March 9, 2034
The knocking on the lab door grew more insistent but Sheldon continued to work.
"It's getting louder." Lara's panic was unmistakable. Sheldon said nothing, his fingers played over the Time Transportation Module(TTM) as if it were a piano.
The knocking had now escalated to pounding and Lara gave a little shriek. Sheldon looked up to check the clock on the wall with narrowed eyes and made a few more keystrokes.
"Cooper, you are advised to open the door," said a voice right out of Sheldon's many nightmares.
"St. Angelina Jolie, help us," Lara whispered. The door began to dent inward. Sheldon gave the controller a sharp poke- it still wasn't working smoothly but, ironically, time wasn't his to spare. He gave his breathy laugh at that thought. The door groaned on its hinges and Lara uttered a small scream. Sheldon pressed the device and his notebook into her hands.
"Do you remember all the logarithms for programming?" His blue eyes were focused on the weakening door. She nodded.
"Why can't you come with me or go instead?" Lara fought the tears.
"Lara, I've already explained that. If I go, it will be a direct violation of the clause about time travel that is contained in the roommate agreement. It has to be you."
"Cooper!" another voice roared.
Sheldon grabbed her upper arms. "Your first transport is programmed. Find Penny. No matter what happens, you have to find Penny."
"What if she doesn't believe me?"
"You'll have to make her believe you." Sheldon licked his lips. "Tell her I…"
The door flew open; Sheldon pushed a button on the TTM. He turned to face the intruders as Lara disappeared behind him.