𝗛𝗶𝘀 𝗟𝗼𝘃𝗲.Cato Hadley

21.

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𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐰𝐞𝐝𝐝𝐢𝐧𝐠
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I stand here in awe, still not believing that such an event is happening here. This must be the first time such a large wedding has taken place in District 13, a wedding between two lovers who have also been through a lot. Finnick and Annie.

According to Plutarch, the wedding might not be as grand as one would expect from two former Hunger Games victors. But we all know that a gamemaker can't be satisfied with his work with a limited budget. Despite this, the celebration has caused quite a buzz in District 13, a place where such festivities have never been observed before.

I stand in one of the front rows as I listen to their vows. They are probably one of the little things I don't have to pretend to be happy about.

"From this day forth, in sickness and in health, for richer or poorer. I promise to love and cherish you each day," Annie says to Finnick.

"I, Finnick Odair, take you, Annie Cresta, as my wife from this day forth. Together or apart, we will always be united. One life, one purpose, one destiny," Finnick says to her.

Then, Finnick gets permission to kiss the bride and they seal the union. Applause and congratulations follow from everyone in the hall, and I can't help but smile. At last, they are both happy after all they've been through.

The fiddler begins to play a captivating tune that enchants everyone. The dancing and merriment start, and I see how everyone forgets about reality. However, I cannot join in the celebration, not when I know Cato isn't with me because of the damage Snow did to him.

He must be killed. I want Snow to pay for his crimes. He has caused so much suffering to so many people and he must be held accountable. My hatred for him has become more personal now that Cato is involved. Before, I only blamed him for the Hunger Games, but given the new circumstances, I can't help but take it more personally.

I have never felt such hatred for anyone as I do for him. All these things that Snow put me through cannot be forgotten. My first Games, the forced marriage that never happened, the Quarter Quell, torture of Cato, the baby... It's all because of him.

And he's going to pay for all of it.

"How is Cato?" Johanna says and I jump. I was so lost in thought that I didn't even realize that she was there. "I heard he is better. Did you say "hi" for me?"

My stomach churns when Johanna starts talking about Cato. I fear that she might reveal something about what's happening in the Capitol, which could make me feel even more anxious. Although Cato knows everything, I don't want him to tell me because I don't want him to relive the same sense of dread he felt when he was there. However, I know that Johanna would not hesitate to share every detail with me.