Darker – Chapter 2

Universal Pictures owns all rights of Fifty Shades of Grey and Pitch Perfect…I only own the idea of this twisted mash-up of an alternate universe love story.

Warning! Chapters may include graphic sexual situations (BDSM) which may not be suitable for everyone. Reviews and comments are always welcome. Thank you for reading.

Last time on Darker…

Turning over to my other side I noticed Jesse sleeping next to me. Rubbing the sleep out of my eyes I couldn't believe I allowed this to happen, especially since we had broken up just a few days before. When I examined my surroundings more closely I realized we were at his place, in his bed and I was wearing one of his t-shirts without anything underneath.

Where were my clothes and what the hell happened last night?

Did we...?

And now…

Fuck...fuck...fuckity fuck! I cursed to myself as I rolled over onto my back and clutched my pounding head between my hands. How the hell did I get into this predicament...again, and where was Stacie last night? My so-called friend who traveled so far to be here in my time of need had disappeared as soon as Jesse showed up. Was everything she said bullshit?

It was as though I traveled back in time to the night I was dragged out by the Bellas, drank to excess and was hit on by Luke in my inebriated state. After a failed attempt to chew Jesse out via cell phone, my knight in shining armor showed up unexpectedly and rescued me from myself as I repaid him by vomiting everywhere. I was pissed at Jesse that night because of the mixed signals he gave; enticing me with elaborate gifts and seduction, then applying his anti-lock braking philosophy of bullshit. "You should stay clear of me...I'm not the man for you." His words lingered in my mind sounding like a fucking mantra. Well Mr. Swanson, perhaps I'm not the woman for you...

Turning over to face him I watched Jesse as he slept soundly, looking so peaceful while I continued to freak out. No! This wasn't happening! We weren't together anymore! Fucking alcohol! Why did I let myself get so drunk?

With his soft pouty lips, long eyelashes and dusting of facial hair I swooned over his prominent features and couldn't resist him no matter how much I tried. Watching his Adam's apple move whenever he swallowed, I focused on his chest and imagined myself running my fingers through his dark hairs, tugging slightly at them and applying healing kisses to his tiny scars. With touching being such a hard limit for Jesse, it would always be a bone of contention between us. Remembering the time in Sedona where he barely consented to my touch, it was brief but was ultimately a breakthrough between us. So I thought...

As I laid there observing him I started seeing a different side of this disturbed man. Laying flat on his back, his chest rose with even breaths making him look so young and vulnerable. I sighed at the thought of him as a young boy with a horrific beginning being burned alive by his crackwhore mother's pimp; it was no wonder he couldn't stand being touched. He took piano lessons as an adolescent and learned how to compose music later on in life. Why did he give it up when he was so gifted and obviously had a passion for it? What made him want to give up his dreams and become a controlling corporate tycoon who enjoyed hurting women?

While I was getting shit-faced drunk last night he practically begged me to take him back. Looking so pained, he appeared to be suffering the same fate as me, which strangely as it sounded, brought a sense of relief to me knowing I wasn't alone in my misery. He admitted to not wanting another sub...what was he trying to say? He made me admit that I still loved him and wanted to discuss a new type of proposition. What the hell was that about?

With the short amount of time we were together I'd never had such strong feelings for anyone and already missed him terribly. I missed the fun we had together, to our playful yet seductive banter but most of all I missed the connection we shared in the thralls of passion; whether we were partaking in kinky fuckery or engaged in good old fashion vanilla sex. With Jesse's complex nature I never really knew where he stood on things or what he was thinking, however he made it very clear he desired me and always made me feel special.

Jesse had always been a frustrating and demanding control freak with at least fifty shades to his personality, but I loved him for who he was no matter what arsenal of bullshit he launched at me. I gave him my innocence and trust while he gave me a new perspective on life and showed how amazing intimacy could be; it was the ultimate trade off that benefited us both.

Shifting in his sleep, Jesse turned over on his side and reached in my direction. Before he draped himself over me, I quickly manouvered away and removed myself from his bed. As much as I wanted to be in his arms and give in to passion, I had my reasons for leaving Jesse and needed to stick to my guns.

Getting to my feet I looked around the room and found my leather bag. With my clothes no where in sight I remembered there were outfits purchased for me and kept in the guest room closet adjacent to the Red Room of Pain. Making the trip upstairs I was relieved to find a sundress with coordinating sandals to change into. It wasn't really my style but it would have to do. Locating some undergarments I dressed quickly and made my way to the guest bathroom across the hall.

Taking care of personal business I cursed to myself because something physical had definitely taken place between us. With no recollection beyond what happened on the dance floor, a disturbing thought crossed my mind that Jesse may have taken advantage of me during my intoxication, but without actual proof I had to discard that theory and concentrate my efforts of escaping before he woke. "Necrophilia isn't my thing. I like my women sentient and receptive." His words from long ago haunting me once again.

Fixing myself as much as I possibly could, I entered the living room and was unexpectedly greeted by the housekeeper who apparently was just as surprised to find me there. "Good morning Miss Mitchell...could I interest you in breakfast or coffee?" The chipper blonde asked with a warm smile. "How about a cup of hot tea?"

For the life of me I couldn't remember her name but managed a grin and felt as though I had been caught with my hand in the cookie jar. "Um...no thank you." I responded shyly. "Actually I was just leaving. Please let Mr. Swanson know I went home."

Looking somewhat confused she nodded slowly as I made my way to the foyer and pressed the elevator call button. While I waited for the lift to arrive I quickly sent a text message to Stacie.

"Get your ass over to Jesse's place as soon as possible!"

In less than a minute she texted me back.

"She lives. What happened to you last night?"

"I'll explain when you get here. Please hurry."

"I'm just down the street. Meet me in front in a few."

As soon as the doors slid open I stepped inside and let the doors close. The descent seemed to take forever as I desperately wanted to leave before I had to face him since I wasn't ready to discuss what may have transpired last night. As the elevator arrived at the lower level I made the walk of shame across the shiny lobby floors and out the revolving front doors. True to her word the rental pulled up, I quickly slid into the passenger side and secured my seat belt. Looking around it seemed I had made a clean get away but we still hadn't moved.

"What are you waiting for?" My abruptness took her by surprise as I fixated on the revolving doors, hoping to not see him. "Get me the hell out of here!" Stacie nodded at my urgency and pulled away from the high rise property while I slumped into my seat, let out a deep breath and closed my eyes in relief.

"What the hell is going on?" She asked with concern. "You alright?"

I was so angry I couldn't answer her right away. Instead I glanced over at her, grinded my teeth and looked out my side window.

"No!" I finally replied. "I'm pretty fucking pissed."

"Okay...I'll take the bait. Why?" Stacie asked.

"Seriously?" I barked back. "You have to ask?"

"Cute dress by the way." She disregarded my remarks and seemed oblivious to my foul mood as she merged into traffic. "Weren't you wearing jeans last night?" Giving her a look to kill, I ignored her inquiry. "So wher-"

Before she could complete her question I let her have it. "You guys set me up last night!" I seethed. "I thought you were my friend. How could you do that to me!?"

Stacie was stunned by my outburst, turned into an IHOP restaurant parking lot and pulled into a space. With the engine still running she turned towards me. "I swear to God I had nothing to do with it, and who the hell told you to drink so much?" She retorted, giving it right back at me. "Benji recommended the restaurant so he must have told Jesse we were headed there. I'm really sorry Beca, I had no idea they would show up. When I saw you two talking I thought you wanted me to keep my distance. I promise you...none of this was planned."

Sighing deeply I accepted her explanation. "I'm sorry too, but now I have another problem."

"Which is?"

"I spent the night with him." I confessed running my hand through my hair. "And I can't remember shit."

"Did you…?"

"I think so." My response was filled with regret. "I know something happened."

"How could you be so sure?"

"Dude! I woke up in his bed and wasn't wearing much. Trust me Stacie...I know. Every woman knows when they've been...you know." My smirk letting her know I wasn't imagining it.

"Ahh...gotcha." She caught on so further explanation wasn't needed. "Well, that would explain the way we found you two last night."

Turning towards her my eyes practically bulged out of my head. "What do you mean found us?" The angst in my voice was apparent as I dreaded hearing the details of the night before. "Tell me what you saw!"

"You really don't remember?"

I shook my head fearing the truth. "Not a damn thing after we danced."

She gave me a sympathetic look and took a deep breath. "You're jeans were undone and Jesse...well, lets just say wasn't exactly clothed." She continued on as I grimaced in defeat. With my suspicions confirmed I let out all the air in my lungs and looked out the side window. "It's not that big a deal, Beca."

"You don't understand." I exhaled deeply. "It was a stupid mistake...it should have never happened."

"Well than explain it to me." She added. "It can't be all that bad, it's not like the two of you didn't have sex before."

"It's a very big deal!" My voice rose as I continued. "First of all, Jesse and I are not back together and second," I hesitated and looked directly at my friend. "After I broke up with him I stopped taking the pill."

"Oh fuck!"

After the initial shock of my news wore off we opted for breakfast and went inside the family chain restaurant. We were quickly seated, ordered coffee, juice and a couple of stacks of pancakes with sides of bacon. After about ten minutes our perfect hangover food was brought out. Buttering my flapjacks then drowning them in syrup it was heavenly as I managed to choke down most of my plate.

"Damn! You really were hungry." She observed. "Well, it's no wonder after the way you were throwing up last night."

"Come again?"

Stacie shook her head and couldn't believe my amnesia. "Wow! You really were fucked up."

"With the shock of seeing the asshole last night I ordered four double shots of Hennessy and downed them in less than an hour."

"Holy shit!" She exclaimed. "That's a lot of hard liquor for someone as little as you who hardly drinks, and that's on top of the beers we already had."

"Yeah...no shit. My head is still pounding." I responded emptying the carafe of coffee into my cup. "It wasn't my finest moment."

"Well...at least you nailed that son-of-a bitch good." She chuckled at the memory of last night seeing Jesse in his wifebeater shirt and briefs. "He deserved what he got."

It must have been the third cup of coffee because it jarred my memory as I started to recall emptying my stomach on the pompous fool after we...

"So...what're you gonna to do?" She interrupted my thoughts as she sipped her orange juice.

"What do you mean?" I asked. "Nothing's changed between us, he's still my ex and that's all to it."

Stacie didn't seem convinced and decided to throw a wrench in the bicycle spoke. "And if you're pregnant?" She asked as I closed my eyes and shook my head trying not to think about the possibility.

Eventually I wanted kids but not at the ripe age of twenty-two and definitely not under these circumstances. I still had my sights set on becoming a music producer, being independent and successful; earning a decent salary and place in society. My life would literally be turned upside down with a little peanut growing inside of me; my career would have to be put on hold. I didn't believe in abortion so that would never be an option, if I was in fact expecting I would simply just have to deal with it.

"Earth to Beca..." She snapped her fingers, bringing me out of my reverie. I smiled shyly imagining what our offspring would look like. "What would you do?" She asked again.

"There would be no options for me." I paused with a smile. "Just like you, no matter what the circumstances were, I would have it."

Stacie beamed. "I thought so...you would be such an awesome mother."

Rolling my eyes, I smirked at her compliment as my cell phone vibrated. Looking down at the display, a photo taken of Jesse and I from graduation alerted me that things were about to get interesting; Jesse was calling...

"Aren't you going to answer it?"

"Nope." I responded coolly and let the call go to voicemail. "The asshole can wait."

After a beat we both chuckled, finished up our breakfasts then left the restaurant.

Later that day we picked up Stacie's daughter from Benji's and headed back to my place. To my surprise Hope looked nothing like her mother. With her very blonde locks, dimples and light blue eyes she must have taken after her biological father. She was the sweetest little thing as we put on her favorite movie, Disney's Frozen to keep her attention occupied.

As I observed my friend interact with her child I saw a different side of Stacie which warmed my heart. With the horrible circumstances of Hope's conception, Stacie had become a nurturing and loving parent to the young girl and showered her with affection as she hugged and kissed the sweet girl with an infectious giggle. It was a refreshing distraction from the last few days as I watched their interaction and wondered what kind of parent I would eventually be and if the rich bastard would still be in the picture.

Throughout the day I received several text messages from Jesse...

"Why haven't you returned my call?"

"Why didn't you wake me?"

"What time did you leave?"

"Where are you?"

"Are you alive?"

"Why are you ignoring me?"

And finally...

"We need to talk about last night."

He was right, there were things we needed to discuss and I really wanted to know what transpired between us. Letting out a sigh I was about to text him back when my cell phone rang. Expecting it to be Jesse again I nonchalantly looked at the image on my screen and just about squeaked when it wasn't. Seeing the handsome image of Barden's own radio disc jockey, I immediately accepted the call and was delighted to find out that Luke had not only landed a DJ gig at one of Hollywood's trendiest nightclubs, he had just made the move to L.A.. His timing couldn't have been more perfect as Chloe wouldn't be back for another week and Stacie was leaving tomorrow. Slowly but surely I was getting out of my blue funk as my friends were bringing me back to life. When I got off the phone I found out that Luke had arranged for me and a guest to be on the VIP list for Saturday night which marked his debut at the very popular hot spot...Boulevard3.

"Are you ever going to respond to me?"

Oh shit! I cursed to myself. With the welcome distraction of Luke's news I totally forgot about Jesse. Thinking about what I wanted to say, I texted him the following cryptic message.

"I'll meet with you tomorrow night."

His response was almost instantaneous.

"Finally! Be ready at six, I'm taking you to dinner so wear something nice."

And so it begins...

The following day Stacie, her daughter and I spent the day together before they had to leave. With her help the condo was fully unpacked and my laundry was washed, folded and put away. It was a blessing having her out here for a few days, and with her friendship she helped me battle some of my demons and get me back on track. Even with the possibility of a life altering event looming over me, I would be strong enough to handle it. We vowed to keep in touch and I promised to let her know of my news regardless of what happened. After we said our goodbyes I headed for a shower to get ready for my dinner date with the ex.

Dressed in a short black skirt and white button down blouse, I wore stiletto heels and arranged my hair in a partial updo with conservative make-up. I wanted to look nice for Jesse but not too over the top. It was a warm night in L.A. so jackets wouldn't be necessary but I had the feeling things would be heating up between me and a certain billionaire bad boy.

As punctual as ever Jesse arrived to my front door at six sharp wearing a pair of grey slacks that hung perfectly on his hips and a white dress shirt that was opened at the top. With a glimpse of his chest hair showing through my lips parted slightly as an unwarranted sigh escaped, recalling how my skin would tickle against his during one of our many hard fucking sessions. Just the thought of him pressing himself against me was enough to make me flush and heightened other senses as I tried desperately to maintain my composure.

"You look lovely Rebeca." The words rolled off his tongue as he stepped into my place. "You also look cold, are you bringing a jacket?" He spoke softly eyeing me mischievously as I crossed my arms in front of my chest to conceal my apparent arousal. Damn him for being so perceptive! I thought to myself reluctantly putting on my leather jacket. "This place is very nice. Aren't you going to show me around?"

"Um...sure." I responded with a smile. "This is actually Chloe's condo and furniture, I'm just staying here until I can afford my own place. Her parents bought it for her as a graduation gift. My room is this way."

With Stacie's help the place looked immaculate. I showed him around and we ended up in my bedroom. Jesse slowly walked over to my bed and pressed down on the mattress making me flush once again.

"I know this bed." He purred with a hint of mischief. "You were quite receptive if I remember."

Ooh...I know what you're doing Swanson! Yes, sex between us had always been mind blowing, but he was still messed up emotionally. Two can play his game...

Consciously I bit my lower lip and elicited the perfect reaction from him as his eyes grew darker with desire. "You gave me some of my best orgasms here." I played along watching him squirm. "But...that's all in the past now." My inner goddess and subconscious stood up and cheered as Jesse looked visibly pained.

"You're right but I'm hoping to change that." His eyes bore into mine as I felt his hand on the small of my back which sent shivers along my spine. "C'mon...before you waste away in front of me, let's get some dinner."

Nodding in agreement I secured the condo and activated the alarm. As we entered the parking lot we approached his Audi R8.

"No Benji?" I asked.

"Nope...I gave him the weekend off to spend with his family. "It'll just be the two of us but don't worry Miss Mitchell, I'll be on my best behavior."

Smirking back I just couldn't resist it. "I seriously doubt that, Mr. Swanson, a zebra can't change its stripes." My snarky comment made him grin as he helped me sink into the passenger seat.

Not knowing where we were headed, the drive to our destination was quiet as we occasionally stole glances at each other. After a thirty minute drive we pulled into the parking valet of Mastro's Steakhouse in Beverly Hills. Waving off the parking attendant Jesse came around and helped me out of the car. With my skirt being as short as it was, I welcomed any assistance before I flashed half of L.A..

"You're legs are fucking awesome." He praised with appreciation, not able to take his eyes off me while his hand rested on the small of my back.

"Must be all the exercise I've been getting lately. They've gotten stronger so I guess I should be thanking you for that." My flirtatious comment made his jaw drop as I smirked and walked passed him to the hostess station. Looking back at Jesse he looked to be in distress and needed a moment to regain his composure while my inner goddess did a backflip. After a minute Jesse caught up and gave me a look of warning as my grin grew wider knowing I had the same affect on him as he did on me. We really were two peas in a pod when it came to our sexuality; wanting to seduce the other and push the envelop as far as it would go.

Being the gentleman Jesse was, he removed my jacket and hung it over the back of my chair as we were seated in a secluded corner table and waited on immediately by impeccably dressed restaurant staff. With Jesse's knowledge of wines he did the ordering as I placed my cloth napkin on my lap and took in the rich surroundings with romantic ambiance.

"I hope you don't mind but I already preselected our meals. They're known for their bone in ribeye so I hope you're hungry."

Yes Mr. Swanson, I'm always hungry and this time it might even be for food. Nodding in agreement I needed to stay focused and stop thinking with my lady bits. We were no longer together but my libido had a mind of its own and wanted him badly.

"Nice place." I squeaked as the waiter brought our wine. Thanking God internally for liquid courage as the burgundy colored liquid filled our glasses. We toasted to friendship and successful business pursuits then sipped our wine. It was delicious...

"You like?" He asked as I nodded. "I've always wanted to try this place but didn't have anyone worth bringing. You're the only one who's ever meant anything to me." His seductive gaze nearly set my panties on fire.

For a moment our eyes locked and I almost forgot how to breathe. "Jesse, you can't say those things to me. We broke up...remember?"

"Yeah...I remember." Lowering his head in shame he reached for me hand. "I'm sorry for all the pain I caused you." He paused. "Can you ever forgive me?"

Placing one hand on top of his, the other cupped the side of his face. "Of course I forgive you." I said softly. Raising his head I could see moisture forming in his eyes proving to me his apology was sincere.

"You were right to leave me." He said matter-of-factly, wiping the moisture away. "Watching you walk out made me realize how happy I was and what you meant to me." He paused. "I never deserved you."

"Jesse...that's not true. You deserve to be happy just like anyone else," I paused squeezing his hand. "And you deserve to be loved." My words struck a nerve with him as he moved my hand to his lips.

"Then come back to me." The sincerity in his words and love I saw in his eyes startled me. "Please baby, give me another chance."

As I was about to speak a plate of oysters on the half shell were brought over to our table. Having previously introduced me to the delicious appetizer my mouth watered as Jesse watched me with amusement. Taking the shell closest to me I squirted some lemon juice, angled it to my lips and sucked in its goodness as the delicate meat slid effortlessly down my throat. I moaned at the flavor and licked the excess juice off my lips making Jesse's eyes go wide.

"You approve?" He asked, fully amused by my reaction. "Have another..."

"Mmm...so good." I purred as I tossed back a couple more. "You should try some."

He smirked. "Alright Miss Mitchell, perhaps I will."

I smiled back. "Allow me." Recalling how he used to prepare his shells, I squirted lemon juice and added a touch of Tabasco and horseradish, then pushed the plate closer to my dinner mate. "There you go, Mr. Swanson...they're all yours."

As he brought an oyster to his lips his eyes locked onto mine and seemed to penetrate my soul. I couldn't look away as he slurped and swallowed the side dish known for its aphrodisiac qualities. I would be lying if I said I wasn't affected by his actions as I discretely rubbed my thighs together. Jesse was both my strength and weakness as I struggled to make sense of his complexity while trying to conceal my desire for him.

"You're right, these are good but not nearly as delicious as you." His seductive tone ran deep as I flushed scarlet red. With his hand on my knee I gasped as he squeezed and moved up my thigh, pushing the hem of my short skirt higher. "By your actions I can tell you want me." He observed with a wicked grin.

Not having had sex in the last few days, it was the longest we had gone since the beginning and I craved Jesse's touch but needed to stay strong.

"Get your hand off my leg, and if you make another inappropriate comment like that...I'm leaving." I tried not to make a scene and kept the tone of my voice to a whisper while Jesse let out a deep sigh and removed his hand. "I've told you before, you can't keep using sex as a weapon whenever you feel like it. I'm very conflicted when it comes to you and I can't stay focused when you do or say things like that. Your needs are too dangerous to me and I don't trust myself around you." I paused to take a sip of wine. "This was a mistake, I shouldn't be here." Shifting in my seat I grabbed my purse and jacket off my seat. "Please call me a cab."

Taking a deep breath Jesse grabbed my wrist and clenched his jaw. "Why do you fight me so much when we're so good together? You're the most stubborn and irritating woman I've ever met, and I can't fucking resist you!" His confession took me by surprise as his voice began to carry. "I've told you, I'm no longer looking for a sub. Since meeting you my needs have changed."

"What are you trying to say, Jesse? What do you want from me?"

"I'm trying to tell you that I want more. For the first time in my life I've found someone who doesn't give a damn about my wealth...and who loves me for who I am. Beca, I want a relationship with you. A real relationship without all the kinky fuckery and without punishments. I want to give you what you need. I want us to be together...on your terms."

Listening to Jesse's outpouring of affection it felt as though a burden had been lifted, I was getting exactly what I thought I wanted but knowing the control issues he had, I knew if I took him back on these terms we would be doomed from the start.

"No." I whispered.

"What do you mean no?" He responded with confusion. "Isn't that what you wanted...a normal boyfriend who will give you hearts and flowers?"

"Yes...I mean no. I don't know what I want anymore." Shaking my head I was confusing us both. "All I know is that I can't do that to you. Without being able to fulfill your needs, it'll never work. It'll never be enough for you. I saw your expression after the punishment, and you enjoyed what you did to me, in a warped way it brought you peace while it destroyed me on the inside."

Jesse exhaled deeply and closed his eyes at my words. Still holding on to my wrist his eyes locked into mine.

"I know what it did to you, and I'll never be able to forgive myself for hurting the only woman I've ever…(pause)...had deep feelings for. I've re-evaluated those needs and accept the fact that I need you more than those punishments." He paused as our main courses were delivered. "My proposition to you is a vanilla relationship without the playroom and no punishments."

Thinking about what he was willing to give up I had difficulty holding back my emotions as I slowly shook my head.

"No." I responded softly, fighting back tears. "Thank you...but that's not what I want."

"Beca?" He asked while I lowered my eyes and struggled to find the right words. "Talk to me."

After a beat I found the nerve and looked up at him.

"With the exception of you beating me with that belt I enjoyed what we did." Exhaling deeply I continued. "The kinky fuckery, as you so graciously put it, is part of me now." Not quite believing what I was admitting to I tossed back the rest of my wine.

Stunned by my confession Jesse raked his fingers through his hair.

"You want that?" His words were full of disbelief as he whispered the million dollar question. "You want to submit to me?"

"God yes." I breathed. "But not always and definitely not in public." A small smile found its way to my lips.

"What about pain?" He asked carefully. "It's always been a concern of yours."

"There could be no pleasure without pain." I re-iterated his words from the night we went over his indecent proposal. "You were right about that." I conceded. "Not only did I learn to accept it, I found myself craving it." As the words continued to fall from my lips it was a hard reality to accept but while we were being honest with each other, I had to let him know how I felt.

"You always seem to surprise me." He sighed deeply. "Does this mean you'll give us another chance?"

"No Jesse. It means I'll think about it."

"Okay." He responded quickly not wanting to push me further. "When will you let me know?"

"Monday."

"Isn't that the first day of your internship?"

"Yes."

"Can I take you out after work?" He asked, cocking his head to the side. "To celebrate your first day."

I smiled back. "Sure...I'd like that."

For the remainder of the evening we ate in a comfortable silence as we polished off our steaks which did in fact melt in our mouths. Having not eaten much this week I had noticeably lost a few pounds, not realizing how hungry I was as I consumed two-thirds of my ribeye, making Jesse the happiest billionaire on the planet.

With the truths we shared a part of me felt vindicated with my decision of walking out on Jesse while my heart continued to swell for this man who was willing to move mountains to win me back. I wanted to say yes to the new arrangement but needed more time to consider the consequences of my decision.

Later that evening we went for a drive along Pacific Coast Highway and parked along the side of the road. With the moon shining on the ocean, the view was breathtaking. We talked about his work to my internship and then competing in Europe in the next couple of weeks. We also shared some laughs as we reminisced about my graduation to the time we spent together in Sedona. Jesse brought up the glider kit I gave him and admitted to building it immediately, then putting it on display for the world to see. His enthusiasm for such a small token of my affection was addictive as I couldn't keep the shit eating grin off my lips.

Times like this Jesse acted and looked much younger than his twenty-seven year-old self and I was reminded why and how much I loved him even though we really didn't know each other that well. We didn't speak of the emergency that made him leave Sedona or what transpired between us the night before. I did however tell him about Luke's DJ gig the following evening which he graciously offered to escort me to.

As our date progressed Jesse dropped me off at my place and walked me to the front door. After an awkward silence neither of us knew what to say or what to do for that matter. For the first time we were navigating in uncharted waters and didn't know what protocol was for whatever it was we were. Knowing my weakness when it came to him I didn't invite Jesse inside. Bending down he placed a lingering kiss to my cheek, gave the warmest smile as he said goodbye in his own special way. "Laters, baby..." Closing the door behind me, my back fell against the flat surface as the beating of my heart nearly pounded out of my chest.

I was left with a lot to consider. If I said yes to the new arrangement things would be very different between us. I would no longer be Jesse's submissive, and he would no longer be my dominant. We would be lovers on equal terms, which was all I ever wanted.

A/N: Do you think Beca should take Jesse back? Feel free to share your thoughts.

A special thanks to everyone who took the time to review: KissKendrick, AbbeyEdie1416, jutord, deanna xxx, jessica yip.792aka annak47fans, VirtualCorsair, 50 Shades of Pitch Perfect, Jayjoy22, gossipssweetlips and AnAuthorIsAnArtist. You guys are truly amazing and what inspires me to write.