Breathe (some soul in me)

by Michaela18

Tris, Eric, Four and Peter are sent on an exploration trip along the fence in the middle of November. Being stuck together, the mindset and group dynamic changes them all for the better.

6. Chapter 6

Tris POV

The next morning I wake up to soft kisses on my face and when I open my eyes I am greeted with a smirking Eric.
"Good morning," I mumble and rub my eyes.
"Yes, it is," Eric states and I blink at him in surprise. "What?! I can be in a good mood when I wake up."
"Yes, you can and I am happy to be witness to this miracle," I tease and Eric nips my lower lip. I squeal in surprise and try fruitlessly to push him off of me.

Eric rubs his stubble covered chin all over my face before moving lower.

I clutch onto his shoulder, hoping against hope to keep him up here while he pushes my shirt up towards my neck. Eric slides down my body effortlessly and when I fear for the worst he kisses my breasts gently.
"Come on, we are wasting daylight," Eric winks and finally lets me get up.
There is no awkwardness and I am relieved to see that the change in our relationship hasn't made our interactions uncomfortable. We don't act differently around each other except for a few more touches and stolen kisses.
We are still efficient and soon we are back on our feet, hiking along the wall, counting and marking our steps and chit chatting about faction business. The only think we do not talk about is us and that's okay. You could count us to be on working hours and I know Eric likes to keep those separate from his private life, just like I do.

For our lunch break we sit on another felled tree and Eric finally broaches 'us'.
"How are you feeling?" Eric looks pointedly at my crotch and I blush.
"It doesn't hurt but I can feel the muscles. It's like when you start a new workout regime and use muscles that have been neglected before," I try to explain and he nods in understanding.
"Good, I never wanted to cause you pain. In fact, I should have given you some painkillers yesterday evening." Eric sounds remorseful when he shouldn't.
"Stop right there. I am a full fledged member of Dauntless and in the eyes of society considered an adult. I could have taken one if I felt the need, Eric. It is nice that you want to look after me, but it is not a failure if you don't. Look at other couples around Dauntless. Did you ever pay attention to them?" Eric shakes his head and I smirk. "Maybe you should when we get back. Dauntless men don't hover, they don't even overprotect as one might have assumed. Uriah shot a cupcake off Marlene's head and all she did was bend down and eat what was left. I went zip lining with Zeke and Shauna and she was the first one down the line with Zeke giving her an extra push." I look at him pointedly and he raises his hands in surrender.
"I get it. Encourage and support, take care but don't hover." Eric lists off and I give him a kiss as reward. "Hmm, I can definitely get used to this reward system." The smirk is back, but so is mine.
"Come on, I feel like I actually want to be out in the open again. Let's beat this forest and have the last laugh when we see it cut down," I hold out my hand and we start our trek again.
It is getting late and we haven't seen or heard the others.
"Uh, Eric, is that the end of the forest," I ask while pointing ahead to the increase of light shining through the trees.
"Damned if I know," Eric replies. "Maybe it's just a clearing. Four and Peter had clear instructions to follow the tree line around the forest and find the wall, then orders were to follow it back to us." Eric sounds a bit annoyed and I realize we won't know until we reach it.
Grabbing his hand I speed my steps up because I want to beat the darkness, which is fast approaching and the temperature is dropping by the minute.
We make good time and finally reach a wide expanse of open space.
"Shit," I exclaim and Eric chuckles. "Shut up, you would have said the same. What now?" I look at Eric.
"We set up camp and spend the night, Tris. Nothing else that can be done now!"
And this is what we do. We work well together and when we share the bed we cuddle up in our underwear, but refrain from actually having sex as a precaution. I am actually the one grumbling in protest after Eric suggested it, but he is holding strong. Eric thinks he has to proof to me that he wants more than just my body and while I do appreciate the sentiment I do feel it is unnecessary. I give in though, because he wants to be good and selfless and this is what I set out to encourage him to be.
The night passes without incident and we are both on full alert when we leave the tent in the morning.
The clearing is huge and there is no way of telling if this is the end of the actual forest or not. If it was then something must have happened to Peter and Tobias, and I don't like that idea.
"Why don't we spray a short message onto the wall and then track along the tree line instead of the wall. We need to make certain that Four and Peter are okay," I suggest and Eric agrees wholeheartedly.

The further me go, the worse the uneasy feeling in my stomach gets.
"Something is not right," I mumble, but Eric heard.
"Keep your eyes open and your guard up. There might be someone else out here."

It seems once more we are on the same page.
So we silently track along the tree line, scanning left and right with our hands never straying far from our weapons.
We didn't stop for anything other than bathroom stops and it's now late afternoon again. This is definitely the treelike and we keep glancing at each other, worried about what we will find.
"Shit, shit, shit," I suddenly exclaim and start running towards where I can see smoke coming from a big heap in the grass.
Eric overtakes me after just a few feet and reaches the overturned, burned out remains of our truck way before I do. I throw my backpack carelessly where he dumped his and circle over to the front. "Please don't be dead, please don't be dead," I keep mumbling while I feel tears start to pool in my eyes. The windscreen is badly damaged, there is a large hole just in front the steering wheel and it's cracked and dented inwards as if something hit them hard from the outside.
Peering inside I see nothing resembling people and sigh in relief.
"They are not here," I tell Eric when I walk back, suddenly weary of shouting out to him. "There is some damage that looks like it was caused by something from the outside. Come, have a look," I urge and take his hand.
Eric examines the scene and then looks around, walking in increasing circles around the truck.
"Come here," he suddenly shouts and I rush over to see what he is looking at.
"Oh god," I exclaim when I see a dark mass on the ground. "Thank fuck," follows when I make out the form of a dead stag.
"Guess he ran in front of the truck," Eric states and I nod in agreement.
"But where are they," I query and Eric nods his head to the truck.

"Someone went through the windscreen, there is some blood on the ground. The backdoor is open, so one of them was well enough to grab something before the whole thing went up in flames." Eric looks at the sky and then at me. "We have maybe an hour before we have to pitch the tent for the night. I would say we venture out and check the forest. If at least one was injured they didn't make it far. Finding shelter should have been their priority but I don't know what they were thinking," he adds, and I have to agree although I don't voice it out loud.
We grab our backpacks and carefully check the grass and bushes for any sign that someone passed.
"This way," I exclaim when I see some broken branches and disturbed ground. We follow the path created by disturbances for a minute when we can see the shiny fabric of the emergency blankets. All caution is thrown in the wind when we race to it.
The sight that greets me stops me cold in my tracks. It's Peter and Tobias, but I am not sure if they are still alive. They are both leaning against a large tree trunk, only their faces visible through the mass of silver and now that we are so close I can see the brown smudges of dried blood everywhere.
Eric moves before I do and carefully pushes his fingers onto where there should be a healthy pulse beating against their necks.
"They are alive, but barely," he exclaims and carefully starts pulling on the emergency blankets. Neither Tobias nor Peter move or open their eyes when I join Eric. The sight that greets us is not pretty. Tobias has a dislocated shoulder and a cut on his forehead that was bleeding all over him and was stopped by a makeshift bandage around his head. Peter, on the other hand, looks like he was the one that went through the windshield. Part of his hair is gone and the same makeshift bandage that Tobias has is wrapped over multiple cuts he must have, judging by the way the bandage was applied. His leg is bent in an awkward angle and definitely broken, so it is safe to assume Tobias was the one conscious enough to drag them to safety. Both are really cold to the touch, but when I mention it out loud Eric tells me that's what probably saved their lives and slowed the bleeding down enough that the blood could clot and seal the wounds. We still have to worry about hypothermia amongst other things.
"What are we going to do with them?" I am not sure which way to proceed but we have to get them warm and checked out.
"We go back, set up the tent and then transport them back, one at a time," Eric orders, taking charge.

I am more than happy to follow his orders but reluctant to leave Tobias and Peter. The fact is that we need to set up camp so we are ready to go when we bring them over. We cover them back up with the emergency blankets and hurry back out of the forest. The tent is set up in no time and we walk back with just the tarpaulins and a few ropes.
"Tobias first," I demand when we reach them and Eric, for once, doesn't comment.
We spread the tarpaulin on the ground and carefully lift Tobias on top with one emergency blanket tucked around him to keep the little bit of body heat he still has. We attach the ropes and make secure loops which we grab. Eric volunteers to be in front which I appreciate as I doubt I have the strength to hold the ropes this way.
The tent is not far away but we are taking way too long for my liking to reach it. It's getting dark and we still have to get Peter. So, against all of my instincts, we simply leave Tobias on a mat and close the tent.
Peter is trickier to move, but his unconsciousness is our biggest advantage as we can't be too gentle with him if we want to be back in the tent before we can't see where we are going.
Eric speeds up and I follow, and the last few meters we trudge through the pitch black forest with the lantern we left by the tent as our only guiding light.
Once we are all safely within the confines of the tent we get to work. We discussed it during our trip to set up the tent and I tend to Tobias while Eric takes care of Peter. We change them as much as we can out if their dirty and wet clothes into fresh sets of Eric's. Due to his larger size they are easier to put on after we cut the old ones off. Taking care of wounds is another priority and Eric helps me push Tobias' shoulder back in place and we attach a splint to Peter's leg. Though still unconscious he screams in pain, but it is a sign that he is alive and somewhere in there. Once we are satisfied that there is nothing else we can do, we lie down with them and share our body heat.
The night is uncomfortable as we agreed to let Peter and Tobias have the middle of the bed and we make do with just part of the mat and blanket. Yes, we substituted with our own emergency blankets, but a restful night is something else.
When morning dawns I am just exhausted.
"We need to get them to drink," I remind Eric because it has been three days for them.
"Any ideas?" Eric sounds gruff, but I know it's the situation and not me.
"Syringe with a vitamin solution? The full medical kit we had was in the truck," I remind him.
"Let's give it a try later," Eric agrees.
One of the things I am glad I packed are soluble vitamin tablets that I have been adding to my canteen every day since we started this journey and to Eric's since we split from Tobias and Peter. This was one of Bud's recommendations and it might be a lifesaver.
"I will be back in a few minutes," Eric declares and takes the bathroom kit with him as he leaves the tent.
Double crap, I think to myself when I can see frost outside the tent.
Eric takes longer than expected and I am getting a bit antsy.
Before I can decide as to whether I should follow him or not, he returns.
"What took you so long," I demand to know.
"The ground is fucking frozen, you try digging a hole in that," he grumbles, and I smirk. "It's not funny," Eric growls at me and then attacks.
I am squealing loudly and we both pause to look at Tobias and Peter. Neither is stirring so Eric goes back to kissing me senseless. I squirm away when his cold hands worm their way under my shirt, but he is stronger and they stay where they land on my back.
It might be considered neglectful towards our patients, but there is nothing we can currently do for them so you won't hear any protest out of my mouth.
Our kiss is getting more and more heated and I know shouldn't put my hands inside Eric's pants, but I just can't help myself.
The hum of approaching engines makes me stop before Eric, but once he realizes what the sound is he is straightening up his clothes before he hurriedly leaves the tent.
"How" is all he mumbles repeatedly as he watches the mass of Dauntless and Amity trucks approach.
"What do you mean by 'how'?" I look at Eric in surprise. "Did you not activate your emergency beacon?"
Eric does a hundred and eighty degree turn and faces me. "My what?"
"Did you not take an emergency beacon with you on this trip?" I look at Eric, flabbergasted that he, of all people, would be so careless.
"Where the fuck did you get one and when did you activate yours. I am assuming they" he points over his shoulder at the approaching cars "are coming thanks to you!"

I am slightly hurt by his tone but now is not the time for petty sensibilities to come into play.

"I went to the armory and requested one for personal safety when I worked through my list of necessities I needed to get for the trip. And I activated mine when I saw the burned out truck. Did you not notice this?" I hold up the bracelet I have never taken off and Eric looks a bit dumbfounded. "Let's talk about it later. Help is here and they will look after Four and Peter," I state and grab Eric's hand. He tries to pull it out once and then just squeezes my hand really hard when he realizes I am not going to let go.
The trucks stop in front of us and one of the first people to leave the cab is Johanna.
"Thank god, this way!" I gesture for Johanna to go ahead into the tent and when Max emerges right after Johanna I gently push Eric his way and turn to follow her.

After that it is a blur of activity and in no time at all are we all loaded up, including our gear, and headed back to Amity. Eric went with Max and I stuck to Johanna so I have lost track of where Eric is.
Our truck backs up right to the open doors of the infirmary and we all pitch in when it comes to unloading the stretchers with utmost care.
Johanna turns back to me when I follow her inside the building. "You look exhausted, Tris. Why don't you look for Eric and Max and take them back to my house. The guest room upstairs is still yours if you want it. A nap might do you good."
I just nod tiredly and do as she suggested. Max is rather easy to find and, just as we thought, Eric is right beside him.
"How are you doing, Tris," Max greets me and I shrug.
"Could have been worse," I state and he grimaces.
"Right, this wasn't one of my smartest ideas," he admits and chuckles at my expression. "I have no problem admitting when I am wrong, Tris. This is a prime example of my ambitions putting my factions members at risk. A risk that could have easily been prevented."
I nod in agreement. "Johanna suggested we use her house to talk and relax a bit. Neither Eric nor I slept much last night and I would like to take her up on her offer. Eric?" I look at him and he lowers his head.
"Then let's go," Max takes charge and together we walk in silence.
Once inside I use the bathroom before anyone else can claim it and this time Eric smirks at me. "Oh shut up, you would have done the same!" I smack him lightly on the chest.
"Fill me in." Max pulls a chair out for me, so I take a seat and relay the whole story from when Peter backed the truck into the tree.
"I see. Well, I don't think I would have done things differently. I still have to find out why Four did not activate his emergency beacon," Max sounds baffled.
"I think I know why," I state and he is all ears. "He did not have one, neither did Peter or Eric. They did not even know about their existence. This is one more thing that was missed before we left. We do have to prepare people better for such missions and I was lucky that Bud gave me a list with absolute essentials or I wouldn't have had one either."
Max looks contemplative. "So it's another thing I did screw up. I was the one who gave you just a couple of hours to get ready. I am sorry, Tris, Eric."
"Max, it could have happened to any member. Almost nobody knows about these things and I think this is one of the big areas where we have the chance to improve and make changes." I am getting all excited now.
"Then you are in charge of this," Max concurs and I smile brightly at him.
"Go to sleep, you look exhausted. I will contact Veronica and Carl. They will be happy to know we are back in Amity with all of you still alive." Max stands up and then looks at Eric. "Uh, I don't know where you can sleep, Eric. I'll run over and ask Johanna," he offers but I shake my head.
"He can come with me to the guest room, Max. Just come and wake us in a couple of hours?" Max's mouth drops open and he looks from me to Eric and back to me.
"Are you sure about that," he double checks and eventually believes me.
Max leaves the house and I drag Eric up the stairs. He is protesting all the way that he is fine and I should just go ahead myself and have a nap. I ignore him and start stripping his clothes off of him once the door closes behind us. He is still listing all the reasons why he should go back outside and 'lead' after I remove his boots and pants. He only shuts up when I start stripping my own clothes. Huh, should have done that first...
I grab his hand and silently lead him to the bed, cuddling up to his chest and sighing In contentment when I am finding just the right spot.
"Goodnight, Eric," I whisper and kiss his chest before closing my eyes and succumbing to sleep.

…

"Eric, Tris," I hear whispered and cuddle closer into Eric.
"Psst, wake up," I think I hear, but Eric's arms pull me in tight and I sigh happily.
"Oh, for god's sake. Just leave them for another hour, Max," I hear Johanna chastise and my eyes fly open just as Eric's arms tighten.
"Not necessary, look, they are awake," Max sounds triumphant and Johanna huffs.
"Four and Peter are awake and I thought you wanted to know," Max explains and I sit up.
"Yes, thank you," I rub my hands over my eyes to clear the fog that still lingers. "Eric?" I turn back to him and raise an eyebrow.
"Coming," he grumbles as he gets out on the opposite side of the bed. The side where our clothes are.
I look down at myself and then at Max and Johanna. They both smirk, but I don't care that much anymore.
Eric hands me my stack and we are both getting dressed in front of a captive audience.

…

By the end of the day we have sent most of the Dauntless back home and only Max remains with us.
I never spent much time with him before and I will be the first to admit that I got it completely wrong. Yes, he is the main leader of Dauntless, the person in charge of all the other leaders, but he is not as hard and uncaring as he gave the impression to be.
"A lot is for show, Tris. Dauntless like the feeling of having the ultimate alpha as a leader and I am trying to give it to them," Max explains and it clears up the last inconsistencies I have been wondering about.
"So basically, you and Eric noticed the same thing but went about it differently which led to Eric getting his reputation of sadistic asshole that you shouldn't even look at while you got the label of fantastic leader," I summarize and both Max and Eric look at each other in surprise.
"She's got your number," and "She is one smart cookie," comes out of their mouths simultaneously and I bow down dramatically.
"Cut it out, Tris," Eric reprimands without heat.
"Okay, please explain to me how I sent two rivals and their charges on the same exploration trip and my 'sadistic' leader suddenly holds a friendly conversation with said rival while never leaving his eyes off his trainee," Max completely blindsides me. Eric is stoic, so his face doesn't change. Mine, on the other hand, gives Max a whole sleuth of possibilities.
"Damn Tris, you are Wonder Woman," Max exclaims, clearly putting some of the clues together. "How did you manage to catch Eric?"
"By not setting out to catch him," I reply and Eric snorts.
"So, what are you two?" He gestures between us and I shrug.
"Dating," I suggest, looking at Eric for help.
"Moving in together," Eric corrects and my mouth drops open.
"How about having a private discussion first, huh?" I raise an eyebrow and Max fucking laughs.
"I would start packing now if I were you," he snorts. "Eric can be stubborn, Tris. You have seen nothing yet," he teases and this time I laugh.
"I saw enough during initiation. If I can defy Eric by letting Four throw knives at me at his command and not flinch, he is in for a surprise if he suddenly thinks I will roll over."
"Excuse me," Max eclaims. "Four threw knives at you at Eric's command?"
"You didn't know?" I look at Eric who is actually getting red in the face.
"Does this sound like me being in the know?" Max's voice is getting louder and I put a calming hand in arm.
"Another initiate kept dropping his knives and when Eric called him out on it he said all the wrong things. It was his punishment for trying to lie and then only being honest about possessing the wrong values. I volunteered to take his place because I knew he would fail." I take a deep breath. "Four thought Eric was after blood so he let the fourth knife cut my earlobe and Eric called it quits after that," I instinctively rub my earlobe and Eric growls.
"I never meant for you to get hurt but couldn't back down either when you challenged me and called me a coward in front of everyone." Eric sounds as if he is still pissed off by that.
We are now facing each other, neither giving an inch and Max is having a blast.
"It's enough, stop right now, both of you. I want you to fight this one out in private. What I need right this instant is the guarantee that this won't happen again!"

I sigh and turn to Max.
"You made the decision to let Eric supervise initiation," I remind him. "Once I am leader I want to share this position with Eric," I look sternly at both of them. "Together we will be able to get the mix of fear and compassion right," I boast and Eric kisses my forehead, all previous misgivings forgiven.
"What she said," he grins at Max, who looks shocked at such a sight.
"That's something that will take time to get used to," he grumbles.
"Okay, Eric and I are a couple. Does this have any consequences for my training?" I want to get it all sorted today.
"No, the way I see it, he will not go easy on you so you are good in that regard. If you decide to move in together that's acceptable as well. Just do me a favor and wait before you start a family until you are a full leader and we have the faction duties divided up." Max is getting way ahead.
"Max, I am only sixteen and this is only my second foray into the world of dating and relationships. There will be no babies any time soon," I state with conviction. Eric moves to stand behind me and pulls me in close.
"We need to find a way to be us and I have to re-establish my standing in the faction. We will let you know before it happens," Eric promises and I elbow him. "What?! First I have to get you to move in, then I have to get you to agree to marry me - there are plenty of warning signs for Max to see before I knock you up." Eric still doesn't sound like he sees things my way.
"We will talk about that later," I promise.
"Yes, dear," Eric whispers and I elbow him again. "Ow, that hurt, Tris," Eric exclaims and I wink at Max who is laughing once more at us.
"Get some rest, Tris. Tomorrow we will bring all of you back home and get the rest sorted afterwards. Come on, Eric," Max stands up and moves to stand by the door, impatiently waiting for Eric.
I pout but Eric reminds me that Amity rules are to be followed and that he will see me in the morning.

I don't see Johanna before I am off to bed and everyone lets me sleep in the following morning.
By the time I am awake and ready to leave the room it is lunch time. Johanna is downstairs when I descend.
"Hello, Tris, I take it you slept well," she probes.
"I slept like dead, thank you so much for letting me sleep in. Apparently I needed to catch up," I admit and she smiles.
"You had a rough few days out there, it was the least I could do. If you are hungry we can walk over to the community center for lunch. I am sure Max and Eric will be glad to see you," she smiles at me warmly and I appreciate that she is not trying to pry.
"That would be great, thank you."

Just as expected, Eric and Max are there and I am pleased to see Tobias and Peter made it out of the infirmary.
"How are you doing?" I hug Tobias and nod at Peter.
"Surprisingly good, there are some great advancements in medicine." Tobias winks and I smile wider.
"Glad it's working for you," I quip and know he will get the double meaning.
"I am as good as new," Tobias states and turns to look at Peter. "It is only a pity they haven't found a way to alter Peter's personality yet," he teases in a way that sounds like they have made some amends.
Strong arms grab me and pull me down to sit on muscular thighs.
"Good morning," Eric whispers into my ear and I shudder.
Tobias smirks at us and I stick out my tongue.
"Save that for Eric," he jokes and I gape at him.
"Did you just make a joke and a sexual innuendo at the same time?" I call attention to him and I do this because I know he hates it.
"Maybe," Tobias is not to be fazed, "after all I had enough time to reflect on my life when I thought it might be over. Maybe it's time that I change my ways too," he admits and I am feeling mighty proud of him.
"Just let me know when you are ready to get a promotion," Max joins our conversation and Tobias groans. "I still want you in leadership and Carl wants to retire over the next few years." Max really knows how to rattle someone's cage.
"I will think about it," Tobias concedes. "First I need to make some small changes before I am ready for bigger ones," he admits.
"I am missing a piece of this conversation, am I not?" Peter looks left and right and Johanna touches his shoulder.
"You will know when people are ready, young man," Johanna states wisely.
"How is the leg," I ask Peter and he stands up and does jumping jacks. "Good, so we can head back out and finish marking the wall," I ask the whole group and even Eric's eyes bug out.
"Tris," he starts and stops when I can't hold the giggles in. "That was not nice," he growls and then attacks my ribs, causing me to shriek loudly which luckily just brings a round of laughter from the Amity around us.
"Let's eat," Johanna urges and we do as requested, keeping up the conversation all around. Eric doesn't let me off his lap and we share a plate of food with the other ones smirking our way from time to time.
When we are all finished Max announces that it's time to pack and leave.
"Pack what," Peter asks and Tobias nods.
"Our backpacks," I state, getting up. "Mine is packed, I only need to grab it," I explain and do exactly this.

Johanna is waiting by the car to see us off.
"Take care of yourself and remember, I want to get an invitation to the wedding whenever it's going to happen," she states and I look at her surprised.
"Didn't you think I was going to marry Four?" I am not sure now if I got her right back then.
"No, Tris, it was quite obvious that he was meant to be the brother of your heart. Eric needed you and I am glad you gave him the chance he deserved. Take good care of him, we all want to see him become a better man and leader." Johanna hugs me and gives me a kiss on the cheek in parting.
I join the men in the truck and it is a tighter squeeze than before, Eric pulls me onto his lap before we are out of the compound.
"Thanks, man," Peter sighs in relief.
"Oh god, I think I got pins and needles in my leg," Tobias rubs up and down while I look at Eric.
"We were in the car for thirty seconds, is that even possible?" Asshole just smirks and looks straight ahead.
We spend the way back home with playful back and forth banter and I realize I will have to sit down with Peter and clear the air. Reflecting on everything, I do see the similarities with how Eric behaved and I know that almost dying has to have had an impact on Peter, whether he admits it or not.

…

There is a welcome committee waiting for us upon our return to the garage. All of mine and Tobias' close friends are there. Zeke and Shauna, Marlene and Uriah, Will and Christina as well as poor Lynn as the third wheel.
The door is ripped open before we are at a complete standstill and then the 'What the fuck's' and 'is this a joke's' are rolling in. They are staring at my position on Eric's lap and I am not sure what to say or do first.
"Get the fuck out of the way," Max shouts from his side, "we are stuck in here like sardines in the can for hours," he complains loudly and Will steps forward to help me out.
"Thank God that's over," I moan and stretch as best as I can.
"Stop complaining, at least you were closer to the window. Who knew Erudite would develope a medicine whose side effect is flatulence," Tobias moans and Eric groans.
"At least you were able to hold it in until the end," Eric compliments Tobias.
"It was not easy," Tobias admits and our friends stare at them in horror.
"Can we stop talking about farts, please. It feels like I can still smell them even though I know I shouldn't," I whine.
Just then Peter lets one more rip loudly and as one Max, Tobias, Eric and I jump back and past our welcome wagon who does not yet know the potency of what Peter dished out.
Christina looks a bit green in the face while Shauna and Marlene stare at Peter.
"Man, you've got Zeke and Uri beat," Lynn comments offhandedly.
"How did you survive that in an enclosed cabin," Christina asks, gagging.
"I stuck my head out the window," I admit.
"And Eric pretended Tris needed his help not being pulled outside by the non-existent wind," Tobias snorts. "It was quite obvious he was sucking in big gulps of fresh air through the cover of her hair," he continues and Eric glares at him.
"You would have done the same if you could have reached the window. You only got as far as my chest before Eric pushed you back," I state loudly and Tobias' face reddens in embarrassment. Yeah, his cheek just touched my breast for a second or two before Eric had an iron grip on his shoulder and pushed him back towards Peter.

"Okay, there is something weird going in here," Uriah comments loudly and we turn to look at him. "What?" He shrugs his shoulders and points at us. "They are getting along. They are teasing each other instead of attempting to kill one another," he observes.

"Maybe we can send the next group of arch nemesis out there now that the pilot project was successful," Max jokes and we all growl at him. "See," he points to us. "A united front," he declares and we nod to confirm he is right.
"Pinch me," Christina demands of Will who obliges.
"Ow," she slaps him hard on the arm. "I didn't mean it literally. What's wrong with you?"
Will just looks at her and decides it's best to ignore her.
"It was nice seeing you but we have to head home, freshen up and replace what we lost after another check up at the infirmary," I throw out there and I think what really happened finally hits home for our group of friends because you can clearly see it in their faces, the 'oh shit they could have all died' sentiment.

There are offers of help and the four of us look at each other.
"I think we need some time to ourselves first," Tobias hedges and we all nod.
"Well, how about dinner at my place," Max offers. "You are all invited," he states, making sure to include my friends.

Everyone accepts but they don't leave.
I look at Eric and finally move to the back of the truck to grab my backpack while he follows and takes his own.
Everyone follows our silent lead towards the elevators. They disperse to whatever they need to be doing now while the four of us head home, promising to come together at Eric's place once done, to talk and visit the infirmary together.

Eric hesitates when we reach my door.
"I will come over as soon as I showered," I promise and he nods.
I walk inside my apartment and drop the backpack right beside the door. Without a glance anywhere I head into my bedroom and grab a change of clothes before heading into my bathroom.
I take one look at the shower before I turn on my heels and head back out the door and knock on Eric's.
He opens his door immediately. "Thank fuck," he exclaims and pulls me inside, pressing his lips to mine.
"We need to shower," I moan against his lips and I can feel him moving us. I don't pay much attention until I hear water running.
Looking around I see we are in Eric's bathroom and the shower is heating up.
Without any hesitation I start stripping my clothes after putting the fresh ones I have been clutching to my chest onto the closed toilet seat.

Once we are both naked Eric takes my hand and pulls me with him under the hot spray.
"Thank you," he whispers and kisses me.
"For what," I ask and kiss down his chest.
"For coming back."
"I was never gone," I exclaim and look up at him. The insecurity he lets me see is mind blowing and I rise quickly to hug him.
"I will be here for you, no matter what," I promise.
"Good... so you are moving in?"
"Having a shower at your place is a good start," I bargain and grab the shampoo. First, I wash Eric's hair and then mine. We take turns to rinse out the soap, but then I start to wash the rest of his body.
Eric moans and groans, hisses and flinches but I get him all soaped up.
My hands slide over his skin smoothly and I make sure I clean certain areas very thoroughly.
I step back to wash myself but Eric stops me.
"Come here, I know just the right way to get you all sudsy," he says and then he shows me just what he meant.
He pushes me against the wall, his front soaping my back and his hands are working very hard to thoroughly cover my front with soapy bubbles.
I can feel his erection pressing against me, the soap once more giving him a smooth surface to rub against. My ass seems to have been really dirty because Eric spends some time there before he pulls me around to face him.
His hands grab my ass and he pulls me up to face him, and when I hold onto his shoulders he gently slides into me.
"Oh yes, this is nice," I moan and Eric grunts in agreement. The remaining soap makes our chests glide against each other, but when Eric's hands slip for the third time he pushes me harshly against the tiles and rinses them one by one. Satisfied that there will be no further issues he picks me up again and helps me bounce up and down his cock. It feels like he is reaching into the depth of my body this way and when he swivels his hips while bottoming out he hits a spot that makes me see stars.

"Oh god," I moan loudly into his mouth and I can feel the corners of his lips stretch just before he replicates his move. "Ungh," I moan while tossing my head back. Eric's lips trail down my throat before he latches onto the spot between my neck and shoulder. He sucks hard while I come undone and only lets go when he follows me. Moaning his orgasm for all the world to hear he returns to my shoulder and bites down. I scream in a mix of pain and pleasure and Eric stills.

"Shhhhh," I soothe, rubbing one hand over his hair. "It's okay, Eric. I know," I croon when his whole body shakes. "I love you too," I whisper into his ear and Eric lavishes his marks with kisses before finally looking up at me with torn eyes. "You don't have to say it again, I know," I whisper once more but he shakes his head.

"No, Tris, I can't just mark you like this but not say the words with surety. That's not right, that's not me. God, woman. I love you!"

"I love you too but I think we should clean up and get dressed. They have probably been knocking on your door already," I wager.

"I don't want to get out," Eric whines and burrows his head back down at the crook of my neck, causing me to grin.

"Not even if you can spend the whole night deep inside me," I ask and his head jerks up.

"That a promise?"

"Sure is," I assure.

"Fine," he sighs deeply. "Can I at least wash you again?"

"If you can be quick and efficient," I stipulate and he nods before slowly pulling out. We both moan at the loss and then Eric does make good on his promise and washes both of us.

There is a knock on his door when Eric leaves the bathroom and he doesn't seem to mind greeting people with just a towel around his hips.

"Come in and sit down. We'll be just a second," Eric states loudly and walks away before any follow up questions can be asked.

I got dressed while he went to the door so I am emerging first with a towel wrapped around my hair.

Peter stares at me but thankfully doesn't comment and another knock on the door allows me to turn away from his scrutiny.

Tobias does a double take when I open the door but he seems to take it all in his stride, he knew what was going on so this is just a continuation and not a new reveal.

Eric comes out of his room when I lead Tobias to the couch and he bends down for a quick kiss before heading into the kitchen, just to reappear with a tray of glasses and two bottles of water.

He sets it down on the table and grabs my hips, pulling me to sit with him on the armchair.

Peter keeps staring at me and I stare right back until Tobias nudges him.

"What, I am just admiring Tris' choice of body art," Peter growls at him.

"What, these," I ask, gently touching my fingertips to where Eric marked me. "That's just a dry run to see whether or not I would like Tori to make them permanent. I think they look great," I grin and Peter's face loses all colour at being called out.

"I think I am liking this idea way better than traditional wedding rings," Eric whispers loudly and it looks like Peter is shitting himself.

"But… I thought…"

"That this was just a random hook up because we were isolated and horny out in no man's land," Eric challenges.

"No, man, you and Tris being the real deal became quite clear," Peter backpedals. "I just didn't realise how fast you were progressing. I mean, this is making it official," he says and Tobias nods in agreement. "Fuck," Peter groans before looking Eric straight in the eye. "Look, we all came to know each other well during our time there. We learned to work together and trust each other. I have new respect for Tris and Four, and also for you. I saw you and thought that's what I needed to be like in order to make it in Dauntless but I realise now how wrong I was."

Oh fuck! I can feel Eric tense beneath me and gently swivel my hips to get his mind on other things and give us time to fully absorb what Peter just admitted.

"I realise now that half of it was for show, something you did to make sure you kept the upper hand. The way you are teaching Tris how to become a leader, I now understand, okay. I was misguided and fucked up left and right. Having a near death experience… it makes you revisit how you lived your life and I screwed mine up since before stepping foot into Dauntless. As much as I was praying for a chance for a do over, I know it will be a hard; but if you can put yourself out there, so can I," Peter ends his awkward monologue and there is utter silence.

"That's still no excuse for what you did," Tobias reminds him.

"I know that but all I can do is follow Eric's example and start redeeming myself by clearing the air. Honestly, I just have to open my mouth and you guys expect me to spew insults."

"He is right," I agree, and Eric's arm around me tightens. "I immediately took his words to be an insult and in hindsight they could have easily been a compliment. The fact it was coming out of Peter's mouth made me choose which way to take it," I admit, and Eric sighs deeply.

"You can't blame the shit you did on me," he hisses, and Peter nods.

"I am aware of my shortcomings."

"Good," I state and snuggle a bit more into Eric.

"But I know that there is hope for me," Peter smirks at us and I brace myself before trying to keep my thoughts neutral. "If Eric can convince a girl like Tris that he is worth it then so can I!"

"Why don't we give Eric a little break to get his thoughts straight so he doesn't strangle you just because you have a piss poor choice of words," Tobias suggests succinctly.

"We survived," I state loudly and they all nod.

"We made peace," Tobias states, looking at Eric.

"It was never really about you but what you represented," Eric admits, and while Tobias seems to get it, Peter looks rather lost. "I was second ranked, second best," Eric elaborates and Peter nods in understanding.

"I should have stopped rubbing that in your face every time you tried to give me an order during your training," Tobias concedes. "That was me showing off for the only real friend I had."

"And Zeke is one of those people who need to be kept on a tight leash," Eric counters.

"I realise what kind of mistake antagonising you in front of him really was," Tobias agrees. "I'll help you reign them in from now on. Honestly, since Uriah became a full member they have gotten out of hand more so than ever. They need to be put back into their places." He sounds almost disturbed by the thought of that not happening.

"Why are they feeling like they can act up this way," Peter asks. "Hana is scary as fuck and I would have assumed she has her thumb on that."

"They are Max's nephews and most people try to avoid pissing him off," Eric explains and Peter whistles.

"I do have to agree with Peter, though. Why does Hana not reign them in more. Uri is scared shitless of his mom finding out about all the crap he pulls," I state and they all grimace.

"Maybe we should start telling her," Tobias suggests.

"Right, and then we'll be the ones pranked time and time again," Eric concludes and once more there are grimaces.

"I'll talk to Marlene and Shauna," I offer.

"Be careful that it doesn't come back to bite you in the arse," Tobias warns.

"I have all of you on my side. Max will support us even if only to keep my mom out of his hair should they actually target me in retaliation," I state brazenly, and, while Tobias laughs, I can see Peter's surprise and sense Eric's curiosity by the way he is holding me.

"My mom, Max and Hana grew up together," I state and there is a low whistle from Peter while Eric freezes. "Also, I am sure that I can convince Johanna to let us borrow some peace serum on the sly. A happy Uriah is a very easygoing person," I tease.

"Uh," Eric says from behind me. "That would not go so well with your status as a leader if it came out that you drugged members just to get your will."

"A bribe, Eric," I explain quickly. "Come to think of it, I am sure I can squeeze a little bit out to every faction if needs be," I gloat and Tobias covers his face. "What, I am Dauntless now, no need to selflessly deny who my family is."

"You are playing with fire," he warns me but I wave him off.

"There will be a time when you will agree with me wholeheartedly. Just wait. Max is holding Carl's spot open for you," I smirk.

"You should consider it," Eric agrees. "The initiates respect you but they don't fear you on the same level as they do me. They come to you with some of their issues because they trust you to have their back and treat them fairly. Perhaps they won't be like you and Tris, hiding what Peter did from leadership because we did not cause the same sentiment."

"I am not ready," Tobias growls.

"But we will work with you to get you ready," Eric promises and Tobias nods slowly.

"I really hate that I have no fucking idea what you are all going on about," Peter whines and I can see Tobias' features change.

Oh god, he seems to be considering telling Peter?! Did we really come this far, I wonder. Seems we did.

"Four is a name I took when I transferred to Dauntless and achieved to display only four fears on the night of my Choosing Day. People thought it was so I could rub this feat in everyone's faces and the Dauntless side of them fully supported this display of pride. But I did it so people would forget my real name and where I came from, that Tobias Eaton defected from Abnegation and came to Dauntless."

Peter's eyes widen almost comically and he stares Tobias down for the longest time.

"Good for you, Four!" He nods his head and Tobias nods his back while I am sniffling at the display in front of me. Peter really turned a corner and this just made it hit home.

Eric pulls me harder against his chest and kisses the side of my head.

"Why don't we add you into the mix, Peter," I state quietly, causing Peter to jerk his head up and look at me. "I mean, what's one more when we all have stuff to work on. The bigger the support group, the better, right?"

"Indeed," Eric agrees with me and Tobias nods his head in agreement.

"While I don't want you to start fancying me, you are working with me and we could try something similar to Tris and Eric. A checks and balances system," Tobias offers.

"I'll take that," Peter agrees without hesitation.

"You don't even know what I need help with," Tobias cautions.

"You are too closed off, brooding and you need to lay your demons to rest," Peter lists off and we all seem to stare at him. "What? I grew up Candor, we observe and analyse."

"Like the Erudite," I tease, turning to look at Eric.

"Like almost everyone but Abnegation," Eric corrects.

"Oh, you still need to observe and analyse as an Abnegation, you just don't do it for selfish reasons," Tobias corrects and I nod.

"Anticipating someone else's needs is what has been ingrained since birth," I agree.

"Okay, so we are one happy support group," Eric concludes. "Where do we go from here?"

"Dinner," I quip and get up. "What? It's getting late and Max invited us over for dinner. Did you all forget about that?! Jesus, come on, I am starving and you were all on the same schedule as I was. Let's go," I order.

…

Dinner at Max's is a very interesting experience. My old group of friends is forced to be together with my newly formed support group. Eric gets a few side eyes but people don't dare speak up against him. Peter, on the other hand, receives nasty comment after nasty comment until Tobias and I speak up and set the tone for Peter to explain, apologise and elaborate on what he wants for the future.

Even Christina seems to get the sincerity and then, slowly but surely, Peter is accepted into the mix.

Max is getting on my last nerve though with all his cheeky little comments until I've had it.

"Jesus Christ, Max! Everyone, shut up and pay attention. I'll be moving in with Eric and he is actively working on putting a ring on it," I shout and there is blissful silence for a few precious seconds.

"At least you are not trying to hide the obvious from us," Christina states while looking pointedly at my exposed neck.

"Why would I," I ask, flabbergasted.

"Because it's Eric," Zeke states.

"And," I challenge.

"It's Eric!"

"Yes, I am more than aware of my boyfriend's name."

"Fiancé."

"Not yet but keep working on it," I encourage while the girls all nod.

"Make him work for it," Shauna agrees.

"Yeah, if he thinks you'll just nod your head and fulfill his every wish he's in for a harsh reality check later on," Marlene adds while looking pointedly at Uriah.

"Hey, I learned my lesson. Ask nicely and bribe properly," Uriah exclaims and there are chuckles all around.

"So I just need to find the right bribe to get you to bind yourself to me legally?"

There is a chorus of yes's before the topic changes once more to things that happened in the compound while we were gone.

THE END

---

As promised

'Breathe' by Midge Ure

With every waking breath I breathe
I see what life has dealt to me
With every sadness I deny
I feel a chance inside me die
Give me a taste of something new
To touch, to hold, to pull me through
Send me a guiding light that shines
Across this darkened life of mine

Breathe some soul in me
Breathe your gift of love to me
Breathe life to lay 'fore me
Breathe to make me breathe

For every man who built a home
A paper promise for his own
He fights against an open flow
Of lies and failures, we all know

To those who have and who have not
How can you live with what you've got?
Give me a touch of something sure
I could be happy evermore

Breathe some soul in me
Breathe your gift of love to me
Breathe life to lay 'fore me
To see, to make me breathe

Breathe your honesty
Breathe your innocence to me
Breathe your word and set me free
Breathe to make me breathe

This life prepares the strangest things
The dreams we dream of what life brings
The highest highs can turn around
To sow love's seeds on stony ground

Breathe
Breathe

Breathe some soul in me
Breathe your gift of love to me
Breathe life to lay 'fore me
To see, to make me breathe

Breathe your honesty
Breathe your innocence to me
Breathe your word and set me free
Breathe to make me breathe

---

Yes, I added the lyrics despite this not being a song fic. I am just immensely pleased that this came to me after being stuck for a title for the longest time and I honestly thought I would end up posting it as 'yet to be named'. Many thanks to Gborbust, Sparklingdust and PurpleTypewriter for all the suggestions. Some of them were awesome and will be used for other stories.

Unfortunately this story is over and I am taking a few days off before I post the next one. We are ramping up our homeschool hours again, which means I need to find my 'mommy time' niche. While the next story is done, proof reading takes a good chunk out of my day because I do it more than once. And yes, I am aware that I am missing things – happens all the time. I am the first one to admit that I even found errors like 'pull your ass out of your head' months after posting a story. Shit happens… ️