They say a Choosing Ceremony is a right of passage; that a simple decision of faction determines whether or not we're ready to enter society as adults. As something of worth. But if life taught me anything, it's that deciding to choose also means losing something in return. It took me a while to realize it, but by then, it was too late. It was already happening. Eric/OC.

Eric is badly injured when a Factionless man attacks his unit. Laney Jameson is the head nurse on duty when he's brought in. Laney is affected by the accident and makes sure Eric is taken care of, much to his and Four's displeasure. As Eric recovers, she finds herself drawn to him, despite her hesitation, and realizes that maybe Eric wasn't the only one who needed taking care of.