Chapter 26: Like A Bird

                                    

                                          
The tension in the air is thick. We all feel a heavy sense of unease. Nobody dares to say a word because that the fear of snapping the tension and the anger floating around would be directed at them. 
My mother and father are locked in an intense battle, a staring contest. Although there is a lot more glaring than staring.  
The rest of us are just watching them, quietly watching them. 
I bring my glass of water to my thirsty lips, my loud sips almost echo off the walls. 
My parents being angry with each other is foreign territory to me. In my entire life so far they have never fought. Well at least to my knowledge.  
Mr. Black shuffles in his seat as he clears his throat. 
"So when you guys finish initiation what jobs would you like or is it still too early to think about it?" He asked shattering the vale of silence that was hanging around us. 
Susan is the first to reply. 
"I honestly am not sure which job I want. I mean they are all so fulfilling and I enjoy all of them. But I think I might enjoy working in the hospital more." 
Mr. Black smiles at her. 
"Don't worry my precious I'm sure whatever job you choose you will be amazing at," He shifted around and looked at Robert, " And you son what about you have you thought about what you want to do after initiation?" 
Robert shakes his head. 
"Not yet but I have been trying to put some thought into it. I just have something else on my mind right now." 
His gaze shifts to me for a few seconds before he turns it back to his dad. 
I am starting to see why Four would think he likes me. I just hope it isn't true, I can't lose a friend like him. 
Mr. Black turns and looks at me. 
"And you Beatrice?" 
I tap my fingers against the table. I haven't exactly thought about what I would do after initiation. Maybe because I have much bigger things-like the additional training I am doing at night- on my mind. 
But knowing myself and what I enjoy and where I think I could make a difference in this city my answer would have to be-
"Some sort of leadership position." 
My answer catches my parent's attention. They both smile at me. 
"That is a very bold idea. But I know you will achieve your goal, your parents raised a very determined girl." 
"We certainly did. " My mother said.
"You would make a terrific leader sweetie." My dad said. 
"Thanks. " 
Even though it was a hasty answer it doesn't sound like a bad idea. I think I would make a great leader, I have many great ideas that I think will make the city better. But I first have to pass initiation before I can make those plans. 
A Divergent having a leadership position in a city that hates Divergents. Wouldn't that be something? 
***
The walk to the Eaton home is peaceful. The sun is setting over the horizon creating a painting of orange and pink. It is beautiful.  
I hit my fist against the door. 
"Coming!" I hear Evelyn call. 
The door creaks open revealing Evelyn's smiling face, but I can tell the smile was fake.