Snippet #1951056

Lucian had dragged himself for a walk after school, why not? He had nothing to worry about. He changed his mind when he realised he should be at home. As today, today was the day. Anyone could be picked. He heard his phone go off and upon answering it, he discovered his brother, Tyler was on the other end.

"Bro, you have to get home, their going to pick the competitors!" He exclaimed.

"I'm on my way...why are you so excited?" Lucian asked.

"Not excited...I just want you to be here....in case, one of us gets picked..."

"That is highly unlikely Tyler," Lucian sighed.

"I know, but hurry up!" Tyler said loudly before hanging up.

Lucian arrived at home 10 minutes before the readings would be broadcasted. He wasn't scared. There were so many other kids in the US that could be picked. So many different kids that were far better off. Lucian flinched slightly when the TV automatically switched to the broadcast. His family gathered around the television, his parents, Lucian, Lewis, Tyler, Elizabeth and his grandfather, Gill all watched eagerly.

Texas always came first.

When he saw the images, he face paled. He recognised that face. It was his face, he shook his head repeatedly as his sister looked at him in fear, his brothers gasped and his mother near enough burst into tears. His grandfather looked down and his dad grabbed hold of him. They all held him for a brief moment before the door burst open.

When the men demanded that he get in the van, his family let go, there was no fighting. Lucian had always said that if he was picked, he'd go peacefully. That was how he was going. He glanced at the tear filled eyes of his family and tried to prevent his watering eyes from releasing the tears.