"Whatever you do, Gale, don't let them starve!" Katniss is practically sobbing, but the tears are only held back by the fact that she will otherwise be marked out as a target. I have spent my time with her giving her tips, and trying to make her believe that she will come home. She doesn't believe it herself, but I know she's strong. She can survive this. She can shoot, she can do basic snares. She's smart. Her father taught her all about edible plants, and her mother taught her about healing herbs.
I wanted to volunteer as male tribute. To keep her safe. But one look from Katniss told me everything. Stay.
As the peacekeepers drag me out of the room, I'm horrified by the broken look on Katniss's face. She thinks she's already lost this thing. Her face gradually grows further away, and I am forced to face the reality that I can't do anything to protect her. It's not a feeling I'm used to. I don't like it.
When I exit the building, the square is almost empty. Except for one person. Madge has stayed behind and is waiting in the centre of the town square. I don't feel like talking to some idiot who thought she had a massive chance of being chosen. But as I stalk past her, she stops me.
"Gale... I got you this. To say sorry about earlier." She hands me some flowers before quickly walking away. I know at once what these are.
Neftils. And I don't know if she knows herself what they mean. But I do.
Love.
