123 NINTH HEARTBREAK

What must his parents think about all of this, watching from the television back at home? Their precious son gallivanting around, wooing Capitol maidens like some kind of foolhardy libertine. They must be so proud, he thinks wryly. Well, they'll be even prouder when he makes it home in one piece.

Caspia eyes him as he makes a running leap back into the chariot, the little shark figurine still hot from the girl's palm. "You're too good at this."

Finnick just smiles and waves.

The moment Finnick steps off the chariot, arms and cheeks aching, ears still buzzing with the thunderous ovation of the crowd, Calliope rushes forward and plants a kiss on his brow. "Oh, my dear Finnick, you were simply marvelous!"

"Both of you were absolutely stunning," Mercer adds. Caspia grunts and tears the crown off her head. "District 4 is always fantastic, but this year I think you'll be something special."