***taps microphone*** Hello...is anyone still there? I know it's been a long while :) ...
My only excuse is that COVID wreaked absolute havoc on my life in every way it could for the last 2 years. But I digress...I promised I would see this story through, so here I am :)
This chapter picks up the night before Eric and Jade's wedding, when what's been done in the dark is brought to light, for more than one unfortunate soul. Jade finally settles things with Ayden for good (so she thinks), Eric does the same with his father, and Brady finally gains some clues about what's plaguing Leah, though it will be presented in a misconstrued way. Rachel and Sebastian will begin to come to terms, and Brady will prove exactly why men shouldn't always listen to their friends' advice about women. No smut (saving the good stuff for later), but the other usual: profanity, angst, and parental death, mentions of suicide. Enjoy!
-Emmy
"Ma'am? Where would you like this?"
Rolling my eyes in amusement, I turn to the Dauntless guard holding a large box. "Connor...we're the same age. Don't call me ma'am," I pretend to chide, biting back my smirk. He grins sheepishly, setting the box on the counter. "Sorry...Jade. Most of the stuff is labeled, except this." Curious, I flip the lid open to find several files. This looks like it came from Eric's office. Knowing how protective he is of confidential council matters, this is probably something he wanted to handle.
"I'll take care of it."
The early Autumn sun washes through floor-to-ceiling windows, bathing everything in a beautiful golden-orange glow as I head toward the new home study. Several Dauntless soldiers nod as I pass, busy bringing in boxes, unpacking them, polishing windows, making sure everything is to Eric's standards. We officially move in after our wedding tomorrow, so time is of the essence.
"Wow...almost finished," I murmur, my eyes sweeping the layout. When I first saw this place, it was still under renovation, no personal feeling at all. Now, it's perfectly polished and painted, it's swankiness something to which I'll have to grow accustomed. All I've ever known is concrete and steel, the only two durable substances to hold up against Dauntless antics.
True to Dauntless form, the furniture is mostly black with accents of garnet thrown throughout. A sprawling, oversized couch nestles around the fireplace. A huge projection monitor looms above, where Eric will watch the Candor news reports in the morning. A fully stocked bar sits off to the side, glasses hanging from the holder over it. Though I've seen it many times now, the panoramic view of the Chicago backdrop still takes my breath away.
Once upstairs, I open the door to Eric's new office with my hip. As I place the box among the others, a sudden intrigue grabs me. This box was separate, and it's not a coincidence. Eric doesn't do anything that isn't deliberate. Flashbacks of what happened the last time I went snooping remind me this is a bad idea, making me quickly drop it.
Opening Pandora's box is the last thing I need the night before my wedding.
Turning to leave, I take a few steps before stopping. "Goddamn it, Jade...have you learned nothing," I scold before quickly making my way back. Straining my ears to make sure no one is coming, I pull out the first file. Scanning, I don't see anything peculiar about the image of the beautiful blonde woman staring up.
"Lyla Monroe..."
Poring over her dossier, something is familiar but can't be placed. "No, she died before I was born, I never met her..." Looking for some sort of clue, the only thing ascertained is that she was an Erudite whose final cause of death was determined to be suicide. My brow raises when I flip the page, reading the medical reports during her confinement in the Erudite psychiatric ward.
"Patient suffers from psychosis and delusion, attributed to severe post-partum depression. Possible undiagnosed schizophrenia...suffers hallucinations and imagined auditory influence..."
A sense of wrong overcomes, compelling me to quickly shut her folder. Though this woman is dead, it's not right to invade her privacy. This has nothing to do with me, I have no business with this. Besides, rumor around Dauntless is that the council is trying to figure out the source of the factionless attacks. They're going through all old files, trying to pinpoint who would want to hurt citizens and why. This must be part of investigations being done by all factions, nothing more.
Eric is right... council business is council business and none of mine. Another destructive pattern I need to break; creating a problem where there is none. Sighing, I carefully put the files back into the box and reseal them. As I'm making my way downstairs, Kaia's code flashes on the screen of my buzzing phone.
"Hey, Kaia..."
"Hey, Jade...I was just calling to get permission to update your list."
"What list?"
"Your approved list of who can visit your home."
"My what?"
My brows furrow, stopping on the stairs. "Normally, we'd just have faction codes programmed to the palm reader. Now that the building is upgraded with new tech security, anyone who tries to visit you will have to go through a second scanner and be on the approved list. Without it, access to the elevator leading to your unit will be denied. The new protocol for council and spouses. I already added your mother, I just need your approval for the rest," Kaia explains.
"Jesus Christ...this is a Dauntless-sanctioned building, is that necessary?"
Kaia clears her throat, unsure of how to respond. "All right...if we must, enter Rachel Carlisle, Leah Kane, Samantha Davenport, Ashley Taylor, and yourself for now," I instruct, finding this ridiculous.
After we hang up, I cluck my teeth in irritation. Just because I'll be a council wife as of tomorrow, it doesn't mean I'm suddenly going to be fragile. I hate this hoity-toity bullshit...I'm Dauntless, not Erudite. Even if I were, I can take care of myself, I don't need anyone to save me. "Besides...I'd end up saving them," I grumble, reaching the main floor.
Perusing my new massive kitchen, I run my fingers along with the black granite countertops and steel fixtures. Eric had all-new state-of-the-art appliances installed, why I don't know. My cooking level is intermediate at best, I have no idea how to use half of this stuff. "What the fuck is this," I wonder, stopping in front of a huge machine that looks like a small spaceship. "Brew...cold...lukewarm...tepid...searing...latte...Oh." Scowling, I'm trying to figure out why the Erudite find it necessary to make something as simple as coffee so complex.
"Excuse me...ma'am?"
With an irritated sigh, I turn to an office assistant holding several wires. "Call me Jade, Isla...the same thing you've always called me." Isla giggles, shrugging apologetically. "My bad... I need to hook up the projection monitor. I also need to run several tests to make sure the camera feed from the compound is coming through. I'm going to run it through the big projection monitor first, to make sure no files are corrupted before connecting it to Eric's office. It's going to be loud when microphones connect," she explains.
"Okay...do what you have to do."
Shaking my head, I turn back to the coffee maker. After grabbing the container, I pour it into the machine to grind and heat. As the familiar aroma begins to waft, I breathe in deeply. For some weird reason, I'm in a better mood after I drink it and get a headache if I don't. Why Eric doesn't like this special Amity blend is beyond me...it most likely has some form of weed in it, a universal ingredient for everything. When I teasingly ask why he doesn't just say it's laced, a strange, almost panicked look dawns in his eye, but he just shrugs.
"Excuse me your highness...are us lowly peasants allowed in the presence of one of Dauntless's soon-to-be newly minted queens?"
Rachel enters the kitchen with a teasing grin, my lips pursing in response. "Well, well, well...I'm surprised to see you here...I thought Sebastian might've grounded you because of my bachelorette," I giggle. Rachel's jaw drops in mock surprise, pretending to rub her wrists.
"I managed to convince him to let me out of my restraints. I mean, how silly of me to forget I always let men tell me what do...except I don't, because fuck that bullshit."
"How pissed was he?"
"Pissed enough. His problem, not mine...everyone in Dauntless knew Jade Crawford's bachelorette was not going to be a tame little tea party. I had to send my best friend off to married life with a bang."
"That, you did... I'm just glad you and Samantha had the foresight to plan it a few weeks before the actual wedding...I'm still not fully recovered."
Rachel giggles, taking a seat on one of the barstools. "Well, at least you can recover in luxury. Damn...talk about a castle in a cloud..." she muses, looking around. She nods when I silently offer her a cup of coffee, once more quirking her brow. "Surely, you're not going to pour it yourself...don't you have people for that?" She jests. A loud, screeching sound suddenly pierces through the air, Rachel and I instinctively covering our ears. "The fuck was that?" Rachel asks. The large screen powers on, sweeping images of the Dauntless compound coming into focus.
"Eric's security clearance is being transferred from our old residence to this one. They're making sure nothing's been corrupted before connecting it to his confidential database."
"That explains why the palace guards all but strip-searched me before letting me in here. Out of curiosity, is constipation an immediate side effect of all these people stuck up your ass?"
I throw my towel at her. "Taunt me all you want now, bitch...but remember when Sebastian is eventually promoted to the council, we'll be neighbors," I laugh. Rachel's smile wanes, her good mood fading. "Or...not..." I say slowly, raising my brow. Rachel sighs, taking a sip before rolling her eyes.
"He doesn't want to wait until he's on the council...he's already brought up moving in together."
"That's a bad thing?"
"It is right now."
"Why?"
Rachel's features become strained, her voice lowering. "Because I don't know if he wants it for the right reason," she responds quietly. Creasing my forehead, I lean my crossed arms on the counter. "What do you mean the 'right' reason? What would be the wrong one?" Rachel shrugs, turning her palms up.
"I can't help but notice the timing is a little similar..."
"What do you mean?"
"I mean, you and Eric are getting married tomorrow, Leah and Brady now live together and it's only a matter of time before they jump from the ledge, Ashley and Rob got married and just had their babies, and...one of the few left, is Sebastian. I don't know if it's what he truly wants, or if he's just jumping on the bandwagon."
I drum my nails on the counter, nodding in thought. "I can see how it might seem that way, but I genuinely don't think Sebastian is just trying to conform. My honest opinion?" She gestures to continue.
"Sebastian knows how badly he fucked up, and what it almost cost him. It just may have been brought to his attention that women like you are rare and hard to come by. If he loses you, he'll regret it for the rest of his life. He wants it understood he's committed and wants to know the same from you. You, my love, accomplished what no one ever thought was possible...you tamed Sebastian Black. That's no easy feat."
"Have I really though? I guess that's the main point of contention."
My teasing smile slowly fades, surprise taking its place. Rachel sighs, running her hand over her hair. "Look...I know Sebastian cares about me, I'm not doubting that. However, at the same time, he's still Sebastian Black. The same one whose dick was like a heat-seeking missile, nailing every target in his path. People don't change overnight, and I don't think Sebastian is an exception. I just want to be sure I won't be played for a fool," she explains.
Taking a sip, I eye her over the brim. "Truth be told, it doesn't sound like Sebastian is the one with the commitment problem...also, let me correct something. Sebastian doesn't just 'care' about you...the man is in love with you and would do anything for you. Of that, I have no doubt." Rachel narrows her eyes in mock suspicion, clucking her tongue.
"Yeah, something I've wondered about...kind of strange how Sebastian just happened to gain access to your old apartment so he could lay in wait to ambush me...how was he able to do that?"
Automatically put on the defensive, I smile into my coffee mug. "How would I know? Sebastian is a Commander with connections high up in Dauntless, my husband included...any number of ways." Rachel sighs, shaking her head with a wry smile. Feigning outraged innocence, I put my hand in the air.
"Hand to God...the words 'Rachel is staying in my old apartment' never once came out of my mouth. You're my best friend, I would never do that."
"Sebastian just happened to figure out where I was, and you had nothing to do with it? Even though it was your apartment, and you were one of the very few who knew?"
"Sebastian isn't stupid, Rachel. He's more than capable of figuring things out on his own, then doing what he saw fit. He may have picked up on some context clues during our little chat, but I never specifically told him."
"What 'little chat'?"
Rachel raises her brow when my face grows solemn. "Sebastian came to me before the Ball, desperate and heartbroken, not knowing what else to do. He begged...yes, Sebastian Black fucking begged...to help him. He said, quote, 'I love her, Jade...I just need her to give me a chance to prove it'. That's verbatim," I state evenly.
A long, pregnant silence passes before Rachel finds her voice. "He asked for help? He admitted he loves me?" she asks softly. A smile pulls at the corners of my mouth.
"Yes, he did...and it wasn't easy for him to do. I've known Sebastian my whole life, and I've never seen him like that. If someone said a year ago he would give a shit about a female, let alone admit he loves her, I'd say give me a hit of whatever they're smoking. But one thing is for sure; Sebastian loves you, and willing to do whatever it takes to prove it."
Rachel stares for a long while, not knowing what to say. "I guess time will tell," she finally whispers, swallowing the lump in her throat. I turn my palms up with a shrug. "Look...even if you can't believe him right away, you can believe me. Consider this returning the favor." Rachel's eyes meet mine questioningly.
"Returning what favor?"
"You gave me a hard dose of reality when I almost ruined things with Eric. If you hadn't...I would've lost the love of my life. You refused to coddle or validate my bratty ass when I was dead wrong, and I was able to get my shit straight. Don't think for a second I won't pull you back from the brink when I see you going in the same direction."
I set my mug on the counter. "Besides...it's not like Sebastian is stuck or has ties he can't break...you aren't knocked up and won't be until you choose. One trap that can't be set." A smirk breaks over Rachel's face, wiggling her brows. "Drink to that, bitch," she demands playfully, clinking our mugs together in mock toast. After each taking a sip, Rachel shakes her head with a smile.
"I have to say...I thought you were supposed to be the crazy-bitch bride, but you've been the calmest and most collected of all of us."
"What can I say...I'm not exactly in my element when it comes to this bullshit...I'm perfectly content to let Leah and my mom do whatever the hell they want. You can ask me anything you want about bullets, scope range, and reading an opponent in battle...but ask me anything about 'centerpieces' or anything else wedding-related, I'll have nothing for you. I'll leave that shit to Leah."
Rachel frowns. "Speaking of Leah...am I imagining it, or has she seemed a little off lately?" She wonders. I cock my head to the side. "Maybe a little...but her schedule was insane for a while. She had the Founder's Ball, and now my wedding. She probably hasn't had a minute to catch her breath."
Rachel is about to speak when she does a doubletake over my shoulder. "Or...could that have something to do with it?" She murmurs, her eyes glued to the projection screen. Turning to see what caught her attention, my eyes round.
The camera sweep has now shifted to the Dauntless underbelly, where many rooms sit untouched. Stepping out of one of them is Leah, glancing around furtively. After a moment the door widens, another person stepping out behind her. "Who the fuck is that?" I whisper, Rachel and I both trying to make out the tall male figure. "I don't know, but who it's not, is Brady," Rachel whispers back.
Leah moves out further, appearing to say something. She briefly slips back into the shadows, a pair of hands coming into view around her waist. Leah breaks away, giving a tight smile while her eyes dart around again. As she hurries along the dim trail to the service elevator, Rachel and I both drop our jaws at whom steps into the light.
Four...
Giving the same vigilant, sweeping glance, Four quickly takes off in the opposite direction until fading from view. "What the fuck is she doing with Four?" Rachel gasps as we stare in disbelief. Shaking my head, I reach for my phone. "Let's find out right now." Rachel furrows her brow as I dial Leah's code.
"What are you doing?"
"I'm going to see if she tells the truth about where she is... could be innocent, let's not jump to conclusions."
Leah picks up after the second ring.
"Hey, Jade..."
"Hey...what are you doing?"
"Nothing...just stepped out of the shower. What's up?"
My eyes snap to Rachel's, silently expressing our disbelief.
"You're home right now?"
"Yes...why?"
"Umm...I just wanted to make sure there's no last-minute alterations needed..."
Leah giggles into the receiver. "Don't worry, Jade...you're going to look amazing. I'm working on it as we speak," she declares. Rachel and I shake our heads in unison, both realizing Leah just lied again...she said she's working on my dress, but it's down at her studio, and she said not five seconds ago she was at home.
"Jade? You there?"
"Ahh...yeah...sorry, just got a million things going on at once..."
"Well, get some sleep Mrs. Coulter...got a huge day tomorrow. I'll be at Tamra's bright and early, with a whole team ready to help. Don't worry about a thing."
"Ok...see you tomorrow."
As we hang up my heart sinks, Rachel and I exchanging a look filled with dread. Leah just lied about where she was, then lied again...and we just caught her with Four. "What the fuck is she thinking?" Rachel sputters, throwing her hands up. "Ok, look...let's not assume the worst just yet. There could be a perfectly reasonable explanation..." I begin, hearing how weak that is. Rachel arches her brow disapprovingly.
"An explanation of why she's skulking around the darkest corners of Dauntless, with one of the hottest guys in it?"
"All I'm saying is that we might not know the whole story, it could be innocent..."
"Jade, we both saw the same thing...whatever story behind it is irrelevant, because that was not innocent."
"We don't know that for certain, Rachel."
"Yes, we do."
"How?"
Rachel sighs, closing her eyes. "Because if it were innocent, Leah wouldn't have lied... like you did, when you started sleeping with Eric. You were jumpy all the time, tense...and lying your ass off, because you didn't want us to know. Before you get all pissed off, I'm not taking a cheap shot, Jade...simply stating a fact. We can try to justify it all we want, but we both know what we saw. It's only a matter of time before this makes its way to Brady. Four will be dead within the hour that it does," she finally responds.
A heavy moment passes, knowing I can't refute any of it. "Rachel...the fact remains its none of our business. Leah is a big girl; she can take care of herself. She'll tell us when and if she's ready." Rachel shakes her head in refusal, looking at me pointedly.
"Jade, there's a time to mind our own business and a time to cross boundaries when it's for the greater good. We must tell her what we saw...Leah may not owe us any explanations, but she at least needs to know that we're aware something is going on. If she's not warned to handle shit a little differently... regardless of innocent or not...things are going to get a lot worse for her. It's us that saw her this time...what if it's Brady next?"
Rachel is right. If the wrong person were to see what we just saw, it has the potential to blow up Leah's life. I'm about to speak when the door above us suddenly opens. Isla makes her way down the stairs, carrying her equipment bag. "Okay, the feed is up and running. I adjusted the volume, so it doesn't sound throughout the entire house," she calls, stepping into the kitchen. Rachel and I look at each other in panic. Shit...
"Get everything you need?" I ask a little too forcefully. Isla's forehead creases in confusion, her eyes shifting to an equally tense Rachel. "Yeah...I think so," she answers carefully, not understanding the sudden friction. She glances between us again, arching her brow.
"Is something wrong?"
Rachel forces a slight giggle, trying to appear nonchalant. "Forgive her, Isla...Jade's having a bit of pre-wedding jitters," she chirps too cheerfully. She locks eyes with me, her silent command of calm the fuck down received clearly. Plastering a smile, I quickly shift focus.
"Yeah, I'm sorry...it's just hitting me that I'm about to get married and I'm freaking out over stupid shit. Did everything work okay? Is Eric going to have something to bitch about that I'll need to be prepared for?"
Isla's face relaxes, nodding in reassurance. "Everything is fine, Jade. System is up and running, no kinks...don't worry. Before I married Hunter, I threw up twice. Perfectly normal. The day goes so quickly you don't even remember much of it." She smiles at both of us, gathering her equipment.
"I was under the desk hooking everything up, so I couldn't see the monitors...did the picture come through?"
Rachel and I breathe a collective sigh of relief. "Yeah, it worked fine," I assure, once more forcing a smile. Isla nods, adjusting her bag. "Okay great...that's it for now then...I'll see you at your wedding tomorrow. Good luck," she calls over her shoulder. After the door shuts behind her, we both look at each other squarely. "We've got talk to Leah," Rachel declares, rubbing her forehead. "Yeah, we do..." I agree, looking out into the Chicago skyline.
Painful memories of what I did to Ayden once more pang in my heart, recognizing Leah on this same path. Whatever she's doing with Four, whatever she's about to do with Four, is of course her business... but she needs to know one thing from someone with unfortunate experience with this kind of deception. If she falls into this rabbit hole, she'll find it damn near impossible to find her way out.
The carnage she'll leave in her wake isn't worth it.
After several hours have passed, the sun begins to lower over the city skyline. Stretching my neck from side to side, I'm giving a quick walk through of my new surroundings, still in awe this will be my new home. Grabbing a beer from the already stocked fridge, I step out to my new wrap-around deck and sink into an oversize lounge chair. I've had a long day, and I'm going to have an even longer one tomorrow.
"At least all this bullshit will be over with," I grumble in reassurance, taking a swig. Ever since Max forced us to expedite our wedding, everything is 'wedding this and that', and I'm beyond over it. It's made me an anxious mess, unable to sit still for a Goddamn nanosecond, always thinking there's something to do or direct. "Ugh..." I mutter, hastily rising to pace the ledge once again.
Though not dreading it, life as I know it now will never be the same. Everything will change, I'm just now sure how well I'll adjust. My eye lands on my engagement ring. Flexing my finger, I gaze at the huge, sparkling black gem. It's soon to be accompanied by the final piece of my adult life; my wedding ring...with Eric's name permanently underneath it. My heart beats faster as I watch it wink in the shifting light, realizing another truth.
Tonight, is my last as Jade Crawford. Tomorrow, she'll be gone.
My eyes shift to the city below, breathing in deeply. Less than 24 hours until I officially start the next chapter. If I'm going to do that, Jade Crawford's must close. Every past transgression, guilt, pettiness, hurt, and injustice I've dealt with need to be left behind. Things that no longer matter can't plague the life and future I'm going to build with Eric. I need to let all of it go...
I need to let her go...I'm not that woman any longer.
My buzzing phone breaks my train of thought. Pulling it from my pocket, I smile at Eric's code.
"You aren't supposed to be calling me right now, you know..."
"Why?"
"It's bad luck for the bride and groom to see or speak to each other the night before their wedding."
"Fuck that...safe to say we've already defied the odds."
"Pretty ballsy to tempt fate."
Eric huffs into the receiver. "Bullshit...nothing dictates when I see my wife. Especially not some ancient, ludicrous superstition," he growls, making me smile. "I'm not your wife until tomorrow, so there's still time to run," I tease. He doesn't say anything for a long moment, a strange tension growing between us.
"Not fucking funny...try it and see how far you get," he finally thunders.
My smile melts, taken aback by his reaction to my trivial jest. "The fuck is your problem? It was a joke...relax..." I grit slowly. After another long pause, Eric clears his throat.
"Is everything finished?"
"I guess...they've been here all day, setting up your office. Which reminds me...a separate box came from HQ. I didn't know if you meant it to be brought here."
"Yes, it was. Put it near my desk...not supposed to be left in the open."
Clicking my tongue in irritation, I shake my head. "I think you meant to put a 'please' in front of that. Don't bark orders at me like I work for you. There's no one here but me right now, so it doesn't matter. Since you have such a bug up your ass about me being in your precious office anyway, you can do it yourself," I snap back.
Eric sighs, I imagine with his signature scowl. "I would, but I have a council matter to attend." Rolling my eyes, I reluctantly concede. "I'll take care of it once I talk myself into going inside," I snip.
"What are you doing outside?"
"Thinking about how I'm going to marry a psychotic asshole tomorrow and trying not to jump."
Eric chuckles, breaking the tension. "Fair enough. I'll see you at Navy Pier...either by choice or escorted by guard," he replies in casual tone. "We'll find out tomorrow," I laugh softly.
Hanging up, I run a hand through my hair and head toward the office. "This motherfucker," I grumble, reaching the second floor. Picking up the box, I head toward the enormous black oak desk. Eric said he didn't want it out in the open, but I don't have a key to the large vault along the wall. The keys must be in the desk. Rummaging through, my finger finds a small panel with 4 buttons on the roof. Weird place for a control panel...what is this?
Unable to stop myself, I press the first one. A green light blinks, then the vault pops open. "Of course," I mutter. After placing the box in it, I close it and move to leave. Stopping once more, I can't help but be curious about the other 3 buttons. Glancing around, I walk back to the desk and press the second one. The wall to my left immediately comes to life, floor-to-ceiling monitors powering up. The sweeping images of the Dauntless compound come into focus, with even more places now covered. There's no area that isn't touched.
Pressing the third button, the wall to my right powers up. "What the Hell," I muse, expecting to see more of Dauntless, but instead see various points in the city. Not recognizing some spots, I step closer, confused.
Abnegation has every single sector under monitor. Their headquarters, homes, factories, their kitchens, their dining hall...everything, is being watched. The perimeter is outlined, with 'no escape threat' highlighted in green, and 'escape route possible' highlighted in red at certain checkpoints. Pressing the button again, I expect it to switch to either Amity or Candor, when a computerized voice speaks.
"Isolation simulation engaged."
The simulated images of bodies manning every possible breach form on the screen. Simulated trucks drive a path through the streets of the faction, stopping at one particular home. "Probable location of target" the voice reads. Target...what target? What the hell is going on at Abnegation?
When nothing else happens, I press the button again and it powers off. Hesitant to press the fourth, I do it anyway. A small vibration is felt in the floor, with the sound of squeaking wheels. As I'm looking to see where its coming from, panels of the wall behind me suddenly shift back. Two elevator doors swing open to a dimly lit car. Stepping toward it, my confusion grows.
Why does Eric have a secret elevator?
Cautiously stepping into the car, the button menu is strange. It has every floor in the building, but there's also one that opens directly into the street on the ground floor. Starting to press the down button, I stop myself just in time.
For reasons I can't explain, I don't want Eric to be aware I know about this. The thought of being able to leave with no one knowing or tailing me...a problem I've pretended not to notice as of late...is too enticing to risk. I must move the box. If he finds it in the vault, he'll know I found the desk panel.
Hurriedly taking it out, I place the box right by his desk and look around for any signs of my discovery. Satisfied it looks the way I found it, I step back onto the elevator and press for ground. With a loud creak it makes its descent. Suddenly stopping, my apprehension tingles when the doors don't open. With a jolt, it starts to move again, only it's not going up. It's moving to the side. "What the fuck..." Finally stopping, the doors open into a small corridor with double doors. Cautiously pushing them open, I'm blinded by city light as I step into a small set of stairs.
Craning my neck all the way up, I find myself at the very back of the building, a small alleyway between the neighboring skyscrapers. Quickly checking my surroundings, I find them deserted, not a Dauntless soldier in sight pretending they're not following me. I better remember where this is so I can get back. I pull out my phone, then decide against it. I can't take a picture of where I am, Eric will know I know about this. I know he has access to my faction data and phone, and he'll figure it out.
As far as anyone knows, I'm still up there. No one saw me leave, so I can have a little time to myself, which I've been desperately craving. Looking around, I see the Hancock towers peaking over an abandoned building. The Hancock has been a fortress of solitude for me since I was little. It was the one place I could express my grief over my father's death, without upsetting my mom. It seems to be exactly what I need right now, especially since it's too high for the cameras to reach.
It makes the most sense, and most fitting place to say goodbye to Jade Crawford for good.
As night begins to steal day, I take a swig from my flask. I've been up here for a while now, without hearing alarm sirens or any announcement of a missing Dauntless citizen. Eric hasn't tried to call again, so I know my little excursion has gone undetected.
This is just what I needed. Everyone out of my fucking face, not bothering me with some detail that I couldn't care less about. Stretching my legs, I watch the sun set fully in the distance. "Shit, I better get back," I mutter, rising to my feet. The last thing that needs to happen, is someone realizing I left and a fucking dragnet is ordered. I don't want to lose this little hidden guilty pleasure; one I plan to take full advantage of even after the wedding.
The sudden creak of the metal door startles me, accompanied by the crunch of gravel under boots. Gripping the holster of my gun, the silhouette of a tall, muscular man comes into view. As he steps closer, his Dauntless combat wear becomes visible. "Goddamn it," I seethe. Of course, Eric somehow found out and hunted me down.
"Never let it be said you aren't predictable," I call out in amusement, holstering my gun. "Look, before you get all pissed off and overreact, let me explain. I was not snooping...I found it when you asked me to put the box away," I begin to plead my case. He doesn't respond, slowly reaching up and pulling his hood down. Confused when doesn't immediately start berating me for leaving without telling anyone, I try again. "Look, I was just curious and...wanted...to..." the rest of my sentence dies in my throat, when he steps fully into the light.
Instead of seeing Eric's murderous glare, I see Ayden's determined one.
"Hello Jade," he says calmly, simply waiting for me to get over the shock of it being him instead of Eric. His chest rises and falls, his eyes trained on me steadily. His now overly muscled arms ripple under the fabric of his black uniform, crossing them and taking a commanding stance. Shaking my head, I finally find my voice.
"What the hell are you doing here?" I hiss. Ayden steps toward me as I instinctively back away.
"I wanted to talk to you, and I wanted to do it off-camera...this is the only spot surveillance can't reach," he answers. He nods toward the city below. "You've been coming to the top of the Hancock since we were children...you're not hard to find, though I do have to be careful with the eyes Coulter keeps on you," he answers.
My eyes narrow, hearing the suppressed anger in his tone. "We don't have anything to talk about, Ayden...you said all there is to say the last time we spoke," I state firmly, shifting toward the roof door.
Ayden quickly steps in front of me, holding his hands up. "Give me a second," he repeats. "No," I snarl, moving to sidestep him. When he blocks my path again, I have no choice but to stop. "Get the fuck out of my way, Ayden...don't make this go somewhere I don't want it to have to go," I rumble, my eyes flashing in warning. After staring each other down for a tension-filled moment, I finally step aside and stride for the door.
"This conversation is going to happen one way or another, Jade...we can do it now in privacy, or in front of an audience at the Pit. I don't care either way."
His choice of words echo what Eric once said, but the contempt in his voice slices me as I come to a complete stop. Though I certainly deserve his hatred, he of all people should know better than to ever threaten me. "Goddamn it...that is it," I hiss, whirling around.
"I have had it with this bullshit...I get it, Ayden! No need to state the fucking obvious yet again! We've already done this, remember? What the fuck is there left to say? The gist is that I'm a whore, a piece of shit, whatever derogatory title you can think of, and that's fine with me! Quite frankly, I don't give a shit any longer! I'm fucking done with this!"
Raising my hand, I cut Ayden off before he can reply. "But you know what? Go ahead...do what you have to do, and make it really good," I snap, crossing my arms. Ayden blinks in confusion, still not saying anything. With patience officially depleted, I throw my hands in the air.
"Well? What are you waiting for? Let me have it...get it the fuck over with! You obviously need to the closure, and I'm sick of these little encounters! I suggest you say whatever it is you need to say, and don't waste this opportunity...this the absolute final chance you're ever going to have."
"That's not why I'm here, Jade..."
Ayden's jaw clenches as he steps closer. "I mean it, Ayden... get it over with. Say your piece and let that be the fucking end. I don't-"I start to demand, but don't get the chance.
"I wanted to say I'm sorry."
I couldn't have heard that right. "You wanted to...what?" I sputter. Ayden closes his eyes, his expression melting into a neutral one. "I wanted to say I'm sorry," he repeats evenly. Truly at a loss for words, I desperately try to figure out what game he's playing here. Something tells me not to take the bait, but curiosity is too strong.
"Sorry...sorry for what?"
Ayden catches his bottom lip with his teeth, staring into the twilight for a long moment. "For not doing this sooner. I don't want to live this way any longer, Jade...I don't want to carry this around with me anymore. I don't want to feel like this every time I look at you...I don't want to be haunted by what you did..." He brings his face back to mine.
"...I don't want to be haunted by what I did either. There are some things I need to own, as well."
After a thick, tension-filled moment I lift my chin. "You don't owe me anything, Ayden...the very thought of that is absurd. There's nothing you can tell me that makes any difference now. I knew about all the women at Amity... just never said anything. I was in no position to throw stones and got what I deserved. As for whatever is left, you may have been an asshole about it, but you didn't say anything that wasn't true... it wasn't any less than I was rightfully due," I respond slowly, never expecting to have this conversation. A humorless chuckle rumbles from his chest.
"Don't get it twisted, Jade... you're Goddamn right I don't owe you a fucking thing...I don't want to do this for you, I want to do it for me. What you did wasn't right, but I made myself no better than you by fucking around. For that, I'll grant you I haven't acted fairly. But none of that is relevant any longer...I'm not here to throw anything in your face, as there'd be no point. You clearly don't give a shit...you didn't back then, and you don't now, so I'll not waste my time. My only intention is to put all of this behind us and move on with our lives."
"How do you propose we do that?"
Ayden's eyes harden in determination, taking a long moment to gather his thoughts. "I want to know everything," he finally answers in a pained whisper. "What do you mean, 'everything'? I don't understand," I ask, desperately trying to figure out his angle. A painful mask sets his features, swallowing hard.
"I want you to tell me everything about you and him...how it started, and why."
Stunned speechless, all I can do is gape. "Ayden...I don't see why that's necessary...I don't want to hurt you more than I already have..." I whisper once finding my voice. Ayden takes a deep breath, his eyes searching my face.
"It's necessary because I don't want to go the rest of my entire fucking life wondering why...I want to hear it from you. I need to know, Jade. Consider it a parting kindness."
Opening my mouth to refuse again, clarity strikes. Ayden is right...even though I've accepted it was over, he clearly hasn't. For him to move on, all loose ends need to be tied up. He needs to leave me behind...to do that, it's necessary to hear the whole story, and finally see me for what I am.
He needs to know how grateful he should be to have avoided making the biggest mistake of his life.
After a heavy silence, I give the slightest of nods. "What do you want to know?" I ask softly. Ayden closes his eyes, visibly second-guessing whether he really wants to do this.
"When did it start? Initiation?"
Brushing my hair behind my ear, I resolve to give him the full transparency he seeks. Don't be a coward...giving him the truth is the only way to put this behind you.
"No, not at all. The first overnight assignment I had at Amity...just kind of happened," I admit, feeling some relief at finally letting go of that secret. Ayden rubs his jaw, his tell-tale that he's losing grip on his temper. "Why was he with you at Amity? He doesn't oversee the ambassador panel, he's in charge of Initiation," he snaps. Not really knowing how to respond, I look away.
Ayden's face mottles with contained rage, though he keeps his voice to his normal level. "It didn't 'just kind of happen,' Jade...he planned it," Ayden seethes, pieces coming together in his mind. I'm unable to deny it, but quickly remind him of one pertinent fact.
"Yes, he did...but it wasn't solely his fault, Ayden. I let myself be put in that situation...I could've said no when he told me to come to his room...I could've insisted on going back to Dauntless instead staying of Amity, and I didn't."
"Why didn't you?"
"I avoided asking myself that very question because I'm ashamed and guilty of the truth."
Squaring my shoulders, I mentally prepare for his reaction. "I didn't leave Eric that night, because I didn't want to. I didn't stop him when things went beyond the point of no return, because I didn't want to..." I whisper, wrestling with the guilt attacking me again.
"Though I lied to myself for the longest time, the simple truth is that nothing happened that night, that I didn't want to happen...that night, and every time after that."
Rage brims in his eyes, tearing his gaze from mine. "For clarity's sake, let me just say that Eric may have planned it...but I didn't. I never intended for any of this, and certainly not the way it came about," I admit, hoping he believes me. A light breeze washes over us, Ayden once more turning toward me.
"Speaking of clarity, this was going on when I proposed. If this was how you really felt, why did you accept?"
Tell him the truth, I sternly command myself. "Because I thought it was the right thing to do...you and I had so much history, and it was what everyone was expecting. I guess there was also a little defiance involved as well." Ayden's brow creases in confusion. "Defiance?" he repeats.
"Despite what you may believe, nothing I did with Eric was intentional. If it's any consolation, shame and guilt tortured me for fucking months...I was disgusted with myself, and that I was too weak to stop. I tried to break it off, Ayden...I really fucking tried, and couldn't. Part of me believed if I accepted your proposal, Eric would finally get that he couldn't have me and give up. In hindsight, I see how stupid that was...because I found out the hard way that Eric would never give up on me, for reasons I couldn't believe at the time."
Ayden shakes his head mirthlessly. "Don't ever let anyone say you aren't tenacious...you will die by the lie, won't you. Though out of curiosity, would you have gone through with it, despite everything? Marrying me, I mean?" he asks quietly. Closing my eyes, I try to answer the best possible way.
"I would've thought it's one of those things that you have to be in the moment to know. Though I wasn't faced with that, I've processed the whole situation enough to know I wouldn't ...deep down I knew I couldn't stop with Eric. I may be a fundamentally despicable person, but I do have a modicum of decency in me. I would not have stood before you and our faction, making sacred vows I couldn't and wouldn't keep...you deserve better than that."
A long, silent moment passes before Ayden inhales sharply. "Did you ever really love me? At any point in time? Did you mean it when you said it ...even once?" he demands, utter despair straining his voice. Knowing I'm the cause of his pain is like a knife to the heart.
"Ayden, of course I did... still do. It would be impossible for me not to, after everything. It's just not the same kind of love I have for Eric...not the kind of love you deserve. Though it may not seem like it, what happened was for the best."
I will my voice to remain steady, deciding to voice thoughts that have plagued me since childhood. "Ayden...do you think I don't realize something is severely wrong with me, and always has been?" His eyes narrow in confusion.
"What do you mean?"
"Do you remember the stories we heard about some of these old buildings when we were children? How they're haunted by people killed in the big fire hundreds of years ago? By the ones used as human experiments in the abandoned insane asylum? Remember those stories about what would happen to people who walked into those buildings, and wouldn't come out? You remember how even the bravest Dauntless wouldn't dare enter because they were too scared? The ones that did, didn't make it past the first few rooms before they ran out screaming, in fear for their lives..."
I bring my eyes back to his. "Do you remember what happened when I received that dare?" I ask. Ayden nods. "Yeah...you were the only one that went in and made it all the way through...twice, when were dared to do it again. Made you somewhat of a legend in Dauntless," he remembers.
"Yes...it did. When others were so terrified of blood-smeared walls, weird sounds and flashes of light that they ran out screaming as fast as they could, you know what I felt? Curious...I wanted to see what else was there, since no one ever had. The sight of blood-stained medical tools, tables, rattling sounds and invisible footsteps had no effect on me whatsoever."
A lump forms in my throat, never admitting my deepest suspicion about myself before.
"Ayden...I don't know if my father's death fucked me up beyond repair or not, but I just don't feel things normal people do. Please don't think I'm using the quintessential 'Daddy issues' as an excuse for what I did. There is no excuse ...the only explanation I can give, is that I'm fucked up... definitely too fucked up for you. I used to believe that I could be the person you see me as, this person that can be 'fixed', but...there's no hope for that. There's no hope or future for us, as neither one would be happy. You don't really love me, Ayden...you love a woman who doesn't exist... you love the woman you think I could be, but the truth is...that's never going to happen," I confess.
Ayden grits his teeth, his eyes shut tightly. "Jade, none of that is your fault...there're things that you don't..." he trails off, appearing to stifle whatever he was about to say next. I cut him off before he can continue, my voice trembling despite my best efforts.
"Ayden...I don't think you've ever really accepted who and what I truly am. You still see me as that ten-year-old girl crying her eyes out, this broken person you wanted to save and protect, but you can't... because you can't ever save or protect me from my worst enemy; myself. But Eric can...he sees what you can't and never will, despite being right in front of your face," I whisper sadly. Ayden's face contorts, unable to keep his emotions at bay a second longer.
"Jesus Christ, what the fuck has Eric done to you?"
Rage and sorrow mix in Ayden's eyes as he steps forward. My heart pounds in my throat, realizing he's not going to let this rest until he has some real closure.
Brutal honesty is the only thing that can get through to him.
"Ayden, Eric didn't 'do' anything to me...he simply sees me for what I am, accepts it, and loves me anyway. You were right when you said Eric and I deserve each other...because we do. We're both selfish, toxic human beings that shouldn't be with anyone else that will be ruined by us...he and I are perfect together. Be thankful I realized that before I ruined you..."
Ayden inhales sharply, denial etched into his features. "Jade...I can't just...how can you really believe someone like..." he whispers, unable to articulate his torment.
"Ayden…" Tears begin welling as my voice breaks. Reaching up, I gently grip his face. His tortured eyes pierce my very soul, forcing myself to finish before losing my nerve.
"There will not be a day that goes by for the rest of my life, where I won't regret the wrong I've done you …but I don't want to live in the past, and I don't want you to either. Despite my fucked-up way of showing it, I do love you and want you to be happy. I want you to find the woman that's right for you… deserves you… that will make your life complete. But that woman is not me…our happiness is not with each other. For both our sakes, we have to let each other go…."
Ayden shakes his head, his jaw clenching in anguish. "I can't accept that, Jade…not for a fucking monster like Eric Coulter," he growls.
The next thing I know, Ayden's mouth swoops down on mine.
Too stunned to fully comprehend what's happening right now, I find myself enveloped in his arms. Ayden's lips devour my neck and throat, while my arms reflexively go to his chest. "Ayden...Ayden...what the...fuck..." I stammer. Ayden lifts me off my feet, still trying to gather my wits. Pulling back, his eyes desperately search my face.
"Jade, we're not doing anything wrong...you were mine first," he whispers, his mouth invading mine. Finally snapping out of it, I jerk my face to the side.
"Ayden stop...no!"
Ayden immediately drops his hands. I forcefully shove him back, making him stumble on the gravel. "What the fuck is this...some sort of sick revenge plan?" I ask shakily, trying to catch my breath.
"What do you hope to accomplish here, Ayden? What exactly is your goal? Some sort of 'Eye for an Eye' thing? You want me to hurt and destroy Eric the way I hurt and destroyed you? Not going to happen!"
It's not my wish to hurt him, but I need to make this clear in no uncertain terms. "Listen to me very carefully," I begin in a low tone.
"It's not my intention, but I can't say this without hurting you... I made my choice, Ayden... it wasn't you. Granted, I went about this completely wrong and could've done things a thousand ways differently, but what's done is done... so are we. The fact I could do what I did to you, but can't do to Eric, should speak volumes! Yes, I'm fucked up... I'm selfish, cold, and at times, insane. But I am who I am, Ayden..."
Gathering my courage, I resolve to settle this once and for all.
"I meant what I said; I do love you... but not the way I love Eric. I will never love you the way I love Eric. It doesn't matter if it's between you or Eric, or someone else or Eric...I will always choose him, no matter what. My life will always lead back to Eric... I accepted that a long time ago, though I didn't want to."
Looking him square in the eye, I keep going, despite the anguish on his face.
"I will never be yours, or anyone else's...I will always be his. There is no part of me that doesn't belong to him. I accepted that, and now it's time for you to accept it."
Ayden clenches his jaw, stepping toward me again. "This isn't over, Jade...what's between us is not going to go away just because you want it to. The Jade Crawford I've known my whole life is still in there somewhere...I'm not giving up," he vows. Cold determination flashes in my eyes as I prepare to say my final goodbye.
"Jade Crawford no longer exists...Jade Coulter is now who I am...for the first time, I'm exactly where I should be...that won't change, no matter what conniving scheme you attempt to carry out."
Ayden starts to speak, but I immediately cut him off.
"I mean it, Ayden...this is where we leave each other. There's nothing left, this is the end of it. I don't want to see you again...stay the fuck away from me. Just live your life and let me live mine."
My words hang in the air as I turn on my heel. Quickly making my way to the stairs, I feel an odd sense of relief...and finality. Though Ayden may not have full closure from our end, I finally do. I can now begin the rest of my life tomorrow, at peace knowing that Ayden, and that part of my past is behind me.
This time, for good.
Eric puffs his cigarette, his eyes narrowing. "This makes no fucking sense," he growls, smoke circling his signature glower. The factionless woman, come to be known as Alma, glances between him and Max.
"I agree it's strange...and I'm not entirely buying the reason we were given."
"Which is?"
"We're drastically reduced. By the last count, it seems that we've lost almost a third of our numbers. News of the thwarted attacks and factionless casualties have caused many to abandon the cause. Until we replenish our army, our leader doesn't want to pick a fight we won't win. Right now, we don't have the manpower or resources to wage an effective war."
"Why don't you buy that?" Max asks.
Alma gives both a pointed look. "Ever since I was recruited into the factionless cause, our leader has never relented, even when we had fewer numbers and resources than we have now. This is not a person adverse to challenges...in fact, welcomes them. From all accounts, it would appear they're now beginning to fold. I may not know who this is, but I do know this motherfucker does not fold. Something must be going on behind the scenes...this wedding is the perfect time to strike, but we've been given strict orders that nothing is to happen. We can't even go near Navy Pier," she explains. Max takes a drag, exhaling slowly.
"Or...that's what they want us to believe."
Eric shifts his eyes to Max's, hearing his unspoken assessment. "There've been no incidents for a bit, now...perhaps their numbers aren't shrinking, they're just being conserved for a bigger target...like the wedding of a faction councilman, with many important political figures present. This advantageous circumstance won't come along again for quite a while. No plausible reason to pass it up," he agrees, taking another drag. Max trains a pensive gaze to the rock wall, mentally calculating.
"Maximum security protocol remains. Coulter is right; this is too prime an opportunity to waste. Detail will remain on Jade and Tamra, with covert Dauntless patrolling the crowd and guard positions around them at all times."
Max turns to the two Dauntless flanking his side. "A sniper team is to be assembled on the roof perimeter. Orders stand to kill any security breach on sight," he commands. Nodding, they relay orders into their earpieces. Max turns narrowed eyes to Alma. "Go back to the factionless sector. Keep your ears and eyes open... any information that comes your way is to be immediately communicated by discreet means. Anything useful uncovered, and we can start to negotiate our other business matter," he states, sizing her up. Alma's chest swells, trying to stifle her hopeful smile. "Yes sir," she replies. Max scowls as he punches a key into the hidden panel in the wall, the laser coming to scan his eye. Alma quickly steps through the secret exit out of the compound, a slight spring in her gait.
After the doors shut behind her, Max immediately gestures to the two guards. "Change the location of the sniper team...instead of the roof perimeter of the Aon, they'll be stationed at the two roofs of the old observation deck...orders to kill any breach still stand. Go," he decrees. After a small salute, they take off on the rocky path. A sinister smile pulls at Eric's mouth as he and Max make their way to the elevator.
"I was going to suggest something similar... I don't trust this bitch either."
"I'm amazed she's stupid enough to believe I'd ever let a fucking rat into Dauntless...no wonder she failed Erudite Initiation."
"When do we kill her?"
Max throws a sideways glance. "Right after she double-crosses us. The factionless won't attack the roof perimeter unless they think there's something to attack. She's the only one with that intel... and her betrayal will be evident," he muses aloud. The car carries them back to the main floor, soldiers saluting them as they step off. "Security analysis shows everything has been sealed off and in place. The venue is ready...are you?" he asks in a good-humored tone. Eric smirks as they reach HQ.
"As ready as one can be. As I said before, this is either the best decision of my life or what signs my death warrant. I guess part of the fun is that I never know if she's going to try stab me or fuck my brains out, or both at the same. I roll the dice every day."
Max chuckles as the palm reader opens the door. "The perks of marrying one of the craziest bitches in the faction. Life is never dull, and sex is never bad...Jade is truly Tamra's clone," he muses. His voice takes a strange tone, underlying anger coming to the surface. Eric wisely chooses not to respond, knowing what has Max so twisted.
Tamra has unwisely not bothered to hide her new relationship. The poor, simple fuck she's now with has no idea of the danger he's put himself into. To Max's credit, he hasn't had Mason killed yet, though it's taken every ounce of willpower he has not to do it with his bare hands. Mason better hope Max never catches him in a dark, secluded area of Dauntless, or alone while patrolling the street. His body is guaranteed to be the next fished out of the chasm.
Eric gets it...after Jade slept with Ayden, his death was arranged less than 24 hours, though it didn't exactly go to plan.
Since it's late, and everyone has gone home to prepare for his wedding tomorrow, the office is pretty much deserted. One lone guard sits in Brady's spot, rising when Eric approaches. "Sir, you have someone insistent on meeting with you. I told him to come back tomorrow, but he said he'd wait," he greets with a small salute. Eric scowls, glancing at his door and silently demanding an explanation. The guard gulps, inhaling sharply.
"He's an Erudite, but said he's your father and you need to see him."
Eric's eyes narrow in rage, the guard visibly paling. He cuts his eyes toward the exit, the guard making no mistake and heading toward it without another word. Once the lock sounds behind him, Eric strides toward his office door.
Austin is seated on the black leather couch, scrolling through his tablet. He looks up with a sly smirk as his son enters, the air in the room charging. "Hello son," he greets smugly, enjoying Eric's blatant ire at finding him here. "What the fuck do you want, Austin? I'm very busy and don't have time for bullshit," he thunders.
Austin's smirk grows to a fully satisfied grin, setting his tablet aside. "I'm going to chalk your hostility up to pre-wedding jitters," he chimes amusedly. Eric scoffs, his fists clenching.
"Don't be absurd Austin. I simply have no use for you and find any interaction to be a waste of time. Tell me whatever the fuck is so important it couldn't wait, then get the fuck out of my faction."
Austin's eyes harden, rising from his seat. "I see you're still harboring some resentment. I guess time doesn't heal all," he retorts. Walking over to the small shelf in the corner, he picks up a bottle. "I thought we could clear the air between us. My only son is getting married tomorrow. What better way to toast to new beginnings than over a glass of perfectly aged Scotch?" He pours two glasses, handing one to Eric.
Eric's eyes flick to the glass, then to Austin. With a wicked smirk, he takes it. "What exactly would you like to toast, Austin?" he asks snidely. Austin's expression hardens, setting his scotch down and pulling a cigar from his blazer.
"I have no ill motive in coming here, Eric. I have a sincere wish to mend fences."
"I don't give a fuck about your motives. I don't even claim you, Austin. You're just faceless DNA, nothing more...I prefer it stay that way."
Feigning a casual shrug, Austin lights his cigar. "I don't fault you...in hindsight, I recognize I misjudged certain attributes you possess. To my utter astonishment, you succeed higher than I ever estimated. In fact, you've made a life and name here, and I dare say I'm proud. I can't help but ponder what potential you would've achieved in your native faction. Who knows? Maybe you'd be the next in line for Jeanine's throne," he remarks thoughtfully.
Eric chuckles sarcastically, recognizing an opportunity to wound Austin like never before. "I must say I'm curious...what are you most 'proud' of Austin? That sins of the father don't always taint the son? I say we drink to that," he snaps, taking a gulp and setting his glass down. Austin tilts his head, confusion in his eyes. "What sins would those be? That I refused to coddle you, or deceive you into thinking you were anything more than a faction requirement? No logic in that," he replies smugly.
Though he refuses to show it, he's put off when instead of Eric swallowing hard as he did when he was younger, Eric laughs. It echoes off the wall in an almost maniacal tone. "Let me guess...those are the exact words you said to my mother, weren't they," Eric rumbles. Austin shakes his head. "I'm not sure I'm following," Austin says slowly, a sense of dread coming over. Never breaking eye contact, a vicious grin stretches his face.
"Don't be purposely obtuse, Austin...it doesn't suit you. The sins I'm referring are not your fatherly aptitude...but your ignorant cowardice. It was the catalyst for my mother's death, after all."
Thunderous silence falls, as for once Austin is not able to keep his face composed. Realizing Eric knows the truth, a visible bead of sweat appears on his forehead. "Come now, Austin...you're the one who came here to clear air. Shall we start with Lyla?" he mocks.
Austin's eyes narrow, smoke billowing around his head as he exhales. A long moment passes while he flicks ashes from his cigar, sizing up his son. "It appears you've been doing some family research," he drawls, picking up his scotch.
Eric's signature evil grin slowly spreads, enjoying his father's sudden discomfort. This is the first time he's ever seen Austin visibly affected. Perhaps the time of retribution has finally come, for the living Hell Eric endured in Erudite by his father's hands.
Eric leans back, sipping his scotch. "Not so much research, as connecting dots. After Jeanine was kind enough to inform me of my origin, I read Lyla's file. I must say, what I found definitely filled in missing blanks. Your at-the-time inexplicable hatred of me makes perfect sense now, for which I don't fault you...I would have an almost identical perspective if my failure had been as monumental as yours," he declares smugly. Austin's brow raises in question.
"My failure...what 'failure' are you referring?"
Eric doesn't miss the anger seeping into Austin's tone, giving a sense of satisfaction. With eyes deadlocked with his father, he hits him where he knows the wound still runs deep.
"Your failure with Lyla. You loved her, but you weren't worthy of her...despite your respective places in Erudite hierarchy. All your esteemed accomplishments are overshadowed by a reprehensible truth; you weren't astute enough to devise a way to save her. Your ignorance was her ultimate demise...deep down, you know the real choice she made the day she killed herself."
Eric's tone hardens. "You often said you saw failure every time you looked at me...but I now know what you truly meant. The failure you saw was you, not me. My mere existence is a reminder that because of your ineptitude, you lost the only woman you ever loved...you're reminded that because you were weak and incompetent, she chose me over you. Lyla would've rather been with me in death, than with you in life," he growls darkly.
"I'm now deriving great pleasure in knowing that every time you see me, you see Lyla...and what you were too much of a pussy to prevent. I particularly enjoy knowing that I am, and will always remain, a source of your deepest pain. It feels fucking good to finally have that truth."
Visibly at a loss for words, Austin's features twist in suppressed rage...another trait they share. "Careful, son...you may be Dauntless now, but I'm still your father. I wouldn't want to have to remind you of that the unpleasant way...especially the night before your wedding," he growls lowly. Eric openly laughs in defiance, making Austin's face further redden.
"Unfortunately for you, of all the attributes I inherited, your cowardice wasn't one of them. My mother's Dauntless trait clearly prevailed in my genetic selection," he jeers. His expression melts to a carefully controlled mask, his eyes narrowing.
"But by all means...if you'd like to test that, I'm ready when you are."
Eric's stony gaze remains with his father as he stands to his full height. As he steps close enough for Austin to feel his breath on his cheek, Eric's deep-seated rage begins to simmer. Though Austin was a subpar father, he managed to teach Eric one valuable lesson; letting someone see you affected was a weakness. He's always managed to conceal the rage he felt towards his father, honing his skill of presenting an unbothered, icy disposition. But this time, he won't bother.
"Just so we're clear, let me also reiterate our most paramount issue in no uncertain terms."
Before Austin has time to react, Eric delivers a swift blow to his throat. The amused twinkle in his eye melts, staring at his son in astonished rage. Again with no warning, Eric lands a stomping kick to his midsection. As Austin falls back to his knees, Eric grabs his hair and draws his gun with the other hand. Pressing the barrel between his father's eyes, a sadistic thrill runs through him.
"You will never approach my wife again. You have no business with her that does not involve me...therefore, any necessary discussion will be through me. If I ever catch you attempting to manipulate Jade into a secluded setting without me present, it will not conclude to your advantage. In Layman's terms; the last thing you'll see as you leave this life is this very setting. You, on your knees like a bitch, before a bullet pierces your fucking skull...is any additional clarification needed on that? Or would it save more time to waste your useless life right now?"
Austin's features twist in a grotesque snarl, clenching his teeth. Eric's cruel grin widens, pressing harder. "I asked you a question, Austin..." he taunts. When he remains silent, Eric shrugs and cocks the hammer. Austin finally shakes his head, realizing his son is not bluffing. "We're fucking clear," he spits, eyes narrowing. Eric holds him for long pause, wondering if he really should rid himself completely of this piece of shit once and for all. Logic and reason prevail. Shoving his father away from him, he gives one last cruel smile.
"Go back to Erudite, Austin...you have a hard day ahead of you tomorrow. You get to watch me do what you never could. I want you to feel every moment of shame that will accompany it."
Brady grunts as he grips the weight, the veins in his forearms bulging. "Don't bitch out now, bro...one more," Sebastian coaxes, reaching to catch the bar. Brady pushes it above his head with a loud exhale. Sebastian sets it on the mount, both wiping sweat from their brows. "You want to grab beer?" Brady asks, Sebastian nodding. After throwing their towels in the bin, they take a seat at the rest bar. A raven-haired girl heads toward them.
"Two drafts?" she calls. After Brady nods, she pulls two frothy mugs from the tap then sets them before them. She smiles flirtatiously at Sebastian, but he's scrolling through his phone, not paying her an iota of attention. "Thank you," Brady responds, unable to help himself from glancing at her voluptuous chest, barely constrained in her tight-fitted crop top.
He may be in love with Leah, but he's still a man. He can look but wouldn't ever touch. "Jesus...I thought Reserves were at least allowed to wear clothes, but I guess they have to be ready to go at any given moment," he chuckles once she walks away. Sebastian finally looks up.
"Huh? What are you talking about?"
"What do you mean, what am I talking about? Her...the one serving her tits and beer..."
Brady nods toward the bartender, now wiping down the counter as her chest sways back and forth with her effort. "Hmm," Sebastian says, going back to his phone. Surprised, Brady takes a sip. Usually, when there's an easy and more than willing target to be had, Sebastian is the first in line. But he couldn't care less, and didn't even seem to notice.
Both pull cigarettes from their pockets, Sebastian setting his phone on the counter with a displeased smirk. Brady lights his smoke, studying his friend. Sebastian has been a different person as of late. It's not bad, just unusual. Normally he would be telling stories of his latest conquests, but all that has changed since he fixed things with Rachel. Brady didn't want to say anything, but he didn't really think Sebastian is the type to ever truly commit to one woman.
But things change...maybe all he needed was the right woman.
As Sebastian raises his arm to light his cigarette, Brady catches sight of a freshly inked tattoo visible on his inner forearm. Smirking as he exhales, he picks up his beer. "Is that what I think it is?" he asks jovially. Sebastian turns his arm, where 'Rachel' is etched into his flesh.
"When did you get that?"
"The other night. Something I've wanted to do for a while."
"Well, you better not fuck it up...can't get rid of her completely," Brady begins to tease, but stops when Sebastian's face grows serious. He takes a swig of beer, pensively drumming his hand on the bar.
"That won't ever be an option anyway, for either of us."
Brady raises his brow in shock, not really knowing how to respond.
"Making any headway in that regard?"
"What do you mean?"
"You know what I mean."
Sebastian exhales with a casual shrug. "I've brought up moving in together," he finally responds slowly. Ashing his cigarette, he glances at Brady.
"What did she say?"
"Nothing really...she just said 'we'll talk about it when it's right'..."
"What's her issue with it?"
"She said it's a little soon, and wants to be sure it's what we both want...then she changes the subject."
Sebastian scowls, taking a gulp of beer. "I don't think Rachel realizes exactly how serious I am about her, and I don't know what more I can do to convince her," he sighs in frustration. "I'm trying...I'm really fucking trying, man...but there may be a little more damage done than I realize." Brady nods, taking a drag. "How serious are you?" Sebastian trains his eyes straight ahead, his mouth set in determination.
"My next tattoo will be her name on my finger."
Sebastian finally turns to Brady, expecting to see ridicule, but instead sees empathy. "Good for you, man...at least you pulled your head out of your ass, and did what you needed to do," Brady offers. Sebastian turns to him, setting his tattooed arm on the bar. "How did you do it?" he asks. Brady furrows his brow.
"How did I do what?"
"How did you get Leah to agree to live together. Rachel told me Leah hesitated."
"I didn't get her to 'agree' to anything. I decided it was time and told her it was happening. Didn't really give her a choice."
"And she just went with it?"
Brady sighs, puffing his cigarette. "Look, I get that these bitches are strong, independent, will never let a man dictate anything and blah, blah, fucking blah...but there's only so much of that shit I'm going to put up with. Long story short...I made myself clear to Leah. I let her know in no uncertain terms that she's mine and I'm hers...simple as that. I don't want or need anyone else, and it's not an option for her either. God help the stupid shit that tries...So either we can dick around, waste time pretending that this wasn't going to be the eventual outcome anyway, or we can be adult about it. My bullshit tolerance is low." Brady gives a pointed look.
"You're a Dauntless man, you know...this is kind of our way. So sack the fuck up, act like one and do what you have to do."
Sebastian smirks wryly, smoke circling his head. "Famous last words...but I hear ya." Sebastian is about to speak again, when something catches his eye over Brady's shoulder. Brady turns to see Isla, the tech assistant approaching hesitantly, glancing between the two of them. "I'm sorry to interrupt...Brady, I just came from the IT installation in Eric's home. I have to go over a couple things that are going to need approval before placement."
"You need it now?"
"Yes...otherwise, it'll delay final inspection. Eric doesn't like anything delayed, as you well know. This won't take long, five minutes at most. In fact, we can go over it right here and I'll email the final checklist as approved."
Her apologetic eye lands on Sebastian. "Unfortunately, I can only disclose certain information to cleared personnel..." she trails off, hoping he takes the hint. Sebastian finishes his beer in one long gulp. "I have to head out anyway...I'll see you guys later." He nods at Isla, grabbing his jacket from the stool. Isla takes his seat, watching as Sebastian weaves through the crowd. "Was that Rachel's name on his forearm?" Brady nods, amused at the same idea. "Believe it or not, yes," he chuckles, taking a drag.
"Wow...who would've thought they'd live to see the day Sebastian Black settled down," she muses. Brady puffs his cigarette, with a dramatic shrug. "A sentiment shared by many. You want a beer?" he asks.
Isla blushes, shaking her head in refusal. "I'd love one, but recently found out I'm expecting," she answers, touching her stomach lightly. Brady's mouth opens in surprise. "Oh, shit...congratulations," he offers. "Thanks," she replies softly, mustering a tight smile. An awkward silence falls as Brady picks up that she may not consider this to be cause for celebration.
"Umm... I hope that's good news?"
Isla sighs, twisting her wedding ring anxiously. "It is...the shock just hasn't worn off yet. To say this wasn't planned or expected, is to say the least. I just wish Hunter and I could've enjoyed newlywed life a little longer. I guess fate decided otherwise," she laughs, looking down at her ever-so-slightly round stomach.
Brady shrugs, taking a sip. "Life has a funny way of doing that. Also has a way of putting you together with your mate, though not in the way you pictured," he muses aloud. Chuckling under his breath, he shakes his head. Isla raises her brow with a playful nudge. "I see you still have some of our Amity mantras instilled. Except for ending up with a Candor...I'm sorry, former Candor, of course," she teases, though her tone takes a strange note.
"I'm Dauntless now, but some Amity truth I still believe. I wouldn't care if Leah was still a Candor or even factionless...we would've wound up with each other somehow. It was meant to be...but not in Amity, that I always knew."
"Do you ever regret leaving Amity?"
"Not at all...I was never meant to stay there, and just bid my time until I could get out. Getting a Dauntless result in my aptitude was just another piece of my life falling into place. Leah ending up here, was what sealed it."
"And here I thought you joined Dauntless for me..."
Brady's face turns bright red, not knowing how to respond. Isla smirks, socking him in the arm lightly. "Relax, Sullivan...I'm joking. We were good together once upon a time, but it went as far as it was ever going to go. We both knew it would never last. The funny part is that my parents thought I joined Dauntless for you, when it had nothing to do with my decision. I'm just glad nothing happened to sever our friendship..."
Isla's face suddenly takes a red tint, looking down. Brady narrows his eyes in confusion, not understanding her sudden anxiety. "Umm...I just remembered some last-minute stuff I need to do for tomorrow...what do you need me to look over?" he asks, a sudden uneasy feeling gripping him. After a pregnant pause Isla exhales slowly, mentally preparing to do what she came to do.
"What I need you to see has nothing to do with Eric's apartment...everything is good there. I just needed an excuse to speak with you privately. I need to tell you something and couldn't have Sebastian or anyone else around."
Isla finally meets his eye, knowing she can't back out now. Brady's face sets in a stoic mask, turning to her fully.
"Then tell me..."
Isla's heart beats faster, genuinely not wanting to cause a problem, but not wanting to see one of her oldest friends deceived either. This is something he needs to know, her conscience reminds. "Look, Brady...you and I have history, but that's ancient now, and something to remember if you question my motives in doing this." Brady raises his brow, again confused by the shift in her mood. "Your motives in doing what? What is going on?" he asks impatiently. Isla holds his gaze for a tense moment, still debating whether this is the right decision. With a loud sigh, she pulls a small computer drive from her pocket, offering it gingerly. Brady's eyes drop to her hand.
"What is this?" he asks lowly, taking it from her.
Isla doesn't answer immediately, her nerves getting the best of her. "That isn't for me to determine...I can tell you what it looks like, but I'm not going to make assumptions. Information in Dauntless has a funny way of becoming skewed and altered, until the truth gets lost. I'm going to let you see this for yourself and make your own conclusion...or establish whatever truth you feel needs to be established," she responds evenly. Glancing around before continuing, she leans in closer.
"Just do me a favor...remember when you watch this, you obtained this information not by a jealous twat looking to interfere with your relationship, but rather a concerned friend that wants you to have all the facts."
Brady's eyes narrow as Isla slides off the stool, giving him one last pointed look. "This is as far as I'm willing to get involved, now my conscience is clear. Take care of yourself...I hope everything works out for you." He watches as she weaves through the crowd until disappearing. His eyes once more land on the computer stick, a feeling of dread pitting in his stomach. He slams the rest of his beer in one long gulp, rubbing his chin anxiously.
Shoving the stick in his pocket, he makes his way down the stairs with determined strides, Leah's face flashing in his subconscious. His mind drifts back to the past few weeks as he heads to his office, his temper starting to rise. Though they've taken the next step in their relationship, he still can't shake the sinking feeling that Leah's hiding something. Although he initially accepted her explanation of why she was busy all the time and her demeanor had been strange, now he's not so sure.
Brady scans his palm into the HQ sector, looking around to make sure no one else is there before powering his computer. Pulling the stick from his pocket, he inhales sharply. He's more entuned with Leah than he thinks she realizes. He's suspected all along that she hasn't given him the full truth, and now Isla may have just provided something that validates those suspicions. Bracing himself, he inserts the file in the drive and waits for it to load.
This may be the only way to find out for certain.