"Chuck vs the Aussie"
AN1: This is the last chapter before the Games begin (So don't freak out!). So far it has been a long road but keep in mind that based on my time line Chuck and Sarah have only known one another for 7 days – so there will be big relationship movement, but keep the time they have known each other in mind. As much as we all may want a fast courtship, the fact is with the Games coming and the fact they are just dating now don't expect ridiculous relationship leaps. I am really excited to add the swimming action next chapter and this will play a large role as the middle of this story, which will look at the 8 days of swimming events (July 28-Aug 4). Lots coming – more Chuck and Sarah, the villain drama will be resolved and the final drama arc and my (hopefully) griping conclusion. Thanks to everyone for all the support and for reading and reviewing – it really makes me smile!
Oh and Esardi asked a great question about the last chapter – the restaurant and attack are well outside of the Athlete's Village, which is why there was no security and the attack was feasible. Uplink2 also made a great comment about the canon reference in the final scene last chapter – that the episode 201 (Chuck vs the first date, where Chuck asks Sarah out for real as the project is coming to an end) reference was a little forced – this is very fair. Now he actual postulated the reason why I had Chuck try and convince Sarah to go on a date in his review, but it is important so I wanted to say something here. I did a lot in ch 2 to set up Sarah's psychology, but I did less of that in ch1 for Chuck. Chuck in this story is very interesting – no Stanford betrayal; however, I always pegged him as slightly shy and introverted and that his outgoing side comes from others – Bryce and Jill in canon at Stanford (PM or ask in a review if you want me to clarify this). So in this story he is a superstar that really does not comprehend that he is special. As a result, his shy nature and his limited experience relationship wise makes him feel similar to his canon persona – in a sense unworthy of Sarah – as such he feels the need to convince her to date him even though she was/is very willing to date him. The reference is still imperfect, but it does show an aspect of this Chuck that is important and that you need to keep in mind – both Chuck and Sarah's personalities and psychology will play a huge role in the remainder of this story. Thanks uplink and esardi - you're feedback and questions are much appreciated!
Also, a big thanks to 2old2write – caught some tense issues last chapter that I think I have fixed – sorry about that everyone – I work fast and edit this significantly, but I post faster than I probably should… I get excited and want to get it out as soon as it is 'ready,' even if I should sit on it and review it more… so all mistakes are my own as I am not abusing a beta. Thanks to everyone who reads and reviews and comments.
Disclaimers – I don't own Chuck or the Olympics (additional disclaimers in AN2).
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! And I always PM reviewers.
Chapter 9: First Date
Previously on Chuck vs. the Aussie…
"Sarah… do you want to go on a date sometime… a date away from the pool and apparently masked thugs…" Chuck asks Sarah in a nervous hopeful tone, feeling the distinct need to convince this angel to speak to him let alone go on a date with him. As he waits for her response his self doubt grows, yet his hope remains.
"Like a real date?" Sarah asks shyly.
"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.
Sarah's Apartment at the Athlete's Village
London, United Kingdom
July 27, 2012
7:40 hrs BST
Sarah arose to the sounds of her very annoying alarm clock as it blares loudly and shrilly throughout her tiny Olympic Apartment. She muses briefly in her sleep addled state, Ugh! I need something… like a throwing knife to kill that stupid clock!
She reaches out to silence the alarm clock and then wipes the sleep from her eyes before she remembers last night and a huge smile breaks upon her beautiful face. She thinks to herself, last night was like a dream… or a TV show, but it was REAL! Chuck asked me out! She smiles brightly and tightly hugs her plush pillow as she happily snuggles in her sheets.
She sits in bed in a contented haze as she thinks about her walk with Chuck and not the panic inducing fight that has taken second stage in her mind to her impeding date with the curly haired American swimmer. As she happily ruminates on her previous night she is roused by a loud knock at her door.
Once she opens the door she smiles at her two friends, Zondra and Carina, who enter the apartment without pretense.
"What the hell Walker! You didn't call! So spill, what happened last night with Chuck!" Zondra says while looking on with excitement and curiosity dancing in her eyes as she watches the sleepy Sarah Walker.
"Ya, Sarah! What did you hook-up with Chuck or what?" Carina asks nonchalantly with a subtle grin and amusement dancing in her eyes.
Sarah instantly gapes at her friends, "I need coffee… it is far too early for an interrogation! And NO Carina! I did not hook-up with Chuck! What kind of girl do you think I am?!"
Carina smiles, "Hey, I thought you might have decided to live a little and you could do far worse than Chuck."
Zondra chuckles, "She is right… about the 'you could do worse' thing. Now tell me what happened last night, while Carina makes coffee." Zondra shoots a look to Carina and Carina heads off to the little kitchenette to being making a dark brew.
Sarah smiles and sighs contently, "Well after the police left Chuck asked me out on a date!" Sarah's face betrays her hope and excitement as she nearly squeals with happiness.
"Good for Chuck, he finally mustered up the courage! So when are you going out?" Zondra asks curiously.
"Tonight! Neither of us can go to the Opening Ceremonies because they last till like 1 or 2 am and we both have events tomorrow. So he is going to take me out this evening, for tea (supper) I suppose and we can call it an early night so we can get a proper rest. I am so excited!" Sarah beams happily.
"That is so awesom… wait… back up a second, did you say after the police left?" Zondra asks with a scrunched up brow.
Sarah's smile falls into a more serious expression, "You caught that… I was kinda hoping you would miss that little detail…"
"WALKER!" Zondra drew out the syllables of Sarah's name demanding answers.
"Okay, Okay!" Sarah says as she raises her hands in surrender as both Zondra and Carina look at her seriously.
Carina hands Sarah and Zondra a cup of coffee before sitting down on the couch with them.
Sarah sighs, "Before I start it is important that you don't tell anyone about this – not family, other friends, coaches, trainers or dates. Is that clear?"
"Yes," both Zondra and Carina reply in a worried tone.
Sarah once again takes a steadying breath, "Last night I caught up to Chuck and he was being attacked by a masked man." The other ladies gasp and Zondra covers her mouth with her hand as shock colors her features. Sarah then continues, "Now don't worry. He's fine, we are both fine. I interrupted the fight and we fought off the attacker before he could get a blow in… it was close though. The guy could have killed Chuck… or me. I kinda saved Chuck and then he saved me… he's a hero," Sarah says with a small smile.
Sarah then exhales a breath as she briefly relives that night and shutters at the thought of what might have happened. "The police are taking this really seriously because we are Olympic athletes, especially after that Winter Olympics incident years ago between the American figure skaters. So we have to keep this secret and out of the news until they catch the criminal."
"Ok… do you think it was Larkin?" Zondra asks.
"I don't know… we never saw his face but I whacked him hard on the head so if he's not hurt than it probably wasn't him, but you never know. Carina, did you see him last night?"
Carina smirks, "Oh ya! I met him later that night… I doubt it was him, but like you said he could be involved. He snuck off from his girlfriend and he showed a lot of interest… defiantly a 'winner' that one," Carina says (sarcastically) with disgust coloring her voice.
Sarah sighs, "Well I guess we will have to wait for the police to get the guy if it's not Larkin…"
Carina then looks confused, "Sarah I am not done seducing Larkin yet. I plan on finding out more and if he is involved or tries anything believe me I will know or find out, I promise you that."
"Thanks Carina, you're a good friend," Sarah says with a kind half-smile.
So will you and Chuck be safe?" Zondra asks.
Sarah replies, "The police plan on keeping an eye on us and Chuck called his team to inform them and one of his coaches is ex-military. Chuck has a wild idea he's a spy or something… weird I know, but this Colonel guy says he will have someone looking out for Chuck."
Zondra chuckles, "Well that sounds like the Colonel… and Chuck might be right… he is defiantly a drill sergeant! But he always came off very Agent-y if you catch my drift. Anyway, that's good you both have at least a bit of protection," Zondra finishes saying, thought the worry remains on her features.
Sarah chuckles, "Actually that's how Chuck described him too! Ok, now on to more important matters!"
Both Carina and Zondra look at one another with a concerned expression.
Sarah then smiles nervously at her friends, "I need help getting ready for my date!"
Both girls let out a deep breath glad that nothing else was wrong before chuckling at Sarah's nervous excitement… and priorities.
"Anything for you Kiwi!" Zondra says while laughing.
Sarah faux scowls, "I will let that one go, so can you too meet me at my Mom's hotel later today and help me prepare and find something to wear?"
Carina replies for both of them, "Of course, we will make sure you make an impression on Chuck tonight!"
Emma's Hotel Room at the St. James's Hotel and Club
London, United Kingdom
July 27, 2012
16:40 hrs BST
After the three girls trained for most of the day they caught a cab in the early evening to Emma's hotel in order to prepare Sarah for her first official first date with Chuck… kind of a second first date if you will.
Emma, Zondra and Carina stood near the closet in Emma's room that currently contained dresses brought by Sarah, Zondra, Carina and Emma in order to provide a wide range of potential options for Sarah.
The three women stood side-by-side-by-side, watching Sarah as she paces nervously back and forth and back and forth again. They try mightily to hold back their mirth as they watch Sarah's nervous pacing as she talks to herself while occasionally nibbling at her lip or finger nails.
After chastising Sarah for the fifth time for biting at her nails, Emma decides to take action. She walks up to Sarah, who is in her own nervous little world, and grabs her by her shoulders. With her pacing blocked, Sarah looks up into her mother's eyes and sees Emma's supportive face.
"Baby girl, calm down and breathe. I promise everything is going to be fine," Emma tells her mildly distraught daughter. "Now are you sure this is going to be safe? After hearing about the attack are you sure this is wise?"
Sarah snaps from her nervous thoughts, "Don't worry Mom, we have both the police and a private contractor… or agent or something looking out for us. We will be safe and besides, I won't stop living just because of what happened. I can take care of myself."
"Ok if you are sure. Now, let's find you an outfit!" Emma says forcing a smile as she worries about her daughter's safety. Both Carina and Zondra smile widely as they bring forward a stack of cloths for Sarah to try on.
Sarah smiles weakly with her nerves clearly bleeding through as she looks at the significant array of options. She thinks to herself as she begins the 'fashion show,' oh boy… don't freak out!
After much debate and numerous outfits Sarah finally stops and looks at herself in the mirror.
Emma, Zondra and Carina look on from behind her at the beautiful dress that she's currently wearing. Sarah smiles widely as she covers her mouth with her hands. She looks back to her Mom and friends and happily declares, "This is it!"
The other ladies smile and Emma answers for them all, "it looks perfect Sarah… you look very beautiful."
"Thanks Mom…"
Carina smiles deviously, "Now let's get you ready!"
Sarah smiles back nervously, "OK…"
Any outsider would expect to see a girl like Sarah getting ready alone with confidence as she struts around the room in her expensive underwear as she does her hair, make-up and dresses herself. This was not the case nor was it the picture perfect scene that one might expect.
Despite her grace in the water and on land, she ran around the apartment followed by her Mom and friends as they helped her get ready and offered her advice. She did not look confident nor did she look poised as she rushed, panicked, did her make-up… and panicked some more.
Her entourage laughed at the comical picture before them as Sarah was in full freak out mode. They picked out her make-up, which was light and understated, yet added elegance to her beautiful face. They discussed how to do her hair in extensive detail and Carina lobbied for her to wear her hair up with two stainless steel chopsticks for her hair – both functional and a dangerous weapon in a sticky situation. Sarah decided to wear her hair down for Chuck this night, though she had to admit that Carina's idea would have been perfect on her night out to Castle with Alex where she 're-met' Chuck.
In the end Sarah was finally prepared physically for the date as she looked radiant in her dress with her make-up and hair adding to her immeasurable beauty. With the time remaining before the date Sarah talked with her Mom and friends in order to mentally prepare herself for her very important date.
Mary's Hotel Room at the St. James's Hotel and Club
London, United Kingdom
July 27, 2012
16:40 hrs BST
Chuck arrives at Mary's hotel with Morgan in tow after a long day of training and team meetings. He enters the room and sees Mary and Ellie who both have concerned looks on their faces.
Chuck smiles happily and charmingly, "How was your day ladies?"
Ellie scowls at Chuck, "Oh don't give me that Chuck! After what happened to you last night we have both been worried sick! Were there any other problems or attacks? Were you safe?"
Chuck looks back and forth between Mary and Ellie before sighing loudly as he drops his head. "I am fine; I don't want you to worry about me. I told you the police are after the attacker and are providing additional security. Also, the Colonel (Casey) says he's tasked someone from 'work'… an 'Agent' or something to covertly watch out for me… whatever that means. Anyway, with Casey's shadowy Agent or whatever he is I am safe and no one is going to get to me so please don't worry over nothing. It was probably just a mugging and all these precautions will be for nothing… OK?"
Both Ellie and Mary let out a breath together as they calm down, though they continue to worry about the situation.
Mary looks at Chuck, "Ok Charles, we just worry especially after what happened. Thank god Sarah made it to you when she did…" Mary then shutters as she thinks about what could have been if not for that strong little Aussie.
"She did and we are both fine… so don't worry."
Both Ellie and Mary nod and smile slightly at Chuck and his brave response to this difficult situation.
Chuck raises his hands and smiles, "Ok, good! Now... Ellie, Mom don't freak out. Remain calm, I have some news…"
Before Chuck can answer Morgan comes barreling in from the other room in the large hotel suite, no longer able to leave the Bartowski's to discuss the 'attack' sans Morgan. Morgan leaps into Chuck and wraps his arms and legs around Chuck from the side. Morgan smiles at Mary and Ellie from his perched position on Chuck before happily declaring, "Chuck's got a date!"
"What? Sarah?" Both Mary and Ellie say as one as their shock turns into excited smiles.
"Way to go Chuck!" Ellie says happily with a beaming smile. "Oh god! What are you going to wear?"
Chuck just replies nervously, "Uhhh…"
"Come with me Chuck and we'll figure it out," Ellie says before pushing Morgan from his awkward side hug position on Chuck before dragging her little brother along to find an outfit. Morgan rubs his backside as he hits the ground after hurricane Ellie knocked him from the Chuck tree, "Hey! You could have asked me to get off of Chuck! You didn't have to throw me Ellie," Morgan yells to Ellie as she drags a shell-shocked Chuck to the bedroom to sort out his attire for the evening.
As Ellie rifles through the closet, Chuck sits perched on the bed kicking his feet nervously, while Ellie looks through some of his cloths. "So what are your plans for tonight Chuck?" Ellie asks while sorting through the non work-out cloths Chuck had left at the family's hotel due to the lack of need and space at his Athlete's Village apartment.
"I wasn't entirely sure… any ideas?"
"Well if you are taking her out for dinner I scoped out a few healthy restaurants that would fit your diet." She thinks for a moment, "Amaya Bar and Grill - great Indian food, which London is known for with the large Indian expat community. Hum… ah I have an idea! After dinner you could take her to the London Eye on one of the private capsules! It will be so romantic… in fact Devon took me so I would know," Ellie says before blushing slightly.
"Ok, what's the London Eye?"
"It's that big white Ferris wheel thing down by the river… and I know you are scared of heights, but suck it up little brother because it will be worth it! Then you can take a walk in Jubilee Park and along the Thames next the London Eye before heading in for the night! It will be perfect."
Chuck ponders her idea for a moment, "Thanks Ellie that does sound perfect."
They then discuss clothing options as Chuck wanders about the room nervously. They go over Chuck's many nerves and concerns during this brother-sister therapy session, which ends as Ellie decides on Chuck's attire for the evening. Chuck starts to complain, but Ellie cuts him off.
Ellie looks at Chuck penetratingly, "Do you like this girl Chuck?"
"Of Course, you know that Ellie… Sarah seems… special…"
Ellie smiles widely, "Good! Then you, my brother are going to step it up a notch tonight! And no more complaining! I'm a girl, I know what girls like! So mush!"
Ellie ushers Chuck to the bed and lays out his outfit for him. Although Chuck sort of feels like a little kid being dressed up by his mommy, or sister in this case, he has to admit Ellie seems to have picked out quite the outfit.
Chuck thinks to himself while he changes, I hope Sarah likes it…
Athlete's Village
London, United Kingdom
July 27, 2012
17:30 hrs BST
Chuck and Sarah both made their way back to the Athlete's Village, not realizing they were in fact at the same hotel talking with their friends and family in preparation for their evening together.
Chuck ran back to his little apartment before texting Sarah a meeting place in the main square of the Athlete's Village. After straightening his clothes and checking his appearance he made his way to meet Sarah.
Sarah arrives at the designated meeting place first and stood nervously playing with her hands as she awaits Chuck's arrival.
Chuck made his way out of his building and as he approaches the meeting place he sees Sarah waiting nervously with her back to him. He smiles nervously as he heads toward her.
When he gets close he gently calls out "Sarah" in order to avoid scaring her and to avoid facing her ninja like wrath.
"Hey Sarah! It's good to… see… you…" Chuck trails of mid sentences as his breath is taken away as she turns to face him with a smile.
He is completely lost as he looks at her and thinks to himself that there has never been a more beautiful person. Before him Sarah stands with her shimmering blonde hair parted to one side and flowing with a slight curl down to her silky shoulders. Her make-up is light, but adds a smoky dimension to her stunning eyes and her delicate features. Chuck continues to look on adoringly as he tries desperately to remember how to breathe. Her dress is a deep purple and is form fitting and knee length. It has small straps across the shoulder and is V shaped across her chest, which shows a little, yet respectable amount of her stunning cleavage. Chuck can see that both the shoulder straps and below the bust are subtle matching purple weaved designs that add a touch of class to the simple, yet elegant dress.
Chuck sucks in a stuttering breath before uttering softly with pure truth, "You are so beautiful."
As Chuck was fighting to re-learn how to breathe, Sarah was having a similar response to Chuck's appearance. As she turns around and takes in the sight of Chuck's well defined form her knees instantly go weak and she fights mightily to stay on her feet as her insides turn to goo. Before her Chuck stands in a very well cut black suit that seems to be tailored perfectly as it tapers at his waist and shows off his strong and broad shoulders. He wears a dark blue and charcoal grey pinstripe dress shirt with an open/unbuttoned collar and no tie. To finish off his ensemble, Chuck wore shiny black oxford style dress shoes, begrudgingly leaving his patented Converse's behind for the night. As she looks at him adoringly her heart begin to race as she takes in his rather suave and confident looking appearance.
She hears his declaration of her beauty and she instantly blushes and looks at her high heeled feet before shyly smiling and looking into his eyes.
"Thank you Chuck. You look very dapper yourself."
Chuck smiles back and both begin to see that despite their appearances they are both rather nervous… and excited.
Chuck smiles his special grin at her before extending his arm, "Shall we?"
Sarah smiles and links her arm with his.
"So, where are we going Chuck?"
"Ah, but that is a surprise Miss Walker," Chuck says with a cheeky grin.
"You should know I hate surprises, but I will make an exception for you and not torture… or tickle the secret out of you!"
Chuck smiles widely, "Why thank you, I never like to start a date off screaming like a little girl."
They look at each other seriously for a moment before breaking into laughter as they walk toward a cab and the rest of their date.
Amaya Bar and Grill
London, United Kingdom
July 27, 2012
18:05 hrs BST
They arrive at the restaurant and look up at the brilliant white stone building in awe as they take in the long building, which is connected to another white stone building on the left and a large brown brick building on the right. The restaurant's building has 2 stories of tall multi-segmented, white paned windows, but the aspect that truly set it apart from its surroundings is the eight Greek inspired columns in brilliant white stone. The columns run beyond both the first and second floor windows all the way to the roof of this seemingly Parthenon inspired building with its ornately carved square roof. There are mini-column designs carved between the large support columns that were inset into the building and the top of the roof. They then look at the arched doorway and the dark green trim that forms a half crescent paned window above the square entryway.
They read the sign above the entryway that says 'Halkin Arcade' before seeing the vertical lettering spelling out Amaya, which is next to of all things a Starbucks sign. Chuck and Sarah chuckle at the sign and at the fact that these Seattle coffee shops are indeed everywhere! They link hands and walk into the entryway and move toward the restaurant ready to enjoy their meal.
Once inside they were led to their table and took in the very modern Asian inspired ambiance of this Michelin rated restaurant. They walk past the bar area, which is darkly lit and very modern with bright red and black accent coloring. Between black segmented pillars outside the bar area is a thin bar table and above the table are long strings of dangling beads and clear crystals similar to those found on a chandelier, which frames the bar area and the modern looking black and white bar. They continue to walk on the brown hardwood floors between the bar and a row of light taupe colored square pillars with dining tables between them at the windows of the restaurant. They are led into the main dining area and see a large vaulted skylight and at the far end of the room a large impressionist painting of a river and an Indian town (including an elephant) in pastel colors of blue/turquoise, green, pink and golden brown sand colors. They continue to their right around to the other side of the wall that houses the bar. They are then seated at a round table between two light taupe pillars. There are black stripes down the wall next to the table that are separated by vertical strips of beige clay brick, which gives the restaurant a very modern posh look.
Chuck holds Sarah's chair out before asking, "What do you think?"
"It looks very nice Chuck, but we will see how the food is!"
"Well it should be good and it doesn't go against my diet so that's a plus. Honestly this is an Ellie recommendation… I wanted this to be perfect…" Chuck says with a nervous smile.
Sarah smiles with a hint of a blush, secretly ecstatic that Chuck cares enough to ask Ellie for advice. "Don't worry Chuck, I am glad Ellie helped."
Chuck let out a breath and smiles relieved Sarah is so kind. The waiter approaches and the pair orders after getting a little advice from the servers. The restaurant does not have 'main' dishes, rather there are smaller portions and you order multiple dishes to share with the group. The waiter recommends that 6-8 dishes would be the right amount of food for the couple. Chuck and Sarah agree on 8 dishes including roast broccoli with yogurt, prawns in coconut sauce, king scallops, tandooori black pepper chicken, lobster, oysters and shrimp and scallops done three ways a few vegetarian dishes including salads and of course lots of naan, paneer and rice.
The dishes arrive as they are cooked and in the meantime Sarah and Chuck talk comfortably. Chuck then decides he must broach the topic of the attack. "Sarah, I want to apologize for putting you in danger last night… you should not have put yourself at risk."
Sarah looks at Chuck intensely, "Chuck you are so nice to apologize, but that was not your fault and I would never let you get hurt to save myself. It turned out alright, but it was not your fault, Ok?"
"Ok, but I am talking to Colonel Carey tomorrow and I am going to get him to have his guys watch out for you too. And no arguments about this, I want you safe too. I will get him to do it even if you are in Casey's words 'a damn foreigner.' It is still better that what he calls the Chinese and Russians!" Chuck says with a laugh.
Sarah chuckles and smiles at Chuck, but deep down she is near tears as she is emotionally touched by how far he is willing to go to keep her safe. She shakes it off and smiles again, "I gather he ain't a fan of Commies then!"
"Nope, he is a red blooded American and he has a picture of President Reagan in his office and I suspect on him at all times… no joke… he is a scary guy… loyal, but scary." Chuck says with a contemplative look on his face.
Sarah nods her head, "Well then good thing he is watching out for you."
Chuck smiles softly and corrects her, "Us… he will be watching out for us."
Sarah beams at the comment as the first of the food arrives distracting from the intimate moment.
Their food arrives in waves and they enjoy the flavors of the Indian fusion cuisine as they talk and learn more about one another.
Suddenly Chuck softly laughs for no reason causing Sarah to look up at him curiously.
"What?" Sarah asks with a small curious smile, amusement dancing in her eyes as she takes another bite of naan (flat-bread).
Chuck looks up in surprise, cursing to himself, "It's nothing," he says nervously as he returns his attention to his food.
Sarah looks at him with a powerful, yet supportive gaze, "Please… what were you thinking?"
Chuck was going to tell her it wasn't important, but as he looks in her eyes and sees her pout ever so slightly he can't bring himself to dismiss her. "I just can't believe that I am here… with a girl like you…"
Sarah smiles slightly and tries to keep a serious look as her heart begins beating faster, "What do you mean a girl like me?"
Chuck drops his fork and leans back in his chair a wry smile growing on his face, "You're really going to make me say it… aren't you?"
Sarah just smiles back as she tilts her head adorably waiting for his reply.
"Fine, have it your way Miss Walker." Then Chuck's playful tone turns serious as he says, "I can't believe I am here with a girl like you… or more precisely a women like you. Who is smart, funny… and breathtakingly beautiful… and you can stop me whenever this gets to be too much!" With his last comment returns to his playful and wry tone as he chuckles while secretly praying he has not made Sarah uncomfortable.
Sarah is blown away by the heartfelt response. She was expecting him to be thinking of a funny story, maybe some more of Morgan's antics. But the absolute truth and kindness in his words were causing a shiver to rush through her body as her heart flutters as she stares deep within his big brown eyes.
She forces a smile to her face as she battles down her tumultuous emotions she is feeling until she is able to respond in a voice just above a breathy whisper, "That's so sweet Chuck."
Chuck can see her battling her emotions and decides to lighten the mood. He smiles wryly, "Sweet? Once again, golly gee thanks for making me feel like I am eight!"
Sarah cannot hold back as she laughs happily, secretly thankful that Chuck knew what she needed better than any other guy she has ever met.
She smiles sweetly, "I'm the lucky one Chuck… you are fantastic…"
Chuck sucks in a deep breath before smiling widely as they continue to share the wonderful food as it arrives at the table.
Chuck smiles through a bite of rice as he finds a topic to follow their rather deep moment, "So are you sorry to be missing the Opening Ceremonies?"
Sarah smiles widely, "You know I would be… but I am having much more fun here than I would have had watching that show and ruining my chances tomorrow."
"Me too," Chuck replies truthfully. "Besides I have Morgan recording the whole thing so I can watch it later. I also really don't care for the attention… I just want to get in the water and have some fun and maybe if I am lucky win a medal or at least have a good showing."
"Well from what I have heard you are far too modest. Everyone thinks you are going to do so well… you should have more faith in yourself Chuck… I think you are going to do great," Sarah says before smiling shyly and blushes slightly.
Chuck is surprised by her open comments and smiles crookedly, "Well I know you are going to do great. So, what is your day like tomorrow?"
Sarah smiles widely as she thinks with rapt excitement about tomorrow, "I have one event tomorrow the 4x100m freestyle. We have heats at 12:11 am and then the final (medal race) at 8:32pm… I am so excited! What do you have tomorrow?"
Chuck bounces a little in his chair as he smiles excitedly like a child at Christmas, "I have two events, the 400m individual medley and the 400m freestyle. I have heats at 10 am and 10:52 am and if I do well and qualify for the finals I compete at 7:30 pm and 7:51 pm… so I have a busy day too!"
Sarah's eyebrows raise a touch, "Wow that is a busy day!"
"Yep! Um… I was wondering… would you mind if I watched your events? You know… for support?" Chuck says with a nervous, yet hopeful smile.
Sarah's eyes drop to her food for a second before she looks into his eyes and replies, "Yes… I would love the support… but only if I can watch your races too…"
Chuck beams a Bartowski grin at her and says, "Of Course!"
They share a smile before finishing up their meal.
As they prepare to leave Sarah asks curiously, "So what's next?"
"Ah, it is still a secret… trust me Sarah."
As they exit the restaurant hand in hand Sarah thinks uncertainly to herself, I do…
The London Eye, Cupids Capsule
London, United Kingdom
July 27, 2012
20:30 hrs BST
"So where are you taking me Chuck!" Sarah whines and pouts adorably trying to break Chuck's iron resolve.
"Bah, bah, bah this is my secret and your very powerful and cute powers of persuasion will not work on me!" Chuck says in an exuberant voice as he smiles widely.
"Don't make me seduce you Chuck Bartowski!"
With that both stop walking and freeze. Sarah thinks to herself, Oh I did not just say that! Maybe he didn't notice… damn he definitely noticed… well this is a little awkward…
Chuck sputters as he tries to breath as he imagines how utterly defenseless he would be against the onslaught of the very beautiful Sarah Walker if she chose to seduce him. He shakes his head and tries to push the blush down as he grabs her hand, "We should hurry… we don't want to be late for my surprise!"
Sarah smiles back thankfully as she follows Chuck as they walk past the greenery of a park. She looks up and up and sees the massive white Ferris wheel that is the London Eye. She thinks, how cool would it be to see the city from way up there… maybe another time…
Chuck notices her look of wonder as she looks up at the imposing London Eye and he smiles widely. He thinks, it looks like Ellie was right! This is going to be perfect!
Before she has a chance to realize where she is Chuck is handing off his pass to the London Eye. She turns to Chuck, "Chuck this is too much! This is probably expensive and I don't want you wasting your money!"
"Sarah, don't worry I want to do this… you are worth it… and the view is suppose to be incredible!" Chuck replies with a boyish smile.
Sarah blushes and tires to look away, "Ok Chuck," she says as her heart flutters once more. She thinks to herself, this is definitely the best first date ever!
They wait their turn and then are ushered into the panoramic glass and white painted metal capsule that is rather egg shaped. Inside the capsule is an oval wood table with a whicker basket on it in the center of the capsule. The inside is a giant oval space with a cacophony of glass that curves inward leaving them in a glass bubble. There are two stainless steel hand rails that run around the entire oval space at about waist level. Sarah looks around in awe as she waits for additional passengers to join them. She is surprised when the door closes and they are left alone in the capsule.
"Um… Chuck I thought that these take heaps of people, not just two?"
"Well… ah… yes… normally, but this is not one of the normal capsules. This is a private capsule… I'm sorry if you don't like it I just didn't want to risk other tourists ruining our view…" Chuck stammers out nervously.
"Don't worry Chuck; I prefer to have my date all to myself anyway. So what is the capsule called anyway?" Sarah asks curiously as she looks outside.
Chuck instantly blushes deeply.
Sarah looks toward Chuck and notices his reaction as the capsule slowly begins to rise, "Are you Ok Chuck? What is it?"
Chuck takes a deep breath as he fights down the blush as he mumbles almost inaudibly, "it's called Cupids Capsule…"
Sarah cannot hear him and asks, "What was that?"
Chuck signs and rubs his temples, "Ok, don't freak out, it is called Cupids Capsule… it was the only way I could get a capsule for just the two of us…:"
Sarah's has a mischievous grin grace her otherwise innocent looking face, "So Chuck, what were you planning on happening up here that requires all this privacy?" She has a predatory lilt to her tone, apparently I have been hanging around with Carina for too long… but his reaction will be so worth it! He is so easy to tease!
Chuck instantly coughs and sputters as he again turns very red. "Oh god Sarah I did not mean it like that… I am a gentleman and I would never push you or take advantage of you… I am sorry… I am not like that… (sigh)… I understand if you want to leave… well you are kind of trapped, but I will leave you alone…" Chuck rambles until he is speaking in a rather dejected tone as he looks at his feet embarrassed and a little ashamed.
Sarah cannot hold in her mirth as she bursts out laughing. She thinks, oh wow! He is so cute when he rambles. That may have been a little mean… hum, I will have to make it up to him.
When Chuck hears her laughing he raises his head so quickly that he swears he hears a crack as he looks on very confused at Sarah's hysterical visage.
Sarah's face is very red as a tear streams down her rosy cheeks as she fights to regulate her breathing, "Sorry… Chuck… I was just kidding… but your face was so funny!'
Chuck blinks twice before a smile begins to appear. He then faux pouts as a small smile overtakes his face as he jokingly says, "Oh you are just awful aren't you! Are all Aussies this cruel and take advantage of poor unsuspecting American boys!" He holds a serious look before he joins her in deep laughter.
"Ok, Ok you got me and that was a good one." Chuck says as he stifles a final laugh.
"Sorry 'bout that Chuck, I think I may have been hanging around with Carina for too long!"
She expects a response, but one does not come. She looks over at Chuck worried that he took offense to her joke, but finds that he is frozen in place. She tries again, "Chuck?"
Chuck snaps from his reverie and is a little jumpier than normal as a small bead of sweat makes its way down his forehead. She looks at him in confusion before looking out at the improving view of the city. And as they rise it suddenly clicks in her mind.
"Chuck? Are you afraid of heights?" She asks gently, concern tinting her voice.
"No… not afraid, terrified is more like it…" Chuck says before gulping and closing his eyes tightly with a grimace on his face.
"Chuck, why did you bring us here if you are terrified of heights?" Sarah asks in a supportive tone.
"I thought you would like it and that maybe I wouldn't freak out… I was wrong." Chuck says nervously.
Sarah smiles, "Look at me Chuck." When he does she looks deep into his eyes, "You will be fine here hold my hand and I will take care of you."
Chuck takes her hand and can feel himself relax, "Thanks Sarah… I feel… better."
"Don't worry Chuck, just enjoy the view… and the company," Sarah says with a smile that Chuck happily returns.
They stand at the edge of the capsule and look through the glass as the sights improve as they get higher and higher. Chuck then gentle pulls Sarah to the table.
"Part of the deal for the capsule was a bottle of champagne and a box of chocolate truffles. Now, I figured we could save the champagne for after our events, but we could have a little desert," Chuck says with a smile.
Sarah nods excitedly, "Ooh! I am a sucker for lollies and chocolate! Especially chocolate croissants, but this will do!"
Chuck files that little fact about Sarah away before he smiles and feeds her a chocolate that causes her to moan happily, while causing him to blush senselessly.
After sharing some more chocolate they made their way back to the glass as they take a full circle of the capsule taking in the breathtaking views of the London skyline.
As Sarah takes in 'Big Ben' and Parliament and the overall spectacular view from their skyward position she gasps out, "It's so beautiful!"
Chuck replies in a soft voice, "I know."
She turns and sees that he is not looking out at the city, but is staring at her with a small smile. She instantly blushes and looks to her feet as she thinks, he really is perfect isn't he?
Their eyes meet once more and from the top of the London Eye and they share a gentle, yet powerful kiss as they are framed by the setting sun and the picturesque view of the London skyline that neither is paying attention to at the moment.
When the kiss finally breaks Sarah steadies her breathing before smiling widely, "So this was your evil plan Mr. Bartowski?" Her voice is wry and teasing and brings a happy grin to Chuck's face.
"No, but I think I can suffer through it," he says as he leans in and captures her lips in another gentle embrace that Sarah happily loses herself in as they continue their journey.
Jubilee Gardens along the Thames River
London, United Kingdom
July 27, 2012
21:42 hrs BST
The magical ride on the London Eye ends and they exit the capsule holding hands with happy smiles on their faces.
"How about a short walk through the park and then I will take you home, we both have a big day tomorrow and we need to get some rest," Chuck says as he looks into her mesmerizingly blue eyes.
"Ok," Sarah says as she walks hand in hand with him towards the Thames River.
As they walk down a path with a view of the river Sarah suddenly breaks the contented silence, "Thank you Chuck… for all of this. I was really nervous about tomorrow and this great date really took my mind off all of the pressure… this was the perfect distraction."
They share a look and Chuck smiles his special grin, "My pleasure."
After walking in silence for another moment Chuck asks, "You ready for tomorrow?"
Sarah signs, "I'm as ready as I'll ever be… you?"
"Same," Chuck replies with a half-smile. He adds, "You are going to do great you know…"
Sarah smiles as he comforts her before she replies, "You will too."
They share a sweet smile before their lips meet for one final time this night as they share a gentle, yet passionate embrace in the shadow of Jubilee Park, the London Eye and the Thames.
As the kiss breaks their eyes remain closed as their foreheads meet. Both are thinking the exact same thing:
I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings…
AN2: Up next is Day 1 of the Games and both Chuck and Sarah compete! In medal events no less! So next chapter will be fun and there will be two really big developments! Yes, that is all I will say and sorry I don't want to give it away, but it is a big chapter and I am excited to write it now that it is finally here (I may give a hint to reviewers - not sure though). Thanks for sticking with this and as always I love to hear from you – reviews and PM's really push me to work harder and faster and help me improve as I learn this whole writing thing!
Also, in this chapter they go out to dinner – it is Ellie approved (nutritionist), but I get that this is very close to the Games to eat out – they do have to eat, but this may require a bit of whimsy… I'm not a swimmer/Olympian so not sure if this is believable (though I did do a lot of research and the food content seems fair based on the menu) – let me know what you think because I am really curious.
Disclaimer 2 – I do not own Ayama Bar and Grill or the London Eye, yet I continue to provide free advertising… damn research now Australia and the UK are on my travel list… sigh.