Time can't keep him safe forever. When reaping day comes he and Hirana mount the stage and raise their fists in the customary pose of victory…
Victory of what?
The crowd claps and cheers politely, but Wonder would have to be deaf and blind in order to not notice how hollow their faces look.
On the train, his mother practically throws herself into her mentoring duties. She is pouring her whole heart and soul into making sure he comes home in one piece. There is none of the firmness with which she mentored Chiffon.
He finds himself captivated by what she has to say. For once, he doesn't fidget. He doesn't slouch in his seat or yawn loudly. He doesn't roll his eyes once.
They have their meals separate from the others. And when it's time to go to bed, his mother gives him the biggest hug he's ever received in his life.
It doesn't do much to calm his nerves.