Tess," I Say. "i'm Going To Head

There's A Conflicted Look In Day's Eyes, A Joy And A Grief, That Makes Him So Vulnerable. I Realize How Little Defense He Has Against My Words. He Loves So Wholly. It Is His Nature.

My Mother Used To Hope That I Would Rise Up From My Humble Roots. Become Someone Sucessful, Or Even Famous. I'm Famous All Right, But I Don't Think It's What She Had In Mind.

He Loves So Wholly. It Is His Nature. He Blinks, Then Tries To Find The Right Response. "i-" He Stumbles. "i'm So Afraid, June. So Afraid Of What Might Happen To-" I Put Two Fingers Against His Lips To Hush Him. "fear Makes You Stronger," I Whisper. Before I Can Stop Myself, I Put My Hands On His Face And Press My Mouth To His.

I Take A Step Toward Him And Grin Cheerfully. "with All Due Respect, I Don't See The Republic Tacking Up Wanted Posters With Your Pretty Face On Them.

Absolute Power Is Absolute Power, No Matter What It's Called.