Pitch Perfect 3: An Unofficial Next Story

by RJRMovieFan

The Bellas graduated and won the Worlds, now a year later they are starting the next chapter of their lives when an opportunity presents to come back together once more. Relationships will continue to evolve, careers begin to be defined, and the usual hilarity when the women of Barden are involved. This is a slow burn story of a developing relationship, and will be BeChloe.

12. Chapter 12 - Return to the Club

A/N: Dear readers,

This is becoming a bad habit, but sorry about the wait. This seriously took me so long to write, I really wanted another scene in the club, but it didn't feel complete. Also I swear I wasn't procrastinating, but I found myself getting caught up in some other stories, excellent stories, and exchanging messages with other writers. Seriously the best part of being on this site is the exchange of ideas with other writers.

I have never deejayed so I did a little research on-line, especially YouTube, and tried my best to convey it in this chapter. Please tell me what you think in the comments.

I'd like to thank all of you for the amazing reviews I have received, they really mean alot to me.

Disclaimer - I don't own Pitch Perfect, Universal, or any of its characters

CHAPTER 12

***Return to the Club***

Beca looks around Club Exchange from the vantage point of the DJ booth, her DJ booth, at least for tonight, high above the still empty dance floor. The club is gearing up for a big night, a big night centered around her; which is both thrilling and intimidating simultaneously. Butterflies in her stomach are working overtime, but unlike last week, she doesn't feel out of place, like she doesn't belong here. No she feels at home here, like she was born to do this.

The last week has been great for her self confidence; made her feel like her dreams are attainable. Between that and the redhead leaning on the rail behind her, who always makes her feel special, Beca knows she can do anything.

Beca and Chloe had arrived at Club Exchange a couple hours ago. Well before she is scheduled to go on, so she would have time to get set-up. Beca wanted to get a feel for the club's equipment; and man what equipment it is.

Oh this will do.

She flashes a smile at Chloe, who happily returns it. Beca feels like the proverbial kid in the candy store. Yes she knows that her best friend is thinking how adorable she is right now, and if Chloe were to voice it, she would totally correct her, she's a badass, but at this moment Chloe is quiet, allowing Beca to have her moment.

How could Beca do anything but smile?

She's going to perform tonight as the featured DJ. Behind her is her best friend, and biggest fan, and to her right is the most amazing mixing desk that she's ever plugged her laptop into. The mixing board has more buttons, dials, and sliders than she has ever worked with outside of the Residual Heat's studios.

Marcus had surprised her with it, along with the fact that she was going to be the opening DJ every Thursday, and the headline on Saturdays.

"We just had this put in; it's the top of the line. What's even better is the lights have been wired into the audio system so you won't have to worry about any of that. Though if you do, there's this override system here, that will allow you limited control of the two side spotlights. You can focus on specific areas of the club."

"I need my newest star to be the best, so I provide her with the best."

He had flashed a million dollar smile as he presented it, looking proudly at his newest purchase. Beca however had the impression that Marcus was trying to impress Chloe as much as her.

She's not sure how she feels about that. On one hand Chloe hasn't seen anyone on a regular basis in a long time, and she deserves to be loved and cherished. On the other hand is Marcus the right guy? He seems nice enough, but there also seems to be a bit of a player about him.

Shaking her head, Beca tries to get that line of thinking out of her head.

Chloe's a big girl, beautiful, friendly, gorgeous, charming, smart, caring, sexy… Of course he would be interested, who wouldn't be... but he better not hurt her, it would be a bummer to lose this job when I kneecap him…

Focus Mitchell… People are going to be arriving soon… Playlist is set...

Beca has a pretty good idea of the tracks she's gonna play at the show tonight. The opening set is tight, though she is a little apprehensive about it, though she's resolved that she's going to play it through, no matter what. Later in her show she's going to be more open to making alterations to her set list based on the crowd and her feelings.

No need to be nervous… This is going to be a great night... I hope...

[*+*X*+*X*+*X*+*]

Chloe can't keep the smile off her face as she stands at the bar next to Beca. Her best friend had just finished setting up, and they had come to the bar to get a drink, though at this point they are going strictly non-alcoholic.

All about her the club is alive with energy as the staff prepares for a big night. It's the official debut of DJ BMitch, her tiny DJ, who was so adorable setting up. A child in the world's best toy store couldn't have been more ecstatic. No more so as when Beca saw the new equipment Marcus had purchased for the club. The size of Beca's eyes when she saw the mixing console had been so delightful; Chloe was so glad she had her phone out so she was able to capture it.

Yeah, I know Beca's a badass, but she's a really CUTE badass. She's going to hate this picture… I might need to make it my screen saver.

Standing close to Beca at the bar, Chloe can hear her smaller friend humming along. She smirks thinking back on numerous study sessions where Beca had done the same thing. She's not sure if Beca even realizes she does it. Her tiny DJ will start one tune, humming along, but then mix in other lyrics, or finish with an entirely different song. It's one of the many reasons why Chloe is sure Beca is literally always mixing.

Look how happy she is. Tonight is going to be special, I can feel it.

This almost feels like a coming of age moment for her tiny DJ. The crowd is going to be huge. Chloe just knows it. Marcus and J-Michael had been going all out, bombarding their contacts and friends with notifications from Twitter, Instagram, Facebook and all other forms of social media about Beca's debut. Chloe had been surprised when Marcus had even reached out to her, asking Chloe to work her magic again.

I wonder if Marcus did that favor for me… I'll ask when Beca's not around...

Of course Chloe had already been hitting Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter to promote her best friend, and had been haranguing the Bellas into giving their support.

She's going to rock it tonight; another step closer to reaching the stars, and all her dreams...

Chloe eyes her friend, admiring how good she looks in her black skinny jeans and matching heels. Chloe convinced her to put a short black jacket over her black tank top. She had assured her best friend that she'll look both badass and professional to start her set.

Chloe can't help but smirk as she remembers the conversation.

'I'll be too hot Chloe…'

Chloe puts, 'Yeah you will…'

Beca rolls her eyes, 'Not like that Chlo…'

Chloe drops her voice into a husky whisper, 'Exactly like that Becs…'

'Chloee…'

'Thrust me Becs, you can drop the jacket later on when it gets too warm. In fact it will make you just that much hotter.'

Beca relents with a sigh, 'Okay…'

Beca had also allowed Chloe to be her stylist for the night. She had styled her friend's chocolate brown hair in a cascading look down past her shoulders, with one side pinned back behind her ear, showing off her piercings and ear spikes. Chloe kept Beca rather make-up free for this evening, trusting her friends natural beauty, though she had made use of the usual heavy eyeliner and mascara.

Standing close to her best friend, Chloe whispers, before thinking, "You know I'm gonna miss moments like these, when you get famous... you're going to be so busy once people see what you can do."

Beca scoffs and rolls her eyes, giving her best friend a look that tells Chloe what she thinks of this.

Chloe laughs, "You know, if you keep rolling your eyes they'll eventually stick that way."

Giving an exaggerated laugh Beca replies, "Ha ha Beale. You know that's never happening…"

"Eyes sticking in a permanent eye roll?"

"Chlo…"

"You are going to be huge Becs…"

"Not that either. The missing this." Beca waves her hand between them. "You're not going anywhere."

"Becs…"

"I'm not going anywhere."

Chloe fights to hold her smile from falling, she knows Beca's being honest, but she also knows that this is temporary. Beca's going to be huge, Jesse is going to propose, and there just won't be space for a hyper bubbly redhead anymore.

Beca must have noticed the slight change in Chloe, the dimming of her eyes, because she takes Chloe's hand and says, "Hey, I wouldn't be here if it wasn't for you. We're in this together…"

"Becs…"

"Seriously Chlo…"

A little of that fire returns and Chloe genuinely smiles. "Pffff, of course! You think I'm letting you out of my life. You can't get rid of me that easy Mitchell."

Beca's confused as to how this got flipped on her. "Wait… I didn't… You…"

Chloe changes the subject and says, "Beca you need to eat a good meal before you go on. Heck you need anything. You're gonna be up late and need energy."

"No thanks."

"You have to eat Becs."

"Not hungry."

"That's no excuse."

Beca quirks her eyebrow and glances sideways at the redhead only to see her shuffle in closer.

"I'm too nervous Chlo…"

"Here…"

"You brought me a Snickers?"

"Yeah…"

"Thanks," the DJ relented and accepts the proffered candybar.

As Beca opens the candybar and takes a bite, finding she really was hungry. "I placed another six in that small backpack. I left it under the mixing desk in the booth, so you' have them for the show."

Beca smiles shyly, "Thanks Chloe."

"There are also a few bananas and apples. Don't roll your eyes, you need to eat healthy occasionally." Beca huffs a yes which brings a smile to Chloe's face. "I put some pop tarts in too."

"Yes!"

"But you have to eat at least one banana and one apple."

"Okay…"

"Don't sulk, even though it's cute, I also placed some water bottles and Gatorade."

"Fierce Grape?" Beca's eyes light up.

"Of course."

"Thanks Chloe."

"You're welcome; now drink this…"

Beca eyes Chloe suspiciously. "What is it?"

"Your favorite, a Shirley Temple…"

"I don't drink Shirley Temples! I drink ginger ales with a dash of cherry because I don't want to go into a show buzzing from alcohol or over caffeinated."

"Awe you're so adorable. As adorable as the original Shirley Temple." Chloe gives Beca's cheek a pinch.

"Not adorable… Badass…" Grumbles Beca as she sips at her not-Shirley Temple.

[*+*X*+*X*+*X*+*]

Both women are still at the bar, waiting for the Bellas to arrive when Marcus leads J-Michael over. The DJ is in mid-sip of her soft drink when she catches sight of her boss wearing his customary sunglasses, causing her to inhale while drinking, leading to an explosion of coughs.

Chloe is instantly there rubbing her back, asking if she's alright.

"No, I'm fine…" Beca wheezes out, shaking her head.

If her boss notices Beca's discomfort he doesn't acknowledge it. "Reggie! My main man, er… woman! Are you ready to be the star?"

Chloe is confused looking about for a Reggie. Beca still trying to master the art of breathing manages a weak "Yeah," and a nod of the head.

Marcus looks at his newest talent and asks, "Nervous?"

Beca looks between him and her boss a little sheepishly. "Um... Yeah... Sorry…"

Marcus smiles kindly, "Don't worry about it. I heard you last week. You're going to be amazing."

J-Michael adds, "All DJs get nervous. You think David Guetta's that skinny by accident? The man can't keep his lunch down before any show…" Beca and Chloe stare in horror at this little anecdotal story, but J-Michael keeps going. "You should have seen the mess Dre left in my limo the first time he headlined in Atlanta, and don't get me started about Eminem…"

Marcus can see Beca's face losing color, and speaks up. "Basically what we're saying is, if you're not nervous, you're doing it wrong."

J-Michael looks at Marcus quizzically then seems to remember where he was going with his stories. "Oh, uh yeah Reggie… Nervous is an okay feeling…"

Marcus adds, "Trust me-us Beca; we wouldn't have put you in this spot if you weren't ready."

Beca can't help but smile. She has to give Marcus his due, he is smooth when he wants to be. J-Michael has his moments too, but Marcus has a charm about him. Of course the smile falters as Marcus focuses his charms on Chloe, asking her best friend if she had received the bouquet he had sent. Beca has to resist the urge to roll her eyes as Chlo goes all Chloe, being all nice back, maybe even a little flirty.

J-Michael seems to notice her best friend for the first time when Marcus addresses her, so Beca rushes to interrupt the charm Chloe show. "So boss, this is my best friend Chloe, Chloe Beale."

"Clairee," J-Michael takes Chloe's hand and kisses the back. "Enchanté Mademoiselle, tu es belle."

Chloe gives that patented Beale smile and replies, "Merci beaucoup Monsieur."

J-Michael flashes a smile as he straightens up, "De rien. Est-ce que vous comprenez?"

Marcus asks, "Tu parle français?"

Chloe shrugs with a shy smile, "Oui, je parle un peu de français."

Beca is staring at Chloe like she sprouted a second head, eyes wide. Chloe shrugs and says sheepishly, "I decided to take some courses during my Senior years of college."

Marcus assurés Chloe, "Vous parlez très bien français."

J-Michael adds, "C'est un plaisir de faire votre connaissance."

Beca arches her right eyebrow in query, and Chloe translates, "Marcus complimented me on my speaking, and your boss says it's a pleasure to meet me."

Beca's at a loss for words, her head spinning. Chloe takes notice and so pushes the conversation back to tonight and Beca's performance, "You're in for a treat tonight. Beca's been pulling long hours to get this set just right. It's going to be unbelievable!"

"I hope so, we're going to have a number of critics here tonight." Replies J-Michael, "We want stellar reviews."

Chloe sets J-Michael with a hard stare, which actually makes him step back. "And you'll get them," says the redhead, who did not appreciate anyone questioning her tiny DJ, or the performance she's about to give.

Marcus suddenly has flashbacks to his first encounter with this strident redhead, and decides deflection is the better part of valor. Turning to Beca who seems just as surprised by Chloe, he asks, "So Beca, you ready?"

Beca never takes her eyes off her fierce friend, swallows and answers, "Yeah, I'm all set. Thank you again for the amazing equipment. It's top of the line." Tearing her eyes off of Chloe, Beca looks up at Marcus and remembers, "Oh! And thanks again for setting up my friends with the VIP room for tonight."

Marcus shakes his head as he waves it off. "The pleasure is mine. This is your debut it's only natural you have your friends here to celebrate." He looks over to Chloe who has softened her look. "Just so you know, I've set them up with bottle service for the night too."

Again Beca gets the distinct impression that Marcus is trying to impress Chloe. Which may have worked because Chloe gives him another huge Chloe smile.

He looks like a shark, and Chloe's the hot woman in a bikini, he's circling.

Wait what?

Damn Jesse and his obsession with all things Spielberg right now.

Marcus does have the most disarming predatory grin Beca's ever seen. This leaves her feeling like she has a lump of lead in the pit of her stomach. She downs her ginger ale with cherry juice.

It's not a Shirley Temple no matter what Chloe says.

Badasses don't drink Shirley Temples, and it's not adorable.

I see that smirk Beale.

Beca narrows her eyes at Chloe. The redhead only smiles innocently.

Marcus smirks at the two friends, realizing there's some inside joke going on. J-Michael spots a reporter for the Los Angeles Times, and so excuses himself. Marcus follows his gaze and also recognizes the woman, so he too wishes Beca the best of luck again and excuses himself.

Chloe smiles and bids them both "Adieu! À la prochaine." While Beca just nods and says thanks, then turning to her best friend, gives a questioning look. Chloe says simply, "All I said was farewell, and until next time."

Beca rolls her eyes, though to be honest she's both impressed with Chloe and thankful that the redhead had provided a distraction for Marcus and her boss.

She couldn't deal with Marcus and J-Michael in a long conversation right now, she's just not up to it at this moment. Her nerves are not just the normal pre-show jitters. She could be making the biggest mistake an up-and-coming DJ can make; thinking that her taste in music is awesome and the crowd is just going to love her play set no matter what. She does like what she has queued up, but is honest enough to admit it's going to be unorthodox to say the least. Yet Beca can't resist, she had an idea earlier in the week, a Bella inspired idea, and there will never be another opportunity like this. So she's taking a chance and playing her set and hoping everyone will enjoy the set.

According to the contract J-Michael had negotiated for her, she was allowed more latitude in her song selection. She just hopes she doesn't push it too far on the first night.

It's not like I'm picking completely unheard of songs-They're just not what you often hear at clubs these days...

"Hey Becs, look, Bree and Ems are here."

Brought out of her thoughts by Chloe, she instantly spots their two friends. Both have again gone all out, and have themselves looking hot. They're both sporting high heels and dresses that were just made for clubbing. Emily's is a red, mid-thigh, close-fitting number that just highlights how much Emily has grown in the last year. Aubrey's is wearing a baby blue dress, a bit longer going just beneath her knees, impeccable and perfect giving her her usual elegant look.

"General Posen." Beca says a bit too cheerily as she nods her head towards the blonde.

The blonde shakes her head, smiles towards Chloe as she says hello, then makes it a point to glare at Beca. "Munchkin."

After a few seconds of stare down, both women begin laughing.

With a devilish smirk Beca states, "You were out late last night, or should I say early this morning."

Aubrey glances over to Chloe, who sheepishly shrugs her shoulders as their gazes meet briefly before turning back to Beca.

Beca smiles innocently as she inquires, "Where's Stacie? Figured you'd be catching a ride with her."

Aubrey gives Chloe a hard glare, then shakes her head, "I can travel about without Stacie."

Chloe can't help but smile as she teases, "But you guys looked so cute coming in together this morning."

Aubrey had arrived home early that morning with Stacie trailing behind. Chloe had been in the kitchen prepping the coffee maker when she saw them; her eyebrow had gone up in unsaid question, to which Aubrey only sighed and Stacie smirked.

Beca can't help needling Aubrey a little more. "Besides, we know you're going to end up at Stacie's apartment again."

Aubrey coughs a little going red. "Why would you think that?"

Beca gives the smirk that she knows gets under her friend's skin. "Where's your car?"

Aubrey had been about to argue whatever smartmouth thing Beca said, but then catches herself as she realizes she had in fact left her car at Stacie's. "Oh yeah…"

"So Beca are you excited?" Emily asks, it's easy to see that the younger girl is, she's practically vibrating. "There are at least two to three hundred people lined up outside, if not more, and the club doesn't even open for another half hour or so. There's definitely going to be a lot more."

Beca tenses up a little at this, her nerves getting the best of her. Chloe senses her friend's anxiety, and starts rubbing her lower back. "You got this," she whispers.

"Thanks," Beca whispers back.

Emily of course is too excited

Chloe looks over to see Stacie and Denise walking in. Denise looks to be dazed and confused. "Denise? Are you okay?"

"I, I, I ggg… G-got t-t-t a… R-r-ride from… St-t-tacie…" Denise stammers out.

Beca grimaces feeling her pain.

Stacie just rolls her eyes. "Baby." She mumbles. "Hey guys, Bree."

Aubrey Posen arches an eyebrow at Stacie, who grins brightly at the blonde, and gives her an appreciative once-over. "Nice dress."

"Thank you Stace…" Aubrey's voice trails off as Stacie says, "But then I think you look seriously Hot in anything."

Aubrey rolls her eyes. "Do you ever actually stop flirting?"

Stacie winks as she answers, "Nope." She really emphasizes the 'P'.

"Why?"

Stacie smiles suggestively, "Cause I can get away with it."

Emily speaks up, "So what did you two end up doing last night?"

"And keep it 'G' rated," says Beca, "Emily is listening."

Emily's jaw drops, "Hey!"

Aubrey speaks up quickly, "It was," she holds up her hands and does quote sign, "G-rated."

Stacie turns to Aubrey. "But it didn't need to be…"

"Not helping the G-rating Stacie. Look it's simple, Stacie suggested we grab drinks after my meetings, and since you all were going to be out I accepted."

Stacie practically purrs, "And we met a couple cute guys…"

"Keep it 'G'," Beca reminds.

"Yes, a couple of men made their way over to our table and bought us drinks. Well they practically ran over. I blame Stacie."

"I can't control how hot I am or the fact that you're nearly as attractive as me, Aubrey."

The blonde whips her head around and focuses on Stacie. "Hey I'm just as hot as you."

Aubrey hears Stacie say with a definite husk, "Yeah you are." At the same time she hears Beca and Chloe chuckle. More glares are sent their way.

"Anyway they seemed nice enough at first but then made some rather piggish remarks, and their suggestions to Stacie were highly inappropriate."

Chloe looks to Stacie and asks, "Really?"

Emily asks, "What did they say?"

Aubrey shakes her head, "Doesn't matter…"

Stacie can't help smiling. "She tossed her drink in one guy's face, and when his buddy went to say something she grabbed his beer and dumped it in his head."

Emily gasps, "You didn't?"

Beca smirks, "Who knew the Aca-Nazi had so much badassitude?"

Aubrey shakes her head. "Not a word."

Chloe asks, "Again Bree?"

Stacie actually makes starry eyes. "Bree was my knight in shining armor."

Aubrey looks disappointed. "Yeah well I had high hopes when we first met them; but they turned out to be swarmy assholes."

Stacie grins as she leans in close to whisper in Aubrey's ear. "Well, I know the guy's suggestion was creepy, but I'd still do you."

Aubrey's breath hitches in her throat.
The usually cool collected blonde closes her eyes and takes a deep breath. Stacie's flirtations are increasingly harder to ignore.

The blonde sighs, "I hate you so much right now."

Beca and Chloe giggle.

Stacie can't help but smile at Aubrey "But you were so dashing as my protector."

Aubrey face goes red with blush, and Stacie smiles at her small victory.

Aubrey is saved by any more of this embarrassing conversation when Emily points to the entrance. Ashley and Jessica are coming in, also doing impersonations of deer in headlights that Denise had. Chloe looks at them, and asks "Wait, did you also catch a ride with Stacie?"

Beca shakes her head no. "They couldn't have, Stacie has a two seater."

Ashley mumbles, "No… Not Stacie…"

Jessica in a slightly calmer voice says, "We're staying in the same house as Cynthia and Maria, behind the house where Amy and Bumper live."

Ashley's voice retains a quiver as she says, "We all came in the same car… Limo…"

Beca and Chloe look at each other, a bit lost.

Jessica answers, "We made the mistake of going through the open door to the big house at the appointed time to meet." Ashley is just shaking her head as Jessica continues. "Amy and Bumper were…" Another pause, "What I saw was enough, but Ashley was ahead of me. She had full exposure." Ashley visibly shudders as her head goes from shaking to nodding.

"Oh, we understand Ash," consoles Chloe; though both she and Beca are secretly glad that they didn't actually. Taking the quivering young woman into a hug, Chloe whispers comforting words while rubbing her back.

Ashley speaks into Chloe's shoulder, "The limo ride was nearly as bad…"

"Jessica, why don't you take Ashley to the bar, tell them you're both with my party. They'll hook you both up."

"Thanks Beca," smiles Jessica, as she takes Ashley from Chloe and guides her towards the bar.

Beca watches them slowly move away and asks, "Do we even want to know?"

Chloe shakes her head no, but she's sporting a playful smile. Beca nods, "Me neither." That's when she spots Cynthia Rose with Maria on her arm making their way into the club.

Maria spots Beca and Chloe first and points them out to her wife, who flashes a huge smile. "What's up B!" Cynthia Rose yells.

As the young couple make their way over Beca welcomes them both. Chloe is perplexed. "Didn't you all come in the same car as Jessica and Ashley?"

Maria smiles, "Oh sí, let me tell you, limousines are the only way to travel."

Even now Chloe is curious, her look must have betrayed her, because Cynthia says, "We were a bit distracted, and didn't realize we had arrived." Cynthia Rose looks a bit abashed by her confession.

A small knowing smile appears on Chloe's lips as she notices the state of CR's and Maria's lips, and the slight bruising on their necks.

Maria flashes a proud smile, "Sí, we were a bit… Distracted… For some reason Ashley and Jessica did not wait."

Beca looks behind the married couple and asks, "Where's Amy and Bumper?"

Cynthia Rose looks even more embarrassed as she answers, "They're… Uh… A bit…"

Maria jumps in, "Distracted too."

Looking about the club, Cynthia Rose let's out a slow whistle. "Guess you're a celebrity now B!" Clapping her hands she says loudly. "Now that's badass!"

Beca blushes but can't help the smile stretching her face.

"Hey Bloe, we're here!" Shouts Fat Amy as she and Bumper stroll in, "What's up my fun-sized leader?" Amy comes in to give Beca a patented Fat Amy Best Friend Hug, which has quickly become one of her favorite things,

Beca's ready for her though and signals the bouncer she had on hand for just such this eventuality. The six foot four, built like a middle linebacker, man steps in front of Amy, cutting off her path to Beca. He stares down the Australian with arms crossed, and Beca smirks at the look of surprise on Amy's face.

Amy comes to a stop just inches short of the powerful man. She places her hands on her hips and looks up at the giant square in the ey. Suddenly Amy is crying out, "Chuck!"

The bouncer responds, "Fat Amy!"

Beca and Bouncer are left asking, "What?" As Fat Amy and the bouncer throw their arms around each other, and give a warm embrace. The bouncer picks Amy off the ground, and then Amy returns the favor.

Amy swings the bouncer about as she says, "Bumper, this is Chuck, he was one of my boyfriends the summer between my freshman and sophomore years. Chuck this is Bumper, my fiancé."

Now it's Bumper and Chuck who are left saying, "What!?"

Beca stares dumbfounded as her bouncer strikes up a conversation with Bumper, and totally misses Amy excusing herself. "I still have something I meant to do."

Stepping up in front of the dumbfounded DJ, Amy exclaims, "You have to excuse Chuck shortstack. He almost interfered with you getting your hug."

Amy throws her arms around Beca, and the tiny brunette just has time to shout, "Amy Noooo…" before Beca again finds her face buried in Fat Amy's ample cleavage, her feet dangling off the floor again as Amy swings her up. "I've missed my tiny Shawshank!"

The large Australian starts rocking from side to side. "I don't know if Chuck knows how special you are to have access to my cleavage shortstack, but all's well that ends well."

As this continues, Chloe does actually begin to worry about Beca's oxygen intake, she steps up to Amy's side, still fighting the urge to giggle, she says, "Amy… Amy, you need to let Becs breathe."

Amy focuses on the redhead and says, "Oh yeah…" Setting Beca back down on wobbly legs. "There ya go my Captain."

Beca is beat red as Amy sets her down, though Chloe, who's losing her battle at stifling a laugh, isn't sure how much of its from embarrassment or lack of oxygen.

"Amy…" Beca says, but pauses as she notices a waitress walking by with a tray of shots. Beca pauses her and grabs a shot.

"Ahhh. So sweet short stack" Amy says as she helps herself to three shots.

"I hate you…" Beca insists, breathlessly, once she manages to down the shot and pull herself out of her daze. Amy hums and shakes her head.

Amy shakes her head. "No. You don't. That's the aca-Nazi." She wrinkles her nose as Aubrey says 'Hey!' Fat Amy shrugs, "Everyone knows I'm your best friend, and designated crock wrestler."

Beca clenches her teeth in a strained smile, but nods. Better that than having Fat Amy spend the next thirty minutes explain why she's Beca's best friend, while rubbing some body part of hers against some part of Beca's. Not an experience she needs right now.

"So nerds, we've been given access to VIP room 1, and you all have a drink service set up. If you have any questions, check with Chloe, she's got all the info."

The Bellas all cheer at this news, and Beca can't help smile. These are the moments she lives for, the reason she stayed a Bella. These awesome nerds, who all start talking excitedly among each other.

About ten minutes pass and Chloe catches a look from the club manager. She leans into Beca and lets her know it's time to go.

Beca gives a little clap, smiles at her friends and says, "I need to get to the booth."

"Awe come on Shawshank, can't you stay and party."

"Well I could, but then we don't get to continue partying here."

"Huh, hadn't thought of that," says Amy, face scrunched up in concentration. "You may proceed then," Amy says with a wave of her hand, which causes Beca to roll her eyes, and Chloe to stifle another giggle.

Rolling her eyes Beca turns to Chloe. She hears words of encouragement from all the Bellas, Emily especially in her hyperactive way, but she's solely focused on Chloe who just smiles and mouths, "Break a leg."

Beca smiles and turns towards the booth only to run into Lily who is standing there. The silent woman sticks out her tongue and touches the tip of Beca's nose, but before the DJ can react she has stepped aside with a friendly grin.

Beca can only shake her head as she moves to get into position. Her friends really are a bunch of nerds.

[*+*X*+*X*+*X*+*]

Chloe's in conversation with Ashley and Jessica when she notes Marcus stepping out onto the small stage that is just below and to the side of the DJ booth. The last strands of the music playing over the speakers comes to an end as Marcus steps out before the crowd.

And what a crowd it is. The media campaign did its job. Club Exchange is packed.

"Good evening LA! Are you ready to party!? Are you ready to make some noise tonight!?" Marcus pauses as the crowd roars its answer. He flashes his million dollars smile, and Chloe can tell he loves this. "You know last week I had the opportunity to meet this little spitfire of musical talent, and to say that I was blown away is an understatement. This DJ knew what she was doing, and so did I when I signed her to a contract, ensuring that her musical talent will be rocking this club every Thursday night!" The crowd goes wild again, maybe even louder. As the audience starts to come down he shouts out, "And Saturday nights!" The crowd gets even louder.

"So I want you to give it up Club Exchange for the one and only DJ BMitch!"

The whole club erupts with even more enthusiasm; though none are louder than the Bellas who clap and wolf-whistle as Beca steps onto the DJ platform beneath two rows of multicolored floodlights, which flash a preprogrammed light display to recorded music, which ends with the spotlight shines on Beca. Chloe laughs as she sees her tiny DJ is sporting her favorite shades, just adding to her look.

Chloe is beside herself with excitement as she watches Beca start to play. Quickly Beca has the club vibrating with sound, and within seconds, Beca's working the club's sizable crowd with a strong line of beats.

At first the crowd stares in amazement, some snapping photos, sensing how special the moment is. Chloe is one of them. She wants this moment memorialized. Chloe gets a perfect picture as Beca lifts her hands towards the ceiling. Chloe looks around, because though it's anything but quiet, there's an air of anticipation. Like when you're on a roller coaster climbing slowly yet assuredly to the top of the first steep hill, those last few feet building anticipation, excitement, nervousness, and fear, before cresting the peak and plunging down the steep dive..

Beca drops her hand as if giving permission for stomach-turning descent of a roller coaster ride to begin and the thousand plus people in the packed club start dancing like nobody's watching.

Beca starts off her set by scratching into a blend of songs she had hinted to Chloe were specifically selected for the Bellas.

Listening to the opening music, Chloe can't stop the smile as she recognizes the song as 'Since You Been Gone, with an overlay of Beca singing her 'Cups' song. It's an amazing mashup and her tiny DJ's song choice is giving Chloe butterflies.

Beca has put a lot of work in the past few days creating her opening set of mixes. Based on the crowd's response her current mix is a hit. It's Bruno Mars's Just 'The Way You Are', but Beca has sped up the beat, and added a layer of electric piano. Chloe smiles guessing what comes next, and she's right when 'Just a Dream' by Nelly seamlessly intertwines into the original sound. Beca has tailored the chord progressions, to string pieces of the lyrics together to offer an amazing new song.

Chloe looks around at all the Bellas, who are absolutely beaming at Beca, swaying to the music, cheering loudly. Chloe finds herself moving to the music, a little swing of the hips, a head bob, just enjoying the sound Beca's creating. Then she hears the very familiar opening notes of a remixed version of a very special song, at least for Chloe and she likes to think Beca. The mere opening sound of it raises the hairs on the back of her neck, and gives her goosebumps. Beca has set a perfect fade from her opening song to 'Titanium'. It sends her body into motion, that she knows won't be satisfied here by the bar.

Reaching out Chloe grabs Stacie's hand and then Aubrey's, and yells, "Dance floor now!"

Her two friends give knowing smirks, and allow themselves to be drawn to the dance floor, which is already packed with people rhythmically moving under the thumping bass of the music and the enchanting sound of Sia's vocals.

Chloe really starts to move once she finds a good spot on the dance floor. She's always been proud of the way she can make her body move, and she's totally feeling it right now. Opening her eyes she sees Stacie and Aubrey are doing the same, and it's being noticed by people around them. And why not? They are three incredibly hot young women with killer moves and even better bods.

Chloe's really feeling it as she slowly spins around, her hips doing a sensual roll, putting on a show. The redhead lets herself go, till all she hear is the music, feel nothing but the music. And every word of the song seems like it's being sung for her.

She's certain she can feel Beca's eyes on her; there's literally no doubt in her mind. Turning she looks to the platform and sees her tiny DJ is indeed looking down at her. Her best friend is smirking, or maybe smiling, no definitely smirking. Yes Beca is watching her with rapt attention.

Chloe smiles back as she continues her dance, and then begins to silently sing her 'lady jam', her smile growing as she sees Beca mouthing the words right back.

Too soon 'Titanium' comes to an end though Beca's remix had doubled the length. Beca uses some original music to bridge to the next song.

Next the sounds of Ace of Base's 'I Saw the Sign', flow forth but it's been reworked and heavily edited, Beca's added deep beats and smooth rhythms. Still it's enough to throw Chloe off for a beat as she laughs, and she notes Aubrey is staring daggers at the DJ on the platform, suddenly the song cuts as Beca cross fades creating a well timed scratching, and the distinctive voice of Chloe's tiny DJ cuts through the music with a loud "Hell No!" Beca singing lyrics from La Roux's 'Bulletproof' can be distinctly heard intertwined with the original Aubrey favorite. Chloe can't help but giggle as her longtime blonde friend grumbles about tossing the midget into a sack and leaving her in the desert as a small snack for coyotes; with the emphasis on small.

Stacie looks over to Chloe and they both laugh out loud. Chloe begins dancing again, first few lines of Beca singing 'No Diggity' are overplayed the already incredible sound. The redhead again lets the music just flow over her, as she's feeling light and happy. She knows Beca is already putting on an amazing show, while also putting on a special performance for the Bellas. A performance that only her friends will get. And they do, Chloe can see it in all their faces, as a Bella huddle has come to occupy this portion of the dance floor. All of Chloe's Bellas having come together, with a mingling of Trebles; all dancing around Chloe who is the heart of the crowd.

Still her eyes are focused on Beca who is now smiling broadly as a recording of her yelling "Still No!" Cuts through the song and the music shifts to a re-edited version of the Bellas victory performance at the Lincoln Center.

Beca's style has certainly found a rhythm. Her mixes are so smooth and seamless. Beca makes the whole beat matching thing seem pretty easy, which considering how many hours Chloe has seen her devote to the practice, it's not really surprising. But this is deceptive, as Chloe knows her tiny DJ has refined this practice to an art form.

At the same time Chloe knows this isn't really what defines Beca as a really great DJ. The trick that sets Beca apart from the average house DJ, and why Chloe knows Beca's going to be a star, is how she just knows what music the crowd is going to appreciate, and being able to set it up perfectly; that, and her amazing knowledge of music. Chloe swears Beca had an entire music catalog in her head.

The tiny DJ is blending lyrics and music ingeniously, and she's actually using her own vocals, and those of Chloe and all the Bellas intermixed with original artists in a truly imaginative way; Hell currently there's Lily's beat box playing underneath everything.

Chloe looks to her right, and sees the ever quiet Bella dancing with the music. Lily is beat boxing, perfectly synced with the beats Beca's playing, almost as if she's already heard Beca's set. Chloe's never seen Lily smile so big; well there was that time when that racist redneck who was harassing Cynthia, found his prized truck hanging from a tree. Of course Lily's smile really came out when the racist scumbag went to extricate his truck, triggering a mechanism that catapulted the truck into the middle of lake Barden. Chloe still isn't sure if she should have been impressed or frightened. Thankfully this time she knows Lily's smile is tied to something amazing and good.

Beca's playlist shifts again, and the first championship now merges into the set the Bellas used to win their second ICCA A Cappella Championship. Sia's 'Elastic Heart' mixed with Queen's "Another One Bites The Dust', which fades into Jesse J's 'Conquer the World', with overlays of Alkaline's song also titled 'Conquer the World'. Beca drops the bass, having taken it away midway through the mix, and then bringing it back for the climax of this mix which then flows into Eminem's 'Monster' which has been tweaked with 'Dark Horse' the opening songs on the Bellas third ICCA A Cappella Championship.

Chloe looks up at Beca to see her dancing at her keyboard, really getting into the performance, and Chloe has to smile. Beca would deny this, but Chloe knows how much her tiny DJ loves actually loves this; it's something Beca discovered during her time at Barden, she actually enjoys performing in front of a crowd. Beca's still may not the best at speaking in front of people, especially tall intimidating German blondes, but making music is a whole other thing.

Chloe has seen it in Beca's eyes, even as she denies it, that she really loves the energy of an audience, and how she the performer continuously must find that spark that keeps the crowd going.

It's a circle, Chloe realizes, her tiny DJ is feeding off the energy of the room, but she's pumping it back tenfold. The sounds of Avicii's 'Wake Me Up' flow into Pitbull's 'Timber'. Chloe knows what's coming next, and so does Fat Amy, who actually looks a bit chagrined, but bursts out laughing as Beca's voice cuts through with a, "NOT THIS TIME!"

Chloe's impressed as her tiny DJ relays her vision to the dance floor audience. She would never have guessed that Beca could pull all these song together into an amazing opening set, that of course has now flowed into the Bellas all singing 'Flashlight'. The Bellas and their friends are cheering like they just won the Worlds again.

Stacie's arms wrap around the redhead squeezing her around her waist and Chloe absently touches her hands to them as Stacie stoops to hook her chin over the redhead's shoulder. "That was amazing Chloe!"

"Beca's always amazing."

"Yeah she is, and so are you. Maybe you should be amazing together."

Chloe looks at Stacie in surprise, but before she can say anything, Stacie is spinning away back into the crowd of Bellas.

Chloe wishes she could, dreams about that, but as her eyes notice a familiar brunette boy entering with his USC boys, she knows that it will always be a dream.

[*+*X*+*X*+*X*+*]

Beca's eyes are closed for a moment as she mixes, letting her instincts be the guide. Her hands move like a classical music conductor gliding over the mixing desk, tapping lightly at various buttons and quick drags on the sliders, as she makes in the moment tweaks to her set. Yes she had come with pre-programmed material, but in this moment she's making her music mixes better fit the mood of the crowd, and the energy of the room.

She adjusts another knob, changing the tables bass. Adjusting another dial she brings up the treble. She knows there are people in this business who pretend to turn knobs during their sets, but she just can't do that. Adjusting the dials and sliders have to do something, make some adjustments to the music she's playing, or she wouldn't do it. She wants to put on a great show, but at her heart she's a performer.

Beca's first impression of the mixing desk were spot on. This system IS AMAZING! Currently she's working the two turntables, making sure to the two tracks are ready to be matched.

The tiny DJ is bobbing her head with the ongoing song as she matches the beats of two other tracks, making them flow into the original. She's listening to the song in her headphones, finding the part in it that she wants to drop in. On automatic she works the EQ, changing the level of the base and treble, her instincts kicking in to get the best sound.

Beca's sweating already, between the heat of the room, and the sheer effort of mixing on the fly, she can't afford to be one bar late because it will mess with her whole performance, and she needs for this to be perfect. Not just because this is her premiere performance as a house DJ, but because all her friends are here and you know, she has a reputation to maintain.

The young DJ feels Chloes eyes on her because she looks down and immediately meet baby blue eyes. Beca flashes a smile as she works the duo turntables, setting both at variable speeds, in her headphones she's listening to both, deciding when to bring in the other one. She's working the cross-fader back and forth, pulling sounds at just the right time. On a whim she uses the turntables to scratch, and she just knows she nailed it.

Of course she's also watching the dancers, reading the audience, letting them guide her, but knowing what the dancefloor really needs and giving it to them in a unique way. Beca has always been great at reading the crowd and taking their enthusiasm as feedback, keeping the vibe going. For Beca crowd response is everything.

Moving the crossfade slider back and forth from one song to the other, Beca moves through her song selection easily, weaving her music together creating intricate tapestry of music that seems to have the audience excited.

Nowadays, a lot of the mixing can be done automatically with DJ programs, but Beca feels that would be a cop out. The crowd below came for a performance as much as to dance.

I AM a performer at heart. Thinks Beca as she picks just the right moment to transition to another song.

She's still relatively new to using turntables along with her trusted laptop, having started the summer before. This thanks to a suggestion by J-Michael, and the encouragement of Chloe after Beca mentioned it.

J-Michael had pointed out that it would improve her sound. Using this hybrid form of deejaying allows her to scratch and live mix using the turntables while still having the benefits of her laptop.

Chloe had insisted it would only add to her performance. "You'll only be hotter up there on your tiny stage. A tiny DJ, on a tiny stage, scratching away." Beca's cheeks still tinged red as she remembers the husk in Chloe's voice.

As she mixes she watches the dance crowd and judges their reaction, but in truth currently she is really only looking at Chloe. Zeroing in on her redheaded best friend out on the dance floor, Beca sees she has her back to Stacie gyrating seductively back and forth. Beca senses her redhead can use a slower pace, so she begins to reduce the energy of her music just a little.

Don't want to burn the crowd out... Of course...

Chloe doesn't know it, but she's become Beca's go-to guage. The redhead underestimates herself, but Chloe has an amazing ear for music, and a honesty that never steers Beca wrong. Though she will always couch it in kind words, she will let Beca know if something isn't working. On the dance floor Chloe is even more honest; the body doesn't lie, and Chloe's dancing isn't quite as smooth or graceful when the music is off. Beca had learned this going to parties and clubs with Chloe over their time at Barden. The redhead would always dance and look good doing it, but when the DJ had skills, or the playlist was on, there was just something extra in Chloe's moves.

Beca's quite proud she always sees that extra in Chloe when she's the DJ.

Returning her focus back to her computer screen, Beca is happy with how this set is turning out. She currently has five songs playing simultaneously, allowing her to bring different aspects of the tracks together when she wants or need them; blending them together into one continuous song.

This has Chloe dancing her ass off down below; and so are all of the Bellas, and the rest of the dancers on the floor.

Movement at the stairs breaks her concentration and she's a little annoyed. It's Jesse, beaming with pride for her. Suddenly Beca's emotions are a jumble. On one hand she's happy to see her boyfriend, and the delight shining in his eyes. She knows he loves her and is proud of her accomplishment. At the same time though, this isn't some random house party she's deejaying at. She's in the middle of a performance.

"Be-caw!" squawks Jesse, still positive that deep down Beca actually likes that term of endearment.

She still doesn't.

Beca masks her annoyance as Jesse gives her a goofy grin. She realizes that while she and Chloe had had a talk about visiting the DJ booth, she had not done the same with Jesse. Knowing that her bubbly redhead would inevitably visit during her performance, Beca had pressed home the point that she would have to keep the interaction to a bare minimum. Chloe had pouted for a second or two, but it had been more to tease than anything else. Chloe had totally understood.

Now as Jesse brings an arm around her waist and hugs her from behind she tenses, realizing she should have had a similar discussion with him. If Jesse notices Beca's reaction, he doesn't show it. He leans forward and places his mouth on the back of her head and kisses, then mumbles a congratulations of some kind into her hair.

"Glad you let me up here. Been too long since I saw you."

"Of course I'm going to let you up here," Beca gives him one of her looks, "and it's only been four days."

Jesse grins sheepishly, "I feel like I haven't seen you in forever."

"I know," Beca answers apologetically, as she types a command into her computer that queues up the next five songs. She turns to Jesse and gives him a quick kiss, before saying, "Well it's been a crazy week."

"I get it. Believe me, I get it. Maybe you could just come over tonight?" He grins his goofy grin, that Beca still finds endearing.

She whispers, "That might be arraigned."

The smile never leaves his face, grinning wide from ear to ear as he continues enthusiastically, "And for sure this weekend is just the two of us. Right?"

Beca smiles warmly, "Yes, I'm all yours for the weekend, but right now I can't be."

Confusion colors Jesse's features as he asks, "What?"

Beca tries very hard to not look annoyed, and keeps her voice cheerful. "Hey, you can stay for a few minutes, I could use a little breather, but then I got to get back to performing."

Jesse stares at her for a long moment, a tiny bit of hurt visible in his brown eyes. He asks defensively, "Isn't most of this premixed? You know set up beforehand? I mean you've been working on it all week?"

Beca pauses a second, trying really hard to not show her annoyance. "I'm not just standing up here twisting some knobs, and scratching for the hell of it Jesse. Yes I premix, to create a foundation, and for times like this when nerds come to belittle my performance..."

"Hey, hey," Jesse holds up his hands. "I take it back. It was an asinine thing to say…"

"Yeah it was." Beca gives her boyfriend a hard stare.

"I'm sorry Beca. I just want to spend time with you, and thought maybe tonight…"

"I know Jess, and we will. But I really plan on making this DJ gig work, and part of setting myself apart is being a real performer."

"Always looking to catch us nerds off guard." Jesse gives his best boyish charm, "Next thing I know you'll be drumming a rhythm out in a couple of cups, singing 'Yo Digity', while simultaneously mixing a dozen songs, because yes you're that good."

Beca laughs as she retorts, "Oh, so you know my second act…" They both giggle and Jesse pulls Beca into a kiss.

"So are we good? You understand right?"

She can see lingering disappointment, but Jesse covers. "Yeah of course. Totally figures. Makes sense. You know me, I just haven't seen you enough lately."

"I know." Beca sighs.

"Hey, it's not a problem." Jesse assures her. "It's on me too." He says this, though he doesn't really believe it.

"You can stay for a few moments." Beca smiles and his face lights up. Gesturing to a small table of drinks that have been delivered to the booth while she's been playing, she says, "And have a drink with me."

Jesse's face looks like it almost broke due to the size of his smile. "Perfect!" He gives her forehead a quick kiss and turns to select two drinks. He looks over the choices and samples a couple. When he finds the two he wants he turns and hands her one.

"Rum and Coke," he replies to her arched eyebrow. She smiles and takes a sip. Lifting his glass, he smiles, "To Awesome opening nights, and my amazingly talented girlfriend." They tap glasses in salute and take a sip.

"Thanks Jesse. I'm looking forward to this weekend too. I think I have something awesome planned."

His smile actually grows as he nods and says awesome in this long drawn out way that makes Beca smile.

Wiping her forehead, Beca complains about being hot, and sheds her jacket. Jesse is transfixed by Beca's beauty. She looks so very sexy in just the tank top. He wants to savor this moment, squeeze every ounce of happiness he can, because he's in love, and he knows she loves him too.

"By the way, you look incredible." Says Jesse as he leans over and kisses Beca on the cheek.

[*+*X*+*X*+*X*+*]

Leaning back against the bar, drink in hand, Chloe's enjoying a quick moment alone. The music is popping, as her tiny DJ creates an amazing amalgamation of three songs that is really getting the crowd hopping.

Moments like this just remind Chloe how talented Beca really is. Her tiny DJ makes the whole beat matching thing seem so easy, but Chloe can attest, it's anything but. Beca's spent some time over the years teaching the redhead how to mix, yet for all Chloe's love of music, she's just not able to match beats as seamlessly.

Beca's the master of matching beats, having refined this practice to an art form. Considering how many hours Chloe's seen Beca devote to the practice, it's not really surprising.

Then again it's deceptive to think that beat matching is the reason Beca is an incredible DJ. It's more than just the hours she's spent mixing on her laptop, her adorably huge earphones on her tiny head. Beca has a natural talent for enhancing original songs, finding surprising ways of mixing tracks and creating original performances. Chloe truly believes music is in her best friend's soul; in a way that most will never understand. That music is the fundamental building blocks of Beca's soul.

Another skill which defines Beca as an up and coming great DJ, and sets her apart from the average house DJ, is how she just knows what music the crowd is going to appreciate. It's why Chloe knows Beca's going to be a star. That she's able to just watch her audience, feel their collective need, and set it up perfectly.

Beca's done it again tonight. She has this crowd in the palm of her hand.

The redhead is quite content as she scans the crowd just people watching. Chloe has always loved to observe people; how they dress, how they interact, how they communicate. In fact people watching may be one of her top three activities. Chloe especially loves watching people having a great time, and that's what she sees right now. Tonight her observation is a lot of people came with high expectations, and are not going to leave disappointed.

Need to take advantage of that… Make sure that others hear… What did that reporter look like?

Currently Chloe's trying to pick out her friends in the crowd. Make sure they are doing well and enjoying themselves. She sees Fat Amy and Bumper on the edge of the dance floor, doing something that might be considered dancing. Whatever it is people had decided to give them a wide berth.

Yikes!

Just past Amy and Bumper, Chloe spies Emily and Benji sharing a table. They seem quite happy just sharing a conversation. Chloe's sometimes envious of how easy it's been for them to fall into a relationship. How Benji just kept being, well Benji, and Emily saw it for what it was, and gave him a chance.

Not everyone has to overcome huge barriers...

Next Chloe spies Aubrey and Stacie, who have garnered quite the crowd. It seems her two friends have half the men and quite a few women, crowding around them.

Well they are two incredibly Hot women... Stacie's flirt mode is in overdrive tonight… Still not sure if Bree is the instrument or the target of Stacie's flirtations… Time will tell...

Chloe hasn't seen CR and Maria for a bit, but there's Donald trying to keep up with Lily, who is performing an amazing combination of gymnastics, martial arts and dancing. Like Ashley and Jessica, and a couple dozen other patrons, Chloe can only watch mesmerized. Lily ends her routine with an amazing spin in air that you would think would require ice skates, and lands as the song transitions to the next. Lily bows as her tiny audience breaks into applause, and then the ever silent woman just seems to vanish. Chloe's jaw drops for a second, but then she shrugs her shoulders.

The world has it's mysteries, Lily is definitely one of them… Speaking of mysteries, I wonder if I should take a drink up to my mysterious DJ, maybe a water? Becs has been going hard, she may have gone through her waters… Hopefully she's remembered the bag… I'll go… Just to make sure...

Chloe glances up at the DJ booth, and stops. Jesse's there, arms wrapped around Beca's small frame.

He's arrived… Of course he has, he's Jesse; the good guy, the sweet best friend, the greatest boyfriend…

What? Did you think you would have her to yourself? This isn't a movie…

He's good to Beca, and they've been together forever…

He's never leaving, why would he?

She's perfect…

She's never leaving, why would she?

The cascade of thoughts wash down upon her, and leave Chloe feeling hollow. Chloe's always been honest with herself when it comes to Jesse, that she's been jealous of him since Beca's freshman year. She can see he's a nice guy, she likes him, and that he's good to Beca, scratch that, great to Beca.

So I shouldn't be jealous, I should only be happy for my best friend.

Shouldn't be and not being are two different things though. Because Chloe's stomach still drops when she notes Beca laughing at something he's said, and a knot forms as Beca's hugging him close around the neck, and it physically hurts when the couple exchange a kiss.

Jesse's a good man. He loves her, adores her.

Yes Chloe has always held that ember of jealousy in her heart but it didn't always feel quite like this. The constant ache in her heart has only grown since her arrival in California, caused by the bittersweetness of being closer to Beca than ever before, and yet just as distant.

Jesse will take care of her in the ways that I can't.

Chloe shakes her head at such silly thoughts. She knows she's being silly and irrational, that there's nothing romantic between Beca and her, but moments like last night leave her confused and aching for more, and part of her reasons that it shouldn't bother her but it does.

It doesn't matter that she doesn't love me in the same way I love her. I'll always love her, and she'll always love me in the only way she can, as a sister.

Chloe turns back to the bartender and only orders one drink, deciding to allow the couple their time.

Still it hurts.

"Drinking alone?"

Chloe looks up to see Marcus smiling down at her.

"Yeah," she sighs. Then as if realizing her mask is out of place she cheers up. "The Ginger just needs her jiggle juice!"

Marcus smirks as he raises a single eyebrow. Chloe deflates a little and says, "That worked in college a lot better."

Marcus leans in a little and gives her a reassuring smile. "I figured. So how are you?"

Chloe's actually a little surprised at the question. At times Marcus has struck her as a bit of a player, and she's pretty sure he's been flirting with her, or at least showing interest. She's liked it, it's felt nice. But this seems to be genuine interest and concern. She smiles as best she can and replies, "I'm great. Beca's really rocking it."

Marcus nods, "Yeah she is, interesting choice in music she opened with." He quirks his eyebrow instead of questioning.

"They were songs that kinda meant something to the Bellas."

"Well if I had any doubts, they were dispelled during that first set. Wouldn't have thought you could incorporate Ace of Base into a modern mix."

Chloe giggles, "Don't let my friend Aubrey hear that."

"Tall intense blonde dancing with your friend Stacie over there." Marcus gestures to Aubrey and Stacie.

Chloe quirks an eyebrow as she says "Yeah…"

"Stacie introduced her to me earlier." He chuckles as he gestures to them again. "I'm afraid when those two leave, so will half my patrons."

Chloe laughs. "They are quite attractive, I'm surprised you're not over there trying to woo either or both of them."

"That would be an interesting challenge, but I find myself more intrigued by the company over here."

Chloe feels the tinge of blush warming her cheeks. She's always been someone quite confident in herself, but she would have to admit that it's been tested these past few years. She has to admit it's quite nice to have an attractive successful man showing her attention.

She turns to him and says with a touch of husk, "Tell me more."

[*+*X*+*X*+*X*+*]

"Becaaaa? Earth to Beca come in Beca?"

Beca's attention is on her best friend who is now in deep conversation with her new boss at the bar.

What are those two talking about? Should I be worried?

"Beca? Becs, are you listening to me?" He places a hand on her shoulder.

"Huh?" Beca is jerked out of her thoughts. Wait was Jesse speaking?

"Are you okay?" Jesse's question brings her out of her own head and reminds her that her boyfriend is standing just a few feet away. What was he saying? I can't recall, was he even speaking?

"Hmm? Wha…" Beca says as she looks at him, confused.

"I said, I'm worried about you," Jesse scrutinizes her, his eyebrow raised in concern. "Are you sure you're okay?"

Beca manages to nod and mumble a "Yep." She points to her computer. "Just trying to determine where I'm taking the set next. We're rounding the corner, and I want to end in a strong note."

"End with a flourish?"

"Exactly!"

Jesse looks at her with concern though, "Still you've been going at it pretty hard."

Beca's attention is on something she's reading on her screen, she's pushing up on two sliders based on what she's reading. "Hmmm yeah."

"Maybe you should drink some water, you've been performing for awhile."

"Actually water would be good." She says as she turns a couple Knobs. "Would you grab me one from that bag." Beca gestures to the black backpack sitting under the mixing desk, without taking her eyes off the computer screen.

Jesse quickly ducks down and lifts up the bag. Beca's attention is still on the console, making some slight changes to the song currently playing. Opening the bag Jesse spies the bottles of water, and grabs one. A sticky note is attached, with the message, 'You're the World's BEST Tiny DJ!' and an emoji sticking its tongue out. No doubt in Jesse's mind who left this note.

Chloe…

He can't help himself, it happens automatically, his hand just closes on the note, and in an instant it's a crumpled ball in his fist. His eyes widen as he realizes what he's done. He puts the bag back, unscrews the bottle cap, and hands Beca her water, making sure Beca never notices the crumpled note.

Beca readily accepts the bottle and takes a long swig of the water, before holding it to her forehead. "Thanks Jess, you're a lifesaver."

"Well I am your knight in shining armor." Beca can't help but roll her eyes as she drinks again from the bottle. Jesse continues, "You know when the hero saved fair maiden, she would grant him favor."

Beca steps in front of Jesse, looking up at him with an impish smile. "Oh really?"

He nods, "Really."

"And what favor would you be seeking?"

Jesse quirks his eyebrows. "Well…"

"Something else, and if you're good…" Beca mimics his eyebrow movements.

His grin truly stretches from ear to ear. "Then I'm getting you out on the dance floor once your gig is done."

"That can be arranged."

Jesse can't help but be a bit goofy. "And I want you to take me to Universal Studios!"

"Not going to happen."

"What? Beca, I really want to do the Minions ride. You're going to give in. You know you love the Minions."

She mumbles, "That's true…"

He pumps his fist in triumph. "See. It's inevitable, Beca."

"God, you are such a nerd."

Jesse emits a dramatic gasp as he clutches his heart. "Fair lady you doest wound me!"

"I again refer to my earlier nerd comment."

He gives her a quick kiss. "There may be some truth to that."

"Why am I with you again?" Beca asks with a smirk.

He laughs, "Because you love me and we make awesome music together. Duh." Jesse winks at her.

Beca just rolls her eyes.

[*+*X*+*X*+*X*+*]

Marcus gives her an appraising look. "Why do I get the distinct feeling I'm barking up the wrong tree?"

Chloe gives him a look that she knows has bent men towards her in the past. "There's a distinct possibility."

"You're single, but not. Am I right?"

"It's complicated."

He looks at her sincerely. "Maybe it's not as complicated as you think."

Chloe smiles, but this time it's not a mask, not a deflection, it's honest and bittersweet. "Oh I know it could be quite easy to undo this Gordian Knot. I could take the Alexander the Great solution and just cut it…"

"But?"

The redhead sighs. "It would require hurting people I care for. Putting the one person I care for most into a painful place." Chloe glances to the DJ booth, where Jesse can be seen talking to Beca. "She's happy. She's in a committed relationship. She's straight. I can give a couple dozen other valid reasons."

"So…"

"Let's talk about something else. Were you able to set up that favor for me?"

Marcus studies the redhead for a few heartbeats, before nodding his head. "Yeah that was no issue."

Mask back in place, Chloe smiles brightly. "Great, I want to create some videos of Beca's performance and get them out there."

Intrigued Marcu asks, "What's your plan?"

"I'm going to enhance the sound, edit together the different feeds you provide and place it on her YouTube channel." She then waves her hand and continues. "Then I'll share across as many social media places I can. I've started a Facebook page specifically for Beca's music, as well as a Tumblr account dedicated to her music. These sites allow me to place full videos. I'll then put short teaser videos on Twitter, Instagram, Reddit, and Snapchat."

Marcus looks a bit surprised. "Snapchat? I wouldn't think you could do much with ten seconds."

"It does take a little more creativity. You need to capture the audience's interest within those ten seconds. This forces me to be concise. Lucky for me Beca gives me tons of material to grab the viewer's attention."

"You created Beca's YouTube channel." It's a statement, not a question.

"Becs gave up a lot when she stayed with the Bellas. The Bellas… uh, I… Owe her a lot. She had wanted to come out here a few years ago, start paying her dues." Chloe raised her hands to make quote signs. "I figured I could help her get her talent out there, make up for the lost time. So I started the YouTube channel, and posting material. Over time I thought I could improve the videos, so started using video editing tools to improve the quality of the materials I was posting."

"Why aren't you in marketing?"

"I don't care about marketing, I care about Beca."

[*+*X*+*X*+*X*+*]

Jesse arrives back in the DJ booth as Beca's shift is winding down, just after the young DJ has signed off for the night. She's playing her signature last song, a Titanium-Bulletproof remix. This is a special song for Beca, though she's never revealed why.

His girlfriend is a little tipsy now. With her set coming to an end, Beca had eased off on her alcohol restrictions, deciding it was okay to accept a few of the drinks sent her way by various Bellas.

In fact he arrives just behind a waitress carrying a tray with a rounds of shots that Fat Amy and Bumper sent up.

"Jesse!" Beca cries out. "Look! Shots!"

"I see that."

"Do them with me!"

Before he can answer she's grabbing one, throwing it back in one gulp.

"Wow Becs, maybe you should slow down…"

"I love kamikazes! Catch up Jess, it's my turn to party!"

Shaking his head, Jesse accepts a shot, and quickly matches her shot for shot. He's determined to get Beca alone, so they can share some time as a couple. There had been too little of that lately in his opinion.

"So Beca, Becaw, how about you and me…" Before Jesse can finish, he's interrupted by the blonde waitress Tina who arrives with two drinks.

"I have a Moscow Mule with Ginger Ale for Beca, and a Long Island Ice Tea for Jesse," says Tina as she passes out the glasses. After handing out the drinks, she hands Beca a napkin with a quick message.

Jesse looks over her shoulder as Beca gives it a quick glance. He recognizes Chloe's handwriting, and the cute doodle of Rainbow Dash.

Jesse gives a little nod towards Beca and drops his eyes to the note as she folds it up and puts it into her front pocket.

Beca smiles, "It's Chlo wishing me congratulations, and sending us our favorite drinks, so we can join the party properly."

Lifting her glass in toast, "Here's to great friends, who always got your back." Jesse smiles and lightly clinks his glass to hers, but Beca misses the unenthusiastic look he lets slip.

After a quick sip Jesse brightens, raises his glass and says, "To my amazing girlfriend, and her awesome performance! Congrats!" Again they tap glasses and drink.

"Let's get over to the VIP room," suggests Beca.

Jesse puts on his best most charming smile and suggests, "I was thinking maybe we could head out and celebrate at my place." He lifts his eyebrows at the celebrate suggestion. "If you know what I mean."

"Jesse you're as subtle as Fat Amy."

Jesse's face at Beca's deadpan sarcasm. Beca smirks and rolls her eyes, she just doesn't want the night to end just yet, "Let's party a little, then you and I can slip away."

Jesse's lower lip juts out a little in further pout, but Beca jumps up and gives a quick kiss, and his face lights up. " Okay, let's do this then."

"Give me five," Beca says, "I've got to collect my gear." She gestures to her laptop and other gear. "You're welcome to wait or I can catch up."

Jesse shakes his head, "I'll wait. Now that I have you, I don't ever want to let you go."

Beca rolls her eyes again, as she exclaims, "Weirdo," and she gives him another peck on the lips, before turning back to her equipment.

It takes closer to ten minutes to unplug everything, and place it all in its proper place. Still it's nice as Jesse and her are just talking, sharing drinks, and catching up with each other. He tells her about his classes, his project, and the tight group of friends he's making. She describes all the work that went into the night, and the jam session at Mrs. O'Shaughnessy's. It feels to Beca, like when they were first dating. When Beca describes the night at Mrs. O'Shaughnessy's, this time Jesse really seems to hear what she's saying, and as she predicted he does get excited.

"You know some of my school materials reference an O'Shaughnessy, I wonder if it's him?"

Beca shrugs, "Possibly, probably…"

"That's so amazing! Do you think I could meet her? Mrs. O'Shaughnessy, I mean."

Another shrug, "I think that could be arranged."

Jesse engulfs his smaller girlfriend in a bear hug and spins her about as he plants a kiss on her lips.

She steadies herself when he sets her down, she shakes her head with a laugh. "Let's get to the others."

"Do you need to bring your stuff?"

"No, Marcus said it's cool to leave it here for now."

"Speaking of Marcus," Jesse gestures to the club owner who was approaching the booth.

"Hey Boss!"

Marcus approaches with arms spread wide. "How's my newest star?" He has his million dollars smile going full wattage.

Beca flashes a satisfied smile. "Doing good. Great even." She flicks her hair out of her face.

Though the smile stays in place, it does take on an edge of sincerity. "You should be. You didn't disappoint."

Beca laughs, "Hope I did better than that."

Jesse jumps in, "You did."

Marcus seems to take notice of Jesse for the first time. "Yeah, he's right, you did. Which is why I need a few minutes of your time."

Beca looks at him puzzled. "Sure, what's up?' Marcus gestures for Beca to join him. She looks over her shoulder and calls to Jesse. "Hey Jesse, I'll catch up. Why don't you head to the VIP room, let everyone know I'll be there in a few…"

"I could go with you." Suggests Jesse, suddenly uneasy as he sees the club owner place his hand on the middle of Beca's back.

Marcus looks back. "No need. She's just going to meet with a reporter. Give a quick interview. Shouldn't be more than five minutes."

"But…"

Beca gives a reassuring smile. "It's okay Jess. I'll be there in a flash. Please let everyone know."

"Oh. Okay. I'll see you in a few."

Beca waves and then allows Marcus to lead her down the stairs and back towards his office. "You'll be able to have a conversation there, without straining your ears or vocal cords." Assures Marcus.

"Thanks! So you set up an interview for me? With who?"

"It's an entertainment reporter for the Los Angeles Times, and no, that would be your biggest fan who set it up."

Beca looks at Marcus incredulously. "Chlo?"

Marcus laughs, "That would be the one."

Beca can only smile and follow Marcus back to his office.

[*+*X*+*X*+*X*+*]

[*+*X*+*X*+*X*+*]

The night wasn't going quite as Jesse had anticipated or wanted.

Of course he wanted Beca to do well, and she had. She had knocked it out of the park. He had wanted everyone to have a great time. And they were.

But he had also wanted some quality time with his girlfriend. He wanted to feel that he was right up there with her job in measure of importance.

It was in these areas where Jesse was feeling that the night was coming up short.

Beca's set had ended almost an hour ago, yet thanks to the Bellas and a growing crowd of DJ BMitch fans, the party had continued, and the petite brunette is feeling no pain.

It had started as Beca finished the interview. Fat Amy had been waiting with a tray of shots she had liberated, and insisted Beca take a couple shots with her. Even before that, Beca had been feeling the effects from drinks she had while finishing her set. Plus there was the couple of shots done with Jesse.

Yes, to Jesse's consternation, his girlfriend was well on her way to inebriation. Though he admits he played a small role in getting to this point. Once Beca had had the drink with him during her set, she had found it easier to accept other drinks.

Beca had consumed a number of adult beverages sent her way as she progressed through the rest of her set; often at his encouragement, as he was trying to find reasons to stay up at the DJ booth. This had led Beca to ending her set a little more tipsy than she had wanted.

Now Jesse's just hoping to get Beca away and take her home with him; but the party doesn't seem anywhere close to ending. The music's going strong and loud, and even if it's not nearly as good as Beca's performance, it's good enough for the Bellas to dance.

Of course Chloe's been the center of all dancing… And numerous toasts to Beca...

Nevertheless Jesse holds out hope to pry Beca away. He hadn't seen her since Sunday, which hadn't been his finest hour. Even calls and texts had been in short supply this week. So he's watching for any opportunity to convince Beca to leave.

Jesse asks, "Do you have to work tomorrow?"

"NoPe," an inebriated Beca really pops the 'P' to accentuate the answer. She's moving with the music, eyes closed, with a look that tells the world she doesn't have a care. She shouts out that she's looking for another drink.

This has Jesse concerned so he's glued to Beca, wrapping a protective arm around her waist with no intention of letting go. He tries to steer her away from any more drinks for the night, and suggests again maybe they should go.

Beca shakes her head and declares that the party's just getting started.

Chloe leads the Bellas in a supporting cheer.

It doesn't help Jesse's state of mind that Chloe is just on the other side of Beca, and that she's just a tad on the inebriated side too.

Jesse has the distinct impression that though his arm is around Beca, it's Chloe holding her in place.

It's like we're in some sort of tug-of-war over Beca… A Beca-war...

"Having a good time, Becs?" Chloe smiles lovingly at Beca, enhancing Jesse's feelings of jealousy. He can't believe how obvious Chloe is at times.

"Hell Yeah!" Answers Beca as she takes the drink that Chloe's offering. "This is so fucking wild; what a great party!"

The Bellas all whoop it up at this pronouncement. Beca continues, "I can't believe all the people in here tonight!"

"They're all here for you Becs," declares Chloe holding her drink up towards the ceiling.

"Maybe we should call it a night," Jesse calls out to the group.

He's answered with a chorus of "BOOS!"

He tries again, "It's getting really late."

Of course this doesn't deter the Bellas in any manner; they've come to party with Beca, so another round of "Boos," is his only answer, none louder than Beca's.

The Bellas are in full on party mode and have the bartenders serving up drinks as fast as they can guzzle them down. Case in point Fat Amy arrives with another round of shots. She quickly passes them around, telling everyone it's time for them to toast her best friend. No one has the heart to remind Amy she's already made similar toasts eight times before now. Fat Amy's determined though as she grabs her own shot and throws it back quickly.

Emily looks at her Australian friend and asks, "Uhh Amy, didn't you want to make a toast?"

"Oh, good point Legacy." Fat Amy grabs the shot Emily was holding and lifts it towards the ceiling, "Raise your glasses you Aca-bitches, for my best friend, the BEST DAMN DJ on the west coast!" All the Bellas cheer and down their shots.

As all the Bellas cough down their shot, save for Emily who is rather thankful Amy took hers, and Fat Amy, who literally can drink anything, Aubrey asks, "Was that Ouzo?"

Fat Amy shrugs, "I don't know, I just grabbed the first tray I could find. Speaking of which, we need to toast our one and only Shawshank, I'm going to find us something to toast with." And before anyone can remind the boisterous blonde that she had just toasted Beca, she was off again.

Jesse rubs his face, trying to massage away the numbness. "Where's Bumper? Maybe he can divert Amy?"

Lily says something , but of course no one can understand, Jesse thinks he heard the word 'justice' as she points. They all look to see Bumper out cold, slumped over a small table. Everyone bursts out laughing as they realize that someone had painted his face with makeup. We're talking the rock group 'Kiss' level make-up, White base covering from neck to forehead, black eyeliner around the eyes, forming elongated upside down triangles, and bright red lipstick.

All eyes fall back to Lily, who seems rather interested in the ceiling as she whistles to herself. This leads everyone to look about, and most shrug not knowing the cause of Lily's justice, though Ashley says, "He was jokingly denigrating the Bellas, and how we never won when he was with the Trebblemakers."

"Well then he got off easy," declares Aubrey.

Aubrey looks out at all her friends. "So I have news…"

Chloe and Beca both say 'Yeah,' in unison, which they both find funny and start giggling.

Fat Amy asks, "Is this about you and Legs?"

Aubrey turns on Amy, "No…"

Fat Amy seems undeterred, "Les-be-honest…"

"Amy, it has nothing to do with Stacie…"

Stacie speaks up, "Give me ten minutes and we could change that Bree."

Chloe and Beca both say 'Oooh' in unison, which keeps both giggling.

"Not helping Stacie!" Declares Aubrey.

The brunette gives her a penetrating look, "It might not be the help you're looking for, but it'd be helpful."

Aubrey suddenly finds it hard to swallow.

Jesse isn't comfortable with any of these conversations, so decides to cut to the chase. "What's your news Aubrey?"

"Thank you Jesse. I signed a lease on the studio apartment that was available on the third floor of Beca and Chloe's building today."

Chloe looks crestfallen as she asks, "You're moving out?"

Beca looks sad as she makes an 'ahhh' sound.

"Cheer up midget, now Chloe can move back to her room, and you can have your bed back."

Jesse's attention is pricked by this. "Wait, you and Beca have been sharing a bed?"

"Well yeah," answers Chloe, as if this was self evident.

Jesse looks confused. "Wait, why?"

Beca feeling all the alcohol she's quickly downed giggles, "Well she had to sleep somewhere."

"Why not her bed?"

Chloe looks at Jesse as if he has suggested she should sleep on Mars. "Well Bree was in my room, and Emily was taking the couch bed."

"So why didn't you share your bed with Aubrey?"

Both Chloe and Aubrey look as if they had just smelled a skunk, and declared "Ohh noo!" together.

Jesse is completely flabbergasted by this reaction. He tries a different tack, "What about with Emily on the couch?"

Chloe and Beca look at Jesse with incredulity. Chloe says in a slightly slurred voice, "Well that would just be inappropriate…" As she spins about and walks towards the bar.

"Yeah Jesse… What's wrong with you?" Asks Beca as she spins and follows Chloe, leaving Jesse more confused than ever.

Watching the two walk away Jesse's sure this night isn't going to go quite as he intended or wanted. And he realizes he's going to need to step up his game, because he's against a force of nature; a force named…

Chloe!

[*+*X*+*X*+*X*+*]

[*+*X*+*X*+*X*+*]

A/N: So Readers, Please let me know what you think. What's amazing is next chapter is where I get back on track with my original outline. As I was writing I kept adding to the story, trying to fill in more of the back story, and following where the writing took me. Hopefully you liked it, and that it helped to fill in more about the story.

Also, I've never written any comedy. Is this story humorous? Please let me know.

Since I used getting caught up in some other excellent stories as an excuse for the delay, I thought I should tell you which stories they are.

The first is 'Your Love is a Symphony', sequel to 'Your Love is a Song' by Hypersomniacgrad. These two stories should be read together. I don't know if there is a better author at intertwining songs into their story.

The second is 'I Loved You First' by Virgo Alien. Warning, not a story for the die hard Bechloe fans. For a great deal of the story it's title should be 'The Tragedy of Chloe', but it is an excellent story, really well written, and really about the nature of love and friendship. Virgo Alien also leaves the ending vague enough so the reader can choose their ending. (I chose Bechloe of course!)

'I'm Falling to Pieces' by Luvscience, again not a story for the die hard Bechloe fans. This is a Mitchsen story, which are not usually my cup of tea, but it's so well written, I kept finding myself going back.

The next story is 'It Matters How It Ends' a really amazing story of love and loss. It's about Beca and Chloe sorting out the ups and downs of their relationship. It started angsty, became fluffy, and then to the surprise of everyone (including the author) it's angsty again.

'I Love You Awesome Nerd' by Olivia Janae, another awesome Bechloe story, which starts out very angsty. This story really gets into some dark places, with drugs and alcohol use, but is so well written, you can't put it down.

The 'Politicians Daughter' by Fugitiveboov23 is a cute alternate universe by a new author. It's endearing.

'I Don't Love You, But I Always Will' by Sa0621, this story is still really new, only three chapters so far, but the author has some amazing things planned. (Yes I have inside information! ;-p) If you have read 'The Perfect Moment' you know this story is going to be Aca-Amazing!

Last is 'End of the Road' by KissKendrick, well it's a KissKendrick original, which should be enough, but it's Pitch Perfect meets 'The Walking Dead'. Beca and Chloe versus Zombies in October, come on I'm only human. ;-p

Hope you enjoy! :-)