9. Relive
Beneath the stage, Portia ushers me on to a metal plate. Another thing like the Arena. I think to myself.
"Just be you. The same boy Panem fell in love with at the interviews." She smiles softly before hugging me and leaving for her own plate.
The anthem booms and Caesar Flickerman begins by greeting the audience who cheer and applaud. The prep teams are presented, followed by Effie. I bet she's loving it up there, she's always wanted to be in the spotlight since she became a tribute escort. As expected Portia and Cinna receive many whoops and cheers, after all, they've done some brilliant work. Haymitch is introduced to rumbling of feet stomping. He did accomplish the unbelievable: keeping not only one, but two tributes alive.
The plate begins to lift me up to the stage. Instinctively I smile, ready for the crowd. The lights blind me, but I continue to smile. The deafening roar of the crowd rattles the plate beneath my feet, reverberating all the way up my new leg. Then there's Katniss, only a few metres away, looking absolutely stunning.
She takes a few steps forward, crashing into me, wrapping her arms around me. I stumble backwards, Darn this leg! I manage to use the cane to catch myself, then wrap my free arm around her. The crowd loves it, but this isn't for them. This is for me. I press my lips to hers for what only seems like seconds when Caesar taps my shoulder. No, not yet. I'm not ready to relive this. I keep my eyes locked on Katniss and push Caesar aside. The crowd erupts with more applause.
Finally, Haymitch intervenes and gives us a gentle push toward the Victor's chair. We sit, and Katniss rests her head on my shoulder. My arm wraps around her, my other hand resting on hers, ready for the show. She shifts slightly, she's uncomfortable. I squeeze her hand and press a soft kiss to her temple.
"We're going to be fine." I whisper just loud enough for her to hear as the Capitol seal appears on the screen.
What are you guys thinking?:) MaddisonAnne xx
