Chapter Text
I wait outside of President Snow’s office, my foot tapping and fingers fiddling. It comes to no surprise that when Peeta and I went to bed last night after talking through this pregnancy, the next morning Snow sends one of his men to fetch me first thing in the morning. I was expecting this. What really bothers me is that they wouldn’t let Peeta come with me.
“Miss Everdeen? The president will see you now,” says a woman dressed in an all-white skirt suit, her dark hair tied back in a tight bun. It’s amazing how the moment you step foot in the President’s Mansion you are seemingly in a whole new world. Instead of the crazy fashions and over-the-top makeup, everyone is crisp and clean.
I stand up and take a breath, then follow her through the large glass doors. We travel down multiple hallways and go through a few elevator trips, but eventually I am standing right in front of a single mahogany door with a gold handle. The woman reaches around me and pushes the door open with the twist of the handle, and the man of my nightmares is instantly in my sight.
He looks up at me, the slightly pleasant smile on his face betrayed by the sinister twinkle in his eyes, and motions for me to take a seat in front of his desk. “Thank you Claire, that will be all.”
With that, the woman leaves and I am left alone. I keep my posture straight, showing no fear, and take the seat he had indicated. I fold my hands in my lap, holding his gaze. “May I ask why you requested the pleasure of my company?”
The smile he gives me seems to almost reach his eyes this time, as if he is amused at my presence. “I think we both know why you’re here.”
I know it’s probably pointless, but I decide to play coy anyway. “Peeta and I have been quite good in our performances, I think, so no, I don’t.” I even risk a sweet smile.
I can tell that he is getting annoyed with me, but he refuses to let it surface. “Now Miss Everdeen, word is going around that you were seen going into the women’s bathroom with none other than Mr. Odair.”
I blink. Is this really just about Finnick? Does he think that there’s something going on between us? Better that then-
“So obviously cameras were brought to life inside.”
My hand automatically goes to my stomach, and I curse myself for my reaction. It’s as if mother’s instinct has already kicked in. “I wasn’t feeling well. He saw me rush in and wanted to make sure that I was-“
“Don’t lie. I don’t like liars.” His gaze has hardened and the smile is gone. “There is sound on those cameras, and it was more than apparent when he pulled out that pregnancy test. Walls have ears, and I am those walls. Don’t try to fool me because it won’t work.” He’s leaning over his desk and seemingly staring right into my soul, seeking out all my secrets. “Now, what are we going to do about a baby, hm?”
I stay silent. I’m terrified.
He leans back into his original position and loses the cold demeanor, becoming more nonchalant. “We could make millions off of a reality show. Cameras following you around all nine months, maybe a few after.” He inspects his nails. “But then again, you’re all but sixteen years old, and what role model gets pregnant at such a young age?” He scoffs before adding, “My granddaughter actually looks up to you. The Capitol’s Sweetheart.”
I bite my tongue, afraid that anything I add will only make my situation worse.
“We’ll have to terminate this pregnancy.”
My eyes widen. I expected this, but what I didn’t expect was the overwhelming sense of nausea and fear that accompanied the words. “Wait! Peeta and I can-“
“You will get pregnant, Miss Everdeen, but when I decide for you to. First, you shall be married, and then you may try again. I’ll set up an appointment with my best doctor. You won’t feel a thing.” He’s smiling again.
I try to speak, maybe even plead, but the words are stuck in my throat.
“You may leave.”
I stand up and head to the door. The woman that had brought me there is waiting outside. On the walk back to the car, I plan about ten different scenarios for Snow’s murder.
oOoOo
The moment I close the door to my and Peeta’s house, I hear loud footsteps. Peeta’s eyes are wide when he looks at me, obviously waiting for some sort of explanation.
I don’t want to tell him. God, no, I can’t do that to him.
I try to smile, and I think I actually manage because he seems to relax. I keep my eyes on his as I walk over to him, then wrap my arms around his waist and rest my head on his shoulder.
He runs a hand up and down my back. “What did he say?”
I know I have to tell him. It would be cruel for me not to. I’ll talk him through the conversation, might let loose some tears, and he’ll try and make it all better.
“He said we can keep it.”