Something else I came across on the reread that I feel really foreshadows how the epilogue will play out is this:
“I know I’ll never marry, never risk bringing a child into the world. Because if there’s one thing being a Victor doesn’t guarantee, it’s your children’s safety. My kids’ names would go right into the reaping balls with everyone else’s. And I swear I’ll never let that happen.”
Following this quote, Katniss’ entire concept of romantic companionship and the creation of a family in her future is built around the existence of the games. When the games are abolished, nevers become possible.
Trust me, I’m the first person to look at an ending where the leading lady ends up with The Man and they have kids and it’s happily ever after with suspicion, but this time, it’s different. After a lifetime of fear, Katniss allows herself hope, because she can finally afford it. And I think that’s worth a lot.