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.

26. PP3 - Chapter 26 - Karaoke

A/N: Hello Pitch Perfect Fans! Here's is the newest chapter

I really appreciate the response to this story. It has made writing it so much better.

Thanks to everyone for reading, and please leave a review; they really are helpful.

Disclaimer: As always, I do not own any rights to Pitch Perfect or any of the characters, but I do love them.

CHAPTER 26

***Karaoke Night***

"Fat Amy, where exactly are you taking us?," Aubrey asks for what seems like the fiftieth time this night. "My feet are getting sore in these new shoes. Is it much further?"

All the Bellas nod in agreement. All are dressed to the nines in brand new outfits Fat Amy had provided them. They had gone to a salon after the dress fitting, where everyone had had their hair and nails done. Then the limousine had taken them to a hip French/Asian fusion restaurant. Now they were going to some Karaoke bar.

The boisterous Aussie points to the next building with a huge smile. "Karaoke night, my beautiful pitches!," she shouts at the top of her lungs as she leads the Bellas up the sidewalk to the front door of the bar.

"Why didn't we take the limo from the restaurant?," Cynthia Rose asks.

"Yeah, Amy," Stacie says, "What happened to the limo?"

"It was called to do another pickup," Jessica says.

"Doesn't Fat Amy and Bumper own that limo?," Maria asks.

"Yeah, she does," CR says.

"It doesn't matter, Pitches, because we are here," Fat Amy declares.

"This place is a karaoke bar?," Aubrey asks with a raised eyebrow. It actually looks pretty upscale.

Jessica nods, "Yeah, we found it for Fat Amy. Ashley and I checked it out. It's a great place."

Hearing this Emily claps and shouts, "I'm soooo excited to go to a karaoke bar!" Her declaration is excited as she processes the thought in her head, grinning happily and clasping her hands together when she realizes what they are going to do for the rest of the night.

Ashley looks at Aubrey and assures her, "This is a top-class karaoke bar." The place does look nice from the outside.

"I trust you," Aubrey assures the wedding planner. "You and Jessica have done an AMAZING job pulling all this together."

"Yeah, you have done an amazing job with everything," Chloe says as she looks at Beca. Beca is looking especially beautiful at the moment. The stylist at the salon had styled Beca's hair to be down, in big loose curls, and done her eyes in a smoky black that winged out into an edgy cat's eye style. It was like an updated version of Beca's freshman look.

Ashley and Jessica positively beam at the praise.

"Well let's get this started!," Stacie declares.

Amy crosses her arms and looks at her collected friends. "Well, what are we all gawking out here for?" Jessica and Ashley open the door to the bar, music pouring outside, a halfway decent singer can be heard singing from within.

The Bellas start towards the line of people waiting to get into the club, but Jessica directs them to the VIP door.

"That's right! Future star coming through! Let's go and get drunk off our asses, and sing till they toss our collective asses out!" The robust Australian exclaims as she passes through the double doors.

The Bellas are all smiles as they cut the line and head into the club, which is already pulsating with music. They all follow behind Ashley and Jessica, since they both seem to know where they are going.

Upon entering, Ashley points to a section just between the bar and the karaoke stage, "I reserved us a group of tables near the front."

"We also set it up so we have priority with the karaoke stage," Jessica says.

"How did you do that?," Emily asks.

Jessica and Ashley hold up their hands and rub their fingers against their thumbs, in the universal hand gesture of money. Emily's eyes widen in question, but the two wedding planners simply shrug in response.

The Bellas all move towards the tables Ashley had indicated. Fat Amy gives Ashley and Jessica a nod, and the two head to the bar to make sure things are the way they set them up.

"Hot damn!," exclaims CR looking about the large main room that makes up the club. "Now this is what I'm talking about."

"Are you going to serenade me Cyn?," Maria asks, fluttering her eyes at her wife.

"You know it babe," CR says, capturing her wife's lips in a quick kiss.

Chloe slides up to Beca and pulls her in tight to her side. "Karaoke, Becs! This is going to be aca-awesome!"

"You think Chlo?"

"Of course, with this crowd of singers, especially you and Legacy…"

"And you Chlo."

"Not nearly in your league."

"Oh, I don't know, I happen to think you may have the best voice of all of us…"

"Save for me, Shawshank, save for me…"

Beca rolls her eyes at Fat Amy's interruption and continues, "I guarantee you're going to bring the house down tonight."

Chloe feels such a wave of happiness at Beca's words; she happily takes Beca's hands and pulls her towards the bar. Chloe's grin positively radiating her happiness. Looking around, the redhead feels her heart want to leap out of her throat just at how happy she is tonight.

"So, what's the plan now?," Cynthia Rose asks.

"Now we start drinking and singing," Fat Amy declares loudly. A waitress shows up at this moment and shot glasses are lined around the table, filled to the brim with tequila. Small bowls of limes are placed in the middle, along with salt. With a small cheer, everyone moves forward to grab their glasses and take their shots.

"Daaaaaaamn, you girls hooked us up!," Cynthia Rose gushes.

"To Fat Amy!," everyone sings out before tapping their glasses and drinking the shots back.

"Alright ya lot of flat butts! Tonight is all about having fun, so who's going first?," Fat Amy asks, as she slams down the glass, then looks around expectantly.

All the Bellas look around at each other, finally ending back on Fat Amy, who is the ringmaster of this circus. "Ughh, you Pitches can be so disappointing at times," Fat Amy laments with a shake of her head.

Stacie stands up. "It's okay Ames, I think I'm up for the challenge." She then looks over at Jessica and Ashley. "I think I could use a bit of backup. You up for it?"

"I know I am," answers Jessica, who looks to Ashley.

"Always," answers the brunette with a grin that would do Chloe proud.

All the rest of the Bellas hoot and holler as the trio make their way to the Karaoke MC. Stacie struts up to the MC like she owns the place, and the way she looks, few doubt she couldn't make it happen if she tried. She whispers something to the twenty-something man, which makes him blush. He nods quickly and presents the music catalog.

The statuesque brunette skims the playlist quickly, but must have something in mind, because she makes her selection within seconds.

She takes the offered microphone and gives the MC a wink. Aubrey isn't sure why she feels a cold pit in her stomach, or she does, but wants to ignore it at the moment. Jessica and Ashley also select microphones and take up positions to either side and a few feet back. They nod when Stacie asks if they are ready, then she nods to the MC.

Stepping to the front of the stage, Stacie definitely attracts attention. Stacie's always a knockout, but her stylist at the salon had taken it up a notch. He had dressed her in an extremely tight green number that ends just above mid-thigh, while being cut super low in front to take advantage of her potential for cleavage. The stylist had paired the ensemble with a pair of four inch black stilettos.

Basically, Stacie looks like a sex goddess.

Or at least that's what Aubrey thinks.

Stacie directs a wink to Aubrey just as the music starts. The blonde Bella would deny it, but the move does set her stomach a flutter.

Don't be so quick to walk away

Jessica and Ashley sing the refrain.

(Dance with me)
I wanna rock your body, please stay (Dance with me)

Stacie starts moving on the stage, basically a strut, one direction, and then the other.

You don't have to admit you wanna play (Dance with me)

Ashley and Jessica mirror her motions. They really are quite talented as backup singers and dances.

Just let me rock you till the break of day (Dance with me)

"Stacie really is bringing sexy back," comments Beca, with a hint of admiration.

Chloe is a little caught off by this comment coming from Beca but nods as she cheers Stacie on.

Got time, but I don't mind
Just wanna rock you, girl
I'll have whatever you have
Come on let's give it a whirl

Stacie used to spice up her workouts by incorporating provocative dance moves she had seen in sexy music videos. She was putting that experience into use for this performance.

See, I've been watchin' you
And I like the way you move
So go 'head, girl, just do it
That ass shakin' thing you do

"Cyn, we might have to invite Stacie on another vacation. Maybe to that island that caters to the more hedonistic flavors."

Cynthia Rose, nods, her mouth dry, and has to take a drink before she can simply answer, "Yeah."

"She's busy that week," Aubrey growls."

So, you grab your girls and you grab a couple more
And you all could meet me in the middle of the floor

With her back to the Bellas, Stacie bends over, keeping her legs straight, winking at Aubrey through her legs.

Aubrey's eyes open in shock at the busty brunette's newest move, before she can even comprehend what she is seeing.

Said the air is thick, it's smellin' right
So you pass to the left, then you sail to the right

"We haven't set a date," CR says to Aubrey. Her eyes never leaving the model, who had just turned so everyone is checking out her ass.

"She's busy!," asserts Aubrey, emphatically.

"Maybe, Cyn, we should invite both," suggests Maria, casting an appreciative eye towards the high-strung blonde. "That would be quite…" Maria licks her lips, "fun."

Don't be so quick to walk away (Dance with me)
I wanna rock your body, please stay (Dance with me)
You don't have to admit you wanna play (Dance with me)
Just let me rock you till the break of day (Dance with me)

Aubrey let's out a strangled sound, turns her head back towards the stage, and downs her Scotch in one gulp. Stacie notices, and smiles devilishly on the stage, as she moves into a very sexy squatting pose, her eyes never leaving the object of her desire.

I don't mean no harm
Just wanna rock you, girl
We could move, but we
Let's go, let's give it a whirl

Stacie gives Aubrey a quick wink which makes her already thumping heart beat even faster making her feel like she is going to pass out.

See, it appears to me
You like the way I move
I tell you what I'm gon' do
Pull you close to share my groove

Beca and Chloe share a knowing look with each other. They know tonight is going to be epic and are excited.

Stacie is channeling all of her desire with the sexy dance moves she is performing. It's quite the show.

Don't be so quick to walk away (Dance with me)
I wanna rock your body, please stay (Dance with me)

Glancing back at Aubrey subtly, Stacie makes sure her former captain is watching as she stretches her legs, strutting around the stage. She smirks in satisfaction at the smoldering look Aubrey is casting her way.

You don't have to admit you wanna play (Dance with me)
Just let me rock you till the break of day (Dance with me)

Stacie drops it down in a very sexy dance move, letting her hands travel over herself as she straightens back up.

So, what did you come here for {I came to dance with you}
You don't wanna hit the floor {Get some romance with you}
Been searchin' for love for evermore {I'll take a chance}
If love is here on the floor, girl

Stacie again slowly, seductively dances her way around the small stage. She's putting on quite the show, pulling the audience into her sexual web, though there's only one prey tonight.

Yeah
Dance with me
Yeah
Come on, baby

Stacie is really getting into the performance now, all the while letting her body roll with the music.

Don't be so quick to walk away (I was just thinkin' of you)
Don't be so quick to walk away (We could do somethin')
Don't be so quick to walk away (I like the way you look right now)
Don't be so quick to walk away (Come over here, baby)

Stacie stops in the middle of the stage, again centered on Aubrey, and starts rolling and moving to the music, in a solo dance for the ages. She lets her hands roam over her curves in a way that has everyone mesmerized.

Are you feelin' me
Let's do somethin'
Let's make a bet
'Cause I-I bet I'll have you naked by the end of this song

Stacie ends the song on stage, directly in front of Aubrey, their eyes locked. The brunette arches her right eyebrow in question as she sings the last lyrics in a decidedly huskier voice. Aubrey visibly swallows.

It takes the audience a second to realize the performance is over, so Stacie is halfway back to the Bellas' table before the deafening roar of approval. Stacie just smiles in appreciation.

Ashley and Jessica stay up on the stage as Stacie saunters back, and it's definitely a saunter. Her eyes never leave Aubrey's, who goes to take another drink, to wet her suddenly very dry mouth. When she finds the glass empty, she immediately stands up. It almost looks like she's leaping from her seat, and makes an excuse about needing a refill. Stacie doesn't even break stride as she changes direction, following her former captain towards the bar.

Beca looks at Chloe and asks, "Is it bad that I find such entertainment in the interactions of Aubrey and Stacie?" She watches as Stacie slides up next to Aubrey at the bar, and even from this distance, you can see the tense blonde actually manages to look stiffer. "I mean it is so damn fun."

Chloe laughs out loud, and playfully slaps Beca's arm. "Yes, yes, it is," she answers, and then admits, "I'm just as guilty."

"Now that's what I'm talking about ladies," Fat Amy declares. "Legs has set the bar. She'll probably be the closest to being as sexy as me, but I expect all of you to give it your best shot." Fat Amy pointedly looks at Beca as she reiterates, "Every one of you."

Chloe hugs Beca, who is grumbling about being picked on.

The MC comes forward, "Okay folks, we next have a duet, so give it up for," he looks at his card, "Ashley and Jessica."

Jessica starts singing first.

Baby seems we never ever agree
You like the movies
And I like T.V.

Ashley faces her best friend and replies.

I take thing serious
And you take 'em light
I go to bed early

"This really is the perfect song for those two," Chloe says to the table. Everyone nods their head.

Jessica sings the next portion.

And I party all night
Our friends are sayin'
We ain't gonna last

With a huge grin, Ashley jumps in.

Cuz I move slowly

Jessica smirks as she sings back to her best friend.

And baby I'm fast

Ashley faces the audience and belts out.

I like it quiet

Jessica mirrors the movement and sings loudly.

And I love to shout

Together both women are singing their hearts out and dancing like mad facing each other. The pair are looking like true pop stars, their voices merging astoundingly well after years singing backup together.

But when we get together
It just all works out

Both women start doing a dance move that the Bellas recognize from a back in their college days. It's choreography that the pair had come up with for a charity talent show the school had put on. They both sing together.

I take-2 steps forward
I take-2 steps back
We come together
Cuz opposites attract
And you know-it ain't fiction
Just a natural fact
We come together
Cuz opposites attract

Both women sing together in perfect harmony.

Who'd a thought we could be lovers

Emily asks the table, "Is that true? Are they lovers?"

Everyone shrugs. "We've never seen them with anyone else, and they have roomed together for the last few years," Cynthia Rose says.

"But we've never found out how close they really are," Fat Amy adds.

I take-2 steps forward
I take-2 steps back
We come together
Cuz opposites attract
And you know-it ain't fiction
Just a natural fact
We come together
Cuz opposites attract

"I've just always assumed they make each other happy and in the end, that's all that matters," Chloe says to Emily.

Baby ain't it somethin'
How we lasted this long
You and me
Provin' everyone wrong
Don't think we'll ever
Get our differences patched
Don't really matter
Cuz we're perfectly matched

For some reason Beca really likes Chloe's answer, and it gives her a weird sense of hope.

I take-2 steps forward
I take-2 steps back
We come together
Cuz opposites attract
And you know-it ain't fiction
Just a natural fact
We come together
Cuz opposites attract

The Bellas lead the ovations for Ashley and Jessica as they come to the end of their song.

"Great job you two, I have Jello shots to celebrate, my Pitches!" Amy's exuberance is infectious.

Lily Sings

"Who's next?," Maria asks the table.

Her wife looks up at the Karaoke MC and sees a familiar person. "I think it's Lily," CR says, pointing at the eerily quiet Asian woman who has procured a microphone.

She stands there perfectly still, and completely quiet, and the audience doesn't know what to make of it. She remains perfectly still, and makes no move to begin singing. She's absolutely silent.

"What's she doing?," Fat Amy complains in a stage whisper. "She's ruining the vibe we were starting to build." Amy looks around the bar and she can see that more and more of the other patrons are noticing the silent Korean woman just standing on the stage. There's a growing murmur among the audience as they begin to discuss among themselves what is going on. Everyone is trying to figure it out. The Bellas at the table are trying to sit lower, and not be noticed.

"Beca, do something," Fat Amy says.

"Oh no, I'm not going to disturb Lily when she's in one of these states," Beca answers emphatically.

"Legacy," Fat Amy is almost whining now.

"No way," intercedes Chloe. "We are not sending Legacy up there."

"Then you go," Fat Amy responds. "Being a soulless Ginger might offer protection."

Chloe rolls her eyes, always amazed how many ways Fat Amy has brought up her hair color. She nods and starts to get up, but then Beca is jumping out of her seat. The petite brunette tells the table, "I'll go…"

"Beca…"

"No Chloe," Beca holds up her hand. "I'm the Maid-of-Honor. My responsibility."

Then suddenly it's moot, because for whatever reason, Lily starts beat-boxing. It's not noticeable at a conscious level at first, but suddenly all the Bellas realize they are hearing Lily beatbox.

The Bellas share smiles as they listen to the amazing sounds coming from the young Asian woman.

"Oh, this is gonna be fun," CR comments.

Lily keeps building sound on sound, making the most amazing sounds. She then begins to hop in place, bouncing higher and higher, and then she starts to sing.

Alright, alright…

Alright, alright…

Between singing, Lily urges the crowd up out of their seats.

Alright, alright, it's a hell of a feeling though
It's a hell of a feeling though
Alright, alright, it's a hell of a feeling though
It's a hell of a feeling though

Everyone can only stare open mouthed as the usually silent Korean sings; her voice rich and full. She stops hopping and seems to address the crowd via her singing.

Who are these people?
I just woke up in my underwear
No liquor left on the shelf
I should probably introduce myself

Lily begins to move in time with the music around the stage.

You shoulda' seen what I wore
I had a cane and a party hat
I was the king of this hologram
Where there's no such thing as getting out of hand
Memories tend to just pop up
Drunk pre-meds and some rubber gloves
Five-thousand people with designer drugs
Don't think I'll ever get enough (don't think I'll ever get enough)

Lily is doing a simple dance, but it's lively. She dances all around the stage in a full circle. Faster and faster her feet fly, and to the Bellas surprise the eerily quiet Asian woman laughs as she skips about gaily.

Champagne, cocaine, gasoline
And most things in between
I roam the city in a shopping cart
A pack of camels and a smoke alarm

At this point, Lily's upper body seems to be completely still, while her legs are moving; her feet dancing in time to the beats. It's a lot like the River Dance style of music.

The beat of the music pulses through her limbs. With a quick step she twirls around, bouncing back and forth.

This night is heating up
Raise hell and turn it up
Saying "If you go out you might pass out in a drain pipe"
Oh yeah, don't threaten me with a good time

Lily again dance skips her way around the small stage. Her movements fun and energetic, just like the song. She sways wider, and wider, adding her arms to the beat.

It's a hell of a feeling though
It's a hell of a feeling though
Alright, alright
It's a hell of a feeling though
It's a hell of a feeling though

The crowd has fed off of Lily's frenetic pace and, at the young woman's urging, all shout out the lyrics.

CHAMPAGNE, COCAINE, GASOLINE
And most things in between
I roam the city in a shopping cart
A pack of camels and a smoke alarm

The crowd lets out whoops of excitement.

I'm a scholar and a gentleman
And I usually don't fall when I try to stand
I lost a bet to a guy in a Chiffon skirt
But I make these high heels work
I've told you time and time again
I'm not as think as you drunk I am
And we all fell down when the sun came up
I think we've had enough

Lily begins to kick out her legs, placing her hands on the floor, then slides onto her back.

The crowd cheers.

With a kick, Lily is spinning about, folding onto her hands, then her shoulder, and then with a twist she is on her back, then on her other shoulder, as her legs spin in the air above her.

The crowd cheers louder.

In a fluid motion, she's back up and singing.

Alright, alright, it's a hell of a feeling though
It's a hell of a feeling though
Alright, alright, it's a hell of a feeling though
It's a hell of a feeling though

Then she's back down again, around again, shoulder, back, shoulder, and then up on her head, and with a twist of her hips she is spinning and spinning. Then down on her shoulders for a boost of momentum, then back on her head, spinning, spinning. Then in an amazing athletic move she sprung back to her feet.

The Bellas stare open mouthed, the crowd roars.

CHAMPAGNE, COCAINE, GASOLINE
And most things in between
I roam the city in a shopping cart
A pack of camels and a smoke alarm

The audience is all singing along with Lily who is bouncing about, waving them on.

CHAMPAGNE, COCAINE, GASOLINE
THIS NIGHT IS HEATING UP
RAISE HELL AND TURN IT UP
SAYING IF YOU GO OUT YOU MIGHT PASS OUT IN A DRAIN PIPE

She finishes with a flourish.

Lily starts walking towards the edge of the stage. Almost as an afterthought she says into the mic

Oh yeah, don't threaten me with a good time

And then she literally drops the mic and jumps off the stage. There's a moment of silence, and then the place erupts in a standing ovation.

The Bellas all sit there, in shock, mouths agape.

"Well you don't see that every day," Beca says.

"HELL YEAH!," CR shouts, jumping up.

"BELLAS IN THE HOUSE!," screams Fat Amy, pumping her fists in the air.

The Bellas engulf the quiet Bella in a group hug.

o0o

Aubrey talks with Chloe

Aubrey sits at the bar, slowly nursing her second Scotch neat, watching the Bellas table. Stacie had teased her a bit at the bar and then returned to the Bellas table. She had made sure to give her ass an extra shake as she walked away.

Stacie had been full on Stacie, her hunter on the prowl. It had led to some very explicit teasing. Aubrey might have decided to surrender, and promised a bit of good natured punishment for later; to which Stacie had replied, "Promises, Promises," before returning to the table.

Aubrey had decided to remain at the bar, contemplating Stacie, one of the three most important women in her life.

A new song is started, and Aubrey looks over at the stage, and watches Maria serenading CR with Elvis Presley's 'Fools Rush In'.

Fools rush in, where wise men never go
But wise men never fall in love
So how are they to know
When we met, I felt my life begin
So open up your heart and let
This fool rush in

Maria's words strike a cord with Aubrey. She looks back at Stacie, Chloe, and Beca, who are now sitting together at the table. She feels it's safe to say she isn't rushing in.

So, open up your heart and let
This fool rush in

She had already decided even before Stacie's performance, that she was going to push past her inhibitions and make a go of it with Stacie. It was time for her to admit the truth that there's something between her and the long-legged beauty. Life is too short, so why deny yourself something that could be amazing?

Aubrey only hopes that when she makes good on her 'Promises' tonight, that Stacie is happy with her performance This is a brand-new world she's about to enter.

But, now that she's taking a leap of faith, she is really concerned with two friends who are not. Studying the table, she watches Chloe and Stacie laughing about something. They are easily the two most important people in her life at the moment.

Chloe is a longtime friend and confident, an actual blood sister from when they were kids. When they were seven, Aubrey had read about the concept, and told her best friend. Chloe being Chloe had insisted they perform the ritual, and so one night, during a sleepover, the two had performed a modified version of the ritual, and had been Blood-Sisters ever since. It is one of Aubrey's most cherished memories. It's one of the many reasons why she's so protective of the exuberant redhead.

Stacie has become something more than just a friend. She is someone who made it her mission to get past all of Aubrey's defenses, and protective shells, and nestled her way into Aubrey's heart. Stacie is a mystery, an unknown horizon that Aubrey is moving towards. She's Aubrey's future.

Chloe is her past and present, her constant.

Which leaves the third and most surprising important person in Aubrey's life.

Beca Friggen Mitchell.

It came as quite a shock to Aubrey when she came to the realization of how important Beca had become in her life. She really and truly had disliked the alt-girl when she first met her. But, thanks to Chloe, Aubrey had learned that the petite DJ wasn't someone to fear; early on, Aubrey had been sure the midget was going to take away her best friend. Chloe had also shown that the hobbit wasn't someone she needed to hate. Her best friend had shown that Beca has a heart of gold, and was quite loyal, almost to a fault.

Over time Aubrey had also learned that she and the midget actually had more in common than not. They both had trouble dealing with their emotions. Both shied away from affection from others, and had over years protected themselves via invisible walls they constructed around their hearts.

Once Aubrey had made the realization of how similar she is to Beca, it was easy to see how much she's hurting herself and the one she loves most.

Aubrey's never been one to shy away from helping friends, even if it means talking to a friend about their relationships. This is especially true now that it involves her best friend. Chloe's situation is a bit different, and trickier. She knows there's a better than even chance that Chloe will end up getting hurt, but Aubrey also knows that Chloe has to try.

With a last swallow of her Scotch, Aubrey orders another and a Cosmopolitan, and directs it to be delivered to her at a table she points out.

Then with a deep breath, Aubrey approaches Chloe just as Cynthia Rose takes to the stage. Aubrey pauses for a few seconds as CR begins singing 'Treasure' by Bruno Mars.

Treasure, that is what you are
Honey, you're my golden star
You know you can make my wish come true
If you let me treasure you
If you let me treasure you, oh

"Chloe?"

Chloe looks up and smiles at her oldest friend, "What Bree?"

Pretty girl, pretty girl, pretty girl you should be smiling - you should be smiling
A girl like you should never look so blue You're everything I see in my dreams
I wouldn't say that to you if it wasn't true

Aubrey bends down and whispers in the redhead's ear, "Can I talk to you about something?"

Chloe furrows her brow, but after a second thought replies, "Of course Bree. Always; you know that."

Aubrey makes a thankful noise and places a hand on Chloe's back. "Let's sit over there," the blonde smiles warmly, then gestures to a small table for two in the far corner of the bar. There the two could expect some modicum of privacy. She whispers, "I would like to talk privately."

Chloe looks over at Beca, who is saying something to Stacie, probably about Cynthia Rose, as they are both watching her performance with rapt attention.

Treasure, that is what you are
Honey, you're my golden star
You know you can make my wish come true
If you let me treasure you
If you let me treasure

Chloe follows Aubrey with a perplexed look on her face. It mirrors the one on Beca's face as she notices Chloe's departure. Both wonders what this is about.

Oh oh oh
You are my treasure, you are my treasure
You are my treasure, yeah, you you you, you are
You are my treasure, you are my treasure
You are my treasure, yeah, you you you, you are

Taking the empty seat next to Aubrey, she situates herself in the chair that best lets her continue to watch the karaoke performers. It also just so happens to allow the redhead to continue to surreptitiously observe Beca. A waitress is there immediately with Aubrey's Scotch and Chloe's Cosmopolitan.

Chloe takes a sip and looks over at Beca. Just to make sure her best friend is alright, of course. She catches Beca doing the same. Chloe smiles and winks, and she thinks Beca may have blushed.

At this moment as she watches, Fat Amy leans over, whispering something in Beca's ear. It must have been something a bit humorous and probably scandalous, because Beca both laughs and blushes a deeper red.

Chloe turns her gaze back to Bree, who is looking at her sympathetically. In situations such as this, the redhead has always tamped down her feelings of love and instead slipped on her mask of happiness and contentment. She's quite good at it; she's been practicing since Beca's freshman year. It's become instinctual, she does again without a second thought, as she focuses on her long time best friend. Her voice is happy, and there's a sing-song quality as she asks, "So Bree, what's up?"

Aubrey pauses for a second or two, and tips back a sip of her Scotch, as she formulates what she wants to say. She thinks she knows and so ignores her nerves and looks the redheaded girl in her deep blue eyes and says, "It's about Beca and our conversation earlier."

Chloe's face shows her surprise. Not what she was expecting. Chloe's mask slips away instantly as she looks to where Beca's sitting and sees the brunette shaking her head at something Fat Amy has said, but she looks okay. "What about Beca?" Chloe realizes she's slipped, so tries to cover. "If you're worried about our earlier conversation, don't be. I'm just stressed about work."

"Please," Aubrey says with a tinge of annoyance. "We've known each other too long to lie to each other."

"Fine," Chloe huffs, she actually takes a page out of the petite DJ's book, and decides to obfuscate. "What? I'm just worried about Beca and all the stress she's under, and how tired she is, and if she's burning the candle at both ends, and…"

"And you care about her," Aubrey says.

"Yeah, well, of course," Chloe says with a shrug, as if this is just an obvious statement.

"Which is what I wanted to talk to you about," Aubrey says.

"What?," Chloe sits up straighter. "Do you know something? Is she okay?"

Aubrey notes Chloe's knuckles whiten as her hand tightens around her Cosmopolitan. Aubrey sighs, she knows her friend is too tightly wound. It's one of the reasons she's decided to interfere. She raises a hand and signals for the redhead to lower her reaction. "Calm down, Chloe; as far as I know, at this moment Beca's right as rain. But you're not."

Chloe starts to speak but Aubrey holds up her hand. "I am going to say some things to you, that you need to hear. Not just for your sake but for her sake, and the sake all of us who love the both of you."

"What are you talking about, Bree?"

"You love her," Aubrey says emphatically.

"Of course, she's one of my two best friends."

"No. I don't mean it like that. You like Love her," Aubrey stresses the word. Chloe's mouth hangs open, till she consciously remembers to close it.

"I…" Chloe starts, but a piercing look from Aubrey stops the denial cold. Her shoulders slump and she looks over at Beca before admitting, "Yes, I love her." She takes a sip of her Cosmopolitan to cover her embarrassment.

"And she Loves you," Aubrey says strongly.

The shock of this declaration leaves Chloe coughing and sputtering on her Cosmopolitan sip. "Wh-wh-what?"

"Beca Mitchell, Beca Effin Mitchell, is in love with you, Chloe Beale," Aubrey states with all the gravity these words demand.

"Wha-No." Chloe is at a loss. She shakes her head. "No, you're mistaken."

"Look, Chloe, the Bellas may have spoken with Beca today, and sussed out some things with Beca, and maybe confirmed some things we suspected," Aubrey says solemnly.

"At your behest." It's an accusation, not a question.

"I can neither confirm nor deny," is Aubrey's answer, though her face tells Chloe the truth.

"I wish you wouldn't have done that," Chloe sighs before taking another small sip to help recover from her coughing fit.

"I had to," Aubrey says sincerely, but also emphatically. "I can't keep on just standing by." The blonde's eyes flick over to Beca, who at that moment glances over to Chloe. "Watching two of my best friends, two women I care deeply for, and love by the way." This statement softens Chloe's features. "Hurting as much as you and Beca are."

Chloe isn't ready to give up her mask, "What are you talking about. Beca's happy, if a little stressed about work. I'm… happy with work. So, I'm not sure what you're going on about."

"I'm talking about years of pining over Beca. I'm talking about the many years you've kept yourself in limbo to be with her." The blonde takes the redhead's hands in hers. "Chloe, I'm your best friend and biggest supporter; and I want you happy. So, I'm telling you, you need to let Beca know how you feel."

"It's not that simple," Chloe says, deflating a little, her shoulders slumping. She catches sight of Beca with the corner of her eye. The petite woman looks concerned as she's looking back at Chloe. Chloe immediately straightens and her mask is back in place. The redhead definitely doesn't want Beca concerned about this conversation. She flashes her megawatt smile, which seems to placate Beca.

Aubrey takes in all of this, and feels she's on the right path, even more. "Chloe, I'm not going to claim that I understand what you see in Beca, because God knows I don't. But I can see that you are deeply in love with her and she's in love with you."

From the reactions she's seeing, Aubrey knows she hit the nail on the head. The redhead is shaking slightly, biting on her bottom lips, a sign that Chloe's either nervous or just, well, sad.

The redhead wants to respond, but can't find the words. Aubrey takes advantage of her best friend's hesitation, to press on. "You should tell her how you feel. You need to tell her how you feel. You've carried a torch for her for years now. This may be your last chance."

Chloe goes into instant denial mode, shaking her head and making a face as if that was the most preposterous thing she had ever heard. "It doesn't matter Bree. She's straight. I never had a chance. She will never see me as anything more than a friend. "Besides, Jesse's going to propose soon…"

"What!?"

"Yeah… I saw him at the jewelers not long ago. He has the ring, he has the girl, and soon they'll be married." Chloe's normally bright blue eyes are glistening with threatened tears now. Aubrey puts her arms around her as an act of comfort. Chloe appreciates the gesture, and holds the blonde's arm tight against her.

Aubrey's eyes grow just as sad, as she continues, "Chloe I think you really need to confront Beca and tell her about your feelings." Holding up her hands to forestall more denials from her best friend, she continues, "I know, I know, you just want to be close to her, to know her. Be around her, talk with her, listen to her talk about her work, her day, her life. You just want to do everything you can to make sure she is taken care of in every way."

Chloe can only nod and say with a sad smile. "Yes."

Aubrey nods again sympathetically, "You're in love." Chloe again begins to protest, but her blonde friend stops her.

"That's what it is, Chlo. You have to tell her before it's too late."

"She's built up walls, Chloe. All through her teen years, she built walls that are hard to come down. She's actively repressed the idea of having feelings for another woman, because of things that happened at school and home."

"That has to be hard to overcome, right? Beca's has the weight of the world on her right now, and Jesse is safe. He's always been safe. He reinforces the idea she's straight."

Aubrey looks over at Beca, hoping that she's right about the advice she's about to give and that she isn't about to mess this all up. "You need to tell Beca how you feel. Take a leap of faith; she'll catch you. I know she will."

Chloe notices that Aubrey hasn't been calling Beca a midget or a hobbit, as she usually does, but instead has been using her proper name. She's letting Chloe know that she's being completely serious.

Chloe feels a surge of love from her longtime friend. But she also feels the weight of reality weighing down upon her. "I can't Bree."

"Chloe, don't you think if she's the one, maybe you should take the chance? Maybe give her a real chance to choose."

Chloe shakes her head no. "Just because she's the one for me, doesn't mean I'm the one for her." The redhead looks again at her DJ and sees her laughing at something Fat Amy is saying and her heart aches as there's nothing better than the sound of Beca's laugh.

Chloe slowly shakes her head no, "I can't Bree. The clock is already ticking. Jesse is going to take her away from me. She's going to be moving on soon. I can't speed that up. I can't ruin our relationship by scaring her off. I can't lose her completely. I love her, Bree. Do you understand, I really love her." Her bright blue eyes stare directly into Aubrey's eyes. "I love her, Bree. More than my next breath and until my last. So, I can't live without her in my life.

"Even if I am always just the friend," Chloe makes quote signs with her hands as she continues. "At least I have some small part of her affection, and I'll have her in my heart every day. And if that's all I ever have then that's the way it will be."

Aubrey goes to say something more but Chloe cuts her off. "Besides, I'll never be good enough for her. I know this. I've accepted it," Chloe says, rather dejectedly.

"Stop right there. Not good enough? What bullshit is that?," Aubrey asks, heat in her words.

"Beca's going to be a star, I'm a school teacher," Chloe says despondently.

"Do you actually believe that she sees you as just a school teacher?,"

"No…" responds Chloe, "Of course not. It's just reality. But it's okay at least I have her as s friend, and you, and the rest of the Bellas; all a part of my life. It's enough, and I'm happy to take whatever she's willing to offer, or capable of giving."

"I know you would." Aubrey says, and then states, "Honestly Chloe, I see how you two interact. I don't think you have to worry about losing her if you're honest with her. You mean so much to her."

"I know," Chloe whispers softly, almost trying to convince herself. "I know."

"Seriously, Chloe! You can't keep doing this to yourself. You need to try."

"I know. Thank you, Bree," she smiles and hugs the well-meaning blonde. "Let's get you back to Stacie and do some singing!"

"You guys deserve a chance," Aubrey sighs.

"Thanks, Bree, I know you want that, but it's just not meant to be." Chloe breaths out. She decides to change the subject, "You know, I've missed this. Missed you looking out for me. I honestly can't wait for you to move to California permanently."

Aubrey smiles at her best friend. She understands what her best friend is doing. She decides to let it slide for now. Knowing Chloe, there's no point in pushing at this moment. "Why did we ever think we can go through life living on opposite sides of the country? We're too inseparable."

"But now we'll rectify the situation," Chloe says happily, mask fully back in place.

Aubrey nods, she isn't ready to give up, but now's not the time for that battle. She knew going in that Chloe was going to need a bit more of a nudge. This was a good start, but only a start. Now though, they are here to have fun and sing, so it was time to get to it.

As they walk back to the table, they pause as they see Fat Amy taking to the small stage.

"Awww, yeah!," Fat Amy shouts from the stage. "I'm Fat Amy and I'm here to show you flat butts how just it's done!"

Fat Amy Sings

Fat Amy starts right in, belting out her version of Meghan Trainor's All About That Bass; and as usual she is just owning the room.

Because you know I'm all about that bass,
'Bout that bass, no treble
I'm all 'bout that bass, 'bout that bass, no treble
I'm all 'bout that bass, 'bout that bass, no treble
I'm all 'bout that bass (bass)

"Honestly, Fat Amy is going to have her own TV show someday," says Chloe to the table as she sits down.

The others all nod in agreement; Fat Amy is perfect for a karaoke bar. She never lets anything phase her, and she's willing to let it all hang out.

"Hey, are you okay?," Beca asks Chloe. "It looked like a heavy conversation over there."

Chloe shakes her head, "Nothing you have to worry about. Aubrey…" Chloe trails off as she tries to come up with a plausible reason. Stacie leaning into her blonde friend, provides the answer. "Aubrey just wanted some advice about Stacie."

I'm all about that, all about that bass
I'm all about that, all about that bass
I'm all about that bass, no treble
We gon' take it to a whole nother level

Fat Amy's not the greatest singer, but she can hold a toon and hit all the right notes. What makes her stand out is she puts so much fun and raw energy into her singing that she just pulls her audience in.

"Are you sure?," Beca asks. "You seemed upset at times."

"Ummm, oh no, nothing important. One of Jesse's friends was a little persistent the other day…" A tiny part of Chloe feels bad about telling this fib, but it was true that one of the USC Boys had decided Aubrey really needed to get with him and just wouldn't take no as an answer, till Stacie 'accidentally' spilled her iced tea on him.

"Was it Brad?," Beca asks, heat in her words.

Chloe shook her head. "Mitch."

"Just as big a douchebag," Beca grunts.

We know that shit ain't real
We know that shit ain't real
We know that shit ain't real
We know it's

"You know, I totally wouldn't be surprised if Fat Amy had Bravo and the E! Network competing to get her into one of their shows soon," says Stacie.

"It's probably already happening," says Aubrey.

Because you know I'm all about that bass,
'Bout that bass, no treble

Fat Amy starts pumping her arms up in the air to really get the level of excitement and volume of the crowd to climb to new levels. It works, as people in the crowd roar their appreciation.

I'm all 'bout that bass, 'bout that bass, no treble
I'm all 'bout that bass, 'bout that bass, no treble
I'm all 'bout that bass

Fat Amy comes to the end of the song and finishes with a theatrical flourish. The crowd gives a strong ovation, which Amy eats up, but then instead of the MC coming on stage to thank the singer and invite the next participant, a new song erupts from the speakers.

Step inside
Walk this way
You and me babe
Hey hey!

It's a strong opening, and suddenly Fat Amy is singing away to a new song, 'Pour Some Sugar On Me', the classic Def Leppard song.

Love is like a bomb, baby, c'mon get it on
Livin' like a lover with a radar phone
Lookin' like a tramp, like a video vamp
Demolition woman, can I be your man?

Fat Amy had done a fantastic job with the Meghan Trainor song, but she thoroughly owns this second song, and her personality just pulls the crowd in.

Razzle 'n' a dazzle 'n' a flash a little light
Television lover, baby, go all night
Sometime, anytime, sugar me sweet
Little miss ah innocent sugar me, yeah

Between her exuberant enthusiasm, boundless energy and over-the-top suggestive dance moves, the audience can't not get into her performance.

So, c'mon, take a bottle, shake it up
Break the bubble, break it up

Fat Amy accents her singing with big pelvic thrusts.

"Wow… Ummm… That's quite a performance," Beca says, eyes wide as she watches Fat Amy's NC-17 performance.

Pour some sugar on me
Ooh, in the name of love
Pour some sugar on me
C'mon, fire me up
Pour your sugar on me
I can't get enough

"I think I now know what the Obamas felt at the Kennedy Center," Cynthia Rose says.

I'm hot, sticky sweet
From my head to my feet, yeah

"Emily," Beca says, eyes still glued to the stage.

"Yeah, Beca," Emily's eyes as wide as Beca's.

"Could you look away, please? I don't want to explain to your mom how you lost your innocence," Beca pleads.

"I wish I could Becs."

Listen! red light, yellow light, green-a-light go!
Crazy little woman in a one man show
Mirror queen, mannequin, rhythm of love
Sweet dream, saccharine, loosen up
Loosen up

"Thanks, Chloe," says Emily, as the redhead covers the younger woman's eyes.

"No problem, Legacy," answers the redhead. "I thought I was sexually liberated. I was wrong."

You gotta squeeze a little, squeeze a little
Tease a little more

"I'm with you, Red," says Stacie. "Though that's totally my boob squeeze."

"Yeah it is," says Aubrey, before realizing she said it out loud. The smirks by the Bellas near her let her know it was heard even over Fat Amy's performance.

Easy operator come a knockin' on my door
Sometime, anytime, sugar me sweet
Little miss innocent sugar me, yeah, yeah
Give a little more

"I want to look away, but just can't," says Chloe.

"It's strangely compelling," Beca agrees.

"I think it's amazing that Amy is so comfortable with her body," says Maria.

Take a bottle, shake it up
Break the bubble, break it up

"But even for me this is…" Maria looks for the right word, "much."

"Amen, Mama," Cynthia Rose holds up a shot glass and taps it against her wife's Cosmopolitan; both women downing their drinks.

Pour some sugar on me
Ooh, in the name of love
Pour some sugar on me
C'mon, fire me up
Pour your sugar on me
I can't get enough

Fat Amy is of course loving it. She can feel every set of eyes on her and she knows she has them snared. Her hips are moving, but it's slow and sensual as she prepares for the song's big finish.

I'm hot, sticky sweet
From my head to my feet, yeah

Now comes Fat Amy's favorite portion of the song. She's been saving up her sexy for this part.

You got the peaches, I got the cream
Sweet to taste, saccharine
Cause I'm hot, say what, sticky sweet
From my head, my head, to my feet

"Oh, Wow!," exclaims all the women at the table.

"That can never be unseen," says Beca.

"Is it safe to open my eyes?," Emily asks.

"No sweetie," Chloe says, still holding her hands in front of Emily's eyes.

Pour some sugar on me
Oh, in the name of love
Pour some sugar on me
Get it, come get it
Pour your sugar on me
Pour some sugar on me
Yeah! Sugar me!

As the song ends, Amy rips open her blouse, strikes a pose, yells "Vogue, bitches!" And drops the mic.

She bows theatrically then struts off the small stage and back to her friends to the audience stunned into silence. She returns to the table, grabs a full pitcher of beer, and chugs the entire contents before slamming it back down with a triumphant, "Crushed it!"

Aubrey looks up at her with an arched eyebrow. Fat Amy sees the same question on the faces of all her friends at the table. "What, I may have slipped the MC an extra fifty to let me do two songs, because let's face it one song was just not going to be enough for these dingoes once they got a look at my sexy ass."

"Yeah, that was my question," Aubrey sighs. She looks over at Chloe.

The redhead holds up her hands, "I got nothing."

Looking around the table, Fat Amy asks enthusiastically, "Now who wants to try following my sexy ass?"

No one jumps up, that performance having taken the wind out of their sails. The Aussie pleads, "Come on guys, we're at a Karaoke bar. You have to sing." Still no one volunteers so Amy goes with plan B. "Okay Pitches, I was worried about this, so I had Ashley put your names in a hat." The blonde Aussie points to Ashley who pulls out a hat and holds it out for Amy to pull out a name.

Grabbing a small folded piece of paper, Amy's face lights up when she reads it. Beca feels a heavy weight in the pit of her stomach as she sees Amy's smile. It only grows heavier as Amy fixes Beca with a mischievous look. Beca tries to shrink down in her seat.

Fat Amy shouts out, "Oh, Yes! Beca Effin Mitchell, you're up!"

"Oh, God," Beca groans.

"Ahhh, cheer up Becs, you're going to rock this," Chloe assures her best friend.

"Isn't there any way someone else could go?," Beca asks, a slight whine to her voice.

"No can do, Shawshank," Amy replies with a shake of her head. "The hat has spoken."

"Don't worry, Becs, I'll sing the next song, after yours," Chloe volunteers. She smiles warmly at the younger woman.

Reluctantly Beca agrees and trudges up to the Karaoke stage. Her body language is screaming how much she doesn't want to do this.

The MC takes her name and asks her song. She looks through the catalog and makes her selection.

"Geez, you would think I was sending Shawshank back to the pokey," Fat Amy observes.

"I think she's just tired and a bit stressed," Chloe defends.

Standing at the front of the stage, Beca is ready to sing her song, but as the music starts she looks bewildered. Beca looks back at the MC who says something to Beca who then turns towards the group and glares at Fat Amy.

Chloe's confused as to what's happening when she catches Beca's first lines of the song.

I'm a Barbie girl, in a Barbie world
Life in plastic, it's fantastic
You can brush my hair, undress me everywhere
Imagination, life is your creation"

Everyone turns toward Amy, who shrugs her shoulders. "I may or may not have slipped the MC a nice tip to change Tiny DJ's song."

The MC steps forward and sings.

Come on Barbie, let's go party!

Beca glares at the young guy, who just shrugs and smiles sheepishly.

I'm a Barbie girl, in a Barbie world
Life in plastic, it's fantastic
You can brush my hair, undress me everywhere
Imagination, life is your creation

At first Beca is stiff, her singing okay, but not really giving it her all. This elicits a couple boos from the Bellas' tables; lead by Fat Amy.

I'm a blond bimbo girl, in a fantasy world
Dress me up, make it tight, I'm your dolly
You're my doll, rock'n'roll, feel the glamor in pink
Kiss me here, touch me there, hanky panky
You can touch
you can play
if you say "I'm always yours"

"Go easy on her guys," Chloe admonishes the table. Though she's grinning at the spectacle that is Beca on the stage.

Beca glares at Fat Amy, but does pick up her performance.

I'm a Barbie girl, in a Barbie world
Life in plastic, it's fantastic
You can brush my hair, undress me everywhere
Imagination, life is your creation

Chloe's eyes never leave Beca as the small brunette shrugs and decides to have fun with it. Beca is at heart an entertainer and can't help performing when up on the stage. Soon despite the song choice, Beca is performing at her natural best.

Come on Barbie, let's go party! (Ah ah ah yeah)
Come on Barbie, let's go party! (Oh oh)

It isn't actually too bad, once she got going, it's kind of fun. Beca finds herself smiling, laughing, and enjoying herself.

Come on Barbie, let's go party! (Ah ah ah yeah)
Come on Barbie, let's go party! (Oh oh)

Beca moves easily around the small stage, clearly having fun. Chloe notes both her smile, and that her little badass doesn't have to use the prompter much.

She's so going to tease Beca for knowing this song so well.

Make me walk, make me talk, do whatever you please
I can act like a star, I can beg on my knees
Come jump in, bimbo friend, let us do it again
Hit the town, fool around, let's go party

Chloe can't tear her eyes away from the stage if she wanted to, as Beca's talent and star quality shone through on every level.

You can touch
you can play
If you say "I'm always yours"
You can touch
you can play,
If you say "I'm always yours"

Beca now is really moving, adopting her inner Chloe, moving around loose and fun, even skipping as she continues to sing what she considers one of the worst songs ever.

I'm a Barbie girl, in a Barbie world
Life in plastic, it's fantastic
You can brush my hair, undress me everywhere
Imagination, life is your creation

Looking around, Beca sees the crowd actually getting into her performance. There are actually heads bobbing to the tune, as people start to feel the rhythm Beca is delivering.

Come on Barbie, let's go party! (Ah ah ah yeah)
Come on Barbie, let's go party! (Oh oh)
Come on Barbie, let's go party! (Ah ah ah yeah)
Come on Barbie, let's go party! (Oh oh)

Beca doesn't pay any attention to the cheers and clapping of the audience. She drops the mic, and makes a direct beeline for the Bellas table.

"Amy!"

Fat Amy swallows the swig of beer she just gulped before saying, "Yes," as if she has no clue what Beca is going to go on about.

"Amy, I'm going to kill you," Beca threatens.

"What? I'm innocent," Fat Amy says dramatically. Her hand to her heart, acting as if she's in pain. Beca grumbles as Chloe tells her she was great and gives her a big hug.

"Here, I got you a new drink," Chloe says, handing Beca a Long Island Iced Tea.

Beca continues to mumble something into her glass, something having to do with death and Fat Amy, but no one is really able to pick it up. She does have a soft smile on her face once she's had a sip. "Thanks, Chlo."

"Let's go, Ginger," Fat Amy goads Chloe.

"Okay, Okay," replies Chloe as she steps away. She hears Beca continuing to grumble, which stops her. "Hey you rocked it," Chloe assures the petite woman.

Beca stops and focuses on Chloe, her face softening. "Thanks, Chlo."

"Alright, alright, Ginger, your turn," Fat Amy orders. "Get up there and show the audience even Gingers can have talent."

The redhead rolls her eyes, and shakes her head, as she starts to leave for the stage. She's always wondered where Fat Amy comes up with this anti-redhead bias, but it's so over-the-top, and Fat Amy is so fun and sweet in her own way, that Chloe has always let it roll right off of her. She walks up to the catalog, and sees a song by Taylor Swift, which could be fun, and chooses it.

She steps up, and brings the microphone up to her lips. Chloe is about to sing, pauses as if confused by something, then flashes her million dollars smile and begins singing.

This was never the way I planned
Not my intention
I got so brave, drink in hand
Lost my discretion

Chloe uses her husky voice, allowing her natural bass to really play out. Beca swallows, her mouth suddenly dry. She drinks down half of her Long Island Iced Tea in one gulp.

It's not what, I'm used to
Just wanna try you on
I'm curious for you
Caught my attention

Everyone again turns to Amy, who smiles as she admits, "I also paid the MC to change Ginger's song."

Unlike Beca, Chloe jumps right into her song, deciding to just have fun with it, as she cruises right into the chorus. She's shaking her hips to the rhythm, hitting every beat.

I kissed a girl and I liked it
The taste of her cherry chapstick
I kissed a girl just to try it
I hope my boyfriend don't mind it

Chloe shoots a seductive look over at Beca as she continues. Beca's blush makes it all the more fun. The brunette can't take her eyes off the redhead. She takes another gulp of her drink to cover the heat she's feeling.

It felt so wrong
It felt so right
Don't mean I'm in love tonight
I kissed a girl and I liked it
I liked it

Beca is mesmerized by Chloe's presence on the stage. Her stylist had put the redhead in royal blue dress that makes her big blue eyes pop out. It's molded to fit Chloe's body to an almost ridiculous perfection, as it hugs her curves perfectly. Chloe's fiery red mane is curled to perfection and her makeup is flawless if a little edgier than normal.

No, I don't even know your name
It doesn't matter
You're my experimental game
Just human nature
It's not what, good girls do
Not how they should behave
My head gets so confused
Hard to obey

Chloe is in her element, and having a blast, which leads to her infectious smile as she dances about the stage.

Stopping in front of Beca, Chloe seductively licks her lips.

I kissed a girl and I liked it
The taste of her cherry chapstick
I kissed a girl just to try it
I hope my boyfriend don't mind it

She then moves again, belting out the chorus.

It felt so wrong
It felt so right
Don't mean I'm in love tonight
I kissed a girl and I liked it
I liked it

As Chloe sings, she searches around with her eyes for Beca. As luck has it their eyes connect just as she sings 'I kissed a girl', and suddenly Chloe isn't singing to a room full of people, she's singing to the woman she loves.

Us girls we are so magical
Soft skin, red lips, so kissable
Hard to resist so touchable
Too good to deny it
Ain't no big deal, it's innocent

Beca is having a hard time tearing her eyes away from Chloe. The redhead is just swaying with the rhythms as she runs her hands through her hair as she dances and sings. Beca just can't tear her eyes away.

I kissed a girl and I liked it
The taste of her cherry chapstick
I kissed a girl just to try it
I hope my boyfriend don't mind it
It felt so wrong
It felt so right
Don't mean I'm in love tonight
I kissed a girl and I liked it
I liked it

As she sings the last verse Chloe's eyes are connected to Beca's. She feels the connection Aubrey was describing, and she wonders if she should take the leap of faith her friend is suggesting.

o0o

Jesse Shows Up

Chloe returns to the Bellas table to a standing ovation. The club has really filled over time, and every patron seems to want to compliment her. She is appreciative of the well wishes, though she really only wants one person's compliment. She receives a high five from Stacie, and then CR. Maria and Aubrey give her a hug.

None of the Bellas were up for singing at this moment, so another patron has taken over. The guy is okay, but not up to the Bellas standards.

Beca is beaming at her and Chloe doesn't need any other compliment.

"Great job, Ginger!"

"Love your performance, Red," Stacie says.

"Thanks, but it left me dry, I need a new drink," Chloe declares. "Come with me Becs." Chloe grabs Beca's hand and pulls her up after her, before the petite brunette can answer.

"Geesh, give a girl a second," Beca says snarkily as she pulls her hand free. "I might need that arm."

"Relax, you have another," Chloe teases, taking Beca's hand again. "Come with me." She pulls the tiny DJ along to the bar. Beca halfheartedly argues, but lets the redhead lead her to the bar.

She spots a drink menu and picks it up. Perusing the choices, she taps her chin as she tries to figure out what they are going to have. "Hmmm…" She muses, then taps the menu on her choice. She signals the bartender who is quite attentive to the beautiful redhead. When the young man comes over, Chloe flashes her award-winning smile and says, "Let's have a 'Sex on the Beach' for the brunette." She gestures to Beca, who rolls her eyes at the choice of drink. Chloe continues, not giving Beca a chance to argue, "and…," she pauses thoughtfully for another nanosecond before her lips turn up into a deliciously sly smile. "…and a Screaming Orgasm for me."

"And what would you like to drink?," the bartender comes back immediately, giving the redhead a wink and a charming smile.

Chloe can't help but smile at the bartender and his flirtations. Beca on the other hand scowls at the man. She grabs Chloe's hand and says, "Just the drinks will do." Beca feels a tinge of elation seeing the bartender a smidgeon crestfallen. While Chloe is quite happy to see Beca being jealous and protective. Her heartbeat revs up when the tiny DJ takes ahold of her hand.

On stage a new singer starts sing,

I heat up, I can't cool down
You got me spinning
'Round and 'round
'Round and 'round and 'round it goes
Where it stops nobody knows

"That sounds like Benji," Beca says.

Before they can look at the stage, Emily squeals excitedly. Both women turn to see their younger friend leaping from her seat, and making her way towards the small stage where Benji is in fact singing.

Every time you call my name
I heat up like a burning flame
Burning flame full of desire
Kiss me baby, let the fire get higher

The young man's face lights up at the sight of his love, excitedly approaching him, clapping her hands. With a dramatic flair, he produces a single red rose and presents it to Emily.

Abra abracadabra
I wanna reach out and grab ya
Abracadabra
Abracadabra

Benji has come a long way from his Freshman year. Now he has a real stage presence which is on full display.

You make me hot, you make me sigh
You make me laugh, you make me cry
Keep me burning for your love
With the touch of a velvet glove

"He so loves her," Chloe observes.

Abra abracadabra
I wanna reach out and grab ya
Abracadabra
Abracadabra

"Yeah, he does, and she loves him back," Beca replies. "It's great that they found each other."

Chloe doesn't realize she says the next out loud, "It's always great when people find their soulmate."

Beca gives the redhead a sideways look.

I feel the magic in your caress
I feel magic when I touch your dress
Silk and satin, leather and lace
Black panties with an angel's face

They laugh at Emily's blush, which is matched by Benji's. The young man might have the stage presence to sing the lyrics, but he's still innocent enough to be affected by their meaning.

I see magic in your eyes
I hear the magic in your sighs
Just when I think I'm gonna get away
I hear those words that you always say
Abra abracadabra
I wanna reach out and grab ya
Abracadabra
Abracadabra

As Benji's performance comes to an end, the two women pick up their drinks and turnabout, almost running right smack into someone. The smirk on the petite brunette's face immediately vanishes as she sees her boyfriend. She isn't quite sure why at this moment… but she is shocked to see Jesse here.

Both Beca and Chloe yelp, "Jesse!" Their surprise quite evident in their voices and demeanor.

"Becaaw!," shouts Jesse, "Wow, you look great!," he says this with a sincere smile. "Bumper said you all were going to a salon. I have to say, they did an excellent job."

"Thanks," Beca says breaking eye contact with him. She realizes that seeing Benji there should have clued her in that Jesse was also there. Benji and her had spent so much time in the back of the room lately, she actually doesn't associate the sincere young man with her boyfriend anymore.

Abra abracadabra
I wanna reach out and grab ya
Abracadabra
Abracadabra

Jesse steps forward and plants a kiss on her cheek. Chloe notes that he has a vaguely inebriated look in his eyes. She guesses that he has already been drinking.

The kiss serves to unfreeze Beca who was completely shocked at seeing Jesse here. Stupefied she asks, "What are you doing here? I thought you were crazy mad busy with the project?"

"Oh, we are, but I told the guys that I really needed to see My Girlfriend, so I really pushed them and we made a lot of progress today. Because, you know nothing's more important than My Girlfriend," answers Jesse. "I brought a bunch of them," he says, as he gestures backwards with one of the bottles he's holding. "I really want to introduce you, My Girlfriend, to them."

Jesse turns to Chloe and smiles. "Chloe, I'm so glad you could keep MY GIRL company today." He takes a sip of his beer but it doesn't cover his smirk. There's something quite challenging in his demeanor as he wraps an arm around Beca's waist and pulls her close.

He presses a kiss to her temple. The move is territorial, and she can tell he's doing it to remind Chloe that he's Beca's boyfriend.

"When did you get here?," Beca asks.

"Oh, just a little bit ago. Bumper brought us all in his limousine," Jesse says, gesturing back towards where they can see Bumper kissing Fat Amy. Jesse turns back to the two women. "Caught most of your performance. It was quite entertaining, and enlightening."

Both women are a bit confused by this statement. Before they can say anything, Jesse smiles smugly and points with his bottle of beer. "Hey, can I borrow you for a few, Beca?," he asks happily as he leans in and presses another kiss to Beca's lips. "I really want to introduce you to some of the people I'm working for and with."

"Ummm…" Beca's at a loss.

"I'm sure Chloe doesn't mind," he says, swinging his arm around her shoulder, pulling her along. Beca starts to argue, but he cuts her off. "You'll get back to the girls in just a couple minutes. I really want you to meet these guys. It's important for me and my career." He does his best puppy dog eyes.

Chloe understands Jesse's move and inwardly scoffs at how stupid he's being. She sees the conflict on her friend's face, so decides to help her out. "You go Becs, I'll meet you back at the table in a couple."

Beca exhales, and there's an obvious sense of relief from the smaller woman. "Okay Jesse, lead the way." Jesse turns as Jody calls out to him. While he's turned away, Beca mouths to Chloe, 'Thank You'.

She notices that Jesse sways a bit and rolls her eyes. "So, am I just blurry, or have you had a few?," Beca asks, slightly annoyed

"Maybe a few," Jesse says. "But the truth is I'm just smitten with you."

Beca just rolls her eyes.

"We'll see you around, Chloe!," he says before leading Beca away. Beca looks over her shoulder apologetically as she follows.

Chloe stands rigid watching Beca be led away feeling furious. It takes all of her willpower, but she does not run after Jesse and punch him for treating Beca like some property. Does not confront him on his condescending attitude. Instead she turns and walks over to the bar to get another drink.

The bartender is quick. He sees that the redhead isn't in the mood for the playful banter of before, so he fills the order quickly, and within moments she has a free Moscow Mule in hand. Chloe turns back around and is sipping away at the drink as she contemplates what just happened.

She's furious with Jesse for his behavior, for the obvious challenge, for how he just swooped in and took Beca away from her. Chloe knows that he has every right to do it, but something feels different about this time. It feels like Jesse's marking territory, letting her know that Beca' spoken for.

As she watches, Jesse introduces Beca to a number of men in his group. Chloe has never seen them before, so she assumes they are the guys Jesse is working on the film with. They look like they would fit right in with the USC Boys. Not for the first time, Chloe so wishes she had been bolder Beca's freshman year. Then maybe it would have been her whom Beca had kissed, that it would be her whom Beca chose to be with.

"Ummm, Hello," Chloe turns towards the stage and sees Emily standing there all awkward and stiff. She has half the Bellas standing behind her. Every one of them except, Beca, Fat Amy and her.

"My boyfriend just sang me an amazing song, and I want to return the favor with an original song I wrote just for him."

Chloe has to chuckle at the look of pure adoration on Benji's face. Who would have thought Benji would find someone who loves him so deeply? Chloe is happy for the couple, but she does feel a tinge of jealousy.

"It's called 'Only You'.

Lily starts to beatbox, laying down a strong percussion sound, Jessica and Ashley join in adding more percussion sounds, along with a gentle background sound. Cynthia Rose and Maria layer in another sound, and finally Aubrey and Stacie join the harmonization.

Beca is impressed. The Bellas must have been rehearsing this. She hears some tweaks she would make, but the ability of the Bellas to deliver such a techno sound with only their mouths, is astonishing.

Emily steps to the front and begins to sing, her focus solely on Benji.

It's you, only you can be
Everything to me, only you
And how I've tried to deny or hide
Put away my pride, only you

Unlike the Bellas who sang before her, the youngest Bella stands in one place and just sings with her heart.

I'll repeat this phrase through all my days
With my last breath, only you
I'll repeat this phrase through all my days
With my last breath, only you

Emily is giving it her all, and the crowd is appreciative. Her song is soulful, each lyric sung with real love.

Only you
Only you
Only you
Only you

Even from her position at the bar, Chloe can see Emily blushing. She's putting her heart out for all to see.

And it shows because my heart beats so
I will always love only you
Beautiful, so beautiful
All this love is for only you

Chloe smirks, "Man, Emily's blush may be cuter than Beca's"

I'll repeat this phrase through all my days
With my last breath, only you
I'll repeat this phrase through all my days
With my last breath, only you

The Bellas backing her up all drop off and allow the only sound to be Emily as she finishes her song.

Only you
Only you
Only you
Only you

The Bellas cheer loudly as Emily finishes her song. It sounds like everyone in the club is cheering as Emily bows quickly and steps down from the stage handing the mic to Jesse who has raced up a song already chosen.

Benji sweeps the tall young Bella into his arms, lifting her off the ground and spinning her about. She laughs and bends down to plant a kiss on his lips.

Chloe loves it, but her mood sours instantly as Jesse start to speak.

Jesse stands there in front of the crowd with the microphone in one hand. "So, I guess this is where we sing a song to the love of our lives. My name is Jesse and I am lucky to have the love of my life here. This song is for her, for us, and our future."

Beca begins to feel a blush warm her skin as Jesse's eyes bore down on her.

He starts to sing and it's easy to remember he is very talented. Just as Benji and Emily, it's easy to see he's focused on one person in the crowd. This only adds to Beca's embarrassment.

Lately, I've been, I've been losing sleep
Dreaming about the things that we could be
But baby, I've been, I've been praying hard,
Said, no more counting dollars
We'll be counting stars, yeah we'll be counting stars

Jesse can sing, Beca will give him that. It's one of the things that attracted her to him in the first place.

I see this life like a swinging vine
Swing my heart across the line
And my face is flashing signs
Seek it out and you shall find

She's torn at the moment because Beca really hates that she's so easily flustered by Jesse obviously serenading her, but she's also touched by the gesture.

Old, but I'm not that old
Young, but I'm not that bold
I don't think the world is sold
I'm just doing what we're told

On stage Jesse never takes his eyes off Beca as he starts to move, his inner entertainer taking over.

I feel something so right
Doing the wrong thing
I feel something so wrong
Doing the right thing
I could lie, couldn't I, could lie
Everything that kills me makes me feel alive

Years of performing with the Trebles has instilled a fair amount of talent when it comes to moving on stage, and he calls upon that now.

Lately I been, I been losing sleep
Dreaming 'bout the things that we could be
Baby I been, I been prayin' hard
Said no more counting dollars
We'll be counting stars

He's always been quite confident in himself, but how his life has been going since moving to the west coast, has left him quite cocky.

Lately I been, I been losing sleep
Dreaming 'bout the things that we could be
But baby I been, I been prayin' hard
Said no more counting dollars
We'll be, we'll be counting stars

Jesse moves with ease, his steps matching the feel of the song.

I feel the love
And I feel it burn
Down this river every turn
Hope is a four-letter word
Make that money
Watch it burn

Still no matter how much he gets into his performance, he never loses focus on the petite woman who owns his heart.

Old, but I'm not that old
Young, but I'm not that bold
And I don't think the world is sold
I'm just doing what we're told

Chloe is watching, but dividing her attention between the former Trebles captain and her best friend.

I, feel something so wrong
But doing the right thing
I could lie, could lie, could lie
Everything that drowns me makes me wanna fly

The redhead can see Beca, and years of knowing the DJ, she can tell she's touched by her boyfriend's gesture. It's a reminder that he is Beca's boyfriend.

Lately I been, I been losing sleep
Dreaming about the things that we could be
Baby I been, I been prayin' hard
Said no more counting dollars
We'll be counting stars

Jesse is kneeling at the stage's edge, just belting out the lyrics, just as they were written to be.

Lately I been, I been losing sleep
Dreaming 'bout the things that we could be
But baby I been, I been prayin' hard
Said no more counting dollars
We'll be, we'll be counting stars

The crowd is appreciative of the performance and it gets the ovation it deserves.

Chloe's face falls. She watches Jesse jump from the stage and sweep Beca into a kiss. This gets a louder ovation from the crowd.

Unknown to the redhead, she's being spied upon by Aubrey. The blonde watches the dejected look on her best friend's face. She decides it's time to give another nudge.

Aubrey walks up to the MC and grabs the song catalog. Flipping through it quickly, she finds the song she wants. Pointing to it she fixes him a look. "This is the song I'm singing." The naturally intense blonde holds up her finger and proceeds to explain in exquisite detail, just how much pain he will feel if her song choice is replaced by any other song; especially one picked by Fat Amy.

The man visibly gulps, nods, and queues her song choice.

Stepping up with the microphone, she doesn't waste time with any introduction, but instead goes right into the song.

Ever wonder 'bout what he's doing
How it's all turned to lies
Sometimes I think that it's better,
To never ask why

"HEY! That's not the song I chose for the aca-Nazi!," Fat Amy huffs. The Bellas all chuckle, just knowing Aubrey probably threatened the poor MC.

Where there is desire, there is gonna be a flame
Where there is a flame, someone's bound to get burned
But just because it burns, doesn't mean you're gonna die

Aubrey has always had a great voice and loves to sing. She's continued to sing with her church choir, but she rarely gets to sing like this. She misses it.

You gotta get up and try, and try, and try
Gotta get up and try, and try, and try
You gotta get up and try, and try, and try

Similar to many of the others who have sung before her, Aubrey is also singing with all her heart, imbuing the song with love, but where others were singing romantic love, this is love for a sister.

Funny how the heart can be deceiving
More than just a couple times
Why do we fall in love so easy
Even when it's not right

It doesn't matter, the heart she's imbuing the song, is clearly heard by all, as she gives an incredible performance.

Where there is desire, there is gonna be a flame
Where there is a flame, someone's bound to get burned
But just because it burns, doesn't mean you're gonna die

Though it's not apparent to the crowd, the true audience of this song hears it and knows the message is being sung to her. It brings a tear to her eye, just knowing she has such an amazing friend in her corner.

You gotta get up and try, and try, and try
Gotta get up and try, and try, and try
You gotta get up and try, and try, and try

Still, as much as she would love to do as Aubrey is pushing, she just knows it would be a disaster.

Ever worry that it might be ruined
And does it make you wanna cry
When you're out there doing what you're doing
Are you just getting by
Tell me are you just getting by, by, by

Aubrey fixes her eyes on Chloe, and prays that the message is getting through to her sometimes very stubborn friend.

Where there is desire, there is gonna be a flame
Where there is a flame, someone's bound to get burned
But just because it burns, doesn't mean you're gonna die

The Bellas have never heard Aubrey sing with so much passion. They are really impressed, especially Stacie, who knows what the blonde is doing, and has never been more in love.

You gotta get up and try, and try, and try
Gotta get up and try, and try, and try
You gotta get up and try, and try, and try

Aubrey is pouring her all into the song, just knowing that these are the right words Chloe needs to hear.

You gotta get up and try, and try, and try
You gotta get up and try, and try, and try
You gotta get up and try, and try, and try
You gotta get up and try, and try, and try

Her heart breaks a little as she sees the redhead give a slight shake of her head, and walks away, off towards the restrooms.

You gotta get up and try, and try, and try
Gotta get up and try, and try, and try

It seems Chloe will need another nudge. Unknown to the blonde, this nudge was just around the corner, literally.

o0o

Jesse knows he has been in the wrong when it comes to Beca lately, but he wants to make it right with Beca, so they can get back on track. This Karaoke night is the perfect opportunity to do just that.

He knows in his mind that Beca and him belong together. That's how their movie is supposed to end. The lead guy gets the lead girl and they live happily ever after. Tonight, he's going to use Beca's medium, music, to remind her how good they have been these past few years.

By happenstance he spots Chloe walking to the ladies' room, and Jesse is reminded why he hasn't progressed further in his movie ending.

Good RomComs just never have a Chloe in it to mess everything up.

It's time to confront this obstacle head on. He excuses himself and follows Chloe down the corridor to the restrooms.

o0o

Chloe steps out of the ladies' room, pondering if she should get another Moscow Mule, or switch to water. It takes her a second to realize there's someone in the corridor in her path. She feels her heart constrict in her chest as she realizes she's alone with Jesse.

She's not sure when it changed. Back at Barden they had known each other. Might have even considered each other friends; acquaintances for sure. Now, there isn't even the pretense of friendship. The unsaid thing between them, it's grown too big. They are not friends, they are rivals, and quite possibly enemies.

The curly haired brunette leans back against the wall of the hallway. He turns his head towards Chloe and flashes that aggravating boyish smirk. "That was quite a performance earlier."

"Uh, thanks…" she answers, slowing to a stop. "You said that earlier."

"Yeah, I did, but you know, I figured it was such a great performance, it deserves more praise," he shakes his head with a chuckle.

"Ummm, thanks I guess,"

A silence hangs over them, and they stand awkwardly not sure what to do, till Chloe says, "Well, I'll just be going now." With that she tries to sneak past Jesse.

"You know though, it's never going to happen," Jesse says, voice low, so low Chloe almost misses it.

"What?," it's posed as a question, but it's more a challenge.

"You're never going to kiss her." The tone he uses irks Chloe. "She doesn't want to kiss you."

Chloe stares dumbfounded for a moment.

He continues, "Your little fairy tale is coming to an end. Playing house with my girlfriend, enjoy it while it lasts, because it's ending."

Her fists clench and she has to resist the overwhelming urge to punch Jesse square in the nose.

"Maybe you just wanted to 'experiment' a little. I don't know, Chloe, but my girlfriend isn't into experimenting. She's straight, she's always been straight, and she's always going to be straight," Jesse says with conviction. A self-serving smirk still confidently plastered on his face.

"Are you trying to convince me," Chloe finally responds. It comes out automatically, but she's actually quite proud of the retort, "or yourself?." She's not sure where this bit of backbone came from, but she's had just about enough of Jesse's game.

He visibly stiffens.

"She's not gay," he declares. "She's straight. You're just making a fool of yourself."

Chloe crosses her arms, determined to let Jesse get his rant out. There was nothing to be gained arguing.

"She loves me, her boyfriend and future husband. She loves the strength I provide. She will never love you the same way she loves me."

Tears build in her cerulean blue eyes, but Chloe is determined to hold them back. She won't give Jesse his satisfaction.

"I'm going to go, and show my girlfriend just how much I love her," Jesse says as he pushes off the wall. "You know, I came with a whole bunch of great guys, maybe you could find a guy to take your mind off of my girlfriend."

Chloe just stands there, in total shock. She steps out of the corridor and watches Jesse return to his group, putting his arms around Beca.

Chloe really wishes she could just go over and punch Jesse out…the jackass is being such a douche… and a decision is made.

o0o

Fat Amy is back up on the small stage belting her version of Meghan Trainor's Dear Future Husband. It's your expected Fat Amy performance. It's all Fat Amy.

One thing anyone who has ever watched Fat Amy perform can appreciate about the Aussie is how much effort she puts into it. From the animated way she acts out all of the lyrics, to the more provocative gestures, such as grabbing her crotch or putting a hand on her back to accentuate a hip thrust, or drawing a finger across her bosom.

The crowd can't help but eat up her performance. None more so than her future husband, Bumper, who is on the edge of the stage taking in the performance.

The crowd gives a thunderous ovation at the end of the Aussie's unique performance, and Bumper pulls Fat Amy into a deep kiss.

While the crowd is hooting, and hollering about the public display of affection by the engaged pair, Jesse leads the USC Boys up onto the stage and selects another song.

"Hey, I just wanted to sing another song for My Girl," Jesse says into the microphone. However, he isn't gazing out at the petite brunette, he's staring at Chloe.

The USC Boys start harmonizing in the background, and Jesse begins to hum along with his eyes closed. Then when he opens them, he begins to sing,

Well you done done me and you bet I felt it
I tried to be chill but you're so hot I melted
I fell right through the cracks
And now I'm trying to get back
Before the cool done run out
I'll be giving it my best-est
And nothing's going to stop me but divine intervention
I reckon it's again my turn,
To win some or learn some

This choice of song feels like it was made for a cappella, a soft loving song, that Jesse is ruining for Chloe.

But I won't hesitate no more, no more
It cannot wait, I'm yours

The former Treble is now focused on Beca, and he is singing with heart, but Beca can tell something is off.

Well open up your mind and see like me
Open up your plans and damn you're free
Look into your heart and you'll find love love love love
Listen to the music of the moment people dance and sing
We are just one big family
And it's our Godforsaken right to be loved loved loved loved loved

It's like the song is being sung for the wrong reasons. She also notices that Jesse has glanced back a number of times, and she realizes he's been looking at Chloe, which is just confusing.

So I won't hesitate no more, no more
It cannot wait I'm sure
There's no need to complicate
Our time is short
This is our fate, I'm yours

For the audience, it's an incredible performance, and there are more than a few singing along.

D-d-do do you, but do you, d-d-do
But do you want to come on
Scooch on over closer dear
And I will nibble your ear

For Chloe, it's a gauntlet being tossed at her feet.

But I won't hesitate no more, no more
It cannot wait I'm yours

The decision is made.

Well open up your mind and see like me
Open up your plans and damn you're free
Look into your heart and you'll find the sky is yours
So please don't please don't please don't
There's no need to complicate
'Cause our time is short
This, oh this, this is our fate, I'm yours

The crowd is ecstatic. The many performers during the night have put on some truly amazing performances.

Jesse again pulls Beca in for a kiss, but it's rather chaste, as it doesn't feel heartfelt, especially for the DJ.

Chloe marches straight towards the stage, determination on her face.

"Hey, everything okay?," Beca's voice asks from behind Chloe. The redhead grimaces slightly as she closes her eyes for a moment, before drawing in a deep breath and turning around to face Beca.

"Yeah, everything is fine, but I need you to listen to the song I'm going to sing…"Chloe pauses, drawing courage, "carefully."

Not the answer she was expecting, Beca nods, "O-kay, sure."

Chloe nods and heads over to the MC, and tells him the song she wants. Then steps to the front of the stage facing Beca. "This one is for you, Becs."

I won't lie to you
I know he's just not right for you
And you can tell me if I'm off
But I see it on your face
When you say that he's the one that you want
And you're spending all your time
In this wrong situation
And anytime you want it to stop

Jesse's face goes beet red at the recognition of the song Chloe is singing. He instantly knows what Chloe is doing.

I know I can treat you better
Than he can
And any girl like you deserves a gentleman
Tell me why are we wasting time
On all your wasted cryin'
When you should be with me instead
I know I can treat you better
Better than he can

Beca's face warms with a blush the instant she recognizes the song. Yet she's perplexed as to why Chloe is singing it for her.

At least that's what she's telling herself.

Except she knows why.

And she suspects she's known for awhile.

Yet somehow managed to repress those thoughts.

I'll stop time for you
The second you say you'd like me to
I just wanna give you the loving that you're missing

Her eyes cut over to Beca to share a look. Her eyes trying to convey the sincerity of what she's singing. Her voice clear, melodious, and perfect for this song.

Baby, just to wake up with you
Would be everything I need and this could be so different
Tell me what you want to do

The words cut true to the feelings Chloe has held for Beca, how it seems she would never get a chance with her because Jesse was always there. Has always been there with a silent claim since day one on Beca, which Chloe hates to admit, but she knows deep in her heart she would be better.

'Cause I know I can treat you better
Than he can
And any girl like you deserves a gentleman
Tell me why are we wasting time
On all your wasted cryin'
When you should be with me instead
I know I can treat you better
Better than he can

Singing with her eyes closed, Chloe's hoping beyond hope that Beca will realize the feelings Chloe has for her. That she will hear the message she has so wanted to deliver to her best friend for so many years.

Beca is sure she's never heard Chloe sing better.

Tell me why are we wasting time
On all your wasted cryin'
When you should be with me instead
I know I can treat you better
Better than he can

Beca is sure she's never heard her best friend's message clearer. It is coming through loud and clear, even for someone who can be so obtuse about her feelings, and of those around her.

She's hearing the message…

It's sending her in a spiral…

She's not gay.

The conversations from earlier in the day running through her head on an endless loop.

She's not gay.

Sure, she has always appreciated a beautiful woman. An aesthetic appreciation of a woman's beauty is no different, than appreciating a masterpiece of art.

She's not gay.

Tell me why are we wasting time
On all your wasted cryin'
When you should be with me instead
I know I can treat you better
Better than he can

Appreciating a masterpiece of art. This is how she appreciates Chloe's beauty. If any woman is a work of art, it's Chloe Beale.

She's a masterpiece created by the universe. That doesn't mean she's gay.

That doesn't mean she's gay for Chloe.

She's not gay.

But Chloe is saying she's gay for her. There's no mistaking this message. There's no hiding from what's being said.

Better than he can

She loves her boyfriend. She loves Jesse.

Sex has never been all that important to her, but when she's in the mood for it, it's good. She loves to feel so deeply connected to him. She could never imagine loving a woman the same way she loves Jesse… Except at that moment… she does.

She's not just in love with Chloe, but in LOVE with Chloe, and all that entails.

Beca looks up at the stage with her mouth hanging open, and her eyes as big as saucers.

Give me a sign
Take my hand, we'll be fine
Promise I won't let you down
Just know that you don't
Have to do this alone
Promise I'll never let you down

Chloe opens her eyes and looks into Beca's.

The petite brunette has tears in her eyes.

And she gives Chloe a sign.

Beca leaves.

She turns and runs.

She runs from the bar as fast as she can.

She doesn't stop running.

Cause I know I can treat you better
Than he can
And any girl like you deserves a gentleman
Tell me why are we wasting time
On all your wasted cryin'
When you should be with me instead
I know I can treat you better
Better than he can, oh oh

The Bellas are shocked by this turn of events. Aubrey looks flabbergasted. Emily is stunned, and ready to cry. Stacie and CR look to one another and shake their heads, dejected.

"Shawshank? Where ya going!?," Fat Amy shouts after the fleeing brunette.

Chloe is crestfallen,and her singing shows. The passion is gone. She ends the song barely above a whisper.

Better than he can
Better than he can

Jesse smirks at Chloe and walks out, following Beca.

Better than he can

Stacie and Emily climb onto the stage. Stacie, picking a song, while Emily takes Chloe into her arms. Aubrey is there a half-heartbeat later. Arm around her best friend.

The music starts for a new song and Stacie is waving the rest of the Bellas up onto the stage. The leggy brunette starts the singing.

Right right, turn off the lights,

We gonna lose our minds tonight,

What's the dealio?

Emily sing the next set of lyrics, her arm still wrapped around the redhead.

I love when it's all too much,
Five a.m. turn the radio up
Where's the rock and roll?

CR comes in next. Picking right up in the song.

Party crasher,
Panty snatcher,
Call me up if you a gangsta
Don't be fancy, just get dancy

Aubrey takes her index finger and lifts Chloe's chin, as she sings.

Why so serious?

All the Bellas are now on stage, singing the chorus.

So raise your glass if you are wrong,
In all the right ways,
All my underdogs,
We will never be never be, anything but loud
And nitty gritty, dirty little freaks
Won't you come on and come on and raise your glass,
Just come on and come on and raise your glass

The enthusiasm of the Bellas helps masks the drama which has just occurred on this same little stage. As always the verve with which the Bellas sing has the entire crowd cheering them on.

Slam slam, oh hot damn
What part of party don't you understand,
Wish you'd just freak out (freak out already)
Can't stop, comin' in hot,
I should be locked up right on the spot
It's so on right now (so fuckin' on right now)

All the Bellas continue to sing and Chloe feels their love and support. It helps to mend a tiny portion of Chloe's shattered heart.

Party crasher,
Panty snatcher,
Call me up if you a gangsta
Don't be fancy, just get dancy
Why so serious?

Chloe no longer needs Aubrey and Emily to hold her up.

Tentatively she raises the microphone to her lips and begins to sing along with the rest.

So raise your glass if you are wrong,
In all the right ways,
All my underdogs,
We will never be never be, anything but loud
And nitty gritty, dirty little freaks

The redhead receives so many encouraging remarks and supportive smiles. It warms her heart.

Won't you come on and come on and raise your glass,
Just come on and come on and raise your glass
Won't you come on and come on and raise your glass,
Just come on and come on and raise your glass

All the women are singing to Chloe now, trying to convey their love and support.

You can choose to let it go
We can always, we can always,
Party on our own

The song is a small gesture, but it's heartfelt, and the best way the Bellas can express themselves to the redhead. Chloe responds, and while the pain is still there, it's masked, and easier for her to deal with.

So raise your glass if you are wrong,
In all the right ways,
All my underdogs,
We will never be never be, anything but loud
And nitty gritty, dirty little freaks
So raise your glass if you are wrong,
In all the right ways,
All my underdogs,
We will never be never be, anything but loud
And nitty gritty, dirty little freaks
Won't you come on and come on and raise your glass,
Just come on and come on and raise your glass
Won't you come on and come on and raise your glass (for me)
Just come on and come on and raise your glass (for me)

For a moment, Chloe can forget how her heart is shattered. For a moment she can forget who literally fled out the door.

For a moment she can forget all that she lost this evening.

o0o

Don't hate me. Please. Things are coming to a head.

Also, the night is always darkest before the dawn.

By the way, the idea of Beca singing Barbie Girl at a Karaoke Bar was suggested by BlackLightning1212, in her story 'I Dare You' as a joke she was worried Fat Amy was going to play on her. I loved the idea and asked for permission to use it, a long time ago. Luckily for me BlackLightning1212 said yes.

Songs Used:

Justin Timberlake's Rock Your Body

Paula Abdul's Opposites Attract

Panic at the Disco's Don't Threaten Me with a Good Time"

Elvis Presley's Fools Rush In

Bruno Mars's Treasure

Meghan Trainor's All About That Bass

Def Leppard's Pour Some Sugar On Me

Aqua's Barbie Girl

Katy Perry's I Kissed a Girl

Steve Miller Band's Abracadabra

Kaskade's Only You

One Republic's Counting Stars

Pink's Try

Jason Mraz's I'm Yours

Shawn Mendes' Treat You Better
Pink's Raise Your Glass