Please note: To all those who've wondered or asked, I've removed the remaining old chapters for now. The revised chapters will be posted every Wednesday (sorry this week's a bit late) until they're all posted. Then the new chapters will start - I'll only be posting one at a time then, and they won't be on a schedule. It'll all depend on when it's edited. Thanks all, and please review! If you have a question, please PM me. I can't respond to some of the reviews, depending on your settings.
Chapter Seven
Somewhere Never Travelled
The blaring alarm woke Chloe very early the next morning, and she shut it off quickly. Beca sleepily raised her head, her brown hair falling over her face. "Tell me we don't have to get up."
Chloe smiled and pushed Beca's hair back before lightly kissing her. "You know Aubrey. She'll be knocking down the door if we're not out in twenty."
With a heavy sigh, Beca snuggled closer. "You're so soft and warm, though."
"So are you," Chloe said, relishing the contact between them, "but we have to get ready. Shower?"
"Mm, yes please," Beca said wickedly.
Chloe swatted Beca's arm. "Save it for Tahoe," she said, though it was difficult. She enjoyed their lazy morning showers.
With a groan, Beca pulled away and sat up. Chloe gasped when she saw her girlfriend's back, and she reached out to run her fingers over the angry red marks. "Do they hurt?"
Beca looked behind her and smiled. "In a good way."
Chloe ignored her. "I didn't mean to hurt you."
Beca crawled over to Chloe and took her hands. "Chloe, I have certain definitions of hurting someone, and what we did last night didn't get anywhere near it. It felt good. You felt good. I wouldn't have changed a thing."
A smile crept onto Chloe's face. "You won't be able to wear a bathing suit for a couple of days."
Beca laughed and kissed Chloe softly. "That's not a problem. I'll gladly give it up to feel the way I felt last night."
Suddenly Chloe wanted nothing more than to stay in bed with Beca, but the sounds of Aubrey and Matt moving around the house quelled the need. "Go shower. I'll finish packing, then I'll be in."
Beca got up and started for the bathroom. "Don't you dare. Aubrey hates late, and you know I get distracted."
Chloe pouted a little. "Fine, but be quick."
Beca just smiled and disappeared into the bathroom. Chloe sat on the bed for a moment, contemplating the night before. The feeling of dread over her birthday wasn't gone completely, but Chloe felt it dwindling with each passing moment. It meant a lot to have Beca near, not to mention Matt and Aubrey. She knew she would need some time to herself on the actual day, but she was curious to see what her new family brewed up to celebrate.
She began packing, and it wasn't long before she was finished with her bag and moved on to Beca's. As soon as she was done, she padded into the bathroom, where Beca was already shutting off the water. After wrapping a towel around herself, Beca went to Chloe and kissed her shoulder while putting her arms around Chloe's waist. Her lips lingered for a moment, and Chloe closed her eyes in the warmth of their closeness. It wasn't entirely physical, either. Beca's touch calmed her in ways she never thought possible.
"Thank you," Chloe whispered as she looked at their reflection in the mirror.
Beca put her chin on Chloe's shoulder and smiled. "You don't ever need to thank me for loving you. It's not exactly something I have to work at."
Returning the smile, Chloe turned in Beca's arms and smirked. "I would love to hear what it is then."
Beca kissed the tip of Chloe's nose. "It's like breathing. Loving you is the most natural thing in the world. So…you don't need to thank me. It'll always be there, and so will I."
"Beca, I –"
"Sh," Beca said, putting a finger to Chloe's lips. "This isn't about me."
The loud sound of some sort of kitchen equipment falling to the floor broke the spell, and Chloe straightened. "I guess we should make sure Aubrey isn't throwing things around out there," she said with a grin.
"It would probably be wise. By the way, you might want to look at your back, too," Beca smirked before walking out.
Chloe looked back to the mirror and her eyes grew wide. Though lower than Beca's, she had her own red marks. Shaking her head and grinning, she stepped into the shower. She washed herself quickly, and once she was done she dried off before going back to the bedroom, where Beca was trying in vain to close her suitcase.
"Did I pack too much?"
Beca looked up, blushing fiercely. "I needed to put a couple of things in it, and now it won't close."
Chloe, while curious as to what exactly needed to be added, decided to let it go. "Sit on it."
Beca sat gingerly, trying not to slip off the case. Chloe managed, with a little difficulty, to zip the case.
"Now to face Aubrey and Matt," Beca said as she stood.
They grabbed their bags and dragged them down the hall. Matt and Aubrey were already in the kitchen fixing breakfast, and when Chloe glanced over to the sofa, she saw Matt already put the sleeper away. Then she looked back to the kitchen and stopped dead in her tracks, causing Beca to run into her.
"The hell?" Beca asked.
Aubrey stood at the edge of the kitchen with her arms across her chest. "I suppose you're happy with yourselves," she said sternly.
Beca peeked out from behind Chloe. "Very, thanks."
Chloe stared at her girlfriend. "No poking the wild bears," she whispered.
"Matt?" Aubrey started. "Tell them what you thought about their vocal acrobatics."
Matt held up his hands before resuming his attention to the eggs. "Nope. Not getting involved."
"I'm sorry we were loud. We'll be more careful while you're here," Chloe said.
Aubrey seemed to relax a bit, and she uncrossed her arms. "Fine. But one yelp and I'm breaking down the door."
Chloe's eyebrows shot up, but it was Beca who answered. "Are you really sure you want to do that?"
Aubrey blushed and stomped her foot. "I want a separate room. Down the hall from these two rabbits."
Matt laughed. "Don't worry. I thought ahead. Grab some plates, Bree."
The tense moment passed, and Chloe looked at Beca. "You're really bad," she said without lowering her voice at all.
Beca didn't even try to hide her smirk. "Wasn't it my bad girl attitude that made you fall in love with me?"
Chloe dropped her bag and turned to Beca, leaning in so their faces were only inches away from each other. "The attitude was just a perk. I fell in love with your tight ass."
Beca chuckled. "I do have a tight ass."
"Breakfast's ready," Matt called.
Chloe kissed Beca's cheek before whispering, "It was so much more than that."
"I know," Beca said softly.
They all sat at the table, and Chloe didn't hesitate to start eating. She was ravenous after the night prior. Every once in a while Chloe caught Aubrey's eye, and she was pleased her friend started to look less irritated as the meal went on. Mostly they were silent, the only noises being the scraping of the utensils on the plates.
"I'll load the car," Matt said when everyone finished. "You two," he pointed at Beca and Chloe, "get to clean for this round."
"I know the rules," Chloe said with a smile.
"Wait, I don't," Beca said.
"If you cook, you don't clean," Aubrey said.
"And you're only telling me this now because…"
Chloe laughed and didn't answer, opting to gather the plates and taking them to the kitchen, Beca in tow. She neglected to tell Beca the Beale cooking rules when the summer started, and more often than not Beca did both when she cooked – with Chloe's help most of the time. She realized she wouldn't be able to get away with it anymore. Luckily Beca didn't seem upset by the revelation.
"So that went better than I thought it would," Beca started as Chloe turned on the water.
"You mean Aubrey or Matt?"
"Both. Why wasn't he upset?"
Chloe tested the water and found it hot enough. She started cleaning the first dish and shrugged. "I don't know," she hedged.
Beca took the clean plate and began drying it. "Yes, you do."
"I only think I know," Chloe sighed as she finished another dish. "He's a good brother, and he wants to see me happy. I don't think he cares how loud we get, as long as he knows I have someone good in my life."
"So I make you happy?" Beca asked, though she sounded like she already knew the answer.
Chloe bumped their hips together. "Shut up. You know you make me happy. Stupid happy, and that's the best kind."
"What the hell is stupid happy?" Beca asked with a laugh.
Chloe grabbed the skillet and glanced at Beca. "It's where you forget everything else in the world except what makes you happy. You," she said, kissing Beca's cheek, "make me stupid happy."
"Sometimes I don't know what to say to you."
Chloe stopped her movements and looked at Beca, suddenly unsure. "In a bad way?"
Beca put the dishcloth down and wrapped her arms around Chloe's waist. "It means you make me speechless. It's good."
Chloe beamed. "So…you're stupid happy, too?"
Beca chuckled. "Very," she said as she picked the dishcloth back up and dried the skillet.
"Done." Chloe pulled the drain plug and let the water empty. "They're probably already in the car," she said as she started for the door.
Beca grabbed her hand and pulled her back. "I'm glad we aren't driving. Sitting in an airport for hours with Aubrey is enough, and I need a kiss before the torture happens."
Chloe stepped closer, their lips almost touching. "Just for that," she whispered, "you get to wait."
She turned and walked away, laughing when she heard Beca call out. "You're mean!"
Chloe looked over her shoulder. "Just hard to get. It'll be worth it when we get there."
Beca cast a knowing smirk. "You have no idea."
They went out, Chloe wondering what Beca's look meant. As they got into the car, Chloe knew it was going to be an interesting day. She was going to wonder what Beca was up to the entire way up to Tahoe.
"Shit, this is…" Beca trailed off, not quite sure what to say when they went into the small condo her and Chloe would be sharing.
"Amazing, I know," Chloe said, setting down her bags and closing the front door. "We stayed here when we were kids, and we loved it."
Beca took in her surroundings. The main room was a split level, with two sofas and a fireplace in the living area. Closer to them, just inside the door, was a recently updated kitchen with a small dining area just beyond. It was nicer than Beca thought a rental deserved to be.
At the other end of the room was a set of French doors leading out to a deep green lawn. Trees dotted the landscape, and beyond those she could see the lake. It was a perfect view in her opinion.
Beca wandered a little further after putting down her things, noticing for the first time the wooden staircase leading up to a second floor. "Bedroom?" she asked.
"Yep," Chloe said, wrapping her arms around her girlfriend's waist from behind. "Want to try it out?"
Beca gulped, feeling her desire flare, as it always did when Chloe was near. Reaching around to Chloe's hips, she pulled her love close. Chloe moved Beca's hair away from her neck and began kissing the soft skin revealed, and Beca couldn't contain the moan she let out.
"I'll take that as a yes?" Chloe murmured against her skin.
Beca closed her eyes and turned in Chloe's arms, bringing their lips together in a soft kiss. "You never have to ask. The answer's always going to be yes."
Chloe grinned, brushing her lips over Beca's as she backed them to the wall. Their kiss soon became passionate, and Beca became caught up in the sensations Chloe's hands were eliciting in her. She pulled Chloe's shirt from her jeans, pushing her hands underneath to touch bare skin. It wasn't enough though, and Beca reached around and undid the top button, placing a soft kiss on the newly exposed skin.
They only broke their heated embrace when Chloe lifted Beca's shirt off her compact body, and in seconds Chloe removed Beca's bra. Chloe's disappeared soon after, and Beca pulled her lover ever closer, deepening the kiss as she cupped Chloe's breast. At the touch, Chloe pushed into Beca's hand and returned the caress, making Beca grind her hips against Chloe. In answer to the silent request, Chloe put her leg between Beca's and rubbed against her center, making Beca whimper.
A knock at the door made them both stop, and Beca tried to catch her breath. "Damn," Chloe said breathlessly. "I forgot about them."
"Can't we just ignore them?" Beca asked, wanting nothing more than to be inside Chloe, giving her as much pleasure as she could.
Chloe slowly pulled away and tried to catch her breath after kissing Beca lightly on the lips. "I really wish we could," she said, picking up their discarded clothes. "The wrath of Aubrey is something I'd like to avoid though."
They quickly dressed, but when Chloe started for the door, Beca pulled her back and heatedly pressed their lips together. "Something to think about for later," she breathed when they parted.
Chloe leaned their foreheads together. "You love to torture me."
Another knock at the door made them pull apart. "Come on, guys! It's time to go shopping!" Matt's voice called.
"Sorry," Chloe said when she opened the door. "I was showing Beca around."
Aubrey looked between the two women as Beca tried to smooth out her hair. When Beca saw the blush on Aubrey's face, she almost smiled. She opted against it; however, knowing it wouldn't be wise to upset Aubrey any further. Then again, Beca couldn't figure out what Aubrey had against Chloe being happy.
"I'm stealing your girlfriend from you," Matt said to Chloe. "We're doing the shopping and giving you and Aubrey some girl time."
"Oh, no. I'm not good at shopping," Beca said instantly. "Ask Chloe."
Chloe just rolled her eyes. "Only clothes shopping. Go with Matt. He's not bad."
"Fine, but when we come back with nothing but Fun Dip I'm blaming him."
Chloe reached out and brought Beca to her, kissing her lightly. "And I'll know better. Go. I'm getting hungry."
"And we all know what you're like when you're hungry," Aubrey said with a grin.
Matt took Beca's hand and ushered her out of the condo, both of them laughing. "So, you really like Fun Dip?" he said as they went to the car.
"It's my one candy weakness," Beca admitted. "I know, it's bad."
"Nah, I love Necco wafers. Gamma got me into them when I was a kid, and I still get them when I want a guilty pleasure."
They got into the car, and Matt pulled onto the two-lane road taking them to the store. "So how serious are you about my sister?" he asked, shocking Beca a little.
"You really don't mince words, do you?"
He laughed a little before turning serious. "Not when it comes to Chloe. I like you, but it's Chloe. She's been hurt before."
"And you don't want it to happen again."
"I really don't. So…how serious is it for you?"
Beca thought about her answer for a second, wanting to express exactly how she felt. "I've never been more serious about anything or anyone in my life. I love her, and I never thought I would say this, but I love her more than I love making music. She's an amazing person, and I'm lucky she loves me back. I wouldn't hurt her for anything."
He glanced at her with a smile on his face. "You know Aubrey's worried about you."
"I know. Are you?"
"Honestly? I was, but not after seeing you two together."
Beca smiled. It helped ease her mind to know she had Matt's approval. "Thanks," she said genuinely.
A silence fell over them for a moment, and Beca felt much more at ease with Matt. They crossed a bridge, and even though he welcomed her to the family while they were in the diner, Beca knew the conversation they just had meant a lot more to both of them. Not only did Matt really accept her, but she accepted him as well, which was extremely surprising for her. Being so open with people wasn't her strong suit, but Matt made it easy to do.
"So when did you start making your own mixes?"
"I've been doing something with music since I was little. My parents got me a Mac when I was six, and I started working with Garageband as soon as I could. And before you ask, you can't listen to those. Chloe won't even be hearing them," Beca said with a laugh.
"So it was love at first listen with the music then?" he said as he parked the car, but didn't move to get out.
"Basically." Beca paused for a second. Matt was easy to talk to, and she decided to let her guard down. "It really helped during the divorce."
"Yeah, Chloe did a lot of painting after Mom died. She used to lock herself up in the studio for days at a time. She's never shown a single piece to anyone though. I don't even know if she kept any of it."
Beca considered the new information. She never played anything from that time in her life to anyone else either, though she was considering letting Chloe listen to it – despite what she just told Matt. "It's hard to get rid of anything so emotional, no matter how painful."
"Yeah." He turned to her. "It kind of surprised me when she first told me about you. She never let anyone in except Aubrey, and even their close friendship took months. It was so different with you, though. She called me the day after you were initiated into the Bellas and couldn't stop talking about you. I'm pretty sure she loved you a little bit even then, maybe even before."
Beca was shocked. She knew Chloe felt something for her for a while, but so soon after they met?
"I know. It's a lot to take in, isn't it?" he said, covering her hand with his large one.
"But it's okay. I mean, it makes sense now. Everything makes more sense," she said quietly.
"What does?"
"The pull to her." Beca wasn't sure what to say. Was she really pouring her heart out to someone she just met? She took a deep breath. It didn't really matter when she met Matt; he was already beginning to feel like family.
"She scared the hell out of me back then. I couldn't stop thinking about her, especially after I saw her at the audition. You know the look she gets? The wide-eyed, happier than anyone has the right to be look?"
"I haven't seen it much since Mom died, but yeah."
"That was the look on her face. I couldn't breathe afterwards, and I ran so fast from what she did to me," Beca said, sighing. "I'm glad I turned around."
"Me too," he said, squeezing her hand. "You're good for her."
She nodded. "She's good for me."
He smiled broadly. "Great. It's settled. Now we need to get food before the girls start wondering if we've fallen off the edge of the world."
"Can't have that," Beca said as she got out of the car.
She spent the rest of the shopping trip having a relaxed, easy conversation with Matt, and she started to realize the family she always wanted was forming very quickly. It was an odd feeling, though not unwelcome. Matt was as amazing as Chloe was, though in a brotherly sense. Never having siblings of her own, Beca warmed to the idea of having a brother in her life.
Aubrey's opinion would sort itself out in time, Beca knew. Even after a day, something in her former nemesis was different. They would eventually find a real friendship once Aubrey stopped being so overprotective. Beca wasn't upset about it the mother bear routine, though. Were the situation reversed, she would feel the same way Aubrey felt. Chloe was worth that much.
The only thing missing from the family was her mother. Beca truly missed her and wished she could be closer – or even just on the same continent. Still, Beca couldn't begrudge her mother's dreams. They were pushed to the side during most of Beca's parents' marriage, and she wasn't about to stop her mother from doing what she loved.
Never in her adult life did she even think about forming a relationship involving siblings, parents, and best friends, but as she and Matt drove back to the condos, Beca smiled contentedly. Perhaps she could deal with family after all.
"Do you mind helping?" Chloe asked as she picked up Beca's suitcase.
Aubrey eyed her but picked up a bag. "I can't see how you two manage to get distracted so easily."
Chloe grinned as they started up the stairs. "Do you really want me to tell you?"
"Please don't. You know I love you, but it's just disconcerting."
"How?" Chloe asked, feeling a little perplexed.
They made it to the top of the stairs, and after a glance in the smaller bedroom with two twin beds, Chloe moved to the larger master bedroom. It was big enough for a king-size bed, and there was a bathroom to the side. Chloe marveled at the view of the lake, though. She was sure Beca would love it, too.
"I watched you pine over her for almost a year, and I thought coming out here would get her out of your system."
"And you're disappointed I didn't?" Chloe asked as she put the bag on the bed.
"Just surprised."
"And you hate surprises," Chloe said with a laugh.
Aubrey returned the laughter. "But I'm getting used to this one," she said, putting the second bag next to Beca's.
"Really?" Chloe asked hopefully.
Aubrey moved to the bathroom by the time Chloe unzipped Beca's case with the intention of unpacking it. Whatever Aubrey said in reply was completely lost when Chloe saw what was sitting on top of Beca's clothes. Chloe grinned, finally understanding why Beca had so much trouble closing the case. As rush of need flowed through her and settled at her center as she tried to control her breathing.
"Chloe?" Aubrey asked.
"What did you say?" Chloe asked in a rush as she closed the case and turned to face her friend.
Aubrey's eyebrows shot up. "I was having a heart-to-heart with you. Remember?"
"Right. Sorry, Bree. Let's go downstairs. I'll unpack later."
"Okay," Aubrey replied slowly.
They went downstairs and settled in the living room, each sitting on a sofa. "So you were saying?"
"Look, Beca and I have had our issues in the past –"
"It's kind of old news at this point," Chloe said, trying not to get defensive. She wasn't sure where the conversation was going, and she didn't want to have to hear yet again how Beca wasn't good for her.
"I'd be lying if I said I didn't have any reservations about her. You're my best friend, and I can't stand the thought of you getting hurt after everything you've been through. Normally it wouldn't be a big deal, but she's special to you, and that's obvious." Aubrey said as she sat forward and put her elbows on her knees. "It worried me when you told me she basically dumped Jesse the first day she was here, but I'm working on it. What I'm trying to tell you is she's changed. You've changed. You told me you two fit, and I can see it now."
"So you don't think we're going too fast?" Chloe asked, not quite believing what she was hearing.
"I'm not sure. There are a lot of obstacles for both of you when the summer's over, but it's pretty obvious she's devoted to you. Are you going to try the long distance thing until she graduates?"
Chloe shook her head. "She's moving out here when she's finished with her second year."
"Really? I thought you said she had a deal with her dad."
"It's complicated with him," Chloe said with a sigh. She didn't want to tell Aubrey too much, only because she didn't want to invade Beca's privacy.
"I understand," Aubrey said.
Chloe knew her friend did indeed understand. Aubrey's relationship with her father was at best antagonistic, and since the beginning of their friendship Aubrey spent all her summers with Chloe. There was little they could do about the holidays, but even those were spent largely with each other. Aubrey's father didn't really care to be around his daughter, considering her a failure for the most part. He didn't even attend her graduation.
"It's still a long time," Aubrey said when Chloe didn't respond. "And she's young."
With a deep breath, Chloe tried to quell the fear and anger flaring inside her. "She's only two years younger," she said, almost to convince herself more than Aubrey. Her fear didn't stem from Beca possibly leaving her; it was merely knowing they would be separated in only a matter of weeks. Chloe dreaded Beca going back to Georgia more every day.
Chloe squelched her fear though, and let her anger come to the fore. "Besides, have you ever taken the time to really get to know her? She's been through a lot in her life, and I've known much older people who aren't as mature as she is.
"I need you to understand this. There was something between us the moment I saw her. I didn't know what it was, but it was there. Before I knew it she was in my heart. Ever since my mom died, I was determined to not let anyone in because I knew the pain when someone leaves you.
"You and Matt were the only exceptions, and even then there were things I wouldn't tell you. Beca's different. I don't know how, but she is. There's no fear with her. I mean there was, but not anymore. If she lets me, I'll love her for the rest of my life."
Chloe slapped her hand over her mouth as her eyes grew wide. She never admitted the depth of her feelings to anyone, and voicing them made the depth of her love and devotion very real. Even if Beca didn't know, Chloe knew she couldn't take her words back.
Aubrey came over and sat beside Chloe, taking her hand from her mouth. "You haven't told her yet, have you?"
"I guess I was wrong. There is something I'm scared of."
Aubrey rubbed her back soothingly. "She loves you."
"But she has a lot to get through. With her dad, with school, and with her career. I don't doubt her love at all. I just don't want to chase her away before she's ready for a commitment so strong."
"Then let her get through what she needs to get through. Wait a year. If you're secure in how she feels about you, nothing is going to change," Aubrey said softly. "And once she's here permanently, you can tell her if she hasn't already said something."
"I'm not really good with the patience thing."
Aubrey let out a small laugh. "Understatement doesn't begin to cover what you just said, but you need to be patient. She'll get there if she isn't already. Just enjoy her. She's worth it."
Chloe pulled out of the embrace and grinned at her friend. "Did you just approve of my girlfriend?"
"I'm giving her the benefit of the doubt, but don't you dare say anything."
"Your secret's safe with me."
"I should get back and finish unpacking. They'll be back soon, and I want to explore a bit before dinner," Aubrey said as she stood.
Chloe got up as well and followed her friend to the door. "Thanks, Bree. You always help."
Aubrey just smiled from the open door. "I wouldn't be a good friend if I didn't. I'll see you soon."
When Aubrey was gone, Chloe leaned against the wall and thought about their conversation. It felt good to voice the full extent of her feelings, and she knew Aubrey was right. Waiting to tell Beca was the right thing to do.
The moment Beca's name floated through her mind, Chloe remembered the surprise waiting in the bedroom. With a big, knowing grin, she ascended the stairs. It was going to be an interesting night.
Matt opened to the door to the condo and held it open for Aubrey. "That was fun. Chloe never told me Beca could cook so well."
"I didn't know either. She always wanted takeout whenever she was at the apartment."
"Maybe she didn't want to cook for the entire team," he said, opening the refrigerator. "Want something to drink?"
"Water would be great," Aubrey said, leaning against the counter.
Matt grabbed two bottles and handed one to her. When he did their fingers brushed together, and he couldn't deny the feeling that passed through him at the simple touch.
"Aubrey…" He started, hoping she would let him speak his mind.
"No, Matt. We can't, and you know it. What happened last summer was –"
"A mistake? You know it wasn't. It was a wonderful week, and I'm not about to forget it."
She left the kitchen and went into the living room, settling on the sofa. Matt followed her, sitting at the opposite end. He wanted to sit close to her, but he knew she wouldn't allow it.
"Are you afraid of how Chloe would take it?"
Aubrey sighed. "What do you think?"
"I think you are, but you have no reason to be. All she wants is to see us happy."
"What if we don't work out?" she asked, staring at him.
"You aren't using what might happen as an excuse anymore. We've danced around this for a year, and if that week didn't end our friendship, nothing will," Matt insisted.
"Nothing's happening between us, and I don't want to talk about it again. I'm sorry, Matty. You know I love you –"
"Like a brother," he said with a sigh. "I know. That's what you keep saying. What was last summer to you though?"
Aubrey stood and went to the window. "It was wonderful."
"Then give this a chance. We'll both be in Baltimore soon," he said, getting up and standing behind her. He didn't touch her though, wanting her to make the first move – if it happened.
"And I'll be in school."
"We can work it out. Bree, I want this. I've loved you for as long as I can remember."
Matt's heart leapt when Aubrey leaned back into him. He wrapped his arms around her waist, but didn't do anything more as he waited for her to respond.
"We can't," she said softly.
"We can. You love me, and no matter what you say, I know it isn't as a brother. I saw it then, and I see it now. We have a better start than most people have."
Aubrey took a deep breath and leaned her head on his shoulder. "I do love you. And want you. I'm just scared."
"So am I," he said, kissing the top of her head.
"Then what do we do?"
He turned her around and brought his lips to hers. "Love each other, and take it one day at a time."
Aubrey nodded. "I can do that. We can't tell Chloe yet, okay?"
"Okay," Matt said, knowing he would do anything her. "I just want to be with you. It's enough."
He held her to him, cherishing the feeling of her being in his arms. It was something he never thought he would have again, and he was filled with hope for the future.
Beca put the last of the dishes in the dishwasher and looked around for Chloe, who seemed to have disappeared. "Chlo?" she called.
When she didn't get an answer, she went to the living area to see if Chloe was on the sofa. She jumped when she heard Chloe's voice behind her.
"I forgot to tell you – I unpacked today," Chloe said in a sultry tone.
Beca stopped where she was, her face growing hot. "You did?" she gulped.
"Mm-hm."
"And?" Beca asked, not sure if she could get anything more out.
"Someone did some shopping."
"Shit," Beca mumbled.
"You should probably think about turning around," Chloe said, and Beca could practically hear the smile on her girlfriend's face.
Closing her eyes, Beca turned slowly, not quite sure what to expect. With a deep breath she opened them, hoping Chloe wouldn't be upset. What she saw, however, was so far from upset it was in another universe.
Chloe stood on the bottom step dangling a harness with a dildo attached from one finger and a knowing smile on her face. "Would you like to tell me about this?"
"Um…I just thought…it's okay if you don't…"
Chloe closed the distance between them. She put a hand on Beca's shoulder and kissed her cheek. "Take a breath, Bec."
Beca did take a steadying breath. "After we talked about…appliances…I was curious. I figured we could try, and if we didn't like it…"
"We wouldn't use them again," Chloe said with a seductive grin. "Do you have any idea how turned on I've been all day?"
Her embarrassment leaving her, Beca put her hands on Chloe's hips and pulled her closer. "Really?"
"Yep," Chloe said softly, kissing Beca tenderly. "Do you want to try it out tonight?"
Beca nodded. "Upstairs."
"Uh-uh," Chloe said. "Down here."
"But the doors…"
"And? There probably isn't anyone out there anyway," Chloe said with a wicked grin. "Or would you rather be safe?"
Beca looked from the doors to Chloe, and she felt a strong surge of desire. It was much more daring than sex in the back seat of the car, at least she thought so, but there was something in the danger of someone seeing them. Suddenly all Beca wanted was to be on top of Chloe, thrusting into her.
Glancing down at Chloe's blue-checkered dress, Beca's breath began coming in gasps. "Turn the lights low. I'll be out in a sec."
Chloe nodded and brought Beca in for a passionate kiss. "To think about until you get back."
"Damn," Beca said, swallowing hard as she grabbed the toy from Chloe's hand.
She went into the lower level bathroom and shed her jeans and panties. It took her a moment to figure out the harness, but once she did, she adjusted it quickly. When her hand was on the doorknob, she decided to put her jeans back on without her underwear. She had to admit she would feel a little odd walking through the condo with nothing but a dildo on.
Going into the main room, Beca was pleased the only light in the room was coming from the gas fireplace in the corner. She couldn't see Chloe immediately, but as she got closer to the stairs leading into the living area, she found Chloe lying naked on the sofa, her hands already on her breasts.
"Wow," Beca whispered.
Chloe looked up at her then, the lust evident in her eyes. "Come here," she said, her voice husky.
Beca went to the sofa and stood beside it, watching as Chloe's hands drifted towards her center. "Chloe?"
"Just warming up. Take off your clothes and sit down. I want you to see what you do to me."
Quickly disrobing, Beca sat and watched as Chloe spread her legs for her to see. It was all Beca could do to not reach up and touch the wetness she saw there, but instead she put her hand on Chloe's ankle to at least have some contact.
"Beca," Chloe moaned as her fingers made contact with her hardened nub. "So wet…"
She trailed two fingers towards her entrance, circling it slowly before plunging them deep inside. Beca watched as Chloe's delicate but strong digits moved inside herself, and Beca began touching her own breasts, tweaking her nipples in time to Chloe's thrusts.
It didn't take long for Chloe's body to become taut as she called Beca's name. The moment she relaxed and pulled her fingers out, Beca moved on top of her and kissed her passionately. Their tongues connected, and Beca pulled and twisted Chloe's nipples. She could feel the hardness of the toy between them, and the thought of what was about to happen almost made her come.
"Inside. Now," Chloe said, putting a bottle of lube into Beca's hand.
Beca lifted her hips and put some of the slippery liquid in her palm, rubbing it around the dildo. She felt it rub against her clit as she applied the lube and couldn't control the buck in her hips. Moving down again, she kissed Chloe slowly as she positioned the tip at her entrance.
Running the toy along Chloe's wetness, Beca pulled away when Chloe moved her hips in an attempt to take the phallus into her. "Needy much?"
Chloe just growled and pulled Beca's lips to hers. Taking the hint, Beca slowly pushed inside, causing both women to cry out. She stayed still for a moment and took one of Chloe's hands, allowing both of them to get used to the feeling. She looked down at Chloe, who was breathing in sharp gasps, and Beca didn't think she ever saw anything as beautiful as Chloe in the heat of passion.
Beca began moving inside Chloe, every thrust bringing a moan from both of them. Running her lips along Chloe's neck, Beca sucked hard at her pulse point. Chloe reached up and kissed her with bruising hardness as Beca kept plunging inside her. Chloe's legs wrapped around Beca's waist, and Beca felt herself go even deeper inside.
Her orgasm was close, and Beca could tell – just from her breathing – Chloe's was as well. Deepening the kiss even further, Beca thrust harder. Suddenly, Chloe ripped her mouth away from Beca's and called out her name. Beca came a split second later, tightening her grip on Chloe's hand before collapsing on top of her.
Beca slowly slipped out of Chloe and undid the harness, moving off so she could let it fall to the floor before again taking her place beside her love. Their legs were entwined, and Beca felt Chloe's wetness on her thigh.
"Mm," Chloe finally said. "That was…"
Beca kissed her lover softly. "Amazing?"
Chloe laughed a little. "Not quite like having your hand inside me, but it was still very, very wonderful."
With a smug smirk, Beca brushed her lips across Chloe's. "Good to know."
"Want to try?"
At the question, Beca was filled with renewed need. "Upstairs."
"Can you make it that far?" Chloe said, moving her center onto Beca's thigh.
"Oh god, I don't think so," Beca groaned.
"Then switch." Beca got up and lay back on the other side, waiting for Chloe. "Hang on," Chloe said as she picked the toy from the floor.
Chloe was gone for a few minutes, and Beca began to understand why Chloe started without her. Beca's hands trailed up to her breasts, and she began flicking her already erect nipples, moaning in pleasure. Closing her eyes, she tilted her head back as far as it would go and arched into her own hands. Before she knew it, though, Chloe's hands took the place of hers.
"Those are mine," Chloe said just before her mouth covered a nipple.
Beca managed to chuckle. "They really are," she said in a low tone.
Chloe bit and sucked at first on one nipple, and then the other as her hand reached down into Beca's slit. "You are so wet," she murmured against Beca's breast.
"Make me wetter," Beca whispered.
Suddenly Chloe's mouth was gone, but before Beca could even miss the loss, Chloe's entire weight was on her. Their lips met in a heated kiss, and Beca rubbed herself along the toy, feeling her wetness coat it. Chloe seemed to understand, because she pulled away again for a couple of seconds.
Then Beca felt Chloe enter her gradually, allowing her to get used to the feel of the dildo inside her. Beca reached around and grabbed Chloe's ass, pulling her down even further. Chloe began kissing her as she started pushing into her, and Beca's hips rose to meet hers.
Beca consciously tried to open her eyes, and when she did, Chloe was gazing at her with such a deeply loving look in her eyes Beca thought she might explode from the intensity of it. Holding her gaze, Beca began moving faster, and Chloe did the same, moving in rhythm with her lover.
Just before Beca came, Chloe slowed her movements. When Beca looked at her questioningly, Chloe just smiled. "I want you on top."
Beca could only nod as she was pulled up and straddling her girlfriend. Chloe pushed into her again, much quicker than she did before, and Beca began riding her. When she felt Chloe's hands on her breasts, Beca thrust herself as hard as she could onto Chloe.
Her moans were incoherent and nonstop, and soon Beca was running headlong over the edge, falling into her ecstasy. She arched her back and stiffened before falling onto Chloe, both panting heavily.
They stayed that way until Beca could slip herself off Chloe. As she did, Beca felt the aftershocks go through her. She removed the harness from Chloe's hips and pulled her up, holding her close and placing soft kisses on red hair.
"Do you have any more surprises?" Chloe asked quietly.
Beca didn't stop her laugh. "Not yet, but give me a couple of days."
Chloe cuddled into her more. "As long as it doesn't involve anything pink and fluffy, I'll probably be good with it."
Beca's brow furrowed. "Why pink?"
"It isn't my color."
"Really?" Beca chuckled. "That's what you're concerned with?"
"Hey," Chloe said, pinching Beca's nipple, causing a yelp. "I'm very fashion conscious."
"You won't get any arguments from me."
Chloe moved away a bit and looked at Beca. "What do you mean?"
"It means," Beca said, lightly kissing Chloe, "you always look wonderful. No one in the room comes close to you."
A smile spread across Chloe's face. "Charmer."
"Don't tell anyone."
"Oh, right. You have a rep to protect," Chloe said with a giggle.
"Damn straight I do."
Beca noticed the French doors again, and decided they gave the world enough of a show, especially when she saw lights from a boat on the lake. "We should go upstairs."
"Hm?" Chloe asked distractedly as she played with Beca's fingers.
"Upstairs. Witness the boat on the water."
"You're worried now?" Chloe grinned. "We've already shown them our lady bits."
"Lady bits? I can't believe you just put those two words together. Come on," Beca said as she removed herself from Chloe's arms. "Upstairs with you."
Chloe picked up the dildo and stood. Beca eyed her. "You want to use it again tonight?"
"I don't want to forget about it and have Matt or Aubrey find it tomorrow. And I might want to use it again," Chloe said with a smirk.
"Good points all around," Beca said as she gathered the clothes.
Beca followed Chloe up the stairs, staring at her ass the entire way. As much as she admired Chloe's body, which was a work of art in and of itself, Beca loved Chloe even more for who she was. Her love of life was infectious, and Beca couldn't help but grin. The bright light of Chloe Beale was hers. They held each other's hearts, and Beca could only hope she gave Chloe half of what was given to her.
