The chapters have been really long lately. Do you guys prefer that, or would you like them to be a bit shorter? I'm not entirely happy with this chapter, but for now, it will have to do. Let me know your thoughts, and happy reading!
Chapter 18
Tris woke up to her alarm, and every beep had gone through her head like a jackhammer. Tris groaned and tried to turn it off quickly and close her eyes again, but the damages were already done. Her head was pounding, a sharp pang of shame hit her head, a stark reminder of the night before. The room was heavy, the air thick with the lingering scent of alcohol and regret. As she lay staring at the ceiling, memories of the previous night began to resurface, bringing with them a wave of shame and fear.
She was still able to see the dance floor, the way she used to let herself get lost in the music while moving against Tobias in a thoughtless desert she hardly ever allowed herself. She remembered being on the dance floor, how she'd lost herself in the music, pressed flushed against Tobias. The alcohol had actually made her less disciplined, clouded her judgment, and now that it was morning and sober, she felt completely ridiculous. What was she thinking? She had never been the type to throw herself at someone, especially not in front of his friends and bandmates. However, she had been someone else last night—overcome in the intensity of the evening and perplexed by her own complex emotions. And then Tobias was there. A sharp pain hit her chest at the thought of him, like a knife twisting in her heart. She still had feelings for him—feelings she wished she could turn off—but the hurt from his betrayal was overpowering, making it hard to think about anything else. She kept replaying the moments in her mind, wondering how she had been so blind. How had he managed to fool her so completely, hiding who he really was? They had shared so much, yet he had kept so much hidden. Why hadn't he been honest with her after everything they'd been through?
The trust she once had in him felt shattered, like a delicate glass that had been dropped and could never be pieced back together. She couldn't believe how completely she had lost control, how easily she had let her guard down. Her bed, once a place of comfort, now only added to her sense of disorientation. It wrapped around her, but instead of soothing her, it made the confusion and loneliness in her mind even worse. Everything around her was disturbingly quiet, as if the world had come to a standstill, leaving her alone with her swirling thoughts.
She felt like she was spinning out of control, unable to make sense of what had happened. How could she have let things get this far? She couldn't believe her own actions, couldn't understand how she had lost control so completely. It was like the bed itself was holding her down, trapping her in a reality she couldn't face.
She needed to escape, to get away from the overwhelming feelings closing in on her from every side. The pain of betrayal and the weight of her own choices were suffocating her, making it impossible to breathe. All she wanted was to run, to put as much distance as possible between herself and the mess she had created.
With a heavy sigh, Tris reached for her phone on the nightstand. The screen was blank when she plugged it in and waited for it to power up. When the screen finally flickered to life, she saw a string of notifications—most of them from Tobias. Her heart pounded as she scrolled through the messages, each one tinged with the sweetness that normally made her smile. But this morning, they only deepened the ache inside her.
Tobias : Last night was incredible. Thank you for staying.
Tobias: I hope you got home safe. Can't wait to see you today.
Tobias : Please let me know if you're okay.
Tris stared at the messages, her thumb hovering over the screen. She wanted to respond, to tell him she was fine, but the words wouldn't come. She was still too wrapped up in her own feelings, too embarrassed and hurt to pretend that everything was okay. She closed her phone and tossed it away, rolling onto her side once again, her head a complicated mess. Then her phone buzzed again—more messages, but these felt different.
Tobias: u were sooooo sexy last night... miss u already.
Tobias: wissz u were here with me.
Tobias: bed is coldwizthout u...
She blinked at the screen, her heart skipping a beat as she read the next message. It came with a fuzzy selfie of Tobias, his hair messy, eyes half-closed in a sleepy-eyed, drunken fog. He was smiling that lazy, contented smile that twisted something deep inside her.
Tobias: come lie next to me... pls...
Tris's emotions were a mix—caught between being touched, guilty, and unsure of what to think .He had clearly been drunk when he sent those messages, and she wasn't sure how to respond. She felt absurd for letting herself get so swept up in the night's events. How could she have been so caught up in Tobias after everything that had happened? After he had lied to her? But then there was that song... the one he wrote for her. The memory of it sent a shiver through her, mixing with all the other feelings she couldn't quite sort out. She felt overwhelmed, her emotions swinging wildly between hurt and longing.
Tobias made her feel things she hadn't felt in a long time—things she didn't want to feel, but couldn't ignore. And now, with these drunken messages, he was only adding to her confusion. Part of her wanted to forgive him, to sweep everything away and just be with him. But the part of her still hurt by his actions couldn't let go so quickly. Another message popped up.
Tobias: y r u not here... missing u... can't sleep...
Tris sighed, a mix of exasperation and affection swirling in her chest. She could picture him lying there, half-asleep, and struggling to express what he was feeling through the haze of alcohol. And despite everything, it tugged at her heart. His words were raw, unfiltered, and they only added to her confusion. The fact that he was thinking about her, needing her, made her feel content. But instead, it left her more conflicted, unsure of where they stood.
Another notification pinged on her phone, breaking the silence in the room. With a groan, she reached for it, expecting another message from Tobias. But it was from Christina.
Christina: Morning! Don't forget we're heading to Zeke's lake house today! I'll pick you up in an hour. Marlene is coming too.
Tris's eyes widened as she read the message. The lake house. She had almost forgotten about Zeke's invitation. It had seemed like a blur last night, and now, in the light of day, it felt even more unreal. She wasn't sure if Zeke had invited her out of courtesy or if he really wanted her there. And then there was Tobias—did he really want her to come, or was Zeke just trying to be a good friend? Her stomach churned with anxiety as she considered the idea of spending the day with Tobias and his friends, especially after what had happened the night before.
Just as she was about to talk herself out of it, another message from Christina popped up.
Christina: Marlene's gonna freak when she sees who we're meeting. Remember, don't tell her anything! It's going to be hilarious.
Despite everything, Tris couldn't help but smile at Christina's excitement. She could already imagine Marlene's reaction. But the thought of keeping such a big surprise from her felt absurd. Still, Christina had made her promise, and Tris wasn't one to break a promise to a friend.
With a resigned sigh, Tris dragged herself out of bed. A shower, she decided, might help clear the fog in her mind. As she stood under the warm water, she kept replaying Tobias's messages in her head. The sweetness of his words contrasted sharply with the confusion and turmoil she was still feeling. By the time she was dressed and ready, her emotions were still complicated. She knew she needed to talk to Tobias to sort everything out, but she wasn't sure if she was ready for that conversation. Not yet. Not when she was still trying to figure out how she felt
Before heading out, Tris remembered Bailey, her dog, who had spent the night with her neighbor, Rose. She decided to ask Rose if Bailey could stay another day. It felt wrong to leave him, but she knew she couldn't focus on him when her mind was such a mess. Tris walked next door and knocked lightly on Rose's door. Rose answered with a warm smile, and Tris explained her situation.
"Of course, Bailey can stay," Rose said kindly. "He's been a sweetheart, and it's no trouble at all."
Tris felt a wave of relief. "Thank you, Rose. I really appreciate it.".
Christina arrived right on time, honking the horn outside Tris's apartment. Tris grabbed her bag, her bathing suit, a towel, and some casual clothes, hesitating for a moment before heading out the door. She spent the last few minutes rereading Tobias's messages, her heart making loops with every word, but she still couldn't bring herself to reply.
As she climbed into Christina's car, the bright smile on her friend's face only made Tris feel more conflicted. Christina was clearly in her element, excited about the day ahead. Marlene, sitting next to her in the passenger seat, handed Tris a cup of coffee that she took with a grateful smile.
"Ready for a day of fun at the lake house?" Christina asked, her eyes shining with anticipation.
Tris forced a smile, trying to match her friend's enthusiasm. "Yeah, let's do this."
As they drove, Tris tried to push aside the doubts and the pain that had been gnawing at her since the night before. She told herself that today would be a chance to clear her head, to figure out where she stood with Tobias. But deep down, she knew that nothing would really be resolved until they had the conversation they both needed to have.
Tris leaned back against the cool leather seat, her head throbbing as the events of the night before sank in. The headache from the alcohol was bad enough, but it was nothing compared to the shame that she felt. She was embarrassed by her behavior at the concert—dancing so wildly with Tobias, letting herself get swept up in the emotions and the music. How could she have let herself go like that, especially when he had lied to her?
Her phone buzzed again, and she winced, knowing it was another message from Tobias. She hadn't replied to any of his texts yet, and she didn't know if she could. They were sweet, full of the kindness and affection she had come to expect from him, but every word seemed to twist the knife deeper. How could he have kept such a big part of his life from her?
As she absentmindedly stared out the window, the sunlight streaming through the trees, Tris couldn't help but feel like she was living in a dream—one where everything she thought she knew was slipping away. How could she have been so blind? The thought kept looping through her mind, making her stomach churn with embarrassment and self-doubt.
Tris closed her eyes, hoping to catch a bit of sleep during the drive, but Marlene's excitement was too contagious to ignore. She had missed the concert due to a work event and was eager to hear all about it.
"How was it?" Marlene asked eagerly. "And I can't believe you girls met the band! How was that?"
"Amazing," Christina shrieked. "We had so much fun, and the band is super cool! And I think Tris had the most fun of all," she teased, raising an eyebrow at Tris through the rearview mirror.
Tris groaned and shielded her face in embarrassment. "Please don't remind me," she pleaded. She didn't need a reminder of how foolish she had acted the night before—she was already mortified enough as it was.
"Why, what happened?" Marlene asked, her curiosity piqued.
"Tris and her new friend were having a bit too much fun on the dance floor, if you know what I mean," Christina wiggled her eyebrows suggestively.
"Chris, stop," Tris shrieked, her face burning with shame, oblivious to her friend's teasing. Christina continued with a smirk.
"What? You two were practically doing it on the dance floor. I wouldn't have been surprised if you two had taken your clothes off."
"Christina, stop!" Tris groaned, burying her face in her hands. "Please, Christina, don't remind me. I can't believe I acted like that. I was just so caught up in everything, and the drinks didn't help…"
Christina laughed, clearly enjoying Tris's irritation. "Oh, come on! It was hot, and you two obviously couldn't keep your hands off each other. No need to be mortified. If anything, I'm jealous."
Tris felt her cheeks burn with shame. "I just… I don't know what came over me. I made a complete fool of myself. If anything, I mean I ruined whatever was going on between us," Tris conceded. She was terrified of how Tobias would see her now—she had practically thrown herself at him as soon as she had found out about his fame. Was that all he wanted?
Christina couldn't resist jumping in before Tris could continue. "Oh please, I wouldn't be surprised if we get another show today. Marlene, you really should have seen them," Christina rambled on.
Tris shot Christina a glare, her patience wearing thin. "Christina, I'm serious. Stop it."
Marlene's eyebrows shot up in surprise, clearly intrigued. "Really? I had no idea things were getting that intense between you two."
Christina snickered, loving every minute of Tris's discomfort. "You should have seen them. It was like no one else existed in the room."
Tris clenched her teeth, feeling the tension in her shoulders increase with every word. She was starting to feel nauseous. "Christina, stop the car."
Christina glanced at her, surprised, but Tris's expression left no room for argument. "Christina, stop the car—I need some air."
Christina noticed the tension in Tris's voice and finally backed off. "Alright, fine. I was just having some fun."
As soon as the car came to a stop, Tris pushed the door open and stepped out, the crisp morning air hitting her like a wave of relief. She inhaled deeply, trying to steady herself as she walked a few steps away from the car. The quiet road was lined with trees, their leaves rustling gently in the breeze. The serenity of the surroundings was a stark contrast to the storm raging inside her.
Marlene, noticing Tris's distress, quickly followed her. She caught up to her near the edge of the road, where Tris leaned against a tree, her head bowed and her shoulders tense. Marlene placed a comforting hand on her shoulder, her voice soft with concern. "Hey, Tris, what's going on? You're scaring me a little."
Tris hesitated, feeling the pressure of everything that had built up inside her. She had kept so much bottled up, trying to make sense of it on her own, but now, standing there with Marlene, she couldn't hold it all in any longer. She took a deep breath and began to share everything with Marlene—about Tobias, or rather, Four, and the truth about who he really was. She told her about his fame, the pictures that had gone online, and how close they had gotten. The only thing she left out was the existence of his daughter, feeling that was something too personal to share without his permission.
As she spoke, Marlene listened intently, her expression shifting from concern to understanding. When Tris finally finished, she let out a shaky breath, feeling slightly lighter for having shared it all.
"It's just… everything. Last night was… overwhelming, to say the least," Tris confessed, her voice trembling. "I feel like I've been living in some kind of dream, and now I'm waking up to reality, and it's a nightmare."
Marlene frowned, squeezing Tris's shoulder gently. "What happened? Did something go wrong at the concert?"
Tris shook her head, wiping away the tears that had started to fall. "No, it wasn't the concert itself. That was amazing, honestly. But… I didn't know who Four really was. I had no idea. And now, knowing everything, I feel so stupid for not seeing it sooner. How could I have missed all the signs?"
Marlene tilted her head, her expression softening with empathy. "Tris, you're not stupid. You couldn't have known. I mean, he didn't tell you, right? And I get why he wouldn't. People act completely differently around celebrities, you know that. He probably didn't want things to change between you two."
Tris let out a shaky breath, trying to process Marlene's words. "But that's just it, Marlene. He let me believe we could be something more, something real. And now, knowing who he really is, I feel like I've been fooling myself this whole time. He's a superstar. He's way out of my league. How could I ever think that he would be me interested in me?"
Marlene's brow furrowed in confusion. "Why not? Seriously, why couldn't you two be more? Tris, before I even knew he was famous, it sounded like he was totally into you. He spent all that time with you, sent you those fucking expensive flowers and you even told me that you two kept falling asleep in each others arms—those aren't just friendly gestures. Just because he's a celebrity doesn't mean he can't have real feelings."
Tris sniffled, feeling the tears welling up again. "But it just feels impossible. I made such a fool of myself last night—getting drunk, dancing with him like that… I let my emotions get the better of me, and now I don't know where we stand. And the worst part is, he told me he doesn't even want to be famous. That he hates it."
Marlene's eyes widened slightly. "Wait, he told you that? That he doesn't care about the fame? That he doesn't want to be famous? Tris, that's huge. If he's being that honest with you, it means he trusts you. That's not something he would say to just anyone."
Tris nodded, feeling a mix of guilt and confusion. "Yeah, he did. But what if I've ruined everything? What if he thinks I'm just like everyone else—that I'm only interested in him because of who he is? I did practically jump him after he told me."
Marlene shook her head, her voice firm but gentle. "Tris, you haven't ruined anything. You've been yourself this whole time, and that's what matters. He sees you for who you are, not as someone who's just after his fame. And honestly, from everything you've told me, it sounds like he really cares about you."
Tris nodded slowly, her gaze distant as she considered Marlene's words. "I guess… I guess that makes sense. But it still hurts, you know? He didn't trust me enough to tell me the truth. He let me think we were just two normal people getting to know each other."
Marlene leaned in closer, her voice gentle but firm. "Tris, I get why he didn't tell you. People act completely different towards celebrities. They either put them on a pedestal or try to tear them down. If you had known who he was from the beginning, do you think things would have been the same between you two? Do you think you would've allowed yourself to get as close to him as you did?"
Tris hesitated, the truth of Marlene's question sinking in. Tris hadn't thought about it before , she probably would've been too intimidated and be clouded by her views of celebrities. "Honestly… no. I probably would've kept my distance."
Marlene nodded, understanding written all over her face. "Exactly. He probably knew that too. That's why he didn't say anything. He wanted you to see the real him first, the guy who lives next door, who spends time with you because he likes you, not because he's some big celebrity. And from everything you've told me, it sounds like he does like you—a lot."
Tris looked down at her feet, her voice trembling. "But what if I can't handle it? And what if I start treating him differently now?"
Marlene nodded thoughtfully. "I get that. But the fact is, you didn't know. And because of that, you got to know him for who he really is. And that's exactly what he wanted. Honestly, Tris, I think he's just as scared as you are—scared that the fame will chance everything, you just need to talk to him."
Before Tris could respond, Christina approached them from the car, her earlier teasing replaced with genuine concern. She looked between them, clearly sensing the seriousness of the conversation. "Hey, everything okay over here?"
Tris hesitated, then nodded slowly. "Yeah… I guess. I'm sorry, I know you wanted to keep it a surprise but I told Marlene about Four."
Christina's eyes widened slightly, but she quickly recovered, nodding in understanding. "Oh… well, I figured you might. Sorry if I pushed too hard earlier, Tris. I didn't mean to make you feel worse. I was just having some fun."
Tris gave a small, sad smile. "It's okay. I know you were just messing around. But everything's just been so overwhelming, and It just got too much."
Christina stepped closer, her tone serious but with a hint of a smile. "Marlene, did Tris show you the song Four wrote for her?"
Marlene's eyes widened in surprise. "Wait, what? No, I didn't. He wrote a song for you?"
Christina grinned and pulled out her phone. "Yep. He sang it last nigh. Here, I have a video of it. You have to see this."
Tris watched as Christina showed Marlene the video on her phone, the screen lighting up with the performance from the night before. As Marlene watched, her expression went from curious to utterly stunned. When the song ended, she turned to Tris, looking at her as if she were crazy.
"Tris, you're doubting his feelings for you after this?" Marlene exclaimed, shaking her head in disbelief. "He wrote and performed a song just for you, in front of all those people! That's not something someone does lightly. You're out of your mind if you think he doesn't care about you."
Tris's heart pounded as she relived the emotions from the night before, the confusion and longing she had felt when she heard the song for the first time. "I know… but it just feels so unreal. Like, how can someone like him really want to be with someone like me?"
Marlene gave Tris a playful nudge. "Why not? You're amazing, Tris. You're smart, funny, beautiful, and real. And it sounds like Four sees that too. You need to stop selling yourself short."
Christina nodded in agreement. "Marlene's right. You're incredible, and Four clearly sees that. Don't be a fool."
Tris sighed, feeling a mix of relief and anxiety. "I guess… I just need to talk to him. To figure everything out."
Marlene smiled, squeezing Tris's shoulder. "Yeah, you do. But remember, take it one step at a time. You don't have to figure everything out right now."
Christina added with a grin, "And hey, you've got us. We're here for you, no matter what."
Tris looked between her two friends, feeling a surge of gratitude. "Thanks, guys. I really needed this."
Marlene and Christina both smiled, their support giving Tris the strength she needed to face whatever was coming next. As they all climbed back into the car and continued their drive to the lake house, Tris couldn't stop the thoughts swirling in her mind. She knew she had to face her feelings about Tobias, about everything that had happened.
As Tris climbed back into the car, she felt a little lighter, as if the weight of her worries had shifted just enough for her to breathe easier. The conversation with Marlene and Christina had helped her make sense of some of the emotions that had been swirling inside her since the night before. She understood more and more why Tobias had kept his fame a secret, and while the hurt hadn't completely disappeared, she could see his reasons more clearly now.
Settling into the backseat, Tris pulled out her phone and hesitated for a moment before typing a message to Tobias.
Tris: Hey, we're on our way. We should be there soon. Let's talk when I get there.
She hit send and watched as the message quickly delivered. A part of her was still anxious about seeing him again, but she also felt a small spark of hope that maybe, just maybe, they could work through this.
With that done, Tris closed her eyes and leaned back against the seat, trying to rest for the remainder of the drive. Her head was still pounding from the lack of sleep and the effects of the alcohol, and the conversation had left her emotionally drained. She needed to recharge, even if only for a short while.
The hum of the car and the soft chatter of Christina and Marlene in the front seat lulled her into a light doze. But before she could truly drift off, something jolted her awake. Blinking her eyes open, Tris looked out the window and felt her heart skip a beat. The familiar landscape that unfolded before her was unmistakable—she recognized the town immediately. It was the same one where her grandmother's lake house was located.
"Wait, we're here?" Tris murmured, still half in disbelief as she straightened up in her seat, trying to get a better look at her surroundings.
"Yep, just a few more minutes," Christina replied with a grin, glancing back at Tris. "You're grandma's house is here as well right?"
Tris nodded absently "Yeah, small world" she muttered, her thoughts racing. Of all the places they could have been heading, she hadn't expected it to be here. The idea of spending the day in such a familiar place, but under such different circumstances, was both comforting and surreal.
Before long, they turned down a winding road that led to the lake, the water sparkling under the late morning sun. The lake was nestled in the middle of lush greenery, with a few scattered houses and docks lining the shore. The sight of it brought back a flood of memories for Tris and she wished that her grandmother was here and that she could go and vent to her and hear her point of view. But with her still in New York she knew that a phone call later in the week had to do.
As they approached Zeke's lake house, Tris felt a wave of nostalgia mixed with anticipation. Zeke's house, though slightly more modern, shared that same warm, inviting atmosphere. It was a beautiful, rustic-style home with a deep, earthy colour palette that blended seamlessly with the surrounding forest. The exterior was clad in rich, stained wood, with large windows that reflected the sunlight off the lake, giving the whole place a welcoming glow. A wide porch wrapped around the front of the house, complete with a few rocking chairs and a swing, inviting guests to sit and take in the view.
The property was meticulously landscaped, yet still managed to feel natural and unforced. A stone pathway wound its way through the lawn, leading from the driveway to the dock, where a few boats were moored, bobbing gently in the water. To one side of the house, nestled in a cozy corner surrounded by trees, was a sparkling swimming pool, its clear blue water inviting under the sun's rays. Nearby, a fire pit sat circled by comfortable outdoor seating, ready for late-night conversations and roasting marshmallows under the stars.
Despite its modern touches, the house felt like a true lakeside retreat, a place where you could escape the world and simply be.
As soon as Christina parked the car, the group on the deck noticed their arrival. Tris recognized the band members—Zeke, Shauna, Uriah, and Will—sitting around a table, drinks already in hand, as they laughed and chatted easily. The relaxed atmosphere was almost infectious, but Tris couldn't shake the nervous energy bubbling inside her.
Zeke was the first to spot them, his wide grin spreading across his face as he leaned back in his chair. "Hey, look who it is!" Zeke shouted, his voice booming across the deck. "Four! Tris is here!" He drew out her name with a teasing lilt, making Tris's cheeks flush with a mix of embarrassment and amusement.
Before Tris could react, there was a loud clattering noise from inside the house—a sound like someone hastily scrambling down a flight of stairs. Moments later, the front door burst open, and Tobias appeared on the deck. He looked slightly dishevelled, his hair tousled as if he'd been running his hands through it, and his shirt was untucked, giving him a slightly frantic appearance. He practically stumbled over his feet as he rushed outside, catching himself on the railing just in time. His eyes locked onto Tris immediately, and she saw a mixture of relief, nervousness, and something deeper in his expression.
Zeke couldn't resist the opportunity to rib his friend further. "I swear I've never seen you move so fast!" he laughed, clapping Tobias on the back. The playful jab only made Tris's cheeks burn hotter, though she couldn't help but smile.
The band members exchanged knowing glances, their amusement evident, but they kept their teasing to a minimum as the girls climbed out of the car. Shauna was the first to approach, offering Marlene a warm smile as she introduced herself. "Hey, you must be Marlene. I'm Shauna, Zeke's girlfriend, and these are the guys—Zeke, Uriah, and Will."
Marlene returned the smile, shaking hands with each of them. "Nice to meet you all. Tris has told me a bit about you guys."
"All good things, I hope," Uriah chimed in, his grin wide and welcoming as he extended a hand to Marlene.
Tris, however, couldn't focus on the introductions. Her attention was fixed solely on Tobias, standing right in front of her. He was slightly out of breath, as if he'd run the whole way down, and his eyes were filled with a mix of emotions she couldn't quite decipher—relief, anxiety, and something else that made her heart flutter.
"I'm so glad you came," Tobias said, his voice soft but urgent, like he couldn't get the words out fast enough. "I wasn't sure if you would…"
Tris felt her heart skip a beat at the raw sincerity in Tobias's voice. The weight of their unspoken words hung heavily between them, but his earnestness was enough to steady the racing of her pulse. She managed a small, tentative smile, her voice soft but resolute. "I'm glad I came too. But I think we need to talk first. There's a lot we need to clear up."
Tobias nodded, his gaze flicking briefly to their friends, who were watching them with thinly veiled curiosity. He seemed relieved when he suggested, "Let's take a walk." His tone was gentle, almost pleading, and Tris agreed with a nod.
They started down the path that wound around the lake, leaving behind the sounds of laughter and conversation that echoed from the house. The gentle rustling of leaves in the breeze and the rhythmic lapping of water against the shore replaced the background noise, creating a tranquil atmosphere that stood in stark contrast to the tension between them. The sun filtered through the trees, casting dappled shadows on the path, adding to the almost ethereal setting.
For a few minutes, they walked in silence, the unspoken words building up inside them. Tobias appeared deep in thought, his brow furrowed as he searched for the right words. Tris could feel the tension gnawing at her, the need to address everything that had been left unsaid almost overwhelming.
Finally, Tobias spoke, his voice low and tinged with regret. "I've been thinking a lot about what you said," he began, his gaze fixed on the path ahead. "About how I didn't tell you who I really was. I know I hurt you, and I'm sorry, Tris. That was never my intention."
Tris kept her eyes forward, her heart heavy with the sadness in his voice. She had spent the morning reflecting on her conversation with Marlene, and while she now understood his reasons more clearly, the hurt hadn't entirely faded. "I know you didn't mean to hurt me, Tobias. But it did hurt. I felt like… I don't know, like you didn't trust me enough to let me in."
Tobias sighed deeply, running a hand through his hair in frustration. "It wasn't about trust, not really. It's more complicated than that. I've never liked the fame, Tris. It's not what I wanted for my life. I've been trying to get out for a while now, but it's not that simple. The fame, the expectations, the lack of privacy—it's suffocating. And then I met you, and for the first time in a long time, I felt like I could just be Tobias again. You didn't know who I was, and I didn't want to lose that."
Tris turned to look at him, surprised by the depth of his confession. "You want out? But you're so good at it, Tobias. On stage, you were… incredible."
He gave a small, sad smile, his eyes reflecting a weariness that went beyond mere exhaustion. "Thanks, but being good at something doesn't mean it's what I want. I miss being able to walk down the street without being recognized, without people expecting something from me. I miss being just… me. And with you, I had that again. That's why I didn't tell you. I was selfish, I guess. I just wanted to hold on to that normalcy for a little while longer."
Tris's heart softened at his words, understanding more clearly why he had kept his secret. "I get it now," she said quietly, her voice laced with understanding. "After talking with Marlene, I see your side more clearly. She helped me understand that you weren't trying to deceive me, that you were just trying to protect something real between us. But I have to admit, I still felt like a complete fool when I found out. Especially after last night… the way I acted…"
Tobias raised an eyebrow, a teasing grin spreading across his face. "You mean the way you were all over me on the dance floor?"
Tris blushed, looking away in embarrassment. "Yeah, that. I'm not usually like that, you know? I let the alcohol and the emotions get the best of me. I felt so stupid this morning. I don't want you to think I acted that way because I found out about your fame. I just got… swept up in the moment."
Tobias chuckled softly, nudging her with his shoulder. "I didn't mind at all, actually. You're welcome to dance with me like that anytime, Tris."
She rolled her eyes and gave him a gentle punch in the ribs, a small smile tugging at her lips. "You're impossible."
He laughed, the sound light and easy, and Tris couldn't help but feel a little more at ease. Despite everything, the fact that they could still laugh together made her feel a bit more hopeful about where they stood.
But then Tobias's expression grew more serious, his eyes darkening with the weight of what he was about to say. "I also need to apologize for those texts I sent you last night… the ones I sent after we got back. They were completely out of line. I was really drunk, and I don't even want to think about what you must have thought of me after reading them. I was just having such an amazing time with you, and I guess drunk Tobias didn't want the night to end."
Tris bit her lip, recalling the texts that had pinged onto her phone earlier that morning. Despite the awkwardness of it, there was something endearing about his admission. "They were… a little surprising, I'll admit. But I understand. You were drunk and just caught up in the moment. We both were."
Tobias let out a breath he hadn't realized he was holding. "Still, I'm sorry. I don't want you to think that's who I am. It wasn't fair to you."
Tris looked up at him, her eyes softening. "It's okay, Tobias. I get it. We both got a little carried away last night."
He nodded, but there was something else on his mind. He hesitated, as if choosing his words carefully, before continuing. "There's another reason why I kept my life hidden from you. It's not just about me. It's about Ella. I don't want her growing up in the spotlight. I've seen what fame can do to families, to relationships, and I don't want that for her. She deserves a normal life, away from all this craziness. And… it's not just her. I didn't want the people I care about—like you—to have to deal with the negatives of my fame. You didn't ask for that, and I don't want to drag you into something you never wanted."
Tris's heart ached at the sincerity in his voice. She could see how much he cared for his daughter, how protective he was of her. And the fact that he was thinking about her, too—about the impact his fame could have on their relationship—made her feelings for him grow even stronger. "I didn't know, Tobias. I didn't realize how much you were carrying on your shoulders."
He reached out, his fingers brushing against her cheek, sending a shiver down her spine. "I'm just glad you're here with me now, Tris. You have no idea how much it means to me that you've been getting to know Ella too. That's one of the reasons I'm so determined to leave this life behind. I want to be there for her, and I want to be there for you, without all the baggage that comes with being Four."
She nodded, her hand covering his as it rested on her cheek. "I understand more now, Tobias, but it still hurt. I need you to know that. I don't want to be lied to anymore."
Tobias's expression softened, and he squeezed her hand gently. "I promise, Tris."
They continued walking, the conversation flowing more naturally now, the tension slowly dissipating as they talked things out. Tobias spoke more openly about his struggles with fame, the pressures he faced, and his desire to shield those he loved from its harsh realities. . "I'm really glad you came today," Tobias said after a while, his tone more serious. "I wasn't sure if you would."
Tris sighed, her gaze drifting out to the sparkling water. "I almost didn't. But I realized that I needed to understand why you didn't tell me. And now that I do, I want to move forward. But there can't be any more secrets between us, Tobias. We need to be honest with each other."
He nodded, his expression earnest. "No more secrets, I promise."
As they reached the dock, the clear blue water of the lake stretched out before them, calm and inviting. In the distance, they could see their friends already drinking beer, even though it wasn't even noon yet. Tobias stopped, turning to face Tris with a playful glint in his eye. "So… do you have your phone on you?"
Tris blinked in confusion. "Uh, no? Why?"
Before she could react, Tobias grinned mischievously and scooped her up in his arms. "Because we need to cool down."
"Tobias, no—" Tris started to protest, but it was too late. With a joyful whoop, Tobias jumped off the dock, taking Tris with him. They hit the water with a splash, the cool lake instantly soaking their clothes.
When they surfaced, sputtering and laughing, Tris splashed water at him. "You're insane! My clothes are soaked!"
He laughed, brushing the wet hair out of his eyes. "So are mine! But admit it—you needed that."
Tris shook her head, still laughing, but the intensity in his gaze made her heart skip a beat. The way he was looking at her now—like she was the only person in the world—made her feel both vulnerable and safe all at once. The cool water contrasted sharply with the heat that suddenly bloomed between them, and she could feel her pulse quickening as Tobias slowly swam closer.
The water around them was cool, refreshing, but the tension between them was anything but. It was charged, electric, and Tris could feel her pulse quicken as Tobias moved closer, his gaze never leaving hers.
"Tobias…" she began, her voice trailing off as she searched for the right words.
He reached out, his fingers brushing against her cheek, sending a shiver down her spine. "Tris, are we okay?" he asked, his voice low and filled with an intensity that made her breath catch.
She looked into his eyes, seeing the concern and sincerity there, and nodded. "Yeah, we're okay. But remember—no more secrets."
"Agreed, No more secrets" he said softly, his thumb gently caressing her cheek. But then his expression shifted, becoming a little more serious, a little more vulnerable. "There's something else I should tell you, though."
Tris's heart skipped a beat, her pulse quickening. "What is it?"
The water lapped gently around them, creating ripples that mirrored the tension in the air. As he closed the distance, Tobias reached out, his hand brushing against her cheek with a tenderness that sent a shiver down her spine. His fingers tucked a stray strand of wet hair behind her ear, and he leaned in, his voice dropping to a near whisper.
"I'm crazy about you, Tris," he murmured, his breath warm against her skin. "I have been for a while. I didn't want to admit it before because I wasn't sure how you felt, and with everything else… I just didn't want to mess it up. But I can't keep it to myself anymore."
His words hung in the air between them, heavy with meaning. Tris's breath caught in her throat, her heart pounding so hard she was sure he could hear it. The world seemed to slow, and all she could focus on was Tobias—the intensity in his eyes, the closeness of his body, the raw emotion in his voice.
"Tobias…" she began, but her voice trailed off as he moved even closer, their bodies now only inches apart.
He didn't give her a chance to finish. Instead, he closed the final gap between them, his lips finding hers with a hunger that matched the storm of emotions swirling inside her. The kiss was deep, intense, a collision of everything they had been holding back. Tris felt herself melt into him, her hands instinctively reaching up to clutch the fabric of his shirt, desperate to feel him closer.
Tobias responded in kind, his arms wrapping around her tightly, pulling her against him as if he couldn't bear the thought of any space between them. The water around them swirled with their movements, but neither of them noticed. All that mattered was the heat of their kiss, the way their bodies pressed together, the overwhelming need to be as close as possible.
Tris's legs wrapped around Tobias's torso, anchoring herself to him as they deepened the kiss. Her fingers tangled in his hair, pulling him closer, while his hands roamed over her back, tracing the curve of her spine with a possessive urgency. The kiss was a mix of desperation and passion, a wordless confession of everything they had both been holding back.
Tobias's grip tightened on her, his hands sliding down to hold her hips, anchoring her to him as they floated together in the water. He kissed her as if she were the only thing keeping him grounded, as if he needed her more than air. The intensity of it stole her breath, leaving her dizzy and lightheaded, but she didn't want it to stop. She pressed herself closer, craving the feel of his skin against hers, the heat that radiated from his body even through their soaked clothes.
The kiss stretched on, time losing all meaning as they clung to each other, their lips and tongues exploring, tasting, expressing what words couldn't. Tris could feel the raw emotion behind every movement, the way Tobias's hands trembled slightly as they held her, the way he poured everything he was feeling into that kiss. It was as if he were trying to tell her everything he couldn't say, and she responded with equal fervor, letting him know that she felt the same.
The world around them faded into the background—the sun warming the water, the distant sound of birds chirping, the gentle lapping of the lake against the shore. None of it mattered. There was only Tobias, his lips on hers, his hands gripping her like she was the most important thing in his world.
After what felt like an eternity but was probably only minutes, they finally broke apart, both of them breathless and trembling. Tris's head was spinning, her body still humming with the aftershocks of the kiss. She could feel Tobias's chest heaving beneath her as he struggled to catch his breath, his forehead resting against hers.
When they finally pulled away, Tobias rested his forehead against hers, his eyes closed as he soaked in the moment. "I'm not letting you go," he whispered, his voice a vow.
Tris smiled softly, her fingers tracing the line of his jaw. "Good," she whispered back, feeling a profound sense of rightness settle over her. "Because I'm not going anywhere."
Tobias cupped her face and kissed her again, holding her close as he leaned his back against the beam of the dock for support. Tris felt herself losing herself in the kiss, as she felt Tobias's fingers clutching her shirt, his fingers brushing the exposed skin under her shirt. She wanted, needed more, needed him closer, but the moment was ruined when…
Just as the moment reached its peak, a loud splash and a familiar voice shattered the intimacy.
"Whoa, whoa, whoa!" Zeke's voice boomed from the dock, full of playful teasing. "You two need swimsuits for swimming in the lake—and maybe some protection!"
Startled, Tris and Tobias broke apart, their cheeks flushed and their breaths coming in ragged gasps. Tris couldn't help but laugh as she saw Zeke grinning at them from the dock, clearly enjoying the sight of them tangled up in each other.
"Zeke!" Tobias groaned, though there was a hint of a smile tugging at his lips. "Do you always have to ruin the moment?"
"Hey, I'm just looking out for you two lovebirds," Zeke shot back, winking at Tris. "But seriously, you're missing lunch. Shauna's got the grill going, and you guys should probably dry off before you catch a cold."
Tris and Tobias exchanged a look, their earlier frustration melting into shared amusement. With a resigned sigh, they began to swim back to the dock, their fingers still entwined under the water. The moment had been interrupted, but the connection between them was stronger than ever.
Tobias rolled his eyes, but the tension had been broken, and he chuckled as he helped Tris back toward the dock. "Come on, let's go change before he gives us another lecture."
Tris smiled, still feeling the aftershocks of their kiss as she let Tobias guide her out of the water. They climbed onto the dock, water dripping from their clothes, and grabbed the towels Zeke had Tris smiled, still feeling the lingering warmth of their kiss as Tobias guided her out of the water. They climbed onto the dock, water dripping from their clothes, and reached for the towels that Zeke had thoughtfully thrown down for them. As they dried off, Zeke continued to tease them relentlessly, but beneath his playful banter, Tris could see the genuine warmth in his eyes—the kind of approval that only a close friend could give. He was clearly happy to see them together, and that eased some of the lingering tension in her chest.
Once they were relatively dry, Tris and Tobias headed inside to change into swim clothes. The atmosphere in the lake house was light and carefree, the air filled with the mouthwatering scent of food and the sound of laughter echoing through the rooms. Tris felt a sense of comfort as she made her way to the guest room, quickly changing into a bikini. The cool fabric against her skin was a welcome contrast to the heat of the kiss they had just shared, and she was still slightly breathless from the intensity of it all.
As Tris was about to slip on a sundress over her swimsuit, she heard a soft knock on the door. She turned to see Tobias standing there, looking effortlessly handsome in swim shorts and a fitted t-shirt that clung to his strong, muscular frame. His eyes softened as they roamed over her, taking in her appearance with an expression that made her pulse quicken.
"You look beautiful," he said, his voice low and sincere, carrying a warmth that made Tris's heart flutter.
A blush rose to her cheeks, but she couldn't help but smile as she stepped closer to him, reaching out to take his hand. "Thanks. You're not too bad yourself," she teased, her voice light, though her heart swelled with affection.
Tobias took a step closer, his gaze never leaving hers, the intensity of their earlier kiss still lingering between them. He was captivated by her, unable to tear his eyes away from the way her bikini accentuated her curves. As his gaze drifted lower, he noticed for the first time the full extent of the tattoo on her side—a beautiful, intricately detailed owl perched gracefully as if guarding a secret. He had seen a glimpse of it the day before, but now, with nothing to obscure it, he could truly appreciate its beauty.
His fingers gently traced the lines of the tattoo, reverently exploring the image with a touch so light it sent a shiver down Tris's spine. "This... it's beautiful," he murmured, his voice filled with admiration. "What's the story behind it?"
Tris hesitated for a moment, her gaze meeting his as a soft smile played on her lips. "It's an owl. My grandmother's favourite animal. She always said they were wise and protective. I got it to remind me of her—of everything she taught me, even when she's not here."
Tobias's heart swelled with emotion as he listened, understanding just how much this tattoo meant to her. Without thinking, he leaned in, pressing his lips softly against the tattoo, his kiss tender and filled with all the emotions he couldn't quite put into words. Tris shivered under his touch, the sensation of his lips on her skin sending a wave of warmth through her that settled deep in her core.
Unable to resist, Tobias pulled her closer, his mouth finding hers in a kiss that was both tender and intense. This time, there was no reason to hold back, there feelings had been revealed. The kiss deepened quickly as their hands roamed, rediscovering each other now with an intensity fuelled by all the times they had been forced to stop before. Every moment of hesitation, every ounce of frustration from their previous near-misses melted away in the heat of the moment.
Tobias felt the urgency in her response and matched it with his own, his hands moving to hold her firmly as their bodies pressed together. Tris's fingers tangled in his wet hair, pulling him even closer, while his hands slid down to her waist, his touch igniting every nerve in her body. The kiss grew more passionate, more demanding, as they lost themselves in the moment, each desperate to be as close to the other as possible.
Just as the kiss was reaching a fever pitch, a loud voice from downstairs broke through their haze of desire. "Hey! You two better be changing and not doing other stuff! Get your asses down here!" Zeke's shout echoed through the house, dripping with playful mischief.
Tris pulled back, breathless and laughing, her cheeks flushed with both embarrassment and the lingering effects of their kiss. "We'd better get down there before he comes up here."
Tobias, equally breathless, chuckled and pressed one last, lingering kiss to her lips before stepping back. "Yeah, before Zeke decides to drag us down."
They made their way downstairs, hand in hand, to join the others for lunch. The sun was shining brightly, casting a warm glow over the deck as they stepped outside. The scent of grilled food filled the air, mingling with the sounds of laughter and conversation. Zeke was at the grill, flipping burgers with one hand and holding a beer in the other, while Shauna and Christina set the picnic table with plates and drinks.
As they approached, Christina spotted them and immediately grinned, her eyes twinkling with amusement. "Look who finally decided to show up!" she called out, her voice full of playful mockery. "I was starting to think you two had drowned!"
"Nah, they didn't drown," Zeke quipped, shooting a sly look at Tris and Tobias. "But it did look like Four was about to eat her alive."
Tris and Tobias both shrieked in embarrassment, their faces turning a deep shade of red as everyone around them burst into laughter.
The group went wild, offering congratulations and playful ribbing as they gathered around the table. Tris felt a warmth spread through her chest—both from the easy acceptance of her friends and from the way Tobias's hand never left hers, a constant, reassuring presence.
They sat down to lunch, the atmosphere filled with light-hearted banter and the delicious smell of grilled food. Tobias sat close to Tris, their shoulders brushing, and every now and then, he would lean over to whisper something in her ear, making her giggle. The sun warmed their skin, the food was incredible, and for the first time in what felt like ages, Tris felt a profound sense of peace settle over her. She was surrounded by friends, and the weight of the past few days seemed to lift.
As they enjoyed their meal, Tris couldn't help but glance over at Tobias, who was laughing at something Uriah had said, his eyes crinkling with genuine amusement. She squeezed his hand under the table, and when he turned to her, she was met with a look so full of affection that it made her heart skip a beat.