A/N: Hi all. I apologize for the delay in story updating. I've been a little under the weather. Okay a lot under the weather, and my brain went on a staycation. I know that some of you are disappointed that there isn't more action in this tale. That's okay, you're entitled to have what you enjoy.

My goal is to let the story be organic and tell itself. Life is like a porn movie. First you have to order the pizza. Then you have to wait for the delivery girl to show up and ring the doorbell. Then you answer the door only to discover "OMG, I don't have enough cash." Here comes the coy smile, "That's okay sir I'm sure we can work something out." Then you finally get the action when his wife comes out and helps him pay her, in full, with a big tip. So please be patient. Order a pizza, relax. We're in that part when we're waiting for the doorbell to ring.

A Heart Torn

A Charah Tale By Lord Rapier

Edited and guided by ParaDocs

Chapter 30:

Chicago: Taking Care of Family Part III

Sarah climbs the steps to the second floor. Opening the door, she checks out the room. It's nicely furnished. Lots of florals in the drapes and queen-sized bedspread. Their suitcase is open on top of the dresser. Chuck is looking at his laptop. He puts it down and smiles when she walks in the room. "Hi Sweetheart, what took you so long?"

Sarah plops herself on the bed next to Chuck, "Uhhhhhh, I'm exhausted. Being a Bartowski is exhausting." She wraps herself around him, "Except this part. This part is nice."

Chuck kisses the top of her head and rubs her back. "You know if someone were to get ready for bed, she might get a back rub for being a great wife."

Sarah snuggles in close to him. In a tired voice, "Sounds good, carry me to the bathroom."

Chuck's voice goes up, "Cool, do I get to watch?"

Sarah sits up, "Never you mind. Where is it? I'll get there on my own."

Chuck laughs, "Out the door, turn right, second door on the right."

She leans over and kisses him, "I'm holding you to that backrub. Be right back."

Sarah grabs some items from the open suitcase and heads out the door.

When she gets back to the bedroom, Chuck is under the covers making loud snoring noises. "Hmmmm, it's a good thing I'm still young enough to find another husband. In case this one dies prematurely." She tosses her clothes onto the rocking chair near the window.

Chuck sits up abruptly. Clearly, he was faking, "Whoa! The body's not even cold yet."

Sarah hands him a bottle of lotion, "I believe someone promised his wife a back rub."

Chuck pats the bed next to him, "Hey, I'm not ready to watch you get remarried, especially as a ghost. Your masseuse awaits you madam."

Sarah moves over to the bed, removes her short robe, and lies naked on the bed.

Chuck takes in her body, lithe, muscular, feminine. "You know what Sarah? You're so beautiful. I'm an incredibly lucky man."

Sarah purrs, "Thank you sweetheart. But if you don't make with the rubbing soon, you'll be a very unhappy lucky man."

Chuck rubs some lotion onto his hands to warm it. "Rough day Baby?" He begins to work on her shoulders.

Sarah nods, "I guess it was rough for both of us." She sighs, "Are you okay Chuck? I was worried about you. So was Clara."

Chuck puts pressure on Sarah's shoulders as he rubs. She groans, then purrs, "I'll give you an hour to cut that out."

Chuck laughs, "I see, so no rush then."

Sarah shakes her head, "You saw yourself in Clara, didn't you?"

Chuck sighs, hard. "I did. It was as if I was nine again."

Sarah turns her head to look at him, "I'm sorry I wasn't able to be there for you. Clara was freaking out. I had to make a choice."

Chuck continues to rub Sarah's back; he touches a spot, and she groans. "Right here?" She nods, "Oh yeah, that's your sister's spot."

He pays attention to the spot, applying gentle pressure. "Baby, you absolutely made the right choice. Please don't be upset, but I think Ellie was the right person for me to talk to. I think maybe she needed to talk about it too."

Sarah groans again as he digs his palm into her back. "No problem, Sweetheart. I could see how that would be the case. It's not like you're keeping secrets from me. You must have talked for a long while."

Chuck bends over and kisses Sarah's Back, "We talked for a while. Then she did her exam."

Sarah picks her head and shoulders up off the bed, "Exam? What exam? Why? What's wrong?"

Chuck gently pushes her down, she complies. "Nothing is wrong Hon. It's something she likes to do. It makes her feel better tracking me since I uploaded the Intersect again."

Sarah's head pops up again. "She knows?"

Chuck laughs softly, "Of course she knows. She helped me refine the design. Those papers Frank was talking about were based on what she learned helping me make the Intersect work correctly."

Sarah turns towards him, "Baby, are you okay? You're not having nightmares again?"

Chuck pushes her down again, "Baby, I'm fine, but every time you tense up like that you ruin all my hard work."

Sarah lays back down, "Chuck we promised no more secrets from each other. If something were wrong you would tell me, right?"

Chuck leans down and kisses Sarah's left butt cheek. "I would Sweetheart. No secrets from my wife."

Sarah purrs, "Good. Don't forget the other side, balance is important in all things."

Chuck laughs and kisses her right butt cheek. "I take it things went well with you and Ellie."

Sarah nods, "Well enough. It'll be a while before she trusts me, but I think we got past the anger part."

Chuck moves down and massages Sarah's thighs. "That call from Frank was weird. Why do you think he wanted to be on speaker?"

Sarah sighs, "It was weird. He must have his reasons. Maybe he was being friendly, no hidden agenda. It could be that he wanted us to know that he was interested in us as people. He did make a point of having read Ellie's Papers."

Chuck nods as he squeezes Sarah's flesh. "Good catch, he also made a point of suggesting funding for Ellie's research. Do you think he's trying to get the government back into the Intersect business?"

Sarah's eyes open. "You think this whole; 'you're our friends business,' is to get close to you and Ellie, for the Intersect?"

Chuck sighs as he works on Sarah's calves. "I guess I'm not as cynical as you. I'd like to believe we really hit it off. However, I'll keep your caution in mind. See that's why we make a great team. Between us we fill all the holes."

Sarah purrs, "Mr. Bartowski… are you suggesting something sexual?"

Chuck laughs, "Mrs. Bartowski, you have a dirty mind. I like it, but it's dirty."

Sarah rolls over, "Thank you Sweetheart, that was a nice rub. Now come kiss your wife and let's see what dirty things we can come up with together."

In the bedroom downstairs Devon and Ellie are having a serious discussion. As Ellie slips on her nightgown. "Devon, I need to thank you again. You opened me up to allowing Sarah back in our lives. Clara loves her. She took to her like she's known her all her life. I do have to be honest; I missed her. I'm glad we're on the road to full reconciliation. Now, tell me more about your thoughts on this move to Burbank."

Devon is excited, "Hon, I think it's a great idea. I know it can't happen tomorrow. There's a lot to do. We'd have to sell this house and find housing in L.A. I'm a Cardio-Thoracic surgeon, so I'd have to have privileges at a hospital or academic institution like a university. You would need the same in order to continue your research. Granted, as a Neurologist you're more than qualified to be the in-house doctor at CI. If you're sure family practice won't be boring for you. Lots of cuts and boo boos, not much of a challenge for a brain like yours. I'm sure between us we could work out a schedule to cover the CI clinic.

Ellie climbs into bed and gets under the covers. She cuddles up to Devon. "Like I said earlier, I wouldn't mind getting away from the snow. I would love it if Clara had cousins to play with. Chuck and I never had that. MJ and LJ are such sweet boys they would be great playmates. I could get to know Alex and Sarah better. Morgan will always be that annoying little brother, but I do miss him. I think I would enjoy a family practice. Interacting with kids and parents. I would find a way to continue my research to keep my mind stimulated. A big plus is that I would be able to keep a closer eye on Chuck. Married or not he's still my little brother. Devon overall, I like the idea. Now we just have to work out the planning."

Devon reaches over to turn out the light, "Why don't we talk to Chuck and Sarah in the morning, they may have some thoughts on the subject. Ellie… um I don't say it enough, but Sarah made me think how grateful I am that I have you. I love you, Ellie. Thank you for Clara. Thank you for loving me."

Ellie reaches up and kisses him with passion. "I love you too Devon. Now how about you put some action behind those words. I'm ready to play doctor."

Sarah looks at her watch, It's 2:38 in the morning. I'll never get to sleep if I don't take care of this. Sarah looks at the top of Chuck's head. He's fast asleep his arms wrapped around her, his head resting on her stomach. She shakes him gently, "Hon wake up."

Chuck mumbles something unintelligible. Sarah shakes him a little harder, "Baby, wake up we need to talk."

Chuck rolls onto his back, "I'm tired Morgan. My fingers hurt. I don't wanna play anymore Call of Duty."

Sarah laughs, and shakes him hard, "Chuck wake up, I'm horny."

Chuck sits up, "I'm here Baby, I'm here."

Sarah laughs, keeping her voice down. "I knew that would get you up."

Chuck looks around, "Sarah, it's dark."

"Yes Hon, it's the middle of the night."

Chuck rolls over and kisses her breast, "My God woman, you're insatiable."

Sarah laughs again, "True, but only for you, and not why I woke you up. I have to talk to you."

Chuck shakes his head, "Okay, I'm up. What's going on?"

"Chuck is your signal jammer still on?"

His head is resting on her chest again, he nods, "Uh huh."

She shakes him, "Chuck wake up. This is important."

Chuck sits up again, "Okay, I'm up. What's important?"

"Did You bring the sweeper?"

"Uh huh, it's in my briefcase."

Sarah gets up and puts on her robe, she picks up the briefcase and opens it. One of the devices has a glowing red LED. She pushes a button, and the light goes off. Using the moonlight coming in through the window to find it, she picks up another device. She pushes a button, and a row of green LEDs flash on then go off. She moves around the room waving the device. Every now and then one of the green lights flashes then goes off.

"Okay, this room is clean. Come on we have to check downstairs."

Chuck looks at her, "Any chance you want to tell me what's going on?"

Sarah sits next to him on the bed. "Hon, I'm sorry I woke you up. I have this feeling like maybe we need to check the house for bugs."

Chuck is awake now, "Okay, I trust your instincts. Who is it we think bugged my sister's house?"

Sarah sits and stares at him, watching his mind work. "Baby, no way. I don't want to believe he would do that. He put Mom in a position to find out about it. It doesn't make sense."

Sarah shrugs, "It can't hurt to check."

Chuck nods and gets up to put his shorts on. "Okay, but we need to keep it down. Clara is a bear if she gets woken up. Ellie's not much fun either."

Barefoot they make their way down the steps quietly. Sarah moving the sweeper back and forth, up, and down. When they get there, Chuck sits on the bottom steps. Sarah walks around the living room moving the device around. No results. She moves into the dining room then the kitchen. Still nothing. Being extra quiet she walks down the hallway outside the bedrooms. Nothing.

She returns to Chuck and sits on the steps, next to him. Blowing out her breath to help keep her voice low she whispers, "Baby, I'm telling you something's not right."

Chuck's head pops up he looks at Sarah. She nods, "I heard it too."

Chuck points at himself then the front door. He points to Sarah then at the backdoor in the kitchen. She nods. Chuck quietly gets up and walks to the front door watching Sarah move stealthily to the back. God she's sexy in spy mode. When she gets there, he quietly opens the door. Sarah does the same in the back.

Chuck steps outside and gently pulls the door closed behind him. He stops and listens. He hears a rustling sound to his right. Crouching he moves towards the noise.

Suddenly a figure breaks out of the bushes surrounding the house and runs towards the backyard, right into Sarah's foot. It smacks him in the chest with a loud "OOF." She follows up with a roundhouse to his head. It causes him to spin around. Sarah is surprised that he isn't fighting back. No defensive moves either. When he finishes his spin, his back is to Sarah. He suddenly spins around again. The prowler falls to the ground and Sarah sees Chuck's foot still in the air from his strike to the guy's head.

The man groans "OOOOHHH." Sarah puts her foot on his neck, driving his face into the dirt.

She smiles at Chuck, "We're still the best team ever."

Chuck pats the guy down and pulls out a device. He looks at it and flashes. "That's why you didn't find any bugs. This receiver is designed to turn them on when it collects the data. The bugs won't transmit until then. The good news is I had my jammer on since we've been here. Crap! No, I didn't. Jeffrey brought my case in later. It's a good thing we caught this guy. Now we have to figure out who he is."

Sarah pushes down on the prowler's neck. "Make a move I don't like, and I'll snap your neck. Hon any thoughts on what we do with him now?"

Chuck looks at him. "Do you think you can hold onto him yourself for about five minutes."

Sarah presses down, the guy groans. "No problem, Baby. Hurry back."

Chuck runs into the house and up the stairs, when he comes back down, he's dressed and has his Chucks on. Devon is waiting for him in his robe and slippers. He looks at Chuck's hand. His brows go up and his eyes go wide. He whisper shouts, "Chuck what the hell are you doing with a gun in the house?"

Chuck looks down at his own hand. He smiles, "Not a gun, I don't use guns Bro. It's a tranq gun. We caught a prowler outside. Be quiet, there's no need to wake the girls. Come on."

Devon follows Chuck out and around to the side of the house. Seeing Sarah in her short robe. "Holy Crap, Sarah you're just about naked."

Chuck points the tranq gun at the prowler. There's a pfftttt sound and a dart is sticking out of the guy's thigh. "Hon, Devon is right, you need to get dressed. I got this. Meet us in the garage." Sarah heads off.

"Devon help me get this guy into the garage. We're gonna need some privacy."

Devon and Chuck carry the guy into the garage. "Chuck, don't you think we should call the police?"

Chuck nods as he lays the prowler down. "We could do that. My question is how we would find out why this guy bugged your house. It might also be fun watching you explain why your house is bugged to begin with. While you're at it; find a reason for that tranquilizer dart in his leg."

Devon is livid, "I thought you guys were out of the spy biz."

Chuck nods, "We are, but he's not. We have no idea why he's here. I'm hoping it doesn't have anything to do with my mother. She plays with some dangerous characters."

Devon reaches out and grabs Chuck's shirt, "I can't believe you're bringing this crap into our lives again. Clara and Ellie are here."

Chuck's first instinct is to knock Devon's hands away and put him on his ass. He restrains himself.

Sarah walks in, fully dressed. "Devon, it's not a good idea to manhandle Chuck. He's being exceedingly kind to you right now. Please let him go." Devon looks down at his own hands and releases Chuck.

"Sorry Chuck. It's Ellie and Clara."

Chuck pats him on the shoulder, "It's okay Bro, I get it. I'm worried too. But this is not about me and Sarah. Those bugs have to have been there for a while. Now that we know about them, we can get to the bottom of this."

Sarah hands Chuck his cell phone, "Thought you might want this."

Chuck nods, "Beckman?"

Sarah shrugs, "Why not?"

Chuck laughs, "Maybe you should call her. She likesyou."

Sarah bends to finish going through the guy's pockets, "What, and ruin all her fun?"

Chuck pushes the speed dial, then presses the speaker button, "Thanks Baby, I love you too." Sarah laughs.

The phone rings, "Bartowski, do you have any idea what time it is?"

Chuck looks at his watch, "I figure it's about time for you to be sitting at your table reading the morning papers and having your first cup of coffee."

There's a moment of silence, "Screw you Bartowski. You just ruined a perfectly good rant. What the hell do you want now?"

Chuck gets serious, "Diane, you know we're at my sister's house…"

Beckman interrupts, "Let me guess you want me to come and make you pancakes with smiley faces."

Sarah stands up, "That sounds nice Diane. I was going to make souffles. But pancakes sound good too."

Beckman sighs, "It's happened. Bartowski, you've ruined a perfectly good agent. Any chance one of you will get to the point?"

They laugh. Devon is very confused.

"We just caught a guy in my sister's yard. He appears to be Asian. Medium height, black hair, dark eyes." Chuck pulls up the guy's sleeves. "No visible tattoos at first glance. He has a Chinese made data retrieval device. We haven't done the full sweep yet, but Sarah believes the house is bugged. This device backs up that theory. I'm hoping to convince my brother-in-law to take my sister and niece out to breakfast so we can check the house. Bigger problem. What do we do with the bad guy in the garage? Sarah anything in his pockets?"

Sarah shakes her head. "Nothing important. A few bucks, no I.D., a set of house keys, car keys with a fob."

Diane sighs, "Will I never be rid of you? I'll send a team. You said Chinese? You're lucky I have a specialist in the area. I'll have them come in with the team. Let me know when the house is clear so I can send them in. I'll be incredibly happy when your mother gets these calls instead of me." The call ends.

Devon is pacing wildly. "Chuck, how am I supposed to get Ellie out of the house?" She's supposed to be cooking breakfast with Sarah. Who the hell was that on the phone?"

Sarah touches his arm and speaks in a soothing voice. "That was General Beckman. You remember her. You met her in a video briefing when you were hijacked by Sydney, the Ring agent. Back then she was the director of the NSA, and our boss, when we were working for the government. She's now the President's special advisor. Beckman's the one who really got Mary the job. We just made the recommendation."

While Sarah is talking to Devon, she watches Chuck. She can see his wheels spinning looking for solutions. Suddenly Chuck stops and starts talking fast. "Devon, you woke up when you heard Sarah groaning. You found us in the dining room. You determined that Sarah's spastic colon was acting up. You recommended no food and lots of rest, so she can make the show this afternoon. You gave me a suppository to insert to relieve the discomfort. Sarah went back to bed, and I stayed with her to comfort her. Once you're gone, we can call in the team and clear the house. Hopefully, that will give us a clue as to what's going on."

Sarah grins, "Great! Again, with the spastic colon? It's even better this time. Now I get stuff shoved up my behind."

Chuck laughs, "But Honey, I'll be holding your hand the whole time. Would you prefer I administer the medicine or the doctor?"

Sarah gives Chuck a dirty look, "Either one of you goes near my butt and you'll be waking up in a hospital bed."

Chuck laughs, "Yes Dear. Okay Devon. Do you have the story? Remember we're doing this to protect your family. Don't embellish. Just mention Clara's favorite breakfast place and let her do the rest."

Sarah puts her hand on Chuck's arm. "You know Hon, we could just tell Ellie the truth."

Chuck thinks for a moment. "Devon, this has to be your call."

Devon throws his hands up in the air, "Awesome! My choices are lie to my wife or tell her we're being spied on but don't know why, or by whom." He starts to pace again. He stops and looks at Chuck. "We do both. For now, we lie. Once we find out if there's any danger, we tell the truth. I don't see any reason to worry her until we know if there's a reason to worry."

Chuck and Sarah nod. Chuck puts his hand on Devon's shoulder. "Okay decision made. Now let's find some rope, and something to gag this guy."

The prowler is gagged and bound tight. He starts to stir. Chuck offers the tranq gun to Devon. Devon's eyebrows go up, "Really… I can…"

Sarah laughs lightly, "Go for it Bro. Tranq away."

Devon is almost giddy when he puts the dart into the guy's butt. "Damn, that's fun." He hands the gun back to Chuck.

Chuck and Sarah laugh. Chuck starts towards the door, "Okay Devon, show's on. Stay calm. Don't embellish. What's Clara's favorite breakfast place?"

Devon smiles, "That's easy, Happy Clown Pancake Palace."

"Good!" Chuck looks at his watch. "It's 6:30, okay let's get inside. Sarah, Ellie is sure to come up and check on you. Devon what are her symptoms?"

Devon thinks a moment, "Let's see, painful abdominal cramping, bloating, constipation, or diarrhea. A suppository can relieve some of the symptoms."

Sarah nods, "Got it."

They're chatting quietly when Devon opens the backdoor into the kitchen to find Ellie in her bathrobe, arms crossed foot tapping. "Let me guess you're prepping for breakfast, in the garage."

Devon looks at Ellie, "Um… uh… no um you see Sarah wasn't feeling well so I figured some fresh air would help. You see Hon, her spastic colon is acting up."

Ellie nods, "I see. She looks fine to me. I guess that fresh air helped. You know Sarah maybe you shouldn't have eaten all that cheese and spicy food last night."

Sarah nods, "Um, I guess you're right. Devon said he was going to give me something that would help."

Ellie hugs Sarah, "I'm sorry you're hurting Sis. The only thing that might help would be a suppository. Come into my office I'll insert one for you right now."

Sarah hugs her back. "I appreciate the offer Ellie, but I think I'd be more comfortable if Chuck did it."

Ellie turns to head into the house, then quickly turns around again. "Devon, I thought you went out for fresh air?"

Devon nods, The color drains from his face. Ellie stands right in front of him and looks into his eyes. "Then perhaps you could explain why I saw the three of you coming out of the garage."

Devon starts to stammer, "Well um… we went out for some air… and I thought I saw a skunk. So, we ran to hide in the garage."

Ellie smiles, "Yep, I smell a skunk alright. You're sure it wasn't a bear? Maybe you had to cut its head off? Chuck you've been awful quiet. Perhaps you wet yourself and got arrested for indecent exposure? Any special reason you're fully dressed, in the middle of the night? What's that in your hand, looks like a gun. Oh, look Sarah is dressed too. Looks like the only one not dressed is my husband, who's a doctor, not a spy."

Chuck shrugs, "I didn't want to catch cold. Sarah is in enough pain. She shouldn't have to take care of me too. It's a toy, doesn't shoot bullets."

Ellie is unconvinced, "I guess that was to scare the skunk away." She turns to Sarah and looks at her questioning, "Is this how we're going to reestablish trust?"

Sarah looks at Chuck and shrugs. Sighing she takes Ellie in her arms. "I'm sorry Sis, we just didn't want to worry you."

Ellie nods, "I see, because when my husband, brother and sister lie to me, I shouldn't worry."

Sarah takes Ellie's hand and leads her towards the dining room, "Let's sit down and discuss this before Clara wakes up. But don't start until I get back." Chuck put his finger to his lips as a signal to be quiet. They all walk in and take seats. Sarah runs up the stairs.

Sarah returns and puts the activated jammer on the table and begins. "For the record, I thought we should tell you the truth right away. However, the boys made a good point that there was no reason to worry you until we knew more."

Devon reaches over and takes Ellie's hand. "It was my decision. Sarah is telling the truth. El, I just didn't want to worry you until we knew what's going on.

Ellie pats his hand, "I understand Devon. So now, I know something is going on. I'm listening."

Chuck stands up and starts to pace. "Sis, Sarah had a feeling that something was up. Somehow, she sensed that your house was bugged. That device she put on the table is a jammer."

Sarah nods, "It had to do with the conversation with the President. Why did he want us on speaker? Why was a lawyer so interested in brain physiology? Why would the government want to fund a single researcher, no matter how brilliant she is? All of these questions were rolling around in my mind. I couldn't fall asleep."

Chuck adds, "There is also the question of the instant friendship with the President and the Bartowski family. Is it real or is there a hidden agenda?"

Ellie wrings her hands, "Okay, I hear feelings, intuition, and lots of questions. Any proof?"

Chuck pulls the data retrieval device from his pocket. "This device is used to read the info off of bugs, hidden microphones. We found it on the prowler."

Ellie jumps up. "Prowler?" What prowler? Has anyone checked on Clara?" Ellie runs out of the room, Sarah right behind her.

The ladies come back into the dining room. Devon and Chuck look at them holding their breath. Ellie nods, "She's fine, fast asleep. Damn it Chuck, did you two lie to us? If you're still spying, I want you out. Right now. I won't have you putting my family in danger."

Chuck looks down at the floor, clearly Ellie's words hurt him. Sarah stands up and puts her arms around his neck. She kisses him softly, and whispers. "Hon, she's terrified. Her reaction has nothing to do with you."

She turns to Ellie angrily. "We didn't lie to you. One of you has been with us the entire time we were here. This is not about us. Probably not your mother either. These devices had to have been planted before today. In addition, this device…" She takes the device out of Chuck's hand and waves it in Ellie's face. "… is Chinese."

Sarah turns and holds Chuck in her arms. "As soon as the team gets here and we can make sure your house is safe, we'll go. Chuck has been hurt enough today." Sarah looks at Chuck's face and sees tears in his eyes. Her blue eyes flash with anger. She lets go of Chuck and gets right in Ellie's face. "And just so you know little miss victim; the 'no' we told the President was when he asked us to be Director and Assistant Director of the agency. We're out of the spy life. It seems thatsomehow, you two have drawn us back in."

She turns to Chuck, "You know what Baby, now that Ellie knows, she can deal with the team coming in. We can go."

Devon stands up, "Ellie, Apologize. Right now. These two have done nothing but try to protect our family." Devon smacks the table, "Enough. Apologize."

Ellie stares at Devon. She's shocked. She can't recall him ever raising his voice before. Then she looks at Chuck. She starts to cry. She runs over and puts her arms around the couple. "Oh God! I can't believe I said that to you. I'm so sorry. I got scared. This is your home. You'll always be welcome here."

From behind them they hear a small voice. "Mommy I heard a noise." Clara is standing there in her pajamas holding Beauty, rubbing her eyes.

Devon comes around the table and picks her up. "I'm sorry Sweetheart. Mommy told me that we're going to Happy Clown Pancake Palace, and I got excited. I'm sorry I woke you up."

Ellie whispers to Chuck and Sarah, "Please forgive me. I'll never say things to you like that again. You're my family. I'm sorry."

Clara cheers softly as she lays her head on Devon's shoulder, "Yay. Daddy, will you take me to the potty before we go?"

Devon chuckles, "Of course Baby Girl. Let's do that right now. You're such a big girl, waiting to go to the potty." Devon leaves the room with Clara.

Ellie refuses to let go of Chuck and Sarah. "I'm so sorry. But it's good to know that you're here to protect Chuck… even if it's from me. Please forgive me. Both of you."

They return Ellie's hug. "It's okay Sis, you were frightened, worried about Clara. To be honest Sarah scared me a little too. Baby, I think your mama cat just made an appearance."

Sarah laughs, "It's okay Ellie. He's right, I don't take kindly to someone who hurts my Chuck. I guess we both got a little overprotective."

Ellie breathes a sigh of relief. "Thank you, guys. Well Chuck, I guess you have two of us to deal with now."

Chuck releases his hug. "The big question now is, will I survive being protected?"

The ladies laugh.

Sarah turns to Ellie. "You need to get dressed and get Clara out of the house. Chuck and I need to get in bed so you can say I wasn't feeling well."

As the couple walk up the stairs Ellie adds, "Clara is going to want to come up and give you get well hugs."

Sarah smiles, "No problem. I'm just sorry we have to lose this time with you. At least we'll have the show this evening."

Ellie looks up the stairs. "I'm sorry too. It really makes me want to move back to Burbank so we can be closer. Thank you for looking after us."

She could hear Chuck say, "You're welcome," as the door closed.

Chuck is lying in bed his arms wrapped around Sarah when the door opens. Clara runs in and jumps into the bed on top of them. Clara's voice is filled with worry. "Auntie Sarah, Mommy said you were sick. Are you okay? I came to give you hugs to make you better."

Chuck rolls over so that Clara can have full access to Sarah. Clara, now lying on Sarah, instantly squeezes hard. Chuck rolls back over and puts his arm around both of them. Sarah hugs Clara. "I'm fine Sweetheart, nothing to worry about. I think maybe I ate too much pizza, and it gave me a tummy ache. But there's no way I want to miss the horses and the knights. I've never seen them before. Uncle Chuck said you would tell all about it. For now, Mommy told me to rest and not to eat too much. Mommy is a good doctor. I'm sure she'll make me better by this afternoon."

Clara hugs her hard. "I hope so. It won't be fun without you. Uncle Chuck, you need to take better care of Auntie Sarah. You shouldn't let her get a tummy ache."

Chuck shakes his head and smiles. "You're right Munchkin. I promise to do a better job next time. But right now, you need to go to the Happy Clown and get me some breakfast, I'm hungry."

Clara turns towards Chuck. "OOOHHH! Uncle Chuck, Happy Clown Pancake Palace has the best pancakes, so yummy. What kind do you want?"

Chuck strokes her head, "Surprise me Sweetheart. Also ask Daddy to pick something out for Auntie that won't hurt her tummy, okay?"

There's a soft knock at the door, Ellie walks in. "Clara if we're going to get some food, we should go soon. We want to beat the Sunday breakfast crowd."

Chuck squeezes Clara, "Go ahead Clara, I'll take care of Auntie Sarah. Ellie maybe you could swing by the mall and find something to cheer Sarah up. Maybe a book that Sarah could read to Clara while she's resting. Take your time, pick out a good one. See you in a couple of hours. Give us a call when you're on the way back."

Ellie nods, "Good idea, Sarah feel better. Come on Clara, the clown is waiting."

Clara climbs down off the bed. "Okay Mommy. We need to find a good book for Auntie Sarah." Walking down the stairs. "I know Mommy. We should get a book about unicorns; their magic will make Auntie Sarah get better."

Sarah rolls towards Chuck. "I love your niece."

Chuck corrects her, "You mean our niece." The front door closes downstairs.

Chuck pulls out his cell phone and dials Beckman. "Hello Chuck, how's everyone doing?"

Chuck sighs, "Well Sarah is having a really bad attack of spastic colon. Other than that, awful. Diane, please tell me this is not our people. By the way, the coast is clear the family is gone for a couple of hours."

Beckman doesn't hesitate, "If it is Chuck, I know nothing about it. I wouldn't treat you and Sarah that way. We're still a team in my mind."

Sarah rolls out of bed. "Thanks Diane, we feel the same way."

Beckman laughs, "Well team this going to be a little confusing then. The team I'm sending you, is covert. They'll be masked. You don't have a need to know since you're no longer agency employees. Don't take it wrong. I trust you both one hundred percent. This is just protocol."

Sarah laughs lightly, "We get you Diane. No offense taken. Do you have an ETA on the team?"

There's a knock at the front door. Beckman laughs, "Answer the door. Talk to you later."

Chuck and Sarah run down the stairs. Chuck has his tranq gun in hand. Sarah opens the door. Three people walk in. They are all wearing loose fitting clothes that conceal their shapes. They could be men or women. They're each carrying bulky equipment cases. The ball caps pulled down over their eyes and the face masks further conceal their identities. One walks over to the dining room table and starts to pull out equipment. Another one of them puts their hand out. In a clearly disguised voice, "Items."

Chuck hands over the receiving device, keys, and miscellaneous items. The one who took the stuff separates out the car keys and hands it to the third person. "Find it, have it towed to the shop, then get back here." The agent leaves. Sarah notices through the window that he pulled his mask off and pushed his hat back. She didn't get a look at his face, but he now appears to be a man taking a walk. The one in front of the couple seems to be in charge. They point at the couch, "Sit, wait."

The two agents come into the living room each carrying a device. When they get close to Chuck, he's able to flash on it. It is a much more sophisticated sweeper. It doesn't need an active transmission to track. It sends out a signal of its own and reads a signal bouncing back. The device immediately begins to chirp. It get louder as the agent approaches the table lamp to Chuck's right. The other device chirps near the lamp to Sarah's left. The appliances are searched and listening devices are placed into a container. Chuck is able to see one. It's also Chinese.

The door opens and the third agent walks in. He's masked again. He locks the door behind himself and walks to the table. Opening the third case he pulls out another sweeper and covers the area his teammates have already done. Chuck and Sarah sit on the couch impatiently. An hour and a half later the house has been gone over by all three of them three times. There's no way a bug got past them. The three of them pack up their equipment. The one who appears to be in charge gives orders. "Load the gear into the van. Take it back to the shop, begin analysis. Leave the car for me."

Chuck yells out, "Hey wait a minute. There's a guy tied up in the garage."

The two others grab the cases and head out. The leader is standing in front of Sarah and Chuck on the couch looking at a clipboard. Still disguising their voice. "No worries, we pulled him out before first light. No need to give the neighbors a show. He's been in the van under guard."

They give whatever's on the clipboard a once over, then puts it in front of Chuck. He looks down at it. In what is clearly a female voice. "Sir, would you mind filling out our Customer Satisfaction Questionnaire. She points to the paper, "Just sign right here at the bottom."

Chuck is taken aback. "What the hell?" He looks up and the agent has lifted her hat. Her eyes are clearly visible. He jumps up and screams "MEI-LING CHO?"

The agent laughs pulls her mask down and opens her arms. "Hello Chuck, Sarah. It's good to see you again."

Chuck steps over to hug Mei-Ling. "It's so good to see you. How many years has it been?" Sarah joins the hug.

Mei-Ling returns the hugs. "It's good to see you both as well. It has been more than five years. I understand congratulations are in order. I will admit, I did not see that coming. By the way it is Mei-Ling Cohen. I am also married. We have a little boy. His name is Yàbólāhǎn. It is Chinese for Abraham. He is named for my husband's father who has passed away. We call him Yabo."

Sarah takes her hand and pulls her to the couch, "You have to tell us more. How have you been? What have you been up to?"

The three sit on the couch. "After you helped me rescue my brother, I was put into isolation for quite some time. I was debriefed and questioned extensively. Each time I started to regret my decision I would hear Chuck's voice in my head reminding me that my government had abandoned me and my brother. Slowly I was able to earn the trust of your General Beckman. She brought me into the NSA. I am limited to working only on Chinese matters."

Chuck leans over and hugs her. "I'm glad things worked out for you. How's your brother? Have you been in touch with your family?"

Mei-Ling smiles broadly, "Thanks to my cooperation and willingness to share information on the Chinese government, your government was quite generous. They smuggled my family, including my brother, from China to Taiwan. I have been fortunate enough to see them. They are working on getting them here to the U.S. soon. Six months ago, I became an American citizen. I owe this all to you Chuck Bartowski, and your team. You saved my life in many ways. My family and I owe you a great debt."

Chuck's phone rings. "Hey Sis. What's up? Home in twenty minutes. Okay see you soon."

He turns to Mei-Ling, "I know you have to go, but will you stay in touch? We have so much to talk about. We're getting married again for our family, can you come?"

Mei-Ling stands up, "I do need to leave. I will see if I am allowed to be in contact with you. I don't want to jeopardize my position. Perhaps it's best if you keep to yourselves that I told you who I am."

Sarah hugs her, "Of course. We understand. Chuck let the woman breathe." They walk her to the door. She hugs Chuck again. "Thank you. You changed my life. I am happier than ever. Perhaps my superiors will allow me to be the one who contacts you when we have information to share. I can tell you now. Whoever bugged your family's home was an amateur. The devices were older versions, and they were poorly placed. I will endeavor to let you know more. Good-bye for now." She leaves the house.

Sarah hugs Chuck, "Well that was a blast from the past. I'm glad she's doing so well." She leans up to kiss Chuck. "You, Mister Bartowski, make everyone's life better, especially mine."

Chuck shakes his head as he holds Sarah close. "It had nothing to do with me. It was her bravery and love for her brother that changed her life."

Sarah hugs Chuck then leads him to the table. "That's right." She says sarcastically, "It's coincidence that good stuff happens when you're there. I'm fortunate that you're my coincidence. Baby, I'm going to have some coffee. Would you like some?"

"Thanks Hon that sounds good. But should you be drinking coffee with that spastic colon?"

She leans over and kisses him, "Should you be messing with your wife when we have a couch at home?"

Chuck's eyes go wide. "Coffee sounds great Hon. Let me get it for you."

The front door opens as Chuck gets up to make the coffee. Clara comes running in and sees Sarah at the table. She runs over and jumps in her lap. "Auntie Sarah, does your tummy feel better?"

Sarah kisses her niece. "It does Sweetheart. Your uncle took good care of me." She lowers her voice to a whisper. "Don't tell him but I think it was your hugs and Beauty's magic that made me better."

Devon puts a couple of food containers on the table. "Chuck, Clara ordered this one just for you." Chuck opens the container to find pancakes covered with whipped cream, gummy worms, Marshmallows, chocolate syrup and sprinkles.

He looks in the box, hiding his disgust, he smiles, "Oh yum! Did you make that just for me? That looks so yummy. Did you eat all that too?"

Clara shakes her head, "Uh, uh, I had a waffle with bananas and strawberries. Mommy won't let me eat all that candy for breakfast."

Chuck looks at Ellie, who's smirking, "You have a smart mommy. You have to wonder why she wants me to eat all that candy. Tell you what, you can have some of mine."

Clara looks at Ellie. She smiles and nods, "Just a little."

Chuck whispers, "Go for it." Clara grabs a fork and moves it towards the pancakes. She stops when she hears Sarah cry out, "Hey, I just got plain pancakes, I want some candy too."

Clara shakes her head. "Daddy said it was bad for your tummy."

Sarah looks at Devon with pleading eyes, "Come on Doc, give a girl a break."

Devon laughs, "Well you do seem to be feeling better. You can have a little too."

Sarah and Clara both dig in. Chuck reaches over and grabs Sarah's food, "Fine, steal my Clara cakes why don't you?"

Sarah puts a gummy worm in her mouth and slurps it in making a loud noise. "Yum! Clara, you make good pancakes."

Chuck sticks his fork in and grabs some. Clara, Sarah, and Chuck are laughing while they fight over the worms. Suddenly Devon and Ellie are grabbing some too. Whipped cream and chocolate sauce gets all over them while they're having a good time. The pancakes are gone, and Ellie assesses the damage. "Little missy, you are officially a mess. I think you were up early today. A quick bath, then a nap so that you can enjoy the show later."

Clara nods, her face covered in whipped cream and sprinkles. "Okay Mommy. Can Auntie Sarah give me my bath? I'll take my nap if she reads me the book, I bought her. It's about a little unicorn who got lost but found a little girl to live with. I think it's about Beauty."

Sarah looks at Ellie with expectation. Ellie nods. "Clara you're asking the wrong person."

Clara looks at Sarah. "Please Auntie Sarah. Will you give me my bath and read to me?"

Sarah's face goes soft, "It would be my honor and privilege." She stands up Clara in her arms and heads towards the bathroom.

Ellie looks at Chuck, "Now I'm really pissed at her. We missed out on two years of Auntie Sarah. She's wonderful with Clara."

Chuck smiles, "I know how you feel. Move back to Burbank and you can make some of that time up."

Devon is cleaning up the food containers. "Bro, we're on board with the idea. That doesn't mean it can get done. There's lots to deal with."

Chuck nods. "I get that. Let me grease the wheels a little." Chuck checks to be sure the jammer is on. "Sarah and I talked about it. We don't think it's a good idea to take money from the government. We don't want your research in the wrong hands. We'll be funding the Stephen J. Bartowski Foundation for Cerebral Health. It'll be a great tax write off and we'll be able to protect the work. Of course, we'll need to find the right person to run the foundation. A doctor maybe? Maybe even a neurologist? Someone who specializes in the brain and spinal cord. I wish I knew someone with credentials like that."

Ellie looks at Devon then throws her arms around Chuck smearing whipped cream in the doing. "My little brother is all grown up. I hate it. I guess you won't be needing me as much anymore."

Chuck looks at her like she's crazy. "Sis I'm going to need you more than ever. Sarah and I are new at this marriage thing. We'll need advice from both of you. When Sarah gets pregnant, she's going to want you to move in. You didn't get rid of a little brother; you picked up a little sister. Let's stop with the silly talk.

The exterminators were here after you left. They found a few bugs. They have to be analyzed and traced before I'll know more. I do know the leader of the team. They're the best there is. I was thinking until we clear the situation, I'd like to bring in one of my operatives. As a live in domestic, you know a cook or a nanny. At this point I have no reason to believe that any of you are in danger. The equipment they found points to amateurs, not government agencies."

Devon takes Ellie's hand. "Thanks Chuck that sounds like a good precaution." Ellie nods her agreement.

Chuck smiles, "Good. Now it's very possible that when Mom hears about all this, she'll want her own people involved. That will be between you and her. However, the team who came in is NSA. It's not really in Mom's authority to take over the case. The interagency crossover will slow things down. If you want me to, I can make it grind to a halt. It's your home, you let me know what you want."

Sarah walks into the dining room carrying Clara wrapped in a towel. She looks at Ellie, "Mommy could you help us find something to nap in. It also seems that your daughter has gone back on her word and in addition to a story she is also demanding an Uncle Chuck kiss." Clara nods happily.

Ellie gets up and gives them both a hug. "It would seem that girl power has taken over the house." The three of them cheer "YAY!" Ellie leads the way to the bedroom. She calls back over her shoulder, "Chuck, kisses in ten minutes."

Chuck smiles, "On it."

Devon snorts, "Yeah like they didn't run the house before this."

Chuck leans forward. "Awesome, we are two very, very lucky men." Devon nods and smiles.

Devon lowers his voice, "Chuck are we in danger?"

Chuck shrugs, "I can't promise Devon, but neither Sarah nor I believe you are. I'm just preferring to be overly cautious when it comes to my family. Right now, I have a feeling if I don't go and help someone lay down for her nap, I may be in danger. Then a shower is called for. The pancake sharing was fun, but messy and sticky." Chuck stands to leave.

Devon Stands with him, "Chuck, one more thing."

Chuck smiles, "Sure Devon, what's on your mind?"

"I'm proud of you. When we took you in six years ago, I couldn't possibly foresee who you would be today. Chuck, you became a tucker, all on your own. You found your path and grew up to follow it. When you came to live with us, after the thing at school, you were aimless, lost, immature.

I'm glad you're back with Sarah. I think you would have grown up without her. Maybe not as fast, maybe not as well, but you would have grown up. With her you found out who you are. You need each other almost as much as you love each other. My real brothers; no, I'm sorry, the brothers my parents gave me, had every advantage. You had far less and did far more. I'm proud of you. I'm proud to call you my real brother." A tear comes to Devon's eye, "I am so happy that you and Sarah are Clara's family. Thank you."

Chuck crosses the room to hug Devon. "Thank you, Bro, you were there when I needed you. I couldn't have accomplished any of this without you and Ellie. Devon, the only thing I can say to you is you are awesome." They laugh together.

Devon remarks while returning Chuck's hug, "That's Captain Awesome to you."

Chuck laughs, releasing Devon. "I guess I better go give Little Miss Awesome her kiss or Mrs. Awesome will blame me for a cranky kid."

Devon laughs as he walks him to Clara's bedroom. "We have got to find a way to get back to Burbank. Clara is going to be miserable when you leave. I'm guessing it won't be a high spot for me or Ellie either."

Chuck smiles and nods as he walks into the bedroom. Clara is in bed arguing with Ellie. "No. No nap until I get uncle kisses."

Chuck walks in the room, "Oh my! Is Beauty okay with you talking to Mommy that way?"

Clara looks at Chuck, then Beauty, then Ellie, "I'm sorry Mommy. I got mad."

Ellie smiles, "I understand. You don't get nearly enough uncle kisses. However young lady, you are now getting auntie kisses as well. We discussed this. There is no good excuse for a temper tantrum. Not for you and not for Mommy. Earlier I got scared and angry and said things that hurt Uncle Chuck and Auntie Sarah. Hurting the people, we love is never a good thing and there is never a good reason. Now, since you apologized you can have your kisses and take your nap. Did you thank Auntie Sarah for reading to you?"

Sarah leans over and kisses Clara, "She did, and she picked out a genuinely nice story for me to read. It really did make me think of Beauty. Have a good nap, Sweetie. Dream about knights in shining armor." She leans down and whispers in Clara's ear, "Uncle Chuck is my knight in shining armor. I'll bet Daddy is yours."

Clara nods exuberantly and hugs Sarah tight. She whispers back, "I have two." Sarah smiles as she sits up.

Chuck sits next to them on the bed leaning over he kisses Clara, "Is Auntie Sarah telling you secrets?"

Clara nods, "uh huh, but it's secret I can't tell you."

Chuck stands up, "Okay, Clara Doll, nap time, see you soon." The adults leave the room.

Ellie hugs Chuck and Sarah, she lets go with a heavy sigh. "Sarah, I'm sorry I was such a bitch. I wish I could promise it won't happen again."

Sarah laughs, "Don't worry, I'm sure I'll have my turn."

Chuck squirms, "You know, I think some of that whipped cream found its way down my back. I could sure use someone to lick it off."

Sarah looks at him with raised eyebrows, "Is that your way of saying you want to get a dog?"

Chuck frowns, "No, but I would settle for someone washing my back in the shower."

Ellie laughs, "Devon, I think we are no longer required for this conversation."

Chuck looks down as he starts up the stairs, "Hey, we're still on our honeymoon, I will not apologize. Plus, someone promised to make up for lost time."

Sarah follows him up the stairs and smacks his butt, "Hey, is it okay if we keep some things just between us?"

Ellie and Devon laugh as they walk into the dining room to finish cleaning up from breakfast.

When they get to their room, Sarah hugs Chuck, "I love you original Bartowski."

Chuck hugs her back, "And I love you, new Bartowski. I wasn't joking, my back is all itchy. I'm fairly certain I got creamed."

Sarah laughs, "Okay husband, let's get naked and hit the showers. I wouldn't mind a short nap myself."

They start to undress, "Hon, how would you feel about staying one more night?"

Sarah puts on her robe, "I wouldn't mind at all. What's on your mind?"

Chuck walks to the door in his shorts, Sarah follows. "I think I'd be more comfortable knowing that they're safe before we leave. I'm going to call Remy in the morning and have him assign an operative to work as a domestic. I'd like to stay until that's set up."

Sarah nods as she adjusts the water temperature, "Sounds prudent. Are you sure John and Morgan will be okay with you going MIA again?"

Chuck smiles, "You mean with us going MIA. I'll call them, but I'm sure they'll understand." He steps into the shower with her. "You also told Frank you would be calling Joyce tomorrow."

Sarah Starts to wash his back. "I can do that from here. I'm guessing Ellie won't mind being part of that conversation."

Chuck turns and takes Sarah in his arms; their bodies are slick with soap. He kisses her gently. She returns his affection, "Chuck, I'm so lucky to have you, thank you for loving me."

Chuck squeezes her a little tighter. "Sorry Baby, I'm the lucky one. I haven't thanked you for standing up to Ellie for me. You were ferocious, I wanted to take you right there on the dining room table."

Sarah's looks up into his eyes, "Oh! I'm sorry you didn't. That might have been fun."

Chuck laughs, "Right, I'm sure you would have been fine with it, especially since it didn't happen."

Sarah wipes the water from Chuck's face. "Baby, do you think we can be like Ellie and Devon? You know, good marriage, good parents?"

Chuck frowns, "No Baby, I'm sorry, I don't think we'll be like them." Sarah looks disappointed. Chuck's frown turns into a big smile, "We'll be better." Sarah squeals and pulls his head down for a kiss.

Sarah finishes washing Chuck and he does the same for her. Then they wash each other's hair. Stepping out of the shower Sarah stares at Chuck her eyes glazed. "Baby we may have to forego that nap, I have so much time to make up for." Chuck smiles and shrugs."

When Chuck comes down the stairs Ellie and Devon are sitting in the dining room sipping tea. Clara is having her milk and cookies. "Hey guys, would it be okay if Sarah and I stay one more night?"

Clara lets out a shrill scream and climbs off her chair to the floor. "YAY! YAY! She runs to Chuck and jumps up into his arms. He grabs her as she wraps her arms and legs around him.

Sarah comes down the steps, "What's with all the screaming?"

Clara wriggles her way out of Chuck's arms, he lowers her to the ground safely. She hits the ground running and jumps into Sarah's arms, knocking her down to sit on the steps. Sarah is laughing hard. "What's all this about?"

Clara is wrapped around her, "I get to have my favorite uncle and auntie for one more night. YAY! OOOHHH! I have to go pick out a story for you to read to me tonight." She releases Sarah and runs off to her room.

Chuck is still laughing when he addresses Ellie and Devon. "I'm hoping you agree with her."

They're also laughing at Clara's reaction. Ellie walks over and hugs Chuck, "Of course. Wherever we are is your home. You're always welcome, no matter what my evil twin says."

Sarah walks over and Devon gives her a hug, "She was talking to both of you."

Sarah sighs as she hugs Devon. "Then I hope you won't mind if I inconvenience you just a little more. Ellie, I have to make an important phone call tomorrow, I was hoping you might join me."

Ellie looks at her confused, "Why would you need me for a phone call?"

Sarah watches her face closely. "I promised the First Lady that I would call her tomorrow to discuss wedding plans."

Ellie's face goes blank, she stares at Sarah hard. She points to her own chest, "You want me to talk to the First Lady. The President's wife, about your wedding. Me?"

Sarah throws her hands up, "Hey if you don't want to…"

Ellie is giggling uncontrollably. "If I don't want to? Very funny. Try and stop me." She shakes her head, "I never thought this would happen to me. I get to plan my sister's wedding. If it were up to him," she points at Chuck, "We'd be wearing jeans and you'd be getting married at the Buy More."

Chuck shrugs, "Hey, remember who threw you a wedding on the beach. Our beach. Whatever will make Sarah happy is what I want."

Sarah takes Ellies arms and starts to jump up and down, "Yay! But I'll need catch you up to date. I've already picked the theme. We'll talk later. This stuff will bore the boys." She leans in and whispers in Ellie's ear. "It's a surprise for Chuck." Ellie nods.

Okay the chapter is not done, but I have kept my readers waiting long enough. So, I have decided to stop here and give you this while I catch up. Hopefully you won't have to wait too long. LR

Chuck Taylor All-Stars or Converse All Stars (also referred to as "Converse", "Chuck Taylors", "Chucks", "Cons", "All Stars", and "Chucky Ts") is a model of casual shoe manufactured by Converse (a subsidiary of Nike, Inc. since 2003) that was initially developed as a basketball sneaker in the early 20th century. The design of the Chuck Taylor All Star has remained largely unchanged since its introduction in the early 1920s. The shoe consists of a stitched upper portion, a toe cap that is usually made of white rubber, and an outsole that is usually made of brown or tan rubber. Although Chuck Taylors are made of various materials such as leather or suede, the original and most widely known version of the shoe is made from cotton canvas. The innovative detail of the original shoe was the "loose lining" of soft canvas that was intended to provide flexibility and prevent blisters.