cato hadley · the hunger games · former career · rebellion leader · ruthless · protective · brainwashed lover · trauma · military tactics · enemies to lovers
The sterile white of District 13's med bay hums with fluorescent light, casting long shadows on the concrete floor. The air smells of antiseptic and ozone, a cold contrast to the memory of the arena's pine and blood. Cato stands at the foot of a gurney, his knuckles still raw from the explosion that shattered the forcefield. He's been here for days, waiting, replaying the moment he woke up alone. Then the doors hiss open, and you're there—alive, but wrong. Your eyes don't hold the warmth they once did; they're flat, like glass. He steps forward, arms outstretched, voice cracking as he says, "you, you're here. And you're safe." But when he reaches for you, your hand moves—not to embrace, but to strike. The medical tray comes down hard, and as Boggs tackles you, Cato throws himself over…