"Chuck vs the Aussie"
AN1: It is really unfortunate that some authors are leaving stories abandoned – so I will once again make this very, very clear – I really feel a connection to these characters and I really dislike the not knowing that comes with abandoned stories. So I can promise you all that I WILL NEVER abandon a story – ever. I get that life can get in the way, which is why you only see Chuck vs the Aussie and not my other 9 ideas being posted – I will not start something that I am not certain I will finish – you may not know me, but I promise this will be finished (Also I have a one shot and a 4 chapter story planned that will be done. Then I will reassess the desire for new stories before starting my next long project). So if you are on the fence – you need not worry this will be completed, if only for myself. Sorry for the rant, but it seemed to be vital after recent events (sorry to vent).
I hope you enjoy this chapter – it is a big one in terms of plot and launches us into the Games – you have waited a long time and put up with the buildup of the story so I really hope you like this next stage of the story and my final arc. It also happens to be by far the longest chapter of this story – caught me a little by surprise, but instead of breaking it up I stuck to my plan. There might be one other chapter of this length, but this will be a bit of an anomaly.
Huge thank you to Ripe who really helped me get the events down and kept me from going completely unrealistic – all mistakes are my own (no betas harmed), but a big shout out to Ripe – you are awesome!
Disclaimers – I don't own Chuck or the Olympics (additional disclaimers in AN2).
Italics will always denote character thoughts and once again keep an eye on the time shifts and dates.
And thank you to everyone who has provided feedback – you have no idea how much I appreciate it! I always PM reviewers. I will never beg for reviews, but feedback is so useful and now more than ever are reviews appreciated - the time that is spent reviewing really lifts a writer's spirit. So to those who review thank you so much and to those who read thank you and I hope you continue to enjoy this story.
Finally, I realize what today is (9-11) and almost did not post this out of respect, but I made a commitment to post on Tuesday's if possible – so hopefully this can lift some spirits. I would recommend Supesfan18's 'Chuck vs The Day That Changed Everything' as a great on-going story relating to this day – be warned it is sad and emotional, but so very well done and worth a read. I like to read a happy one shot after a tough/emotional story and may I recommend quistie64's Wonderful Tonight – it has nothing to do with today – it is just a great spirit lifting story.
Chapter 10: Versus Gold
Sarah's Apartment at the Athlete's Village
London, United Kingdom
July 28, 2012
6:40 hrs BST
Sarah woke in her little Olympic apartment with a huge smile on her face as she sits in bed thinking of the magical evening she spent with Chuck. She's ecstatic as she sits in bed after the best and most restful night's sleep of her young life. It's surprising she was even able to sleep with all the excitement of the Games and the date. Something about Chuck seems to set her at ease and she fell into a perfect, regenerative night's sleep. As she hugs her white pillow she compares her evening with her, admittedly limited, past first date experiences. She smiles once more and thinks, No one has ever tried so hard to make me comfortable and happy… I didn't even realize that guys could be that selfless. Dinner was SO GOOD, but the company was so much better. Chuck is so… different… he is shy, yet he is so charming and brave. And that kiss! Oh my god it was perfect! I could feel the electricity of his touch and the passion, yet I could also feel how respectful he was. He really is a catch. He faced his fears just so I would have a good time...
Her breath catches as the realization of what this all means becomes clearer to her and if she was honest with herself it really started to scare her. Not only how much she already cares for Chuck, but also how much Chuck seems to care for her. Her doubts begin to surface once more, He is so perfect… do I really deserve him? More importantly, is it fair to force him to put up with someone as broken as me?
Sarah let out a deep sigh before her spiraling thoughts were interrupted by a knock at her door. She glides to the door and finds the smiling face of her mother. Sarah instantly pulls Emma into a fierce hug. Emma smiles at her daughter, now wrapped around the older Aussies torso/body.
"So I gather you're happy to see me!" Emma says with a smile.
Sarah pulls back and smiles at Emma, "Yes Mom! It is a big day and I was starting to freak out a little…"
Emma chuckles, "Don't worry and remember positive thoughts! We all love you and you are going to do great – don't let any self doubt hold you back, you are great Kiwi and don't you ever forget that. And I am not just saying that because I am your mother, it is the god's honest truth." Emma then smiles brightly at Sarah and squeezes Sarah's arm with supportive motherly affection.
Sarah lets out a deep breath, "Thanks Mom… I needed that."
"That is what I am here for! Besides you conned the IOC and got me an access badge (to the venues and the Athlete's Village) as a part of your team so it is the least I can do as your 'fake' coach and real mother!" Emma replies with a wry smile.
Sarah laughs and the tension disappears from her shoulders as she smiles back. Emma would never know, but she had perfectly calmed her daughter's doubts, which had less to do with swimming and far more to do with a certain young curly haired American man.
"Now, let's get you ready for the day and off to the Aquatics Center! You have a very big day and you have friends to see and races to win!" Emma declares happily.
Sarah smiles with appreciation on her face, "Your right… thanks Mom."
"We love you Sarah, now go get ready before I call that awful Coach Forrest to yell at you!" Emma says with a laugh.
"I'm going!" Sarah says with a smile as she prepares for the first day of swimming at the 2012 London Olympics.
Chuck's Apartment at the Athlete's Village
London, United Kingdom
July 28, 2012
6:40 hrs BST
Chuck smiles brightly as he is jostled awake by the sound of 'Huey Lewis and the News' playing loudly on his alarm clock. His grin grows and grows until he climbs to his feet and cannot help jumping on his bed with pure excitement in his eyes after his coma like sleep the night before. He's so at ease after the date with Sarah that all the stress of training and competing just disappeared and he fell into a deep, calming and restful sleep. He smiles brightly while jumping energetically on the bed until he hears a voice in his subconscious, oddly it sounds just like Colonel Casey, telling him to 'knock off the jumping - you're wasting energy!' Listing to his conscience he flops down to the bed before heading off to shower and get ready for the day.
Once he is out of the shower and dressed for the day in his grey Team USA track plants, t-shirt and jacket he walks into the kitchenette of his little apartment. He is about to pour some milk over a sugary cereal when there is a knock at his door.
He answers the door and Mary, Ellie and a very groggy looking Morgan enter the little apartment. Morgan heads straight for the little couch and collapses before falling into a little nap.
Ellie immediately sees the sugar cereal and her eyes narrow dangerously as Chuck looks away nervously.
"Charles Irving Bartowski! You are not going to screw up your diet on the first day of the Games!" Ellie says irately as she dumps out his treat.
"But…" Chuck tries to interject but is cut off immediately by Ellie.
"No buts! I have all your food for today and a detailed plan for your meals with times and what to eat. We have whole grains and foods with the perfect 60:40 ratio of carbohydrates and proteins. I also have pre and post event shakes to help you recover and we need you to make sure you hydrate today Chuck. I have your meals packed in a cooler case that Morgan will carry for you while at the Aquatics Center and I will put the rest in your fridge here for between the heats and finals… OK? Oh and I packed double in the fridge, so if say a blonde friend happens to join you there would be plenty." Ellie then smiles widely at Chuck as he blushes deeply at his sister's very unsubtle point that he could hang out with Sarah during the 7 hour period between the heats and the finals for his events.
Chuck smiles and is thankful that his family seems to be leaving his date last night alone for the moment. "Thanks Ellie, I will follow Doctor's orders!" he says before giving her a mock salute that might have gotten him killed if Casey was around.
Mary smiles at her son, "You all set? We should grab your gear and wake Morgan and head out."
"Sounds good!" Chuck replies happily as Morgan is rudely awoken by Ellie who drags the bearded man to his feet. The gang then made their way out of Chuck's apartment and off to day 1 of the swimming events at the London Olympics.
Team USA Coaches Meeting at the Aquatics Center
London, United Kingdom
July 28, 2012
8:00 hrs BST
Colonel John Casey enters the Aquatics Center conference room and quickly scans the room and its corners out of habit. He quickly indentifies egress points, while cataloguing the room and its occupants. He chuckles after his automatic threat assessment as he thinks to himself, they may be world class coaches, but I think I could take out all of these 'civilians' with my pinkie… hum, not really a challenge though… besides I prefer gunplay and that would just be… unsportsmanlike. Ah who am I kidding I like it that way, good and unsportsmanlike!
Casey shakes off his inane thoughts and focuses, get your head in the game Marine! It's go time!
Casey bellows out to the other individual and team coaches, "Progress report!"
After the individual and relay team coaches completed their progress reports Casey nods his head and begins to looking over the schedule for the day. His job was mostly complete as he was not a technical coach nor was he a coach of strategy. Truth be told most of the team and other coaches were baffled by his appointment as head coach. Only Beckman and Graham knew his actual skill set and what his true role was.
John Casey was a career Marine/SEAL, but behind his seemingly gruff and simple exterior was an intelligence that few were privy too as he projected a very different image to the world. In truth, Colonel Casey was not only a black-ops Marine, he was also an agent with the NSA. Moreover, he was an expert in psy-ops with a PhD in psychology from the University of Maryland as part of the Voluntary Graduate Education Program while in the Marines. As a result of this extensive psychological background he was tasked with preparing the team for the Games from a mental perspective, while seemingly playing the simple role of a drill sergeant. In fact, Graham and Beckman accidently found out about the Colonel and his unique set of skills and then appealed to the one thing that Casey could not refuse – a sense of duty and patriotism to the United States. They may have mentioned that the Russians and Chinese might defeat the team without him. Casey knew very well this was a psychological ploy by Beckman, but that did not stop him from agreeing to whip the 'sissy swimmers' into shape.
He may be semi-retired from the spy game as he only completes the occasional black-ops mission when his trigger finger becomes too 'itchy,' but duty calls and he answered that call in a very different atmosphere than he's accustomed to – at the Olympics.
As he went over his notes and the psychological profiles of those competing today, Coaches Jim Rye and Jane Bentley approach and interrupt Casey's studies.
Rye clears his throat in order to get Casey's attention.
Casey simply grunts in response as he continues his work.
"Colonel Casey, may we have a word?" Rye asks.
"What is it Rye? I'm busy," Casey replies noncommittally.
Coach Rye begins, "Colonel, Coach Bentley and I are a little concerned over the schedule for Bartowski…"
Bentley then cuts in, "Colonel, we feel that we may be asking far too much of Bartowski today. He has two 400 meter heats and then the final medal races… and it may be too much for him."
Casey puts down his pen and looks up at the coaches, "Noted and ignored. Bartowski can handle it."
Bentley and Rye look at one another with shock coloring their faces… the Colonel having faith in Bartowski? "Begging you pardon sir, but what do you mean he can handle it?" Rye asks.
Casey huffs, "I have completed detail psyche profiles on this neurotic bunch of kids and as a result I have the unique insights in order to make this assessment. Bartowski is an interesting case. My guess is that your concerns are founded in his… pain in the ass personality that seems to make everyone love him. He seems weak, yes?"
Bentley chimes in, "Yes, he is a nice guy, but shy and he doesn't seem to have the killer instinct necessary to win. Combine that with these two mid-distance events in the same day it would seem to be a recipe for disaster."
Casey chuckles, "I can' believe I am about to defend Bartowski. Consider this conversation classified and I will kill you if it gets out… are we clear?" Both coaches gulp slightly and nod in the face of Casey's rather intimidating scowl.
Casey continues, "Bartowski may be the most interesting candidate here. He has two very distinct personality profiles. Now, he is by no means a split personality, rather he has unique traits that are situationally dependent. This is the person-situation debate in psychology, where situationism believes that behaviors are affected by the situation a person is in instead of only being affected by broad ranging personality traits. Now, I won't go into detail, but in his everyday life he is very shy and unassuming and seems to lack the edge necessary to be successful in a competitive arena. But, he has a completely different profile in a comfortable setting, which for him is in the water. He is quite frankly a different person in the water - he is calm and confident."
Casey looks at Bentley and Rye and continues, "Beyond that he is, if you excuse the vernacular, a bit of a freak from a physical perspective with his strength and endurance in the water. You two are hung up on what he projects and have missed what is important; he has the will and ability to get this done. He will be fine physically, but competing is 90% mental which is why I am here. His past coaches and his Mom did an admiral job helping him with mental side as he developed his own tolerances and methods to delay the physical pain during swims via training and mental exercises. I have subtly used reverse psychology and other general techniques in order to further prepare him. Particularly, my training has centered on preparing him for intimidation, fear and self doubt. That way he will be able to channel his nerves and fears into motivation rather than having these negative externalities act as metaphorical anchors in the water. The kid is mentally tough and has a mental zone of calmness in the water, so with the work we have done in training Bartowski is more than ready to compete."
"Finally, the IOC and International Swimming Federation changed the rules for 2012 in terms of the number of participants from a country allowed in a race. We can have three U.S. swimmers now instead of two in the 400m IM and Bartowski earned his spot in the medley with Lochte and Phelps. It won't hurt to have an extra American in the race and they all have a shot at winning… I would love to see a U.S. sweep in the IM." Casey then gets a faraway look as he imagines the international uproar if the USA sweeps the podium.
After he shakes off the happy feeling he turns to Bentley and Rye, "Anything else or can I get back to work?" Casey finishes with a sarcastic comment and a humorous grunt that breaks the other coaches from their frozen state.
Bentley and Rye look at one another before shaking their heads at the sheer volume of data and insights the Colonel had just spewed at them. Neither able to reconcile the hard-ass Marine with a psych professor… it was just… weird. Not only that, they were both in shock because the Colonel had not only defended Chuck, but has faith in the kid, despite how hard he was on Chuck in training.
As the two coaches continue to walk away, Casey cannot help the sly smile that creeps onto his face as he thinks, Ha! Another set of civilians who thought I was just some dumbass jarhead. I love seeing their faces, to bad I have to play nice and can't conduct some psy-ops experiments on them. Oh well, I'll probably get another crack at the terrorists in Gitmo… something to look forward too.
The Colonel pulls out a cigar from his pocket and smiles while rolling it between his figures as he thinks, All in a day's work!
Warm-up Zone/Area at the Aquatics Center (London Olympic Venue)
London, United Kingdom
July 28, 2012
9:32 hrs BST
Chuck works through the morning preparing by hydrating and eating right before going over techniques and strategies with his coaches. The strategy was clear for final races – he would use a negative split, where he would start out at 80% exertion and built up to 100% during the laps of the pool before sprinting the final 50 meters. The debate came about whether to use the same negative split strategy in the two heats (for the 400m individual medley (IM) and 400m freestyle) or to use a consistent pace in the heats to conserve a little more energy. Admittedly trying to conserve too much could risk qualifying for the final. In the end the coaches left the final decision to Chuck and he chose a negative split that he practiced extensively for the heats, with a slightly different pace than his finals negative split.
After all the preplanning Chuck was finally set to do his final preparations for his two heats. Chuck, like other swimmers is mentally prepared and he can switch his competition mode on and off. This is necessary in order to get one's self ready for a race and then get back to normal in order to avoid excess stress and worry (over thinking) about the rest of the competition.
He starts off by putting in his headphones and playing his much loved pump up playlist as he stretches and begins his mental preparations. After stretching and warming up extensively Chuck finally sits on a wood bench in the warm-up zone. The warm-up zone is a large, long completely white tiled room with benches and showers for the Athletes to use before and after races. Chuck sits in his blue track pants, which covers his tight black swim suit. He wears a grey Team USA t-shirt and a white jacket with dark blue arms and shoulders and red piping in order to stay warm as he listens to his music and mentally prepares for the heats. In true Chuck fashion instead of wearing the ubiquitous brightly colored running shoes like his teammates and other competitors, he wore his trusty Converse 'Chucks.' Unlike other competitors he's not trying to gain attention or show his individuality, rather this is just who he is and it was a natural choice that he didn't even think twice about.
As he listens to a pump up song he sees Ryan Lochte walk by confidently in his grey Team USA t-shirt. They bump fists and give one another a quick nod as they go back to their individual preparations. Chuck continues to listen to his music as he looks around and sees the other competitors for the IM heats. This includes Michael Phelps who is alone in his own zone with his hood up listening to music as he prepares.
He expects either Shaw or Larkin to try and psych him out, but when these attacks don't come he guesses that their intimidation attempts will likely come before the finals. Chuck pushes these thoughts from his mind as he begins to run through his technique and pacing in his mind. As he puts on his black swim cap with the American flag emblazoned on both sides an IOC volunteer notifies the participants that the five heats are starting for the 400m IM. Chuck waits as heats 1 and 2 are completed. He is in heat 3, while Lochte is in heat 5 and Phelps is in heat 4.
Finally his name is called and he puts on his swim goggles and makes his way out to the main pool for his heats. The entrance to the pool area is between the smaller diving pool and the large 8 lane swimming pool. As he enters the pool area he looks back and sees the large screen next to the entry area with the London Olympic symbol in gold upon a teal backdrop. To his left are the high diving boards and the diving pool, while to the right is his pool. At the far end of the pool is a large screen and beneath this 'score board' is the medal ceremony area and podium. Surrounding the pool area are long teal boards with London 2012 and the Olympic rings that surround then entire length of the pool on all sides except for the starting blocks. While the floor surrounding the pool is the same white tile that is in the warm-up area. The architecture of the building strikes Chuck as being very interesting, the roof is rather low over the pool, but it slopes and angles up to the left and right of the long sides of the pool into high grand stands that look down at the pool.
Once at the starting blocks he removes his outer clothing leaving him in only his swim cap, goggles and tight black swim trunks that reach his mid-thigh. He once again loosens up his arms as he checks the starting block. A whistle signifies to the swimmers to take their places. Chuck climbs onto the starting block, which is like a raised mini platform that is angled downward toward the water. He readies himself mentally for the medley, which combines four distinct swimming styles for the race. The Olympic pool is 50 meters long, so the athletes swim to the end and back using a butterfly first, then a backstroke, then they use a breaststroke and finally for the last 100 meters they use a freestyle (you can use any technique except the three previously used in the race – everyone uses the front crawl as it is the fastest swimming style of all).
Chuck takes his position on the blocks and drops into a perfect starting position with his toes over the edge of the starting block with his hands forward and his weight is set to launch him into the water. Chuck takes one final deep breath before hearing the long beep that signifies the start of the race and he instantly launches himself into the water ahead of all the others in his heat due to his perfect reaction time (too early off the blocks and he would be disqualified). He enters the water and dolphin kicks (legs and body whip up and down – looks like the movement of a whales fin) for distance before coming to the surface and beginning his butterfly stroke. He uses perfect form for each of the techniques and is just off the lead in the fastest of the five heats. He follows his pacing exactly and does not rush or panic when the Japanese competitor Hagino sets the fastest time in all of the heats. Chuck is second just in front the Brazilian Pereira with a time of 4:12:34, just ahead of his countryman Lochte, while Phelps has a bit of a scare and barley qualifies in lane 8 despite winning his slower heat. Finally, Bryce qualified in lane 1 just ahead of Phelps.
After the medley heats Lochte and Phelps were caught for poolside interviews, while Chuck made his way back to the warm-up zone to dry off, stretch, hydrate and prepare for 400m freestyle heats.
All too soon he was called for heat number 3 of the 400m freestyle. Once again Chuck readies himself before leaping into the pool and executing a perfect front crawl, his most skilled maneuver in his primary event. He paces himself perfectly and ends up winning the heat just ahead of the South Korean Taehwan Park, with a time of 3:46:24 and easily securing his place in the finals.
Once out of the water Chuck begins his journey back to the warm-up area and locker room in order to cool down when he is accosted by a NBC journalist. He gives a quick poolside interview that mainly centers on how he is enjoying his first experience at the Olympics and his excitement about the finals later that night. Finally, he is asked about his teammates Phelps and Lochte and about the amazing number of medals Phelps has won and the records he stands to break this Olympics. Despite being rather uncomfortable in just his swim shorts he answers all the questions with his own unknowing brand of charm as he praises his teammates and their accomplishments.
Once free of the media he made his way to the cool down pools in order to swim and cool down after his two races. The cool down is a long and important process where Chuck swims far more than he had in his actual races in order to purge his body of lactic acid and make sure his body is ready for the finals. It is rather counterintuitive, but his Olympic endurance is such that swimming long distances in order to cool down works to prevent injury/cramping, while not harming his ability to compete. In fact, Team USA has this down to a science and as Chuck goes through this process he feels rather like a guinea pig in an experiment, though he could really do without the blood tests that ensure the lactic acid has been completely purged from his body… he does hate needles after all.
With his cool down complete he showers and dresses and switches out of swim mode and back into his regular mental mode, which unsurprisingly is completely lost in a blonde Aussie swimmer.
Warm-up Zone/Area at the Aquatics Center (London Olympic Venue)
London, United Kingdom
July 28, 2012
12:00 hrs BST
Sarah prepares in a similar way to Chuck, however, in a relay the team dynamic leads to a more comfortable, lighter preparation as the girls talk and put one another at ease. Sarah is quite nervous though because this heat is very important. Not because there are concerns about whether Australia would qualify, frankly based on the team's talent they were all but guaranteed a spot as long as they were not disqualified. Sarah was nervous because the coaches had already selected three of the four young women for the final and none of them were swimming in the heats. That meant that whoever swam best in the heats would earn the final spot on the relay team in finals (a relay teams members could be switched between the heats and the finals per the rules). So if Sarah does not perform she would not get a spot on the final team and would lose her shot at swimming in the final for her first Olympic medal.
Despite the nerves she begins her mental exercises in order to channel her energy into her leg of the race. Zondra had just left with Team USA for heat 1 and Sarah's eagerly awaiting her shot during heat 2.
Once heat 2 is called she makes her way to the pool area and Team Australia (and the other teams) begin removing their track suits leaving them in their black form fitting full body bathing suits. Sarah took up her position, second after Emily (Seebohm) and before Yolane (Kukla) and Libby (Trickett).
As the race begins Emily launches herself into the pool and front crawls at full speed to the far end of the pool and back. As soon as she touched the wall under the starting block Sarah launches herself into the pool and dolphin kicks before falling into a powerful front crawl as she powers through her 100 meters at a blazing pace. Too soon she is finishes and Yolane leaps into the pool over top of her. In the end Team Australia finishes first in heat 2 with a time of 3:36:34.
After exiting the pool and escaping an interview Sarah and the team went to cool down before meeting the coaches to learn their fate. Sarah could not turn her swim mode off until she found out whether she would race later in the evening as the uncertainty was killing her.
15 minutes after the cool down cycle was complete…
Coach Forrest looks at the potential relay team of 8 swimmers who sit around a table in a small conference/meeting room in the Aquatics Center.
Forrest begins in her stern, emotionless tone, "Good race girls, we were very happy with the performance and we have looked over the tape. We told you that there would only be one spot in the final and that the fastest time and best technique would get that spot – simple, efficient and by the book. You all did well, but Walker you were the fastest and had the best technique so you're in tonight with Cloutts, Campbell and Schlanger – you are taking the third leg (the 250m/300m split). So get some rest and come ready to win tonight, you got me Walker!"
Sarah is beyond ecstatic but held in her joy as her three other friends would not be racing with her tonight. She respectfully and calmly replies to Forrest, "Of course coach, I will be ready."
"Good, you are all dismissed!"
As the coaches leave the room Sarah hugs her teammates as they congratulate her. She's so happy to have the opportunity at swimming in the final for a medal, but still feels bad for the others who competed with her in the heat. Sarah knows that if they win or earn a medal in the final then then everyone who competed in the heats and final will get medals, but the other girls that competed in the heats are like her - true competitors and they all wanted to be the one in the final race.
Once she leaves the meeting room she quickly went to the locker room and found a quiet spot where she hollers out joyfully at the great opportunity she now has to win her first Olympic medal.
Sarah then went and found her Mom and friends to tell them the great news before texting Chuck. Chuck responds quickly with clear happiness and praise and they decide to meet at the Athlete's Village during the down time until the finals later that night.
Chuck's Apartment at the Athlete's Village
London, United Kingdom
July 28, 2012
13:09 hrs BST
Chuck sits on his couch watching the TV in his little Olympic apartment as he eagerly awaits Sarah's arrival. He a little tired, mostly from his cool down, but nothing major as he has been diligent with his food intake and hydration in order to ensure he will be physically prepared for the evening events. He is roused from his reverie by a knock at his door. As he walks to the door he calls out, "Who is it?"
"It's Sarah my nerd! And you should be expecting me!" She says while giggling a little.
Chuck smiles widely and opens the door. As the door opens fully he schools his expression into a contemplative look, "Sarah? Sarah? Hum, I don't think I know any Sarah's… are you sure you have the right floor, I hear Aussies are terrible with directions…" Chuck says jokingly as a large grin grows on his face.
Sarah tries to hold down her laugh, but fails. She puts on a mock offended face, "You don't remember me! I am hurt… and you know its men who are terrible with directions not Aussies," She says jokingly back as she sticks her tongue out at him.
They both break out into a laugh until Sarah says, "Picking on me on such an important day, bad form Mr. Bartowski… I might have to rethink our… uh… never mind… uh how are you Chuck?" Sarah sputters while thinking, oh god why did I try to put a label on us! We're dating right? I am so confused!
Chuck notices her behavior change immediately and brings her into the apartment and sits her on the couch. "I promise to no longer pick on my Aussie girlfriend," he says with a large grin not even realizing he said girlfriend.
Sarah's heart immediately soars, but she decides not to push her luck with relationship labels because honestly she is rather scared.
She schools her joy… and fear before asking, "So I was originally planning on seeing if you wanted to explore a bit of London in the four plus hours we have, but seeing as you have 2 mid-distance events and I actually made the final relay I was wondering if you just wanted to hang out here?"
Chuck flashes the Bartowski grin, "That is perfect because I am going to need all the rest I can get. Ellie made extra food so we will be good in that department. We could watch a movie and then the recording of the Opening Ceremonies… if you want."
Sarah's face instantly lights up, "That's perfect! I have to be back two hours before my event and I bet you have the same requirement so a movie and then watching the Opening Ceremonies is perfect!"
Chuck then has a flash of brilliance, "Actually I have a great idea – we could hang out between events or in the evenings and we can teach each other about the stuff we love, like we said we would that night at Castle (nightclub). One night I can show you nerdy stuff like video games, Sci Fi movies and computers and the next time you can show me your music stuff… and maybe eventually play me something…"
Sarah blushes at the thought of playing the violin for Chuck, but she smiles widely, "I love that idea! So what do we do today?"
"Well how about having today be a neutral day, we pick a movie together and then tomorrow I will show you some nerd stuff then the next day you show me music stuff… sound good?"
"That's great! So what are our movie options?" Sarah replies happily.
"Well do you like spy movies by any chance… I originally thought about 'A View to a Kill,' but how about Casino Royale?"
"I love spy movies like the Bond movies or the Bourne Trilogy… I reckon I would have made a great spy at ASIS or at the CIA if I was American. Also, I actually have never seen Casino Royal, but Daniel Craig is quite the looker and I hear it is good so let's watch that," Sarah says with a Chuckle as Chuck looks at her with mock shock.
"Miss Walker do you have a crush on the actor or James Bond!" Chuck says in a faux mocking tone as he is having so much fun.
Sarah smirks back at Chuck with a tiny blush as she thinks, Oh he is so going to get it! Before thinking she blurts out, "Hey you are not the only hottie that can catch a girl's attention!"
Chuck instantly blushes at Sarah's comment, while she also turns red with a slightly mortified look on her face.
Chuck sputters for a moment, "Well… good to know, it is hard to keep up with such a beautiful girl and if I can be compared to Bond I must be doing something right… or you clearly have vision problems… hum that seems more likely…" Chuck trails off with a wry smile once again regaining his composure.
Sarah playfully slaps his arm with a huge open mouth smile on her face, "Well aren't you smooth and a little insulting Mr. Bartowski! Now let's watch the movie before a change my mind!" Sarah says with a laugh and a teasing smile.
Chuck smiles back as he gets the movie all set on the TV before returning to the couch and sitting with the enigma that is Sarah Walker.
They enjoy the movie and the recording of the Opening Ceremonies as their banter continues easily as both young athletes lose track of time as they rest, eat, and hydrate. The stress of the Games and the medal events later in the evening are not even a consideration as they are lost in their own little world. Sadly, Chuck and Sarah's alarms signal that their 'fun time' is over and it is time to head back to the Aquatics Center for what was once undisputedly the most enjoyable part of their lives – swimming.
They gather their gear and head off to the Aquatics Center completely rested and at ease – ready to take on the world and maybe, just maybe win their first Olympic medal.
Warm-up Zone/Area at the Aquatics Center (London Olympic Venue)
London, United Kingdom
July 28, 2012
19:20 hrs BST
Chuck once again found himself sitting in the warm-up zone listening to his music in the same blue and white track suit listening to music next to the finalists for the Men's 400m IM. This includes two teammates, Ryan Lochte and Michael Phelps who are the odds on favorites for gold. Phelps is also in record territory at these Games for the most medals ever won by an individual which adds a bit of intrigue to the already pulse pounding excitement of the competition.
As Chuck calms his nerves and gets himself in his 'zone' he chuckles as he thinks back to the final team meeting with the coaches. They went over strategy and final technical preparations, but specifically Chuck is chuckling at the Colonel's very colorful comments.
Flashback Earlier…
"Alright ladies! It is time for you to honor the great US of A! The 400m IM is up first – Lochte, Phelps and Bartowski!"
The three swimmers snap to attention, "Yes Colonel"
"This is the first time three swimmers from the same country compete in the same finals and I want you three to sweep the podium – understood!"
"Yes coach," the three reply with large grins.
"Good! Now Bartowski!"
"Yes Colonel?"
"You have the honor of competing against those damn Chicom's. You will not lose to those damn Commies. Do! You! Understand!"
Chuck holds down his laugh, "Yes Colonel!"
Good now get to your preparations!"
As the team begins to disperse Casey walks up to Chuck and grabs his shoulder, "Bartowski, just remember why you swim and what is important and nothing will phase you. I have faith in you kid."
As Casey lumbers away Chuck is frozen in shock as he says to himself, "huh… was Casey being nice to me? And what did he mean?"
End Flashback…
Chuck continues his routine as he enters his calm, collected, competitive zone as he tunes out the world. He does not even notice Bryce making his way over to psych him out. Luckily Casey is near the American swimmers and his deathly growl immediately sends Larkin a clear message as he breaks off his attack unable to intimidate Chuck.
As Larkin walks back to the corner of the warm up area he smugly chuckles, "No need to play mind games with ol' Chucky boy – he ain't got a shot with Jill's concoction in his veins. I can wait to take him down a peg or two! Hehehe."
Chuck is roused from his contemplative mental preparations by an IOC volunteer, "Men's 400m Individual Medley is up – line up in order. We start with introductions, so pause once you enter the pool area before heading to your lane."
Chuck did well in the heats for both of his events so he was in lane 5 for the 400m IM (the second fastest lane – middle lanes are fastest and the best times in heats/semi-finals get middle lanes and slower times get outer lanes, which have to deal with more waves off the side of the pool and a poorer view of their competitors) and because he had the fastest heat time for the 400m freestyle he would be in lane number 4 (the fastest/ideal central lane).
Larkin is called out first in lane 1. He is followed by the Aussie Fraser-Holmes in lane 2, Lochte in lane 3, and then the Japanese swimmer Hagino in lane 4.
Finally Chuck is called and he makes his way out to the pool area. As he enters the pool area he looks back at the 7 foot by 5 foot screen next to the athletes' entrance and sees his name 'Chuck Bartowski USA.' He smiles widely while nodding slightly in respect to the fans and once again he unintentionally charms the crowd, especially the female fans. He waves to the large crowd before seeking out his family and waving with just a hint of nervous energy.
He quickly makes his way to lane 5 and strips off his cloths and kicks off his 'Chucks' before throwing everything into a square white plastic bucket next to a white chair behind the starting blocks. Chuck stretches his arms and legs a little to limber up and stay warm as he hears a whistle that tells the swimmers to take their places. Chuck climbs onto the blocks and takes a perfect diving position with his toes just over the edge of the blocks and his weight back in order to throw himself forward when he hears the beep.
Timing is vital and Chuck takes one final deep cleansing breath before he hears the beep and reacts immediately throwing himself forward flying into the air with perfect technique before plunging into the water. Chuck enters the water and dolphin kicks powerfully as he began to surface. He immediately begins his butterfly as both arms circle in and out of the water as he propels himself forward. His technique is flawless as he keeps his head in the water only pushing his head above water when air becomes absolutely necessary. He reaches the end of the pool (the first 50 meter split) and touches the wall with both hands before executing a perfect turn before kicking off the wall with all his strength. He dolphin kicks under the surface before once again falling into his butterfly rhythm. Chuck is calm as he concentrates on his technique and his pace as he slowly builds up his speed from 80% effort, not looking at his place in the race, though he is neck and neck with Lochte, Hagino and Phelps vying for first position.
He reaches the starting wall/side completing the first 100 meters and touches the wall with both hands before kicking off the wall and dolphin kicking before surfacing on his back as he starts his backstroke. He kicks powerfully from his hips as he rolls his shoulders and torso trying to keep perfect timing as one arm leaves the water the other enters the water. He reaches the end of the pool once more and touches the wall still on his back before flipping and kicking strongly off the wall into an inverted dolphin kick (facing up under the water) as he rises to the surface and returns to his backstroke.
As Chuck reaches the starting side once again he touches the wall and launches into his breaststroke. During this turn he took a brief look at the competition and saw that he was just behind Lochte and ahead of Hagino, Pereira and Phelps while the other competitors, including Larkin, were far behind and out of contention. He stifles a little worry as the breaststroke is not his specialty and he expects to fall off a little, but he is a freestyle master and hopes to make up the time in the final leg of the race. He concentrates on his technique and timing as he pushes his arms and legs out as he pushes his head out of the water as he completes each stroke. This is the slowest swimming style and Chuck fights to match Lochte's near Olympic Record pace as they touch the wall and push off into the final split of the breaststroke.
As they reach the starting wall for the final freestyle leg it is Lochte followed by Pereira, then Phelps, then Hagino and then Chuck. Chuck touches the wall rolls and strongly kicks off the wall into a dolphin kick before beginning his front crawl as he powers himself through the clear blue water. The race is beginning to wear slightly on Chuck, but he pushes down the muscle strain as a wave of endorphins hits as he thinks of the support of his friends and family. He thinks briefly of Sarah and all the pain disappears as his pace increases once more. One arm stretching forward followed by the other as he kicks powerfully and quickly passes Hagino. He continues and by the 350 meter mark he is neck-in-neck with Phelps in third position behind Lochte and the Brazilian Pereira. He kicks off the wall for a final time and he begins to sprint the final 50 meters as he pulls ahead of both Phelps and Pereira into second position behind Lochte. For a moment it is Lochte first, Chuck second and Phelps third, but at the very end Pereira pulls into third and takes the bronze as Lochte wins gold and Chuck wins his first medal, taking the Silver in the 400m IM.
The swimmers tread water while sucking in deep breaths as they try to regulate their breathing as they look up at the times. Lochte grins and Chuck laughs excitedly, while Phelps is clearly dejected after having his medal streak is broken.
Meanwhile, Sarah, Zondra and Carina cheer loudly from the warm-up zone as they see Chuck win his first medal on the TV screens mounted on the wall. The other competitors chuckle at the trio, but none of them care as they celebrate Chuck's Silver medal, before regaining their composure and once again mentally preparing for their events.
As the swimmers get out of the pool and make their way around the pool Lochte is immediately caught in a poolside interview as Chuck sneaks back to the warm-up area to prepare for the 400m freestyle race, which takes place after Carina's semifinals in the Women's 100m Breaststroke.
Main Pool at the Aquatics Center (London Olympic Venue)
London, United Kingdom
July 28, 2012
19:51 hrs BST
After hydrating, stretching and staying warm Chuck was once again mentally preparing for his final and most important event of the day. Once again he makes his way out to the pool in his track suit (and his trademark shoes) and receives a cheer that rivals even the British swimmers, who were massively supported by the home crowd. Chuck has quickly become a fan favorite, his internet fame certainly helping his popularity. Chuck fights down a blush as he waves to the crowd before removing his track suit, leaving him once again in his very tight fitting swim trunks, his black swim cap with the American flag emblazoned on both sides and his trusty swim goggles.
Once in the starting area both Shaw and Larkin try to psych Chuck out and using very sad intimidation techniques, but Chuck is in his zone and does not even hear the comments or see the attempts. One thing no one could argue with is that Chuck Bartowski's mental toughness while swimming is second to none. As Chuck takes his position he looks to his left to see the Chinese swimmer Sun Yang and to then looks to the right and sees the South Korean swimmer Taehwan Park next to him in lanes 3 and 5. Shaw and Larkin were in the outside lanes… once again – nothing to be ashamed about, but their feelings of grandeur were honestly rather sad and misplaced.
Chuck takes steadying breaths as he goes over his strategy for the race, another negative split where he builds up his pace throughout the race in order to conserve his energy for a final sprint to the finish.
As the swimmers take their places the loud beep sounds and they leap into the water. Chuck dolphin kicks with all he has before beginning his specialty front crawl as he takes a quick lead. As he reaches the wall he kicks off first with Sun and Park close behind, while his teammate Vanderkaay is close behind followed by Larkin, while Shaw is far behind and quite frankly out of contention as the pace chases the Olympic and even the World Record.
Chuck remains just ahead of Sun Yang as the swimmers complete the first 100 meters and then the second 100 meters. Bryce follows the leaders in fifth place and as they hit the 300 meter mark he smirks expecting Sun Yang and Chuck to fall off. He thinks to himself, those idiots didn't pace themselves and will fall off and I will sneak in for a medal!
Midway through the race the stress and muscle pain hit Chuck hard, but he pushes through it. As he fights down the pain something happens. In his mind he sees pictures, lots and lots of pictures that flash of his friends and family. These flashes calm him and put him at ease. The pain disappears and with a small smile he increases his pace once more.
As Chuck touches the far wall for the final time he rolls and kicks off hard before dolphin kicking as he begins the final 50 meters of the race. He has one final flash as he sees Sarah's smiling face in his mind and all of the pain and exhaustion in his muscles once again disappears as his mind clears and he once again pushes himself beyond his limits.
Sun Yang looks over at Chuck mid-stroke expecting to see Chuck's pace slow a little because by his calculations he (Sun Yang) was on an Olympic Record pace, yet Chuck is still in the lead. Much to the Chinese swimmers dismay Chuck's pace increases once more as Chuck extends his lead.
From his lane Bryce is in complete shock. Bryce had pulled into third place ahead of Park and Vanderkaay and he was just waiting for Chuck to fall off, but Chuck never did. Bryce is so rattled by Chuck's amazing race he misses a stroke and is quickly passed by both Park and Vanderkaay.
Chuck pushes harder than he knew he could with a confidence and calmness he did not realize he could reach as his mental flashes propel him to the wall. He pounds the wall with both hands in first place – Chuck Bartowski had won his first Gold medal.
Huffing and puffing, the exhaustion and muscle pain finally breaking into his consciousness. He looks up at the board and sees his name in first and slaps the water with a giant smile in his face as he begins laughing happily. He shakes Sun Yang and Taehwan Park's hands as the Chinese swimmer took the Silver with a time of 3:40:14 (which would have been an Olympic record if not for Chuck) and the South Korean took the Bronze. Chuck looks up as his time is posted and sees the numbers – WR 3:40:06 (World Record).
As Chuck excitedly climbs out of the water Mary, Ellie and Morgan are going nuts in the stands as they cheer and jump up and down like kids before indulging a group hug. From the coaching area a hint of a smile briefly appears on Casey's stern face as he pumps his fist slightly as he thinks, Way to go kid.
From the warm-up area Sarah and Zondra cheer and hug each other happily. A beaming smile grew on Sarah's face as she watches the feed of Chuck as he waves to the large crowd with a huge grin on his face. All she could think is, Wow… he did it!
As Chuck made his way around the pool trying to escape into the warm up area he is stopped by an NBC crew for a poolside interview.
"Chuck! Congratulations on you victory and your newly claimed World Record."
"Um… Thanks," Chuck says as he takes a deep breath still a little winded from the race.
"This World Record was special because you beat the record set in 2009, where swimsuit technology aided the times and set new records that many did not think would be broken. Combine that with the fact that you were in the 400m IM today and no one thought you would have the energy to medal let alone break a record – so how did you do it?"
"Well… I have had a lot of help from my coaches and teammates and especially my family and friends. They all believed in me and I put a lot of work in and right now I really can't believe this is happening… it is a dream come true!" Chuck smiles widely as he chuckles. "And honestly I felt like I was fading a bit there, but then I thought of my family and the people I love and I was able to push on and surprisingly I won!"
"Congrats again Chuck on your Gold and Silver medals. It has been a big day so we will let you get ready for your medal ceremonies."
"Thanks!" Chuck replies giddily as he heads off to cool down, shower and change.
Later…
All too soon after Chuck had made his way into the bowels of the Aquatics Center he is grabbed by Casey.
"Bartowski, it's time for you to get your first medal," Casey then shocks Chuck by giving him a small smile and a punch in the arm before he left Chuck to his thoughts.
With his curly hair still wet, Chuck makes his way out to the podium in his grey USA track suit to receive his Silver medal for the 400m IM. After which numerous pictures and interviews were taken, causing Chuck's head to spin.
He made his way back to the locker room to continue his cool down as he's given a massage, and did laps in the pool in order to purge his body of the lactic acid build up in order to prevent soreness or injuries.
Once the Women's 400m IM was complete Chuck is told to change… again for his final medal ceremony.
Main Pool at the Aquatics Center (NBC TV Feed)
London, United Kingdom
July 28, 2012
20:20 hrs BST
The British accent of the commentator chimes through the feed, "Welcome back to the Aquatics Center at the 2012 London Olympics. We have seen quite the day so far and there is much more to come. The Americans have really done well today, with Ryan Lochte wining Gold in the 400m IM, while the new kid Chuck Bartowski has really burst onto the scene taking his first medal, a Silver, in the 400m IM behind Lochte and his first Olympic Gold in his main event the 400m freestyle."
The female color commentator adds with her accent, "More than just winning the Gold, Chuck Bartowski of Team USA broke the 2009 World Record for the 400m freestyle. I never thought we would see that record broken – it was a truly special race. Let's take a look."
The male commentator adds in as a replay of the race plays on the screen, "You see right there in the middle of the race and then towards the end. It looked as though he was about to fade, but ended up picking up his pace and pulling ahead of a near perfect race swam by the Chinese swimmer Sun Yang."
"Yes, that is tough for Sun Yang and the South Korean Taehwan Park – they both swam near perfect races, but Chuck just swam an unbelievable race." The female commentator adds.
"Well here is the medal ceremony for the 400m freestyle. You can see the young ladies in those purple dresses leading the three athletes to the large purple podium. We have Sun Yang in his white and red track suit, then the Gold winner Chuck Bartowski in his grey track suit and finally Taehwan Park of South Korea in his blue and white track suit. Just look at that smile on the young Mr. Bartowski's face, this is a day he will never forget. And honestly it could be a very long time, if ever, until someone breaks his record performance tonight."
"It is so nice to see the joy on these athlete's faces, they work so hard. And this young American that prefers to be called 'Chuck' has really become an instant favorite. He comes off really well in his interviews and after those pictures went viral he has quite the female following," the female commentator says.
"Ah it must be good to be young, eh!"
"The three athletes are now behind the stage, beneath that big teal wall with the giant white Olympic rings. First up we have IOC representative from Costa Gravas, Alejandro Goya, presenting the medals and flowers to the athletes."
"We have the announcements of the medal winners: first Park is awarded his Bronze medal and is given flowers. Next Sun Yang is awarded his Silver medal (and flowers). And finally they announce with a World Record, the Gold medal goes to Chuck Bartowski of Team USA. You hear that what a loud cheer, I would say that rivaled some of the cheers for UK swimmers, which is very impressive. As we said he is a fan favorite already," the male commentator adds.
"Very nice, you can see his Gold medal with its purple ribbon with London 2012 on his neck and that big smile and wave as they take hundreds of pictures on the podium. And now they raise the American flag at the center, flanked by the Chinese and South Korean flags as they play the 'Star Spangled Banner,' the American national anthem"
"With the anthem complete you can see the athletes shaking hands. The podium pictures are now all set and the athletes are now making their way around the pool towards the media areas. You see them stop for picture twice along the long side of the pool to pose with their medals before heading into the interview areas, which are out of sight. Oh, and you can see Chuck just threw his flowers to his Mom and Sister in the stands; he really is a class act. It is truly a proud day for his family," the female commentator excitedly states.
"Well they are off to interviews and then they will have some significant additional cool downs as they will likely swim more than 1500 meters in order to make sure they are fully set for the remainder of the competition. For Chuck that means a bit more work before he gets to head back to the Athlete's Village for some well earned rest."
"Up next are the semi-finals for the Men's 100m breaststroke and then the Women's 4x100m freestyle finals, which should be a great race with the Aussies, the Dutch and the Americans vying for Gold."
"We will be back to the action after this short break."
Main Pool at the Aquatics Center
London, United Kingdom
July 28, 2012
20:30 hrs BST
As Sarah makes her way out to the pool with her relay team she fights down her nerves as she tries to channel them into energy for the race. It was finally her turn, she had seen Chuck perform so well and now she needed to follow his shining example. She's not paying attention and kind of continues towards the pool before realizing the team was suppose to stop in front of the screen as they enter the pool area. There's a little bit of an awkward moment, but the girls laugh it off as they strip out of their yellow and green Aussie track suits leaving them in their tight black full body swim suits and their yellow Team Australia swim caps.
Sarah really loves the relay because they are a bit more laid back with friends, which helps keep the nerves down in the marshalling area/warm-up zone.
Sarah looks over to her left and sees Zondra and they smile and wave to each other, one final piece of support before they race one another.
Sarah shakes out her hands out and stretches slightly as the team's line up. Sarah is in third position and will swim after Coutts and Campbell and once she is done Schlanger will finish off the race.
The relay race is all about timing – the swimmer in the water must touch the wall before the next swimmer can dive overtop into the water. Sarah knows she needs to be fast, but at the same time she cannot leave the blocks early because the team would be disqualified.
Sarah breaths deeply and calms herself as the race begins and Coutts powers through her 100 meters giving way to Campbell who makes her way quickly using the front crawl. Sarah climbs up on the blocks and sees Campbell make her 50 meter turn as she powers back toward the starting wall. Sarah looks at the race and can see that they were slightly behind the Dutch and the Americans and she knows she needs a fast leg for the team to have a chance at Gold. Sarah sees the Dutch swimmer leap into the water followed by Zondra just before Campbell touches the wall. Sarah expertly leaps into the water overtop her teammate with a perfectly timed dive. She dolphin kicks as hard as she can before surfacing and taking a deep breath as she begins a powerful front crawl stroke. She sprints hard and gains on Zondra. She passes her American friend and gains additional time on the Dutch swimmer. As Sarah executes a perfect turn she is now neck-in-neck with the Dutch swimmer (Heemskerk). Sarah gives all she has as she uses her well honed technique to drive her ahead slightly as she reaches the wall first.
After pulling herself from the water she joins her teammates as they cheer loudly as Melanie Schlanger holds the lead as she rushes to the finish with the Dutch and Americans close behind. The Dutch close the gap and it is a photo finish, but the Aussie touches the wall just ahead to win Gold with a time of 3:33:15 OR (Olympic Record).
Sarah and her team erupt with glee as they hug one another and share a group hug after Melanie excitedly pulls herself from the water.
Zondra rushes over and hugs Sarah, "Sarah, oh my god you got your first Gold!"
"Zondra you did so well too I thought you had us there, and I am so glad you got a Bronze!"
"I know! I had to let you have a Gold you know and I thought I may as well start early," Zondra says with a joking smirk.
Both girls break out laughing as the teams congratulate one another and being to head off for interviews and then their cool down exercises. Soon Sarah and Zondra would be receiving their medals.
Meanwhile…
Chuck watches the TV feed, while he continues his cool down exercises after once again 'giving' blood to test his lactic acid levels. With rapt fascination he watches the 4x100 relay race as his good friend and teammate Zondra competes with 'his' Sarah. He lets out a huge cheer as both win medals.
He climbs out of the practice pool and quickly dries off before throwing on his trusty grey Team USA track suit, while his coaches holler at him that he was not done (in truth his blood tests indicated he was all set). Chuck calls back, "I'm fine," as he rushes out of the training area off to find his friends.
Chuck made his way to an entrance to the pool area and was able to see both Sarah and Zondra hugging in celebration. He smiles widely and began moving toward them only to be stopped by a young brunette security staff member.
"Sir, you are not authorized to be here you have to go back… hum let me see your badge."
Chuck smiles kindly at the pretty brunette and hands over his badge, "Sorry, my friends just finished competing and I wanted to congratulate them… I wasn't thinking."
The brunette smiles as she sees the name on the badge, "Wait your Chuck!" The female guard says excitedly before reining in her glee, "You know you are not allowed right?"
"Yes, I am so sorry… I won't cause you trouble," Chuck says, but is not able to hide the sadness on his face.
The guard's defense broke so fast as she looks fondly at the now famous swimmers face, "Listen, Chuck… I am not allowed to do this, but you can go by."
"But won't you get in trouble?" Chuck asks simply.
"Nah, just don't do anything dangerous and I am sure it will be fine," The guard swoons not even thinking about the consequences.
"Thanks, here" Chuck says as he quickly signs an autograph. "I don't know why people want these, but they seem to and it is the least I can do!"
"Thanks Chuck," the guard says seductively as Chuck heads off leaving the pretty brunette biting her lip and admiring his 'form' as the hot American walks on.
Chuck made his way to the pool just as Sarah and the other relay competitors came near and all cameras are on the relay teams as Sarah saw Chuck.
Without thinking she took off in a dead sprint, leaping at full speed into Chuck's arms and planting a passionate kiss on his lips as he held her securely in his strong arms. His track suit was now wet, but he was lost in the kiss as hundreds of cameras filmed and took pictures of the unexpected scene. The crowd erupts into a roaring cheer as Chuck and Sarah continue their lip lock oblivious to the attention. Some jaded people would think this was planned in order to grab attention, but the truth was so much more simple and innocent, but they would have to live with the consequences.
As their kiss broke both Chuck and Sarah look deep into one another's eyes before snapping out of their spell and looking up at the crowd and taking in the massive applause. They both blush slightly before looking back at one another with a smile.
The relay teams are watching while talking and giggling like schoolgirls at the honestly adorable sight. As Zondra walks by she winks at Chuck and Sarah before heading off to her interviews. Chuck and Sarah composed themselves before rushing to out of the sight of the thousands of fans and the millions watching on TV around the world.
Main Pool at the Aquatics Center (NBC TV Feed)
London, United Kingdom
July 28, 2012
20:50 hrs BST
"We are back and we have one final medal ceremony for the Women's 4x100m relay. It has been a spectacular day we have had multiple Olympic Records set and one World Record was set by the young American Chuck Bartowski."
"That's right, but the big news has nothing to do with the action in the pool. This was the scene after the Australian 4x100 relay team won gold. Yes, that is the fan favorite Chuck Bartowski in a passionate lip lock with the young Aussie Sarah Walker. Now before any of the fans out there worry we have talked with the IOC and there will be no actions taken against Chuck for being in a secured area – so no worries there he will compete in events tomorrow," the female commentator says.
"They couldn't punish him even if they wanted to - they would be crucified by the fans," the male commentator adds.
"That is right. Now, we have word that Chuck and Sarah met before the Games began in a serendipitous meeting at Heathrow. In fact, they have numerous friends in common, but had never had never met before these Games. From what we have heard from parties close to the couple they hit it off immediately and actual had their first date last night in lieu of the Opening Ceremonies."
"Isn't that just wonderful! This is going to be a huge story as these two have become instant favorites and now the very beautiful couple will now contend with what is sure to be instant fame," the male commentator states with a touch of excitement.
"Now as you can see the relay teams are being awarded their medals. First the Americans are awarded the Bronze."
"In fact, Zondra Rizzo is very good friends with both Chuck and Sarah and some here at NBC speculate that she introduced the new couple, though she has refused to comment."
"Clearly she is a good friend," the female commentator adds.
"Now the Dutch are awarded their Silver medal. These girls are a little emotional, they were so close, but the young Miss Walker's perfect 100 meters allowed the Aussies to steal this Gold."
And the moment everyone is waiting for – the Gold being awarded to the Aussie Team. Look at that big smile on their faces, especially Sarah Walker's – just wonderful!"
"And to finish off the night the national anthem of Australia as the flags of these three great nations rise above the pool here in London."
"There is lots more action from the Aquatics Center tomorrow and we will certainly have more on the strange romantic turn of events that launched a truly memorable day of swimming."
"Thanks for watching everyone and have a great night!"
Athlete's Village
London, United Kingdom
July 28, 2012
21:30 hrs BST
Once both Chuck and Sarah were all set for the night they met briefly with their families before sneaking out of the Aquatics Center and back to Athlete's Village. So far they were lucky to avoid the media, but they both knew that the mainstream media and the vultures that are the paparazzi would make their lives interesting.
Once at the Athlete's Village they walk hand in hand to Sarah's apartment. Both are tired and a little worn out.
"Sarah I am sorry I snuck into the pool area… the media thing is going to get crazy…"
Sarah smiles at his kindness, "Chuck! I jumped you remember, this is all my fault!"
"No Sarah, the media would have eventually found out and seeing as we both hate attention you know no matter what we would have to deal with this media buzz. It will be fine… I promise."
As they reach the door to Sarah's apartment she shyly replies, "Ok… but that was the best kiss of my life…"
Chuck smiles slightly, "Mine too," before he tenderly kisses her.
When the kiss breaks he whispers, "Goodnight Sarah and congratulations on the Gold."
"You too Chuck," Sarah said as she turns and walks into her apartment.
Later…
As Sarah and Chuck slept in each of their little Olympic apartment's, newspapers around the world were printing the same headline.
The Guardian newspaper was just one example:
A massive picture on the front page is of Chuck and Sarah's kiss with the large bold print title:
'LOVE AT THE OLYMPICS.'
AN2: I hope this is well received – I did a lot of research on the events to make everything as close to realism as possible with me not being there on the ground. If there are aspects I have missed please let me know and I can update the chapter if necessary. I also researched the psychology aspect, but again I am not an expert and this is in no way detailed enough to stand up to a psychologist, but it fits the personality I have set forth for this Chuck character (anyone with professional background in psych can comment or PM me to improve this). Also, Casey may seem OOC – this is on purpose – he is the Same Casey, except for a hidden professor side. His conversation was meant to seem out of character to the other coaches and the readers because he hides this skill- it is his secret… oh and he is a spy – that is one connection to canon – I promise he is the only one in the story that is a spy and this will not get silly.
This will be the longest and most involved swimming chapter, but let me know what you think as chapters 11 through 16 will have heavy swim action as well and I would love to know whether this worked or not – it is very different action.
Disclaimer 2 – if they are not canon characters then these are the real swimmers and their accomplishments are awesome – I have made some changes, but for the most part this is true to the Games (though the canon characters do bump some of the real athlete's from the podium – Chuck is a phenom and Sarah is awesome so it had to be done!). So clearly I don't own anything or these records, but I have worked hard to make this as real and accurate as possible for fanfiction.