Shades – Chapter 2

Universal Pictures owns all rights of Fifty Shades of Grey and Pitch Perfect…I only own the idea of this twisted mash-up of an alternate universe love story.

A/N: In this AU Jesse James Swanson is a mid-twenties billionaire and alumni of Barden University. Rebeca (Beca) Ann Mitchell has just turned twenty-two and is a graduating senior of the same college. Their paths cross during an interview, which will forever change their lives. This story will be told through the POV of Beca.

Warning! Later chapters will include graphic sexual situations (BDSM) which may not be suitable for everyone. Reviews and/or comments are always welcome. Thank you for reading.


Having overslept, I'm rushing out the door with my backpack draped over my shoulder and running across the quad like an idiot to make my first class of the day.

Lecture Hall – Advanced Comparative Literature

Prying open the doors to a large lecture hall of my Advanced Comp Lit course, I'm only five minutes late, however the disappointed expression of Professor Francis Mitchell...yes my one and only father, with his infamous glare, burns a hole through my heart as I immediately and quietly as possible slide into a seat, closest to the exit. Even in a room this large filled with a hundred students he makes me feel as though I'm the only one there.

Having the attention span of a flea, thoughts of that pompous ass I met yesterday continue to be a distraction and have left a lasting impression on me and is now invading my dreams. He's arrogant…yes, but so confident, commanding and so accomplished with impeccable manners…it's so rare to see someone at ease with themselves at such a young age. On the other hand he's stoic and has a certain coldness about him…almost to the point of being lonely with sadness that has me drawn to him like a moth to a flame and intrigues me even more. He dates women but doesn't do the "boyfriend" thing…what the hell is that about? Does this guy have a problem getting close to anyone? Does he have issues with intimacy or fear of commitment? If or when I ever see him again, this is something worthy of my exploration. Even with his obvious flaws he still unnerves me. His looks alone…a strong jawline with heart shaped lips and the softest brown orbs and athletic build, I would guess he would be close to six feet, he's seems to be the perfect fit to my petite five foot, two inch height.

The drive home yesterday was long but with my mixes playing on full blast, drowning out my newly discovered feelings, it was a welcome distraction.

As students begin to flock to the exit bringing me back to reality, I attempt at world record speed to stuff my supplies into my backpack to avoid any interaction with my father however to my misfortune he's already standing over me.

"Nice of you to join us…it's not like you to be late. Is everything alright?"

Continuing to stuff my bag in an aggressive manner I finally look up at my disapproving parental figure.

"Yes dad…I'm fine...sorry to be late...I just overslept. If I can help it, it won't happen again."

"It's okay Becs…I just wanted to make sure you were all right." He pauses. "Are you still coming over for dinner on Sunday?"

Still obsessed by that arrogant ass I sigh with frustration.

"I don't know…Luke may need me to fill in at the radio station so I'll have to let you know later in the week."

Still watching me with a look of disappointment he continues to recite his lecture of my life.

"You know Beca, DJing is not a profession, it's more like a hobby unless you're someone famous like Rick Dees."

My jaw clenches, my eyes roll and I sigh once more with frustration…he just doesn't get it...he never will!

"Dad…I've told you many times that I want to make and produce music for a living…DJing is something I do on the side for additional income. It's also the best way to get my music heard and my name out there." I say with conviction, then continue to rant on. "Listen, I've stuck it out here and I'm graduating in less than a month. I not only did what you asked by joining a group, I ended up leading the Bella's and even won awards for this University. What more do you want from me!?"

"Becs…I know...we're very proud of you but I just worry about my only daughter who's become somewhat of a loner. Do you even go out with your friends…do you have a boyfriend?"

Why the hell is everyone so interested in my personal life?

"I hang out with the Bella's during and after rehearsals. As for dating…I don't have any interest in anyone here and don't really have the time to pursue a relationship."

I can tell my father wants to ask more but tries to restrain himself. After a long moment of silence, there it is…the one assumption every twenty-something year old woman without a boyfriend must endure from their parent.

"Honey…if you prefer the company of women to men, we're perfectly okay with that. Just as long as you're happy-"

"-Whoa! First of all…I don't! Just because I haven't had a steady boyfriend, it doesn't mean I'm gay…and second of all, there is someone…a guy, I'm interested in, but it's a little complicated and he's not from around here." I admit to my dad thinking about the Greek God from the day before.

"I just figured with your type of clothing, dark make-up and tattoos…you weren't interested in men."

Wanting to pluck my eyes out of my head, I can't believe what I'm hearing.

"Wow…I would have never in a million years expected you, an educated college professor to give into stereotypes. Nice dad…really nice." I say with complete disgust. "Now if you're done with this unnecessary intervention, I need to get going before I'm late…again."

"Alright…I guess I deserved that. I apologize for jumping to conclusions. Like I promised you on your first day here, I will help support you after graduation, when you move to L.A." He pauses. "You've held up your end of the bargain, so now it's my turn."

Acknowledging my father, I toss my backpack over my shoulder and head on over to the auditorium to meet with my Bella's to start the process of relinquishing the pitch pipe to a worthy successor.


Barden Auditorium

Still shaking my head in disbelief over the dreaded conversation with my father I arrive to the auditorium to find the girls sharing their latest sexual exploits. Trying to block out they're inappropriate dialogue I continue to busy myself and take out my aggression on the dry erase board by clearing the surface while the girls gossip and try to get me to open up about my sex life, or lack of.

"Hey Beca…when was the last time you rode the hobby horse?"

"That's none of your business Amy." I respond with my back still facing the girls, my eyes rolling on their own accord.

"Oh C'mon on Beca…throw us a bone. Stacie just told us she had a foursome the other night." Ashley offered.

"Gross!" Is all I can manage to say.

"What about you Beca, are you getting the hot beef injection?" Stacie asks jokingly.

"Guys…my sex life is not up for discussion."

"Or lack of," Stacie says, making the girls laugh.

"You never go out on dates. When was the last time you got laid? Is there something you're not telling us?" Jessica asks.

"Yeah Beca...share something with us…we always do." Ashley probes on.

Yeah…no shit! I think to myself. TMFI...I really wish they wouldn't.

"She probably hasn't come out yet guys." The Aussie pauses. "Lez-be-honest."

"Jesus Fucking Christ! Why the hell does everyone think I'm a lesbian?" I finally lash out.

"Well you are kinda badass looking with your scary ear-spike that can probably gut a fish, not to mention your tattoos." She pauses. "If the shoe fits-"

"Amy!" I yell back, interrupting her.

Chloe, who is still a Bella since returning to Barden sees my discomfort and comes to my rescue.

"Guys, leave her alone. Believe me, Beca is very straight. As a matter of fact there is someone in her life-"

Knowing where she's going with this, I'm immediately in her face, interrupting her.

"-Chloe…please don't." I urge her with caution but she still continues.

"I don't know the guy personally but he's smokin' hot, very successful and not from around here." Chloe gives me a knowingly nod and smiles.

"You're dating an older man Beca?" Cynthia Rose asks.

Shaking my head again in disbelief I quickly change the subject.

"Okay guys since most of us are graduating we need to choose my successor so let's have a discussion on who should get the pitch pipe."


Radio Station

Later that evening I'm at the radio station taking calls from listeners in between cuing up sets. With multiple lines ringing the phone lights up like a Christmas tree, I decide to take one last call.

"This is DJ Mitchell…you're on the air…what's on your mind?"

"You are…Rebeca."

The voice is familiar, so soft and masculine…the same as…holy crap! It's that arrogant ass from yesterday.

"I enjoyed our conversation the other day and would like to continue where we left off." He says in a seductive voice.

This guy seems to catch me off guard a lot and finds amusement in my discomfort. For once in my life I'm sitting in a DJ booth, not knowing what to do and contemplating a witty response. Then it occurred to me that I never mentioned anything to Swanson about me working at the radio station so how does he know about this and how did he get this phone number to call in. Biting my lower lip, I wonder if this weirdo is stalking me.

"Are you there Miss Mitchell? Are you biting that lip of yours?"

How the hell does he do that?

"Yes...I'm here." I say tentatively thinking how I can get out of this predicament without giving it away to my listeners or compromising the integrity of the show. "Besides me being on your mind, do you have a specific question or song request?"

"Yes…a song, but only if it comes directly from your lips." He says. "We share a common interest, you and I, our love for music and you have a very lovely voice…Bella."

Okay…now he knows about the radio station and about my involvement with a-cappella. This is just way too weird and it's beginning to freak me out. However he still excites me and I'm drawn to the mystery of this very attractive man.

"Umm…thank you but this isn't that kind of show. If you have a specific song I'll do my best to play it for you."

There's a moment of silence that I can only describe as "uncomfortable".

"Are you still there?"

"Yes Rebeca…a song isn't important right now, I just wanted to tell you how much I enjoyed your company the other day and would like to see you again." His voice, an octave lower than usual makes my skin flush.

Okay…this is hot, but not appropriate for this program...I need to put an end to this...now!

"Well...that's great! Thank you. Well…you know where I am so feel free to stop by the radio station."

There's that uncomfortable silence again and then a click to signify the call has ended. I'm taken off guard as chills run down my spine. What a freaking weirdo. After the last set finishes playing I shut down the equipment, pack up my Mac and begin locking up the building. With the lights darkened I can barely make out a figure standing outside of the station. To my surprise it's the cocky bastard I met yesterday. Sending a quick text message to Chloe, I let her know who I'm with and that I wouldn't be coming home right away.

"You're here?" I say locking and securing the door behind me.

Taking in his appearance, he's the epitome of perfection wearing grey flannel pants that hang from his hips and a white button down shirt open at the collar...just breathtaking.

"You said to stop by the station, so here I am." He says with a half smile that fills my insides with warmth.

"Well…yeah, but I didn't think it would be this soon. How did you get here so fast? Why are you even here?"

"You know I'm a benefactor of this University...I have some business with the Dean tomorrow morning and plus I wanted to see you again." He pauses. "Do you always walk out alone this late at night? It could be very dangerous for someone as beautiful as you."

He thinks I'm beautiful.

"Umm…thank you but it's not a very long walk to our apartment."

"Our?"

"Yeah…Chloe and I…we share an apartment just off campus."

"I see," he says. "If you were mine, I wouldn't let you out of my sight."

If I were his? What the hell is he alluding to? Taken back by his innuendo, I'm beginning to believe he's not just is a control freak, but quite territorial as well.

"Is there a place we can get some coffee?"

"Umm…sure…there's a 24 hour café within walking distance." I say pointing to the direction.

He likes my suggestion, then takes my hand causing my insides to turn into mush. Holy crap, thee Jesse Swanson, self-made billionaire hottie is holding my hand. I've died and gone to the happiest place on earth.


The Coffee Cup Cafe

Upon our arrival, the café hostess seats us in the far back corner to escape any scrutiny of anyone who may recognize either of us. The control freak orders us cappuccinos and blueberry scones, which are dropped off immediately. After a few minutes, I decide to break the silence.

"So I understand you used to go to Barden. Do tell me about your major and anything worthwhile during your college years."

"I graduated a few years ago with a Business degree and minor in music composition. Like you I was also in an A-Capella group but not as successful as the Bella's."

Wow…for an egotistical asshole, he and I have a lot in common.

"Do you still compose music?"

"After college I became a film scorer but then ended up taking over the family business when my brother refused to step in, he decided to pursue his dream to become an architect. Since taking over the business, it's grown exponentially…it's the only thing I do now."

"So…let me get this straight…out of obligation and the good of your family, you gave up on your dreams of becoming a film composer to run the family business?" I say trying to organize my thoughts and not sound judgmental. "No matter how much money is at stake you should have never sold yourself out. You obviously miss the career you could've had."

"You're right Rebeca…I did miss it at first, but now that I'm a successful businessman, those things don't matter anymore." He says, hinting of the arrogant ass, but not really sounding that convincing.

Hmm...and you really believe that? Can we say delusional?

So this makes a lot of sense and explains our connection in music. For the first time since yesterday there is something else I'm sensing in this gorgeous creature that I can only describe as sadness and regret, most likely attributed to having to give up something he was so passionate about. Taking advantage of the moment, I decide to dig further.

"…and your family."

"My siblings and I are all adopted. Our parents are physicians and were unable to conceive by natural means. I have a younger sister who will be attending Barden next year and an older brother..we're all very close."

"Enough about me…so what's your deal? Are you one of those girls who is all dark and mysterious and she takes off her glasses and that amazingly scary ear-spike and realize that she was beautiful the whole time."

"I don't wear glasses,"

"Then you're already half way there." He says with a hint of flirtation. "Yesterday I didn't notice the tattoos or ear-spike. Is this how you normally look?"

"More or less…why?"

"Because it suits you, much more than that dowdy sweater you had on the other day which was obscuring your figure which is quite lovely. Anyone can see you're a beautiful woman, but this look defines you and doesn't conform to any stereotype of what a college student should be."

He called me beautiful again, but so help me, if one more person asks if I'm gay, I'm going to lose it.

"So what exactly are you implying? Does my appearance intimidate you?"

"Not at all. On the contrary it shows you're comfortable with your body and sexuality." He says eyeballing my frame, focusing on my form fitting low cut tank top.

In response to his gaze I feel my nipples stiffen and press against the fabric barely containing them. Instead of crossing my arms to conceal myself like I normally would, with his eyes raking over me, I feel compelled to open myself up to him in more ways than one.

"Yesterday I was trying to be somebody else for the sake of the interview. It was Chloe's idea to dress appropriately. What you see here is the real me, dark eyeliner, skinny jeans and a plethora of black and plaid tops."

"I personally like it Beca…I like it very much." His tone softens as his seduction of my soul continues.

"So tell me more about yourself?" He asks taking a bite of his scone.

"Well...my parents divorced when I was fifteen. I lived with my mom for most of my life until she remarried. I hated the guy so I decided to live with my dad who later married the tramp he had an affair with that initiated the divorce. I have no siblings and have been going to Barden since 2012. This year I'll be graduating with a degree in Music Production and Engineering."

"Do you have a boyfriend?"

"No. With my studies, the ICCA's and working at the radio station, it doesn't leave much time for anything else."

"Yet you're here with me tonight." He says motioning closer, whispering softly in my ear making my heart skip a beat.

How does he keep doing this to me?

With the noise level getting louder we both decide to leave the café. Stepping out onto the sidewalk a reckless moped is headed straight for me, however with his ninja coordination and speed I'm yanked out of the way and pulled into his arms. With my head buried in his neck an involuntary moan escapes as I breathe in his billionaire body scent. It's ambrosia to my senses as I suddenly have the urge to trail my tongue over his soft skin from his neck down to his chest. Our bodies align perfectly as he holds me against him until my shaking has subsided. Raising my eyes to the level of his, it stills my heart when he holds my stare, then tightens his embrace around my waist. It's now or never as my attention is drawn to his luscious lips as we tilt our heads to opposite sides and inch closer to that inevitable first kiss. With his lips barely brushing against mine, I can taste his delicious breath and close my eyes in anticipation of his touch. We're finally about to connect until he grabs my arms and unexpectedly pulls his lips away.

"I'm not the man for you." He exclaims, clamping his eyes shut with unsteady breaths.

"What?" I say breathless, in complete disbelief of his sudden anti-lock braking action.

"You should stay clear of me Beca. I'm not who you think I am." He says turning his head so his cheek is flush with mine.

You bastard! How can you do this to me?

"Then why did you come tonight?" I ask still breathless and full of frustration.

"There's something about you I can't resist. I can't stay away from you." He confesses still rubbing his cheek along mine, whispering against my ears driving me straight to the nearest insane asylum.

"Then don't," I say pulling away, looking directly into his eyes with confidence I never knew I had.

"You don't know what you're saying."

Yes I do control freak. I want you to suck my face until it's inside out.

"Then tell me dammit! Make me understand." I say biting my lower lip. I feel like such an idiot because he obviously doesn't want me that way.

Staring at my lip his expression goes dark.

"Because of all the things I want to do to you…starting with biting that lip of yours. I can't Beca…I don't want to hurt you…I could never forgive myself."

From inside the café Fat Amy and Stacie witness our little drama and start walking towards us.

"Hey bitch what's up…things are looking way too serious over here with your exquisite man candy. What's going on Shaw-shank?"

Putting distance between my friends and us, my stellar day is ending on a fabulous note. First, my father and friends call me a dyke and then second, I'm rejected in the most glorious manner...in public. Today will forever go down in history as being one of the best days ever...NOT!

"Guys...please excuse us."

"This was a mistake, I should have never come. I'm sorry I led you on. Goodbye Beca." Jesse says, briskly walking away with his head down.

"Damn you!" I yell out not realizing tears of frustration are escaping my eyes.

Trying to conceal my disappointment I wipe my eyes and look away from Fat Amy and Stacie.

"Whoa! What's going on here? You okay? Is that the guy Chloe was talking about earlier?"

"I really don't want to talk about it Stacie, I just need to get home." I say trying to keep it together.

Seeing my obvious distress, my friends get it and let me off the hook.

"Okay…let's go." Says Stacie with sympathy.


Beca's & Chloe's Apartment

Amy and Stacie walk me to my front door, make sure I'm okay then leave.

Entering the living area where Chloe is watching TV, I try to avoid her and rush off to my bedroom. But nothing gets past the reporter as she follows me inside.

"Oh, my God Beca…what's wrong? You've been crying, and for all the years I've known you, that's never happened. What the hell did that bastard do to you?"

"Nothing…absolutely nothing…that's the fucking problem." I say, punching my pillow into submission.

"What do you mean? Why are you so upset? Talk to me!"

"Chloe…I am so far out of his league, it's ridiculous…he doesn't want me, at least not like that."

"Are you kidding me? Beca…you are a total babe and if he doesn't see that, there's something seriously wrong with him." Her compliment gives me hope.

"Thanks." I say, wiping my eyes.

"So what happened?"

Taking a seat on my bed I begin to tell her the horrific events of my evening.

"Tonight I was almost mowed down by an errant moped on the sidewalk. Jesse pulled me out of the way and I fell into his arms. We stayed that way for a while and for the first time in my life I wanted to be kissed, but it didn't happen. Instead he warned me to stay away from him…he rejected me! Chloe…I've never had feelings like this for anyone and have never been so humiliated in my life. I don't know what I'm doing anymore and I don't even know why the fuck I'm still crying."

"Babe…you're upset because you really like him."

"This is bullshit!"

"Look…relationships can be rough, especially in the beginning. I know this guy has a thing for you, I heard it when I transcribed the recording and heard it again tonight when he called in to your show. This guy also sounds a little dangerous so get to know him better. It's only been a couple of days so don't rush into this...C'mon my friend, let's get some ice cream and veg out on the couch."

"Thanks but I'm really tired...I'm gonna turn in."

"Okay, but if you change your mind I'll be right here."

Smiling at my friend she exits my room and leaves me to my thoughts.

Like the night before, my dreams are invaded by a certain someone with dreamy chocolate brown eyes and luscious lips, but this time instead of dreaming of a soft leather sectional sofa in a sterile office, I dreamt of erratic mopeds, crowds of people and a delicious mouth doing all kinds of wonderful things to my body I've only read about in trashy novels. With the words playing back in my head "I don't do the boyfriend thing" to "I'm not the man for you" and finally...the warning, "You should stay clear of me" the possibility of any relationship with fucked-up billionaire Jesse Swanson is slowly diminishing.

To be continued…