Mockingjay: Epilogue

I will always have a strong connection with Peeta. We survived through something together, something so painful that it changed us both. A bond was created between us, one that can never be broken.

I know that Peeta loves me, and as much as I would like to return that love, there is a tugging at my heart. My heart does not belong to him.

My head tells me, He saved your life. You owe him. If I really think about though, I've saved his life as well. Maybe we are even.

Every fiber of my being revolts against the Capitol. My relationship with Peeta is made by the Capitol. The star-crossed lovers from District 12. That is not me. That is the Katniss Everdeen changed by death, war, and loss. The puppet used in their games.

The real Katniss Everdeen would be hunting in the woods with her best friend, Gale. The person that knows her best. Someone she can be entirely herself around. Someone she needs.

I guess it's taken me quite a while now, but I've finally realized just how much I need Gale in my life. Once I was the 'Girl on fire,' now I'm a shell of my former self. I realize I don't need Peeta's sweetness. I need Gale's fire to re-ignite my flame. To bring back the real Katniss.

Gale comes back to our home. To District 12. The place where we will always belong. Even though my sister Prim is gone, I think she would want me to be with Gale. She wouldn't want me to blame him, even though we don't know who's bomb it really was.

Although it takes me a while, I begin to forgive. To forget. District 12 will rise from the ashes and rebuild. Though it will never be the same, it will always be home. The place where my mother and father were happy. The place where I wish to be happy someday, too.

Life begins again. Flowers blossom, grass sprouts, the meadow teams with life. Although I will never forget the Games, I feel as if I can move on. They are not coming back. No one will ever have to go into the arena ever again. This makes me feel safe.

Peeta finds someone else. He is happy. We are still close, but more as friends. He finally found someone that returns his love equally.

Gale makes me feel safe, happy, and warm. He gives me everything I need. His arms hold me when I wake up from nightmares. The way he looks at me with so much love makes me feel whole again,

Nothing has ever felt more right. Gale helps me to move on. He comforts me and loves me unconditionally. I love him more than anything.

And I couldn't ask for anything more.