The Other Slip

Chapter 7

I sense an overwhelming feeling of emptiness as I wake up. I sit up and realize Peeta isn't there. I silently step onto the cold flooring and make my way to the living room, where I find Effie and Haymitch are watching something on the huge Capitol television. I ignore it and start examining my breakfast options. I grab a bowl but freeze before I get the chance to do anything else. That was Peeta's voice. Coming from the television? I speed back to the living room, my empty bowl still in hand. Peeta is getting interviewed. Why is he getting interviewed? He isn't a tribute. Since they're already halfway through the interview, I get no explanation as to why he is there. Caesar quickly gets an intense look on his face as he moves on to the next question.

-"So, Peeta, I think we're all wondering, what exactly happened during the reaping?" Caesar questions. Peeta looks ashamed when he explains how I convinced Haymitch to volunteer in his place.

-"I just...I really don't want her to be in there. And if she has to be, I need to be there with her, to protect her." He continues.

-"Well she's survived the arena before, don't you think she can do it again?" Caesar asks, his eyebrows furrowed.

-"It's not that! Katniss is a survivor, it's just...she might not be able to do it again. Not in her situation." Peeta avoids eye contact and focuses on his hands.

-"Why? What's different about her situation this time?" Caesar keeps interrogating.

-"She's pregnant!" My bowl cracks into a million pieces.

Peeta seems to instantly regret what he said, but I know he doesn't. I know this is just another part of the act. Effie covers her shocked expression with her hand, but Haymitch doesn't look the least bit dismayed. People in the audience stand up instantly and start to object. I just stand there, my now empty hand trembling slightly. The television quickly changed to another channel once the audience started to get agitated. I should have expected this. After Haymitch's interview, I thought I was safe, but of course Peeta got interviewed. Why didn't I expect this? I slowly make my way back to my room, avoiding the pieces of the broken bowl. I'm pregnant?