The morning came as it always did. The warmth of the sun-soaked into the earth, chasing away the chill of the night. Steam rose off the rocks and dew dripped off the leaves. The Glader's began to stir, waking up for breakfast earlier than normal. They were eager to get back to work after so many days of worry. Plus, a sense of expectation hung in the air.
Everyone knew by now that Gally had spent the night with Eve in the Med Jack Hut. Alby prowled amongst them as they ate breakfast and any negative word on the subject was instantly met with punishment. He knew how nervous Eve would be to interact with the Glader's after last night. He would not tolerate them looking at her any differently. Minho and Ben left soon after the morning meal into the Maze, the black-haired Runner was close to a breakthrough on the Maze changes and he was eager to determine if he could crack the code. Alby wished him good running and watched them until they disappeared.
Jeff and Clint, as their hut was occupied, busied themselves assisting Fry Pan with clean up. Jeff waved to Alby as he passed, on his way to the garden. He had promised Newt he would help him and Zart with another set of stalks for the zucchini vines. The garden was growing and his second in command was appreciative of all the help. The lanky boy had his head in a tomato plant when Alby approached and smiled through the leaves at him. Zart was a little further down the row, fiddling with some twine for the new stalks.
"Morning," Newt's voice was cheery.
Alby smiled at him, kneeling in the grass. Newt backed out of the plant and rubbed his hands on his shorts, sniffing as he inspected the vegetables. After a moment, he glanced over Alby's shoulder, to the hut.
"No word?"
Alby shook his head, eyeing the plants before him.
"I suspect Gally is waiting until everyone is otherwise involved,"
Newt nodded, his smile understanding.
"I can't imagine how he's going to handle this one,"
Alby tipped his head, chuckling lightly.
"He may be more irritable, especially if the boys start asking questions. I expect he'll set them right though, I wouldn't worry about him,"
Newt nodded sympathetically. Eve was the main one on Alby's mind.
"She must be feeling pretty vulnerable," He stopped to think for a moment, looking back up to Alby. "Do you think it will work?"
Alby shrugged, reaching forward to pull a stray weed from between two stalks of the tomato plants.
"I can't say. Eve will be able to answer that,"
Newt nodded, not exactly sure how to phrase his next question.
"If it doesn't… are you… are they going to.. try again?"
Alby didn't respond right away, musing himself with finding more weeds to pick. He leaned back after a moment and scratched his chin.
"I think that will be up to them. If they are willing, I will allow it. But only time will tell. Eve may not be fertile. I can't imagine she'll want to exhaust the option,"
Newt sniffed, content with the answer. He could not imagine Gally wanting to do it all over again; the blonde had seemed very agitated last night. Alby shook his head, pushing off his knees to stand, a smile on his face.
"How about those vines?"
"Eve, c'mon, no one is going to stare,"
Eve was sitting on the edge of the bed, fully clothed and sulking. The pain from earlier that morning had dulled considerably and she had convinced Gally she was well enough to walk. It was only after he agreed that she realized that leaving the hut would be the same as walking outside naked. Everyone knew what had gone on between them. There was no doubt going to be countless questions, stares and judgement from the Glader's. She was not sure if she wanted to face it after all.
Gally stood in front of her, arms folded across his chest. He was frustrated, but not as he used to be with her. He knew Eve, knew her better than anyone now and he couldn't help feeling nervous himself. The boys were going to be looking at him, wondering how it went, wondering if he had… been enough. But it was different for him, he could beat up anyone who dared judge him for it. Eve could not, she was vulnerable. There was no way she would be able to stand up to the boys if one of them gave her a hard time. That was why he was determined to knock anyone out cold if they so much as looked at her the wrong way.
Gally crouched next to her, taking her hands in his.
"No one is going to hurt you, I promise,"
Eve squirmed, discomfort painted on her face.
"How am I ever going to be able to talk to anyone again? They all know, they'll never see me the same,"
Gally shook his head, trying to console her.
"Alby's already talked to them. You know if they do give you a hard time, they'll regret it, right? Besides, everyone will be looking at me the same way. You aren't alone,"
He stroked her arm gently with a finger and she finally looked up at him.
"Are you sure? Alby wouldn't punish them for just a comment, would he?"
Gally shrugged, his eyes hardening.
"If he doesn't, then I will. They know this was done for them. If they don't appreciate your sacrifice, then they're shucking idiots,"
Eve smiled, a tint of relief on her cheeks. Gally smirked and pulled her into his chest. He held her close for a moment, then turned her around and pushed her toward the door.
The bright sunlight caused them to squint as they stepped out into the Glade. But Eve stopped dead at the sight of Clint and Jeff standing not far off. Gally stood behind her, a hand on her shoulder.
"Don't worry, I'm here," He whispered, his chin on her head.
The Med Jacks caught sight of the two and started walking toward them. Clint, ahead of the two, nodded courteously and Jeff smiled amiably, his face full of cheer.
"Good morning,"
Eve only stared and Gally spoke for the both of them.
"Good morning. Thank you for the use of the hut,"
Clint smiled back and Jeff turned to Eve, taking a small bow.
"We should be thanking you. We know this wasn't easy for either of you. But I hope you know we appreciate you doing all you can to help us,"
Eve bowed her head, feeling dizzy. Was Jeff really thanking her? There was no odd stare and no judgemental glance, only understanding. She smiled softly, starting to feel more confident. Jeff waved cheerfully and the two Med Jack's stepped back into the hut, ready to prepare for the day of complaints and injuries.
Gally squeezed Eve's shoulder and walked out ahead of her.
"See? I told you. Come on, you should eat something,"
Eve nodded, still in a daze. She followed Gally toward the kitchen hut.
"Are we going to work on the next level for the tower today?"
Gally glanced back, raising an eyebrow at her.
"You think I'm gonna let you climb trees? You need to be careful, at least until we know for sure if this worked,"
Eve frowned, suddenly aware of how useless she was going to be if she became pregnant. How was she supposed to pull her weight around the Glade and earn her keep?
Gally stepped into the kitchen hut, allowing her a minute to herself. He reappeared shortly, carrying two bowls of porridge. Nodding his forehead, he guided Eve toward a stray stump and had her sit down. She looked up at him, concern alighting her eyes.
"Am I going to be useless now?"
Gally handed her one of the bowls and began plowing into his own, his hunger only just beginning to rear its head. He hadn't admitted it yet, but he was more worn out than he had originally anticipated. Gally swallowed a large bit before responding.
"We already knew you would have to give up anything strenuous. There is still plenty you can do. We're gonna have to start on floorboards soon, no need for anyone to climb. You can do the sanding while Winston and I size the logs down,"
Eve dropped her eyes, staring into her porridge. Gally rolled his eyes, irritated because he wasn't concerned. He sat down on the ground next to her, continuing to eat his breakfast.
"The Box is coming up tomorrow. I'm sure we'll get another lanky shank to climb when we need to start again. Newt would do it, you know if he didn't have such a shucked-up leg. But we'll manage, we adapt," Gally surprised himself as he quoted one of Alby's favourite phrases. Was it the new sense of protectiveness he felt for Eve that made him so understanding? Normally, he would be frustrated and short with her, but he couldn't bring himself to speak harshly.
Eve picked up her spoon.
"I hope I'm not going to be a burden if I do become pregnant,"
Gally didn't respond, looking over the Glade as he finished his breakfast. He could see Alby, Newt and Zart in the garden. Fry Pan had been in the kitchen hut and Winston was no doubt out behind it, slaughtering who knew what. Minho and Ben were already gone into the Maze and the Med Jacks had made their appearance. There was no one else to deal with. Gally stood up; he needed to get back on the job. He turned back to Eve, a frown on his face, feeling as if he hadn't properly assured her. Walking up to her, he leaned down to kiss her head, gently, resting his chin on her for a moment.
"Don't worry. I'll take care of you, I promise,"
Eve leaned into him and he stood straight, allowing her to rest on his stomach for a moment. She turned her face to him.
"Thank you," She was grateful.
He let go, not used to being so comforting. He pointed down at her bowl, his face serious.
"Finish up, don't skimp on anything. I'm going to talk to Alby,"
Eve took another bite and nodded understandingly. He gave her a smirk and left without another word, striding across the Glade toward the gardens. Alby looked up as he approached. The Glade leader opened his mouth to speak but closed it. He would need a report from the blonde, but was unsure of how to initiate the conversation. It irritated him; he hated letting emotions get in the way of what needed to be done. Setting his mouth in a line, he nodded to the Builder and Gally nodded back, crossing his arms over his chest. The Keeper did not let such trivial details get in the way and his abruptness surprised Alby.
"I suspect you're going to relieve Eve of any more tree climbing?" His voice was firm, expectant and Alby couldn't help but crack a smile.
Gally was still Gally.
"Of course, she won't be asked to do more than she can. Jeff and Clint will check up on her weekly,"
Gally nodded, looking down at his foot. Newt had heard them talking and joined in the huddle. He smiled at Gally, nodding to him as the blonde nodded back. There was an awkward silence before Gally spoke up again.
"This is going to be a change,"
Alby nodded, rubbing his chin with his thumb.
"We'll adapt. If it doesn't work, we'll at least know we tried,"
Gally, his hands on his hips, chewed on his bottom lip.
"I'll shiv anyone who bothers Eve," His statement was so blunt that Alby raised an eyebrow and Newt's eyes widened.
"Take it easy Gally, the bloody shanks already know Alby'll whip them if they do. There's nothing to worry about,"
Gally scowled and turned to the side, puffing out his chest.
"I'm just letting you know,"
Alby nodded, holding back a smirk. It seemed that Gally had changed overnight. He was still irritable, short-tempered and easily angered, but never before had they seen him so earnest. He was going to protect Eve no matter what. It was just as well, if they were to have a child together, he would have to father the offspring. Alby tipped his chin to the blonde.
"You'll be getting back to the tower today? Winston mentioned he was available to assist until the evening meal,"
Gally looked back, his face expressionless.
"I'll take him on, we'll be chopping down a few of the smaller trees. I have to start on some planks for the floor,"
Alby nodded his approval of the plan.
"If Eve is feeling up to it, let her help in the garden today. Newt, if you don't mind, I'll let her take my place. I need to check the stores,"
Newt waved him off, their previous arrangement forgotten.
"Suits me fine," Gally gave him a look and Newt put his hands up. "I'll let her go at her own pace, nothing too demanding,"
The blonde did not respond as he turned away. Newt let out a whistle as Gally walked out of earshot.
"A little bloody touchy this morning,"
Alby shook his head, his hands on his hips, chuckling despite himself.
"He's going to take her safety pretty seriously. Best not to get in his way, I wouldn't have him acting any other way with her," He looked up to his second in command. "Take good care of her, she's in a delicate state right now,"
Newt nodded, smiling understandingly.
"Good that," And he meant it.
After Eve had finished her meal, she wandered over to the gardens. Gally had briefed her on the arrangement with Newt but warned her not to overwork herself. She thanked him, not fully knowing how to thank him properly; a small kiss on his cheek sufficed for the moment and they parted ways. Feeling content with the finished breakfast, Eve was ready to get back to some semblance of normal. She almost believed she was feeling better than she had before this whole ordeal. A small smile graced her features as she stopped just short of the garden. She could do this, no one was going to bring her down.
Newt stood behind the vines, just out of view, frowning as he worked. Eve cleared her throat and the lanky second tilted his head back, smiling when he caught sight of her. He stepped away from the greens and approached her, careful not to come too close.
"How are you feeling?" Newt's voice was gentle. He understood that she was in a delicate state. If she had chosen differently, it would have been him in the hut with her last night. Thinking back, he did not know how he would have handled it, certainly not as well as Gally seemed to. Something had happened between the two. Newt was pleased that the girl had finally broken through the blonde's rough exterior.
Eve ducked her head, feeling a blush creep along her cheeks. She knew Newt's intentions were pure, but she could not help but feel flustered. How was she supposed to answer his question without being too detailed? She looked back up at him, feeling her cheeks growing warmer.
"I'm alright, just a little sore, I guess," her voice trailed off and she tucked a stray strand of hair behind her ear, looking down at some cucumbers.
Newt looked away as well, the smile turning into an uncomfortable line. He knew, more or less, what she was alluding to. Taking a minute to clear his throat, Newt looked back and smiled, shaking away the discomfort. Gesturing with his hand, he pointed back to where Zart stood among some ravels of twine.
"Zart and I are putting up some new stalks for a few more zucchini plants, the seeds haven't been used yet. Did you want to plant them? I'm going to size the wood with Zart, we'll set up the stalks around the seeds when you're done. It won't take long,"
Eve nodded obediently, looking around Newt to wave to Zart. He smiled at her but something about his movement made him look nervous. Eve dropped her hand, but Newt smiled reassuringly.
"It's alright, I promise,"
Eve nodded, taking a deep breath.
"I can do it,"
Newt beckoned her to follow him. Zart was just finishing off some twine, twisting it apart to make for easier tying. He made room for Eve and Newt as the latter instructed her on where to plant the seeds; even how deep to make the holes. Eve set to work, eager to help as much as she could. Newt watched her for a moment.
"You're sure you're not going to get too warm? It's bloody hot today,"
Eve shook her head, digging out a small divot in the ground.
"I'll be fine, don't worry,"
He stood for a moment, undecided. After a moment, he shrugged and set to work.
Eve counted out the spaces she needed for each seed. The last thing she wanted was to be treated differently, to be accommodated for it. That was the sort of behaviour that was going to get her stares and judgemental comments. The boys were never given special treatment and she wouldn't be comfortable if she was given something they were not. Looking up, Eve squinted into the sun, the rays stinging her eyes. It was warm, to be sure, but nothing she wasn't used to. Besides, Newt had already told her that it would not take long to finish the job.
She worked in silence, Eve's thoughts began to wonder. At first about nothing in particular. But, soon the thoughts grew more and more invading.
The main tormentor? Her purpose in the Glade.
It was undetermined still, but they had ventured further with it. Whoever had sent her here, a girl among all these boys, must have meant something by it. It was twisted, playing with them as if they were test rats.
Had they really meant her for this? To raise a new generation? It didn't make sense, but neither did the Maze or their entire existence in the Glade.
Was it all a mistake?
Eve frowned, wiping away a stream of sweat from her forehead. Another four seeds had been planted and she started on the next row.
Could that be it? Was she only a mistake? She thought back to her early days; she had been scared, terrified, alone. It had crossed her mind several times. It made sense. She was the only girl among all these boys.
Obviously, it had just been a slip of whoever was in charge, something they had not planned for. But now that time had passed, months upon months, more questions had come to her. If she had been a mistake, why was she still here? Wouldn't they have attempted to take it back? Somehow take her back?
Kill her off?
She swallowed, pushing dirt aside with her fingers. Would that be all it took? Would they just kill her off? How would they do it? Everything she came up with didn't make much sense if they were as indirect as she had always believed them to be. How could they play a part in anyone's death? Hank's death had been natural, no one had directed it. She could've fallen from a tree, smashed her head in and died of brain damage, but they couldn't dictate that. Could they? It never rained in the Glade, did that mean they could control the weather? Could they have sent a thunderstorm in, blasting a tree with lightning, causing her to fall to her death?
That was ridiculous!
Was it getting hotter?
Eve pulled at her shirt collar. Even though it was a low cut, she still felt like it was choking her, heat pressing down on her. Closing her eyes for a moment, she took a deep breath. She was overworking herself, thinking too much. She needed to let it go and focus on the task at hand. Her legs were beginning to cramp, the pain from that morning was coming back. Sitting up, Eve readjusted and crouched down again, digging up the next hole.
More sweat, more cramping, more pain.
She ignored it, filling the hole with a few of the tiny, flat white seeds. Her fingernails were full of dirt; her hands began to shake. Sweat dripped from her nose and onto the ground, disappearing into the earth. Eve stopped again, closing her eyes.
Stop it! You're working yourself up! This isn't worth stressing over!
But she couldn't help pity herself, tears stinging her eyes.
She was either here to be a vessel for a child or she was simply a mistake. Was that it?
Eve sat up, dirt crumbling in her fingers. She stared ahead, her vision blurry as tears filled her eyes. Was she just a throwaway?
"No… no, you're not," her voice was choked, drowned in tears. She bent down, digging into the earth with trembling fingers; another divot and a few more seeds. On to the next hole, tears mixed with the dirt. The sun beat down on her head, making her dizzy. Her scalp burned and her back was drenched with sweat. Tears were streaming down her cheeks now and she wished she could stop it. Why are you crying? There's no reason to cry!
"You're not a mistake," She whispered to herself, wishing herself to believe it. "You're not a throw-away. You're… you're… a mistake?"
Eve stopped, her hands curling into fists, her body racked with sobs. The feelings and emotions from the past two days finally boiled over. She must have simply been a mistake, thrown in by accident. She wasn't meant to be a mother to the Glade, she wasn't meant to help them as they believed. She was just a mistake.
Eve bent down in the dirt, covering her head with her hands, curling into a ball, wishing the burning would stop. Her legs ached and pain stabbed; her insides were massacred. Sweat mingled with her tears and burned their way down her face.
"I'm not a mistake..." Her voice was ragged and she only cried harder at the sound. She wanted to be rid of this burden. She didn't want to be someone's mistake!
"Eve! Eve, are you alright?" Newt's voice rang in her ears and a hand wrapped around her shoulders. His hand gripped harder, holding her up. "Eve, you're bloody burning up,"
Eve didn't respond, she was struggling for breath, her pain choking her. Newt pulled her up, holding her wrists as he looked in her face. Gently, he took hold of her chin, looking into her eyes. Eve tried to shake him off, still in tears.
"I'm not a mistake,"
Newt, his eyes ablaze with concern, didn't respond to her whispered words. He turned around to Zart, who stood close by, his eyes wide.
"Go and get Clint. Something's wrong with her. Move it shank!"
Zart did as he was told and turned on his heel, moving so quickly that it made Eve's head spin. She had stopped crying, but she was shaking, her whole body vibrating. The pain within her squeezed at her stomach and she bent over, retching as the breakfast from earlier that morning came back up. Newt lay his hand on her back, helpless to do much else.
"I knew I should've gotten you some shade. Are you sick?"
Eve shook her head, gasping for breath, her arms out to support her.
"Where is the bloody Med Jack?" Newt yelled over his shoulder, knowing that no one was listening. "Gally is going to have my hide, do you know that? What did you do to yourself?"
Eve lay her head on the ground, breathing heavily, sweat stinging her eyes.
What had she done?
"I must be a mistake…," Her voice was raspy. Newt frowned at her.
"What in bloody hell are you talking about?"
Eve couldn't answer, she would only start crying again. What had happened to her? She had been completely fine that morning, what had changed? Was this what pregnancy felt like? Surely it was too early for that!
The sound of feet hitting the ground made her stiffen, Zart was coming back. Eve let her body collapse into the dirt, the heat burning its way into her head. The pounding bounced around her head and the light dulled. Before she knew it, Eve fell under, unconscious.