Before the games…
Lucas stepped into the room, slumping into the chair with his hands pressed against his face. He exhaled deeply, trying to steady himself. Across the room, the girl was quietly crying, her shoulders trembling. He stood and moved toward her, and she glanced up, fear flickering in her eyes.
Lucas's tall frame was unmistakable, with long black hair and sharp blue eyes that seemed to pierce right through you. He looked like he’d just walked out of the wilderness, untamed and unpredictable.
“What’s your name?” Lucas asked, his voice calm but commanding. I’m Lucas.
“Sophia,” she whispered, barely audible.
He sat beside her, reaching out to take her hand. His grip was firm but not unkind. “Look at me,” he said. “We’re in this together, alright?”
She met his gaze, her hazel
