Chapter Five

Eric's POV

One moment Tris is cuddling up to me and the next I hear soft snoring. I just hug her close and let my mind wander.

My body is tired but there is so much going on, my brain won't shut off until I work through at least some of the things running around my mind. What the fuck happened today? I went from moping about Tris to being heartbroken by thinking Four got all his ducks in a row to marry Tris any day now. Then my whole world got shook up again by him telling me that Tris is single and has been when we had sex. I should have known her better and not assumed she would ever cheat, but my own feelings of inadequacy and stupidity got in the way and I never gave her the chance to explain when she tried to. No, I had to be stubborn and avoid her.

Then I had the chance to talk and what do I do? Get physical and miss another chance. Thank god she agreed to come over for dinner. There really has to be a god or at least karma is catching up to me because as soon as Jeanine died all my dreams came true. I am now lying in my bed with my girlfriend in my arms who is expecting our first child.

Apart from a few minor changes that will be needed this is the future I was dreaming of for the past eighteen months. The big question is, how do I get Tris to marry me and how soon can we move in together. I understand that we have to lay low for a little bit even if every fiber in me screams to make my claim public knowledge.

As soon as the members learn Tris and Four split she will be inundated with suitors. How am I supposed to keep them away? I need to talk to Four first thing in the morning and then Tris needs to agree to us telling Max. That old fucker knows exactly what is going on. I know he loves to rile me up and looking back that is exactly what he did today. I do like his idea of getting the storage room ready for us to be able to bring the baby to work. I have full confidence in Tris to not mess up my files when she gets everything digitalized and it is the perfect work for her to keep doing when she needs to start taking it easy.

I need to get some books on pregnancy and child development.

I need to start a list.

And with that last thought I gently dislodge Tris and grab a notebook and pen from my nightstand and get busy.

Twenty minutes later I put the list aside, happy to rely on my written reminders and finally able to relax enough to feel sleepy. I hug Tris to my side and, closing my eyes, let her sweet smell and even breath lull me to sleep.

...

I am awoken by the alarm going off at half past five and roll out of bed groaning and moaning. Grabbing a fresh shirt and boxers from the dresser I make my way into the kitchen and find myself greeted by my smiling girl, holding out a cup of coffee to me. I grab the cup and put it aside before going in for a kiss. "I am so glad this was not a dream!"

She smiles widely and gives me another kiss before replying. "Me too!"

I sit down at the breakfast bar and start drinking my coffee. Tris sits down next to me and keeps eying my cup while sipping from her own. After a minute of frowning at her cup and looking at mine longingly I can't keep it in any longer.

"What's wrong with your coffee, Tris? Mine is perfect!"

"It's not coffee, it's fucking herbal tea," she hisses at me.

Whoops., forgot that part. I am very careful now. "You don't like herbal tea?"

"I need fucking coffee in the morning! I got addicted and now I have to stop! Why can't I have just one cup?"

"I think you are allowed to have some, just in moderation. I was going to get some books and I will read up on that for you, okay?"

I try to kiss her again but this time she avoids me and looks me straight in the eye. "Forget about training Four today. We are going on a little excursion to Erudite and you are getting all the books you need. Are we clear?"

"Crystal!" I smirk and she growls. "Hmm, sexy!" Oh, oh. Seems that was the wrong answer. Tris' eyes narrow and she smacks me onto the chest. "Tris, how about we finish Four's training plan together and talk to Max about us. Then we can take Four on a tour past all factions and introduce him. This way we can talk to your parents, Jack and check out the library in Erudite, hm?"

She mulls this over and I use the time to quickly drink my coffee while she is distracted.

"You want to change the training plan I already made?"

"No, I want to have some input as I will be covering all the physical aspects, but it's your show. All I am asking is that you don't overdo it and ask for help if you need it. I was also thinking that if the three of us are seen together and acting friendly there will be less uproar when we become official."

"Okay! What do you want to tell Max?"

"Well, that depends on you. I do not want to overwhelm you. If I got my wish we would move in together, expand the apartment and get married. Think about it and talk to me. I am open for negotiations, but Tris, I will get a ring on your finger in the end."

Quiet. Shit, was I to forward? Being in a relationship is harder than I thought.

Tris stands up and takes a step back. I fucked it up already! As if sensing my panic Tris puts up her hand to tell me to wait.

"I want a proper proposal, not a declaration that you are going to marry me. If you can do that we go and talk to Max about all of it!"

I nod. "Fair enough! Thank you!"

Tris comes back and hugs me. "I love you, but if you want us to work remember that we are equals. Decisions have to be made together and not over the other one's head."

"Yes, ma'am!" I mock salute which gets me a stuck out tongue. "Tempting, but we have to get ready. Are you going like this or will I pick you up in a few minutes?"

Tris looks down at herself. "Pick me up when you are ready!"

She grabs her still full cup and empties it in the sink before cleaning up after herself. A quick kiss and she is gone.

...

Proposal... A proposal for Tris... I need a ring… How the fuck am I going to get a ring without causing suspicion? And women want flowers, candles? Shit, shit, shit.

Who can I ask without giving anything away? The answer comes to me like lightning, but I am not sure I like it. What won't I do for Tris?!

I decide to forgo my shower and head out the door. A corridor later I gently knock on a door. Nothing, so I knock again but a bit harder. I can hear feet shuffling closer and finally the door is opened.

"The fuck you doing here? I am not due in the office for another two hours. Fuck off, Eric!" And he tries to close the door in my face. I quickly push my foot in between and hiss quietly "I need your help with Tris!" His eyes widen and he opens the door enough for me to slip in. There is a shit eating grin on his face. "Let's make a deal. You dish and I will help you with whatever problem you have!"

"I swear to god, Oscar, if anything leaves this room, I am going to hunt you down and throw you in the chasm."

He is not bothered by my threat and just blinks at me innocently. "Dish!"

"Fine! We love each other and we are having a baby come September! Now, I need your help. Tris is not going to marry me until I propose properly but I have no idea how I can do that if we have to wait for the hoopla of her split with Four to die down. I can't even go to the fucking jewellery store to pick out a ring," I lament.

"Whew, slow down there. You and princess? I had my suspicions but damn, Eric, you work fast! And I knew about the baby. Tris walked into the office holding her paperwork for all to see. How soon do you want to propose?"

"Yesterday!"

"Fine! Where do you want to propose?"

"No idea. It has to be private but still meaningful."

Oscar looks at me thoughtfully. "Well, the initiate's entrance could be a contender. The training room? Naw, a bit too smelly and public. You could always do it at home..."

"The roof entrance sounds great, but it is covered in snow and I don't want her to get sick. Maybe doing it at home is not a bad idea?"

"You asking or telling me? Bit unsure, are we?"

"Watch it," I growl.

"Hm, sexy! The ring I can help you with. We have the master key to all the shops and can look around before opening time. We just have to make sure we avoid the cameras and patrol units. Once you pick a ring I will discreetly organize the purchase and you can have it fitted later."

"Great. Get dressed while I tell Tris to go ahead to the training room. Shift change is in ten minutes and that's the opportunity we need. Meet you outside the shop."

I am not waiting for an answer but run out and over to Tris' apartment and bang on the door. Four opens and looks at me curiously.

"Tell Tris I have a small errand to run and I will meet you guys in the training room," I rush out and turn to head downstairs. I really need to convince Tris to move in with me.

"Eric," Four calls after me and I turn around reluctantly. "Are you okay?"

I frown. "Why shouldn't I?"

He closes the door quietly and comes closer to not have to shout. "You are not behaving the usual way!"

"Tris has me jumping through some hoops before she agrees to marry me and move in together, so excuse me if I am a bit preoccupied," I snarl at him.

"That's great news. So you two are good?"

I am a bit astounded by his words. "Why shouldn't we be? You know I love her and she loves me too. We are having a baby. I want to shout it from the top of my lungs all over the Pit, but she won't let me yet!" I sound whiny again, even to my own ears. What is Tris doing to me? Next thing I know I will have pregnancy related mood swings.

"Learn to be patient. Eric! If you are with Tris that is an absolute necessity, or she will drive you mad!"

"She already does," I grumble, and he laughs.

"Look, it won't take long before you can shout it around the Pit, just make sure to tell Tris before you do. Never ever do something behind her back, it will come back to bite you. If you need help let me know. I love Tris and I want only the best for her, okay?"

I have to give it to the fucker; he does have his priorities straight. I would not be so welcoming if my girl moves on with someone else. Who am I kidding? I would have to be committed, probably ...

"I have to go; I am on a tight schedule and don't want to miss my opportunity. Just tell her to go ahead and have you warm up and I will meet you in the training room as soon as I can."

I don't wait for an answer and jog off towards the jewellery store.

Oscar is already waiting for me and holds up the key for me to take.

"Uh, you are the leader so it's better if you open the door."

Fine. I look at my watch and then around and after seeing nobody I quickly let us in. We are both quiet and I am unsure where to go from here. I can pick out a new piercing any time but an engagement ring?! Without a ring I can't propose, and a proper proposal is what she wants so I carefully walk over to the counter and look at the display. There are different colours and sizes. I am sure she would want something understated, nothing flashy.

"Eric, come look at these. They have multiple coloured stones and this one seems perfect."

I walk over to where Oscar is kneeling in front of a different counter and look inside.

He does not have to tell me which one he means, it is clear as day.

"Good job! That is the one! Now how are we going to make the transfer without anyone knowing it's me buying the ring?"

"A friend of mine works here and with the promise of being owed a favour I am pretty sure there will be no one the wiser. Trust me, I would never do that to Tris and if I spoil her proposal she will be the one to throw me in the chasm before you can catch up to us!"

"Fine!" I hand over my points card and we quickly leave the shop and lock up. "Let me know when it's done and I will work on the rest in the meantime. Now, if you excuse me, I have a pregnant woman to keep from overdoing it."

"Good luck with that!"

I can hear the asshole laughing all the way to the tunnel leading to the training rooms.

...

It is five minutes past six when I reach the door of the private training room reserved for leaders. I can hear voices inside but not what they are saying. Pushing open the door I stroll in and I am greeted with Tris' magnificent ass in the air while she is stretching. God, how I loved our early morning training sessions together. Four is right next to her and they are chatting about cardio.

"Tris, honey, why don't you grab a seat on the mat and Four and I will do some rounds and hit the sacks afterwards."

Four looks at me and shakes his head, making a throat cutting motion behind Tris.

"Excuse me?!"

Man, my dick went into hiding from the icy glare she is throwing me.

I try to rephrase. "Tris, sweetheart, I am certain you were told to take it easy, so I am asking you to sit down and correct any flaws you see." There, I can be sensitive.

Tris looks me up and down and actually takes a seat on the mat.

"Fine, honey" ouch, that oozed sarcasm "flaw number one - you are assuming and do not know what I was told. Flaw number two - staying fit is important for a healthy pregnancy. Flaw number three - you think you know best. Flaw number four - you seem to not trust me to keep our baby safe while exercising."

I lift my hands in defeat before she can go on.

"You are right! I am sorry. There is a lot I have to work on and I know you will help me but please also accept that I want to look after you and that includes reminding you of things before you overdo it."

"Kiss ass!"

"With pleasure!"

"Eew, Eric! Look, Clarissa said for the time being I can work out. That includes jogging, stretches and working on the bags. I will avoid anything with direct body contact, okay?"

"Okay," I concede; what else can I do? "Now let's get started!"

And we start the workout routine we kept going since I started Tris' leadership training. Four kept in shape and keeps up without any problems. I am sure I will have to push him further than Tris which in return will give me a better workout too. I have a feeling I will need the additional exercise soon enough.

...

We arrive at the office freshly showered at half past eight and head for our respective offices with Four trailing after Tris. I am about to sit down when there is a knock and Max pops his head in, clearly gauging my mood. I try to keep my face carefully blank and he comes in and takes a seat in front of my desk.

"How was your first day of training?"

"Good! Tris and I had a minor difference that needed sorting out first, but now we are on the same page. Four is in great shape and I will have to push him farther than Tris is comfortable with soon."

"Good, the sooner he is done with all his training and can become a leader the better. Do you think he will be ready by August?"

"We have the motivation, so I see no problem unless he gets stuck on the paperwork."

"Good, good, keep me updated on your part. Anything else, Eric," he grins.

I hate that grin, it is the one that makes me say stupid stuff just to wipe it from his face.

"I need to head over to Erudite this afternoon and might have to ask you for a favour later. I will let you know how my day goes and if I need to delay a bit."

"Anything else?"

Shit!

"Nope!"

"You sure?"

Fuck!

"Absolutely!"

And this, ladies and gentlemen, is the moment Oscar runs into my office, holding my points card and a small box in his hand. Of course, Max zeros in on the items.

"What have you got there, Oscar?"

Oscar is good, I give him that. Nothing gives away the 'oh shit' feeling he must be experiencing just now.

"What, this? Oh, nothing important. Eric just asked me to pick up his repaired watch from the jeweller as he wasn't sure how much time Four's training would take."

Max narrows his eyes. "You mean the watch that is currently on his wrist?"

Motherfucker!

"No, the old one he had before. Don't you remember Eric smashing it through his office door?"

Good save, Oscar.

"Oh, I remember it quite well. What a glorious day that was. I believe Tris accepted the leadership position and moved into your apartment wing, Eric?"

I growl. "Yes!"

Max scratches his chin. "What made you so angry again that day?"

"Nothing of importance." And it's the honest truth. Tris is mine and nothing else matters any longer.

Max looks stunned. He must have sensed the honesty in my words, or he would keep talking smack. "Well, there is a first for everything."

Clearly out of things to delay his departure with, Max has no choice but to leave.

I look at Oscar and he just shrugs. "Here. Receipt is inside the box."

I nod in understanding. "Thanks!"

"Need any more help?

I grab a piece of paper and write something quickly while stating loudly. "Actually, yes, can you get this done for me? I have to go over to Erudite later and want to catch Max afterwards before he goes home."

Oscar looks at the paper. "Uh, I can try. I still have the front office to run."

"Just let me know later if you had any success."

Oscar gives me a thumbs up and leaves. I start the computer and begin my days' work by answering and sending emails.

...

Meanwhile in Max's office

Max POV

"I am telling you, Veronica, Eric is up to something. He was too cordial and did not take my baits."

"Maybe he just had a good morning for a change. A good workout will do that for you..." she trails off.

"What?!" They are killing me today.

"Eric worked out with Tris and Four and all went smoothly?"

"That's what he says!"

"Shouldn't he be halfway through destroying his office by now?"

"My point exactly," I exclaim. I know when there is something going on behind my back and I can smell deception coming off of Eric a mile away.

"Why don't you check the office security camera?"

"Isn't that taking it a bit too far? They are here to protect us and not for the two of us to get the scoop on something," I lament.

"But Eric is clearly up to something that he won't tell you about. What if he has created some deranged revenge plan?"

I snort. "Do you really believe that?"

"No, but that's not the point. It might provide an arguable angle as to why we needed to access the security feed. You know, just for our peace of mind and to make sure Tris and her unborn child are safe?"

"God, woman, don't tempt me. Let's make a deal. If he is still acting suspicious tomorrow we'll check the security feeds from the office, training room and apartment wing."

Veronica mulls this over and finally agrees. I am dying to find out if Eric knows something. Why else would he act out of place?

...

Four hours later

Tris POV

What a stressful morning!

Tobias and I have been going over protocols and procedures since we got in this morning and I am more than ready to stretch my legs and eat lunch.

At one o'clock there is a knock on my office door and without waiting for a reply Eric lets himself in.

I can't suppress the smile and he greets me with one in return but addresses Tobias. "Four, can I kidnap Tris for a little excursion? We won't be gone long, and I will feed her too.!"

He looks at me and shrugs his shoulders. "If Tris is willing to go with you, I will just grab a quick bite and go back to reading. I can ask Oscar if I get stuck."

I don't know what Eric has planned but he knows we need to lay low for just a little bit longer.

"Sure. Let me just grab my jacket!"

And off we go. We are walking side by side without touching and Eric leads the way through the back corridors, up some stairs, more corridors, more stairs. I am pretty sure he wants to confuse me as to where we are going as I am aware we passed one hallway at least twice. We finally approach a stairwell I know very well, and I am excited to see what Eric has planned if we are going up to the roof.

He opens the door and lets me go first. There is so much snow up here, maybe we should get maintenance to clear the roof to not strain the supports unnecessarily.

I look around. Someone has been up here recently, and I follow the distinguishable path around some vents and gasp.

Right here, in the middle of the roof, is one of the emergency tents pitched up. I turn to look at Eric and he gives me a quick kiss before grabbing my hand and pulling me inside the tent. He has yet to utter a word and I am a bit confused.

"What are you up to, Eric?"

He shrugs. "I just wanted to have lunch and a bit of alone time with you. I thought it would be nice to be up here and it reminds me of our tour through Amity."

"Well, it certainly feels familiar but if I recall correctly you were unconscious most of the time we spent in here."

"Well, about time to change that, don't you think?"

And I am in his arms, responding to his kisses with wild abandon. I lean back onto the sleeping bags that cover the floor and try to pull Eric along but he resists. I raise an eyebrow and he gulps. What is up with him today?

"Tris, we don't have that much time. How about we eat before the food gets cold?"

Eric turns around and grabs a bag from the far corner that I have missed. Turns out it is an insulated bag and he got us soup and grilled sandwiches to share.

I am quite hungry so I don't complain, much. We chat about easy topics like training Tobias and upcoming faction meetings and assemblies. When we are done with our food Eric cleans everything up by putting things back into the insulated bag and then turns back to me holding out a gigantic piece of Dauntless cake and two forks. My eyes must be bulging.

"How did you get that much cake?"

He smirks and my panties get wet. "I have my ways!"

Right. I grab a fork and greedily dig in. Mama needs some cake.

After a few bites I realize Eric is not eating any and look up at him. He seems in trance and stares at my mouth without blinking.

"Food porn," is all I am asking, and he nods but then takes a deep breath.

"Tris, I know we just got together after knowing each other for months. I am sure there is still so much to learn about the other. The two things I know for certain are that I love you with my whole heart and that I want to listen to you making eating a pleasure for my senses for all eternity. Tris, would you do me the honour of becoming my wife?"

And he produces an absolutely amazing ring from the depths of his pocket. It has a pattern of blue and grey stones all around with one large black diamond as the centre focal point. Shit, it's stunning. How did he mange to find something so unique and specific to us at such short notice? I love how the blue and grey stones alternate. Erudite and Abnegation mingling together, no real beginning or end and the black diamond showing where we are at now. Oh my god, all three of my aptitudes!

I take the ring out of Eric's hand and keep turning it left and right. Wow, it is fantastic.

"Tris?" I look up and Eric looks like he is in pain.

"Shit, sorry, oh my gosh, I am so sorry. Yes, I will marry you," I stutter.

"Thank fuck, you had me worried there." And he leans over to take the ring and pushes it on my left ring finger. "A little too big but we can get it resized."

"Maybe we will wait with that until after the baby is born? My fingers are likely to swell and this way I can wear it longer."

"Whatever you want. I am just glad you said yes. What do you say about going to see Max about a private ceremony?"

Eric really does nothing half assed. Am I ready to make it official?

"Yes!"

Eric takes my hand and leads me back to the roof access.

"What about the tent and food," I question.

"Someone will clean it up later. Let's go!"

It is really cute to see him so eager. Should I remind him that we still have to tell Max everything? No, where would the fun be in that?

"Okay, but you are the one doing all the talking," I grin and he whines. Well, we can't have it all...

...

It feels like no time and we are in front of Max's office. Eric knocks and we enter upon hearing Max shout. Max just looks from Eric to me to our clasped hands and finally to the shit eating grin on Eric's face.

"Yes, Eric? What did poor Tris do to have you drag her all the way to my office," Max grumbles.

Oh, oh, that is a loaded question. Oh lord, let's hope Eric does not go into detail. Of course my prayers are not heard and I can clearly hear Eric proclaim.

"Tris agreed so I am here to ask a favour."

"Agreed to what, Eric? To be manhandled? You have to be careful with her!"

"No, she agreed to be my wife. So, can you marry us or not?"

Silence.

"Well? You are head leader and by Dauntless law required to sign the certificate. Do you have time now or should we come back later?"

Cheeky bastard! He knows he stunned Max and now he is milking it for all it's worth.

"Uh, I need some more details first and then we can do the ceremony here."

"For God's sake, get a grip Max. Don't give Eric more ammunition, his ego is currently big enough for the three of us."

"Tris," Eric whines. "Let me enjoy my one moment of glory. This is the first time in three years I have the upper hand!"

"Fine! Max, what do you need before you can marry us?"

"Uh, nothing really. Let me just print the forms and you can fill them out. Do you want traditional vows?"

I look at Eric and shrug my shoulders?

"Traditional," he answers for both of us.

The printer is whirring, and Max gets busy with a locked cabinet in the far back.

"Just grab those forms and get started. I am just getting my things ready!"

I pay him no more attention but get started on filling out the forms with Eric's help. Each of us has to declare the intent to marry and state that there are no reasons preventing this marriage from taking legal effect.

"Uh, Max, do we fill in birth names of our origin faction or the ones we go by now in our chosen faction," Eric asks.

Good question. I am stuck there too.

"Original faction birth names. Tris, if you don't know your birthday yet look it up in the database on my computer."

"Thanks, Max, but if you have the friends I do you have no choice but to find out your birthday. I am good, thanks," I reply.

"Oh yes, you are good, babe," Eric growls into my ear.

Sigh.

"How do you spell you first name, Eric?"

Deep sigh. " N"

Ok, done, next question. Oh...

"Max?"

"Yes, Tris?"

"There is a section here about children. What do I need to do here?"

"Nothing. Just cross it out. Only living children count. Eric, anything to add to yours?"

"Fuck you! You know by now there has only ever been Tris for me."

"And accidents can happen or are you claiming you were a blushing virgin when you met Tris?"

Silence.

"Thought so!"

"Asshole!"

"Fucker!"

"Enough! I am not going to listen to you calling each other derogatory names minutes before my wedding. Come to think of it, all swearing will cease in front of my baby from now on. Are we clear?"

"What? The baby is not even born yet!"

"Not fair! He started it!"

Deep breath, Tris. Count to ten. Ok, count to twenty.

"I don't care who started it. Eric, no swearing in front of the baby and Max..."

"Yes?"

"No swearing in front of my baby or I will tell your wife!"

"Fine," comes from both of them, suddenly united in their ire for me. Good! Keeps them busy.

"Eric..."

"Yes?"

"I would like the virgin question answered later!"

"Yes, ma'am!"

Good boy!

"Ok, we are done with the paperwork. Let's get started. Eric, stand over here. Tris, you stand beside Eric and hold his hands. Perfect. Now, Tris, how long have you been in love with Eric?"

"What? That's not part of the vows," I reply. Cheeky old bastard. I give him credit for trying. He is unfazed and asks Eric the next question.

"What made you man up and make a move on Tris when nobody knew her and Four broke up?"

"Get started on the ceremony!" Eric has clearly reached the end of his patience.

"I am sorry, but I can not perform the wedding ceremony in good conscience without knowing that this is not some spur of the moment decision."

He is kind of right. I look at Eric and see the same conclusion in his eyes.

"Max, we both have been in love with the other for some time. One longer aware than the other. Our feelings towards another are genuine. Getting together was a long time coming and we both found reasons to be physical with each other. We had a falling out because I did not tell Eric that Four and I broke up before we started things and we were miserable ignoring the other over the past weeks. We are having a baby and we talked about making things official without causing anyone involved embarrassment or emotional harm. Eric actually made the effort to give me a proposal to remember when I said I want one before I would agree to become his wife. Anything else, Eric?"

"What you said, Tris. We want to have a quiet and private ceremony and we both see no reason to wait. We are in total agreement and once the ceremony is over we wanted to talk to you about housing."

Max eyes both of us and nods. "Very well. That was not so hard, was it? Congratulations, Eric, on your impending fatherhood. May God protect the faction from what is to come!"

"The fuck?" Yes, what he said. "What is that supposed to mean? You make it soon like our baby will bring forth the arrival of the Antichrist!"

I can hear a mumbled "might as well be true" but it's not loud enough to pick the words up properly and Eric seems to have the same trouble. I decide to let it go and get our wedding ceremony underway.

"So? Can we get started now that everything is cleared up and enough insults have been thrown around," I query.

Max nods, grabs a paper and stands in front of us.

"Eric, do you promise to cherish Tris above all other?"

"I do!"

"Do you promise to love Tris with Dauntless abandon?"

"I do!"

"Do you promise to be brave in the face of adversary and protect Tris and any children you may have with your life?"

"I do!"

"Do you promise to provide for Tris and your children and to raise them by the values of the Dauntless Manifesto?"

"I do!"

Max turns to me and winks.

"Tris, do you promise to cherish Eric above all other?"

"I do!"

"Do you promise to love Eric with Dauntless abandon?"

"I do!"

"Do you promise to be brave in the face of adversary and protect Eric and any children you may have with your life?"

"I do!"

"Do you promise to provide for Eric and your children and to raise them by the values of the Dauntless manifesto?"

"I do!"

"Perfect! Eric, do you need me to help with the next phrase?"

Eric shakes his head and turns to me.

"I, Aericson James Coulter, pledge myself to you, Beatrice Edith Prior. My life is your life, my bravery is your bravery, my heart is your heart, now and forevermore!"

"Tris?"

"Help me out if I get stuck please? This is the first Dauntless wedding I have been to."

"Of course!"

"I, Beatrice Edith Prior, pledge myself to you, Aericson James Coulter. My life is your life, my bravery is your bravery, my heart is your heart, now and forevermore."

"By the power given to me as a representative of Dauntless and the city of Chicago I now pronounce you husband and wife!"

And cue the smirk and kiss. Hmm, kissing Eric. Yes, baby, add a little tongue and pull me close.

Persistent throat clearing brings me back to reality and I stop Eric's advances just in time before we give Max a show.

"Now that we have this settled, have you thought about last names?"

Eric looks at me expectantly. "Tris?"

"We can go by Coulter once we make the wedding public knowledge."

"Very well. Your Dauntless names will still hold value but the certificate will show the birth names. Please sign all five copies."

While we are signing I question. "Why do we have to sign so many copies?"

"Well, it's kind of unique for your case. One is for you two to keep. The other ones are for Dauntless, Abnegation, Candor and Erudite. Contrary to popular belief your old factions do not pretend you never existed and will update their records accordingly. Candor is our judicial branch for the whole of Chicago and they receive a copy to update their files in case, god forbid, something were to happen. They basically provide genealogical emergency help and will assign orphaned children to the closest living relative unless the parents leave a will with Candor stating otherwise."

Eric and I look at each other.

"Why were we, as leaders, not told about this? It's kind of important knowledge, don't you agree, Max?"

"Yes, well, you are learning about it now and you are right. This is something we should include in all future leader training sessions."

"Great! Let's talk about that in more depth next week. Maybe all leaders and Four can meet and see if there is anything else that has been lost or not been passed on in training." Max nods. "Now, Max, I have to ask a favour. The apartment next to mine is still empty. Can we get that assigned to Tris?"

"What?!" Max and I both interrupt Eric.

"Hear me out!"

"Fine," I grumble.

"Yes, that is a possibility if Four is going to stay in Tris' old apartment."

"I was thinking of merging the two. We have a baby on the way, and we will need all the space."

"Eric, you are aware that you qualify for a different leadership sector when you are married with kids?"

"Yes, but I do like my apartment!"

"Hold on, Eric, I would like to hear more about the new housing that we are entitled to. You might be aware, but I wasn't, Eric. That is clearly something YOU forgot to tell me during training."

Eric looks down. Oh, oh.

"Spill," I command.

"I might have forgotten to mention that you can move further once you are married with kids. I did not want to give you ideas back then and I am sorry for not telling you!"

"O.K... Then tell me now."

Max jumps in. "Why don't I go and show you?"

"What a great idea. Eric?"

"Yes, maybe it is a good idea to look at the apartment before we make a decision."

"Can we take the back corridors?"

Max nods, "Sure." and Eric grabs my hand. Together we move quickly through the compound and I suddenly find myself in a corridor I have never seen before. It is wider than your average hallway and there is actually a tricycle in the far corner. I can see only five doors, spaced out nicely. Max stops at number two and opens the door. Wow, this is nice.

We enter a huge living room with a table for six on the far side.

Max heads for a set of double doors and slides them into the wall to create an open space feeling. I am faced with a big kitchen with all amenities. Eric looks at me when I make a sound that resembles a moan.

"You love it, don't you?"

"Yes," I admit.

"If you are happy with the rest then we will take it!"

I give him a quick hug and kiss and then follow Max who is now opening another sliding door to reveal a hallway.

"We have a guest toilet and a full bathroom as well as two bedrooms here. They are both the same size as the ones in your current apartments. Now, follow me upstairs, please."

"Upstairs? There is an upstairs? How big is this fucking thing?"

"Language, Tris," Max admonishes. "No swearing or bad language in front of the baby," he parrots me.

"Yes, Tris, there is more upstairs," Eric tells me.

I give him the stinky eye. "And you wanted to stay where we are?"

"I like my apartment," he repeats.

"You won't like it so much when you have a newborn and neighbours who party all the time," Max ever so helpful jumps in.

"True, but we are only talking about Four so it does not matter yet. Let's go, please?" And I flutter my eyelashes.

Max leads us to a surprisingly sturdy set of stairs with a small gate in front. He must have seen my curiosity and explains once again. "These apartments were created with pregnant women and children in mind. Children, especially here in Dauntless, run a lot and flimsy, narrow stairs are a safety hazard."

Max shows us how to operate the gate, well he calls it a baby gate, but I am certain it will be Tris gate for a while.

Upstairs we have another corridor leading up to a huge master bedroom with a private bath. There are another two full bathrooms and four other rooms that we can use however we want. A study, nursery, bedroom, office - our choice.

Eric comes up behind me and envelopes me with his arms. "It is kind of perfect for us! You want it?" I nod. "Then we take it. We'll have to make a game plan!"

"For what," Max questions.

"Eavesdropping is not nice," I admonish.

"I am right here. Do you want me to pretend I can't hear you?"

"Sorry. Eric means a game plan on how we go from the news that Four and I broke up amicably to my marriage, pregnancy and new accommodation!"

"Well, how much do you care about public opinion? If you only care about what your friends think you can just explain it to them like you and Four explained your break up," Max advises.

"The problem I have with letting the rest of the members think whatever they want is that they will make Eric out to be the bad guy. Four and I broke up. Eric and I got together. I screwed it up by withholding the breakup and for the public it looked like we were still together."

Max interrupts me right there. "Tris, you have a slight miscalculation there. You and Four now made it public that you guys broke up weeks ago. Your friends are, I am certain, making sure there are no misconceptions about how long you are single already. Just go out in public with Eric. You don't have to announce your wedding or the baby. Just put is out there that you are off the market without saying a word. If someone asks you it is up to you what you want to answer and just tell your friends the rest of the story. They will appreciate it even if some of them may take a bit longer to accept that it is Eric who makes you happy. Tell, them where to find you regarding your new apartment and make sure they know it's a party free zone here."

Well crap, he is right!

"You are right, Max. Thank you! Maybe we can take Tobias for a round of drinks to the bar to celebrate his promotion and show that you two are trying to get along and we can show some PDA while he is there with us?"

Eric grins. "If Four doesn't pummel me for kissing you or holding your hand then it is a sign of his approval. We can do that if he is game. Maybe there is a brave woman out there who will catch his eye now?"

"Don't hold your breath. I do know Four and he is not that spontaneous."

Max claps excitedly. "Let's make it the whole leadership team and Four! We can celebrate your marriage, pregnancy, upcoming move and Four's soon to be full leadership position all at once. Should I ask my wife and Veronica's husband to join us?"

"Yes, why not? Let's say eight so I can try to track down some of my friends and maybe enjoy a cuddle with my husband?"

Eric snuggles me from behind and nuzzles my neck. Hmmm, nice!

"What's the time now?"

Eric checks his watch. "Three!"

"Oh god, I never told Four I would not be back!"

"I am sure Oscar has filled him in by now."

Max again interrupts. "I knew you two were up to something. What was really in the box he brought you this morning?"

"Tris' ring. I picked it out before the store opened but I could not really go and buy it without half the faction talking about it. Oscar helped me out," Eric admits.

Max and I are baffled. "For free?"

"Well, kind of... in exchange for the truth of what was going on between us. Honestly, he had most of it figured out already on his own. I basically just confirmed it. Are you mad, Tris?"

I give him a kiss on the cheek as to not having to leave his embrace. "It's ok. Oscar is nothing but loyal."

"All right; let's get going. So, you are taking the apartment?"

I can feel Eric nod behind me as I do the same.

"Well, let's head back. Eric, you catch up with Four. Tris, you can join in to let him know you got married and then start with your friends while Eric takes over today's lessons and I will tell my wife to find a babysitter."

With that Max turns around and walks away. Eric holds me tightly and I sigh in contention.

"When do you want to move," Eric whispers into my ear.

I shiver and hug his arms to me.

"I don't know. We need to talk about what we need and what we want to take from our current apartments. I know it looks clean, but I want to clean it properly before we move in," I admit.

"Did I marry a little clean freak," Eric teases.

"Well, I know I married somebody borderline OCD so how about we just agree to clean the apartment to our own standard and move our things in when we are done," I offer.

"Fine," Eric sighs and I swat his arm.

"Don't pretend it is just me," I growl. "I dare you to have a shower right now in that bathroom." I point to the en-suite and then turn around to I can see Eric's face.

He doesn't disappoint. There is weariness and a bit of disgust on his face and we both know I've got him.

"We will clean for one hour every evening after work until we have a day off... then we will move in."

"If it's all clean," I remind him, and he nods. "Come on, we need to head back to the office."

Together we walk out of our new home and back to the office. Tobias and Oscar are at Oscar's desk and are giving us grins and smirks.

"Drinks tonight to celebrate my promotion," Tobias declares, and Oscar nods his head rapidly.

"Great, I will be showing off Tris," Eric declares and motions for Tobias to follow him. I look longingly after them until I hear a throat clear.

Max is standing in his office door and gives me an encouraging smile before motioning for me to go and get out of the office.

Well shit, now I really can't delay further.

...

I decide to bite into the sour apple first and track down Christina at work. I excuse her and she follows me quietly back to my apartment,

"Spill it," she demands as soon as the door closes behind us.

I am quiet and she takes my hand, squeezing my fingers.

"Tris, I know something is up and you are dreading talking to me, yet you came here to do so," she reminds me of why we are here.

"Sit down," I order. "Do you want a drink? I have beer, vodka and tequila," I list off and her eyes bulge.

"That bad," she asks.

"Not for me," I mumble, but she heard me.

"Bring the vodka and leave it on the table. I'll drink if I have to."

I do just that and then I sit down beside her.

"I am with someone," I start, and she smiles at me. "I love him, and we would have been together sooner had it not been for a misunderstanding about Four and I being a couple," I admit, and Christina snorts.

"Yeah, you kind of gave the impression that you were still together when you weren't," she teases.

"We had sex," I blurt out.

"That's good," Christina hedges.

"Mind blowing,' I admit.

"That good? Really?!"

"I squirted," I whisper and this time her eyes really bug out.

"Shut up," she exclaims.

"No, the problem was I did not shut up. I was mumbling stuff and he mistook it for regret and bemoaning cheating on Four," I state.

"Shit," Christina curses. "But you are together now?"

"Oh yes, we are..."

"But there is more to it," she states with conviction.

"Yes," I reply.

"You are scared to tell me," she sounds surprised. "Something I am not going to like or approve of," she figures.

"Oh, I am certain of that, but I want you to not throw out friendship away," I whine, and she looks at me sharply.

"Tris, there is nothing on this earth that will make me stop being your friend!"

"We'll see," I mumble.

"Just fucking spill it already, you are driving me mad."

"I'm pregnant," I blurt out.

"Okay, I don't see the problem if you really love this new guy. I thought you were on the shot, but that doesn't matter now..."

I interrupt her. "My birth control got mixed up by accident," I throw in and want to slap myself for interrupting like that.

"Shit happens, Tris. Are you upset because you are having a child out of wedlock? You are not in Abnegation anymore," she reminds me. "Oh my god, he doesn't want children?" She looks at me in horror.

"I am sorry I am screwing this all up. He is ready for children and he proposed to me," I admit.

"Wow, he really must love you," Christina says.

"He does, and I love him too which is why we got married this afternoon."

I hide behind my hands when Christina squeals in delight.

"Only you Tris," she laughs, but when she sees my face she knows there is more.

She stares at me, scrutinizing and thinking through everything we talked about.

"It's someone I know, someone I have issues with," she states with conviction and I cringe.

"What the fuck did you do, Tris," she asks with trepidation.

"I married Eric," I whisper and then watch in fascination as Christina opens the vodka and pours herself shot after shot, drowning them all rapidly.

"You really love him," she asks after a while.

"Yes," I admit.

"He loves you and asked you to marry him," she asks again.

"Yes," I admit.

"You did marry him," she asks once more.

"Yes,' I repeat.

"You are having a child together," she asks, finally facing me fully.

"Yes," I whisper and can't hold back the tears any longer.

Christina takes one more shot and then hugs me to her.

"Don't cry. You are still my best friend, but I am not sure about your husband," she admits.

"That's okay," I chuckle. "I am sure there will be plenty more."

"Amen," she states and takes another drink.

"Maybe we should put the bottle away," I suggest and grab it. Not much left inside, but that doesn't matter. "I'll excuse you from work today and I can take you home," I offer.

"I am buzzed, but not drunk, Tris. God, I needed the alcohol. What the fuck were you thinking falling in love with ... him? He has issues, Tris, serious issues," she states.

"He is working through them, I promise you. He is not the same asshole who supervised our initiation. I am not asking you to spend time with him, but I want to be able to be in the same room as my husband and best friend without the two fighting. Four is learning how to get along with Eric and for some reason it works out remarkably well," I tell her, and she gapes at me.

"Four is okay with you and Eric? Am I in a sim?"

"No," I chuckle. "Eric is doing Four's physical training while I do the paperwork and they already worked out a way to work with each other," I state proudly.

"Wow," Christina breathes, and I cringe away from all that alcohol I can smell. Those days are over for now...

"I love you like a sister and I want you to be happy... just don't count on us becoming best friends," she adds, and I hug her something fierce.

"Thank god, for a moment I thought I would lose you," I exclaim, and she chuckles.

"You don't get rid of me that easily."

"Thank you," I state with conviction.

"So are you moving in with Eric," Christina asks.

"We are moving into a new apartment together when we have everything else sorted," I admit.

"Why," she asks.

"Why what?"

"A new apartment. You could simply move your things in his and leave Four where he is. As a leader in training he is entitled to it," she elaborates.

"If you think you can walk straight I will show you," I grin.

Christina stands up and proves she is steady enough to walk.

She follows me silently when I bring her to the family corridor for leaders. I open the door to my future home wide and let her enter ahead of me.

I am amazed by her mouth dropping open when she takes in the sheer size and when I open the sliding door to reveal the hallway and stairs she is starting to curse up a storm.

"Fucking hell, Tris! If I had known I could have an apartment like this I would have married Eric myself," she exclaims, and I snort.

"Seriously, this is amazing. No wonder you are both willing to move."

"It's only for leaders with children and it is a party free zone," I repeat Max's reminder.

"That's okay, I will come for quiet sleep overs with my niece or nephew," she explains, and I finally know we really are good.

"I am sorry to have to drag you back out, but I need to talk to a few more people today before Eric makes our relationship known," I state, and she gapes at me.

"Seriously," she asks.

"Yes, we agreed to go out for drinks, all of us leaders and spouses to celebrate Four's promotion and he will be affectionate in front of everyone. We thought that if Four doesn't pummel him the faction will take it better," I explain.

"Well, they certainly will keep it in mind if Four doesn't kill Eric but is friendly with him instead," she snorts out before she pauses.

"You know what, let's get everyone together in your apartment and you can break it to them all at once. If you do this one on one you will be offering drinks way into next week," she teases, and I sigh.

"I'll help you. I will be right next to you, supporting you," she declares again, and I couldn't love her more.

"Okay," I concede.

...

We do exactly that and I have to admit not all of them take it well. Zeke is the worst, but he was always and foremost Tobias' friend, so I don't blame him, even if the rejection stings. Christina soothes me that he will come around. I am his little sister after all.

Time flies and Tobias comes home, which helps diffuse the situation further because he is squarely in my corner and able to talk some sense into our friends.

"Now if you excuse us, Tris and I have a leadership celebration to get to," he states firmly and shows everyone the door.

"Are you okay,' he asks me, and I shrug.

"I could be better, but I will survive."

"Good," he kisses my forehead.

"I would hate to have to go after Eric for killing Zeke or Tori," he teases, and I snort. "Let's get ready and I will take you down to the bar."

...

It feels like I blinked and reappeared in the large bar we have down in the Pit.

There are several small ones, but we prefer the large one because of the plentiful seating opportunities. When we enter Max and Emma have secured two tables and are waving us over.

"Congratulations," Emma gushes and hugs me before turning to Tobias to congratulate him also. We both look at her worried until she bends forward and whispers into my ear. "I know that Four is celebrating his promotion, but I wanted to congratulate you on your marriage and the little bundle coming September," she explains and I grin at her, giving Tobias a thumbs up behind her back. He nods and proceeds to pick a seat, offering me the one next to him.

"Tris," Oscar squeals and comes running towards me, giving me a hug and dragging me to sit down with him.

It doesn't take long before Veronica and her husband Mark arrive and I look around, confused that Eric is still missing. He hates being late! Where the fuck is he?

Oscar and Tobias distract me until finally I feel two strong hands land on my shoulders. I look up slightly startled to see Eric did make it after all.

"I worried you had second thoughts,' I blurt out and his eyes widen.

He nudges Oscar who willingly makes space for Eric. Once seated he grabs my hand and whispers to me. "I love you and nothing in this world will make me give you up!"

I swallow hard and seek his eyes to confirmation. He stares at me until I break the spell and sigh.

"Okay," I state and take a sip from my drink.

Veronica got everyone one alcoholic drink and a glass of water and both Tobias and Oscar pushed theirs towards me without being asked while Tobias started sipping my beer.

"Eric, what took you so long," Max shouts a bit too loudly and walks over to slap Eric heartily on the back.

"I got delayed by some members wanting to talk through an issue," he states calmly. Too calmly for my taste and I look at him closely. He notices and squeezes my hand. On instinct I look down and groan.

"An argument you won with your fists," I admonish.

"I had to make my point," he relates and shrugs as if that should be nothing unusual.

Tobias suddenly groans beside me and I turn my head to him.

"They wouldn't," is all I hear muttered before I curse and turn back to Eric.

"Please tell me you did not get a visit from certain mutual acquaintances after I had a chat with them this afternoon," I ask with an edge to my voice.

"It was bound to happen, I made my point clear," Eric replies with a shrug.

"Care to fill me in," Max asks and takes a seat beside Eric, basically pushing Oscar out of his.

In order to not miss a thing Oscar circles around and sits opposite Eric.

"Tris had a chat with her friends this afternoon about what the future will look like for her and some took offense in her choice of partner," Eric says as if it means nothing. "I made it clear that I would not be going anywhere, and I was being cordial," he states.

"Right, Eric, that's why your knuckles look bloody." Max says what we are all thinking.

"I was being cordial about it until my wife was talked about inappropriately," he relates and this time I see red.

"Sit down, Tris, I handled it," Eric growls and I look at him like he grew a second head.

"Excuse me," I snarl.

"I am going to fight your fights for the next nine months, after that you can kick as many asses as you like," Eric reminds me and takes the fight right out of me.

Shit, I forgot!

"I'll help next time," Tobias pipes in and Eric smirks his way.

"That will definitely bring the message across."

"I'll talk to Hana," I offer, but Eric shakes his head.

"Not yet, we'll wait and see if he apologizes to you. If he hasn't done so by next week go and have a chat with mommy."

"So everything is under control," Max asks.

"Yes," Eric replies and then grabs a beer, taking big gulps.

"Thirsty," I tease.

"No, annoyed," he retorts, and I snort.

Max stands up and motions for Emma to bring over the tray of shot glasses she just got from the bar. She hands them out and then gives me one that has been slightly on the side. I try to smell it inconspicuously and figure it must be water.

Max whistles loudly to get everyone's attention.

Once the crowd is quiet, Max raises his glass and shouts for all to hear. "Tonight we celebrate Four accepting the vacant leadership position. To Four!" He drowns his drink and those who have one in their hands follow suit before the stomping and clapping begins.

Four stands up. "Thank you, it was a long time coming and I am looking forward to be trained by Tris and Eric." He motions to us and I can hear the crowd getting rather quiet in surprise. Eric training Four and Four being okay with it, unexpected to say the least.

"To Dauntless," Tobias shouts and the response is immediate.

"Showtime," Tobias states quietly when he sits down and soon enough I know what he means.

Members are approaching to talk to him about becoming a leader while Eric puts his arm around my shoulders and pulls me in close. Tobias keeps chatting with us until the first well-wisher speaks. This continues for a while. Tobias chats with the members who eye the three of us with open curiosity while Eric keeps his arm around me and nuzzles my hair or skin intermittently while we chat with one another and the others.

Finally the stream of visitors disappears and we are left to our own devices.

"You think that did it," I ask, and both Eric and Tobias nod their head vigorously, causing me to giggle.

"Wanna dance," Eric offers and I look at the crowded dance floor.

"Yeah, why not," I mutter and stand up. Eric grabs my hand and pulls me smack bang into the middle of the crowd.

We are getting odd looks, but that is it. Once we find a rhythm that works for both of us it is quite fun, and I feel powerful being able to rub myself all over Eric and wrap my body parts around his. I can feel the effect I have in him, but I also feel the effect it all has on me.

I look Eric straight in the eye and move my hand down his chest and past his waistband until it lands on his zipper where the bulge is straining against the fabric, ready to burst free any second.

"Ready to go home," I ask and rub my hand along the seam with the rhythm of the song.

"Yours or mine," he whispers into my ear before gently biting the lobe.

"Yours for now, ours soon," I moan and turn my head to meet his lips.

Eric is not holding back and my restraint is waning until a throat clears right beside us.

I look up annoyed, but it is Max who nods his head towards the doors.

"Yeah, I think we will do that," I shout over the music and he nods while Emma waves goodbye.

"I left my jacket at the table," I shout and Eric lead the way over to where Tobias and Oscar are sitting, watching us with shit eating grins.

"That's one way to show the faction you are together," Tobias teases and I stick my tongue out at him.

"Oh, the gossip tomorrow about you two leaving together," Oscar gushes. "I can't wait," he exclaims and claps his hands in excitement.

"I don't care," Eric states. "I am going to take the wife home. We have family business to attend to," he brags, and I slap his chest. "What?!"

"TMI," I state simply and grab my jacket, saying goodbye to the guys properly. "See you tomorrow in the gym," I remind Tobias and they all groan.

"Tris," I hear two voices whine.

"Training is going to commence at six am sharp," I state with conviction and turn around before the smile creeps onto my face.

I can hear some curses, but I do feel Eric's hand land on my back and guide me out the bar within seconds.

...

The next morning, I am sneaking into the cafeteria at quarter to six to find myself some chocolate.

Eric laughed so hard I ended up stomping out of the apartment when I told him I had been craving chocolate all night. The ass thinks it is way too early for pregnancy cravings. Well, maybe he should become pregnant first and then prove me wrong!

There is not much out yet and I am just about to knock on the kitchen door when I hear a loud squeal.

I turn around just in time for Hana to hug me instead of pushing me into the door face first.

"Oh, my baby is having a baby," she gushes, and I gape at her. I look around quickly and gently shush her when I see some heads turned our way.

"Nothing is official," I whisper, and she nods.

"Come here." She takes my hand and leads me to the side of the buffet or whatever you can call the measly selection out at this moment.

"I think I know what you are looking for," she smirks and pulls a container out from behind the coffee machines.

She quickly spoons some brown powder into an empty mug and adds hot milk.

"Here, try this. Not as good as coffee but not as bad as herbal tea," she explains wisely.

"How did you..." I start but she pushes the cup into my hand and nods towards a table in a darker corner.

We take a seat and Hana quickly checks the time.

"I have just a few minutes before my shift starts. Long story short, Shauna kicked Zeke out for behaving stupidly and he ended up on my couch, spilling the whole story. You can expect him to come and apologise sometime today," she growls the last part.

"I don't want an empty apology," I complain.

"It won't be empty," Hana promises. "Zeke has to learn to differentiate between what he wants for his little sister and best friend and what they want. It is not up to him to decide how your futures are supposed to look like and it is not up to him to decide who is allowed to make you happy," Hana continues.

"I love you," I whisper and hug her as hard as I can.

"Love you too, sweetie, and I am so glad it is you who is giving me my first grandbaby. Can you imagine any child of Zeke's or a Uriah's not being worse than them? They'll be lacking any discipline because I doubt Marlene or Shauna would be able to make up for their Daddy's inability to grow up. No, heaven forbid that for a while." Now Hana sounds like mother during prayer.

"What about..."

"Eric?" Hana continues for me when I hesitate. "We all need to find someone who compliments who we are. Someone who makes us feel more complete and content than we were on our own. Often it is not the obvious choice. You never met my Zane but trust me when I say nobody saw it coming. Zeke and Uriah are a lot like him, to be honest, but for someone as disciplined and serious as me it was a breath of fresh air. Someone to keep me on my toes and show me not to take myself and some things too serious. He taught me how to let go and have some fun while I reigned him in and made him show everyone he can be serious instead of being dismissed as the faction clown. He was an Amity transfer, believe it or not."

"So you think our factions of origin play a role in who we become?"

"That's not at all what I meant. Coming from Abnegation you and Four could have found the foundation to a great live with one another in Dauntless. Sometimes we find kindred spirits that are meant to be in our live in different ways than romantic. You are for all intents and purposes Zeke's and Uriah's baby sister although I never gave birth to you. Max and Veronica seem to have adopted you as theirs and there are so many more people in this faction that created a new family for you because you had to leave the old one behind. Finding someone to have a relationship with is personal and something only you can decide. Most of the times it is not really up to you either, the hands of fate work in mysterious ways... and I am late for work!"

Hana jumps up and rushes out the hall without so much as a goodbye.

I walk over to the kitchen door and knock loudly.

"I am sorry, I need to use your phone," I explain and the chef who opened the door points to the wall on the left. "Thanks," I say and quickly walk over.

"Control room, Sam speaking," a voice answers.

"Sam, this is Tris. I just wanted to let you know I delayed Hana and she will be with you momentarily. My apologies for this," I explain, and he chuckles.

"No worries," he states and hangs up.

Well, I grab my forgotten drink and walk to the training room while sipping it. It is nice. Not what I wanted but enough to starve the craving for something sweet and chocolaty.

...

Eric and Tobias started warming up without me and both silently glance at my cup before focusing back on what they were doing.

I quickly join them in their stretches and this time around they do not tell me I should sit down.

I do take it easy and stick to a slow jog when they push each other but I continue with my normal number of rounds.

When the men hit the bags, I continue with additional stretches to keep myself moving smoothly.

I focus on my breathing and when I return my focus on the gym I am surprised to see Eric beside me while Tobias is nowhere to be found.

"I am sorry," he starts, and I quickly kiss his lips to shut him up.

"We will find our way soon enough," I dismiss his apology.

"Hormones and all," he teases.

"Hormones and all," I agree, laughing freely.

"Good, now come here. I missed you," Eric states and kisses me properly for ... a while.

The sound of the gym door flying open has us separate in surprise and when Eric sees Zeke stalk over he jumps up and stands protectively in front of me.

"I come in peace," Zeke shouts and raises his hands.

Eric doesn't budge and I did not expect him to either.

I stand up slowly and move to take my place beside Eric who takes a small step forward and angles himself so he is physically protecting me from Zeke's direct line of attack should that happen.

Zeke stops a few feet away and just stares at us.

"I am sorry, Tris," Zeke states with too much sincerity to be fake.

I stay silent and let him continue.

"I don't hate you and I don't want to lose you. I... just thought I had to choose between you and Four even after you guys told us we didn't have to when you broke up. I felt like supporting you with Eric would be a slap on my best friends face," he tries to explain himself. I do understand, I really do, but he hurt me with his behaviour so I continue to stay quiet.

"I messed up and now it looks like I am losing my best friend and my little sister." There is long pause. "Can you help me out here," Zeke whines and it breaks the ice.

I burst into tears and Eric swings around to me, a look of horror on his face that matches Zeke's.

"Bloody hormones," I screech, and their faces soften a bit yet neither moves closer.

Eric slowly steps to me and opens his arms like a silent question if I would like a hug. I throw myself into his arms and he hugs me to him, making soothing sounds.

A throat clearing makes me look up and Zeke opens his own arms.

Eric is reluctant to let me go but does not protest when I ease myself from his hold and slowly walk over to Zeke.

"Don't hurt me again," I demand, and he nods, opening his arms wider.

"I was an idiot," he whispers when I step into his embrace.

"I know,' I say and wipe some snot onto his shirt.

"Hey," he protests.

"Just making sure you remember who your snotty little sister is," I say, and he hugs me tightly to said snot patch. Yuck!

"Can I have my wife back," Eric asks after some time and Zeke lets go, turning his attention to Eric.

"You will never replace Four," he starts, and I slap his chest hard while shouting "hey!"

"Let me finish," he accuses. "You will never replace Four as my best friend, but there is an opening as despised brother in law," Zeke continues and I slap him again, harder this time. "Ow, stop that, Tris!"

Zeke rubs the spot and pushes along in his little speech. "You hurt Tris and I will hurt you; you make her happy and we will have no issue during family dinners," he finally finishes and I am not sure if that was anything to be proud of but probably the best he will do in regards to Eric.

"I always wanted an annoying little brother," Eric deadpans and this time I swing at him.

"Ouch, don't hurt your hand. If you are out of commission, I will have to take over the paperwork training too," Eric groans and Zeke laughs this time.

"You'll do," he states. "Max sent me to let you know he has been teaching Four for the last two hours and it is time for you to take over," he explains his actual reason for being here.

Has it really been that long, I wonder.

"Come on," Eric nudges me towards the door that Zeke is holding open.

We are not walking together, but somehow not apart. I can't explain it, but I know that a few members do a double take when they see us and Zeke takes a piss at them, waving and blowing kisses. I can see Eric trying to hide the smirk but the corners of his mouth lift more and more.

"Now that we are family you don't have to hide when you feel like smiling," Zeke throws in and the scowl is back.

"Work on him, Tris," Zeke suggests and finally takes a turn to the control room when we pass that corridor.

"Give mom my love," I shout after him and he blows me a kiss.

"Second thoughts," I ask Eric when we are alone.

"No, but it won't be easy," he admits.

"Don't I know it!" I reply knowing full well my handpicked family is more than a handful and needs some getting used to. I am confident this time around that things will work out just fine.

...

Life continued, the faction got over their shock of the changes in Tobias' and Eric's lives.

Most people thought it was a joke until they saw Eric with me, the growing bump and the ring on my finger - unavoidable evidence of the truth.

Tobias flew through training and just as expected he was announced as full leader before summer.

He bitched about the leadership tattoo messing up the masterpiece on his back until Tori told him to shut up and wear all of his marks proudly for all to see.

I won't claim taking a step back was easy for me. Having to stay in the office and taking the truck instead of the train when I needed to leave the compound just really hit home during summer when I was starting to get miserable.

Eric tried really hard to keep my spirits up and even helped me relax in the newly created nursery between our offices on a daily basis. I am just glad Emma and Veronica never found out about our misuse of this space.

Finally, one sunny day in late August our daughter made her entrance into this world.

Eric and I decided to choose one name each and we would try to combine it as best as we could to make it work.

It was bittersweet that we both chose a reminder of what brought us together and we shared a sad chuckle before we had to explain to our friends and family why our daughter was called Eira Neve.

Zeke really impressed Eric when he handed him a list with boys' names as his gift to celebrate Eira's birth.

Turns out these names were all Dauntless boys aged from six weeks up to four years so Eric and the uncles would know who to start scaring as soon as possible.

That's when I knew we had come full circle and all Eric was fully integrated and accepted into my life.

THE END

Eira, a female name in Wales meaning "snow" in Welsh

Neve means Bright or Snowy and is of Irish origin