AN – I just want to thank you all for following and commenting on this story. It's not finished yet (I have around 10 more chapters planned), but I really appreciate your support. This is my first story ever, and I can't believe I've reached 3k views! I know some stories probably get a lot more, but I'm truly grateful to each of you for reading it. : )
So, thank you again, and enjoy the next chapter!
Chapter 23
Ella's tiny hand gripped Tris's firmly as they strolled through the bustling streets of Chicago, the city bathing in a warm, golden glow. The sun hung high in the sky, casting shadows that danced along the pavement, while the energy of the city buzzed around them. Despite the brightness of the day, the heaviness of everything still lingered in Tris's chest—especially after seeing Tobias at her door that morning.
The sight of him standing there, asking for a favour, had shaken her more than she wanted to admit. His voice, that familiar low rumble, had brought a rush of memories she'd been trying to bury. The last time they had been this close, things had ended in pieces, and now, with everything unresolved, he had shown up at her door. She hadn't been prepared for that—hadn't been ready to face him again, not when her heart still ached from their breakup.
But when Tobias had asked her to watch Ella for the day, his voice laced with exhaustion and vulnerability, Tris couldn't say no. How could she? She adored the little girl and had missed her enormously. She had somehow become a part of Tris's life, too, even if things between her and Tobias were fractured. So, despite the confusion swirling in her chest, Tris had agreed. And now, here she was, hand in hand with Ella, trying to push the sight of Tobias out of her mind.
The little girl's infectious joy and endless curiosity were a welcome distraction. Ella tugged Tris eagerly from one window display to the next, her eyes wide with wonder at the vibrant city around her. Every corner seemed to hold a little bit of magic in Ella's eyes.
Ella refused to let go of Tris's hand, tugging her from one window display to the next, her wide eyes filled with wonder. It was as if every corner of the city held something magical just for her. "Look, Tris!" Ella exclaimed, pointing at a colourful storefront with rows of cupcakes displayed in the window. "They're so pretty! Can we get some?"
Tris chuckled, squeezing her hand gently. "Let's take a look, sweetheart."
Elizabeth, Tris's grandmother, walked a few paces behind them, her arms full of shopping bags from their morning of wandering through boutiques and toy stores. She watched the two of them with a warm, knowing smile. She hadn't said much since they'd started their outing, giving Tris the space she needed to simply enjoy the day with Ella, but she had kept a close, quiet eye on her granddaughter. Elizabeth could see the tension in Tris's posture, the way her shoulders sagged just a little too much, and the tiredness behind her eyes. But for now, with Ella beside her, Tris seemed a little lighter. A little more like herself.
They entered the bakery, and the scent of freshly baked pastries filled the air, wrapping them in a blanket of warmth. Ella pressed her nose up against the glass counter, her breath fogging the display as she admired the cakes and pastries inside. Her excitement was contagious, and Tris couldn't help but smile at the sight.
"Which one do you think looks the yummiest?" Tris asked, crouching down beside her, trying to focus on the moment rather than the gnawing ache that had taken residence in her heart.
"That one!" Ella pointed to a cupcake with pink frosting and rainbow sprinkles. "It's got sprinkles! Can I have it, Tris? Pleeease?"
Tris glanced over her shoulder at Elizabeth, who was browsing the bakery's selection with a look of amusement. "What do you think, Grandma? Should we indulge a little?"
Elizabeth chuckled, her eyes twinkling. "Why not? A sweet treat has never hurt anyone."
After picking out a couple of cupcakes and a few extra pastries to take with them, they left the bakery and continued their leisurely walk through the city. Ella was chattering away, her bubbly voice filling the air as she told Tris about her latest adventures—how she had helped bake cookies with her uncles and how they'd built a massive pillow fort in the living room. Each story was filled with such joy and enthusiasm that Tris found herself getting lost in them, forgetting—if only for a moment—the heartache she'd been carrying.
It felt good, better than she expected, to spend time with Ella again. She had missed her so much, more than she had allowed herself to realize. It wasn't just about Tobias; it was about the little girl who had somehow found her way into Tris's heart. And seeing her today, hearing her laugh, and watching her eyes light up with excitement over the simplest things reminded Tris that there was still happiness in the world, even if it was wrapped in small, fleeting moments.
After their bakery stop, they wandered through a few shops, picking up small trinkets and toys along the way. Ella's excitement didn't wane for a moment, her energy boundless as she pointed out everything that caught her eye. She dragged Tris from one store to the next, their hands never parting.
Their latest stop was a small children's boutique, where Ella's eyes were immediately drawn to a fuzzy raccoon-shaped bag hanging from a display. She let out an excited squeal, running over to grab it and hugging it to her chest as if she had found her new best friend.
"Tris! Look! It's a raccoon bag! Isn't it cute? Can I get it?" Ella asked, her voice filled with hope as she held the bag close.
Tris knelt down beside her, smiling at the sight of the little girl's joy. "It's adorable, sweetheart. But you know I have to check with your dad first," she reminded her gently.
At the mention of Tobias, Ella's excitement dimmed, her face falling as she hugged the bag tighter. "Daddy will say no," she mumbled, her voice small and full of disappointment. "He's always a grumpy head."
Elizabeth, who had been browsing nearby, overheard and chuckled softly before stepping over to join them. "A grumpy head? Why would you say that, darling?" she asked, her voice warm and curious.
Ella's little brow furrowed, and she sighed dramatically, as if the weight of the world rested on her tiny shoulders. "Because he's always angry," she said seriously. "He gets mad a lot."
Elizabeth raised an eyebrow, crouching down to Ella's level with a patient smile. "Always angry? I'm sure he's not always angry. Maybe he's just tired," she suggested gently.
But Ella shook her head, her expression more serious than a child her age should have. "No, he's mad a lot. But sometimes..." Her voice dropped to a whisper as she glanced around, as if afraid of being overheard. "Sometimes, he cries too."
Tris's heart clenched painfully at the confession. She glanced at Elizabeth, the weight of Ella's words hanging heavily between them. Hearing that Tobias had been crying, that he had been struggling in silence, stirred something deep within Tris. She had been so angry at him—furious, even—but knowing that he was hurting, that he had been carrying his own pain, softened something inside her.
Elizabeth reached out, resting a gentle hand on Ella's shoulder. "He cries, sweetheart? When does he cry?" she asked softly.
Ella shuffled her feet, looking down at the floor. "At night, when he thinks I'm sleeping. I heard him once. He was really sad."
The confession hit Tris hard, and she had to blink back the tears that threatened to well up. The image of Tobias alone at night, crying, struggling to hold it together, was almost too much to bear. She had been so focused on her own hurt that she hadn't even considered what he might be going through.
Ella clasped her fingers together, her voice barely above a whisper. "I don't like seeing Daddy sad. I try to hug him sometimes, but then he cries harder."
Elizabeth smiled gently, giving Ella's shoulder a reassuring squeeze. "Well, sometimes grown-ups get sad too, just like kids do," she said kindly. "But you have to remember that your daddy loves you very much, even when he's feeling a bit grumpy. And I'm sure your hugs make him feel a lot better."
Ella nodded slowly, still clutching the raccoon bag to her chest. "I love Daddy too," she whispered, her eyes full of worry. Then, brightening just a little, she looked up at Tris. "So, do you think he'll say yes to the bag?"
Tris smiled softly, pulling out her phone. "Let's find out." She snapped a quick picture of Ella hugging the raccoon bag and sent it to Tobias with a short message: We're out shopping, and my grandmother wants to get Ella this adorable raccoon bag. Just wanted to make sure it's okay with you.
To her surprise, Tobias's reply came almost immediately: That's fine. She can have it. Looks like she loves it.
Tris tucked her phone away, turning to Ella with a nod. "Alright, sweetheart. Your dad says it's okay."
Ella's face lit up with pure, unfiltered joy, and she hugged the raccoon bag even tighter to her chest, practically bouncing on the spot. "Yay! Thank you, Tris! Thank you, Grandma Tris!" she squealed, her excitement making both Tris and Elizabeth chuckle.
Elizabeth handed over her card to pay for the bag, her smile warm and amused. "Well, I must say, that's the happiest I've ever seen someone about a bag shaped like a raccoon," she teased.
As they left the boutique, Ella skipped along beside them, the raccoon bag swinging at her side like her new best friend. Tris watched her with a fond smile, her thoughts briefly flickering back to Tobias. It had been a while since she'd seen him—or heard him—like this. The version of him who would so easily say yes to Ella's whims, the softer side of him. Maybe things weren't as broken as she had thought.
The sun was climbing higher in the sky, and Tris's stomach let out a quiet grumble, reminding her that they hadn't eaten since that quick stop for pastries earlier. She turned to Elizabeth, who looked just as ready for a break.
"How about we grab some lunch?" Tris suggested, brushing a strand of hair behind her ear as she took in their surroundings. "I know a place not too far from here that has great sandwiches. Ella, you're okay with sandwiches, right?"
Ella nodded enthusiastically, already skipping ahead of them, her raccoon bag bouncing with each step. "Sandwiches sound yummy!"
Elizabeth smiled, adjusting the shopping bags in her arms. "I could use a bite myself," she said with a chuckle. "And a chair. Preferably one with a nice cushion."
Tris laughed softly. "I think we can make that happen."
They walked together toward a small, cozy café nestled on a side street, tucked away from the more crowded areas. It was the kind of place Tris liked—quiet, unassuming, with a warmth that instantly made you feel at home. The sidewalk was lined with quaint little tables, and a few people sat outside, sipping coffee and chatting in the early afternoon sun.
Inside, the scent of freshly brewed coffee and warm bread filled the air, and the soft hum of light jazz played in the background. The café wasn't too crowded, just enough people to give the space a lively, welcoming energy without it feeling overwhelming.
Ella's eyes lit up as soon as they walked in, and she eagerly scanned the chalkboard menu above the counter, trying to decide what she wanted. "Do they have grilled cheese, Tris?" she asked, tugging gently at her hand.
"They do," Tris confirmed with a smile. "You want grilled cheese?"
"Yes, please!" Ella bounced on her toes, her excitement never waning.
They found a table near the window, where sunlight streamed in, casting a warm glow over the worn wooden floors. Tris helped Ella into her chair before sitting down across from Elizabeth, who had finally put down the bags and let out a sigh of relief.
"Thank goodness," Elizabeth said, leaning back slightly. "I love shopping with you two, but my arms aren't what they used to be."
Tris smiled, but her mind wandered for a moment: the earlier conversation about Tobias came rushing back—Ella's quiet confession about hearing him cry at night, the weight of it sitting heavy on her chest. It was hard to picture Tobias that way, vulnerable and hurting. But it was even harder to know that Ella had been the one to see it, to carry that burden without knowing what to do about it.
Elizabeth seemed to sense the shift in Tris's mood, her sharp eyes watching her granddaughter carefully. She didn't say anything right away, but after a moment, she reached across the table and gave Tris's hand a gentle squeeze.
"You're thinking about him, aren't you?" Elizabeth asked softly, her voice filled with understanding.
Tris nodded, her gaze flicking briefly to Ella, who was now happily coloring on the back of a kids' menu the waitress had brought over. "I didn't realize how much he was struggling," she admitted, her voice quiet, almost hesitant. "Ella... she heard him crying at night."
Elizabeth sighed softly, her expression turning thoughtful. "People grieve in different ways, sweetheart. He might be hurting more than he's letting on."
After a leisurely lunch, they made their way to the park. They stopped by a bench near the sandpit, where Ella quickly raced off to play, her raccoon-shaped bag swinging at her side. Bailey followed close behind, his tail wagging happily as he sat beside Ella, watching her intently as though he were her loyal protector.
Ella ran ahead to the sandpit, where she immediately set to work building sandcastles while Bailey loyally sat beside her, ever the watchful protector. Tris and Elizabeth found a nearby bench, the warm afternoon sun casting a golden glow over the park.
"She's such a delight," Elizabeth said, her voice soft with affection as she watched Ella play.
Tris smiled, her heart swelling with love for the little girl. "Yeah, she really is the best."
She felt lighter today, despite everything. Ella's bright energy had a way of washing away the heaviness, even if only temporarily.
"She really missed you," Elizabeth said gently, sitting down beside Tris, her voice full of warmth. "And I can see how much you've missed her too."
"Yeah," Tris replied softly, watching Ella dig in the sand with Bailey sitting alert at her side. "I didn't realize how much I missed her until now. It's just… everything's been so complicated."
Elizabeth nodded knowingly, her eyes thoughtful as she studied her granddaughter. "Complicated doesn't even begin to cover it, does it?"
Tris sighed, leaning back against the bench, the weight of her emotions starting to creep back in. "No, it doesn't. But she makes everything feel so simple."
Elizabeth patted her arm affectionately. "That's the beauty of children. They don't carry the weight of the world the way we do."
Tris nodded.
Elizabeth glanced at her granddaughter, her expression thoughtful. "It's clear to see how much you two care about each other."
Tris nodded, her eyes never leaving Ella. "I've missed her so much. It's not just about Four... it's her too."
Elizabeth smiled gently and placed a hand on Tris's arm. "I know Four hurt you, and I'm not saying what he did was right," she began carefully, her tone gentle. "But, darling, sometimes you can be a bit stubborn. Especially when you're angry."
Tris bit her lip, staring out at Ella, unwilling to meet her grandmother's gaze.
"I saw the way he looked at you today," Elizabeth continued softly. "The regret was all over his face. He knows he made a mistake. Just… don't let your pride keep you from finding happiness, love."
Tris swallowed hard, her emotions swirling inside her. She wasn't ready to forgive Tobias, but deep down, she knew her grandmother was right.
As the warm afternoon breeze swept through the park, Ella's laughter echoed across the sandpit where she played, oblivious to the deeper conversation happening between Tris and her grandmother. Tris tried to focus on the simple joy of watching Ella, her bright smile as she built sandcastles with Bailey faithfully at her side. But her grandmother's words, gentle yet piercing, stirred up all the complicated emotions Tris had been trying to suppress.
"I'm not saying you need to rush into anything," Elizabeth added, her voice soft but firm. "But life is too short to let anger decide everything. Just... think about it."
Tris nodded absently, not trusting herself to speak just yet. Her chest felt tight with a mix of emotions she wasn't sure how to sort through. She glanced back at Ella, who was now sitting down in the sand, her energy slowing as the afternoon wore on.
Ella's joyful laughter had faded, replaced by quieter play. She wasn't running around as much, and as Tris observed her closely, something in Ella's posture seemed off. Her shoulders slumped, and her movements became slower, less energetic. A small frown creased Tris's forehead.
"Ella, sweetie?" Tris called out, standing up from the bench. "Are you okay?"
Ella looked up, her face pale and tired. "I don't feel good, Tris," she murmured, wiping her forehead with the back of her hand.
Tris's heart tightened. She immediately stood from the bench and hurried over to Ella, crouching down in the sand beside her. Ella's pale face and glassy eyes made her heart skip a beat. "What's wrong, sweetheart?" Tris asked, her voice gentle as she brushed a stray strand of hair from Ella's flushed face.
"I'm tired," Ella mumbled, rubbing her eyes with the back of her hand. "And my head hurts."
Tris placed the back of her hand against Ella's forehead, her concern deepening when she felt the alarming warmth radiating from her skin. "You're really warm, honey," Tris said softly, trying to keep her voice calm. "Let's get you home."
Elizabeth had joined them by then, her eyes full of concern as she knelt beside Ella. "Poor thing," she murmured, placing a comforting hand on Ella's back. "It looks like she's come down with something."
Ella leaned heavily against Tris, her energy completely drained. "I don't want to be sick," she whispered, her small voice tinged with frustration.
"I know, sweetie. Let's get you back to Daddy's place, okay? You'll be more comfortable there," Tris said, scooping Ella up in her arms. The little girl rested her head against Tris's shoulder, her eyelids drooping as exhaustion took over.
Bailey, sensing something was wrong, got up from the sand and trotted over, his nose nudging Ella gently as he looked up at Tris, his eyes full of concern.
Elizabeth gave Tris a gentle smile as she stood up, brushing sand off her knees. "I'll head home, too. But keep me updated, alright? And make sure Four knows what's going on."
Tris nodded, grateful for her grandmother's understanding. "Thank you, Grandma," she said softly.
Elizabeth leaned in to give Tris a warm hug, her arms wrapping around her tightly. "You'll be alright, sweetheart," she whispered, pressing a kiss to Tris's cheek. "You've got this."
With one last reassuring smile, Elizabeth turned and headed back to her car. Tris watched her go for a moment before shifting Ella in her arms and calling for Bailey to follow. The cab ride back to Tobias's apartment was quiet, save for Ella's soft, laboured breathing and the occasional rustle of Bailey's paws on the seat beside her.
When they arrived at Tobias's apartment, Tris carefully carried Ella inside, Bailey padding along beside them as if he knew exactly where they were headed. Tris fumbled for a moment with the spare key Tobias had given her, but once the door was open, she was immediately enveloped by the familiar scent of the apartment—a mix of leather, warmth, and something distinctly Tobias.
Bailey trotted over to his bed in the corner of the living room but didn't settle down, his eyes never leaving Ella as Tris gently carried her into her bedroom. The room was exactly as Tris remembered it—small, cozy, and filled with the comforting little touches that made it Ella's space.
She laid Ella down on her bed, pulling the soft blanket up to her chin as the little girl curled up, her cheeks still flushed with fever. Bailey jumped up on the bed, curling protectively at the foot of it, his large body a source of warmth and comfort.
Tris brushed a gentle hand over Ella's forehead again before slipping out of the room to find the children's paracetamol. In the kitchen, she grabbed a small bottle from the medicine cabinet and filled a cup with water. After returning to Ella's room, she gently roused her from her light sleep.
"Sweetheart, I need you to take this, okay? It'll help you feel better," Tris whispered, holding out the small spoon of paracetamol. Ella opened her eyes weakly and, without protest, took the medicine, grimacing slightly at the taste before lying back down.
"Thank you, Tris," Ella murmured, her voice barely a whisper as she closed her eyes again, exhaustion pulling her back into sleep.
Tris leaned down and kissed the top of Ella's head. "You're welcome, sweetie. I'll be right here."
She stayed for a few moments longer, watching as Ella's breathing evened out, the medicine beginning to do its work. Bailey remained curled up at the foot of the bed, his eyes closing slowly as he kept watch over his little human.
Feeling a pang of exhaustion herself, Tris finally stepped out of Ella's room and collapsed onto the couch in the living room. She pulled out her phone, hesitating for a moment before sending Tobias a quick message: Ella's sick. I'm at your place with her—she wasn't feeling well, and I didn't want to take her home. Just letting you know.
She pressed send and set the phone down beside her, leaning her head back against the couch as she closed her eyes for just a moment. The familiar feeling of being in this space—his space—stirred up all kinds of emotions she hadn't been ready to deal with. But right now, it wasn't about her or Tobias. It was about Ella.
Her phone buzzed, pulling her from her thoughts. She picked it up and saw a reply from Tobias: I'll be home soon. Thank you for taking care of her.
The tension in Tris's chest loosened slightly as she read his message. She stared at the screen for a moment before setting it down again. There was still so much between them, so much left unsaid. But for now, at least, they were on the same page where it mattered—taking care of Ella.
Bailey trotted over from Ella's room and lay down at her feet, as if sensing her need for comfort. Tris reached down and scratched behind his ears, grateful for the small moment of calm as she waited for Tobias to come home.
Tobias stepped into the apartment, and the sight of him made Tris's breath catch in her throat. He looked awful. His skin was pale and drawn, his usually strong, confident posture sagging under the weight of whatever was going on inside him. Sweat beaded on his forehead, and his eyes—usually so sharp—were dull, red-rimmed with exhaustion. He wasn't just tired. He was sick.
"You look awful," Tris blurted out before she could stop herself. The words were harsh, but there was concern beneath them, buried under layers of hurt.
Tobias managed a weak, sarcastic smile, though it quickly faltered. "Thanks," he muttered, his voice hoarse and rough. He leaned heavily against the doorframe, as if standing was taking all the energy he had left. "How's Ella?"
"She's asleep," Tris replied, her tone softening. "Still running a fever, but she's resting."
Tobias nodded, his expression tight with worry. Without another word, he pushed past her, stumbling slightly as he made his way to Ella's bedroom. He stood in the doorway for a moment, his eyes lingering on the small, feverish form of his daughter. His hand rested against the doorframe for support, his body visibly trembling with the effort of staying upright.
Tris watched him closely, her own emotions tangled up in a mix of anger and concern. She was furious with him—furious for the way he had broken her heart, for the way he had shattered everything between them—but seeing him like this, so vulnerable and unsteady, made her anger waver. He looked like he was barely holding on.
After a long moment, Tobias turned away from Ella's room, his legs shaking as he headed toward the living room. His steps were uneven, and just before he could make it to the couch, he swayed dangerously. Tris was there in an instant, grabbing his arm to steady him.
"You're burning up," she said, her voice sharp with worry. "You need to lie down."
"I'm fine," Tobias muttered, though his voice was weak, the words barely audible.
"You're not fine," Tris shot back, her frustration and concern colliding. She guided him toward the couch, not giving him a choice. "You can't even stand on your own."
Tobias didn't argue. He collapsed onto the couch with a heavy sigh, his head falling back against the cushions, his eyes fluttering closed almost immediately. His body seemed to sink into the fabric, as though all the energy he'd been holding onto had finally drained out of him.
Tris stood over him, arms crossed, watching as his chest rose and fell in uneven, labored breaths. He looked terrible—feverish and broken in a way that unsettled her. This wasn't the strong, steady man she had fallen in love with. This was someone who was barely holding himself together, and despite everything that had happened between them, despite how deeply he had hurt her, she couldn't just leave him like this.
With a reluctant sigh, she grabbed a blanket from the armchair and draped it over him. The warmth of it didn't seem to ease his shivering, and his face contorted in discomfort, his body still trembling with fever.
She stood there for a moment longer, staring down at him. He looked so fragile, so completely unlike the man she knew. The weight of their shared past pressed down on her, and she could feel the pull of emotions she had tried so hard to bury.
Unable to stay still any longer, Tris moved to the kitchen and started heating up some soup she had made earlier for Ella. The familiar routine of cooking helped to ground her, but the tension inside her didn't ease. She didn't want to care about Tobias. Not after the way he had torn her apart. But she did. And it hurt.
The sound of Tobias stirring pulled her from her thoughts. His breathing hitched, and he slowly blinked his eyes open, disoriented at first, as if he wasn't sure where he was. Then his eyes landed on Tris, sitting quietly across from him, and surprise flickered across his face—quickly followed by something softer. Relief, maybe.
"You're still here," he murmured, his voice raspy, heavy with exhaustion. His gaze softened, and for a moment, he looked like he couldn't believe it.
Tris stayed silent for a beat, studying him. His face was pale, the lines of stress etched into his features even as he tried to hide them. He looked awful—sick, broken—and seeing him like this stirred a complicated mix of feelings inside her.
"I wasn't going to leave you like this," she said, her voice firm but quiet. "You can barely stand, Tobias."
He blinked, taking a shaky breath, and sat up a little straighter, though the effort clearly cost him. His hands trembled as he wiped at his face, still flushed with fever, and he winced as if the movement pained him.
"Ella?" he asked, his voice softer, worry creasing his brow.
"She's asleep," Tris replied. "Her fever's still high, but she's resting."
Tobias let out a breath, his shoulders sagging in relief. He nodded but didn't say anything else. For a moment, the silence between them stretched out, heavy and thick with everything unsaid. The tension was palpable, but so was the exhaustion in both of them.
Tris stood, walking to the kitchen. She returned a minute later with a bowl of soup, the warmth of it filling the room with its comforting scent. She placed it in his hands, her tone leaving no room for argument. "Eat."
Tobias looked down at the bowl, then back up at her, a flicker of something passing through his eyes—gratitude, maybe, or guilt. He didn't argue, though. He took the spoon with shaking hands and slowly started eating, the warmth seeming to soothe him even if only a little.
They sat in silence as he ate, Tris watching him from her spot on the edge of the couch, her emotions a storm she was barely able to contain. She had been so angry at him for the past few weeks—angry at the way he had torn them apart, at how he had hurt her so deeply. But now, seeing him like this, that anger was tinged with something else—something that made it hard to hold on to the fury she had been clinging to.
After a few slow spoonfuls, Tobias set the bowl down on the coffee table, his hand trembling as he did. He leaned back into the couch, closing his eyes for a moment as if the act of eating had drained him further. His breath came out in a shaky sigh, and Tris noticed the way his shoulders hunched, like the weight of everything had finally caught up to him. He looked up at her, and for a fleeting moment, their eyes met. There was something raw in his gaze, something that made her heart clench, but before she could say anything, he spoke.
"I'm sorry." His voice cracked on the words, barely above a whisper, and the weight of them shattered whatever walls he had been holding up. His face crumpled, and before Tris could even process what was happening, Tobias broke down.
The sobs came suddenly, violently, as if they had been building for weeks. His shoulders shook as he buried his face in his hands, his body trembling with the force of his tears. He tried to speak again, but the words wouldn't come. All he could manage was a broken, "I'm sorry," over and over, like it was the only thing he could say.
Tris stood frozen, her mind racing to catch up with what was happening. She had never seen him like this—so vulnerable, so broken. The anger she had held onto for so long melted away in the face of his grief, replaced by something softer, something that hurt just as much but in a different way.
Slowly, she knelt beside him, her hand resting on his arm as she tried to calm him down. "Tobias…" she whispered, her voice trembling. She didn't know what to say, didn't know how to fix this. But she couldn't stand to see him like this.
"I don't deserve you," Tobias choked out, his words barely coherent through the sobs. "I don't deserve any of this… I'm so sorry…"
His voice cracked again, and Tris felt the tears welling up in her own eyes as she reached for him, pulling him into her arms. He collapsed against her, his head resting on her shoulder as he sobbed like a child, the weight of his regret and guilt pouring out of him in waves.
For a long moment, they stayed like that, wrapped in each other, his body trembling as he cried against her. She could feel the heat radiating off him, his fever burning through the thin barrier of their clothes. But despite the anger still simmering in her heart, she held him tighter, offering him what little comfort she could.
"You hurt me," Tris whispered, her voice shaky. "You hurt me so much, Tobias."
He didn't say anything, just nodded weakly against her shoulder, his sobs growing quieter but no less painful.
As the minutes ticked by, the storm between them slowly subsided. Tobias's breathing evened out, the tears drying on his cheeks as exhaustion overtook him. His body grew heavier in her arms, and she realized he was on the verge of falling asleep.
Tris eased him down onto the couch, pulling a blanket over him and brushing a stray strand of hair away from his forehead. His fever was still high, and she could see the dark circles under his eyes, evidence of sleepless nights spent tormenting himself over the choices he had made.
She wanted to scream at him, to demand answers for why he had pushed her away, but now wasn't the time. He was too fragile, too broken. And as much as she hated him for what he'd done, she couldn't bring herself to leave him like this.
Tobias mumbled something incoherent in his sleep, his hand reaching out for her as if he was still terrified of losing her. She hesitated, but eventually, she took his hand in hers, letting him cling to her like a lifeline.
"I'm here," she whispered, though her voice was thick with her own unshed tears. "I'm here, Tobias."
And in that moment, despite the anger still simmering inside her, despite the hurt, she held him. Because even after everything, she couldn't bring herself to let him go.
Tobias and Tris lay tangled together on the couch, caught in the remnants of an uneasy sleep. Their limbs intertwined as exhaustion had dragged them under, too worn out to care about the unresolved storm between them. It wasn't comfortable, but it was familiar—like the only thing anchoring them in place after everything that had been broken. The air in the apartment felt thick, their steady breathing the only sound in the silence.
Suddenly, a loud, deliberate cough sliced through the quiet.
Tris stirred first, blinking her eyes open as her heart raced from the sudden intrusion. Disoriented, her gaze darted around the room. Tobias groaned beside her, rubbing his eyes as if trying to banish the weight of sleep still pulling him under.
Another, louder cough.
Both of them turned their heads toward the doorway, where Zeke stood, arms crossed and an obnoxious smirk spreading across his face. He leaned casually against the doorframe, clearly enjoying himself far too much.
Tobias groaned again, louder this time. "Zeke, what the hell are you doing here?" His voice came out gravelly, like it hadn't fully woken up yet.
Zeke's grin widened, his easy swagger only making Tobias more irritable. "Well, good morning to you, too," he teased, ignoring the question. "You looked like death yesterday, so I thought I'd swing by and see if you needed someone to take care of you today. But from the looks of it…" Zeke's eyes flicked toward Tris, "someone's already got that covered."
Tris shifted awkwardly, the weight of Zeke's playful gaze making her feel exposed. She quickly stood, smoothing out her clothes and brushing her hair out of her face. "I'm going to check on Ella," she muttered, her voice quiet and stiff. She didn't wait for a response, slipping out of the living room before the awkwardness could swallow her whole.
Zeke watched her leave, his smirk softening but still lingering. He sauntered into the room, dropping into the chair across from the couch, leaning forward with his elbows resting on his knees. "So…" His tone was casual, but the question was anything but. "What's the deal, Four? You two back together?"
Tobias sat up, rubbing his temples with both hands, trying to shake off the fog and the sudden irritation boiling inside him. "No," he muttered, voice low and rough. "We're not back together."
Zeke raised an eyebrow, the smirk slipping into something more serious. "Uh-huh. And remind me again why you broke up with her? 'Cause you've been a miserable wreck since you did."
Tobias leaned back, his hands falling into his lap. His jaw clenched as he stared at the ceiling, not wanting to have this conversation, especially not now. But Zeke was relentless, and ignoring him wasn't going to make him go away.
"I needed to focus on Ella," Tobias finally said, his voice low, but even he could hear the uncertainty creeping in. "I didn't want anything getting in the way of being a good father. She has to come first."
Zeke blinked, clearly not buying it. His expression shifted from disbelief to outright challenge, his posture leaning forward as he fixed Tobias with a pointed look. "Focus on Ella? And please explain how that woman," he gestured toward where Tris had disappeared, "who's been taking care of your sick daughter and your sick ass, isn't in Ella's best interest? Explain to me how her first thought when she woke up was to check on Ella, your daughter? How is any of that not in Ella's best interest? I'm really trying to follow your logic here."
Tobias's jaw tightened, but he didn't have a good answer. The truth was, he'd convinced himself that pushing Tris away was the right thing to do, but hearing it laid out like that made him feel like a complete idiot. She'd been there the whole time—looking after Ella, looking after him—and he had been so focused on doing everything himself that he hadn't even realized how much she'd already been helping.
Zeke wasn't letting him off the hook, either. "Look, I get it, man. You want to be a good dad, but that doesn't mean you have to do it all alone. Two people are stronger than one. Tris has been here for you and Ella this entire time, and you've been too stubborn to see it."
Tobias felt the truth of those words settle in his chest, heavy and suffocating. Letting people in wasn't something that came easily to him. He'd spent years convincing himself that he had to do everything alone, and that included being Ella's dad. But Zeke was right. Tris had been there all along, and instead of embracing that, he'd shut her out.
"And what if it doesn't work out?" Tobias muttered, the vulnerability slipping into his voice. "What if I screw up, and it all falls apart?"
Zeke didn't hesitate. "What if it does work out?" His tone softened but stayed direct. "You're so focused on everything that could go wrong that you're not even thinking about what could go right. I mean, look at her. She's still here, Four. She's still taking care of Ella, still putting up with your crap. Doesn't that tell you something?"
Tobias stared at the floor, his thoughts spinning. He had been so terrified of screwing things up with Tris, of not being enough for her or Ella, that he hadn't let himself see how much he had already pushed her away. And now, she was still here. Still standing by him. Still caring.
Zeke watched him in silence for a moment, then leaned back in the chair, his tone shifting. "How does she make you feel, man? Because from where I'm standing, you've got feelings for her. Real ones."
Tobias's throat tightened at the question. He had spent weeks—maybe longer—avoiding that very truth, but hearing Zeke ask it so plainly forced him to confront it head-on.
"She makes me feel… alive," Tobias admitted, his voice low, the words difficult to say out loud. "Like I can actually breathe when she's around. I never thought I'd feel like that—especially not after everything I've been through. She's the first woman I could actually love, Zeke. She's…" He paused, rubbing his hands over his face. "She's everything."
Zeke nodded slowly, but didn't interrupt. He knew Tobias had more to say.
"I didn't think love was for someone like me," Tobias continued, his voice quieter now, more introspective. "I thought I was too broken. Too messed up from my past. But with Tris, it's different. She makes me believe that maybe I'm not as screwed up as I think I am. And the way she is with Ella…" Tobias's voice caught for a second. "She loves Ella like she's her own. Even after I treated her like crap, she's still here, taking care of her. Of me. And I don't deserve that." He sighed "I don't deserve her."
Zeke leaned forward, his eyes locking onto Tobias's. "She's still here because she cares about you, you idiot. She's not looking for perfection. She's looking for you. So what the hell are you gonna do about it?"
Tobias sat there, the weight of everything crashing down around him. He had pushed Tris away out of fear—fear of not being enough, fear of failing as a father, fear of letting her down. But in the process, he had hurt the one person who had stood by him through it all.
"I need to fix this," Tobias said finally, his voice rough but resolute. "I need to make it right with her."
Zeke grinned, clapping a hand on Tobias's shoulder. "Damn right you do. About time you figured that out."
Tobias shook his head, a small, disbelieving smile tugging at his lips as he thought about everything Zeke had said. "Yeah," he muttered, almost to himself. "About time."
Just as Tobias was about to respond, Tris reappeared in the doorway, her expression guarded but calm. She had overheard most of the conversation, and Tobias's heart sank as he realized she had heard everything.
"Tris," Tobias began, standing up slowly, the weight of guilt pressing down on him. His mind raced, trying to find the right words to make her understand, to fix the mess he'd made.
"I heard," she said softly, her arms crossed over her chest, her eyes flickering with hurt but also a hint of understanding. It was the hurt that twisted something inside him, deep and sharp.
Tobias took a step toward her, his heart pounding as he swallowed down the knot in his throat. "I'm so sorry, Tris. I've made a horrible mistake. I don't know if you can forgive me, but I need you to know how wrong I've been. I thought I was protecting you… protecting Ella," he admitted, his voice raw, each word feeling heavier than the last. "But I was wrong. I've been running from my own fears, and in doing that, I hurt you. I hurt us. I didn't think I was good enough for you, and I pushed you away. And for that, I'm so, so sorry."
Tris's gaze softened, but the pain in her eyes was still there, simmering just beneath the surface. She looked down for a second, as if gathering her thoughts before speaking. "You don't have to protect me, Tobias," she said quietly, her voice trembling slightly. "And you don't have to do everything by yourself. But what you can't do is shut me out every time you're scared."
Tobias nodded, her words hitting him harder than he'd expected. "I know that now. And I'm sorry. I don't want to lose you, Tris. I don't want to lose what we had. I just…" He reached out, brushing a soft hand against her cheek, feeling her warmth. "I just hope you'll give me another chance. I know I don't deserve it."
Tris's eyes softened further, though something fragile lingered there. She uncrossed her arms and took a small step toward him, her voice barely above a whisper. "You hurt me, Tobias. You hurt me more than I can even put into words."
Her words sliced through him, the guilt heavy and suffocating. He opened his mouth to apologize again, but she raised a hand, stopping him.
"But," she continued, her voice wavering, "even after all of that… you make me feel incredible too. When you're not making me feel like crap," she added with a small, sad smile.
A flicker of hope sparked in Tobias's chest at her words. He took another step closer, desperate to close the distance between them. "Tris, I swear, I'll spend the rest of my life proving to you that I won't hurt you like that again. I know I don't deserve you, but I want to make it right. I want to fight for us."
Tris's eyes searched his face, as if weighing his words, trying to decide if she could trust him again. The tension between them was thick, but there was something else—something fragile but real. A possibility.
Slowly, Tris stepped closer, her eyes still locked on his. "I think I want that too," she whispered, her voice quiet but steady. "But you can't shut me out again. We have to do this together, Tobias. No more walls."
Tobias nodded, his heart swelling with relief, with hope. "I promise," he said, his voice firm but filled with emotion.
For a long moment, they stood there, inches apart, the air between them shifting from pain to something warmer, something full of hope. Tobias reached out, his hand trembling slightly as he brushed a lock of hair behind Tris's ear, his fingers lingering against her skin. She leaned into his touch, her eyes fluttering closed for a moment, as though she was savoring the connection between them.
Then, without thinking, Tobias closed the distance, cupping her face in his hands as he pressed his lips to hers.
The kiss was tentative at first, soft, as though they were both testing the waters, afraid of pushing too far, too fast. But then something broke—something raw and real—and the kiss deepened. All the weeks of regret, longing, and unspoken words poured into that moment, their need for each other overwhelming.
Tris responded, her hands fisting the front of his shirt as she pulled him closer, her lips meeting his with the same intensity, the same desperation. It wasn't just a kiss—it was a promise. A promise to try again, to fight for what they had lost.
When they finally pulled apart, both of them were breathing hard, their foreheads resting together as they clung to each other, the world around them fading away.
"I missed you," Tris whispered, her voice trembling as she fought back tears.
"I missed you too," Tobias murmured, closing his eyes as the weight of their reconciliation sank in. "So much."
For a moment, they stayed like that, wrapped in each other's arms, the silence between them warm and comforting. But when Tris's tears began to fall, Tobias felt his heart break all over again. He reached out, cupping her face gently, his thumbs brushing away the wetness that streaked her cheeks.
"I hate seeing you sad," Tobias whispered, his voice thick with emotion. He leaned in, pressing soft kisses to her tear-streaked cheeks, his lips lingering on her skin as if he could kiss the sadness away. "I never want to be the reason you cry again. From now on, the only tears you'll ever cry will be happy ones."
Tris let out a shaky breath, her hands resting against his chest as she blinked away the remaining tears. Tobias kissed her again—her cheeks, her forehead—each kiss a silent apology, a promise of better days ahead.
"You deserve to be happy," Tobias murmured, his lips brushing against her skin. "And I'm going to spend the rest of my life making sure you are."
Tris looked up at him, her eyes glistening with unshed tears, but there was something else in her gaze now—something lighter, softer. "I believe you," she whispered, her voice filled with quiet hope. She smiled through her tears, her hands curling into his shirt as she pulled him closer. "I think I want that too."
Tobias exhaled slowly, relief flooding through him. And then, without waiting another second, he kissed her again.
The kiss was slow at first, filled with tenderness, as if they were rediscovering each other after all the time spent apart. But the longer their lips stayed pressed together, the more the intensity grew. Tris kissed him back just as fiercely, her arms wrapping around his neck, pulling him closer as if she couldn't bear to let him go.
And just when it felt like the kiss couldn't get any more heated, any more consuming, a familiar sound cut through the moment.
"Ahem."
They froze, their lips still inches apart, their bodies still tangled together. Slowly, they turned toward the sound, their eyes wide with surprise.
Zeke was standing in the doorway, arms crossed, a broad grin spread across his face. "Well, I'd say it's about damn time," he said, his voice full of mock cheerfulness. "But don't let me interrupt. You were doing just fine without me."
Tobias groaned, his face flushing with embarrassment. "Zeke, didn't you leave?"
Zeke laughed, shaking his head as he raised his hands in mock surrender. "No, but I am now." He shot them a wink before disappearing, the sound of the door closing softly behind him.
For a moment, neither of them spoke, the awkwardness of Zeke's interruption hanging in the air. But then, slowly, Tris let out a soft laugh, shaking her head as she looked at Tobias.
"I can't believe we forgot he was still in the room," she said, her voice breathless from the intensity of the kiss.
Tobias chuckled, pulling her closer again, his hands resting on her waist as he looked down at her. "Honestly? I don't even care."
They stayed like that for a while longer, wrapped in each other's arms, and for the first time in weeks, Tobias felt a small surge of peace. They still had a long way to go, but for the first time in weeks, they were on the same page, ready to move forward. Together.