"Chuck vs the Aussie"
AN1: Hi everyone, Thanks so much for reading! I am so happy the last chapter was well received – here is the next installment of Chuck vs the Aussie. I introduce a little drama and intrigue into the story now, which will play out alongside the budding romance that will develop from here on out. This was going to originally be a short story… ya that is NOT going to happen – there will be 15 chapters total (unless chapter lengths require minor changes). This story really caught my imagination so I decided if I'm going to put the time in writing this I will do it right and tell the story without rushing it or cutting it to fit my original plan. So a lot more fun left in this one and then I will get started on my next project. Oh – I made a bit of an oversight in my AN last chapter – myles70mac continues to be very kind in taking my questions on Aussie words and slang – he has prevented some out of date use – so thanks so much for the hand in Chapter 3, here and beyond!
Disclaimers – I don't own Chuck or the Olympics or National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation.
Oh – italics will always denote character thoughts and once again keep an eye on the time shifts and dates.
And thank you to everyone who has provided feedback – you have no idea how much I appreciate it! I try to always PM reviewers my thanks and little bits of info or when I think chapters are coming and to respond to great questions!
And sorry of the delay – I headed up to Canada so for those who expected this mid week – my bad. I did get a really good smash at ch5 so hopefully it will be up Tuesday night (PST) and then ch6 on Saturday (weekly updates should occur and I will try 2 time a week if possible). I also added a few references to canon – so look out for those and enjoy!
***Edit - I have gone back and done another edit on chapters 1, 2, 3 and 4 - there are no content changes, but I smoothed out some minor grammar issues (etc.) in case you re-read this story - sorry ch 1 and 2 should have been better edited - my bad (no beta)... but ch 3 and 4 were better - so a little improvement at least and I will work hard to make sure the coming chapters are as polished as possible!
Chapter 4: Conversations and Confrontations
Previously on Chuck vs the Aussie…
As the mystery swimmer lifted himself from the pool, his body glistening from the water as his well defined pecks and six-pack beckoned to Sarah as if he were a Greek god…
She finally snapped herself out of her awkward stare and was preparing to head back to the gym when the young man raised his head and smiled brightly to no one in particular as he brushed his wet hair back away from his face. Sarah almost fell in shock after seeing his face… can't be she thought… "Chuck?"
Main Pool at the Aquatics Center (London Olympic Venue)
London, United Kingdom
July 23, 2012
8:48 hrs BST
Sarah froze in place as her eyes widened at the sight before her… Oh. My. God! That cannot be the guy I saw at the airport…
Sarah stares hard at man before her as the pure truth of her recognition finally rose to the surface and a flash of realization caused her blue eyes to widen further. That is Chuck, my god that jacket sure hid his impressive form… damn with that physique he looks like a male model! But… he was such a nice guy… I didn't think they made nice guys that… that look like that, Sarah thought to herself completely flustered. She is flustered not only by unexpectedly finding her mystery man, but by his physical appearance that seems so incongruous to his shy, kind and unassuming personality.
She smiles brightly, thinking to herself – He's an Athlete and a swimmer no less! And he looks like that! Wow!
Sarah continued to stare at Chuck as he talks to another athlete near the edge of pool. Chuck smiles widely as he gestures excitedly as he converses with the unknown athlete. Frankly Sarah could care less whom the other man was – the mysterious Chuck Bartowski held all of her attention. She was completely transfixed upon the man before her, yet something kept tugging at the back of her mind… not danger, but something… like a warning.
She suddenly regained her composure and nearly swore as she realized where she was – at the towel stand and Chuck was sure to come to the stand in order to retrieve a towel… Oh god, I am not ready to see him yet… I need time to think, plan… Oh god, I can't screw this up! Ok… Don't. Freak. Out. Sarah thought to herself as she bit her lip nervously.
Zondra and Carina! They can help me! Sarah thought before quickly springing into action as she perked up and steeled herself as she stealthily exited the pool area, rushing toward the gym to find her friends.
Zondra and Carina remained hidden watching their friend's entire rather hilarious reaction to seeing Chuck.
Carina and Zondra watched as Sarah broke from her reverie and rushed from the pool area in a fashion that both Zondra and Carina found hugely amusing. Yes, Sarah is both shy and mild mannered, yet the internal strength of Sarah Walker had always impressed her friends. To see her freaking out over a boy, Chuck no less, was both surprising and funny to her best friends.
"Well that settles it; Sarah's mystery guy is Chuck… what are the odds of that?" Zondra says to Carina with a wide grin, just barely holding back a wave of laughs.
"Not sure about the odds, but what a reaction… I love her to death, but her face – priceless. You are a little evil Miss Zondra!" Carina replies with a wide, wry smile.
"Hey, not evil! I was planning to play matchmaker, but when Sarah described her mystery guy I had to be sure it was Chuck, there was no way I was going to risk her getting hurt. This is going to work perfectly though, I guess I will be 'forced' to introduce her to Chuck," Zondra says, putting a comical lilt and air quotes on her use of the term 'forced' (forced… would it be so bad, ha I bet Sarah will suffer through it! Zondra thought to herself).
Gym at the Aquatics Center (London Olympic Venue)
London, United Kingdom
July 23, 2012
8:54 hrs BST
Sarah was so flustered by her near encounter that she ran right past Carina and Zondra, who both looked at each other with mirth in their eyes before breaking into laughter and chasing their friend as she rushed into the gym area. Meanwhile, Sarah searched frantically looking in all directions for her friends.
Zondra and Carina finally caught up with the mildly distraught Sarah Walker and both were in near fits of laughter at the state of their friend. Their mirth was not malicious, rather it was due to the absurdity of the great Sarah Walker freaking out, but both knew they needed to be serious and help calm Sarah down.
"Sarah, ha… You are really fast girl!" Zondra says to Sarah as they catch up to Sarah in the gym.
"Oh, THANK GOD! Zondra, Carina I have been looking everywhere for you! You will not believe this!" Sarah says in a loud voice tinted with both excitement and residual shock.
"Oh I bet we can guess," Carina says with a sly smile.
Sarah raises a perfectly manicured eyebrow at that little comment, but shakes her head, not important, she thinks before continuing. "Ok, you know that guy I met, Chuck? Well he is here… right now – he's a swimmer! I can't believe it," she says with nervous excitement in her voice.
"Neither could we," Zondra replies smoothly through a wide smile.
"Help! I am freaking out… what do I do… I suck at this," Sarah says in a shy tone.
"Don't worry Sarah, when you described the mystery guy I was like – no way! That sounds like Chuck so I made sure he would be here… I was planning on finally introducing you two anyway. I still can't believe you haven't met yet," Zondra says ending with a completive look as she thinks of all those times little things prevented her friends from meeting – sicknesses, travel, family, missed chances…
"Wait you know him? Tell me everything!" Sarah says frantically as she locks her intense blue eyed gaze on her friend.
"Calm down Kiwi," Zondra says laughing.
"Sarah's gaze turns deadly as she seethes with fire in her stunning blue eyes, "Zondra, stop teasing and I told you my father's silly nickname for me in confidence and you promised to never repeat it – now get to it and tell me right bloody now about Chuck!"
"Sorry, Chuck and I are good friends, remember the guy I told you about… you know the one you had to meet, but both of you kept having weird scheduling conflicts or just missed each other?" Zondra says seriously not wanting to incur the wrath of Sarah… still known as the giant blonde she-male to many at Uni due to that incident. Those footy players (Aussie Rule Football) really should have been more respectful… and we really shouldn't have let her have that last roadie beer. Zondra shutters at the memory of the kindest person she knows going all postal on those jackasses. Yep – best not to tease Sarah.
"Zondra?"
Zondra is broken from her memory and shakes her head before continuing. "Oh... right, well that's him," Zondra smiles weakly as Sarah's stares back at her with an open mouthed, shocked expression and an incredulous look.
"No way! Wait he's the guy – the perfect guy you kept telling me about… the only one to successfully reject the seduction of the great Carina Hansen?" Sarah says now looking at Carina.
Carina bristles at Sarah's comment, "Hey, he may not have fallen to my wiles yet, but soon he will!" Carina says confidently.
Sarah has an unknown feeling surge through her – she loves Carina like a sister, but at this moment it takes all her will power not to deck her… what's happening to me? Sarah thinks to herself.
Zondra ignores Carina, but does see the rather dangerous look flash ever so briefly across Sarah's face, "Yep, that's Chuck – he's a perfect gentleman, great friend and he's nice, loyal, kind, smart, funny and despite how he looks he is not a pig… oh and you already know he shot down Carina," Zondra says turning a teasing smile to the thoroughly unimpressed Carina Hansen.
"Wait, he's the one who ruined your perfect record Carina?" Sarah asks rubbing that point in, while being rather impressed at Chuck's will power.
"It is not ruined!" Carina huffs, "I will be right back I need a break from the Carina bashing," she says with a good natured laugh before making her way to the locker room.
Once Carina left Sarah had a terrifying thought. "Wait… no he's not gay is he? I knew it, he's too good to be true," Sarah says almost breaking down into tears.
"HA! Chuck, gay – not a chance, we are friends, we talk and I know for a fact he likes women… he is just very selective. Trust me, so no need for tears." Zondra tells Sarah in a confident supportive voice, though a tinge of humor seeps into her voice at the ridiculousness of Sarah's spiraling.
Sarah exhales audibly before smiling once more. "Ok, now tell me everything,"
But the two friends are interrupted by a jubilant call, "HEY Zondra!"
Sarah freezes like a deer in the headlights, her expression one of shock and a hint of fear.
"Hey, Chuck I am so glad to see you!" Zondra replies as she hugs Chuck, who has changed from his swim suit and now wears a pair of blue gym shorts and a white Team USA T-shirt.
Meanwhile, Sarah stands frozen and out of Chucks view obstructed by a piece of exercise equipment. Sarah looks on at Chuck whose back now to her.
Zondra smiles at him, "Chuck, I wanted to officially introduce you to a very good friend of mine."
"Ah the mysterious and illusive Sarah Walker? Ok, when?"
"How about now?" Zondra retorts as her mirth escapes in a choked laugh.
"Huh?" Chuck replies with a quizzical expression on his face.
Zondra looks past Chuck and used her eyes and a curt nod of her head to communicate and push Sarah to say something. Sarah reluctantly receives the message and summons her courage.
"Hi Chuck… it's nice to meet you… again… officially." Sarah says shyly as Chuck whips around. His eyes finally set on the beautiful blonde in her gold and green track pants and white tank top. Her hands are linked behind her back and her foot is toeing the ground adorably as she bites her lip nervously.
"Sarah?" Chuck replies in a shocked and almost strained voice.
Sarah stares intently into his eyes as his face transforms from utter shock to utter delight and excitement.
"SARAH! Oh my god I never thought I would see you again after I screwed up at the airport and forgot to ask for your number!" Chuck happily replies before losing himself as he moves to Sarah and lifts her into a tight hug, lifting her off her feet as he spins her in pure excitement.
Sarah is surprised by his speed and the hug, but as he spins her she feels safe in his arms and lets out a delighted squeal as she smiles brightly.
Meanwhile, Zondra looks on surprised by the scene before her.
Chuck realizing what he has done quickly returns Sarah to the ground before offering a shy smile. Sarah's heart is still beating a mile a minute from her contact with Chuck. She smiles brightly though shyly back at him.
Zondra looks from Chuck to Sarah and back to Chuck before bursting into fits of laughter, while both Chuck and Sarah blush as they avert their eyes to the floor.
Both look up at the same time and once again are lost in each other's eyes. Chuck recovers first, "Sorry Sarah… I was just so excited - I completely spaced out at the airport, I didn't make the connection between your name and Zondra's stories about her mysterious Aussie friend. And I was really worried I would never see you again… that would be… tragic…" Chuck says as he trails off, feeling very vulnerable.
Sarah quietly responds in a shy voice, "Same… I was so caught up… and when I was in the cab I realized, well the same – I can't believe you're a swimmer!"
"Ya I can't believe you are too! You said you were an athlete, but I never thought we would be in the same event!" Chuck replies with excitement and a little more confidence in his voice.
Meanwhile…
Carina had returned from the locker room and had a bottle of water in her hands as she wandered into the gym in her blue tight spandex pants and tight yellow Team Sweden top that left little to the imagination and left her midriff bare.
Taking a sip of water Carina looks up to see Zondra and Sarah talking to a young man. Carina almost immediately recognized Chuck and completely forgot her previous conversation about how much Sarah liked Chuck. She did not mean to be a bad friend, but her lustful thoughts and desire to finally break the man who had yet to give in to her rather impressive seduction skills clouded her better judgment.
Discarding her water, Carina smiled predatorily and began a run towards her prey. As Chuck chatted amiably with Sarah, Carina pounced… literally.
Carina leaped into Chuck's arms, wrapping her lithe frame around him as she linked and locked her arms and legs around Chuck's strong, muscular torso.
"Hey Chucky! You miss me!" Carina says excitedly before planting a kiss on Chuck – he turned just in time so Carina's kiss fell on his cheek.
Chuck blushed through his shock at Carina's advances, thinking to himself, what is it with Sarah's friends jumping on me and giving me hugs… Chuck thought honestly perplexed at his effect on women, though Zondra's hugs were platonic.
Although Chuck was feeling tremendously embarrassed and awkward he was able to respond to Carina stiffly, "Hey Carina, nice to see you again…" as he gets Carina back to her feet, though she maintains contact with him, much to Chuck's chagrin.
As Carina clung to Chuck, Zondra observed the interaction before looking at Sarah. Zondra could see the anger rise in Sarah's face as she clinched her fists so tightly they went stark white as she began to shake with rage.
To make matters worse, Carina began talking rather sexily to Chuck in order to seduce him. Not good, Zondra thought to herself… Carina doesn't even realize how angry her little attack on Chuck is making Sarah – oh no… If I don't do something Carina isn't going to be able to walk let alone compete next week… think Zondra think…
As Zondra frantically tries to find a solution to the Sarah bomb that appears seconds away from firing, Carina, being completely oblivious continues her seduction.
"So Chuck, are you finally ready to take me back to your room… for some… fun," Carina says as she licks her lips and stares provocatively at Chuck. "Remember what I told you when we first met my handsome American…"
Flashback… (Party after the 2010 World Championships)
Zondra spied her good friend Chuck from across the room and called and waved for him to come over.
When he made it over to Zondra, she smiled and gave him a quick hug.
"Hey Chuck, fun party huh! Oh, this is my good friend Carina, we both went to Sydney University together. She's from Sweden and competes in some of the same events I do… I still love her even though I am forced to beat her in the pool," Zondra finishes with a wry smile.
Carina scoffs at Zondra, but maintains complete eye contact with her prey.
"Hey Carina it is nice to meet you," Chuck says with a kind and charming smile.
Carina mistook this as interest from Chuck. Carina smiled widely before responding, "Likewise Chuck, you did very well today at the competition and you look absolutely delicious," Carina said as she looked up and down Chuck's body as if he was a piece of meat.
"Cough… well… um… Thank you?" Chuck responds weakly, defiantly not used to such forward women. "Wow Carina, your English is impeccable." Chuck finished trying to be kind to the young woman before him.
Carina grinned salaciously, while locking a penetrating gaze upon him. "Thank you Chuck, I happen to know 7 languages… us Scandinavians are cunning linguists… I could demonstrate for you sometime… in private," she said while licking her lips in an unbelievably sex way, while raising a perfect eyebrow.
"Gulp…" was the only response poor Chuck could muster to that verbal assault and not so subtle double entendre.
End Flashback…
Chuck looks at Carina with a tinge of terror in his eyes – not prepared for such an onslaught from Miss Hansen, especially while he's desperately trying to get to know Sarah better.
Zondra, coming up with a plan and seeing an opening interrupts and grabs Carina.
"Hey Chuck, I need to speak to Carina for a second, you were going to jog on the treadmill right?" Zondra asked knowingly. "Why don't you and Sarah jog side-by-side on those two treadmills and chat… get to know each other… while Carina and I have a quick chat in the locker room.
Chuck smiles at Zondra as relief washes across his face, "Sounds great Zondra… that is if Sarah is interested…" Chuck finished, turning to Sarah with a hopeful look.
Sarah had just been able to reign in her rage before Chuck looked at her. Sarah was thankful for Zondra's interruption… I was about a second away from seriously damaging my oversexed friend, Sarah thought to herself.
Sarah smiles widely at Chuck and his offer, "I would love to Chuck… if that's Ok with you," Sarah finishes with a shy smile as she looks to her feet before staring once more into his beautiful brown eyes.
"Perfect," Chuck responds with a wide smile as he stretches his arm out to guide Sarah to the treadmills.
Zondra smiles, "Great, we will be back in a bit – have fun!" Before grabbing Carina by the arm and dragging her to the locker room.
Locker Room at the Aquatics Center (London Olympic Venue)
London, United Kingdom
July 23, 2012
9:09 hrs BST
Carina stares daggers at Zondra as she is pulled into the locker room.
"Zondra, what the hell – I was busy if you hadn't noticed!" Carina says in a rather unimpressed tone.
"Oh, I noticed Carina – What the hell were you doing in there?" Carina opened her mouth but was quickly cut off by Zondra's rant. "I know he rejected you and you have something to prove because you have never been rejected – I get it. But Carina, remember before… our conversation with Sarah?" Zondra says tilting her head toward Carina, pushing her friend to respond.
"Of course, we were talking about Sarah's mystery guy… and… Crap! It was Chuck wasn't it… oh no… she really likes him. I… I completely forgot when I saw him…" Carina says frantically as she finally realizes her mistake.
"Yes Sarah really likes him… I have never seen her like this and you would have noticed that had you not been so distracted by Chuck. I don't think she has ever felt this way; she's never had that look or talked about anyone like that back in university or since then. You need to let Chuck go, he has made his choice very clear and it may hurt your pride, but it has to be done. Otherwise you will hurt Sarah and I really don't think you want to do that. Despite your little show in there, not cool by the way, I know you love Sarah just as much as I do. And I really don't think you want to end up like Amy… there is no better friend than Sarah and her friendship is not worth losing over your pride or a need to take something she wants. We need to help her… help them, they both kind of suck at relationships so they will need us." Zondra finished, sucking in a deep breath after her little speech.
Carina blanches visibly, nearly sick as she replays her little performance back in her mind, finally realizing how hurtful it was to her friend.
"You're right Zondra… I don't know what I was thinking, well you know the effect hot guys can have on me," Carina says with a little contrite smile on her face.
"Ya I know... don't worry and as long as you back off I know Sarah will forgive you – she probably doesn't even understand why she was so pissed at you while watching you and Chuck," Zondra says.
"Was she really angry?" Carina asks with a cringe and a worried expression.
"Oh Carina, if I hadn't pulled you out of there you were about five seconds away from facing the She-males wrath!"
"OH GOD! You're kidding… she wouldn't do that to me… right?" Carina replies with a bit of terror in her voice.
"It's best not to think about that, but if you are even thinking about chasing Chuck, you really might want to rethink that plan." Zondra says, leveling a powerful gaze at Carina.
"Got it – leave Sarah and her boy toy alone!" Carina emphatically replies.
Carina then has a thoughtful expression grace her model like features, "Huh, she really does seem happier… since meeting Chuck I mean. I would never hurt her… internationally… I might be tempted to take what she wants, but after that bitch Amy… no way! You're absolutely right – we need to help, so she doesn't freak out… she needs us," Carina finishes thoughtfully with a little nod of her head.
Zondra and Carina sneak a peek from the locker room in order to see Chuck and Sarah, who are both still jogging, carefree and laughing as they chat amiably.
Carina and Zondra smile at the cute scene before them.
"So you know Chuck best Zondra – are they a good fit?" Carina asks curiously as she watches the potential couple.
"Defiantly, but they both suck at relationships and are both really shy… despite… well looking like that," Zondra says pointing at the exercising pair. "They both are kind, loving and loyal people… and kinda nerdy too… so ya, they are basically perfect for each other."
"So let's help!" Carina happily responds.
"Yes, but we have to be subtle – we can't push too hard, we really need to help Sarah through her doubts and fears."
"Ok," Carina replies with an excited look.
Gym at the Aquatics Center (London Olympic Venue)
London, United Kingdom
July 23, 2012
9:48 hrs BST
Zondra and Carina made their way from the locker room after their heart-to-heart, now both on the same page… with Carina now under control. They worked out on a few of the exercise stations away from the treadmills that were still close enough to allow them to be unseen as they covertly observed Chuck and Sarah's interactions.
Finally, after 20 minutes they decided to approach Chuck and Sarah. Despite having been running for about 40 minutes, both Chuck and Sarah were talking and gesturing animatedly, with Chuck making Sarah laugh for probably the hundredth time since they had been talking.
Zondra clears her throat, a grin gracing her features.
Both Chuck and Sarah look over at Zondra and Carina with a smile before again looking at each other and without a word they both shut off their machines and jump to the floor, in complete synchronicity.
"Hey you two! Having fun," Zondra asks with a knowing look.
"Absolutely!" Chuck replies happily.
"Too right!" Sarah responds with an excited smile.
Chuck was about to speak when his watch alarm sounded. He clicked the alarm off and looked at the three girls, "Hey I am really sorry, but I have to run and meet my family and then I have a relay team meeting."
Sarah's face falls, but Chuck does not see that as she quickly recovers and schools her expression.
As Chuck prepares to leave he stops and turns to the three women, "Um… Sarah, I have pool time scheduled tomorrow at the same time for training and you… all of you are welcome to come and share the pool, you know extra time in the pool always helps," Chuck finished with a shy smile as he looks expectantly at Sarah.
Sarah blushes at his thoughtfulness, "I would love to Chuck – I'll see you tomorrow."
"Oh and Zondra has all my info, phone and email and stuff… she can give it to you or we can exchange info tomorrow… if that's Ok…" Chuck asks rather nervously.
Sarah beams, "That's perfect! I mean I'd like that… see you later Chuck!"
Chuck responds with a megawatt Bartowski grin before saying "Bye Sarah, see you at 8:15AM… oh and bye Zondra and Carina," Chuck calls out distracted by Sarah as he makes his way out of the gym with a silly grin plastered on his face.
Sarah had a large grin on her face long after Chuck had left the gym. She was so happy as she worked out with her friends. Towards the end of their workout Zondra went to grab extra bottles of water for the group and Carina decided that this was the right time to apologize to Sarah.
Carina walked over to the still smiling Sarah and asks, "Hey Sarah, can I talk with you for a second?"
Sarah's smile falters briefly as she remembers Carina's actions, but being a good friend she decides to give Carina a chance, "Sure Carina, what's up?"
"OK, I really need to apologize for my behavior earlier."
Sarah decides to play dumb, "What behavior?" She asks innocently.
"Sarah please don't torture me… you know what behavior – I got so caught up in chasing Chuck because he rejected me that I completely forgot that he was your mystery guy… you can play dumb all you want but we know you really like him. And… and I was being a really selfish friend… I'm sorry, I really did not mean to hurt you… but what I did was not cool. I promise it won't happen again… and did I say I was sorry?" Carina finished with a contrite look and an exasperated and worried sigh.
Sarah smiles brightly at her friend and before Carina can react Sarah pulls her into a bear hug, "Thanks Carina, I know that wasn't easy for you but I really appreciate it… I don't know if I could handle another friend taking a guy I like…"
"You don't have to worry, we are both here for you," Carina says with a smile.
"Thanks, well I recon' we should find Zondra and get all showered up and head back to the Athlete's village, ya?"
"Sounds good… Kiwi," Carina says with a laugh as Sarah throws a towel at her head as the pair head off to find Zondra.
Pool at the Aquatics Center (London Olympic Venue)
London, United Kingdom
July 24, 2012
8:00 hrs BST
Sarah was so excited about finding Chuck and also because of his invite that she was barely able to fall into a fitful sleep the night before. She eagerly awaited the morning to come for her… date? Well it was at least her training session with Chuck. She awoke the next morning excited to see Chuck and completed her morning routine very rapidly and rushed off to the Aquatics Center. As a result, she arrived early and well before the predetermined meeting time. Her giddiness shone through as she looked from side to side, her blonde hair flowing as she nervously toed the ground with one foot as she searched for her Chuck.
The Aquatics Center was bustling with activity as athletes, coaches, trainers and IOC personnel worked to prepare for the Games. However, as many eyes fell on Sarah and her beauty, she had only one person she was searching for. Not finding him as she entered the Center, nor finding him next to the pool area, she was unable to suppress her disappointment (and inner fears). She pushes down her demons and decides that a dip in the pool will quiet her concerns as she eagerly awaits Chuck. She came prepared and quickly striped out of Team track suit, leaving her in a crimson red swim suit that hugged her athletic and voluptuous body. She would not admit it, even under torture, but she decided to wear the noticeably non-Team Australia swimmers in order to impress Chuck after the 'impression' he made on Sarah exiting the pool yesterday.
She dove into the cool refreshing water and began to swim, finally at home in what felt like her native environment. After swimming briefly she heard footsteps approaching and guessed it was Chuck. Suddenly a cunning and predatory look that had never before crossed her delicate features appeared. She dove under the water, out of sight – she was going to make an impression on Chuck… payback if you will.
Meanwhile…
Chuck had also been very eager and nervous about the swim time with Sarah, really hoping she would not stand him up and that he would not embarrass himself.
He would have been early to the Aquatics Center, but he was caught in traffic and as a result arrived on time, despite the hour he awoke.
As he rushed to the pool he searched in vain for his beautiful companion, the vision that began haunting his dreams after only one day. Unable to find her his face falls, "Well, I guess she changed her mind… it's not like someone that perfect would like me anyway…"
As Chuck spiraled in his own self doubt, without warning Sarah breached the surface of the water, quickly attracting the now frozen Chuck Bartowski's attention. She saw Chuck and began slowly climbing out of the pool, her toned, athletic bogy glistening and dripping with water. She ran her fingers through her soaking hair, rustling it and pushing it to the side before squeezing the water from her long blonde tresses.
Chuck, completely frozen, watched in complete awe at the beautiful and sexy sight before him. As she began walking toward him Chuck's mind began playing the pool dream sequence from National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation. Chuck was lost in his dream land as his gentleman side battled his inner cave man over how the dream sequence should end…
But he was snapped from his reverie as her stormy blue eyes locked upon him. The power of her penetrating gaze nearly caused Chuck to faint or swallow his tongue as he saw her swimsuit… not provocative, but sexy, while still being modest and functional.
Just as Chuck was about to regain his composure to the point speech would become a possibility, Sarah unleashed the big guns as she winked at him with a sly, sexy smile.
Chuck's mouth dropped open involuntarily as he yelped, "HI YO!"
Sarah beamed at him, "Hey Chuck! Good to see you." Secretly she was very pleased with his overtly positive reaction as she thought… well at least I'm not the only one to react to the other in their swimmers.
Chuck coughed and gulped like a fish out of water as he tries valiantly not to swallow his tongue due to the onslaught of the blonde temptress before him… though secretly he was thanking the big guy up stairs, or whoever made this moment possible.
"G'morning Chuck… you Ok?" Sarah asks with a knowing, wry smile.
"S-S-Sarah… Oh, um… Good morning!" Chuck finally responds as he smiles nervously at Sarah.
As Chuck returns his gaze to Sarah, she feels a sudden surge of shyness overcome her due to his piercing look. She looks at her feet before beginning, "So… uh, do you have to change into your swimmers or…"
"Nope, just give me a sec," Chuck says as he strips down to his blue Team USA Speedo.
It was now Sarah's turn to become flustered at the sight of Chuck's well muscled form.
"Shall we?" Chuck says with a large smile as he gestures to the pool.
"Ya, let the fun begin! Sarah responds with a matching smile.
After training for half an hour the serious practice devolved into fun playing, which devolved further into childish play as the pair splashed about carefree. Neither of the world class athletes would have had it any other way as they laughed, splashed and giggled. Sarah squealed in delight… and Chuck let out an occasional rather girlish scream, though he would deny it later.
Eventually they made their way to the edge of pool to just talk about meaningless things.
"So Sarah, you came here with your Mom? Any other family or friends come with you?"
Sarah's look went contemplative for a second (that Chuck caught) before her smile returned, "Just my Ma and me. My Dad… he's kinda busy with work so he couldn't come," she says with a little disappointment bleeding through that Chuck easily caught. She continues, "My friends as here – Zondra, Carina and Alex - she's my trainer."
Chuck smiles at Sarah thinking… Thank god she is so open; it would be torture to like someone who couldn't tell you anything real about them.
"I get that – my Mom and Sister are here, but my Dad couldn't make it – he has a company to run." Chuck says with a little forlorn feeling sneaking into his voice.
Sarah felt bad for Chuck, but also felt an instant connection as both missed their fathers as they were preparing to compete on the world stage.
"So Chuck, what do like to do with your time?" Sarah asks curiously.
"Well swimming is clearly and obsession," he says giving Sarah a wry, knowing look, "But I am really kind of a nerd, you know? I am a big fan of Sci-Fi movies, comics and videogames…" Chuck says before freezing. Oh no… I did not just tell the pretty girl that I am a giant nerd, well this was fun while it lasted Chuck thinks to himself before continuing in hopes Sarah might forget his nerdy hobbies. "I have a computer science and engineering degree, so I like electronics in general," Chuck finishes with a weak smile on his face as he embarrassedly looks away.
As he looks across the pool he misses Sarah's face as it lights up as he tells her that he is a nerd. She thinks to herself – He's a nerd like me! Hot, nice and a nerd – I really didn't think they made perfect guys like that!
"That's awesome Chuck, I'm more of a music nerd myself – I play the violin and studied classical music at Sydney University… where did you go to Uni by the way?"
"Stanford," Chuck replies simply without a hint of arrogance or excess pride.
"Wow, Stanford… That's impressive Chuck!" Sarah says once again thinking, OK so he's smart, kind, funny, hot and a nerd – yep he's perfect.
"Enough about me, so music – that is so cool that you studied it at school, do you still play? I would love to hear you play some time… I bet it's… beautiful…" He says before his voice softens and trails off.
Sarah blushes and looks away shyly, "I'd like that, but only if you show me your video games, computers and that comic and Sci-Fi stuff… deal?"
Chuck smiles widely, beaming at Sarah, "Deal, I'd love that!"
As they look into each other's eyes the moment quickly becomes intimate as Chuck has the overwhelming urge to kiss her.
Sarah, looking into his deep brown eyes desperately wants to kiss him, but is too unsure to take the leap despite her fluttering heart… ugh I wish I wasn't so nervous and bad at this.
They drift closer without realizing it and just as Chuck is about to give into his desire to meet her lips, a loud beeping is heard – breaking the intimate moment.
"Oh, that's my mobile," Sarah says as she climbs out of the pool and walks to her discarded clothes and mobile phone. Chuck tries to stay respectful as he watches her exit the pool and walk towards her phone, but he is given a view of Sarah's immense beauty in her red bathing suit – it would be hard for anyone with a pulse to ignore such a sight.
After quickly checking her text message Sarah turns back to Chuck, "It's my Mom, she just wants to check in... is it Ok if I go to the lockers and give her a call? Then we can hit the gym…" Sarah asks hopefully.
"Ya that is perfect, I should check in with my little entourage too," Chuck says as he chuckles to himself… ya Morgan is a one man-child entourage indeed.
Sarah smiles in thanks and heads off to the locker room for a little privacy to make her call.
Chuck pulls himself from the water, still lost in the previous moments with Sarah. He walks over and grabs a towel and begins to dry off his hair as he walks toward his discarded clothes. His view is obstructed by the towel and he inadvertently collides with another man.
"Sorry didn't see you there," Chuck replies honestly.
The man looks Chuck up and down and sneers, "Bloody Yank! Watch where you're goin' there!" the muscular man with a British accent arrogantly replies.
Chuck stops and looks at the man, confused at the man's hostile response. Hum… he sorta looks like Superman… but with very little personality…
"Uh, Ok… I'm Chuck Bartowsi – Team USA," Chuck says as he politely stretches his arm out to shake the fellow swimmers hand.
"Shaw, Daniel Shaw – the best the UK has to offer," As he once again sneers and looks at Chuck as if he is some worthless amateur, refusing to shake Chuck's hand. "Ha look at you, you are going to be embarrassed, you and your American Team – you're weak! The lot of ya are weak!"
Chuck looks on in shock thinking, what a wooden jerk… and that banter… it's just sad – like a bad spy movie villain. And unless he is really having an off day he has the personality of a 2x4!
Chuck just shakes his head, "Wow, well I will keep that under advisement and I will be sure to tell my Team how unworthy we are… thanks for that by the way – great sportsmanship," Chuck says with a significantly sarcastic tone and an incredulous look. Hehe it is fun being sarcastic to someone other than Casey.
Chuck starts to walk away before saying over his shoulder, "Good luck to you by the way," before continuing and adding under his breath "You're going to need it because there is no way in hell I'm losing to you, jackass."
Gym at the Aquatics Center (London Olympic Venue)
London, United Kingdom
July 24, 2012
9:25 hrs BST
Chuck makes his way to the large gym area and waits for Sarah while doing some stretching in order to prepare for additional exercise. As he loosens up he looks around hoping to see the Aussie blonde vision, but instead of seeing her beautiful face he sees an unwelcome sight as his face falls, "Oh god – not him!"
The man smugly walks toward Chuck, "Chuck Ol' boy what 'ya doing at the Olympics? Surely they wouldn't let a second rate competitor like yourself participate!"
"Bryce Larkin," Chuck spat "I didn't know you qualified for Ireland." Chuck says unhappy as he thinks; great now I have to deal with this douche as well as that jerk Shaw.
"Of course I qualified I am the best after all," Bryce's reply drips with arrogance and hate. "So Chucky boy, I hear you've been seen with Miss Walker? She's too good for ya lad… she would be an acceptable conquest for me though, I'll tell you how she is when I'm done with her," Bryce finished in a smarmy tone.
Chuck's face flashes with rage as his blood begins to boil at Bryce's blatant disrespect. Now, Chuck is not a violent man by nature, however, Bryce's disrespectful words about Sarah nearly set him into a violent fit to defend her honor… I may not know where things are going between me and Sarah, but she will be a friend no matter what and NO ONE talks to my friends like that Chuck thinks angrily.
"Stay away from her Bryce – she is a nice person who deserves to be left alone and not be bothered by a jerk like you," Chuck icily tells Bryce.
"Ah, it will be fun taking another girl from ya Chuck."
"Wait aren't you with Jill?" Chuck asks confused.
"Why of course, but I am a star and just so much man that we have a rather open relationship – ya can't tie a perfect man like me down, so I take what I want, whether Jill knows about it or not is really not my concern."
"God you're a parenthetic little man – I'm warning you though Bryce," Chuck says as he walks away from his nemesis. As he leaves the area in search of Sarah or his friends he thinks to himself… great, first Shaw and now the douche Larkin… I though the Games were about sportsmanship, friendship and having fun, while honoring and representing your country – clearly that's not the case for Larkin and Shaw… oh well… I need to find some good people those two make my skin crawl more than having to deal with those Buymorons Jeffster after a bender… at least the Buymore was only a summer job. Chuck shakes off those thoughts – better go find Sarah…
AN2: So I hope you enjoyed that – yes I went there and added the 2x4 Shaw – I have big plans for both Shaw and Larkin so trust me this is not going to a bad place - I had a plan for each, which has changed a little – I think the just deserts for one will be very well received in Chapter 12 or so! So keep the faith there will be drama, but no serious Angst (especially PLI). Also, Charismas Vacation pool scene – if you have not seen the movie… well you will not get the reference… so watch or Google it! It is also my little Chevy Chase (Ted Roark) reference – and well it is a perfect fit for this scene! And Jeffster will not be in this (I really don't think) but the reference fit, thus in this universe Chuck worked at Buymore the summer before Stanford. And sorry to my British and Irish friends – I used their last names to determine nationality (so no grudges!). Also, don't hate Carina – from here on she will be a huge ally to Charah. On the show I find Carina a rather complex character (though she comes off as one-dimensional due to her seduction side), particularly in her relationship with Sarah – Carina is both an ally and a threat at times(relationship with Chuck wise) – so I wanted to show that here – hopefully I got it right.
Thanks again!