CHAPTER TWO: FRIENDS AND FAME
We have a few hours until we leave on the train. A few hours to prepare. I think of whatever all the other tributes are doing right now. Either crying or thrilled, but whatever they do won't change what's going to happen. I know from experience. Unfortunate things have been occurring in my life ever since I was born. And I've learned not to cry. Crying doesn't change anything and however much you cry about it, it still happened.
Indigo has been ignoring me most of the time since the reaping. Truffle has been acting a bit nicer and so has my mom. I don't want pity or sympathy though. I am glad that Roselyn has been treating me the same-she's the best friend anyone could have.
All of a sudden, a knock came at the door. I ran up the few steps from the family room, past the kitchen and the dining room, to the front door. Our house is painted bright orange, a popular color for decorating in District One. We get our trends from the Capital; although the fad will most likely change to hot pink anytime soon and I will beg my mom to repaint it.
I open the door and Roselyn stands there with a small white box. Her big eyes squint as she smiles and greets me. I invite her in and we trot up the stairs to my room.
"Since it's your last few hours in District One…well, until you win," she gives a bitter laugh. "I wanted to give you a present. So, that you'll remember me, and your family, the people that love you back home. Don't forget us. And don't forget to win, okay?"
"Okay," I can hardly make myself speak.
She opens the box, revealing a green tourmaline gem ring that twists into a spike.
"It was my aunt Cashmere's," she explains. Roselyn Shadowlane's aunt and uncle have both won the Hunger Games, ironically. She lives with her aunt Cashmere and her baby sister, Marshy, in Victor Village. "Wear it in the Games for good luck," she says seriously. "To kick some butt." She jokingly adds.
I giggle and place it on my finger and marvel at the beauty of the ring.
"It's beautiful," I breathe. I look closely at what it says around the band. 'May the odds be ever in your favor'. "Thank you," I give her a small hug, and then try to escape this sentimental moment. I'm not one of sappy things. She knows this, so we both release and sit there awkwardly until I speak up.
"Now, do my hair so I'll look gorgeous for the cameras." I order.
Roselyn grabs some pins and puts my thick, blonde tresses into an elegant bun. We talk, laugh and enjoy our last few hours together as best friends. I dress in another extravagant dress, embroidered with gold sequins and lacy gold all over.
"You're to die for," Roselyn comments when we are finished.
I'm used to this comment, but I roll my eyes modestly and show my gratitude.
We walk outside and cameras are hovering over us and microphones go in my face, as if I have won the Hunger Games or something. This glory I could get used to.
"Glimmer Hart, people say that you're one of the strongest tributes. Tell us-what's your specialty weapon?" a reporter asks.
"I don't want to give any information out...for you fellow listeners," I say looking at the cameras. "But, I am pretty good with just about anything."
"All of Panem is raving how you are very gorgeous. Your emerald eyes are utterly stunning…and how do you get your hair that luscious?"
I give an airy laugh.
"My colleague here, Roselyn," I start as I give her a faint hug, which of course turns out being a bit awkward, since she's much shorter than me. But, she's just standing here smiling, encouraging me on, so I wanted to include her. "She helps me a great deal, but I am very fond of fashion to start with. Thank you, Capitol for your inspiration!" I flash a smile and then a devious look for the cameras. "Panem, prepare to meet your Victor, Glimmer Hart."