A/N: Hi All, apologies for the delay, work has been crazy the last couple of weeks, and last weekend thought we were getting a hurricane when we got a little rain. I will try to update weekly, but for the next bit it might be every 2, as soon as I can. Again feedback, comments, concerns, likes, are all appreciated. I appreciate all the feedback and comments so far and am glad you like the crazy idea in my head. The ride will continue for a while. Also started another story I am working through in my head first, so you can keep an eye out for that.
A/N2: Rone, Tig, Tonto, Jack, and Boone are the special operators from the book and movie 13 Hours, The Secret Soldiers of Benghazi.
Error: After it published, I caught that we had Intercontinental Suite 1202 was in error, should have been Ritz Carlton 1202. It happens
No Beta, all errors are my own.
I don't own Chuck / Nor have any rights to characters portrayed
Chapter 13
November 13, 2010 – Castle – 12 pm
Team LA was gathered around the main room conference table waiting for General Beckman to brief them. Tonight, they would be working with Team Orion and Chuck. Yesterday, they had met Team Orion and gotten their mission briefing and assignments. It was obvious to everyone Bryce was not happy, he has not liked the dressing down at the hand of his onetime friend, Chuck Bartowski. He also didn't like the fact he had been assigned to the van. The question was, would he follow orders, Bryce has a reputation of going off script, usually he is able to get away with it.
With the team around the table, still waiting on Beckman, Sarah thought she would go over what they had been told.
"Casey, per yesterday's briefing, is the surveillance van ready, Morgan will be here at 6pm to pick it up? Sarah asked.
"Yes, I double checked and made sure all the gear was loaded for the bearded troll. Miller, you, and Larkin should be here when he picks it up, as you 2 are assigned to the van and as backup. Play nice."
"I always play nice Casey, until its time to play dirty." Carina said in a sultry, playful tone.
Bryce was surprisingly silent, and Sarah noticed. Sarah decided to keep the prep moving.
"Casey, as Chuck mentioned you will be working the bar and arriving with the hotel catering staff, make sure you can get as many shots of staff before the event starts as possible for Bryce and facial rec software to go through."
"Not my first mission Walker, you make sure you keep a close eye on Bartowski."
Ignoring Casey's remark, Sarah continued.
"Zondra, you'll be on your own, see if you can identify any wayward Ring agents, Bryce we need you to be focused and using the intersect to update on any relevant information you flash on." Sarah said, she added Bryce to try and make sure he stayed engaged. She knew he always had to be the center of attention, and while no agent wanted Van duty, Bryce could be especially childish.
"Copy that Walker", Zondra said.
The plasma came to life with the NSA logo and showing General Beckman, "Good afternoon team, I understand you met yesterday with Team Orion for the pre mission briefing, are we ready for tonight's mission?"
Sarah decided to take the lead. "Yes General, we met with Team Orion at their hotel suite and they laid out their plan for the operation. It seems straightforward. We will have Zondra, Casey and I in attendance, Casey as staff, Zondra as a single, and I will be working with Chuck as a couple. Agents Miller and Larkin will be in the surveillance van." Sarah finished. Trying to stay professional and not show her excitement.
The General took a minute, "Excellent. Agent Walker, I want you to careful earn Bartowski's trust. I need to you to remind him of the good we were able to do as part of Team Bartowski, perhaps we can convince him to rejoin Team LA."
Beckman continued, "While we need the governor or Bartowski's cooperation, we are going to play it straight here. Work with his team. If we can build some trust and good will, I want to ask Bartowski to reconsider providing Agent Larkin with a governor, if not, we will take his."
Everyone in the room knew Beckman would think something, all thought it was a mistake except Bryce. Bryce knew once he had a governor, he could show Chuck Bartowski who the real super spy was.
Sarah, not liking what she was hearing was about to say something, when Zondra spoke first.
"General, why are you still focused on trying to trick and manipulate Chuck? That didn't work out so well the first time. He has provided a way to save Agent Larkin from the damage the intersect can do. He has made it clear he doesn't trust us and will not provide a governor."
"Agent Rizzo, I will not have some former half ass asset dictating terms to me. I am the director of the NSA. While he has been busy playing hero, for the safety of national security, we have to have control of the intersect." Beckman finished smugly.
Casey responded, "General, no disrespect, but Bartowski proved his value prior to running. He always did what was asked, he may have whined but he continued to perform. Perhaps we should think about the mistakes we made in his treatment. Based on Team Orion's results, he and his team could be a valuable partner in this fight with the Ring."
"Team, that's enough, we are done with this discussion. You will follow your orders. Tonight, we play this straight, but our goal is to get Bartowski's cooperation, or his governor." Beckman snapped. She continued "My Analysts have put together files on his team that you met yesterday. Ziva David is a former Mossad operative, looking over her record reflects a lot like Agent Walkers. Apparently Bartowski saved her after being captured and Mossad had decided she wasn't worth the risk to save."
Both Zondra and Carina winced. They knew what that was like when Chuck and saved them. Sarah was thinking that was her Chuck, helping people that needed help just because it was the right thing to do.
Beckman continued "Next is Master Chief Petty Officer Lincoln Cole, highly decorated Navy Seal, was part of DEVGRU, was team lead for Delta company. Looks like he left the service to spend more time with his family. Its not clear how Cole and Bartowski came into contact. He and his family have relocated, but we do not know where, we can assume it is wherever Bartowski has made his base of operations.
Lastly is Morgan Grimes, his childhood friend. I have no idea what he offers, his only experience is as a BuyMore employee and failed cooking school. He had been in Hawaii, and then seems he dropped off the planet. In some ways it appears Bartowski had recreated at least somewhat his own version of Team Bartowski.
Bartowski is not stupid, we can assume he and Orion have other members of his team we are not aware of." Beckman finished.
Sarah spoke up "Ma'am, as Zondra mentioned, it was lying and manipulation that got us here. I can't speak to Cole or David but Morgan Grimes on the team just tells me Chuck is trying to surround himself with people he trusts. Because of our actions, it will take time to build up any trust. I think its best to look at this as a long-term partnership, if we're not honest and straightforward with him, this won't work."
Bryce finally spoke up in a condescending tone. "Chuck is naïve, he's putting up a good front, better than I would have thought, but he is in over his head, and he knows it. He wants me in the van so he can feel like he has gotten one over on me, but we all know who the real super spy is," Bryce finished with an arrogant smirk
Sarah was furious listening to what Bryce had just said, his belittling of Chuck had her seeing red. Before she could say something they all heard Casey speak up.
"Moron." Casey snapped.
"Bartowski is the smartest man I have ever met. The way he adjusted after you dumped this shit storm in his lap is nothing short of amazing. Sure, I gave the kid shit, but truth as we say in the marines, Adapt, Improvise and Overcome, he did all those things better than we could have hoped. I may have thought we should have put him in a bunker at first, but we would not have had the success we have without him." Casey finished. The room was quiet absorbing what the large man just said.
"Ok, that's enough." Beckman snapped. "You have your mission, play nice with Bartowski and his team tonight and get it done. I will expect a briefing in the morning." Beckman ended the feed.
Sarah, Carina, and Zondra all got up to go, they would grab some lunch together and go about their pre-mission prep on their own. Casey went back to the armory, Bryce was last in the conference room, he wasn't going to be sitting in the van, he would show everyone he was the intersect.
November 13, 2010 – Ritz Carlton Hotel- Suite 1202 – 3:30pm
Chuck, Morgan, Ziva, and Link were sitting at the table in the dining room of the suite finishing up their video conference with the team at Talus and Devon and Jimmy who also joined via video. They had to assume they were under surveillance and did not want to alert Team LA to their back up.
Chuck took the lead, "Jimmy, have you been in touch with Rone, Tig, Tonto, Jack, and Boone? They are going to be our QRF if we need an extraction. They owe us from the mission in Israel."
"Copy that Chuck, I spoke with Rone earlier today, they are in the area and if we need them, they can mobilize and be ready to go in 90 minutes. I reminded Rone about Israel, he asked when you were going to let that go. Oh, and an extraction against the CIA would cost us." Jimmy finished.
"Ha, figured. There are good guys, whatever he wants to charge is worth it. We shouldn't need them, but its good to know they are there if we need them.
Next, Morgan were you able to get 2 sedans for us to get to the party?" Chuck asked.
"yes Chuck, I have black Audi A7 for you and a Lexus ES 450 for Link and Ziva, Both are in the hotel parking garage" Morgan finished tossing a set of keys to Chuck and Ziva.
"Ok, Link or Ziva, one of you need to drop Morgan off at the BuyMore plaza to pick up the surveillance van and Carina and Bryce and make your way to the Intercontinental. Then, Ziva and Link will prep and leave from here and arrive at the Intercontinental at 8, I will dress here, go and pick up Agent Walker at her hotel and arrive around 8:30.
Zondra will arrive after you 2 and we should be able to get this done. The hardest part will be getting his phone, you all have you thumb drives, plug it in and in 5 seconds it will have the information and have uploaded the virus.
Ziva, you, Zondra and Sarah are best suited for the grab. From everything we have learned, Remington enjoys beautiful women hanging around him, so that should make it easier. Any questions?" Chuck finished.
Ziva looked around and decided she would speak, "Chuck, do you expect them to play this straight? You don't think Beckman will try and grab you or the governor?"
Orion spoke on the monitor "Yes Ziva, I have been dealing with Diane Beckman for a long, long time. She thinks she is smarter than she really is. She will play this one straight, thinking she will lull Chuck into a fall sense of security, then make her move. She won't try anything now, but as Larkin has more issues, she will make a move.
The real wildcard is Larkin. He wanted the intersect, he wanted to be the super-agent. He was always a narcissistic jerk but seems the intersect has made it worse. He is the wildcard here."
Link spoke next, "what do you think he will do?"
Orion continued "he thinks he is better than people, he doesn't like how Chuck spoke to him during the briefings with Beckman or the pre-mission. I don't know, but I wouldn't count on him staying in the van."
"I don't expect him to behave, make sure you have your Tranq pens or darts ready to go in case he gets in the way. Worst case, shoot him in the leg." Chuck said, not a trace of humor in his tone.
"His arrogance is going to get someone hurt or killed, and I don't want to see that happen to any of us, Team LA included."
Turning to Anna, Chuck continued.
"Anna, make sure facial recognition is ready, Morgan will be feeding live feeds from our camera's too run-in case there is nothing in the intersect."
"We're already set up Chuck, as soon as Morgan has the van in place, we can initiate the link and we'll be ready to stream once the images start coming in. We are already tapped into the hotel camera system, as well as all the federal and Interpol databases." Anna said.
"Ok, any questions? If not, I think that does it. We know what to do, we still have a few hours, let's get something to eat, dressed and prepped and get this done.
The plasma screen went dark, and Link and Morgan got up and went to the living room of the suite to grab the room service menu. Chuck stayed sitting, more looking through the laptop in front of him than looking at anything, deep in thought. Ziva sat their staring at Chuck.
"Chuck, are you ok?" She asked.
Chuck looked up, "Me? Fine, the mission is pretty straightforward, just need to adapt when Larkin pulls some stunt. Why?"
Ziva grinned, "Chuck, you know that's not what I meant. What about you and Sarah? Why not pair her with Link or pair yourself with me or Zondra, you don't have the history with Zondra that you do with Sarah."
"I know. Honestly Ziva, I guess I wanted to get it over with, you know, rip the band aid off so to speak."
Ziva was silent for a moment, "Do you still love her? Its obvious you still care about her. But she's a spy, she's betrayed you, what makes you think she won't do it again?
"I don't know she won't. But unlike the first time, I have people I can count on to get me out of it." Chuck said.
Ziva smiled, "I'll be honest Chuck, Sarah and I are a lot alike. We were both recruited young, taught to seduce, to kill, that the mission was most important. Why do you trust me?"
"Because if you don't save me, you'd have to deal with Ellie, and I know your scared of angry Ellie." Chuck said teasing.
Ziva laughed out loud, "I am."
Chuck got serious, "Maybe you were like Sarah, you're not anymore. You haven't lied to me. You're my friend. Let me ask you a question, after 18 months of us working together, if I was your asset, knowing me how you do, and you got the order to bunker me, would you do what she did?" Chuck asked.
Ziva thought, there was silence for a solid minute. It was a serious question that deserved a serious response. "No Chuck, I couldn't. But I understand why she did what she did. You're not the same person you were then. You have the upgraded intersect, you know how to use it. While you might have had it then, she didn't know that. I have read over her file, I have seen the mission reports, the live stream we have in Castle. Fulcrum was close, I believe she did want to keep you safe. The bunker was a reasonable option. Where she was wrong was if Beckman would release you when the threat was neutralized."
Chuck spoke up, "Z, you and I both know Beckman wouldn't have let me go. Sarah is smart, she had to have known that would happen."
"You're right, I don't believe Beckman would have let you go. But as a spy, we are worried about the most immediate threat. Your dad was captured, you were determined to go save him, I'm not saying I agree, but I understand her thought process.
All I am saying is, you have questions, and she is the only one who can answer them. Maybe you should ask your questions, you may not like the answer, but maybe it can help you get some closure and move on."
Chuck absorbed what Ziva said. Ziva was a spy and she and Sarah were very similar. "Do you think she would actually answer me honestly? How can I believe what she says?"
"That's up to you Chuck. You are not naïve as you were when you first entered this world. I think you'll be able to tell, ultimate, its up to you if you want to believe what she says. But I think you'll know." Ziva said.
"I am going to order some room service and rest before we get ready. I'm' here if you need me, I got your back Chuck, always will." She ended and got up, gave Chuck a kiss on the cheek and left to the living room.
Chuck sat there for a few minutes, he had a lot going through his mind, but first they had a mission to complete, maybe after he and Sarah could have a conversation, and maybe he could get some closure on that part of his life.
November 13, 2010 –Orange Orange – 5:55pm
A black Lexus ES 450 pulled up to the back of the Orange Orange, where they could see the black Mercedes-Benz Sprinter Cargo Van, that would be used for surveillance of tonight's mission. With Link sitting in the driver seat and Morgan in the passenger's seat of the Lexus, they waited until they saw John Casey, dressed in a bartender uniform and Carina Miller, dressed in black mission gear, come out the back of the double O. Before getting out of the car, Link reminded Morgan "remember Morg, you got emergency distress signal on your watch and belt buckle, and we have trackers both their and in the heal of your shoe. Chuck and Orion don't think they will try anything, but if they do, just click the button and we will grab you. Keep your wits about you." The former Seal said to his friend.
"Thanks Link, I know. I have my Tranq gun and 2 Tranq pens just in case. Its Larkin I am worried about, but otherwise, I should think it will be ok."
Morgan and Link both got out of the Lexus and walked over to the van.
Morgan started, "hi Casey, hi Carina, ready for tonight?"
"Van is prepped and fueled, don't break anything and don't screw up." Casey snarled.
"I missed you to big guy," Morgan snipped back. Then looking at Carina, "Looking forward to working with you Carina, we should get going to get set up, where's Larkin?"
"Hi Martin, I'm ready but Larkin isn't here yet. I tried calling and texting him, but he didn't answer." Carina stated.
"Seems your teammates can't follow simple orders." Link stated.
"You worry about your team; we'll worry about ours." Casey shot back.
"He's got 10 minutes, then we have to go, he'll have to meet us there." Morgan said trying to diffuse the situation. Morgan shot a quick text to Chuck to let him know what was happening.
"Ok, I need to get to the hotel, I will see you there." Casey shot, then walked over getting into his beloved Crown Victoria.
"Morg, I'm taking off, you good?" Lincoln asked his bearded teammate.
"I'm good Link. We'll talk at the party. Good luck and be careful." Morgan said glancing at his friend and teammate.
"Well Martin, looks like its just you and me." Carina said seductively with a wink. When she and Morgan got in the van, before Morgan started to drive Carina got serious for a second, "Look, Chuck and your team doesn't have anything to worry about from us. Zondra, Sarah, Casey and I are going to play this straight with your team. Chuck saved Zondra's and my life, I know you don't trust us, but we won't try anything, your team oversees the mission, we will follow your lead."
Morgan was surprised, he didn't expect that from Carina. "What about Larkin?" Morgan asked.
"I honestly don't know, the intersect is giving him trouble, but he was a narcissistic asshole before the intersect, it's just made that worse. He is supposed to be here, I don't know what he's thinking."
"Thanks Carina, I appreciate your honesty. We all think a lot of you and Zondra. And by the way, its Morgan." He ended with a wink. He put the van in gear and off they went to the Intercontinental.
November 13, 2010 – Maison 23 – 6:30pm
Sarah Walker stand in her bathroom about to take a shower, she tried to eat some dinner, but she just didn't have an appetite. For the first time in a long time, she was nervous. She knew she had a mission, but she was excited, for the fist time in almost 2 years she was going to be close to Chuck. She had thought about what she wanted to say to Chuck for 18 months, but now that she was so close to having a chance, she couldn't remember any of it. There was so much she needed to tell him; she was just hoping he would give her the chance. She decided she needed to take a long shower, hopefully helping to calm her, and then she had to get ready, Chuck said he would pick her up at 7:45. She had already picked out the black strapless Versace gown she was going to wear. She had worn something similar and knew Chuck had loved it, she was hoping this would grab his attention. She took a deap breath, entered her shower to try to relax. She was Sarah Walker, she didn't fail missions, and tonight was the start of her most important mission of her life.
November 13, 2010 – Ritz Carlton Hotel- Suite 1202 – 6:45pm
Just getting back to the Suite after a run, Chuck had been going restless waiting around to get ready for the mission. He had all this nervous energy and needed something to do to make take his mind off the upcoming night, at least for a little while. He entered the main room of the suite seeing Link in the living room, he had on his tuxedo pants and shirt, bow tie untied around his neck just sitting finishing up a facetime with his family. He spotted Chuck and gave him a head nod. Morgan was already gone, setting up the surveillance van. He had text Chuck and let him know that Larkin was a no show, but Carina was with him. He had let him know Carina was still trying to get in touch with Larkin telling him where to meet them. Chuck figured Bryce would do something like this. He was never a team player, Bryce always thought he was better than him and had to be the focus of attention. Chuck figured this would happen, he just didn't know what Bryce was going to do. Chuck went to the fridge in the kitchenette area and grabbed a bottle of water. Link got up and came in, with Chuck tossing him a bottle of water.
"How was your run?" Link asked.
Chuck still chugging brought the bottle down, "Good."
Link laughed. "Hey Chuck, I got your back. I know Morgan, Ziva, Ellie, my wife, and probably everybody else has asked you this. All I'll say is this, you're a good man who got a shtty deal. Unlike Stanford, this time you picked yourself up, dusted yourself off, and saved your dad. You should be proud of building this team and bringing us altogether. I'm proud to have you as a friend, and proud to be part of your family. If they couldn't recognize what you could do, fuck them." Link slapped a hand on Chuck's shoulder and gave it a squeeze.
Link wasn't a man of many words, more than Casey, but still not many. It meant a lot to Chuck what he said.
"Thanks Link, I am lucky to have you and your family in my life." Chuck said.
Link smiled, then asked "the intersect have anything in their about tying a bow tie?" he asked.
That got them both laughing. Chuck finished chuckling and said "Thanks, I needed that. I got an update from Morgan, Casey is at the hotel, he and Carina are set up and getting linked up with Talus. Larkin was a no show, and they can't get in touch with him."
Link took the update, "you were expecting him to pull something, I didn't think he would go off script, but not this quickly. What are you thinking?"
"Best case, he's dead. Worst case he got captured, middle option, he is going to show up and try and show us all what a super-agent he is. He thinks the intersect makes him Neo from the Matrix. I mean seriously, his cover name was Anderson." Chuck finished.
"Seriously? I read the files and psych profile, but he really is a narcissistic asshat, isn't he? You went to college with him, was he always like this?" Link asked, honestly curious.
"Not in the beginning when I first met him, but maybe he was already spy training. He was a good guy, really thought he was my friend. His parents own like half of Connecticut, he came from money. He is a good-looking guy and he knows it. He's always thought the rules didn't apply to him. But as the years went on, you could see the arrogance and entitlement grow. He was my friend, I thought he grow out of it. Then he got me kicked out. He claims it was to protect me now, but he just wanted to be the intersect. He didn't have to get me expelled, I wouldn't have wanted to be the intersect then or now." Chuck finished.
"Only easy day was yesterday." Link said sharing the seal motto.
"We'll deal with it, see what he has in store." Chuck said
As Chuck finished, Ziva came out. She was a sight in a long silver gown, with light straps over her shoulders, she looked beautiful.
"Hello Boys," She said in a sultry voice.
"Wow, you look great Z." Chuck stammered. "You look great Ziva, ready Mrs. Thomas?" Link added.
"Thank you, and yes Mr. Thomas, I am." Ziva answered.
"Ok, I guess I should finish getting dressed." Link got up to finish tying his bow tie and grab his jacket.
"You should start to get ready Chuck; you don't want to keep Agent Walker waiting." Ziva said to Chuck with a bit of a smirk.
"Yea yea, I know. I am going to take a shower and get dressed, I am meeting her at 8, and we should be at the hotel by 8:30. I'll see you there." He ended, as he took another bottle of water and headed for his room to get showered and dressed.
November 13, 2010 – Hotel Amarano – Room 745 – Los Angles– 7:05pm
Standing in his bathroom fresh from the shower was Bryce Larkin. He had head his phone buzzing and picked it up and looked, he had 17 text messages and 11 voicemails from Carina, Morgan, Zondra, and Casey all asking where was he, he was late to meet the van. The last was telling him where they were located and to meet them there ASAP. Bryce had no intention of sitting this one out. He was the intersect, and there was no way he was going to let that Nerd loser Chuck Bartowski make him look bad in front of Sarah and the General. He was the spy, Chuck was just playing spy, although he would never admit it out loud, he was playing spy very well. This was his chance to show Sarah who the real man was, she has continually shot him down since he returned to work with her and Casey. He was getting tired of her playing hard to get, he was going to recapture what they once had, and he would remind Chuck who the real spy was. He needed that governor, there was no way he was going to give the intersect up, if he could just get a handle on these headaches, he would be fine. He would go in, identify all the Ring agents and any other evil doers, tag Remington, and upload the virus on his phone. There would be no need for Chuck or his team, as a matter of fact the only need for Sarah would be for his arm candy and his reward for a mission well done after. He was the intersect, he didn't need help.
November 13, 2010 – Ritz Carlton Hotel- Suite 1202 – 7:32pm
Chuck looked in the mirror, finishing tying his tie. He took a deep breath, walked out to the living room, and grabbed his keys to the A7 Morgan left for him, it was time to go and pick up Sarah for the mission, first time he would be alone with her for any time in over 18 months. He was apprehensive and excited. He knew he needed to stay alert and aware, the last time he had been alone with Sarah he almost ended up in a bunker, this time he was more prepared, he didn't have the blind faith or trust that she would do the right thing. While his head was still spinning about seeing Sarah, he had a mission to prepare for and it was time to execute the plan they had put into place. The only question was Bryce Larkin, he was still out of touch, Chuck expected him to not go with his plan but he just didn't know what he was going to do so they had to be prepared for whatever price through it. Knowing Bryce he was going to try and make show of it and show everyone what a great spy he is. They expected something like this, and they were prepared. He checked his weapon; Chuck carried a modified Hecker and Koch P30, it could fire both tranq darts and live rounds. Since the start of working outside the NSA and CIA, Chuck would always go out with at least 3 extra clips not including what was already in the weapon, 2 live rounds, 2 tranq darts. Unless the mission called for one or the other, Chuck always liked to have options. While he has killed, he still preferred to avoid it if at all possible. He grabbed his cell phone, checking for any updates from the tea and was on his way.
November 13, 2010 – Maison 23 – 7:52pm
Chuck pulled up to Maison23 for the first time in a little over 18 months. He handed his keys to the valet, It was the first time you ever handed his keys to the valet as before when he was just a nerd herder he couldn't afford to pay for the valet parking or the tip. The valley gave him his receipt and he headed into the lobby of Mason 23, when he walked in he heard someone call out his name. Surprised, Chuck stopped to see at who it was.
"Chuck is that you?" an older gentleman who Chuck recognized as Bill Peterson came walking around the desk. Bill had been one of the front desk staff, and unofficial concierge so to speak. He would always recommend Chuck to guests who had any computer or phone problems. He had known Bill even before Sarah Walker came into his life and started staying here. Bill had a very grandfatherly way about him, Bill who was in his early 70s was a lot like Chuck in he liked people and liked to help.
"Mr. Peterson, it's good to see you. Yes, its me, long time. Mrs. Peterson still hasn't gotten you to retire yet? Chuck asked, happy to see his old friend.
"Wow Chuck, I thought that was you. See you finally got that haircut." Bill cracked with a smile. "Those damn animal shapes." He said shaking Chucks hand. He always liked Chuck, he knew his and Ellie's story. He tried to help out with fatherly type advice when he could or be a friendly ear when he saw Chuck around and needing someone to talk to. He really was happy for him when he started dating Sarah Walker, she seemed like a nice girl, and she seemed to be good for Chuck. They reminded him of he and his wife Mary when they were young. Good times and bad, he and Mary survived their version of 'complicated' and he was sure Chuck and Sarah would to. It had bothered him when they would seemingly break up and could never get a read on why. Even when things were good, there were times poor Chuck seemed miserable. He knew Sarah Walker was a beautiful woman, she was also mysterious. She was always nice and pleasant with Bill and the staff, and as a resident, she took care of he and the other staff at holiday time. He had commented not long ago to his wife Mary how she seemed so lonely lately and had wondered what happened between her and Chuck. He hadn't realized how long it had been since Chuck had been back here.
Coming out of his thought, he heard Chuck asking a question.
"How have you and Mrs. Peterson been? Any new grandchildren?" Chuck asked with a smile.
"No, no more yet, just Jimmy and Alison still, they are getting big. I could have used your help picking out some birthday and Christmas presents. When did you leave the BuyMore? I haven't seen you here in forever. I assume you're here to see Ms. Walker?" Bill finished.
"Yea, I left the BuyMore a little over 18 months ago, I ended up getting a job for a software company, but I had to relocate, I travel a lot now all over the world solving computer issues." Chuck said with a smile.
"Good for you son, I knew you could do it. What about you and Ms. Walker?" The elder man asked.
Chuck took a breath, "well when I was offered the job, she had accepted a big job here in LA, she couldn't move. We thought it was best to make a clean break, my new job was travel heavy and it wouldn't be fair for either of us." Chuck finished. He still didn't like lying, he wanted to tell Mr. Peterson, well Agent Walker is a government spy and when her bosses told them her to trick me and lead me to a trap to take me to prison, she did. He smirked thinking of Mr. Petersons reaction.
"That's too bad, I always had a good feeling about you two. What brings you hear tonight, your looking mighty sharp in that tux, although I always preferred the bow tie myself." Bill grinned.
Chuck laughed, "can't tie one. No, there is a sort of a business party tonight, and seeing as Sarah was still in LA, we thought it might be fun to go together and catch up. She didn't have plans, so." Chuck trailed off.
Bill thought he would try and help his young friend, "You know Chuck, since you 2 broke up, she isn't seeing anyone that I am aware of. The only men that ever seem to come to visit her are that slimy guy with the Ferrari, Brian something."
"You mean Bryce Larkin?" Chuck asked.
"Yea, that's it. Although she doesn't seem to have any interest or patience for him. When he does come, he is usually gone within 20 minutes. Doesn't tip the valets either, guys a real ass." Bill finished.
Chuck chuckled. "Yes, yes he is."
"You know him?" Bill asked.
"Yea, we went to college together," was all Chuck mentioned.
Bill continued, "the only other guy is a big guy, grunts a lot. Maybe her uncle or something, he's tall like you, looks like he was in the military."
"Casey, yea I worked with him at the BuyMore, was my neighbor too."
"How's Ellie and her husband?" Bill asked.
Chuck glanced at his watch, "there doing great, they are right now in Africa doing doctors without borders."
"That's great, give her my best when you speak to her."
"I will, look Mr. Peterson, it's been great catching up, but I need to grab Sarah before or we'll be late." Chuck said starting to leave.
"Of course. Wait, you can't take her out without bringing her flowers, here" Bill went behind the front desk and grabbed a bouquet of gardenia's that had been delivered for a guest who had already checked out.
"No charge, they were left for a guest who had already checked out. If I remember correctly, they are Ms. Walkers favorite." Bill handed the flowers to Chuck with a smile.
Chuck stuttered, this was not what he needed right now, he tried to not accept the kind gesture from the older man. "Oh, no that's not necessary, you should bring them home for Mrs. Peterson."
"She hates Gardenia's, if I bring anything other than roses, I get I trouble," the older man says with a smile.
With nothing he can do, Chuck takes the flowers and thanks his old friend. "Thanks Mr. Peterson." Thinking to himself, well this just got more awkward. Chuck made his way to the elevator and headed up to Sarah's room.
Chuck stood in a familiar spot, standing outside Sarah Walkers door. He had a flash of memory of all the times in the past he had stood out here, the good ones, like the first time he brough her a vegetarian pizza without olives, of course that was followed by a flash of memory of when he had followed Roan Montgomery's advice, knocking on the door while wearing a white dinner jacket, holding a single red rose and a bottle of Chateau Margaux, thinking it would be a great night, only to have Bryce Larkin pop out from behind the door. He was wondering if Bryce would pop out now, seeing as he MIA and not following the mission plan.
Chuck looked at his watch, 8:02, his chat with Bill took a little longer than he would have liked, but they would be ok to get there. Chuck reached up and knocked.
He heard someone moving towards the door, 'Just a minute", he hears Sarah say. It takes about 10 seconds, and the door opens and their stand Sarah Walker with a dazzling smile. Chuck had to really school his features, she looked beautiful, wearing a gorgeous black gown, hair down, straight, and her makeup looked perfect.
Sarah saw Chuck standing there. Looking hot in a Armani tux with a tie, she was glad, she wasn't the biggest fan of bow ties, especially on Chuck. After looking him up and down, she smiles her brightest 'Chuck' smile, "Hi Chuck." She saw he was holding a bouquet of gardenias; he had got her flowers, she was beaming.
Chuck was still looking her up and down, "Strapless Versace? Very daring Agent Walker." Chuck started.
Sarah laughed, and inside was ecstatic that he noticed and seemed to like her dress, she commented with a sly grin "how much project runway have you been watching?"
Chuck grinned. "Ah, these are for you, there from Mr. Peterson at the front desk." Chuck said, handing her the bouquet.
Sarah deflated just a little, they weren't from Chuck. She needed to shake it off, she had 2 missions to complete, and it was already off to a better start than she had hoped. She took the flowers to put them in a vase and add some water. Once done, she turned to see Chuck just inside the door.
"Ready to go?" he asked.
"With a bright smile, "Yea, lets go," she said looping her arm through Chucks and they were off to the elevator.
As they walked through the lobby, Bill Peterson grinned. "Have a good night Ms. Walker, great seeing you again Chuck. Don't be a stranger," he said with a big smile.
"Good seeing you Mr. Peterson, say hi to the Mrs." Chuck commented.
"Thanks Bill, have a good night." Sarah said with a smile.
The valet brought the A7 to the door, Chuck opened and held the passenger door for Sarah, she thanked him and got in. Chuck gave the valet a sizeable tip, got in the driver seat. Before putting the car into gear, he reached into his pocket and pulled out a mans wedding ring and a wedding an engagement ring for Sarah. Tonight, they were Charles and Sarah Carmichael, software mogul and his philanthropist wife. Sarah took the rings, put them on, as Chuck put on his. A smile on her lips, hoping one day this might be real. Chuck put the car in gear, and they were off on their way to the Intercontinental and tonight's mission.
The car ride was silent mostly, Chuck and Sarah didn't make much small talk, it was mostly mission specific. Tonight the Carmichaels were working together for the first time in over 2 years, Meadow Branch was the ast time they had gone in as a married couple. Sarah was excited, happy, and nervous all at the same time. She was sitting right next to the man she loved, now she just needed to get him to listen.
"Chuck, I was hoping we could talk," Sarah said almost shyly.
Chuck who was focused on the road, as they were almost to the Intercontinental, just gave a slight glance over to Sarah. "Now's not the time Sarah, we have a mission. We can talk afterwards." Chuck finished.
Sarah didn't want to wait, but she didn't want to push either, she knew this wasn't something she could fix overnight. "Ok, we can talk after." She spoke.
The A7 pulled up to the Intercontinental and Chuck gave the keys to the valet, while walking around and helping Sarah out of the car. Both made their way inside and checked their coats at the coat check. Chuck offered his arm to Sarah, and they made their way into the grand ballroom.
As Chuck and Sarah entered the ballroom, Ziva and Link, who were making small talk with some of the other guests noticed Chuck and Sarah walk in arm in arm. They both noticed how Sarah seemed to be almost glowing, just looked more relaxed than they could remember. Both were concerned for their team leader and friend. Neither knew Sarah Walker, but they knew the reputation, and while they were on Chuck's side, they knew there were always 2 sides to the story. They would keep an eye on their friend, but they had a mission to accomplish.
Zondra, who was by the bar with Casey also noticed Sarah and Chuck walked in. Sarah was one of her best friends and since they had reunited over a year ago, they had gotten close. Zondra knew Sarah loved Chuck and was devastated at what had happened. She was full of guilt and self-loathing. Having met Chuck the way she had, Zondra could say she considered Chuck one of her closest friends. As she and Carina had pledged, they would be there if Chuck needed them. Seeing the 2 enter together, it just looked right. Like 2 pieces of a puzzle that fit together. Zondra had thought long and hard about what Sarah had done, leading him to be taken to the bunker. Zondra had done similar things to assets, but after having met Chuck, Zondra could honestly say she would not have sold Chuck out like that. If she had known Chuck for 2 years and gotten that order, she at least would have warned him. She knew Sarah was trying to protect Chuck, but Sarah quickly realized she had made a mistake, and was just looking for a chance to right a wrong. She hoped Chuck would give her a chance, but she would understand why he might not. Either way, she would be there for both of them.
Morgan chimed in on the mike, "1 this is Cobra." The team on missions always went with number designations, easier to communicate, while Morgan in the van was always Cobra. For this mission, Chuck and Sarah were 1and 2, Link and Ziva were 3 and 4, Casey was 5, and Zondra was 6. If Carina and Bryce had to leave the van, they would be 7 and 8.
Chuck responded, "this is 1, sitrep."
Morgan continued "1, all team is in place, commencing video upload to Talus. Larkin is a no show, repeat Larkin is a no show."
Chuck glanced at Sarah who looked back. She was pissed, leave it to Bryce to fuck up her chance to try and repair her relationship with Chuck but not following the mission plan. She glanced back at Chuck just shaking her head, letting him know she didn't know anything about Bryce's no show.
"Copy Cobra, stream video to Talus for facial rec, we'll make do with 1 intersect. Keep me updated if Larkin shows."
"Copy 1, Cobra out." Morgan ended.
Morgan turned to Carina, "What the fuck is Larkin doing?"
Carina, who had been watching Sarah and Chuck on the monitor in the van, "I have no idea, You know him, has to be the center of attention. He didn't like the dressing down he got from Chuckles, I expected him to be pain, didn't think he would be a no show."
"At this point, lets just hope he stays away and lets us do our job." Morgan said.
The team continued to make their way around the party, Casey was the first to spot Albert Remington, he was on the other end of the bar getting a drink from one of the other Bartenders. He spoke to his collar mike, "this is 5, target acquired, East end of the bar."
"Copy 5, keep eye's on, let us know when he moves." Chuck finished. Albert Remington was a 54-year-old, he was 6'2', overweight, with slicked back but thinning black and grey hair. He considered himself a 'ladies' man, although that was mostly due to all the money he made. He made his original fortune in finance, but there was rumors that he had started to also 'invest' in the drug trade, as well as other black market items. The plan was simple, using either Sarah, Ziva, or Zondra to distract him while they grabbed his phone and uploaded the virus and spraying him with overwatch spray. Sarah was the best choice, as she had been picking pockets since she was 10, although both Ziva and Zondra were also quite capable. The idea was for the women to 'flirt' with him, but as was a Team Orion staple, there would be no seduction. A second option was for Chuck to approach him with his Mrs's attached to talk business, flattering him on his financial acumen, men like Remington loved to have their ego stroked. Casey had noticed and shared with the team he had arrived alone, although men like him never expected to leave alone.
Chuck had been flashing quite a bit on Ring operatives, as well as other undesirables, during the walk around he kept speaking into his collar mike identying them to Morgan to make sure the Team back at Talus were getting shots of all. These would be shared with Beckman and other law enforcement agencies. Sarah almost didn't notice the flashes, the changes to Chuck's intersect and his ability to control his facial expression were impressive. He no longer looked like he was having a seizure, much like Bryce experiences. In Chuck's case it was almost as simple as closing his eyes, and holding it a little longer than a blink.
"Chuck, are you ok, you seem to be flashing a lot?" Sarah asked, concerned. In the first 2 years, he would have had a splitting headache by now.
"Yea, I'm fine, thanks." Chuck responded.
"Looks like those improvements have really made a difference." Sarah said.
"Yea, dad and the neurologists he worked with really made a difference, it feels much more organic, natural. Its more like memory, flashes are much more comfortable." Chuck said. He wasn't going to tell Sarah that Ellie was the neurologist, they would probably figure it out at some point, but that was not something he would volunteer.
Chuck and Sarah were getting ready to make their approach on Remington, Chuck would engage in conversation with he and Sarah, then excuse himself for a few minutes so Sarah could flirt more, when Chuck came that, Sarah would have swiped the phone and handed off to one of her teammates for the upload, they would then get the phone back to Sarah and she would put it back on Remington.
As Chuck and Sarah were walking up, Zondra had been flirting with Remington at the bar, Zondra really couldn't stand this sleazeball, talking about how much he was worth and the things and places he could show her. She saw Chuck and Sarah and gave Chuck a 'please do something look.' Chuck walked up with Sarah, "excuse me, I am sorry to bother you, but your Albert Remington, right?" Chuck asked.
Remington turned his gaze from Zondra and saw the tall man and the stunning blonde on his arm, he had a slimy smile and answered, "Yes, I am. I'm sorry have we met?"
"No, no. I am Charles Carmichael, this is my wife, Sarah. We heard about you from Ron Ellis, we have been speaking with Ron about advancing our portfolio, we're not afraid of risk, unfortunately Ron can be, he had mentioned you might be someone we should speak with." Chuck mentioned, Chuck didn't know Ron Ellis, but from the information they had put together, Ron Ellis was a good honest man who didn't cheat or swindle his investors, he was one of the good guys during the financial collapse, where as Remington, took advantage of everything and everyone he could.
"Ah of course, Ron's a good man, a little timid for my taste. I should warn you, I only deal with at minimum, 7 figure investments." Remington said, looking Sarah up and down. Sarah put on her best flirtation smile. "Well, that's good Mr. Remington, with big risks, come big rewards, am I right?" She said.
"Please, Mrs. Carmichael, call me Al." He spoke
"Thank you, Al, please call me Sarah." She responded.
Chuck, standing right there spoke up, "So Al, do you have a few minutes to speak with us?"
"Absolutely, excuse me Zondra, perhaps we can catch up after I am done speaking with the Carmichaels?" Remington said to Zondra with a smirk.
Zondra, trying to hold back her disgust, "of course Al, I'll be back by later." Zondra said as she strolled away.
Chuck and Sarah were speaking with Remington, he was trying to be funny, and Sarah putting on her best fake laugh, pretending to be a little more inebriated than she was, while lightly slapping Remington's chest while 'laughing' at his disgusting jokes. Chuck who was playing along, excused himself to take a call, giving Sarah a chance to do what she does best.
While Chuck stepped away, Remington and Sarah continued to talk, Remington really pouring on his version of charm, not caring that Sarah was married and her 'husband' was mere feet away. Sarah, was able to get to Remington's phone, she leaned in, whispering to Remington the thought she was bored in her marriage and could use some excitement, while she handed the phone off to Link, who along with Ziva, was just a few feet away. Link plugged in the flash drive and handed back to Sarah 10 seconds later. Sarah was able to get the phone back into Remington's pocket without him even knowing.
While this was going on, a red Ferrari pulled up to the valet stand at the Intercontinental, out steps Bryce Larkin wearing a tux with a bow tie, shiny shoes, and his best smile. Tonight, he was going to show them who the real super spy is.
As Bryce's was moving into the hotel towards the ballroom, Carina spotted him on one of the monitors, she turned to Morgan, "Morgan, we have a problem", she said.
Morgan turned to look at the monitor, seeing Double O douchebag he keyed his Mic for the whole team, "1, this Cobra, be advised, asshat has entered the hotel, repeat asshat has entered the hotel."
Chuck, was talking with Remington and Sarah, muttered 'shit' under his breath. Walking into the main ballroom was none other than Bryce Anderson, his cover name. Or as Team Orion had nicknamed him before the mission, agent asshat. As Bryce started to look around, he spotted Chuck and Sarah speaking with Remington, as he started to make his way toward them, he continued looking around the room and that's when he started to flash. Because Bryce had the government intersect, his flashes were not subtle like Chuck's. Bryce did in fact look like he was having multiple seizures. As he got closer to the group, his flashes continuing, Bryce dropped to a knee closing his eyes in obvious pain. The distraction did not go unnoticed by everyone. As Chuck went to kneel to check on Bryce, he yelled, "SARAH, I NEED SARAH, Sarah help me, please."
Chuck stepped back and shot Sarah a glare.
Chuck then decided it was best to get Larkin out of here, "Sarah, honey, why don't you help Mr. Anderson to the car, he may need to go to the ER." Chuck said as Sarah came down to help Bryce up, telling him to keep his eyes closed. As the passersby attention drifted back to the party, Zondra stepped in with Remington to get his focus elsewhere. Chuck handed the claim ticket for the car to Sarah, saying quietly so only she could hear him "Get your boyfriend home. We'll debrief in the morning; missions over."
Sarah looked at Chuck, she wanted to tell him he was not her boyfriend, and she didn't know why he said that, but the look Chuck gave her made her realize this was not the time or place. "Ok Chuck," was all she could say.
As Sarah grabbed Bryce and walked him to the valet, Chuck turned to Remington, "I'm so sorry Al, he is an old friend of Sarah's, there still close. He suffers from Epilepsy and sometimes things go haywire."
Remington took in what Chuck was saying, with Zondra shooting him a raised eyebrow 'good thinking' kind of look.
"No problem Charles, sorry your wife had to leave, but that poor boy seems to be all out sorts, probably best he get looked at. We can talk business another time, please take my card." Remington said as he handed Chuck one of his cards, "we'll see if we can find you some investments that might be a better fit."
"Thanks Al, I am sure we will be in touch, enjoy the party." Chuck shook Remington's hand and excused himself. When he was in the lobby, he keyed his mike "3, this is 1, did we get overwatch spray on Remington?" Chuck asked.
"1, this is 3, confirmed." Ziva answered.
Chuck keyed his mike, "all team, that's a wrap. Make your way out as to not draw any added attention. Meet in suite 1405, for check in, then we will leave the hotel."
Multiple copy that's came over Chuck's earbud.
November 13, 2010 – InterContinental Hotel- Suite 1405 – 10:45pm
Casey, Carina, and Zondra from Team LA were sitting around the large dining room table in the suite. Ziva, Link, and Morgan were also seated at the table, Chuck was standing.
"First, nice job everyone we identified multiple Ring agents, as well as other nefarious individuals. Morgan, all that information was streamed to Talus, right?"
"Yes Chuck, they are running facial rec and putting together dossiers on all the people you identified and some you missed but were caught on our button camera's. In all, it seems we identified 28 bad guys." Morgan finished. Leave it to Morgan to call international drug traffickers, arms dealers, and assassins, bad guys.
"Ziva, you were able to get Remington with Overwatch spray?" Chuck wanted to confirm.
"Yes, both Zondra and I got him. He's good for the next 30 days. We confirmed with Talus the Overwatch spray was being picked up by the satellite. Got a couple of others as well of what Morgan termed 'bad guys'." Ziva said with a grin looking at Morgan who was smiling.
"Good, we were able to get Remington's phone add the virus and get the data. Sarah did a nice job with that grab and put back." Chuck said. He then took a breath and turned mostly to Casey, but to the Team LA side of the table.
"What the fuck was that with Larkin? He was a no show for his assignment, he came in trying to be the hero, and could have blown all our covers with that shit, especially Sarah's and mine by calling for her." Chuck ended, angry.
Casey decided to answer, "You're right Bartowski, Larkin was out of line, didn't follow orders, and could have cost us the mission." Casey took a breath and continued, "it's no secret I don't like Larkin, he's a pompous, arrogant asshole. But he has gotten results. Part of it is his god complex, and that was even before he got the intersect, but the intersect is giving him problems, you saw them tonight. Maybe if he had a governor." Casey started, but was cut off by Chuck.
"Casey having a governor doesn't cure being an asshole. You and Beckman know we are not giving you one. You need to get him to use the suppression glasses. Ok, we're done for tonight, you can stay in the suite if you'd like, go home, or do whatever you do. I am going to catch a cab. We will debrief with Beckman at 10 am tomorrow at our suite at the Ritz. Be safe and have a good night." Chuck ended and walked to the door and started to leave when Morgan called for him.
"Hey Carina, can you get the van back to Castle? I think I am going to head back with Chuck." Morgan asked.
"I'll ride with you Red, I took a cab here anyway." Zondra answered before Carina could.
"Sure Marty, no problem." Carina answered. "Hey Marty?" Carina asked as Morgan was headed to the door, Morgan turned and looked, "make sure Chuckles is ok?"
Morgan smiled at the concern for his friend, "don't worry Carina, I always do." With that he left down the hall to catch up with Chuck.
November 13, 2010 – Hotel Amarano – Room 745 – Los Angles – 10:30pm
Sarah had just gotten Bryce back to his hotel room. His head felt like it had 10,000 pounds on top of it, but at least the constant pain had stopped. Sarah went into his bathroom and gotten some ibuprofen and a glass of water and brought it out and handed it to Bryce.
"Thanks Sarah, I can always count on you." He said with his trademark smirk.
"Bryce, what the fuck was that? You blew off your assignment, and with your lone wolf crap, you could have blown the mission." Sarah said, angry.
"Seriously?" He spat back. "Chuck Bartowski does not tell me what to do. Jesus Sarah, he is a computer geek trying to play James Bond, he should leave the spy work to the actual spies." Bryce finished.
"Nerd" Sarah replied automatically.
"What?' Bryce asked, confused.
"He prefers nerd than geek, but you know that, Bryce." She said. "And he's not playing James Bond, if you actually paid attention, you would see how smart and capable, he is. He became a spy simply by watching and learning, he has no formal training, and guess what? He is a great spy. Hell, he saved Zondra and Carina single handedly." Sarah said with conviction.
"Bullshit, that was the intersect." Bryce spat back.
"The intersect helped, but that was all Chuck. He saved my life on our first date diffusing a bomb, and that had nothing to do with the intersect. He is smart, brave, humble, he cares. He's a better spy than any of us, because he cares, he genuinely wants to help people. He's a hero and doesn't want to be. You just want everyone to worship you."
"I'm a hero Sarah, so are you. People like should be together. Come on, once I get the governor, we can go back to being the Anderson's, pick up where we left off, like the almost 4 years never happened." Bryce said almost pleading.
Sarah looked at Bryce, just shook her head.
"Bryce, I value what we once had, but its long over. I love Chuck. The biggest mistake I ever made was following that order from Beckman. I am going to do everything I can to get him back. But let me be clear, even if Chuck won't forgive me and he and I never end up together. You and I will never be together again. We can be friends and colleagues, but nothing more." Sarah finished.
"You're making a mistake Sarah; I don't give up so easily." Bryce said.
"Get over yourself Bryce. Get some rest. You'll have a lot to answer for in the debrief tomorrow. You might try and think about being a team player. We can do a lot of good with their help, but not if you keep acting like, you." Sarah finished and turned and left.
November 13, 2010 – Ritz Carlton Hotel- Suite 1202 – 11:57pm
Chuck had come out of his room, dressed in jeans a long sleeve t shirt, his trademark chucks, and zip up hooded sweatshirt. Morgan and Link had gone to meet up with Awesome and Jimmy for some sizzling shrimp. Ziva didn't feel like going out, she was watching a movie on tv when she saw Chuck come out of his room.
"Hey Chuck, can't sleep?" She asked.
"No, you?" He asked back.
"After mission adrenalin, even though there was any gun play or fighting, still have to calm my nerves. Care to join me?" She asked patting the spot on the couch next to her.
He grinned, 'thanks but I need to clear my head. I called down to the concierge, and he has a Kawasaki Z900 I can use, going for a ride to clear my head." He said.
"Sarah?" She asked.
"Yes, no, I don't know. I had thought we could talk after the mission maybe I could get some answers, then that asshat Larkin ignores orders and nearly cost us the mission, screaming for Sarah."
"what are we going to do about Larkin?' Ziva asked.
"He's out, he won't follow orders, you saw what happened with multiple flashes, he can't defend himself. He can monitor from Castle, but he is not even coming in the van. Not going to deal with his crap. Maybe I should have you break his leg, or shoot him in the knee." Chuck said grinning.
"Happy too." Ziva smiled back at him. " You did good tonight Chuck."
Chuck just winked at her. "I am going out to clear my head and think. You have a good night, I will see you in the morning. Get some rest."
Chuck found Jerome, the concierge, "Jerome, you have that bike I asked for?" Chuck asked with a big smile.
"I do Mr. Chuck, its right outside to the right, helmet included just liked you asked." Jerome finished, handing Chuck the keys.
"Thanks Jerome, I appreciate it." Chuck said, palming Jerome a very large tip. Chuck got on the bike, put on his helmet, and raced out into the streets trying to clear his head and maybe going to the one spot he liked to think when things got hard.