It was late, and you stood on the Dauntless rooftop with Eric, the city lights sprawling like distant stars. The air between you felt electric, heavy with unspoken words. Curiosity surged, fueled by whispers from initiates about the tattoo that covered his back.

“Is it true?” you asked, breaking the silence. “That you have a tattoo—wings or something?”

Eric turned to you, an eyebrow raised, caught off guard. A smirk ghosted across his lips, but he hesitated to respond. “Why? You think I’d show you?”

You crossed your arms, trying to feign confidence despite the flutter in your stomach. “Maybe. If you’re not afraid.”

He scoffed, rolling his eyes, but a moment later, he seemed to reconsider. Slowly, he reached for the hem of his shirt and pulled it off, turning his back to you. The chill of the night air hit your skin, but your gaze was fixed on the tattoo that unfolded.

Dark wings stretched across his shoulder blades, their feathers intricately detailed, a raven inked in deep black perched in the center. The tattoo seemed alive, embodying everything you’d glimpsed in Eric—his defiance, the danger that clung to him, the darkness he wore like armor.

“Happy now?” he muttered, his voice low, revealing more than just ink on skin.

You couldn’t look away. “Why a raven?”

He paused, his gaze distant. “Ravens survive. No matter what.” The weight of his words hung in the air, revealing a hardness tempered by vulnerability.

Compelled, you reached out, your fingertips brushing the intricate feathers. Eric tensed but remained still, allowing you to explore. The warmth of his skin ignited something within you, heightening the tension between you.

“What are you doing?” he asked, his voice a mix of warning and intrigue.

“Just… seeing if it’s real,” you whispered, captivated.

He chuckled, a dark edge to his amusement. “Careful, or you might start thinking I have a soul.”