Jewel's POV
Instead of going to Eric's office this morning, I go to the pit. Max sent a message to me last night saying I should be here no later than 8.
I stand up straight. Hands clasped together. My body on edge. I hear sets of footsteps coming my way. Turning in the direction of the sound, I see Max entering from a large dark hallway. Eric follows close behind, along with a tall boy. He has shaggy black hair and two lips rings. Very well built, not as much as Eric, though. He must be Ryan.
Max approaches me with a smile. I return the expression. "Jewel, obviously you know who Eric is so need for introductions there. But you have not met Ryan." Ryan extends a hand to me. His handshake is firm and intimidating. Like all dauntless leaders handshakes are.
"Nice to meet you." Ryan says. "Like wise." I smile.
Glancing at Eric, he seems rigid, like this encounter is making him uncomfortable. Strange.
Ryan takes back his place next to Eric and they stand side by side. Max turns his attention back to me. "So, have you decided you would like to work for?"
My mouth is dry. I can hear my heart beat through my ears. I know the answer.
"Yes, sir. I have." I say, decidedly. "I would like to work with Ryan."
Eric's head jerks in my direction. Flames engulf his eyes. Shit.
Max doesn't seems to notice. "Great. You will start tomorrow. Ryan and I have some things that have to be finalized before you can officially start."
"We can meet up tonight, if you would like, and discuss the details." Ryan says. He seems genuinely nice.
"That sounds great." I smile. Eric's still staring.
With one last nod of head and a hand wave, Ryan and Max exit the Pit. Leaving me with this angry grizzly bear.
Eric steps closer to me. Jaw clenched, he says, "Why did you pick him?"
I shrug. "You don't seem like you need the help. This is just work. No need to take things personally."
His eyes narrow. "You're so naive." I scowl up at him. "What?"
"You think working with Ryan.." He spits the name. "Is going to stop me from coming around? It won't."
I'm so confused. "I'm not trying to stop anything! This is strictly work for me."
His body relaxes, like he finally believes me. His hand brushes against my injured arm and when he looks at me, his eyes are softer. "Remember, Amity. No fighting until I say."
"Got it." I say. He lingers for a few more seconds. "You can always change your mind."
"Change my mind about what?" A smirk plays at his lips.
"You can always come be my assistant."
I roll my eyes, playfully. "Nobody wants to be your assistant, Eric."
He claps me on the back of my shoulder. "We'll see."
