Dauntless Born

4. Are You Listening?

Chapter 4! If anyone is confused, I'm starting off right at the end of last chapter, so it's continuing. Hope you guys enjoy! Xoxo

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Tris

The boy with dark hair trudged up the stairs and onto the stage, his expression a mix of determination and uncertainty. I thought I heard his name called, but my thoughts were too scattered to catch it fully.

Dressed in the drab gray of Abnegation, he looked out of place among the colorful crowd, as if he were an outsider in a world that had never truly accepted him. As he approached the selection bowls, his gaze flitted nervously between his options, the weight of the moment pressing heavily on his shoulders. I watched as he reached for the knife, his hands trembling slightly, betraying the fear beneath his composed facade.

His fingers hovered over the Abnegation stones for a heartbeat, and I held my breath, thinking that he would choose the safety of his upbringing. But then, in a surprising turn, he extended his hand toward the Dauntless coals. A hush fell over the crowd, the anticipation thick in the air as the knife sliced into his palm. Blood dripped from his hand, pooling onto the coals and creating a swirl of steam that mixed with the startled gasps from the audience.

He stepped back from the stage, a mix of defiance and uncertainty written on his face, knowing that his choice had just severed ties with everything he had known. My heart raced at the boldness of his decision; he took the risk that would change his life forever.

Moments later, Zeke's name was called, and I felt a rush of nerves. I was certain he'd choose Dauntless, but the anticipation still set my heart racing. No matter how much he annoyed me, he was my brother, and that bond weighed heavily in the moments leading up to his choice.

When Zeke reached the stage, there was no hesitation. He confidently moved toward the Dauntless coals, and as they crackled to life, the crowd erupted in cheers. Relief washed over me as I watched him, a grin spreading across his face as he returned to his seat.

My mom beamed at him, pride evident in her eyes as she leaned over to congratulate him with a light pat on the back.

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I couldn't stop thinking about the boy with the deep ocean-blue eyes. Each glance between us felt electric, drawing me in despite his intimidating demeanor.

"I've got to go," Zeke said suddenly, interrupting my thoughts. He practically bounced over to the group of initiates, excitement radiating off him.

As I expected, Shauna chose Dauntless, and I felt a rush of joy for my friends.

"Alright, let's head back," my mom insisted, signaling that it was time to leave.

Uriah and I rose from our seats, following her as we exited the building.

"I'm so proud of Zeke. He's come so far," she said, her voice full of emotion. "Sometimes it feels like he's growing up too fast."

Uriah and I shared a quick glance, stifling laughs at how sentimental she could get sometimes.

"Are you two listening?" Mom asked, catching us off guard.

We straightened up immediately, our laughter fading.

"Of course," I said, trying not to smile as Uriah fought to suppress his.

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Chapter four already! Thanks for the votes lately. I'm surprised at how many I'm actually receiving in so little time. Thank you guys for the amazing support. It means so much :)

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-hx7680