Perfection: The Story of Aubrey Posen

by achang

We all know Aubrey Posen: the high-strung senior who rules the Bellas with an iron fist. But how well do we really know her story? This piece explores the mystery that is Aubrey Posen; her dark and twisted backstory, her journey as a student at Barden, the complicated relationship she develops with Chloe Beale, and her unending struggle to attain perfection. Enjoy!

3. Chapter 3

Aubrey was nine years old and had never been more excited in her life. Her school was performing Annie and she'd snagged the lead role. Clad in a thick, slightly grimy dress, she fidgeted anxiously in the wings, heart pounding with nervous anticipation.

The musical commenced, and Aubrey sang and danced with a brilliant white smile plastered on her face. The stage lights above beamed down, illuminating her every move. Yes, young Aubrey Posen was carefree and content, unaware of the evils of the world.

As the performance drew to a close, Aubrey sprinted down the stairs behind the stage and weaved through the mass of people preparing to leave. She caught sight of her mother and father, seated near the back of the auditorium, and ran towards them.

"Dad! Dad!" Sergeant Posen raised an eyebrow. "I mean, Sir," Aubrey quickly corrected herself. Her father was very strict about properness and respect, demanding that he always be addressed as Sir. "What did you think? Did I do well?"

"Bree, sweetheart, you were brilliant," her mother cooed, placing a hand on her shoulder. "I'm very proud of you." Aubrey turned to her father, eyes large and expectant. All she wanted was to please him; to make him proud, to make him love her. With her father, it often seemed that love had to be earned; that you had to prove yourself worthy of it before it could be received.

Sergeant Posen gave a small smile. He'd been off duty for several months now, and he'd relaxed a bit, grown to be a bit more lighthearted. Pieces of the man he'd used to be – a gentler, more loving man – were beginning to shine through his tough exterior. He looked his daughter straight in the eye. "Aubrey Posen, you were incredible. I have never been a more proud father."

Aubrey thought she might melt right there on the spot. The harsh words of the past, every bitter and cruel thing her father had ever said to her, faded from her mind. She knew right then and there that her father loved her; and she would stop at nothing to make sure that he always loved her. She would make him proud.