Author – Hey guys! Sorry, it's been a bit late. The exam was terrific despite me giving much thought to this story. So, that's a relief. To make things clear, Amy won't be making a presence in this story. So, let's just say, Howard and Raj never did put up Sheldon's profile on the matchmaking website. Nothing to take away from the character. Amy is a wonderful character played so well by Mayim. On with the story, now.

Chapter 3

'Dr. Cooper, please have a seat. I hope you had a lovely afternoon so far?'

'Well thank you, Dr Gablehauser, and let's not divulge into pleasantries here. You called for me?'

'Yeah, I would like to discuss a proposition. For you.'

'Go on' he asked curiously.

'We want someone to carry out an experiment on Magnetic Monopoles. We have planned out a 3 month expedition to the Magnetic North Pole. And we want YOU to lead a team there. You can finally fulfil you lifelong Dream of proving String Theory! The boys are calling it "The Monopole Expedition'

Sheldon was beyond happiness. He was overjoyed. 'Me!'

'Yes, Dr. Cooper. You are the university's best physicist. If anyone can prove String Theory, it's you Sheldon. This expedition is of utmost importance to the university. Imagine the laurels it will bring us, if you are successful. Which I am sure you will be.'

'Dr Gablehauser, I ... I am humbled. I Agree. I don't know how I can thank you for giving me this opportunity. I accept your proposition.'

'Great! The university has given you the luxury of picking your own team. Choose well. And I will mail you the itinerary in a couple of days. You may leave Dr. Cooper. And all the best.'

'Thank You Sir'

This day couldn't get any better. It would be a silver lining if his confrontation with Penny goes well.

Apartment 4A

'Oh My God, Sheldon, we are so happy for you. Congratulations buddy!' Leonard was beaming. This was possibly one of the biggest opportunity for Sheldon to prove String theory. He did feel slightly jealous though because he thought he worked hard too this year and should have gotten the opportunity instead.

'Yeah dude, we are very proud of you' Raj gleamed.

'Thank you gentlemen. In addition to this I have the opportunity to pick my own team. And I was thinking who better than us 4! Working together in a hostile environment solving the mysteries of universe. What do you think?' He really did wanted all of them to come with him. Even Howard who still lacked a PhD. Well, he had grown to tolerate him. So, No problems there.

They all agreed in unison and drank beer, well except for Sheldon who excused himself and announced he had a thing to run by to penny.

He had this opportunity and he was ready. To express his feelings towards his Neighbour he liked since the moment he saw her. He mentally prepared himself.

'Knock Knock Knock'

'Penny!'

'Knock Knock Knock'

'Penny!'

'Knock Knock Knock'

'Penny!'

It was now or never. He felt his heartbeat increasing.

'Hey sweetie. What's up! Come on in!' Penny beamed.

'Hello Penny. I hope I am not disturbing you at this moment?'

'Not at all Moonpie! So what happened?'

'Penny' he glared at her. 'Only my MeeMaw….Oh forget it. It's of no use.' She smirked at him.

'I was wondering if you would like to go on a Date with me.' He asked slowly.

'I'm Sorry, What! 'Penny was taken aback.

'You know. A Date. You, Me. Dinner, A movie. Then we can perhaps go dancing.'

'Sheldon I hope you know what you are asking. This is so unlike you! You actually wanna go on a date with me? Is this one of your Experiments?'

Sheldon went blank. 'Penny I can assure you, it's not an experiment. Ever since I met you. I...I don't know. I have liked you, Penny. A lot. I have given it considerable thought. My feelings for you are starting to trouble my work and my health. I am sure about this.'

While penny was awed by his consideration of her, she wasn't sure. He wasn't a guy she would have gone out with in the past. While he was sweet and everything and they were such amazing friends, she didn't see them going for more. If it doesn't work out, there would always be an awkwardness between them, which she didn't want. She was not ready for this.

'Sweetie, I am delighted that you want to start dating people. But, I am not ready to go out with you as of now. The whole idea of a, different you is still new to me. I haven't seen you in that light before, you know, as a boyfriend. We are such good friends. Let's stay like this for a while.'

Sheldon was heartbroken. This was what he feared. He failed. He really wanted to get out of here and go to his room. Perhaps sleep it out. This was Murphy's Law all over again.

'It's not a yes but it's not a no, Sheldon' Penny consoled him.

'Give me some time. I need to think about this. But, we are best friends. Nothing can take away the moments we cherished together as friends.'

'It's okay Penny. It really is. I have to go now to achieve my REM sleep.'

'Sheldon, I heard about the expedition you are leading! Congratulations sweetie. I am so proud of you.'

'Thank you penny. I appreciate it.'

'3 months huh? I'll miss you' Penny replied honestly.

'Goodnight Penny.' He answered without maintaining eye contact. And closed the door.

He went up straight to his room without acknowledging any of his friends.

'What's up with him?' asked Howard.

'I don't know.' He paused. 'Raj, it's your turn to play' and they continued their card game.

Next up – 'The Monopole Expedition and its aftermath'

Author – Well, this was difficult. Like really difficult. I may have gone wrong somewhere or I am messing up this whole thing. I don't really know. But let's see how things go from here. Please, do review and feel free to PM me about any advice or anything. As always, I'll try to keep updating. So hang, in there. Thanks to people who have reviewed and given me positive feedback.