Tris
As I look the job board over, I see so many options to choose from—more so than there are new members. I wonder why more than half of the initiates were eliminated when the need appears to be so great...
"See something you want, Stiff?" a voice asks from behind me.
I jolt in surprise. Eric chuckles lightly.
"You're awfully jumpy," he smirks.
I shrug in response.
"Just looking," I mumble.
"You know, you have your pick of the jobs," he mentions.
I nod. I see my name next to Leader-in-Training. That means they're only offering it to me. There are ranks listed beside the rest. Peter saw this and threw an absolute fit... threatening me not to take it. He wanted it. He mumbled something to himself about taking the leadership aide position and working his way up.
"What are you considering?" he asks drawing my attention once again.
I look to him and he's not meeting my eyes. He almost appears bored.
"I don't know. Every option is available," I say which doesn't help narrow it down.
"Well, good luck with that," he replies leaving.
I continue staring at the list.
Leader-in-Training___________ (Tris only)
Leadership Aide_____________ (Rank 1-5)
Weapons Design_____________ (Rank 1-5)
Intelligence [Security Office]_____(Rank 1-5)
Intelligence [Control Room] _____(Rank 1-7)
Infirmary Nurse_____________ (Rank 1-7)
Tattoo Artist_______________ (Any Rank)
Cosmology Specialist_________ (Any Rank)
Store Clerk [Women's Clothing]__ (Any Rank)
Stock/Clerk [Grocer]_________ (Any Rank)
Cafeteria Worker___________ (Any Rank)
Janitorial Staff_____________ (Any Rank)
Fence Guard (Unlimited Positions, Any Rank)
I continue to stare at all of the options, not knowing which direction to take my life in.
"Still deciding, huh?" Four says beside me.
I smile.
"Hi," I grin at him.
"Hi," he says to me with a crooked smile. "Have you narrowed it down?" he questions.
I shake my head. There are too many options and I can take any. I'm the only one.
"How about I help?" he suggests.
"Alright," I agree thinking some advice would be good.
He goes through and eliminates half of them—any working near leadership is dangerous, he warns.
I frown and nod thinking maybe I ought to heed his warning. I was considering the leadership one or some of the other top choices but maybe he's right. It would be a risk. Can I hide forever under their noses? Even Tori cautioned me to stay away from them.
So, I nod again in agreement.
He talks to me about the lower level ones. He advises that janitorial is nasty—that cleanup after others will be a serious challenge. The cafeteria one has a terrible schedule. The fence guards have long shifts away from the compound and in all sorts of weather—rain, shine, or blizzard.
I wince at that. I'm always cold and that sounds kind of awful.
"Have I helped?" he asks wrapping his arms around me.
I grin at him and nod pecking his lips gently.
"Alright. I've got something I have to do but I'll see you around," he tells me.
I nod and smile at him. He leaves me.
I look back at the list and I think I've narrowed it down to something I can live with, stay hidden, have a decent schedule, and enjoy Dauntless life.
****
"You want to do what?" Ryan questions in disbelief—one of the Dauntless leaders assisting me with job selection.
"I think she just picked grocery store," Max mumbles in surprise. "Mark it down."
"But..." Ryan protests throwing a hand up. "She's number one."
"And she has the right to choose whatever she wants," Max replies entering something into his computer.
I smile at that. I was beginning to think maybe I'd chosen wrong.
The older leader hands me my paperwork and I thank him as I take it. I move on to Eric and the female leader I'm unfamiliar with.
"Will you be working with us?" the woman grins.
I shake my head.
She frowns.
"Let it go, Lydia," Eric says gruffly. "Single or double?"
"Oh. Um... double," I tell him awkwardly scratching my arm.
"Roommate?" he questions.
"Christina," I reply.
He nods. "She's a lower rank," he says as if speaking to himself. It must matter where to place me or something... maybe what we can afford combined.
"Keys," Lydia smiles handing them to me with a map.
"Thanks," I reply excitedly.
I wait for Christina to select her job. She chooses cosmetology. We pack up and move into our first apartment together. It's not too big but not really small either. We should be fine to afford this with our salaries.
We spend Saturday cleaning, shopping, and setting up our new place. She goes out on a date with Will that evening and I meet up with Uriah, Marlene, and Lynn for dinner. We all start working on Monday. Uri chose the weapons job, Lynn the security office position, and Marlene is a nurse.
"Do you know what Will chose?" I ask curiously.
"Control room," Uri replies.
I smile at that and wonder about Four since they'll be working together. I haven't seen him since before I chose. I finish my dinner and we all part. I hang around the Chasm and decide to climb down the stairs and sit at the bottom. It's relaxing and I smile having fond memories of being down here—my first kiss. I return home and get a good nights rest for tomorrow morning.
*****
I ride the train from church in Erudite with Dana back home to Dauntless—my new friend from the infirmary. We have lunch together and she sits with my friends. I introduce her to them.
"So how was your service?" Christina asks me.
"Good. My mom kept asking me if I've met anyone yet," I grin.
"Did you tell her?" she questions smiling.
"I did," I nod trying to bite my lip from giving it away. She actually encouraged me to bring him next time. I told her I'd try.
I don't see Four during lunch so I spend time with my friends at Uriah and Will's apartment. I see him at dinner and he says we can hang out. We go to his apartment and lay around and talk. I tell him I went to church today. He nods. I invite him to join us next time and he kind of shrugs it off. I frown but don't push it. It's getting late and I should probably get a good nights rest for my new job tomorrow. I go to leave and he says goodbye to me at his door. I was kind of hoping he'd walk me home—like Will did yesterday for Christina. I push my disappointment down and kiss him gently. I make the long trek home to my apartment by myself.
*****
I wake in the morning excited to get ready for my new job. Christina and I take turns in the bathroom and then go down to breakfast in the cafeteria. We eat together and split up partway through the Pit to head in our opposing directions.
At work, I'm given an apron and a name tag by my supervisor, Hank. He's nice—kind of a middle aged man with blonde hair and a mustache. He's got a wiry sort of build. He's friendly and hardworking. I like him. He trains me on stocking shelves, clean up, the register. I feel like I'm getting the hang of everything quickly.
I get to meet my coworkers—Tina and Rosie. They work the same position as me. Tina has short, bleach-blonde hair and several facial piercings. She's a little taller than me, too. Rosie is a gorgeous redhead—very curvy and sensual looking. Her voice suits her well—very sultry and mysterious.
I meet Ron who works stock primarily and Quinn who's the butcher. Ron is a thin natural light redhead. He's tall and kind of lanky but he's got a bit of muscle for moving all the products in the store onto the shelves. Quinn has brown hair and eyes. He's greying slightly so he's older. He's much more thick and massive than anyone else here. He's got lots of muscle but he's a bit overweight as well. He's very nice, though—shy. Ron is an excessive talker and I find myself having to frequently interrupt him to excuse myself to help customers at the register.
I find after my first week, I really like my job and my new friends and coworkers. I'm skilled at it and I'm having a good time. I move easily between stock and the register. I work cleanup as necessary and I round up the shopping carts at close and put away the stray items.
I have dinner with my friends and realize I haven't seen Four at all this week. Christina and Will have dinner with us but they're going out on a date afterwards. I say goodbye and I'm truly happy for them.
I leave the cafeteria and I run into Four.
"Oh, hey," I smile.
"Hi, Tris," he says.
"Did you want to do something?" I offer.
"Sure, you want to grab a drink?" he asks.
"Alright," I agree.
I wait for him to eat and we talk a little. We go out to a bar and he drinks with his friends excessively. I sip one beverage that I don't particularly care for. I tell him I'm calling it a night after a while and he kisses me sloppily in goodbye. I honestly think he's drunk. I force a smile and wave to him.
I step into my apartment and sigh. I drop my bag and keys on the console by the door and get ready for bed.
The next morning, I don't see Four anywhere around at breakfast time. He appears at lunch and sips some of the leftover coffee from breakfast.
"Did you want to do anything this weekend?" I ask him.
"Bar?" he questions.
"I'll pass," I tell him since I honestly wasn't having such a great time there.
"Your loss," he teases.
"What's your work schedule?" I ask him.
"It's always changing," he shrugs. "We all rotate. Sometimes I work late, sometimes early. I have a week of graveyard shifts once a month."
I nod in understanding. It's random and nothing he can help. I get his schedule for this week and find out he'll work those late night shifts in a few weeks. I offer him to join me in the morning again for church. I know he believes in God. His wall says so and that's definitely his handwriting.
"Nah, I like to sleep in on the weekends when I can," he shakes his head.
"Oh," I frown. "What are you doing after this?" I ask him.
"Fear Landscape," he tells me.
"You're going in again?" I ask surprised.
He purses his lips and nods.
"You can join me if you want," he offers.
"Nah, I think I'll walk the Pit," I tell him.
"Alright. See you around," he says leaving.
I sigh and put my tray away. I walk the Pit and I find a used bookstore. There are so many volumes. I consider buying a book but the cost is more than I can afford with rent and food costs in the cafeteria. I'll have to save up or even borrow one since that's an option for some. I do find a bargain bin section, though. Some are missing the covers and titles, some missing a few pages. I pick one up. It's substantially cheaper. I flip through a few options and choose one. I buy it and sit in the Pit reading through the pages. I smile. It's a romance novel.
*****
My mom was asking me about Tobias on Sunday. I felt awful telling her that he didn't want to come. I tried to say it as nicely as possible but I think she understands. Not many Dauntless men go to church. Christina is lucky and I try not to be jealous of what she and Will have. I'm actually really happy for her.
At work on Monday, Rosie asks me to take a break. I see Eric enter the store and it's just our two lanes open.
"Are you sure?" I ask her confused. If it gets busy, she'll get stuck with everyone.
"Definitely," she grins nodding.
"Alright," I agree.
I take my apron off and clock out. I honestly want to avoid leadership anyway so it's no problem for me. I step out and sit around in the Pit for my break. It's only fifteen minutes anyway, so I listen to the water crashing in the Chasm until I have to return.
I come back and see Eric leaving the grocery store with his bags in hand. He looks kind of cranky.
"Tris," he nods to me.
"Hi, Eric," I say.
"Where are you headed?" he questions.
"Back to work," I shrug.
"Oh, what'd you pick anyway?" he inquires.
"Um, here," I motion to the store.
"Are you serious?" he asks confused.
I shrug in response.
"It was nice seeing you," I tell him walking off. I feel like he was going to ask me twenty questions if I didn't leave. I don't look back because I can actually feel his eyes watching me. Maybe I put a target on my back for choosing something so low level. I like my job, though.
"I'm back," I announce to Rosie.
"I think I might leave early," she tells me grinning.
"Alright," I reply. We can do that if we don't take our lunch break.
"I think I'm going to make a house call," she smiles.
"Oh, like the doctor?" I ask confused.
"Exactly," she grins. "I'll see if Eric will play with me."
I cough in surprise. She has been saying some unusual things and I feel like perhaps she's not as innocent as I had originally hoped. I pray for her, that I'm imagining things. She's always nice to me.
*****
As time passes, I see Will showering Christina with so much attention. He's always taking her out—whether it's to dinner, coffee, shopping, or just for walks. He doesn't always spend money, they just have a good time together. He buys her flowers on occasion. They always make our apartment smell so nice. On one occasion, he gets her a small box of delicious chocolates. Christina lets me have a couple and they're incredible.
I try to do things with Four but all he seems to be interested in is drinking, his Fear Landscape, and lounging in bed at his apartment. He attempts to progress our relationship and I tell him I'm not comfortable with that. I explain that I want to wait for marriage.
"Aren't we a little young for that?" he chuckles as if I'm being foolish... and naïve.
"What about babies?" I raise my eyebrows in confusion. That type of commitment can result in children and irresponsibility... as well as hurt and heartbreak.
"That's why you use protection," he shrugs it off.
There's silence between us as I sit up on his bed and he reaches out for me. It's been months and we barely do anything but this. This is not what I was expecting from a relationship at all.
"We can wait a little while," he tells me interrupting my thoughts and caressing my side. "Until you're ready."
This... whole thing between us... it's just not working out. "I don't think I want this anymore," I admit. "I'm sorry, Tobias. I just... I don't think this relationship is what I want."
"Are you serious?" he questions surprised—kind of angry and hurt... and in complete disbelief.
"I'm sorry," I say softly. But I grab my things... and leave.
*****
I take some time to reflect about my relationship with him... what I want, and what I don't. Word gets around pretty quickly that Four and I broke up. The influx of Dauntless asking me out is absolutely ridiculous. I take some more time to myself, having to reject most of them because of it. But eventually, I'm tempted to see what other guys are like.
A cute guy a few years older than me asks me out. He was Dauntless-born. I expect a date or a walk or something. He leads me back to his apartment. I set my purse down and jacket. He leads me to his sofa and tries kissing me right away.
"What are you expecting, Damien?" I ask him confused. We haven't even talked or anything at all.
"Sex," he shrugs.
I grab my things and leave.
I wasn't expecting that. I talk to my mom on Sunday. She advises me to steer clear of the Dauntless-born. I frown and nod. She tells me in her experience, they were all like that. Those raised in other factions generally were taught about marriage and monogamy. She advises me that's not always the case, though.
I notice that Marlene is always staying over at Uriah and Will's apartment—staying the night I mean. When Christina goes out to dinner one night with her co-workers, Will confides in me that he's thinking about proposing. He also mentions that it's difficult with his roommate, that he wasn't expecting this. He likes Uriah, but his behavior is not how Will was raised.
I nod in understanding. That's a tough situation to be in.
*****
At work, I see Eric come in again. Hank advised me never to only leave one lane open—especially just Rosie. He told me in confidence that Eric has complained about her in the past.
"Why don't you take a break?" Rosie asks me.
"I'm sorry. Hank says I'm not allowed until Tina comes back from lunch." I apologize.
She makes a pouty face.
I chuckle, "I'm sorry."
"Eh, whatever," she shrugs it off.
Eric comes into my line.
"Hi," I say to him.
"Hey, Stiff," he smirks.
I ring up his produce, milk, beer, and frozen food. I take his point card and swipe it. I bag up his items and thank him.
"Quickest checkout in years," he teases. "Thanks."
"No problem," I smile.
He looks over my shoulder and makes a face at Rosie. I glance back to see her checking him out. I've never seen her look at anyone like that. "I'd much rather go through your line," he whispers.
I don't respond. I have no idea what to say to that. I force a smile as he leaves.
Rosie sighs, "Yeah, I'll have to visit him soon."
"Are you and Eric... together?" I question.
"Sure. We hookup sometimes," she grins. "I really like the leaders."
I nod but never broach the subject again. I do hear gossip around the faction about him... and eventually her. I try not to listen but sometimes, it's all anyone talks about. They saw him with this girl or that. The stuff about Rosie is just crude. I ignore it and go back to my business, attempting not to participate in idle talk.
I save up some points and buy myself another book. I've found that I'm in love with romance novels. They honestly remind me of what Will and Christina have. My heart aches when he actually does propose—it's so moving. They plan on a spring wedding after initiation is over since they'll both be eighteen. I'll only be turning seventeen just before the Choosing Ceremony. I'm happy for them, though. They're going to have the wedding at their church with their family and friends. I'm to be the maid of honor and Uriah the best man. I'm excited about that and saving my points for the dress.
*****
I finish my duties at work and stay in line waiting for the next customer. Hank says he doesn't mind if I read. He told me I'm his most diligent employee and it doesn't bother him during our downtime.
I flip through the pages of my more worn book. I sigh at the relationship progression. It's so lovely and poetic. Someone sets items on my counter.
"Whatcha reading, Stiff?" Eric asks.
"Just a novel," I shrug setting it aside.
"Your book looks like it's seen better days," he mentions to me.
"Yeah, but the story is still good," I tell him ringing him up.
"I didn't realize you were so into books," he comments.
"I have two," I shrug.
"That's all?" he questions in shock.
"They're pricey," I reply.
I swipe his card and bag his things. It's quiet today with just Tina and me.
"What kind of books do you like?" he asks me curiously.
"Any," I shrug.
"What kind is that one?" he inquires motioning to my dilapidated treasure.
"Romance," I say softly.
"Oh, I see. It was probably a paperback," he nods.
I meet his eyes and realize he most likely knows a lot about books. He was originally Erudite.
"See you around Stiff," he smirks taking the bags from me.
"Bye," I say softly.
*****
Rosie is out all week. There's a bad cold going around and she has it. We get several orders called in for delivery. I take one up to the Alpha Quadrant. I knock on the door and Eric opens it. I hadn't realized this is for him. He's wearing a sweater.
"Hey, Stiff," he says. I frown. He's sick. He sounds congested.
"Here's your order," I tell him.
"Thanks," he replies.
"You're welcome," I smile. "Feel better," I say to him when I notice the tissues filling his trash can and the mugs sitting around his apartment. I see a stack of books on his coffee table and I can't help but admire how nice they are. They're hardcover. Some are leather-bound. They're beautiful. I wonder if the words in those are as incredible as the outside of them.
"Thanks, Stiff," he tells me grinning.
"Anytime," I reply.
I return back to work and make several more deliveries. The cafeteria prepares the best chicken soup for lunch and I can't help but be comforted. I decide to use up some of my credits in the cafeteria and take soup to several people I know personally who are sick—Eric and Rosie being two of them. I knock on their doors and bring them the soup. They both smile and are grateful.
I'm surprised as time passes, just about everyone gets sick at least for a few days but I oddly don't. I can't explain it. I've been exposed to so many people. I'm grateful, though. I hate being sick, I'm sure just like everyone else.
I'm sitting around at my checkout a little bored one day. Everything is done. All the new products are stocked. The produce is tidy. The store has been cleaned, the shelves are organized. The carts are all put away in the corral. It's been quiet here.
Someone walks to my aisle and sets something on my counter. I pick it up to see an incredible-looking hard-cover book with a ribbon wrapped around it in a bow. I stare at it confused. This isn't our merchandise. It has no price sticker. It's definitely not one of our cookbooks. I've read all of those.
"Thanks for everything, Stiff," Eric says across from me.
I look up to him surprised.
He smiles at me and walks away. It's a gift... for me. I hold it to my chest. I've never been given anything like this before.
I read the book. It's titled Arabella by Georgette Heyer. The words are archaic and I have to ask my mom to bring my old dictionary from school to church the following Sunday just to get past the first few pages. I feel like I'm constantly looking up words... but it's incredible. Some I'm guessing at the meaning but Paphian, I have to look up—for which I cover my mouth in shock at the gentlemen's risqué conversation.
The book is about a young girl who's father is a member of the clergy. Her parents have a large family and they're sending their oldest, prettiest daughter out to get married off to a high society of fancy dress parties. But it would seem that she comes across a few gentlemen at a vacation home of some sort and gets offended at overhearing their conversation. She proceeds to tell a lie thinking she'll never see them again... but she does and it sort of ruins her chances of not burdening her parents.
I continue reading the book slowly, taking my time and enjoying the story thoroughly. I just can't put it down. I read it at home, at work, in the cafeteria, lounging around the Pit... I'm absolutely enthralled with it.
I'm eating my sandwich alone on a Saturday afternoon when I finish. I sigh dreamily and close the book.
"So... how was it?" Eric asks across from me at my table.
I smile in response.
"Thank you. It's my favorite," I tell him biting my lip.
"You're welcome. I always liked that one, although I prefer the author's murder mysteries. There's one that's an attempted murder and romance you'd probably like," he says thinking it over.
I grin in that Eric just admitted to me that he's read romance and enjoys it.
"I'll have to look into more of her books," I tell him appreciatively.
"A few of my friends are going zip lining in a little while. You want to come?" he asks me.
I haven't been since the end of stage one. But... do I want to go with Eric? He honestly seems different than during initiation—more gentle and social, kind... surprisingly.
"Alright," I agree. I haven't done anything quite so exciting in a while.
He advises me it's a little cold and he actually walks me home to put my book away and grab a sweatshirt. We meet some of his friends out at the train tracks. He introduces me but there are so many new names and faces that I find it hard to keep up. I see Zeke and Shauna among them as well as Ryan—another leader.
As the train arrives, I run and jump with them. Eric sits with me and we talk for the duration of the ride. It's nice and I'm feeling more at ease. We take the elevator up the Hancock Building again and I chat a little with Shauna. She tells me softly that Four misses me. I shrug unable to say much about that but Eric notices our conversation.
When the elevator opens at the topmost level, I step out climbing the ladder up in the midst of the group. Eric assists Zeke with setting up the harnesses. He actually takes my hand and helps me into mine. I'm in the center of the group, though so there will be plenty of big guys to catch me at the bottom. Eric releases me and I thoroughly enjoy the ride down like last time. I remember now why I chose Dauntless—not just for thrill seeking as Four criticized or survival alone which he encouraged. I chose Dauntless because it's truly where I want to be.
I arrive at the bottom and jump down. Eric is last and I'm part of the net of arms to help catch him. He climbs off near me and I assist him to collect some of the harnesses and return them to Dauntless.
We ride back together and he's got me smiling and laughing—something I've found I haven't been doing much lately. I help him put the harnesses away upon our return.
"Some of us were meeting up at a dance club tonight if you want to join us," Eric offers.
"I'm not much of a drinker," I admit.
"Then you can dance instead," he shrugs. "There's also nonalcoholic options, too."
I blink in surprise and smile. "Alright," I agree.
I go home and get ready. Christina and Will were going out to the same place and I'm excited about this. I've never really gone before. I either was with Four going elsewhere or single and felt like an odd wheel.
Christina helps me to get ready. She does my hair and makeup. We meet everyone there and I separate from her when I see Eric and his friends at a couple tables. He smiles at me and waves me to come join them. I take my seat and talk with him and the others a little bit.
"We'll have to find a replacement for Hayes," Ryan comments.
"Yeah, I wasn't expecting that to work out," Eric nods. "He constantly asked me about promotion to leadership. I usually laughed and told him he'd never qualify. I think he thought by not doing his job or pawning his work off on others that it would help his chances. He acted like doing his job was below him or something."
Ryan chuckles, "Yeah, the joke's on him."
Eric notices me listening. "I think I have an idea for his replacement," he smirks.
Ryan grins in reply.
"What's going on?" I ask confused.
"Peter Hayes just got a demotion to fence guard," Eric tells me moving a stray hair from my face.
"Oh," I say surprised.
"You want a drink?" Eric asks me handing me a menu.
I look over the list and he moves closer. His arm is behind me on the back of the booth. He points out nonalcoholic options and recommends a few things that he likes or thinks I might.
When the waitress arrives, I order a mixed drink and he swipes his point card for me. I thank him.
"Anytime, Stiff," he says softly.
Our drinks arrive together and we all toast. I do enjoy mine. We're drinking and laughing. I'm getting to know his friends better as well as him. Several people go out to dance and he knocks my knee playfully. He asks if I want to go out there.
"Okay," I grin.
He takes me out and I hadn't realized he meant for me to dance with him, but he leads me. I'm actually smiling and having a great time. We dance together to several fast songs... then a few slow. Eric looks into my eyes and I'm wondering if he has feelings for me. I discover that I'm enjoying my time with him more than I think I ever have with anyone. We drink and talk and dance. I'm having so much fun. I notice Christina wave to me when she leaves and I realize I should probably get going soon as well. I mention it to Eric and he pays our tab without question.
I thank him again in awe of how sweet he's being. Even when we were together, Four never paid for me.
"I'll walk you home," Eric says.
"Thank you," I smile gently. I'm actually touched by how he's treating me. He takes me to my door and hugs me goodnight. I'm surprised at first but hug him in return. It's nice. He's strong, friendly, polite, charming, a pleasure to be in his company. He's an excellent dancer and a gentleman. I feel a kiss to my head and I close my eyes sighing. He slowly releases me wishing me a good night and telling me he'll probably see me tomorrow.
I say goodbye and step into my apartment with a massive smile on my face.
"So? How'd it go?" Christina asks excitedly.
"I don't know. Good," I shrug unsure of how to describe it.
"Friend or more?" she asks me curiously.
"I... don't know," I admit. Those rumors about him are in the back of my mind. "Honestly, the time between us completely contradicts what I've heard."
"I don't think the rumors are true," she replies.
"I hope not," I agree.
"So, you like him?" she beams.
"I think... that I like him as friends. If he wanted more... I'll have to wait and see," I admit biting my lip.
"That is the best news I've heard in months," she beams.
I couldn't agree more.
*****
My mom can't stop asking me about what's going on. It must be obvious that I'm happy. I do feel different. I wasn't a downer or anything before... it's just, now I'm completely overjoyed.
I admit to her that I have a new friend.
"Oh? Anyone I would know?" she asks.
I tell her about Eric. She nods and says she knows of him and hopes things go well between us.
I smile and thank her.
I return to Dauntless and eat an early lunch without changing out of my church clothes. I go home and put something more casual and comfortable on, though, and go out to the bookstore in search for more from my new favorite author. I find several—more than I was even expecting. The store clerk tells me there are others available at the library and various shops around town. I smile and nod thinking that's incredible. I look through the selection on my own admiring them. There are so many excellent copies of other stories. They're incredible-looking but extremely pricey.
"Do you see another one you like?" Eric asks me.
I turn around and smile at him, glad to see him.
"Just looking," I shrug putting it back.
"You sure?" he questions.
"Yeah," I nod.
We walk around the store together and talk. He shows me what kind of books he likes and offers to show me his collection.
"Alright," I agree.
Eric leads me up to his apartment. He opens the door and lets me in first. I step in and it's tidy, organized and clean. It's a bit more spacious than my place but not what I was expecting. I think Eric is more humble than most people believe. I like that about him. I turn around and see his bookcase. It rivals the store—not nearly as big but all in excellent condition.
"Wow," I say in awe gravitating towards it. I examine his shelves and even step back to peer at the top ones outside my reach.
"Do you want a drink?" he offers.
"Um..." I stop my musings to focus on him. "Sure. Whatever you're having," I respond when I see him grabbing something.
He pours two glasses and sits at his sofa waiting for me to join him. I eye several books he has by my current favorite author before I take the offered seat beside him.
"What's this?" I ask curiously when he hands me a glowing orange colored beverage.
"An Erudite fizzy drink," he shrugs.
"Thank you," I reply sipping it. It's sweet and tastes almost like a cross between an orange fruit and candy. It's interesting.
He smiles at me. We talk some more and I do enjoy his company. We're laughing and joking together. His arm ends up around my shoulders and I realize I don't mind. I actually like it there, welcome him. I thread my fingers between his and he's surprised at first but holds me closer.
He turns my chin to his and kisses me gently. It's incredible and so sweet, then more passionate and dominating—what I would've expected from him. He pecks my lips gingerly again and I'm smiling.
"Be my girl," he whispers to me.
I can't help but kiss him in response. I like this—the sweetness, the passion, the companionship. This is what I was longing for... and I think I've found it with Eric.
*****
The next day at work, Eric stops by before my shift ends. He brings me a bouquet of flowers. I'm in awe of them. They rival any of the sweet little bouquets I've seen before. It's enormous and beautiful and fragrant. I'm in wonder of how amazing they are and how sweet he is.
"Those stink," Rosie complains.
I look to her frowning.
"Since when have you been after Eric?" she questions jealously.
"He just gave me a gift about a week ago," I shrug.
She folds her arms over her chest and grumbles.
Eric comes in every day bringing me flowers, sweets, perfume, jewelry, another book—the very one I had in my hand over the weekend.
"What's going on between you two?" Tina questions angrily.
"Eric asked me out," I shrug. I wasn't expecting the downpour of gifts from him but I think it's delightful.
"You know, he and Rosie were together," she mentions.
"Eric says that's not true," I reply softly.
She scoffs and rolls her eyes at me.
My weekends and evenings are wonderful spending time with him. We go out frequently—just the two of us and with friends. We do all sorts of interesting things together—restaurants, rock climbing, paintball tournaments, rappelling, shopping, dancing... the list goes on. I'm having the time of my life.
I return to work on Monday morning and it feels like Tina and Rosie are no longer my friends. They're being rude and constantly whispering back and forth. They laugh and make jokes. By Friday, I mention it to Eric.
"You know, there's an opening in the leadership offices," he mentions. "The position Peter got fired from."
I nod and think it over. We spend more time in his apartment since I'm just not feeling up to going out. I hear some nasty rumors going around about Eric and me. It's just harsh and heartbreaking that people are saying such things about us.
On Monday Rosie says something completely over the top with cruelty to me and by the afternoon, the whole faction is repeating it. Eric meets me after lunch to walk me back to work.
"I... I think it's Rosie spreading the gossip," I tell him.
"Are you sure you don't want to leave there? You don't have to put up with her," Eric mentions.
"How about I finish out my day and start tomorrow?" I suggest.
He smirks at that, clearly liking my response.
"That makes me happy," he whispers kissing me before the entrance. He insists I call him if it gets worse and he's going to set up everything for my new job tomorrow and training. I peck his lips once more and tell him I'll see him at dinner.
I step into work and meet with Hank. I tell him today will be my last day and he seems sad that I'm going. He knows Rosie can be difficult to work with at times but he'll speak with her. I tell him I'd prefer if he waited until I'm gone to do so. I just feel like she won't take that well and I don't want any backlash from it coming in my direction.
I do my job and ignore the whispers and harsh words from the other two. Tina actually approaches me while I'm stocking the shelves with Ron.
"Are you pregnant? It looks like you've put on weight," she says.
"It's impossible for a virgin to become pregnant but I have put on muscle," I shrug. "Eric likes rock climbing and rappelling."
"I heard you're pregnant," she tells me.
"Then you heard wrong. I'm no Virgin Mary. Rosie said something to me along those lines this morning... then the whole faction was saying the same thing," I mention.
"Are you accusing Rosie of making that up?" she asks me.
"No, I just was stating facts. She said something to me first, then everyone followed. You're drawing the assumption," I reply.
She continues to ask me questions and Hank walks by. "Tina, back to your register," he tells her.
"Whatever," she says rolling her eyes.
"I'm going to miss you," he sighs.
I frown. I feel bad for him but his employees are out of control.
I finish out my day and Rosie is talked to just before I leave.
"So... tucking tail and running?" she taunts. "What are you taking? The shopkeeper position at a clothing store?"
"No, I was first in my initiation. I could've been a leader if I wanted to. I still can," I shrug.
She looks surprised but like she doesn't believe me. I don't care, though.
"Where are you going anyway?" she asks again.
"Leadership office," I reply swiping out at the time clock for the last time. "Have a nice life, Rosie. I hope you find happiness.," I tell her because I think she needs something real in her life.
Eric walks me to dinner and I'm smiling the whole way. I'm honestly looking forward to the pay increase. I'll be able to afford a decent apartment on my own. I was a little worried about when Christina and Will get married that I couldn't have afforded much but now I will.
I start my job the next day. Wendy—another aide—trains me. I like her. She's sweet and a hard worker. She's the family type and it's wonderful having someone so genuine to work alongside. I fit into my position well and pick up my duties quickly. I do work closely with leadership but it's actually nice. I feel like I'm making a difference.
I spend more time with Eric and he even asks me what I'm up to on Sundays. I tell him and he decides to accompany me—it was completely his decision, though. My parents seem pleased. My grandma adores him. My dad and grandpa take him aside and talk with him a bit. He doesn't seem overwhelmed—on the contrary, he actually looks happy to be with me.
We get into a routine of work and play. He joins my church and I'm overjoyed about it. We have a serious talk about some delicate, confidential sort of things and I learn that Eric isn't who I thought he was. He tells me he loves me and that he'll protect me. I smile and kiss him grateful to have no secrets between us.
Eric and I start cooking together on one of our nights off. I'm excited about it but we have to return to the grocery store for supplies. We go together to make it easier. He doesn't like Rosie at all and said she's always been like that. We buy dry pasta, chicken, breadcrumbs, eggs, canned tomatoes, and miscellaneous vegetables for a salad. Eric's going to teach me how to make spaghetti sauce with chicken parmigiana. I don't think I've ever had it before but I have had spaghetti in the cafeteria. We go to check out and we thankfully go through Hank's line. We talk a bit as he checks us out. I notice Tina and Rosie sharing a look but they're unable to gossip since they're busy. I'm shocked when Eric kisses me before leaving. I chuckle lightly in surprise as we part. I help him carry our bags up to his apartment. I start unloading the bags when I find a bottle of red wine.
"Fridge or table?" I ask him.
"Fridge," he tells me.
I nod and lay it down in there. We chop up a small onion and garlic to put in the tomato sauce. We start them cooking in a pot and add the tomatoes. Next, he teaches me about herbs. He lets me smell each one and tells me what they're good in. I smile as this is both a lesson in education as well as flavor and seasoning—which he knows I'm somewhat unfamiliar with. While the sauce is simmering, we read a book together. I lay on his sofa and he cuddles up beside me on the end. We take turns reading aloud. When the sauce is about done, we batter the chicken and boil noodles. He sneaks a sweet kiss now and then and he wraps his arms around me as we cook together. This is nice.
As I plate the meal for each of us, I notice that he's got candles lit all around the room and soft romantic jazz music playing on his stereo in the background. He dims the lights and we sit side by side for the meal. He pours me a small glass of wine. He knows I'm not a big drinker but I'll have a few sips.
"This one's good," I notice after my first taste.
He smiles at me gently and takes my hand in his. He kisses the back of it and I grin at how happy I am with him. This is nice—so different from what I've known before.
We eat our meal together and it's incredible. The chicken is flavorful and not overdone. The sauce is tasty and unique—much more intricate in depth than the standard sauce in the cafeteria. He's a fantastic cook and teacher. I can't believe we made this together. I'm thinking I'll have to try out using those cookbooks at the store to rival his skills next time we do this. I realize this isn't a competition with him, though. He never makes me feel inadequate. He's always considerate and trying to make me comfortable. He knows my fears—which I would've thought before that it might be intimidating, yet he uses the knowledge he has to help me be at ease, not to judge and I love it.
We talk over dinner—about our future and dreams. He tells me he wants a family someday and I grin in reply. I tell him I wouldn't mind an army of little Erics running around. He chuckles at that and caresses my hand. He talks of his aspiration to become head leader before the proper succession since it's possible for a leader to give the duties away. I smile at how he's always looking to improve—himself and the faction. He's so dedicated to his job and bettering our city. I adore that about him—his high ambitions for improvement.
We finish our meal and put the excess away for another day. We wash the dishes together and dry them. Then, he leads me over to the sofa. He has me sit and he places the book on my lap.
"Will you read next?" he requests.
"Sure," I agree.
I open the book. Inside, I see a black metal ring sitting between the pages in place of a bookmark. I pick it up in surprise and examine it. It's got a large, square diamond set in the center with a ring of tiny diamonds surrounding the one. There are two rows of those same smaller diamonds running up the sides of the band. I look to Eric who's holding my other hand.
"I love you, Stiff. How about we make it forever? There's nobody else but you in my heart—there never was. What do you say? Will you be my wife? " he asks me.
I'm speechlessness. I'm honestly in shock. I wasn't expecting a proposal. We haven't even been together as long as I was with Four... but I think about how much I do care for him. I enjoy our time together. I feel like I won't be settling with him. I smile and meet his eyes as he's kneeling on the floor awaiting my response.
"Okay," I smile.
"Yes?" he laughs lightly.
"Yes," I nod holding my hand out.
He places the ring on my finger. It's beautiful—simple but clearly more expensive than something I'd choose for myself. I'm a bargain kind of girl... but Eric? He prefers the best for me.
"It's what you deserve," he always insists.
"It's what you like to shower me with," I correct.
"True," he agrees. "I wouldn't give the love of my life anything less."
I smile as he holds me and kisses my temple. My life has become a dream, as if one of my fiction stories... with a little food thrown in the mix here and there.