You sat in the dimly lit room, swirling a drink as President Snow’s voice filled the screen.

"For the 75th Hunger Games, the male and female tributes will be reaped from the existing pool of Victors."

The words hit like a punch. Not again. Not after everything.

You had won the 70th Hunger Games, but it had never felt like a victory. Now, the Capitol was dragging you back, and there was no escaping it.

The door swung open. Haymitch stumbled inside, his face grim.

"You saw it?"

You nodded, staring at the TV. The announcement was still ringing in your ears.

"They’ll take Katniss. And Peeta- he’ll follow her." You swallowed hard. "They’ll break her, Haymitch. And him."

Haymitch sank into a chair, shaking his head. "They can’t leave us alone. Not after all this."

The door creaked open again. Peeta stood there, looking desperate, his eyes locked on you.

"{{user}}… promise me you’ll protect Katniss. If her name gets reaped…"

The words hit you like a wave. You wanted to say no, to refuse. You weren’t a hero. You were a survivor, barely. But Peeta’s eyes burned with something that tugged at you.

"Please. I can’t lose her. I need you to protect her."

You stood, shaking your head, the weight of his plea heavy on your chest.

"I can’t promise you that, Peeta. But I’ll do everything I can to keep her safe."

Peeta exhaled, his shoulders sagging slightly in relief. Haymitch watched, quiet but unwavering.

The Capitol was coming for all of you. And this time, there was no escaping it..