CHAPTER 17
A/N: Hello Readers! Here is the latest installment. Sorry for the delay. This chapter was just getting so big, I had to divide it into two.
I have to admit, I have no idea what it takes to sell a show idea to NBCUniversal or what their building is like in Universal City, so I just went with what I feel is an entertaining story.
Thanks to all for your continued support for this story!
As always, I do not own Pitch Perfect, NBCUniversal or any of their characters, but I do love them.
[*+*X*+*X*+*X*+*]
***Gathering for the Meeing ***
Beca nervously looks about the large open atrium as she fiddles with the visitors badge she was issued. She looks about the entryway of NBCUniversal's headquarters building, in Universal City taking it all in. Standing next to Jesse, waiting for the elevator, she can feel the energy of the building, and see it reflected in her boyfriend. They are waiting for the elevator that will take them to the twentieth floor where Bumper and Fat Amy's meeting will take place, yet for the ten thousandth time Beca is asking herself 'why?'.
On a purely rational level, Beca knows why she's here with Jesse, in the middle of the day. She knows this is where the meeting is taking place to make the final pitch for Fat Amy's and Bumper's crazy television idea. She knows she's here to support her friends. She knows her bosses want her here. She knows Jesse wants this; really wants this.
Yet she can't help wondering if she wants to be here. And if she doesn't want to be here, then why is she?
A small voice in the back of her mind whispers the real reason she's here.
Beca shakes her head, attempting to clear her thoughts. It's not helping.
She had never been all that excited to do this project when it was first announced. Beca only reluctantly consented, unable to resist a pair of rather blue puppy dog eyes. Now though the events of this past weekend have left her regretting that she caved, and wondering if she could back out of doing the show now.
But no, Beca knows she can't, it would disappoint Amy, Jesse, the Bellas, and….
The whisper of a name in the back of her mind, louder, sends shivers of guilt up her spine.
No, she refuses to think on that, but as always her subconscious never pays her any mind, and the whisper of a name all but roars from the back of her mind.
Chloe...
Yes, Beca only ever agreed to any of this, because Chloe convinced her. Yet somehow Beca now finds herself in the situation where she wouldn't even be teaming up with Chloe.
How had she let this happen?
The voice in the back of her mind reminds the petite DJ that this is a bed of her own making. Which leaves Beca feeling worse, and wondering, just what is the point of any of this is?
A secret part of her is actually hoping the exec's up stairs give a thumbs down on the project.
It would make her life so much easier for both her and Emily.
It actually was rather helpful that Emily had chosen to come with her. It made Beca feel less alone. Gave her hope that the rest of her friends would be as supportive.
But there were also questions when it came to Jesse. Did she want to do this competition with Jesse? Shouldn't she be happy to perform with Jesse? He was over the moon about it; shouldn't she be too?
She found herself just wishing Jesse had never asked in the first place.
Glancing over she sees Jesse's face, and the unadulterated excitement he is feeling as he studies his visitor's badge. She knows he is just ecstatic over the whole idea of this show. He's been talking about it nonstop for the past couple days. He even asked Beca to come up with some mixes they might use if the presentation calls for it today.
They're silent as they wait for the elevator. It's a companionable silence, but things between them have been… odd. Jesse has been excited and enthusiastic. He's been acting as if he won something. While Beca has found little enthusiasm for anything. Luckily she's had a ton of work to bury herself in, so she hasn't had to answer any annoying questions from Jesse.
The petite brunette lets out a soft sigh, as they wait, this elevator is taking forever. Next to the couple is an NBC representative; who is their assigned guide through the building, and escorting them to where Fat Amy and Bumper's meeting is scheduled to take place. Beca finds herself wishing he would turn to them and announce that the meetings been postponed. Instead the man catches her looking and gives her a smile that might be flirty, causing Beca's cheeks to tinge pink, and her eyes to drop to the floor. Jesse's so hyped he doesn't even notice.
The NBC representative apologizes for the wait, saying they are down to one elevator due to a technical issue, but assures them everything will be fine. Beca can't help but think that of course there are technical issues; this whole week has been technical issues. Her life is becoming a technical issue. The representative attempts to strike up conversation, and Beca thanks the heavens when Jesse jumps in and starts talking with the guy. Beca really didn't want any conversation right now.
Looking down at her iPhone, Beca scowls. They're early... Beca hates being early… to anything. She would really rather be fashionably late… to everything. However Jesse was so thrilled about this meeting, he practically carried her here.
The tiny DJ on the other hand isn't feeling it. The truth is Beca's feeling awful, and she's been feeling awful since the Monday night fiasco.
For the first time since arriving, Jesse notices Beca's skittishness, and attributes it to nerves. He smiles and puts an arm around her shoulders, pulling her in a little. It doesn't help; if anything it serves to remind Beca of the mistakes she's been making. Still she appreciates the gesture and so she gives him a thin smile. He grins goofily and leans forward and kisses her forehead.
As he does, all Beca can think is she misses Chloe…
… because she hadn't spoken with Chloe for three days...
… and she feels so guilty about it.
Beca feels guilt pretty much all the time now. She's not sure if she feels guilty because she hasn't seen her redhaired best friend since Monday night, when she had left with Jesse; or if she feels guilty for missing Chloe while being with Jesse. She's scared to really delve into the question, because the answer might be both, and she doesn't know what that means.
Beca tries not to think about it, it makes her head hurt. Yet she can't stop thinking about it. So her head constantly hurts.
She looks up at Jesse, just in time to see his face breaking into a goofy grin. She follows his line of sight, and groans to herself as he calls out, "Mitch, Jodie, Calvin…" Jesse drops his arm from around Beca, and steps over to his USC buddies just as they arrive, shaking their hands, clapping each other on the back.
Reflexively Beca rolls her eyes, she can't help it, it's her natural reaction to Jesse's USC Buddies. With his back to her, Jesse doesn't notice the eyeroll, for which Beca is profoundly thankful for; she doesn't need another argument with Jesse. It's been a bone of contention between the couple; her inability to hide her disdain for his USC buddies. Jesse only sees them as these really great guys, and really likes hanging with them, while Beca only sees immature, pompous, arrogant , over-privileged juveniles, who take their fashion cues from Ken dolls.
So to say she's not overly excited to see Jesse's USC buddies, is an understatement. Individually they seem like they have the potential to be okay guys, potential being the operative word here. However as a group they are… douchebags… that's the best word Beca can come up with. Unfortunately Jesse hasn't seemed to be immune to this effect.
"Great… they're multiplying…" mumbles Beca to herself as she notes two more men with Jesse's usual cohort. They're carbon copies of Jodie and Mitch, neat trim, dressed in business casual, khakis slacks, buttoned down shirts, that are all color coordinated. All five of the overgrown frat boys could be in the casting call for the bachelorette hopefuls, and all are probably part time models to pay the bills.
It dawns on Beca that Jesse is dressed similarly, no not just similarly, he's wearing the exact same shirt and slacks as the other five. He's coordinated with his buddies. It's like he's been absorbed into their collective. She can't help wondering what this means…
Her eyes grow as she realizes she's wearing an outfit that Jesse had casually suggested this morning. So preoccupied with everything that's been going on in her head, she'd agreed, and now her outfit is coordinated with theirs. She's in uniform!
She can't help wondering how this is happening.
Jesse is suddenly back at her side, grabbing Beca a little too exuberantly around the shoulders and pulling her tight. "Beca, this is James, and that's Trent. Guys this is my Girl! Beca!" Beca always hates when Jesse gets like this. He's too exuberant. She doesn't feel like she's being introduced as his girlfriend, but rather as a trophy to be shown off. It was never an issue back at Barden, well after the first few weeks of their dating. Right after the ICCA Finals, and their kiss, there had been a time when Beca felt a little like a trophy to be shown off to the Trebbles. The Bella conquered by the Trebble. It had almost ended their relationship before it had really started. It had been different back then though; she had been able to sit Jesse down and tell him that she wasn't feeling comfortable with how he acted around the Trebbles with her. He had apologized, and admitted he was just so excited and happy to be with her. He had understood that she didn't always feel comfortable center stage. He had toned it down and their relationship had grown stronger for it. However since they had moved to California she was seeing Jesse slide back to those tendencies. Something about the California culture, where looks and status are paramount was pulling Jesse back into some of his worst traits. Still Beca stifles these feelings, now is not the time. She gives a short wave, with a forced smile. The openly appraising looks of the five men before her doesn't help the situation.
"So Beca, this is the rest of our team, along with Emily and Benji."
"Oh, hey… that's great…" she forces her smile to grow, but realizes it probably doesn't matter, she's pretty sure that not one of the guys are looking above her neck. She finds herself wishing she had worn a different top, one that didn't show any cleavage.
Feeling incredibly awkward and uncomfortable, she turns to Jesse, hoping for a little help here. In a bit of a surprise Beca sees Jesse furrow his brows, and she feels her heart soar, thinking that he was recognizing the inappropriate looks of his so called friends. But then she follows his line of sight, and realizes he's oblivious to the leering of his friends.
Dark stormy blue eyes meet cerulean blue ones, and Beca feels a great weight lift off of her. Instantly the ogling of the man-childs isn't an issue. Suddenly the day seems brighter, and Beca feels she's right where she's supposed to be.
Chloe is walking towards her, along with Emily, Benji, Aubrey, and Stacie, following their own NBC representative. Chloe smiles warmly, her eyes light up, and Beca wonders if her heart is always this loud.
Jesse's buddies notice both Jesse and Beca looking beyond them and turn to greet the women. Beca has to roll her eyes at the behavior of the boys, Beca can't think of them as anything other than boys.
All five of course go into what Beca surmises is their idea of charming mode; though she would describe it as 'swarmy', maybe even 'douchy'. Even Emily, who is literally holding Benji's hand, isn't safe from the overt come-ons.
Stacie and Chloe react quickly and step between the five USC boys and the Baby Bella, easily diverting their attention, yet Beca's blood begins to boil as she watches Mitch and Jodie pay particular attention to her best friend.
Without a thought, Beca is walking forward and out from under Jesse's arm. Putting herself between Jesse's USC friends, she grabs Chloe by the hand and pulls her to the side.
A part of her notices Emily and Benji sliding up to Jesse, engaging him in conversation, and she's silently thankful. Beca needs this moment.
"Hi," Beca awkwardly waves, not knowing what to do with her hand after she drops Chloe's.
The gesture causes Chloe's right eyebrow to arch, in question. "Hey," she replies, just as awkwardly. She plays with her visitor's badge, as the toe of her right shoe kicks at the floor, though she does manage to keep her eyes focused on Beca's.
"Hi," Beca repeats, unsure of herself.
It helps to break the tension, Chloe chuckles, "You said that." The corners of her lips tugging upwards, forming a shy smile, and suddenly Beca feels a lot better. Because it's a Chloe smile, the kind of smile that lifts the corner of her lips just perfectly, causes her nose to crinkle in just the cutest way, and her cerulean blue iris's sparkling in a truly fantastical way.
The corners of Beca's lips also turn up slightly, forming her own version of a shy smile. And then both women are laughing lightly with each other.
When it peters-out, a quiet awkwardness follows, and they just look at each other. Trying to break the tension, and not be too awkward, Beca asks, "Are you nervous?"
Chloe nods, "Guess so,"she replies. "You nervous too?"
Beca nods her head vigorously, with a grin. "You have no idea," she chuckles.
Chloe gives Beca a soft smile, "So how are you?"
"Feeling lousy," answers Beca truthfully. "I'm letting down the Bellas…"
"Hey, you're doing what's right for you…"
"But…"
"... No buts Beca. The girls will understand, and you'll have Emily…"
"Yeah… About that…Did you..."
Before Beca can ask Chloe the question, the elevator arrives and the now large crowd of people look to enter. Stacie, Aubrey, and Emily move cutting off Jesse and his friend's from following Beca and Chloe directly. Even Benji seems to be in on it, because before Jesse can get annoyed and try to push through, his longtime roommate is asking questions, and talking to him, distracting him from the situation. This allows Beca and Chloe to stand next to each other. With everyone getting on, the elevator is crowded and Chloe and Beca end up shoulder to shoulder.
Beca leans in and whispers, "Did you have anything to do with Em joining me?"
Chloe leans over towards Beca and whispers, "Don't worry about that; Em would definitely do just about anything for you. You're like her big… well little sister…"
Beca huffs, "Hey…"
Chloe grins, "Older sister…"
Beca still huffs, "Better…"
Chloe giggles in response, as she watches their escort pushes the button for the twelfth floor, and the doors close. Beca glances at Chloe, who flashes her another shy smile, and Beca feels the redhead's fingers lace into hers; and it feels right.
Suddenly it's pretty warm in the elevator, Beca guesses it must be because of how full it is. Still all she can do is keep glancing over at her favorite redhead. You shouldn't be able to miss someone you literally saw only three days before. But with a glance at the bubbly joy that is Chloe Beale and her ever brilliantly shining smile and effervescent eyes, all Beca knows is she had indeed missed her best friend.
Part of her registers that the doors have opened, but really Chloe is only focused on her best friend standing next to her. She's not sure where she got the courage to link hands, but it had just felt right.
She misses Beca, and it had been hard these last few days while she has been staying with Jesse, yet Chloe had resisted the urge to call or text. Beca had made her choice, and Chloe would be lying if she said she wasn't disappointed, but she had always known what the answer would be. So she had accepted it. Now the redhead only wanted to prove to Beca she could still be her best friend; nothing had to change. Taking hold of Beca's hand was a token of her affection, and she was so glad Beca had accepted it.
Still she feels a momentary pang of loss as Beca's hand is pulled from hers as everyone exits the elevator. She wants to recapture the hand, and hold it just a few seconds longer, to feel the warmth of Beca's slender fingers intertwined with hers. Yet Chloe resists temptation, knowing it will only lead to trouble.
The group follows the NBC representative that had been with Beca and Jesse to a very large and spacious conference room. The blonde woman who had been guiding her and the girls is walking next to him, and saying something to the group, but Chloe isn't paying any attention. She just doesn't have the ability to focus at the moment. Besides Aubrey with her predilection for knowing the rules and expectations, or Stacie with her near photographic recall will let her know anything she absolutely needs to know.
The two NBC reps, open a set of double doors at the end of the hallway, and everyone walks through into a very spacious conference room. The blonde NBC representative is again saying something about staying in the room, and the executives will be here soon, but Chloe's still not really paying attention. She's just taking in the room, which could easily hold over a hundred people.
In the room there's a couple of staff members setting up a couple tables along the back wall with snacks and drinks. In the center of the room is an audio visual technician making sure the equipment is properly setup. Currently he's working with a soundboard.
There are a number of round tables setup in a horseshoe shape facing a long rectangular shaped table setup on a dais at the front of the room. Another audio visual technician is adjusting the microphones attached to the long table.
Only one table has anyone at it, Cynthia Rose and Maria, who rise up as the group steps into the room. Chloe latches onto Beca's hand again, and for all intents and purposes bounces over to where Cynthia Rose and Maria are standing; dragging Beca with her. "Hey CR, Maria, how's LA treating you two?"
Maria smiles, "Oh we can't complain, I think it's safe to say Cyn and I love LA." The tall Latina slips her arm around CR's waist.
Cynthia Rose smiles up at her wife, and receives a quick kiss, "You said it baby." The look of pure love is heartening.
Chloe can't help but say, "Awww," as she smiles proudly; while Beca can't help but roll her eyes. Chloe gives her best friend a gentle elbow to the ribs, causing Beca to gasp and mumble, "Abuse!" Which just causes Chloe to whisper, "Don't be a baby."
Beca huffs, "You're a baby…"
Cynthia Rose just chuckles at her shorter friend, who still blushes at the merest hint of public displays of affection. She decides to give Beca a reprieve and change the subject,"What's up my Captains?"
"Just so excited to finally be here!" Chloe practically squeals. The excitement of the moment energizing the redhead; that and the three espressos she had with her Caramel Macchiato.
Beca can only smirk at her enthusiastic best friend. Looking about, the shorter brunette asks, "So what's happening?!"
Cynthia Rose shrugs as she answers, "Not sure. We arrived about fifteen minutes ago in the car Amy setup for us, and they ushered us right up. We haven't seen Fat Amy or Bumper yet."
"Didn't Ashley and Jessica come with you two?" Chloe asks.
Cynthia Rose responds, "They were going to come with Amy and Bumper."
Maria answers, "They seem reluctant to ride with us for some reason." She truly seems mystified by this. Cynthia Rose on the other hand blushes furiously.
"I bet…" states Aubrey as she steps up to the group, having heard the question and reply.
"You get it girls," says Stacie with a wink, who has made a point to stay at Aubrey's side. Aubrey rolls her eyes at the comment.
Maria winks back as she says, "Definitely…" Cynthia just studies the ceiling as she blushes more. Though she gets a reprieve when Emily arrives. "Hey Legacy! How was the trip back to Atlanta?"
"It was great, though fast. I had so much to do to get things in order. Luckily a couple of the Bellas are taking summer classes and can take care of the house. I can't believe I'm staying the summer here in LA!"
Cynthia Rose asks, "Are you staying? Even if this..." CR waves her hand about the room. "... doesn't happen?"
Emily nods, "Yeah, I decided to stay the summer no matter what. Chloe and I are going to start her music lessons business, and Beca wants to work with me in the studio on some songs I've been writing." The young woman is just beaming as she talks.
Chloe smiles at Legacy, just soaking up her positivity. The younger Bella has been a godsend for the redhead the last couple days. Her enthusiasm and ideas for the music classes helping to distract Chloe. Over the past few days the two women had set up all the equipment, and even managed to schedule some lessons with a couple girls from Chloe's school
"You're getting studio time?" CR asks, Emily's excitement rubbing off on her. She turns to Beca, "You know I'm totally jealous of Legacy now?"
Chloe can't help but love Beca's blush as the tiny DJ says, "If it works out, I'm not above helping any other Bella sister who is trying to make a go of the music business." Beca points to the young married couple, "A musical duo, would be an interesting challenge." Beca smiles confidently and Chloe can't help but feel pride in her best friend, confident Beca is her favorite.
Beca looks over and catches Chloe smirking. She arches her right eyebrow and asks, "What?"
Chloe just smiles and shakes her head, not answering.
The DJ whines, "Chooeee whaaat?"
Chloe's smile just grows as she sees her whining friend, because whining Beca is her favorite. "I like it when you go all professional." Chloe shrugs, because, professional Beca is her favorite.
Beca's mouth opens to give a snarky retort, but she has no idea how to respond to Chloe's statement; she had been expecting the redhead to tease her. She closes her mouth, then mumbles, "Good," in that flustered way Beca has, and Chloe loves it because flustered Beca is her favorite.
All the women around laugh. Beca glares at everyone and says a little louder, "Shut up."
This of course invites all the women to laugh more and spend the next couple minutes teasing Beca. As much as she grouses about the teasing, Chloe can tell from the look in her eyes and the smiles she fights to hide that the petite brunette doesn't really mind it at all. On a couple of occasions when it was just the two of them, Beca has admitted to Chloe that she's always kind of loved the teasing the Bellas can bring. It always makes her feel like she's a part of a large loving family. So though she sees Beca rolling her eyes and threatening untold consequences to if the group if they continue, Chloe can tell it's helping Beca to work through the stress she's feeling. Of course Beca's threats have the effect of the Bellas redoubling their efforts at teasing and joking.
Even Aubrey is laughing, thoroughly enjoying the show Beca is inadvertently providing. This just warms Chloe's heart, and she just knows things are going to be okay. The redhead notes her blonde friend check her watch for the fifth time since she joined the group. With an exasperated sigh Aubrey asks, "Where is Amy and that Troll Bumper?"
[*+*X*+*X*+*X*+*]
Fat Amy and Bumper are standing just outside the double doors to the conference room. They are busily psyching themselves up for this presentation. Both are dressed impeccably for the occasion in new suits. Fat Amy just knows the Bellas are going to flip when they see her in this new professional power suit. It's not a look Amy has ever rocked before with her best friends, and it's not one she actually likes; but her parents had gifted it to her, and Bumper's new suit.
Her parents had sat the young couple down at the beginning of this endeavor, and laid out what would be needed to succeed. They had explained that books are judged by their cover, even more so in Los Angeles, and it's important to present a professional and intelligent demeanor when dealing with the executives they were hoping to sell their ideas to. Amy's parents had provided a great deal of coaching on what to expect when dealing with the studio executives. Now Amy was hoping the lessons had stuck, so that the executives they are here to impress would really listen.
It's an odd feeling, but Amy knows Bumper and her need to be taken seriously today if they have any chance of succeeding. She's not sure when it happened, but Amy thinks this is what it must mean to grow-up.
Still she's anxious and looking at Bumper in his new suit, she can tell he's feeling the same. This causes her to chuckle, knowing they both have an amazing ability to project supreme and unshakeable confidence. However the reality is that deep down they both are often quite nervous; especially in a situation such as this, where they both really want something.
And this television project is something they both really really want to be successful.
Amy runs through the day's program in her head. Her insides are churning with a frenzy unlike anything she's ever felt. Even more than when she got into the shack her uncle Bennie keeps the still, and drank the whole bottle of fresh brewed shine. No this presentation has her nervous and keeps her from her normally self-assured behavior. She knows that in a few minutes their presentation will make or break their future plans.
This is a new sensation for Fat Amy. These feelings, a mixture of nervousness and excitement, have been building over the last few days. Even as she hates feeling like this, Amy is also kind of relishing the moment. She's never wanted anything as much as she wants this show. While she wanted to win with the Bellas, it never so consumed her like it did Chloe, Aubrey, or even Beca. Amy had just been there for fun. This on the other hand was hers and Bumper's; something they are building together.
A lot of time and work has gone into getting them to this moment. Amy was really proud of the effort they had put in to get this meeting, and this is it; either the Execs like the performers that Bumper and she had recruited or they don't and the whole project flops.
Amy shakes her head, kind of runs in place, and moves her neck as if working out a kink. She can't help thinking of the boxers she used to watch in the matches back in Tasmania, and how they loosened up just prior to the match. She feels the tension and the pent up energy and excitement.
Yes this might go bad, but on the other hand it might go amazing. This is what Amy latches onto. She's pretty confident in the idea she and Bumper have come up with, she's positive about the talent of the groups they have enlisted, and she knows the music will be amazing. Amy can't help but think this is going to work. Yes she is a little leary of some of the side stuff Bumper is injecting into this project, but then he wouldn't be her little Bump, if he didn't have his devilish side. Besides he was right the side stuff was going to make for better television
Bumper looks over and asks, "Are we ready?"
Amy shrugs as she responds, "Reckon." She looks over to Ashley and Jessica who were waiting behind. "I have to thank you both. You been right ripper with all the help you've been giving Bumper and I. Ta…"
Ashley and Jessica are a little caught off by Amy. They have been following Fat Amy and Bumper everywhere, and at times thought the two of them forgot the girls were even there. "It's okay Amy. We're glad to help, though we're going to need to focus on the wedding soon…"
"Yeah, we will, once we crush this presentation…"
Bumper lights up, "That's the spirit Ames!"
Fat Amy takes a deep breath and tells herself "You got this." She gives Bumper a quick kiss and an encouraging smile, which he readily returns. Together they open the doors and confidently walks in together.
With her chin held high and her shoulders back, she saunters towards the front of the room. She's happy to see the room is set to their specifications, and happier to see a number of the Bellas have already arrived.
She has this, Amy knows it. With Bumper next to her she has the confidence of a pro. Bumper spots
[*+*X*+*X*+*X*+*]
The double doors open catching Chloe's attention, and in rolls Fat Amy and Bumper, followed closely by Ashley and Jessica. "There's Amy."
Aubrey asks, "Is Amy wearing a suit?"
"Yeah she is!" Stacie answers approvingly.
"I can't believe it," says Beca.
Emily quips, "Have to say Amy and Bumper are looking sharp."
Fat Amy and Bumper immediately make their way to the front of the room. There is an audiovisual technician setting something up at the head table, speaking with a rather sharp dressed man is a suit. The man in the suit straightens up and extends a hand to Bumper and Amy, and they quickly fall into a deep conversation.
Ashley and Jessica spot the Bellas and peel off from following Amy and Bumper, and head to the small gathering of Bellas.
"Hey Ashley, Jessica," Chloe says as they approach, giving her two friends a quick wave. The rest of their gathered friends doing the same.
"Hey Guys," answers Jessica. She sounds as tired as she and Ashley look.
Aubrey's eyes narrow in on Bumper and Amy, as they talk to the man in the suit. "Who's that?"
Ashley turns around, "Travis something…"
"He's the executive here at NBC that Amy and Bumper have been in talks with," continues Jessica. Both Ashley and Jessica sound worn out.
Chloe is concerned. "How are you guys? No offense but you look kind of worn."
Ashley answers this time. "Fat Amy and Bumper is what happened…"
Jessica picks up the thought, "They seem like they want a pair of assistants more than wedding planners. They take us with them everywhere…"
Ashley continues, "Don't get us wrong, they are paying us a huge fee, but we have definitely ended up working on non-wedding items. Those two are like whirlwinds, never stopping..."
Aubrey interrupts, "Wait, we're talking Fat Amy and Bumper right? The Fat Amy who found new and more creative ways to get out of cardio every practice."
Jessica nods, "Yeah, who would have guessed a motivated Fat Amy and Bumper will actually work for something they want?"
Everyone chuckles, and Ashley and Jessica look a little less frazzled. Emily asks, "So how goes the actual wedding planning?"
Both Ash"Ugh…"
"Ugh?"
Jessica looks chagrined as she answers, "Let's just say Fat Amy is as creative with her wedding, as she is with her punches."
All the gathered women let out a collective 'Oh', having experienced one of Amy's special punches at least once.
Ashley looks around the gathering and says, "They want the typical Bachelor and Bachelorette outings, but they also want to have a Bachelor and Spinster Ball. I guess it's an Australian tradition in the Outback."
"They also want organized activities surrounding the dress fittings, and the bridal shower," continues Jessica.
"Which isn't that bad, except they want it done before the show; while you all are all here," says Ashley.
Beca can only say, "Wow guys…"
Jessica gives a defeated look, "You know Amy; she has an interesting outlook on life…"
Ashley nods in agreement, "She's quite creative, and definitely has her own very original thoughts for her very own world."
"Which means we will be very busy."
Chloe gives them a soft supportive smile, "Maybe we can help. We're going to be going to all these events. Just ask if you need help."
"Thanks Chloe, it's a nice offer. We can always count on you," Ashley and Jessica both say. The rest of the Bellas agree, and the group falls into general conversation again
[*+*X*+*X*+*X*+*]
Over the next few minutes more and more people enter the room. Beca is impressed with how many people have been invited. She can see how many tables have been set-up but Beca didn't realize that every seat was going to be filled. She spies Jesse talking with Benji, who looks a little uncomfortable with the USC Boys, but is enduring.
Denise had just arrived and was walking over, and Lily had appeared a few minutes earlier, though no one saw her enter.
"Hey look, it's Donald and Unicycle," says Ashley.
"Looks like the Trebbles are having a similar reunion as us," adds Jessica.
"Benji said that a number of the Trebbles from the last six years are here. Bumper really did a lot of groveling and apologizing for his behavior at Barden, to convince them," says Emily.
Cynthia Rose points at a group of older men again. "Is that those Tone Hangers?"
Stacie sighs, "Yes," she rolls her eyes. "Should have known Bumper would get them here."
"Let's just keep Beca away from them," teases Aubrey.
Maria looks over at the older group, and asks, "Why?"
Cynthia Rose chuckles as she answers, "Let's just say one of them once learned Beca throws a wicked punch, and our little juvenile ended up with the moniker 'Shawshank'."
"That was over four years ago guys," Beca huffs.
Chloe leans over and pinches Beca's cheek, "It helped build the legend of 'Badass Beca', so of course it's going to be talked about."
Beca jerks away and glares at Chloe, who takes on an angelic innocent face.
Maria's still confused and asks Cynthia Rose, "Shawshank?"
"From the movie. It's a prison movie, and after Beca went to jail, Fat Amy bequeathed the moniker on her."
"Yeah, she was so helpful."
"What is that?" Aubrey asks as she points to the newest arrival through the double doors. The group all turn in time to see a bald man with a neatly trimmed beard zipping through the doors on a sleek metallic blue chrome motorized two-wheeled hoverboard. He doesn't look very comfortable riding on the device, as he makes his way towards the front, causing two of the USC Boys to jump out of the way.
Beca asks, "Is that?"
Stacie and Chloe answer simultaneously, "Yeah."
Aubrey looks about confused. "Who?"
Chloe answers, "It's the self proclaimed," she holds her hands up to do air quotes. "World's Biggest A Cappella Fan." As they watch, the man seems to lose balance slightly, and the motorized two-wheeled hoverboard veers suddenly to the left. The NBCUniversal representative who is walking, or rather jogging alongside, is forced to speed up, and almost gets run over as the hoverboard veers back to the right suddenly, the bald man waving his arms to keep his balance.
Stacie says, "Nice Halo GO hoverboard." At Aubrey's questioning expression, Stacie shrugs, "What, I want one." Aubrey just shakes her head.
Emily's jaw drops. "Oh EM Gee! It is the World's Biggest A Cappella Fan!"
"Calm down Legacy, remember he was a total douche to you." Beca reminds the younger girl.
Emily's enthusiasm visibly lessens. She had forgotten how he had made her feel when she screwed up during the competition. "Oh yeah…"
"I'm still not sure what you all are talking about," states Aubrey. As she watches the bald man has just completed a circle around the NBCUniversal representative, who looks terrified of being run over.
"Remember when I told you about the underground A Capella competion we went to as we prepared for World's?"
"You mean the one that sounded like the opening to a slasher movie?"
Stacie answers, "Yep, that's the one."
Beca points to the bald man who is riding a two-wheeled hoverboard into the room. He seems really pleased with himself and is calling and waving as if on parade. He swings over to where Bumper and Fat Amy are standing, but seems to miss the mark he was aiming for, and so instead starts to circumnavigate the room. "That was our host and emcee for the night."
Aubrey appraises the man, and says, "He only adds to the slasher movie feel, doesn't he?"
Stacie smiles, "Oh yeah."
Chloe shakes her head, "He wasn't that bad."
Beca jumps in, "Just super weird."
All the Bellas who attended the night said, 'Yeah', in unison.
Ashley is touching her chin with the tip of her finger, as she contemplates something she had heard earlier in the week. She speculates, "Fat Amy said something about having a big time A Capella fan as an additional producer and financial backer for the show."
They continue to watch the bald man riding about on the motorized two-wheeled hoverboard. He seems to have decided that since he missed the point he was hoping to stop, that he is going to parade around the room, welcoming everyone, even the Bellas as he zooms past. The women awkwardly wave back, and cringe as the man almost runs into a table, and then a chair, before narrowly missing a couple of the USC Boys, before coming to a stop next to Bumper.
While all their attention is on the 'World's Biggest A Cappella Fan' only Chloe notices the next group of arrivals. She feels her heart sink as she recognizes the tall German Amazon.
Kommissar!
Just the sight of the imperious woman makes Chloe's skin crawl. She hates how intimidating she finds the woman, and she especially hates how the woman affects Beca.
The statuesque blonde marches in with a purpose. Just to her right and back a step is her lieutenant, Pieter, and just behind, marching in pairs are four rows of Das Sound Machine members, men to the right, women to the left. Chloe can't help but be impressed with the military like precision the group moves in; each in step with the person they are next to.
"Das Sound Machine 2 o'clock," says Chloe stiffly. She stares straight ahead, trying not to make eye contact, hoping that DSM will just go to a table across the room. It's too late though, Kommissar and Pieter notice the Bellas, and are already making their way over.
"You're not going to tell her she's 'physically flawless' again?" Chloe asks Beca.
[*+*X*+*X*+*X*+*]
Beca closes her eyes momentarily, taking several deep breaths to calm her nerves. Previous run-ins with DSM and their giant blonde dominatrix leader had, let's say, not gone well. She clenches her teeth together as she turns to face the leader of Das Sound Machine. Lifting her eyes, she finds Kommissar standing directly in front of her. The tall blonde German lifts one eyebrow, her natural smugness shining through.
"Guten Tag, my feisty kleine maus." Kommissar says mockingly. "We meet again," staring down at Beca with pure unadulterated amusement.
"Kleine Maus?" Beca asks, even as she feels herself shrink under the blonde's intense scrutiny.
"It means Tiny Mouse." Pieter supplies as he steps up besides his team's captain.
"I know exactly what it means!" Beca snaps.
"For such a small thing," the tall German woman muses, "you have a lot of feuer, I mean fire. It's gut, it's still there."
Pieter chuckles and looks at Kommissar and quips, "You know, I had forgotten how small she really is."
Kommissar nods, "Ya, it is why she's my kleine Maus."
Chloe jumps in, declaring, "She's not your tiny little anything!" The Bellas all take a half-step back. There's no telling what is going to happen next. A cat fight between Chloe and Kommissar is not out of the question.
The tall German woman smirks at Chloe "You are still quite the angry feurig Knallkörper, and also still most entertaining."
At Chloe's confused look, Pieter helpfully adds, "Fiery Firecracker." He leers mischievously at the redhead. Chloe crosses her arms and glares at Kommissar.
Beca huffs, "I just thought we were past these silly juvenile games."
Kommissar shrugs, "But why? They are so fun."
Unable to really hold Kommissar's stare, Beca turns her attention to Pieter instead; figuring it would be safer to look at the obnoxious man, instead of the strangely alluring blonde woman.
The petite brunette tries to form words, but her mouth is suddenly cotton dry. She opens her mouth just to close it again as memories of past faceplants rumble through her head. Suddenly she's having a mental block. She can't come up with a retort, and she really hates when she can't get the last word in with the blonde amazon during their little back and forths.
Seeing that she still has such an amusing effect on the petite brunette, Kommissar presses Beca. "Haven't you missed our little games, Liebchen?"
"You wish, you gorgeous goddess" replies Beca, who made the mistake of looking back at the tall blonde woman. Her eyes grow to the size of saucers, and she clasps her hands over her mouth. She turns to Chloe, who is staring at her, and just shakes her head, stunned by Beca's words again. Kommissar blinks rapidly as she keeps her expression under tight control. Then she smiles in a manner which tells everyone she's amused, and confident that she's winning this 'little game'.
"Damn Beca, that woman really gets in your head," comments CR.
The German woman smiles stepping forward and leaning over so that her mouth is close to Beca's ear."Feisty as ever, meine kleine maus," Kommissar's German accent is thick in the DJ's ear. The blonde woman brings her hand up, letting her long fingers run up Beca's arm. The petite brunette swallows, trying to wet her dry mouth.
Beca finds herself babbling, "Your breath smells like vanilla." She winces as she hears the Bellas all groan.
Chloe shoots a displeased look at Kommissar and steps in Beca's direction. Kommissar notes the redhead's move and straightens up, keeping Beca's attention. The tall German woman smiles in a very predatory way, as she says in a condescending tone, "I guess you earned that right, did you not kleine maus. You defeated us... you-how did you say it? Kicked our ass?"
Pieter nods, "Ya, that was it; she was the kicker of the ass."
Kommissar nods and looks back down at Beca, "Ya, you were the kicker of the ass."
Beca hates how Kommissar and her toady Pieter make her feel, she speaks up, trying to overcome the confusing word vomit she usually spews in the presence of the intimidating blonde German. "That's right, the Bellas kicked your collective asses, beautiful!" The word just slips out of her mouth. The Bellas can be heard in the background letting out a collective 'Ughhh'.
Kommissar smiles at the compliment, Chloe slaps her forehead, while Beca's eyes widen in realization she's said, "Dammit! I have got to get you out of my head!" Mumbles Beca.
The Amazon like German smirks at Beca, her smug expression telling everyone she's in control, and again leans closer to Beca, "Oh, but my feisty mouse, I like being in your head." Beca blushes heavily. Beca then feels her cheek pinched between two fingers, and she jerks her head back, shooting the Amazon an indignant glare.
Chloe grabs Beca's upper arm and pulls her tiny DJ back away from the tall German blonde, placing the dazed girl behind her.
Ignoring the redhead and keeping her eyes fixed on Beca, Kommissar smirks and send the smaller woman a wink. When she notices the brunette swallowing hard she asks, "Do I make you nervous?"
Beca gulps loudly, shaking her head frantically in denial. "N-no, n-not at a-all."
"Yeah right…" whispers Cynthia Rose.
Kommissar gives a playful pout, "I just love these little games that we play. Don't you mause?"
"I-I, um—" Beca stutters out, her eyes connecting with the taller blonde's. With a smirk the taller woman pulls away and straightens up her stance. The two's eyes never stray from one another's, not even as Kommissar's male counterpart, Pieter, taps her on the shoulder, and gestures towards the front of the room where the rest of their group has migrated to.
"I would love to continue this conversation, perhaps later, maybe you could come by my suite?" Kommissar mocks, flashing Beca a wink.
"Forget it…" interjects Chloe, trying desperately to break this connection between Beca and the German.
The Kommissar ignores this as she straightens up. "Now, I must go rest my neck; it is getting, what is the word… a kink? Ya a kink from looking down on you," Kommissar says mockingly. She eyes Beca with a smug, predatory smirk on her lips. "Maybe you can help with this, kleine maus?" Beca blanches at that, wracking her brain for an equally witty comeback to dish out, but she has nothing.
"Not happening…" says Chloe. Refusing to be ignored.
"Perhaps, we'll let the maus decide." She continues to stare at Beca. "I'll see you later... meine kleine maus." Kommissar says, still smirking, The German does a military like about-face, turning on her heals, and she struts away.
The petite DJ finds her eyes frozen on the beautiful German woman, and can only watch as she saunters back to the rest if DSM with Pieter. Beca finds herself cursing out loud at another in a series of missteps, "Damnit!"
Closing her eyes, the flustered DJ counts backwards from ten. She needs a moment, if only for her sanity. Beca really doesn't need the catcalls and teasing that is sure to come from the Bellas; now that the blonde goddess Kommissar is back. And the Bellas will tease her, she knows they will, and she really can't deal with this right now. She really loves the Bellas but she doesn't need their sense of humor at this moment in time. Not with everything going on with Jesse, and what's happening between her and Chloe. Also buried at the back of her mind, is the worry of what this affect Kommissar has on her really means.
Beca jumps when Chloe nudges her, "Well at least you didn't call her physically flawless." Beca lets out a light chuckle, actually appreciating that the redhead wasn't ripping into her. She glances at Chloe, noticing the look on the redhead's face, and its combination of confusion and pain. She hates this and offers her fellow Bella a weak smile.
[*+*X*+*X*+*X*+*]
Chloe couldn't believe she had to sit through another encounter between Beca and the Amazonian German bitch. She really didn't need this right now. While Beca had her eyes closed and attempting to collect herself from another disastrous encounter with Kommissar, Chloe let the Bellas know in no uncertain terms they were not to tease Beca. Her silent glare letting everyone know that they would deal with a very angry ginger if they were to ignore her warning.
Even Aubrey had stepped back from Chloe's glare, not that she had been planning to tease the Hobbit anyway.
Giving Beca a gentle nudge with her shoulder, she attempts to lessen the tension she knows that her best friend is currently feeling. As she sees Beca's weak smile, and the slight blush, she knows she has Beca's gratitude, and she feels better.
Of course she's going to kill Fat Amy and Bumper for inviting Kommissar and DSM, without at least warning them.
A new group of people have just entered, and at first Chloe doesn't pay much attention, but then she realizes that there are some familiar faces in the crowd of women. As the group draws closer, Chloe is sure that she recognizes them, and as she focuses on the lead woman, her stomach drops for the second time today.
It can't be…
Can it?
She voices her concern outloud to the only person in this group of Bellas who will understand. "Wait, Aubrey is that? No, couldn't be… It is…"
Aubrey's head snaps up at the tense tone of Chloes' voice. "What are you talking about Chloe?" Aubrey follows where Chloe is pointing, and then freezes, mouth agape. Her eyes immediately focus on the smug brunette, who's sauntering over leading a group of nine other women.
Beca is confused, also noting the collection of women that are approaching. "What is it? Chloe? Aubrey?" She thinks there's something familiar about the small crowd of women, but she can't place a finger on what.
Both Aubrey and Chloe answer in unison. "It's our former Bella captain, Alice!"
Every Bella snaps their attention to the group of women, and the lead one in particular. Alice had taken on a mythical quality with the Bellas of Beca's and Chloe's captaincy years. Anyone who had had the ability to bully Aubrey was not someone to cross.
All the Bellas watch as Alice leads a group of eight women towards the Bellas. Chloe gasps, "That's Brittany Jackson, JoAnne Lee, Mary Stuart, Allison Scott, my God Aubrey, those are the Bellas from our Sophomore and Junior years."
Aubrey can't stop from blurting out, "What the hell is she and those bitches doing here?"
Chloe bites her bottom lip as a very intense brunette comes to a stop in front of Aubrey, Chloe, and Beca, with the haughtiness of an ice queen. The smirking brunette stares down at them, giving the three an appraising once over; features conveying the message that she's unimpressed. Behind her Beca notes the other women, who might as well be Stepford Wives, are all wearing the Bella's signature silk scarves. They form a half circle behind Alice, and each is sporting a serious resting bitch face.
"Hello Aubrey, hello Chloe. To answer your question, I was invited to participate in this competition."
Chloe can't help but blurt out. "For the love of god, why?"
Alice sneers at Chloe, "Because the producers know we have talent, and might win this competition; especially now that we don't have pukington here on the squad."
Aubrey lets the comment roll off of her, and instead chooses to smirk at her former Captain, "Missed you in Copenhagen Alice."
"Yes, like I was going to get myself caught up in Chloe's train wreck. It's a wonder you all managed to pull off the win over there."
"We did win Nationals, which you didn't Alice," Aubrey states rather confidently.
"Yes you did, but let's remember why we didn't win…" she brings her index finger to her chin, as if contemplating her statement. "Oh yes, we were sabotaged by pukey miss pukerson." Alice laces her accusatory words with mean girl malice.
Aubrey's mouth drops, and Chloe jumps in, "That's not fair, Alice…"
"Oh, the dingbat speaks. Finally able to graduate Chlo? I have to say I was shocked to see a Bella performance without you. Thought for sure I would see your dumb ass at Regionals again. Did you graduate or did they take pity on you and push you out?"
Chloe's mouth shuts. Beca balls her fists in anger, and goes to jump in,"Hey…"
Alice focuses her attention on the petite brunette as she sneers, "You really are as small as everyone says, aren't you?"
Chloe jumps in, "Alice…"
"Wow, intense much," observes Stacie.
"Oh yes the slut speaks. You did almost as much as these two," Alice points to Chloe and Aubrey, "to destroy the Bellas reputation."
"What did you call her?" Aubrey steps forward ready to slap Alice.
Stacie's gentle touch on her arm stops her. Aubrey looks at Stacie, who gives her a warm smile, and a slight shake of her head. "Not worth it. You think I'm scared of that word, or ashamed of who I am or what I've done?"
Aubrey looks at Stacie with deep intensity, but the soft smile that plays across the tall brunette's lips seems to release the anger that's building within the blonde.
Alice sees a weakness in Aubrey, and files that little bit of information away for future reference. "Ahh looks like the slut has someone wrapped around her little…"
Aubrey cuts Alice off before she can finish. "What are you doing here, Alice?" Her words are clipped, confident and formal. She's using the voice which makes everyone so confident that Aubrey Posen should be a lawyer. Her stare is poignant, and it latches onto Alice, forcing Alice to return her attention.
"I've come here to compete, Aubrey. You cost me a chance to win Nationals. We would have won if it wasn't for you. I'm going to prove it on this show."
"Well, we'll see about that," says Chloe, refusing to be intimidated by her former Captain.
"Yes we will." The intense brunette indicates the women behind her. "The Nueva Bellas and I plan on taking you down. Then all the Bellas will know that I would have been the first to lead the Bellas to a National Championship." With that Alice and her band of Stepford Wives turn, and march off to an empty table across the room.
"Dear God; I think I might lose my lunch." Aubrey says with a head shake in disgust
"Been there, seen that," Cynthia Rose says, and everybody starts to nod their heads.
"Wow, this Alice is one world class Bitch," observes Maria. "Who is she?"
"She was Aubrey and Chloe's Bella Captain," says Emily. "My mother told me about her. The Bellas have often had rather bitchy Captains, but I guess Alice kind of took the cake."
"She and her little band of Mean Girls, were the only Bellas that refused to come to Denmark for the World's competition," adds Ashley.
Jessica nods and says, "Yeah, I mean other Bellas couldn't make it, but Alice actually laughed and hung up on me."
Aubrey is still seething, "Alice is such a BITCH; and nothing but. I don't know how anyone can be like her. How can any single person accumulate so much hate, yet still function in society?"
Stacie shrugs "Personally I would simply go mad."
Lily makes a comment about 'collecting hate in jars', but no one is sure.
"So Aubrey, what do you think about my invite list?" Bumper asks as he makes his way over. His face is smug, as he thinks back to their years of rivalry at Barden, he's really enjoying this moment.
Aubrey gives Bumper a tight smile. Holding her back straight, shoulders back, chin up. "It's fine Bumper."
He tilts his head to an angle and asks, "It's not going to be a problem, is it?" He exaggerates the concern in his voice, making a mockery of any pretense at caring.
Aubrey squares herself on Bumper, making sure to look him in the eye. "It's fine Bumper." Her words are short, crisp and to the point.
Though he was hoping for more, Bumper can tell he's under the blonde's skin. "Thought you and Chloe would love the reunion."
Chloe steps up next to her blonde best friend. In a sugary sweet voice she says, "We appreciate the thought and care you put into this, Bumper."
He grins mischievously. "Nice side story for the show. Am I right? As a producer, I have to think about these things."
Aubrey gives him a pointed look, "Don't flatter yourself Bumper."
As the confrontation between Aubrey and Bumper is taking place Beca makes a beeline for Fat Amy who had walked over with her fiance.
The boisterous blonde Australian sees the determined look on her best friend's face and tries to defuse the situation. "Hey Shawshank! What's up my fun-sized leader? You're looking really serious. Like chicken farmer when a dingo is around."
"Amy!" Beca explodes, hands clenching and unclenching at her sides as she tries to work through her anger.
Beca steps right in front of her Tasmanian friend, crossing her arms and giving the blonde a steady glare. "What the hell Amy!? You invited DSM!?"
"I'm as shocked as anyone, shortstuff." Amy's expression is that of a person who has no idea what she's done wrong and doesn't understand why she's being yelled at.
"Riiighhtt…" The shorter brunette gives the blonde an incredulous look.
"Honestly short stack…"
"Really Amy?"
The blonde Australian gives her most innocent look, even as her mind drifts back a few days...
"You invited DSM?" Amy asks out loud as she looks over the invite list they had to provide the NBCUniversal representatives.
Bumper looks up from his laptop, where he's working on their presentation, and smiles mischievously, "Of course." He says it like it should be self evident. "They're really good, as you well know. They have a decent chance of winning the competition." His smile grows as he continues, "It will also help us sell this show to European markets."
Amy scrunches her eyebrows and looks doubtfully at her fiancé. "And will drive Shawshank and the Ginger crazy."
Bumper tries to look innocent, but can't help but chuckle. A devilish spark can be seen in his eyes as he winks at his fiancé, "That's just a side benefit." He closes his laptop and walks over to the couch that Amy is sitting on.
"Bumper, don't be a bogan," Amy says exasperated as he sits down next to her.
Bumper pulls back from Amy, "A what?"
"A bogan, an uncultured lout." Fat Amy says this as if it is self evident, and Bumper should know it.
He responds with a wide smile, "Isn't that what we are?"
Amy has to concede, "Yeah, you're right… Still this could be..."
"Ames… You know I'm right…" He gives a quick kiss to the cheek.
Amy rolls her eyes, actually rather well, having learned from the best, her senior year roommate. She ignores as he nuzzles his nose into her throat, just below her ear. "You're right," she concedes. Amy continues looking at the invite list, as Bumper runs small kisses down the side of her neck. She's about to to succumb to his advances when something catches her eye. She stops and rereads before asking, "Who the hell is Alice, and why do you have five stars behind it?"
Bumper pulls back from kissing the top of her right breast, and grins. "That's to drive Aubrey crazy."
"Blimey Bumper!"
"What?' Bumper throws his hands up as if warding her off. He tries his best to look completely innocent.
A thought strikes Amy, "Wait, is this Alice, former Bella Captain?"
"Of pukegate fame, yes." His devilish smirk firmly back.
"Bumper…" She gives him a pointed look.
"Ames…" Bumper returns the look.
"This could be heaps trouble…"
"Yeah, but it could also be Entertainment Gold!" He really stresses the last two words. "Come on Amy. It'll be fun. For a show like this you need drama, and these additions will give it drama. It's never just about the music. What was always one of the most popular parts of 'American Idol'?" Bumper asks.
Amy just shrugs her shoulders.
"It was the tryouts. Yeah people want to see the performance and hear the music, but before that they want to see the flubs, the people who fall on their face, and the drama."
Amy couldn't deny Bumper's argument. Seeing that he was having success with this line of reasoning, he makes one final push. "Look, we'll make sure no one gets hurt, but don't you kinda want to see what happens? How Beca handles being in the same room as that German dominatrix? How the Fire Crotch handles her Smurfette losing it? How the Aca-Nazi responds to her very own Aca-Nazi? It's going to be hilarious, and it's going to be television worthy drama," he contends as his final argument.
"I reckon," Amy concedes. As she thinks more about it, she gains her own devilish smirk, and then Amy starts to laugh out loud as she pictures the potential antics. Watching Beca fall over herself as she spews word vomit is always very entertaining. "Come here my loveable bogan," She declares as she pulls Bumper in for a kiss and says okay.
Amy is rudely pulled out of that very fond memory by Beca who is now in full on angry Koala mode.
"Amy! You claim to be my best friend, and pull this crap!"
"I swear Shawshank, I had no idea DSM would be here." Amy laces her words with as much sincerity as she can muster, though she is looking up and to the left, not quite able to meet her shorter friend's intense glare.
The smaller brunette narrows her eyes as searches her Australian friend's face for any indication of deception. It doesn't take her long to spot all the signs. She releases her breath in exasperation. For some reason, Fat Amy being such a horrendous liar actually takes the wind out of Beca's anger. "She shakes her head. "Amy…"
Amy hears the disappointment and drops her head, she asks point blank, "Is this going to be an issue Beca?"
Beca stares hard at Amy as she mulls the answer. Finally she confidently replies, "Nope." Beca really pops the 'P' in her answer. "No issue. I mean, why would there be an issue?"
"Lesbihonest. Shawshank, tall blonde and Aryan and you…"
"So help me god Amy, don't you even think to finish that statement. If you want my forgiveness, you will drop it now." Beca puts steel into her statement and Fat Amy believes her.
Amy stood to attention with a quick "Yes sir! Ma'am! Right…" She mumbles as she salutes her former miniature Captain.
"Amy," Beca says warningly. She wants her boisterous friend to take this seriously. This can't be one of the Australian's little larks, where she thinks it's just a joke, but someone gets hurt.
Amy sobers a little more, "Sorry Shawshank."
Beca looks over at Chloe as she takes a deep breath. Chloe gives her a warm reassuring smile, which helps Beca to settle. With measured patience Beca slowly exhales out as she internally counts to ten. It's a trick Chloe had taught her in her sophomore year, for when she was dealing with the Bellas. It was a trick which she had often had to use with her blonde Australian friend. "Amy, I really need you to take this seriously…"
"No really sorry Shawshank, no time for this now. I have a presentation to get ready for," says the blonde Australian as she starts moving towards the front of the room.
Beca is shocked at the quick departure, and takes a second to recover, "Amy!" Beca hisses at the retreating woman, trying not to make a scene. Suddenly two arms encircle Beca, and Jesse rests his chin on her shoulder. "Becaw!"
[*+*X*+*X*+*X*+*]
Chloe watches Fat Amy beat a hasty retreat from Beca as she makes her way back over to her best friend. She wants to make sure her tiny DJ is okay after her latest round with the blonde demon lead of DSM, but as she's approaching she see's Jesse wrap his two arms around Beca, and it causes her to come up short.
"Becaw!"
Chloe grimaces as Beca rolls her eyes. Chloe knows Beca really doesn't like that term of affection Jesse had adopted during their freshman year. Has never really liked it; but Jesse's never really believed his girlfriend doesn't secretly love it.
Chloe really isn't in the mood for Jesse right now, but knows it's not her place to say anything. She decides that she has to be the bigger person and suck it up for her best friend. She goes to say something but slows for a half heartbeat when she notes Jesse give Beca an extra squeeze with the arms he has around her, but the pause is slight, and she says, "Hey Jesse. How are you doing?"
The look of triumph on his face is easy to discern. "I'm great Chloe! Never been better. This has been an incredible week, and I expect it to only get better." Jesse is bouncing with excitement as he refocuses on Beca, "Hey babe, the presentation is about to start, shall we make our way to the table?" He gestures to a table across the room where his buddies are sitting. "Saved you and Emily a seat…"
Cynthia Rose looks at Jesse in confusion then asks her shorter friend, "You're not sitting with us Beca?"
Jesse looks at Cynthia and answers, "Well we're supposed to sit with our teams." He turns and looks at Chloe. Judging her response to his announcement. He sees her face drop and his expression changes to a very satisfied smirk.
Letting out a deep sigh Beca answers, "Yeah, uhh, guys, Emily and I are not competing with your team…"
[*+*X*+*X*+*X*+*]
Beca's been worrying about this moment for the last few days, and her anxiety had only worsened as she entered the auditorium like conference room. She had felt a bit better on the elevator ride up when Chloe took her hand. That simple gesture had told Beca it would be alright, but once they had been pulled apart her anxiety had come back; with a vengeance!
The gathering crowd of Bellas only adding to her stress,she had had another spectacular flame out in the face of Kommissar.
Now the Bellas knew about her decision, but what was worse is she hadn't even been the one to tell them. It had been Jesse again, who had revealed her choice, because she was to chicken to come out and own up to her decision. Beca knows she's been feeling guilty about where her relationship with Jesse currently is. She knows he wants more, to take the next step; the natural step. Beca couldn't help wondering just how much this fact has been influencing her decision about the competition. She has a feeling that this guilt is THE overriding factor in influencing her decision.
Yet Beca had been hesitant. Hesitant with everything; hesitant to commit to Jesse, hesitant to move on from the Bellas, hesitant to tell the Bellas she would be competing against them. And this hesitancy was making the situation worse.
But was this perceived guilt enough reason to betray her friends?
And would it in fact be a betrayal?
Chloe has been understanding, of course Chloe always has her back. Chloe is always there for her, Beca knows she can always count on Chloe to have her best interest at heart. It's one of the things she loves about Chloe. But what about the rest of the Bellas? Would they be as accepting?
Of course they would. Wouldn't they?
Now was when she's going to learn.
Ashley and Jessica both ask simultaneously, "You're leaving the team Beca?"
Cynthia Rose steps forward, "What is he talking about Cap?"
Lily mumbles something, the words 'honor' and 'seppuku' are faintly heard. Everyone ignores her as usual.
Denise looks at Chloe and asks, "This is a joke right?"
Beca looks down briefly, gathering her thoughts, unsure how to respond, feeling waves of guilt from the pit of her stomach. Beca shifts from foot to foot, eyeing the Bellas awkwardly, though still attempting to avoid looking at Chloe right at this moment. Knowing the look on the redhead's face would match the one from Monday night. That look already seared into Beca's memory.
If she saw that look again, Beca's sure she might break down right here, right now. Which is something she'd really like to avoid.
"Jesse can you give me a minute?" He looks at her reluctantly, so she says in a firmer voice. "We'll be over in a couple minutes." She gives him a rather pointed stare, and he finally takes the hint and walks over to the table where his buddies have set-up.
Turning back to her best friends and family, Beca concedes, "So yeah, umm… I meant to tell you, but…" She waves her hands about, "everything got a bit crazy over the last few minutes…"
Chloe jumps in, "Beca and Emily have a chance to compete with their boyfriends, and we should be happy for them. This isn't college anymore, and while it'll be great to win this, I'm only here to have a chance to see all of you again. Both Emily and Beca will still be here. They just won't be competing with us on stage. SO EVERYTHING IS FINE." Chloe leaves no room for argument.
Everyone takes in Chloe's look, and knows now is not the time to argue.
"Well, can't say I'm not disappointed to be competing with you, but it could be fun competing against you Cap," says Cynthia as she steps forward and hugs Beca.
"Yeah Beca, good luck, we'll make you proud as we kick your butt," says Jessica as she steps forward, hugging Beca.
"You know you trained us too well. We are going to take you down," adds Ashley, coming in for a hug just after Jessica.
"I'm bummed, I only got to compete with you the first year. But we'll make you proud Beca," says Denise.
Lily comes in for a hug and whispers "I can drop Jesse off in North Korea, just say the word." Beca coughs, and says that won't be necessary.
"You know we're not going to go easy on you Hobbit," says Aubrey as she hugs Beca.
"Bring it you Aca-Nazi," responds Beca with a sad smile. She's desperately fighting back tears that are beginning to pool in her eyes.
"Oh we will Hobbit." Aubrey pulls back, giving Beca a reassuring squeeze.
Stacie comes in for her hug. Beca finds her face planted between her the taller woman's breasts. "Stacie your ginormous boobs!" She manages to get out in a hiss as her face is planted into rather spectacular cleavage.
"Shhh shortstack, I need to get something out of this sad moment. An 'accidental motor-boating from you will have to suffice."
"Stacie!" Beca, Chloe, and Aubrey all hiss.
Stacie shrugs, "What, a girl has to do what a girl has to do." She looks seriously at her best friend, "We understand what's going on. Don't worry, we have your back. Bellas for life."
Beca now does have tears running down her cheeks. "Thanks Stace."
Then it's Chloe standing in front of her, and all the resolve Beca has managed to piece together dissolves. Yet the redhead gives her a reassuring smile, and takes her thumb and wipes away the tear. "So, I'll see you at home?'
The just randomness of this everyday statement catches Beca off-guard and she bursts out laughing. Chloe pulls her in tight and whispers, "It's all going to be okay Becs." She rubs Beca's back and continues, "I meant what I said, we'll see you every day of filming, and with the wedding stuff, and Emily and I'll see you at home. This isn't goodbye. This is just us wishing you luck before we kick your ass in the competition."
Beca pulls back, she sniffs, "Thanks Chlo; I needed that."
Chloe pulls her in close, and for a second Beca wonders if Chloe is going to kiss her, and she finds there's a spark of hope. Yet Chloe only rests her forehead against hers, and Beca remembers the night of her first Hood Party, her Freshman year. Even the words Chloe whispers, "We're FAST FRIENDS Beca, nothing is ever going to change that." The redhead then pulls back and gives Beca a quick kiss to the forehead. "Of course we definitely have to kick Kommissar's and Alison's butts first though."
Beca chuckles at this, and nods, "Of course…"
The Bellas have all given Emily similar hugs, and with a nod to Beca, the two of them leave the Bellas and head to where Jesse and Benji are waiting.
[*+*X*+*X*+*X*+*]
A/N: Sorry for the delay, again. This chapter just continued to grow.
Please don't hate the direction it has taken. I just felt it was a natural progression, as Beca figures out what she wants.
Please let me know what you all think. Reviews are the best!