"Chuck vs the Aussie"
AN1: So, there were less viewers for the last chapter, which is a little odd – I think it was the best so far… so if you don't remember a chapter of basically all Chuck and Sarah interactions – then you missed Ch 6! And don't worry – I love viewers and reviews, but I will never hold back or abandon a story because of - as Casey would say 'lady feelings' over not hitting some desired number. Besides, I have gotten awesome feedback so far! This will be a plot moving chapter as the media aspect and the drama aspect of this story really come to the forefront, so there is a lot going on here. So there will be lots of plot and even a few nice Chuck and Sarah moments the unofficial romance continues. Ch 8 and 9 will be the transition to official romance and then by Ch 10 we will start the Games – yes this Olympic story will actually involve the Games… what you doubted me after 9 chapters without the Games starting? So clearly I like build up – but trust me I think it will all be worth it!
Disclaimers – I don't own Chuck or the Olympics (additional disclaimers in AN2).
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. And thanks to coreymon77 for catching a spelling error last chapter - it has been fixed!
Chapter 7: Interviews and Enemies
Chuck's Apartment at the Athlete's Village
London, United Kingdom
July 25, 2012
6:40 hrs BST
~o~
Chuck awoke with a splitting headache as his vision blurred and the sounds round him muffled as he tried and failed to clear his head. Morgan stood over him, but as odd images flashed over his eyes he could only hear the muffled and distorted, "Chuck! Chuck… dude… dude are you Ok?"
As he lay on the floor he looked around and thought: what the hell am I doing in Burbank? I was in London… with Sarah last night… Oh god no it was all a dream! No! No, No, No, No, NO!
Later…
After the date debacle, the rooftop and then the whole bomb thing he found himself on the beach… his beach. He thought to himself, well at least this is still real… and at least Sarah is still here… even if she is a spy and doesn't know me…
Sarah sat down next to him on the beach and in his head he swore he heard the Shins song from last night playing… if that was remotely real... as she told him, "Trust me Chuck."
~o~
With a massive start and a huge gasp Chuck awoke covered in sweat in his small apartment. He looked around from side to side, completely disoriented. He thought fearfully, where am? As the sleep faded and he regained his bearings he realized where he was – London. It wasn't a dream… well the whole spy thing was a dream… a very vivid and disturbing dream. As he thought a smile came to his face, "Then this is real… last night with Sarah!"
Suddenly he had a brilliant thought and grabbed his laptop from the desk in the apartment and began typing furiously. He had been coding a game since Stanford and had all the action and adventure scenes complete, but for the life of him he could never find a plot to tie his masterpiece together. His dream had just given him a plot… and a title: 'THE INTERSECT.'
As he looked at his watch he realized he had to get ready for a little training before his interview with NBC Sports this afternoon. Just as he was about to log off and save his work he had one final thought. After twenty more minutes of typing he saved his work and left the apartment for the Aquatics Center. As he left the apartment, his laptop showed his final effort with the main female lead for his game now roughly rendered and rotating on the screen. Her black cat suit and beautiful form gave way to her stunning blue eyes and long blonde hair. Above the avatar was a simply typed name: SARAH WALKER CIA.
Sarah's Apartment at the Athlete's Village
London, United Kingdom
July 25, 2012
6:40 hrs BST
As the morning sun reflected lazily through the windows and blinds of her apartment, Sarah awoke snuggled in her sheets with a large smile on her face as she let out a large contented sigh… her alarm clock would not die this day.
She climbed out of bed and began her morning routine as she happily hummed Paganini's violin concerto no. 1 in D major, one of her favorites while studying music at university.
As she completed her routine she was roused from her reverie by a loud knock at her door. She quickly glided to the door and opened it to find her Mother's smiling face.
"G'Morning baby girl! Sleep well?" Emma asks as she enters Sarah's little Athlete's Village apartment.
Sarah cannot help the smile as she answers, "Yes, I had a great sleep and an even better night."
"Well then, let me make you some brekkie and you can tell me all about it!" Emma says enthusiastically as she sets off to make breakfast for her daughter. Sarah is too busy thinking of her wonderful night to realize or honestly care that she will soon face an interrogation from her curious mother.
As Emma finishes preparing a fruit plate and some eggs and toast before beginning her questioning. "So Sarah what were you up to last night? You were good I hope?" Emma asks with a motherly gaze demanding answers.
"Well I met up with Alex and her date… and her date's friend. We talked, danced and had a laugh… it was fun. I didn't drink or do anything naughty, I would not risk exhausting myself or god forbid an IOC ban before I even get to compete!" Sarah says resolutely.
"Good to hear, I am so glad you went and had fun," Emma says as she ponders her next question.
Just as Emma is about to ask about the 'friend' of Alex's date there was a loud, boisterous knock at the door. Sarah sprang up and answered the door and was nearly bowled over as Zondra rushed in excitedly.
"So is he here? What happened! Spill Walker!" Zondra asks rapidly not realizing Emma is in the room. After seeing Emma, Zondra blushes slightly before awkwardly dropping her head and saying, "Sorry Mrs. Walker… didn't see you there…"
"Pay it no mind Zondra and please for the last time call me Emma… and quit making me feel so old will you!" Emma says with a teasing smile. "I was just interrogating my daughter about last night and it seems you know something I don't… so as Zondra said – spill Sarah!"
Sarah looks from Zondra to Emma's teasing faces before letting out a loud huff, "Fine!"
Sarah sighs before starting, "Ok, so I went to meet Alex and her date. When I got there she introduced me to her guy… his name is Morgan. And then she introduced me to Morgan's best friend…" Sarah says trailing off with a whimsical expression on her face.
Zondra can't hold in her delight, "It was Chuck wasn't it!"
Sarah looks exasperatedly at Zondra, "My story, but yes if you must know it was Chuck… I see you've talked to Alex."
Emma scrunches her brow, "Wait, not the boy from the airport that Zondra introduced you to?"
Zondra lets out a strangled laugh of delight, "Yep! The very same!"
Emma laughs and can't help a large grin that takes over her face, "Well, I'll be! What are the odds?" Emma muses.
"I know!" Zondra replies knowingly as Sarah gapes at her friend and Mom as they talk as if she's not in the room.
"Hey, still here you know!" Sarah replies shortly before instantly regretting her decision to interject as both ladies turn their gazes upon her demanding more of the story with their inquisitive expressions.
Sarah sighs again, "Ok, so we were introduced again and had a laugh about that… it was funny! So we grabbed a soda… I may or may not have traumatized a bartender over a rude comment he made… not important. So we sat and talked… it was fun. Oh, thanks by the way for getting him to ask about the footie fight Zondra," Sarah says with a stern expression.
"Hey, it is a great story! And tell me with a straight face that Chuck didn't love it!"
"Fine, he loved it and he didn't run for the hills so I forgive you," Sarah replies with a smile.
"Then what?" Emma asks curiously.
"Well, we went and watched the band and talked about our interviews today… it was nice to chat about it with someone who is dealing with the same media garbage, you know?" Sarah says contemplatively.
"Anyway, he asked me to dance and it was so much fun! He was a little shy, but cute as we danced. Then they played one of my, well our, favorite songs so we had a little slow dance… and when it ended…" Sarah trailed off, lost once again in the memory as she touched her lips.
Zondra giggled and pulled out her phone, "And then she did this," Zondra says as she shows Emma the picture of Chuck and Sarah's embrace.
"ZONDRA!" Sarah yelled embarrassed by the photo. "How did you get that… wait don't tell me, it was little Alex! Oh she is in so much trouble!" Sarah says as she seethes in her seat, violently grabbing a strawberry before tossing into her mouth and chewing rather angrily.
"Calm down Kiwi," her Mother says with a raised eyebrow.
"Don't be mad at Alex. She called me after she found out how you and Chuck met and we kinda exchanged info and she sent me the picture later that night." Zondra tells Sarah. "So then what happened?"
"Well, we said goodnight to Morgan and Alex and he took me home and walked me to the door. He was very respectful and gave me a hug and I kissed him on the cheek as we said our goodnights… and that was it," Sarah says making it clear nothing else had happened.
Both Emma and Zondra smile, but chose not to push Sarah, yet.
"Ok, get ready Sarah. You have some training and then the interview with Nine Network about the coming Games.
"Fine… but I really don't want to do the interview… can you get me out of it?
"Not this time baby girl, you will be fine so don't worry… Ok?" Emma consoles her unhappy daughter.
"Ok, I'll do it, but I still hate this whole media thing," Sarah says with a huff and a cute little pout.
St. James's Hotel and Club (Ellie and Mary's Hotel)
London, United Kingdom
July 25, 2012
9:00 hrs BST
After a quick workout, Chuck caught a Hackney cab to his Mom and Sister's hotel to have a little breakfast (beyond his pre-workout energy bar/snack) before he had to head off to his interview.
As Ellie, team Bartowski's nutritional guru, made breakfast she was beaming from her night out with Captain Awesome. Chuck entered the small kitchenette and grabbed for a box of Fruit Loops, but was unceremoniously rejected by a slap to the hand by his sister.
Chuck yelped, "What was that for Ellie?"
"None of that sugary crap for you! I am the boss and you are on a strict diet as we gear up for the Games," Ellie says in her no nonsense doctor tone, while she finishes his breakfast shake in the blender. "Here, drink this," she says as she hands him the goopy mixture that Chuck eyes as if it were some strange alien life form as he cringes at the thought of ingesting Ellie's 'creation.'
"Um… no offense Ellie, but this does not look edible… at all…" he says as he trails off, fearful of the wrath of Ellie.
Ellie just smiles at him wryly, "It is perfectly edible and it is a high energy, nutritional protein shake that will help you with energy and will keep your body going. It will also help your body repair as you get to your later events where you start facing exhaustion. Now drink little brother or I will force feed you!" Ellie says with a laugh that doesn't quite convince Chuck that she is not actually serious.
As Chuck smells the mysterious mixture he looks at Ellie, "This looks like something Awesome would make."
"Yep, he is quite fond of these," Ellie says before blushing at her little slip-up.
Chuck smiles widely at his sister, "You like him don't you?"
Ellie sputters, "What? No… maybe? It's just… he's different, you know?"
"He's… Awesome?" Chuck replies wryly.
"Yep!" Ellie says with a large smile. "Now bottoms up little brother.
As Chuck finishes his 'breakfast' with only a slightly sour expression, Mary makes her way from the bedroom.
"So Charles, what were you kids up to last night?" Mary asks curiously.
"Well I introduced Ellie to Devon and I think it is fair to say they hit it off," Chuck says before smiling at his now blushing sister.
"Anyway, I met Morgan's date Alex and it turns out I know her friend… it was Sarah," Chuck says hoping to avoid further questions as he takes a sip of orange juice.
Ellie looks perplexed, "When did this happen… wait, you mean THE Sarah? She is the one you were introduced to… again?"
"Yep, it was a really funny coincidence," Chuck says before telling his story of that night to his family.
Once finished Ellie looked at Chuck with an appraising look and asks, "You really like this girl… don't you?" It was phrased as a question, but Ellie's expression and tone made this more of a statement than a question.
Chuck looks up from the table, "Yes, I do," he says simply.
Mary then jumps in, "That is wonderful Charles; just don't let it become a distraction. We should get going to your interview, you can't be late," Mary says as she ushers her children on.
"So I guess trying to get out of this interview is not going to work," Chuck asks with a faux charming smile.
"Nope, "Mary replies. "Let's get going!"
As Chuck wanders down to the Hotel lobby he thinks, well I hope Sarah has more luck avoiding the media than I am…
NBC Sports London Studio Area at the Olympics
London, United Kingdom
July 25, 2012
10:20 hrs BST
"Bob Costas here with an Olympic newcomer that could be an up and coming star of the U.S. Swim Team, Charles Bartowski. Charles I want to thank so much for taking some time today to sit down and talk with us at NBC Sports before the Olympics begin."
"No problem, and please call me Chuck," he replies with a nervous smile as he sits uncomfortably in his grey Team USA Track suit.
"So Chuck, you are a relative unknown. Not only is this your first Olympics, but during your swimming career so far out have manager to, despite your successes, stay out of the media spotlight. Some relish the attention, but you have stayed very private, do you prefer that?"
Chuck smiles, "Yes, I am a private person and honestly I am just a normal guy you know? I love to swim and I have been lucky enough to qualify to represent my country, which is a tremendous honor. That said I really don't deserve any special recognition… like I said I am just a normal guy that gets to compete in the sport I love on the biggest world stage."
The interviewer looks at Chuck appraisingly, "You are very modest Chuck. You tied a world record during qualifying in the 400m Freestyle, which makes you a favorite for gold at the Olympics and you are expected to do great things at the Games… what do you say to that?"
Chuck looks on nervously, "Um… wow, I just want to do my best and hopefully make everyone proud. There are so many great competitors here, so I hope to be able to bring home some medals for the U.S. and if I'm lucky, hopefully a gold. "
The interviewer smiles at Chuck, "Ok, so like I said you are relative unknown because you really don't seek out attention with either bad-boy antics or by dating supermodels to get attention and sponsorships. So let's take a little time to let the American people and the world know you better. "
"Ok," Chuck responds nervously not really liking opening up about himself… to the world.
"So I see you were on the Stanford Swim Team? What was your experience there and what did you study?"
Chuck wipes his hands on his knees, "Well, Stanford was a lot of fun. I was able to compete and grow as an athlete, while getting an excellent education in computer science and electrical engineering. Swimming and electronics are my two major passions, so I was able to do both at Stanford, which was great. Honestly, I am a bit of a nerd by nature… you know a Sci Fi fan and computer nerd."
"Good to know, and how about your family?"
Chuck does not want to go into a lot of detail about his family and answers cryptically, "Well, my Mom actually got me into swimming and my sister Ellie is my nutritionist and is a big supporter. They are both here with me in London for the Games. My Dad couldn't make it because of work."
The interviewer looks at the pad of paper in front of him, "Yes, your father Stephen… of Orion Games if I am not mistaken?"
Chuck replies curtly, "You are not mistaken," while not being rude he does make it clear to steer clear of further family questions.
The interviewer picks up on this and shifts topics. "Moving on… I know you have remained rather anonymous, but that is going to change, well actually it already has."
Chuck looks at the man quizzically, "Hum? I… I don't understand?"
"Well, a picture from your training the other day has gone viral and has made you rather well known." The interviewer says as two pictures of Chuck exiting the pool flash onto the screen. In the first picture Chuck has a serious expression that made the picture appear rather GQ-esque… like a model in an underwear advertisement. The second exposed Chuck's well toned body glistening from the water in a similar way to the first, except in this picture Chuck was beaming with a wide, happy grin while he laughs. Both pictures demonstrate Chuck's well muscled body as he is nearly naked in his swimsuit.
Chuck looks on at the pictures in shock before mumbling, "Oh god…"
"You now have a significant following and a large number of female admirers – what's your reaction?"
Chuck looks at the interviewer with a 'deer in the headlights' expression before saying, "I can honestly say I am shocked… I am just a normal guy…"
The interviewer looks on at Chuck before saying, "Something tells me that there is nothing normal about you. Well, We at NBC want to thank you for your time Chuck. We also want to wish you the best of luck as you compete in the Olympics. Good Luck Chuck."
After shaking hands with Mr. Costas, Chuck walks out of the makeshift studio a little shell-shocked from his apparent 'fame.' He thinks to himself, well this isn't good…
Nine Network's London Studio Area at the Olympics:
Nine's Wide World of Sports Olympic Coverage
London, United Kingdom
July 25, 2012
10:39 hrs BST
"Hi there everyone, I'm Giaan Rooney and I am here with the young Miss Sarah Walker, a member of the Australian Swim Team here at the London Olympics. Sarah, it is so nice to meet you and thanks for stopping in for Nine's Wide World of Sports pre-Olympic coverage."
Sarah looks at the brunette female reporter nervously before replying, "Thanks, it's good to be here…"
"Well Sarah you are rather mysterious as you have really stayed out of the spotlight until now, despite your successes at the university level and your forays into international competition… has this been intentional?"
"Honestly, yes… I really am not a fan of the fame or recognition aspect that being a swimmer or an Olympic athlete garners back home. I just enjoy swimming and I look forward to competing and hopefully I can help bring home heaps of medals for Australia. I also prefer to keep my life private… if I can"
"Too right! I reckon you're excited to be competing in your first Olympics?"
"Yes of course. It has been a fun experience so far and it has been great seeing old friends and making new one's, while preparing for the Games."
The reporter looks at her notepad, "Ah, yes… I seem to recall that you are a Sydney University swimmer and that you have a number of friends and former classmates competing here in London?"
"Yes, my best friends Zondra Rizzo and Carina Hansen are here competing for the U.S. and Sweden respectively."
"I also hear that Amy Monroe was another from Sydney University competing with you for Australia?"
Sarah's jaw clinches as she pushes down her seething dislike for Amy 'the betrayer' as she thinks, I will not make a scene on National TV over that… that witch! She smiles sweetly, "Yes, Amy is another person I swam with at Uni and we compete in a number of events."
"It will be fun watching you both compete and hopefully take home heaps of medals! Are you looking forward to competing again with Amy?"
"Well, like any good competitor I don't plan to lose to her, but I have a lot of work to do and there is heaps of competition that I have to face. I just want to do my best and hopefully good results will come out of my efforts."
"So are you nervous competing in your first Olympics?" The interviewer asks.
"Honestly, yes a little… just about as nervous as I am giving an interview!" Sarah says before she laughs nervously. The interviewer, Giaan Rooney laughs heartily with Sarah.
"Very good Sarah! Now, you mentioned meeting heaps of new friends, so we have to ask – any boyfriends… maybe one of the boys on the Aussie team?"
Sarah freezes as she thinks, how the hell do I answer this… is Chuck my boyfriend… no it is too soon and we haven't even been on a date! Sarah steadies herself, "I have met a few really nice people, but right now… no, no boyfriend" as she thinks, we'll see though!
"Well in case you've been living under a rock there are a number of lookers here at these Games if I do say so myself! This actually just went viral and hit the wire so we figured we would get your thoughts on this newcomer, who may be the next swimming sensation.
Sarah looks toward the display as a picture flashes on the screen and she is forced to hide her gasp as she sees him.
"This is Charles Bartowski, a first time Olympian from America. These pictures of him exiting the pool during training have really gone viral and he now has heaps of admirers. I guess our first question is… do you know him?"
Sarah can barley tear her eyes away from Chuck's image, but she finally looks back to the interviewer who has a tawdry smile… that Sarah does not like… she better not go after Chuck… damn brunettes! "I actually met Chuck very recently… he is a good friend of Zondra's and she introduced us and he really is a nice guy." Sarah thinks I am definitely not telling the whole story – that's all we need is to feed the media scrutiny with our humorous meetings.
The interviewer beams an excited smile at this little 'scoop,' "Well there you have it – Chuck Bartowski is not only a talented hottie, but he is also a rather nice man. Thanks so much for stopping by Sarah and good luck in your events. We all wish you the best of luck!"
"Thanks for having me," Sarah says thankful the interview is finally over.
As Sarah exits the studio area she is lost in thoughts about Chuck, those pictures… and that dance… and that kiss sure aren't going to help my concentration. Oh well, back to training…
Gym at the Aquatics Center (Olympic Venue)
London, United Kingdom
July 25, 2012
1:49 hrs BST
Sarah arrives at the Aquatics Center, a swimmers unofficial home for the Games, and quickly makes her way to the locker room to change into her exercise gear. As she changes her mind is lost as she thinks about the nice guy… the one she met under the oddest of circumstances. As she slipped into her tight yellow tank top she chuckles internally, I was so freaked out about the interview and I still ended up being blindsided by Chuck… this is becoming a common occurrence… I think I can live with that…
She made her way to the gym and began a light cycle through the assorted exercise equipment as she trained to ensure her muscles were prepared for the upcoming exertion and exhaustion of the competition. As she finished another workout she glistened with sweat as she controlled her ragged breathing. She grabbed a towel and wiped her face before looking over at the treadmills, seeing the man she just couldn't quite avoid. Before her Chuck ran effortlessly on the treadmill, barely breaking a sweat as he too prepared for the Games. Sarah's heart began to race as it did every time she laid eyes on the young Mr. Bartowski… and the memories of his now famous pool picture were not helping her blood pressure any.
She bit her lip and tried to quell her beating heart and her schoolgirl-like excitement as she chastises herself internally, Get it together Walker! You are not a love sick schoolgirl for god sakes! Breathe… must breathe and maybe I won't freak out… again.
Sarah steadies herself as her internal battle rages. Finally she feels capable of walking over to say 'hi' to Chuck as she thinks, it would be the polite thing to do... ya no one's buying that one Kiwi. As she finally started making her way to 'her Chuck'… she thought over her little Freudian slip, yep definitely losing my mind… my Chuck… I like that. However, she freezes in place as a cocky, dark haired man walks up and begins speaking unceremoniously to Chuck. Sarah decides to slip behind a large multipurpose weight machine, out of sight, but still able to see and hear Chuck and this… man's (who seems to make her stomach churn) conversation.
As Sarah listened to the bile and hate that this man was spewing to such a nice and gentle soul (Chuck) her face became darker and darker as her anger grew. Chuck seemed to ignore the mind games, the insults and the hate as he continued to run, seemingly unfazed. Sarah on the other hand seethed from her hiding spot. She cursed to herself, "That cruel bastard's trying to psych out Chuck! I'm going to hurt him! I swear he is going to suffer… but what the hell Chuck! Stand up for yourself… how are you just running like a robot?" She's too angry to realize that Chuck has no choice and that he had become too numb to the douche's attacks to risk a scene, let alone risk getting banned from the Games over this tiny, poor excuse for a man.
After watching the venomous conversation go on for far too long for her liking, Sarah was finally relieved when the bothersome man left for the pool area and Chuck was left unmolested to exercise . She was about to walk over and console Chuck when a cunning and feral grin graced her delicate features as she came up with a plan to avenge Chuck. As the man walked to the pool area, Sarah quickly doubled back in order to reach the pool area and intercept this cruel and unpleasant man.
Main Pool at the Aquatics Center (Olympic Venue)
London, United Kingdom
July 25, 2012
2:06 hrs BST
Bryce Larkin was feeling good, his plan to destroy Chuck Bartowski mentally was progressing nicely, and though he had yet to get an angry rise out of Bartowski he was certain his attacks were crippling his enemy. As Bryce cockily strutted past the pool area he winked at various women as he made his way towards the locker room to meet Jill in order to enact phase two of their evil plan.
Bryce scanned the area and saw a blonde vision approaching, which led him to think, ah t'is the young Miss Walker… perhaps it's time to truly destroy Chuck's spirit. She won't have a chance resisting my charms.
His smile turned suave and predatory as he approached the innocent looking Aussie as she strutted toward him with the grace of a runway model. He combed his quaffed hair back and smiled brightly at Sarah as he quickly came up with his good guy ploy to trick Sarah into his grasp.
As she neared he prepared his well rehearsed opening line to seduce her, however, this time he was in for a rude surprise.
Sarah smiled at Bryce, while internally smirking meanly at her approaching prey. As he neared she timed her 'attack' perfectly. Just as he was about to open his slithering mouth she launched her plan into action. She faux tripped and stumbled to the ground and pretended to swing out her leg in order to prevent hurting herself, which 'accidentally' and rather violently took out Bryce Larkin's knees. She spin to the ground as she rolled to protect herself as Bryce violently flew in the air landing hard on his shoulder on the concrete near the pool before her 'clumsy' leg 'accidentally' nudged him into the pool.
Shock was all Bryce registered as Sarah fell and before he knew what had happened shooting pain pulsed through his body as his vision blurred and he ended up soaking wet and fully clothed in his expensive, though not very classy cloths. He extricated himself from the pool and seethed in anger at the embarrassment he faced due to the unworthy tart before him.
"What the Hell!" He bellowed angrily at Sarah who now stood before his soaking wet form with an innocent pout on her face.
"Oh, I am so, so sorry… clumsy me! I slipped on the wet ground and I am so sorry I tripped you! Let me go get you a towel and maybe I can find some way to get you to forgive me," she says seductively.
Bryce smiles slyly thinking, too easy. "No worries my dear… and I am sure we can find something you can do for me," he replies with an unsubtle tone.
Sarah fights back the bile before sending a fake smile at Bryce, "I'll be right back."
Sarah held her laugh just in time as she turned and left to find Chuck, having no intention of getting that douche a towel as she thinks with a large smile, I wonder how long he will wait soaking wet for me to come back before he realizes that I'm not! As she enters the gym she finally loses the battle and lets out a mirth filled snort, proud of her little win on behalf of Chuck. She thinks, Chuck is too nice of a guy to approve, but damn that felt good! And you know what, Chuck needs my protection… yes, I can make sure the bad guys never hurt him… yep, I like that!
Later…
Bryce stands soaking wet near the pool thinking, where the hell is that little slut with my towel! It's been over twenty minutes! No matter, I better go find Jill in the locker room… I can get Sarah later… no one can resist my charms – no one!
Entryway of the Gym at the Aquatics Center (Olympic Venue)
London, United Kingdom
July 25, 2012
2:08 hrs BST
Sarah is so distracted while smiling widely and giggling at her victory over Bryce that she does not see the imposing, yet beautiful brunette in a deep navy blue summer dress and white camisole standing in the entryway to the gym waiting for her.
Sarah is startled by her near 'run-in' and looks into the other woman's eyes, "Sorry about that, I guess my mind is elsewhere… excuse me."
But the woman stands in front of Sarah with her arms crossed and a contemplative look on her face as she studies Sarah intently.
Sarah's heart begins to race as she thinks, oh now what? She couldn't know I did that on purpose could she? She better not be a crazy fan… damn media…
The mystery woman drops her combative stance before smiling widely at Sarah and lunging and bringing Sarah into a bear hug with a strength that seems impossible. Sarah thinks, great… a crazy fan… that's crushing me!
Sarah wheezes, "Please let… go… can't… breathe!"
"Oh, so sorry… you must think I'm nuts! Sorry again, I just saw what you did to that douche Larkin and I had to come by and say hello… and thanks!"
"I have no idea what you mean," Sarah replies trying to play coy in case this is a trap.
"Oh, come on! You are good, but not that good! Besides with the way he is always attacking my brother that jerk deserves far worse! I did like how you left him soaking wet and waiting… nice touch!"
Sarah smiles, "Um… thanks?"
"Oh, where are my manners – I am Ellie, Ellie Bartowski"
Sarah gapes at the pretty brunette thinking, no way! "Wait! You're Chuck's sister?"
"Yes, you know my brother?"
"Yes, we haven't been introduced… I'm Sarah, Sarah Walker…"
Ellie's face lights up and a high pitched squeal erupts from her as she lunges and grabs Sarah once more in another crushing hug. "You're THE Sarah! Wow I am so happy to meet you… oh you're turning blue! I better let you go… sorry again…"
As Sarah breathes deeply she replies, "No problem, happy to meet you."
"I missed you at Castle, I got the story today and I have heard a lot about you from Chuck so it is nice to put a face to the stories. Chuck did not do you justice, he said you were beautiful, but you are so gorgeous! I am jealous! And with the way you handled that douche Larkin you might just be my new favorite person!"
Sarah smiles shyly as her cheeks redden slightly, "Thanks Ellie, you are too kind… and Chuck really thinks I'm beautiful?" She asks hopefully.
"Of course! So can I ask what the jerk did to face your wrath?"
Sarah chuckles, "Actually I was going to say hi to Chuck when that jerk started berating Chuck and saying mean and cruel things… I was waiting for Chuck to snap, but he did. Then I thought up a plan and voila… he's soaking wet and waiting for a towel that will NEVER come!"
Both laugh loudly at that as Ellie places a comforting hand on Sarah's shoulder, "Oh… giggle… that is so great! Thanks for looking out for him, he would never defend himself… if someone else was in trouble he would be the first into the fight, but he would never do it for himself."
Sarah sigh's whimsically, "he really is a great guy… isn't he?"
"Yes he is… don't hurt him… her really likes you."
Sarah takes in a gasping breath at Ellie's penetrating gaze and powerful comment before softly replying, "I won't."
Ellie smiles, "Great! Now I want to get to know you a little better before you go off to find Chuck."
Sarah's expression takes on a little fear as Ellie wraps an arm around her as the 'interrogation' begins.
Locker Room at the Aquatics Center (Olympic Venue)
London, United Kingdom
July 25, 2012
2:26 hrs BST
Jill stood in the locker room in her black pinstripe pantsuit as she played aimlessly with her dark framed glasses and occasionally with her straight dark brown hair as she awaited Bryce… he was late.
The doors to the locker room opened and Jill saw her soaking wet, fully clothed boyfriend. "What the hell Bryce? I've been waiting and why are you all wet?"
Bryce scoffs and brushes his long, dark hair back, "Some girl tripped and knocked me into the pool, but not a' worry, I'm here now," he says with a charming smile.
Jill smiles back at Bryce, once more caught by his charms. "Go change quickly and then we will find a safe spot to talk privately. Bryce smiles back and obliges by changing quickly before the pair finds a private changing area, where they lock the door for added secrecy for their meeting.
"So, are we ready to continue our little plan, my 'love?" Bryce asks smoothly.
"Yes, I gather your mind games have been working?"
"But of course! Now what of phase two?" Bryce asks excitedly as he rubs his hands together.
"Well, I have attained and chemically altered a benzodiazepine sedative, specifically… not important because you wouldn't know what it is anyway. The drug has been modified as it normally would act immediately, but my alterations will cause its effects to be longer term. So rather than knocking him out it will slowly reduce his reaction time, his coordination and will sap his energy. He will never be able to compete with anyone let alone you!"
"Ah, I see you have put your biochemistry degree to good use my dear! Chuck Bartowski will never know what hit him! And then I will take him down and embarrass him once and for all!"
The pair laughs manically before kissing passionately in the private room.
The kiss breaks and Jill asks breathlessly, "So how will we dose him?"
"Ah, I think you can dress as an athlete and watch him. When he is distracted you can poison his water and then all we have to do is wait for the Games as the drug destroys Chuck's dreams. And when it is all over, I will have won and we can collect on all the sponsorships. We will be rich and famous, just like we deserve!"
Jill smiles back at Bryce, "I love your plans… now maybe we should make use of our private time… you know how I get," she says with a pout.
Bryce smiles predatorily, "My pleasure," he replies before kissing her passionately as he congratulates himself internally on his brilliant, master plan.
Meanwhile across town…
"Shaw? You here mate?" a brown haired man asks cautiously as he enters a rundown flat in the heart of London.
"Mr. Sullivan… Justin, so good of you to join me," Shaw says ominously, while seated in an old wooden chair.
"Anything for you… I still owe you for springing me on that… 'Misunderstanding.' I appreciate you using your police and government contacts to bail me out. So why are we here?"
Shaw smiles evilly, "Well Justin, I am need of your particular set of skills and moral ambiguity…"
"What did you have in mind Shaw?"
"Well, the Games are approaching and my interests and some of my colleagues interests overlap so we need a little problem taken care of. I plan on winning Gold and my colleagues have numerous bets and plans based on this eventuality. But there is a problem. I have been studying the competition and some bloody, bastard Yank looks to be a problem. I can't risk losing so I need you to take care of him…"
Justin gulps audibly, "Boss… you saved me arse, but killin' ain't what I signed up for!'
"No killing… I just need you to take him out of the competition… break his knee and make sure he can't compete and then maybe we will be even." Shaw says with a cocky smirk.
Justin breathes a sigh of relief, "Consider it done."
"Good, now me and my colleagues will gain unmeasured wealth… don't fail me Justin. You wouldn't want to face my colleagues if you do in fact fail," Shaw says in a dangerous tone.
"I won't fail! Consider it done," Justin says as he rushes out of the flat to prepare surveillance for his 'mission.'
Shaw sits in his seat and chuckles with a dark expression on his face, "Soon victory will be mine and that Yank will suffer the agony and pain of defeat."
Gym at the Aquatics Center (Olympic Venue)
London, United Kingdom
July 25, 2012
2:39 hrs BST
Chuck continues his workout, trying to put his unpleasant interaction with Bryce Larkin out of his mind. As he finishes up on a stationary bike he turns and nearly runs over the beautiful Sarah Walker.
"Sarah! I didn't see you there! How are you?" Chuck asks excitedly with a large Bartowski grin.
Sarah tries not to swoon, but her insides feel rather goo like. She steadies herself, "I am doing great Chuck! I wanted to thank you again for last night… it was so much fun…" Sarah says trailing off as she averts her eyes shyly.
"My pleasure Sarah… I had so much fun… so thank you," Chuck replies kindly.
Sarah looks at him shyly, "So… I kinda ran into your sister Ellie a little while ago…"
Chuck's face morphs into a look of abject fear, "Oh god! She didn't interrogate you did she? She came by to make sure I was following her nutritional program…"
Sarah chuckles at his spiraling, "Yes! She should be an interrogator for the CIA or something! But seriously, she was lovely and we really got on well. So I will forgive you for not facing her questions with me… for now!" She says with a wry, teasing smile.
Chuck smiles through his nerves, thankful that Ellie did not scare Sarah off with her bear-like hugs and penetrating questions.
"Well, since you survived my sister, sorry for that by the way… hopefully she didn't squeal or squeeze you to death, I was wondering if…" Chuck trails off nervously as he motions with his hands trying to spit out his question.
"What is it Chuck," Sarah asks curiously.
"Sorry, I am a crap communicator… what I wanted to ask is whether you would join us for dinner tomorrow night? We are doing a group dinner… my family, Morgan, Alex and Zondra and maybe even Carina are all coming. We would love it if you and your Mom came… so I could make it up to you for the wrath of Ellie," Chuck says with a nervous look and a self deprecating chuckle.
Sarah keeps calm on the outside as her heart leaps and she does a happy dance on the inside. She calmly smiles at Chuck despite her inner elation, "We would love to Chuck… send me the time and place." She thinks to herself, maybe by then I will have gotten the courage to ask him about the kiss and what he wants from all this…
Chuck's face lights up into the Bartowski grin, "Great! I'll send you the place and time!"
"Perfect," Sarah replies with a small smile as she looks deep into Chuck's eyes while thinking, yep… this will be perfect…
AN2: Yes, I did in fact start this chapter by teasing you all – did you really think I would make this all a dream! Sorry – it fit my evil plan and brought up a little plot point that will be tied up later. I have mentioned this to the reviewers – this has expanded as a story – so right now we are looking at 24 chapters total (including 2 epilogues). There are three drama strings in the story and two have been laid out here and the third has been subtly hinted at and will be the main dramatic point of the story. Next up is more drama and a second unofficial date. Hopefully the drama arc is well received after such a fun chapter (Ch 6), but the story must go on! Thanks again for reading and reviewing (and feel free to PM me with questions or in general – I'm not stingy – I am happy to hear from folks!).
Note: I plan on making Tuesday an update day (and if I am fast an additional update on Friday or Saturday) so look for updates then!
Disclaimer 2 – Don't own NBC or Nine Network… or much really.