Infuriated

•31•

On my way to our meeting spot, I keep thinking back to last night when Beca and I had our nightly conversation. Beth was so happy to see Beca through video call and she looked so good. No bruises in sight and she was smiling. She's genuinely happy with her grandma. I stop for a red light, when the conversation flashes before my eyes.

Flashback

Beca is singing a slow version of "You'll be in my heart" from the movie Tarzan and she loved it. Beth smiles throughout the whole song, taking in Beca's sweet voice as Beca ends the song with the last chorus.

You'll be in my heart, yes you'll be in my heart

From this day on, now and forever more

You'll be in my heart, no matter what they say

Yes, you'll be in my heart, always

I watch Beth closing her eyes, satisfied and not long after that she's asleep. I tell Beca to wait for a minute so I can bring Beth to bed. I lay her down and kiss her forehead, telling her that I love her and that I'll protect her forever before returning to Beca.

How are you? I ask her, already knowing the answer because of her message.

I'm great actually. Being here with my grandma is amazing. I can help with chores and just relax while my bruises are healing. How are things going with you and Rachel?

Amazing. I know Rachel is eventually moving to New York to start her education at NYADA, but for now we're helping Santana and just moving on without you.

Q, I'm okay. Don't worry too much about me, okay? Enjoy every minute of every day.

When will you be back?

I don't know. Not for some time, I need more healing time.

Can I at least tell Finn, Jesse, Marley and Stacie where you are? They're worried sick about you. I mean, you haven't even let them know you're okay.

Q, please. You promised not to tell.

But I can't hold this in for weeks, they need to know Bec.

If I promise you to send them a message telling them I'm okay, will you let this rest and enjoy singing? You have an amazing voice and you should keep on singing, even though I'm not there.

I promise, but I have to ask. What about Chloe? I mean, don't you think it's fair to her that you let her know you're okay too?

Chloe doesn't care about me.

You sure about that?

Yeah, remember when she kissed me? I ran away from her because she saw my bruises, but she never talked about it with me. That can only mean she regretted it, right? I sigh for a moment before answering.

You don't know that, Bec. As far as I can see, she really misses you. Chloe is here almost every day, asking about you.

You can't tell her where I am, Q. She will come here if she knows and she can't see me like this!

Can I at least tell her what has been going on with you and your father? It's quiet for a moment, Beca's expression soft but stern.

Okay, but only if she promises not to try and find me.

And what about our friends? Can they see you through video call?