Chapter 12

One week after Jessica and Ashley's wedding, some of the Bellas gathered at a restaurant for Ashley and Beca's 30th birthdays. Their actual birthdays were ten days apart. Ashley's birthday was on September 12th, and Beca's birthday was on September 22nd, so they all agreed that having a double party was the best decision.

"I have to say this was definitely a good idea to have two birthdays in one party," Aubrey said as the Bellas arrived at the restaurant.

"Agreed. Seeing as how the two birthdays are rather close to each other," Stacie said.

"I just wonder how many people will show up today?" Chad asked.

"I reserved a table for twenty, so hopefully they all come," Aubrey said.

Just then, Beca, Chloe, Amy, Jessica, and Ashley all arrived. Chloe and Jessica were carrying birthday cakes on their way in.

"Happy Birthday, Ashley and Beca!" Aubrey exclaimed as all four sat down.

"Thanks, guys. This was really nice of you all to treat us to dinner tonight," Beca said.

"Anyone hear if the others will be joining us?" Amy asked.

"Well, CR, Rachel, Esther, and Flo will be joining us later, and since Emily will be taking maternity leave soon, she and Benji had to work long hours all week," Aubrey reported.

"What about Denise, Alice, Ken, and Grace?" Chloe asked.

"Denise works nights, so it's always a long shot with her, and Alice told me she'd have to wait and see what time Ken gets home from work. So we'll have to see what happens," Aubrey said.

"Well, let's hope they all show up if they can," Beca said.

One hour later, after the Bellas had their meals, Jessica and Chloe lit the candles on the two birthday cakes.

Beca's cake was white, while Ashley's cake was chocolate. After the Bellas in attendance sang "Happy Birthday" to the two birthday girls, they both blew out their candles. Just as the cake was being served, a few more people showed up.

"What's up, Bellas!" Flo said as she and Esther showed up.

"Happy Birthday, Ashley and Beca!" Esther exclaimed.

"You girls are just in time for cake," Chloe said.

"Wonderful. I'll have a chocolate slice," Flo indicated.

"And I'll have a white slice," Esther said as the two were served their cake slices.

"So, Chloe, anything new going on?" Flo asked.

"Yeah. Stacie was talking to me earlier, and she had something she wanted to say. Stacie, the floor is yours," Chloe said.

"Okay. So, Kyle and I have a big announcement to make," Stacie began.

"We're getting married on December 10th," Kyle said as the Bellas cheered.

"We're so happy for both of you," Chloe said.

"And Bella and Kim are excited about becoming sisters," Stacie added.

"They've had plenty of playdates over the summer and on weekends. So it's nice that they're really bonding," Kyle explained.

"Well, we definitely plan on being there," Chad said.

"Hey, guys," Denise said as she, CR, and Rachel showed up.

"Happy Birthday, Ashley and Beca!" CR said.

"You guys want some cake?" Beca asked.

"Yeah! Could I please have a white slice?" Rachel asked.

"Of course you can," Beca said as she handed Rachel her cake slice.

"What about you guys?" Chloe asked.

"I'll take a chocolate piece," CR said.

"Make mine a white one," Denise requested as the two were served their cake slices.

Just then, Aubrey received a text from Alice. It said, "Ken's running late, so we may have to miss the party. But tell Ashley and Beca we said 'Happy Birthday.'"

"Well, looks like Alice, Ken, and Grace are out for tonight, but they do wish Ashley and Beca a Happy Birthday as well," Aubrey recapped.

"We should thank them the next time we see them," Beca said.

"But for now...let's party!" Ashley exclaimed.

As the night went on, the cake slices were eaten up. Afterward, the two birthday girls both opened up their birthday cards. As the party was coming to an end, the Bellas that were present for dinner had a discussion as to how to divide up the checks. They all agreed that it didn't matter who ended up paying the check as long as it was a fun time for all.

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