Sorry for the late chapter. I was quite busy this week and just couldn't get time to write. A lot of thanks to kiaravinidatta for reviewing and editing the story.

HAPPY READING...

TRIS POV

Entering the 'Dáutè Cafe', my eyes scan the surroundings. I am early. I go into the locker room and change into my uniform. I go to the desk and see Al and Lynn, my co-workers, and very good friends. Just as I'm about to go over to them, Eric blocks my path.

"I want you in my office now, Stiff", he says turning around and walking back to his office. My boss Eric has always had it out for me, finding one thing or the other to criticize me. At times I feel like quitting the job if it means I won't have to deal with him again, but my mind wanders back to Tori and how hard she works for the both of us and I convince myself that all this is for her. 

I sigh and follow him, my mind racing 'What did I do wrong now?', 'Is he going to fire me?'. I reach his office and knock. 

"Come in" he says walking to the front of his desk. I go inside trying to be as respectful as possible. 

"You wanted to see me?". 

"Yes, I did. Why else would I call you then stiff, to admire your non-existent beauty", he sneers. 

"Why did you want to see me?" I ask trying to stay calm. 

"Where the hell were you last week?" he asks, his voice rising. 

"Tori was sick and I had to stay home to take care of her. I had let Al and Shauna know that I won't be coming and had also asked them to let you know," I explain calmly. 

"I don't care about your Tori, and also when you plan to take a leave, you should come and inform me and not your little friends here. Or if that's a problem, I can give you a permanent leave and you can stay home forever", he jeers. 

"I am sorry, I'll take care of it next time," I say bile rising in my throat. 

"Good, now get out of my office and go do your work," he shouts.

If it wasn't for my treatment and the money, I would have gladly quit the job, but I can't. So, for now, I have to hold on till I can either get a better job or finish my treatments. I go out and see Al and Lynn coming towards me. 

"What did that asshole want now," Lynn asks me putting an arm around me and leading me towards the locker room. She had always hated Eric from day one and never failed to show it. 

"He was mad that I missed work last week, and that I didn't inform him," I say rolling my eyes. 

"Just ignore him, you have us here to cheer you up," Al says smiling at me and putting his arm around my shoulder. I smile at him as Lynn winks at me. I shoot her a glare before excusing myself and heading to the washroom. Lynn keeps pestering me telling me that Al likes me, but I find that hard to believe. Don't get me wrong, Al is a very nice guy but I don't have that kind of feelings for him. Maybe he's just not my type, though I'm not sure any guy would be my type.

Looking at myself in the mirror, I see a short, petite, flat-chested girl with dull grey eyes. It's hard to imagine any boy, let alone Al, wanting to be with me. I won't ever say that I'm ugly, that would be like insulting my parents. I'm just not what most boys would like or want. Looking at the bright side, I'm happy to be single. Being in a relationship comes with its problems and drama, and I already have more than enough drama in my life. As long as I have my friends and Tori, I'm content. I snap out of my trance as Lynn knocks on the stall door.

" Tris, you alive? Beatrice Grace Prior, don't make me come in there and drag you out, you know I will", she yells through the door. 

"Oh God Lynn, I am coming. I am not attempting suicide in here ." I say laughing and opening the door. 

"Were you daydreaming about your and Al's wedding or children?" she smirks. I feel my face flush 

"Shut up Lynn, he is my friend, nothing more." I say punching her arm. 

"Yea yea, do I look stupid? " she laughs leading me out of the washroom. As I enter the dining area, I see that people have started trickling in slowly. I adjust my uniform and go towards the kitchen as Lynn head towards the counter. I roll my eyes, catching up to her and taking my place, waiting for the orders. 

If only I had know that the next customer to walk in through those doors would change my life forever...

"Life may not be perfect, but with the right people, it can be molded to perfection."

And another chapter's done finally. Pls, do comment and vote and also let me know your opinions. Also, don't worry, Four will be joining us soon... Maybe I'll bring him in earlier if the votes come in earlier too 😉. Just saying...

BE BRAVE ♥️♥️