Playing with fire

1. Gotta be in it to win it

Gus P.O.V.

"Teenagers from all over the world! This once in a lifetime trip has only eight positions! Random teens from around the globe will be chosen, so get your name in right now!"

"I'm putting your name down."

"No!"

Mother ignored me entirely, walking swiftly to the study, cranking up the computer. I follow her, unsuccessfully trying to stop her.

"Mother, no, please. I don't want to go anywhere this holidays. It won't feel right to do it without father either."

She stopped her movements as she turned to look me dead in the eye. You see, my father died almost a year ago and he taught me everything I know about the wilderness. We would go out camping nearly every weekend, and every holiday we would have a huge trip somewhere around the states. I had never gone somewhere different without father. His death was still fresh in our minds, a wound that hasn't closed if you will.

"Listen, Gus. I know you and your father were close and all, but I'm sure he would want you to do this too. This is the only time this trip will happen for you. You're nearly eighteen, so you will have to pay for yourself if you want to travel. And you might not even get chosen..."

I thought for a while. To put my name down would make it, in approximation, a one in about three thousand or so chance of being picked.

"Alright fine."

I turned to walk out of the room, not after I saw mother do a happy dance. I sighed quietly. What did I get myself into?

****

Delilah P.O.V.

After I heard the announcement on the radio home from the skate park, I knew I had to go. Australia! What an adventure! Starring death in the face at basically every corner. Amazing!

"Father? May I please put my name down to go on this trip?"

He looked at me as if I had grown another head. "Absolutely not! This is Australia we are talking about. Home to the most dangerous animals in the world. And overseas? No, I think not."

I sank into my seat a little. Father had always been overprotective of me. Mother understood most of the time, but I had a feeling she would be on the same page as father. Like when I told the, both I was lesbian, mother took it well but father didn't. Only now does he semi-support me. It's hard but I've learnt to deal with it. Like now.

As soon as we got home I excused myself to my room. I locked the door and opened my laptop, immediately getting onto the website that was stated in the advertisement. After putting me name down to go, I sat back in my seat and smiled slightly. What did I get myself into?

****

Cormac P.O.V.

"Why would I put my name down for bullsh*t like that mum? I live in 'stralia for gods sake."

"Get that foul language out of this house or else I will wash ya mouth out with soap young man!"

Being the man of the house had its ups and downs. Since dad decided to leave us, I have had to step up and support the family. With three younger sisters and a mum like mine, it was a wonder how I ever lasted in this house. Although I do admit, I spent most of my days at the surf shop where I worked or riding the waves of the beach.

"It will be good for you to learn of your own country Cormac. Besides, it'll do you good to have your own time away from all us girls." Says mum as she types my name down for the trip.