The Star Crossed Lovers of Distict Two

Chapter 1

Clove POV

In district 2, it's a huge honor to be a tribute. Your parents, family, and district see you as a fearless, vicious hero. I would usually be psyched to be chosen for the 74th annual hunger games. I'm a wicked knife thrower and I can make alliances and get sponsors. But, today, I wish I had never been drawn. "As always, ladies first," The announcer says. This is a new guy, I've never seen him before. "Clove Sevina!" Roars of applause surround me and I feel about a thousand pats on my back as I walk up. I stand on the stage admiring my newfound fans until the announcer, who I can now see is a man with 4 fingers on one hand, says, "And now for the boys...

"Valor Handley!" That's Cato's little brother. 12 years old. I can't kill Cato's brother. Why not? I should be able to. I just wish someone would volunteer. "I VOLUNTEER AS TRIBUTE!" I hear someone yell above the crowd. I can't breathe. Cato, not Cato, anyone but Cato. Someone do something, please, anyone. But no one does. Just applause. The man tells us to shake hands but I could never look into Cato's eyes. I reach out my arm and look down at my feet. I feel his warm, sweaty palm. "Happy hunger games!" Yells the man with 9 fingers over the roaring crowd. "And may the odds be ever in your favor!"