Deviant

by Michaela18

"Tris, you should really not talk about this kind of stuff," Christina hisses from a few initiates down the line. "*bleep* in general or *bleep* *bleep*," Tris asks with a surprisingly straight face. —-If you liked 'The Ring of Doom', this is right up your alley, just with more *bleep*

Don't ask me why, but when Anavallia gave me her first draft to 'Obedient yet defiant', I commented that the phrase would make a great title. Then my own mind went completely down the gutter and voilà, we got 'Deviant'.

Warning: this story is explicit!

---

Eric POV

"What do you know, you are from bum-fucking Abnegation!"

"So you think my upbringing did not include any sexual education," Tris challenges promptly.

Peter looks like he just won big and I quietly settle in to observe.

"Of course it didn't. Abnegation are repressed, sanctimonious little goodie two shoes," Peter declares loudly, garnering more attention from everyone else.

Molly and Drew sidle up to him, laughing like lunatics. I need to ask Max if we can start doing some psychological evaluations on incoming Candor. Their inflated self-worth is not just extremely annoying but raising red flags.

"So you are literally taking it up the ass," Molly snorts.

"Why not?" Tris shrugs and I almost laugh upon seeing the look on their faces.

"Why not," Molly sputters. "That's gross!"

This garners even more attention.

"More gross than sucking on a man's dick? They are not known to use toilet paper unless they take a shit. Logically their asses would be much cleaner than their dicks."

I feel like pinching myself but some movement to the side has me glance over and I see Four trying to suppress the smirk on his face. Interesting.

The peanut gallery doesn't know what to say and I am wondering if that's the end of it.

Of course I forgot about the other two Candor on the train.

"Tris, you should really not talk about this kind of stuff," Christina hisses from a few initiates down the line.

"Sex in general or anal sex," Tris asks with a surprisingly straight face.

"Tris," Christina groans as if that's all she needs to say.

Of course she can't stop herself from broadcasting how narrow minded she is.

"If nobody told you it's a taboo topic then you definitely haven't had a sexual education."

I see Four shake his head ever so slightly and try to not let it show that I am paying close attention when Tris speaks up again.

"You all come from Candor, the faction that always tells you how it is, and you are telling me half of all sexual acts are a taboo topic there," Tris exclaims loudly in mock surprise.

Uriah and Lynn can't seem to hold themselves back any longer and guffaw.

"And Peter?" Tris turns her attention back to the one who started it, effectively dismissing Christina. "You called it bum-fucking Amity when we went to the fence. Maybe you should invest in a dictionary, your vocabulary seems to be quite lacking if you use the same words over and over again."

"Bum-fucking Amity is Abnegation's best friend, guilty by association," Peter states, rubbing his nails over his paint splattered sleeve.

"Maybe they just know that we know what we are doing and want to avoid all the dumb taboo people," Tris challenges, and I really want to know where she is going with that. I mean, she has to be goading him.

"Everyone knows that Abnegation even shy away from shaking hands and you want us to believe they are all doing that behind closed doors?!"

I look around to see who spoke and it is the carrot haired Erudite, Will. I need to talk to someone about what is coming out of the factions lately. The school system is a fucking embarrassment.

"Will," Tris starts in the sweetest voice ever and Lynn giggles, fucking giggles, with glee. "Touch is a very potent tool we possess and reserving it for our loved ones is nothing bad, no matter what you have been told growing up. Physical contact is powerful, and with one simple hand on a strategic body part my parents can convey a whole conversation. You would have completely missed all that because, to you, touch is just something utterly unimportant when it should be a cherished experience. My partner will know that when I touch him, it means something. Whether I hold his hand, stroke his cheek or wank him off."

Will splutters and Christina just stares at her with her mouth agape.

"Hear, hear," Lynn proclaims.

"Boo hoo, touch is powerful," Peter mimics. "You still shy away from it and that doesn't say shit about your claim Abnegation take it up the ass."

"No, you claimed I had no sexual education and Molly thinks a blow job is more sanitary than anal sex," Tris corrects.

"I do not," Molly growls while Peter seems to think about his next attack.

"It still doesn't explain why you claim to have had a sexual education and I am sure you are just faking all your knowledge about bum fucking."

Is that the best he could come up with?!

"Say it out loud, Peter, a-n-a-l sex," Tris coaches and Peter's face turns a nasty colour. "And Abnegation receive their sexual education from their parents."

"Who are repressed," Molly snorts.

"My parents were not born Abnegation. Even if they were, the lecture is probably the same. How to have a sexual relationship while maintaining Abnegation laws. You know, the 'no more than two kids' rule while refusing to let members avail of any form of birth control," Tris challenges. "Do you honestly believe healthy twenty year olds stop having sex just because they reached the maximum of two allowed children? How stupid are you?"

Okay, I honestly never thought about it. Well, maybe I do need to work on my own mindset just a little bit, I admit to myself.

"They were probably born in bum-fucking Amity," Molly stage whispers to Peter and Drew.

"Inbred," Peter agrees.

"No, just look at her. It has to have been the dog," Drew laughs but nobody joins him, not even Molly.

"If you must know, my father was born Erudite. In fact, he is Jeanine's cousin, and my mother was Dauntless."

Tris' words ring through the car like a shot.

"No way," Uriah exclaims while all the Dauntless perk up and Will seems to sink down, trying to hide.

"What's her name," someone calls out from the far end of the car, and even I can't make out who it is.

"Natalie Wright."

There are hoots and hollers while Uriah's eyes widen. Lynn looks at Tris with newfound respect.

"Is she coming for Visiting Day," someone shouts.

"Most likely," Tris answers. "But maybe she will be too busy enjoying her day off now that the nest is empty," she teases with a side eye to the peanut gallery. "Well, I would have loved to chat some more but I believe we are approaching our stop."

Everyone's head turns to check if what she is saying is true.

"Fuck," I exclaim loudly and there are a few snickers that cease quite fast when I glare around the car as people start lining up to jump out.

A slight touch to my hand that lingers has me looking down at none other than Tris.

"Wrong place, wrong time, Eric."

Her quiet words and soft touch stay with me even as I watch her jump off the train.

Working myself out of my stupor, I move to the open door and jump.

When I land safely I can feel a wide grin spread over my face that I hastily cover with a scowl. While walking behind the throng of people I can't help but rub my fingers over the spot Tris touched. It feels like hers burned themselves into my skin.

…

I feel bone tired when I walk into the training room mere hours later. Capture the Flag is a great nighttime activity but having to brief Max before officially starting my day is a nuisance when I could have slept for another hour instead.

He was way too cheery and somehow he already heard about most of what went down, including the rather unusual topics on the way back. He was more than pleased and told me to keep the morale going and not make Tris work too hard. She is a fucking initiate during Dauntless initiation, of course I am making her work hard. Naturally, I didn't argue with Max, I wanted to get out of the office before nighttime, after all. He wouldn't be above making me scrub the toilets in the dorms if I were to piss him off.

Four is already done setting up the targets and table with throwing knives. While he busies himself with something, I step right into the middle of the room and cross my arms while facing the door. Schooling my features, I observe the initiates trickling in. They all pause before progressing until Tris walks in, looking like life itself. She has the audacity to smile at me.

I glare at her and step forward.

"Tomorrow will be the last day of stage one. You will resume fighting then. Today, you'll be learning how to aim. Everyone pick up three knives," I order. "And pay attention while Four demonstrates the correct technique for throwing them."

Tris is the only one that moves so I decide to light some fire under their asses.

"Now," I roar and they all scramble.

I let Four demonstrate a couple of times before I call everyone forward to give it their best shot. Deciding to be closer to the action, I start pacing up and down behind them. To my dismay I notice myself doing smaller and smaller laps, centering them around where Tris positioned herself.

"I think the Stiff has taken one too many hits to the head," little shithead Candor calls out while observing her do her dry runs. "Hey Stiff! Remember what a knife is," he taunts.

I look at Tris, expecting a snarky remark but she simply takes a deep breath and lets the knife fly. It spins end over end, slamming into the board and sticking. It's a decent mark to boot, I notice.

"Hey Peter, remember what a target is? You know, the thing where you are supposed to aim and score? Seems you aren't scoring anything anywhere," Tris calls over and I am amazed at her double entendres which, unfortunately, seem lost on half of the group. Tris notices too but takes the high road and leaves it at that.

Unfortunately Peter doesn't get the message.

"Oh, I am scoring," Peter boasts, throwing and failing, his knife bouncing off the target and hitting the floor.

"Nope." I watch Tris' lips pop the 'p' in almost morbid fascination.

"Keep going," I growl loudly and Tris focuses back on her target.

Time flies and I purposely stay on the opposite end of where Tris is. The large Candor that threw his last two fights is dropping knives all over the place and I finally reach the end of my rope.

"Go get the fucking knives," I order, but of course he is not brave enough to do so unless his fellow initiates stop their education for his benefit.

He is giving me lip and I am just done with this bullshit.

"Everyone stop and step away from your knives," I roar, and there is sudden silence. "Go and stand in front of the target,' I hiss at Al.

His hands shake but he does walk back to his target. Fucking finally, hallelujah.

"Four," I call out. "Give me a hand here," I demand before turning back to Al. "You are going to stand here as he throws the knives. You flinch and you are out," I declare.

"Jesus, will you stop bullying Al?!"

I whirl around to stare at Tris.

"Excuse me?!"

I know I sound as incredulous as I feel but is she seriously questioning my teaching skills right now? The look on her face says she is. Fuck me!

"If you feel like Al doesn't deserve this punishment, are you volunteering to take his place?"

Tris looks surprised for a moment but then her posture firms and she steps forward. Al basically runs off as soon as he sees her move, and he just landed at the very top of the discard pile.

"Four, the knives," I ask when Tris is in position, staring me down defiantly.

"Is that really necessary," Four asks me quietly after sidling up to me.

"She called me a bully," I hiss, equally as quiet.

"Fine," he sighs, realising I am not going to budge.

"Ready, Tris," Four asks her, demanding her focus shift from me to him.

"Just get it over with," Tris sighs, sounding resigned.

"Then focus, eyes open," Four demands and Tris does exactly that.

Four lets the first knife fly and Tris doesn't flinch when it lands above her head.

"Are you done yet," Four demands to know.

"I have all day," Tris calls back. She looks me straight in the eye while saying it before returning her gaze and focus on Four.

"Well, I have better things to do with my day than throwing knives at you," Four deadpans before throwing said knife to land beside her head.

"Like what? You still have to train us," Tris challenges.

"Like pulling that stick out of your ass," Four returns and I almost choke on my spit. Did he just… is he reminding her of last night or is he trying to continue that conversation?

"I am not the one with a stick up my ass," Tris counters and Four throws the moment she closes her mouth.

"Would you like one?"

There are horrified gasps all around the room, covering my own shocked reaction.

"It sounded like it was expected of her," Peter croons loudly. "Maybe she is hiding in Dauntless in order to avoid taking it up the ass all day long."

"What does a Candor know anyway, faction of hypocrites," Tris calls out the moment Four plants another knife next to her right ear.

"Take that back," Christina, of all people, demands.

"Nope. You were lecturing me about taboos, that contradicts your own faction credo, ergo making you a faction of hypocrites," Tris doubles down.

Four throws yet another knife before anyone can rebuke her and possibly cause her to lose focus.

"I am no hypocrite," Christina cries.

"Okay, then let's talk," Tris offers. "Or are you afraid?"

"Shouldn't you focus on staying still," Will asks loudly.

"It's not a cringeworthy topic. I am fine, thank you for your concern," Tris states sweetly and Will looks stunned. We all know he didn't ask for her benefit but to impress the Candor beside him with his heroic safe.

"Peter is not afraid of anything," Molly bursts out.

"He is if he can't even say anal. Bum fucking makes him sound like an uneducated fool but maybe that's what Candor is all about. Being allowed to spew bullshit all day long while avoiding the real topics of life."

What is she trying to do? She is burning all bridges and it just doesn't make sense. Does she want them all to gang up on her? I am at a loss as to what she expects or wants to happen but I feel like I need to keep a close eye on the dorms or anywhere else Tris might get ambushed over the coming days. Fuck, once the first cuts are made and we start on stage two the tempers are going to rise and nerves are to be frayed.

Tris is smart, I remind myself. Tris is smart and brave. Tris has a plan. She knows what she is doing. Tris is smart, Tris is brave, Tris doesn't need me saving her.

That thought stings but not as much as her next words.

"Abnegation know shit about real life," Peter hisses expectedly.

"Abnegation know how to live frugal, to waste not what we can't afford to waste. We know how to keep a steady population. We know that we don't need to boast about our great knowledge or how brave or truthful we are. It only matters that we are, not who knows it. Don't ever mistake us for weak minded, repressed people. I was brought up with an iron will and a self control that you can only dream of," Tris lectures.

"Yet you are getting cut, literally," Peter taunts and his minions as well as a few others nod.

"Am I," Tris challenges.

"You are…" Peter glances at the score board and does an obvious double take.

"Fuck me," Molly exclaims when she looks where Peter is looking.

"Absolutely not," Tris deadpans "but maybe Peter will finally admit he enjoys all your ass licking. I'd be careful though, he doesn't sound like he knows much so reciprocation is unlikely."

How the fuck can I get her to stop before someone commits murder?

"I am out of knives, Eric."

Four's statement brings dead silence and I take stock of all the knives surrounding Tris' body. When did he throw all those?

"I would love to stay and see if the rest of you are as daring as she is, but I think that's enough for today. Get lost, come back after lunch," I shout and they rush to the door as if their lives depended on it.

Once I am sure the door is firmly closed behind the last one I turn around and glare at both Tris and Four.

"What the fuck were you two thinking," I groan, just to have it morph into a growl when they look at me with twin 'who, me?' expressions. "Bite me!"

Four seems to bite his cheek in order to maintain a neutral façade but Tris looks at me wide eyed.

"Are you seriously upset because I am not bending over and taking their asinine shit?"

"I am not asking you to bend backwards," I assure. "But I don't want to see them kill you. What the fuck got into you? Both of you," I amend when Four looks like he is trying to leave as the conversation doesn't involve him.

He sighs and turns to glare at me before siding up to Tris. She reaches out to touch or take his hand.

"Three feet apart," I order and she drops her hand like a scolded child while I feel some sick pleasure upon having prevented her from touching him.

"Eric, you are making a mountain out of a molehill," Four urges.

"I wouldn't know, I never saw one," I deadpan and Tris snorts. "How can you support Tris basically committing suicide," I demand to know and both sigh.

"I told her to wait," Four finally admits.

"I am done playing meek just so their world view doesn't get rattled. I transferred, I should be allowed to be myself," Tris states and I can feel my head bop up and down in agreement.

"You shouldn't hide but you don't have to offend all of them at once either. This is a cut throat system and we," I wave my hand between myself and Four "know exactly what it takes to make it. You need someone to have your back," I urge.

"So, you do care?" Four looks at me utterly stunned.

"Why wouldn't I?" I shrug my shoulders for emphasis. "Do you know how much paperwork a dead initiate creates?"

Tris sucks in her breath sharply but I am pushing on.

"Initiation is not that long but they don't need more than one opportunity and you find yourself at the bottom of the chasm or smothered by a pillow. I am not joking," I warn.

"Of course not, it would make too much paperwork," Tris hisses and tries to walk past me.

I grab her shoulder and stay her. She freezes.

"I should keep my eye on you," I groan.

"I wouldn't want to bother you with my presence in your life if it isn't wanted." Tris is back to hissing and shakes my hand off before storming out.

For some reason I am letting her go.

"You know, for someone allegedly smart you sure are stupid," Four states before turning around and collecting the knives.

"What's stupid about warning her about how dangerous her behaviour is," I shout after him. "And we should talk about you possibly encouraging her."

"I did, and you should thank me for helping you."

I grit my teeth.

"Thank you? You helped set the scene for an initiate to alienate all the others. She was taunting them and you cheered her on. Why should I thank you," I challenge.

"You know, I am getting a little tired of waiting for you to catch on!" Four glares at me and I glare right back.

"Catch on? Catch on to what? That you wanted Tris to set the record straight on Abnegation? Prove to everyone who knows how tough you are? How suited for Dauntless you are? The perfect first ranked?"

"You are fucking stupid if that's what you think transpired. Tris wanted to set the record straight, threw down the gauntlet and you don't even see the damned thing," Four shouts at me before throwing the knives in a box and storming out.

I stare after him, unable to make heads or tails out of what the fuck he just said.

…

I am just opening my office door when Tris stomps out of Max's office, completely ignoring me. She is gone before I can even think of calling out her name, so I do the next best thing and walk into Max's office, closing the door firmly.

"Eric," Max sighs, sounding and looking just as exhausted as I feel after dealing with Tris. "If you are here to complain, I already heard it all."

"I was more wondering what Tris was doing here," I admit.

"Breaking a few more rules," Max groans.

"Care to elaborate? This is one of my initiates, the one I need to prevent from being killed," I state rudely.

"Oh, I heard all about your lecture. Tris wants me to transfer her into the Dauntless-born dorm. I told her I would think about it. Did you have to scare her like that? Was it really necessary, Eric?"

"She offended every single one of her fellow transfers," I state with conviction.

"You are telling me that the Candor can't take hearing the truth and the Erudite not see the logic of her conclusions?! And on top of it all none of them see… forget about it," Max sighs in apparent frustration. "What has the world come to? Maybe I do need to have a chat with all the other leaders and educators. This is ridiculous and just fucking annoying that it landed on my shoulders. Mine! What did I do to deserve to be the one now having to poke the hornets nest?"

I shrug my shoulders for I have no answer.

"Did you want to know anything else, Eric?"

"What are we going to do with Tris. We are not even halfway through initiation," I remind him.

"We?" Max scoffs loudly. "Boy, you told her you are washing your hands off her so she came to me, asking for advice after hearing your side. I think you did enough, maybe step back a little and let Four take over. Stay in the background tomorrow and make yourself scarce after stage one."

"I am the leader in charge of initiation," I remind him.

"And maybe it is better if I were to replace you," Max muses and looks me up and down. "I think that's what we'll do. We are both going to be present tomorrow and I will make my final decision about you supervising initiation and Tris' request to move dorms by the end of the day."

I am not going to argue with Max now, he is in the mood where he will temporarily strip me of my rank and basically ground me for giving him lip.

For the rest of the day I avoid the transfers and Four as well as Tris in particular.

…

Tris POV

Today is the day before Visiting Day and I am getting all excited to see my parents again. They promised to visit and I am looking forward to asking their advice. Was Eric right? Should I have played dumb and demure, pretended to rise up the ranks by sheer luck? I already had a target on my back and finding out where everyone really stood didn't do me any disadvantage, but the way Eric reacted smarted. I had high hopes but apparently the apple does fall far from the tree in his case. Well, if he is not interested then I am not going to make a fool out of myself and pursue him. He made his choice and I am going to accept that like the grown up I now am.

I am so caught up in my thoughts, I don't even realise something is amiss until my pants get stuck on my thighs. Fuck, I should have expected the increased workout to result in more muscle mass but I have been preoccupied and now will have to do the walk of shame.

Is snort at myself, what a ridiculous word. There is no shame in my body changing and needing to get a bigger sized pair of pants, just like there was no issue getting bigger shirts as my breasts grew.

Finishing getting dressed, sans pants, I wrap my towel around my hip and leave the girls' bathroom.

I inwardly groan when I see almost everyone is still there. They are bound to make some stupid comments and I will not be able to hold back, not anymore. If I were to ignore them now they'll assume to have found a weakness.

With my head held high I walk towards my bunk.

There is some snickering and Molly snort-laughs louder than anyone else. She sounds like a pig in heat.

Ignoring them for now, I crouch down beside my bed and dig in my drawer for the new pants I got the other day. I knew I would need them, just not when.

Standing back up I bump into someone and turn around to see it is Peter that decided to come and play.

Taking a step back, needing a little bit of space between us so I wouldn't be as tempted as I most likely will be to knee him in the balls, he, of course takes it the wrong way.

"Didn't realise you were so skinny, Stiff."

Uh, does he think that is an insult? I look at Peter and he purposely lets his eyes travel up and down my body. I can see that he likes what he finds, his gaze lingers on certain body parts and he is not discreet when he shifts.

Over his shoulder I notice his posse coming closer. Drew looks intrigued but Molly looks murderous. She must have noticed Peter checking me out and his lack of nasty comments clued her in on the fact that he likes what he sees.

"Look at her," Molly sneers while crossing her arms. "She's practically a child."

"Oh, I don't know," Drew says, trying to step past Molly and getting a better look. "She could be hiding something under that towel. Why don't we look and see?"

"Oooh, so you are not only a hypocrite but a perverted one to boot," I croon while letting go of the towel and crossing my arms over my stomach. My new posture lifts my breasts and enhances their size and, just as expected, neither Peter nor Drew look at my crotch but stare at my chest.

Molly seems to be getting livid, her face is contorting into very unpleasant features.

"Look at her, she doesn't even have hair yet."

I feel like pinching myself when Molly screams this observation loudly through the dorm and there is stunned silence, even from those who have been watching and waiting to see what will happen. The fact that nobody came to my aid tells me all I need to know. Maybe Eric was on the right track but I asked Max for a transfer and waiting for his decision is all I can do now.

"You do know that they invented a razor centuries ago, right," I ask.

"What does that have to do with you looking like a baby in all parts that matter? There is no indication of hair anywhere around your skimpy underwear. Maybe all your sex talk skipped over some very important aspects of puberty," Molly states and grins as if she won a prize.

"You mean that hormones make you start having a period," I ask sweetly. "Got all of that covered including the proper use of pads and tampons. We even discussed benefits of diva cups," I explain.

"Stop talking about that in front of boys," someone hisses from behind me and I glance over my shoulder to find Christina once more looking appalled. What is even more amusing, beside her renewed hypocrisy, is the fact that Will looks at her like he is seeing her for the first time.

"Why? Women start their periods and that means you need to learn how to take care of things. Men should know about all of that too, just like we should know about wet dreams and constant hard ons."

While Christina looks ready to faint, Will nods his head in agreement, and with a sage nod my way he steps away from Christina and leaves the dorms. Christina doesn't even realise he is gone, too busy staring at me with her mouth agape.

"You still look like a little girl," Molly growls from behind me.

"I have breast," I state and purposely lift them up. Peter and Drew, as well as Al, who moved behind them, bop their heads as they follow my movements. "I also decided to shave my armpits, legs and pubic area. It's a personal choice but I was told that men prefer to not have hair stuck in their mouths while pleasuring a woman. Seems nobody thought it necessary to mention this to you. After all, you are basically one of the boys," I tease.

Molly lunges and I easily sidestep her. She crashes into Christina's legs and both go down. I take the time to sit down on my bed and slip on my pants and boots.

Nobody went to help either of them up, they were all focused on staring at my legs and crotch while I got dressed.

"Show is over," I declare loudly while walking out the dorm with my head held high.

…

Eric POV

I glare at Max when he is waiting for me in the hallway when I leave my apartment in the morning.

"Told you I would join you," he states and matches my strides down to the elevator and then through the tunnels to the training room.

"Last fights," he asks, sounding excited. "Make it good matches, Four,' he calls out and Four nods.

While he does look surprised to find Max here, he doesn't comment or ask questions. Disciplined asshole.

"Which one is Molly,' Max asks when he sees the board.

"Candor, bulky but stupid," I state and he nods.

"Sounds fair enough."

Is that all he has to say? Well, of course, he didn't have to watch Tris get beaten to a bloody pulp by Peter. Molly is his more female looking counterpart with a nasty streak.

One by one the initiates trickle in and Tris is one of the last ones. I can see her look at the board and she seems to be pleased to be up against Molly.

Turning ever so slightly, I see Molly glare daggers at Tris and I just know something else went down. Tris looks alright so it must have been verbal.

Will and Myra are the first pair to fight and it is absolutely boring to watch. Neither really got what it takes but Will seems to have made the decision for all the right reasons, and as such he ends up knocking Myra out.

Al and Christina are up next and true to his previous behaviour, Al fakes going down and stays down. While Max doesn't say one word, I can feel the disgust pouring off of him.

Edward and Peter are well matched and the fight is a good one. Edward's superior skills win out, just as expected, and he finally has Peter down and he wisely stays down before he is being knocked unconscious. Nobody is contesting that he put up a good fight and he knows it.

Finally it is time for Tris to face Molly. Both get into the ring and while Tris raises her hands, Molly only opens her mouth.

"Was that a birthmark I saw on your left butt cheek?"

Tris stares at her incredulously while I can't stop myself from grinding my teeth.

"Oh, you didn't know? Oops, my bad, I forgot that you are scared of mirrors!"

Tris just steps forward and slaps Molly across the face.

"Whenever you are done sprouting bullshit to cover your feelings of inadequacy, that it was me who got checked out, let me know."

Who checked her out?!

"They were just too busy cataloguing all your disfigurements to think about anything sexual," Molly screeches.

"Peter had a boner," Tris states while kicking Molly in the side. Molly stumbles and glares at Peter, who is getting a bit red in the face.

"He had not, after all your talk about female hygiene products he would have been way too disgusted."

Tris stares at her, trying to gauge her sanity, it seems.

"Oh, I think it only shrunk when he figured out you looked like a cavemen beneath your clothes," Tris taunts and kicks Molly's knee, which promptly gives out on her.

"Are you done," Max asks Tris, and I swivel around to look at him.

"Yes," Tris hisses and knocks Molly out with yet another well placed kick.

"Okay, I have seen enough. You are all dismissed for the rest of the day. It's Visiting Day tomorrow, rankings will be updated by the end of it. Tris, stay," Max orders, and there are a few snickers. Stupid pricks think she is in trouble.

While the initiates take their sweet time trickling out, hoping to hear Tris getting reprimanded or anything else juice, I am steaming. By the time the the door closes I've reached the end of my rope.

"Why were you naked in front of them," I shout, and all heads turn to me.

"I wasn't naked," Tris states and turns to Max.

"I am still talking,' I growl.

"You are being weird," Tris argues and I storm over.

Max taking a step forward has me slow down.

"You see what I meant," I screech. "She is absolutely nuts. No sense of personal safety and now she is parading around naked and causing erections!"

Max's lips twitch and Tris stomps her foot before stepping in front of me.

"I was dressed," she hisses while poking my chest. "I had a shower and figured out the hard way that I gained too much muscle mass for my pants to fit." Another poke. "I got dressed, everything but the fucking pants, and I wrapped a towel around my hips so I could get the new ones I bought in anticipation of this happening." Tris pushes her hands on her hips and glares at me. "They decided to make stupid comments that I, of course, countered. Molly was pissed that Peter, Drew and Al thought I looked nice and there was some more bullshit that I corrected." Tris raises her hand and shakes her finger at me like she was scolding me. Me. "So I was neither naked nor asking them to have erections. Okay, maybe I purposely wriggled my breasts a bit to keep their eyes above the waist, but that doesn't matter anyway. Why are you so bothered by this. Max can do the paperwork if anything happens to me."

I inhale sharply.

"Nothing is going to happen to you if you finally stop provoking them. They are not ready to face reality," I shout.

"Neither are you and yet here I am, dealing with you," Tris counters, looking smug.

"I am still your leader," I hiss.

"That doesn't make you infallible. You are as flawed as the rest of us. Nobody is perfect but there are good matches out there that will help us patch up those holes..."

Max whistles loudly and finally steps in between us.

"As much as I would love to keep watching the Tris and Eric show, I have a faction to run. Tris, you created a three ringed circus and that's on you. After what I saw and heard, I am giving you permission to switch dorms. Stage one is over, your results will be posted tomorrow evening. For stage two it doesn't matter whether you are Dauntless-born or transfer. You can get your stuff and find an empty bunk."

"Thank you," Tris states, smiling brightly at Max.

"Why do I have the feeling I am playing right into your hands," Max grouses.

To my utter surprise Tris goes and hugs him, which he returns.

"Go and get your stuff. Make sure your mom stops by tomorrow. Hana is spending the day cooking and baking."

Max kisses Tris' forehead and pushes her towards the door.

Max waits until the door closes after Tris before it is my turn.

"What the fuck is wrong with you Eric? Why were you naked in front of them," he mimics and shakes his head.

"It was obvious something happened that involved Tris being naked on front of others," I defend myself.

"Yes, it's called communal shower," Max lectures and Four laughs.

Fuck, I forgot he was still there.

"See what I have been talking about," Four calls out and Max nods sagely.

"We have gender separated bathrooms," I remind him. "There should have been no boners directed at Tris."

Max chuckles while shaking his head.

"It's a natural reaction to get hard when we see a nice girl show some skin. It's not a taboo topic, Eric. You are even allowed to let said girl know how you feel. We draw the line at unwanted advances."

"She purposely made them look at her breasts," I throw in, hoping he will finally get it.

"She seems to have felt safer having them stare at her chest than her crotch. She was dressed in a bra and shirt. That's just like any woman out there and half don't even bother with a bra," Max reminds me. " I think," he starts, stepping closer. "I think you need to take the time and reflect on your own feelings. I am taking over for you, Eric. Go back to the office and take care of the faction while I weed out the weak from the brave," Max urges.

"I did nothing wrong," I state.

"Yes, you didn't, but I am paving the way for you if you finally get that stick out of your ass," Max declares and Four laughs again.

"Shut up," I hiss. "I don't have a stick up my ass."

"No, you just have a mental block," Four agrees. "You should listen to Max and try to reflect on the last week or so. Maybe it will come to you and then you can thank us both."

"Eric, go home," Max warns when I take a step in Four's direction. "I have copies of your initiate notes and will rank them with Four. You need to catch up on some sleep," Max urges. "Maybe then you can finally see with a clearer head."

I stomp out the door and bang it shut for good measure.

…

Max POV

"Is he really that oblivious," Four asks.

"I think it's more denial and purposely ignoring facts. You and I both know that he won't go to bed or sit idle at home. He is going to pour over the initiate files and maybe he will finally see what kind of notes he left in Tris'."

I am hoping I am right. Eric is one of the smartest people I know but this seems to have thrown him and he can't cope with feelings he apparently never had before.

"Should I have told Tris to touch a different body part to make it more obvious," Four smirks.

"Knowing Eric, he would have made up some excuses and still remained oblivious. No, we will wait and see. Hopefully, come tomorrow, he realised what we all have been seeing. Natalie is going to get a kick out of it and I bet she will egg Tris on if Eric still doesn't know he's got it bad. Come on. Let's check on Tris' move and then we can work from the office."

With that we shut off the lights and head out.

…

Eric POV

"Fucking asshole," I grumble when the door closes behind my back. "What gave him the right to kick me off initiation? Go home and sleep?! I don't need fucking sleep. I caught up on it already and I am fine."

Nobody stops me when I storm through the hallways, all the way to my apartment.

"He might think he can do the ranking but I am going to send him my opinion regardless."

Powering up my laptop, I head into the kitchen to make a sandwich. With the plate and a glass of water in my hand I head back into my office and sit down.

Clicking on the right program, I select 'transfers' and take a large bite as the files load. The moment I see Tris' name I switch gears and move to review the Dauntless-born first. I can't think about her right now without being reminded that she is the reason I got kicked off initiation.

Working my way through the Dauntless-born is tedious. Lots of people have access to the program and observations can be lodged any given time. All you need is a working tablet, which basically everyone possesses.

I am scribbling on a notepad while I review, and in the end I type out an email to Max, stating my ranking and what it is based upon. He'll be pleased to see Uriah ranking first, followed closely by Lynn. What he won't like is my assessment that we may lose some Dauntless-born. While I understand Max's side, I can fully commiserate with the transfers. In Dauntless they have the uphill battle, and any transfer that makes it despite there being enough Dauntless-born to take up all the spots is a large point in their favour when it comes to jobs after the final ranking.

Once that email is sent I grab my dishes and clean up before deciding on a beer to help me brave the transfers.

"Tris last,' I assure myself and simply sort them alphabetically. Only Will needs to be pushed ahead of her, simple.

"Fuck," I growl after I open the first file. "A for Al, the loser."

My hand flies over the notepad when I write down his deception about losing fights and the knife throwing incident. That brings me right back to Tris and I pause. God, she was spectacular. The way she stood there, staring at me defiantly and not only unmoved by all the knives but able to hold a proper conversation. She was taking no prisoners.

Al goes to the bottom of my list, just like I knew he would, but there will be more to follow. The better question is who is lucking out and getting a pass this time.

With Al done I move on to C for Christina, the hypocrite Candor. Tris is right, they can't take the truth and talk down to people. It has been fucking annoying but seeing Tris trying to show them the errors of their way? Chef's kiss!

Contrary to Al, Christina made an effort during her fights. She tried to give up but there is always someone who needs to learn that lesson and she redeemed herself. Plus, she was on the winning team for capture the flag.

While I can't dock her rank for being brainwashed and stupid, I can make sure she will not become anything other than a fence guard. Fuck, just thinking about letting her loose on some members as a shop assistant gives me shivers. That would be a shit ton of paperwork for all the trouble her mouth gets her into.

D for Drew and done. He joins Al at the bottom of the pile with almost the exact same reasoning.

E for Edward. Now that is someone that can go far. He clearly prepared for some time, knowing Dauntless was about physical fitness and fighting. To me he is at the top of the list but I am wondering how he will fare during the next two stages. Only time will tell but I can see him in a decent third or fourth rank. That will open plenty of doors.

M for Molly. Built decently, strong enough to overpower but lacking the intellect to use it to her advantage. Unable to control emotions, acts irrational and falls for every taunt. Discard.

M for Myra. Wrong faction, no aptitude whatsoever. Another one joining the bottom pile.

P for Peter. While I can't stand the stupid fucker, I have to admit that he is an okay fighter. He has a nasty streak and him ogling Tris is definitely not endearing him to me. Unfortunately, I don't have much choice but to put him in the top three. He will be staying on but I will make damned sure he will not be anywhere close to Tris.

W for Will. Untalented and thinking he knows it all. He is on par with Christina so those two are making up the middle, separating the cut offs from the notable.

I grab another beer before I open Tris' file and gape at the length of it. Where everyone else had between ten and twenty entries, she has at least double as many and I am wondering what I am going to find.

Clicking on the first note I almost choke on my beer. Who the fuck wrote that?!

First jumper. Needs new clothes, better fitting bra.

Clicking on the little button at the top right corner, I curse when I see, in black and white, 'entered by Eric Coulter, leader'.

"What the fuck?!"

Without delay I click on the next entry.

Able to withstand taunting. Impressive eyes give nothing away.

Okay, that has to have been Four. He was right there during her first dinner in Dauntless. Once more I click on the button and… "No way," I scream when I see my name once more. I don't even remember lodging either of those notes. Next!

Needs more practice with a gun. Too powerful before proper muscle mass is achieved.

"I wasn't there when they practiced shooting!" I feel like pouting that I missed it. I bet Tris had that determined look on her face, the one that says 'I can do this'. I will have to take her shooting again, she gained muscle mass, after all. "Fucking pants did not fit her anymore," I grumble when I remember what she told us as to why she was walking around half naked.

Observant and self aware. Working on overcoming her shortcomings on own accord once noticed.

"Now that sounds more like me," I boast and take another sip to celebrate my return to sanity. "You've got to be shitting me," I exclaim when I click to reveal the author and it is fucking asshole number four. "Fine," I growl and move on. "There are dozens upon dozens of notes, some have to be mine."

Tris is too petite. Four pushed his hand against her stomach and could have easily hurt her.

Side note: edit initiate instructor manual to reflect an off hands policy with initiates of the opposite sex

"Did someone spike my drink? Maybe this is some elaborate prank," I wonder out loud after seeing once more my name as the author of this ridiculous note. Reluctantly, I click on the next note when I see it is from later that evening. Training was officially over so someone must have seen her do something he or she deemed worthy of putting in Tris' file.

"Dear Lord," I groan when the note opens and I realise that it really must have been me. I actually remember seeing her.

Went and got a tattoo. Able to blend in and chuck previous faction doctrine rapidly. No idea what she got or where. Judgement on 'wise choices' still outstanding until the location and kind are established.

"What the fuck was I thinking writing all this crap in her official file?! Anyone who deals with initiation can access that any given time," I groan, and then something occurs to me. Four saw, definitely, and Max must have too. There is no other way and it explains most of their behaviour. Did Max kick me out because I wrote down some inappropriate observations about Tris? No, he would have been more direct. "Think, Eric, think!"

Absentmindedly, I click on the next comment.

Tris sat out fights due to there being an odd number. Could hinder her progress, re-evaluate what to do in this kind of situation as to not disadvantage anyone.

"Of course, fucking Four wrote the sensible note while making goo goo eyes at her," I growl.

Tris looked troubled upon seeing she would be sitting out. Four can't dole out personal favours. No lesson learned here by either.

Lesson about not conceding in a fight needs to be amended as to not alienate initiates and have them start despising their leader.

"Next," I groan, not bothering to confirm it is my name attached to the note. I am beginning to see a pattern and maybe staying away from Tris is exactly what I need to keep my sanity. Max must have noticed and voluntarily intervened, he's taking one for the team.

Reminder: never ever take Lauren up on her offer to match fights without her knowing the initiates. Tris did not surrender against a stronger and volatile opponent.

I am almost giddy when I confirm it is indeed Four that admits a mistake here for all the world to see. That is until I click on the next one.

Have medical personnel on standby and apply for blanket permission for initiates to receive the full spectrum of healing serums. Create rule against kicking your opponent while they are blacking out. Double checked handbook and while not explicitly permitted, there is nothing forbidding it either. Leaders should be permitted to intervene and dock points for too aggressive attacks of males on females.

Request update on medical files and add gynaecologist to female initiate medical team to ensure no long term repercussions are sustained. Damaging female reproductive organs can lead to involuntary exclusion of good gene pools.

Side note: make sports bras mandatory to prevent wandering eyes

Addendum: undo request to prohibit male trainers from touching female initiates. Physical contact needed to carry them to the infirmary until initiation medical team up and running.

Additional addendum: create explicit rule that does not implicate the male of misconduct if the female snuggles into them while en route to receive medical attention

After this I am skipping two days until I reach the time stamp indicating they relate to Capture the Flag.

My hand is shaking when I click on the first note and groan when it is looking like Four beat me to the punch.

Strategic thinking capabilities exceed expectations. Tris initiated seeking a high vantage point to locate opposing team's flag before executing the exercise under instructor supervision. Critical in achieving victory for her team.

"Asshole," I growl half heartedly. He is right and I know it. I just wish it was me who wrote it but I sound like a lovesick fool… "Fuck me!"

I bang my head onto my desk before squinting at the screen.

"What do I have to lose," I sigh and click on the next one.

Research Abnegation customs and sexual education. Contact council to request in depth briefing on the matter. Good or bad choice to seek out Andrew Prior?

Side note: touch is powerful

Addendum: start encouraging Dauntless to be less handsy

Personal note: figure out how to apply Abnegation touch.

Additional addendum: figure out cause for abrupt pivot in behaviour – who caused it? Compile possible competitor list.

"Yeah, she threw the gauntlet down and I didn't see it," I admit out loud before kicking my waste basket across the room. "Wrong place, wrong time indeed," I huff while getting up to collect the papers that scattered all over the floor.

I know I will regret leaving a mess and might get up in the middle of the night to fix it, so why not do it right away?

I am almost done when one particular piece of paper catches my eye. It is from the notepad I keep with my computer. The colour is one I don't use anywhere else. Slowly flattening the balled up page, I can't do more than concede defeat. There, in between doodles of Tris' expressive eyes and her other attributes, is my own handwriting, stating what I now just rationally figured out myself. Honestly, how could I have not realised I wrote Tris' name over and over with fucking hearts around it, like a little Amity girl, and the coup de grâce? Tris Coulter.

"Alright, Eric, find your balls and make a plan. Show her you are not as stupid as she must think you are. She is interested. She wasn't afraid to show her interest. Now I have to return the gesture. Yes, that's it! I will return the gesture and then some. It's Visiting Day, her family will be there and no better time than that to stake my claim. Now, get cleaned up and get some sleep. It is late, she is in the dorms, safe and sound with the Dauntless born. They appreciate her snark, no harm will come to her. Tomorrow I will stake my claim and she will be almost invincible."

With my little pep talk over, I quickly clean up my study and head for the shower. Good smelling and clean shaven. What else? Clean boots and one of the better sets of clothes. Maybe a bit more formal? Abnegation in-laws…

"I am so fucked!" Still, the grin comes and doesn't go until I am drifting off to sleep.

…

The next morning I am almost giddy with excitement. When I reach the Pit it is already quite crowded and I take a while before I spot the first initiates but fail to see Tris. Moving closer and closer to the stairs most visitors must take, I finally spot Tris and she is not alone.

Deciding to take a page out of her book, I walk up behind Tris and stop when I am standing right beside her. While I nod my head in greeting to her parents, I purposely settle my left hand on her left hip and pull her ever so slightly closer. Tris stiffens for only a moment before her body moves voluntarily.

"Mr and Mrs Prior, I am Eric, one of the leaders to the Dauntless," I introduce myself.

"We have met," Mr Prior reminds me with a slight chuckle.

"We have but under different circumstances. This is not a council meeting," I remind him and he nods.

Meanwhile, his wife has been switching between looking at my face, staring at my hand and taking in how close we are standing together before moving back to my face. Her lips are quirking and I am wondering if she is going to comment or not.

"So you are supervising Beatrice's initiation," Mr Prior asks, trying to figure out what is going on.

"I have been until recently. Max volunteered to take over to avoid any conflict of interest," I explain, and he nods while his wife beams. I turn my body slightly in order to bend my head down, closer to Tris' ear.

"Did you tell them about Hana's invitation yet?"

"They came mere seconds before you, I haven't had a chance to say anything yet," Tris says before addressing her parents. "Max said Hana was cooking and baking all day and wants you to stop by."

"Then we will do that, but we came for you," her mother reminds her. "How are things?"

"I don't know, rankings are only posted tonight but I am not at the bottom." Tris shrugs to indicate that she is not worried.

"I would hope not. You may have been Abnegation until a few days ago but that doesn't mean you are stupid or incapable," her mother agrees immediately.

"I had to sit out the first fight and got a really strong opponent after that. I am at two wins and one loss. Winning team for Capture the Flag and first jumper," Tris lists her accomplishments.

"Sounds like somewhere in the top five," her mother wagers. "I am proud of you."

"Thank you."

"Eric?"

I look at Mr Prior to see what he wants.

"Is your relationship with my daughter going to hinder her success in Dauntless?"

Straight to the point.

"No."

"And her ranking won't be questioned?"

"I am not involved in her ranking at all. I supervised stage one out of three and Max was there to observe in person yesterday. While I am supposed to be part of a group ranking initiates in stage three, I am leaving it up to the team to decide whether or not I should excuse myself. Once Tris gets the chance to show everyone how smart and brave she is, there will be no question as to whether or not she deserved her rank or job," I assure.

"I am too young to be a grandfather."

"Father," Tris gasps in horror while his wife hisses "Andrew".

"They have access to birth control, Natalie. They'd be stupid to not take advantage," Mr Prior defends himself.

"Don't worry, Tris already told me a lot about how well you educated her," I reassure quickly.

"Eric," Tris hisses and elbows me, hard.

"Why don't you tell your parents the story of how you ended up transferring into the Dauntless-born dormitory," I challenge.

"Oooh, that I need to hear," Tris' mom croons. "But can we please go and sit down somewhere? Maybe where I can sneak some cake?"

"Hana's," I ask.

"Why don't we start with your apartment, Eric?"

I look at Mr Prior in surprise but nod.

"Sure, this way."

I wave my hand in the vague direction of the elevator bank and adjust my hand on Tris to gently push her lower back, urging her forward.

She glances at me but doesn't do anything to remove the contact. In fact, I could swear her own hand moves from time to time and brushes over my left ass cheek as we walk.

To my surprise it is Tris' mom that calls the lift and selects the correct floor before I can give any directions.

"I used to live here," she states when she catches the look on my face.

"So I've heard," I admit.

"Haven't been here in a while though. We are supposed to visit only family and not friends," she grouses.

"Who would have found out about it," I challenge.

"The bus pass doesn't work unless you have family registered."

"Are you kidding me," I exclaim.

"No, this is something that can't be circumvented. The database is automatically updated and effects us immediately," Mrs Prior elaborates.

"So you can't even go to the funeral," I ask, feeling sorry for all Abnegation.

"They are dead, Eric. Faction before blood is still to be adhered to any other day and showing such a deep connection is unwelcome. This is our faction system, Eric, not just Abnegation."

"So I can't go to my parents' funeral? How fucked up is that?"

Tris' father snorts and I suddenly realise I cursed in front of them.

"I am so sorry, I didn't mean to curse in front of you," I swear.

"Don't hold back on our account," Mr Prior assures while putting his hand on my shoulder, squeezing gently.

The doors open and we all step out while I still reel from feeling this forgiven and assured by a simple touch. Another reminder that Tris is right and touch is powerful.

This time Mrs Prior slows down and waits for me to lead them to the correct door. With a flourish I open it wide and they all pass me, Tris squeezing my fingers gently before following her parents.

Looking around the room, I am glad I am keeping a tight ship around the apartment. There is almost nothing out of place and the book and magazines should be of no issue.

"While I don't have Dauntless cake, I do have coffee and some snacks," I start and notice right away how both Mr and Mrs Prior perk up.

"Coffee for both of us, sugar and milk. And I won't say no to snacks," Tris' mom states.

"Any preference, Mrs Prior?"

"We are out of the public eye, Eric, you can call me Natalie," she assures with a side eye to her husband. "And I am not picky, this is an indulgence," she admits.

"Mr Prior?"

"Andrew," he sighs. "Anything is more than fine. Would you like some help?"

"No, just take a seat and enjoy the time you have with Tris," I encourage, motioning to my sofas.

I quickly start a pot of coffee before opening my drawers. While I don't keep many sweet treats here, I do have some oatmeal cookies and crisps.

Grabbing the whole assortment, I look around and remember the tray my mother forced upon me after she got a look at my apartment. Maybe she knew I would eventually face a situation like this?

Adding cups and plates as well as the requested milk and sugar, I take one last look at the coffee machine before carrying my load into the living room.

It seems Tris is not hiding anything from her parents and is in the middle of telling them about the way home from Capture the Flag.

I honestly don't know how I expected her parents to react to it but they seem to be taking everything in stride.

"Coffee is almost ready," I promise while setting the tray down.

"Thank you, Eric. This looks lovely," Tris' mom assures while eyeing my offerings. "I take those come from Amity," she asks, pointing at the crisps.

"They come from Amity but are sold in the shop. They have a larger variety than this." I wave my hand around the five small bags.

"They are healthy choices, Eric," Andrew comments.

I can feel my face heat up.

"It's not a critique, I really mean it. Compared to ice cream, chocolate and lemonade, I would take apple crisps any day. Come on, let's open them up," he demands.

With that cleared up, I head back and grab the finally finished pot of coffee and a stainless steel cooling rack that will do nicely for keeping the hot surface off my wooden table.

Tris moved on to telling her parents about her wardrobe malfunction.

"I wouldn't call it malfunction,' I growl.

"What would you call it then," Tris challenges while her mom starts pouring coffee.

"Not enough foresight in regards to muscle mass," I offer and Tris snorts. "Burning too many bridges and not having anyone willing to bring the new pants to you so you would not have to leave with your towel around your hips?"

"It would have been fine had they been decent people," Tris growls.

"You antagonised them," I remind her.

"They are narrow minded hypocrites. You want me to try and be friends with that?"

"No, but you got lucky it was just trash talk and not physical."

"I think Eric has a point, Tris, but you are in the other dorm now so it's a none-issue. Why don't you both try to learn how to move past things," Tris' mom suggests sweetly.

I am not fooled by it, she is demanding we do exactly that.

"It is an important lesson to learn as a couple. When to let things go or slide. Pick your fights carefully, make sure you both know that you wouldn't mention it unless it was deemed important. Saves a lot of headaches," Andrew promises.

"Oh yes, but then they will lose out on make up sex," Natalie warns.

"Birth control," Andrew demands with a side eye to me.

"We haven't even kissed yet," I assure.

"Why not?"

I stare at Natalie.

"Because Eric was in denial for too long and we need to have a proper talk first," Tris jumps in.

"First real relationship," Andrew asks quietly when Tris and her mom start arguing about whether or not it is appropriate for Tris to come along to Hana's.

"That obvious?"

"You are doing fine, Eric, but it's the little things that give it away. Tris will appreciate a direct approach. Don't hold back for her sake, in fact, it would be a big mistake. She knows all that being in a relationship involves, let her make her own choices as to when you progress but don't hold her back."

"I won't," I promise.

"Good." He turns his head and looks at Natalie and Tris, who are still arguing. "Natalie, we need to get going if we are going to see Hana before we need to leave for Erudite. Tris can come and say 'hi' and see us off," Andrew states, making the decision for both of them.

Tris is reluctant to stand and when both her and Natalie start cleaning up I stop them.

"I can do that, go and enjoy some time with Hana, I am sure she hid some cake for you," I promise.

"We are not leaving your apartment in a mess for you to return to later. Come on, Tris," Natalie orders and they head off to the kitchen while I stare after them.

"You are coming with us to Hana's, in case that was not clear," Andrew whispers.

"Why," I dare ask.

"You are with Tris, she is with us. Hana and Natalie were best friends growing up. Where we go, Tris goes and now so do you. Another relationship lesson," Andrew assures. "You'll catch on quick enough."

"Anything else I need to know?"

Andrew mulls this over.

"Introduce her to your family if you are still close. Talk about extended family ties, even second cousins if they happen to be in Dauntless. Takes a lot of needless stress and wondering out of the equation."

"Second cousins that happen to be in Dauntless," I muse. "I don't even know my first cousins," I admit.

"Ask your dad, the conversation might be enlightening and explain why you haven't met Tris before today."

"You are talking in riddles," I growl.

"Look, it is not my story to tell but you do have a second cousin in a very public position, for starters. Tris liked visiting her and would probably love to continue…"

"Are you talking about Jeanine," I gasp. "I mean, she told us all that Jeanine was your cousin but she is not related to me," I assure.

"My father's sister and your mother's uncle are Jeanine's parents," Andrew explains. "Then we have Tobias on Natalie's side of the family. Hana is like an adopted sister so you'll have to deal with her, and the fact that she is married to Max adds him into the mix as well. We are an insular community, Eric, these types of connection are everywhere. The real question is as to who acknowledges them and who denies them. Okay?"

I nod and Tris' hand suddenly slides into mine.

"I was wondering but didn't get a chance to ask yet," she admits and her dad nods.

"I am sorry but if Four is related to Tris, shouldn't he be excluded from ranking her," I ask when it occurs to me.

"Is he ranking her," Natalie challenges.

"I don't know," I admit in a huff.

"Let it slide, this is different than you judging your girlfriend. Come on, I want to see Hana but the bus is leaving in about forty minutes."

And with that we all head out. It is weird to walk into Max's and Hana's apartment and be greeted differently than I normally would have been. While Zeke and Uriah are giving me weird looks, they soon realise I am here with Tris and then the innuendos fly rampant until Hana puts an end to it.

She didn't have to, Tris is quite good in returning volleys. It seems Uriah is really into Marlene but hasn't approached her yet. Zeke learns that Lynn is a blabbermouth, for she told Tris all about how stupid Zeke was before he and Shauna got together.

Four shows up just as we are leaving and I am witness to yet another magic Abnegation touch. Both Andrew and Natalie squeeze his shoulder and he seems to light up from the inside. His gaze meets mine before he takes in Tris' position and then he smirks. I don't have to do more than put my hand on Tris' hip to have him burst into laughter.

"Fucking finally," he exclaims and there is surprised silence. "Aw, shit," he groans when he realises now he will have to either tell the truth or make up some shit. Hana's smirk tells me that she already knows everything but she gracefully intervenes and when we leave I know that neither Zeke nor Uriah will find out just yet.

Tris looks a bit teary eyed when we say goodbye to her parents and I don't know what to tell her. It's going to be a year before she gets to see them again, there is no way around it. Well, maybe her dad can sneak a minute here or there when on official council business. I am sure we can arrange something.

"Can I come back with you for a little while? The day is only half over and I don't want to head back to the dorms."

I look at Tris in surprise.

"I never expected you too, Tris. Do you want to go back to Hana's or are you okay to come with me to my apartment?"

This time it is Tris that looks at me in surprise.

"Why wouldn't I be okay going back to your apartment?"

"Uh." I rub my neck. "Because it's going to be just us there," I hedge.

"And?"

"Nothing," I admit, remembering Andrew's words of wisdom. "My place?"

"Please. But maybe some real food first? Uriah and Zeke might be able to live off chocolate but I prefer some more nutrients and fibre."

"I have stuff to make sandwiches and a well stocked freezer," I assure.

"Sandwiches now, proper dinner later?"

I just nod and start walking to the elevators, refusing to show that I am excited she is willing to stay until after dinner. Rankings are announced later but I know she isn't cut, she could stay the night… Aw, shit, she is still an initiate and has to stay in the dorms. God, that's going to be a long two weeks, I inwardly groan.

"I've never done this before," I suddenly blurt out when we are both standing awkwardly in my living room.

"Sex," Tris squeaks.

"I had sex," I admit sheepishly.

"Thank god, I thought this would be awkward if you hadn't," Tris sighs in relief.

"Uh." I rub the back of my neck and try to make sense of the conversation. "I… fuck, I thought I had it all figured out yesterday," I groan.

"Oh, you were talking about feelings," Tris exclaims before grinning at me. "That's okay, Eric, I figured this out myself."

"Someone told you about the notes?"

It's not even a real question, I know that is the case or else she wouldn't have been the one to make advances.

"Yes, but that was just after they figured I liked you. Are you upset I pushed the issue?"

"No, but I did fear for my sanity a time or two. Do you think you could, like not parade around the dorms half naked and stop antagonising everyone until you are a full member," I plead my case once more.

"I am not going back to playing meek, Eric, that's just not me and my bullshit endurance has run dry. What I will do is try to keep the amount of people to a minimum, like those I already offended," Tris offers.

"Better than nothing, but Tris, you are still… you," I end lamely.

"The virgin who knows about sex and relationships only through second hand accounts," she asks with a small smirk gracing her beautiful lips.

"I had sex and I think you do know way more than I do," I blurt out.

"But you did practical application, Eric. You know all the dynamics and what works for you," Tris rebukes.

"Uh, you may overestimate a bit," I wager.

"Okay, why don't we sit and you explain your side, this seems to be going in circles without going anywhere," Tris bemoans, and I grab her hand and drag her to the sofa, pulling her down with me.

"You know all about the theoretical aspects of sex," I start while moving a little closer to her. "You know what it means to be in a relationship and how to keep a marriage going under the most restrictive social norms and circumstances. I had sex because I was a curious and hormonal teenager. It wasn't even about liking the girls, it was about finding someone willing to do things," I admit. Fuck, that sounds really bad. "It wasn't about going that path together, it was all about physical release and I went about it in selfish ways. So, just because I managed to get a girl naked and she let me fuck her doesn't mean I learned much else than what gets me off. Okay, I may have gotten some experience with kissing," I admit. "But it still isn't the same. It was just a means to an end, a starting point before it got discarded for the main event."

"That sounds very clinical," Tris admits.

"That's what I am trying to explain, and I am making a fool of myself doing it. So much for eloquence of the Erudite," I huff.

"You are out of your comfort zone, Eric, and you are Dauntless," Tris reminds me.

"Then how come you needed to be brave in order for me to even realise…"

Tris cuts me off by lifting her face to mine and gently melding our lips. I let her do whatever she wants before I gently take over and guide her to the best of my abilities. I wasn't lying when I said that even kissing was a means to an end and I am learning right alongside her now. Slowly but surely we are working ourselves from chaste to intimate and then to heated. In the end I have my tongue in Tris' mouth while she is clutching my shoulders.

A weird sound catches my attention and I slow the kiss down in order to figure out what it is. When I hear it again I detach my lips and look at Tris, who seems to be blushing.

"Maybe we should eat?"

"I didn't want to stop," she pouts.

"It's just a sandwich, doesn't take long and it will prevent you from fainting on me."

"Fine," Tris sighs.

"I know." I peck her on the lips and then get up, just to groan when I am almost painfully reminded of how hard she got me.

"Are you okay?" Tris sounds worried but when I turn to look at her, I realise she knows exactly what is causing me pain. Her eyes are focused on my crotch and I can feel it twitch in response, which makes the metal teeth of the zipper dig in a little more.

"I may need to add some layers," I whisper and see her eyes widen when she catches on.

"Only if it hurts," Tris demands and I decide to go and hide in the kitchen for a minute or two before I maul her.

"I am no delicate flower that needs protection, Eric," Tris states when she comes to stand beside me and opens the fridge as if she lived here, with me. She can, if she wants to. Initiation is over in a few days.

"I don't want to push," I admit.

"I will tell you when it gets too much," Tris promises.

"But don't you see, the newness and hormones are what made me have sex with random girls. I don't want you to do more than you actually want to just because your body demands you find release."

"Eric, I am fine. I want to experience it all with you but I agree, maybe we should wait until initiation is over. We should get to know each other more and become more comfortable. It doesn't mean we can't do anything else but I agree, we want to do it because we are ready to commit. Not influenced by hormones. I am sure they will recede over the next two weeks and we can start fresh and with a clear head when I am a full member," Tris assures.

"That's a load of bullshit," I exclaim. "What makes you think we will be less horny or hormone driven in two weeks? Pheromones and all that shit take way longer to dissipate and I doubt I will want you any less in ten days or in ten years. You are nuts if you think I will be clear headed just because a little time passed," I exclaim.

"Exactly." Tris smirks at me and I am stopping what I was doing, too dumbfounded by her words. "Fuck me," I exclaim when I realise what she just did.

"I'd like to," Tris quips.

"I am sorry I said stupid shit. It seems to be a reoccurring theme where you are concerned," I admit. I steal a quick kiss before cutting the sandwiches in half and handing Tris two empty glasses.

Grabbing a jug of water and the plate, I follow her back into the living room.

We use lunch as an opportunity to talk some more and clear every misconception up. Tris promises she will let me know if I am taking things too far but she doesn't want me to hold back. She wants to experience things in their natural progression and I have no argument to bring. She recognises my worry but I do accept that she is old enough and more than knowledgeable enough to really know what is coming down the road. In return, she promises to let me make my mistakes without preemptive measures from her side. Natural progression indeed, because I am sure I will run my mouth or let my thoughts run rampant and get into trouble for it.

As Tris said, it's the way people become couples. You learn together and become stronger for it.

Once we did dishes Tris asks to see my apartment and I tell her to go explore. I have nothing to hide from her.

While Tris is busy I grab the initiation manual and read all the passages pertaining to what initiates can do and where they are allowed to go. In the end I am sure that we can make this work, albeit a bit too public.

"What got you thinking so hard?" Warm hands slide along my chest and wind behind my neck while a warm body slides onto my lap.

"The rules for initiates," I state and show her the title of my book.

"And what can I expect, Eric?"

Tris' teasing tone has me check her features and I can see her eyes basically sparkling with mischief.

"Someone already told you," I conclude.

"I asked some questions,' Tris admits without shame.

"Good, I like that we think along the same lines," I admit and peck her lips. "Are you okay to spend time with me in public and not private?"

"You mean am I opposed to sitting beside you in the cafeteria while I eat," Tris teases?

"And some affection while roaming the Pit," I add.

"I was more thinking about finding a dark corner and letting hands roam," Tris corrects.

"I like that, but it's public," I warn.

"Afraid of gossip," Tris teases.

"Afraid of how many people will never get to see the real you and focus only on our relationship as the reason you move up the ranks," I admit.

"I am not hiding my feelings for you, Eric." Tris sounds offended.

"I am just wondering if the hard way is the best way," I admit.

"I don't mind hard work," Tris whispers into my ear before sneaking her hand down to where she is sitting and pressing against my erection. It is a painful reminder that I am still going commando. "Shit, I forgot, Eric. I am so sorry," Tris exclaims and tries to move off while simultaneously grabbing for my zipper.

"What are you doing," I squeak while grabbing her wrists.

"Trying to help you resolve the dilemma. If you open the zipper, the metal won't bite you,' Tris reminds me.

She doesn't mind, she doesn't want me to hold back. Natural progression, I remind myself, and then I let go of her wrists.

Tris looks at me for a moment before opening my button and then gently easing her hand inside my jeans to push my dick away from the zipper before she even attempts to open it.

I moan upon the first contact and bite my lip. My nails are digging hard into my palms while I will myself to not come all over her hand.

"Eric?"

I open my eyes and look at Tris' worried face. "I can let go if you are uncomfortable but I would really like to keep going. Let me do this for you?"

Fuck!

"It might take just a few more seconds and then there is nothing to explore," I warn.

"May I?"

I nod and then close my eyes again to starve off my orgasm. It doesn't help at all and the moment Tris runs her fingers down my shaft, I come. Tris holds me but doesn't move, which I appreciate.

"No tissues," I groan when all the blood returns to my brain. Looking around, I don't see much that can be used to clean up the mess I made. "Just a sec," I demand and pull my shirt off. "Here, let me," I order and grab Tris' hand, gently wiping both sides and in between her fingers before cleaning myself too. "I need to change. And maybe start some laundry," I muse when I look at my soiled shirt.

"Go change, shower if you want to. I found your washer earlier," Tris assures.

I gingerly hold out the shirt and she smirks at me.

"Your pants aren't clean either, Eric."

"You want me to strip naked?"

"Sure. Shower or fresh clothes both require you to do so, why not here where I can take it to the wash right away?"

Why indeed.

Let Tris lead, I remind myself, thankful that Andrew took me aside. I would have screwed up left and right already had it not been for him.

"Get up," I order and Tris scoots back before getting to her feet.

I unceremoniously push my pants the rest of the way down, taking my socks as well before standing up and handing everything to Tris. I feel empowered when I see her admiring look and notice she is only blushing a little.

"Like what you see?" I can't help myself, the question comes out almost involuntarily but enquiring minds want to know.

"What's not to like," Tris asks, sounding a bit breathless.

"Pity it's not as obvious for women," I quip and Tris gasps before she laughs out loud.

"Go shower and grab fresh clothiers, Eric. Don't forget underwear," Tris reminds me.

"So that's as far as we go?" I swallow hard but the question needs to be asked.

"I think we need to work our way through a few things first. While I want to do this with you, I am not sure if I am ready. I mean, I want you to explore my body and help me find out what I like the same time as you do but…"

"Too much, too soon," I ask when she trails off.

"A bit. I don't want to seem like a tease, Eric. Please believe me when I say I want it all but maybe not today," Tris begs and I move in to hug her to me. She freezes just for a moment before she snuggles her face against my chest. Her hands come up and settle on my bare back.

"No jumping into the deep end. I get it, and we have plenty of time to explore. Well, we have some time today and then we need to keep it PG until you are a full member. I am not going to push you for sex, okay? You set the pace but I am going to try and double check here and there," I state, and Tris turns her face a bit more and kisses my pec.

"Go shower, Eric." Her hands slide down and squeeze my ass cheeks, causing me to reflexively jerk my hips forward.

"Definitely time to get going," I groan when I can feel blood rush back down south.

I am not even braving a kiss. I let go, step back and head into my bathroom, turning on the shower.

While I secretly hope Tris will sneak in, I am kind of relieved when I am left alone. When I return, fully dressed, including underwear, to the living room, I find her curled on on the sofa with a book in her hands.

"Anything good," I ask while sitting down beside her.

"It's okay, I am really not that much into drama," Tris admits while setting the book aside. She slides right on top of me and snuggles in, my arms automatically wrapping her up.

"This is nice," Tris sighs after a while.

"It is," I agree wholeheartedly.

"But?"

"There is no but," I state but Tris shakes her head. "What's wrong," I ask, feeling alarmed.

"Am I bad for wanting more," Tris asks.

"More what," I ask, trying to sound gentle and understanding.

"More of you? Am I bad for wanting to go all the way the first chance I get to be alone with you?"

"No," I state and leave it at that.

"Then why haven't you kissed me," Tris challenges.

"Why haven't you," I return and Tris sits up to look at me.

"I am bit of a hypocrite myself, am I not," she asks, clearly not pleased with her opinion of herself.

"We are still learning to express our wants and needs. This is brand new, Tris. We need to talk but it sounds easier said than done. Can I kiss you," I ask, and Tris sighs.

"You do have to ask, just do it."

"The same goes for you, okay? Take what you want, well, push me in the right direction," I amend before Tris cuts me off with her lips against mine.

Just like before, we go from tenderly exploring each other to me feeling like I am about to explode. Tris is panting and rubbing herself against me.

Without a word I move us until I can stand up and Tris clings to me when I move into the bedroom.

She doesn't protest or demand I bring her back into the living room but she looks a little shy when she removes her shirt.

I have no qualms when I strip down to my boxers and enjoy Tris' eyeing the tent. She seems to come to a conclusion and I would recognise the determination on her face even with blurry eyes.

So, when she quietly undresses, I am just lying down on the bed and let her do what she wants. Tris takes her time to explore and check, in detail, what I like and don't like. It seems there is not much that doesn't turn me on and by the time she is back to kissing me I came once more. This time it was Tris who grabbed the box of tissues from my nightstand and cleaned up, not even bothering to wash her hands.

"I got the shot," she told me when I stated she had some viable sperm on her fingers and that was it for her.

"Can I have my turn now," I ask when I feel my dick rise up yet again.

"Uh huh," Tris mumbles, already preoccupied with exposing her neck to my roaming lips.

I take my sweet time exploring her whole body and Tris seems to be getting pissed I am avoiding one particular spot.

"Eric, please. Do I need to beg you," Tris growls.

"No, I just want to learn it all today. It has to last us for two weeks, Tris. Two weeks of me dreaming about every inch of your body, two weeks of you remembering me exploring every inch of your body and you know what they say," I tease.

"What?!" Tris is glaring at me.

"Save the best for last,' I declare before finally nuzzling her clit with my lips.

Tris bucks and then moans lowly, causing me to dig my dick into the mattress.

I lick and suck and explore with my fingers.

"Keep going," Tris demands when I pause with my finger just in between her lower lips.

I spread her labia and get a good look at her. A good look for the first time ever, to be honest. I probe her gently with my pointer finger and Tris bucks her hips again.

"Oh shit, I can see you hymen," I gasp.

"I don't care," Tris shouts and bucks her hips again.

I gently push one finger against it and it moves. I do it again and use a second finger, utterly fascinated by seeing the flesh stretch.

"Break it already," Tris demands and I freeze.

"What," I stutter.

"Break it, Eric. Claim me as yours. Two weeks are plenty of time for it to heal. Break it," Tris repeats and bucks her hips, almost doing the job herself. She winces but doesn't stop from moving on top my fingers and I finally find my backbone.

Stilling her hips with my hands, I move back to licking and sucking her clit. While I was teasing beforehand, I am now on a mission. A mission to make her orgasm at least once, preferably twice.

The moment she comes undone is utterly glorious and I almost forget what I should be doing next. Tris' jerking hips remind me and I gently push against her hymen again. This time I am not stopping though and when Tris jerks once more I feel the skin rip and my fingers jerk forward and deep inside.

Tris emits a weird mix of a moan and cry but she doesn't let me come up. Her iron grip keeps me in place and reminds me that she wanted this.

So I gently remove my hands and move back to her clit. Tris doesn't stop me but it takes a while before she comes. Only then do I finally crawl up her body.

Tris opens her legs wider when she feels my heavy erection drag along her skin but I don't move in to fuck her. I keep it in a safe enough spot while I caress her face.

"Thank you," I whisper before kissing her gently. "For all the trust you show me. I will never purposely hurt you," I swear, and I can see Tris' eyes looking watery. "I love you," I state quietly and then I kiss her properly.

It might be a cowardly way of not having to hear her answer just yet but I want to enjoy this for as long as I can.

"I love you too," Tris wheezes when I finally let her come up for air.

Once more it is her stomach that interrupts us and Tris' blushes deeply.

"Why does it do that all the time when we are getting somewhere," she bemoans loudly.

"Because we need to keep our bodies fed as well. Come on, dinner time," I announce and Tris lets go, albeit reluctantly.

While she heads into my bathroom, I use the small guest bath and get started on dinner.

"It is quite late. I am afraid I need to drop you off once we are done," I state when Tris finally reappears.

"I noticed the time," Tris sighs.

"Hey, I will be able to see you around the faction. You will be a full member in no time at all and maybe you can think about whether or not you want to have your own apartment," I say, not looking up from where I am keeping a close eye on the microwave with our dinner inside.

"You don't think it's too soon," Tris asks, wriggling under my arm before snuggling in as best as she can.

"Does it seem like we do anything by the book," I challenge.

"No," Tris laughs, and I can feel her kiss my cotton covered chest, right over my heart. "I think I would like to try, moving in, that is."

"You can always request your own apartment and come here for a night or two," I offer.

"Are you trying to talk me out of it," Tris asks, looking serious.

"No, I am reminding you of other options. You could get your apartment assigned and spend as much time as you want here but have the backup plan."

"I do need a backup plan, Eric. If you'll have then I will move in."

"I want you," I admit.

"Good, then let's eat. I need my strength for stage two."

"You just need a clear head," I correct before I realise I shouldn't have said that. "Fuck!"

"I am not going to use you for insider knowledge, Eric."

"I know that but I should have just let things progress naturally."

"Do you really think none of the Dauntless-born know what's going to happen come tomorrow," Tris challenges, and when I think about it I realise she is right.

"Let's eat and then I will find a way to sneak you back in without anyone knowing where you have been," I promise.

"They'll know soon enough," Tris reminds me but lets it slide.

We are just about done with dinner when there is a knock on my door.

"Max," I greet when I see him and open the door wider.

"Ah, Tris, still here," he teases.

"I was going after we were done eating," Tris grouses.

"I am just teasing. I actually came to suggest Tris and Uriah go back together. Makes it look less like nepotism or whatever it can be called regarding the two of you."

"Tris," I ask.

"Sure. Is he waiting?"

"Just kissing his mommy goodbye," Max states and Tris gets that Cheshire grin on her face.

"Don't, please," I beg. "No more burning bridges until after initiation is over," I remind her.

"Spoilsport," Tris grouses, but I know I won.

"I can't wait to see you in action, Tris," Max grins before slapping me on the back. "Congratulations, Eric."

"Thanks," I hedge, not sure if you need to be congratulated on getting a girlfriend.

"I knew you would get your shit together the moment you looked through the initiate files. Knowing how you tick made this way more fun for me."

"You… you fucking…"

"Thank you," Tris interrupts and gives Max a kiss on the cheek before kissing me properly.

I may or may not have pulled out all the stop and had it not been for Uriah showing up…

"Just a few more days," Max reminds me when they are gone.

"She's moving in."

"No problem."

"Am I allowed to offer her a job with me?"

"You may find that you don't need to offer her a newly made up position," Max hedges, clearly withholding some pertinent information.

"Explain," I demand and Max looks like he is going to deny me before he sighs.

"Who is her cousin?"

"Four," I state, still not getting it.

"Let's just say that I expect her to do well in the next two stages," Max states, and I finally see where he is going.

"Tris is fearless," I admit.

"We'll see, but I wouldn't worry too much. Have a good night, Eric."

Max leaves me alone with my thoughts, wondering whether or not my girlfriend can beat four fears.

…

Tris POV

"I am not going to bore you with a speech today, this initiation is one for the records, yes, but I am so done with it. Here's to all of our new members. Congratulations!"

I can feel my mouth opening in shock. What the fuck was Eric thinking when he came up with that? I mean, yeah, okay. Fair enough, this initiation was beyond words, I can agree with that. Not only did Edward take a butterknife to the eye the night stage one rankings were announced, he also voluntarily left with Myra, who had been cut.

While I had my own theory as to who may or may not have done it, Max pulled no punches. Everyone was a suspect and he organised it with Candor to have them come and interrogate everyone.

Before this could happen, though, Molly decided she wanted to scare Christina a bit for Peter ogling her one too many times. Al and Drew decided to help her and then enacted their own plans of copping a feel and some more. Before they could do real harm to Christina, Molly dragged her out from beneath Drew. Unfortunately she didn't stop there but simply let gravity take over and Christina fell backwards over the railing and down the Chasm. Everything was caught on camera but the guards were not fast enough to stop the tragedy. I may have called them all hypocrites but I never expected Christina to lose her life for petty notions.

So Jack took over for a day and Molly got her heart's desire, she was banned with her beloved Peter and their sidekicks. In another weird twist of fate, something Eric calls a Shakespearean tragedy but to me seems like justice served, Myra took advantage of the newly outcasts' lack of knowledge and poisoned them all in retaliation for Edward's attack. Eric explained to me that, while Dauntless patrols Factionless, they are more there to keep us safe and don't interfere in their business. Rape, they'd stop. Child abuse, the same. Everything else basically was left up to them and their own brand of justice.

With only Will left, Max moved him into the Dauntless-born dorm where Eric was taking up residence as our guardian. The fact that he pushed his bed beside mine and then proceeded to crowd me against the wall spoke volumes for everyone else. He was there to guard me and guard me he did. I slept like a baby every single night, safe in his strong arms, unbothered by the loud snoring everyone else complained about.

Tobias told me in secret, after he overheard some of them talk, that Eric terrorised their dorm the same way and that it gave both of them the edge up because, just like me, Tobias learned to sleep anywhere, anytime.

I am just starting to read through the list, from the bottom up, when strong arms envelope me and I snuggle in without taking my eyes off the screen.

Will

Hunter

Amy

Sean

Walker

Rhona

Marlene

Lynn

Uriah

Tris

I sigh in relief when I see I ranked first.

"Did you not start at the top," Eric whispers into my ear, the humour noticeable in his voice.

"It's better to work your way up, makes you feel better about every single extra rank," I reply quietly.

"Did you have any doubts you did great?"

"I am no Dauntless-born," I remind him.

"But you are quite fearless, seems to run in the family," Eric adds as Tobias approaches.

Eric's arm unwinds his arms from me and takes a small step back. I can still feel his body heat but he is giving me enough space to embrace Tobias and all my friends before stepping in the moment they are done.

"Ready to go home?"

"Yes, I know how I want to celebrate," I whisper in his ear and Eric freezes before a shit eating grin comes over his face.

"Do you," he teases.

"Yes, I want to finally experience what every girl in the dorm has been telling me about. They were basically salivating with the thought of finally getting some."

"I am not stopping you, Tris," Eric promises.

"Good, because I don't think your bathtub is big enough for two," I state earnestly and then I have to work really hard on not reacting to the obvious disappointment displayed on his face. "But maybe you will want to rub some lotion on when I am done," I offer and he perks up again, nodding his head. "Great, then let's go. I want to be relaxed and baby smooth when you finally fuck me."

I keep walking to the elevator and only when I hit the button for the leadership floor does Eric catch up to me.

He doesn't ask questions, he doesn't scold me for teasing him. He crowds me against he wall before kissing the ever living daylights out of me.

I feel boneless by the time we reach our floor and Eric eagerly carries me all the way inside. He comes to a standstill in the living room but when I mumble 'bedroom' against his lips he moves with purpose. He doesn't throw me onto the bed, he doesn't lay me down either. No, he sits down with me on top of him and it is reminding me of the last time I was here. Before he can come up with some weird notions as to what should or should not happen I tug my shirt off before tugging on his. Eric throws it on top of mine seconds later and his hands move up my back to fiddle with the bra claps. He gets it undone and I help him pull my arms through the straps. It feels like we are kissing for ages and I am getting antsy to proceed. It doesn't take more than a gently push against Eric's shoulder for him to lean back on his elbows. I scoot back and fiddle with his button and zipper. Once more his dick is straining and I push my hand inside as soon as the button comes undone. I feel slightly disappointed when I realise Eric is wearing underwear but on the other hand, maybe he wanted to be prepared?

"How close are you," I ask, holding my breath when I gently push him down while lowering the zipper with my other hand.

"I masturbated every single day but you get me going like no one else."

"Which means?"

"Anything is possible," Eric huffs and I kiss his cotton covered dick, causing it to twitch against my lips. "Close, really close," Eric groans when I don't remove my mouth. "Tris, I can feel your every breath. Keep going, please!"

Our goals align so I keep going and pull his pants down before removing my own.

"Underwear," I ask and he looks at me, clearly not sure what I am asking.

I push mine off and Eric shoves his down his legs before I can say anything.

"I got condoms," Eric calls out, trying to reach his nightstand.

"And I told you I got the shot my first day here," I remind him.

"I don't want your father to kill me if I accidentally get you pregnant the first time we have sex."

"This is about us and not my dad. If you want to wear a condom, grab one," I state and Eric blinks twice before pulling me on top of him and scooting up the bed. He rolls us over in the process and hovers over me.

"I want you, Tris, and I don't care if we have kids now or in ten years. Whatever you want, whenever you want," he promises.

"When we are both ready," I correct and he nods. "I am ready."

"For kids," Eric gasps, sounding a bit horrified despite just having declared it wouldn't matter were I to get accidentally pregnant tonight.

"For sex. Kids can wait a few years," I admit and he stares me down until I buck my hips and he slides right past my wet folds.

Eric squeezes his eyes shut and shoves one hand down and between us. I can feel his knuckles rub against my thighs when he grabs himself.

"That was close," Eric grunts and I stare at him, uncomprehending. "Can I? I need to get you off first so I don't feel bad for coming the moment I claim you as mine."

"Claim me with your mouth, your fingers. Do what you need to do but please just keep going. I am yours," I promise and Eric kisses my lips before sliding down and sucking on my clit. I buck into his mouth involuntarily and Eric throws one arm over my hips to keep me as still as he can before he works on bringing me to orgasm. One is not enough, it seems, when he doesn't stop. He keeps fingering me and sucking my clit until I come again.

"I can't… fuck, Tris. I love you," Eric groans when he moves up and shoves his tongue into my mouth the same time he lines up and slides all the way in. I hiss when I realise how much bigger his dick is. His fingers are large but nothing compared to the circumference of his erect cock. Eric freezes and I can feel all his muscles seize up before he groans and grunts while jerking his hips.

While I want to ask if he's done, I realise how bad it will sound to him, so I keep rubbing his back and shoulders while kissing him.

It seems this really was it and Eric's body relaxing into mine lets me know that he found relief.

Strong hands grab my arms and then he rolls us again, settling me on top of him before wriggling to pull the blanket up. I help and in no time at all are we covered up and snuggling.

I feel drowsy and close to falling asleep, relaxed from hearing Eric's steady heartbeat, when he tries to gently push me off.

"What," I mumble.

"We need to clean up," Eric grumbles.

"I don't mind washing the sheets tomorrow," I groan.

"I think I do mind sleeping in a wet spot," Eric admits quietly and I immediately relent. I don't think I would like that either.

"You have tissues on your nightstand," I remind him and Eric moves us around so I can reach them. Grabbing a handful I then look at Eric for guidance.

"Don't look at me like I have all the answers. Never done it without a condom."

Pushing some tissues onto Eric's chest, I take two and move my hand close to where we are still connected. Unfortunately Eric has gone soft and the simple adjustment of my position has him slip out. I squeal and shove my hand beneath myself before moving all the way off him. Hastily wiping in between my thighs, I see the tissues are covered in whitish slime. Grabbing some more tissues, I shove them between my legs and waddle into Eric's bathroom, sitting down on the toilet.

I clean myself with toilet paper and flush the whole mess down before washing my hands.

Eric comes in with a sheepish look on his face when I am drying my hands.

"You okay, Tris?"

"We need to work on a system for that," I admit.

"We'll figure it out but did your parents not tell you anything about that?"

"That's a bit too personal, don't you think," I challenge.

"Not really, I think it is very practical advice that we all should have. I can ask around," Eric offers.

"Around where," I ask, feeling some trepidation.

"I don't know. Max?"

"Oh, okay. Maybe?"

"Okay. Shower?"

I look at Eric and then the bed. It's not that late and it is not a bath, but…

"Together," I double check.

"If you think my shower is big enough for two," Eric teases, clearly remembering my quip about the bathtub.

"Steam it up," I demand and he grins before grabbing me and pulling me into the cubicle. His large body blocks the door and I shriek when he starts the water but I quickly realise it is not ice cold but already lukewarm.

Eric's lips swallow any comment I might have had and we don't leave the shower until after he showed me he can make me come with his dick alone and cleaning up is so much easier here.

He drags me into the kitchen and basically force feeds me before finally allowing me to climb beneath the covers with him, still naked as the day we were born.

"I love you," he mumbles into my still damp hair.

"I love you too," I reply before snuggling in and falling asleep to the sound of Eric's snores.

---

For those of you wondering about 'Stuck in you' outtakes. I decided to write a proper companion piece, 'Rise', (yes, tongue in cheek, purposely named) but I am only halfway through, so it will be a little while longer. Real life is keeping me busy and I don't even have a Halloween story this year (yet).