Surprise readers! I'm updating with this chapter a little earlier than expected so here it is. Thank you to everyone who continues to support this story through your various ways. I hope everyone enjoys this chapter. I don't own Divergent. I only own the plot idea, any military-related mistakes are mine. Just a friendly reminder, I have taken some liberties in regards to the military to make things more interesting for this story. Just a quick note there a little bit of a time jump from the end of last chapter. Happy Reading!
Chapter 31: Surprise
My steps bounce with excitement, waiting for Christina to arrive this afternoon to go running. Before ending the phone call, she announced, "We are going to do something special for your birthday today, whether you want to or not!" My phone vibrates in my pocket. An unknown number appears on the screen. I sigh, "Baby!" Hoping it's Tobias and not the person who has been randomly calling and hanging up once they hear my voice.
The male voice excitedly exclaims, "Happy twenty-fifth birthday, my love! I miss you! What is our count up to today?" A giggle escapes my lips, knowing what Tobias means. He wants to know how many days ago we physically held each other.
One night on the phone, Tobias and I decided to do a count-up instead of a countdown. He has been refusing to tell me when he is scheduled to come home since his date changes daily. The one lesson I have quickly learned since becoming his wife: the Air Force likes to change things all the time. Nothing is ever set in stone.
My eyes land on the calendar attached to the wall. I answer, "Nine months and ten days. What's new with you?" Can he actually talk for real this time, unlike all the other times he has called since he has been deployed? My heart drops into my stomach, hearing him sigh. I hope he isn't calling to inform me his deployment has been extended again, and, as much as I would want to argue with him, I know I can't give him too much grief. I understand he has to follow orders. Tobias laments, "I had a bad day today. I needed to hear your voice, and I wanted to wish my wife a happy birthday. I'm so glad you were born today. Talking to you always makes me feel better, no matter what is going on."
A smile tugs at my lips, "You have told me more than once how speaking to me always makes your day better. I'm happy I can help, even though we are thousands of miles apart," I whisper, wishing I could hold him to make him feel better. He replies, "I miss you," his voice sounds sad. I change the subject, asking, "Were you promoted to Major, Captain Eaton?" I attempt to take his mind off whatever is making him upset. I tease, "I have never kissed a major before." Another smile tugs at my lips recalling, his lips against mine and how they felt all those months ago when he last kissed me.
Playfully, he asks, "Is that so, baby? Are you propositioning me?" His mood shifts instantly, sounding happy, for once, unlike all the other times I have spoken to him since he has been gone. I pester, "Tell me! Weren't you supposed to find out today or yesterday if you made your new rank? He has been nervous about not making his new rank. I continue, "Tell me, Tobias! Don't leave me guessing!" I begin to jump up and down, waiting for his answer about his promotion. He promised he would call one way or another when he got his results. I giggle, "Does this mean you are now Major Eaton? I'm still going to call you Captain Eaton. I like captain better; it feels more natural than major." He laughs, "Okay, baby, I'll tell you."
Suddenly, I hear the locked front door attempting to be opened. I whisper, "Hold on. I think someone is trying to get into the house. It's probably Chris. She most likely forgot her house key again." A giggle escapes my mouth while I swing open the door, grinning, "Christina! I swear!" Just as the words fall from my lips, my eyes go wide, and, instantly, the tears begin streaming down my cheeks.
Thoughts and opinions on this chapter. I can't wait to hear them. Who do you think is at the door surprising Tris? The next chapter will be up on Monday April 12, 2021.