"But of course." She was still doing her best at sounding as genuine as possible, but there was something missing. The hint of passion and love, perhaps, that she couldn't keep out of her voice when she spoke of her books.

China tried not to make it too plain, but she really didn't have the same regard for humans.

"They are important resources for Panem. They may serve a different purpose than my books, but they are valuable nonetheless."

Not a word about them being human too. She didn't feel like she had to pretend too much about being that kind when she was with other staff.