"Chuck vs the Aussie"

AN1: So hopefully a shorter authors note… all I will say is this sets off the final arc and basically makes clear (or slightly more clear maybe?) the final and core aspect of the story. Read all the way through and have faith – next chapter will be huge in terms of the story and I will not leave you hanging so again have faith and I hope you enjoy this.

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… though they may be late from time to time (my bad). 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 19: Parties and Problems

Sarah's Apartment at the Athlete's Village

London, United Kingdom

August 9, 2012

10:04 hrs BST

Once more Sarah awakens to the sun shining as beams of light permeate her room causing shadows to cascade across her bed as she revels with a wide, glorious smile on her face. She lies in bed basking in the morning bliss as memories of the day before control her thoughts.

She sighs heavily and thinks, God what a wonderful morning! Wait… that's not right… I hate mornings, many a clock has died a horrible death at my hands. I feel… happy, god what has gotten into me?

As she ponders momentarily her smile grows as there is only one answer: Chuck.

She sighs adorably and nuzzles the comforter as she contorts in the warm embrace of her bed. She then chuckles as she thinks, God! I am acting like a love sick school girl… at least I think I am…

She is lost for a moment in her less than normal childhood and the sting of isolation and never having a childhood love or experience with these powerful emotions. She admonishes herself briefly, I am pathetic! However as soon as her thoughts form she sees an image of Chuck in her mind smiling and pointing out how great she is and that she should never put herself down. She smiles involuntarily and pulls the covers tight.

Sarah then quickly rolls over in the bed and peaks her head from beneath that the covers and smiles widely before her expression darkens at the thoughts of last night. She finds herself thinking of all the happy moments she experienced the previous night; however, she could not help her awkward and depressing feelings over the end of the evening.

Flashback to the previous evening…

Sarah sits in the back of the BMW 7 series with her hands clasped tightly with Chuck's strong hands as they drove towards the athletes' village. As she looks across the vehicle she smiles at the happiness clear upon his face. However, despite her innumerable happiness at this moment a dark cloud surrounds her mind as her stomach twists.

Sarah thinks to herself, This… this has been the greatest date I've ever had… Well one of the only dates either had. But once again the media will just not let us along, god they are vultures… I hate the attention and I just wish we could be left alone to live our lives… But noooo because I never get what I want… a normal life… WOW that really sounds pathetic… I should just enjoy the time I've had with a wonderful guy like Chuck, but I just can't get over this attention. I miss the time when I could hide in the background and enjoy the swimming and not have to deal with all the interviews and the paparazzi. But I love the fans and hope I can be a good influence even though I think no one should take after me… after all I've been through but at least I met Chuck here in London…

She looks up from her hands twisting at her clutch bag as Chuck's hands squeezes hers ever so gently, bringing her head up as she turns to look into his deep brown eyes. He smiles widely at her and for now she forgets all her problems and fears.

Once the pair arrives back at the Athlete's Village Sarah can no longer hold back as she exclaims happily, "Chuck that was the most amazing night! I loved the performance and the shopping and well everything! Thank you…"

Chuck smiles brightly at her and says in a simple, yet powerful voice, "You deserve it." He caps off his simple, yet powerful statement with a devastating smile. His smile is not cocky or arrogant; rather it is pure Chuck – class and honesty. The statement and smile causes Sarah's breath to hitch as she stops walking for a moment, frozen by Chuck's words.

Chuck stops and turns back to Sarah before gently grasping her hands and pulling her forward and out of her very brief trance as a smile plays on her face as she looks up at Chuck with a bit of embarrassment coloring her pinking cheeks.

They walk in comfortable silence until they reach the door to Sarah's apartment.

They reach Sarah's door and there is electricity in the air as they stare into one another's eyes as if the depths of her striking blue eyes and his deep brown eyes tell of all the emotions boiling within the young couple. Without pause Chuck reaches out, painstakingly slowly and gentle brushes his hand on Sarah's shoulder. Sarah gasps at the electricity of the contact as her eyes involuntarily close. She opens her eyes slowly as she feels Chuck move closer, his tall frame looming over her as she feels the heat of his body radiating upon her. Her eyes open and she sees his honest eyes and his adoring, yet intense expression. She is speechless. Slowly he moves closer as his other arm moves to her lower back, pulling her into him and causing a shot of pleasure up her spine at feeling of the contact. The seconds feel like hours as their lips move closer and closer to one another. Then their lips finally meet and Sarah can feel the explosion of passion as the kiss heats up and before she realizes it she is pulling Chuck into her apartment. The passion and power of her feeling suffuse her as she loses herself in the moment as she finds herself in bed, as her cloths lie abandoned on the floor marking a trail o the front door. She breathes heavily as Chuck looks at her intensely and just as she prepares for the pleasure to come…

"Sarah? Sarah? Yo hoo earth to Sarah!" Chuck says with a playful expression after asking Sarah a question for the third time.

Sarah nearly jumps out of her skin as she looks around and turns deep red as she realizes they were still walking to her apartment and had in fact just arrived at her door. She thinks, Dear god, what the hell was that! A… a daydream… or a dream… it seemed… so real…

"Sarah?"

"Hum... oh! Sorry Chuck… my… my mind was elsewhere…"

Chuck smiles widely thinking, that was a little odd… I wonder why she was blushing… oh well. He then replies, "I was getting worried I thought you had left the building so to speak… or were abducted by aliens… or I literally bored you into a coma…"

Sarah giggles at his ramble as she thinks, not bored if you saw my day dream!

She smiles, "Well I am not saying it's not the bored one…"

Chuck gapes at her like a fish out of water as she tries and fails to hold a straight face.

She laughs and he tries to hold a mock affronted face, but fails, "Well then I should bid you a good night then to prevent another lapse." He then smiles widely and they both share a laugh at the playful teasing.

Chuck then coughs nervously before asking, 'So… um… about my question?"

Sarah nits her eyebrows together, "And what was that again?" She says with a contrite expression.

Chuck smiles, "I asked if we were on for lunch tomorrow?"

Sarah beams, "Of course… but I have an interview so we have to go earlier in the afternoon… say 11:30 or noon… if that's ok…"

"Of course! I can't wait!"

Sarah then jokes, "You like spending time with me eh Chuck."

Chuck instead of joking back says simple, "Yes…"

Sarah's breath catches again and the couple share an intense stare. Just like her daydream the pair inch painstakingly closer and closer as their eyes are locked. Instantly Sarah's mind goes into overdrive as she thinks of her daydream and her breathing becomes short and her fears and insecurities rush to the forefront. She wages a silent battle inside her head, shaking with anticipation and fear. Finally, she sees that terrible scene from University, her boyfriend naked beneath the sheets with Amy and Sarah's strength breaks as her fear and freak out win out. Suddenly she shifts and kisses Chuck awkwardly on the cheek as she belts out quickly, "Thanks Chuck it was an amazing evening, have a good night."

She then turns and escapes the scrutiny of her odd behavior as she retreats through the door and closes it as her back lays against the inside of the now closed door, with Chuck just on the other side. Chuck meanwhile stands absolutely dumfounded as he thinks, Um… that was odd. What… what did I do there? He then moves his and to his mouth and blows into his cupped hand testing his breath, before says quietly, "Was it something I said…" to no one in particular as he sighs and turns to return to his apartment.

From the other side of the door Sarah is berating herself up for her freak out and cowardess. She wants nothing more than to grab Chuck and show him how she feels, but she still has yet to fully get over the greatest betrayal she has experienced and though she trusts Chuck, her heart and mind are hesitant to risk the pain of loss again. She wants to open the door, chase him down, but her body won't cooperate and soon he is gone and she is once again alone in bed, wishing she could break through her fear, if only to have him in her arms as she sleeps.

She sighs and softly says in a slightly disgusted and demoralized voice, "Smooth one there Walker."

Sleep does not come easily, but when it does her fears give way to happy thoughts of her and Chuck together as she rests, waiting for the coming morning.

End flashback…

Sarah then throws off the bedspread and huffs adorably, Well until the end there everything went so well… maybe Chuck didn't notice… well that might be a stretch. Maybe I should just tell him… no… that is no good… I suck at talking about my feelings, I am a doer… I need to show him… eventually how I feel. God I am pathetic! Well, I better get ready, I may not deserve him, but I can't wait to see my Yankee Nerd!

Sarah then sets off to complete her morning routine and as her thoughts fall to a curly haired nerd, she unknowingly begins to happily hum. For now her fears disappear as she gets ready thinking of lunch with Chuck.

Chuck's Apartment at the Athlete's Village

London, United Kingdom

August 9, 2012

10:10hrs BST

Chuck sits with a hot cup of coffee and looks across the table in his apartment at his little bearded friend.

Morgan looks at him incredulously with a studying expression. Morgan looks up and down at Chuck and squints at him before his eyes go wide as he exclaims, "DUDE! You didn't seal the deal with Sarah! What's wrong… issues in that department, mother issues, talk to Dr. Morgan."

Chuck nearly spits his coffee as he stares dumbly at Morgan, "The hell Buddy!"

Morgan locks eyes with Chuck, "Tell me I am wrong then."

Chuck sighs and swipes his hand across is forehead and down his face in frustration, "Morgan, buddy it's not like that… I really like her… and I don't want to push her…"

"Just make your move buddy! She's going to think you're gay or something!"

Chuck has an affronted expression, "Thanks for that buddy," he says through gritted teeth.

Morgan sips his coffee, "Just saying…"

Chuck sighs, "And I get it… I do… it's just I am not that guy to push and we were about to kiss and then she practically ran into her apartment… I am not sure what I did, but I will wait as long as I need to… it will happen when it is right." Chuck them ponders then says vaguely, "I have never had this situation before…"

"What's that buddy?"

Chuck then looks at Morgan and begins playing with his cup, "Well not to be a jerk or anything… but usually girls are… more aggressive… and I have to fight them off to get to know them better… and now that I finally find someone I actually really care about…"

Morgan then completes Chuck's thought, "And she is completely different and for once is not throwing herself at you? You poor, poor guy," Morgan says sarcastically. He then looks at Chuck, "Fine, you like her and she is different, which is good, but make sure you let her know how you feel… the last thing you want is to give her so much time and space that she thinks you're not actually interested… or gay!" Morgan then gives Chuck and evil grin after the last little jab.

Chuck gives Morgan an unimpressed look before his face takes on a cunning look as he retorts, "Morgan, I keep telling you that you are not my type… beards are a no go for me!"

Morgan's mouth drops open and he can't help but join Chuck in laughter, before saying, "I would shave it off for you Chuck."

They both break into fits of laughter before Chuck finally regains his composure, "Okay buddy, thanks for the talk but I better get going if I am going to be ready for my lunch with Sarah and we are defiantly on the edge of funny and weird on the conversation pendulum. But thanks for the talk Dr. Morgan."

Morgan perks up, "Of course! And always happy to lend a poor lost nerd my expert advice."

Chuck laughs again, "Okay, see you later buddy!"

Chuck then makes his way out the door and Morgan watches him leave before grabbing his cell phone and dialing, "Hey! Alex! Yeah good to hear your voice too. Listen… I just talked with Chuck and I think we need to get the gang together and plan out the party so those kids get out of their own way… yeah that sounds good… sure… yeah, great we can all talk then. Alright, talk to you then, bye."

As Morgan gets off the phone he smiles and thinks, It looks like we will have to make party night (Friday) a night to remember for these wonderful, yet emotionally stunted people… what could go wrong?

Franco Manca Sourdough Pizza (Restaurant)

London, United Kingdom

August 9, 2012

12:44 hrs BST

Chuck and Sarah met at the athlete's village and quickly made their way to market road just south of London in order to indulge in a little Italian feast, after the recommendation from one Morgan Guillermo Grimes.

Once Chuck and Sarah arrive they quickly make their way to market row, which is like an alley row of shops off of the street. They make their way into the alley filled with shops and quickly arrive at Franco Manca the destination for their lunch. The pizzeria is small and is two narrow shops right across from one another with a white awning sign with the pizzeria's name in red letters and the squiggly design of the restaurants symbol. The market row is enclosed and there is a triangular roof made up of glass skylights at the top of the three floors that contain the "Alley." Beneath this skylight roof are white curved archways with a circle in the middle as a design, which provide support as the glass archway above bathes the area in natural light.

In the storefront on the right side of the alley is the main kitchen area and stone oven, which is at the back of the of the room behind three small tables for guests. Just outside there are three more wood benches that form booths with a stone topped table in the middle. On the left hand side is another store front with three more tables inside and three similar booth tables just outside the front of the store in the 'alley' walkway, as well as a server area/computer and one additional stone oven for the pizza.

Chuck and Sarah happen to be lucky and arrive just prior to the rush at the popular pizza place and are seated just inside the left storefront in clear view of the alley way/other tables.

They sit and Sarah looks around and smiles at Chuck, "So, what made you decide to bring us here?"

Chuck smiles widely while looking at his menu before looking into her eyes, "Well actually, Morgan snuck off while we were at the Westfield shopping center and grabbed himself a snack and he raved about it… he also has a black belt in food… usually under 10 bucks, but hey it smells great."

Sarah giggles, "Wow, our lunch date is a Morgan recommendation?"

Chuck puts on a mock affronted look, "No faith in the little bearded man!"

They share a look and laugh until Chuck smiles and says softly, "He has always been supportive of… of us…"

Sarah breathes in deeply and shakes her fear away and smiles, "Well good… so what do you want to have?"

Chuck looks at the menu with deep concentration, which makes Sarah's mouth twist into an adorable smile as she watches him. He finally speaks after a moment of consideration, "Well, I was thinking maybe a vegetarian pizza… what do you think?"

Sarah beams that sounds great! Wait… what's on that?"

Chuck returns his gaze to the menu and begins listing off the toppings as he says, "Ha, it's just like Sbarro back home it has tomato, onion, green peppers, mushrooms, olives…" Chuck looks up as he says olives and sees Sarah's face curl in disgust.

Sarah then sighs, almost silently, "That sounds good… I really like veggie pizza."

Chuck quirks his brow, "So she likes the veggie pizza, but that face… I know!"

The server arrives and Chuck orders, "Hey, could we get a pizza to share?"

The young brunette server smiles widely at him as she breathily responds, "Of course what would you like?" Sarah meanwhile is staring daggers at the brunette, who is acting as if Sarah doesn't exist, lost in Chuck's presence… which Sarah cannot honestly blame the girl for, but damn it he's hers!

Chuck smiles back and says, "We'll have the vegetarian pizza, no olives. Thanks!"

Sarah's mouth drops open as she turns from glaring at the girl to look in slight shock at the curly haired nerd. She tries to speak, but pauses, tries again, but can't find the words as she thinks, How the hell?

Chuck sees her efforts and replies, "I saw your face when I said olives and I assumed you didn't like them… I hope I was right… Ellie says I am clueless…"

Sarah smiles widely, "Chuck that is so sweet and thank you… I hate olives! And you're not clueless…"

Soon after their food arrives and the pair are lost in another deep conversation, including Chuck's hilarious story of Morgan's failed wooing of Ms. Anna Wu and the pizza, no sauce - all cheese, at Sbarro the guys named after Morgan as Chuck and Sarah enjoy the wonderful food. They are so distracted by one another they do not notice the crowd beginning to form after word of their presence began to spread like a wildfire through the Market row.

The buzz and not so hushed whispers and conversations finally break Chuck and Sarah from their reverie as they look up and simultaneously their eyes take on a comically wide-eyed, shocked expression as they notice the crowd.

Both quietly utter, "Crap!"

Sarah begins to breath heavily, near hyperventilating as she feels the walls close in as she is surrounded by a mob of fans all staring at her and Chuck. She is near a freak out when Chuck puts his hand on her knee and squeezes gentle. Her eyes snap to his and her breathing calms as she looks at his smile and calm demeanor.

Chuck then stands and waves at the crowd and clasps Sarah's hand pulling her towards the alley's exit after leaving their payment and a great tip for the waitress as he signs a few autographs and takes some pictures as the couple escapes the area. Soon after they are back in a cab and were heading towards the Athlete's Village.

Chuck turns to Sarah, "You alright?"

Sarah smiles sadly, "Yeah… thanks for taking over there… I am having a hard time with all the people… knowing me… and the attention… you know?"

Chuck smiles, "They think they know you, but your friends know who you really are. And don't worry, I know it is tough, but you are amazing! I am not surprised you are a star."

Sarah blushes and says, "Well, we are still going to the party tonight?'

Chuck smiles, "Yep! Everyone will be there and we can let loose… I am not much of a club guy, but if you and our friends and teammates will be there it should be fun."

Sarah smiles, "Yes it should be… I have a round of interviews first and then I am meeting with Zondra and Carina… Ellie and Alex were going to try and come too and we are going to eat and then get ready for the evening. We'll meet you and the guys there yeah?"

"Yep! You girls be good and enjoy your interview!"

Sarah smirks, "We will and I am dreading these interviews Mr. Bartowski!"

Chuck smiles, "You'll do great. Don't freak out."

Chuck and Sarah share a look before they kiss which heats up as they make their way in the cab.

Sarah's Apartment at the Athlete's Village

London, United Kingdom

August 10, 2012

5:33 hrs BST

Zondra, Carina, Alex and Ellie all lounge around Sarah's apartment. Zondra and Carina had naturally gained 'access' to a spare key and used it in order to prepare for the evening. The cabal sat and talked out their plan to make sure Chuck and Sarah got out of their own ways.

Carina spoke, "Okay, so we are agreed then? We need to loosen these crazy kids up!"

Alex looks thoughtfully, "It may be crazy, but I think so… I know Sarah will need a push and without some liquid courage might not take the leap and tell him how she feels. I just hope we don't bring out the fighter in her! We could get Chuck killed," she jokes as the friends break out into laughter.

Ellie then adds, "Chuck is similar… he is used to girls throwing themselves at him, but he never became a player thank god… he just doesn't have that in him… he has always looked for the right girl. I think that could be Sarah, they just need a little help."

Zondra then voices her concern, "Guys I think this is a bad idea to meddle… they like each other and they will figure it out. If we try and push things we could make it worse."

Carina then rebuts Zondra, "But if we do nothing they could miss their chance and leave and I think they deserve to be happy and we have to help!"

Alex and Ellie nod and say, "Zondra's concerns are fair so we need to be careful; we have to watch out for them and make sure they have fun tonight! Agreed?"

All four agree, but Zondra is still a little hesitant as she thinks, I hope this works… Sarah needs a push, but she is so strong, yet so fragile… if this isn't perfect this could be bad. Well, there is no stopping Carina now, I better watch out for them all.

After they set up their plan and begin prepping the liquid courage suddenly Sarah's door opens and is slammed as a flash of blonde marches into the room, clearly upset.

Ellie is the first to shake off the surprise at Sarah's rage filled entrance and asks what everyone is thinking, "Sweetie, what's wrong?"

Sarah huffs angrily and then nearly growls as she swears under her breath as she takes off her track jacket and throws it on a chair and begins pacing the room. The other girls share a confused and curious look as Zondra approaches Sarah and gently put a hand on Sarah's back, "What's up Sarah?"

Sarah tenses and then turns and hugs Zondra near tears. After a moment she speaks quietly, "I hate the media!"

Zondra nods, "Bad interview?"

Sarah lets out a wet chuckle, "You have no idea!"

Sarah huffs out a sigh and looks at the expectant faces of her friends before taking a deep breath. She then continues, "It was all really normal, annoying, but normal. I did… like three or four sports interviews, which had the normal questions about training, how I felt at the Olympic, and the experience all the normal stuff…"

The others ask, "And?"

"The last interview was…" and Sarah practically spits the venom as she says, "A gossip columnist from New York, Daphne Peralta."

Zondra's eyes go wide, "Oh no. They didn't throw you to that wolf!"

Sarah grits her teeth, "Yeah my team really screwed up! It was torture! All these personal questions and she kept pressing and then she started saying all this stuff about Chuck being a player and showing me pictures of him hugging and taking pictures with other girls. I almost lost it and Kung Fu'd the bitch, but then she showed a clearly intentionally picture of you Carina and another with you Zondra hugging Chuck. Then I knew she was looking to get a scoop and to get a rise out of me with these intentionally unrepresentative photos… Forrest had to hold me back or I may have kicked her ass. URRRG! I am still so angry thought!"

Carina then gets a predatory look as she thinks, Perfect! She then says, "Sarah, I have an idea: You need a drink!"

Sarah laughs, "Yeah maybe I do, but only a couple…"

Carina has a faux innocent look, "Of course." She grabs a bottle and pours the girls a shot before declaring, "Drink up girls, let's celebrate!"

Sarah laughs and starts to put the interview experience behind her. Soon the girls are having a few normal drinks while getting ready and eating some food when Carina playfully hits the iPod speakers and LMFAO's "Shots" song blares in the room. The girls laugh and once again the shots flow and soon the girls are getting a little buzzed as they prepare to head out to the party. For once Sarah lets go and drinks and decides to let the anger go and enjoy the night.

Chinawhite Nightclub

London, United Kingdom

August 10, 2012

10:59 hrs BST

Chuck, Awesome, Morgan and Cole are lounging in the VIP room of Chinawhite as they enjoy the upscale Asian inspired lighting and decor. One side of the VIP room is a seating area with purple couches with white's designs similar to Ming vases, while the dark walls are bathed in rouge light. On the roof over the low Asian inspired sofas is the clubs symbol/design on the low roof, a circle with squares and rectangles connected like a lattice work inside the circle to create the club's symbol. There are multiple bar areas and in the center is a bamboo wood dance floor with four Asian lamp chandeliers that set off the dark ambiance of the club.

The guys chat and drink a few beers from the bottle as they wait for the girls in their jeans and respective nations' T-shirts. Chuck again looks at his watch between chatting with fellow teammates and other swimmers and athletes that are in the club. He turns down a number of offers to dance with the beautiful women in the club as he awaits Sarah's arrival.

Devon finally articulates what they are all thinking, "Dude, where are the ladies at?!"

Chuck looks around with a slightly confused expression on his face as he takes a drag from his bottle of beer before looking back and responding to a friend, "I don't buddy, but I'm starting get worried I think I should call Sarah."

Morgan then goes, "Pfff, don't worry my man I'm sure everything is fine and they just got caught up at dinner."

Chuck sighs, "You're probably right buddy…"

At that and exact moment Chuck, Morgan, Devon and Cole turn and look towards the bar on the opposite side of the room where they see none other than the aforementioned ladies for whom their waiting.

The four men see the women drinking and laughing, clearly a little bit tipsy, and Chuck and company's collective mouths drop open.

"No…"

"Freaking…"

"Way…"

"Dude…"

The men say completing the sentence with one word each as the girls begin to dance as they do another shot. The guys look at one another and make their way towards the bar. Sarah looks stunning in a white and yellow sundress that is tight around her torso and drapes close to her legs. Chuck has to do a double take at her beauty and her golden curls that cascade down to her shoulders.

When they arrive at the bar the girls have just finished a shot and Carina sees the guys first and practically yells, "Chucky!" She runs at him and leaps into his arms with a drunken smile on her face.

Chuck is caught a little off guard feebly says, "Hi…"

Chuck looks around Carina who is latched to him, and sees Zondra completely engrossed in a conversation with their teammate Cullen Jones, while he hears a growl coming from his girlfriends direction. He looks at her in time to give a weak smile as she slams two more quick shots before wiping her chin and making her way quickly toward Carina, who is now in danger of facing the giant blond she-males wrath.

Chuck thinks quickly and heroically saves Carina's life… from a beat down at the very least. Chuck nervously pulls Carina's feet back to the floor and turns and with one arm grabs Cole and uses his impressive strength to yank the Brit around and into close proximity to Carina.

Carina's eyes go wide and dilate slightly and she tries hard to hide the slight blush that she can feel permeating her cheeks as Cole's surprised and slightly miffed expression turns into a suave and confident smile.

Chuck then quickly says, "Carina this is Cole. Cole this is Carina Hansen. She is a good friend and I thought you could escort her for the night…"

Cole gets the message as he sees Sarah marching toward them and not being one to look a gift horse in the mouth says in his confident accent, "Why yes Charles, I would be honored." He then turns to Carina and smile and extends his elbow, "If that if fine with you of course Miss Hansen, would you like to dance?"

Carina smirks and says with nearly a purr, "Call me Carina and I would love to dance…" She looks him up and down before she takes his offered arm and they head off to the dance floor and safety.

Chuck sighs in relief and sees Ellie and Awesome engaged in a conversation, while Morgan and Alex are kissing. He then sees Sarah and a smile breaks across his face. She walks right up to him and grabs his shirt and gives him and angry look. She says with a slight slur, "I know what you did." Chuck nervously tries to respond, but is stopped when Sarah plants her lips hard on his in a searing kiss. She then adds, "You saw I was about to kick red's ass and you saved her, nice move… though I wanted a little practice on my martial arts… oh well." She then looks at the dance floor and smiles, "Nice choice by the way… you are rather devious…"

Chuck smiles as he lets out a sigh of relief before trying to look innocent, "Whatever do you mean…"

Sarah laughs and beams, "I know it may have been faster than you planned, but my bet is you were planning on introducing them."

Chuck laughs and smiles, "Guilty… and them," as he points to Zondra and Cullen talking. Sarah lets out a laugh.

"Really?"

Chuck smiles, "Yep, told him to say hi, but thought I would have to aid the introduction… I guess not."

Sarah beams, "Come on! Let's dance!"

Chuck smiles as a drunk and aggressive Sarah pulls Chuck to the dance floor.

Later…

Chuck and Sarah danced and drank and danced some more. Sarah was now thoroughly trashed as her friends plans did not account for the distractions: Morgan and Alex distracted one another as did Ellie and Awesome. Carina was always expected to become distracted in the party environment and as expected she was dancing… well kind of unexpectedly slow dancing with Cole. However, everyone including Zondra herself thought she would be the one to make sure Sarah did not go overboard. Unfortunately, she got caught up in the pre-drinking and then become lost in her conversations and dancing with Cullen and was unable to ensure that Chuck and Sarah had enough of the liquid courage to have fun, but not too much.

Now Sarah was dancing the night away with all her inhibitions gone and Chuck was quickly having to babysit Sarah, while her fun loving demeanor was insisting getting him drunk and on maximum physical contact, which he was okay with.

Having just been ordered to get more drinks Chuck made his way to the bar, pushing his way through a crowd of people seemingly surrounding the bar, but not ordering drinks. Chuck shrugs it off and orders a couple drinks, remembering Sarah's request for Moe-heeee-toe's!

Chuck saddles up to the bar and is about to order when he is clapped on the arm. A shorter blond man calls out with a slight slur, "Hey, are you that Yankee swimmer?"

Chuck laughs as he turns, "One of them, yeah. It's Chuck, Chuck Bartowski."

Chuck then does a double take as he sees the man, Tyler Martin. Chuck replies, "And you're Tyler Martin, the famous rock star."

Tyler smirks, "Yep! Let's have some drinks eh!"

Chuck is distracted and says a quick sure as Tyler orders shots for a group of people. Tyler then orders three additional shots for him and Chuck before looking at Chuck, "Come on Chuck ol'boy bottoms up!"

Chuck looks at the drinks, but can't refuse as he is having too much fun. Chuck turns to the crowd around them and yells out, "See you in the emergency room!" To which the crowd cheers as he and Tyler down the shots.

By now the pair is attracting all sorts of attention as two brunettes approach the two men. The first turns to Chuck and says in slightly Russian accented English, "Hey, are Chuck Bartowski, the swimmer?"

Chuck smiles kindly and recognizes the beautiful young woman, "Yes, and you are Vivian Volkoff, right?"

She blushes and smiles coyly as she looks down and then to her friend. Vivian then turns to Tyler who is eying her friend appreciatively, "This is my friend Natalia…"

Tyler kisses Natalia's wrist and says half smoothly, half drunkenly, "Why hello."

Chuck laughs and turns back to Vivian, "It's nice to meet you. You did great in the Games!"

Vivian laughs, "Thank you! It was so much fun and you… you were the one who did great."

Chuck blushes and dismisses it as Vivian moves closer and orders a drink.

Meanwhile…

Sarah is dancing her heart away fending off the hands and advances of unscrupulous men as she enjoys her time, though she is left wanting as Chuck is away for drinks. It finally strikes her that he has been gone longer than expected. She turns and looks around and sees a sight that makes her blood run hot. At the bar Chuck is standing with Tyler Martin and two brunette bimbo's way too close for her comfort. She bites back her rage and stops and server who is moving a circular tray of shots to a table. The server tries to protest, but Sarah gives her a deathly glare before turning back to watch the scene before her as she decimates the shots on the tray.

Soon she begins to feel dizzy and turns to realize the server is gone, but not knowing for how long as she is out of sorts and is losing control, just short of being violently ill, but very vulnerable from the alcohol.

Meanwhile…

Back at the bar Chuck is chatting with Vivian, Natalia and Tyler as they laugh and have fun. Finally Chuck begins to rave about Sarah, which causes Vivian's face to drop in defeat and understanding. As he talks about Sarah he realizes his mistake and practically jumps to his feet.

Chuck looks at Vivian, "Hey, nice to meet you and sorry to run… Sarah is going to kill me for making her wait!"

Vivian smiles slightly sadly, "No worries Chuck… it was very nice to meet you and Sarah is a very luck girl…"

Chuck smiles and turns to Tyler and says, "Hey thanks buddy that was fun, but I have to find my girl."

Tyler smirks, "I understand. If you ever want to party, you know where you can come."

Chuck smiles, but has a thoughtful expression, "Yeah, you know what that's not really my scene…"

Tyler smiles widely, "Smart man, smart man Chuck."

Tyler then gives Chuck a wave as he turns back to the ladies and Chuck rushes through the crowd to find Sarah.

Chuck scours the dance floor now very worried and kicking himself for getting distracted. He admonishes himself, Stupid! How could you be so stupid! How do you leave Sarah hanging and alone on the dance floor…? Okay I am a little drunk and Tyler is a rock star and how often do you get a chance to drink with a rock star… and Vivian is cool, but she's not Sarah… crap I have to find her!

Finally he sees her through the crowd and momentarily lets out a sigh of relief until he sees she is stumbling and clearly in rough shape. He begins to rush over and then he sees a Latin man pulling at her arm as she struggles feebly.

Chuck rushes up to them and calls out, "Sarah! Are you okay? I am so sorry."

Sarah looks up from heavy lids and smiles, "Chuck there you are! I was all alone and then I saw you with some skank and then there were shots… lots and lots of shots…"

Chuck then turns and eye to the now visibly angry man holding Sarah's arm. Chuck looks at the man's hand grasping Sarah and then to the man's face and Chuck's face goes stony and an intense expression covers his face. He practically growls in a low, but emphatic voice, "Let her go!"

The man does so and bristles as he straightens his dark blue suit jacket, "I am Agusto Gaez and the lady wanted to join me for a night cap… so how about you leave us alone."

Chuck then looks at Sarah and wordlessly asks her if she wanted to go. Despite being hammered she shakes her head, no matter how hurt she was at seeing Chuck chatting with those brunettes she would never leave with another guy… she would be no better than Amy then.

Chuck stiffens in rage and says with hate in his voice, "You have ten seconds to leave before I make you leave."

Gaez smirks before looking into Chuck's eyes, which sends a cold chill through the Brazilian's spine as he sees the cold hate behind Chuck's dark eyes. Gaez decides his chance at an easy score being gone meant that walking away was better than the courage of standing up to the tall American at this point. Gaez turns and disappears into the crowd, while Chuck turns back to Sarah.

"Sarah I am so sorry… I…"

Sarah puts her hand on his lips as Chuck supports her. She shushes him and says, "Don't worry Chuck… you saved me."

Chuck still feeling bad, "I was just talking with Tyler Martin and then Vivian Volkoff a swimmer came over and talked to us. I talked about mostly you and then realized my mistake…"

Sarah had stiffened at hearing about Vivian, but instantly relaxed when Chuck honestly told her he had talked about her during that time. She hesitantly asks, "Really?"

"Of course… I don't know how I could be so stupid to get distracted…"

"Shush!" Sarah then leans in and plants a passionate kiss on his lips, which she escalates as she gropes his body as the people around them cheer and snap picture of the famous couple. Sarah then gives Chuck the sexiest, sultry look he has ever seen before she grabs his wrist and begins to pull him towards the exit. Being hammered she begins to stumble and Chuck is able to catch her before he pulls her close and guides her to the door and down the stairs. Once on the street Chuck turns to Sarah and takes a deep breath of the sobering night air and gives her a soft kiss on the lips before pushing through the photographers and the club goers towards a black cab. He helps her in and then jumps into the cab and they take off for the Athlete's Village.

Athlete's Village

London, United Kingdom

August 11, 2012

02:30 hrs BST

Chuck helps Sarah out of the cab and into the Athlete's Village. They arrive at her door and he helps her open it as he guides her into the apartment. Sarah has a wide drunken smile on her face as she straightens up and pulls Chuck by the hand towards the bedroom.

Chuck now has a moral war going on in his mind, he wants Sarah more than anything… but if she regrets sleeping with him it would kill him. He thinks, Oh boy… god she is beautiful and she wants me! ME! But… but she is drunk… and not just a little buzzed, she is hammered. She's not in her right mind… she is vulnerable… I can't take advantage of her…

Meanwhile Sarah is pulling Chuck along thinking, God he is so hot! I want him so bad right now… it all seems so simple right now, I want to show him how I feel. God this is going to be good! Mmmm, just need to get him naked!

Sarah pulls Chuck into her bedroom and practically throws him on the bed as she pounces and lands on top of him as her hips grind tortuously on his lap as her knees land on either side of his hips. Without hesitation she moves in for the kill as she passionately kisses him, her tongue invading his mouth.

Chuck begins to lose his will at the pleasure of having her hot body on his. She moves the kiss from his lips to his cheek and down his stubble laden chin to his neck. Chuck's breath hitches at the contact and his arms wrap around her and pull her tighter as her chest and hips crush into his, eliciting a groan from them both. She then reaches for his belt and pants and has them partway undone when Chuck finally snaps from the spell of Sarah Walker as one word screams in his mind: Wrong! He thinks, I… I love her and I can't take advantage of her! This is wrong!

Chuck summons all his strength and gentle places his hands on hers, stopping her from removing his pants. She smiles at him, her eyes hazy from the alcohol. She then says playfully, "Why Chuck, this is part where I undress you and hint, hint you are suppose to do the same!"

She then playfully pouts, "Or do you not want to see me naked?"

Chuck tries to smile, but can only sigh as he moves her off his lap, "Sarah… I want this and I want you more than anything…"

Sarah tries to kiss him again, but Chuck stops her volley, "Sarah, you are too drunk and aren't thinking right… I… can't take advantage like that… I am not that kind of guy…"

Sarah's face falls as her mind realizes what he is saying and catches up, He's rejecting me? NO. No no no no no no!

She cries out tears starting to reach the surface, "But I want this Chuck… I want you!"

Chuck smiles sadly, "I want you too, but not like this… I want you… all of you… I don't want you to do something you will regret or hurt you… I just can't take advantage of you."

Sarah then pleads, "What did I do wrong? I'll do anything, anything you want! Please Chuck… I need you!"

"I need you too, but not now, not like this… I can stay with you and make sure you are alright… but I can't make love to you tonight… not when you are so out of sorts…"

Sarah then cries hard into his chest, her heart breaking. Anger suddenly fills her, fueled by the alcohol and the sting of what she sees as a rejection as her mind jumps in error to the conclusion that she is not good enough. She slaps his chest hard as she cries before collapsing into her bed in a fit of tears.

She practically screams, "GET OUT!"

Chuck can barely hold back his emotions as he looks at her small, crying form, "Sarah… let me stay with you… protect you…"

Sarah yells through the comforter, "I said get out! NOW!"

Chuck swallows hard and holds back a tear at causing her such pain, "I am sorry Sarah… it's not what you think… and when you are feeling better I will prove how much I really care… maybe I care too much, but you deserve the best and I will always take care of you and I will always try and do what's right…" Chuck sighs and turns towards the door.

Sarah breaks into more tears as she cries and says through heaving tears, "Get out…"

Chuck exits her apartment into the cool night air and places his back against the closed door as he slides down it until he is sitting outside Sarah's front door, grasping his knees to his chest. He sits watch and all he can think is, I hope that was the right thing to do… I know it was morally right… but to cause all that pain in order to protect her… god this is so screwed up… why can't this be easier…

After an hour sitting watch Chuck begins to drift into a fitful sleep. And just before the nightmares come, his last conscious thought is, God I hope this was right… and that she forgives me…

AN2: Don't shoot! I am sorry for the delay and the cliffhanger, but it was necessary…

First shout out to Liam2 and ne71 – where I stole… mean was inspired by the Moe-heeee-toe thing. Chuck vs Premium Drunk is a must read in my opinion.

So I realize this is a tough chapter and some of you may think this is all for angst – not my intention and honestly I consider this drama. Now some may not think this is forced and Chuck and Sarah would hook up and the world would be grand… ideally yes, but in this AU - not in my view. Chuck is good to a fault and I see this attribute in Chuck (as in myself), he would never take advantage in any way. Even though Sarah is willing, the fact she is not 100% there, the fact she does not completely have her wits would stop Chuck from making his move. It is tough and honestly is meant to be a little tragic – as all things are going so well Chuck trying to do the right thing causes so many problems (kinda like the opening of season 3… except this is in character unlike the crap we saw in pink slip… takes deep breath… OK I'm back). All in all this sets up the finale and have a little faith – things will move forward and next chapter will answer the ultimate question of this arc and will set up my ending. I hope you enjoyed this even though it was a tougher read, but again pain makes a true love story great.

And I am sorry for the tease at the beginning… yes I am in fact evil :)

Disclaimer 2 – Don't own anything related to NBC, LMFAO, Chinawhite nightclub or Franco Manca or anything really.

Final note – tell me what you think, and hopefully your pitchforks are not needed – don't kill the author (or I can't finish LOL)! I know this is a tough spot to end and next chapter is huge plot wise and will NOT leave you hanging – yes this is all part of my evil plan and preps my hopefully gripping conclusion – I will try an update soon (My next day off). This story should be done already and I am sorry for the delay – life can be a pain at times.

As always thank you all for the support! All the best

KB