When they finally put Ava in her crib, Eric led Tris out to the hall with a gentle hand on her back. Wordlessly he opened the linen closet and took out a blanket, then led Tris to the master bedroom.
"Just let me get a pillow," Eric said quietly, "and I'll be out of your way."
"What?" Tris asked.
"Tris, it's late. And quite honestly, I'll need you if Ava wakes up again."
"I… I don't have anything to wear," she stammered. "And I have to work in the morning."
Eric shuffled through his dresser and handed Tris a t-shirt and a pair of boxer shorts. "I'll be downstairs," he said, kissing her on the forehead.
Tris' hands shook as she took the clothing from Eric.
"The door locks," Eric reminded her. "If it helps you feel safe-"
"Eric," Tris interrupted. "Let me sleep on the couch; you're too big."
"No," Eric said firmly. "Go to bed, Duchess. I'll see you in the morning." With that, Eric kissed Tris on the forehead again and left, closing the door behind him.
Tris went into the attached bathroom and changed. Eric's shirt was as big as a dress on her, but the boxers fit better than she expected once she rolled the waistband a bit. Tris blushed thinking that she was wearing a pair of Eric's underwear, but they were clean, so she tried not to dwell on it.
Back in the bedroom, she crawled into Eric's big bed.
.
Ava was fussy again in the morning. She clung to Tris, and squirmed and cried any time she was laid on her back or set down. She still had a low-grade fever, but Tris wouldn't let Eric give her any more medication, explaining that the doctor needed to see Ava's symptoms to know how to treat her.
"I just don't like to see her in pain," Eric argued.
"I know," Tris said. "You're a good daddy. But a little pain now is a lot less pain later."
Eric reluctantly agreed, and Tris stayed to help until Eric left for the appointment with the pediatrician.
"Text me," Tris admonished as they climbed into their respective vehicles.
After running home to change, Tris barely made it to Flapjacks on time. She clocked in and saw that she was scheduled to be on register.
Tris was distracted all morning. She wasn't allowed to have her phone at work, so she was restless and worried while she waited for a chance to check her messages.
After she messed up a customer's change, James sidled up to Tris and nudged her with his elbow.
"What's eating you, Dauntless?" he asked.
"Ava's sick," Tris said with a sigh. "Eric took her to the doctor, but I haven't had my break, so I don't know what they said. It's probably just teething and an ear infection, but she's never been sick before, at least not more than a stuffy nose."
James thumped Tris on the back. "Go get your phone," he told her. "You're on register, not touching people's food, and you have a sick kid."
Tris smiled gratefully at James and hurried to get her phone, which showed several messages from Eric.
E: You called it, Duchess. Ear infection
E: She hates this pink medicine they gave her.
E: I got the antibiotic in her, but she refuses the Tylenol.
E: (picture of Natalie holding sleeping Ava) Grandma to the rescue.
She sent Eric a quick reply before going back to work.
T: I'm sure Mom is happy to help. She was worried this morning. Last night was rough for you, nap if you can.
Eric replied quickly.
E: (selfie of Eric in Tris' bed) Your mom sent me to nap. I like this bed. It smells like you. (heart emoji)
T: I gotta go back to work. Sleep good.
Tris went back to work with a smile on her face. She didn't have any more messages when her break time came, and she finished her shift feeling better.
Eric and Ava were still at the Priors' house when Tris got off work, and they both looked better rested. Natalie suggested that Tris and Eric leave the baby with her and go out for dinner.
"Mom," Tris argued, "she's sick. We can't leave her."
"Nonsense," Natalie said. "It's just an ear infection, and she's doing just fine on the Tylenol and antibiotics. Besides, you two have a lot to talk about."
Eric smiled hopefully at Tris. "What do you say?" he asked. "May I take you to dinner?"
Tris agreed to dinner out with Eric. While she was showering and getting ready, he made a phone call.
He was surprised how quickly Tris returned, and how adorable she looked. Her hair was in a side braid, and she wore only minimal makeup. She was dressed in a short, loose-fitting sundress that was black with a grey feather print.
The short dress highlighted Tris' toned and tanned legs, and Eric noticed that her toenails were painted the same bright pink as Ava's.
"Are you ready?" he asked.
They said their goodbyes to Natalie and Ava, unnecessarily reminding Tris' mom of everything that crossed their minds, and that she should call them if anything came up.
"First-time parents..." Natalie said to Ava once the couple was gone. She shook her head and laughed.
.
"Where are we going?" Tris asked as they backed out of the Priors' driveway.
"Amar is waiting tables for the summer at a nice place on the lake," Eric explained. "I called him when you were in the shower. Since it's Tuesday they had reservations available, and Amar said he would put us in a more private table."
"That sounds nice," Tris said, suddenly feeling shy.
Eric reached across the console, his palm facing up in an invitation for Tris to take his hand if she was willing. She did, and he smiled with relief.
"Matthew called me," Eric said. "He tells me you're doing a news interview tomorrow to go with the magazine release."
Tris nodded. "I told him that he had to talk to you about Ava participating, or you for that matter. I don't have authority to release images of your daughter or to make decisions on your behalf."
"I told him that Ava has been sick, but we'll come with you if she's feeling better, and they can use pictures you agree to," Eric said.
"He wants us to do some other public appearances, too," Tris added. "Stuff like parades, county fairs, nothing big. He thinks the magazine and news pieces will make us an attraction."
"That's what your dad was afraid of," Eric said. "He doesn't want to use you and make you some sideshow to further his career."
"I know," Tris sighed, "and I don't like the attention or potential invasion of privacy, but he has to get elected. He would be an amazing senator, and he deserves this. I can't let him lose over stupid rumors and lies about me. That's why I have to tell my story - our story - even if I'd rather just keep it to myself. And I don't mind walking in a few parades and shaking a few hands."
They talked about Andrew's campaign for a few more minutes, and soon Eric was parking his truck at an upscale but casual restaurant with gorgeous views of the lake. He hopped out of the truck and hurried to the passenger side, but Tris had already climbed down on her own.
"Duchess," Eric scolded. "We're on a date. You have to let me treat you like a lady."
Eric saw a flash of hurt cross Tris' features, and he could have kicked himself for reminding her of their fight and his less than gentlemanly behavior when he was drunk.
"Have I told you how beautiful you look?" Eric asked, desperate to change the subject and help Tris feel loved and safe again.
"Thank you," she said shyly.
Eric hated that Tris felt so shy and unsure. He missed her banter and her confidence. He knew that his pushy attitude, brash words, and aggressive hands had pulled the proverbial rug out from under her. She had been relaxed with him and confident in his love as they eased into greater intimacy at her pace. Now she was self-conscious, nervous, and skeptical of his motives and reactions.
He knew that his only hope of restoring his girlfriend's trust and confidence was to start slowly rebuilding. He gave her a gentle smile and offered his hand as he walked them to the restaurant entrance.
True to his word, Amar had secured a private table for Eric and Tris. The hostess led the young couple to their seats, handed them menus, and wished them a pleasant evening. Amar arrived a minute later, wrapped in a white apron, with a big grin on his face.
"Good evening," he said with false formality and a bow. "Can I start you off with something to drink? Jack and Coke perhaps? Or are you skipping straight to tequila shots?"
Amar laughed, but Tris and Eric didn't join him. Eric watched Tris warily as her gaze fell to her lap.
"I'll just have water," she said. "Excuse me; I need to use the ladies' room."
As she ducked out of the booth without making eye contact, Eric swore under his breath.
"What happened?" Amar asked in alarm. "Was it something I said?"
"It's not your fault," Eric said wearily as he scrubbed a hand over his face. "I was an ass when George brought me home the other night. She wouldn't even talk to me until Ava got sick last night. It's kind of a miracle that she's here right now."
"Damn," Amar said. "I'm sorry. George was pissed too, if it's any consolation."
"Thanks," Eric said. "Like I said, it's not your fault. Apparently 'drunk Eric' isn't so patient with boundaries. I didn't do anything, but I scared her pretty good."
"So no alcohol for you," Amar said. "Can I get you a soda, lemonade, or water?"
"Water's good," Eric said.
Amar patted him on the shoulder as he left to get their drinks and check on his other tables. Tris returned a few minutes later, still not making eye contact with Eric.
"Are you okay?" he asked.
"I'm fine," Tris replied, glancing up briefly.
"I don't think you are," Eric said gently. "I think you're scared and doubting yourself. I talked to your mom today."
Tris looked up abruptly, just as Amar appeared with two glasses of water. He placed the beverages on the table, then addressed Tris.
"I'm sorry about the other night," he said. "Eric wanted to go home, but it was Max's birthday and we just got carried away. George was pissed when he had to come get us and drive everybody home. I hope we didn't wake Ava or cause too much trouble."
"It's fine," Tris said. "It's weird to hear that all your teachers got together and got wasted, but you're adults. I'm just glad nobody tried to drive."
"Tori tried," Amar laughed. "She's my sister-in-law and I love her to death, but that woman is insane. Fortunately George is familiar with her ways and took his keys. She looked like a toddler sitting behind the wheel trying to drive a parked car."
Amar laughed again, and Eric smiled when Tris giggled a little. "She's a wild one," Amar added, "but this guy is a cuddler. I think he hugged each of us about a hundred times, and he kept talking about how he wanted to go home and see his 'duchess.' Is that you, or the baby?"
Tris blushed fiercely and Amar laughed. "I think I have my answer, and it looks like Tori owes me ten bucks. Are you guys ready to order?"
The couple ordered dinner, and Amar left them alone. Eric was grateful for the jovial coach's words that lightened the mood. They talked about Ava and Tris' job until Amar brought their food.
After the first few bites of her dinner, Tris brought up their earlier conversation. "So you talked to my mom?" she prompted.
Eric nodded, and finished the food in his mouth before replying. "I got mothered pretty good," he said. "I think I'm grounded for a few weeks and she took away my allowance."
Tris smiled in spite of herself. "Yeah," she said, "Mom was pretty mad at you."
"Rightfully so," Eric said. "If a guy treated Ava like that, I'd have his balls in a vice grip. I'm completely ashamed of myself."
"Caleb claims he gave you a black eye," Tris said with a teasing smile, "but I see he was exaggerating."
Eric chuckled. "He did sucker punch me, and it did hurt, but he's not as strong as he thinks. My eye was a bit red yesterday, but it didn't bruise."
"Really?" Tris asked incredulously. "I thought he was making that up, and maybe he yelled at you or something."
"Oh, he yelled," Eric said, "but he took a swing at me first."
"I feel like I should apologize for him, but you kind of brought that on yourself," Tris said as she lifted another forkful to her mouth.
"I totally brought that on myself," Eric agreed. "I'm, uh, I'm actually surprised that your mom suggested we go out tonight. I expected her to shoo me away with a broom when Caleb told me that you and she discussed what I did."
"Actually, she was the one who convinced me to talk to you again," Tris said.
"Really?" Eric asked.
Tris nodded. "She pretty much said that we're young, and while she's not happy with you for getting wasted, she thought we could work through it. She reminded me that you love me, and that you want to be with me for the long haul, not just for… you know." Tris blushed and ducked her head.
Eric set his fork down and reached for her hand. "I miss you," he said quietly. "I miss your teasing, and your confidence. I miss the way you make my house feel like home. You bring so much to my life. Since I hurt you, and since Ava got sick… I just… I feel like all the color, all the joy, is gone from my life. You're my best friend, Tris. You're my co-parent, my cheerleader, and my sounding board. You give me confidence as a parent and as a man. You're everything to me, and I don't want to lose the whole cake over mere sprinkles."
"Sprinkles?" Tris asked with a grin.
"Sprinkles," Eric said. "They're a lot of fun, but only when it's part of something bigger. You're the whole package, Duchess, and when you're ready for sprinkles it will just add more to what I already love."
"Did someone say sprinkles?" Amar asked, suddenly appearing at their table. "It sounds like somebody is ready for dessert."
Eric smirked when Tris blushed. He took the dessert menu from Amar and ordered a chocolate lava cake to share.
Full of rich dinner and the lava cake Amar insisted was on the house, Eric and Tris walked back to the truck. Eric opened Tris' door and offered her a hand as she climbed into the tall vehicle. He walked around and got behind the wheel, then drove them back to the Priors' home.
Ava was asleep when they got there, so Tris invited Eric to sit on the back patio with her. He felt hopeful, and took it as a good sign that she wanted to spend more time with him. They grabbed glasses of lemonade and carried them out to the patio, where they sat side-by-side on a rocking bench. Eric cautiously put an arm around Tris' shoulders, and held his breath as he waited for her reaction. When she snuggled into his side, they both sighed with relief and contentment.
On Wednesday morning Tris woke in her own bed. Eric and Ava had gone home at a reasonable time, and Eric had texted that Ava slept through the entire drive and transition to her own crib. She didn't hear from him again overnight, so she assumed that the medicine was working and Ava was feeling and sleeping better.
Tris had an earlier shift at Flapjacks that morning, working breakfast and through the lunch rush, then being relieved instead of staying for the afternoon as she usually did.
After work she made her way home and prepared for her interview with the news station. They had asked her to dress casually, so Tris put on her cropped jeans and a flowy burgundy tank. She added the Dauntless necklace that Eric had given her for graduation, and a pair of grey flats. She braided her long hair and added a touch of makeup, unsure if the news team would do hair or makeup for the interview.
Matthew and the news team had arranged for the interview to be held in the lobby of the converted KMart-turned-church where Tris found baby Ava. When she arrived, the news van was already there, so Tris parked and went inside.
She was greeted by the station's reporter, Jane Andrews, who handled human interest stories. She was a kind middle-aged woman with silver streaks in her dark hair, and a strong "mom" vibe. Her segments were popular, and viewers enjoyed her compassionate reporting, and the often heart-warming stories she covered.
A small crew was setting up lights in the church's lobby. Jane introduced Tris to the minister, a grandfatherly gentleman with grey hair and a warm smile. Tris thanked him for allowing them to use his church for the interview.
"Miss Prior, we are happy to help," the minister assured her. "From what Ms. Andrews has told me of your story, it sounds like quite the miracle. I will think of it every time I drive past that side of our building. Thank the Lord that He put you in the right place at the right time. Will the baby be here today?"
"I'm not sure," Tris said, pulling out her phone to check for messages. "She's teething and she's had an ear infection, but Eric said that if Ava wakes up from her nap in time and is feeling good enough, he'll bring her over. Would you like to see a picture of her?"
The minister agreed, and Tris showed him a picture of Ava from Christmas, when she was just tiny, then another picture of the chubby, smiling, almost-six-month-old.
"Look at her!" the minister cooed. "She's so beautiful and healthy." Tris beamed with pride.
Jane led Tris to the seating area where the news crew was ready to begin taping. She helped Tris put on a wireless microphone, and explained that since this was a human-interest story and not live news they would tape more than they would use, and they might have to record things more than once. Tris nodded in understanding and followed the reporter's instructions as they began.
Jane instructed Tris to tell the story of how she came to find baby Ava. Tris walked through her tale, answering the reporter's questions.
"I understand that you and the baby's father are in a relationship now," Jane said.
"We are," Tris said. "We became friends as we helped him prepare to take Ava home and while he was adjusting to life after suddenly becoming a single parent. My mom and I provided childcare for a few weeks after he took her home. A couple weeks ago he asked me out, and I was happy to say yes. Eric is a terrific father and a wonderful person."
"He's not bad to look at, either," said the reporter conspiratorially. "I saw the pictures in Chicagoland Magazine. The three of you look good together."
"Thank you," Tris said, blushing.
Once the news team was satisfied with the footage they got inside, Jane asked Tris to take her outside and show her where she found the baby. Tris obliged and the reporter, minister, and the whole news crew followed her out to the parking lot.
Tris pointed out the garbage can near the bus stop on the corner, and explained where she had found the pink blanket. Jane instructed the cameraman to set up there, and she and Tris got in position.
"So Tris," Jane began. "We're standing right where you were when you found baby Ava. Tell us how that came about."
Tris told her story again. She pointed out where the baby was laying and what she was thinking as she opened the blanket and revealed the tiny newborn. As she was talking about zipping the newborn into her vest to share body heat while they waited for help, Tris' story was suddenly interrupted by a loud squeal. She looked up and saw Eric walking toward her with Ava in his arms.
Tris laughed. "Sorry to interrupt," Eric said. Ava squealed again and waved her arms at Tris.
"It looks like someone wants your attention," Jane said.
Tris stepped toward Eric and took the happy baby from his arms. He leaned in and gave Tris a peck on the forehead and a one-armed hug. She leaned into his chest and introduced him to the minister, reporter, and news crew.
They put a microphone on Eric and taped some more with him and with Ava. Eric emphasized how much the Prior family had done to provide and care for Ava when she was their foster child, and how they had selflessly helped him as he and Ava started their life together.
When the news crew had everything they needed, Tris got in her car and followed the Coulters to Eric's house. Tris looked at her phone when they got there and saw a surprising text from Christina.
C: OMG! You're on CelebWatch! (link)