"Chuck vs the Aussie"
AN1: So sorry for the delay, but I am working hard and trying to make sure I do justice to the story and these amazing characters. I am still really busy so hopefully the quality has not gone down as I have been unable to really edit my last few chapters as much as I would like to. As always thanks to everyone for the kind words and I am so happy that some out there are enjoying this so far! As of this second it looks like there may be an extra chapter – there is too much content and a very important conversation that was going to come here in this chapter that actually falls into chapter 16. So tentatively, chapter 18 will be the fall of Shaw and chapter 16 and 17 will be the final 2 days of events for Chuck and Sarah.
Also, thanks go out to Ripe who really helped me get the events down and kept me from going completely unrealistic – all mistakes are my own (no beta's harmed), but a big shout out to Ripe – you are awesome!
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! I always PM reviewers. I will never beg for reviews, but feedback is so useful and now more than ever are reviews appreciated - the time that is spent reviewing really lifts a writer's spirit. So to those who review thank you so much and to those who read thank you and I hope you continue to enjoy this story.
Chapter 15: Day 6 – Passing the Torch
Previously on Chuck vs the Aussie…
Shaw smiles seductively and says, "Well, I am sure we will be seeing each other at the parties that are coming…" He laughs internally, This is going to be so easy. I will seduce her subtly and she will have no control and will destroy that bastard Yank!
Sarah looks at him appraisingly still uncertain of the interaction, but decides to give this unknown swimmer the benefit of the doubt. However, she is ready to immediately shut him down if he tries to 'make a move on her.' She smiles wanly and says, "Yeah, I know some of my friends, mainly Carina, can't wait for the party to begin." Sarah laughs and Shaw follows with a chuckle.
At that moment a throat is cleared behind them and causes Shaw and Sarah to look to the side. Sarah instantly beams and turns back to Shaw, "Daniel, I want to introduce you to my boyfriend, Chuck Bartowski."
Aquatics Center (London Olympic Venue)
London, United Kingdom
August 1, 2012
21:30hrs BST
Chuck walks out of the locker room in his standard grey Team USA track suit and his classic Converse sneakers with a jump in his step as he excitedly looks for Sarah. His contentment and calm demeanor are clear as he all but whistles a jaunty tune as he walks towards where he left his beloved girlfriend. However, he is suddenly and viscerally ripped from his happy mood as his eyes lock upon the confidence shattering sight before him.
Chuck looks on at the scene before him and his fear and mortification grow as he watches this… this tall, superman looking athlete talking effortlessly with Sarah. Chuck then realizes that it is none other than Daniel Shaw, the Brit who so rudely insulted him at the training pool before the Games began.
Although Sarah is only humoring Shaw, Chuck's uncertainties and nerdy confidence issues rush to the surface as he interprets the scene before him rashly and incorrectly.
His face drops and his lips clinch together as he begins to spiral. He thinks, Shaw… that bastard! He is just like Larkin, a monster who uses his looks and charms to take advantage of women. And Sarah… Sarah is smiling and talking to him… she must not see his true colors. Maybe she's done with me now that someone better has come along. I can't really blame her… she does deserve the best… even if that is not me…
Chuck audibly exhales and clinches his fists tightly before steadying himself as he tries in vain to stop his spiraling. He takes another cleansing breath and begins to walk over to Shaw and Sarah as he tries to reign in his roiling emotions in order to prevent a potential confrontation.
Sarah is still trying to make sense of the interaction with Shaw when she peers over his shoulder and her eyes light up as she sees Chuck approaching. She all but interrupts Daniel and introduces Chuck very clearly as her boyfriend in order to make perfectly clear where she stands availability wise. Sarah thinks, This is perfect… I don't think Daniel was after me romantically, but I would never want to cruelly hurt someone… I know how that feels. Anyway, this is great – I get to see Chuck and tell Daniel and the world that I am dating a wonderful Yank!
"Daniel, I want to introduce you to my boyfriend, Chuck Bartowski."
Chuck looks fondly at Sarah, though there is a hint of pain in his eyes as his insecurities bubble beneath the surface.
Chuck chokes down the bile he feels in his gut and acts true to his nature. Chuck forces a smile and politely extends his hand and offers a greeting, "We have met, good to see you again Mr. Shaw." Chuck is polite, yet there clearly is not his usual 'Chuck enthusiasm' and Sarah's brow perks up ever so slightly as she observes the interaction.
She thinks, Hum… that's… odd. Chuck is usually… so warm and welcoming, yet he was still kind, but it was as if he was faking sincerity… Chuck never does that. Hum, I will have to interrogate him later and see if he is alright.
Shaw smiles charmingly at Sarah before looking at Chuck and shaking his hand with far more pressure than is necessary. Chuck may be nerdy by nature, but being an athlete has endowed him with an impressive strength. In a fit of masculine daring, Chuck matches Shaw's crushing pressure as both men's knuckles turn a pale white from the pressure before they end their competitive handshake.
Shaw holds back a smirk as he thinks, Dam Yank trying to match my strength. No matter I will destroy him psychologically and he will fail. This is going to be fun.
"Chuck, it is a pleasure to meet you," Shaw says with a smug grin as he charmingly looks towards Sarah.
Chuck cannot hide the grimace as Shaw looks towards Sarah, but he holds his tongue. He takes a quick breath, "Well, Sarah and I should be off… we have to get some rest for our remaining events."
Shaw chuckles, "Of course, I do not want to hold you up. Sarah and I were just chatting and… getting to know one another better." Shaw then looks to Sarah, "I hope that we can continue to socialize and get to know one another as the celebration portion of these Olympic begins once the swimming events are completed…"
Sarah looks critically at Shaw, but decides to assume his comments are innocent, "Well of course, Chuck and I are always open to new friends. We will surely be seeing you around Daniel."
Chuck winces as if struck through the heart as Sarah innocently uses Shaw's first name. In reality it is a meaningless nicety, but in Chuck's worried mind he sees himself losing Sarah to Daniel Shaw.
Chuck thinks sadly, She is so confident and perfect… she could have anyone. Arrgg! Why am I so pathetic! She would never crush me like that… would she? Don't freak out!
While Chuck fights his inner demons, Sarah is none the wiser and grabs his hand and begins to pull him towards the exit. She turns as they are leaving and says to Shaw, "Nice meeting you!"
Shaw smirks evilly at Chuck before turning a charming and fake innocent smile to an unsuspecting Sarah, "You too!"
Chuck and Sarah walk hand-in-hand and quickly disappear around the hall corner and instantly Shaw's fake smile turns into an evil grin, "Easy! Soon I will have Bartowski so out of sorts he will certainly fail in his final event. It's all going according to plan!"
Later…
After escorting Sarah to her Athletes Village apartment the couple shared a quiet moment and a chaste kiss after the long day before bidding one another adieu for the evening.
As Sarah watches Chuck walk away she thinks to herself, God he is so confident… nothing can shake him. He would certainly never be jealous of that Daniel fellow, like I was of Amy… and all those beautiful women who seem to love him... damn brunettes. Not that I can blame them, but still! And here I am all neurotic and worried that Amy or all these brunette women will steal him away from me. I really need to tell him about the whole Amy thing… but I think I will wait… yes, procrastination always worked so well back at school. Well I am officially pathetic. Off to bed and maybe tomorrow I will find the courage to tell Chuck everything… I just hope Amy stays away…
As Sarah's continues her inner monologue, Chuck makes his way to his room and quickly prepares for bed before falling into a deep sleep.
Once asleep, Chuck's dream takes hold and his face cringes as he tosses and turns from the onslaught of his very own nightmare world. Like Sarah before him, he sees his world falling apart as a handsome, yet evil suitor takes Sarah from him.
In his dream, Chuck sees himself on a train platform in some esoteric location. He looks at the platform and the scenic location before seeing the departures board and he thinks to himself, Prague? Why am I in Prague? I haven't ever been to Prague… what is going on?
Chuck looks around in his dream world and notices his long trench coat and debonair attire and once again he thinks, Hum… this is odd… I don't have anything remotely like this clothing wise… and why can't I remember why I am here… I wonder where Morgan and Ellie and Zondra and Mom… and (sees a glorious Sarah waiting for him down the platform)… Sarah.
Chuck moves mechanically and once more thinks to himself with worry now entering his mind, What the hell! I… I can't control my movements… it's like I am trapped in my own body! Not good… it is like some science fiction movie… actually it would be kinda cool IF IT WERENT HAPPENING TO ME!
Chuck is trapped in his own mind as he watches himself emotionally crush Sarah and leave her broken at the train station as he walks away. He is screaming in his mind, but unable to save her from the anguish.
He then finds himself watching a cold and distant Sarah as she begins a relationship with the arrogant and wooden bastard Shaw. Chuck is emotionally crushed as his true fears are painfully played out before him as he loses Sarah and sees her with another man.
Worst of all, he can see how much pain she is in… how unhappy she is. In his heart of hearts, Chuck knows that he would sacrifice his own happiness if it meant she would be happy. But in his dream, he sees them both unhappy, distant and emotionally broken. He sees the relationship develop between Shaw and Sarah and his own attempts to move on with his life. Yet no matter what he cannot feel whole.
The dream then jumps again and Chuck watches helplessly as Shaw kills his beloved Sarah and throws her pale, lifeless body over a bridge into the Seine River (in Paris). Chuck is frozen in place, unable to save Sarah and as his heart breaks over his loss and inability to save her he violently awakens from his tortuous dream state.
He gasps violently as he sit up and his fearful eyes scan the room as he regains his bearings. Quickly realizing it was a dream he wipes his sweat covered face on the sheets before taking a long, cleansing breath. He tries to fall back to sleep, but when sleep evades him he finally lets out a deep sign before seeing his laptop. He grabs his computer off his desk and distracts himself as he codes his spy game.
As he works late into the night he makes great progress on his secret project that now has a very beautiful blonde secret agent as a main character. He yawns loudly as his body demands sleep after his long and arduous day (and the late hour). His body is on autopilot as he saves his work and falls into bed.
He smiles slightly as he says quietly to himself, "Maybe I will show Sarah my game someday…" He then falls into a deep sleep and mercifully his subconscious is clear and no more nightmares plague his mind this night.
Sarah's Apartment at the Athletes Village
London, United Kingdom
August 2, 2012
7:41 hrs BST
Sarah wakes for the day with a wide smile on her face after another long, yet amazing day with Chuck. She yawns slightly and stretches in her bed as the covers fall and pool in her lap exposing her midriff as she wears her blue boy shorts and a tight light grey tank top.
Her thoughts then immediately fell to Chuck and her very steamy tango with the nerdy, yet oh so suave (even if he doesn't realize it) swimmer. Her eyes close and she smiles before biting her lip as the heat begins to rise as she replays the scene again in her mind. However, before she gets too far into her daydream a loud knock at her door breaks her from her reverie.
She thinks to herself as a considered expression graces her soft features, Who could this be? She then chuckles to herself and says softly to herself, "One of the usual suspects to be sure."
Sarah shuffles her way to the door with her comforter wrapped around her shoulders and once she makes it to her apartment's front door she finds one of her close friends. Sarah gives her friend and trainer a tired smile before saying, "Alex! What a nice surprise."
Alex stands in the doorway in tight pair of blue jeans and a green V-necked short sleeve shirt as she smiles back at Sarah. Alex then raises the two 'to-go' cups of coffee that fill her hands before saying simply, "Mornin' Sarah, I brought coffee."
Sarah smiles softly, "Well come in then."
Alex walks into Sarah's apartment with a wide smile and once the pair make their way to the small dining table just off of the equally quaint kitchenette, Alex's expression turns placating as she says, "Sorry I have been a little MIA since we finished up the last of your training before the events began."
Sarah smiles kindly at her friend, "We see each other, but between my events and I gather your new romance there is not a lot of time to catch up."
Sarah gives Alex a little teasing smirk and Alex blushes at Sarah's comment before responding, "Ha! Sarah you're one to talk!"
Sarah laughs before attempting to hold an innocent look as she says, "I have no idea what you are talking about."
Alex looks back at her friend with a raised eyebrow and a disbelieving expression before she says, "Well the world-wide news, your family AND friends, and my own eyes say different!"
Sarah sighs dramatically with a smile growing on her face, "Fine."
Alex smiles proudly in triumph as she raises her chin slightly with a teasing nod, "So how are things with you and Chuck?"
Sarah's face breaks into an involuntary smile a she softly says, "Great. Perfect actually… well except…"
Alex looks at Sarah seriously as she asks in a concerned tone, "What?"
Sarah sighs again and begins playing with the comforter that is wrapped around her lithe frame, "I am worried that I am going to screw things up with Chuck… and then there is Amy…"
Alex's face twists in disgust as she venomously spits out, "That Bitch!"
Sarah chuckles weakly, "Too right… she was talking to Chuck, so I think that I have to tell him about…"
Alex instantly closes the gap between the two friends and hugs Sarah tightly, "Sarah, you have nothing to worry about. From everyone's comments, including Zondra and Carina's, Chuck is a great guy. I reckon damn near perfect from what I have heard and from what I have seen... Yeah?"
Sarah cannot stop the shy smile that grows on her face as she responds softly, "Yeah."
Alex then says strongly, "Then tell him, secrets and lies are never good and he needs to know what happened back at school. He seems like the type that will be kind to anyone and if he doesn't know any better might be tricked or taken advantage of by a person like Amy, especially if he doesn't know the history. So don't worry and tell the truth and everything will work out."
"Thanks, Sarah says a little misty eyed as she takes a quick sip of her coffee in order to hide her emotion from her friend.
Alex smiles back at Sarah with a kind expression, which quickly turns devious, "Now, spill! How is Chuck in bed?"
Sarah literally does a spit take as she coughs with a shocked expression as she admonishes her friend, "Alex!"
Alex's innocently replies, "What?"
Sarah cannot help the chuckle that escapes her because of Alex's antics as Sarah says in a tone somewhere between teasing and serious, "You've been hanging around Carina for too long!"
Alex smirks, "Maybe, but I want an answer!"
Sarah becomes shy once more as she looks down at her hands which are fidgeting with the comforter in her lap, "Well…"
Alex's face drops in shock as she loudly responds, "OH MY GOD! You haven't hooked up with Chuck yet, have you? Why the hell not! He is so hot!"
Sarah's expression instantly turns feral before she quickly reins in her emotions as she explains, "We are competing, so no funny business 'till my events are done. You know that… but it has been hard…"
Alex practical vibrates with excitement, "Details!"
Sarah continues with a faraway look on her face, "Well, I have been teaching him about classical music and he has been showing me nerd stuff. I was showing him music and one thing led to another…"
Alex then interrupts, "And that's what I like to hear!"
Sarah gives Alex an exasperated, but good natured look before continuing, "Anyway, I got Chuck to dance with me…" Once more her eyes become distant as the memory takes hold, "The tango was so amazing…" Sarah then snaps herself out of her reverie, "I almost turned it into a lambda, but I would have jumped him right there… besides we had to go back to the Aquatics Center."
Alex looks at Sarah with a smirk on her face, "You are hopeless! And sickeningly sweet too!"
Sarah scoffs, "Whatever, now what about you and Chuck's friend… Morgan?"
This time it is Alex's eyes that become unfocused as she thinks of Morgan before she says, "Morgan… my bearded little Romeo…"
Sarah raises her eyebrow at that as Alex continues.
"He is amazing… he is so funny and kind of a character. It is fun and you can really see a side of him that would underachieve and work in retail at a place like the Buymore forever…"
Sarah pauses and thinks, "Um… I think he did…"
Alex smiles, "Oh I know, but I mean that he has matured, but still has that warm and goofy personality. He's special…"
Sarah smiles warmly, "I'm happy for you."
Alex then smiles dreamily and says, "And the sex…"
Sarah's face takes on a horrified and queasy expression as she practically yells, "DO NOT finish that sentence! I have to compete and I don't need… that in my brain! There is not enough bleach in the world that would save me from that mental picture!"
Alex chuckles, "Fair enough." She then looks at her watch and then looks back at Sarah, "You best get ready for the day."
Sarah smiles, "Yeah. You mind getting some breakfast?"
Alex smiles and nods, "Not a problem, but I want more Chuck details." Alex calls out as Sarah makes her way to the washroom to prepare for the day.
Sarah calls back, "Fine, but I need food first."
Alex laughs as she heads to the kitchenette and she quietly says to herself, "She's happy… finally."
Chuck's Apartment at the Athletes Village
London, United Kingdom
August 2, 2012
7:54 hrs BST
Chuck awakens to the sound of Huey Lewis and the News blaring from his alarm clock as he lays flat on his back in bed. He grabs his pillow and pulls it over his face before also pulling the sheets over his face as he lets out an audible groan.
Suddenly, there is a knock at the door and once again Chuck lets out a tired groan before he slowly… very slowly climbs out of bed and shuffles his way to the door in his blue plaid boxers and white undershirt.
Chuck opens the door bleary eyed to find the smiling face of his little bearded buddy. Chuck groans again, "Ugh."
Morgan looks appraisingly at Chuck before saying shrilly, "Chuck buddy, you look terrible!"
Chuck laughs tiredly, "Thanks buddy, come on in."
Morgan follows Chuck into the apartment and asks, "What's wrong and why do you look so tired?"
Chuck sighs, "Trouble sleeping," as he thinks to himself... bad dreams. Chuck snaps himself from his thoughts and continues, "So I coded and I must have lost track of time before I passed out. It was really stupid of me because I am so tired and I have my last event today."
Morgan scoffs, "Dude, you are human and anyway I have got you covered."
Chuck tries to give him quizzical look but is too tired and instead shrugs and thinks, well it couldn't hurt…
Morgan then scurries off into the kitchenette and Chuck hears his little buddy scramble around, however, his eyes become heavy and he realizes he has made his way onto the couch just before he falls asleep.
Later…
Chuck is shaken awake by a smiling Morgan who says happily, "Here buddy, drink this and then you can eat your Ellie approved breakfast."
Chuck looks at the concoction in the glass before him and his nose curls, "What is it?"
Morgan waves his hand dismissively, "Not important, it will help."
Chuck looks at Morgan flatly and says, "Morgan, you know I get drug tests… this isn't spiked is it?"
Morgan balks at Chuck's questions, "Where is the faith? I may spike your punch, but I would never get you kicked out of the Games!"
Chuck rubs his temples, "Sorry buddy, it is just the stakes are really high right now so I had to ask.
Morgan smiles, "It's fine, now drink Doc Brown's wake-up juice."
Chuck is too tired to think that this is a bad idea as he raises the glass to his lips. He sees something on the kitchenette counter, but his mind barely registers it and he cannot stop his drinking motion as he thinks in vain, is that hot sauce?
Chuck chugs the concoction and his face instantly falls as his eye twitches and he turns very red. He's up like a shot as he runs at full speed to the sink and takes gulps of water straight out of the tap.
Morgan smiles and says, "See, now you are awake and ready to compete all thanks to Doc Brown!"
After recovering from the hot sauce and spice laced drink and after finally regaining the ability to speak, Chuck coughs out, "What the hell Morgan! What kind of doctor created that abomination?!"
Morgan laughs, "It is the hangover cure from Back-to-the-Future Part III. I should pull your nerd card for not recognizing the reference; you really must have been tired to miss the Doc Brown reference."
Chuck's face goes blank as he instantly realizes the reference and Morgan's unusual and possibly dangerous solution to his exhaustion issue. Chuck recovers and says, "Morgan really?'
Morgan replies, "Yes, you will thank me when you win Gold! Besides it worked in the movie."
Chuck shrilly responds, "Morgan that was a MOVIE! You could have killed me!"
Morgan smirks, "Come on, when have movies ever lied?"
Chuck tries to respond to that, but for the life of him he cannot find the words to show Morgan how wrong he is. In the end he scoffs and says aloud, "Worst race prep ever."
Morgan replies, "Pfft, you're going to do Awesome!"
Chuck then finishes his morning routine, surprisingly refreshed though there was no way in hell he was going to tell Morgan his crazy plan actually worked. He eats his Ellie approved breakfast and protein shake as his ability to taste slowly, but surely begins to thankfully return. As he sits on the couch Morgan suddenly blurts out, "Dude, I am having so much fun here! Alex is so great… and limber…"
Chuck grimaces at that, "Morgan, I am trying to keep my food down, thank you very much."
Morgan laughs, "Sorry, it is just that I am having fun." Morgan then thinks for a moment before continuing, "So how are you and Sarah doing, talk to Doctor Morgan."
Chuck rolls his eyes before replying, "We're good… she is too good for me and that jerk Shaw is trying something but… never mind, we are good. She is perfect."
Morgan then begins pressing the button on his pen over and over with a thoughtful expression on his face. Chuck thinks as he looks at the bearded man, where did he get that pen… and that pad of paper?
Morgan nods to himself before saying, "Yes, she is a leggy Valkyrie, but dude – you are awesome and this Shaw douche has nothing on you. So don't worry."
"Thanks buddy…"
Morgan nods again, "Besides, the sex must be a-mazing, am I right?"
Chuck coughs and looks at his friend in shock, "MORGAN!"
Morgan innocently replies, "What?"
"Boundaries!"
Morgan whines, "Come on Chuck, spill."
Chuck sighs, "Morgan, I am in a competition so abstinence is necessary until my events are done, no matter how hard it is. Besides, I really like her and I don't want to rush it or rush her…"
Morgan pauses and looks at Chuck quizzically, "Wait… You HAVEN'T HAD SEX WITH THAT WOMAN! Buddy, you must be a man of steel!"
Chuck smirks, "Thanks… I guess,"
"Wow, you must be hurting though…"
Chuck sighs again, "Morgan, no comment."
Morgan gets the message, "Got it."
Morgan then looks at his watch, "Well Chuck, we should grab your gear and head off to the Aquatics Center. You have a race to win later and you wanted to watch Sarah's races this afternoon."
Chuck smiles at the thought of seeing Sarah, "Sounds good. Let's go!"
Aquatics Center (Olympic Venue)
London, United Kingdom
August 2, 2012
11:32 hrs BST
Chuck watches with rapt attention as Sarah competes in heat 2 of the Women's 200m backstroke. As expected Sarah performs excellently and along with the other favorites, Missy Franklin of the USA and Vivian Volkoff of Russia is easily able to qualify for the semifinals later in the evening (before Chuck's final race).
Once again Sarah follows her extensive cool down routine before showering and changing into her standard yellow and green Team Australia track suit and then makes her way out of the locker room.
As she approaches the secured main foyer area of the Athletes zone of the Aquatics Center she sees a peculiar scene as there is a tense standoff between Carina and Alex, shockingly with Morgan in the middle.
Sarah quickly approaches and gets between Alex and Carina who are both scowling at one another.
Sarah asks the obvious question, "What is going on?"
Alex does not break her glare at the auburn haired Swede as she too calmly explains, "Carina was making a move on Morgan."
Sarah looks at Carina, "What?"
Carina shrugs her shoulders, "Hey I wasn't paying attention… and I drank a little at our dinner before the Games, but you reminded me of Chuck's nerdy friend Martin…"
Alex interrupts, "MORGAN! His name is Morgan!"
Carina continues, "Anyway, I remembered Morgan was Chuck's nerdy friend and since you are so happy with your nerd I thought I would give the kid a thrill and see if he made me as nuts as Chuck makes you. I didn't remember he was Alex's and then Alex got all crazy on me and I couldn't even apologize."
Sarah sighs, "Carina you made a mistake now apologize. And Alex, zip it."
Alex holds back her comment.
Carina sighs, "I am sorry Alex, if I had remembered I would not have flirted with Morgan, but at least you know he is a keeper, few have ever rejected me."
Alex smiles at that, "Fine, I forgive you just don't let it happen again!"
Carina nods as Alex grabs Morgan and the couple leaves. Carina then mutters, "I can't wait until the events end so this party really starts. Crazy Aussies and their nerds… I need to find me a hot athlete…"
Sarah chuckles, "Now can I leave you unsupervised without you terrorizing the townsfolk?"
Carina mock smiles and says dryly, "Ha-ha, very funny. If another nerd rejects me I swear I am going to lose it! This is bad for my self esteem!"
Sarah kindly smiles, "Carina, you are too confident to be fazed by this, but remember for all your wild and flirty ways, I know you will find someone great. So don't worry and enjoy the ride."
Carina has a soft look appear on her face before her confident looks returns, "Well I am sure you have your 'Chuck time' so you should head off. And I have men to terrorize."
Sarah laughs, "OK, be good and remember what I said."
Carina begins to walk away and says softly, "I will…" She then turns to Sarah as she walks backwards and says in a louder voice, "And thanks Sarah…" Carina then turns and disappears leaving a smiling Sarah.
Sarah thinks, I knew it, despite her confident persona she is just looking for what we all are. Hum, maybe I need to help her… she is one of my best friends.
Sarah ponders how to help her friend as she makes her way to find Chuck for their afternoon time together.
Chuck's Apartment at the Athletes Village
London, United Kingdom
August 2, 2012
1:27 hrs BST
Once again Chuck and Sarah found themselves back at the Athletes Village for another afternoon of time together away from the ever present media scrutiny because that had not gone away… if anything it had gotten worse over time.
They enter Chuck's apartment and they take a seat. Chuck then gets a considered expression on his face and Sarah notices and asks, "What's up Chuck?"
He smiles, "I am just thinking about what nerdy tortures I should expose you too. I think I will save the trilogy for later so I was thinking we could play some computer games and I could give you a brief explanation of coding and what I do at Orion Games… if that works…"
Sarah smiles widely, "That is awesome! I really want to learn more about what you do when you're not in the pool."
Chuck returns her devastating smile with his own special grin, "Okay! Let's get started!"
Chuck then grabs his computer and gives her a brief explanation of the computer science, the coding and the general hardware and software engineering aspects of his job. She is fascinated as he gives a simplified and surprisingly easy to follow explanation of his software work, as well as his tinkering in hardware design.
She literally laughs out loud as he tells her the nickname he developed at Stanford, the Piranha, and his harmless hacking days back at school. After the brief lesson Chuck then shows Sarah the world of computer games, starting with Zork, then moving on to spirited games of SimCity, Doom, Starcraft and finally the great World of Warcraft franchise.
Sarah is delighted as she quickly picks up the games and has fun playing alongside Chuck, especially in the online WOW world.
Hour go by as the pair talk and laugh and game with one another as Sarah shares Chuck's passion. Too soon the couple is interrupted by the loud beeping of their alarms.
Sarah whines, "But I was just about to level up!"
Chuck laughs, "Well we can play another time, though I better be careful that I don't create a gaming monster, you have swimming to get to!"
Sarah laughs, "I think I will be able to control this little addiction thank you very much… and I mean that Chuck… thank you, this has been so much fun."
Chuck kindly grins, "No problem, I am just glad you are having as much fun as I am when you have been showing me your classical music."
Sarah shyly smiles, "I was wondering if you have created a game?"
Chuck nods, "Right now I am mostly a support programmer at Orion so no Games to my credit yet, but I am working on one."
Sarah brightens, "Can I play it?"
Chuck grimaces, "Not yet, but when it is done you get to be my first beta tester… if you're up for it?"
Sarah grins predatorily, "Of course!"
Chuck laughs as he thinks, Damn she is competitive, but it is the most adorable thing ever, yep I am so far gone… But I wonder how she will react to my game and the female lead. Yeah that could be awkward… crap! Oh well, I guess I will deal with it when the game is done… besides I could never disappoint Sarah so I guess I better finish 'The Intersect.'
Sarah waves her hand in front of Chuck's face, "You still in there Chuck, hello?"
Chuck snaps out of his daze, "Sorry, I was distracted… we should head out."
Sarah smiles wryly, "Sounds good let's go! I can't wait to see you in your last event! Relish it!"
Chuck smiles back at her as they get their gear and make their way to the door.
"I will."
Aquatics Center (London Olympic Venue)
London, United Kingdom
August 2, 2012
19:20hrs BST
Chuck and Sarah make their way back to the Aquatics Center with their security detail and were luckily able to avoid the throngs of fans and the ravenous media that were seemingly always waiting to pounce.
As the couple made their way into the security zone, Chuck was grabbed by a coach and pulled into a brief conversation as Sarah was pulled into a chat with her own Team personnel. Sarah was able to finish her conversation first and hears her name being called and turns with a huge smile on her face expecting to see Chuck. Instead she sees Daniel Shaw and her smile dims, but she keeps a polite smile on her face as she turns and begins talking with the Brit.
Meanwhile…
Chuck was finally able to finish his pointless conversation with one of the Team USA coaches and he thought to himself, Why were they asking me in such detail how I felt energy wise and if I was sore or injured… it was odd… I only have one race left and it is tonight… hum.
As Chuck was lost in his thoughts he saw a flash of blonde hair and his mind cleared as his eyes fell on the beautiful Sarah Walker. However, Chuck's demeanor quickly changes as he sees Shaw approach Sarah. Chuck watches with a worried expression as he sees his enemy approach his girlfriend.
Chuck waits for Sarah to dismiss Shaw, but is left shattered when he sees Shaw reach out, and what appeared to Chuck at least from his poor angle, to grab Sarah's rear end. As soon as Chuck sees this he moves to prevent Sarah from killing Shaw for the blatant and unwanted advance. Chuck is floored when she turns and flashes the smile he thought was reserved for him alone. He looks down as he swallows uncomfortably and misses her smile dim as she realizes it is not Chuck behind her.
Chuck dejectedly watches Shaw and Sarah talk for a minute before the scene becomes too painful and he morosely walks away.
Across the room Shaw is laughing in his head, That was perfect! A little sleight of hand and it looks like I grabbed her when in fact I simply called her name to get her to turn.
Shaw looks back and smirks at Chuck as he sees the crushed expression on Bartowski's face. Shaw thinks, Ha! I got him! He will be thinking of nothing but that false image and will not be able to win the race. Atta boy Daniel, we just saved our ass! I knew that coward would never have the guts to confront me and now he will stew on that misinformation… damn I am good… I should have been a spy! Oh well, money and power is good enough.
Sarah holds a conversation with Daniel for a few minutes, but is becoming bored as she waits for Chuck to join her. Moments later she can no longer take conversing with Shaw when she could be talking to Chuck so she politely excuses herself and begins to look for Chuck.
She becomes worried when she cannot find him. She thinks, Where is Chuck… he was right here. I figured he would at least see me off to the locker rooms… I was look forward to a kiss before the race.
Sarah is about to call him on her mobile when one of the Aussie coaches ushers her into the locker room and Sarah is forced to prepare for the race.
As Sarah gets ready for her race she sends Chuck a text: Hey, where did you get to? I wanted my pre-race kiss :)
Chuck quickly responds via text: Sorry, had a last minute meeting, wanted to tell you. Good luck with your race!
Sarah smiles and sends back a quick thanks as she is finally able to properly concentrate after hearing back from Chuck. She then has a thought, Wow… I can't even prepare properly for my races without hearing from him or knowing he is alright… I am so far gone…
Sarah prepares mentally for the race and once again finds herself in the pool as she races hard in heat 1 of the semifinals for the 200m backstroke. She once again competes and ends up coming in second place in heat 1 behind the American, Elizabeth Beisel who posts the best time in the heats and earns lane 4 for the final. Meanwhile, in heat 2, Missy Franklin has a great showing and easily qualifies for the final along with the Russian Vivian Volkoff.
Sarah then quickly completes her cool down routine in order to hopefully wish Chuck luck before his race. She is sad when she is unable to meet up with Chuck to give him her love and support, but she is happy when she sees him make his way out to the pool. She is surprised to see his expression and she thinks, Wow… that is a really intense expression Chuck has there… it is like he is upset and really, really focused… hum I will have to ask him about this tonight…
During Sarah's Race…
Chuck sits in the warm up area watching Sarah prepare on the starting blocks for her 200m backstroke race. He lets out a frustrated growl before thinking dejectedly, God I am pathetic! Now I am growling like Casey… this is just sad. That bastard Shaw! So disrespectful to women… but I can't believe Sarah didn't kick his ass into next week for that… (gulps the bile down)… touch. I know I should be mad at Sarah, but this is my fault… I wasn't good enough…
As Chuck wages a war in his own mind suddenly something snaps within him and the anger and pain break through and Chuck's dejected expression turns intense. He is not angry with Sarah or really Shaw. He is enraged with himself. His thoughts become clear, I AM NOT going to let this beat me! I am going to win this race and earn Sarah back. I will fight if I have to prove I am worthy. It all starts now! I cannot fail, not at this. Shaw may not be in the race, but I will NOT give him the satisfaction of seeing me fail because of his games. I will win and I will get Sarah back!
Chuck nods and puts his head phones in and pulls the hood of his jacket over his head as he blocks out the world as he pumps himself up for the race.
Race time…
Chuck walks out of the marshalling area without a pause at the large screen adorned with his name as the crowd erupts into a huge cheer. His expression is steely and intense as he strips out of his white and blue Team USA track suit. He stands behind his starting block in his skin tight black shorts as he limbers up before taking his place.
Chuck is to swim in lane 5 right next to his teammates, Phelps in lane 4 and Lochte in lane 3. Meanwhile, Pereira of Brazil is in lane 2, Laszlo Cseh of Hungry is in lane 6 and Devon 'Captain Awesome' Woodcomb is in lane 7.
Chuck looks to his left and then to his right and gives a curt yet respectable nod to both his teammates before pulling his goggles over his eyes and adjusting his swim cap as he climbs atop the starting block.
He closes his eyes and takes a deep breath and his mind flashes on images of his family and friends before stopping on an image of Sarah and he thinks, For Sarah…
His mind becomes perfectly clear as focuses intensely on the image of Sarah as she smiles back at him with an ethereal glow around the image of her in his mind. His eyes snap open with clear intensity in his brown orbs as he takes his mark.
He takes one final breath as he moves into position and without pretense the beep sounds and Chuck launches himself into the water with intense determination and copious amounts of adrenaline coursing through his veins.
Chuck hits the water and is just behind Phelps who is first off the blocks and into the water. Chuck dolphin kicks hard before surfacing directly into a butterfly stroke as he chases Phelps who leads the race. Chuck holds second place, while Pereira is in third, Laszlo and Lochte are tied in fourth and Awesome trails behind the other elite swimmers.
As the swimmers reach the far wall, Phelps is in first, but Lochte has moved into second, while Chuck and Laszlo follow in third and Pereira falls to fourth and Awesome begins to gain.
Chuck touches the wall and kicks off hard into an inverted dolphin kick before transitioning perfectly into a well honed backstroke. As they head back to the starting wall, Phelps holds ghe lead as Lochte falls into third, while Chuck moves ahead and is neck-and-neck in second place with Laszlo. Chuck pushes hard and touches alone in second just behind Phelps and once again kicks off the wall hard into a smooth dolphin kick under the water's surface. Chuck then breaches the surface and falls into his breaststroke as he moves towards the final leg of the race. However, the breaststroke is Chuck's weakest discipline and Phelps is able to increase his lead slightly, while Laszlo, Lochte, Devon and Chuck fall into a virtual tie behind Phelps.
The race is so close as the swimmers touch the far wall for the final time as the breaststroke portion of the medley gives way to the final 50 meter freestyle finish. Chuck kicks off the wall and dolphin kicks before falling into his most powerful swimming stroke, the front crawl. As he begins to tire he sees another set of flashes in his mind of Sarah and he once again pushes himself beyond his limits.
Phelps is still in the lead, but Chuck pulls ahead of Lochte, Laszlo and Pereira, while closing the gap on the American swimming legend. In the final stretch, with 20 meters left in the race, Chuck shifts into another gear and pulls neck-and-neck with Phelps as Lochte, Devon and Laszlo battle for the Bronze.
Phelps and Chuck are side-by-side as each takes a small lead before losing it as they match one another stoke-for-stoke. Chuck gives one final mighty push and touches the wall just ahead of the venerable Michael Phelps to win the Gold medal, while an instant later Phelps touches for the Silver. Moments later Devon beats Lochte to the wall and takes the Bronze medal. Lochte finishes in fourth, while Laszlo finishes in fifth and Pereira finishes in sixth.
Chuck pulls off his swim cap and throws it onto the starting block as he pumps his fist and a smile finally graces his face as he treads water, while breathing deeply in an exhausted state. Phelps swims over to the plastic tube like lane divider and grasps hold of the divider as Chuck makes his way to meet him. Both Americans breathe hard as they hold onto the lane divider. Chuck speaks first, "Great swim Michael, another medal… (huff)… for your record!"
Phelps smiles tiredly, "This one is all you Chuck, great race. Try not to take all of my records."
Chuck laughs, too modest to fully take the sincere and very high compliment from the swimming legend. The pair shake hands as the media has a field day with the great finish to the race. Photographers take thousands of pictures of the exchange in the pool that will soon be shown around the world.
Chuck finally lets out a deep breath as he lets the hurt and anger go. In the pool he has a moment as he thinks, I can't lose myself like that… I may have won, but that is not me and it wasn't fun or a good feeling. I have to talk this out with Sarah and let what happens, happen… OK… Don't. Freak. Out…
NBC Sports Feed from the Aquatics Center
London, United Kingdom
August 2, 2012
20:23hrs BST
"What an amazing race! That will be one for the ages!" The male commentator yells out excitedly.
"Too right! Such an epic battle and there was another potential Team USA sweep of the podium, but alas a great one-two finish for the Americans." The female announcer adds.
The male commentator then says, "And of course the huge story – Gold for the young American, Chuck Bartowski over the venerable stalwart Michael Phelps."
The female announcer chimes in honestly, "I think we just saw the passing of the torch in the pool this evening."
"Agreed! With Michael retiring the mantle falls squarely on Chuck's shoulders and is he ever having a spectacular first Olympics!" The male announcer says.
"You're right. Keep in mind folks that yes, this is Chuck's first Olympics ever. And for those keeping track that is the sixth, yes sixth medal for Chuck. In fact he has medaled in all of his events and looks to be seasoned and matured beyond his years as he has won three Gold and three Silver medals."
"Absolutely amazing! That is a lot of hardware for his trophy case." The male announcer says jubilantly with a chuckle.
The female announcer adds, "You can see now Chuck Bartowski receiving his well earned Gold medal for the Men's 200m individual medley alongside Michael Phelps who has received his Silver and Laszlo Cseh of Hungary who has received his Bronze."
"Now you can see the three swimmers posing in their country's colors as they stand atop the podium. Stay with us as we will have the interviews of both Chuck and Michael Phelps coming up as they make their way to the media areas. Stay with us for more coverage of swimming from the Aquatics Center at the London Olympics."
Aquatics Center (London Olympic Venue)
London, United Kingdom
August 2, 2012
20:40hrs BST
Chuck completes a copious number of interviews before finishing his cool down routine. He then makes his way out of the locker room and as he walks out he is suddenly struck by a blonde flash as Sarah runs and leaps into his arms at full speed. She wraps her arms and legs around his torso and she tries to kiss him passionately.
Her smile fades slightly, but does not leave her face when she is not met with the same fervor and she says to Chuck, "That's not the kiss I was expecting…"
Chuck smiles crookedly, though it does not reach his eyes fully as he says, 'Sorry… can we talk?"
Sarah looks seriously at Chuck as she climbs off him, "Sure." She thinks desperately, This can't be good…Oh god, please don't dump me!
The couple walks down a hall and Chuck opens a meeting room door and checks to make sure the dark room is not occupied. He opens the door and gently pulls Sarah into the darkly lit room with him. He releases her hand and begins to pace before pausing and sighing before flipping on the lights as he chuckles internally, Bringing my Shaw issues into the light…
By this time Sarah is freaking out as her internal monologue rages as she tries to figure out this oddly tense situation, when everything seemed to be going so well. Sarah's face becomes concerned, "What's wrong Chuck? Did… did I do something?"
Chuck sits on the conference table and takes in a deep, cleansing breath. He then sighs, "No, not really… I just have to get something out there…"
"Okay…"
Chuck looks Sarah in the eyes, "Shaw… he… he is a complete jerk… he is just like Larkin with his vile comments and actions…"
Sarah fumes and an angry look overtakes her face at the mention of Bryce Larkin's name.
Chuck continues, "Anyway… Shaw was being all nice to you but it was all a lie… and it made me jealous…" Chuck's face takes on a look of complete shame.
Sarah smiles softly as she chuckles, "Chuck, you have nothing to worry about…"
Chuck laughs dryly as a frown etches itself on his face, "Well I saw him… grab you and you smiled."
Sarah looks perplexed, "What? What are you talking about?"
Chuck sighs and rubs his temples, "He grabbed your…" He then makes an awkward and unintentionally comical hand motion to depict her behind.
She gets the picture, "Oh… OH! What! NO! If anyone, other than you, tried to grab me they wouldn't be able to walk straight!"
Chuck continues pain on his face, "But I saw it and you smiled when you turned to him."
Sarah's face scrunches in thought, "Wait, I thought you were behind me and I smiled. My face fell when I saw it was Shaw and I can assure you that there was no physical contact… wait, you said he was a jerk?" Sarah's face mirrors her realization before her anger surfaces, "That Bastard! He tricked you Chuck! He made it look like he was touching me to psych you out. I'LL KILL HIM!"
Sarah begins to stomp towards the door and Chuck quickly moves into her path to stop the blonde ball of fury that is hurricane Sarah. Chuck grasps her into a tight hug, thus preventing her from killing an unsuspecting Daniel Shaw.
She angrily shouts out, "Let me go!"
Chuck replies, "No! No killing the douche, he is not worth it. Honestly, you should be mad at me for my stupidity… I went to a bad place for a while when I saw what I thought I saw…"
Sarah's face softens as she sees Chuck's vulnerability and shame, "Sorry Chuck…"
Chuck instantly responds, "It's not your fault, but I don't ever want to use anger to motivate myself during a swim again, life is too short…"
Sarah nods, "Absolutely…" She thinks to herself, Chuck opened up to me… I should tell him about the whole Amy fiasco back at school; it is the perfect time… DAMN! I just… can't… yet.
Chuck then breaks Sarah from her thoughts as he says, "And don't go after Shaw for me, he is not worth it and in the end he failed and people like that always get what is coming to them."
Sarah smiles at Chuck's kindness and wisdom, "Yeah, I can let karma take care of him."
Chuck smiles widely, "Well now that is cleared up and I have learned my lesson, let's go back to the Athletes Village."
"Sounds good, but I want to see if we can find Zondra first and congratulate her on the Bronze she won in 100m freestyle right after you race."
"Yeah, I saw that! She did great and you're right, we should congratulate her!" Chuck says happily.
Chuck and Sarah then link hands and walk out of the meeting room and into the hallway. Out of nowhere Colonel Casey appears and startles the couple. Chuck jumps up and lets out a slightly girlish scream, while Sarah falls into a defensive kendo martial arts stance.
Chuck shrilly says to Casey, "The hell Casey! How does a man of your size move so quietly?"
Casey grunts and says pointedly, "Occupational requirement or you get dead."
Sarah smirks at the big Colonel and his interaction with Chuck before asking, "What is this all about?"
Casey looks at Sarah and then back to Chuck before grunting unhappily, "Well, since you are going to tell the skirt, and foreigner, anyway… I am putting you into the 4x100m medley relay race."
Chuck gapes at Casey before turning his gaze to Sarah who has a look of pride on her face. Chuck then dumbly responds, "Huh?"
Casey once again grunts (Dumbass) "The skirt melted your brain, great. Be ready! You have one more Gold medal to win, now rest up!"
And with that Casey was quickly off leaving a surprised Chuck and Sarah in his wake.
Sarah nearly squeals, but reigns in her emotions, "Chuck! That is awesome! Your relay team is so great and you get one final shot at a medal!"
Chuck smiles crookedly, "I guess I am not done yet after all."
Sarah nods, "One more race for you…" Sarah then realizes, "And hey! We will both be done on the final day of the swimming events on August 4th!"
Chuck smiles widely, "Then we can celebrate when we are both done and finally rest!"
Sarah beams, "Finally!"
Chuck smiles back, "Well there is more fun yet and we better relish the time we have left because soon it will all be over."
Sarah nods and smiles widely, "I reckon you are right! Now, let's find Zondra and then head off the Athletes Village, I am tired and I need a goodnight kiss."
Chuck smiles and smoothly responds, "Well that can be arranged…" The couple kisses and soon after the kiss breaks and the pair regains their bearings they start to walk down the hall to find their friend before turning in for the night.
AN2: I must say that I really dislike the start of season 3 (I won't go on a rant here I promise), but the plan for Chuck's nightmare seemed to fit this little reference. Sorry to bring back bad memories, but it fit the feelings Chuck has in the dream and if your anything like me the reference hits home just how emotionally devastating Chuck's dream (in this story) really was. Hopefully you like it.
I also made Alex a little more open and feisty to fit her being Australian although we did see this side of her at times in cannon (where she is Casey's daughter after all). So hopefully you like the Alex/Sarah and Chuck/Morgan interactions.
And yes a bit of dark Chuck, but this is just life and fears playing at our favorite characters as they deal with the stresses of plots, the media and a new relationship. And no worries about stupid season 3 angst, I will do drama, but I will never do stupid things just to get a rise out of you – everything will make sense and happen for a reason I promise.
Sorry again for the delay and hopefully it was worth the wait!
Disclaimer 2 – Don't own anything related to NBC