Different in the Same Ways

Gossip

     I led Chris to the cafeteria with Scar on my back. I swore she fell asleep but Chris kept assuring me she wasn't. We walked in silence as we approached the double doors leading to the cafeteria. The muffled roar of countless Dauntless made Scar squirm around.

     "Put me down," Scar whined. Hesitant, I gently set her down with Chris close by, his hands slightly outstretched. I quickly turned around and held up my hands, ready to catch her in case she fell. It was obvious that she was very hungry and very tired as she wobbled on her feet. Maybe she didn't notice how hungry or tired she was but we certainly did. As soon as she regained her balance I hesitantly stuck my arms to my sides because I knew how much she hated to feel weak. Chris noticed my actions and followed.

     "Scar, you really need to eat," I warned. I can't have her fainting again, not now and not ever. "I'll get some food in the cafeteria, don't worry about me I'm fine," she slurred. Chris and I tensed and readied our hands while she swayed dizzily on her feet. Of course she'd say that. I rolled my eyes and grabbed Chris's sleeve, "Fine, I'll see you later during training," I said while dragging Chris away. She looked confident and strong with large worried eyes as she walked into the cafeteria.

     I sighed and turned the corner toward the Pit. "Do you really think it was a good idea to leave her?" Chris asked sounding doubtful.

     "Of course not, it's a terrible idea," I replied. "But she just doesn't like feeling weak or helpless. Besides, she needs to learn she is not invincible and we may not always be right where she needs us to be," I explained. Chris nodded in understanding, pondering my reasoning.

     "Fair enough," he agreed. I smiled as we wove through the crowd in the Pit. I could see the Ophthalmologist office from where I was and put a spring in my step. I noticed Chris began to fall behind as I picked up the pace. I smiled and waved at Tori as we passed her tattoo shop, "Hey Ellie! Would you like a quick tattoo?" she called. I shook my head no, "Sorry but I don't like tattoos much!" I called back. She rolled her eyes but nodded.

     I waved behind me, "Come on Chris," I urged. I heard him sigh in effort and frustration, "You've always walked really fast," Chris complained. "And you've always walked really slow, plus training's only made me faster so keep up," I replied teasingly.  Finally we reached the office, without a moment's hesitation I swung the door open and walked in.

~

     Almost an hour we walked out the same door. I proudly tucked my glasses into my pocket, and looked around. I can finally see without glasses constantly threatening to slip off my nose! Chris came out after me with a smile. He bought a new pair of random dark gray and blue glasses that were lying around and he loved them. The color brought out the blue in his eyes till they looked almost like aqua.

     "I'm ravenous," Chris announced in a funny accent. "Shall we find somewhere to eat?" he suggested holding his elbow out for me to take.

     I smiled and nodded in appreciation, "We shall." He smiled and began leading me forward. "Unfortunately I have no idea where we can eat so I was hoping you could lead instead," Chris added iin the same funny accent. I chuckled and shook my head, "Sure, follow me but enough with the fancy stuff and be Dauntless while you're here," I replied. Chris nodded in agreement and I took his wrist, dragging toward the cafeteria.

     As we entered the cafeteria I looked behind me to see Chris wincing at the loud roar of practically insane Dauntless. I remembered his ears were a little sensitive and mouthed a quiet apology. I searched for any familiar faces. Thankfully I caught sight of Alex in the far corner flailing his arms, desperate to get my attention. I smiled and began dragging Chris toward his table. Alex's white blonde hair fell into his eyes though failed to hide their vibrant sapphire color.