Chuck vs. The Courtyard Bench
Well, in the previous chapter: Chuck's makeover happens as he begrudgingly meets Hartley and Vivian in the ritzy part of Los Angeles. There he encounters Vivian's hair stylist friend Vincent with a unique way of doing things and has the resemblance of actor Arnold Vosloo from The Mummy movie fame. After getting his hair done, it's off to get him a new suit where Hartley calls in a favor from a friend. That friend is Von Hayes who owns House of Hayes, which is high end suit store. Of course, Hayes makes a grand entrance much to the annoyance of Vivian. In any case, Chuck would pretty woman his way to the suit that he'll wear to the Hospital Gala. So what's in store for this chapter? Where exactly is the even being held at this year? Who is introduced to the Bartowski inner circle for the firs time? Why were Jeffster and Emmitt Milbarge thrown out of the Gala? What did Sarah say to Chuck that made him rethink his decision to not utter the 3 words to her? What song do Sarah and Chuck dance to that it ultimately becomes theirs. How does Chuck react when a surprise announcement is made, but when someone returns that completely catches by surprise? Read and find out! Anyways, hope you enjoy the read and leave a comment to share your own thoughts on this particular chapters. As always, reviews are awesome.
Again, if you enjoyed reading my stories and left a comment I truly appreciate it. Please continue to do so as it gives me the incentive to write more chapters.
I don't own Chuck.
A Tale As Old As Time
XXX
It's the evening of the Hospital Gala and it looks to be a lively event since the venue for this year is located at the Talgygan Complex, which is located in the heart of Los Angeles. In the past, the Hospital Gala took place in a hotel style setting such in the ballroom of places like The Hollywood Roosevelt, The Four Seasons, InterContinental Los Angeles Century City, Hollywood Hotel, Hotel Solaire, etc. Now when it comes to the Talgygan Complex, pictures alone don't do it justice as it offers a far more breathtaking backdrop for Southern California's most noteworthy entertainment events, fashion shows, and political ceremonies. When attendees arrive they'll be mingling together in the ornately-decorated Foyer designed to take anyone's breath away and make an immediate and indelible impression.
Attendees will be visually awestruck by the intricate marble inlays underfoot and understated stained glass windows overhead that create an aura of palatial luxury. Also, the plush, hand-crafted furniture is perfect for relaxing and socializing over artisanal cocktails and sumptuous Hors D'oeuvres. In other words, it's considered a setting that's friendly and at the same time intimate in regards to being such close quarters together when engaging in conversation. In addition, to ensure the needs of every guest are met, it also offers a secluded private smoking patio accessible from the Foyer, which also includes a surround-sound speaker system, adjustable lighting, and a majestic ambiance that exceeds for a couple that would potentially want some alone time together.
Once the main event for the Hospital Gala begins, attendees will head into the Grand Ballroom that features a beautiful 5000 square foot circular stained-glass ceiling, tear-drop crystal chandeliers, and a customizable ambient lighting system. It's illuminated by a state-of-the-art LED lighting system which emanates custom colors from the venue's hand-crafted 5,000 square foot stained-glass ceiling whereby setting the mood for fun and the possibility of romance. In any case, the ballroom has the ability to render anyone who enter its impressive, 7,000 square foot event space speechless. especially the Taglyan's seven tear-drop crystal chandeliers above a lavish dance floor. It also includes high-definition video projectors, intelligent moving head spotlights, and powerful, professional sound system for such an event of this magnitude.
However, all Gala attendees enter via The Gardens where they'll be walking into and be awe inspired by a Renaissance-inspired fountain, elegant Italian cypress trees providing an elegant and not to mention backdrop for meeting up and photo ops. The Gardens provide a serene, European-inspired escape from the frantic pace and overwhelming noise of the surrounding city, which is encircled by Magnolia, Olive, and Cypress trees. Along with the Renaissance-style stone fountain, there is also preindustrial-era lampposts and marble pillars that beautifully recreate the experience of strolling and/or mingling as if you were in a beautifully exotic location. Of course, the meticulously-tended rose garden, customizable LED lights illuminating the spacious reception area with a colorful, dreamlike glow by night in a way sets the overall tone for the entire evening itself.
For it's a tone that each attendee truly feels upon their arrival for the auspicious event as they enter The Garden. Of those aforementioned attendees, Morgan along with gang minus Chuck, Sarah, Emma and Molly are congregating around the fountain in order to take pictures. That and talk with each other before heading inside into the Foyer. As the conversations, the complimenting of the ladies evening dress attire, and opportunity for taking photos are happening a question is posed to Morgan by everyone's verbal and not to mention physical punching bag Emmitt Milbarge who walks up much to everyone's chagrin.
"Where's Bartowski, Grimes? You two are usually joined at the hip. It's actually pretty sad if you think about it..." stated Emmitt, expressing a weasel of a smile and slight chuckle at his expense. The hospital's attorney is seemingly dressed in the same work attire minus the mini pepper spray can that usually hangs from his belt. "...knowing you two." he added, pointing at the bearded sidekick of his nerdy, best friend.
"It's not any of your business Emmitt, but I haven't seen him all day. He did text me that he's running some errands when I woke up this morning and he will be here. Don't you worry about that." he firmly retorted, eyeing the thorn in Nerfherder and Fuzzball's ass since day 1. The other half of the Kessel Run Technologies business duo adorning a charcoal grey suit and pants ensemble with black dress shoes, grey and white crosschecked button-down shirt, and a dark grey striped necktie.
In that instance, Beckman steps forward eyeing the hospital attorney. The Chief Administrator of Westside Medical Center decked out in an A Line small V-Neck Asymmetrical Tulle Steel Grey with Ruffle Beading Sequence with a matching clutch. Her auburn hair done up exposing and accentuating her neck line that draws the attention to her silver beaded big necklace. On both ears are Sorrelli Satin Decorative Blush Drop earrings that aren't too flashy but at the same time gives her a classical, vintage era style. When it comes to any bracelets or rings adorning her finger, she decided to go without any. As for her date, Roan Montgomery standing behind her, he's decked out in a traditional white tux, white button-down shirt, black bow tie with black trouser and black dress shoes. The stem of a red rose attached to the lapel of Roan's tux. It's otherwise known as The Montgomery. In that brief moment, Roan sneaks in a quick sip from a flask before tucking it back into his left front inner breast pocket as she speaks up.
"I have my utmost confidence that Chuck will be here since I've got word there's something special planned."
"Awesome, Chief." chimed in Devon, sporting a traditional tux as well. "Care to fill us in on what that something special planned is?
"Does it involved my brother, Chief?" inquired Ellie, dressed elegantly for the night. The eldest Bartowski sibling and wife to Chief Surgeon Devon Woodcomb is dressed in an off the shoulder champagne colored sequined gown with matching clutch purse. Although she is wearing earrings, they're hidden by her hair style down in curls that highlight a simple gold tone front collar necklace. No bracelets to speak of and the only ring on her finger is her wedding ring.
Chief Beckman simply holds her right finger. "Just wait and see. All I can say is it will truly be a special night to say the least." she nodded, expressing a mysterious smile concerning the something special planned that she referred to moments ago. Afterwards, her attention is focused on someone causing her to acknowledge their presence. "It's good to see you, John."
This would lead Morgan to turn around and suddenly jump back a bit and behind his date for the evening Alex McHugh. "Hey, dad. Gertrude, it's nice to see you again."
For Morgan, the sight of woman standing next to Casey, who is dressed in a black tux, causes him tilt his head back and forth like a curious puppy dog. In his head, he can't help but think Gertrude has a striking resemblance to the character Trinity played brilliantly by Carrie Ann Moss. Unfortunately, he would be snapped out of his momentary trance by the sound of Casey simply expressing a grunt/growl causing him to direct his attention elsewhere. As for Gertrude, she exchanges pleasantries with everyone.
"Nice to see you too, Alex. All of you actually for the first time. I'm John's date for the night, Gertrude Verbanski." The woman with a trinty-esque vibe is adorning an off the shoulder metallic gold floral pattern dress and a silver clutch purse to match. Her short pixie like hairstyle accentuates her neckline showing off a rose gold silver pendant necklace.
"And his girlfriend." Alex proudly chimed in.
Verbanski smiles and gives a nod to Alex. "That too."
In that instance, Kathleen steps forward standing just off behind her daughter and Morgan. The mother of Alex McHugh, is adorning a Plum colored long sleeve asymmetric cutout gown for this evening's festivities. An elegantly classy look that's absolutely pulling off as she extends her hand to Verbanski to formally introduce herself. "Hello, Gertrude. I'm Kathleen. It's nice to finally meet you. My daughter has spoken of you."
"I'm glad to meet you. I've heard so much about you, and it's like I know you with what John has shared with me." Verbanksi retorted, briefly going in for a hug. Her attention then turns to Alex. "Good things, I hope."
Kathleen simply winks at Gertrude leading both women to express a bit of laughter. As for the hospital's head of security, he clearly sees the interaction between the two women and it's a sight that causes Casey to express a grunt that is a mixture of fear and worry more than anything else. His current girlfriend and his ex-wife in the same location apparently getting along.
In that moment, the self-proclaimed hetero life partner of Chuck Bartowski suddenly has a Seinfeld reference pop into his head. "Worlds Colliding." whispered Morgan leaning into Alex's right ear. Afterwards, he expresses a soft chuckle then suddenly notices Casey shooting a death glare towards him causing Morgan to sound off a faint but brief high pitch eep sound as he tries to hide for safety reasons behind Alex. Speaking of Alex, she's wearing a black and silver crystal embroidered sleeveless gown with a clutch purse that somewhat matches her dress. Her earrings, necklace, and wrist bracelets are simple and compliment her bearded date that accompanied her the Gala.
The gang would suddenly find themselves hearing some commotion behind them. More specifically, on the other side of the fountain where they slide over either to the right and left of the fountain to see Jeff and Lester dressed in pastel-colored suits as if they were channeling their inner Sonny Crockett from Miami Vice. Jeff is holding a handheld video camera on the ground while his Canadian Hinjew counterpart is standing on top of the narrow circular landing gyrating and seemingly mouthing words to a song. What song per say? The gang doesn't quite know. What they do know is that this isn't the first time that Jeffster caused a stir at a Hospital Gala function, but it was usually in the middle of it with their usual shenanigans not before it actually started.
The gang is mesmerized as if it were a horrifying, albeit intriguing train wreck, when Emmitt suddenly makes his presence known by reaching out and grabbing the handheld video camera that's in Jeff's hands. It ends being a tug of war between Jeff and Emmitt that would end up also including Lester as both men find themselves up against the narrow circular landing of the fountain. As this is happening, Scooter along with Big Mike, Forrest, Hartley and Vivian find themselves joining in on the spectacle the others are witnessing. Forrest and Vivian elegantly dressed with the head nurse adorning a black and white Teffeta two-toned 3/4 sleeve shirtdress that somehow works for her whereby matching her overall personality. Vivian, on the other hand, has on a blue cold shoulder 3/4 sleeve mermaid gown with her hair beautifully cascading down to her bare shoulders.
"What did you two knuckleheads do now!?" Big Mike barked out, clearly noticing the fracas going on between Jeffster and Emmitt.
Jeff and Lester don't respond as they're quite busy continuing to struggle with Emmitt over the handheld video camera. Before you know it, a splash is heard with all 3 individuals winding up in the fountain with Emmitt desperately and not to mention frantically acting as if he's drowning what is actually water that's just above his ankles. A few seconds later, the venue security pounce plucking or in this case aggressively snatching all 3 soaking wet individuals out of the fountain then escorting them out of the venue itself much to the delight of John Casey. He expresses an amused smirk, as well as faintly sounding off a grunt watching all 3 morons be dragged out from the Hospital Gala as Emmitt is screaming about being a lawyer, having rights and suing.
"What did I miss?"
Morgan instantly recognizes his best friend voice behind him and gives his response. "Something awesome, dude. Emmitt got knocked into the..." As he turns around he suddenly sees his tall, lanky and nerdy counterpart with a whole new look causing him to change what he says mid-sentence. "...HO...LY SHIT!" he added, completely wide eyed.
After hearing that from Morgan, the gang turns around as well to see what he just saw. It's a whole new look for Chuck causing everyone minus Hartley and Vivian to be rendered absolutely speechless but smiling at the same time, which would lead the nerdy business owner to speak up.
"Surprise." he said, lift his shoulders with both hands in his pockets. A toothy smile expressed towards his group of friends and family.
The gang, more importantly, Ellie, is the first to head over excitedly over to her nerdy little brother who upgraded his entire look while Casey, his date Gertrude, Forrest, Beckman, and Roan decide to hang back. As the eldest Bartowski sibling, along with the rest of the gang, can't help but be momentarily stunned, Sarah emerges into The Garden with Emma and Molly right by her side. She's wearing a red/salmon colored string strap backless satin dress that accentuate her curves. Curves that elegantly trail down to her silver sequin high heels. Her golden locks styled back into a back bun/ponytail of sorts. A few strands of hair cascading down on each side of face giving her a softer look. No jewelry or rings adoring her neck and fingers. Just her natural beauty shining forth. The only thing she has in her left hand is a small, white clutch purse. The beautiful blonde doesn't notice the crowd huddled around the fountain at first because Molly is talking about what they just saw concerning Jeff, Lester and Emmitt being thrown out of by venue security. What made it even more amusing for the teenager was Emmitt screaming like a little girl, which she thankfully got on video. A video that she'll send to Check in order to do what he does so well in regards getting under the skin of his arch nemesis.
In any case, Sarah would express a chuckle of her own as her attention on her little sister would subsequently be locked on to a crowd by the fountain. A crowd that she suddenly recognizes as her inner circle of friends/co-workers, but it's Alex that she instantly locks eyes with amusing the Chief Operating Operator for Westside Medical Center to be keenly and highly aware that she expressing an enormously wide smile her way causing her to wonder why. As she's continues walking towards the group, she hopes Chuck has arrived because she received a text earlier in the day that he would just meet her there instead of picking her up because he had something to take care that was relatively important. Although she was a bit disappointed, she gave him the benefit of the doubt on the importance of what needed to get done whatever it may have been. As Sarah is getting closer and nearly reaching the group, she suddenly notices Alex turn around speaking to someone and that someone is Morgan who briefly turns around expressing an even bigger smile than Alex's, which is causing her to wonder why.
It's at the point, Morgan suddenly disappears into the crowd with Alex as a momentary distraction for Sarah who quirks her right brow at what is occurring right now. Before she knows it, her hulking partner's daughter turns her around facing away from the fountain. She doesn't say a word. Instead, she turns around and reaches for Emma and takes her by the hand along with Molly to join the rest of the inner circle who are now slowly dispersing to their right leaving Sarah considerably bewildered and not to mention confused. The beautiful blonde would find herself turning around and continue to mentally wonder what in the world is happening right now. Afterwards, her focus suddenly turns to Morgan standing in front of a rather tall individual with his back facing her.
It's an individual that causes her to instinctively step forward and move towards him. Sarah is about 10 feet from the two men when Morgan looks up at the aforementioned individual in question and motions with his head to look behind him as he takes his leave. It's at that point, Sarah is solely focused on the mysterious individual who turns around causing both of them to lock eyes with each other.
A wide-eyed Chuck could only express two words as he lays eyes on the woman standing before him. "Oh my..."
"Chuck me." Sarah faintly breathed out, stunned beyond belief.
XXX
"Chuck..." Sarah said, in absolute disbelief. "...is that you. Really you?" she added, shaking her head absolutely stunned at her nerd's new look.
"Yeah. It's...its me." a clearly nervous Chuck stammered out. Expressing an equally as nervous chuckle as well while trying to not get tongue tied because of how beautiful she looks right now to him. "You look..." He searches for the right word to describe how awesome she looks in what she's wearing right now. "...breathtakingly stunning in that red dress. Or is that Salmon? I can't really tell in this light." he babbled out looking around at the lighting, trying to control and shake off his nerves at the same time.
In that moment, Sarah moves forward to where she's now standing inches away from Chuck. She peers up and into his eyes. "Chuck." she softly said.
"Yeah." he blurted out nervously once again.
"You're babbling."
After saying that, Chuck nerves somehow subside just enough as he peers down and gets lost in Sarah blue spheres that are her eyes. "I can't help it. You're you and..."
Sarah interjects. "And so are you. Wow." she retorted back with a smile peering up towards him. "So, I guess this was the matter of importance you needed to take care of?" Sarah inquired, reaching up to not only touch his hair, but place her hand on his chest feeling texture of his new suit.
"It was Vi and Hartley's idea. I went to personally invite them to tonight's Gala a week ago and they sprung..." Chuck looks up without moving his head then down at what he's wearing. "...this on me. I gotta say, I wasn't too keen on it at first."
"I bet." Sarah remarked, continue to have a unwavering smile on her face.
As the conversation between the nerdy couple continues on, the gang that gave them their privacy is looking on from another part of the courtyard that's gated off is set up with white cloth tables. A courtyard where there is a much smaller version of a fountain where there are two pillars on either side of it. It's in that general area where the group is doing their best to hide while at the same time closely surveilling the situation between the couple who are so in love with each other. Unfortunately, Beckman along with Roan, Casey, Gertrude and Forrest decided to head into the Foyer instead of hiding, as well as spying on the couple that's having a private moment with each other. However, they agree, as a whole, that in their minds they just have to say or scream it out loud to each other. The seemingly intense and intimate nature of the situation suddenly leads the group to hear a familiar tune. That familiar tune being played that starts off with the following words. "A tale as old as time. True as it can be..."
The source of the music is coming from a phone belong to one person...Morgan Grimes. He looks at everyone staring at him causing him to responds. "What? The moment and mood called for it."
It's at that point, the moment and mood is ruined to where Alex takes the leads and wrangles the groups together but before briefly rolling her eyes because of her bearded date. "Let's go you guys." she urged, taking Morgan by the hand.
"It is the thought that counts, Morgan." Emma said, briefly patting Chuck's best friend on his left shoulder. "Come on, Mol."
The 13 year old gives a slight shrug and a nod to the bearded individual as she follows her mom. "At least you tried, dude. You get cool points for that since it's for Chuck and my sister."
It would lead Morgan to give a Tiger Woods like victory fist pump, which amuses Alex to no end. Afterward, he continues on. "Awesome. I was about to sing a bit of it too. Instead of Beauty and The Beast, I was gonna go with Beauty and the Nerd." he shared, somewhat singing those 4 words, the expressing a grin when done.
In that instance, Molly stops mid stride after just exiting the gated area of The Garden, turns around and just stares at Morgan. "I take that back. You should have quit while you were ahead. No cool points for you." she said, turning and skipping off to joining her mother who is just a few feet away.
Morgan's instantly hangs his head as his unfortunate attempt at setting the mood is met with a harsh take back of cool points from Sarah's precocious younger sister, which Alex can't help but be slightly amused. In any case, as they head out from the gated area of the courtyard, Hartley and Vivian stand there for a moment then exchange a fist tap signifying a job well done when it comes to their involvement earlier today. No words have to be said as they can plainly see their efforts in visually making an impact will quite possibly lead to a tremendous impact of the emotional kind some time tonight during the Hospital Gala. The rather successful father and daughter attorney duo inevitably head out as well following the remaining group inside the Foyer leaving Chuck and Sarah to continue on with their conversation in front of the fountain.
"You look very handsome." she said, pausing for a moment to deeply breathe in and exhale out in a satisfying way. "I'm honestly gonna to miss those funny animal shapes your hair did, but..." she softly said, reaching up with her right hand other to touch the side of his hair then gently caresses the side of Chuck's face. "...I very much prefer this new and improved look. Just remember to be you. My nerd. My Chuck."
Chuck without any hesitation reaches up and take holds Sarah's right hands as it momentarily lingers there against his left cheek. He briefly closes his eyes and in that moment in time answers her. "I will always be me. Your nerd. Your Chuck. I know it's sound corny, but you don't have to ever worry about that..." he softly shared with Sarah, inevitably opening his eyes. "...and when it comes to my new look I was going to actually wear my dad's suit. Has a sentimental meaning for me. You know?" Chuck added, with a slight shrug of his shoulders. A somewhat crinkled, but soft smile expressed as well.
"I do." she nodded. "I don't think he would mind since this is a special occasion for the hospital..." Sarah said, stepping closer enveloping her arms around him without a second thought whatsoever. "...and for us." she firmly added, briefly placing her head against his chest and underneath the crook of his neck.
The sharp dressed nerd responds by enveloping Sarah with a hug back giving a gentle but somewhat tight squeeze of her bare shoulders, arms, and neck. For us. It's those two words in which Chuck takes a deep breath in that moment and lets out a satisfyingly exhale signifying how much doesn't want what's happening right now between the two of them to not end. At the same time, his thoughts turn to what Sarah said concerning how his father wouldn't mind not wearing his suit, especially for an important occasion such as this they're attending right now, he thinks to himself. Granted, when Hartley suddenly introduced the idea of having him wear a new suit felt like a betrayal of sorts in the way Anakin felt like Obi Wan betrayed him before their ultimate, as well as definitive battle on lava planet Mustafar.
In his mind, he was experiencing at the time mix feelings until he actually put on the new suit. Essentially, it's those aforementioned mixed feelings in which he wore his dad's suit to every hospital event and had absolute fun in that suit as well. Of course, he would get it dry cleaned weeks before every Hospital Gala knowing how much sweat accumulated during the night to where it seeped into the suit. So, the next morning it would most definitely smell rank, but despite that it's something that his father owned that he now called his own. It has become a part of him and after Hartley foot the bill for his new suit it somehow felt as if he was somehow replacing him as his father, which wasn't really the case. Yet, that's would he initially thought at the time as it turned into an "out with the old" and "in with the new" situation.
In a sense, it was like he was so used to feeling like Napoleon Dynamite and after going through the makeover he definitely feels like Tony Stark minus the millions of dollars in the bank. Fortunately, he's been able to make peace with it, especially knowing Sarah actually likes his new look after previously thinking she would somehow flip out not liking his change or far worse...break up with him because of it, he thinks to himself. Thankfully, she didn't and it made their relationship and the connection they share together considerably much stronger. Thinking about it further, both Napoleon Dynamite and Tony Stark ended with the girl in the end so he feels awesome enough to make a prediction that they'll be an unstoppable couple force to be reckoned with even if he doesn't say those 3 magic words to her. Yet...
"Sarah..." he breathed out, then leans back releasing the somewhat tight hug he has on her. "...I want to say. What I've wanted...needed to say actually ever since..."
Instantly, Sarah reaches up and places her right finger on Chuck's lips, softly smiles peering up at him, then shakes her head. "You don't need to say it. We both know how we feel about each other. Truth be told, I wanted...needed say it to you as well for so long. You have no idea. So, let's just not say it and just leave it as something unspoken between the two of us that neither us really have to share with each other out loud. Ok?"
Chuck nods. "Ok." he said, deeply breathing in then exhaling slowly out.
While doing so, he can't help but expressing a loving smile as he peers down deeply into her eyes. This would lead Sarah to exchange that same loving expression up towards him while deeply peering up in his eyes. "I know."
"You will always be my Princess Leia in my eyes, Sarah."
"And you..." Sarah takes the moment to reach up with her left hand then lift herself up to softly kiss Chuck on his lips. It's tender and oh so romantic moment between the two as they both stand in front of the cascading illuminated fountain. This kiss is brief but seems to last forever for the both of them. Afterwards, she lowers herself down and continues softly smiling up at him once again. "...are my nerdy not so scruffy looking nerfherder, Han Solo."
"I'll take it." Chuck remarked, expressing his trademark toothy smile. This time, he takes a quick breath then lifts his head to find that The Garden seems to be empty with only a 1 or 2 people standing around one of them mainly venue security. In that instance, Chuck interlocks his left with Sarah's right that's been against his right left cheek and lowers down to their side. He then motions with a slight tilt to his head to right for both of them to head inside and she responds with just a nod.
XXX
"Good evening all and thank you for your attendance for Westside Medical Center's 2010 Hospital Gala. My name is Elizabeth Reich and I am the President of Make A Wish Foundation, which is proudly sponsoring this most illustrious event. I would also like to acknowledge other individuals who are sponsoring this event as well. Wells Fargo, Ted Roark of Roark Enterprises, Onni Group, Renaissance, Imaging Medical Associates, Honda of Downtown Los Angeles, Warren Strickland of Strickland Media & Publishing, Locks of Love, Grace Helen Spearman Charitable Foundation, and the most recent sponsor that kindly made a generous donation to our organization, The Law firm of Winterbottom, McArthur & Associates. These are just a number of the people and organizations, as well as, countless others who have been able to make this yearly event happen. Without their contributions, we wouldn't have the opportunity to recognize the noteworthy accomplishment of special individuals who have gone above and beyond when it comes to being an influence to their own community. On that note, I would like to introduce you all to your Masters of Ceremonies tonight and you may know him from American Idol fame tonight Mr. Ryan Seacrest." she revealed, motioning stage right.
"Thank you, Elizabeth..." nodded Ryan hopping on to the main stage, then taking a moment to shake her hand before she takes her leave. He then turns to those in attendance. "...and welcome everyone here and for those not watching around the world." The well-known host and radio personality jokingly remarked. "This..." he firmly reiterated, for dramatic effect in his trademark host tone of voice. "...will be a fun and memorable night. So, let's get started by making a few announcements..."
The start of the Gala went off without a hitch as attendees were given the opportunity to work up an appetite as the dance floor opened up. Of course, Chuck stood up and directed his attention to the person sitting at his table and politely asked for a dance. She gladly accepted as Molly and Chuck cut the proverbial rug on the ballroom floor while Sarah danced with Scooter who ended up gladly stepping aside for Chuck to dance with his girlfriend. As for Emma, she would be sitting at the table with Lazlo who was a bit late for his arrival and outright refused to dance knowing he's not much of a people person or considered a dancer for that matter. So, the mother of Sarah and Molly Walker along with Lazlo became the designated clutch watchers.
That is until Chuck came to the rescue and thankfully whisked Emma off to the dance floor in order for her to not be left out on all the fun leaving Lazlo to watch all the clutches, much to his chagrin. It would be absolute fun as Morgan danced Alex, Ellie with her husband Devon, Kathleen dancing with Hartley, Vivian accepting a dance from Big Mike, Roan charming Chief Beckman on the dance floor with his smooth moves, and even Casey joined in eventually with Gertrude under grunted protest. The Hospital's Head of Security would end up choosing a somewhat slow jazz number to dance with his girlfriend.
A few moments later, the dancing would be put on pause as the dance floor would be opened up for a special number by a number of the Make A Wish Foundation kids. As expected, there wasn't a dry eye in the Ballroom as the children sang songs that were considered to be upbeat and/or incredibly emotional such as "Brave" by Sarah Bareilles, "Keep Holding On" by Avril Lavigne, "When You Believe" by Whitney Houston and Mariah Carey, and "Don't Stop Believing" by Journey. The musical number by the children left everyone in tears including Casey. However, the one greatly affected would be Chuck knowing how much of a deep connection he's formed with organizations like Make A Wish Foundation. In any case, the dance floor would be opened back up but not before Ryan Seacrest introduces the musical guest for the evening.
"Since his debut as a independent solo artist in 1995, this Canadian crooner has sold 2 albums successfully on his own, released 4 hit studio albums non consecutively in the span of 6 years, stopped by a little show called American Idol to perform, and sang to millions in sold out concerts one of them being his Crazy Love Tour. A tour that he's currently on right now, but we're thankful to have him here tonight. Let's all give it up...for Michael Bublé." Seacrest announced, then steps aside for him to perform but not before shaking his hand.
As the lights dim and the Ballroom orchestra begins playing the dance floor starts to fill up with couple who wants to get romantically lost in the music dancing arm in arm with their partner, Bublé begins singing the first 3 lines of a familiar hit song that he's covering.
Birds flying high, you know how I feel
Sun in the sky, you know how I feel
Breeze driftin' on by, you know how I feel
As the Canadian crooner continues singing, Chuck and Sarah have made their way to the somewhat crowded dance floor and end up near the middle of it. Yet, the two of them make the most of it and don't waste any time in being in each arms, swaying from side to side as if they're flying together with the occasional twirl from Chuck that has her circling around him as if she's his sun that has turned his darkness to light or vice versa. Both of them just riding the breathtakingly cool breeze so much so they look as if they're breathing in and out together. It's certainly a sight to behold for those in their inner circle who are witnessing it either from the dance floor or seated at the designated table.
Birds flying high, you know how I feel
Sun in the sky, you know how I feel
Breeze driftin' on by, you know how I feel
It's a new dawn
It's a new day
It's a new life for me, yeah
It's a new dawn
It's a new day
It's a new life for me, oh
And I'm feeling good
It's in that momentary silence in the song that Chuck and Sarah have their eyes locked on one another. It's then that Chuck reaches up with his right hand to brush away a strand of blonde hair that is in front of her beautiful, left blue sphere to where she deeply gazes into his big, brown eyes. Both individuals can absolutely feel the love and passion in each other deep gaze to where they feel the magnetic pull in for a shared kiss. However, the kiss doesn't happen as the trumpets suddenly sound leading Sarah to nearly press her lips against his but turns away from him in the last second in a teasing manner. Afterwards, she releases the gentle hold she has on Chuck's right hand. In doing so, she does a ballet type clockwise twirl moving her a few feet away. However, she doesn't get far as Chuck moves swiftly and smoothly towards her to where she ends up in his arms once again as she faces his direction. The two of them now face to face.
In their minds, it's just the two of them alone in each other's arms briefly standing in that one spot and nobody else is on the dance floor or then entire ballroom for that matter. It's a special moment that just stands the test of time where time simply stands still with what's possibly happening around them as they are solely focused on one another as they move back and forth, side to side on the dance floor. What makes it even more of a romantic atmosphere than it already is for a couple who are hopelessly in love with each other, is when a slow white mist provided by the fog machine begins sweeping across the dance floor inevitably making Chuck and Sarah's dance experience absolutely heavenly. That's not all though, as the white misty fog is sweeping in, its suddenly illuminating different colors of light and warm to where it's as if each color somehow changes with the flow of the song itself making their dance together even more magical.
Fish in the sea, you know how I feel
River running free, you know how I feel
Blossom on the tree, you know how I feel
It's a new day
It's a new life for me
And I'm feeling good
The Hospital Gala Ballroom may feel a bit warm with so many bodies packed in one room, but it's the 2 bodies currently on the dance floor that have been emanating a tremendous amount of heat. Heat that has been steadily rising ever since Chuck and Sarah locked eyes with each other out in The Garden between the two of them. If it were any hotter, they would be setting off the sprinkler system at that particular moment in time. However, what's been able to stop them from quite possibly setting the dance floor on fire is the light sporadic spraying of watery mist not from the aforementioned sprinkler system, but from the seven tear-drop crystal chandeliers. Chandeliers that have in all intents and purposes helped the 2 individuals encounter a refreshing sense of freedom they've never really experienced before.
Dragonfly out in the sun you know what I mean, don't you know?
Butterflies all havin' fun, you know what I mean
Sleep in peace when day is done, that's what I mean
And this old world, is a new world
And a bold world for me, yeah-yeah
Stars when you shine, you know how I feel
Scent of the pine, you know how I feel
Oh, freedom is mine
And I know how I feel
For the both of them changes have been happening and they've been positive like a dragonfly representing or symbolizing change, transformation, adaptability, and self-realization. In a way, it's like Chuck and Sarah were caterpillars that went through a metamorphosis in which the two have become butterflies to the point where they've adapted to someone who stepped into their life unexpectedly. It's an unexpected arrival that would lead to a self-realization for the both of them that truly dug deep personally, mentally, as well as emotionally. Of course, it's because of that self-realization they weren't able to get some peaceful sleep due to the fact that they haven't been able to convey what they wanted to say to each other out loud.
However, the intimate conversation they had earlier out in The Garden by the fountain would have both of them in agreement that even though those three important words two people can say to each other, it's something absolutely unspoken that they don't have to necessarily verbally exchange with one another. Despite that, the love they share is considered such a sweet-smelling scent to both of them that they can't help but smile as the warmth between the two of them intensifies so much so those around them could quite literally burst into flames because of the immense heat they're giving off. Yet, it's that flaming passion they share that is considered to be out of this world and they're boldly going to a whole other shining star system in a galaxy far, far away where the past heartbreak is left behind forever.
It's a new dawn
It's a new day
It's a new life for me
I'm feeling good
As the song comes to an end Chuck giving another clockwise twirl to the woman he loves, he pulls in her closer to him to the point of embracing with one another. Any closer and they would literally become one person from anyone who is watching from afar. While Chuck gently places his hands on Sarah hip and bare lower back, she reached up in a seemingly primal way to grab the back of the his head full of what usually would be her nerdy boyfriend's untamed lock after pressing up against his body. Instead, she gently strokes the back of his head and neck leading both of them to simultaneously lean in towards each other for a kiss. Once the songs ends, the happy couple continues kissing, but it would be brief. They would end up touching foreheads with one another's eye's closed just living in the moment. A moment where Chuck suddenly shares the following words to her.
"I love you, Sarah Walker." he whispered in Sarah's right ear.
Sarah leans back and is somewhat stunned to hear those words being said by Chuck, especially after having that nonverbal agreement of not actually having to say it earlier outside in The Garden in front of the fountain. "What?" It's the only word that she can force herself to say after being hit with those 3 most impactful words a person can say to another.
"I lo..."
This time, Chuck is stopped mid-sentence from saying those 3 impactful and not mention meaningful words by Sarah who just jumps up unexpectedly and wraps her arms around his neck then presses her lips against his. It's a sight that Charah's inner circle witnesses while sitting, as well as standing at their tables causing instant celebrations to happen by way of high fives for the guys and hugs for the ladies. Of course, Casey and Lazlo didn't partake in the celebration but they did express noticeable signs of a smirk upon witnessing the liplock between the overwhelmingly annoying, but loving couple.
After setting her down, they manage to separate to where it's Sarah who peers up at him doing her best to emotionally hold herself together while locking her eyes with Chuck's. "I love you too, Chuck Bartowski." Sarah breathes out almost in tears. She's in absolute joy knowing she was actually lying to herself about the both of them not having to say those 3 words and to just have it be something deemed unspoken.
Chuck expresses his goofy, toothy smile in response. "I love you." he softly repeated back once again, looking directly into her eyes. For him. it's a huge relief and weight lifted off concerning how it would have clearly been a mistake if they did agree on it just being an unspoken between the two of them.
In that instance, Chuck lifts her up by leaning down a bit then embracing tightly her waist leading her feet to just dangle a foot off the dance floor. Afterwards, the couple once again lives in the moment on the dance floor that's still surrounded by the white, foggy mist provided by the fog machines. At this point, the once crowded dance floor is no longer crowded as much of the couples who were dancing either got off the floor to sit down or found themselves standing off to the side mesmerized by the scene that has been unfolded right before their very eyes. Without a doubt, it's a considered to be visually beautiful and absolutely breathtaking by practically everyone in attendance in the ballroom, especially Charah's inner circle who have verbally celebrating what just happened. A celebration that Chuck and Sarah just now realize after their focus on each other is broken causing them to refocus on their surroundings. The two walking off the dance floor and back to their table a bit embarrassed knowing that there's quite possibly pictures and video of their dance, which has been completely taken care of by none other than Molly Walker.
XXX
An intermission would most certainly be warranted after what spread through the Hospital Gala Ballroom as beautiful representation of what love is all about. It even went so far as to the possibility that it was an actual choreographed dance put together just for tonight giving the crowd in attendance not only the best for their entertainment value, but something to potentially keeping talking/gossip about until next year's Gala. Once intermission was over, the awards portion of the night begins leading the Master of Ceremonies Ryan Seacrest to come forward again in order to introduce a very special guest.
"Ladies and gentlemen, I would you like to introduce you all to the man who could potentially be our next Mayor of Los Angeles. He served 14 years in the United States Marine Corps Reserve and an additional 9 years of active duty service in the U.S. Marines. Toured such places as Liberia, Kosovo, Albania, and Afghanistan." Seacrest listed off, reading the note cards provided to him. "He made the decision last year to proudly serve and fight for the people of his hometown. I give you..." he announced, motioning stage right. "...Mr. Jim Rye."
Once Jim Rye appears on stage, Casey immediately stands up out of respect from the table he's sitting at with Gertrude, Hartley, Vivian, Scooter, Roan, and Chief Beckman in order to honorably clap for the man before anyone else stood up. Not only that, he would give a quick salute as well from one military man to another. The applause and respect for Jim Rye's were well received to the point where the applause lasted a bit longer than they should. Fortunately, it would die down leading the mayoral candidate to step up to the podium and begin speaking.
"Thank you, Elizabeth." the military veteran and Los Angeles' potentially new Mayor nodded. Afterwards, he turns her attention from the President of Make A Wish Foundation to the attendees sitting out in the crowd within the ballroom. "Ladies and gentlemen, we commence tonight by giving honor and recognition to the following people who are considered, in their own way, honorable soldiers who have fought valiantly with their blood, sweat, and tears when it comes to being a continuous influential part of their community. Their time, resources, and/or money have been given to/for such worthy causes whether they're for charities, fundraisers, etc. Oftentimes, it can feel so overwhelming to try keep fighting what can seem like an uphill battle that you're unable to win at all sometimes. That's when you remember these two words..." he firmly shared, holding up two fingers. "...Semper Fi. Semper Fidelis."
It's at that point, a loud "OOORRAAAH" is sounded off echoing within the ballroom. That source...John Casey. "A Fellow Devil Dog and brother out there." he expressed proudly, with a smile not knowing exactly where his brother in arms is actually sitting at. The distraction would be brief as he refocuses on the deserving recipients of the awards he'll be personally handing out to the winners that are going to be recognized. "It's these people who exemplify the 2 qualities that stand out if you lucky enough to be part of the United States Marines...loyalty and commitment. It's these people whose loyalty and commitment in what they enjoy and love to do have set the standard for whom we should all aspire to be. So, the first award is in recognition of..."
A total of 20 minutes would go by as a number of individuals were spotlighted with an award for their charitable philanthropy, fundraising, etc. It's then that the President of Make Of Wish Foundation steps to the podium once again after giving Mayoral candidate Jim Rye some recognition pertaining to doing his part for the award ceremony. A job well done and quite possibly excellent press for him in regards to his poll numbers in the race for mayor of Los Angeles. Afterwards, she addresses the Hospital Gala attendees.
"And the last award of the evening is the Shining Star Award. It's an award that goes to a person who has shown tremendously long dedication and generosity in making wishes come true even though this individual isn't actually part of the organization itself. This person's influence has garnered a following on social media and all of it has been absolutely positive. One example of their positive influence is going above and beyond in making a dream come true for a young child that far exceeds any wish that's ever been granted by someone who isn't or isn't defined as a celebrity per say. However, it's the people and the children that this very deserving individual has earned himself a spot as wish granter among celebrities like Kobe Bryant, Robert Downey Jr, John Cena, and the list goes on. We are proud to announce that this year's recipient of the Shining Star Award goes to..." Elizabeth Reich briefly pauses then announces the person most deserving of the honorable award. "...Mr. Charles Bartowski." she announced, causing Chuck's table and the surrounding table section to suddenly erupt in applause.
It has to take Morgan, Devon, and Hartley to actually grab him, pull him up into a standing position, then push him forward in the direction of the stage to accept his award. However, before any of this happens Chuck was enveloped with hugs and kisses mostly from Ellie and Sarah. Hugs from his older sister and kisses from his beautiful, as well as equally as nerdy girlfriend. As he makes his way inevitably stepping on to the dance floor, he's still in stunned shock as he's making his way towards the stage giving waves while turning every which way to acknowledge the crowd. In usual Chuck fashion, he nearly trips stepping up to the stage but quickly recovers because if he hadn't he would have knocked The Make A Wish Foundation President and the potential new Mayor for the city of Los Angeles down to the stage floor. A domino effect to the point where if that nightmarish situation had actually happened it would have been considered career suicide, but it didn't.
After shaking the aforementioned Make A Wish Foundation President's hand, he would be handed his prestigious Shining Star Award by Jim Rye. It's then he would be directed to the podium to give a speech, much to Chuck's surprise. Despite his hesitance and clearly nervous demeanor standing on stage in front of all the Gala attendees, he makes the effort to say something. Unfortunately, while placing the award on the right-side podium, it falls off the edge causing the nerd to suddenly freak out. Thankfully, it's the quick reflexes of one Jim Rye that catches the award much to the relief of Chuck himself. Instead of placing it back on the podium, the mayoral candidate offers to hold it for the newly crowned winner of the last award of the night.
"Wow..." He can't help but shake his head as he pauses for a moment to gather his thoughts. Afterwards, he clears his throat and tries to find the right words to convey what this very moment means for him as a whole. "...this is awesome!" He momentarily pauses and is very thankful he can't see anyone right now with the lights shining towards because it would most definitely freak him out knowing how many people are looking at him. Instead, he just forges on even though he is visibly nervous. "I honestly never thought that I was going to win an award tonight. Me...of all people." he chuckled, shaking his head once again. After taking a quick, but deep breath he continues on. "I'm honored to be even mentioned in the same level as The Black Mamba, Iron Man/Tony Stark, and not to mention John Cena because I've been a big fan of theirs, especially when it comes to RDJ since I'm a nerd when it comes stuff like the Marvel or The MCU. Marvel Cinematic Universe. It's up there with Star Wars. I can't tell you the number of long hours my best friend Morgan and I have debates about...
It's at that point, the President of Make A Wish, Elizabeth Reich immediately steps in clearly sensing a speech that's completely going off track. "Thank you, Mr. Bartowski. I know this come as a complete shock to you, but I assure you the award you've been bestowed is not all shocking to the Chief Administrator of Westside Medical Center, Diane Beckman. We received a call from her last week and offered your name up and provided us the proof on how much of a big heart you truly have."
In that instance, Chuck quirks his right brow. "Proof? What proof?"
After saying that, the ballroom lights dim and then a project screen lowers behind. This would leading the occupants currently standing on stage to step back to where they are off to the side for a better view of what's going to be projected on screen. At this point, Chuck still has no idea what's going on until he sees a familiar sight on the projection screen. It's the video that Morgan put together the Nickelback inspired song "Rockstar" at the behest of Sarah as she gathered the troops all for one single primary purpose... him. While standing there watching the video once again, the same wave of emotions hit like last time; but this time around the sheer impact of it all hits like a freight train, especially after watching his rendition of the acapella version of "I'll Be Missing You" in honor of Camden Willard at his spot on the beach in Santa Monica. Of course, the tears flowed not just for him, but for everyone else in the ballroom as well.
Once the video ends, the sound of applause gradually commences and the lights come back on leading Chuck to wipe away the tears from his face with his pocket square instead of the sleeve of his new suit coat. Afterwards, he would feel a hand on his left forearm causing him to peer over to his left and sees Elizabeth Reich smiling at him. She then motions for him along with Jim Rye to join her back at the podium once again. Chuck nods and as they make their way towards the podium, he makes the effort in trying to locate Sarah but comes up empty because of how bright the lights are being directed towards them. In any case, the applause eventually dies down but Chuck still finds himself hearing the sound of clapping leading the President of Make of Wish Foundation to call out that particular individual. Speaking of the individual, that person steps out onto the dance floor and makes their way to the middle of the dance floor then directing their attention to the stage.
"Congratulations, Schnook..." The individual dressed in a tux then turns his attention to Jim Rye. A smile expressed on their face and raising a toast of some type of alcoholic beverage in a glass towards him. "...and to you as well, Mr. Mayor."
Chuck's eyes widen as he sees the one person who he thought skipped town never to be seen from again. That person...that man...is Sarah's father, Jack Burton.
XXX
NOTE: So, was the wait worth it? I'm sure the big payoff made everyone reading the interaction between Sarah and Chuck before, during, and after smile. I know it made me smile writing it. Now, that we got that out of the way with Charah expressing their love out loud to each other, the shocking and not to mention surprising appearance of Jack Burton happens at the end. What's his agenda? That's the big question right there. It will be answered and so much more in the next chapter where decisions will have to be made. Life changing ones to be exact. I'll just leave it at that. Anyways, share your thoughts and leave a review because they're considered fuel to keep a writer like myself hitting the keyboard both literally, as well as figuratively. As always, tip of the hat to NEVR for being my beta. You rock dude!
