unknownmind98

[unknownmind98]

a love song over time

Recently single Chloe struggles to balance mother and social life. One weekend with an old friend changes everything. Bechloe. Romance.

AO3: https://archiveofourown.org/works/60645565 Fanfiction.net: https://www.fanfiction.net/s/14412726/1/a-love-song-over-time

A Love Song Over Time

Trees bristle and early morning birds whistle their way into Chloe’s slumber. With a faint smile on her lips as she dreams about her days as a Barden Bella.

Aubrey’s wide grin as they’re announced the winners of their acapella competition. Fat Amy’s boisterous jump of victory. Jessica and Ashley’s tear-filled eyes. Stacie’s squeal of excitement. Lily’s silent cheers. Cynthia Rose’s “hell yeah bitches!”.  

And then there was Beca.

Chloe sighs in content thinking of her long-time best friend. How she was the reason they won. She’ll forever cherish that moment. When they locked eyes and simply smiled. Eyes wide and full of hope for what the future meant.

She snuggles in closer to her bed sheets, pulling them up to her chin and feeling the warmth surround her. It almost feels like a hug from her Bellas.

From Beca.

“Momma…”

Gentle prodding at her cheeks slowly awakens her from her dream.

“Momma, wake up,” She feels a light weight drop on top of her, giggling.

“Come onnnn,” Small hands tug the sheets down from Chloe’s chin.

Chloe’s eyes blearily adjust to the light cascading through the window onto her 4-year-old daughter.

“Hiya bug.” She sleepily greets. The young girl sports a toothy grin in return.

“Morning,” She adjusts herself to lay beside her mom. “I’m hungry.”

“Yeah?” Chloe asks, her voice quietly amused. “What do you want?”

Debating for a moment, her daughter quips up. “Pancakes.”

“Good choice.” Chloe runs a hand through the young girl’s hair, the same shade of red as hers. “Pancakes sound good.”

|-|-|

“Bella,” Chloe points towards the plate, “Eat your breakfast.”

She’s scrolling through her emails as her and Bella sit at the counter in the kitchen. She sighs as she see’s the latest one about the bills being due. And leans her head on her hand, gently biting her lip as she contemplates.

A small piece of pancake shakes her from her thoughts as it’s placed in front of her. “You have to eat too,” Bella says before going back to her own.

A small grin shapes Chloe’s face as she takes the offered piece. “Thank you bug.” Staring at her daughter for a few seconds with affection, she pulls her into a side hug. “I love you.”

Bella hiccups slightly but smiles “Love you too Momma.” She tries to wiggle her way free, but Chloe just tickles her sending her into a fit of giggling squeals. Letting her go, she watches as she skips her way across the kitchen into the living room.

Lifting her mug, Chloe sips at her coffee, watching her daughter play. Her attention moves to her phone shortly as it buzzes.

Tom You free for a call? (8.32am)

She stares at the message momentarily before dialling his number. Her fingers anxiously dance along the countertop as she waits. After a few rings, his voice chimes through.

“Hey.”

“Hi.” She replies, “What’s up?”

“Just checking in,” He says, “How’s Bella?”

“She’s good,” Chloe says eyes flickering towards said girl, “She’s had breakfast. It was pancakes today.”

“Good-“

“Is that daddy?” Bella asks from the living room floor, holding her Barbie, a gift from Aubrey on her fourth birthday.  

Nodding, Chloe holds out the phone, “Yeah come say hi to daddy.”

Bella scuffles to her feet, dropping the Barbie before skipping her way across and grabs the phone. “Hi daddy!” She speaks.

“Hi sweetheart,” He replies, “How are you! I miss you.”

“I miss you too daddy,” She says, “I had pancakes.”

“Yeah? Were they tasty?” He asks, before adding, “Bet they weren’t as good as mine.”

“Nooooo,” Bella laughs, “Momma’s is better. They were really tasty.”

“They are pretty good,” He agrees with a small chuckle, “Hey bug put Momma back on the phone for me would you.” He asks, ending with a “I love you!”

“Love you too daddy,” she says before handing the phone back to Chloe.

Placing the phone back to her ear, Chloe shifts back round to her laptop. “So, what’s up?” She repeats.

Hearing silence on the other end, she tries again, “Tom?”

“Yeah, no I just...” He starts. “The company need me for a bit longer.”

“How long?” She asks bluntly. This isn’t new for her. Tom has been busy this last year with work. And its only seemed to be getting worse lately. He’s away sometimes months at a time.

“Another month, maybe two.”

“Tom it’s Christmas in three weeks,” She sighs, her fingers rubbing at her temple, “Can you not ask to work on it after then?”

“I can’t Chlo,” He exhales, “We’re so close to getting this deal done and I don’t want to screw it up-”

“I know, I know,” she interrupts. “But what am I gonna tell Bella? She’s been excited to see you again.” Shaking her head, she continues in a hushed tone. “You know she made you a welcome home sign Tom.”

She’s frustrated, she can’t help it. Ever since they parted ways, she feels like she’s been raising their daughter alone.

“I’m sorry Chloe.” He apologises. “Look, I gotta go… I’ll talk to you later.”

He hangs up before she can say another word.

She sets the phone down and feels the tears begin to form in her eyes.

She’s exhausted.

Taking a steady breath, she tries to compose herself.

Blinking away the tears, she wipes harshly at her eyes before checking the time.

“Fuck…” Closing the laptop screen, she hurries off the counter chair. “School time Bella!”

|-|-|

“Okay have a good day bug,” Chloe hugs Bella tightly, kissing her cheek before watching her run to meet her friends outside her classroom. Bella waves goodbye at her before heading into the room.

As Chloe strolls back to her car, she feels her phone buzz. Fishing it out of her pocket, she checks the notification. A small grin forming on her face.

Beca Check this shit out (9.17am) (picture attachment)

It’s a selfie of Beca in the studio with a very high end, very expensive looking mixing control panel. Her eyes wide and excited. Chloe looks fondly at it. Beca’s aged slightly. They both have, they’ve come far from their college days. But there’s something sweet about how the faint smile lines have formed on Beca’s face, she thinks. Early 30’s looks good on her.

Beca (9.18am) Feel like this is too bougie for me to be around

Chloe shakes her head slightly, a small chuckle coming from her before typing a response.

Chloe (9.19am) It looks so cool! You look good beside it x

Beca (9.19am) Why thank you. I needed this confident boost

Chloe (9. 20am)Of course you did lol

Beca (9. 21am) I feel like you’re making fun of me :(

Chloe (9. 22am) Neverrrr

Beca (9. 22am) Hmm.. I don’t buy it but I’ll let it slide for now

Beca (9. 23am) how are u?

Chloe (9. 25am) Im fine

Beca (9. 26am) That all you’re gonna give me Beale?

Chloe (9. 26am) sorry just a bit stressed

Beca (9. 26am) You okay?

Chloe (9. 27am) Yeah it’s just life stuff lol

Beca (9. 27am) uh huh. You still on for this weekend or do you need some me time?

Chloe (9. 27am) Of course we are! as long as youre okay with Bella being with us

Beca (9. 28am) Hell yeah, I love that kid

Beca (9. 29am) Oh shit the artist is here now, so I gotta run. I’ll call you later?

Chloe (9. 30am) Sounds good. Take care Becs x

Beca (9. 30am) Love you! x

|-|-|

“Where are we going?” Bella quizzes from the back seat of Chloe’s car.

Pulling up to a red light, Chloe glances at Bella from the rearview mirror, “Airport bug.”

“Airport?”

“Yeah,” Chloe grins cheekily, “We’re picking up Auntie Beca.”

“Really?” Bella asks, her eyes lighting up.

Chloe nods before taking a right. “Yep! She’s staying with us for the weekend.”

Bella claps her hands excitedly, “The whole weekend?”

Chloe giggles at her daughter’s enthusiasm. “Yeah, the whoooollee weekend.”

Seeing the airport come into view, she can’t help but let out a huge smile. It’s been too long since she’s seen any of her friends. Aubrey does her best to stay in contact with her, but with running the retreat, her time varies. Yet Chloe is still grateful for the video calls they have, even if it’s only once a week.

Pulling into the visitor parking space, Chloe whips out her phone to check the time and see where Beca’s flights at. They have about 25 minutes to spare before it lands so she glances back to Bella,

“Wanna go in and grab an ice cream before we see Auntie Beca?”

|-|-|

Chloe watches Bella in amusement as she tries to stop the ice cream from melting down the cone. “Need help?” She asks, taking a spoonful of her own. She opted for a small tub instead.

Huffing Bella licks at the ice cream, “No I got this.” The vanilla sweetness has dripped onto her hand and Chloe grimaces slightly at the mess. She grabs a napkin and just as she’s about to clean Bella’s hand, the young girl is bouncing out of her seat.

“Bella come back!” Chloe panics, reaching for her but she’s cut off by her squeals of excitement.

“AUNTIE BECA!”

The older woman whips her head around to see Bella run towards one Beca Mitchell.

Producer Beca Mitchell, as she goes by these days.

But to Chloe it’s just her Beca.

The producer all but sets her bag on to the floor before small arms wrap around her waist. “Hey bug!” She greets the younger girl, hugging her tightly. “I missed you so much.” She rocks them back and forth, Bella giggling as she does.

“I missed you too!” Bella says, her face pressed against her waist. Pulling back, Beca shuffles her hair, laughing as the girl protests. The younger girl impatiently waits for Beca to lift her bag before grabbing her hand and tugging her towards her mom.

“Momma, Beca’s here!” Bella happily claims, not caring about the bystanders looking at them.

Chloe smiles as she watches on, standing to meet them. “Hey.” She greets once Beca is in front of her. She grimaces as she sees the vanilla ice cream from Bellas’s hand on her shirt. “I’m sorry about that,” she gestures to her clothes, noting the outfit the woman has on, a leather jacket over a navy and green flannel. Classic Beca.

“Hi,” Beca smirks, “Don’t worry about it,” she says dropping her bag once again. Chloe invades her personal space and wraps her arms around her. “I’ve missed you,” she whispers, her head leaning into the curve of the brunette’s neck.

She feels home. It’s been so long since she saw Beca. Been so long she had one of her hugs. She missed this physically touch. Back in Barden, Beca had been iffy on it at first, but overtime grew to initiate it herself. Chloe even has a sneaky suspicion that she loves it just as much as she does.

“I missed you too.” Beca lets out a breath, her grip tightening around the redhead. Pulling back slightly, she locks eyes with her best friend, “Let’s get out of here Beale,” She chuckles. “You know I hate airports.”

|-|-|

Later that evening, the three of them are sitting around Chloe’s small circular dining table. She had insisted on making dinner, but Beca shushed her and said she could tell she was tired and instructed her to sit down.

So instead, Chloe got to watch as Beca and Bella worked their way around the kitchen in an attempt to make spaghetti bolognese. Chloe had to confess it was nice getting to relax for the first time in what felt like forever.

But she also had to admit.

That their attempt at cooking was pitiful.

Beca was never the culinary genius, unless it was instant noodles, but she didn’t realize it had gotten this bad. So, Chloe couldn’t help the laugh that fell from her mouth, as she watched Beca struggle to strain the spaghetti.

“Beale I can hear you laughing!”

“I’m sorry. Are you sure you don’t want help?”

“No, you sit your ass down ma’am.”

“Okay, okay!”

“Bella tell your mom we have this under control.”

In the end, Beca and Bella admitted defeat as the spaghetti was overcooked and became mushy. So, they opted to order pizza instead.

Taking a slice, Beca shrugs, “I think we made a fair attempt.” She says glancing towards Bella who was sitting to her right.

Bella nods, munching away. Chloe’s eyes flicker between them, an amused smirk in place.

“I think you did great.” She giggles, dipping a fry into ketchup. Beca gives her a pointed stare. “Umm excuse you.” Her façade breaking quickly as she breaks into a smirk. She reaches over and steals some of Chloe’s fries before she can stop her. “Hey!” The redhead protests.

“You snooze you lose, Beale.” She cheekily grins, popping the fries into her mouth proudly.

|-|-|

Soon after dinner, Bella was feeling sleepy, so Chloe tucked her into bed.

“Auntie Beca is fun,” Bella says tiredly as Chloe pulls the sheets over her. Nodding, Chloe leans down to give her a kiss on the forehead. “Yeah, she is.”

“I wish Dad was here,” Bella tells Chloe just as she pulls away.

“I know bug,” she says, running a hand through her hair. “Hopefully he’ll see you soon, okay?”

Watching as Bella nods, she switches on the small nightlight that sits on top of the desk beside the bed before making her way towards the hallway, “Sweet dreams.”

Quietly closing the door behind her, Chloe leans her head against the door and sighs. God damn Tom.

Shaking her head she makes her way back towards the kitchen where she finds Beca cleaning up the dining table.

“Oh, you don’t have to do that Bec,” she says coming over beside her, reaching out to take the pizza boxes from her hands.

“I want to.” Beca explains, quietly adding, “You do enough Chlo.”

“Do I?” The words fall from Chloe’s mouth before she can stop them. She quickly turns to shove the boxes into the trash can.

“Chloe,” She feels a soft touch, “Are you okay?” Beca asks concerned, her hand running soothingly along her lower back.

Chloe hums, with an unconvincing nod. “Yeah of course.” She turns to face Beca, but her eyes betray her, as they begin to well up.

Beca’s hands move to Chloe’s arms. “Hey, tell me what’s wrong?”

“It’s nothing.” Chloe shakes her head, “I’m sorry.”

“Why are you apologizing?” Beca asks.

“I didn’t mean to ruin the mood.” Chloe breaks eye contact.

“You haven’t ruined anything.” Beca explains delicately. “I’m here for you Chlo.” She says before gently easing her into a warm hug. “Whatever it is, I’m here for you.”

Chloe melts into her. She grips onto Beca, and lets the tears fall from her eyes. “I’m just so tired, Bec.” She says, it’s muffled slightly by Beca’s shoulder, but she hears it.

Beca stands there with her for what feels like an eternity but doesn’t pull away. She knows this is what Chloe needs. This reassurance. A reminder she’s not alone.

It’s when Chloe shuffles back when she looks at her.

“Thank you,” The redhead says, gratefully.

“Anytime Beale.” Beca replies, with a gentle wink. A small smile teases its way onto Chloe’s face. She steps back and lets out a breath, “I’m gonna go get some air.”

Beca nods, leaning against the table. “Okay.”

“Join me?” Chloe asks softly.

“I’ll meet you out there,” Beca assures.

|-|-|

Chloe slots onto the rocking chair that sits on her front porch. There’s a crisp coldness in the air that has her wrapping herself closer into her jacket. She fishes out a packet of cigarettes from her pocket, a bad habit she knows, but she’s working on it.

She lights up one and takes a long puff. She holds the exhale as she closes her eyes and takes in the sounds surrounding her. The trees whistling, the faint cars in the distant and the nearby river.

She’s so caught up in her own world that she doesn’t hear the door creak open as Beca arrives.

She jumps as something solid is tapped against her.

“Oh!” Chloe embarrassingly looks at her. Beca is holding out a beer towards her. Taking it, she chuckles, “Thank you.”

Shrugging Beca slips in beside her, making the chair to rock slightly. Reaching over for the cigarette. “You seem like you need it.” She says taking a sip.

“I haven’t had a drink in ages,” Chloe replies handing her the cigarette. “Haven’t had the time.”

Taking a puff, Beca smirks, “Well, we’ll make time,” she says swaying into her, bumping their shoulders.

“Honestly, I’m surprised Bella has gone to bed so early.” Chloe states, taking a sip, “She’s usually up all night.”

“Maybe I’m a good omen,” Beca laughs, flicking the cigarette butt away.

Chloe raises an eyebrow and looks at her, “Don’t be so full of yourself Mitchell,” she giggles. “It was just the long day we had.”

Beca holds a hand to her heart dramatically, “No need for the spiciness lady,” she says, “and just when I was comforting you too.” She chuckles taking a drink.

The pair fall into a comfortable silence, sipping on their beers. Beca slowly rocks the chair back and forth, as she looks out into the nighttime in front of them.

“Thank you for that,” Chloe breaks the silence.

“You don’t need to thank me, Chlo.” Beca says.

“I know, but I want to.” She says, fiddling with the label on the beer.

Smiling Beca leans into her, “Well then you’re welcome.” Taking another drink, she asks more seriously. “Do you wanna talk about what’s going on?”

Chloe shifts in her seat. Running a hand through her hair she stares at the trees, “It’s Tom.” She speaks. “We’ve been arguing a lot this past while,” she begins. “I know we’re not together anymore, but I thought we’d at least still be civil. But I don’t know…” She pauses. “It started off as small disagreements, but it’s grown into bigger things and now it feels like we barely have a normal conversation anymore. It’s just always arguments. Which I hate because he’s the father of our child,” She rubs her nose, sniffing. “He told me recently he won’t be back home for Christmas.” Shaking her head she continues, “I know that work is tough, but it feels like he isn’t even trying you know?”

Beca nods, listening.

“It feels like he prioritizes his work life more than his daughter. Bella made him a welcome home sign for Christmas,” She huffs out a laugh, “She misses him so much Bec. She’s always asking when Daddy will be home, and I don’t know what to tell her.” Her head falls into her hands. “It feels like he only visits maybe once or twice a year now.” She sighs, lifting her head, her eyes welling up, “It’s really hard raising a child on your own.”

Chloe looks to Beca defeated. “Sometimes I feel like I’m not enough. I love Bella with all my heart, and I know she loves me too. But I know she needs her dad.” She explains. “And Tom, he’s a great dad. When he’s here. But… But I’ve been doing everything on my own and it’s exhausting.”  Her lips tremble as she rambles, and Beca’s heart goes out for her, so she pulls her into her side.

“You should have told me sooner Chlo,” She mutters into her hair, planting a kiss there.

“That wouldn’t be fair on you,” Chloe sniffles, “You’re busy with work and being a producer and I wouldn’t want to worry you.” She explains before sitting up.

Beca shakes her head, “You’re worth worrying about Chloe.” She says sincerely.

And Chloe can’t help the emotions that develop. Can’t help the tear that falls from her eyes. Beca on impulse reaches up to brush it away. Her hand lingering on the redhead’s cheek, “I mean it.”   

Chloe leans into her touch, closing her eyes. “I don’t deserve you.”

Closing the distance between them, Beca leans in to rest her forehead against Chloe’s.

“Yeah, I’m pretty awesome,” She teases, trying to shift the mood. It works as she feels Chloe shake with quiet laughter.

“You’re a weirdo Mitchell.” She says, shifting to lay a soft peck on Beca’s cheek, lingering slightly. “But I love you.”

Chloe declares they need more beers, so she makes her way indoors leaving Beca on the rocking chair alone.

The brunette reaches up to feel the spot the redhead had kissed. Her cheek feeling warm and tingly as her fingers trace it.

She’s broken from her trance as her phone buzzes with an email notification. It’s a message from her boss asking if she can make it to the studio on Monday to meet with an upcoming artist. She holds off on replying for now.

The door creaks open as Chloe makes her way out with a few more beers and a blanket. She sees Beca’s furrowed brows and slips down beside her.

“Everything okay?”

Pocketing her phone, Beca turns to her taking the newest beer, “Yeah, just work stuff.” She eyes the blanket, reaching out for it. “You goddess, you brought warmth. I’m freezing my tits off out here.” She exclaims, wrapping it around her and sighing in content.

“Hey!” Chloe bursts. “Scootch your cute butt Mitchell.” She wriggles her way under the blanket leaving her shoulder to shoulder with Beca. Making sure it’s wrapped around them both, Chloe snuggles in closer, using Beca’s body heat to provide more warmth before taking a sip of her beer. “I’ve missed this.”

“What… freezing outside?” Beca retorts, yelping when Chloe pinches her side.

“No,” The redhead tuts. “This,” She gestures between them. “You. Us.”

“Us?” Beca raises an eyebrow.

“Yeah,” Chloe bobs her head, “I miss us.” She repeats, leaning her head on Beca’s shoulder.

And Beca nods because she understands. She’s missed this too. New York is fun, but she always feels like something is missing. As if she had ninety-nine percent of the puzzle complete but couldn’t grasp that final piece.  

Leaning into her, she lets her head rest atop of Chloe’s, her silent way of agreeing.  

|-|-|

After a while, they decided to call it a night as it was getting late. And made their way inside.

“Sorry for not having a guest room,” Chloe says, shuffling out of her jacket. Tossing it over the back of the couch as she slips her shoes off.

“Beale, you know I don’t mind,” Beca says.

“I know, I just feel bad for making you take the couch,” She explains. Her eyes then light up, “Wait, you can share the bed with me! Tom’s not here anymore so it doesn’t matter,” She rambles, adorably Beca thinks.

“How cliché,” the brunette deadpans, rolling her eyes fondly. She smiles though because besides the emotional conversation earlier, it’s one of the times she’s seen the real Chloe. “But if you insist.” She jokingly teases.

“Mitchell, incase you forgot,” She holds out a threatening finger at her, “we shared a bed for 3 years.” Chloe reminds, reminiscing on their New York days with Amy.  

“Oh, how could I forget? The lack of personal space is hard to shake off.” Beca retorts, enjoying the banter.

Slightly tipsy and giddy from the beer, Chloe rounds up on Beca, “How dare you.” She states. “You loved it.”

Hands in the air, Beca smirks, “I’m neither agreeing nor disagreeing.”

Chloe laughs, yanking her hands back down to her sides, “Whatever you say.”  And she turns to walk away, but yelps when Beca pinches her sides. She glares at the girl, but only finds her chuckling.

“You’re tipsy Miss Mitchell.”

“So are you, Miss Beale.”

“I guess this is old age, huh.” Beca states, “And we’re only in our 30’s. Don’t tell me it gets worse from this point.”

“Oh, it so definitely does.” As she wanders towards the bedroom, she misses the fond gaze from Beca as she watches.  

|-|-|

Trees bristle and early morning birds whistle their way into Chloe’s slumber. She has a faint smile on her lips as she once again dreams about her days as a Barden Bella.

This time, it’s when they won the Worlds.

When they beat DSM to prove their worthiness. She remembers Fat Amy picking Beca up and spinning them around on stage once it was announced. Remembers glancing over to Aubrey standing alongside the legacy of Barden Bellas, looking proud as ever. She sighs contently into her pillow, shuffling back into the warmth enveloping her.

It’s only when the warmth moves that she realizes it isn’t from the sheets but rather from Beca.

There’s a hand draped lightly across her waist and a leg hooked over hers.

Chloe allows herself to melt into the moment. And runs her hand along Beca’s, intertwining their fingers and in doing so makes the brunette pull her closer.

Judging by the girls breathing pattern, Chloe knows she’s awake. “Morning,” she whispers.

“G’morning,” Beca mumbles, nuzzling closer into the back of Chloe’s neck.

“Comfy there?” Chloe asks, grinning.

“Yeah,” Beca replies, “Let’s just stay like this.”

And Chloe doesn’t argue. It’s reminiscent of their days in New York. And she smiles thinking about how things haven’t changed. They would routinely wake up like this each morning. Chloe would say they’d need to get ready for work, but Beca would only grumble and snuggle in closer, making the redhead laugh.

“We should probably get up soon,” Chloe says, glancing at the alarm clock on her desk. “Bella is due to invade any moment now,” She giggles.

“We’ll worry about that when the time comes,” Beca replies.

“So, I was thinking,” Chloe shifts around after a few moments, so she’s facing Beca.

The brunette sleepily nods, her eyes shut as she dozes off “Yeah?”

“There’s a county fair happening today that I was hoping to bring Bella too, if you’d like to join.”

Beca drowsily runs her hand along Chloe’s back, smiling, “Yeah I’d love that.”

The redhead sheepishly grins and reaches up to brush the hair out of Beca’s face, the woman’s eyes fluttering open at the touch. And for a moment, time halts as they gaze at one another. Chloe’s hand framing Beca’s face, and Beca’s hand perching on her waist.

Chloe’s breath hitches as she hadn’t grasped the closeness of their proximity until this moment.

Foreheads barely touching. Their noses inches apart. Their lips so close, they could feel each other’s breath.

Without warning Chloe’s eyes unconsciously drift down towards Beca’s.

And she thinks she catches Beca doing the same.

Her tongue slips out to wet her bottom lip before she finds herself leaning in. She feels Beca’s slightly hover against hers and Chloe’s heart pounds as she slips her eyes shut.

“Beca,” She whispers.

“It’s okay,” Replies the brunette just before they close the gap.

Chloe feels butterflies erupt in her stomach. It’s simply a peck, a light kiss... but it feels so much more than that. Part of her wants to pull away, to climb out of this, but the other part says to push closer, to let herself fall.  

She finds herself listening to the latter as her hand warms its way into Beca’s hair, pulling her in. Her lips linger against Beca’s before she leans back in for another. This kiss stronger, more desperate, as she clings to the brunette.   

Beca’s hand comes up to frame Chloe’s face as she deepens the kiss. Her tongue teasing Chloe’s lips waiting for access. A muffled moan comes from the redhead as she lets Beca in. And Beca sighs in content as she realizes… This was the final piece of the puzzle.

When they part, both their hearts are pounding and Beca’s face is slightly flushed. Chloe breathless, lightens the grip on the girl, “I’m sorry.”

Beca shakes her head, amused, “Why are you apologizing.”

“I don’t know, I just feel like we shouldn’t have done-” Chloe’s ramble is cut short by Beca’s finger on her lips, shushing her.

“Don’t overthink Beale.”

Chloe is about to reply, but before she can, the door opens and in comes Bella, all full of energy as she pounces on the bed between them, completely oblivious to the moment they just shared.

|-|-|

A/N: Pheeewww that’s the first part of this done for now. I have the rest mapped out, so if you enjoyed this, please let me know! And I’ll begin working on part 2 asap. Take care!

[unknownmind98]

AURORA (aka Chloe Beale & The Six)

What happens when one redhead is forced into Beca's world? Will sparks arise... or will it become a beautiful disaster? Inspired by Daisy Jones & The Six. Bechloe. (Enemies to Lovers)

Fanfiction.Net

AURORA 

It was a good fucking song.  

The lyrics, the melody, all of it.  

That redhead had no idea what she was on about, Beca thought.  

With a cigarette in hand, Beca, lazily laying against a brick wall, dawned in her signature black leather jacket and boots, took a puff before flicking it to the ground.  

“Hey!”  

Rolling her eyes, Beca glanced towards her left. A redheaded woman, Chloe Beale, wannabe artist, strolled her way towards her.  

“Why are you so upset? Gail brought me in to help-” 

“No, that’s where you stop,” Pushing off the wall, Beca sterned her features, “I don’t need some newbies help okay? I’ve been doing this long enough to know that my song is fucking good.” 

Holding hands up in defence, Chloe stopped in her tracks, “I never said it wasn’t good,” she said, “I just think it needs a few changes.” She continued. Beca remained tight lipped, so Chloe shuffled her hand into her bag and pulled out a cassette Walkman, “Here, just take a listen to what I recorded-” as she was about to hand over the tape, Beca was already on her way towards the door to the studio, brushing past Chloe’s shoulder.  

“Gail!” The girl called out, fury in her voice, “A moment please!” Her boots clicked along the marble floors, and she made her way towards the recording booth. Entering, she found Gail sitting at the mixing desk, a cigarette in hand with eyebrows raised.  

“Is there a problem?” The older blonde woman asked, her tone dripping with unenthusiasm. 

“Is there a problem?” Beca repeated, “Of course there’s a fucking problem!” She exclaimed, “I told you that I wanted to get back out there and what, you bring in some nobody to change my song?” 

“She’s talented Mitchell,” Gail exhaled, smoke puffing out of her mouth, “Chloe is talented and can bring some new light to your music-” 

“I don’t need anything brought to my music Gail, okay?” Running a hand through her hair, Beca sighed, “My music is good, it doesn’t need any of this bullshit.” Pacing the studio, the brunette continued, “Why would you even bring her in if the label liked my demo? We don’t need her-” 

“They didn’t like it.” Gail interrupted. Beca halted in her steps, her gaze falling to the older woman.  

“What?” 

Gail took one final puff before dabbing the cigarette in the ashtray that lay on top of the mixing board before replying.  

“They didn’t like your demo Beca,” She said, “They don’t deny you’re a good artist, but you’ve been out of the game for a while and your music isn’t what they’re looking for anymore.” 

“Then why am I here? They’re paying for this studio session, aren’t they?” Beca asked after a few beats of silence, her demeanour stiffening.  

Shaking her head, Gail made her way towards the younger girl, “We’re here on the quiet, and as for the session being paid? It’s been taken care of, Mitchell.” Gail explained. “Now get your sorry ass out into that booth and sing it the way Chloe wrote it.” Reaching out she rested her hand on Beca’s shoulder, “Trust me.”  

Beca bit the inside of her lip as she watched Gail sit back at the mixing desk. “Fine.” She agreed, “I’ll do it, but just so you know, this is all bullshit.”  

---- 

“Your temper tantrum over?” Chloe asked, amused as Beca shuffled her way back into the recording room.  

“Shut up and show me your changes, Beale,” Beca quipped, placing the headphones over her ears.  

“O...kay....” The redhead drawled, a smirk in place as she reached into her bag for her notebook. Flicking through the pages, she found the song titled. ‘Look at us now.’ Handing it over, she explained the changes she made, and some new lyrics added.  

“Harmonies on the chorus will sound great, if you can go with a lower pitch and I’ll go higher?” Chloe asked after Beca new her version. She never got a verbal reply, just a nod from the broody brunette. 

“Are we good to go?” Came Gails voice through the headphones. Chloe tipped her head and after a few beats, the opening plucks of a guitar soared throughout their ears.  

Beca bobbed her head to the beat before singing the opening lines. Her eyes closed as she focused on the lyrics.  

I don't know who I am  Baby, baby, baby  Do you know who you are?  Is it out of our hands?  Tell me, tell me, tell me  How we made it this far? 

Taking a breath, she opened her eyes again to find Chloe’s staring at her with a small smirk on her face. The redhead harmonising with her on the next lines  

Did we unravel a long time ago?  Is there too much we don't want to know? 

Dark blues snapped towards baby blues, and for a moment, time stood still. Beca and Chloe’s voices blending as if they had been singing together their entire lives. The brunette couldn’t deny the cheeky grin beginning to form. 

I wish it was easy but it isn't so  Oh, we could make a good thing bad  Oh, we could make a good thing bad 

Chloe’s eyes drifted shut as she let the melody of the song engulf her. Beca’s gaze never faltering from her. From inside the mixing station, sat Gail with a look of satisfaction on her face as the two artists’ talents unfolded in front of her. 

How did we get here?  How do we get out?  We used to be something to see  Oh baby, look at us now  Oh baby, look at us now 

Beca’s foot tapped along the carpeted floor as the song reached its climax. Her little grin was in place as she let the music flow through her veins. She glanced to her left to find Chloe, arms flowing in the air, in her own world as the music began to wind down.  

As the last few bars faded out, Chloe’s eyes blinked open. She had a cocky smirk in place and found Beca’s gaze. Giving her a wink, she unhooked the headphones from around her and made her way towards the door, lighting a cigarette on her way.  

Beca upon catching her stare, fought back the urge to roll her eyes and instead removed the grin and replaced it with a stern façade. Inwardly though, she wouldn’t admit it, but they sounded good. Fucking amazing even.  

But Beca Mitchell was one stubborn woman. 

Once Chloe was out of the room, she let out a breath she didn’t know she was holding. “Fuck me,” She cursed, setting the headphones aside.  

A few of her bandmates then made an appearance into the studio. Jesse, the main guitarist had a shit eating grin in place as he came over to her. “Mitchell!” He roughly wrapped his arm around her shoulder, “So when are we recruiting her?”  

Pushing him off, she snarked, “Never.”  

Aubrey, their pianist, handed her a bottle of water. “I agree with Jess on this one.”  

“No.” Beca stated taking a gulp from the bottle. “Not happening.”  

“The others agree too, y’know,” Jesse said, hopping up onto one the stools that were scattered amongst the studio. “Benji thinks she has a killer vocal range and Stacie thinks she’s hot enough to be the next big thing.”  

“It’s not fucking happening guys,” Beca snapped, her voice on edge as she slammed the water bottle down. “We don’t need her!”  

“Will you get your stubborn head out of your ass for one second!” Aubrey countered, standing tall as she stared the brunette down, “This is our band too Mitchell. We know you want this comeback to be done on your own, but it won't happen that way.” She stated, “I know you’ve had it rough this past year, trust me I do, but this band is just as much ours as it is yours and right now, our vote is on Chloe joining. It’s four against one.”  

Huffing, Beca reached for her cigarettes only to find the packet empty. “Fuck.” Letting out a deep sigh, she took a moment to reflect. Chloe was talented, that was one thing for sure. But a fucking pain in her ass. But even she couldn’t deny the vocal chemistry she felt. The way they harmonised together. It was magical.  

Not that she would ever admit that.  

“Fine.” Shaking her head, she made her way towards the exit, bumping into Benji and Stacie on the way out.  

---- 

The next following night, the band were celebrating Beca’s 25th birthday. Alcohol and all sorts were being thrown about the main room of the house they were partying in. The brunette stood in the open archway leading from the kitchen to the living room, a cigarette dangling from her lips.  

She was sober tonight. And for the foreseeable future. Her nose twitched, and she sniffled as she watched Stacie and their friend Donald, make lines on the old coffee table that sat in the middle of the room.  

Tearing her gaze away, she took a puff of nicotine before putting it out on the nearest ashtray. Grabbing a soda from the fridge, she made her way out towards the front. The cool air was a breath of fresh air as she descended the steps to the front garden. Leaning against the gate, she took a sip of her cola and stared out at the night sky above her.  

“Counting stars?” Came the voice of one Chloe Beale.  

Tearing her eyes away and towards the redhead, Beca watched as the girl made her way towards her. A bottle of red wine in hand.  

“Aubrey invited me,” Chloe said before Beca could ask. Nodding, the brunette sipped at her drink. “Here,” Chloe held her hand out, “For you,” The wine bottle dangled in front of her, “Happy birthday.”  

Staring down at the drink, Beca tipped her head, “Just leave it in there,” She gestured to the house.  

“Why do you hate me?” Chloe asked suddenly, startling Beca.  

“I don’t hate you Chloe,” The brunette replied with a sigh.  

“Really?” Chloe raised an eyebrow, “Because you’re doing a shit job at showing that.”  

Beca shuffled on her feet for a few moments before turning her body to fully face the redhead, “Look you’re talented, really fucking talented, but-” 

“But what, Beca?” Chloe snapped, “I’m not trying to take the spotlight here. Gail brought me in. I’m trying to be your friend, and if not that, then at least an ally.” She explained, her voice steady.  

Running a hand through her dark hair, Beca replied, “I know.” After a few moments, she brought her gaze back to Chloe, “I owe you an apology.”  

“Oh really?” The redhead raised her eyebrows, “No shit.”  

Biting back a smart remark, Beca pursed her lips, “I’m sorry I lashed out yesterday. It was out of line.”  

Taking a step forward, Chloe’s eyes sparkled, and she smirked, “That wasn’t so hard, now, was it?” Leaning in she planted a small peck on Beca’s cheek, letting it linger for a moment, before brushing past her and into the house.  

Before she made it to the door though she heard a “Beale?” from behind her. “The band wants you to join us.” Beca said, sipping on her cola.  

“Yeah?” Chloe called out, looking over her shoulder, “But do you?”  

Toeing the tip of her boot on the concrete, Beca nodded before giving a verbal answer.  

“Yeah.”  

---- 

Authors note: If you liked this first chapter, let me know and I’ll continue it! Fic idea is from Daisy Jones & The Six. It won’t be a copy of it, just similar.  

Apologies for any mistakes.