ALL I WANT TO DO

by mssupertigz

Chuck's is trying to hide from his past and what occurred on his last mission when he meets a mysterious woman name Sarah. Their time together changes when Chuck is called back into the field and has to face to face his demons and the surprisingly twists that come along with it and his unexpected reunion with Sarah.

14. Chapter 14

Chapter 14

Chuck hailed a cab and rolled their bags downstairs. Sarah finalized the bill sending all the info back to the states. One perk of being a spy, this time the hotel was taken care of. Chuck laid her dress and his suit flat over their bags. He looked up as Sarah was staring down the street. He closed the trunk and stood beside her. They both had mixed feelings about leaving and what was to come. It was all over their face. Chuck kissed her cheek softly. "You ready to go?" Sarah snapped herself out of her thoughts. "Yeah." Chuck opened the door of the car and stared at the tower one last time then slipped in beside her.

DC

They arrived mid afternoon taking a cab. Chuck just assumed she'd be coming home with him. And they never talked about it either. They drove up a slight hill into a what Sarah could only describe as a colonial style home or one of those houses found in Nantucket. Chuck grabbed the bags then paid for the cab. Sarah grabbed the garment bags as Chuck carried the rest. They entered a large foyer that had a stair way right in the center. There were rooms left and right of the front foyer and a hallway parallel to the stairs leading somewhere. Chuck placed the bags on the floor taking the garment bags from Sarah and draping them over the railing. He stood up with his hands in his back pocket looking at her as she looked around. "I know we haven't talked about this but putting a bet on the assumption that you'd move in here." Sarah just stared at him. "We'd have to order in tonight but I can get some groceries tomorrow." Sarah smiled. Chuck wasn't getting anywhere with his one sided conversation. "So." He looked at her. "Tour?" This was the first time he'd got a response from her. It was genuine and acceptive. Chuck smiled but it worried him.

They walked to the left entering a living room area. Chuck had it decorated decent for a bachelor and it housed a fireplace. To the left there were windows that once they walked close to it led to a sitting area and what looked like a row of trees. They walked the back part of the house that led to the kitchen. Sarah thought to herself. 'It was huge. Her whole suite that she lived in during training would fit inside it.' They walked down the hall which she saw the foyer. There was a bathroom and another room that Chuck made into an office. He smiled. "There are a few surprises in here but that can wait." There was also another door that reminded her of his office and the exit door he had that led to a side exiting into the quad.

They headed up stairs as Chuck took their bags. Sarah hesitation was obvious as she took each step. Chuck took the lead walking to the end of the hall dropping the bags off then coming back. To the left were two rooms that were directly above the living room. Fair size rooms and the far one Chuck opened the door as Sarah saw her stuff nicely stacked against the window wall. Chuck stood in the doorway as Sarah turned and gave him a kiss. "Thankyou." "No worries." They held hands as they walked to the other side. There was a bathroom then the master. Sarah entered seeing his queen size bed covered with a dark blue almost grey bed spread. The far wall was all windows. Chuck walked over and opened the doors as they stepped out. Sarah saw two chairs and a small table. She walked to the railing looking out. Chuck stood beside her. "Is that DC?"

"Yup." Sarah had no idea where she was based on the amount of trees. "Yeah, it is a pretty cool spot. Far enough from DC but close enough at the same time. But most of the time I just stayed at the office. Most nights there wasn't anything to come home too. And when I did come home it was game night with my buddy Morgan who's in LA or talking to my sister."

"Game night?"

"Yeah." As they walked back in. "We play a game called Call of Duty twice a month if we're lucky. He plays weekly but I do when given opportunity I join in." They walked to the ensuite and it looked like it was recently renovated. "I got this place from a colleague whose family had built it. The records have it built around 1775. There is a lot of smaller buildings still existing in the yard. There is a small creek to the east and once in awhile you can hear it. I usually sit outside in the morning or late evening and just listen to it. The bathroom was done when I moved in here. I took the adjoining room next door adding this ensuite. I liked the downstairs as it was. The room with the fireplace I had them look for the rock wall and they found what you see now. So, I had them look for more." They walked back into the main bedroom. "I'll make some room for you. Look around. I'll order later. We will get you settled first." Sarah still had a worried look on her face. Chuck kissed her cheek then headed to the closet making room for her. It didn't take long as she noticed that his walkin closet was fairly empty despite the size of it. Sarah assumed that he'd have tonnes of clothes. When she walked in, his clothes barely made a dent. He turned to face her. "I hope that when you get your wardrobe started, you'll fill this up." His tone was so serious it made her feel for him. This was the first time he wasn't excited but this time she saw the worry on his face. The silence between them was broken. "I'll be downstairs. Feel free to look around and snoop. Snooping will help you find out where things are. When you're ready, I'll show you some of the perks." Chuck headed to the room as Sarah grabbed his arm and wrapped her arms round his neck. He held her close. "Take all the time you need." "I'm, not going anywhere and neither is this place. This place is as much as mine as it is yours." Chuck kissed her softly, holding her close. When they came up for air, he broke their embrace and headed downstairs. Sarah walked to the other side staring at her boxes. Chuck had labelled them which put a smile on her face. She didn't have a lot of stuff but even with the small amount he took care in packing it.

She grabbed one box that had her toiletries in it and headed to the bathroom. She looked up and saw Chuck. "Forgot to tell you if you want to do some laundry it's downstairs off the kitchen. There's a basket in the walk in. Just toss your stuff in there." He snuck a kiss and stepped out. She could still feel his lips on hers.

Sarah came down when she heard the doorbell not once but twice. So being curious she walked to the kitchen and saw on the counter grocery bags and take out. Chuck was emptying the groceries. "I didn't have anything for breakfast and we could still go out for that if you want. But I needed coffee so I ordered a few things. We can go later and get stuff you like."

"What can I do?"

"Unpack the Chinese."

"Okay." Sarah took out the Chinese containers. "We can eat in the living room. I started a fire; we can chat or watch TV. It's still early here but I'm still on Paris time." He looked at the order that had arrived. "You found your stuff upstairs alright."

"I did and thanks. Will take you up on the offer to wash some clothes." Chuck smiled. They grabbed their cartons as Chuck put the rest on a tray carrying it out to the living room. He tossed another log into the fire as he turned on the TV. He showed her how to turn the TV on and which remotes did what. They sat back snuggled on the couch ending up staring at the fireplace as the TV was just on as background noise. Chuck looked at the clock by the TV. It was past 10. They must have dozed off. He got up taking the tray back to the kitchen and putting the leftovers in the fridge when he looked up seeing Sarah sleepy eyed with a blanket wrapped around her shoulders. "We better get you to bed." She smiled. Chuck turned the lights off leaving the lights under the cupboard on. He added another couple of logs as Sarah saw that he had a Swedish log burning stand built inside. Chuck headed upstairs as Sarah got ready. He quickly changed the sheets putting on some fresh sheets. She walked in, having taken a shower. "You didn't have to change the sheets." He looked up. "I know but it's you." Sarah helped with the pillows as Chuck opened up the bed. "What side do you want?" She didn't have a side and they were all over the bed in Paris and when he did sleep over, she slept on the left side if you were lying in bed. She slipped to the left side leaving the right. Chuck grabbed a quick shower then put on some fresh pajamas. Chuck slipped under the covers seeing her shirt. His eyes widened. Sarah was wearing her CIA training t shirt and just underwear. He sure had an appreciation for her uniform now. "Will you be warm enough?" Sarah curled up beside him. "I have you."

"Sounds good but just letting you know it does get cold up here." Sarah didn't have anything else to wear. And she didn't want to ask. She leaned over him as they did their nighttime ritual. Their kisses sweet and goofy. Chuck leaned over and shut the light off. The moon shone inside reminding them of Paris.

Hours later Chuck woke up to Sarah chattering. He turned the light on as she was shivering. He got up and found a pair of pajamas that he had outgrown. They were flannel so they would keep her warm. He sat down beside her and caressed her face. "Babe." Sarah woke up. "Put these on." Sarah looked at them. "I'm sorry."

"It's okay." Sarah got up as the room was much colder than she'd expected. She slipped her legs into the bottom and they were a few inches too long but very warm. She slipped the top on as Chuck helped button her up. "So sexy."

"Ya right." He rubbed each arm giving her a kiss. "So, we try this again?" Sarah crawled into bed as Chuck hopped to the other side. He covered them up as they snuggled falling back to sleep.

Sarah woke quite refreshed despite just getting to sleep. A new bed, new surroundings but something she craved to be in since she met Chuck. Sarah headed downstairs and walked the house. It looked bigger in the daylight. She stoked the fire adding a few logs just like she saw Chuck do it last night. She walked to the window seeing the back yard. She had never seen a yard that big. Even her house in San Diego wasn't that big. She walked into the kitchen and open cupboards looking for cups and sugar. She saw where Chuck left the coffee. She opened the bag and took it and inhaled. It reminded her of Ali's. She looked at the bag seeing that it was a Turkish Blend. She made a full pot. Grabbing some cups, she filled them up taking them upstairs. She walked into the bedroom looking at Chuck sleeping there. She hated to wake him so she turned and started to walk out. "Is that coffee?" Chuck sat up. He looked at the clock. It was 9:30. "Jet lag is a killer."

"It is." Sarah passed him a cup then sat down beside him. He leaned in for a morning kiss. Which made them both smile. "Did you sleep?" As he took a sip. "I think so." "And you? Always do when I am home but it takes me a few days to get back to a normal pattern after a mission or travelling." Chuck could tell that she was still tired. They had no plans; he couldn't speak for her but they needed to talk but they also needed sleep. It had been a busy two weeks and even before that Sarah was still getting over Budapest but she was not going to tell Chuck that. They finished their coffees then curled up under the covers. Chuck didn't want to sound like a know it all but he had been through a few missions and coming back and trying to be normal, was going to be a hard pill to swallow. He slid his arm under hers settling inside her neck. "Today we will just do this, and recharge. Shut our brains off. We know we have to go back to work in three days. Whatever you need or want to do to get you feeling you again we will do. And we don't have to leave this bed." Sarah looked back at him. She wasn't sure if he was waiting for an answer. She moved to lay beside him as he fell back into the mattress. She gave him a kiss that she assumed he took as her answer. He closed his eyes and she followed.

Chuck got up and headed downstairs. It was going to be a pajama day. He slipped outside grabbing some more wood and coming inside when he looked up and saw Sarah wrapped up in a blanket curled up in the chair. He smiled. "You didn't have to get up." "I know but I got cold." He made one more trip outside then added a few more logs to the fire then joined Sarah. They curled up covering up with the blanket as they watched the fire ignite. Sarah felt safe in his arms, sitting with him, like that, was like a dream that had come true. She finally believed that she could be happy. They later unwrapped their gifts from Paris and placed them around the house. Now each room had a memento of their trip.

Chuck rolled over caressing Sarah's face. He let her sleep a little longer as it wasn't a night a full sleep. Sarah tossed and turned which kept him up. But she never heard him complain. Opening her eyes she saw him. He was her calm despite the storm that was obviously brewing. He kissed her cheek. "It's time." Sarah watched him walk towards the bathroom grabbing a quick shower. Their last three days were full of bliss and full of love but something felt off. Sarah put her feet on the floor walking to the bathroom as Chuck was brushing his teeth. She caressed his back placing a kiss in the middle of his back. He turned and brought her into an embrace. "You, ok?" She slid her arms around him. "A little anxious maybe. Some butterflies. Not sure what to expect." He looked down at her. "It's not like starting a mission. Unfortunately, there will be a lot of sitting around waiting for a mission to come your way. That is why I've taken on contracts and some teaching. But you are good at your job so I don't think you'll be sitting around too long. Plus you can always come and see me." He kissed her and she returned the kiss.

Chuck dropped her off at the front door. They had to play it low key for now. Chuck pulled out a small box. Sarah looked up. "What's this?" "Just something for you." Sarah opened the box. Inside was a plain gold necklace. Sarah looked up. "I got you this so you didn't have to worry about your rings." Sarah smiled. "At least this way you're still wearing them." Chuck pulled the necklace out as Sarah slid her rings off. Chuck unclasped the necklace as Sarah slid her rings through. Chuck took the ends and wrapped them around her neck. They hung over her breasts as Chuck admired the view. He placed his hand over them making her respond. She looked up. "Thank you." She kissed him softly. "What about you?" Sarah watched as Chuck slid his ring off his ring finger and slid it to his right hand. They shared a moment as Sarah reached for the door. As soon as Sarah stepped out of that car, they were to be colleagues, Agent Walker, and Agent Carmichael. Not Mr. and Mrs. Walker Bartowski. Though their official name hadn't been written in stone. Chuck waited till she entered before he drove off as Sarah appreciated him waiting. Just in case she needed to run.

Sarah walked up to the desk showing her badge. "Yes, this way." The lady at the desk walked Sarah to the elevator. "Head to the fourth floor, your desk and further instructions will be waiting for you." Sarah smiled then headed to the fourth floor.

The elevator opened to a large room with cubicles and windowed offices around the perimeter. There were several other agents Sarah assumed waiting in what she would call the foyer. Sarah looked up seeing the General who motioned for her. Sarah acknowledged and walked towards her. "Good morning, Agent Walker."

"Good morning, General." Sarah followed the General to her office. It had been a few weeks since she had been there after the horrible mission in Budapest. "Please have a seat." Sarah sat down fixing her blue skirt. She wasn't a fan of the blue suit but until she knew what she was supposed to do. She wore the part.

Sarah watched as Beckman opened a file then looked up. Beckman smiled. "Paris was a success."

"Thankyou, It was a joint effort."

"It was and I want to thank you for being flexible in working with Agent Carmichael and Agent Miller." Sarah smiled inwardly. Beckman continued. "For the next week we will have you catch up on your reports." Sarah dreaded the report writing. But she never had the time to sit down and write them. "Sounds good. Haven't had the time."

"Most agents enjoy this downtime but there are a few that do it daily. But personally, my brain wouldn't be able to handle it. Missions are bad enough then to try and sit down and recapture what occurred. Way too much. But you will figure out what works for you. I have set up an office down the hall. It will be yours till another assignment arrives."

Beckman got up and extended her hand. Sarah shook it. "You have a lot of potential Agent Walker; you should be very proud of what you have achieved." "Thankyou General." Sarah walked out of Beckman's office down the hall towards her office. Sarah saw her name and dragged her fingers across it smiling. She snapped a photo and sent it to Chuck. In seconds he called. "Can you talk?" Her heart giddy. "Yes." As she sat at her desk. "So, you got your name on the door. Someone must be special." They both laughed. They talked for a while till there was a knock at the door. Sarah looked up. She had to be professional and not say goodbye to her husband. "Someone's at the door."

"Okay. Lunch?"

"Sure. I'll pop by." Sarah wanted to say 'I love you' but she couldn't. They would have to come up with a phrase so they wouldn't miss that opportunity. Sarah stood up. "Hi, my name is Lauren. I will be your assistant and for others as well. So, what ever you need please let me know. Here are your credentials and laptop."

"Thank you." Lauren left leaving Sarah alone.

Sarah had just saw Chuck four hours ago but seeing him in the parking lot was something she'd never get tired of seeing. Chuck opened the door for her wanting to kiss her but settled for a smile. He slid into the drivers side where Sarah leaned over and kissed him. "Been wanting to do that all day." Chuck kissed her back. "Me too." "So where to now? We can get some groceries or go for supper." "We can grab some groceries." Chuck smiled then shifted into drive as he grabbed Sarah's hand holding it as he drove. "Chuck." "Yeah." As he signalled. "Could we come up with a phrase or something that would say we love each other but not say we love each other. Earlier I wanted to tell you but Lauren was there." Chuck looked at her. "What were you thinking?" "I don't know something that we'd know and the word itself would replace I love you at work." "Um what about Paris or Santorini?" Sarah smiled. "Santorini. Would work." "Okay." Then Sarah grabbed his hand. "Chuck Santorini." Chuck squeezed her hand. "Santorini."

Sarah slipped into sweats and a sweatshirt and joined Chuck downstairs. She sat at the island as Chuck slid her a glass of wine. He looked at her. "Unless you want something stronger." Sarah smiled. "No this is fine." Chuck continued putting away the groceries. Sarah waited till he walked past her then she stopped him. He turned around as he faced her. He leaned into her placing his hands on either side of her. His body heat exciting her. She captured his lips, something she wanted to do all day and kind of got use to doing whatever she wanted while they were in Paris. A part of her wished that they were back there. Chuck's shirt rose as he stretched over her allowing her access. She slid her hand through the loosened shirt feeling his skin. He smiled through his kiss knowing what she was doing. Their kissing slowed down. He looked at her, then spoke. "I do want this, but I also want to eat." Sarah smiled. That was one thing she had to get use to was his physical appetite for food and his appetite for her. But they weren't a threat to their relationship.

"How about this. I make supper then we have dessert and call it a night." Chuck waited for a response. He wasn't sure if he had hurt her feelings for not acting on her advances. She grabbed his face. "Perfect."

Sarah waited as the last dish was dried. "You know you do have a dishwasher." Chuck looked at her. "I know but I am so use to doing the dishes by hand and it has only been me, that I forget that I'm not alone anymore." Chuck hung up the towel and grabbed Sarah's hand. They headed upstairs as Chuck slipped out of his dress clothes and watched Sarah slip out of her sweats. Sarah opened the bed and laid down waiting for Chuck. Chuck took his shirt off and grabbed her hand kissing it. Sarah sat up and ran her hands down his naked chest. Chuck kissed her as they fell into the bed. Sarah guiding Chuck's hand and Chuck obeying. Lost in the emotions she forgot about everything and let Chuck do what he did best. She knew he'd take care of her and he always did. Chuck wrapped his arm around her as he covered them up. They looked outside as the moon shone through the lightly skiff of snow falling from the sky.

Two weeks later

Two weeks of honeymoon bliss. Morning smoothies and coffee awaited Sarah every morning and Chuck was there waiting for her after work to take her home and love her. It was something new for both of them but they were willing to give it their all. But with all the happiness her thoughts overtook her. She looked around and this new life she felt that she didn't deserve this life, that she didn't deserve the happiness which was Chuck. This life it was perfect, too perfect which led Sarah to wonder when it was all going to end. She headed to the water cooler as they still use that phrase and refilled her water bottle. She overheard one of the agents, well she figured she was an agent or someone of that caliber. Sarah couldn't help listen to the way she talked and the way people addressed her. Sarah was still learning names and this woman somehow got Sarah thinking.

Sarah listened to the women talk daily but had to get back to finishing her reports. She was glad to spend some time with Chuck working on their report from Paris which led to ordering in Chinese and making out like they used too. Which took time out of actually writing the report. But they got it done and submitted them. Even though life was pretty good Sarah started to feel claustrophobic. Listening to this particular woman talk about trying to find a balance work life and real life. Stories about how her husband didn't understand her job and all the travelling and the lying was starting to take its toll. Sarah could kind of relate but she got the guy so why was she worried. The lady continued to talk and the more Sarah listened the more her words got stuck in her head. Sarah walked back to her office and saw a text from Chuck. Another I have to work late text. This was his third in two weeks. She couldn't blame him. She knew the job but that would be another night alone in the house. She didn't mind the quiet but after awhile it was too quiet. Which brought those voices, those worries and fears.

Chuck came home later than he expected finding her asleep. He got changed and slipped under the covers. The next morning, he got up and did what he did every morning. A smoothie and a mug of coffee. But when he came down it was still there on the counter. He grabbed it giving it to her outside. She sheepishly thanked him and gave him a kiss. The next day and the next it was the same.

A week later, Sarah came downstairs to find the counter empty. There was no mug or smoothie. Chuck had left for work leaving her his car and a note. "Had to fly to Toronto for a meeting. Last minute. Didn't want to wake you will talk when I get home. Love you."

Sarah stared at the note. It was going to be an interesting day.

Next day

Sarah woke up alone adding to her anxiety or was it her uncertainty. The latter seemed to be winning. It was early afternoon and she needed to get some fresh air. She went for a walk and ended up at the cafeteria. She figured she grab a bite then head to Chuck's office at least she could sit there. She just sat down and took a bite when she looked up seeing Chuck. They made eye contact which she was happy for but wasn't he supposed to be in Toronto. He kept talking to the group that he walked in with. Sarah could tell that he was trying to come over. He got through the line and looked up she was gone. He excused himself and headed out hoping to see her. 'Now what?' He didn't want to go back inside so he headed to his office. He unlocked the door and he saw her sitting there. She put her sandwich down as he put his item down and hugged her. "I'm so sorry. We just got in and I wanted to grab a bite as we missed our meal. I wasn't ignoring you." He held her close then kissed her. Chuck felt bad and he could tell it on her face but Sarah wasn't willing to talk.

End of January

Sarah was glad to get out of the office and do some agent work. Though it was done locally, she was working with Agent Marcel of all people. She had called asking for Sarah's assistance on a forgery case. Which Sarah found exciting. Though she was still new to lot of procedures and protocols she knew she had Chuck. She did her preliminary work and thought she pass it by Chuck before sending it off.

She walked downstairs finding him in his office. He had shown her all his spy stuff that were hidden in his office, and she liked the tour. She also like that there was a tunnel that led from the office to the garage. She smiled then looked at him. He looked tired and she missed him. You could say that the honeymoon was over. Though they were together it was sporadic and not very fun. The reason. They were tired. Both mentally and physically. For Sarah she could add emotionally as well. She knocked on the door and when he looked up, he smiled. Sarah smiled back. "You have a minute?" Chuck saved what he was working on and stood up and walked over to the front of his desk as Sarah passed him her report. He looked at it. "What's this?"

"Agent Marcel called and wanted me to look into a forgery case that had ties here. So, I inquired but I still don't have enough to go on. Forgeries were not my thing." Chuck took the papers and walked to the kitchen and sat at the island. Sarah made coffee. Chuck read the file. "A portrait forgery." Chuck looked at the photo of the recent one and the one that was supposedly the original. Sarah brought him a cup and sat down. "Let me hear what you think then I will add anything if needed." Sarah looked at the photo. "It would be easier to see the real painting."

"Can you?"

"I guess it's at the gallery."

"Ok but before you go what do you see." Sarah tossed her thoughts at him and he absorbed everything she was saying. She could tell that he was proud of her. They talked for hours. Sarah got up and kissed him. "Thank you." "Your welcome. You feel better."

"I do." She kissed him again. He took the papers from her and grabbed her face. He kissed her softly. He ran his hands down her leg and back up settling behind her lower back. Sarah pressed her hands flat against his chest. They needed this, they wanted this. Sarah took Chuck's hand and walked them over to the couch. He sat down as she straddled his legs. He kept his eyes on her as he slipped her top off. She did the same pulling his shirt up over his head. Chuck unclamped her bra dropping it on the floor. He held her close as things progressed. He laid her down making love to her. Both taking their time, a very long overdue love making session was finally happening. Chuck looked at her hoping she knew how much he cared for her. How much he loved her.

Sarah stared at Chuck as he got dressed still sitting on the couch. Sarah covered up not wanting to move yet. He leaned over her kissing her a little longer. He rested his head on her chest. Like he used too. "I better get back, have to meet with Casey later." "I better get this report sent to Marcel but I think that I might go check it out in person. You want to come?"

Chuck sat back. "Sure, give me an hour then we can go and I can meet Casey after that." Sarah knew he was juggling his schedule around but at the same time she'd get to spend some time with him.

They took separate cars allowing Chuck to leave to meet Casey. They walked the gallery then made arrangements to meet with the curator and verify the painting. Sarah didn't want to spook the curator but inquired like pro getting as much information as she could. What she gathered she felt that she had a decent report to send back to Marcel. Chuck walked Sarah to her car and kissed her. "I better go Casey's waiting. Thanks, this was fun. Haven't done anything like this in along time." He kissed her again. "I'll bring home supper?" Sarah nodded then smiled. Chuck walked to his truck. "Chuck!" Chuck looked up. "Santorini." "Santorini." He waited till she drove off and then followed her out of the parking lot.

Sarah got back to the office after sending off the report to Marcel. In hours she had a video phone call from Marcel. She wasn't to pleased that Sarah had gone in person to check out the painting. "That wasn't asked of you and most likely they will know that we are looking into the painting."

"Well, wasn't that the plan, to see if the painting was a forgery and if so, wouldn't it be easier to do that in person?"

"That wasn't your call."

"Excuse me but didn't you ask me for my help, and in order to check a forgery you need to look at the paintings." Sarah's tone was sharp but she made her point. Marcel fumbling for words. "I checked out the painting and there is definitely something different with the frame. Something you wouldn't see just by looking at a photo." Sarah taking a deep breath and seeing that Marcel was trying to compose herself. "I'll get back to you, goodbye."
Sarah closed her laptop and was fuming. "She asks me for my help and then argues with because of what I found. Augh!" But swearing under her breath. Sarah fell into her seat looking at the clock.

Sarah looked up seeing Chuck at the door. "Was in the neighbourhood." Sarah got up and pulled him in then closing the door. She hugged him and he could tell she was ticked off about something. He kissed her forehead then grabbed her hand and made her sit down. He faced her as she nervously played with her hands. "Who and what?"

"Marcel."

"And?"

"She scolded me for checking out the painting."

"What for? You would have to check it out sometime."

"Exactly. I've been sitting here stir crazy and then I get a chance to do something it ends up like this." Chuck grabbed her hand. "It's going to be okay. We already know that Marcel talks out of both sides of her mouth. She'll realize that your methods will work out." Sarah knew that Chuck was trying. That was him. He was just that kind of guy. She smiled just to appease him then he got a call. "Got to go." He wanted to kiss her but settled on just saying 'Love you.' "Love you too." Then he was gone.

Sarah looked up hearing a knock at the door. Thinking it was Chuck and he'd come to take her home. But instead, it was a few other agents. "Hey Walker. You want to join us for drinks." Sarah looked at them. After this afternoon drinks sounded like fun. She texted Chuck and headed out.

Chuck drove up seeing no lights on then he looked at his phone. He had missed her text. He unlocked the door and quickly texted her back. "Sorry for the lateness just got back to my phone. Was in one of those meetings. Home now see you soon."

Sarah looked at the text as another round came by. She was a little miffed at his lateness and decided to drown her reaction with another glass.

Sarah left her car and took a taxi home. She unlocked the door and headed upstairs. Chuck was asleep and she didn't want to wake him so she headed to the bathroom. Chuck woke up to see her wobbling in and out of the bathroom. He got up and stood in the doorway. He had seen her tipsy but she was able to hold her liquor but tonight she was full blown drunk. He walked to the window and didn't see the car. 'Well, she had enough brains not to drive.' Sarah saw him looking out the window. "Don't worry your car is safe in the parking lot. I do know not to drive."

"I didn't say anything."

"No but your body language is screaming, my wife left my car in the parking lot. We wouldn't want anything to happen to your car." Chuck faced her. "Nor you." Sarah came out struggling with her t shirt heading downstairs. "Where are you going?" "Why, do you want to come along?" "Just asking?" She turned to face him. "Going for a drink of water, then I am going to sleep on the couch." Chuck stopped talking cause anything he'd say would just add to what was brewing.

Hours later he got up hearing her. He slipped downstairs and found her in the bathroom. He held her hair back as she tried to feel better. Sarah leaned against the wall as Chuck slid down and sat against the open door. He leaned over giving her a cold compress. She was waiting for him to ream her out but he didn't. He stayed with her till she got up and resumed her spot on the couch. Chuck put some water on to make some tea to settle her stomach and a can of ginger ale. He started a fire then sat beside Sarah. He brushed back her hair from her face then kissed her forehead. He heard the kettle. Getting up. He came back with her tea and a can of ginger ale. He walked back with a cup for himself. Sarah half sat half laid on the couch. She took a few sips waiting to see if it would stay down. She looked around for something and was about to get up. Chuck sat up. "What do you need?"

"A Kleenex?" Chuck got up and came back with a box. He placed it beside her as she grabbed his hand and squeezed it. Chuck dozed off when he knew Sarah was asleep. He got a few more hours which he appreciated it. He was glad they didn't have to go into the office. He checked on her then headed to the kitchen. He got breakfast ready but not cooked. He looked up seeing Sarah walk by. He grabbed the aspirin and got a glass of water ready for her. A little while later Sarah came in and sat by the island. She grabbed the aspirin mouthing a 'thankyou.' Chuck started making breakfast. He looked over at her as she frowned on eggs. He showed her bread. She nodded. Chuck made her toast with honey. Then he gave her a drink that definitely made her nose curl. "I know it looks and smells bad but it will help with the hangover. If it works you can thank Casey. There were many times we had to get sober fast." Sarah brought the glass to her lips and instantly put it down. Chuck brought it back up. "Don't think just drink." He helped her drink it all then heard her response. A slight groan.

She finished her toast then grabbed some coffee. She headed back to the couch. But Chuck called out. "You might sleep better in bed." Chuck watched her as she turned on her heels and headed upstairs. Chuck followed her with some water and another can of ginger ale. Sarah got comfortable the best she could. "Can you stay?" Chuck crawled in beside her as she curled in beside him. She finally settled.

Sarah slept most of the day as Chuck kept busy. He went for a run to clear his head waiting for the phone to ring. His meeting yesterday, that made him miss Sarah's text was about another mission but this time it was with Casey. He needed Casey for the gun power. He didn't trust this case so Casey said he'd back him up. It was to be a simple exchange. Case for case. The person in question had something the CIA wanted. It was also that Beckman asked Chuck to look into those hard to find items that hard to find people wanted. He had to thank his education and getting his degree in Forensic Engineering that allowed him to go to places where he'd pick up on certain things that were to be shoved under the carpet. But it also gave him names and numbers of people looking to stay under the wire. He ran his lap block heading up the hill to his place. It was getting dark and he wondered if Sarah was still sleeping it off.

Chuck called Casey for a ride to get his car. Casey obliged but was curious to why Chuck would have to go and get 'his' car from a bar when he wasn't one to drink in establishment such as the one, they were driving too. Casey knew it had to be Sarah. Casey was quiet the way there but when he shifted into park he turned. "Spill it."

"Well, you know that Sarah and I are exclusive." Casey nodded. "Well after you left me in Paris I headed to that cafe." Casey continued to listen. "Well, when I entered the cafe, I looked up and there was Sarah. I didn't know at the time that she was on a mission and she had to act fast so a slap later and some conversation I found out that she was definitely on a mission."

"I thought she was in Budapest." Chuck looked up. "I have my ways." Chuck smiled. "Anyways a few days go by and I ask her to marry me."

"And I assume she said yes."

"She did. The funny part was we got married a day later. The afternoon of Christmas Eve."

"Oh boy. This is a good thing?"

"Oh yes." Chuck's tone very positive. "Yes, it is but something is not right. And yesterday she came home drunk." "Maybe you don't know her the way you think you do."

"Maybe, but she doesn't seem to be that kind of girl."

"Well, congrats on the wedding."

"Thanks."

"Chuck it's obvious that she loves you and you love her. I would think she still trying to figure out a lot of things. Work life, balance, just like you had to do. And it sounds like her last mission didn't go well."

"No, it didn't."

"Well, it might get worse before it gets better. Just saying."

"Thanks, and thanks for the ride."

Chuck drove home and parked the car coming in the kitchen door side. He headed upstairs and Sarah was still sleeping, so he thought. "Sorry about the car. I heard you come home."

"No worries. How do you feel?" As Chuck came and sat down beside her on the bed. He caressed her face then settled holding her hand. She looked up. "Eyes hurt and head is still pounding. But not as bad as it was. Whatever you gave me did help."

"You can thank Casey. You going to get up?"

"I think so." Chuck stood up and waited as Sarah pulled the covers off her. She looked at him. "Let me get cleaned up then join you downstairs." Chuck smiled. He kissed the top of her head then walked out the door.

Days later

Tensions were at an all time high and it was clear that the honeymoon was over or close to being over. Marcel was still giving Sarah a hard time which Sarah ended up cutting ties with her. Then found out that she used Sarah's findings and took credit for the whole thing. But Lavoie sent her an email stating that he knew that Marcel couldn't have found out what she did without seeing the painting in person. And that he thanked her for her assistance and hoped that everything was going well.

Sarah walked over to go and see Chuck. She wanted to somehow change the way things had been. She also needed his advice on dealing with people like Marcel. She knocked on his door, nothing. She looked at her phone and didn't see a text. Not that he had to text her on everything he did. He had a job to do and he didn't have to let her know everything.

Sarah headed back texting him that she stopped by. It was an hour before he responded.

Chuck told Sarah he'd walk over to meet her and when he entered the hall to her office he was stopped by an agent. Sarah could hear his voice and the little flicker erupted just by hearing his voice. After awhile he wasn't coming. Sarah got up and headed to the door. He was no where to be seen. She grabbed her phone and texted him. "Where did you go?" Chuck answered right away. "Got stopped then Beckman found me and had to discuss a matter. Will be awhile. How does Ali's sound? I'll text you when I am done. Santorini."

Sarah texted back sounds good. He sent a heart then nothing. Sarah went and grabbed her jacket and decided to do something so she headed to the gym.

Chuck walked to the parking lot seeing Sarah holding her gym bag still wearing her gym wear and talking to someone. He didn't think anything of it till the guy she was talking to tried to remove something from her shoulder. Sarah shifted her body to add to the distance between her and him. Sarah looked up seeing Chuck. He headed back inside and back to his office. Sarah followed catching up to him outside his door. "Why didn't you wait?"

"You were busy."

"With Mitchel." Chuck didn't know it was Mitchel. "I hadn't seen him since graduation. We were catching up." "And the flirtation?"

"Flirtation. I wasn't flirting." She looked at her husband. "Were you jealous?" Chuck never responded. "I was just talking to him. You know I'm not your student. You can't tell me who to talk to and when." Chuck looked at her. "No, you're right you're not my student but you are my wife." She couldn't hide her response, not this time. His tone was sharp and discerning. He sighed deeply then looked at her. "I was coming to tell you I have to leave. Not sure when I will be back." Sarah looked at him. "I was also going to give you the keys, have to meet Casey." Sarah knew that if Casey was going with him it had to be dangerous. He grabbed his to go bag then walked over to her. She didn't expect anything from him. She knew he was disappointed in her and he couldn't blame her. And now he was leaving. Leaving for who knows how long and in the middle of whatever this was. He kissed her, it felt different for both of them. She caressed his face but he grabbed her hand quickly pulling it away. He grabbed his bag. He stopped at the door. "Love you." Sarah replied as he opened the door then closed it. She finally saw the camera and saw him leaning against the wall. Tears came to her eyes. She didn't want this to be their last moment and it ended up with them fighting. She watched him walk down the hall and disappear. She sat down and cried.

Chuck sat down in his seat as Casey entered and tossed his bag. He was glad to be on a mission but like Chuck he didn't like these exchange ones. There were so many ways that they could go wrong, plus they didn't know the area. They read over the file of the area as they came up with exit strategies and possible outcomes. Casey decided on few spots but had to see them in person. Chuck was glad that they were going early but also, he had to give himself space from his wife. Chuck sat back as the flight continued. 'Did he rush all of this?' That thought had crossed his mind more than he wanted to admit.

Sarah stared at her phone. It had been hours since she had heard from him. Though it was part of the job she hated the silence and that her problems were now on his mind. He hadn't done anything except be the perfect husband. Yes, things were going fast but would she feel any different if they weren't going at the rate that they were. She stared at her phone again.

Three days later

Chuck and Casey tossed their bags as Casey decided on the spot. He set up his rifle and looked at Chuck. He saw him looking at his phone. "Call her." Chuck looked up. "I'm not ready to talk to her." Casey just sighed then went back to his post. Chuck sent a quick text. "We arrived. Suppose to be an exchange. Santorini."

Sarah juggled her items in her hand to grab her phone. She was spending another night in his office. It was the closest she could be to him. She could go home. But his place, she had to stop calling it that. Their place was just too big. Plus, she didn't want to miss him. She put her items down and read the screen. She saw the word Santorini and it made her feel better. She knew he was disappointed with her more than being angry. She just hoped she could fix it.

She texted him back not expecting a response but they texted back and forth like they used to. Sarah told him about her day not the crying and feeling sorry parts but the work stuff. That was something they could relate to. Sarah told Chuck of a file that came across her desk, something that she could do and not have to travel. It was a possible espionage case that Sarah had to check out.

Chuck texted back. "Sounds interesting. Right up your alley. Watch out for other agencies. Especially the FBI who like to say they are better than us. Maybe you will be able to use your linguistic skills. Got to go. Talk later.'

Sarah hugged her phone. Now the worrying part.

Chuck suited up only carrying a burner and his comps. He had to show that he wasn't armed. Meet in person on good faith. He had Casey be his eyes so that was one less thing he had to worry about. Beckman wanted the case. And she didn't care how much it was going to cost. Chuck saw his contact. They finally showed up but Chuck had a feeling they had been there the whole time. Chuck met at the location that was given three days ago and now he showed up. His name was Pedro Martinez who was the bottom of the rung criminal but what got Beckman's attention was how did this guy get his hands on such an important case. Chuck had kept an eye on the dark web for anything out of the ordinary and this case screamed it. So, he brought it to Beckman's and Casey's attention.

Hence the secret no cell meetings. The case had some kind of serum it in that Pedro didn't know what it was. Speculation led to Chuck asking him simple questions like colour, smell where he got it. And one question Pedro slipped. He told Chuck that got it from a man named Maidstone. So, when Chuck inquired about the name security breaches went off. Maidstone was still the prime suspect in a DNI off site warehouse where isotope serums were stored. The serums were to be tested and used in radioactive testing but somehow Maidstone got wind that if you added a mutant agent or virus, it could be used as a viral weapon. As far as Chuck and Casey knew it wasn't at that point. Pedro stole the case before Maidstone could get his hands on it. Chuck had to act fast as anyone else near by could be working for Maidstone. Chuck walked the dirt path towards the designated meeting place. Casey eyed his scope. "So far so good." Casey's voice coming through his comps. Chuck held onto the case he had half a million dollars inside. A low amount compared to what this thing actually cost. But Chuck figure Pedro didn't know that. Chuck pressed the handle of the case which turned on the tracker. Casey was determined to get the money back. Chuck saw Pedro walking towards him as he lifted his shirt to show that he wasn't carrying. Chuck stopped when Pedro stopped. "You have the cash." Chuck opened the case. "And you?"
Pedro opened the small black case. Chuck nodded. He whispered into his comps. "I see the vile." Pedro stepped forward making the exchange then ran. Chuck started to move. "Bogey on your six." Chuck kept walking seeing the man in the reflection of nearby store windows. Casey lost sight grabbing his gun and making a run for it. He did pretty good in the stairs but not like he did before Gaez. He saw Chuck then the man who now had another. "You have two." Chuck slipped into an alley. Not ideal but they didn't have way out either. The two guys pulled their guns. "Hand over the case."
Chuck turned on his heels. "You want what?"

"The case."

"This case." As he pointed to it. Chuck was trying to waste some time. "Yes." The first guy stepped forward. Chuck reached behind him. He had taped a gun to his lower back. He could thank John MClane for that idea. He had it taped just high enough that when he lifted his shirt, they wouldn't see it. He slid the gun around holding it behind the case that wasn't overly wide and his gun just barely was covered. Chuck looked up seeing Casey. He didn't want to drop the case just in case. The man stepped forward again. "The case." Chuck looked up. Like a gun man in the Wild West. "Or what?" The man raised his gun then froze as Chuck saw the man fall backwards. The second guy tried to run. But Casey stopped him too. Chuck slipped his gun into his back then looked for an ID. Chuck snapped a photo of their ID then tossed them back.

Casey looked at his tracker. "Pedro not too far from here." The two tracked him down sliding into the seat beside him. He looked shocked. Casey looked at him. "Do you think we would let you go with a half a million dollars." Pedro stuttering to respond. Casey slid his arm around him bringing him close. Chuck looked at him as he ate some peanuts. "Tell me again where you got this case. Cause right now I'm not very happy. Cause no sooner than you left two guys tried to kill me." Pedro swallowed hard. He looked back and forth darting his eyes. "I found it." "Possibly, but I find it very hard to believe. Especially when you were followed." Casey squeezed him. "Make it easier on yourself tell us how you got the case." "Maidstone."

"Yes" Chuck staring at him.

"And where." Casey adding.

"He got it from the States."

"Where in the states? And why did you take it." Chuck tone a little sharper.

"I don't know where in the states and it was just sitting there. And it looked like I could get some money for it."

"Did you see Maidstone with the case?"

"Yeah, he walked in with it a few days ago." Chuck looked up. "Did he come from the airport?"

"Not a local one, private most likely." Chuck nodded to Casey as Casey slid his right hand just below Pedro's collar bone and in seconds he was out. Casey laid his head back against the bench then grabbed the money and left.

Chuck got off the phone with Beckman and sat down. He grabbed his phone and saw the text from Sarah. He put the phone down looking at Casey as he eyed the vile. "What did Beckman say?"

Chuck looked at Casey. "Take him down or bring Maidstone in."

"I like the odds." Chuck laughed. "Easier said than done. We don't know where he is."

"Well, he has to be close by if this idiot grabbed it and his goons were here pretty quick. And he would be looking for the vile."

"So, we wait." Chuck looked at his phone. Casey piped up. "Call the wife." Chuck walked by his bag seeing the cigars. He tossed Casey one. "Compliments of Paris." Casey dragged the cigar lengthwise under his nose smelling the woodsy smell of the tobacco. "I grabbed a few."

"And why not." Casey grabbed his lighter. "I'll join you in a few." Casey lit his cigar as Chuck stepped outside. He dialed her number.

Sarah opened her eyes thinking she heard his voice. She turned on his desk lamp and looked around. It was just her. Then her cell rang. She looked at the screen and saw his photo. She answered it. "Chuck!"

"Hey, did I wake you."

"No, I must have been dreaming and I heard your voice and woke up then my phone rang." He smiled and so did she. "You, okay?"

"Yeah, the drop was successful but we need to find the one who stole the item in the first place."

"I see."

"And you?" Sarah didn't want to tell him she'd been crying since he left. There was a pause. "I miss you." Now it was Chuck's turn to pause. "Miss you too. I better go. It was good to hear your voice."

"Same here. Love you, Chuck."

"Love you too."
Sarah ended the call leaning back in his chair. 'At least he called me.' Sarah thought to herself.

Casey got off the phone hours later from a contact he had with local police that they found Pedro dead. Casey inquired where he was found. They said that they found him in the alley of a local bar. Casey felt some relief that it wasn't him that killed him. But they now knew that Maidstone was still around. They grabbed their gear and headed out. The had a flight out but wanted to grab Maidstone first. They drove through town heading to the airport when Chuck saw that they were being followed. He kept looking out the passenger mirror. "We have company." Casey looked through the rear view mirror. "I see them." Then he eyed his gun that was in the back seat. Casey sped through the intersection passing a few blocks then stopping parallel to the traffic. Casey could see them coming. He got out and joined Chuck on the passenger her side. He opened the door sliding his gun out. Chuck grabbed their vests and slipped them on. Casey lined up his gun and started to fire. The car stopped firing back. Chuck ducked behind the passenger side rear wheel as Casey fired. Chuck fired back when it was his turn. He waited for a lull then fired again. He could feel the bullets whiz by. Casey switched guns and fired. Chuck ran across the street coming up beside their truck. "Federal agents put your guns down and your hands up and he'll stop firing." Minutes later he had one man come out but someone from inside the car fired and the man fell. Casey fired again not trying to kill anyone but to move things along. Chuck yelled again. "Federal agents put your guns down and your hands up." Casey stopped firing and looked up coming around the back of the car. Chuck laying low facing the other car. Minutes later the door was kicked opened. Chuck saw feet first then the rest of the person. Chuck wasn't sure if it was Maidstone or not his face was bloody. He stood facing the middle of the street. Chuck yelled from where he was. "You Maidstone!" "The one and only." Casey came out gun pointed at Maidstone. "You going to come quietly." Maidstone pointed his gun at his head. "What for? You found me, they want me, save us all the trouble." Casey motioned to Chuck. Chuck stepped towards Maidstone when Casey saw a flash and Chuck was down. Casey fired at Maidstone then fired at the man in the back seat. Maidstone screamed in pain as Casey ran towards Chuck. He ripped his jacket open then his vest. The first bullet hit his vest just above the heart and the second shot Casey scrambled to see where the blood was coming from. Casey had flash backs of Gaez but he had to focus. Casey opened the vest seeing the blood. Casey put pressure on the area hearing sirens, as he continued to put pressure on the wound. Paramedics took over, stabilizing Chuck as they placed him on the stretcher. When local police arrived, Casey showed his badge.

Chuck was checked out on the spot but was recommended to seek additional treatment. Chuck looked at Casey. "No worries the flight is ready to go." Casey grabbed the suitcases and passed them to Chuck as he grabbed their to go bags and headed to the airport. Maidstone was transferred to hospital but crashed enroute and died on the table. Casey sat back on the plane after hearing the news. He looked at Chuck. "Not sure what is worse us telling Beckman that Maidstone died or you telling Sarah you got shot." Chuck looked at him. "It was just a graze."

Chuck entered his office painfully unlocking the door. He walked in seeing Sarah sleeping on the couch. He sat down and caressed her face. She woke up going in for a hug. Chuck cringed but hugged her back. "Let's get you home."

Sarah sat at the island knowing she had to come clean. She didn't want this to be their norm. Chuck looked at her and jumped right in. "I know It's hard to separate the personal and the professional life it they can deter how we do the job." He paused. "You happy?" Chuck hated the silence. She looked at him. Sarah had cried so much while he was gone but the way he said, 'You happy.' Made her start up again. "Everything has happened so fast and I wasn't prepared for it and I didn't want to listen to you. So, I took it out on you. Blaming you for how I was feeling. You are so put together."

"Far from it." His voice cracking. "I shouldn't have raised my voice. I never saw you as my student even when you were."

"I know."

"And maybe I didn't see how this was affecting you." Sarah looking at him.

"You couldn't and I wouldn't want you too."

Chuck looked at her. "If this was going so fast then why did you marry me?" His tone hurtful. Sarah looked at him. "Because I loved you, love you with all my heart but you have to admit it's been a little fast. And I wasn't prepared for it. None of this. Meeting you falling for you quite early actually." That gave Chuck some relief. "But with our schedules then our first mission that you didn't want me on because you cared for me. I was torn. Though I wasn't ready to take this on or go to jail. You were my saving grace. And I figured that if I did stop this would all be gone." Chuck looked at her despite his pain and brought her into an embrace. He made a sound but she was more important. This was more important. "Why didn't you come to me?"

"And say what? Sorry but we need to slow down?"

"Well yeah? I didn't think of what this would look like when we came home. We never talked about it and I guess that is my fault. I should have." Sarah looked up at him. "That probably be something we would have talked about if we dated. No, instead we just skip to the good part." They laughed which made Chuck flinch which got Sarah's attention. "What's wrong?"

"Nothing. It's not important, this is, we are." Sarah backed off seeing his collar she spread his shirt open and saw the bruise on his left side which was as round as a volleyball. She looked up. "You were shot?" Chuck looked at her. "Not exactly shot, more like hit." She gave him a stern look. He pulled her hands down. "I'm fine." He walked off heading upstairs. Sarah found him heading to the bathroom. "Going to have a shower." Sarah waited then walked in on him.

Sarah saw his reflection in the mirror and her problems seemed like grains of salt compared to the thought of losing him forever. Though her fears were real, she started to look at them differently. She kissed his back sliding her arms around him as he rubbed some cream over his chest. She made him turn around and she took the cream and slowly applied the cream to his chest. He flinched so she eased off the amount of pressure. Then she looked at the other injury. She changed the bandage slowly smoothing the tape over his collar bone. He grabbed a clean pair of pyjama bottoms and a t shirt which Sarah helped him to put it on. He crawled into bed. Their talk helped and for the first time in three days Sarah had some peace.

Chuck adjusted his pillows to try and sleep comfortably. Sarah laid on her side about to close her eyes. "I think you forgot something." Sarah looked up to see him puckering his lips. She laughed. She reached her body upwards as she kissed him. He took his left hand placed it on her cheek. He kissed her once more then motioned for her if she wanted to lay her head on his chest. It seemed to work and they both closed their eyes. Sarah rolled over and found his side empty. She got up and found him sleeping in a chair by the fire. She bent down and grabbed the blanket that had fallen. She tossed a log in and slipped onto the couch.

Sarah woke refresh and at peace but wondered where Chuck was. She got up seeing him in the kitchen. Seeing him in a suit. "And where are you going?" "Debriefing with Beckman."

"Didn't you do that already?"

"No, we briefly talked to her in the air but the reception was so bad we rescheduled."
"Does she know that you got…" Sarah just looked at him. "And you expect to walk in like nothing is wrong with you."

"Hopefully." Then he smiled.

He heard a car horn. "Must be Casey." Chuck finished his coffee then headed to the door a Sarah followed. He turned. "Will I see you at work?" Sarah kissed him. "Yes." He looked at her. "Are we good? We will go as slow as you want. I'm not going anywhere." Sarah placed her hand on his chest. "I look forward to dating you properly if that's what you need to help slow things down. How about we start with Ali's for lunch." Casey honked. "Duty calls." Chuck snuck a kiss then headed down the driveway. Sarah bent down and waved. Casey shouted. "Good morning Mrs. W.B."

"Morning Casey."

Chuck slid inside and they were off. Sarah closed the door and got ready for work.

Chuck walked in but was bumped by an agent walking in with Beckman that caught her eye as he shuddered. He sat down looking at Casey as Casey set the cases on the table. Beckman looked at them and opened them in surprise. "Both cases?"

"Yes General."

"Anything, else to report."

"No ma'am." Casey speaking first. "We acquired the case from Pedro then retrieved the cash and headed back hearing that Pedro was killed. We were ambushed where we were in a gun fight where Maidstone was shot."

"And you Agent Carmichael."

"Yes." Hoping not to talk. "Anything else to report?" Shaking his head like he was guilty. Chuck and Casey looked at each other. "You better spill, she's going to find out anyways." Chuck turned in his chair. "General. I was hit." Beckman glared at him. "Hit?"

"Twice actually." Beckman not sure what she was hearing. "Hit with what?"

"Bullets ma'am."

"You were shot at?" Casey added. "Once we had a shoot out and assumed that everyone was taken care of and Maidstone insight with our guns pointed at him. Agent Carmichael came up along his right and I saw a flash and somehow, we missed him. We figure that he was laying on the floor of the car. He fired once and Chuck was hit."

"Grazed actually."

"Ok grazed. Then shot in the chest while he fired back. He went down and I fired. Maidstone hit the ground. I ran to Chuck. Maidstone didn't make it enroute."

Chuck made his way to the fourth floor walking down to Sarah's side of the floor. She looked up to see him in the entrance and her heart fluttered. They had a good talk and she was able to tell him how she felt and of course he was a perfect gentleman and husband and with that he was attentive. If only she knew how much pain he was in she wouldn't have monopolized the whole conversation. But that was who Chuck was. Always placing others ahead of him. Sarah saw that with his team and how he talked about Bryce, Jill, and Casey and when he tried to stay away from her after she arrived. And when they were on their first mission. How he did whatever he could to protect her.

She caught his smile as he approached her door. But his body was hurting. She waited till he got in and he closed the door that they shared a moment. Sarah looked up at him. "You ready to go we do have a long lunch if we drive to Ali's." She saw his face. "What's wrong." Chuck looked at her. "Beckman benched me. She found out that I had been shot at. And ordered me to go home for a few days. So, I don't think we can do Ali's plus I'm a little sore."

"You're probably starting to feel it, the shock of it all."

"Maybe. Also, I have to get checked out by her doctors. All protocol mumble jumble."

"Well, we can do both. We will go get you checked out then get Ali's for take out and get you home. It's not going to be a fast recovery." Chuck nodded.

Chuck was wheeled out and sent for a chest Xray. They waited in the one of those sitting room waiting for the results. They also changed his bandage on his neck. Chuck sat on the bed looking at Sarah as she browsed through a magazine. "I guess this wasn't what your first month of marriage was to look like." In a funny tone. Sarah chuckled. She could appreciate Chuck's humour despite the pain.

The doctor knocked then entered. He saw Sarah and wasn't going to speak. Chuck looked at him. "She's, my partner."

"Okay." the doctor added. "So, we took an X-ray and the obvious the heart area is bruised. So, it will take time for that to heal. You will feel a lot of discomfort as the muscle heals. Ice and pain meds will help. With your neck and shoulder area, the bullet grazed your clavicle making your range of motion limited. This is what we call clavicle contusion or in laymen terms a bad bruise. This may take longer to heal. But your in good health and strong so right now rest then you can resume your daily activities. Nothing strenuous for a few days but you know your body." Sarah listened intently as she saw the look on Chuck's face. Having him out of commission might be an issue or it might be what he needs. Looking back, he didn't take any time off after the Gaez mission nor did he talk about it. Maybe this was going to be their new normal. She knew he was that kind of man who made sure that others were taken care of first before he was and she saw it again when he was listening to her problems even though he was in a lot of pain. They made eye contact which showed that they both cared for each other. The doctor gave Chuck a prescription and handed it to him. "Use at your discretion, as the shock of what happened starts to wear off your body is going to feel the pain and discomfort." Chuck looked up. "Thanks doc." He excused himself as Chuck grabbed his shirt. Sarah made sure the door was closed before she stepped in front of him taking his shirt. She helped him slide his right arm in first then brought the shirt around to have him slid his left arm into the sleeve. She started buttoning his shirt and he sat there enjoying the help. He grabbed her hands when she was done. "Thanks."

"You're welcome." Then he kissed her. She grabbed her jacket as he slid down tucking his shirt into his pants. "I see you introduced me as your partner." Chuck grabbed his suit jacket. "Well, you are both my partner and my wife." They exited the door. "So, when are you going to tell Beckman."

"Not sure."

Sarah drove to Ali's and grabbed some take out driving back to the house. Chuck changed into something a bit looser. They sat at the island enjoying their lunch. Sarah looked at her watch. "I better get back." Sarah cleaned up then looked at the prescription. "Can I get this for you?" Chuck looked up as he tried to toss the takeout containers into the garbage. "Sure. I go to the CVS at the end of the street just when you turn to head here."

"Ok I can do that."

Chuck walked with Sarah to the kitchen door that led to the driveway. "Thanks for taking me to get checked out." Sarah gave him a kiss. "My pleasure. You go rest and I'll see you later."

Chuck watched as she drove off closing the door behind him. He lit a fire and tried to get comfortable.

End of January

Chuck pulled into the parking lot as Sarah took the advantage that they came early to spend some time with him. They sipped coffee outside even though it was brisk it was just the two of them. "This looks familiar?" "Yeah, but it was a lot warmer the last time." Sarah leaned over and gave Chuck a kiss which he of course returned. They were doing pretty good; Chuck was feeling better and his bruise on his chest was just a faint pink with a bit of yellow. Funny how bruises go through all those colour changes. Sarah looked at her watch as their time was coming to an end. Sarah looked at her husband and appreciated his willingness to take it slow, but some things he didn't have to. But she opted it to him recovering. They tossed their cups and headed to the door. Chuck pulled her aside and snuck a kiss and a warm embrace. She swallowed his energy and she knew he was on the mend as his hugs were stronger. He faced her. "Have a good day."

"You too." He watched her leave heading to the stairs as he slipped across the hall to his office.

A week later

Chuck brought out her dress that she wore for their wedding. He figured she could get away with wearing it tonight. It had been their one month's anniversary and he wanted to take her out. He laid her dress out unzipping it from the garment bag then he grabbed his suit and got ready. He left her the car taking a cab to get home before her so he would be ready for her. Then she couldn't say no. Well, he hoped. He got ready, shaved, and put on his suit. He grabbed the bouquet and waited in the kitchen. He heard her drive up and nervously watched her get out and walk towards the door. She opened the door seeing him in his suit. She smiled as he gave her the bouquet and a kiss on the lips. "Well don't you look handsome." She laid her hand flat on his chest then brushed his lapel. "So, what does this surprise warrant."

"Well first it's been a month or so since we got married and I have been slacking on the date thing even though I promised to do that. And an evening with me was overdue."

"Was it?" Sarah giving him a look as she smelled the bouquet of gardenias. "You go and get ready. Your dress is on the bed. We have reservations for eight." Sarah went for a kiss and Chuck didn't disappoint her. He scooted her upstairs as he waited for her.

Sarah nervously got ready showering and deciding whether to put her hair up or keep it down. She ended up putting it up. She grabbed her dress and slipped into it. She wore a matching set bra and underwear something for Chuck to see afterwards and not to have it show through the light dress. She slipped her feet into her shoes bringing back wonderful memories of their wedding. Chuck heard her coming downstairs as he met her. His heart skipped a beat. Sarah saw his face; he had the same look he had Christmas Eve. He swallowed hard. Then spoke. "You look amazing." He reached out his hand and as she took it, she felt like a princess meeting her prince.

He looked at her then gave her a kiss on the cheek not to mess up her lipstick. "Did I tell you – you look amazing?"

"You did but you can tell me again."

He grabbed her coat and slipped it around her shoulders as they headed out.

They drove into DC driving up to the Reverie restaurant. Sarah looked at the front of the building. Then at him. "We're going in there?"

"Yeah, unless you want to go for burgers and fries but our dress attire might make people a bit uncomfortable. We can spurge for one night." Sarah knew this was a special event that he had to have set up for some time. Chuck got out and opened her door as she grabbed his hand walking in with her head held high.

Sarah slid her coat off as Chuck took it placing a kiss on her shoulders. She'd wanted to kiss him since they sat down. She turned to face him barely getting her coat hung up. Their lips met with anticipation of what was to come. Chuck broke the kiss. He grabbed their leftovers and walked to the kitchen coming back with wine and two glasses. Sarah saw the bottle and it was the same bottle of wine they had in Paris. He held them up. "Living room or bedroom."

Sarah started towards the stairs. Chuck smiled. He locked the door and flipped the lights and followed her up stairs. Chuck opened the wine as he hurried around lighting candles making the room glow with warm light. He found a romantic Paris mix and let it play. He passed a glass to Sarah as she sat down near the window. Chuck took his suit jacket off and loosened his tie grabbing his glass and sat down. Sarah looked at him. "A toast?" Chuck smiled. "Definitely."

"To my husband whether the world knows it or not. The important thing is that what we have stays strong, is full of love and respect and we welcome the good days and the bad." Chuck smiled. "And can add I that my beautiful wife my best friend always knows she is loved and never gets tired of me loving her." Sarah waited for Chuck to clink their glasses. "Never." "Good." As he came in and kissed her. He took her glass and put it down as he slid closer to her grabbing her face and placing a soft kiss on her lips. Sarah touched his cheek bringing him closer. His touch gentle, his timing impeccable. They came up for air deciding to finish their wine.

Sarah stood up reaching for Chuck's hand. She ran her hand along his dress shirt reaching for his tie. She slowly loosened it tossing it over to the chair. She started at the bottom pulling his shirt from his pants then unbuttoning each button slowly drawing out the opportunity. She slid it over his broad shoulders barely seeing his bruise above his heart. She dragged her fingers along his chest twirling his chest hairs. Chuck watched his wife with such awe. Chuck reached around her and unzipped her dress and let it fall she stepped out of it. He caught her lingerie and whispered 'wow.' He picked her up and carried her to their bed and laid her down. She stared at him as he leaned in to kiss her. As his lips touched hers, she was lost in everything that was going to happen. How one kiss made everything better. Chuck kissed her shoulder then inside her neck as Sarah held him close. Running her hands down his back then loosening his pants. She helped him shimmy out of them. They made out intensively as more items were removed. Chuck and Sarah laughed as he tried to fling her bra from his hand but the more, he tried the more it got tied up. He eventually flung his wrist as her bra hit the floor. Chuck slid his and up her leg reaching her waist as he slid his finger along the hem of her panties. "I love you." "Love you too."

Sarah rolled Chuck onto his back giving her the reigns. Chuck watched his wife as they made love adding to how much he loved her. He held onto her hips as she moved with him. He sat up holding her close meeting her lips. Their kisses hot and steamy. He rolled her over as she wrapped her legs around his hips.

They made love into the wee hours of the next morning.

Sarah woke up seeing Chuck still asleep her body still wanting more but she'd let him sleep then ravish him for more. She slipped her panties on and his dress shirt and headed downstairs. She stopped at the front door seeing an entourage of black SUV's. Her curiosity intrigued her as she opened the door. There on the other side was a one little red headed General. "Good morning, Agent Walker."

"General."

"Can I speak to you and Chuck." That was the first time she heard her use his real name. "Yes ma'am." Sarah grabbed her coat that was hanging on the railing and headed upstairs. Sarah ran down the hall quickly waking Chuck up. "Chuck the General is here."

"Where's my phone?"

"No Chuck she is here downstairs in person." Chuck sat up starting to freak out. He tossed the sheets standing up. "Clothes Chuck." Chuck grabbed his boxers and a pair of sweats and a hoodie as Sarah grabbed a little more clothes. "Why are you wearing your coat?"

"Chuck focus."

"Right." Sarah slipped his robe on instead and headed downstairs. Sarah held his hand as they found her in the living room. Beckman turned around. "So, when were you going to tell me?"