A Tale of a Boy and His Flower

The Interview

I winced as the stylists surrounding me pulled my hair. Tonight was our last chance to show ourselves to the capital. Our last night before the games. Our last night before 23 of us will die. 

Caliser had designed a simpler light green dress with golden flakes. He had also decided my make up would center around my eyes. He was going for an innocent, yet strong look. While they worked on fixing my hair i thought about what I would say to Panem.

As we finished I went to check on Jase. His suit was also light green matching my dress. 

"Are you ready?" I asked joining his side, and he nodded quickly. I knew he was anxious. 

"Just breathe, tonight just show them your worth betting on." I said to him. 

"If I had to bet on someone it would be you." he said. "Sometimes I think I'll just hold you back when we get to the arena." Before I could say anything Sal appeared. 

"It's time!" she hummed. We left quickly and got into the elevator. We rode in silence as our stylists finished the final touches. 

"Now smile, wave and sell yourself!" Rain said, as we approached our spot. 

"Most importantly don't be yourself." Zach said. 

"Why's that?" I was taken aback. 

"Trust me, no one wants to sponsor a sassy little girl." I rolled my eyes and he smirked like I had just proved his point. 

"Now please welcome District 10's  male tribute, Jase GreenShire!" 

Jase took a deep breath before walking out with a big smile waving at the crowd. He then took his seat next to Caesar. 

"Now, Jase, how are you feeling?" 

"I'm feeling great!" Jase lied. "The training is really paying off." Caesar nodded. 

"Now coming from an outlying District, you have zero experience. Is that correct?" He then asked. 

"Yes, but if my opponent was a cow, they wouldn't stand a chance." Jase joked causing laughter among the crowd. I had never once seen Jase slaughter an animal. He was more of a package the cut up meat or raise the animal type of person. 

Caesar raised his hands to calm the crowd. They immediately quieted down enthralled by his next words. 

"On a more serious note..this may be the last time we see you." He said solemnly, "Any final messages for someone back home." I could tell he was thinking it over, before looking into the camera. 

"I have a message for a very important person in my life." he paused.

"And who might that be?" Caesar pressed. Jase sucked in a breath. 

"I want to thank my sister. She's a very loyal and kind person. She's always taking care of me and our family. I just want her to know how much I care for her and how much I love her, and when we go into the arena...I know I won't be much help but I am truly grateful for her coming here with me." Caesar hummed as his message sunk in. 

I felt eyes on me from the remaining tributes in line. I couldn't stop the tinge of pink from embarrassment showing on my cheeks. Of course Jase would say something like that on television. I looked at the crowd and saw a few crying or tearing up. 

"Well, I'm sure she will be proud of your efforts in the arena. Give it up for Jase! We wish you luck in your upcoming trials." Caesar said grabbing his hand and holding it up in triumph. Jase soon made his exit off stage. 

I took a shaky breath. It was my turn now. The last chance for someone to sponsor us.

"Next up! District 10's female tribute. Amaryllis GreenShire!" I felt myself move from my spot and onto the stage. I somehow managed to smile and wave to the crowd. There was loud applause, Caesar greeted me with a hug. I then proceeded to sit down in my chair.