You know that." Peeta let out a loud sigh.

"I'm not going anyway while you push us aside," he said. "If he was after me and Katniss, we have right to face him. No secrets, Haymitch. You promised."

"You're right," he admitted. My stomach plummeted because I kept a secret from Peeta––my conversation with Haymitch to chose Peeta over me

"So what are you going to do with him?" I asked as I pointed to the intruder who lay dormant on the floor. I tapped his foot making sure he was still unconscious.

"Let's tie him up first," Haymitch said. Not wanting to give the stranger an eyeful Peeta and I dressed into sweats. A few minutes later, we had the intruder tied to a chair. Peeta checked his pockets. He carried a small receiver, six two-inch vials that had green liquid inside and two bottles of clear liquid with a syringe. I held back a gasp when Peeta pulled out the syringe from the intruder's left leg pocket.

We haven't removed his mask which I thought was odd, considering it should have been the first thing we did. "Let see what we have here." Haymitch broke a small white stick in two and placed underneath the stranger's nose. He reacted immediately coughing as he smelled the stick. "Wakey, wakey. Peeta, why don't you do the honor of removing his mask." The stranger twisted his head side to side.

Peeta yanked the hood and mask off his face. I swore my heart stopped when my gray eyes connected with another pair of steel reflecting back to me.

"Hi, Catnip," he said a small smile on his face. He looked happy to see me. I didn't.

"Gale," I gasped in horror, anger and something else I couldn't recognize. So I did first thing that I thought of––I slapped him hard not once but twice. "You're alive? What the hell?" I grabbed the lapels of his shirts wanting to strangle him. "And what the hell were you doing attacking Haymitch?"

"Fuck Hawthorne, what are you doing here?" Haymitch asked. He didn't looked surprised, Haymitch looked stunned.

"He's alive and you knew about it?" I accused as I turned to him for an explanation. "Why didn't you tell me?"

"Listen, sweetheart," Haymitch started. "I don't owe you an explanation of any kind."

"Who knew he's still alive? My dad? Hazelle?" I remembered his mother and sibling's reaction to his Gale's death. "Hazelle was devastated––"

"Gale volunteered for a mission and part of the deal was they he had to 'die.' " Haymitch stated. "So don't yell at me. If anyone is to blame for Hazelle's pain, it's Gale." I blinked and ruminated his explanation as I remembered Gale's longing to join the rebellion. Our heated arguments were always about his plans to leave his family and fend for themselves if he joined the cause.

"How many people know Gale is alive?"

Haymitch sighed. "Not a lot with the exception MockingJay and handful know," he admitted. "Listen, we don't have time for this. We need to find out why he's sneaking around with this…" He pointed to the vials, bottles and syringe we discovered in his possession. "Who he was supposed to use the needle on."

My eyes and attention returned to Gale. "Listen, let me explain," he started as he fidgeted in his seat. "How about untying me?"

"You are out of your fucking mind if you think we are going to release you," Haymitch replied with anger fire in his eyes. I watched his hand clenched and unclenched as if he was trying to control himself from hitting him. Well, he needed to take a number and stand in line because I had first, second and third dibs.

"Catnip?"

"Katniss," I spat back.

"What?" He looked puzzled, dazed from his fight with Peeta.

"My name is Katniss. And no, we are not untying you after what you tried to do…sneak in here to do…what are you doing here, Hawthorne?"

He wasn't Gale anymore. Any semblance of my friend and hunting partner was gone. The boy I knew and remembered didn't exist to me. He was a stranger. Gale remained quiet.

"Well, Hawthorne," Haymitch started. "You heard her, talk." Gale pursed his lips and shook his head. "I'd recommend that you talk because you won't like the alternative if you don't."

"I had orders," he revealed.

"From President Coin, I assume," Haymitch observed.

"Coin, who's President Coin?" Peeta asked. I was so angry and focused on Gale that momentarily forgotten about Peeta.

"She's the president of District 13," he informed.

"District 13?" I repeated in surprise. "They still exist? I thought they were annihilated years ago."

"Well, that was Hawthorne's mission," Haymitch said. For a few seconds he explained Gale's death and mission. After he was done, I was dumbstruck and so was Peeta by the look on his face.

"So Hawthorne, I don't care who you took orders from," he stated. "You are going to tell me what was your purpose here." Gale shook his head. He was stubborn. It was obvious who his loyalty belonged to and it wasn't to the MockingJay. Haymitch and Gale held a staring contest for a few minutes sizing each other. I was losing patience. I needed answers.

"Haymitch?" I called to him. "Why don't we find out what's inside the vials." I had an idea. Haymitch picked one up in his hand and looked at the small bottle with green liquid.

"I know this," he said. "It's a sleeping agent. You throw it on the ground and the fumes disperse in the air. Anyone inhaling it will fall into a deep sleep for a couple of hours."

"And what about this one?" Peeta asked as he picked up the bottle with clear liquid.

"I'm not sure," Haymitch said. "But I'm sure it's a liquid that belongs with the syringe."

"What is this?" I said as I placed the bottle in front of Gale's face. He turned head and his eyes sideways.

"He won't tell you," Haymitch said what I already knew. "But I have any idea how he's going to tell me." He picked up the syringe and inserted the needle into bottle. "Let me see, I'm guessing you're about 6' 2" and with your body mass, you weigh about 200 lbs?"

"Haymitch?" Peeta said his name. "What are you going to do?"

Haymitch looked at Gale then added more liquid in the syringe. "Whatever this is, I need to make sure it's comparable to his body weight." I held my breath in anticipation.

"Well, since Hawthorne won't tell me," he started. "Let's see what happens when I inject it into him." It was a threat? He really wasn't going to inject Gale?

"You wouldn't dare?" Gale responded his eyes large like saucers. He looked scared.

"Listen, ass wipe," Haymitch said as he approached him. Gale squirmed in the chair. "You were sent here to use this on someone, and my guess is that this…" He waved the syringe in front of Gale's face. "…was meant for Peeta." He rolled up Gale's sleeve for dramatic effect. "So tell, Hawthorne. Because if you don't, I'll be happy to find out how this will affect you." He leaned over Gale and pricked the needle on his skin of his bicep. A small drop of blood surfaced.

"I…" Gale began. Sweat shimmered on his face and forehead. "Catnip, Katniss? You can't let him do this."

"I can't let him? You were going to use this on Peeta," I accused him. "Tell him, Hawthorne." I grabbed Peeta's hand. Images of Peeta injected with the liquid formed in my mind. Gale was sent to hurt him that I was certain.

"I was ordered to inject into him," Gale started. He looked at Peeta with hate.

"And what are the affects?" Haymitch inquired. "What would it do to him?" Haymitch inserted the needle into his forearm. Gale huffed through his mouth.

"President Coin said it would weaken Peeta," he admitted.

"Weaken him," I repeated. "Why?" I knew why, but I wanted to Gale to admit it––be responsible for his actions as he took orders from the president of District 13.

"How does it work?" Haymitch pressed. "It has to do more than that."

"I don't know the science of how it works but…the more Peeta exerts himself, the weaker he gets," Gale explained further. "It doesn't happen quickly. The drug is effective under stressful conditions." I saw red. Something in my mind snapped. I pulled my arm back again and slugged him in the face, hard that my hand stung with pain.

"Why?" I said. I knew why? His obsession with me was not over. That was obvious. "Why is Coin doing this to him?"

"She didn't tell me but gave me my orders," he said.

"In exchange for what?" I demanded.

"Orders," Haymitch repeated.

"What?" Gale returned as he ignored my question.

"You said orders," he said. "What were the other orders?" Gale looked sheepish. "Tell me so help I'll not only inject you I'll feed you to the wolves." I gasped. "MockingJay will love to see you once I tell him what you tried to do today." MockingJay. Haymitch called him MockingJay, which led me to believe that Gale didn't know he was my father, Garrett Everdeen. "Tell me right now so God help me––" He placed his thumb on the plunger ready to inject the liquid into Gale.

"I…I was supposed to meet up with MockingJay's faction and…" he stopped and looked at me. "And inject…inject him as well."

"Why fucking bastard," I screamed as I slugged him again. The pain in my hand be damned. "How could you?" Peeta wrapped his arm around my waist pulling me away from Gale. "You'd betrayed MockingJay in exchange for what?" I screamed.

"Katniss," Peeta said my name in a soft tone. I was beyond anger, livid. I also felt betrayed from someone who I regarded as family. I lost focus as I imagined images of Peeta and my father subjected to Gale's order from President Coin.

"Why?"

"Coin needed to control the MockingJay and Peeta, but she knew couldn't," Gale said. Haymitch shook his head.

"I get it," he observed. "Two birds with one stone." 'Huh?' I didn't understand what Coin's motivation was.

"Coin wants me and your…Jay to be out of the picture," Peeta interjected. "Coin is no better than Snow.

"She couldn't control Jay so she sent Gale to put him out of commission so she can take over," Haymitch reiterated. I couldn't believe this was happening. I couldn't believe my friend was capable of that kind of betrayal. Just so…

"That doesn't make sense," I said. "The rebellion knows him. The rebels only follow and take order from the MockingJay. Why put him out of commission. He's the leader of the rebellion."

"Exactly," Haymitch agreed. "But I think it's more than that. Right Gale? Because she had to offer you something in return."

"What did she offer you in exchange? To turn your loyalty to President Coin. What, Gale?" I pressed.

"To put the MockingJay out of commission, to reveal his identity to Coin so then…he would be replaced." Haymitch laughed. I didn't see anything funny about it. Coin was going to replace my father though Gale didn't know it. "If I found out who he really was…I would be…"

"You are so predictable," Haymitch chortled then sneered. "I cannot fucking believe the balls you have, Hawthorne. She promised you…oh my God…"

"What, Haymitch?" I pleaded. "What did she promised Gale?"

"Katniss, she couldn't control Jay so she sent Gale to take him out," he reiterated.

"I know that!"

"Katniss, what Haymitch is trying to say is that Coin…in exchange for Gale's loyalty. Was offering to replace Jay with Gale as the new MockingJay."

"What? No, Gale. How could you?" I was furious, stunned and paralyzed. "You can't…"

"Well, it would work had Gale succeeded," Haymitch said. "No one knows who is he, his real identity. Only a few know. Gale could easily be placed as MockingJay." He had the same frame and build like my dad.

"But Jay has been around for nearly two decades," Katniss pronounced. "That doesn't make sense."

"Yes but Jay has been a symbol since the rebellion started," Haymitch pitched in. "No one really cares who is he, but that he fights against the Capitol. And, because the MockingJay hadn't appeared for a few months, there were rumors that the real MockingJay died a few years back and was replaced to continue the rebellion." Then it dawned on me. Dad nearly died from the mining accident. That would have been the same time the rumors started that MockingJay was killed.

The revelation and Gale's appearance and betrayal was too much for me. I sagged into Peeta's arms for comfort and support. "I can't take any more of this. Get him out of my sight."

"We have a couple of hours left before Effie and Cinna get here," Haymitch reminded us. "You two had a long day yesterday."

"What are we going to with him?" I asked as I pointed to my former best friends and hunting partner.

"Wait, he had to have help sneaking into the Capitol," Haymitch muttered. "He couldn't have snuck here without some help. So he has to meet up with them in order to get out of the city."

"Katniss," Gale called out to me. Pleading his case. "I was only doing what I was ordered." I looked back at him in disgust.

"You don't even care who you hurt. The people who you betrayed," I said. "I thought you looked up to…the MockingJay." I was tempted to tell him that he betrayed my father. But it was a moot point. What's done is done.

"He sent me on a mission and abandoned me there," he bit back in anger. "After he got what he wanted, he left me on my own."

"You have no loyalty––" I started.

"I know who is on the winning side, Catnip," he yelled back. "District 13 has the resource and enough firepower. They are organized and have an army." Haymitch snorted. "Coin and District 13 can defeat Snow."

"And all you had to do was take out Peeta who has nothing to do with the rebellion as what…a side project while your at it," I sneered.

"He's a pet project for MockingJay," Gale said. "He doesn't really care about him." I gasped in horror and disgust.

"You have no idea––"

"Katniss, listen," Gale interrupted. "I get it, okay. You're fond of Mellark. You never wanted me I can admit that. He won."

"Katniss is not some prize to be won, Gale," Peeta said with a hard look in his usually calm and beautiful eyes.

"Everything in life is a competition, Mellark,' Gale sneered back. "You just happened to won this round." So Gale admitted he was 'over' me but his obsession to taunt and compete with Peeta was a major factor in his decisions.

"Shut up Hawthorne," Haymitch uttered as he pinched the bridge of his nose. He looked exhausted, we all were. "You're whining like some toddler who got his toy taken away from him. Just shut the fuck up while you still can."

"Make me, Abernathy," Gale challenged him. "I don't take orders from you. You're nothing but an alcoholic and a pity excuse for a victor."

"Don't talk to Haymitch like that," Peeta said in a low and hard tone.

"I can damn yell talk to him anyway I want," Gale returned. "What are you going to do, Bread Boy? I'll beat your ass––"

"You haven't ever beat me, Gale," Peeta exclaimed back. "I'd listen to Haymitch if I were you."

"But I'm not you, thank God," he spat. "Who'd want to be you?"

"Thank God. He's not 'like you," I stated. "Peeta is a thousand times more a man than you'll ever be." Gale laughed. I couldn't take being in his presence any longer. "You deal with him, Haymitch." I said as I grabbed Peeta's hand.

"And what is old man Abernathy going to do?" he snorted. Peeta let go of my hand and walked over to a table. He opened a drawer and took out a roll of tape. He pulled a long piece and ripped it apart from the roll.

"What the hell umph––" Gale muttered before tape covered his entire mouth. His eyes widened in surprise and anger. Then Haymitch moved towards him and placed his hood over his head. "Mmmm mphm,"

"I don't want to see your ugly mug," Haymitch snickered. "Why don't you two head off to bed," he instructed us. "I'll deal with Hawthorne."

"Are you sure?" Peeta asked. "I don't trust him. I don't want to leave you alone with him."

"Peeta, he's tied to the chair. I had worse company than this," he said. "I'll have you know that I know how to make knots that even Gale can't escape from."

"But you said, he came to the Capitol with help," I reminded him. "They'll be expecting him."

"What if they come after Peeta and my dad once they realized Gale failed his objective?" I asked with fear in my voice.

"Listen, trust me," he implored. "I know to deal with Hawthorne and his flunkies. You both need to sleep. Effie and Cinna is not going to forgive me if you stay up any longer looking like raccoons in the morning."

"Racoons?" Peeta inquired. "I don't understand what that means––" I noticed that Gale kept his eyes on me, trying to make me notice him. His eyes also looked down to my hands which were clutched onto Peeta's.

"Peeta, come on, honey," I said in a sweet and soft voice I only used for him. I pulled him towards his bedroom walking backwards. "Let's go to bed. I am tired and you wore me out last night." I made sure Gale heard me loud and clear. Haymitch cleared his throat in amusement. Peeta smirked. Gale grunted as his head drooped forward.

The moment we reached Peeta's bedroom I turned around and wrapped my arms around him. "Oh my God, Peeta," I sobbed into his chest. "If wasn't for Haymitch coming back…" I was speechless as my mind envisioned the possibilities. Injecting Peeta while I slept besides him. What would he had done with me had he succeeded. I cringed in revulsion. And we wouldn't have known what Gale had done. And what he had planned to do with my father as well. "Gale was going to…he was trying to…" 'Slowly kill you,' my mind said the words I couldn't voice out loud.

"But nothing happened," he said as he led us back to his bed. I removed my sweats wearing a pair of panties for bed. Peeta removed his clothes as well wearing his tight boxer shorts. I lay beside him my head on his chest once again.

"I don't…"

"Katniss, let's not talk about it anymore," he insisted. "It's over, we're okay. And Haymitch will deal with him. Just close your eyes and sleep with me." I was too angry, upset and stunned at the turn of events. "Just shut your mind off, Katniss. Haymitch is right."

"About what?" I asked as I took deep cleansing breath to clear my mind. Lying with Peeta in his bed calmed me.

"Both Cinna and Effie will have our heads if we have bags under our eyes," he joked. I smiled. Even with his life in danger, obstacles that are constantly thrown at him, Peeta was calm and comforting me. I wanted to rage at Gale, beat him to a pulp. I hope he had another black eye in the morning.

Peeta POV ––

Something tickled my nose. I groaned from pain and exhaustion as I tried not to awaken Katniss who slept beside me. Her hair cascaded over her face and shoulders. There was a pinched look on her face like as if she was experiencing a bad dream. I kissed her forehead to calm her. "Shh, it's okay, Katniss," I said against her warm skin.

The blanket rode down her body revealing her naked upper torso. Of course, my natural morning reaction was getting me turned on at the sight of her. Junior tented quickly as it shot up into the air saluting back to me. I sighed. As much as my body wanted to greet Katniss in the most pleasurable way my mind had other ideas. I did know how to control myself. I learned after years of my body reacting whenever Katniss was near me. And that I know how she felt like with me inside her, it was harder…more difficult to control myself because all I want to do is make love to her until we both exhausted. I smiled when I realize we did just that the night before. I tenderly grabbed her hand and placed it on top of my heart.

A few minutes later, Katniss sighed. Her eyes slowly peeled open. "Morning, honey," she said all raspy and sexy-like. I turned to my side as I kissed the crown of her head.

"Morning, baby," I returned. Katniss smiled. She told me she hated pet names but I couldn't help myself. Secretly, I knew she loved it especially when I whispered words into her ear while I made love to her.

"How's your stomach?" she inquired.

"Good as news." I illustrated as I patted my belly for good measure. "See it doesn't hurt anymore." The dark blue and purplish bruises faded overnight.

"Good, so I can do this," she said as she crawled over my body and kissed me. My cock was pressed between us. I groaned in pleasure as Katniss' tongue sought entrance. Just as I was about to peel her panties aside a loud bang sounded in the air.

"Get up you two," Haymitch's voice muffled through the door. "I let you sleep long enough. Cinna and Effie are already here waiting for you to get up." Katniss sighed and lay her head on my chest. I moaned in frustration. "You both have only 20 minutes to get ready."

"Twenty minutes?" Katniss said her voice low and raspy. "What time is it?" I hadn't bothered to look since I was mesmerized at vision lying next to me. 'Who could blame me?' Katniss was sexy and gorgeous even if she didn't want to hear or admit it.

I looked at my side drawer. The digital clock read…8 o'clock. "Shit, it's 8 in the morning," I announced. We have never slept in this late ever.

"I'm surprised Haymitch didn't wake us earlier," Katniss admitted.

"Hey, I mean it," Haymitch voice reverberated through the door. "Get up or I'll send Effie in there.

"He would too," Katniss scowled while I chuckled and deftly slipped my hand inside her panties palming her ass check. "Hey, none of that." She lay back on the bed. "Don't start something you can't finish." I smirked. She was right. We didn't have any time for messing around. When I made love to Katniss, I didn't want our time together to be rushed. I wanted to savor every second and minute with her.

"Then you better leave while you still can," I said in a teasing manner as I trailed a finger down her lean belly edging her panties. She quickly got up off the bed and stole the blanket from me wrapping it around her. Before she left she leaned down and gave me chaste kiss on my lips. "See you in twenty." I watched her open the door to be surprised with Haymitch hovering at the other side.

"Argh," Katniss yelped. "Get out of the way, Haymitch." She quickly passed him as she headed towards her own bedroom. I smiled to myself as I heard Haymitch mumbling to himself about teenagers, raging hormones and about being too old.

Nineteen minutes later with one minute to spare, I looked around to see any signs of the incident earlier this morning. No trace of Gale as if nothing happened. I sat down at the dining table to be greeted by both Cinna and Effie. "Good morning, Peeta," Cinna spoke.

"Peeta, how are you feeling?" Effie asked. "How's your ribs?"

"Good morning, Cinna. I feel much better Effie," I returned. Haymitch ambled into the dining room. He looked exhausted from lack of sleep. I felt guilty leaving him with Gale to handle him on his own but he insisted. It was an argument I knew I would lose.

"Haymitch, you look a mess," Effie stated. "Cinna has a lot of work to do today. At least let him cover the bags under your eyes before the dinner tonight.'

Haymitch waved his hand in a dismissive manner. "Fine, I'm too tired to fight with you, Trinket," he said. Effie looked surprised and concerned that he didn't fight back.

"Good morning," Katniss said as she entered the room. I held my breath. It was an involuntary reaction every time I saw her. Katniss wore a simple white tunic blouse and loose pants similar to my attire. It was light and airy nothing constricting. Her hair fell down her shoulders as she wore no make up.

"You two we have a busy day today…" Effie's voice trailed off into the distance as thoughts muddled through my mind. 'Where is Gale? What are his companions doing? How much danger is Jay in? How is my family doing? How was Prim?'

"Peeta, pay attention," Effie scolded me. "Eat all your food, you need to this morning." She was mothering me which I didn't mind since my own mother cared less for my welfare. I found it endearing while Katniss thought the opposite as she scowled back at her.

The morning schedule consisted of another bath to open and exfoliate my skin whatever that meant. The soak lasted about an hour with a vegetable placed on my eyelids. "To ease and remove the puffiness from your eyes," Portia explained. By the time the treatment was over I smelled like lavender and pine reminding of the woods around the Merchant village. I felt homesick. Next I had another session of hair removal all over my body, and I do mean all over. I hoped my face wasn't too red as I blushed from embarrassment as one of the female assistance 'relieved' me from the hair from my pubic area once again. It didn't hurt as much not like the first time.

"Don't tell Katniss who removed your hair down there," she said. "I don't want to have her coming after me." She laughed. "She really has nothing to worry about. I know who your heart and body belongs to. She's a very lucky girl."

I sighed and corrected her. "No, I'm the lucky one."

Lunch was served while the other stylists gave me a pedicure and manicure. I had hoped to have lunch with Katniss but I was told she was in a middle of a her 'treatment.' I blushed as I thought how she tasted the night before and fought to contain my growing erection while I ate ground beef nestled between two soft bread with cheese, lettuce, pickles and sauce. I think they called it a hamburger.

Once they had pampered me from head to toe. I was instructed to meet Haymitch, Katniss and Effie in the monitoring room.

"Why is the furniture set aside?" I asked as I walked into the room to find Katniss already there. She had her arms crossed over her chest and a scowl on her face. 'Uh oh,' my mind alerted. 'This doesn't look good.'

"Please talk to Katniss," Effie said in an irritated manner.

"What's going on?" I inquired. Haymitch looked resigned as he lost a fight.

"They want to teach us how to dance?" Katniss informed me.

"Oh, dance? Why?"

"Because after the dinner there will be a dance," Effie explained. "And I don't want my tributes to look like a bunch of uneducated idiots on the dance floor."

"We can always 'not' dance," Katniss seethed. "We…Peeta and I are not performing monkeys."

"Katniss." Haymitch took a deep breath. "The dance is going to be televised. Everyone will be expecting you to dance with your tribute partner. The whole country is expecting to see 'The Star-Crossed Lovers' dancing." With pleading eyes, I looked at Katniss to not fight Effie. She relented.

So for an hour, Effie and Haymitch taught us to do the 'waltz.' It was easy to learn despite Katniss' reluctance. She was stiff in my arms at first then relaxed as we glide through the floor in the suite. I didn't understand why she was so adamant about not wanting to dance with me. We didn't have any private time so I tucked the thought to the back of my mind to ask her later.

The rest of the day was more fittings as Portia and her team measured and made adjustments to my attire. Throughout that time, I didn't see or hear from Katniss so when Portia suggested I take a short nap and I didn't argue with her. As I expected, Katniss was already in bed tucked beneath the duvet. I removed my shirt and tiptoed to my bed as not to disturb Katniss from her sleep. As I lay beside her, she automatically sought me out as she laid her head on my chest. Seconds later I was out like a light.

"Stop squirming," Portia said hours later as I felt the collar on my shirt bite into my neck.

"This is too tight, Portia," I told her as I stood with a pair of tight boxers shorts and only wearing a black form fitting dress shirt. I swear this was worse than training. Portia quickly solved my issue as she adjusted the collar.

"That button is for show, Peeta," she explained. "You need to leave it open." She patted my face.

"Oh, but my chest will be showing," I discovered as I looked down.

"That's the point," she returned. "The dress shirt is designed to show off your smooth chest. 'Why? "Just trust me Katniss will appreciate it." She winked. I sighed. I wanted this night to be over. Then suddenly, a loud screamed was heard. It was Katniss.

Without thinking I ran to find her. In her bedroom I couldn't find Katniss but found Cinna and Effie perched at her closet door. It seem that my brave and courageous hunter girlfriend was hidden inside. "Effie get away from me or I'll…" Mumbled words followed from behind the door.

"What's going on? And why is Katniss hiding in the closet?"

"Peeta, get Effie away from me," Katniss said.

"Peeta," Effie started. "I was only making a suggestion to accompany her attire when she bolted into the closet."

"What about?" I asked as I leaned against the door. Effie winced while Cinna shook his head.

"Ask them," Katniss said though the door. "It's bad enough they want met to wear that horrible dress."

"What's wrong with her dress?" Cinna pointed to the garment on a hanger. It was a sleeveless black long gown with tiny crystal gems all sown into the dress with feathers and a deep V cut on the neckline. It was…sexy. I didn't see anything wrong until I saw the mid section or rather lack of one.

"I don't want to wear that. It's too much," Katniss replied.

"More like not enough," I debated. It was sophisticated but not Katniss' style. "Please come out so we can talk about this, babe." The knob slowly twisted and a hand appeared. I grabbed it.

"Don't let them make me wear it," she pleaded.

"Katniss," Cinna sighed. "Of course we wouldn't force you to wear something you didn't feel comfortable." Effie nodded her head.

"It's really…lovely, but it's not me," she stated. "I was okay to wear it but then Effie suggested…"

"What? What did she suggest?"

"That I get my.. 'garble, garble,'…" she mumbled.

"What did you say?"

"She wanted me to get my belly pierced," she sneered. "I'm going into the arena tomorrow with a pierced belly. I'll wear that stupid dress but I will not have my belly pierced to 'coordinate' with my dress."

"Oh," I said. I shook my head and spoke to Cinna and Effie. "Cinna, is there another dress Katniss can wear? I don't want her to be uncomfortable and uneasy all evening." I liked the dress, but not if it made her uncomfortable.

"We have a backup dress," Cinna said. "Sorry Katniss. I didn't mean to offend you." With disaster averted I went back to my room to dress.

The Tribute dinner was held at the large garden outside of Snow's mansion. Katniss clung to my arm as Effie lead us to the dinner tables. All eyes were on the both of us as cameras followed everywhere we went. "Where's Haymitch?" Katniss asked underneath her breath as she smiled for the cameras and other dinner guests who surrounded us. The rest of the tributes and reaping escorts walked ahead us forming a long line.

Lights, large vases of flowers and 12 flags decorated the grounds. On the upper level of Snow's garden was President Snow himself seated at table with Seneca, Plutarch and the rest of the Gamemakers. I squelched the vomit that rose from my throat. "He has business he needed to attend to. Don't worry Katniss," I said. "He'll be here as soon as he can." 'Or so Haymitch promised as he left hours earlier.'

At our table was Effie, Cinna with the other stylists. Haymitch made it in time as the first entre was served. "So what did I miss?" he asked as he sat besides Effie. Cinna was seated next to the other side of Katniss.

"You know the usual long boring speech that you know Plutarch wrote," Effie informed me.

"Great, so I didn't miss anything," he said as he reached for a glass of wine. He looked tired and stressed. I wondered what other business he had to attend to. Business with Gale and the rebels?

Thank God we weren't seated with other tributes, their mentor and design team. All night Cato had his eye on Katniss and me just as Snow kept looking our way. At least dinner was comfortable and not stressful. I held onto Katniss' hand underneath the table all night. There were cameras everywhere at every corner that you couldn't avoid them no matter where you looked.

Unfortunately that moment arrived, the moment that Katniss dreaded––the dance. "Knock 'em dead, kids," Haymitch wished for us. I led Katniss by the hand to the dance floor. She stumbled and looked scared, more scared than I realized as I felt her body trembled.

"Katniss, my love," I said as extended my hand that held hers while the other placed delicately around her waist. "Look at me." I knew from the look in her eye she was staring back at Snow. "Look at me." I tugged at her lean waist. "Don't look at anyone but me, and we'll both be fine." She sent me a smile. The music started. I could tell that Katniss was counting her steps as she was looking at her feet. She was nervous and scared of making a fool of her self.

"Katniss," I said her name again. She looked up. "Did I tell you this evening how beautiful you looked?" She smiled, a genuine one that reached from ear to ear. One that was reserved for me.

"Yes, you did," she replied. "The moment you set your eyes on me. Again in the car. Then you said it again before Effie led us to dinner." She was beautiful. Cinna changed her dress that suited her personality. The gown was elegant, blue in color with clear crystals like the ones on the black dress. This sparkly dress was sleeveless as well but not with the plunging neckline and missing midriff. She looked angelic despite the dark color. Just as the music ended another started. We danced for a few minutes ignoring the people around us. It was just me and her in our own little world.

I didn't know how long we were dancing nor did I notice that our clothes lit on fire. The flames were bright blue as the fire licked our clothes rising up to our shoulders. Everyone around stopped and stared at us but I was too busy looking into my girl's eyes to notice them.

Suddenly, Caesar's voice disrupted our little bubble. "Ladies and gentle, Peeta Mellark and Katniss Everdeen from District 12." The applause was loud and boisterous. Effie looked elated as Cinna stood besides her smug and pleased with himself. Haymitch was not…impressed.

"Peeta," Plutarch approached us at the dance floor. "May I have a dance with Ms. Everdeen." Katniss had a tensed and alarmed look on her face.

"I'm not her keeper, Mr. Heavensbee," I said. "It is up to her to decide." Plutarch extended his hand and Katniss knew she couldn't refuse him. Not in front of the cameras and prying eyes. I reluctantly let her go because I knew I too had no choice. I watched them for a few seconds noticing that Plutarch did most of the talking while Katniss had her eyes on me.

"She's fine, Peeta," Haymitch said as he appeared beside me.

"I promise her that I wouldn't leave her alone."

"She's not alone, not with all the cameras," he pointed to every corner of the garden. Even with the cameras I still felt uncomfortable and ill at ease.

"Where have you been?" I asked to distract my nervousness.

"I can't say much but I can assure you that you have nothing to worry about," Haymitch answered in an evasive tone. I then realized we weren't exactly in a secure place to have a private conversation. There were things I needed to know like where was Gale and was Jay warned of District 13's plans? I felt a slight tug on sleeve. Beside me stood Dr. Carlyle and her daughter, Amelia Snow.

"Hi, Peeta," she said with rosy cheeks and a bright smile. I couldn't help but smile back even if Snow ran in her blood. She was an innocent child related to a monster.

"Good evening, Dr. Carlyle," I greeted her. "And hello Ms. Snow." I leaned forward and shook her hand. She giggled. "Are you enjoying the party?" I didn't realize she was in attendance with her mother.

"Amelia and I have just arrived," Carlyle informed me. "Amelia is too young to be attending the Tribute Dinner, but her grandfather allowed her to watch the dance."

"Mom, can I ask Peeta, please?" Amelia begged with her big blue eyes shining with delight.

"Only if Mr. Mellark agrees," she returned. "Peeta, Amelia has a question to ask you and I told her that you have no obligation to honor her request."

"What is it?" I asked mildly intrigued and curious.

"Will you dance with me?" she inquired. I mentally gasped wondering how Snow would react as Panem watched me with his granddaughter. Would it anger him further? I looked to Haymitch for guidance.

"Don't look at me," he said clearly not helping me as he turned to Dr. Carlyle. "Dr. Carlyle, it would be an honor." He extended his hand to her. Haymitch once again was consorting with the 'enemy.' I wondered if he asked her to dance just to piss off Snow.

"Only one dance, Amelia," her mother reminded her.

Taking my cue from my mentor, I led little Ms. Snow to the dance floor. Suddenly all eyes were on us just as Katniss finished her dance with Plutarch. I felt a bit conscience and uncomfortable knowing that President Snow, Amelia's grandfather was watching us.

"Thank you, Peeta," Amelia said as I held her at a polite distance.

"You're welcome. You dance very well," I complimented her––for a 12 year-old she was quite light on her feet as though she had danced a thousands waltzes.

"My grandpa taught me," she announced with pride. Did she know the lives her grandfather and his predecessors ruined? The countless children murdered all for the sake of entertainment? That her grandfather caused the death of thousands in his reign? As innocent as Amelia may appear to be she could not be as ignorant of the games she watched each year. That boys and girls of her age were destined to die in the arena.

The music felt long as I itched to be at Katniss' side. I turned my head to look for her. Cinna and Effie flanked her side guarding her like faithful watchdogs. I was also aware of Snow's eyes on Amelia and me his face stern and…angry. I didn't know if he was angry with me or his granddaughter. Finally, the music ended and I returned her back to her mother.

"Thank you, Peeta," Dr. Carlyle said with a smile on her face. "You have no idea how much this means to my daughter, to me." She hugged me and I was startled by her actions. "We will never forget this."

"Bye, Peeta," Amelia said as she hugged me as well.

Before the dinner ended, Caesar corralled all the tributes to appear one last time for the cameras. Dressed on our formal wear he introduced us one by one with exception of Katniss and me. "The Star-Crossed Lovers of District 12, Peeta Mellark ad Katniss Everdeen." Fireworks exploded in the air, music blared and people screamed. This night felt like it was never going to end. By the time we headed home my head hurt and my eyes stung from all the camera lights flashed before us. Cinna headed to his own residence as he bid us a farewell. "You both did great," he said. "I'm very proud of you. I'll see you tomorrow."

When we reached the suite Effie gushed, twirled around and squealed in delight. "The evening was a success. Plutarch said the ratings are skyrocketing. This year has been the best ever." She turned to me and Katniss. "Peeta, you were so handsome. Katniss radiated like the sun. And both of you were the king and the queen of the ball so to speak. The Capitol and Panem have never seen or adored tributes like you." Suddenly, her eyes misted with tears as a hand covered her mouth. "I'm so sorry." I was stunned. Katniss was puzzled.

"You don't deserve to…" Then it dawned on her where Katniss and I were headed tomorrow morning. A look of guilt and shame marred her face.

"Effie, it's all right," I tried to comfort her.

"It's not all right. It won't be ever again." Tears streamed down her cheeks smearing the pale foundation she wore. Her wig and clothes were pressed and immaculate but the rest of her makeup was a mess. "All my life I've wanted and worked hard to be a reaping escort. It was all I ever wanted." Her proclamation made me think of myself––Katniss, she was the one thing I ever wanted. "I only saw the glory and reward the job held. I've…" She looked at Haymitch. "I was ignorant and insensitive only seeking fame and success. I've escorted children younger than you to…their death. I turned my eyes away from the horror. But I can't now. How can I keep doing this…I don't know what to do. "

"There's nothing you can do, Effie," Katniss said as she placed an arm around Effie's shoulders. "For Peeta and me. At least now, you know better now."

"It's up to you to decide what you want to do with the rest of your life," Haymitch added. There was tension between Effie and Haymitch that wasn't there before. Everyone can see the attraction between them. This tense energy bouncy back and forth was different.

Effie hugged us both and ran to her room. "Listen, you two," Haymitch started. "Effie and Cinna will be prepping you for games tomorrow. I won't be here when you get up."

"Where will you be?" I asked.

"All mentors have to report to the stadium before the launch," he explained. "So anything you need, advise or otherwise you need to ask me now." I couldn't think of anything. Images of my childhood and the life I had in District 12 filled my mind––Dad, Rye and Delly. Tyler and the bakery. Times I shared with Katniss, the moment she told me she loved me. My life flashed in front of me––the past and present, the best and worst moments in my life was all with Katniss.

"Thank you, Haymitch," was all I could say. For once in my life I was speechless. He was like a father to me, letting me hide in his house when my own was a battlefield. I loved my father but he never understood me. I felt a kinship with Haymitch Abernathy––the old codger that children were afraid of. Who knew that the grumpy, alcoholic Victor had a heart of glass. "Thank you for supporting and having my back all these months. I couldn't have survived without you." I'd never forget how he stood by me against men like Cray and Snow.

"Naw, kid," he mumbled. "You would have done fine on your own." He wasn't used to compliments and praise but I knew better. We all need some form of validation––that we are also wanted, valued and needed.

"Thank you too, Haymitch," Katniss said as she startled him by grabbing him around the neck in a tight hug. He shook from surprise because my girl hardly ever praised anyone besides family. "Thank you for taking care of Peeta." I noticed a look between them.

He coughed, embarrassed but pleased with himself. "I only have on thing to say––stay alive. Don't give up. You have a better chance of survival if you stick together. Never, do you near me, not matter what…get separated." I wanted to argue that there was a high probability that Katniss and I could be separated but I was too anxious and tired to argue with him. Besides, I wanted to spend the last remain hours I have left with Katniss.

Half an hour later, I strode over to Katniss' bedroom for a change of pace. It didn't really matter where we slept since all the rooms were designed the same with the exception of having different curtains and bedding. I wanted to make love to Katniss one last time because I knew there wouldn't be an opportunity once we entered the arena. Privacy and time alone was one luxury we didn't have in the arena.

I didn't bother to wear pajamas as I wore a pair of dark green boxer shorts. Once Katniss touched me they would be ripped off my body and thrown on the floor. So why bother to wear them? Because I liked the idea of Katniss undressing me while her hands explored every inch of my skin leaving a trail of fire only she could inflame. This time together was all we have.

I walked into her room. It was dimly lit with a single source of light illuminating from a small lamp on top of a drawer next to the bed. I smiled as I stared at my girl, the Girl of Fire as Caesar called her. Her dark hair splayed on the pillow. One hand underneath the downy cushion while the other extended to my side of the bed. She looked beautiful and ethereal like an angel heaven sent. Unfortunately my angel was fast sleep.

I crept to the bed hoping to not wake her because a sleep-deprived Katniss is a grumpy Katniss with a mean left hook. I leaned down and kissed her forehead. "I love you, Katniss Everdeen," I mouthed on her warm skin. "You're going to go home. I swear it."

The next morning I awakened to find the side of me bed empty. I lay there for a few seconds listening to the sound of running water coming from her bathroom. Minutes later, Katniss walked out already wearing her arena gear/outfit and her hair in a single braid. I watched as she walked over and leaned down to kiss me.

"Hey," she said her voice soft and sweet. "I love you."

"I love you too," I said as I caressed the edge of her braid. "You ready?" She shook her and had a sad smile on her beautiful face. My thumb caressed her soft, clean cheek. She smelled of lavender and orchids. She never looked more beautiful.

"I'm not. I'll never be ready," she said. "But as long as I am with you, I will be."

Breakfast was somber and deadly quiet. I forced Katniss and myself to eat since we needed the energy in the arena. And, because who knew when we would have the next meal? Today, Effie surprised us as she appeared sans garish make up, wig and without her gaudy clothes. She wore a simple bright blue dress, her hair pulled back and modest heels. Haymitch was quick with his breakfast but before leaving he said some parting last words.

"Katniss, Peeta," he began. I was puzzled by his behavior as I expected him to be…sad or even angry but he wasn't. There something in his eyes and demeanor that confused me. He looked determined, anxious and distracted. "Remember what I taught you these past two weeks. Stay focused, never let you guard down. And––"

"Stay alive," Katniss and I spoke at the same time.

Cinna was already at the arena launch so it was literally Effie escorting us to the stadium.

The structure was filled to the masses as Panem and the citizens of Capitol watched 24 young children from ages of 11 -17 escorted to the platforms to where we were to be launched into the arena. There were tears on the faces of a few boys and girls who knew that their life was over and were going to die, maybe not today or tomorrow, because death was inevitable.

"Katniss," I said her name kissing the shell of her ear. "Remember now matter what, no matter how tempted you are. Please do not run towards the Cornucopia," I begged her as I held her in my arms. "That is where the first fatalities happen." I repeated what Haymitch had grilled into my brain since the first day of training.

"Okay," she responded. "See you in the arena." I kissed her one last time and let her go to be escorted by Cinna to her launch platform.

Surprisingly, I met Dr. Carlyle and Effie at my designated launching pad. Effie' eyes were puffy as if she had been crying. Without a word she hugged me then said, "I'll never forget. Take care of yourself in the arena. I'll be rooting for you and Katniss." I sent her a sad smile.

"I'll never forget you to, Effie," I said. "Thank you for everything." She sobbed.

I wished I had chance to speak to Dad and Rye one more time. I wished I didn't have to die so that Katniss would live. Before stepping into launch pad, Dr. Carlyle injected my arm. It was a gps and monitor that tracked our every move and vitals. Why did they bother since I already had one injected in my arm by Snow weeks earlier? It was unnecessary and redundant.

"Times up," a peacekeeper announced. "Please step up to the platform." With all the strength I could gather emotionally, physically and psychologically I stepped up to a circular pad no bigger than 3 feet wide in diameter. A glass like tube encased me with no chance to escape surrounding me like a crystal prison. I fought to even out my breath as my nerves were raw and my heart beat hard against my chest. With tears in her eyes, Effie waved her hand as she mouthed her good bye. A second later, the platform moved lifting me upward into a hole in the ceiling. 'This was it.'

Before I was engulfed into the dark gaping hole, I saw a spark hit the peacekeeper on his back as he fell behind Effie and Dr. Carlyle. Effie flinched, startled from the commotion. Suddenly three figures dressed in black from head to toe with masks on their faces entered the room. One figure pressed a cloth over their nose and mouth while the other, pulled a black cloth over their head. I could hear their muffled screams through the glass as they dragged them out of the room. "Effie, Effie," I screamed as I beat my clenched hands on the glass. "Dr. Carlyle." There was nothing I could do.

The platform continued to ascend for a minute or two. I felt scared, angry and helpless. It was pitched dark inside the tube that I couldn't see my hands in front of me. I felt as though I was buried alive. Once the platform stopped a bright white light surrounded me blinding my vision and confusing my other senses causing to shut my eyes hard. Nausea bubbled in my stomach. I breathed through my mouth taking large gulps of air. I tuned everything out as I concentrated on my breathing and my heart beat. Then a few seconds later, I felt relief. A slight cool breeze tickled my face as my nose was assaulted by the smell pine and earth. The sensations were overwhelming that I swayed on feet. A loud familiar male voice rang in my ear like a death knell, "Welcome to the 74th Hunger Games. May the odds be in your favor."

AN: Thank you for reading this chapter. This will be the last update for this month. I will be out of town for the Memorial Day weekend in the U.S. I hope you enjoyed the story so far. Next update will be posted then Wednesday or Thursday. Have a great rest of the week and weekend.