A/N: Annnnd we're back. Welcome to Chapter 7. You've made it this far, so congrats to that. There has been a lot of great comments and reviews. Thank you for taking the time out to not only read this story but leave some words in response. Typically with forums like this you receive the two extremes; the 1s and the 5s. Those that really like it and those that ...well...don't. I take all of those comments in stride. I have no interest in writing my story by committee, so your comments are not likely to greatly influence my major planned outcomes. However, I do listen and if there seems to be a direction that people are interested in the story taking or pieces they absolutely despise, I am amiable to some adjustments here and there. That is why I ask for your feedback. Yes. I am writing this story mostly for myself, but if I can make it enjoyable for others to read, more the better. Ok, well, enough of that. No with the show.

Disclaimer: Still don't own Chuck.

Chapter 7

It was the following Saturday and Chuck arrived at work at 9:00 am to start his day. He got situated at his work bench to get started when Mr. Sato came in the back room.

"Chuck. Come with me," he commanded without waiting for any reply and left the room. Chuck scrambles to keep up as Mr. Sato lead him out of the back door and to the postage stamp back yard behind the store. Since they lived in he apartment above the store, it was nice that they had some green space, even though it was not much. The yard was surrounded by a six foot wooden privacy fence and along it were flower beds with decorative stones, plants and some small statues. It was quaint and relatively peaceful. Mr. Sato walked out into the grassy area in the middle and turned to wait for Chuck.

"Chuck. I told you that we would find a path together. I believe that part of that path should involve some exercise and fresh air." Mr. Sato just stopped and looked at Chuck.

"Um...Mr. Sato? Is this where you ask me to wax your car or paint your fence or something?" Chuck asked a little apprehensive.

With a flat look, Mr. Sato replied, "You are no Daniel LaRusso. Do you want me to call you Chuckie-san?" he asked with a raised eyebrow.

"Uh...point taken," Chuck nodded sheepishly.

"Good. Now shut up and listen," he continued with a wry smile. "You sit too much and do not get enough fresh air. You trip over your own shadow and young deer have more coordination than you," he paused for a moment. "But no matter. We will start slowly with some basic exercises and maybe some peaceful reflection."

"You mean like meditation?", Chuck inquired.

"No! I mean shut your pie hole for 10 minutes and turn off your electronics and just...listen. And before you run off at the head, none of this 'listen to the universe' nonsense. Just listen. Listen to your immediate surroundings, listen to your voice in your head (or voices perhaps)," he let out a small chuckle. "Just try to tune out the noise of the world out 'there', all those things that don't really matter, and focus on the 'right here' and 'right now'. That's it. No 'mystic connectedness with all things'. Just relaxing. That's all I ask. Leave that crap with school and friends and whatnot outside that door. OK?" Mr. Sato commanded more than asked. Without waiting for a reply he continued, "Good. Now get over here and we will start with some warm up exercises and stretching. It will help with your circulation, flexibility and even your strength, God help us," he said as he rolled his eyes and let out a small laugh. "Oh, and before I forget, you make one damn 'Mr. Miyagi' comment and I'll make you go dumpster diving to find appliances to fix. Got it?" the older man pointed a finger at Chuck with a faux scowl on his face.

"G-Got it. Got it!" Chucked nodded quickly in acknowledgement and began following the instructions provided. This became their 'ritual' every day that Chuck worked at Ward's. The first thirty minutes of the shift they would come to the yard and exercise. There was little talking except when would provide instruction or when Chuck had a related question. Though some of the exercises and stretches looked a little ridiculous to him, he did not question. Mr. Sato was taking all of this time to help Chuck, the least he could do was follow his instructions faithfully. Even after a few days he could start to feel a difference in his flexibility and just general well-being. In fact, he had even taken to practicing the exercises he was taught in his room at night along with his 'relaxation' time. It gave him something to do in those lonesome hours and provided a reprieve from the world.

ooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo

It had been several weeks since what Chuck referred to as their "inaugural movie night". Chuck and Sarah spent a lot of time together, even though they both had busy lives. Sarah had cheerleading for a little while longer yet, plus meetings for various school and civic groups she was involved with. Chuck had his job at Ward's and helping people around his apartment building. Chuck still met with Sarah for tutoring at least once a week, sometimes more if there was a test to prepare for. All in all, things were great in their friendship. They were open and honest with each other and took great joy in joking and pranking on one another in good fun.

Chuck was doing his best to try to assimilate himself into "normal society" by spending time with Sarah and her friends. He had agreed to go to a basketball game at Sarah's request. He got more than a few stares and some not so "accidental" nudges as people squeezed by in the bleachers. Bobby Thompson and several of his flunkies were sitting a few rows behind Chuck. They would throw bits of trash at Chuck and yell insults masked as a cough. People in the surrounding area were getting a little irritated at the obnoxious display, but nobody was willing to stand up to them and do anything, especially Chuck. He just let it roll off of him and continued to watch the game. A giant smile would threaten to crack his face every time Sarah Walker would wave at him. This was in part due to the disbelieving looks on the faces of the people around him. Any doubts were put to rest when Sarah and Carina Miller came up into the bleachers during a break and sat on either side of Chuck and talked with him. Being surrounded by two beautiful young women who were actually talking to him was like a dream, but this time there was a gym full of people to witness it. To say he was on cloud nine was an understatement. There would likely be repercussions for this, Chuck knew, but every fiber of him agreed, it was sooo worth it.

The last period of the school day was quickly becoming his favorite. This was when choir met and Chuck was having a blast. It was like his secret garden he could escape to; an oasis in the desert of high school. He felt safe and at home when he was with these people. It helped that his friends Sarah and Carina were in choir with him. Perhaps it was the shared love for music that brought everyone together; gave them a bond that stretched beyond borders of social circles. It was a place where he felt like he could be….well, just that. Be.

The 'democratic' music selections for the Spring concert had gone well and while not everyone was satisfied, soloists had too been selected. It was a difficult choice for Mrs. Davis as there were so many eager participants, but frankly not everyone was ready for stardom. Rather unfortunate as well was the lack of male soloists. The men were woefully underrepresented in choir and of the 13 males, only one volunteered for a solo. Mrs. Davis sat in her office and flipped through music, pondering the situation, trying to find a way to get more of the guys involved. As she was flipping she stopped on a piece from the musical 'Pippin'. A devilish grin spread across her face as she got an idea. It would take some planning and well timed execution, but this was the sort of Hail Mary she needed right now.

As the choir class period was coming to a close, Mrs. Davis pulled Sarah aside, so Sarah waved a 'goodbye' to Chuck and Carina and followed her teacher. Mrs. Davis lead Sarah to her office and motioned for her to sit down.

"Please, have a seat. The reason I asked you here Sarah is to talk with you about a problem I am having. I have a student that I believe would be an exceptional addition to the concert as a soloist. The problem is that this student lacks the confidence in themselves to perform a solo. You are a gifted singer and are well liked by everyone. I was hoping that you may be able to help me in 'encouraging' this student to sing for us. They are in the theatre, right now, waiting. Will you help me?" the older woman pleaded with Sarah.

"Um. Well, I don't know if I can convince them, but if you are that certain they deserve a solo, I'll try what I can," she replied with a shrug and a look of apprehension.

"Great. Let's go and I will introduce you." Mrs. Davis stood and escorted Sarah down the hall to the theatre, entering from the side entrance. She led Sarah to the steps up to the side of the stage. There was nobody around. "I'll go look around to see if I can find them. Stay right here," the older woman motion her to stop and she left out the same door they entered. Sarah stood on the stage only wondering slightly, looking around and the lights, curtains and fly system. She then heard some footsteps coming from behind the back curtain as a figure pushed their way through into the light. The two looked at one and other for a long moment, surprise evident on both their faces.

"It's you?" they questioned in unison. "No. It's you!" they accused in tandem one pointing at the other. "It's not me." They both exclaimed shaking their heads, pointing at themselves. Again, as if in a mirror, "Well, if it's not you?" they both trailed off and a look of realization struck them as they both rolled their eyes. Just at that moment, as if on cue, Mrs. Davis walked back into the theatre.

"Ah. Good. You're both here." She made her way to the stage and was doing a poor job of masking the wry smile on her face. "So?" she asked looking between the two students, waiting for a response.

Chuck was the first to respond, "I'm sorry. So? So, what?" he returned with a questioning look.

"So. The way I see it, you are both very gifted singers and are both averse to … public displays. I believe that you two can help each other. In fact, I think you two would be perfect for the duet for the Spring Concert," she declared as she looked between the two.

"Duet?" the two inquired in unison.

Mrs. Davis chuckled, "Yes, a duet. This show is in desperate need of a duet. I think you two will complement and support one and other to make the perfect team. To be honest, the first time I heard you sing on this stage, Chuck, you planted the seed. I truly believe that the two of you together can achieve great things," she confessed with a hopeful smile spread across her face. "Will you please, please just think about it?" Mrs. Davis pleaded.

The two students looked at each other for a moment with their heads bobbing side to side in contemplation, "We'll think about it," the two agreed..

Their teacher clapped her hands together in excitement, "Perfect. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. That's all I ask, but please let me know by the end of the week. There is a lot of work to do to prepare and I want to give you two enough time. I'll see you guys tomorrow." She waved at the two as she left the theatre.

After standing there in silence for a few moments, Sarah furrowed her brow and cocked her head to the side, "Wait a minute. What did she mean by 'the first time she heard you sing on stage'? I didn't know you sang on stage," she stated with a confused look on her face.

"Weeellllll….It's a…it's kind of embarrassing, really. See, when I helped installed the new pieces for the sound system," he motioned to the speakers and equipment around the stage, "..back before the winter concert, I was testing the system out. It was well after school had let out and I thought there was nobody around so I decided to test out the mic levels and….well… Mrs. Davis came in while I was in the middle of that. Needless to say I was mortified. It was then that she asked me to join the choir, but I put her off until she caught me in the hall a few weeks back. You know the rest," he shrugged, his ears and cheeks clearly red from embarrassment.

"So? You've been holding out on me, huh, Bartowski?" she asked with a wry smile, clearly amused at his embarrassment. "I dunno. If I'm supposed to sing with you, I think I'm gonna have to hear an audition. You know. To make sure you're good enough," her smile turning more wicked as she spoke. "Come on Chuck.." popping the 'k' , "let's hear whatcha got." She crossed her arms in a sultry, teasing posture.

Chuck was nearly beside himself, "But..I...uh...I um...", he stammered taking a large gulp to swallow the lump in his throat. As he brought his eyes up to her, he could see the smug, almost daring look she was giving him. Something in him shifted in that moment as he gazed into her eyes. He didn't know what it was, but he was suddenly no longer embarrassed. All he could think of was showing her up and wiping that smug little look off of her adorable face. Wait. What? Clearing his throat and straightening his shoulders, he raised an eyebrow in challenge, "Alright Ms. Walker. You'll get your audition. But!... prepare yourself...because Miss, when I'm done it will be YOU, auditioning...for ME," he pointed from her to himself with the cockiest attitude she had ever seen on him. With a grand show of waving her arm and bowing,indicating "Be my guest", she stepped back. "Alright, what would you like to hear? Something from stage and screen or something from popular music?" he inquired with a challenging tone and expression.

"Hmmmm…" tapping her finger on her chin, "How about you surprise me", as she crossed her arms and settled in for the 'show'.

"Alright….let's see…. OK. I got one," he cleared his throat to prepare himself and then began.

To dream ... the impossible dream ...

To fight ... the unbeatable foe ...

To bear ... with unbearable sorrow ...

To run ... where the brave dare not go ...

To right ... the unrightable wrong ...

To love ... pure and chaste from afar ...

To try ... when your arms are too weary ...

To reach ... the unreachable star …

This is my quest, to follow that star ...

No matter how hopeless, no matter how far ...

To fight for the right, without question or pause ...

To be willing to march into Hell, for a Heavenly cause …

And I know if I'll only be true, to this glorious quest,

That my heart will lie will lie peaceful and calm,

when I'm laid to my rest ...

And the world will be better for this:

That one man, scorned and covered with scars,

Still strove, with his last ounce of courage,

To reach ... the unreachable star ...

Sarah stood riveted to him while he sang. His voice was clear, smooth and … intoxicating. She became lost listening to not only the beauty of his voice but the emotion he conveyed. When he finished, Chuck stood silent, watching Sarah, waiting. Her expression was flat as she stood, apparently in thought. She met his gaze and a wry smile started to appear.

"That'll do pig. That'll do…" she confessed and nodded her head in acceptance. Chuck shook his head and chuckled to himself. Sarah let out a sigh, "Alright. I suppose in all fairness it is my turn, huh?" apprehension evident on her face.

"You know what? ... I have faith in you," Chuck declared with a smile. He paused for a moment then continued, "What do you say, Miss Walker? I'm sure I could do it if you were there with me," a sheepish grin growing across his face.

Chuck had let her off the hook, even though he had her 'dead to rights' so to speak. His words said it all. He had faith in her; he needed no proof, he just believed in her. Chuck's smile seemed to be contagious as one grew across Sarah's face as well. "I think... with a friend like you, anything is possible. I'm in," she nodded her acceptance. The both heard a muffled "YES!" from the hallway and they both chuckled realizing that Mrs. Davis had been listening in on them.

"OK, Mrs. Davis. You can come back in now," Chuck called out. A moment later, the side door opened and the older woman slowly entered, clearly a little embarrassed.

"Hey guys…" she sheepishly replied. "So you came to a decision?" she asked trying to play it off that she had not heard everything.

Shaking her head, Sarah chuckled, "Yes, Mrs. Davis. We'll do it. Now, what are we going to sing?" she asked with some uncertainty.

"I have some ideas I'd like to run by you and if you have anything you'd like to look at, I am open to suggestions. How about you bring in some of your choices tomorrow and we can compare notes?" she asked, looking between Chuck and Sarah. They nodded and they all said their goodbyes.

Ooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo

Chuck grabbed the bus and made his way to Ward's Electronics for his after school shift. He walked in, absentmindedly humming a song that he had been contemplating for their duet as he set his backpack down in the back room. He went to the back yard, like he had been doing for weeks now, to meet Mr. Sato. Chuck stood in the yard starting to stretch and get limbered up. He was bending down with his hands wrapped around grasping his calves, when Mr. Sato entered the yard. "What up, Chuck?" the older man inquired as he walked into the yard, a wry smile on his face.

"How original," Chuck replied with a smirk and a head shake as he righted himself. "What's on the agenda for this afternoon? Any new exercises?" Chuck asked, continuing to stretch.

"Actually, I think you have improved enough that we can move to a new stage in your training. Tomorrow, Aiko and I will take you to the studio where we practice. I think you will be able to learn some things that could prove useful down the road. We do not expect much at first, but I believe with hard work, practice and determination you will become very proficient. Now, let's get on with your exercises for today." Mr. Sato started through their exercise routine, which had progressively gotten more rigorous. Chuck was getting more flexible, was gaining better balance, becoming more comfortable in his own body and building strength.

Throughout the rest of work, on the bus ride home and walking into the apartment building he had been humming or quietly mouthing the lyrics to songs he was singing in his head. Once home, he put away his things and started supper as he did most every night. He was singing in the kitchen, when he heard the door open. He was now very conscious of the fact that he was singing and promptly stopped. "Hey El. How was class?" Chuck asked as he did every night.

Ellie walked into the kitchen, "Fine …" a perplexed look on her face. She looked around the kitchen and into the living room as if missing something.

"What's the matter El?" Chuck inquired a little puzzled as to what she was looking for.

"I thought I heard the radio on when I came in…" she stated as she was still looking about, trying to satisfy her curiosity.

"Oh…" was all Chuck could muster as his neck and ears burned beet red. He turned and tried to busy himself with meal preparation.

"Wait a minute….was….was that you?" Ellie asked in surprise. "Chuck? It was, wasn't it? You….I haven't heard you sing in...in years. What….what's going on?" she was astonished as a big smile crept across her face. "Come on, Chuck. Teellll meee," she goaded, playfully poking him in the side.

"Fine! Ok. ok. ok. Stop pokin' me. Yes … Happy? I was singing," he confessed, still red-faced from embarrassment.

"That's wonderful! I'm so happy you are singing again, you always had such a great voice….I missed it," with a faux pout she hugged her brother. "Not that I am complaining, but why the sudden turn about? Guhhh! It's Saaarrrahh. Isn't it? I bet that's what it is," she was nodding seeming to be pleased with herself. "Just friends my ass," she muttered under her breath.

"I heard that! And we ARE just friends, Ellie. For like the millionth time. And No, she was not the reason I was singing….well, not entirely," he trailed off.

Ellie was jumping up and down, giddy with excitement, "Tell me, tell me, tell me!"

"Alright. Alright. Geez. Ok. Sarah and I … kind of got … talked into singing a duet for the Spring Concert," he hurried out as he rushed to take food to the dinner table.

"AH! Holy shit. That's amazing! I am so, so excited for you. Soooo...what are you guys singing?" Ellie questioned as she was helping to set the table.

"We don't know yet. It just happened at the end of school today. The theme is Stage and Screen, so songs from a movie or Broadway musical. I'll have to come up with some ideas and run them by Sarah. Mrs. Davis says she has some ideas too, so we'll probably figure it out tomorrow," he concluded with a little apprehension in his tone.

"Chuck, you have nothing to be nervous about. You have a really great voice, I think people should get to hear it. Plus, you won't be alone. You'll have 'Sarah Freakin' Walker' there with you," she teased as she broke out into laughter. Chuck just gave her a gentle shove on the shoulder and shook his head in exasperation. 'Seriously though, Chuck. I think this will be really good," she sobered a bit and pointed at his chest, "There is an awesome guy in there that should be shared with the world. You just need to let him out so people can see. I bet you'll be surprised ….. besides ….girls like a guy who can sing….to serenade them, maybe?" she gave him a wink and an eyebrow dance. Chuck just rolled his eyes but didn't dignify it with a response.

After dinner was finished and the kitchen clean, Chuck went to his room and researched song options some more. He texted Sarah some ideas and she texted back her thoughts and some ideas of her own. They agreed on a few options that they would take to Mrs. Davis tomorrow. Chuck laid in bed and was running through the events of the day as he stared at his ceiling. The 'audition' with Sarah and the sultry way she had said 'Come on Chuck. Let's hear whatcha got'. Then Ellie with her constant insinuation that there was something else between him and Sarah. That was absurd. Right? Having Sarah as a friend, in and of itself, was a miracle. "Chuck, you idiot. No good is gonna come from this line of thinking. Do not screw this friendship up because you can't keep your head on straight. You cannot lose her too," he berated himself. As his mind wandered, he finally drifted to sleep.

A/N: Thanks for reading. I appreciate people taking the time to review.

If interested, the song Chuck sang for his "audition" was The Impossible Dream from the musical Man of La Mancha.