Chapter 13: "A Shocking Intervention"
The tension in the air was palpable. Nell could sense that things were about to escalate. "Guess I have to do something," she thought to herself. She stood up, intending to suggest that Tris and the others find a different table to avoid the confrontation. But before she could utter a word, Sofia's hand shot up, ready to slap Tris.
In a split second, Nell reacted instinctively. She stepped in front of Tris, and Sofia's slap landed on her face instead. The sound of the slap echoed through the room, followed by a collective gasp from the surrounding students.
Tris's eyes widened in shock as she realized what had just happened. Gabby, who had been oblivious to the drama until now, turned to look at them with a surprised expression. Melanie, on the other hand, seemed taken aback, but she quickly hid her shock behind a smirk, as if thinking Nell had deserved the slap.
The room fell silent, with all eyes fixed on Nell. Time seemed to stand still. Nell, however, was oblivious to the commotion she had caused. All she knew was that her face stung, and she felt a bit dizzy from the slap. She leaned into Tris's arms for support, grateful for the steady presence.
Just then, a deep male voice cut through the silence, its tone cold and detached. "There's no rule that says someone owns a seat. It's either you come early to claim it or you move to another seat."