Katniss's body reacts before her mind does, and she was running out the door, through the gardens of the Victors' Village, into the darkness beyond.
"Katniss! Sister!" Katniss and Prim's mother shouted.
Jacob got up from the armchair, put on his jacket, and said while looking at the open door, "I'll take care of it, don't worry about that."
"Jacob..." Prim murmured, seeing the calm expression of the man she had seen so much on television.
"It's not a big deal, don't worry."
Jacob silently followed Katniss as she ran desperately, trying to escape the overwhelming reality that surrounded her. He knew she needed that moment alone to process her thoughts and emotions, and he respected her space. The sound of his own footsteps echoed in the air, mixed with the fast pace of his heart. Katniss's face reflected the fear and anguish that consumed her, and Jacob felt a deep longing to protect her.
Finally, Katniss stopped at an empty house in District Twelve's Victors' Village. She dropped down on the cold, dry floor, exhausted both physically and emotionally. Jacob waited for a few moments before entering, giving Katniss the time she needed to find some calm within herself. Silence settled in, only interrupted by Katniss's heavy breathing.
When he finally decided to enter, Jacob approached her with soft and careful steps. He saw her lying there, her face marked by exhaustion. He knelt by her side and, with trembling yet gentle hands, started removing her wet socks and damp coat. Every movement was smooth and cautious, as if he were trying to alleviate the burden weighing on her.
Then, he covered her body with a warm jacket he had brought along. He watched her sleep, her face peaceful and serene, and felt a surge of strange concern. He knew the Hunger Games had pushed her to the limit once again, and he was determined to stand by her in this battle, even if it meant facing his own inner demons.
With a warmed handkerchief in his hands, Jacob gently caressed Katniss's feet, transmitting warmth and comfort as she slept. He stayed there, by her side, in silence, observing her tranquility. In that moment, he couldn't recall when Katniss had become someone who meant something to him, how much he was willing to fight and sacrifice for her well-being.
Time passed slowly as Jacob reflected on his own role in the impending war. He knew he had an immense responsibility on his shoulders, not only to protect Katniss but also to lead the districts in their fight against the Capitol. He felt the overwhelming pressure of hope and expectation placed upon him.
Finally, Katniss woke from her deep sleep, her eyes slowly opening and meeting Jacob's gaze. She didn't say a word, but her look conveyed gratitude, as if finding solace in being beside him. In that instant, both knew they were together in this struggle, that they would support each other as they moved towards the uncertain future.
"Aren't you afraid?" Katniss asked, seeing Jacob so calm.
"It's not about fear or anger. I told you a long time ago, this was just the beginning, and it still is. Don't feel guilty, and never think these games are directed at you. There will be time to think with a clearer mind."
Jacob helped Katniss to her feet and embraced her tightly, feeling a deep and powerful connection. They didn't need words to express what they felt for each other; their actions spoke louder than any speech. Together, they rose from the floor and prepared to face the challenges that awaited them.
"We will win again, as we did before, and if somehow there's only one victor in these games, I will start a war in the name of freedom."
In that moment, in that empty and silent house, Jacob and Katniss found temporary refuge, a respite from the cruel reality that surrounded them. But they knew they couldn't stay there for long. There was a war to be fought, and they were willing to fight to the end. Together, they walked towards the future, united in their determination and mutual love.
...
Jacob returned home after that encounter with Katniss, still with the image of Haymitch drinking in his mind. Upon entering, he found the District 12 mentor sitting in a chair with an empty liquor bottle by his side. The scent of alcohol filled the room, and it was evident that Haymitch had been drowning his own demons with every sip.
Jacob approached him cautiously, aware that Haymitch wasn't always receptive to advice or suggestions. But this time, there was something they needed to discuss. Haymitch's weary eyes met Jacob's, and in that moment, they knew their words wouldn't be easy to say or hear.
"Haymitch, we need to talk." Jacob said, his voice firm yet filled with concern. "I've been thinking about what you said earlier, about participating in the games. But I can't allow you to do that. I need you here, in the Capitol, working from within. You have the knowledge and experience we need to infiltrate and dismantle their system from the inside."
Haymitch raised an eyebrow, skepticism evident on his face. "You think I can do that? You think I can play that game and stay sober and lucid at the same time?"
Jacob sighed, knowing he was asking a lot of Haymitch. "I know it won't be easy, but I trust you. You have an inner strength that not many know of, and I believe you can use it to our advantage. We need you to stay as close to the Capitol as possible, observing, gathering information, and waiting for the right moment to act."
Haymitch nodded slowly, his gaze lost in emptiness. "I guess you're right. Someone has to do the dirty work here. But make no mistake, Jacob, I'm not doing it for you, I'm doing it for Katniss. Because if something happens to her, District 12 will be left unprotected. She is the hope for all of us."
Jacob nodded, understanding Haymitch's devotion to Katniss. "I know, Haymitch. But we must also think about the future. If we want to overthrow the Capitol and free the districts, we have to play their own games. They expect Katniss and me to participate, and that's what we'll give them. But it will be different this time. We won't settle for being puppets in their show. We'll use every opportunity to weaken them, to show them that they can't control us."
Haymitch looked at Jacob, his gaze now clearer and determined. "So, you're saying we're going to fight in their games and start the war at the same time?"
Jacob solemnly nodded. "Exactly. The games will be our platform to showcase our strength, our resilience. While we're in the arena, our allies in the districts will be prepared to initiate the rebellion. It's a risk, I know, but it's the path we must take."
Haymitch stood up, leaning against the wall. "Then let's give them a show they'll never forget. I'm with you, Jacob. No matter how dark this path becomes, I'll be here, fighting by your side."
Jacob smiled, feeling the strength of their determination. "Thank you, Haymitch. We couldn't do it without you."
Both men knew that the road ahead wouldn't be easy. But they were willing to face the challenges, to fight for the freedom of the districts and to put an end to the oppressive reign of the Capitol. The war was about to begin, and Jacob and Haymitch were ready to lead the battle towards victory.