A few days ago, I was messaging with Darkly Dreaming. Every time I see her screen name, it tickles me. I think of all kinds of weird dreams that could fit her name. So, I decided to write a few down. Welcome to Dreaming Darkly In Pasadena. Each story is just a shot little thing, and I'll try to include at least one from each member of the Big Bang world.
Sheldon snuggled down under Penny's blankets and breathed in her green apple scent. To be honest, he was surprised she had agreed to let him have her bed. In truth, he could have slept on the couch, but he couldn't help pushing her limits. It was reassuring to know she would actually go out of her way to ensure his comfort. Slowly he drifted off to sleep, comfort and warmth cocooning him.
In the distance he heard a booming screech of anger. He pushed his way through the thick vines and deep mud as fast as he could. His legs felt like limp noodles from the exertion. Sweat burned his eyes and his heart pounded so hard, he feared it would explode in his chest. He tripped over a submerged root and fell into the swampy bog. It clogged his nose and mouth, preventing him from drawing in air for a few seconds until he could claw it away. He collapsed onto his side, his body refusing to move any further. Pounding filled his ears and he couldn't decide whether it was his heart or footfalls. Spots appeared before his eyes and he felt his extremities growing colder. Death stalked him and he had failed to evade it. Darkness crept into his vision and he flopped onto his back, desperate to see the sun through the canopy of mangroves. He flinched as a cold hand pressed hard on his chest. He looked over and stared into the face of hate. It snarled at him, spittle hitting his cheeks.
"She will always be mine," it hissed before digging it's claws deep into his chest and shredding his heart muscle.
Sheldon gasped and sat up quickly just as Penny burst through the door. "Sweetie? Are you okay?" she asked worriedly.
Sheldon looked around the dark bedroom and frantically felt his chest. Slowly he drew in deep breaths, trying to slow his racing heartbeat. He looked at Penny with wide eyes. "A dream," he whispered. "Just a dark dream."
Penny sat down beside him, rubbing his back sympathetically. "Well, you're okay, now. Lay back, Sheldon and go back to sleep. Dark dreams can't hurt you."
Sheldon looked pleadingly at her. "Will you stay with me?" he whispered. "Just for a little while?"
Penny smiled at him tenderly. "Of course I will," she promised, ignoring how tired she was herself. She leaned her back against the headboard and smoothed the covers over him. "Goodnight, Moon Pie. Only sweet dreams from here on out."
Sheldon closed his eyes and leaned his head against her leg. Soon he was drifting off again.
Sheldon followed the dirt path through the corn field. The sun was warm on his skin. Birds twittered in the distance. The path widened and he found himself on the edge of a pristine white beach. He watched the gentle surf slip along the sand for a moment. Laughter caught his attention and he looked to the left. In the distance he saw a female form, dancing along the waters edge. Her long golden hair floated in the breeze. Sheldon smiled happily and began walking toward her.
