The Silent Killer (A Finnick Odair Love Story)

Chapter Twenty-Nine

Quick Author's Note: Hey everybody. Just to let you know, I entered this story in the Wattys, so be sure to vote for me! Seriously, please, please, please vote for me.

Also, there will be one more chapter, then I'll explain prequel and sequel information. Enjoy this chapter!

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I watch in the mirror as Evangeline re-dyes my hair my signature blood red. Then, she braids tiny strands of it before pulling it up in a high ponytail. She applies smoky black, silver, and gray makeup around my eyes, and my lips are painted crimson. Carefully, she places my circlet on my head, fitting it so it doesn't mess up my hair.

"I can't believe you're turning seventeen tomorrow," she says with a shake of her head. "What a way to end your sixteenth year."

"I always knew he would die at my hands," I murmur.

There's a knock at the door, and Evangeline calls for the Avox to open it. Katniss walks inside, wearing her Mockingjay armor.

"Can I talk to Asphodel alone?" she requests. Evangeline nods, finishing up. "Asphodel, are there any cameras or spy devices in here?"

"None," I confirm.

"Good," she nods. "Now I need to ask you something. Do you trust Coin?"

"Not at all," I reply immediately.

"Me neither," she says. "So I have a plan."

She tells me of it, and I instantly agree. I think it's for the best. Coin is a tyrant, and she won't stop until she gets what she wants. Finnick could get hurt, and I'd rather watch the world burn than see him in pain.

"Let's get this over with," I decide, adjusting my armor. "How's your sister and mother?"

"Prim's dead," Katniss says bitterly.

"Oh," I say, surprised. "I'm sorry."

There's nothing else to say. I know she won't want pity, so I don't offer her any. The two of us walk in silence to the meeting we were asked to attend. Seated around the large table is Haymitch, Peeta, Cashmere, Finnick, Beetee, and Johanna.

"Del," Johanna grins. "Glad to see you're still alive."

"Glad to still be alive," I counter, making us both laugh. I take a seat inbetween her and Finnick. My fiancé instantly laces his fingers with mine.

"We're all that's left?" Katniss asks, weakly.

"More likely than not, the Capitol killed all the victors they thought were with the rebels, and the rebels killed all the victors they thought were with the Capitol," I answer simply. "That's what they did with the victors from my district, so I can only assume that happened to all the others."

"She's correct," Coin confirms. "It's sad to say, but yes. The eight of you are all that's left of the victors of Panem."

"Why are we even here?" Johanna snaps.

"We have come to discuss whether or not there will be one final, symbolic Hunger Games. The tributes would be Reaped from children of those with the highest connections," Coin explains. Instantly, I frown. "My advisors and I haven't been able to come to a conclusion, so we decided to let the victors decide. Majority rules. Beetee wishes to remain neutral, so he will not be casting a vote."

"No," I say firmly.

"Asphodel-"

"The Hunger Games took everything from me. Why would I ever wish that on any innocent child?" I argue.