60

Apologies for the delayed update, work is busy at present and i'm having to push overtime just to get through what i need to do which leaves less time for writing :-(

Gordon came to in the early hours of the morning just as the light started to peek in through the blinds. He groaned at the immediate onset of aches and pains. "Gahhhh" He didn't want to move, the dull ache started in his shoulders and traveled down either side of his spine to his pelvis. In fact, the only bit of him that didn't ache was his right thigh so he took that as a bonus. After five minutes he pulled himself together and figured a nice hot shower wouldn't go amiss. His limbs protested at short amble to the en-suite, his gait hindered by his stiffened legs. They were always at their worst first thing in the morning. He rubbed his bare shoulder as he went, trying to work out a knot in vain.

The shower was one of his better ideas, it was a power shower and worked out the kinks and knots beautifully. He stretched feeling the familiar crack and release of tension along his spine. The steam rose upwards as he closed his eyes and submerged his head fully under the water reveling in the sensation, feeling the water cascade over his face. He needed to ensure that he warmed up and cooled down properly today to make sure there were no unpleasant surprises like yesterday. He also needed to make sure he gave it his all in the actual events, no holding back or saving himself. It was time to go hard or go home. It was the last chance to make a name for himself and he was determined to succeed.

Fresh kit donned, he made himself a coffee and headed out onto the balcony to soak up Rome in the early dawn light. He overlooked the stadium complex and the main entrance; he could already see keen sport enthusiasts lining up in the queue to be admitted even though it wouldn't open for several hours yet. He took in the view of the plaza and the two large fountains that framed either side as he sipped his coffee. He'd have to come back here someday and discover Rome properly. The little bit he had seen so far was stunning. He bet Virgil was having a great time. He and Scott were treating it as their last vacation before IR. A buzzing interrupted him from his people watching. He pulled out his phone surprised to see Alan was calling. "Hello?"

"Good luck for today!" Alan and John beamed at him.

"Aw, thanks guys! Wait you must be up stupid late…. or early? The space thing confuses me!"

"Yeah, we're up pretty late but seeing as we missed you yesterday, we wanted to make sure we got a chance to wish you good luck for today." Alan rubbed his eyes, it was late.

"You were great yesterday Gordon, I'm just sorry we're not there to see you in person." John missed being there to support his brother but he was mindful that soon he would be missing several key anniversaries and family events whilst on duty. Still; Gordon and Scott had always seemed to cope on tour. He was confident he would too.

"Thanks guys. Not long now though! Within a month you'll be back on earth!"

"Yep, it's going to feel pretty strange but I'm looking forward to getting back to some racing."

"Err, you remember dad's plan, right?"

"Yeah; but how often am I going to get called out really?"

"You'll be covering me too." John reminded him.

"Yeah, yeah." He rolled his eyes. "I'll find a way to make it all work."

Gordon and John eyed each other knowingly.

"So what time is your event?" Alan abruptly changed the subject.

"11 am, I'm just going to get some breakfast and then meet up with the team and my coach beforehand. Fingers crossed I won't cock it up today." Gordon frowned.

"Hey, don't be so hard on yourself! You were brilliant yesterday, that was a tough competition you did well to place fourth. Anyway, your saving the best for today; right?" John smiled.

"Yeah, I am. thanks for the pep talk John."

"Don't sound so sarcastic."

Gordon chuckled.

"Alright, well thanks for calling me guys, it was good to hear from you but I better get on. Try not to kill each other in isolation."

"Ha-ha" Alan sarcastically replied.

"It's OK, we've been up here eight months together and I haven't killed him, so I'm sure I can manage for two more weeks in closer quarters." John shoulder bumped Alan affectionately.

"Hey!"

"Goodbye guys!"

"Bye, give our love to the family."

"I will!"

Gordon headed down to breakfast with a spring in his step. He loaded up with cereal, fruit salad and yogurt before sitting down at the end of the table next to Emma. Emma was on the USA team as well and competing in the women's 200m butterfly stroke. She was a tall woman (Taller than Gordon) with a classic athletic build, her raven hair cut into a striking long inverted bob. She had almond shaped green eyes and an angular face. She too had loaded on the carbs ready for the day ahead. Gordon noticed the juice just up the table. "Morning, couldn't be a gem and pass us the juice please?"

"Yeah sure." Emma grabbed the pitcher one handed before supporting the bottom with her shortened left limb.

"Thanks, so I saw you got sliver yesterday in the relay, congratulations!"

"Thank you, I just hope I do as well solo today. I saw your event, I'm sorry you just missed out, I couldn't help up notice you looked like something caught you for a moment." Emma was pretty sure he had been in pain; she knew how hard Gordon pushed himself. Some of her team mates had previously said Gordon was known for pushing himself more than he should but she figured you didn't make it through W.A.S.P selection without sheer grit and determination. She had struck up a rapport with Gordon early on when the teams were selected. Unlike some of the others here, he never took himself too seriously or moaned about things. He was funny with a happy go lucky attitude that could brighten anyone's day, it was refreshing to be around someone like him.

"Yeah, You know; I thought I saw a fish." His eyes sparkled as he winked.

"Hmm, if I didn't know better Mr Tracy, I would have said that young blonde in the Russian team caught your eye." She was referring to Alexandra Petrova, the stunning blonde who had been knocked out of her freestyle event the day before and had come to watch the men's finals.

He pretended to looked shocked. "As if I could be distracted by her ethereal Rapunzel like good looks! Although now you mention it, she's pretty fit… I wonder if she'd take my number…"

They both laughed at the absurdity of that statement, everyone knew she was quite clearly dedicated to her coach Demetri. "So, we're both competing in the butterfly stroke today. You got any tips?" She asked.

"Tips? You don't need tips; you swim like perfection. Your timing is spot on and you have a really clean-cut approach, I personally think you'll do just fine. I'd say the only thing you might need to watch is your pacing. I notice you can be quiet fast out Initially but then can taper towards the end. Conserve that energy so you can make a stronger push at the end without over taxing yourself." Gordon stacked up his empty dish and bowl.

"You sound just like my coach, are you sure you haven't been listening in?" He laughed.

"What about me, any sage advice you can offer?" he lent back in his chair.

She thought for a moment. "You swim like you belong in the water, your so fluid. I don't know what they taught you in W.A.S.P but it far excels any training half these guys have had. I would say don't be so hard on yourself. I know you hear it a lot but you really have come a long way Gordon. I think you need to listen to your body and what it's telling you and you'll do fine."

"Hmm, very astute. Thank you, I will remember your advice. Well good luck today." He raised and held out his elbow.

"You too." She returned the gesture and they bumped elbows laughing at their little greeting and parting ritual for luck. With a quick wave to the rest of the team he headed out to see his coach and get ready.

XOXOXOXOXOXOXOXOXOXXOXOXOXXOXOXOXO

Gordon had done well in the morning and had won his heat giving him a place in the final once again. They worked their way through the crowds in anticipation of seeing Gordon perform once more. Scott really hoped he could come away with a medal he knew how much it would mean to his little brother. They all filed into the aisle taking their seats for the evening. Jeff first, Grandma then Scott and Virgil. It was still very light outside it being mid-summertime. The air was warm and balmy. The Women's butterfly stroke had just ended and there was a short interval. Virgil had the flag chucked over his lap. "I've got a good feeling about today; everyone says this is Gordon's best event."

"Everyone?" Asked Scott.

"Were you not watching the recap last night on the podcast? The commentators were discussing who they consider to be top contenders. They were pretty confident about our brother's chances."

"No, I went out."

"Where?"

"Well you know that girl that was sat next to us yesterday?"

"You didn't!" Virgil didn't know why he was so shocked. Scott turned heads wherever he went. Not only was his brother good looking, he was charming too. It was a dangerous combination especially when he dropped the fighter pilot occupation into the conversation. Most girls were sold by that point.

"What? She's here alone supporting her sister and didn't want to venture into town on her own so I offered to show her the sights."

"Oh, because your so clued up on Italian culture." Virgil remarked.

"Shut up, we can't all be experts on renaissance art. I know where to take a girl for pizza and wine what more do I need?"

Virgil shook his head in disdain while Scott laughed.

On the other side of the stand a petite young lady dressed in a white and pink floral summer dress and large straw hat sat next to Jeff, removing her oval sunglasses as she did so. She wore an expensive pearl necklace which just peeked out of the high stiff collar of her dress.

Jeff continued to pretend to read the paper, acknowledging the woman with a gentle nod. "Good day Jeff."

"Good day to you too, how was the trip over?"

"The boat ride was certainly enjoyable and the flight over quite smooth."

"Did you obtain the item I asked for?"

"I did indeed." Penny passed over an inconspicuous brown envelope. Jeff folded his paper under his arm and took a peek inside. They were the plans alright.

"Thank you, Lady Penelope, that's just the ticket, although I have a confession to make…."

"There not real, are they?" Penelope asked.

"They are but they are the old model that was in production initially but didn't work. They aren't Brains complete version. How did you know?"

"I figured it was my first assignment; you don't strike me as the type of man not to run a test prior to launch but I assure you I am quite capable."

"I had only heard whisperings your reputation, I had to see for myself first hand to be sure. Please forgive me Penelope."

"Oh, don't worry about it, Jeff darling (She waved a hand) I would do the same; in fact I have. A full profile actually."

Jeff chuckled. "Well then I'd say we were even. Anything I should be concerned about?"

"No, you are as honest as they come which is rare for a businessman of your stature but delightfully refreshing. There are a lot of others that could learn from your mantra Jeff."

"Thank you, i'm glad you think so. I try my best to make all my ventures honorable and ethical."

She smiled back before looking to the pool, the men were starting to file out. "Thank you for securing me a ticket, I've always quite fancied watching the Olympics in person. How did Gordon do yesterday?"

"Your welcome, I figured it was the perfect opportunity for you to meet most of the family. He did absolutely amazing. Fourth place in the final yesterday. Considering he was in a coma and has had to learn to walk again….. I can't even believe that's my son down there sometimes but it is!"

Penelope could see the pure pride radiating from Jeff's expression, when she had seen him with Virgil previously, she knew that he really did adore his children. "That's very impressive, I look forward to seeing him in action today. Fingers crossed he will do just as well if not better."

"Jeff dear, who is this lovely young lady?" His mother asked. Scott and Virgil turned their heads like hawks - they hadn't even noticed their dad talking to someone. Virgil smiled and waved when he realised who it was, instantly regretting being at the end of the bench. Penelope waved back.

"Sorry Mother, let me introduce you to Lady Penelope. She's a friend of mine that will be assisting us with our new 'project.'"

Ahhh the agent she thought. Apparently, she was quite famous but maybe not so much in the states as Grandma had never heard of her before. "A pleasure to meet you Lady Penelope." Grandma bowed her head.

"Please call me Penelope. Its lovely to meet you too Mrs Tracy."

"Obviously you have already met Virgil and this is Scott my eldest. He's just retired from the air force."

"Really how interesting, it's nice to meet you Scott. Well I should say meet you again. We used to play together as children for a time but we were very young."

"We did? Well I would say it's a shame we lost contact as children, it's a pleasure to make your re-acquaintance Lady Penelope." Heavens he was good looking and a charmer! Virgil had charm too but less confidence than his elder brother if first impressions were anything to go by. Having spent some more time with Virgil of late she had found him to be a quiet soul, older and wiser than his young years in a way. He was incredibly compassionate and very companionable to be around. She could see the striking family resemblance between them, although Scott appeared to be marginally taller and of a slighter build than Virgil. His rich brunette hair slightly more buoyant and darker than Virgil's honey brown tones.

"I quite a agree, its funny how fate can bring people together again."

The commentary had picked up again, the swimmers were in their respective places and preparing to start. Gordon was clearly visible in the red cap and dark goggles. He turned around to wave at the crowd, his eyes scanning for his family, he had wanted to catch up with them first thing but there hadn't been time. Scott and Virgil cheered and jumped up just as Gordon made eye contact. He smiled. It was good to have them all here. He sat down and slid into the pool. It wasn't long before the beep sounded and he was off like a shot!

He pushed off; keeping his arms straight over his head and focusing on ensuring his thumbs were pushed out parallel to the blue lines either side of his lane, forcing the water to the back of his feet as he propelled himself through the water, raising his body up before taking another stroke. He drowned out everything, the swimmers in the lanes next to him, the clamour of the crowds and his pain, focusing only on the strokes. He really wanted this, he needed this!

It was the final lap and Gordon was in the lead! But it was so close between him and Harry Jones from the UK that it was going to be tight, they were literally neck and neck into the final run. "Oh, I can't look!" Grandma really wanted Gordon to win. Scott and Virgil were on the edge of their seats both watching the action with avid concentration, trying to work out who was in the lead. Jeff was on tenterhooks either way his son was looking at gold or sliver here, this was amazing! His hand tapped on his leg to an uneven beat in anticipation. Penny was astounded by the time; this was going to be quick. Gordon and Harry crossed the line, the klaxon sounding to signal the end of the race. The times had yet to be posted; there was a pause as a hush fell over the crowd. Both athletes looked to the screen. "In third place we have Emilio De Luca of Italy with a time of 1.55.36!" The crowds roared as the guest nation secured their 19th medal of the games. "The next two were incredibly close but we can now announce that in second place with a time of 1.54.85 is awarded to Harry Jones UK! Which means with a staggering time of 1.54.12 is Gordon Tracy for the USA!"

Jeff launched off his chair and roared with the crowd before pulling his mother up into a hug. She gripped him around the neck crying tears of joy as Scott and Virgil jumped together, shoulder to shoulder cheering and waving the flag. Penelope stood and clapped to one side smiling. Gordon made his way around over to his brothers who grabbed him over the barrier. "Get in Gordon!" Scott ruffled his hair playfully

"Congratulations!" Virgil handed him the flag which he wrapped around himself before going to kiss his Grandmother and hug his dad. Gordon was holding back the tears. He was in so much pain and exhausted but he did it! He was absolutely elated. The euphoria was nothing like he had ever experienced. His team mates ran out shortly after he had met his family grabbing him into a bear hug and patting him on the back. Emma already had her gold medal around her next having run over from her ceremony to watch his race. She crushed him into a hug and kissed him affectionately on the cheek.

A few minutes later and he was being ushered along for media interviews and then the ceremony. He was waiting in the wings under the arch with his fellow winners still not believing that he was a going to be a gold medalist. It was insane! Gordon shook Emilio's hand and congratulated him warmly. Emilio politely replied before moving on.

Harry came over to shake his hand. "Congratulations mate!"

"You too! you were pretty amazing out there, both our first years and here we are! It's unbelievable."

"I know it's all a bit surreal really, I didn't expect to still be alive long enough to be selected as a champion." Harry was quite a famous before delving into Paralympian swimming. He had been blown up on tour whilst serving with the Royal marines three years ago. He now relied on a prosthetic leg. Initially he started competing in crazy marathon swims and triathlons to raise funds for charities that had helped him recover before he realised, he had a talent for swimming. One of the charities secured a grant to fund his place on the team and get him the specialist training and equipment he needed to succeed. His challenges were made into a reality TV show that had become really successful. Gordon was a big fan.

"I discovered your show during recovery and it kept me going through some pretty dark times."

"I'm glad to hear it, I'm sure your feats here today will be an inspiration to others too."

They shook hands again as they were called forward. Emilio went first, with Gordon in the middle and Harry behind. At the signal Emilio wheeled forwards to his position on the stage, Gordon followed suit and Harry filed in next to him. The national anthem for Italy was played and flag raised as Emilio received his bronze medal and flowers, then the UK anthem as Harry was awarded his silver and finally whilst grinning from ear to ear, Gordon received his gold medal as the American anthem belted through the arena. Gordon felt the weight as the ribbon was looped over his neck, the flowers placed into his hand. He picked up the medal and kissed it, camera flashes obscuring his view of anything else. He waved as they stepped away from the podium.

Simon was waiting to interview him. "Gordon Tracy! What a show you have given us today. Just outstanding. The judges remarked on your near textbook butterfly stroke saying it was one of the best in the competition. How does it feel to be a gold medalist?"

"What kind of question is that? Its feels terrible! (The commentators face blanched momentarily) Nah just kidding! it feels awesome! I am beyond ecstatic! I can't tell you how much I wanted this, it was my main goal and I'm just happy to have achieved what I set out to do.! After yesterday I wasn't sure I was going to make it home with a prize at all."

"What happened yesterday, we noticed you stalled for a moment?"

"Just a flare up of an old injury, caught me off guard but all is well now."

"Obviously this has been quite a road to recovery for you, did you ever fear you weren't going to be ready in time, I mean you came into this pretty late!"

"If you talk to my brothers, they'll all tell you I arrive late to everything and its never stopped me yet! I wouldn't be human if I wasn't a little worried but I got lucky and made it through selection."

"And, finally; How are you going to celebrate?"

"With another swim, albeit a more relaxing one and probably finally getting to stuff my face with chocolate sundae… and a meal with the family too I guess!"

The commentator chuckled. "Well, that's quite a celebration! Anyone would think you've had enough swimming for one day!"

"Oh no! I could keep going all day!"

"Well there you have its folks, Gold Olympian Gordon Tracy!"