A tendency toward obsession was hardwired into his brain and would likely be his undoing if he couldn’t learn to outsmart

the boy tribute from District 5 had passed away in the night due to complications from asthma or some such —

On those dreary days when he’d slogged through the wintry slush to trade back a bag of lima beans for more cabbage, it was her silly, silky warmth that had consoled him.

probable. It’s inevitable, if you just follow the plan.”

If he gave an impressive performance as a mentor, with his outstanding academic record, Coriolanus should be awarded a monetary prize substantial enough to cover his tuition at the University.

And while he had no claim on her heart — he barely knew the girl! — he didn’t like the idea of anyone else having it either.

They were both, after all, still children whose lives were dictated by powers above them.

“And last but least, District Twelve girl . . . she belongs to Coriolanus Snow.”

Tigris had said to trust her, and he did. Only his cousin’s cleverness with a needle had saved him so far.