Disclaimer: I do not own Wizards of Waverly Place and/or Camp Rock or any characters from the show. Of course, this is a work of fiction.

This story is rated M. Due primarily language, and themes in the upcoming chapters. As always check my profile for update status.

This is my first romance-drama story so if it may start out slow and little disorganized. The story steps up in intensity quickly as I find/found my element and the plot and characters come together. Please offer review, negative or positive it all helps me as an author in the end!

Happy reading!

Chapter 1

Home is hell. Those three simple words describe Mitchie's life within those walls quite adequately. Due to the problems, that she tries ever so hard to avoid contemplating, she at a young age turns into very independent girl. Instead of letting the notoriously unfair trials of life condemn her to execution, she turns each into a personal challenge, overcoming them one by one. While others take education for granted, she considers it to be vitally important. Maintaining the highest grades, participating in extracurricular activities, anything and everything to ensure she is at the top, intellectually. Perhaps more valuable though, is her realization that social networking, and skills is perhaps just as important as the former. Mitchie isn't a nerd, and never advertises herself as such, despite others attempting to label her as one. Instead she finds a happy middle ground that offers a great circle of accepting peers, and friends.

By no means does this cancel out her struggles when not away from home, but she is able to manage. The smiles are more or less genuine, the laughs are usually not fake, the tears, and anxiety, always real, always hidden. Friends, even those closest to her do not see through the masks, the intense facade.

A particular tall, chestnut haired girl by the name of Caitlyn, becomes the one exception. Caitlyn, through the years emerges as a trusted confidant and sister Mitchie never had. She is also in the elite category of having seen Mitchie at her absolute lowest, a tearful wreck. Instead of shunning, instead of skepticism she embraces the terrified, fragile girl with nothing, but tender respect, and love. She may not be informed as to the specific cause, but she is able to sense and see through the defensive, internal layers that Mitchie has erected. From that moment onward, the two are bound for life.

Throughout everything, Mitchie has always had her music. Notebook upon spiral bound notebook is filled in her neat, albeit, scribbled handwriting. That isn't counting the hundreds of loose pages and scrap paper laying in an organized mess in the back of her closest. Paper may be where she unleashes her thoughts, but the piano, and guitar are where she bears her soul. Some of the most emotionally powerful moments are realized when fingers discover the perfect harmony, or the most amazing chord progression. Tirelessly she works, perfecting her art into something unique. Caitlyn, who has quietly watched from the sidelines for years, after much prodding, and a few attempts at blackmail is ultimately successful in convincing Mitchie to go to a special music camp: Camp Rock.

Camp Rock emerges as the positive flame to contrast with all the negativity Mitchie has been forced to accumulate year, after painful year. For once she does not feel like an outsider. The fact she is surrounded by likeminded people all with the same passion for music that she has is an incredible feeling. Sociable, polite, and with a helpful attitude Mitchie quickly succeeds in making new friends, many becoming quiet close. Caitlyn's tactic to get Mitchie attached to the camp she loves so dearly obviously is a complete success as year after year, with a grin and smile, Mitchie returns. The incredible flexibility, energy and raw talent Mitchie possesses do not go unnoticed.

Mitchie remembers that day very well. The day when all her dreams come true. The day is a blur, a rush of memories that does not fade with the age of time. Once at Camp Rock, everything becomes turned upside-down. Normally studying diligently as a pupil of music, instead she becomes a counselor, along with some of her close friends. Even now she isn't exactly sure how her name escaped into the recording world, but it does. Within two weeks of Camp Rock's conclusion she is offered an exclusive contract.

Her first instinct is to decline. After all, many more people are so much more talented then she. They not having the same chance is utterly unfair. Being sensitive to those around her, Mitchie believes that it is unreasonable for her to be offered an opportunity in the spotlight, when so many other talented people do not. This notion is particularly strong after the various performances at Camp Rock. If any lingering questions exist to fellow campers abilities, they are thoroughly squashed after the resolution of the dispute between Camp Rock, and rival Camp Star.

If it weren't for Caitlyn's gentle coaxing, and perhaps forceful attitude Mitchie may not have gone through with the recording deal. Once more Caitlyn proves to be Mitchie's voice of reason. Her words shatter the internal doubt, and ideas of fairness once, and for all.

"Miss Torres, I'm Chris Jonson" the man standing before her exclaims, shaking her hand and ushering her into an office. "I've been eager to meet you. Let me cut to the point." Politely allowing Mitchie to sit down before continuing. "You have awesome vocal talent. I would be honored to have you represent Lone Recording."

Mitche offers a puzzled expression. "Thank you, but… what does that mean… exactly?" Is that implying what she thinks it does…? Noting the look on Mitchie's face Chris chuckles.

"Forgive me. At times I get ahead of myself. What this entails is an exclusive contract. Without all the official legal mumbo-jumbo it effectively says that you would only be represented by this company and this company only." Mitchie nods, that makes sense. "Effective immediately you are to choose between eight and sixteen songs, subject to producer approval, of course, for immediate studio production. Following this, those songs will be released upon a combination of conventional, and digital media, such as, but not limited to CD's, and online download.

"While you may be offered input into such a decision, ultimately the specific marketing decisions will be left to us. I must confess that the specific amount has not been determined yet, but you're portion will be at least ten percent of whatever we net. This increases to fifteen if any auxiliary items, t-shirts, coffee mugs, toys and the like, are offered."

"I can't begin to express what a wonderful offer that you are giving me, but what about live concerts? Will I be able to do that too?" An astonished Mitche asks. Never, in the deepest recesses of her mind does she ever believe this would be happening. She finally has a record deal! If she able to perform too… Excitement and hope begin to bubble, reflecting on her smiling face.

"That, unfortunately is a bit more complicated," replies Chris, who immediately notices the disappointed demeanor. "I'm not saying that isn't possible, but performances require an entirely different approach. You haven't been published before. It would be much easier to wait to see how your music sales fair before booking venues. The more successful the release, the better the terms, venue location, and size." Chris continues, "I'm sure you are able to appreciate those nuisances. I wish I was able to give you a better, more concrete answer then that," regret in his voice.

This is a minor point indeed for Mitchie. Whatever words followed Chris's mouth after simply hinting at the possibility is lost on her. Business is business after all. Mitchie, seeing nothing but a bright, and beautiful future ahead takes the contract, scanning over it before signing on the dotted line, sealing the deal, with a handshake and heartfelt hug.

Caitlyn's advice seldom proves wrong. This is no exception, when Mitchie's first CD goes on sale. Careful, and very deliberate marketing sees more than a million sell in the span of a few weeks. She may not have penetrated into the top lists, but for a rising star, is beyond thrilled. With the incredible success of her debut Mitchie, at long last, is able to sing to live audiences.

What Mitchie does not realize is that Lone Recording is in negotiations to be completely bought-out by rival, and substantially larger Frontier Media. Not even Chris, her manager is even aware of the high level executive meetings taking place. By the time he, and Mitchie, are informed it is far to late. Not even a month after releasing her first album, the buyout is finalized and Mitchie finds herself with a new company, boss and contract. She also quickly finds that, where Chris is lenient, and genuinely cares about those working for him, her new manager does not. He is concerned only with dollar signs and what it takes to make more of them.

This is a fact that is brought to her attention in a most brutal fashion when she is introduced to her new manager, Mark Gaines.

"Ah. You are Mitchie Torres," it isn't a question, "a pleasure to meet you. Take a seat."

"Thanks." Mitchie does so and immediately notices the differences between Mark and Chris. Chris is considerably more laidback, confident, and takes pride in his work. Mark oozes big business, and strict adherence to policy. The simple difference in him wearing a suite and tie reinforces this notion.

"Now, let me see here," he rifles through a small ream of papers before finding a stapled packet, thumbing through them quickly. "It says here you were acquired through the buyout. Is that correct?"

Acquired? I feel like I'm being traded on the stock market. "Yes. I worked for Lone Recording for just under a month."

Damned kids these days don't know how to treat their betters'. At least the girl is presentable and doesn't look like a slut. That's a start at least. Mark gives a feral smile "That is 'Yes Sir'. I demand respect. Do you understand?"

"Yes…Sir. Completely sir." Mitchie is taken back by this never does she expect to be treated like this.

"I see you have already recorded a CD," Mitchie nods. "You recently began to sing live?"

"I have sir, but only a few shows. I'd like the opportunity to do so more often. I love it."

"I see." Mark rubs his chin in thought for a moment. "Alright then. I'd like to give you the chance. But… we're going to have to make some changes."

"What kind of changes?" Immediately Mitchie is on edge. The tone of voice seems foreboding.

"Singing along to a jukebox isn't going to help. You're going to get a full band accompaniment." Mitchie smiles widely at this. Not even Chris offered her something like that! Mark acknowledges Mitchie's enthusiasm with a knowing grin. "You're also going to be paired with another performer."

"What do you mean," Mitchie swallows down the hard lump, "by 'paired'."

"People expect bang for their buck these days. No one is going to see some newbie with no name." The words are chosen carefully to ensure maximum impact. They succeed as she gives him a hurt expression. "Sorry kid, that's the way the world works. You may either roll with the punches or get knocked out. You're going to have to suck it up like everyone else." Mark says as he leafs through a few more papers. "Damn, can't find it. Well, in essence you will be a secondary act. Selena Gomez will be the headliner."

Mitchie's eyes widen in surprise, and shocked. Everyone has heard of the vaunted Selena Gomez. She recovers from the shock quickly. "Selena? Really?" She is nearly bouncing off her chair.

"Yes really," Mark ignores her enlightened face and maintains one of stoic blankness. "You will meet her sooner or later. Word of caution, she is a bit erratic and often has a terrible attitude."

"I'm sure we will be able to work it all out," Mitchie, always the optimistic one, replies.

Mark isn't listening to Mitchie, instead he is focused on typed out name on the paper in front of him.

"Hmmm…. Lastly, you're going to have to have a different name. Mitchie is… too plain."

Mitchie stares up at him as if he grew a third head. "What? You can't just take my name away!"

"I'm not taking your name away you silly girl. I'm giving you a stage name. Do you really think Selena is her real name?" Mark says in an increasingly annoyed tone. The first day Alex Russo appeared before him she is transformed into Selena Gomez. The other, real ego, may not as well exist for all Mark cares; that doesn't make money.

"Well…" Why should Mitchie not think that, after all, the moniker fits the other girl perfectly well? At least in her opinion, apparently that is not rated too highly with her new boss.

Why do I always have to deal with the dumbest of the bunch! Why can't I, for once get someone with half a fucking brain! "You're stage name is Demi Lovato."

"What kind of name is that? That's horrible! Give me a new one!" Mitchie loudly demands.

Mark shrugs. It required all of thirty seconds for him to devise the designation. The label is some random cross between a sister, and an ex girlfriend that loosely resembles the girl in front of him. "Alright. If you want to play that game, the door is right there," he gestures to it.

"You're firing me? But I'm only said I don't like the name!" She protests.

"Yes, and you're being an obnoxious brat. This is out of my hands and comes from the powers above me," that is a little white lie, but she doesn't need to know it. "Take it or leave it."

The silence is deafening, Mark could already see the gears spinning in Mitchie's head. He has her exactly where he wants.

"Ok… Ok… I'll do it. I'll be Demi Lovato," Mitchie responds sullenly.

Mark smiles greedily. "Excellent! I'm glad you came around. I'd hate to have to fire someone as lovely as you. And so soon!" He pulls out a legal form printed on exquisite, expensive stock. "A simple formality. Basically the same you signed before only with some small print about performances."

Mitchie is thoroughly disturbed by the expression on Mark's face. She feels very similar to the mouse that is being sized up by a cat. Nevertheless, she doesn't allow that to show and merely smiles in return before signing her name on to the contract in front of her quickly, without reading. A contract is a contract is a contract right? They're all the same.

"That about covers everything." Mark stands and offers his hand again. She grasps the paw of a hand, shaking. "You should run along. Selena should be just about done practicing. Go meet her. Fourth door, down the hall on the right."

Mitchie's eyes sparkle with mirth an excitement as she jumps out of her chair, saying a quick "Thank you sir!" before virtually flying towards the appointed door.

The door is plain wood and has no markings or descriptions either carved on to its surface or posted about the frame. Mitchie isn't sure whether she is supposed to knock or simply cautiously enter. She doesn't hear anything from the other side either. That does not aid in her decision on how to enter.

Taking a deep breath she steels herself and with care tries the doorknob. The door silently opens, and with much greater ease then she expects. Stepping inside before closing it again. As soon as she does she is able to see the famed Selena finishing up her set. Selena, and the rest of her band is facing away Mitchie and since there is no pause or interruption in the music, likely does not know they have a visitor.

Mitchie cannot help but stare in awe at the dark haired brunette. The voice, although lacking the sheer vocal range she has, is still extremely capable within the realms of her abilities. She feels herself start to drift off into a trance, her talented mind attaching itself to every perfect note, every perfect word, and harmony.

Abruptly the dream ends when a voice Mitchie doesn't recognize signals the band to stop. Murmurs of gratitude make it to her ears along with the clattering of instruments. Everyone ignores Mitchie and head for the apposing door on the other side. That is all, but Selena. Instead she turns around and spots her bottle of water, swallowing down a sizable portion before noticing Mitchie. Curiously she walks over.

"You sound awesome, Selena!" Mitchie gushes.

Alex looks instantly bored, and frustrated, "Oh god. Another fan girl snuck in… SEC-"

"WAIT, WAIT!" Mitchie cries loudly, waving both hands frantically to stop Selena. "I'm not a fan! Well… I am… but I'm suppose to perform with you." If possible Selena looks even more bored, and drained. "I'm… Demi; Demi Lovato," inside something cringes at the usage of her stage name.

"Selena," she ignores the proffered hand, and instantly introduces herself using what amounts to a pen name. "Spare me. You're going to quickly learn that those mean shit around here." Selena steps around Mitchie, obviously not caring about her new partner.

To say Mitchie is puzzled is an understatement and she cannot help but believe something is terribly wrong, possibly mentally with the other girl. Nonetheless, she speeds up her pace, to keep within talking distance of the other singer.

"What do you mean that they don't mean something?" Mitchie inquires, keeping stride with Selena.

"Just what I said," replies the girl. Stopping she turns back to Mitchie. "Listen. You seem like a good person. You don't want to be seen with me. I'm nothing, but trouble."

"You seem nice to me. How about letting my make up my own mind about you, before you pass judgments," defends Mitchie. This is not at all how she expected introductions to happen. "I'm perfectly capable of doing so myself."

"I never thought you couldn't," Alex sighs and places a comforting hand on Mitchie's shoulder. "Look. You're naïve. Take it from me. The Bastard has it out for me. The further away you stay from me the better off you are." Confusion shows in Mitchie's eyes, and it doesn't go unnoticed. "Before you ask, its your, rather our, boss."

Mitchie thinks that such a statement seems quite harsh, but then again she doesn't know him nearly as well as Selena does. No matter what Selena may say about herself Mitchie still believes that she isn't as horrible as she says she is.

Trying to change tactics Mitchie asks another question. "How long have you been singing?"

"Since I was four. You?" Alex resumes walking and Mitchie follows.

"About the same I guess. Instruments?

"Piano, trying to learn guitar," is the monotonous response. Alex really could careless, and her voice reflects this attitude.

"I'd be happy to teach you," Mitchie says cheerfully, thrilled to find common ground. "I'm pretty good with both."

"No thanks. I work alone," Alex stops in front of a door with her name on it. "Look. I've got to get changed before talking to Mark about my next couple of gigs. Hopefully we can talk more later."

"Yeah, ok. No problem. Umm… Do I get a room too?" Mitchie wonders.

Alex thinks for a moment. "Wonder around the building a little, they my not have your name plate done yet. Cya 'round," and with that she disappears behind the closed door.

Mitchie isn't quite sure whether to be frustrated, glad, or upset. Lost in her thoughts she starts to wonder and explore. Carefully memorizing rooms, layouts, and hallways. As she does she can't help but wonder how is it possible that the best day of your life is also the most disappointing. Selena is… Selena is an enigma. She still doesn't know Selena's real name.