He tried not to think about the village or the gnawing feeling of dread that loomed over him. However much Peeta tried to tell himself that he was not in the games anymore, everything in this place seemed designed to remind him of what the game makers had designed to torment them. From the canopy of greenery that looked like the first arena, to the strange mutts that filled it.

It hadn't been a surprise to find Katniss and the others among the villagers, but that so many seemed to be unfamiliar and shocked at the description of the games, as well as the insistence that this was where they were, was frustrating. Still, he tried to get to know the others and keep everyone's spirits up. Some days were easier than most.

Like seeing Katniss being followed around by one of the nicer mutts. He smiled, amused at her frustration and usual wall of stubbornness.

"I thought you said you didn't make friends easily?"