The Sixty-Eighth Hunger Games

Chapter 18- FINNICK

Now that it's been half a year since the Games, we have our Victory Tour coming up. With a pang, I realize that at this time every year, I'm going to be reminded of my little brother's death in the most public and painful way possible. Having seen the past Victory Tours, I'm dreading the numerous personal questions that will be asked over the next few days.

After we processed our grief, Addie and I have been as happy as we can be, finally at a point when neither of our lives are in danger. At the moment, she is helping me pick out a Tour outfit from a huge leaflet of different styles.

"That one has the little tails at the bottom," she says, pointing at a dark brown suit.

"It's called a tailcoat," I say, chuckling. "No way am I wearing that."

Addie laughs too and then says in a more reserved tone, "What about this?"

She's pointing at a light blue vest and black overcoat combination that closely resembles what James wore almost exactly six months ago at the interview. One glance at her face shows that she's noticed the similarity as well.

"Sure," I say. "Let's do it." If we have to be reminded of the pain that the Capitol caused, I want to do it in our way as much as we can. So this outfit is perfect.

Addie doesn't put much consideration into hers, but Casper sets her up with an elegant ballgown that shimmers when she walks, and I think she looks stunning.

When the cameras arrive at the doorstep, Addie gives me an eyeroll, and then we step out into the view of all Panem. We wave to the cameras, and then we board the train as quickly as possible. Not many people have come to see us off in person, which strikes me as almost an act of rebellion. Usually, this station is bustling with people every year. This year, there's barely anyone. Maybe the past Games showed them that it's not all it's cracked up to be.

Once we're aboard the train, Addie and I head straight to our separate compartment, which is basically a small room with a two benches and a table, nothing fancy. Jon still gives us a look as we slide the glass doors closed. I can't tell if he's encouraging us or warning us against any funny business. Regardless, I fix him with a look of my own.

Addie stares out the window as the train starts moving forwards.

"It feels like deja vu," she says, resting her chin on her hand. "Last time I was here, I thought I was gonna be dead within the week."

"Yeah, well this time, you won't be. Unless you die of boredom," I joke. "You'll get used to it."

"Will I, though?" Addie asks, her eyes meeting mine.

"Sure," I say, although I am definitely less than sure. I'm not entirely certain that I've become used to it, and I've made this trip seven times- this is my eighth.

Addie bites her lip and then turns to look out the window. "There's something I need to tell you," she says. She slides an envelope across the table to me. "This is for you. But don't read it until later, okay?"

"Sure?" I say, picking it up. "Why? What's going on?"

"Nothing that you need to worry about." I'm not so sure about that. I think I'm definitely worrying now.

Against my instincts, I relent, shaking my head. "Fine. But I'm trusting you not to do anything stupid, okay?"

"Okay," Addie says.

"I love you," I say, feeling I was a bit too harsh.

"I love you too." She reaches across the table and squeezes my hand. "Just trust me."