TUSETHA (Edited)

9 ~ A New Promise

The next morning I quietly slip out from Haymitch's bed, leaving the comfort of his strong arms. I immediately head for the restroom, closing the door just moments before vomiting into the toilet bowl. I try to be a quiet as possible but I still hear Haymitch rouse from his deep sleep. I lurch over, a hand on my stomach, groaning softly.

"Effie...are you okay?" He knocks quietly on the door.

"I-I'm fine." I stutter before vomiting again. I hide my face as he opens the door. "I really don't want you to see me like this."

"Sweetheart, it's a natural part of what your body is going through." He stands behind me and hesitantly places a hand on my shoulder.

I close my eyes and shake my head. "It's disgusting... I hate it."

He kneels down and pulls me into his arms. "It'll be okay... I promise."

I sniffle and wipe my mouth. "I'm so scared, Haymitch..." I bury my face against his chest. "I don't want to be a mother!" I feel tears start to well up in my eyes.

"You don't have to be scared..."

"So many things could go wrong.... The president could find out. The capitol could find out.... My parents would throw a fit if they ever found out...I couldn't ever face them again... My body will never be the same... There could be complications." My breathing becomes shaky as I think about it more. "I wouldn't be able to live with myself if anything happened to the baby." I bury my face into his chest and sob loudly.

He strokes my hair, gently sitting down and leaning against the wall. "There's nothing to be afraid of... I'm here with you, and I won't let anything bad happen to you...ever."

I hesitate for several minutes to catch my breath and wipe my cheeks. "Do you promise?"

"I promise." He kisses the top of my head gently.

(A/N: I apologize for how short this chapter is. Comment! Vote! And as always, keep on reading my little Hayffie shippers! I'd love suggestions for the next chapter!)