Hi there. So here's another update. I seem to be getting the hang of this. I really like reviews as well, so if you have anything to say, say it. Tell me what you're thinking. I want to improve, if I can, and there's always room for improvement. So just tell me where I need it. Anyways, enjoy.

-ashleemac14

The morning sun beamed through the thin gray curtains that covered my window. It was blinding and I was not ready to start the day just yet. It was a long rest of the night and the new boy took five or more Dauntless syringes to the neck. I'm not to terribly sure though. I stopped paying attention after the fifth serum. He looked like he was just another adrenaline junkie to most of the people there, but I couldn't help to sense something else was wrong. Most of the regulars usually took one simulation serum throughout the duration of the night and Dauntless was left over for the next time. Last night, thanks to the dark-haired, green-eyed boy, it was the other way around.

I stared at my reflection in the mirror, taking it all in. Even though it had been three and a half years since the war and since the destruction of factions, my reflection still surprised me. I was glad to be free from the suffocation I so dearly called my mother and father. I couldn't stand being there. I didn't fit. I was blunt. I was daring. I was even a bit arrogant. I still am and I'll never change that about myself to fit the selfless mold. No one could ever make me want to be that way.

Work wasn't my main priority this morning, as it probably should be. I straightened my black pencil skirt and tugged at my white blouse. I was uncomfortable and out of my element. I hated my job in the labs, but it was a necessary evil to face for the game. We needed the serums and this job gave me the easiest access to it. I'd much rather be doing something like zip-lining from the top of the Hancock building or maybe just sleeping through my day. That's what made Saturday my favorite. It gave me the time to fulfill my interests in hobbies. It gave me a chance to let my hair down and raise hell down at the nearest bar. It showed those around me my true self and not the uptight girl, who was clicking down the sidewalk in her black pumps.

The wind picked up outside, making me hug my coat to my body. Even though it was only the beginning of October, the winter winds had already made their presence known throughout the city. At this rate, snow would be on the ground as early as mid-November. I looked up to see the large hotel the city used for when visitors from Milwaukee or the Fringe came in. Maybe the boy from last night was staying there. I realized I would have to find him sometime after I get out of work and at least find out his name. I couldn't bring myself to ask him last night. I could barely get a goodbye out without choking up. I couldn't really place my finger on him, much less my reactions toward the boy. He was just a boy. Nothing more. Nothing less.

Once I reached the glass building, I stepped in. I worked in what they used to call the Erudite compound. It was interesting. It was still a little destroyed from the revolution, but the maintenance crews were working on it. I followed all the past footsteps I had ever taken to my office. I pulled open the door and switched my tan trench coat for a white lab coat. As I looked up to walk behind my desk, I was startled by a man already sitting there.

"I wasn't aware that I was expecting anyone. Sorry to keep you waiting. How can I help you?" I managed to put together quickly. Of all the people, Marcus had been the last person I thought I would see here.

"You know very well how you can help me. I know about your little game that you play with the others in the woods. I would like to get in on it. I could get the word out to others. With me, we could even get enough to start up another revolt and bring back the factions." Marcus proposed to me. I toyed with the idea of bringing back the factions, before ultimately deciding no. I couldn't bring myself to be the cause of that much bloodshed. It was still fresh in the minds of the others as well. Most of the others are former members of Allegiant, they knew the damage it brought to everyone and everything around us. They also knew Marcus and there was no way they would take kindly to Marcus at our game.

"I'm sorry Marcus. I have no idea what you're speaking about. I will give you a choice. I can report you for treason for even speaking about starting another revolt and have you executed, or you can walk out of here right now and not come back. If you do come back, don't even think I will hesitate to call the police." I countered. I didn't like how Marcus still tried to keep his thumb over all the former Abnegation. He needed to be stood up to every once in a while and keep his reality in check. I was never completely Abnegation to begin with, which makes it easier for me. Some of the others continue to concede to him and boosted the very ego that all of them were taught to suppress.

After Marcus left, the day came and went. I didn't get caught for stealing the serums, as usual. Now that work was over, it was time to relax. I started over to the nearest bar, where I'd drown today's stress with some whiskey. I forgot about looking for the boy from last night. In this city, that would be nearly impossible.

Loud rock music blasted out into the night air when I opened the door to the bar. It was poorly lit and the stench of alcohol became stronger every time I took a breath. It may be a little strange, but I loved it. There was barely anyone here tonight, which was odd. The only patrons were me, some drunk guy passed out in the corner, and none other than the guy from last night. I tried turning around and exiting the bar, but he had already looked up. Those dark green eyes brightened and he set down his liquor.

"So, what brings you to the bar?" I asked, as I made my way over to the stool next to him. Now that I could actually see his face, he looked a bit older than me.

"I actually just needed a place to think. I had a lot on my mind." he replied softly. I now felt awkward. I just invaded his space without thinking. I was rude. Why didn't I think that he might be here for the same reason that the guy in the corner was? To get drunk and forget.

"Oh. Um,well I can leave if you'd, um, like some space." I paused awkwardly with every other word. As I turned to grab my stuff, I felt a familiar grip on my arm and turned back.

"No. You can stay. I'd like it if you did." he flashed a bright smile at me and I relaxed.

"Ok. Well, I should at least know your name." I leaned on the bar, facing him.

"People tell me it's Peter. I think my last name is Hayes, but I'm not sure. I could be wrong." his answer threw me off. How could you not know your name? He had to be joking, though his tone was nothing but serious.

"Well, people tell me I'm Elizabeth Murphy. It's nice to meet you Peter." I gave him a quick smile and turned to the bartender, requesting my whiskey. Even though I'd probably regret it by the morning, I was suddenly very glad I had decided to come to the bar on a Monday.