"Chuck vs the Aussie"
AN1: So to start – sorry about the teasing dream sequence… it will play a really small role at the end and it needed to be introduced and I thought it fit. I had an excellent review from a guest: Seattle and I can't reply directly so I will do it here! I love this kind of review that challenges my assumptions and logic – it really helps. This will not go to a very odd place and the drama introduced is not in fact the main dramatic aspect of the story. There is a ton going on and I think (if I do this right) it will come together into a really fascinating story. Now, Seattle guest made 2 great points – Emma in Athlete's Village and Ellie in the Gym. First – Ellie is part of Team Chuck (nutritionist) and as such I envision she would have access to the gym – not perfect, but I think the logic is fair. Now, you make an excellent point – security at the Village might prevent Emma from entering, but my ass covering thoughts are that she has a pass as part of Sarah's team - I see Sarah 'bending the truth' to get Emma full access as a trainer or an associate coach – not perfect, but I think that it works and is fair. And never worry about nitpicking – I love it and this review really helps, especially in this chapter. It was always part of the plan to add these dimensions, but keep with the story because as these aspects are resolved (rather quickly) the story will return to its essence which is a Chuck and Sarah meeting story. So thanks again and keep providing feedback – I really do appreciate any of your thoughts whether they are questions, concerns, criticisms or compliments!
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.
Chapter 8: A Walk to Remember
Sarah's Apartment at the Athlete's Village
London, United Kingdom
July 26, 2012
7:40 hrs BST
After Chuck invited her to dinner the day had gone by rather normally as Sarah trained, trained some more and had various meetings in preparation for the Games. But as the day wore on and the next morning arrived her nerves and fears began to grow. She was excited… and nervous to spend more time with Chuck, but the confrontation with Bryce continued to nag at the back of her mind. She awoke the next day, the day of the group dinner, and could no longer withhold the unsettled feeling in the pit of her stomach. After getting ready for the day she finally caved and called her best friends… she needed to tell someone her fears and honestly she needed someone to help prepare her for the coming dinner.
Sarah sat in her bed gnawing at her lip as she anxiously awaits Zondra and Carina to arrive for an all important 'pep talk.' She chuckles to herself as she thought, well if I'm not thinking about Chuck I am worrying about screwing things up and now I get to add this 'lovely' feeling of worrying about his safety… yep I am officially really screwed up. She sighs audibly, but before she could continue her inner monologue she was roused by a knock at the door.
Sarah quickly jumps to her feet and rushes to the door and finds the smiling, though tired faces of her two best friends.
"Zondra! Carina! Thanks so much for coming," Sarah says before grabbing their wrists and dragging them head long into the little Olympic apartment.
"Wow, easy their Walker! I need my hand for swimming!" Carina says as she mock rubs her 'abused' wrist as a teasing smile grows on her face.
Zondra chuckles, "What's so urgent? Let me guess this has something to do with world peace? No? Hum… maybe the geopolitical situation now facing Australia vis-à-vis changing technology?"
Sarah can only stare with her mouth agape at her friend, "Huh?"
Zondra holds a serious look before breaking into a mirth filled laugh, "Oh, Sarah… giggle… you should see your face! This is so about Chuck! But that was so worth it!"
Sarah drops her head slightly embarrassed by her teasing friend before she smiles and laughs, "Ok, you got me, but this is serious… I need you two…"
Zondra smiles, "We're here… so what is this about?"
Sarah steadies herself with a deep breath, "Well two things… first, Chuck invited me to a group dinner tonight and I need help! But more importantly, I think Chuck might be in danger…" Sarah's expression turns worrisome and Zondra and Carina instantly become serious as they guide Sarah to the couch.
"Well, start with the second thing, why do you think Chuck is in danger?" Zondra asks seriously as she worries for her friend and teammate.
Sarah ponders for a moment, "I'm not entirely sure he is in danger, but I have this really bad feeling in my gut that just won't go away. The thing is I saw this Bryce guy talking to Chuck yesterday and what he was saying was really, really cruel. It was all mind games, but I am not sure what the history is and whether he might go after Chuck… I really don't like this Larkin fellow. He makes my skin crawl!" Sarah says as she shivers visibly.
Zondra clinches her teeth, "Larkin is a giant douche, but he is a coward… but you never know. He and Chuck went to Stanford and Chuck has been dealing with his bull for years."
Carina has a thoughtful look as she comes up with a plan to help Sarah and make up for her 'mistake' trying to seduce Chuck. She raises her hand, "Hey, Sarah… I have an idea that could help."
"What's that?" Sarah asks with excited curiosity.
"Well, I have never met this Bryce, so I could 'run into him' and then seduce him in order to figure out if he has any plans to hurt Chuck. I could make up for my mistake and help Chuck at the same time," she says hoping Sarah will accept her help.
Sarah looks at her friend with compassion in her eyes, "Carina… I could never ask you to do something like that for me…"
"You don't have to ask, I want to help and don't worry I will string that jerk along for so long that I will be able to frustrate him and keep my virtue," Carina says with a wink.
Sarah and Zondra laugh out loud at Carina's jesting comment.
Zondra recovers, "Wow, I love you Sarah, but there is no way in hell I would ever intentionally go near that slim ball… Carina are you sure?"
Carina smiles slyly, "Yep, I have a new mission!"
"You really don't have to… but if you want to help it would really mean a lot to me…" Sarah says seriously.
"Consider it done; I'll watch out for your boy toy! Now what else do you need?"
Sarah smiles widely, "Well I need help to prepare and to… well, to not freak out tonight. Do you two have a little time between training?"
Both Carina and Zondra reply, "Of course!"
"We will both be there, but let's get started," Zondra says as the trio begins planning Sarah's wardrobe and mentally preparing her for the dinner.
Gym at the Aquatics Center (Olympic venue)
London, United Kingdom
July 26, 2012
1:40 hrs BST
Chuck had been at training for the last hour and was preparing to head off to the pool to work with his coaches and trainers. He was finishing up some light weight training when his little bearded buddy approached with a smile.
"Hey Chuck! This is so cool that I get to be here, behind the scenes in the Aquatics Center! Thanks so much for adding me to the team! You really don't know how much it means to be here and to be… trusted…" Morgan says seriously.
Chuck smiles at his little buddy, "Morg, you have been helping me for years and it is only right that you are here helping me at the end. You are a great Associate Training Consultant after all," he says with a chuckle.
Chuck smiles internally as he thinks back to Ellie's brilliant plan to 'incentivize' Morgan in order to get him to work harder and earn his shiny job title. And had it ever worked! Morgan put aside his mad work avoidance skills in order to earn the title and actually became a really useful member of the team, though his role was actually rather small. But he did make Chuck's life easier, which is priceless with all the madness of preparing for the Games.
Chuck smiles again at Morgan, "And you know we were all proud of you… and shocked that you passed the Olympic security screenings to be allowed into the Center," Chuck says as he trails off with a teasing grin as he takes a large sip from his disposable water bottle.
"Pfft, please! That security screening was nothing… but for once I didn't bomb an interview… it was about time really," Morgan says with a deep look on his face.
"Ha-ha, ya buddy! You picked a perfect time to nail the interview… at least this time you didn't hit on the interviewer… you don't want to end up on any more lists!" Chuck says with a wide, wry grin.
"Hey!" Morgan says with a smile, "I will have you know my interviewer was a 300 pound balding dude with a lisp… trust me I had no interest. Thank god it wasn't a hottie because I would have been dead and would have missed out on helping you out with your gear, schedule and keeping you fed and hydrated."
"As always, much appreciated buddy. I am going to head off to the pool, you mind giving me a hand with my stuff?"
"No problem," Morgan replies with a wide smile.
Meanwhile…
Jill had snuck through the locker room undetected. Bryce had a good plan, but he neglected to mention the extensive security around the Aquatics Center. Luckily, she had found a particularly simple security guard and flirted her way into the building after claiming she was part of the medical staff and forgot her pass and really needed to get to a meeting inside. After promising drinks later with the guard (that she had no intention of following up on) she had snuck in with the sedative. Once inside she made her way to a private part of the locker room where she began to prepare the benzodiazepine. She carried a medical kit that disguised the drug and allowed her to explain, if necessary, why she had needles and vials in her possession. Once settled in the locker room she mixed the powder in order to transfer it into a tasteless, colorless liquid. Once completed she transferred the solution to a 21 gauge needle syringe that was now ready to poison Chuck's water. She then changed from her medical staff disguise into work-out gear in order to blend in with the athletes and coaches.
She smiles cruelly as she heads out to the gym in order to watch her prey. She observes Chuck's conversation with that little bearded gnome before seeing her opportunity. Chuck and Morgan had taken some of their gear, but had left behind one bag and Chuck's water bottle. Sensing her opportunity, she walks calmly to the bottle and after a surreptitious look around injects the sedative into the bottle. Once complete she took a quick look before placing a tiny piece of scotch tape on the punctured bottle to ensure there was no evidence of foul play via a leak. After taking one final glance around the room she quickly walks out of the Aquatics Center.
As she left she said to herself, "Mission Accomplished."
Meanwhile…
Chuck begins his work with his coaches and trainers in the pool, while Morgan offers to go back to the gym and get his remaining gear.
Morgan enters the gym and quickly grabs the bag and water bottle. As he exits the gym he suddenly stops, "My buddy Chuck is a star now… no old water for him!" Morgan throws the bottle in the trash before heading off to grab him a fresh bottle… and maybe a grape soda for himself, on the rocks of course.
At the same time Jill reports to Bryce her success and both rejoice, not knowing the bearded little man had unintentionally foiled their dastardly sabotage. Who says Morgan Grimes can't save the day!
St. James's Hotel and Club
(Ellie and Mary's Hotel… and if you missed it Emma's Hotel)
London, United Kingdom
July 26, 2012
18:15 hrs BST
Chuck should be tremendously nervous about dinner and seeing Sarah, what with their status still up in the air and his desire not to screw this up… whatever 'this' was. But instead of being nervous Chuck is simply excited… not only to see Sarah, but honestly to be ensured a meal of real food again. Ellie is amazing, but her diet left Chuck wanting. Sure it wasn't terrible, but the shakes and pre-planned high nutrition meals just did not seem like real food to him. He appreciates science as much as the next nerd, but he really wished it would stay out of his meals! She had yet to force him to use IV's or a feeding tube to prevent his constant complaining over his diet and he took that as a small win… though with Doctor Ellie on the case he was never sure what he would end up eating. Thankfully, tonight he would get a nice, juicy steak. His mouth waters at the thought of the wonderful food he plans on savoring, even if Ellie controls what sides he would eat. He knows he will have to be sneaky to get 'real' food when the competition starts so he has to enjoy one of his last opportunities at great food.
After a long day of training and meetings in order prepare for the Games Chuck was a little tired and looked forward to good food, good friends and a pretty Aussie companion. Chuck grabs Morgan as the pair headed off to Ellie and Mary's hotel. Once the Bartowski clan was collected they made their way in a Hackney cab to the group dinner at Hawksmoor.
Meanwhile…
Sarah had fully utilized her friends and Mom in order to mentally and emotionally prepare for the important dinner with Chuck. Between bouts of training and the seemingly endless meetings she was able to talk with her friends. For the most part Emma, Zondra and Carina provided simple support for Sarah in order to prevent her from freaking out and panicking. Beyond that they tried to impart a little knowledge on Sarah about dating that she missed out on due to her awkward high school phase and the unfortunate relationship shattering betrayal that derailed her from experiencing a normal healthy relationship. However, despite all the support Sarah was still nervous as she had next to no experience dating and now it seemed to her any mistake would ruin her chance at happiness forever. Yes, she was in fact having melodramatic thoughts that her friends and family desperately tried to defend against, but her neuroses were and are strong and would not be defeated easily.
Once Sarah, Zondra, Carina and Emma were all ready they met at Emma's hotel before hopping into a Hackney cab that took them to the Hawksmoor restaurant for Sarah's much anticipated unofficial date with Chuck.
Hawksmoor Seven Dials Restaurant
London, United Kingdom
July 26, 2012
18:40 hrs BST
Chuck, Morgan, Ellie and Mary arrive at the restaurant via a cab and took in the sights, smells and sounds of the city. Their short time in London had quickly shown them how different this European city was to their native Burbank. Beyond the obvious old/historic look of much of the city, the restaurant demonstrates another unique aspect of London – narrow streets that look more like an alley in a large city like New York. Moreover, the Bartowski's (plus Morgan) were becoming familiar with the different appearances of restaurants in London with their small 'hole in the wall' entrances rather than having large entryways in stand alone buildings, which is more the norm in California.
They take in the front entrance of the Hawksmoor and look at the old brick buildings that surround them as they stand on the narrow, alley-like street. To the left of the Hawksmoor's brick arched entryway is another building that is directly connected to the restaurant, but with a white painted brick façade. The neighboring building stood out against the natural faded brownish brick color of the Hawksmoor building, which sits at the corner of the narrow Langley and Shelton Streets. At the restaurants entrance is a large and ornate set of two dark brown wooden doors and its frame. The door-frame was surrounded by a thin edging of thick glass that met the arched top and square sides of the entryway cut-out of the old brick building.
The group looks to the entryway with the simple Hawksmoor sign above. Chuck asks the group, "Shall we?" as he theatrically outstretches his hand inviting the group to enter the building.
Ellie and Mary smile back at Chuck as he quickly walks to the door and opens it for the ladies… and Morgan. They enter the restaurant excited to enjoy a very nice steak meal, the Hawksmoor's specialty. As they are seated they looked around and take in the Hawksmoor's unique ambiance. The dining hall is fairly large with an exposed brick ceiling and light brown hardwood floors that form a triangle slat pattern. The tables are lightly colored brown wood with small glass bowls with candles, which adds to the intimate lighting. But the most striking feature of the restaurant is the dark brown exposed columns that run down the center of the hall and at a few other points around the room. The columns are spaced and are connected at the top like a Roman aqueduct that reaches the exposed brick roof. At the top of the connected columns is soft lighting that illuminates the roof and creates a very pleasant atmosphere in this popular steakhouse. The group is led to their table by a server and they see the large wood bar that sits proudly at the far end of the room against the wall. They see the impressive liquor collection behind the large wood bar, which is fitting as the Hawksmoor is well known for not only its quality meat, but also for its quality cocktails.
They are quickly seated at a long narrow wood table, which is directly between the rows of columns that stand to their left and right. Chuck quickly inspects the ten place settings before holding out both Mary and Ellie's chairs for them, ever the gentleman. Once the ladies are seated, Chuck takes his place at the far head of table before reveling in the unique setting and feeling rather regal as the columns frame his place.
Very quickly the remaining guests arrive and Chuck rushes to stand in order to greet them, whacking his knee on the hard wood table in the process, which forces him to bit back a curse as he rubs his bumped appendage.
Carina and Zondra make it to the table first. Carina is wearing a very dazzling dark red party dress with just a hint of sheen to it. Zondra wears a more conservative white summer dress and a charcoal wrap. Both ladies look stunning as they approach the table.
"Zondra! Carina! So glad you could make it," Chuck says with a wide smile as he hugs both women before pulling out their chairs for them.
As he finishes helping Carina and Zondra he sees that Alex and Awesome are approaching.
"Devon! My man, how are you?" Chuck asks with a smile as he shakes Awesome's hand enthusiastically.
"Hey Chuck! Doing well!" Devon booms back.
Chuck then turns to Alex who hugs him quickly, "Good to see you again Chuck," she says with a smile before heading over and giving Morgan a fairly passionate kiss.
Chuck introduces everyone, while Morgan and Alex and Ellie and Awesome quickly pair off. As the welcomes and introductions were completed, Chuck looks up and sees an angel approach as Sarah and Emma gracefully walk towards the group. Sarah is radiant in a very classy light blue summer dress that is not too fancy, yet accentuated her captivatingly blue eyes. Her stunning beauty causes Chuck to suck in an unsteady breath as he fought to keep upright as he became mesmerized by her ethereal form. Although Chuck is distracted by Sarah's beauty, he does see Sarah's mother in her yellow, floral pattern sundress.
As the two blonde women approach, Chuck straightens up nervously as he attempts to make a good impression on Mrs. Walker. Chuck smiles at Sarah and Emma, "Sarah, thank you so much for coming… I gather this is your Mum?"
Sarah smiles back nervously at Chuck as she tries desperately to regulate her breathing. He looks amazing in his dark blue military style button down shirt and his sleek dark blue jeans and his signature Converse footwear. Sarah chuckles internally as she picks up on his affinity for his namesake shoes as she thinks, Converse Chuck Taylors… Chucks! They just fit his personality…what a nerd! I love it!
"So happy to be here Chuck! And yes… may I introduce you to my Mom, Emma Walker."
Chuck smiles widely as he surreptitiously wipes his hand on his jeans before shaking hands with Mrs. Walker, "It is a pleasure to meet you Mrs. Walker."
"Ah, a charmer I see! You call me Emma… is it Ok if I call you Chuck or do you prefer Charles?" Emma asks in her delightful Australian accent.
"Chuck is fine; everyone calls me Chuck Mrs. Walk… Emma. Well except for my Mom and Dad," he says as he smiles wryly at Mary.
Chuck brings Emma and Sarah over to Ellie and Mary who stand, "Emma, Sarah this is my Sister Ellie and my Mom Mary."
The four exchange pleasantries before they finish saying hi to the remainder of the table. Once these final sets of introductions have been completed, Chuck helps Sarah into her seat next to his at the far end of the table. Chuck looks up and notices that Mary and Emma are sitting together talking animatedly at the other end of the table, while Zondra and Carina sit together talking at the middle-left side of the table. They sit next to Sarah who is also on the left hand side of the table, next to Chuck near the end/head of the table. Meanwhile, Ellie and Awesome and Alex and Morgan talk excitedly on the right hand side of the long wooden table.
Conversations quickly and easily break out around the table as the group gets to know one another. There is essentially no awkwardness as conversations flow easily as the group laughs happily and talks amicably as they all look at their menus.
Discussions continue as the non-athletes receive their expertly crafted cocktails, while Awesome and Morgan discuss the merits of ordering one of the massive steaks listed on the chalk boards. These boards have different sizes of porterhouse, filet, chateaubriand and rib eye steaks listed in their gram or kilogram weight (big, big steaks). Some sizes were crossed off as other patrons exhausted certain sizes of steak.
The group discusses what to order and Ellie gives Chuck her nutrition speech, though secretly she is fine with a large protein feed before the Opening Ceremonies because it will be good and help his muscles repair as the Games begin. As they continue to talk about dinner Morgan notices the 'Loyalty to Beef' framed sign on the wall, which gets a good rise out of the bearded man and the group as they prepare for a great meal.
As they continue to talk Mary looks to Sarah, "So Sarah, I was curious how your training is going?"
Sarah smiles nervously, "Well, I have put a lot of time and work in at the pool and at the gym… we all have, it seems like we all live at the Aquatics Center! I honestly can't wait for this to start… the waiting is kinda the hardest part…" Sarah looks on hopefully, yet is nervous that she might have said something wrong… she desperately wants Chuck's Mom to like her. Of course deep down she knew why she so desperately wants Mary's approval, but her denial kept these thoughts at bay.
Mary smiles at Sarah, ""Of course dear, it is a tremendous amount of work just to prepare. You all should be very proud of yourselves and enjoy the Games… it will come fast and be a lot of work, but it will be over too soon, so enjoy your time."
Sarah exhales a deep breath she did not realize she was holding before smiling at Mary, "Thanks Mrs. Bartowski," she says and is followed by Zondra, Carina and Devon who also thank Mary for her kind words.
"Please, all of you kids can call me Mary," she says with a smile.
Emma then chimes in while looking penetratingly, yet kindly at Chuck, "So what is everyone competing in?"
Chuck looks nervously before starting, "Well Mrs. Wa… Emma, I'm competing in the 200 and 400m individual medley's (IM), the 200 and 400m freestyle and the 4x100 and 4x200m freestyle relays." He says before giving her a nervous half smile as Emma looks at him with surprise and respect.
Sarah then pipes in next, "Well Mom knows this, but if we are all talking about our events then I'm competing in the 100 and 200m backstroke, the 200m individual medley, the 4x100m medley relay and the 4x100 and 4x200m freestyle relays." She looks down shyly after her little list.
Carina goes next, "Well, I am not as showy as these two so I'm competing in the 200 and 400m individual medley and the 100m breaststroke for Sweden."
Awesome then smiles widely, "Guess I'm next! I'm competing for the great white north in the 200m individual medley against Chuck, the 100m freestyle, the 4x100m freestyle… also against Chuck and the 4x100m medley relay!"
Zondra then begins, "I am in the 100 and 200m freestyle, the 200m individual medley, the 4x100 and 4x200m freestyle relays and the 4x100m medley relay," she says finishing with a little smile as she sips her drink.
Mary pauses for a second, "Wait, so you all are competing in the 200m IM? So Sarah, Carina and Zondra you are all in the same event?"
"Yep," all three say with a smile.
"Morgan chuckles and speaks in a deep announcer voice, "It will be a grudge match! Friend versus friend versus friend… who will survive?"
They all look at Morgan who is smiling widely. They hold their blank looks for a moment before the table breaks into laughter at the little bearded man's commentary.
Emma wipes a tear form her eye, "Will we ever have a lot to watch then! I know Sarah is too modest, but we are really hoping for gold in the 4x100m free relay… how about the rest of you?"
"MOM!" Sarah nearly yells chastising Emma.
"Oh hush dear, I'm curious," Emma replies while looking at the young athletes before her.
"No problem Mrs. Walker," Awesome replies happily. "I hope to bring a medal home for Canada in my main event, the 200m individual medley!"
"Same," Carina says as she winks and smiles at Devon. Ellie scowls at Carina before linking her arm with Devon while shooting a penetrating look at Carina. Carina picks up the not so subtle message and nods in surrender to Ellie who instantly relaxes. Carina thinks, another hot swimmer claimed… damn now I have to be good. Hum, maybe the bearded little gnome…
Zondra smiles and begins, "Well… I'm hoping for gold in the 200m IM, but I have to go through these two first!" She says as she looks at Sarah and Carina with a wide, teasing smile. "Also, the 4x100m medley could be good and the other relays… our team is really solid." Zondra looks down at her hands, "Sorry, just excited is all and I can't really wait… I'm probably being too optimistic."
Sarah smiles at her friend knowing that Zondra is beating herself up and is worried that she's being arrogant. Sarah chuckles internally, knowing how good Zondra and Team USA are and if anything she was being modest. "Zondra! You Americans will have to leave the rest of us a few medals!" Sarah says in jest.
Sarah then looks at Chuck expectantly, "What about you Chuck?"
Chuck wipes his hands on his jeans nervously, "Well, I'm just hoping for a medal… not expecting much with all the talent out there," he finishes with a half-smile.
"Come on!" the table erupts much to Chuck's embarrassment.
Morgan starts, "DUDE! You are THE favorite in the 400m freestyle – you tied a world record buddy!"
Mary then adds, "And your relay teams are all very strong gold or medal opportunities."
Zondra continues, "And I have seen you in your other freestyle and medley training and you have a real shot at medals, if not gold in multiple events!"
Chuck raises his hands in mock surrender as Sarah and Emma look on surprised not only by Chuck's modesty, but by the skill everyone seems certain he possesses. He says, "Ok, Ok I give! Now that you have thoroughly embarrassed me can we order dinner? I am dying for some red meat."
Carina smiles predatorily, "Not yet… I wanted to ask about the picture!"
"Picture? What picture… you want a…" Chuck drops his head and begins turning beet red, "Oh, THAT picture."
Emma is a little lost, "Huh?"
Ellie whispers to Emma while Carina pulls out her phone and shows Emma the picture. Emma smiles and chuckles, much to Sarah and Chuck's horror. Sarah begs in her head, please don't say anything, please don't say anything, please don't say anything!
"Well aren't you quite the looker!" Emma says with a teasing smile as both Chuck and Sarah blush red from embarrassment as the table erupts in mirth filled laughter.
The table jokes back and forth about the sexy Chuck photo before Chuck finally stops the fun, "Ok! I can't get any redder and I am dying for a steak so let's order," he says good naturedly, but he is pleading with the group.
Zondra laughs, "Fine! We need to feed the boys, but get used to the fun Chuck – you're famous now!"
Chuck drops his head theatrically as he hides his smile, "Ugh… I need a steak!'
Hawksmoor Seven Dials Restaurant
London, United Kingdom
July 26, 2012
19:20 hrs BST
Dinner arrived and the group enjoyed their wonderful porterhouses, sirloins, filets and chateaubriand as they talked and enjoyed one another's company. They ordered a wide array of sides including heritage tomato salad, triple cooked chips, macaroni, roasted field mushrooms and an English lettuce and herb salad.
As the group relished their meals conversation pairs quickly developed. Mary and Emma quickly hit it off and began bonding over their pride in their children and their hard working husbands. They talked on and on throughout dinner as though they were old friends bring up subjects like their husbands absences from the Games and Emma even alluded to their many moves. After talking through dinner both came to the same conclusion, Chuck and Sarah seemed like a good fit. Besides getting to know one another Mary and Emma, with wide smiles on their faces, were not so subtly watching their children talk across the table.
Meanwhile, Ellie and Awesome continued to hit it off throughout dinner as they talked work, nutrition, their passions and their hopes and dreams. Between making googly eyes at one another, both Ellie and Awesome were watching Chuck and Sarah with peaked interest as they talked throughout dinner.
Alex and Morgan continued to get on well as they got to know one another better, while Morgan entertained her with his antics. They enjoyed their dinner and the light, fun and flirty conversations. However, they both found their attention often falling to their two best friends as they often watched with a smile as Sarah and Chuck talked throughout dinner.
During this time both Zondra and Carina talked while enjoying their meals. Like the others they too were watching the potential couple with peaked interest as much of their non-Olympic talk revolved around, as Carina called them, the 'love birds.'
Chuck and Sarah had a magical evening as they enjoyed their delicious food and the wonderful company, completely oblivious to the entire table secretly watching them. Through most of dinner the pair talked about their work beyond swimming.
"So Chuck, what do you do when you're not training?" Sarah asks with a curious look.
Chuck smiles widely, "Well I help out my Dad where I can with computers and electronics. Preparing for the Games takes a lot of time, but I make sure to pull my weight and earn my way… I never want anything just given to me… you know?"
"I do… so you get to use you degree and play with all that technology? That's great and sounds like a lot of fun!" Sarah says excitedly as she touches his forearm without realizing it.
Chuck smiles widely at her, "It can be a lot of fun… although, I prefer game design, but because of all the training I do I am not able to help Orion's Game design team." He decides not to tell her about the game he has been secretly developing and had an epiphany about the day before. Especially since she kind of became his character muse… ya I better wait, might be awkward…telling her 'oh by the way Sarah I have been creating this game since Stanford and I made you the lead female character,' ya that would go over well, not!
Chuck then adds, "Not important, so how about you?"
Sarah looks at her hands then looks at him with her sparkling blue eyes, "Well, I am doing work towards my Masters in classical music in Sydney… I might do my PhD as well, but I am not sure. I also work part time at the Sydney Opera House as a Creative Learning Associate Specialist. I help plan and facilitate the school tours and music lessons and programs for kids. I also teach violin in my spare time, well what little I have. My job at the Opera House is more temporary and I am still figuring out what I want to do… I love to play, but I also like to teach. So I have to figure out if I want to try to perform professionally or become a university professor or become a music teacher."
"Wow that is so cool!" Chuck replies excitedly.
"The only thing I know for sure is that I don't want to follow my Dad by working at Origin Energy… he's always wanted me to follow in his footsteps. I love him, but I have no interest… and if I ever have kids I don't want to move them like I had too… its silly I know."
"Hey, it's not silly at all… your Dad's choices and sins are his and not yours… and you have every right to choose whatever life you want."
Sarah fights down her emotions, "Thanks Chuck… that's pretty eloquent"
"Hey what can I say, I am an articulate nerd."
Sarah laughs heartily, "That you are, though for some reason I think my father would call you a schnook… don't ask he is hard on people (and on the guys I like she thinks)."
"Well if I ever meet him I will work hard to not earn the title of schnook!"
Sarah chuckles, "Good to hear! Um… will you excuse me I need to go to the loo."
As she says this Ellie, Alex, Carina and Zondra all say, "We'll join you."
Chuck, Morgan and Devon look on curiously as all the ladies make their way to the restroom. Morgan is the first to respond, "What is it with them all going to the ladies room together… its like wired into their genetic code!"
Both Chuck and Devon nod as the boys begin to chat while they wait for the ladies to return.
Ladies Room at the Hawksmoor Seven Dials Restaurant
London, United Kingdom
July 26, 2012
19:57 hrs BST
Sarah stands next to Ellie, Zondra and Carina as they fix their make-up in the restroom.
Zondra pipes in, "So Sarah, it seems to be going well with Chuck."
Sarah smiles involuntarily, "It has been a lot of fun… I am just not sure where to go from here…"
Ellie smiles brightly as a brilliant idea comes to her, "I've got it! Chuck likes to take a walk after big meals and I know he would love the company!" Ellie finishes with only a little squeal.
Carina then adds, "That would be perfect! You could take advantage of him in an alley!"
All the girls give Carina a withering glance, "Just kidding, I bet it would be fun?" Carina says with a chastised smile.
Zondra rolls her eyes at Carina, "Sarah, it would be perfect… but he is shy so he will probably mention it and then you can ask to join him. It's perfect!"
Sarah looks at her friends nervously as she shakes out her hands to alleviate her stress… and dread, "Ok, I will give it a shot."
"Ok, let's head back out there!" Zondra replies as she drags Sarah back toward the restaurant.
Hawksmoor Seven Dials Restaurant
London, United Kingdom
July 26, 2012
20:08 hrs BST
Once the ladies all returned to the table the conversations quickly started up once more as the dinner was quickly winding down.
Carina looked at her watch before announcing, "I am so sorry to eat and run, but I have a very important meeting that I can't miss. It was wonderful meeting all of you and I hope to see you all soon." Carina hugged and shook hands with the rest of the group before winking at Sarah. Carina Hansen thought to herself, I have a very important meeting after all – the seduction of Bryce Larkin starts tonight! He won't know what hit him and then I can make sure Chuck and Sarah are safe.
After Carina departed for her 'mission' the group once again fell into an easy conversation. After a while Chuck looked down at his watch before addressing the table, mainly Mary and Ellie. "Um… is it Ok if I go for a walk?" He looks over at the rest of the table and explains, "I like to walk after a meal like this… it settles my stomach and I really enjoy walking around in cities like this."
Mary and Emma smile at Chuck as Mary gives him permission, "Of course Chuck, just make sure to be safe."
"I will."
As Chuck rises he looks deep within Sarah's eyes and desperately wants to ask her to join him, but despite his desire he cannot form the words.
Zondra, Ellie and Alex look at Sarah expectantly as Chuck rises, but Sarah is silent. Sarah is absolutely frozen, unable to utter the words she truly wants to say. Her mind screams – Chuck do you mind if I join you? But her fears and insecurities prevent the words from coming, much to her own chagrin. Zondra kicks Sarah lightly under the table, but even this cannot break her from her nervous stupor.
Chuck sighs slightly angry at himself for his cowardliness as he makes his way out of the restaurant.
Once Chuck is gone the girls instantly start in on Sarah.
"What the hell Walker! What about the plan!" Zondra calls out.
"You just had to ask honey, Chuck would love to have you join him… there was really no risk," Ellie adds in a kind, supportive tone.
"You need to go catch up to him!" Alex adds.
"I know, I know! I froze I just couldn't force myself to ask. Ugh… god I am so screwed up!" Sarah huffs exasperatedly as she bangs her head softly on the table.
Awesome and Morgan look on at the scene very confused. They look at their ladies who answer curtly, "NOT NOW!" With that both men wisely decide this is none of their business and decide to talk sports while the girls… converse.
Emma and Mary decide to interject after seeing Sarah's dejected head banging as they quickly guessed what the girls' original plan was.
"Baby girl, it has only been a few minutes you can catch him." Emma says.
"He said he was planning on heading toward the river so he is heading south, you can catch him he couldn't even have made it off Langley Street yet," Mary adds in a supportive tone.
Sarah shyly smiles, "Ok…"
Zondra waits a moment before yelling, "Go blondie! Now!"
Sarah jumps from her chair and runs from the restaurant as the staff and other patrons watch curiously as the beautiful young blonde women rushes from the restaurant.
Langley St. near Hawksmoor Seven Dials Restaurant
London, United Kingdom
July 26, 2012
20:44 hrs BST
Chuck strolls comfortably down the narrow street as he looks forward to more sights once he exits the alley like confines of the brick buildings that surround him. The night air is cool, but comfortable as there is a slight summer breeze. The road appears darker than it should due to broken streetlights and the buildings blocking some of the remaining sunlight that has transitioned into an orange hue across the sky as the sun sets. Chuck can easily see, however, the shadows of the buildings create dark spots and an overall melancholy atmosphere as he walks south.
In the shadows Justin stands smoking a cigarette as he watches and waits for Chuck to fall into his trap. He takes a final long drag of the cigarette before flicking it into the darkness and exhaling the acrid smoke. He takes a deep breath to steady his nerves as he pulls on a black balaclava as he prepares to strike. His hands grip and squeeze the long steel pipe that he intends on using to cripple the unsuspecting swimmer.
"Too bad you ran afoul of Mr. Shaw…" he says to himself, remorseful at his task to destroy this young man's dreams. Justin steadies himself as he knows what will befall him if he loses favor with Shaw or his friends. He shutters, "Damn me and my stupidity!"
Chuck whistles a carefree tune as he unsuspectingly nears his attacker. He plays with his keys as he spins them on his finger to pass the time as he observes the city in all its splendor. He spins the key once more and it falls from his grasp. He huffs a chuckle before bending down to retrieve the keys. As he bends down, Justin lunges and swings the pipe, just missing Chuck's head as he unintentionally ducks out of its path as he reaches for his key.
Chuck lets out a yelp as he jumps forward and turns coming face to face with his masked attacker.
Meanwhile…
Sarah flies from the restaurant entrance at full speed and looks both ways before heading south toward the river. As she quickens her pace, which is just short of a run she plays out every scenario in her head. She thinks, Should I play it coy or joking? 'Hey Chuck didn't think I would see you out here?' No… hum… maybe the truth, 'hey Chuck I was wondering if you wanted any company'… that could work…
She is still playing over how she would interact with Chuck that she looks up and nearly falls over in shock. In front of her is Chuck deftly jumping from side to side avoiding vicious strikes from a masked attacker. For a moment Sarah is completely lost in fear and terror for Chuck's safety. She thinks, what do I do? What do I do?
As she remains frozen in place the attacker thrashes out just missing Chuck's head with the pipe in what certainly would have been a killing blow. Sarah's vision blurs as her breathing quickens as her rage displaces her shock. She rushes forward in a dead run, straight at the masked attacker. She utilizes her extensive experience to launch herself into a front flying kick that strikes the unsuspecting attacker in the upper chest and launches him to the ground.
The hell is all this? Justin thinks as he rolls over and grabs the pipe as he tries to push air back into his lungs. He coughs as he stands, "Hell 'of a kick blondie, but you better run along before I get angry."
The masked man approaches Chuck, but Sarah blocks his path. The masked man swings at her widely with the deadly pipe. She dodges the strikes and begins to throw quick punches and kicks into the attacker's midsection. She smirks viciously as he realizes he is facing a skilled opponent.
He fanes attacking Chuck to the left, which causes Sarah to lunge to Chuck's defense, but this is a ploy. The attacker uses his fake-out to gain position on Sarah who has left herself defenseless. The pipe is raised high and begins its journey downward to Sarah's defenseless and vulnerable skull. Just before impact the pipe and attacker go flying as Chuck flag tackles Justin without any deference for his own safety as he saves Sarah's life. Both Justin and Chuck roll on the ground struggling as the pipe is lost. Justin gains position and ends up on top of Chuck. Chuck then grabs the lapels of Justin's jacket and lifts him above him as Chuck lays flat on his back. As the masked man Justin is lifted he is viciously hit by the pipe. Justin rolls off of Chuck and grabs at his split open and aching head before looking to see Sarah breathing heavily and holding the now bloody pipe. As he holds his now profusely bleeding head, Justin is thankful to be conscious and decides to flee. As his blood trickles to the ground he turns and runs away from the swimmers.
Sarah begins to chase the masked man now in a complete rage as she sees red, but she is stopped by a gentle hand grasping her arm. She wheels around and raises the bloody pipe in defense only to see Chuck's kind eyes. She freezes and drops the pipe, worried that she nearly hit Chuck.
Despite the situation Chuck looks at her deeply, "Are you Ok?"
"Me, you're the one who just got attacked… and… I almost hit you…" Sarah says near tears.
Chuck hugs her tight, "I am fine and you didn't hit me… you saved me. Thank you Sarah. Now, are you Ok," he asks while looking and touching her arms to see if she was hurt in any way.
Sarah shivers at the contact and replies softly, "I'm fine Chuck… you saved me too."
They share a look before they call the police. They wait in awkward silence until the police arrive so they can give their report. The police bag the evidence and take blood samples to be run against the criminal database. The Constable tells them it was probably a mugging, but because they are Olympic athletes (and the potential for an international incident) the crime lab would fast track the DNA test and find the attacker.
Chuck and Sarah finish their rather long talk with the police and decide to finish their walk, figuring they could protect each other until they return the Athlete's Village. As they walk Chuck summons all his courage and gently grasps Sarah's hand and turns her to face him as the pair stop on a London sidewalk.
"Sarah… do you want to go on a date sometime… a date away from the pool and apparently masked thugs…"
"Like a real date?"
"Ya, what do you have to lose? After the Games you will be at a Pacific Swim Meet in, in… Jakarta and in that moment you will wish you spent one night on a date with me."
"Ok…" Sarah replies shyly.
"Ok? Ok! So how about tomorrow? It is the Opening Ceremonies and I can't go because they last all night and I have events the next day," Chuck replies excitedly.
"I'm not going to the Ceremonies either so that is perfect. I would love to go on a date with you tomorrow." Sarah says quietly with a nervous smile.
Chuck smiles back, "It's a date."
Sarah smiles as they continue to walk hand in hand, "Ya, it's a date."
AN2: Lots going on here and I hope you like the direction of the drama – as you can see a lot has played out already and it sets up the Games and the villains' fall (coming soon). Next up, the first official date!
Disclaimer – don't own Hawksmoor and I have never been to London, but it seems like it might be good.