Chapter 52 – Remember Who The Enemy Is.
AN: Thanks to the following who left reviews from the previous chapter: B Dizzy, Little Bird, pistonsfan75, pumpkinking5, kelmkmag, LACR, Cassie Sharpie, Nai1987, TwinK21, Agua Rules, and guests. Also thanks to those who alerted and favored Destiny as well. I hope that I didn't forget anyone. This chapter contains Haymitch and Katniss's POVs and is rated R for strong language. If you find any mistakes, please forgive me. I usually take a couple of passes for any mistakes but since I'm more than a week late, I thought it was better to post it anyway. Don't want any of you guys to lost interest. The Hunger Games belongs to Suzanne Collins.
Haymitch POV ––
The trip to retrieve Lily was uneventful. Thank God. The day was way too long and it wasn't over yet. Not until I had Lily safe in Garrett's arms. I wondered if he told her about his plans––that he would reveal himself to all of Panem, not just President Snow. Though I understood why he did it, I wished he warned me.
"Mr. Abernathy, ETA is ten minutes," the pilot announced. My body ached all over from lack of sleep and stress. My eye still stung from Effie's punch to my face. I knew I deserved it but if I had to do it over again I would. Admittedly to myself, she mattered to me. There were days that she annoyed and frustrated me but Effie was a kind person, despite being born and raised a Capitolite To say she didn't know any better was not an excuse but a reality of any Capitolite mindset. It took meeting Peeta and Katniss to make her realize how wrong the games were––to pit child against child in a game of death. That all life was precious no matter who you were and what district you were born in.
My mind wondered how Effie was doing in the forest with the rebels. Her first complaint would be the clothing, food and lack of proper hygiene facility that she was not accustomed to. I chuckled to myself imagining her reaction. The image of Effie in forest green military fatigue made me smile and chuckle.
I thought of Prim Everdeen as well. Who was taking care of her and how she was doing away from her family? She had been away for weeks, away from her home, family and friends. Poor kid, she must be scared to death.
It was bad enough that my mind kept wondering about Peeta and Katniss. Wondering if they were safe and out of the Capitol's territory. All the news I heard were the attacks on District 5 and 8. Now, I'm trying to get to Lily who was smuggled out of District 12 by Wayne and Joe. They snuck her into the train, got her passed District 12 and into District 11 before anyone noticed they were missing.
Once in 11, they left Lily with the rebels hiding in woods until I fetched her. Then Joe and Wayne had to get back so there would be no repercussions to their families. I hoped they made it back in time before curfew.
The hovercraft started to descend into a patch of land surrounded by thick and dense trees where the ship could land safely and without any detection from the drones or peacekeepers. It seems that Snow had the nation on alert for Garrett, Peeta and Katniss around the Capitol area. Peacekeepers from District 10 to 12 were searching for Lily. There weren't any news of Peeta and Katniss on the wire. It made me nervous and scared thinking of the worse.
So I tried to remain calm and positive. The thought of a drink was very prominent in my mind. Months of sobriety only made me more hyper sensitive to everything. My mind was clear but the body remembered the nirvana ––the numbness instead of pain when I was drunk. I still craved alcohol as my body remembered the scorching feel of whiskey burning my mouth and throat––the amber liquid clouded all senses and memories. The world and its citizens didn't exist. I was responsible for myself and no one else.
The after affects of sobriety was not just experiencing physical pain but emotional ones as well. Everything that I wanted to forget surfaced in my mind like a song I couldn't get rid of as it repeated unendingly. But I was saved in some sense, worrying about Peeta and Katniss. They became my main focus, my reason not to drink and not just think of myself. They had taught me to be empathic and tolerant.
But most of all, I saw the future in them. That there was a possibility of living in Panem free from Snow and his Hunger Games. They brought hope.
I wanted to see their future. But more than that, I made a promise.
Flashback ––
Reaping Day
"Haymitch," Garrett addressed me as I watched Peeta and Prim board the train. Effie was behind them talking their heads off. Peeta and Prim were too numb to notice her. Everyone was beside themselves. They couldn't believe what was happening. Prim Everdeen was reaped and Peeta volunteered. I could see the fear and anger in Katniss's face. She wanted to volunteer but couldn't. She had passed her reaping age.
"Promise me that you will take of my girl," he said. He was a man barely holding on to his emotions. When he said goodbye to his daughter in the Justice Building, he remained strong not wanting for Prim to see his fear and fury. He knew that her calling was the result of attention District 12 had been getting because of his video. Using Peeta became a domino affect that touched the lives of the Everdeens and Mellarks. It was his burden to bear and the consequences that followed.
"I'm sorry, Garrett. I truly am," I said. "I really can't believe…I cannot believe Snow did this. You know the lottery was rigged." Garrett nodded his head. Prim had on tessarae, out of a thousand her name was chosen.
"But did Snow predict that Peeta would volunteer?" he sighed. "I just can't believe that…that Peeta did that. And now Katniss…she loves them both, Haymitch. I'm losing a daughter, she is losing her sister and the boys she loves."
"Hey, I know you," I said as leaned over to him. "If…something needs to be done, you know we can't…the train is the only place to…." There were eyes and ears on the train platform but I needed to let Garrett know that his only chance to rescue Peeta and Prim was on the train before it reached the Capitol.
"I know, Haymitch. I know," he returned. "Just keep my family, my girl safe for me. Swear to me, Haymitch. Upon your word you keep them alive until…" No other words were necessary. Peeta was not even my son but I would raise hell on Panem to ensure his and Prim's safety. I swore it on my soul.
End of Flashback ––
Prim was rescued to my relief even though Peeta had stayed. When Katniss was chosen my promised extended to her and now it included Lily. When he said my girl, he meant all his girls. Reaching District 11 rebel base camp didn't take long but with everything that had happened, I was beyond exhausted, but fear and worry fueled me. I couldn't rest or feel at ease until we were back at the safety of the main rebel base camp.
From a short distance, the rebel leader held his hand up telling us to halt. He removed a pair of binoculars from his belt. I could see the camp from a short distance. The District 11 rebel camp was quiet and I didn't see a single person in the vicinity. It was empty—like it was deserted. The camp itself was not large. Twenty men and women resided and lived off the land. Food and water were scarce but it was better than living under Snow's subjugation. These men and women were free. They had left their homes and families to fight for them.
'Where is everyone?' my mind asked in trepidation and fear. My heart raced in my chest. 'Did the peacekeepers find Lily with the rebels.'
"Sir, let me go ahead and search the camp. It might be a trap," Horace stated. Horace Simms was a dark skinned, ten-year veteran/rebel. Garrett trusted him. He was loyal and true to Mockingjay's cause, not a spy from District 13. Though he was only 32 years-old, his demeanor and physical attributes depicted a man who was seasoned soldier. He was average height, stout with broad shoulder and thick arms and legs. He crept towards the center of the camp that was hidden by tall trees with large trunks. The density of the foliage made it difficult for drones to fly through. The camp was hidden so well that hardly any sunlight breached the trees. Because of it, the temperature around the camp was ten degrees cooler than the surrounding area. Despite the cooler temperature, my forehead was slick with perspiration and my shirt soaked through with sweat.
After five minutes he returned, "Follow me, sir,' he said. The camp was a mess, tents ripped apart, equipment and supplies littered the ground. My stomach plummeted at the sight. 'Where is Lily? What if she and the rebels were discovered and taken prisoner?'
What and how was I going to explain this to Garrett? That Lily was gone and could be Snow's prisoner?
As I reached the camp, I sighed in relief as the rebels descended from the trees. Some climbed down manually while others were lowered with ropes––like Lily. I almost didn't recognize her as she wore the forest green camouflage gear complete with dark brown boots and cap. I have rarely seen her wear pants.
"Haymitch, it is good to see you," she greeted with a quick hug which surprised me. Lily was a loving and kind person but hardly ever extended her warmth to others than family. I didn't realize that at that moment I needed human contact––a light touch on my hand or even a simple hug. It was comfort that I denied myself after becoming a victor, never getting to close to people. "You look beat."
"It's been a very long day, Lily," I admitted as I took a deep breath. The scent of pine and earth filled my nose. It was refreshing, cleansing my mind even for a few seconds. "What happened here? What were you guys doing up there in the trees?" I pointed upward.
The trees were so thick I could see patches of the sky. "There have been reports of drones scouring the forest. Lieutenant Horace said we needed to hide because hour scouts saw peacekeepers."
She explained that it was easier to hide up in the trees and make it look like they had abandoned the camp. They could have been easily picked off by the drones had they been on foot but because of thick trees and leaves, it was easier to hide. They didn't want to be track down.
"Lt. Horace made a good call," I said. " How long were you guys up there hiding?" Lily placed a hand on the small of her back and arched her spine as if she was in pain.
"Seemed like forever, but about five hours."
"You were up there for five hours?" I balked in surprised and horror.
"About an hour after we had been waiting in the trees, a group of peacekeepers showed up," Lily stated. "At least 10 of them. They ransacked the camp. We could hear them all the way up there." She pointed to the grove of trees behind her.
Everyone around us was cleaning up and trying to restore order. I scratched my face feeling my five o clock shadow irritating my skin. The adrenaline in my body was wearing off. "Listen, we're losing daylight I really want us off the ground before the sun sets."
My escort which consisted of five rebels and I led Lily back to where we hid the hover craft. As for the rebels in District 11 they stayed behind trying to regroup and move the base camp. I had told them they had better find a new place to camp until Mockingjay; I mean Garrett needed them. Now that he had revealed himself, the Capitol knew that there is an organized rebellion––not some scattered groups fighting on their own. The attack in District 5 and 8 were organized with the precision of a military group. It was our first battle, won hard and true as we knew our fight was going to get more difficult and dangerous.
So far Mockingjay had a group looking about to find an area and set up the main base camp. The one he had right now was too close to District 3. We didn't know how many was following him. Now that we had exposed ourselves there was no turning back. We were at war against the Capitol even without the help from District 13. We couldn't trust or rely on them for support. Gale's betrayal alerted us of District 13's true agenda and purpose and it wasn't about helping Mockingjay with his cause. We were on our own.
Just as we reached the field where we left the craft and the pilot. A whooshing sound passed me barely grazing my face within inches. "We're under fire," Horace screamed at his team. The five other rebels took cover hiding behind trees. I blindly grabbed for Lily's arm and dragged her with me behind an immense tree trunk. "Take cover, take cover."
I felt useless without gun to fire back. Shots fired between the rebels and the peacekeepers. "Mr. Abernathy, when I count to three you and Mrs. Everdeen run as fast as you can to the ship and go."
"I…I can't leave you behind," I said as panic and fear filled me.
"Don't argue with me. We can hold them off until you reach the ship," he shouted then fired back. I hesitated for a few second. Unfortunately that hesitation caused more peacekeepers to appear. I lost count how many was around us as fire and explosions surrounded us. "Shit."
We were in dire straits as we were six against an unforeseen number. We stood our ground and fired back with no success. Just as I thought we were doomed and had to give up. Peacekeeper bodies fell over from their vantage point. They were shot at from behind and around them. I wondered who were our saviors, where did they come from? Did the District 11 rebels find us?
"Peacekeepers, you're surrounded," a voice filled the air. "Put down your weapons. If you don't comply within ten seconds I will order my men to put you down." A barrage of fire continued in the air. It was loud and startling. I couldn't make sense of what was happening. Were they friend or foe? "10, 9," the man counted down. "Drop your weapon, place your hands in the air and surrender. If you continue to resist we will open fire until all of you are dead."
As the voice continued his countdown, more peacekeepers fell to the ground. "8, 7." I held my breath. Lilly looked pale, her hands covered her ears as gunfire continued. More bodies fell on the ground as small explosions accompanied the noise. Bodies flew into the air from the grenades. "6, 5, 4." I turned to Horace, he was dumbstruck and confusion written on his face.
"Cease fire, cease fire," a woman's voice yelled. "Peacekeepers. Cease fire." She stood up with her hands in the air.
"Don't move." Several men appeared guns aimed at the peacekeepers. Their attire looked familiar. I've seen them before.
"Hands in the air." All of us sat still and waited. While our interlopers and peacekeepers were busy I turned to Horace.
"Go take Mrs. Everdeen to the ship. Now!" I ordered him.
"But sir––"
"Do you want to explain to Mockingjay how you failed to bring her home when you had the chance," I seethed in anger and impatience. "Take her now and don't look back."
"I can't leave––"
"I said now." Horace stood up and grabbed Lily's hand. She didn't have time to focus or adjust as she looked surprised and confused. "Go with him, Lily. Go, go, go."
They ran with Lily barely making sense of what was happening. I watched them leave until I couldn't see them anymore as they ran past peacekeeper who had their hands in the air. I gestured to the rest of his team. "Go now. Run" In the meantime, whomever it was who saved us gathered Snow's soldiers into a circle. They were on their knees and hands behind their heads. Figures dressed in all black carrying rifles surrounded them. I counted six peacekeeper and well over a dozen men dressed in black soldiers. I had an idea who they were.
I walked over to their leader who was taking into microphone attached to his wrist. "This has got to be the dumbest move you ever done, Haymitch," I muttered to myself.
"Yes, ma'am. I have them contained," the tall dark skinned man said as he eyed me walking over to him. His men raised their rifles at me. I raised my hand in surrender.
"Ease up boys," I said in a jovial manner. My patience was thin but I prayed that Horace safely secured Lily to the ship. I was stalling the strangers in hopes they would make it out of District 11. "Who are you/"
"Mr. Abernathy," the dark man addressed me once he was done speaking into his mic. "My name is Ridgley, Commander Edgar Ridgley from––"
"From District 13," I completed for him, his dark brow raised in surprise. "I know who you are. I recognized your outfit anywhere. Seems nothing changed for you guys for the last…two decades." Their signature clothing of all black gave them away. Black shirt, pants, boot and gloves were all they wore. District 13 was predictable if not consistent.
"How do I know you are telling the truth? You could be spies from the Capitol?" I wasn't' born yesterday. Snow was deceptive. I could see him turning on his own men to achieve his own agenda. Even if it meant killing his own peacekeepers as ruse, to distract or give me a sense of security. He was a tricky mean son of a bitch.
"If I was a peacekeeper, why would I kill my own men?" Ridgley asked.
"I know Snow and I know the kind of games he plays with people, even his own," I educated him. Ridgley sighed and reached over to his front shirt pocket. In his hand was a pin––a mockingjay pin, the one Gale had with him when we sent him to look for 13.
"We didn't think that you guys really existed when we sent our guy," I quipped back as I watched Ridgley tossed the pin to me. "So I guess you all know him? Gale Hawthorne? About this tall." I raised my hands above my head. "Permanent scowl on his face and has an temperament of a six year old." The men around him snickered.
"Where is she?" Ridgley asked without ceremony.
"Who is she?" I fired back. I knew he was talking about Lily.
"The blond woman who was in your company," he added.
"Sorry, but I don't know who you're talking about."
"Listen, let's not play games," he returned. "We received reports of Mrs. Everdeen's…disappearance from District 12."
"And what? You're here to help?" I snickered. "She is no concern of yours. Mockingjay can take care of his own, especially his own wife." Ridgley shuffled his feet. "Oh, like you think that I know you know who she is." I crossed my arms over my chest. "Like who's playing games now. We are fine on our own––"
"So you didn't need our help just a few minutes ago?" he said, smirking and being smug about it. "Seems to me your need our help. We can help you if you cooperate with us. We can keep her safe until––" I snorted.
"Out of professional courtesy, I extend my thanks and gratitude for your help," I smirked back. "But you offering for Lily's safety is not an option. She is safe with us." I looked up to the sky and watched as the hovercraft passed above us. I sighed in relief. "I know what kind of you offer and frankly…I'm not a big fan." I remembered Gale's betrayal and where his loyalty lay. Lily in District 13's hands was dangerous and would compromise Mockingjay position as our leader. We couldn't trust them at all. First they tried to kidnap Peeta at 12, snuck into our penthouse to drug him and now they were asking about Lily? No way.
At this point I was really exhausted physically and emotionally. I did what Mockingjay wanted––to get Lilly away from District 11 and deliver her to our base camp where Prim was waiting for her. As for me I had another agenda, questions that needed answers.
Ridgley sighed. "I'm really sorry that you are not cooperating with us, Mr. Abernathy but you leave me no choice." Just as he took a step towards me, Horace returned with his men minus Lily.
"Fuck, Horace. What are you doing here?" I yelled at him. He had his rifle aimed at Ridgley. "You just disobeyed Mockingjay's orders."
"We…I couldn't leave you behind sir," he said. He was non-apologetic as he took his stand behind me. I raised my hands and stood between them.
"Listen, we're both on the same side here. No need to spill any blood. We all know who the real enemy is." I took a step forward. "Let's just cool our heads and relax."
Ridgley lowered his rifle. "You are right, we are not enemies." I sighed. The weight on my chest lessened. I didn't want my guys hurt. "So you won't mind taking a ride with me back to 13?"
"Why?"
"President Coin wants a word with you. And…um…I'm not inclined to returning back without Mrs. Everdeen, but you, Mr. Abernathy will do."
"And if I refuse?" I challenged him. Ridgley looked torn. We weren't enemies but we weren't allies either, not officially even though had a common enemy––President Snow and the Capitol.
"How about you accompany back to 13 as my guest?" he inquired with sincerity, hope flitted in his eyes". I doubted him since he was searching for Lily Everdeen. I doubted Coin wanted her presence at 13 as her 'guest.' I detected that he didn't want to return empty handed and I was curious about the district––how they survived so long undetected.
"I agree," I said under some duress. During out conversation, the soldiers in black tied the peacekeepers to the trees. Their hands and feet shackled while a rope secured them to the tree trunks.
"Sir, I don't think this a good idea," Horace argued.
"I don't think so either and I'll probably regret it but…" I stopped for a second. Then raised my hand and back-handed Horace's head. He barely flinched but had a look of surprised on his face. "That's for disobeying orders."
"Sir," he added. "I know my orders was to get Mrs. Everdeen out of 11 but you are my responsibility too. And, I didn't disobey orders." My brows rose as I waited for him to explain. "Mrs. Everdeen is on her way back to…so I didn't technically disobey Mockingjay's orders, sir." Semantics, he was half right. I looked at the Ridgley.
"Lead the way, Ridgley. I'm all yours," I said with a bit of flair that even Effie would have been impressed.
"Thank you, Mr. Abernathy," Ridgley conveyed his gratitude. He turned to his men.
"I hope you know what doing, sir," Horace said as he trailed behind me.
"Me too, kid, Me too."
Katniss POV ––
I exhaled a long, deep cleansing breath as I stared unabashedly at my boyfriend. He in turn was too busy hacking away branches and bushes in the way. I could see his back muscle bunch and loosen as he whacked away, clearing a path for us. An arrow was nestled between my two fingers ready to draw at a seconds notice.
We are both tired and thirsty as the adrenaline finally worn off. It was had been close to an hour since we last seen Maddy and Shane. Peeta wanted to go after them but I objected.
Flashback ––
"Katniss, Katniss," Peeta called me as I sprinted ahead of him. "Wait!"
"What, Peeta?" I asked as I turned around.
Peeta drew and exhaled large gulps of air from his mouth. "Shane and Maddy?"
"What about them?"
"Shouldn't we go and look for them?" My Peeta, so concerned of others that it both pleased and annoyed me. Pleased that he was kind hearted to care for our new companions, but annoyed that he didn't think of himself first. It was a characteristic I loved about him but it also something that could get him killed.
"Peeta––"
"They volunteered to res…to help us escape from the arena and we're…we're abandoning." I shook my head. "I feel like…I'm running away––"
"Peeta, they left us behind for a reason," I reminded him.
"I know but…they're in trouble," he continued. "I feel like…people are dying because of us."
"Yes, I know that," I snapped at him, as I felt angry and helpless. I wasn't really mad at Peeta but frustrated with our situation. My dad sent people to rescue us––just the two of us. However, Peeta insisted in taking all the tributes which I agreed, but… "Shane and Maddy volunteered to get us out and they did. We're out but still in danger. They are still doing their job which is to protect us and make sure that we don't get caught, Peeta."
"Yes, but––"
"How do you think they will feel if we get caught by the peacekeepers? They took off to the other direction, away from us to make sure we get away." The more I spoke the guiltier I felt. They were sacrificing their lives for us. "They are trained soldiers. Survivors. And we have only one thing to do and that is to make sure we get to the base."
"I just feel bad that they're risking their lives for us."
"And they knew that when they volunteered, just like you knew when you volunteered when Prim was reaped," I reminded him. "You didn't hesitate or think but put your life ahead of hers to help her in the arena."
"That's different," Peeta said.
"Why is it different?" I frowned.
"It's just is," he said as he shrugged his shoulders. "I don't like people dying because of m...I'm not…" My bewilderment turned to impatience and disgust, not at Peeta. I saw the working of his mother's oppression and abuse––both physically and mentally. Peeta didn't feel worthy, even now that she was no longer an influence in his life. She scarred him and seared her bitterness and resentment onto his beautiful mind and soul. She tainted him, made him feel unworthy for love, unworthy to be loved. I wished his mother was here so I could strangle her with my own hands.
"What do you mean it's not! It's the same as if Shane volunteered for you on reaping day just as I would have for Prim."
"I don't like it," he returned. "I would never ask anyone to volunteer for me. I'm not worth the…"
I grabbed his face with both hands cupping his jaw. "You are worth more than 100…1000 men in Panem"
"No––" He shook his head dislodging my hands. "No!"
"Yes, you are! You loved me since you were five, loved me from afar for years. You continued to love me even when I denied your friendship and…devotion. You loved a cynical and moody girl who hurt you more than once."
"Katniss…" he whispered my name his eyes soft and yielding.
"No, I'm not done talking," I berated him. "You loved me, a seam girl which you had no right to love but you did, defying your mother and social barriers. You loved me despite having a bitch for a mother, who didn't appreciate who you are and who've become. With everything you experienced with that bitch, you still have a beautiful and kind heart. All of you, Graham, Rye and your dad turned out to be the most decent men I have ever known. Next to my dad, of course." I smile; he smiled back.
"My dad gets some credit you know," he said with a sad smile on his face. "He didn't protect me but I knew he still loved me."
"Even my little sister, Prim knew you were special…that you were meant for me. You are worth saving. My dad knew that…Shane and Maddy knew that and they didn't even know you. ."
"And if they die because of me," he said as his voice shook. "How am I supposed to live with that?" A tear tracked down his eyes his lips trembled.
"They are soldiers, Peeta," I reminded him. "They knew the risks. And if they die because of us…let's not take their death in vain. They are doing their job and you and I must do ours. Peeta, I thought never this would happen. I was ready to die…in the arena." For you. I thought of my dad and what he did to rescue us; the men and women involved. The lives he risked for us.
"I know, Katniss. I was ready too."
"So what do you say? We're free, Peeta. We're out of the arena and have our life back. I never dared to dream of a future when we were back in the Capitol. It hurt too much."
"I did nothing but dream of future with you, Katniss. I was happy to have what we had."
"They gave a chance, Peeta. I know this is selfish of me to not want to find Maddy and Shane––"
"It's not selfish to want something for yourself that you were denied of, Katniss," Peeta stated. "You are right. They are risking their lives for us and we need to make sure they won't regret it."
End of Flashback ––
For another hour or two, I lost time. Peeta and I traversed through the forest slowly and carefully. In the back of my mind, I tried to keep my thoughts of Cato and his goons at bay. We have peacekeepers after us and if I'm right, Cato as well. Suddenly, my stomach grumbled. Peeta chuckled at the sound.
"I think your stomach is trying to tell you something," he quipped. Peeta's face was smeared with dirt and sweat. I doubt I didn't look any better but whenever I caught his eye, he looked at me as if I was most beautiful person in the world. He made me feel beautiful.
At this moment, my hair was a mess and I was soaked with sweat from my face down to my chest. I didn't at all look like the Katniss that Cinna diligently worked to make over. She was beautiful, a perfect model made in reflection of the Capitolites. It wasn't the real me, but out here in the real world, I was back to plain Katniss from District 12. To Peeta, I was still beautiful.
"I need to hunt us some food," I said as I peered into the sky. From the location of the sun above us, it was about past noon. We barely had time for breakfast and our food consisted of...crackers or what was left of them. "I need…I need to go…" Peeta nodded his head in understanding. He couldn't come with me.
"I'll go gather some berries I saw back over there," he said as he pointed to an area we passed not more than five yards away. We could easily get to each other if got into trouble. He turned to walk away but I grabbed his hand. I was relieved but also worried that we had to part even for a few minutes. But Peeta's treads were loud, so loud that it would scare any game. I couldn't hunt with him trailing behind me. He relented to let me go on my own to get food for us.
"Don't go too far," he suggested. "Come back here when you're done. Please don't wander off too far and come back here as soon as you can." I thought about my incident with Marvel.
"As long as you do the same." I squeezed his hand one last time. It was difficult for me to concentrate as my mind kept thinking of Peeta. I was so distracted and worried about him that I missed a pheasant. "Damnit, Peeta's fine. He can handle himself. The sooner you're done, the sooner you can go back to him." There was plenty of game that it wouldn't take too much time to hunt.
I heard the familiar sound of flapping wing. I eyed a groosling as it walked in front of me a few feet away.
Whamp. The arrow flew from my bow hitting the turkey on the base of its neck. The thought of its meat for dinner made my mouth water. Coupled with berries it would make an adequate meal. I needed to get back to Peeta. Just as I reached down to pick up the bird, I heard voices from behind a large tree a few yards ahead of me.
"Fuck, Cato. Slow down," Clove said in an agitated tone. Once I heard her voice I slouched down to the floor and slowly crept to the voices. "We've been walking for hours." I peered from behind the tree. Cato held a bent spear in his hand. It was covered with blood and dirt. They looked dirty and disheveled like as if they slept on the ground as bit of dirt and trees stuck to their hair and clothing. His other two companions were nowhere in sight.
I held my breath and tried not to panic. Peeta! I needed to find Peeta and get him away from here. I stood up slowly and walked back to where I left him. Once I reached my destination, I looked around for him. "Peeta. Peeta, where are you?" I muttered to myself. I didn't want to leave in case he came back. I heard the sound of Clove's voice from a distance. Panicking I looked around to look for some place to hide.
I quickly climbed up a tree just as I heard Clove's voice clear and distinctly, "God damnit, I'm hungry and tired, Cato. Can we at least look for something to eat?" They were right below me not twenty feet away. I prayed that they didn't look up and hoped that Peeta was not returning.
"Be quiet, Clove," Cato sneered in anger. "If you're tired and hungry, go get your own food to eat. Eat some fucking berries or something. You're whining is pissing me off." He mimicked her whiny voice, "Cato, I'm hungry. Cato, I'm tired. Cato, slow down."
"You're an asshole," she bit back. "I should have left you with the peacekeepers."
"And you're a fucking bitch," he yelled back as he shook her shoulders with his hands.
"Stop, Cato. You're hurting me." I felt bad for Clove. They were too busy arguing that they didn't notice a peacekeeper watching them.
"I lost a day because of you," Cato screamed as he shoved her away. She landed on her butt with loud thump. "You stop your griping and do as I say or I'll leave your ass here."
"Cato, I don't understand why you're so set in finding Peeta," she mumbled underneath her raspy breath. "He's probably long gone by now. Can't we just find a peacekeeper and go home?"
"No, I know he's out here––"
"Damnit, Cato. The games are over. We're no longer in the arena."
"I don't care. Bread boy humiliated me," he seethed in anger. "People laughed behind my back because of him."
"We were training for the arena," Clove mentioned. "You started messing with him first so of course he would defend––"
"I don't care. I was suspended, made fun of. I'm not going to rest until I find him. He made a fool of me." He picked up his spear. "You saw those two jackasses that rescued him and his slutty girlfriend. They were alone so Peeta and his bitch are out here somewhere."
"Cato, they are probably long gone by now. Can't you see we're out of arena? We can––"
"You two, hands in the air where I can see them," the peacekeeper interrupted them, his rifle aimed at their chest. I held my breath and hung onto the tree. 'Peeta, please don't show up.' He reached up and tapped into his ear. "Sir, I found the two other tributes. I'm sending in my location now." He pressed his ear twice.
"I'm not going back," Cato announced. "You'll have to kill me."
"That's not a problem," the peacekeeper snickered. "My orders didn't say I have to return you back alive."
Then it happened so fast I didn't recall breathing by time it ended. A noise startled everyone. I couldn't discern what it was but it was enough for Clove to pull out her knife and throw at the peacekeeper. Her aim was true as it lodge onto his shoulder that it startled him for a second before he fired a shot hitting Clove square on her chest. She was dead instantly as blood gushed though her shirt. Cato reacted quickly as he charged at the peacekeeper with enough force that they landed on the ground.
As if he was in a frenzied daze, Cato punched the peacekeeper on his wound and face alternating as each impact weakened the solder in white. There was blood everywhere––on Cato's hands, the soldier's face and shoulder. Cato didn't stop as blood oozed down the man's face. The skin on his face looked melted and unrecognizable beneath the layer of red liquid.
The sight of Cato's brutality and lack of empathy horrified me. He was a monster. I was paralyzed and scared not for myself but for Peeta. 'Where was he?' I was relieved that he hadn't returned but his absence frightened me. Were other peacekeepers out there? Did they find Peeta?
A voice resonated in the air. The sound disturbed the silence in the forest as birds and critters reacted scattering into air and woods. "Cato." I gasped. It was Peeta. His voice brought Cato out of his mad state as he stood fast and looked around him. The sound came from my left but another noise materialized to the right. It confused Cato as his head swung left to right trying to figure out where the voice was coming from. 'What the hell are doing, Peeta?'
"Cato, come and find me." 'No, no, no.'
Suddenly, a drone appeared. I couldn't tell if it was Capitol or a rebel drone. I was too worried about Peeta to care, but Cato saw it as well as he looked up into the sky. From his angle, he couldn't see me.
And like a dog with a bone, he ran after the drone as it hovered and flew past him leading him away. He was consumed with anger and obsession that he didn't even glance at Clove's inert form. I waited for…a minute then descended from the tree.
I walked over to Clove and felt for her pulse on her neck. Nothing. She was dead. There was nothing I could do so I left her on the ground because my priority was Peeta. I was sickened at the sight of the peacekeeper.
My heart beat hard on my chest as images of Peeta caught by peacekeeper or worse…dead. "Peeta," I muttered his name low. If there were other peacekeepers out there I couldn't call him out without giving myself away. With my bow ready, I walked towards the direction Peeta went when he was looking for berries. "Damnit, we shouldn't have separated. Who cares if he walks like an elephant? I shouldn't have…" I was having conversation by myself to distract me from panicking.
I didn't go far not even twenty yards away and still… "Damnit, Peeta. Where are you? Please be okay?"
I finally reached the area where Peeta went to gather berries but he wasn't anywhere. "Peeta, Peeta," I called to him. On the ground, I saw several sets of footprints, a few more that weren't there before Peeta and I walked a few minutes earlier. "Peeta, where are you?"
Fear eclipsed every emotion as I desperately looked for him. I couldn't hear the birds in the trees or rustling of leaves disturbed by the gust of wind that cooled my sweaty face. My focus was on Peeta that I didn't notice a baby bear appearing in the area. It's growl finally caught my attention but being a hunter I turned with a my bow drawn towards it.
He was small probably about 2 years old, but on its hind feet he stood 8 foot tall. He looked about close to 250 pounds. "Oh God," I whispered. "Don't move or run." I remembered my dad instructing me. "No sudden moves." However, I just killed a wild turkey and I had the smell of blood on my hands as I had complete forgotten about it. The bear sniffed in the air. "Shit." It fell onto it hands and feet snarling at my direction.
I drew my arrow ready to strike. "Katniss," Peeta called my name as he came into view. "Don't move."
"Oh my God, Peeta," I returned as I noticed his appearance, his hair disheveled, blood on his face and the front of his shirt. He was mess, his hair askew with dirt and grim on his face. My beautiful blond boy looked as if he had a fight and I couldn't tell if he was injured. "Don't––"
"Hey, buddy," Peeta said as he waved his hands in the air calling the bear to attention. He had blood on his hands as well. "Look over here."
"Peeta, stop." The bear stared at us both but since I was closer it edged towards to me.
"Hey, you stupid lug. Over here, see. I'm tastier than her." He reached down and threw a large rock at him hitting it on the top of his head. The bear growled at him and turned to him ready to charge. I released an arrow and drew another as it hit him on his front leg. It screamed in agony while Peeta continued throw large stones weighing ten pounds at him.
"Run Katniss, run."
"No!" But, my protest was too late as the bear though injured charge after Peeta. It limped towards him at a staggered run. "Damnit, Peeta." I ran after them chasing the bear as it took off after Peeta. I stopped and took another shot. The arrow hit a tree so I took another shot then another, but I was too scared and flustered that I missed. 'Calm, down,' I said to myself. I'll only end up hurting Peeta while I was panicking over him.
My foot caught onto a root causing me to fall on the ground. I picked myself up as fast I could not wanting to lose him. By the time I caught up to them I didn't have any arrows left. "Peeta," I said his name when I finally saw him. He was near ledge overlooking the valley. I didn't know how high we were. The bear sneered at him with his back turned to me. I couldn't find anything to throw at it, no stones or rocks. I picked up a pinecone. It hardly made any impact as the bear ignored me. The bear continued to snarl at Peeta who was so close to the edge. I held my breath because one false move Peeta could stumble backwards to depths unknown.
He looked behind him and downward then he turned to me. From a distance our eyes met. Blue clashing gray saying words we were too scared to say. This is not good bye. I love you. Trust me. I felt it not needing him to say it. Then, Peeta screamed, "Hey, over here buddy. Come and get me." He waved his machete with his hand while the other beckoned him––his hands tainted with blood.
"Peeta, no!" The bear charged at him. It took a big leap and landed on top of Peeta as he plunged the machete into his chest. The impact caused both of them to topple backwards. They fell back. My heart plummeted as I watched Peeta and the bear disappear falling over the edge. "Peeta, Peeta, Peeta." Tears ran down my face uncontrollably. I saw my life and future die that moment. I ran towards the edge and peered down. "Peeta, oh my God. Peeta!"
I gasped as I noticed that the bear was down below with the machete stuck in its chest. It was dead. Peeta was on his back on a ledge below me. His eyes were closed and body inert in an odd angle. "Peeta. Please don't be dead. Wake up, Wake up." I wanted to climb down and shake him but the rope he carried in his backpack were both missing. "Peeta, please wake up."
Slowly Peeta opened his eyes. A small smile graced his dirty, grimy and handsome face. I never thought I'd see his beautiful blue eyes ever again. My heart slowed and my stomach unclenched. "Peeta, are you hurt. Are you okay? Did you break anything?"
"Am I dead? Because you look like an angel."
I sobbed in relief, laughing and crying at the same time, "Shut up. It isn't funny."
"What happened?" He looked dazed.
"Oh, God, Peeta. You don't remember?" He sat up and winced touching the back of his head. "Turn around so I can see the back of your head." God help me, if he had another concussion? "You might have hit your head hard when you landed there. You might have a concussion. I have to look."
"I don't think so," he said as he rubbed his head then reached downward to his back. "My butt hurts though. You can look at that too."
I laughed so hard, my eyes watered. He was in pain. I knew he was when he joked about himself. It was a distraction.
He climbed up slowly grabbing vines and rocks just when he was at a reachable distance I lowered my bow so he could grab it. I waited until he was securely topside and on solid ground. I examined his chest, arms, legs and every part of him to check for injuries. "Woah, Katniss?" He cried out when I yanked his shirt from his pants.
I removed his jacket off of him checking his ribs. His bruises were slightly blue from the time the peacekeeper assaulted him before our dinner with Snow. "Katniss, I'm all right."
"Stop talking," I said a bit too harsh. Images of him falling was still fresh in my mind. I thought I had lost him forever. I was barely hanging on, trying not to lose control.
"Katniss, look at me. I'm okay." I ignored him as I checked his head.
There was a lump on the back of his head which I anticipated. Once I knew he had no broken bones and wasn't seriously injured, I wrapped my arms around his waist and sobbed into his chest. Minutes of loss, pain and anguish melted into each other. He was safe, alive and not seriously hurt. "Don't you ever, ever fucking do that again," I said between hiccups and sobs. My throat felt raw, my eyes puffy red and the ache in my chest stilled. "I thought you were dead. I thought you left me. Alone. I can't…I can't."
Then I felt angry with Peeta, my dad and Snow. "You jumped, you asshole," I seethed, my teeth clenched together that my jaw hurt.
"I knew what I was doing," he explained.
"But I didn't."
"You wouldn't have let me do, what I had done," he said calmly. I blinked. He was right. I wouldn't have let him gamble his life like that––to let the bear charge at him and land on the ledge.
"You're still an asshole," I returned with less vehemence but still clearly angry at him.
"You would have done the same thing," he said back. I was dumbstruck for a few seconds as I ruminated from his reply. Would I have taken the chance he did to ensure his safety? Exhausted, I sighed. He was right. I raised my hand and lightly touched his cheek, his eyes, nose and upper lip. Once again relieved that he was okay and alive. I placed my hand on his chest feeling his heart beating under my hand. Then I remembered that I thought I lost him. So I pressed my lips on his, hard and demanding as I pushed my tongue inside his mouth, our teeth gnashed against each other. He kissed me back in kind, kiss for kiss as I pressed my lower body against his, feeling him hard and ready.
We were out in the open but I didn't care. A few minutes later, as my heart calmed all thoughts of need left me as gentleness replaced desperation. I savored each kiss, our tongue dancing together. I opened my eyes to look at Peeta and that's when I saw it––a drone, hovering above us. High in the sky it floated, watching us.
I pulled back suddenly feeling embarrassed but most of all violated. Our private moment watched by…I didn't know who but guessed that it was my dad's drone. Had it been Capitol we would have been shot at by now. It bounced up and down like it was happy to see us. "Peeta, look," I said as I pointed to the drone. It flew closer. We stared at it and it stared back.
"What's it doing?" Peeta asked.
"I don't know," I replied. "But one thing I do know that it's not a Capitol drone."
"It's from…your dad?" I nodded my head.
"I think so. Dad? I said, looking into the small bubble beneath it where the camera would be located. "Dad?" The drone again bounced up and down again and again. I chuckled.
"I don't think it has a two way audio," Peeta observed. "It might be one way only. Input not output."
"They can hear us but we can't hear them?" I reiterated. It bounced again for confirmation.
"What does it want?" Peeta asked.
"I'm not really sure, but I think it's been helping us," I stated.
"Maybe it'll help lead us to the rebel camp," Peeta suggested. "Like a guide."
"I don't think it's a good idea. It's too visible. Anyone can see it especially a Capitol drone. Its presence will give our position away."
"Then we better get going."
"I want to ask them something before we leave," I pressed.
"Make this quick, Katniss," Peeta recommended as he looked around us. "We can't stay here too long talking. Ask him one question then we need to go." I wanted to ask so many questions––how's Prim and Mom. Are they safe? Who was taking care of them? So I scoured my mind to think of one question; something critical and essential to our survival. "Which direction should we be heading?"
The drone turned facing northeast towards a line of mountain ridges. It was too broad and not enough detail. Peeta and I could walk passed the rebel camp and get lost. I remember Shane mentioning direction, 'We need to head northeast passed the mountains of District 3.'
Suddenly the bottom of drone opened and a parachute appeared, it was larger than usual. Peeta grabbed it before it landed on ground. "We got to go, Katniss?" Peeta said as he held it in his hands. "We need to go now." I was torn. So for Peeta's sake and for my own, I threw another question, something to alleviate Peeta's mind.
"Before we go, I need to…we need to know?"
"Katniss, we need to go!" Peeta insisted. "Now."
"One last question, please. Are Shane and Maddy okay?" The drone was still, hovering and not bouncing. Then suddenly, it flew away.
"Katniss, hurry," Peeta screamed as he grabbed my arm. He was persistent and I didn't know why. He led us to where Clove and the peacekeeper lay. Why he led us there I didn't know, but he stopped when noticed Clove on the ground.
"Peeta?" I asked him soft and low as not to startle him. He turned to the dead peacekeeper and picked up Clove's knife. From a large and leafy bush he retrieved the backpack.
"Let's go," he said and grabbed my hand. After a few minutes, he slowed. "You open it."
He extended the metallic parachute to me.
Gingerly, I open it with both hands twisting the globe with ease. Inside was a note, a container and a compass. I read the note first, 'don't open container until later.' It was cryptic but better than nothing.
I convinced Peeta to retrace my steps and retrieve the arrows I shot when I chased him and the bear. What's use of the bow without arrows? Once quickly I retrieved what I could as we headed northeast like Shane and Maddy were instructed.
"You lead the way, Katniss." I nodded my head. He looked tired but determined. "Were you able to find anything to eat?"
"I did but…I left it behind because…" I explained to Peeta what transpired after we separated. He was quiet beside me as I told him everything––what I heard and saw, and how Clove died and the fight between Cato and the peacekeeper. In the meantime, I was able to find another grouse for dinner, this one bigger and fatter than the original one I shot down earlier. I wanted to ask him about the blood on his hands and shirt but waited for him to tell me. He would tell me when he was ready and in his own time.
The sun set by the time we found a place to rest and eat our dinner. We had even found a small stream to drink. Peeta leaned back against the tree while I prepared our meal. Once I had the cooked the turkey over a fire pit I found Peeta fast asleep. While the meat cooled I sat next to Peeta and opened the other container. To my surprise it contained two maps. One was of District 2 and the edge of District 3. There was other was a map with directions heading north. 'Leave first map behind, and head north.' The second map clearly routed our destination to the rebel camp heading north. Why dad insisted I leave the other one behind confused me.
"North," Peeta said. I didn't realize he had awakened. "I don't understand; there is nothing up north." In our geography class, everyone knew where each district was located and what they manufactured. The land beyond District 2 was unknown territory, wilderness untouched by Snow. There were rumors of people beyond Panem but no one ventured beyond it. "I don't know if we should…trust this. I mean Maddy and Shane were specifically told to head north east towards District 3."
"It's in my dad's handwriting, Peeta," I confirmed. "He wrote to let me know it's him."
"So he wants the peacekeepers to head towards 3 while we actually head north?"
"It's must be a diversion, to distract them from following us."
"They have drones, Katniss. We've been dodging them all day," he reminded me.
"Listen, it's been a long day and I'm hungry. You must be starving," I said.
"I could eat a bear," he quipped back. I smiled, had he said that earlier I would have smacked him but I was too tired to care. The turkey meat was delicious and we ate as much as we could. We saved the rest for later because who knew when we would get our next meal. Once we finished dinner, we doused the fire with water and left area leaving the note behind as if we accidentally left it behind. The position we were at was too open and easy for any peacekeeper and Cato to surprise us.
Using the light illuminating from the moon, we headed north as instructed. Once I knew we were far from the stream, we stopped for the night. "Katniss?"
Peeta looked troubled and uneasy, "What's wrong? Does your head still hurt?"
"Are we going to sleep up in the trees again?"
"Yes, we have to, why?" Peeta rubbed his backside and had a pained look on his face.
"I wasn't kidding earlier," he started. "When I said my butt hurt when I fell. I don't think I can sleep up in the tree tonight. It's too uncomfortable."
"Peeta, I thought you were joking."
"I was in a way. I thought it wouldn't hurt so much later, but now…"
"Let me take a look," I suggested. "You might have bruise your tailbone when you fell." Peeta quickly pulled down his pants taking his boxer shorts with it and turned around. I winced when I noticed that a bruise had already formed near his tailbone. I was right.
"Give me a second, I'm be right back."
"Where you going, we need to stick together, remember?" His voice shook from exhaustion and fear.
"I'm not going far, just over here," I said as I walked over to an alder tree. Their leaves had medicinal healing properties for deep wounds. I pat myself on the back for listening to Prim as she explained certain leaves and their properties. 'Thank you, Prim.' I grabbed a handful, mashed then together to create patch.
"Lean forward," I said when I returned to Peeta's side. Without any hesitation, he leaned down revealing his backside. I love his butt; it was muscular with two dimples on small of his back and it was all mine! I shook my head. Now was not the time for such thoughts. Peeta was hurt.
"Oh, that feels nice," he sighed. "Thank you, Katniss." He almost fell to the ground from exhaustion.
"My poor baby, you feel better?" He nodded his head. "Come on, you should be able to sleep now." Peeta groaned in response. "It's okay, honey. Once we get settled you'll feel better and get some rest."
Once we were situated, Peeta tethered us to the tree, I snuggled against him his arms around my waist. "I can't believe I'm going to say this but, I miss our bed back at the Capitol," Peeta whispered, his warm breathe brushed my earlobe. Sleeping up in the trees wasn't the most comfortable way to sleep but the safest against any predator, peacekeepers and Cato. I sighed.
"Me too," I admitted. I had gotten used to sleeping with Peeta with only a tank top and panties and his arms around me from behind. I think Peeta called it spooning. However, as uncomfortable as our sleeping arrangement, I wouldn't regret or complain about it. We are safe for now and on our way to Mockingjay's main rebel base camp. We are alive and free despite the fact that Snow had probably sent an entire army of peacekeepers after us. I prayed that Maddy and Shane are okay and are heading north. That Prim and Mom were safe and with dad because there was no way that dad left mom behind in District 12.
I wondered about so many people like Cinna, Effie and Haymitch. I hope that they were all safe and away from the Capitol. I turned to rest my head on Peeta's chest when the smell of something acrid filled my nose. His shirt was stained with dried blood.
With everything that had happened––Cato, Clove and the bear, I had completely forgotten to ask him about it. "Peeta," I whispered his name. My Boy with the Bread was fast asleep, his eyes closed with his mouth slightly opened. Despite being bruised and aching butt he was dead tired to the world and I didn't blame him. "Good night, honey," I said and lightly kissed his lips. It would take days to reach the rebel base camp and who knew what dangerous lay ahead of us, but at least we had a fighting chance to survive together.
"Thank you, dad wherever you are. And good night," I whispered.
All night I was awakened by Peeta's nightmares. He whimpered and jerked in his sleep. His nightmares continued even after fleeing from the Capitol. His experiences with Snow forever imprinted in his mind. He was tense and rigid. "Shh, shh, it's okay, Peeta," I comforted him. "You're okay."
"Katniss?" He eyes slid opened.
"You were having a…bad dream," I told him.
"Oh, I'm sorry I woke you up."
"Nonsense, it's okay. You're there for me when I have my nightmares," I reminded him. His body relaxed. I waited for a few seconds. "You want to talk about it?"
"What about?"
"Why you're shirt is bloody. You haven't said anything." He remained quiet. I listened to his heart as I lay my head against his chest. It beat so fast. "You know you can tell me anything."
"I just can't…not right now."
"Peeta," I implored him. "You know you can tell me anything." Something happened to him––something he was afraid to tell me. Not knowing scared me more. When he remained silent I didn't press any further. "Hey, it's okay. Just remember that I love you and we can get through anything together."
The rest of night we slept. It was not restful or comfortable sleep that my whole body ached. I turned my head to look at Peeta. He was already awake staring at the sunrise. His eyes were sad but alert. There was a look in his eyes that bothered me. "Peeta, what's wrong?" I looked at the scenery before me. The horizon was orange red against a blue backdrop. I loved waking up in the morning and watching the sunrise with Peeta. It was becoming one of my favorite things to do. However, the landscape before was odd. It didn't look right. That's when I realized I wasn't looking at the sun rising. The forest was on fire. Red angry flames blazed at the horizon as ashy gray smoke rose to the sky. "Oh my God, Peeta."
"I woke an hour ago. Something woke me," he said in a low tone, like a whisper.
"Why didn't you wake me?"
"You needed sleep," he returned as he placed a hand on my cheek rubbing his thumb underneath my eyes. "I didn't have the heart to wake you and besides there was nothing we can do and we had company."
"What? Who?" I asked in a panic.
"Peacekeepers, a group of them. I counted about five of them. The walked past us," he explained. But there was something else. Something he was afraid to tell me.
"Peeta, what else?"
"They have them; the peacekeepers caught Maddy and Shane. They were bound with shackles on legs." I gasped. "They walked passed us. I saw them, Katniss."
"Oh, Peeta," I muttered.
"I wanted to do something but then I remembered what you said to me. How there were people who risked their lives for us like your dad," he stated. "Snow wants us. He's destroying the forest to weed us out. He'll stop at nothing to find us. I can't risk losing you now." His breath was short and rapid, like he was having a panic attack. It was killing him, he felt guilty for Shane and Maddy. They risked their lives for us. Us getting caught would defeat the purpose; there were other lives at stake. "I know it's selfish of me."
"It's not selfish," I returned. "If it is, then I'm selfish too." We continued to watch the fire consume the forest. "They must have found my note. They're burning the path we need to cross in order to get to District 3, blocking our way."
"They are forcing us to head south, back to District 2." It was good thing we were heading north. They didn't think we would head in that direction but head south as our only choice.
After an hour, we climbed down the tree. Both of us were too sick with worry and felt guilt to have an appetite. As I led us north, Peeta was quiet all morning. I knew where his mind was––Shane and Maddy. By noon, we were starving. At least Peeta's appetite returned and ate heartily. "I miss your cheese buns," I said absently. The thought of his creation made homesick. I missed my dad, mom and Prim. I actually missed the Seam. It was home.
"Don't worry, Katniss. I'll make cheese buns for you whenever you want. And every year I'll bake and design your birthday cake," he muttered.
I smiled. The fact that Peeta would bake cheese buns for me in the near future was more than I ever hoped for. I swore that I would make that a reality––a future with Peeta. We never talked about it because…well, that was obvious. But now out here, we had that chance. We didn't know how long the war against Snow would last, but as long I have Peeta beside me, I could handle anything.
"And, one day…I'll bake our…toasting bread," he said in hushed and casual tone. I turned to look at him. He had the look of panic in his face, like he didn't' mean to say it out loud. I gasped in surprise. He placed a hand on the back of his head. "I guess I shouldn't have presumed that you want to marry me. I mean we never talked about getting married let alone do a toasting." He started to ramble his face pink from embarrassment. "Oh, hell. I'm probably making a fool of myself right now. Geez, I'm an idiot. I'm so stupid."
"Peeta?"
"Toasting? I didn't even ask you…you might not even want to get married. Damnit, I didn't even propose to you and I'm talking about toasting…
"Peeta, it's all right ––"
"Just because we're together doesn't mean you want to get married. Oh God, this is five old me talking, like I'm crazy and deluding myself. Just because we started to have sex doesn't mean marriage. We can just keep having sex without marriage. Oh, I think I'll shut up now."
"Peeta!" I reached out to grab his hand.
"Just because I want to get married doesn't mean that you do. I mean what was presumptuous of me. Oh, hell forget what I just said––" He was flustered and upset with himself. I was speechless not because I disagreed but was afraid to admit to myself that I wanted to do a toasting with him too. I wasn't good with words so I acted instead. I straddled his lap and kissed him. My hands were placed on the back of his head as my lips devoured him. Our tongues dueled for possession, my skin burned and my heart pounded.
"Yes, yes," I said between gasps of air as our kisses turned hard and demanding. "Yes."
"Yes? You mean––"
"Yes, I want to too. To marry you." Our foreheads touched, my eyes closed while my heart raced in my chest. I pulled back. "That wasn't a proposal. I mean, just know I'll say yes when you ask me." Peeta smiled so wide his eyes twinkled. I hugged him tight and relished the feeling of his hard chest against my breast.
However, our happy bubbled burst as a voice interrupted us.
"Well, well, what do I have here," Cato said as he pointed a rifle at us. My bow leaned against a tree while Peeta's machete lay on the ground next to his feet. "The Star Crossed Lovers of District 12."
"Cato!" Peeta exclaimed as he stood up and placed me behind him.
"You didn't think I'd find you, did you?" he asked. "It wasn't easy, you know, but I had a little help." He aimed his rifle behind us. A drone hovered in the air. I've never seen it before. I wondered if it was Snow's private drone.
"What do you want Cato?" Peeta asked as he ignored the drone and focused on the matter at hand.
"You know what I want."
"Me, I know you want me, so you can let Katniss go."
"No, Peeta. I'm not leaving," I persisted.
"You really think that just because we left the arena the games are over," Cato explained. "That we're out here without the Gamemakers, the other tributes and sponsors that the games are done?"
"But they are over. We are free, Cato," I said. "The cornucopia was destroyed, the tributes gone. You don't have to fight Peeta––"
"But I do," he insisted. "You made a fool out of me. I lost respect, my friends because of him. I became a laughing stock." He tightened his grip on the rifle, his finger on the trigger. "Once your dead, Peeta Mellark. I'll take your body back to Snow. Marvel was right. I can go back as a Victor. Only if I bring you back––dead. You are my way back, the reward and my salvation. I can go back home."
"You can kill me, but let Katniss go," Peeta bargained.
"No, I'm not going anywhere without you," I said as I wrapped an arm around his waist and pressed my chest on his back.
"Katniss––" Peeta began.
"No, damnit. I'm not leaving."
"You two can argue all you want. You'll both be dead. Who dies first won't matter," he continued. "Because you see, like Mr. Templesmith said, 'Welcome to the 74th Hunger Games. The odds are not in your favor.' "
AN: Thank you for reading this chapter. I hope it didn't disappoint. I do appreciate your patience and for taking his journey with me. Thanks again for waiting. Have a great rest of the week. Next update will be Peeta's POV.