"you're a dollar short, sorry kid." the man behind the counter shrugged, not looking sorry at all — even to your young eyes. you were trying to get a snack — preferably candy, however, the ones you wanted were a wee-bit overpriced.

you grimaced, about to beg with your puppy eyes when a young boy your age wandered up behind you. At first, it seemed the boy was going to ignore you and get his own things — which he did. Until he casted back at you, pursed his lips, and pushed a few extra cash onto the counter as well as the amount he already owed. "and that for whatever they wanted." the boy said.

he had blonde hair and a few minor scars laced across his skin. instantly, you knew he went to that one training academy — one for kids training for the hunger games. With his bright blue gaze, you couldn't imagine him killing anyone.

you grinned and thanked him, hurrying to grab your things while he stepped back, popping own of his own suckers into his mouth. however, just as you were going to turn on your heel, the blonde grasped your hand, giving you a raised brow and a frown.

"i didn't pay for your stuff for nothing," the boy shook his head at your confused expression. "come play with me." and that was that. you didn't get a chance to reply, being pulled outside while the boy talked.

"I'm Cato. Cato Hadley! I'm 10, but ill be a victor one day, win the hunger games, you know?" he had slowed his pace, now just walking hand-in-hand along the pretty, clean streets of district 2. "do you have a name?.. or are one of those weirdos my mom told me about??"