A Song with Thorns

by M. Cooper Jinks

The journey of Livia Thorne (OC), told from the perspective of the previous Victor, Haymitch Abernathy. It's the 51st Hunger Games and Haymitch's first year as mentor for District 12. But before the Games can even begin, he notices that there is something peculiar about the female tribute from District 2. (Haymitch's POV. Drabble Series.)

3. The Reaping

A Song with Thorns

The Reaping

"Maybe just one more sip," I mutter to myself.

As the whiskey passes through my lips, I can feel the cool liquid transform into a warm burn, as it reaches the back of my throat. With one swig of this sweet nectar, I am ignited. The drink carries the warmth through my insides, and my troubles seem to fade. Just like the crown, my awful memories melt from the heat until they become completely unrecognizable.

I needed this. It's been a rough day. There are only a couple of Reapings left to watch. That being said, I should probably pour myself another drink.

I haven't seen the tributes selected from Districts 1 or 2, but I can already tell the kids from my District don't stand a chance. Sometimes I wonder if I looked as scrawny and hopeless during my own Reaping.