Talent Showcase Chapter 4: Talent Showcase, a pretty little liars fanfic

Disclaimer: I do not own Pretty Little Liars, these characters or the song lyrics I used. Not written for money, only enjoyment.

Here is the Talent Showcase. I hope everyone likes. The little squiggles under the song lyrics are just to keep the lyrics separate from the story.

Please don't be afraid to review. I appreciate them all even criticism.

It was the morning of the Talent Showcase. Hanna had called all the girls to her house for a sleepover. As if an imaginary alarm clock had gone off all of the girls woke up at the same time, which was hard to do since Hanna hated being up early. This day seemed different though, the girls all showered and got ready. Ashley Marin was in the kitchen making coffee when the girls came down, "Good morning girls." She said handing out the cups of coffee. "You all look ready to face the day."

"We are." Emily said looking at her friends, "I think we all needed that girls night last night."

"It was definitely needed." Spencer said taking a cup.

"I know I needed it. I love my Mom and all but I was getting tired of her asking if I was okay with everything." Aria said joining Spencer at the table with cup of coffee.

"Speaking of being okay with everything, have you talked to Jason since school yesterday?" Hanna asked grabbing the sugar for her coffee.

"Who do you think I was texting all last night?" Aria replied with a wink.

Smacking her friends arm, "I'm fine with you and Jason seeing each but I don't want to hear about before I've had breakfast." Spencer said.

"Okay, Spencer." Aria said half serious, "So I can come to you and tell you how good of a kisser he is after you've had food?" she asked taking a sip of coffee and laughing at Spencer's disgusted face.

"Forget going to Spencer with that info. I want the dirty details when they start coming." Hanna said sitting down beside Emily.

"Hanna!" the other three women screamed.

"What?" Hanna asked as innocently as she could, considering she was serious, "Aria knows I'm kidding. Right?"

"Totally" Aria answered laughing and rolling her eyes. "Emily you're awfully quiet this morning." She said noticing Emily hadn't really joined the conversation.

"Yeah Em, what's wrong?" Hanna said shaking her friend.

"Em?" Spencer said looking concerned.

"I'm okay you guys. It's just do you guys realize that is probably the last thing before formal that we will all get to do together and we aren't even singing one song together tonight." Emily stated looking sad.

"I never thought about." Spencer said honestly.

"I didn't either." Hanna agreed.

"I've been too wrapped up in my own life to notice anything." Aria stated. "Hey why don't we head over to the outdoor theatre and ask if they'll add a spot for us to sing together?"

"That sounds like a great idea." Ashley Marin stated as she set down food for the girls to eat. "You all could be the unplanned finale. It would make a great ending to the show. But what would you all sing?"

The girls all looked at each other. None of them knew. "What about Graduation by Vitamin C?" Spencer suggested.

"It's not graduation yet but the song does sound perfect for us." Emily agreed.

"I'm cool with. Plus we can learn it all this afternoon." Aria agreed.

"Cool cause I want some more time with my song too." Hanna said.

After the girls finished their breakfast they headed towards Rosewood high ready to plead for the chance to sing together. It turns out that organizers were more than willing to let them sing together, partially because Jessica DiLaurentis was coming back to town for the show. Looking at each other the girls didn't know how to take that news, the last time Mrs. DiLaurentis had been in town was for the fashion show and that had ended terribly for her. Spencer called a thank you back to the organizers as the girls went in search of an empty classroom to practice their songs. They found an empty music room with the computer on. Hanna knew of a site that did karaoke so they pulled it up and found Graduation. It took them several tries to get it all down but after agreeing that Aria needed to take the lead it went smoothly. The next several hours flew by as the girls spent the afternoon together and singing their songs in front of each other, getting use to how they sounded.

Jason woke up a smile on his face and text from Aria saying she would see him that night and a missed call from his Mom. Almost falling out his king size bed Jason checked his voicemail. Regaining the composure he had just lost he took several deep breaths and prepared to deal with his mother. This was not how this day was supposed to go but as the voicemail said his Mom would be in Rosewood around 5 p.m. and staying until sometime on Sunday. Taking a shower helped Jason feel better and more ready to face the day ahead. Grabbing his car keys he headed into town.

Walking into The Brew he saw Toby and Caleb looking miserable, getting his coffee he headed over towards them "Why the long faces guys?" he asked sitting down.

"You're looking forward to your public humiliation?" Caleb asked sarcastically.

"I'm not thinking of it like that." Jason responded.

"Pass along the information to make it not look like that." Toby complained.

"Come on guys. You're doing it for your girlfriends right?"

"Yeah" Both guys answered.

"Think of the ways they will have to thank you for standing up there and singing in front of most of Rosewood." Jason said with a smirk.

"Is that why you're doing it? To get Aria?" Toby asked.

"No, I already have Aria. I originally signed up to make a statement to her but now I just want to do it." Jason said with a smile on his face.

Toby and Caleb couldn't fane the same excitement that Jason had for doing the show. They were both dreading it but then again they had been forced, Jason hadn't.

The three guys finished their coffee and headed towards the high school. The girls had texted and said that they were there practicing and that the guys could probably use practice themselves. Knowing they were getting to see their girlfriends was making this day better for the guys.

The day seemed to fly by. Before the seven inside school knew it was two hours before the show. They all left so they could go change and be back in time for them all to go on. Ella, Mike and Zack all pulled up at the school ready for the show. Hanna's parents arrived at the same time. The two families headed toward the outdoor seating and saved seats for the Hastings and Fields. Soon the other two families arrived and sat down. The gossip began as the women got together, they talked about their girls, the other Moms asked how Aria was doing, but then they all got quiet. Veronica Hastings had noticed Jessica DiLaurentis coming in, "Did anyone know she was coming?" she asked. No the other Mom's responded. They were all quite shocked considering her last visit had ended incredibly badly.

The four families looked around and noticed that it was full house and a lot standing for this year's show as Mona stepped up on stage. "Hi everyone, I'm Mona Vanderwaal and I'll be your hostess for the night. I hope you are ready to have your socks rocked with some amazing talent. Different from year's past this show is made up of mostly seniors and people from the community. But enough of me talking. I'd like to introduce our first act, Mr. Caleb Rivers singing Firecracker by Josh Turner."

Caleb stepped up on stage and the music started to play:

When I look in her eyes
It ain't no surprise
Sparks start a flyin' like the 4th of July
She gets me so hot, my heart starts a popin'
When we get to kissin' there ain't no stoppin'
When it comes to love, she ain't no slacker
My little darlin' is a Firecracker

When I light the fuse, I gotta get back quick
You gotta be careful with a dynamite stick
Son of a gun, she's fun to handle
And she packs a punch like a roman candle

She's a pack of black cats in a red paper wrapper
My little darlin' is a Firecracker

[chorus]
We might not oughta take a roll in the hay
Cause we'd burn the barn down a one of these days
We're a match made in Heaven and it ain't no joke
But I'd sure hate to see it go up in smoke
We got a good thing going and if feels so right
She's a Firecracker
She's the light of my life

She goes off with a great big bang
Boys I tell ya it's a beautiful thing
She takes off you better hang on tight
She's a blonde bottle rocket in the middle of the night
When she makes love she's a heart attacker
My little darlin' is a Firecracker

[chorus]
Yeah, we got a good thing going and it feels so right
She's a Firecarcker
She's the light of my life

We gotta good thing goin' and it feels so right
She's a Firecracker
She's the light of my life

She's a Firecracker
She's the light of my life

Firecracker, Firecracker, Firecracker,Firecracker,
Bang, Firecracker, Firecracker

Watching her boyfriend sing had Hanna all a twitter, literally she wouldn't get off twitter. Half way through the song Spencer took her phone from her and told her would get it back after he was done. The girls were majorly impressed with Caleb's smooth tenor voice and his easy going demeanor on stage.

Caleb had to admit he was enjoying being on stage more than he thought he would. The crowd was in on the song before he had begun singing. It didn't take him long to find Hanna standing towards the back with her friends and when he did his eyes never left hers.

The girls let Hanna and Caleb have their time in their own little world, but that was broken when the song ended and Caleb got a standing ovation. Lots of whistles, shouting and clapping was going on when Caleb got off the stage and headed back to his girlfriend.

Passing Jason on the way out, "Good luck out there. The crowd is eating this up." Caleb said clapping his friend on the shoulder.

"Thanks." Jason replied for the first time feeling nervous.

"Don't worry. You'll be able to find Aria."

Mona stepped back up on stage, "Wow okay then. Sorry ladies I have to report Caleb is off the market. But what a singer. Our next singer is someone who graduated from Rosewood a few years and was known for being a heartthrob then and still is today. Welcome Jason DiLaurentis to the stage everyone." Jason walked up on stage and waved to the crowd who was mostly female, but he found the eyes he was looking for and calmed down. "He will be singing Til My Last Day by Justin Moore." Mona finished and left him on the stage.

As the music started one of the stage hands brought out a stool and Jason sat down and started to sing to the only person who mattered, Aria:

People say I'm just a rough boy
I ain't no good for you girl
It's a dead end street, tryin' to love me
Yeah, I'll wreck your world
I can see why they're all talkin'
Lookin' back at my past
I've got a bad name, but a man can change
I'm livin' proof of that

(Chorus)
Til my last day
Til my last breath
Of everyone that can, I can love you the best
Til my last day, I'll be lovin' you
All the way up, til they lay me down
Six feet under, the cold hard ground
Til my last day, I'll be lovin' you

Baby I might meet all my friends
Shoot the bull, have a beer or two
But you know I'll be the first one to leave
In a hurry to get to you
Somewhere deep inside your angel eyes
I found a place to rest, don't ever doubt that
I'll be around, and baby don't you ever forget

Til my last day
Til my last breath
Of everyone that can, I can love you the best
Til my last day, I'll be lovin' you
All the way up, til they lay me down
Six feet under, the cold hard ground
Til my last day, I'll be lovin' you
Darlin' yes I Will

Aria was completely hypnotized by Jason's baritone voice. He sounded amazing and his eyes never left hers. She knew she was blushing but she couldn't look away. Everything they had been going through disappeared and Aria felt as if they could walk through fire and come out unharmed.

Ezra, Maggie and Malcolm had gotten to the theater just in time to grab some seats. He couldn't help but fidget while Jason was up there singing. Looking around when Jason had made eye contact with someone he found Aria staring right back at Jason. Ezra hated to admit it but she looked happy and completely in love with the guy. Maggie nudged his arm and asked if he was okay. He looked at her and nodded yes, they had decided to give them a second chance and this would be last thing they would do in Rosewood. Ezra had gotten the job in Pittsburgh and they were moving before the end of the semester. Both were looking forward to a fresh start and a new chance at a family.

As the song drew to a close Jason never looked away from Aria. Even with him being on stage and her being in the crowd he could see the love in her eyes and he was glad he had decided to sing in the show. The crowd erupted like they had for Caleb when Jason was done. Standing up from the stool Jason took a bow and walked off the stage getting a hug from Mona in the process.

Aria couldn't wait she ran back stage and almost tackled Jason with her hug. Her friends had followed her and smiled when they saw Jason pick her up and spin around, but they could hear Mona on stage, "Sorry ladies I do believe that Jason's heart is spoken for." They all looked at each and laughed and moved out past the crowd so they could talk and not disturb anyone. None of them knew the next girl singing. "I think she is a sophomore." Hanna said.

"What is she singing?" Emily asked.

Spencer opened her program, I Won't Say I'm in Love from Hercules." She said closing the program and looking at Aria.

The girls heard the song start and the sophomore girl they didn't know start to sing:

If there's a prize for rotten judgement
I guess I've already won that
No man is worth the aggravation
That's ancient history, been there, done that!

[Muses:] Who'd'ya think you're kiddin'
He's the Earth and heaven to you
Try to keep it hidden
Honey, we can see right through you
Girl, ya can't conceal it
We know how ya feel and
Who you're thinking of
[Meg:]
No chance, no way
I won't say it, no, no

[Muses:]
You swoon, you sigh
why deny it, uh-oh
[Meg:]
It's too cliche
I won't say I'm in love

I thought my heart had learned its lesson
It feels so good when you start out
My head is screaming get a grip, girl
Unless you're dying to cry your heart out
Oh

[Muses:]
You keep on denying
Who you are and how you're feeling
Baby, we're not buying
Hon, we saw ya hit the ceiling
Face it like a grown-up
When ya gonna own up
That ya got, got, got it bad
[Meg:]
Whoa: No chance, now way
I won't say it, no, no
[Muses:]
Give up, give in
Check the grin you're in love
[Meg:]
This scene won't play,
I won't say I'm in love
[Muses:]
You're doin flips read our lips
You're in love

[Meg:]
You're way off base
I won't say it
Get off my case
I won't say it
[Muses:]
Girl, don't be proud
It's O.K. you're in love
[Meg:]
Oh
At least out loud,
I won't say I'm in love

They all had to admit it was pretty funny to have that song being sung when Aria was afraid to say she loved Jason. The guys joined the girls and just looked confused while the girls laughed.

"Do you have any idea what is so funny?" Caleb asked Jason and Toby.

"Not a clue." They both replied just as curious.

"Okay what is so funny?" Jason finally asked wanting to be in on the joke.

Spencer looked at him and tried to stop laughing, "The song is being sung by a woman who won't admit she loves Hercules. Sound like someone you know." She said starting to laugh again.

It took a couple minutes but then the guys all understood, it was funny because the same could be said for Aria and Jason.

They heard the song end and Hanna ran back stage. Mona stepped back up on stage, "Wow just wow. I can only imagine how some people in the audience must be feeling right now." She said looking at Jason and Aria. "Since we have a jam packed show I have to keep moving so help me in welcoming Hanna Marin to the stage to sing She's in Love With a Boy by Trisha Yearwood."

Hanna stepped up on stage in her pale green sundress and brown cowboy boots looking amazing and started to sway as the music started:

Katie's sitting on the old front porch
Watching the chickens peck the ground
There ain't a whole lot going on tonight
In this one horse town.
Over yonder, coming up the road
In a beat-up Chevy truck
Her boyfriend Tommy, he's laying on the horn
Splashing through the mud and the muck

Her daddy says, "he ain't worth a lick
When it came to brains, he got the short end of the stick"
But Katie's young and man she just don't care
She'd follow Tommy anywhere

She's in love with the boy
She's in love with the boy
She's in love with the boy
And even if they have to run away
She's gonna marry that boy someday

Katie and Tommy at the drive-in movie
Parked in the very last row
They're too busy holding on to one another
To even care about the show
But later on outside the Tastee Freeze,
Tommy slips something on her hand
He says, "my high school ring will have to do
Till I can buy a wedding band"

Her daddy says, "he ain't worth a lick
When it came to brains, he got the short end of the stick"
But Katie's young and man she just don't care
She'd follow Tommy anywhere
She's in love with the boy
She's in love with the boy
She's in love with the boy
And even if they have to run away
She's gonna marry that boy someday

Her daddy's waiting up till half past twelve
When they come sneaking up the walk
He says, "young lady get on up to your room
While me and junior have a talk"
But Mama breaks in and says, "don't lose your temper
It wasn't very long ago
When you yourself was just a hay-seed plowboy
Who didn't have a row to hoe"

"My daddy said you wasn't worth a lick
When it came to brains, you had the short end of the stick
But he was wrong and honey you are too
Katie looks at Tommy like I still look at you"

She's in love with the boy
She's in love with the boy
She's in love with the boy
What's meant to be will always find a way
She's in love with the boy
She's in love with the boy
She's in love with the boy

What's meant to be will always find a way
She's gonna marry that boy someday.
She's in love with the boy...

Aria felt Jason put his arms around and she snuggled into him. Toby and Spencer were in the same state but Spencer was facing Toby. Hanna looked from her friends to Caleb and let him know how she was truly feeling. The smile on Caleb's face as he watched his girlfriend sing was going from ear to ear.

Emily couldn't help but feel happy for her friends. They were all in love she just hoped that she could find her special someone in college. Caleb noticed that Emily was standing alone with her arms around herself so he went over and offered his hand. Giving him a confused look Emily took his hand and Caleb spun her around in a slow circle that put a smile on Emily's face. She realized then that just because she was single didn't mean she was an outsider in the group.

When Hanna had first started singing Ezra noticed Jason put his arms around Aria. He was surprised to find that it didn't hurt to see. They both had known for some time that the break up was coming, it was almost a relief when it had. Looking at Maggie he put his arm around the back of her chair and kissed her temple.

Hanna heard her six friends loud and clear when the song ended. She had also noticed Aria ducking out since she was the next to sing. The four families sitting in the middle all made some noise for Hanna but nothing could drown out her friends. Ashley Marin was so proud of her daughter and she knew the song was for Caleb but also for Aria and Jason.

Back up on stage, "Okay wow I think my ear drums are busted because of that applause. Got to say it sorry guys Hanna is spoken for so don't try anything." She said laughing. "Up next we have Aria Montgomery singing Always Something There to Remind Me by Naked Eyes, so make some noise for her."

Aria walked out on the stage in off the shoulder blue shirt, black leggings and black wedges. She headed towards the front of stage and sat down crossing her legs at the ankles and the music started: (the girl is changed to boy because Aria is singing.)

I walk along the city streets you used to walk along with me,
and every step I take reminds me of just how we used to be.
Well, how can I forget you, boy?
When there is always something there to remind me.
always something there to remind me.
As shadows fall, I pass a small cafe where we would dance at night.
And I can't help recalling how it how it felt to kiss and hold you tight
Well, how can I forget you, boy?
When there is always something there to remind me.
always something there to remind me.
I was born to love her, and I'll never be free.
You'll always be a part of me.

If you should find you miss the sweet and tender love we used to share.
Just go back to the places where we used to go, and I'll be there
Well, how can I forget you, boy?
When there is always something there to remind me.
always something there to remind me.
I was born to love her, and I'll never be free
You'll always be a part of me.
'cause there is always something there to remind me.
always something there to remind me.
always something there to remind me.

The whole crowd stayed quiet but Aria could see them swaying in their seats, enjoying the song. Soon several cell phones were up in the air joining in on the sway. Aria didn't care about the rest of the crowd she only cared about the green eyes she was staring straight into.

Jessica DiLaurentis sat near the back and couldn't help but notice how her oldest child had sung a song to the girl he had been in love since he was at this school and how she was now returning the favor. All she could think about if she had missed something were they dating. She had been out of Jason's life since Ali had disappeared.

Ella and Zack could see from the middle of the audience that Aria's eyes never left where they were looking and both knew it was Jason. The two were starting to make their way up the hill of problems they had created for themselves.

Ezra didn't take his eyes off Malcolm while Aria was singing. He was so glad that he had found out about him even though he had missed time in his life he was going to try and make up for it by being there from that point on. Maggie couldn't help but watch Ezra watch Malcolm the two most important men in her life where together at last.

The song was coming to an end and Aria stood up on the stage. Like every performer before her she got a standing ovation. But she had lost sight of Jason, smiling and waving she headed back stage. There she found Jason leaning against the tree with his arms open. Without a second thought she went into them. Their friends didn't interrupt their moment but Mona did with her big mouth, "Well like the one's before Aria's heart seems to be taken by a Rosewood heart throb. Sorry ladies but I am talking about Jason DiLaurentis." Breaking their hug Jason, Aria and their friends went back behind the crowd.

They could hear Mona introduce Sean, Hanna's ex, and what he would be singing Can't Fight This Feeling by REO Speedwagon:

I can't fight this feeling any longer.
And yet I'm still afraid to let it flow.
What started out as friendship,
Has grown stronger.
I only wish I had the strength to let it show.

I tell myself that I can't hold out forever.
I said there is no reason for my fear.
Cause I feel so secure when we're together.
You give my life direction,
You make everything so clear.

And even as I wander,
I'm keeping you in sight.
You're a candle in the window,
On a cold, dark winter's night.
And I'm getting closer than I ever thought I might.

And I can't fight this feeling anymore.
I've forgotten what I started fighting for.
It's time to bring this ship into the shore,
And throw away the oars, forever.

Cause I can't fight this feeling anymore.
I've forgotten what I started fighting for.
And if I have to crawl upon the floor,
Come crushing through your door,
Baby, I can't fight this feeling anymore.

My life has been such a whirlwind since I saw you.
I've been running round in circles in my mind.
And it always seems that I'm following you, girl,
Cause you take me to the places,
That alone I'd never find.

And even as I wander,
I'm keeping you in sight.
You're a candle in the wind,
On a cold, dark winter's night.
And I'm getting closer than I ever thought I might.

And I can't fight this feeling anymore.
I've forgotten what I started fighting for.
It's time to bring this ship into the shore,
And throw away the oars, forever.

Aria and Jason were the first couple to start to sway and the rest of the world disappeared. All she could feel was his hands on her waist and slowly rubbing circles. Jason was only concentrating on Aria's head on his chest and her hand in his hair. God I love her was the only thought in his head. I'm glad I finally listened to my heart was what Aria was thinking when she gently pulled Jason's face down to hers. "I love you", she whispered right before their lips met.

Hanna and Caleb, Spencer and Toby, and Emily all wanted to yell when Jason and Aria kissed but they couldn't because of the show so their phones came out. Ella, Zack and Mike stepped behind the crowd as Jason and Aria kissed and stopped. Mike's face said yuck but his eyes were pure happiness and all for his sister. Ella and Zack just looked at each other like love struck teens and cuddled.

Jason gently pulled away and looked into Aria's eyes, "I love you too, I always have". Slowly the two realized that they had an audience, turning Aria around in his arms he held her close. No one spoke, all of their faces said it, they were happy for the two. Aria stayed against Jason so for another few seconds before going over to her family. They gave her hugs and told her how great she was. Ella was on the verge of tears when she gave her daughter a hug, "I'm so proud of you. And I'm happy for you and Jason, just remember the best relationships start as friendships." Holding her tighter. Aria stood in her Mom's arms for several seconds letting her words sink, "Thank you Mom for everything. I wouldn't have been able to get through it without you." She said squeezing her Mom back.

Aria and her Mom pulled apart when the song ended and they heard Mona get back up on stage. They all noticed that Spencer had disappeared. Ella, Mike and Zack all headed back to their seats while the friends headed back into the crowded throng of people to hear Spencer sing.

Loving her job, Mona stood center stage and announced Spencer singing If You Ask Me Too by Celine Dion, but she also added what everyone was thinking that it was an odd choice:

Used to be that I believed in something
Used to be that I believed in love
Its been a long time since Ive had that feeling
I could love someone
I could trust someone
I said I'd never let nobody near my heart again darlin
I said I'd never let nobody in

But if you asked me to
I just might change my mind
And let you in my life forever
If you asked me to
I just might give my heart
And stay here in your arms forever
If you asked me to
If you asked me to

Somehow ever since Ive been around you
Cant go back to being on my own
Cant help feeling darling since Ive found you
That Ive found my home
That Im finally home
I said I'd never let nobody get too close to me darling
I said I needed, needed to be free

(but if you asked me to...)

Asked me to, I will give my world to you baby
I need you now
Ask me to and I'll do anything for you baby, for you baby

If you asked me to
Id let you in my life forever
If you asked me to...

The girls all gathered together and swayed amazed at how Spencer sounded. She sounded as if she had lived this song before, which the girls knew was kind of true. Until Toby, Spencer had had horrible taste in guys, mostly her sister, Melissa's, boyfriends and all around jerks. Listening to her sing they knew that that part of Spencer's life was over and Toby fully had her heart. Toby just watched his girlfriend. He was mystified by her. Jason stood there and watched his half-sister show her heart to most of Rosewood. She has balls he thought as he watched her.

All of the friends could agree that Spencer was the most courageous with her song choice, but then again none of them had expected anything less because she was Spencer. Being the best didn't stop at school work.

Spencer closed her eyes and sang the last bit of chorus and was almost blown off the stage by the applause she received when she was done singing. Veronica and Peter Hastings finally showed true support for their daughter by standing up and whistling for her when she was done. They couldn't have been more proud.

Spencer practically skipped off the stage while Mona went back up, "Well I guess an odd choice of song gets the loudest applause. Let's hear some more for Spencer and her courage. Now I'd like to introduce our first duet of the night Noel Kahn and Jenna Marshall singing Gotta Go My Own Way from High School Musical. Make some noise for them."

The music started while Noel and Jenna entered from opposing wings making the song seem so much authentic: (Gabriella and Troy changed to Noel and Jenna)

[Jenna]
I gotta say what's on my mind
Something about us
Doesn't seem right these days
Life keeps gettin in the way
Whenever we try, somehow the plan
Is always rearranged
It's so hard to say
But I've gotta do what's best for me
You'll be ok...
I've got to move on and be who I am
I just don't belong here
I hope you understand
We might find our place in this
World someday
But at least for now
I gotta go my own way
Don't wanna leave it all behind
But I get my hopes up
And I watch them fall every time
Another color turns to grey
And it's just too hard to watch it all
Slowly fade away
I'm leaving today 'cause I
Gotta do what's best for me
You'll be ok...
I've got to move on and be who I am
I just don't belong here
I hope you understand
We might find our place in this
World someday
But at least for now
I gotta go my own way
[Noel]
What about us?
What about everything we've been through?
[Jenna]
What about trust?
[Noel]
You know I never wanted to hurt you
[Jenna]
what about me?
[Noel]
What am I supposed to do?
[Jenna]
I gotta leave but I'll miss you
[Noel]
I'll miss you
[Jenna]
So
I've got to move on and be who I am
[Noel]
Why do you have to go?
[Jenna]
I just don't belong here
I hope you understand
[Noel]
I'm trying to understand
[Jenna]
We might find our place in this
World someday
But at least for now
[Noel]
I want you to stay
[Jenna]
I gotta go my own way
I've got to move on and be who I am
[Noel]
What about us?
[Jenna]
I just don't belong here
I hope you understand
[Noel]
I'm trying to understand
[Jenna]
We might find our place in this
World someday
But at least for now
I gotta go my own way
I gotta go my own way
I gotta go my own way

As much as none of them liked Noel and Jenna they all had to admit that they did a good job with the song. Most of the senior class knew that the couple wasn't going to be together after graduation. It was kind of hard to hear them sing with such broken hearts when they were all so happy but then again they kind of deserved it, all the friends thought.

In the middle of the song Ezra got up and left so he could head backstage. He was the next one to sing and he was nervous. Heading back there early was the only way he knew he would be okay to perform. Once behind everyone he almost regretted his decision to go backstage early. Stopping on a dime when saw Jason holding Aria. They looked so happy. Picking up his pace he hoped that they wouldn't notice him but Aria did, "Good luck Ezra. You'll do great. The crowd loves every act." She said sincerely. Putting his hand, "I hope there are no hard feelings. Good luck." Jason said as the two men shook hands.

The rest of their friends stood in silence watching as Jason and Aria told Ezra good luck. They didn't know what to expect. For all they knew Ezra could have punched Jason, but that wouldn't have ended well considering Jason was taller and had more muscle than Ezra. The exchange was pleasant and not forced which was nice to see on both sides.

Jason had been nervous when he saw Fitz come behind the crowd but when Aria had told him good luck she had snuggled into his arms more which reassured him that she was where she wanted to be.

They all heard the song end and Mona get back on stage to take her place, "Wow. Could you hear that heart break? Great job you two. Wow we only have two more acts after this one before the end. Let me introduce a former Rosewood high teacher Mr. Ezra Fitz singing Someone Else Calling You Baby by Luke Bryan." Mona said moving toward the wing but added before stepping off, "I'm sorry Ezra but you are no Luke Bryan."

Ezra took his place center stage and the music started:

I saw a truck backin' out of your drive
You were sitting in the passenger side
Messin' with the radio, you had your sun glasses on.
I pulled over cause I couldn't believe
Two weeks ago that was you and me
Riding down these old back roads, singing our songs
Now everybody round our town's been whisperin'
A tear in your eye says I should have been listenin'

Baby is someone else calling you baby
It's driving me crazy
This bein in the dark
Goodbye ain't never easy
So break it to me hard
If you're over my love girl
Lay it on my heart
Don't try to save me
Is someone else calling you baby?

You wanted time and you wanted your space
So I backed off, did whatever it takes
Never really thought you were that ready for moving along
Now I ain't leaving till I hear you say what's going on
It'll be what it will be, its either him or me
Give me the word and girl I'm gone

No Goodbye ain't never easy
So break it to me hard
If you're over my love girl
Lay it on my heart
Don't try to save me
Is someone else calling you baby?
No, don't try to save me
Is someone else calling you baby?
Is someone else calling you baby?

Ezra had choose the song for Aria and he didn't regret the choice, but he also didn't miss the slightly hurt look on Maggie's face as he sang. He felt bad because he did care about her and Malcolm but when he had signed up he had been hearing about Aria's breakdown because DiLauarentis was back in town. He wanted Jason to feel guilty for taking his girl, but when he looked at them he knew Jason would feel no guilt.

Jason almost glared at Fitz. If he is trying to make me or Aria feel guilty for being together he has another thing coming, Jason thought with his shoulder tightening. Aria felt Jason tighten behind her and looked up at him. Her eyes told him that he had nothing to worry about.

Soon the song was over and Ezra was making his way off the stage. When he walked off he was greeted by Emily, "You did very well. The crowd was transfixed." She told him with a small smile. He could tell she was nervous, "You'll do great Emily. Try to imagine you're in a pool instead of on stage." He told his former student.

"I'll try, but I feel guilty about my song choice mostly. I picked it right after Jason had come home and Aria was having her hard time dealing." Emily explained looking at her feet.
"I don't think anything will make them mad at you. You have a right to your opinions." Ezra said and headed back to his seat with a smile on his face. He had done it, he had sang in front a crowd that included Aria, her family and friend, but also his small family.

Mona was bouncing around being in the spotlight. Noticing that Mr. Fitz had left backstage she introduced Emily and her singing I Knew You Were Trouble by Taylor Swift. "Emily I do hope you aren't trying to get revenge on an ex with this song." Mona added before stepping off the stage.

Emily could feel her heartbeat in her throat. Aria looked at her friend and gave her a thumbs up and a smile, which showed Emily that she wasn't mad. Looking up from the stool she had brought out with her she nodded and the music started:

Once upon a time a few mistakes ago
I was in your sights, you got me alone
You found me, you found me, you found me
I guess you didn't care, and I guess I liked that
And when I fell hard you took a step back
Without me, without me, without me

And he's long gone when he's next to me
And I realize the blame is on me

'Cause I knew you were trouble when you walked in
So shame on me now
Flew me to places I'd never been
'Til you put me down, oh
I knew you were trouble when you walked in
So shame on me now
Flew me to places I'd never been
Now I'm lying on the cold hard ground
Oh, oh, trouble, trouble, trouble
Oh, oh, trouble, trouble, trouble

No apologies, he'll never see you cry
Pretend he doesn't know that he's the reason why
You're drowning, you're drowning, you're drowning
Now I heard you moved on from whispers on the street
A new notch in your belt is all I'll ever be
And now I see, now I see, now I see

He was long gone when he met me
And I realize the joke is on me, yeah!

I knew you were trouble when you walked in
So shame on me now
Flew me to places I'd never been
'Til you put me down, oh
I knew you were trouble when you walked in
So shame on me now
Flew me to places I'd never been
Now I'm lying on the cold hard ground
Oh, oh, trouble, trouble, trouble
Oh, oh, trouble, trouble, trouble

And the saddest fear comes creeping in
That you never loved me or her, or anyone, or anything, yeah

I knew you were trouble when you walked in
So shame on me now
Flew me to places I'd never been
'Til you put me down, oh
I knew you were trouble when you walked in (you were right there, you were right there)
So shame on me now
Flew me to places I'd never been
Now I'm lying on the cold hard ground
Oh, oh, trouble, trouble, trouble
Oh, oh, trouble, trouble, trouble

I knew you were trouble when you walked in
Trouble, trouble, trouble
I knew you were trouble when you walked in
Trouble, trouble, trouble

After Arias' encouragement Emily was at ease on the stage and sang with her whole heart. As she sang she realized she hadn't picked this song because of Jason but because of Mr. Fitz. He had caused Aria so much trouble. She didn't dare look over there though because he was with his family and didn't deserve some second hand rage she was feeling.

Emily didn't have tell Ezra that she hadn't picked this song because of Jason DiLaurentis. It was all over her face that it was because of him, the choice had come from her subconscious. Squirming in his seat Ezra couldn't help but think about all the trouble he had caused Aria and her friends by keeping them a secret.

Her song finished and Emily couldn't have been more proud of herself. She had gotten through the song without looking over at Ezra and his family. Mona joined her on stage, "Wow Emily. I do have say green is not your color but red definitely is." She said making an obvious joke.

Emily handed her mic to Toby who was up next looking ready to be done, "You'll do great. Just remember you're doing this for Spencer."

Toby nodded and went out on stage. Mona was introducing him and the song he was going he was going to be singing Anywhere With You by Jake Owen. "Now ladies and gentlemen please don't leave after Toby is done. We have a special closing to the show." Mona added and walked backstage.

Toby looked out into the audience and found Spencer and smiled as the music started:

If your dream house
Is a double-wide trailer sitting back in the holler
On a country road
Then baby that's where we'll go
If you don't wanna settle down
We can bounce around from town to town
And that's fine with me
If you wanna just ride the breeze

I'll go anywhere,
West Virginia baby I don't care
Mexico on wild hair
Have you ever seen California
Pick a spot on any old map
I travel light and my bags are packed
Just as long as I'm where you're at
I'm gonna have a real good view
I'll go anywhere, anywhere with you
I'll bet there's a two lane
Running right through the middle of a wide open desert to a ghost town
If you wanna just hide out
We could send a post card back
From a mountain top out in Idaho
Maybe get snowed in
Anytime baby you say when

Yeahhh I'll go anywhere
West Virginia baby I don't care
Mexico on wild hair
Have you ever seen California
Pick a spot on any old map
I travel light and my bags are packed
Just as long as I'm where you're at
I'm gonna have a real good view
I'll go anywhere
Girl I'll swear
Just say the word
I'll take you there
Aww anywhere, anywhere with you

Yeah I'll go anywhere with you

Toby's voice was smooth and made Spencer swoon. She had never heard him sing before but she was going to be hearing a lot more of it now she thought. Aria, Hanna and Emily all watched Spencer. It was an amazing sight to see their best friend not having a care in the world other than watching her boyfriend sing to her in a crowd. Jason and Caleb just looked at each other awkwardly knowing that Toby had just won with his song. Nodding to each other they wrapped their arms around their girlfriends and pulled them close.

Right before Toby hit the last line Spencer, Hanna, Emily and Aria all ran to get backstage. They were the surprise ending and wanted to be ready when Mona announced them, plus they had to pick up two extra mics.

Toby finished his song just as strong as he started it and Mona joined him on stage. "Great job Toby. Ladies and gentlemen that concludes the regular scheduled show, but as I said before we have a special ending. I'd liked to have Jessica DiLaurentis join me on stage." The girls all looked at each other surprised. Jesscia got up on stage, "Allow me to introduce Aria Montgomery, Spencer Hastings, Emily Fields and Hanna Marin, they are going to sing Graduation by Vitamin C as a closing." She said walking off the stage handing her mic to Emily with a smile to all the girls.

"Ladies and gentlemen before we sing we like to thank you for coming out and supporting us in this year's Talent Showcase. You all have been a great crowd. My friends and I realized this morning that we were all singing individually but not together so we rushed here and asked if we could add this ending. The organizers were more than gracious and allowed us too." Aria spoke into her mic.

"But we also have another reason for wanting to sing this song as an ending. Three years ago the four of us lost one of our best friends, actually the girl who introduced us all to each other and this is our way of saying goodbye to her." Spencer said stepping forward.

"So this one is for you Alison, we all miss you and wish you were here." Hanna said as Emily nodded for the music to be started:

And so we talked all night about the rest of our lives
Where we're gonna be when we turn 25
I keep thinking times will never change
Keep on thinking things will always be the same
But when we leave this year we won't be coming back
No more hanging out cause we're on a different track
And if you got something that you need to say
You better say it right now cause you don't have another day
Cause we're moving on and we can't slow down
These memories are playing like a film without sound
And I keep thinking of that night in June
I didn't know much of love
But it came too soon
And there was me and you
And then we got real blue
Stay at home talking on the telephone
And we would get so excited and we'd get so scared
Laughing at ourselves thinking life's not fair
And this is how it feels

[1]
As we go on
We remember
All the times we
Had together
And as our lives change
Come whatever
We will still be
Friends Forever

So if we get the big jobs
And we make the big money
When we look back now
Will our jokes still be funny?
Will we still remember everything we learned in school?
Still be trying to break every single rule
Will little brainy Bobby be the stockbroker man?
Can Heather find a job that won't interfere with her tan?
I keep, keep thinking that it's not goodbye
Keep on thinking it's a time to fly
And this is how it feels

[Repeat 1]

La, la, la, la:
Yeah, yeah, yeah
La, la, la, la:
We will still be friends forever

Will we think about tomorrow like we think about now?
Can we survive it out there?
Can we make it somehow?
I guess I thought that this would never end
And suddenly it's like we're women and men
Will the past be a shadow that will follow us around?
Will these memories fade when I leave this town
I keep, keep thinking that it's not goodbye
Keep on thinking it's a time to fly

[Repeat 1 (3x)

Aria started off the song in a soft tone that had everyone on their feet, phones out, and eyes closed. Jessica DiLaurentis had left backstage and found Jason. Walking up beside her son she put a hand on his shoulder with tears coming out of her eyes. Jason put his arm around his Mom's shoulders, he was beyond surprised that the girls had put this together this morning. They sounded amazing and he was so thankful that they had dedicated it to Ali. She may have been a bitch, but she was their bitch and they loved her for it.

As the girls sang they moved to sit on the edge of the stage. Looking at each other they each finally let their emotions go. Aria was the first to start crying but never let it affect her singing, Emily was the next and had to stop singing for a couple lines, Hanna scooted closer to Emily and the two hugged and kept singing. Spencer scooted closer to Aria and they hugged and kept the song going.

Anyone who didn't know Allison would have been able to tell that she had been important to the four girls on the stage. The emotion in their voices was nothing compared to the emotion on their faces. They missed their friend.

By the end of the song Aria was the only one still singing but barely keeping it together. She had no idea how she was doing, but she suspected it had something to do with Jason holding his crying Mom and never taking his eyes off hers. They really did say it all, thank you doing this, it means more than you know, and I love you.

The song ended to a thunderous applause as people said their own goodbyes to Allison as the girls just had. Before going off stage the girls hugged each other silently promising to always be there for one another. Allison may have brought them together but her death wouldn't separate them. Mona made her closing statements and the crowd slowly started to file away to cars and restaurants.

The girls and their boyfriends all waited for their families. Jessica DiLaurentis stood with Jason when Aria came to him. Looking at all of the girls all she could say was thank you. The girls all gave her hugs and told her it was their way of saying goodbye. Not able to handle being in public anymore Mrs. DiLaurentis headed back to Jason's.

Aria's family found her and gave her hugs. Mike even looked like he had been crying. Zack asked, "So Jason did you tear up?"

"I almost did, but then I realized my Mom was crying enough for the both of us." He responded lightening the mood.

Ella just wrapped her arms around her daughter and told her how proud she was. The other families had much of the same reactions. Getting all of their stuff together the girls all headed to their homes after an exhausting night.