AN- And another chapter. Let me know what you think.
Chapter 17
Tris stood in line, her nerves thrumming like the strings of a tightly wound guitar, each one threatening to snap under the pressure. The alcohol she'd downed earlier buzzed faintly in her veins, doing little to quell the storm of emotions churning inside her. The line of people stretched on endlessly, a restless sea of eager fans, all buzzing with excitement as they edged closer to the backstage entrance. The air was thick with anticipation, crackling with energy as they moved forward, step by agonizing step.
Beside her, Christina was practically bouncing with excitement, her words spilling out in a relentless, breathless stream. "I can't believe we're actually going backstage! Tris, this is insane! We might get to meet Four! Can you imagine? We're going to be in the same room as him! I might actually die." Christina's enthusiasm was infectious, a bright spark in the charged atmosphere, but Tris could barely focus on what she was saying. Her mind was a whirlwind of confusion and doubt, the questions swirling faster and faster with each step they took closer to the entrance.
Tobias—Four—had been texting her all evening. Each message was sweet, reassuring even, but instead of calming her, they only deepened the pit in her stomach.
Tobias: I'm so happy you're going to be there tonight. Xx
Tobias: If there are any problems with getting in, just give me a call, okay? x
She hadn't replied to any of them. How could she? Each message felt like a taunting reminder of the reality she'd just stumbled upon—a reality that felt too big, too overwhelming to process. Tris felt like a complete fool. How could she have spent nearly two months with Tobias, growing closer with each passing day, and not realized who he really was?
As they neared the entrance to the backstage area, Tris became acutely aware of the crowd around them. Fans swarmed outside the venue, their energy palpable, their anticipation tangible. Many wore t-shirts emblazoned with Four's face, while others clutched posters with declarations of love—"Marry me, Four!" and "I love you, Four!" The air was thick with the scent of popcorn and the sharp tang of excitement. The sound of thousands of fans chanting his name filled the night, a deafening roar that reverberated in her bones. The sheer scale of it was overwhelming, and Tris felt a wave of nausea rise in her throat.
How had she missed all the signs? They had spent so much time together—late-night walks, shared dinners, moments of laughter, and quiet conversations that felt intimate and real. They had even run from the paparazzi together, a memory that now seemed glaringly obvious in hindsight. And yet, she had remained blissfully unaware, thinking he was just her neighbour, a man she was falling for, a songwriter and nothing more. But he wasn't just anyone. How could she have ever thought he might feel the same way? He was clearly out of her league, a world apart from the life she knew.
The final blow came when Christina, barely able to contain her excitement, pulled out her phone, her voice bubbling with barely suppressed enthusiasm. "You know, Four's always been so private, never seen with a woman. But a few weeks ago, the paparazzi caught him with someone—a mystery woman. The photos are all over the internet, and no one has any idea who she is."
She thrust the phone toward Tris, her eyes gleaming with curiosity and a hint of mischief. "Can you imagine? I wonder if she'll be here tonight."
Tris stared at the photos, her heart sinking like a stone. The pictures were from their time in New York—Four's broad back was shielding her face, but she knew it was her. How could he not have told her that there were photos of them online? Her heart twisted painfully as she realized he had kept her in the dark about something so significant. And now Christina, oblivious to the truth, was showing them to her like some juicy piece of gossip.
When they finally reached the security checkpoint at the backstage entrance, Tris handed over their badges, her hands trembling slightly. She had watched the bouncer turn away every single person in front of them, all of whom had tried to get in with fake tickets. The tension in the line was palpable, every fan desperately hoping they wouldn't be the next one rejected. Christina glanced nervously at Tris. "Are you sure these tickets are real?" she whispered, her voice tinged with doubt.
Tris forced a scoff. "Of course they are," she replied, these tickets felt the only real thing she currently had from Tobias.
The guard, clearly expecting to dismiss yet another hopeful fan, glanced at their passes with disinterest. But as he examined them, his expression shifted, his eyes widening as if he couldn't quite believe what he was seeing.
"Names?" he asked, his tone suddenly more respectful.
"Tris Prior," she replied, her voice betraying none of the turmoil raging inside her.
The moment her name left her lips, the guard's demeanor changed entirely. He straightened up, double-checking the list, and then looked at Tris with newfound recognition. His eyes flicked back to the badges, then to Tris, disbelief written all over his face. "ID, please," he requested, and after she handed it to him, he immediately called someone over—a younger man wearing a headset—who looked equally stunned as he received his instructions.
"Please, follow me," the younger man said, his voice hurried and slightly breathless. "I'll take you straight to Four's dressing room. He's already been informed of your arrival."
Christina shot Tris a wide-eyed look, her excitement now mingled with disbelief and curiosity. "Who exactly is this neighbour of yours, Tris?" she whispered, barely containing her glee as they were led through the maze of corridors.
Tris didn't answer. She couldn't. Her mind was spinning, her heart pounding in her chest as the reality of the situation bore down on her. Each step closer to Tobias—Four—felt like a step further away from the simple, comfortable world she had known. She felt out of place, foolish, overwhelmed, and worst of all, hurt.
How could Tobias—Four—not have told her the truth? Did she mean so little to him that he thought it didn't matter? Or had he simply enjoyed the anonymity, the novelty of being with someone who didn't know who he was? The questions gnawed at her, each one more painful than the last.
When they reached the door to the dressing room, Tris didn't hesitate. She walked in quickly, almost desperate to find something to ground her, to give her a moment to think. She immediately spotted the gift basket she'd sent him and made a beeline for it, pouring herself a drink—one that was meant for him. Christina shot her a disapproving look.
"Tris, what are you doing?" Christina hissed. "That's Four's! You can't do that!"
"It's fine," Tris muttered, taking a long sip. The burn of the whiskey did little to settle the storm inside her. It wasn't just the shock of finding out who Tobias really was—it was the betrayal she felt deep in her chest. Why hadn't he told her? Why had he let her believe they were just two ordinary people getting to know each other?
Before Christina could say anything more, the door swung open, and Four walked in, looking both relieved and tense at the same time.
The room seemed to shrink as he entered, his presence filling the space in a way that made Tris's heart race. He was dressed casually, yet there was an undeniable aura of confidence about him, the kind that only comes from being on top of the world. He smiled when he saw her, the same smile that had always made her heart flutter, but now it only added to the confusion and hurt swirling within her.
"Tris," he said, his voice warm and full of affection. "I'm so glad you made it."
For a moment, Tris couldn't find her voice. She just stood there, holding the empty glass, her mind a chaotic mess of emotions she couldn't untangle. This was Tobias—the man she had come to care for deeply, the man she had started to fall for. But it was also Four, the global superstar, the man who had kept a crucial part of himself hidden from her. How was she supposed to reconcile these two realities?
Christina, oblivious to the emotional storm inside Tris, looked like she was about to explode with excitement. "Oh my God, you're Four! Tris, this is Four!"
Four turned to Christina, a polite smile on his face as he reached out to shake her hand. "You must be Christina. Tris has told me a lot about you."
Christina's excitement faltered, confusion knitting her brows. "Wait... what? How do you know about me?"
Four didn't answer her question directly, his eyes fixed on Tris. He couldn't stop staring at her, his expression a mixture of relief and worry, as if he was trying to gauge how she was feeling but also desperate to talk to her. Christina looked between him and Tris, the realization dawning like a lightbulb flickering to life. Her eyes widened, and she took a step back, glancing between them.
"You're the neighbor? Oh my God, Tris! Is he the neighbor who you've been crushing on? You have been living next to Four this whole time and didn't tell me?"
"Christina!" Tris shrieked in embarrassment, not wanting Four to know her true feelings now that she knew she could never have a shot.
Christina was in complete shock. "I need some fresh air," she muttered, backing out of the room, leaving the two of them alone.
The door clicked shut behind Christina, leaving an uncomfortable silence hanging in the room. The vibrant energy of the concert had dissipated, replaced by a tension that weighed heavily in the air. The muffled sounds of people still celebrating in the distance only served to highlight the isolation Tris felt in that moment.
Tris turned to face Tobias, the man she had grown so close to over the past few months, yet now felt like a stranger. Her arms crossed tightly over her chest, as if trying to shield herself from the emotional storm brewing inside her. Her eyes, usually so full of warmth, were now blazing with a mix of hurt and anger, emotions she could no longer suppress.
The silence between them was heavy. Four took a step closer, his voice soft and pleading. "Tris—"
She cut him off, her tone sharp. "Apparently, you're not the support act," she said, her voice laced with sarcasm that barely masked the depth of her pain. "Why didn't you tell me, Tobias? Why did you let me think we were just... normal?"
The room seemed to shrink as Tobias took a tentative step closer, his tall frame casting a shadow that seemed to swallow the space between them. His expression was tense, a mixture of guilt and desperation etched into his features. But as he moved toward her, Tris instinctively took a step back, refusing to let him close the distance she had imposed between them.
"Tris, I... I didn't know how," Tobias began, his voice low and pleading, as if he were trying to grasp the right words but finding them just out of reach.
"Didn't know how?" Tris snapped, her voice sharp as she finally met his gaze. The hurt in her eyes was undeniable, a stark contrast to the affection that had once been there. "You didn't think I deserved to know who I was actually spending time with? You let me believe we were just two regular people getting to know each other. But you're living this... this life that I can't even wrap my head around!"
The walls of the small dressing room seemed to close in on them, the contrast between the cozy intimacy they once shared and the vast chasm now separating them painfully clear. Tobias looked around the room as if searching for something to anchor himself, but all he found was the reality he had been trying to avoid.
"I didn't want to lie," Tobias said, frustration evident in his voice. "At first, I thought you knew who I was, and when I realized you didn't... I loved it. I loved that you were getting to know me for who I really am, not because of all... this," he gestured around the room, indicating the concert, the fame, the spotlight that had consumed his life. "I tried to tell you, but every time I started, you made assumptions, and I just... I didn't correct you."
Tris felt a pang of betrayal twist in her gut. The distance between them felt like a canyon now, impossible to bridge. "So you let me walk around clueless," she shot back, her voice trembling with a mix of anger and pain. "Do you have any idea how stupid I feel right now? The whole world knew who you were, Tobias. Everyone but me. How could you do that to me?"
Tobias's face fell, the regret he felt deepening the lines of worry etched on his brow. He opened his mouth to speak, but for a moment, no words came. How could he explain the fear that had paralyzed him, the fear of losing the one person who had seen him as more than just a celebrity?
"Tris, I never wanted to deceive you," Tobias said finally, his voice carrying the weight of his remorse. "I thought you might have known, and when I realized you didn't, I didn't know how to tell you. I was scared of what it would change between us. I'm so sorry."
Tris's anger flared again, her hands clenching into fists at her sides as she struggled to contain the storm of emotions inside her. "Why the hell didn't you tell me there was a photo of me online, Tobias? I'm glad my face isn't visible, but that's not the point! You should have told me!"
Tobias's expression turned solemn, the gravity of the situation fully dawning on him. The thought of her finding out this way, through someone else, tore at him. "Tris, I didn't know about the photo until it was already out there. I should've told you as soon as I found out, but I didn't know how. I'm so sorry."
Tris exhaled sharply, her frustration palpable as she looked away, trying to process the whirlwind of emotions. She had started to believe that Tobias might be the person she could finally open up to, someone she could trust with her heart. But instead, he had kept her in the dark, and the sting of that betrayal was almost too much to bear.
"You still should have, Tobias," she sighed, her voice heavy with disappointment. The vulnerability she had tried to keep hidden was now laid bare, and it hurt more than she could have imagined. "I thought we were building something real, but now... now I just feel like a fool."
"I know, I know," Tobias said quickly, his voice thick with guilt. "I was just trying to protect you, to keep you from getting dragged into this mess. I didn't want you to be hurt."
"But I am hurt!" Tris exclaimed, her voice growing more intense as the words tumbled out, fueled by the pain she could no longer suppress. "You didn't trust me enough to handle the truth. You didn't give me the chance to decide if I wanted to be a part of your world. You made me feel like a joke, like I was the only one who didn't know what was really going on!"
Tobias took a deep breath, the regret in his eyes clear as he tried to reach out to her. "I'm so sorry, Tris," he said, his voice filled with genuine remorse. "I wasn't trying to make you feel like a fool. I was trying to protect what we had. I didn't want the world's perception of me to taint how you saw me."
"But that's not fair!" Tris cried, her voice trembling with emotion as tears threatened to spill over. "You didn't give me the choice to decide if I could handle it. You made that decision for me. And now there are pictures of us online! Of me! And I didn't even know until Christina showed me. Do you have any idea what that feels like?"
The intensity of the moment hung between them, the room charged with the weight of everything left unsaid. Tobias's expression softened, guilt and worry etched into his features. He took a step closer, his voice tender yet filled with regret. "Tris, I didn't want that to happen. You have to know that."
Tris wiped at her eyes, her anger giving way to a deeper sense of vulnerability that made her feel small and exposed. "But they were taken. And now I'm out there, online, in a way I never wanted to be. People are talking about me, speculating about who I am. I'm a private person, Tobias. I didn't ask for any of this. And you... you didn't even warn me."
Tobias's heart ached as he saw the pain in her eyes, pain that he knew he had caused. "I know, and I'm so sorry," he said, his voice thick with remorse. "I was trying to protect you, to keep you from getting hurt by this world. But I see now that I should have trusted you more, been more open with you."
Tris looked down, struggling to keep her emotions in check as the reality of the situation settled over her. "You should have," she whispered, her voice barely holding steady. "I just... I feel so exposed and betrayed. I trusted you, Tobias. I thought we were building something real, but now... now I just feel like a fool."
"You're not a fool, Tris," Tobias said earnestly, his voice gentle as he stepped closer, his hands reaching out but stopping just short of touching her. "This isn't what I wanted for you. I never wanted you to feel like this."
"But I do," she whispered, her voice cracking as she fought to hold back the tears that threatened to spill. "I thought... I thought there was something real between us, something that could actually happen. But seeing all of this, seeing how your world really is... I just don't see how I fit into it. I feel like an idiot for thinking I ever could."
Tobias frowned, his brows furrowing as he tried to understand the depth of her insecurities. "Why wouldn't there be something real between us, Tris? Just because I'm famous?"
She hesitated, biting her lip as she tried to find the right words to convey the overwhelming doubt and fear that had taken hold of her heart. "Because you're living in a completely different world, Tobias. You could have any supermodel you want, anyone. I'm just... I'm just me. How am I supposed to compete with that?"
Tobias's expression darkened, the intensity in his eyes deepening as he processed her words. "Is that really what you think? That just because I'm famous, I want some supermodel? That I don't want something real?"
Tris looked away, her voice barely a whisper as she struggled to articulate the fears that had plagued her since she discovered his true identity. "How could you not? Your life is... it's so far from anything I could ever imagine being a part of."
Tobias's voice grew quieter, tinged with a bitterness that spoke of years of isolation behind the mask of fame. "I never wanted this life," he admitted, his tone somber. "The fame, the fans, all of it. It's not something I ever asked for. In fact, I hate it. I've been trying to find a way out for years."
Tris blinked, surprise flickering across her face as she looked back at him. "You hate it?"
"Yeah, I do," Tobias confessed, his voice steady but filled with an underlying pain. "All I ever wanted was to be able to live my life without all this noise, without people constantly watching me, judging me. And I don't want a supermodel or some perfect, glamorous life. I want something real, Tris. I want someone who sees me for who I am, not what I am. And right now, the only person I want with me... is you."
Tris's breath caught in her throat, her heart pounding as she saw the raw sincerity in his eyes. For a moment, the world outside of that room faded away, leaving just the two of them standing on the edge of something uncertain and terrifying.
"I just... I don't know if I can do this," she whispered, her voice trembling with the weight of her doubt. "I don't know if I'm strong enough to be a part of your life, Tobias."
Tobias stepped closer, his presence grounding her as he gently placed his hands on her shoulders. "You don't have to be anyone but yourself, Tris. That's all I want. I don't need anything else, just you."
She hesitated, her voice cracking as she spoke. "I just... I need time. I need to figure out if I can trust you again. If I can really be a part of this world."
Tobias looked at her, his eyes filled with desperation, the fear of losing her clawing at him. "I understand, Tris. But please... give me another chance. Let me show you how much you mean to me. Stay for the concert, just give me tonight. I'll prove it to you."
Tris looked up at him, her gaze searching his eyes, torn between the fear and the hope that had begun to build inside her. After what felt like an eternity, she finally nodded, her heart racing with uncertainty. "I'll stay... but this conversation isn't over. We still need to work things out."
Relief washed over Tobias's face, the tension in his shoulders easing as he stepped even closer, embracing her tightly. He cupped her face in his hands, his voice trembling with emotion as he spoke. "Thank you, Tris. I don't want to lose you. You're too important to me."
Tris leaned into his touch, her eyes closing as she let herself find comfort in the warmth of his embrace. "I don't want to lose you either, Tobias. But we have to be honest with each other from now on."
"I promise," Tobias whispered, holding her as if she might slip away. "No more secrets. Just... stay with me."
"I'll stay," Tris repeated softly, her heart still heavy but beating in sync with his. They stood there, holding onto each other as if the rest of the world could wait. It wasn't perfect, and it wasn't resolved, but for now, it was enough.
Christina burst into the room with Amar at her side, her excitement so palpable that she practically skipped in, only to come to a sudden halt when she saw Tris and Tobias locked in a tight embrace. The room seemed to freeze in that instant, the air thick with the weight of unspoken emotions and lingering tension. Tris pulled back slightly, her hands trembling as she wiped away the lingering tears, but Tobias couldn't quite bring himself to let her go. His hands rested gently on her arms, as if anchoring her to him, afraid that letting go might mean losing her for good.
Earlier, when she had agreed to stay after the concert, it had been a small victory for Tobias, a glimmer of hope that maybe, just maybe, things weren't completely broken between them. It wasn't everything, but it was something.
The small dressing room, once a space filled with the bustling energy of pre-show preparations, now felt like a world unto itself, isolated from the noise and excitement outside. The dim lighting cast long shadows on the walls, adding to the heavy atmosphere that enveloped them.
Amar, ever perceptive, cleared his throat in an attempt to break the tension that hung in the air like a storm cloud. "The show's about to start, Four. We need to get you on stage."
Tobias, still holding onto Tris, hesitated, his eyes fixed on her as if he was trying to memorize every detail of her face. The uncertainty gnawed at him—had he lost her, or was there still a chance to make things right? The thought of leaving her now, even for the show, filled him with a sense of dread.
Amar, sensing the need to keep things moving, nodded toward the door, his voice gentle but firm. "Come on, Four. We've got a show to put on."
With visible reluctance, Tobias gave Tris's arms one last, lingering squeeze before stepping back, his eyes lingering on hers, searching for any sign of reassurance. "Wait for me after the show, okay? Don't go straight home."
Tris nodded, her heart fluttering despite the whirlwind of emotions inside her. "I'll be here."
As Tobias and Amar left the room, Christina turned to Tris, still trying to process the shock of what she had just witnessed. "I can't believe this. You're telling me you've been living next to Four this whole time and didn't even know it?"
Tris let out a shaky breath, running a hand through her hair as she tried to make sense of everything. "Yeah, and now I feel like the biggest fool on the planet."
Christina shook her head, a small smile tugging at her lips despite the shock. "Honestly, it's kind of amazing. But Tris... that hug back there, and the way he was looking at you... you can't tell me you're just friends."
Tris felt her face flush, her heart still pounding from the intensity of her conversation with Tobias. "I don't know what we are right now. Everything's so confusing."
Christina gave her a sympathetic look, but before she could say anything more, the sound of the crowd outside swelled, signaling the start of the concert. "Come on," she said, grabbing Tris's hand with renewed excitement. "Let's go see this rock star of yours in action."
Amar reappeared, catching the conversation. "Follow me," he said with a grin, leading Tris and Christina through the maze of backstage corridors. The venue was massive, a sprawling stadium that seemed to stretch endlessly, with rows of seats climbing high up the walls. As they moved closer to the stage, the low hum of anticipation from the audience grew louder, vibrating through the walls and floor.
Amar guided them to a prime spot, right near the stage, where they could see everything up close. The stage itself was a towering structure, flanked by massive screens displaying vibrant visuals that pulsed with the beat of the music. The stadium was packed to the brim, thousands of fans eagerly awaiting the start of the show, their collective energy creating a palpable buzz in the air.
The lights dimmed, and the stadium was plunged into darkness, save for the soft glow of phones and the occasional flicker of stage lights being adjusted. The crowd erupted into cheers, a deafening roar that echoed off the walls, as the anticipation reached its peak. The atmosphere was electric, charged with the excitement of thousands of people waiting for the same moment.
As the first notes of the concert rang out, Tris felt the vibrations of the bass thrum through her chest, the sheer magnitude of the event washing over her like a tidal wave. She was still reeling from her emotional confrontation with Tobias, but as the music began, she found herself being swept up in the energy of the crowd, her worries momentarily drowned out by the powerful beats and soaring melodies.
And then Tobias appeared on stage.
He was flanked by his three bandmates—Uriah on bass, Zeke on drums, and Will on lead guitar—each of them commanding their own presence, but none more than Four. Under the bright stage lights, he looked like a different person—a superstar in every sense of the word. His presence was magnetic, his every movement commanding the attention of the entire arena. The man she knew, the man who had held her so tenderly just moments ago, was now transformed into a larger-than-life figure, a rock god who had thousands of people hanging on his every word.
The band launched into their first song, and the crowd's energy surged, filling the vast space with cheers and applause. Song after song, Four captivated the audience, his voice powerful and raw, his performance electrifying. Tris couldn't tear her eyes away from him, completely mesmerized by the contrast between the man on stage and the one she had spent so many quiet, intimate moments with. How was it possible that this was the same person?
As the music poured from the stage, the lights danced across the crowd, casting the sea of faces in a kaleidoscope of colors. The sheer size of the stadium, with its towering walls and endless rows of seats, only amplified the intensity of the experience. It was overwhelming, a sensory overload that left Tris both exhilarated and disoriented.
Then, after a particularly energetic number, Four approached the microphone, and the crowd's cheering began to die down. His voice, when he spoke, was strong but carried an undercurrent of vulnerability that sent a shiver down Tris's spine.
"This next song," Four began, his gaze sweeping the crowd before landing squarely on Tris, "is something new. For a while, I lost my inspiration, but after moving back to Chicago, I found it again. I found someone who reminded me why I started doing this in the first place."
The crowd erupted into cheers, but Four didn't waver. He kept his eyes locked on Tris, his expression serious, almost reverent. "I wrote this song for that person. I hope you like it."
As the opening chords began to play, Tris felt the world around her fade away. There was only him, only this moment. The lyrics poured out of him, each word resonating deep within her, pulling at the very fabric of her being.
And I'd give up forever to touch you, 'cause I know that you feel me somehow...
Four's voice was rich with emotion, and as he sang, he kept his gaze fixed on Tris, making it clear that every word was meant for her. The intimacy of the moment was overwhelming, as though the rest of the world had fallen away, leaving just the two of them, connected in a way that words alone could never capture.
And all I can taste is this moment, and all I can breathe is your life...
Tris felt the tears she had been holding back finally spill over, the weight of the moment too much to contain. The song was raw, beautiful, and undeniably personal. It was as if Four was baring his soul to the entire arena, but somehow, it felt like he was singing only for her.
And sooner or later it's over, I just don't wanna miss you tonight...
Christina, standing beside her, was wide-eyed and practically vibrating with excitement. "Tris, he's singing to you," she whispered, as if afraid to break the spell. "You can't tell me you're just friends. Friends don't dedicate love songs to each other."
And I don't want the world to see me, 'cause I don't think that they'd understand...
But Tris couldn't respond. Her heart was pounding too hard, her emotions too tangled to sort out. All she could do was listen, her gaze locked on Four as he bared his soul on stage. The raw honesty in his voice, the way he seemed to be pouring every ounce of his being into the song, left her breathless.
When everything's made to be broken, I just want you to know who I am...
As the final notes of the song faded into the cheers of the crowd, Four smiled—a small, private smile that seemed meant for her alone. Tris felt her breath catch in her throat, the tears she had been holding back finally spilling over. The intensity of the moment was too much to contain, overwhelming her in a way she hadn't expected.
Christina grabbed Tris's arm, her excitement practically bursting out of her. "You're dating Four. You're actually dating Four!"
Tris shook her head, her voice barely a whisper as she tried to make sense of everything. "We're not... we're not dating."
Christina gave her a look that was both incredulous and amused. "Tris, friends don't look at each other like that. And they definitely don't dedicate love songs in front of thousands of people."
Tris opened her mouth to argue, but the words wouldn't come. Deep down, she knew Christina was right. Whatever this was between her and Tobias, it was more than just friendship. And tonight, he had made that perfectly clear.
As Four continued his set, captivating the crowd with every song, Tris felt a mixture of emotions swirling inside her—fear, excitement, hope, and above all, a deep, undeniable connection to the man on stage. She had no idea what would happen next, but one thing was certain: everything had changed, and there was no going back.
The atmosphere backstage was electric, still buzzing with the afterglow of the concert. The air was thick with excitement, and the hum of conversations filled the space as fans, crew members, and musicians mingled. Tris, now wrapped in one of Tobias's concert hoodies that she'd snagged after thracing, a mix of lingering adrenaline, emotions, and anticipation making it difficult to stand still. The night had been surreal—filled with moments so monumental they felt too big to fully process—and now, as she waited for Tobias, she felt as though she was standing on the edge of something life-changing.
Christina had darted off to the merch stand, eager to grab a haul of items to get signed by the band, leaving Tris alone in the corridor. The crowd from the concert was still buzzing with excitement as they spilled out of the venue, their energy palpable even from where she stood. Tris could barely contain her own excitement, her mind replaying the incredible performance she had just witnessed. Tobias had been nothing short of amazing, his talent on full display as he commanded the stage with his music. She couldn't believe that she had never heard of his work before—it was so raw, so powerful. And then there was that song… Had he really written it for her? The thought sent a flutter through her heart, stirring hope and confusion in equal measure.
As she stood there, still riding the high of the concert and the buzz from the alcohol she'd consumed, she saw him—Tobias, or Four, as the world knew him—walking down the corridor. His head was slightly bowed as he spoke with Amar, likely discussing some post-show logistics. Tris knew they had unfinished business, that their earlier conversation wasn't over. But the sight of him now, after seeing him on stage, made all those concerns fade into the background. The alcohol in her system was loosening her up, making her feel light, happy, and unwilling to dwell on the negative. She just wanted to enjoy this moment.
As soon as Tobias looked up and spotted her, a wide smile broke across his face, making her heart skip a beat. Without a second thought, Tris dashed forward, unable to contain her excitement any longer. She threw herself into his arms, her enthusiasm catching them both by surprise. Tobias caught her effortlessly, lifting her off the ground as she wrapped her arms around his neck, holding him close.
"You were amazing," she breathed, pulling back just enough to look into his eyes, her own sparkling with admiration. "Absolutely incredible."
Tobias's smile widened, and he pressed a gentle kiss to her forehead, his voice warm and full of affection. "I'm so glad you were here, Tris. It meant everything to me."
Tears welled up in Tris's eyes as she thought of the song he had performed. "And that song…" she began, her voice trembling with emotion, the alcohol heightening every feeling.
Before Tobias could respond, Tris acted on impulse, her emotions overwhelming her. She leaned in and pressed a chaste kiss to his lips. It was brief, tender, and full of the confusion and affection swirling inside her.
Tobias froze for a moment, caught off guard by the kiss. The softness of her lips, the vulnerability in her touch—it all hit him at once, leaving him momentarily speechless. He began to respond, but just as he was about to speak, a familiar voice interrupted.
"Well, well, well, look at this," Zeke called out, his tone playful and full of mischief as he approached them. "You must be my date for the night! I'm Zeke and you must be Tris."
Tris pulled back from Tobias, her face flushed with a mix of excitement and embarrassment as she turned to face Zeke. His eyes sparkled with the same mischievous energy she had seen in Tobias before, but there was also a flicker of recognition in his gaze, a look that made her pause.
"Wait a minute," Zeke said, squinting at her, his brow furrowing as he tried to place her. "You look really familiar…"
Tris's heart skipped a beat as realization dawned on her. She had met Zeke before, in a far less ideal situation. Panic bubbled up inside her as she tried to play it cool; she knew Tobias wouldn't take it well if he knew what had happened, but before she could say anything, Zeke snapped his fingers in sudden recognition.
"That's it!" Zeke exclaimed, his eyes widening as it all clicked into place. "You're the woman from the supermarket! You were there when I lost Ella!"
Tobias's smile instantly vanished, his entire body tensing as he turned to Zeke, his eyes narrowing dangerously. "You lost my daughter?" he demanded, his voice rising with a mixture of disbelief and anger.
"No!" Zeke shrieked, throwing his hands up in defense. "I just… misplaced her?"
Without warning, Tobias tackled Zeke to the ground, the two of them crashing down in a tangle of limbs as Tris let out a gasp of surprise. "Four , stop!" she shouted, trying to pull him off Zeke, who was laughing even as he tried to fend off Tobias's half-hearted attacks.
"Alright, alright, man! I deserved that!" Zeke admitted between breaths, his booming laughter filling the corridor.
Shauna, who had been following close behind, rushed over and helped Zeke to his feet, her eyes twinkling with amusement. "I told you one day you'd push him too far, Zeke," she teased, brushing off his clothes as he stood up, still chuckling.
Zeke crossed his arms, looking slightly winded but otherwise unbothered. "He wouldn't kill me," he said with a cocky grin.
Tobias, finally calming down, allowed himself a small grin in return. "I already knew where I was going to bury your body," he joked, though the protective edge in his voice was still evident.
Zeke clapped him on the back, wincing slightly as he adjusted his jacket. "Good to know you care so much, brother," he said, his tone affectionate despite the teasing.
"Let's go for drinks, shall we?" Shauna suggested, steering the group toward the backstage lounge. "I think we could all use one after that show."
They all nodded in agreement, and Tobias gently grabbed Tris's arm, pulling her close. "I'll take a quick shower and see you there, alright?" he asked, his tone careful, still unsure of where they stood.
Feeling emboldened by the alcohol and the emotions of the night, Tris leaned in and gave Tobias a lingering kiss on the cheek. "I'll be waiting for you. Whiskey coke, right?" she asked, a playful smile tugging at her lips as she recalled his drink of choice.
Tobias nodded, a big smile spreading across his face as he kissed her forehead. "I'll be back soon."
Tris laughed as he enveloped her in a bear hug, teasing him lightly. "Good, because you reek."
Tris made her way to the backstage lounge, which was already buzzing with people—the support act, a few industry insiders, the band, and a handful of close friends and family. The atmosphere was relaxed, everyone still riding the high of the concert's success. A table in the corner was laden with food and drinks, and Tris didn't hesitate to head over, eager to keep the night's vibe alive.
As she approached the bar, she spotted Christina, already deeply immersed in conversation with some of the band members. Christina, ever the social butterfly, was laughing and snapping photos with Uriah and Will, the flash of her camera capturing the carefree moment. Tris couldn't help but smile; Christina seemed to be having the time of her life.
Tris ordered two whiskey cokes, Tobias's preferred drink, and a glass of wine for herself. The bartender, recognizing her from earlier, handed over the drinks with a knowing grin. She thanked him, took a deep breath to steady her nerves, and scanned the room. It was surreal being in this environment, surrounded by people who were so famous yet seemed so normal, so grounded. The reality of the night began to sink in, and Tris found herself feeling a mix of awe and disbelief.
When Tobias finally joined her in the lounge, freshly showered and still slightly damp, the atmosphere shifted subtly. Heads turned as he walked in, but there was no fanfare, no over-the-top reactions—just a series of nods, waves, and warm greetings. It struck Tris how down-to-earth everyone seemed, considering their level of fame. There was no pretension, no air of superiority—just a group of people who genuinely enjoyed being around each other.
Tobias spotted Tris by the bar and made his way over, his eyes lighting up when he saw her holding his drink. "You remembered," he said, a grin spreading across his face as he took the glass from her hand.
"Of course," Tris replied, raising her own glass in a toast. "To an incredible performance."
They clinked glasses, the moment feeling both celebratory and intimate. As they drank, the rest of the band joined them—Uriah, Will, Zeke and Shauna—all of whom seemed genuinely surprised to see Tobias with a girl. Tris could feel their curious gazes, but no one said anything, at least not directly.
"Well, well, well, who do we have here?" Uriah teased, his grin mischievous as he looked between Tobias and Tris.
"This is Tris," Tobias said, his tone casual but with an underlying warmth that didn't go unnoticed.
Tris blushed, the weight of his words making her feel both flattered and nervous. She wasn't used to this kind of attention, especially from people who were practically rock royalty.
The night continued with laughter, stories, and more drinks. Tris was surprised by how normal everything felt, despite the glamorous surroundings. The band members, who she had thought might be distant or aloof given their fame, were anything but. They joked, they teased, they reminisced about old times, and by the time the drinks really started flowing, they were all just a group of friends enjoying each other's company.
As the night wore on, Tris and Tobias found themselves getting tipsy, the alcohol smoothing out the edges of their earlier tensions. Tris was amazed at how easy it was to talk to him, how comfortable she felt in his presence, even after everything that had happened. She was even more amazed by how grounded Tobias seemed, despite the world of fame and adoration he lived in. It was like she was getting to know a different side of him, one that few people ever got to see.
Eventually, the group's laughter echoed through the lounge, and Tris found herself caught up in the moment, her earlier worries fading into the background.
Christina, her eyes gleaming with excitement, grabbed Tris's hand and dragged her toward the makeshift dance floor that had formed in one corner of the room. The two of them began to move to the beat, their bodies swaying in sync with the pulsating rhythm. Laughter bubbled up from Tris's chest, a lightness she hadn't felt in what seemed like ages. The bass reverberated through her, drowning out everything but the music and the joy of the moment. It was liberating—a temporary escape from the weight of her thoughts and the complexities of the night.
The alcohol buzzing in her system made Tris bolder than usual. She threw her head back, her hair cascading around her shoulders as she spun around, letting the music take control. Christina, ever the life of the party, matched her energy, the two of them spinning and twirling as if they didn't have a care in the world. For a few blissful moments, it was just them—best friends revelling in the simplicity of the moment, no drama, no worries, just pure, unfiltered fun.
But then, suddenly, Tris felt a pair of strong hands wrap around her waist, pulling her close. The touch was familiar, sending a shiver of recognition down her spine. She gasped softly, her heart skipping a beat as she felt Four's presence envelop her. He leaned in, his breath warm against her ear, the deep timbre of his voice sending a thrill through her. "This dress has been driving me crazy all evening," he murmured, his voice low and rough, laced with desire.
Tris's breath hitched as she felt him press against her, his hands firm on her hips as they began to move together to the rhythm of the music. The connection between them was electric, the heat of his body searing through the thin fabric of her dress. It was intoxicating, the way their bodies fit together, as if they were meant to move in perfect harmony. She had never imagined herself dancing like this—so provocatively, so freely—especially not with him. But tonight felt different. Tonight, she felt bold, invincible, and the way Four was holding her made her feel like the only woman in the room.
Christina, catching Tris's eye, grinned mischievously and gave her a knowing wink before spinning away, leaving the two of them in their own private bubble on the dance floor.
Four's hands slid lower, gripping her hips more tightly as he pulled her even closer. Tris could feel every inch of him, the hard planes of his chest, the strength in his arms and she could feel how hard he was and how much he wanted her. Her head tilted back slightly, resting against his shoulder as they swayed in perfect sync with the music. It was as if the world had faded away, leaving only the two of them, their bodies moving as one, every movement charged with unspoken desire.
Tris felt herself getting lost in the sensation, her inhibitions dissolving with each beat of the music. She arched her back slightly, pressing herself more firmly against Four, who responded with a low, appreciative growl. His hands tightened their grip on her hips, guiding her movements as they danced, their bodies practically melding into one.
It was a side of herself Tris had never let out before—not with anyone. But with Four, it felt natural, exhilarating. He made her feel safe, cherished, like she could let go of all her reservations and be completely herself. And the way he was looking at her now, with such intensity, such hunger, made her feel like the most desired woman in the world.
Four leaned down, his lips brushing the shell of her ear. "You're incredible," he murmured, his voice thick with emotion. Tris shivered, her hands sliding up to tangle in the hair at the nape of his neck, holding him close as they moved together in perfect harmony.
Their dance was more than just a dance—it was an unspoken conversation, a silent confession. It was intimate, almost too intimate for a public space, but Tris didn't care. All that mattered was the way Four was making her feel—alive, wanted, completely and utterly his.
As the song drew to a close, Four gently turned Tris around in his arms so she was facing him, their bodies flush against each other. Her hands slid up to rest on his chest as she looked up into his eyes, the intensity of his gaze taking her breath away. For a moment, she thought he might kiss her right there, in front of everyone. The thought sent a thrill of anticipation through her, but before either of them could make a move, they were interrupted by a familiar voice.
"Wow, look at you two!" Zeke's voice broke through the haze, and Tris blinked, suddenly aware of the world around them again. She turned to see Zeke grinning at them, his eyes twinkling with playful mischief. "Come on, you two lovebirds, get a room!" he teased, laughing as Four shot him a withering glare. Zeke held up his hands in mock surrender, backing away with a smirk.
Shauna stepped in, chuckling. "I don't know what Zeke did, but he was supposed to let you guys know that it's last call. The venue's closing in fifteen minutes, and we've already overstayed our welcome."
Tris glanced at her phone, surprised to see that it was already 2:30 AM. Time had flown by, and she had no idea how long she and Tobias had been dancing. Her body was still humming from the closeness, the heat, the intensity of their shared moment. She wished they could stay wrapped up in each other for a little longer, but the abrupt end of the music and the dimming lights made it clear that the night was drawing to a close.
They joined the others at the booth, where the remnants of the night's festivities were still in full swing. Everyone was clearly drunk, enjoying the last moments of the night. Shauna, ever the responsible one, was making sure everyone had water, herding the group like a mother hen. Zeke, his words slurred and his movements unsteady, pointed a finger at Tris, his grin wide and goofy. "It's been great having you here, Tris," he said, his voice warm despite the alcohol. "You're too good for my boy," he added with a laugh, earning another scowl from Four.
Then, as if remembering something important, Zeke's eyes lit up. "You and Christina should totally come to my lake house tomorrow! We're having an afterparty!"
Christina shrieked with excitement, practically bouncing in her seat, but Tris hesitated, her gaze flicking to Four. Did Tobias want her there, or was Zeke just being polite? Before she could find the courage to ask, Christina answered for her. "Oh, we'll be there! Hells yes! We also have a friend—is she allowed to come?"
"The more, the merrier!" Zeke declared, throwing his arms wide.
"Not too many," Four added with a pointed look, though his head was already resting heavily on Tris's shoulder. He was clearly exhausted, but that didn't stop him from nestling his face into her hair, his lips brushing her neck in a series of soft, lingering kisses. "You smell amazing, Tris," he murmured, his voice low and intimate.
The way he was holding her, touching her, felt almost too intimate, especially surrounded by his friends. But Tris couldn't bring herself to care. Four's hand skimmed the side of her dress, his fingers grazing the exposed skin, sending fire coursing through her veins. "You're so beautiful, Tris," he whispered, his drunken eyes locked on hers. His fingers traced the lines of her dress, his touch both tender and possessive. "and that tattoo" he basically growled in her ear tracing the edges of her tattoo "You have no idea what I want to do to you," he added, his voice rough with desire.
Tris nearly lost control, the pull to find a secluded spot and lose herself in him almost overwhelming. She wanted him, needed him, but she knew that there were still things they needed to figure out. She couldn't afford to get swept up in the moment, not when there was so much at stake.
But just as she was about to say something, Shauna swooped in to save the day. "Okay, guys, party's over. See you all tomorrow."
Tris was grateful that Four had arranged a car to take her and Christina home. A part of her was relieved that he would be sleeping at Zeke's—she knew that if she had gone home with him tonight, she would have made a mistake, no matter how much she wanted to stay by his side and loose herself in desire. The night had been incredible, but she knew that they still had a lot to figure out