The Iron Soldier: A FourTris Divergent Story

Chapter 9

By the time I got back to Carlos's room, he has other visitors. He introduced me to his Mom, wife and two children. I didn't stay much longer than to memorize their names and faces. Carlos gave me a big hug, explaining to his family, my part in the robbery. As soon as they started to fuss over me, I had to excuse myself as quick as I could.

They called me a hero. The word made me sick to my stomach. I didn't do anything. It was all Four. He was the true hero. And yet, he told Carlos it was me who took control of the situation. I wanted to correct him when he repeated Four's tall tale to his family, but that would make Four look like a liar.

If I ever see him again, and he's still speaking to me, I'll have to question him about it. Although after our last confrontation, I doubt I'll ever get a chance.

"You look like your head is somewhere else right now." The sound of Christina's voice pulled me back to the present.

"Yeah, sorry."

"Everything ok hun?"

"Yup, great." I reply.

"Okay, good. We're going to do a quick team photo before the game, so put a smile on that face and join us."

I flash a smile at my best friend and follow her into the group of players. Among them are Will and several of his friends that I've never officially met. We all stand in two rows, and after being told to say, "cheese", the camera clicks several times. Damn, I hate having my picture taken.

"Ok, I need everyone's pledge sheets before the game." I recognize the woman speaking as a nurse at the children's hospital. She is always smiling and far too bubbly for my liking, but she is great with the kids.

She looks at me briefly and her face spreads into a smile. "Beatrice. I'd like to congratulate you for being our top contributor this year. And amazingly, with only one pledge. I guess it pays to have a rich boyfriend." She winks at me and walks toward the bench where other players are watching the other team practice.

A growl rises up from deep in my throat. Is Al telling people that I am his girlfriend? As soon as an image of his face crosses my mind, I see the real version approaching. He's wearing a huge grin and his arms are outstretched to give me a hug.

"Hi baby. Did you miss me?" He scoops me into his arms, giving me an affectionate squeeze. His scent is overpowering, his body drenched in some overpriced cologne. As soon as he puts me down, he pushes his lips to mine.

How is it possible that he's caught me off guard and kissed me again? I've had enough. I don't care how rich or good looking he is. I shove him hard and he stumbles backwards until the back of his legs come in contact with the cooler of water bottles. He falls backwards over the cooler, landing hard on his back. His feet are still in the air when I speak. "If you ever kiss me again without permission, I'll break your nose."

His eyes have grown huge and I can't tell if it's fear or embarrassment that has taken over his face.

"Damn it Tris! What is your problem?" His eyes have gotten watery, like he may start to cry. "I just wanted to say Hi to my girlfriend."

"I am not your girlfriend. We had a brief conversation and you bought me flowers. That doesn't make me your girlfriend." I don't give him any time to answer back. I storm off and duck under the bleachers till I can calm down.

From my hiding spot, I can see Christina talking to Al. Her arms flail with every word and I know she's stepping in to defend me. Al is not prepared for the second round of verbal abuse, and he ends up walking out of the ball field and driving away in some sort of expensive car.