#tbpclosed

I was tipsy from my drinks already, holding a glass in my hand tightly as if it was the only thing keeping me tied to reality. I wanted to go back to my room and nap, but I had to keep up appearances for the ever-watching Sponsor. I stood in the corner, sipping on my bubbly drink and watching people mingle.

So far I’d not seen many Tributes actually attend the party. There was… maybe five others here, if that. Were the rest late to arriving, or already resting up for the Games tomorrow? Should I even be here? Should I be mingling with the Game Makers, or other guests, or trying to meet the birthday girl?

Even though sometimes I felt confident enough to win the Games, I also wanted to just wallow away in my room and sob about the odds of that actually happening. So instead, I was here, drinking fizzy spirits while trying to keep mine up.

“Joan?”

I heard my name and glanced up, almost spilling my drink down the front of my gown. I recovered, and found bouncy brown hair greeting me. Feeling faint, I gave a smile, clearing my throat.