A/N – Thank you for the kind reviews. I am pleased you're enjoying the story. This chapter is a bit longer than normal. I couldn't break it up. Let's heat things up a tad. It is a bonfire, after all.
Disclaimer: I own nothing of The Big Bang Theory. This is for entertainment purposes only. No copyright infringement intended.
~Chapter 10~
"Her passions are made of nothing but the finest part of pure love"
-William Shakespeare, Antony & Cleopatra
Amy spent the better part of the next morning holed up in her room. Not only was she exhausted from a restless night of little sleep, she was quite simply mortified by her actions the night before with Dr. Cooper.
She spent hours in bed just staring at the ceiling, then the door, wondering what he was doing.
He's sleeping, you idiot. What else would he be doing in the middle of the night? She asked herself hotly, kicking off her blanket and turning over in a huff.
Why did she have to go and do such a fool hardy thing as touching his face? Oh, God…the look in his eyes when she did it, too. Confusion, astonishment… She'd never invaded anyone's space before, let alone a man's. His skin was as soft as she'd imagined, underneath the cold. And his lips…that full lower lip of his just begged to be touched. She had to physically restrain herself from running her thumb across it. No wonder Dr. Cooper pulled away. Her gesture was entirely too forward.
Dizzy and warm, she tossed and turned the rest of the night more than a load of laundry in the dryer.
Finally around ten am the next morning she dragged herself out of bed, throwing on her robe and heading downstairs to fix herself some breakfast. She couldn't avoid Dr. Cooper forever.
"Hello?" She called out tentatively, lingering in her doorway with Chaucer behind her bumping into her legs. It seemed her best friend in the entire world wanted someone else's company besides hers these days. She turned around, giving him an irritated glare.
"So…you have a new buddy now, eh? Just where did he take you last night on such a long walk?" She whispered, giggling when Chaucer tilted his head in confusion.
"Okay, don't tell me. It's guy stuff, I guess. I get it. Just remember who spends $200.00 a month to feed you." Amy said curtly, tip toeing downstairs.
Amy was relieved to find the cottage empty, with Sheldon nowhere to be found. Chaucer whined by the door to go out, but Amy wasn't in the mood yet to walk him. She sighed deeply, walking to the back door with Chaucer on her heels.
"I'll let you out to do your business, but come right back, Chaucer." She said sternly, opening the back door for him to run into the back gardens. She waited by the door for him, happy when he came sprinting back happy again.
"Trained to perfection." She said out loud, rubbing Chaucer's ears.
Amy walked back into the living room, stopping by the Christmas tree to admire it for a moment. Memories of their good time last night came back to her, making her smile faintly. The smile quickly vanished when she imagined how horrified Dr. Cooper must have been by her actions.
She told herself that she was only being kind. Kindness is what prompted her actions last night. It was cold outside, and she was worried. He had just looked so lost standing in her doorway. Whatever was plaguing his mind was obviously something heavy. She simply wanted to offer some comfort. He didn't flinch away from her, so perhaps he understood. Maybe even appreciated her concern.
Amy bit her lip, figuring what was done was done.
Don't let it ruin a perfectly nice December 23rd, she told herself.
Walking back into the kitchen, she spied a big note attached to the refrigerator door. Amy tentatively grabbed it as though it were a snake that was going to bite her. Unfolding it, she was greeted with his lovely penmanship. She'd never have guessed that a Physicist would have such a flair for writing. He wrote nicer than any calligrapher. But again, it didn't surprise her.
Good morning, Dr. Fowler. I hope you enjoyed a restful night's sleep. The weather report said today will be a replica of last, so I hope it will be a pleasant one for you. I had something I had to do, so I left early. I will be home by four pm to escort you to the bonfire. It will be another chilly one this evening, so please dress warmly. There will probably be a wind coming off the lake, and I wouldn't want you to be cold. Enjoy your day. And your tree. It is very lovely, and I admired it for a bit before I left this morning.
Sheldon
Amy read the note twice, the fact he signed it as Sheldon immediately jumping out at her.
Something to do…right. He probably didn't know how to face her after she inappropriately pawed him like a bear last night. He must have left early, trying to avoid her.
Amy groaned in frustration, yanking open the fridge and pulling out the eggs and juice.
"Stop imagining things. He probably just needed some time away from you. You've been stuck to him like glue for the last ten days," She murmured under her breath, all of a sudden self-conscious that she was invading on his vacation time. She began to worry that he was simply being nice, pretending to want her company, but then she knew deep down Dr. Sheldon Cooper did what he wanted. End of story. He seemed content with her companionship, even seeking it out on several occasions. It was just a lack of sleep and confused emotions that had her so highly strung. He would be back later, and they would enjoy a night of pre-Christmas revelry. Period.
Temporarily appeased, Amy cracked some eggs into a bowl to make an omelet. She tried to focus on the task at hand, but some kernel of doubt lingered.
Where would he go for the entire day, though? She wondered.
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"I'm a comin'. Just a minute."
Missy opened the back door, balancing baby Joshua on her hip. Her blue eyes widened happily as she saw who was on the other side.
"Shelly! What a surprise. Look Joshie, Uncle Sheldon is here. What are you doing here?" She asked her twin sweetly, leaning over to give him a swift peck on his cheek. Sheldon accepted her gesture of greeting, but didn't reciprocate it. He did, however, lean over and give his nephew's blond curls a gentle kiss. Missy's mouth fell open in shock at her brother's sweet gesture.
"Is Mama here?" He asked her, sidelining her question with one of his own.
Missy narrowed her eyes at him, looking him up and down. He looked really nice this morning, and it caught her off guard. Last she saw him over a week ago, he looked like death had warmed over. Pale, stressed, and dazed.
Now though, as her gaze roamed over him, she noted how pink his cheeks were. And how his eyes didn't hold that unfocused look he had when she tried to calm him down last time. The real change, though, was that he wasn't wearing one of those ridiculous superhero t shirts he usually sported while on vacation. He had on a pair of fitted khaki's that for once didn't hang off his lanky frame, a long sleeved buttoned down shirt, and a wool argyle sweater. He looked…manly. For a minute, she almost didn't recognize her brother.
Clearing her throat, she shook her head and bounced the baby in her arms.
"No, Mama stepped out for spell. She's down the street at Mrs. Wilson's place. All of the ladies from Church are involved with a cookie swap for Christmas. She'll be back soon, though." She said, stepping aside to allow her brother to enter.
Sheldon nodded, happy to have Missy alone for this. He stepped inside, shutting the door behind him and thrusting his hands inside his pockets.
"I actually came by to speak to you anyway. It couldn't wait. I didn't want to do it on Christmas day," Sheldon said tightly, his eyes wandering around the brightly lit kitchen before settling on his sister with guarded animosity.
Missy narrowed her brows, wondering what Sheldon was so intent on discussing with her that he drove nearly 50 miles.
"Alright. Why don't you head on into the living room and I'll bring us some iced tea." She suggested, putting the baby in his playpen. Sheldon obeyed, sitting down in the rocking chair by the TV. His eyes roamed over to the sofa, his eidetic memory reminding him that he never wanted to sit on that thing again. After spying Mary and Sheriff Watson rolling around on it in flagrante delicto, he had hoped his mother would have torched the thing. Sighing heavily, he pulled his thoughts away from that uncomfortable day. There were more pressing, uncomfortable matters at hand to deal with.
Missy came into the room, carrying a tray laden with tea and cookies. Placing it down on the coffee table, she sat down and crossed her legs demurely.
Sheldon stared at her blankly a moment, not sure how to play this. Missy was a tough cookie. Sheldon knew better than to wrangle with her. If he wanted her honesty, he would have to play nice.
"So what's on your mind, Shelly? Are you here for ideas of what to get Mama for Christmas? She doesn't need much these days since she and Harvey have become closer. He dotes on her, lavishes her with gifts…it's kinda sweet, actually." Missy chuckled, taking a sip of her tea and putting it down. Her eyes met Sheldon's, and the coldness there threw her. Something told her all of a sudden that Sheldon wasn't there to talk about the Cooper family gift exchange.
"Shelly?" She questioned, her discomfort mounting when Sheldon leaned forward in his chair and wouldn't break eye contact with her.
"You knew about Dr. Fowler moving to Pasadena, didn't you? And you knew she was coming to work for Caltech. Why did you keep it a secret from me?" He asked, cutting right to the chase.
Missy's eyes widened at her brother's hollow tone. So…he had discovered Dr. Fowler's plans. It was no wonder; it was bound to come out the more time they spent together. Obviously, Amy would talk about her future and where she was headed.
Missy hadn't expected it to be so soon, though. She thought by the way things stood last week, they would hardly speak to one another, and he wouldn't find out until they met at school. The last thing she had wanted to do was to upset Sheldon. News like that would surely be of great interest to him. He didn't take to change very easily. This was no exception. It shouldn't have mattered where that nice woman was headed. But the fact was, she was headed point blank right into Sheldon's life. And that, of course, would alter it forever.
Missy shook her head in the affirmative, unable to lie to him now.
"Yes." She admitted in a whisper, for the first time in their lives unable to look him in the eye. "I knew."
Sheldon gasped quietly, his worst fears coming to the surface. The strange thing was, he didn't feel anger towards his sister. Merely…betrayal.
"How did you find out? And why would you keep that important information from me? Did you think it was funny, ambushing me like that?" He asked quietly, his tone hurt. Missy leaned forward as well, daring to reach out and place her hand on Sheldon's knee. He stared at it, but he didn't flinch.
"No, Shelly. I didn't ambush you. Not…purposely, anyway. I found out on our third call, when we sealed the deal for the rental. Dr. Fowler told me she was driving cross country and wanted to stop along the way for a few weeks to rest before she started work in January at her new University. I casually asked her where she was moving, and she said Pasadena. I put two and two together, but I still had my doubts. I asked her where, and she told me Caltech." Missy said quietly.
Sheldon nodded, tight lipped.
"And the why?" He whispered, waiting with baited breath for his sister to answer.
Missy got up, pacing the living room.
"Why? Oh, Shelly. Why do you think I didn't tell you? I just…she seemed so nice over the phone. I thought that maybe once you both met in California, that you might be a friend to her. I had no idea that you would show up at the cottage unannounced and cohabitate with her for three weeks! That….whoa. Talk about kismet. There was no way I could tell you then. You already dropped a bombshell on me about what happened with her when she arrived. If I'd have told you then, you would have been livid." Missy said seriously.
Sheldon got up as well, coming to stand right in front of his sister.
"I am livid, Melissa. Right now. When Dr. Fowler mentioned to me where she was moving…I thought that the two of you had cooked up some elaborate scheme to mock me. I almost lashed out at her again, undeservedly, but something told me that she was innocent. But I had serious doubts if you were. Did you not think to mention to her that your brother just happened to live there? Work there? It was a mighty big coincidence, wouldn't you agree? You renting out the cottage to a woman who just happens to be a future co-worker of mine? And you didn't think to tell her?" He asked seriously, pacing now himself.
Missy looked at her brother closely. He was honestly upset about this. But why? Was it really that big a deal, the fact that she would be working at his University?
"No, Shelly. I didn't. I felt strange telling her that. I didn't want her to think she had to look you up once she got to town, or that I was trying to play matchmaker. I could tell she was sweet girl. I didn't want to freak her out. She never would have known who you were if you hadn't shown up. Because it was, as you say, a hell of a coincidence. Besides…I didn't hand pick her to drop her on your lap! I didn't even know you were coming home for Christmas! She answered my ad a month ago and I was happy to have the money for Mama, Meemaw, and I to split for things we needed. Once you both had arrived, I felt it best to keep my mouth shut and let the chips fall where they would. I never meant to hurt you. And I wasn't playing no games, either." Missy said sincerely.
Sheldon released a deep breath, rolling his eyes.
"Alright…I believe you. But you have to know…this whole situation has thrown my life into a tailspin." He mumbled.
Missy crossed her arms, studying her brother with shrewd eyes.
"You like her. A lot. Don't you? Is that what this is all about? What's been happening at that cottage the last couple of weeks?" Missy asked, awestruck. She'd never heard Sheldon sound so passionate about anything that didn't require batteries.
Sheldon stopped his pacing to stare at Missy impassively.
"Nothing's been happening," Sheldon stressed, making air quotes. "We've just…gotten to know each other. We found that we have a lot in common. And I did what you suggested. I…threw down my coat for her. I've found her to be quite pleasant to talk to and highly intelligent." He said quietly.
Missy sat back down on the couch, giving Sheldon a scrutinizing look.
"Dear Lord… I never thought in all of my years, that I'd live to see the day when my brother Sheldon fell in love." She murmured, shaking her head back and forth in disbelief.
Sheldon's eyes widened to moonbeams.
"What? Are you delusional? I'm not…in love with Dr. Fowler!" He protested, huffing for effect. "She's…nice. But that is all. She's too…happy. All of the time. She never stops smiling. And the cottage always smells like flowers because of her perfume. Sometimes, I have to take a walk to get away from it. And her dog. He's always chasing after me, wanting my affection. He's very needy. And she sings. It's very distracting." Sheldon sputtered, the words shooting out of his mouth rapid fire.
Missy smirked, trying to keep up with her brother's disjointed explanation.
"Oh, I'll bet its distracting." She cooed, arching a perfectly manicured brow heavenward.
Sheldon sat back down, looking lost and sick. Missy's smile slid off her face and she stared at her brother with pity. He looked afraid, just like when they were kids. Her heart suddenly ached for him.
Good God…he was falling in love. And the poor sap didn't even know it.
It was Melissa's turn to look lost now, as she wondered how this could have happened. Thirty-five years, and nothing. But after ten days, he was smitten. It was the most preposterous thing she'd ever heard. But then again, this was Sheldon. He never did do things the way everyone else did.
"Why did you do this to me, Melissa? I was fine until you decided to play landlady. This isn't…funny anymore." Sheldon murmured, placing his head in his hands. Missy rose, coming over to her brother and rubbing his back.
"Sheldon…listen. I didn't scheme anything behind your back. Your arriving was happenstance. The fact that you both have meshed so well, is just fate. There must be a reason for this clandestine coincidence." She stated, giving Sheldon a serious look.
Sheldon gaped at her for a moment, overwhelmed with all of this.
"Oh, Lord…there is no such thing as fate. If it's not Mama with her Bible nonsense, it's you with your new age nonsense. It's all a load of codswallop, if you ask me!" He spat.
Missy licked her lips, certain to her core there was no way she was going to get through to him. She supposed she would just have to let him figure this out on his own.
Just then, the back door swung open and shut and Mary came bounding in, carrying a few trays of cookies. The matter now temporarily closed, both Cooper children went into the kitchen to greet her.
"There are enough cookies here to last until the Second Coming. Good Lord A'mighty. If I have to see one more gingerbread man, I think I'm gonna snap."
Depositing the cookies down on the stove, she turned around and was shocked to see her twins standing side by side in the kitchen.
"Sheldon, baby! What are you doing here so early?" She gushed, pulling him in for a hug.
Sheldon endured her stronghold, throwing his arm around her in turn. Missy smiled tenderly as she watched the scene.
"I came by to speak to Missy." Sheldon answered truthfully, but didn't elaborate further.
Mary didn't seem too bothered, nodding her head and taking off her sweater.
"Oh, that's nice. You're still coming Christmas morning, right?" She asked sternly, and Sheldon nodded dutifully.
"Yes, Mama."
"Good. Cause I'd hate to have to come out to the lake and drown you on Jesus' birthday." She said with mock humor, earning a chuckle from Missy and an eye roll from Sheldon.
"Yes, well…as much as I'd like to stay and debate that Jesus Christ was not actually born on December 25th, I have to head back. Dr. Fowler and I are attending a bonfire tonight."
Missy didn't know who was more surprised by that news; she, or Mary. Two sets of eyes widened in Sheldon's direction, before looking at each other in shock.
"You're going to the bonfire tonight?" They asked Sheldon in unison, causing Sheldon to pucker his brows.
"Yes. How did you know about it?" He asked slowly. Mary laughed, clapping her hands together tightly.
"Frank and Mabel Preston are the ones throwing it. The whole town was invited. Harvey and I are going too after his shift. But how did you find out about it?" She asked curiously.
Sheldon shrugged, scuffing the toe of his shoe against the floor.
"Dr. Fowler met Mrs. Preston at a Deli last night, and she invited us," Sheldon answered quietly.
Mary grinned happily.
"Oh, that's wonderful. I'm so glad that you're enjoying the Christmas festivities, Sheldon. I was afraid that you were going to barricade yourself in that house all week and do nothing but write squiggly lines on poster boards. You know, tomorrow they are having ice skating down at Old Mill Pond. They've built an indoor rink there for the winter, if you'd like to take Miss Fowler. How is she enjoying the house, by the way? And the lake?" She asked excitedly, glad that her shy son was enjoying the company of a young lady.
Missy had told her all about their new lodger, and Mary was at first hesitant knowing that she and Sheldon would be sharing the cottage all alone. But then her common sense kicked in. Sheldon would never take advantage of that situation. He was…well, he was Sheldon.
Sheldon swallowed as he considered his mother's question.
"It's Dr. Fowler. And she's enjoying it just fine. I think she is quite charmed with the cottage," Sheldon answered quietly.
Mary smiled, patting Sheldon on the shoulder.
"Well that's nice. I'm so happy that we found her when we did. The money she paid for her lodging surely helped us out," Mary said happily, unaware that Sheldon had given her the money back.
Sheldon's eyes met Missy's, who offered her brother a gentle smile. She thought what he did was very gallant, paying for Dr. Fowler's stay after their rocky beginning.
Sheldon began to feel that he was under a microscope, and decided it was best to leave.
"I should be going. I suppose I'll see you and Sherriff Watson at the bonfire tonight." He told his mother, his voice holding a hint of disdain. Mary caught it though, and she pursed her lips.
"See you on Christmas, Shelly. You take care of that guest of ours, now." Missy said with a saccharine voice, earning a glare from her twin.
"Goodbye, Missy." Sheldon said testily. He patted Joshua's head on the way out.
They both watched him from the window as he strode to his car, turning to wave at them one last time before setting off.
"That boy is different. I can't put my finger on it, but he is." Mary said in distraction, shaking her head and heading upstairs to take a nap before the party tonight.
Missy watched her mother leave, waiting until she was out of earshot.
"You can bet your Bible he is," She said with affection. And she knew the exact reason for that.
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Amy paced the living room, wringing her hands together in frustration. It was past four pm, and Dr. Cooper still wasn't back.
She'd spent the afternoon alternating between worrying about what he thought of her, and wanting to know more about him. She tried to watch TV, but as the hours passed, she found herself less and less interested in anything it had to offer.
She tried to read, pulling out her treasured copy of The Canterbury Tales and sitting next to the tree by the window. After a fruitless hour of trying to concentrate, Amy put the book down and got up in agitation. Finally giving in to her curiosity, she went upstairs and retrieved her IPad.
She googled Dr. Sheldon Cooper Caltech University and a myriad of entries popped up, each more impressive than the last. She settled on Wikipedia, since she figured it was the most accurate.
Dr. Sheldon Lee Cooper, B.S., M.S., M.A., Ph.D., Sc.D. born February 26, 1980, is a Sr. Theoretical Particle Physicist at Caltech University in Pasadena California. After graduating from Rice University at age fourteen summa cum laude, he went on to win the prestigious Stevenson award later than year. Dr. Cooper received his first PhD at sixteen. He was a visiting professor at the Heidelberg Institute in Germany at age fifteen. He received his second doctorate at age twenty. His specialties include String Theory and its alter Ego M-Theory. Dr. Cooper's current field of research is focusing on Dark Matter. This research has led him to attempt a full proof of the Penrose Conjecture. He is solely responsible for Caltech University's six-loop quantum gravity calculations. For his contributions to theoretical physics, he won a Caltech Chancellor's Award for Science. In late 2014, Dr. Cooper was promoted to Jr. Professor in Physics at Caltech University and has enjoyed great success in leading the countries up and coming minds in Physics. Amongst his talents include an IQ of 187 and he possesses and eidetic memory.
Amy had read on as the article described detailed accounts of his research and future prospects, including Cosmology. When finished she sat back, closing the cover to her tablet and stared into space.
Good God…the man is otherworldly…she thought, her heart pounding a mile a minute. To say she was impressed was an understatement. She wondered what he could still accomplish as time went on. He was only thirty-five years old after all.
A strange feeling began to form in the pit of her stomach as she conjured up his face in her mind. Absent minded of what she was doing, she began to stroke her bottom lip. He was attractive, for sure. To her, he resembled a sandy haired Clark Kent. Boyish, charming, and striking. But it was his intellect and his wit that had her so intrigued. Men like Sheldon Cooper did not just fall from the sky. She could not believe she was acquainted with such a Phenom of Science. She could have searched her entire life to find a kindred Spirit such as he; one who shared not only her academic interests but her secular ones as well. A warmth began to spread through her limbs, and for the first time since meeting him, Amy felt like she was in serious trouble of losing herself.
Ten more minutes passed before she finally heard the gravel crunching in the driveway. Coming out of her reverie, she ran to the window to see him exit his car. She hadn't seen him when he left this morning, so she was unaware of how he was dressed. He looked…Oh, God. He looked handsome. Very handsome.
Get a grip on yourself, Amy! For Pete's sake.
He was carrying a bag from what appeared to be the grocery store in his arm, trying to sift through his keys to find the one for the door. Amy realized that she was standing there, gawking at him, and ran over to the couch like her behind was on fire.
Sit down! Act casual! She told herself, trying to compose her breathing and smooth her clothing.
Sheldon walked through the door, his eyes meeting hers at once. He hadn't expected her to be sitting right there, and the way she looked make him stop in his tracks. She looked so beautiful, that he stopped breathing for a split second.
He had told her to dress warmly, so she was wearing a fluffy looking angora sweater in a shade of pink so delicate that it begged to be touched. He wondered if it were as soft as it looked. Her long hair was pulled up into a neat, high ponytail, and she must have curled it because the long cylinder cascaded down her back like a funnel.
She peered at him behind her glasses, and he could see she was nervous. Everything about her was just too…sweet. He knew she must be worried about his reaction to her touching him last night. He decided to put her mind at ease and just chalk it up to her kindness. It felt nice to have someone worry about him like that. He wasn't going to overanalyze it.
"Hello." He said kindly, offering her a bashful smile.
Relieved, Amy smiled in return.
"Hello. I didn't know if you were still up to going to the bonfire." She said quietly, gauging his mood. Sheldon nodded enthusiastically and just like that, the tension was broken.
"Oh, of course. In fact, my mother and Sheriff Watson will be there."
Amy wondered how he had come by that information, but didn't want to pry.
"Oh! That's nice. I would love to meet her." She said happily, earning another smile from her housemate.
Sheldon stared at her for a moment, admiring how nice she looked. He suddenly stole a glance at his watch, cursing himself for being so blatantly obvious.
"The bonfire begins at sunset, which is in about an hour. We could walk Chaucer and then head out?" He suggested tentatively, and Amy smiled.
He wanted them to walk the dog together?
"Yes, that sounds good." Amy agreed, shyly skirting past Sheldon to retrieve Chaucer's leash. He watched her go, wondering just how he was going to keep it together tonight.
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They drove along the lakeshore for a while, the sun setting in their midst when Amy spotted it. The bonfire was visible for miles. Even had they not known the address of where they were headed, it wouldn't have mattered. The Preston's must have gone all out buying lumber, since the beams of the structure must have been at least thirty feet high.
"Wow…that looks amazing. When Mrs. Preston told me they were having a 'bonfire', I assumed she meant a few logs and twigs. That looks like the pyre they used to torch Joan of Arc." Amy said comically, and Sheldon shot her an amused stare. A deep smile broke out on his face at her saucy remark, and he snorted.
"See here, little lady…this is Texas. We folks don't do nothin' if it ain't big and brash. You city slickers can take a lesson in how it's done the right way," Sheldon drawled, his inner Texan on display for the first time. She knew it was in jest, but the sudden difference in his persona was staggering.
Amy gasped as his normally mid-range voice dropped to a lower register, sounding deep and sexy.
"Don't you go frettin' none about a fire, little lady. I'll be keepin' my eye on you tonight." He said huskily, giving Amy a crooked smile.
Amy smiled back, knowing he was only playing, but inside she was frantically trying to catch her breath.
"O-Okay." She whispered, looking out her window to avoid gazing at him like the village idiot.
What the hell was that?
Changing the subject back to safer ground, she giggled.
"I hope you people have a proficient Fire Dept. around here in case things get out of hand," Amy chuckled ruefully.
All at once, Texas Sheldon was gone. Pasadena Sheldon took his place.
"Good Lord! Don't even joke about that!" He said seriously, his big blue eyes widening in childlike fear.
Ahh…there he was, Amy thought with affection, shaking her head.
As they pulled into the makeshift parking lot that was really just a huge open clearing, Amy noticed several of the male guests sporting cowboy hats.
"Do you have one of those?" Amy asked jovially, pointing to a man who was piggybacking a woman who also wore a hat. Sheldon eyes followed Amy's finger.
"By one of those I assume you mean a cowboy hat?" Sheldon asked.
"Yes." She answered, grinning at him when she noticed he suddenly blushed.
Sheldon cleared his throat, unhooking his seatbelt.
"Yes." Sheldon answered, not elaborating. But Amy wasn't going to let it go so easily.
"Oh, do tell Dr. Cooper. Why aren't you wearing yours, then? You're in Texas!" She said, pointing out the obvious.
Sheldon pinched his lips together.
"It's back in California. It's more of a memento than a fashion statement, these days." He said dryly, exiting the car and coming around to her side to help her out. Amy was touched by his gesture, and waited until he arrived rather than open the door herself. He extended his hand like a gentleman, and Amy gladly accepted.
"Thank you," She said sweetly, stepping aside as Sheldon shut the door.
"You know, I realize you spent half of your life here in Texas. But I just can't picture you wearing a cowboy hat." She said, chuckling. They walked a few paces before Sheldon commented.
"Not that I disagree with you, but why is that?" He asked, his tone curious. Amy chuckled again.
"Well…you are extremely cerebral. Your character is just so…larger than life. Not to disparage an entire state, but…it seems a bit hokey. Way below your station." She said quietly, the obvious compliment making Sheldon blush.
"Thank you," He murmured, not knowing how else to respond to that.
They walked into the main clearing where people were gathered, the smell of BBQ heavy in the air. They found The Preston's in the middle of the fray, greeting guests and chatting. They paid their respects, thanking their hosts for the invitation, before Mr. Preston announced it was time to eat and he would lead everyone in prayer.
Amy watched Sheldon's face as he stood stoic during the prayer of thanks, not a muscle moving in his body. She wondered how he felt the way he did about religion considering he grew up in a very religious household. His eyes met hers as the prayer was coming to a close, and Amy could tell he was uncomfortable. When Mr. Preston announced 'Amen', Sheldon sighed openly. Amy cocked her head, studying him.
Sheldon ushered Amy on the massive line for food, and she was overwhelmed with all of the choices. They each piled their plates high with every Southern goodie known to man. Ribs, macaroni salad, beans, collards, cornbread…and of course, sweet tea. A volunteer server handed Amy a glass of it that was at least 64 ounces, and she smiled in thanks.
"Will the cast of Petticoat Junction be coming by to help me drink this?" She asked Sheldon in humor, lifting it up to make sure it wasn't as bottomless as Mary Poppins' carpet back. Sheldon merely smirked, shrugging his shoulders.
"Texas." He said simply.
They made their way to a long picnic table, sitting side by side and attacking their food with gusto. Sheldon was loathe to admit it, but he really did miss Texas BBQ. He had gotten used to eating Thai and Indian back in Pasadena, but there was something about good old meat and potatoes that churned up his inner Texan.
"These ribs are sinful. I think I just gained three pounds," Amy gushed, licking her fingers of sauce happily before using a wet wipe to clean them.
Sheldon smiled, his eyes roaming over Amy in the firelight. She looked like a soft kitten in that sweater, and her statement didn't bother him at all. She had a lovely, womanly figure. Gaining three pounds wouldn't have made any difference.
The band played Christmas carols before switching to more region appropriate music, with square dancing and line dancing encouraging everyone to join in. The entire congregation stood up to do a rendition of 'Deep in the Heart of Texas'. Amy and Sheldon sat back, watching the number unfold with laughter. Amy wondered if Sheldon secretly wanted to join in with the fun. She herself felt self-conscious, as she wasn't a Texan.
Sheldon's eyes flickered over to Amy as she sat there, tapping her foot to the beat and shaking her head.
Oh, well…Sheldon thought with a sigh. When in Rome.
"Would you care to dance, Dr. Fowler?" He asked her suddenly, his voice eager.
Amy looked at Sheldon in fear, her mouth suddenly dry.
Dance with Dr. Cooper? Oh, my…
"I don't really like Country music," She lied. Sheldon moved closer to her so that she could hear him better over the booming music, whispering in her ear. Amy shuddered as his warm breath hit her cool skin.
"I don't either. But don't you dare tell anyone here that; they'd tar and feather me." He said in mock fear.
Amy laughed heartily. She stared at Sheldon without blinking, the thought of being held in his arms making her hyperventilate.
"Oh, I doubt that Dr. Cooper. You are a Son of Texas, after all. They wouldn't tar and feather one of their own. Me, though…that's an entirely other story."
Sheldon grinned shyly, exposing his perfect teeth. Amy's heart fluttered against her ribs.
"Oh, come on. It's not so bad. Not my first choice of music, mind you. But it's Christmas. Let's have a go." He suggested merrily. If it's me your worried about, you have nothing to fear. I am quite skilled in all forms of dancing. My mother insisted that all of her children be versed in cotillion training dancing. I am not ashamed to admit that I know at least forty different types of dances." Sheldon said proudly, earning a soft smile out of Amy.
"It's not…you." Again, a lie. "I myself am not a skilled dancer." She admitted shyly, turning away.
Sheldon touched her arm tenderly.
"Nobody here cares, Dr. Fowler. They're all here to have a good time. I will lead you. I'll hold you tightly so you won't fall, alright? There's nothing to worry about. Trust me?" He asked earnestly, his big blue eyes sparkling warmly in the firelight.
Amy swallowed roughly, nodding her head.
"Alright." She relented, allowing him to lead her into the crowd.
They danced several dances, Sheldon expertly leading Amy around the clearing. Everyone was having a great time, and Sheldon forgot there were so many people. Another waltz began to play, this time Hank Williams' 'I'm So Lonesome I Could Cry'.
Sheldon swayed to the music with Amy, the feeling of her so close comforting as well as exciting. A few of the older ladies dancing near them gave him a knowing smile which made him feel strange.
What did they see, that they were looking at him like that? He wondered.
He held onto her tightly as he promised he would, running his anchoring hand across her back soothingly. Her sweater was devastatingly soft, just as he imagined. He pulled her as close as he dared without being too forward, loving the feel of the silky angora beneath his fingers. He had always sensed her lovely perfume, but there was something else now as well. Her hair. It smelled crisp and clean, and he was horrified to catch himself leaning in to sniff it deeply.
Amy closed her eyes as Sheldon gently guided her, not only trusting him but enjoying his warmth. The night was chilly but between his body and the fire, she felt perfect; warm and toasty. She heard Sheldon humming along to the song in distraction, and her eyes snapped open to find him staring down at her with a soft expression. She found that she couldn't look away from his captivating gaze, nor did she want to.
"I thought you didn't like Country music," She whispered quietly, Sheldon reading her lips more than hearing her words. A slow grin spread on his face, and his eyes bashfully gazed into hers.
"Eidetic memory, remember? I hear a song once, and I know the words." He replied, the smile not leaving his face.
Amy didn't answer him, merely maintained eye contact until his face started to blur.
The song ended and everyone clapped, the band announcing they would take a short break. Sheldon and Amy pulled apart, Sheldon still holding her across the back with one hand and clasping her hand tightly with the other.
"You, um…the song ended." Amy said quietly, and Sheldon let go of her gently.
"Yes. See, not that difficult, right?" He stammered, clearing his throat.
Amy nodded, suddenly wishing he had brought his cowboy hat. She had the strange urge to see him in it.
They gazed at each silently for a moment, Sheldon not sure of what to say. He'd never been in this situation before, having never attended a prom or a dance with a partner he wanted to be with. Those blasted cotillions he suffered through were with blue blood Texas royalty and those girls were heartless and vain. He suffered through every minute of it, glad when it was over. The only good thing that came out of it was he learned how to dance. One more skill to add to his endless list, he supposed.
Couples were milling about drinking and sharing dessert, so Sheldon thought he'd asked Amy if she cared for anything.
"Would you like something sweet? Or perhaps some punch?" He asked kindly.
Amy nodded enthusiastically.
"I'd love a cup of that hot cider. It smells delicious, even from here." Amy said happily, the cold wind making her nose red.
"I'll be right back." Sheldon promised.
Amy watched him leave, her eyes following him from head to toe. His impressive height put him head and shoulders above most of the men here, but it was his presence that made him stand out from the crowd. He was just so…exceptional. Everything about him was exceptional.
She tried to tell herself that she wasn't desperately attracted to him. But she couldn't lie to herself. Everything about him attracted her. His looks, obviously. It was so much more than that, though. It was his gentle demeanor which was just emerging from that hard shell. His immense intelligence. His dry humor that she found so appealing. If Drew could see her now, he would say to stick a fork in her. She was done.
Amy sighed loudly, shaking her head.
Stop it, She murmured to herself quietly.
"Well…howdy there. I don't believe I've ever seen you around here before, little lady." Said a suave voice from behind her.
Amy turned to find herself face to face with a blond man about Sheldon's height and age.
"That's because I'm not from around here." She said, stating the obvious as politely as she could.
The man gazed at her rakishly, his eyes staring her up and down in a way that made Amy frown.
"Would you care to dance, little lady? I swear, it will be worth your while." He said with a strange tone of voice. Amy automatically felt like a steak on a plate.
Suddenly, the unmistakable scent of talc filled her nostrils, and she turned around to find Sheldon standing behind her, holding her cup of cider and watching the two of them with concern.
"Thank you," She said, taking the cup out of Sheldon's death grip. She met his eyes, and the strange expression there made her wince. She turned to the man still standing on the other side of her, ushering to him.
"Sheldon, do you know…" She began, waiting for the stranger to elaborate. But Sheldon needed no introductions from this man.
"Brett Jackson." Sheldon said in a cold, monotone voice. Brett smiled a cocky grin, letting out an amused chuckle. Sheldon didn't find it amusing, though. Not one bit.
Amy realized at once who this man was, and why Sheldon suddenly looked like he was about to kick butt and take names.
"Sheldon Cooper! Well I'll be a son-of-a-bitch. Look at you! You aren't a scrawny little beanpole anymore. What's it been, like 20 years?" Brett said with a hint of sarcasm in his voice, winking at Amy for effect. Amy found the gesture offensive and unconsciously took a step closer to Sheldon.
"Oh, you can count. Good to see that your public school education hasn't gone to waste," Sheldon answered with disgust, crossing his arms. He didn't like the fact he swore in the presence of Dr. Fowler. He didn't like him even being in the presence of Dr. Fowler. He too took an unconscious step closer to Amy.
Brett rolled his eyes, clucking his tongue dismissively.
"Come on now, Shelly. Let's let the past be the past. I know I was a prick back then, but don't hold a little childhood folly against me," He drawled, smiling innocently. "You were no angel either; spouting off to everyone about how superior you were. We got it. You were smart. You didn't have to be an asshole about it." He said bitterly.
Sheldon narrowed his eyes, and he felt his pulse begin to race.
"I will kindly ask you to refrain from using that kind of foul language in the presence of a lady." He said angrily, his eyes drifting to Amy's. Brett only shrugged casually.
"And who is this fine woman, Sheldon? Certainly not yours, I reckon. Cousin, perhaps? You never could 'seal the deal' with no woman anyhow. Still married to your chemistry set?" He snickered.
Brett turned to Amy with a wolfish grin. She turned her face into Sheldon's shoulder, feeling offended just staring at the man. What she really wanted to do was give him a lesson in etiquette. Starting with a lesson in respect.
Brett continued on, nonplussed by the pair's disdain.
"This boy right here never had a girlfriend growing up. He was too wrapped up with his uranium. Or whatever the hell it was. He's probably here tonight with his momma, right Shelly?" Brett chuckled, slapping his thigh for effect. It became clear to them both that he was slightly drunk.
The beefy Texan smiled at Amy, but she glared at him with disgust. She wanted to vomit, actually, and was having a hard time not doing it. She didn't like the way he was insulting Sheldon or hitting on her.
Sheldon stood stock still, the urge to pummel this man building inside of him like a powder keg. Brett shrugged, turning his attention towards Amy again.
"Come on, little lady. Let's cut a rug. We'll leave Shelly here to his fractions." He said slyly, putting his hand on the back of her shoulder in an attempt to swing her around.
Sheldon saw red.
"Don't call her that. She is not your little lady," Sheldon snapped furiously through gritted teeth, his blue eyes nearly black in the firelight. Amy gazed between the two men as Sheldon grabbed her arm protectively, yanking her forcefully out of Brett's grip and pushing her behind him. "And keep your goddamned hands off of her. Touch her again and I will break every bone in your body." Sheldon bellowed.
A few of the partygoers turned around, wondering what the commotion was.
Brett raised his brows at Sheldon, seemingly in shock at how his former victim was a victim no more. He shot Sheldon a crooked smile, laced with humor.
"I see someone is still holding a wee bit of a grudge," He laughed, holding his thumb and forefinger together. He watched as Sheldon's eyes turned even darker and rage filled.
Amy wanted badly to go find Sheriff Watson, since she knew he was around here somewhere. But she was afraid to leave Sheldon's side. She couldn't believe Sheldon had cursed, let alone in front of her.
Brett laughed stupidly, hitting Sheldon in the arm without any real force.
"Come on, Sheldon. Let's forget about the past. I didn't mean no harm. It was all in fun, you know. Maybe if you acted like a normal kid once in a while, the guys wouldn't have given you such a hard time."
A hard time…
Sheldon's mind bombarded him with mental images of those hard times. Stitches. Casts. Crutches. Running home so fast to avoid this man and his buddies that he would huff and pant until he fell down, gasping for air. Dog bites. Being locked in utility closets at school. Having rocks thrown at him. Being nearly run down by their little gang on their dirt bikes. Having his mother say to try and get along with the neighbor boys and stop being a know-it-all. Having his father tell him to act like a man and not a sniveling baby. Having teachers with lesser IQ's then him looking the other way.
Well no more.
Sheldon stepped up to Brett so fast that in Brett's drunken state, he didn't even see coming.
"Listen here, you vile miscreant. You are a pig. You always were. And I'm not interested in hearing your pathetic excuses about why you behaved like an animal when we were children. I don't care about you. I never did, and I never will. What I do care about, is how you treated my date. Apologize to Dr. Fowler this instant, or I will show you the definition of the words hard time." Sheldon threatened, his voice low and menacing.
Amy's eyes widened dramatically at not only Sheldon's words…his date?...but at how infuriated he sounded.
Brett's grin slid off his face. He was too drunk to deal with this. Besides, he knew exactly who Sheldon's mama was dating. He didn't need any trouble with the law. His mother would toss him out if that happened again.
His eyes met Amy's in a weary apology.
"I'm sorry, Ma'am. I meant no disrespect to you." Brett said politely, tipping his hat to Amy. He flashed a set of teeth that could light up the city of Houston, but Amy didn't fall for it.
"Thank you." She answered tightly. "But I think you should leave now. I do not wish to dance with you. And I am here with Sheldon. I'm sure you can find some other women to fall for your charms." She said with disgust.
Sheldon's glare towards Brett never lessened, and Amy could tell Brett was getting uncomfortable at having not only one person's but two's hatred directed towards him.
"I don't know what I did to spark such anger in those pretty eyes of yours, but…I'll leave you both to your evening. Sheldon, it was good to see you again. It's been a long time. Merry Christmas, Ma'am." He said sickly sweet, tipping his hat to her again before walking off into the fray.
Amy turned around to face Sheldon, shocked at the fury on his face. He looked to be a million miles away, not really focused on anything. Not knowing how else to reach him, Amy touched his hand, entangling her fingers with his. Once again, she knew she was overstepping her bounds by touching him. But the disconnected look on his face scared her.
Come back to me, She thought in worry.
"Dr. Cooper?" She asked tentatively.
Sheldon snapped out of his trance, staring down at their hands before his eyes met Amy's.
"Are you alright?" She whispered gently, but he still heard her over the pulsing music which had started up again. Her touch was warm and gentle, yet electrifying. He licked his lips, afraid to do something rash in his angry state.
Sherriff Watson and Mary came running up, Mary's eyes fixed at once upon Sheldon and Amy's entwined fingers. She stopped in her tracks, staring at the scene before her with awe.
"Sheldon, are you alright Son?" Harvey Watson asked in a paternal voice.
Sheldon turned to him with glassy eyes.
"A few kids heard what happened and came to get me. They thought you were going to kick that boy's hide from here to El Paso." He said seriously, turning his gaze to Amy. "Miss, are you alright?" He checked, relieved when Amy nodded wordlessly.
Sheriff Watson turned back to Sheldon, daring to place a light hand on his shoulder.
"Sheldon?" He asked quietly, trying not to startle him.
Sheldon shrugged out of Watson's grip slowly, backing up a few paces.
"Yes. I'm fine. Would you please look after Dr. Fowler for a few minutes? I need a moment alone." He whispered to his mother's boyfriend, needing to get out of there at once.
Harvey sighed, turning around to look at Mary whose eyes were wet and wide.
"No problem, Son." He said kindly.
They watched Sheldon disappear into the crowd, before Watson turned to look at Amy.
"Well, hello there young lady. Miss Fowler, right?" He asked her sweetly.
Amy nodded.
"Hello, Sheriff. It's nice to see you again. Merry Christmas." She said, but her voice was distracted.
Mary puckered her brows.
"Again? You two have met before?"
It was obvious to Harvey that Mary didn't know about her Son's run in with Miss Fowler. As Mary's eyes darted from Harvey to Amy, he knew he had to come up with something fast.
"Um…yeah. When Miss Fowler here first came into town, she got lost. Seems Missy's directions weren't all that clever." He chuckled.
Amy followed suit after a moment, chuckling as well.
"She called dispatch for some help, and I got the call." Harvey explained, his eyes boring into Amy's. She smiled gratefully at the Sheriff.
"Yes, Ma'am. Thank Heavens for Sheriff Watson." She said respectfully, earning a lovestuck smile from Mary.
Mary walked over to Amy, clasping her hands tightly.
"I'm Mary Cooper, Sheldon and Melissa's mama. Welcome to Texas, my dear. How do you like The Lone Star State?" She asked sweetly, and Amy tried to smile as best she could. Her mind was focused on Sheldon right now, and worried about where he had wandered off to.
"It's lovely, Mrs. Cooper. Thank you. Your cottage is beautiful. I feel right at home, there." Amy said shyly, lowering her gaze.
Mary smiled warmly at the young woman, her smile reaching her eyes as she studied her. She was certainly a pretty little thing; not overly made up or statuesque like Missy was, but sweet and charming with an innocent air about her that Mary found adorable. She wondered if this girl and her son were forging more than just a friendship. But she dismissed that idea at once. This was Shelly she was talking about. Nothing held his interest for very long unless it had to do with particle dust or numbers. A mother could dream, though…
"Why thank you, Sugar. I appreciate that. It is a lovely place. We were thinking of selling it, since we rarely go out there anymore. We used to spend all of our Christmas's there, though…" She said, a melancholy tone to her voice.
Amy quirked a brow, remembering Marsha Jackson's words about Mary selling the place. It seemed a pity such a wonderful home would no longer be in their family. Amy lamented the thought as though she herself were one of the family.
"Well…I hope you change your mind. It's a magical place." Amy said quietly.
Mary agreed, smiling.
Harvey looked between Mary and Amy, certain that the latter woman was developing feelings for Mary's son. He knew something was brewing that day he went out to the cottage; by the time he drove away and watched the youngins' there in the driveway staring at each other, his first thought was they would be just fine together. Judging by the way they were acting tonight, Harvey was sure they were both falling in love with each other. Her eyes would not leave the crowds, searching for him. Harvey thought he should step in try to get a hold of Sheldon before he grew even more upset.
"I'm going to go find your Son. Watch our guest here, Mary." Harvey suggested, patting Mary on the back softly. He took three paces before Mary turned around in concern.
"Harvey…maybe Sheldon won't like the idea of you runnin' after him. Maybe I should go." Mary said seriously.
Harvey cocked a brow at Mary, folding his arms.
"Listen, Love. This is sort of a…man thing. He got hot under the collar because of that punk. He needs to cool off. Trust me; he doesn't want his mama chasing after him right now. Just leave him be. I'll check on him, make sure he's alright and tell him to join us when he's ready. Okay?"
Amy watched the sadness flicker in Mrs. Cooper's eyes over the fact her son was hurting. It touched her to know that Sheriff Watson was really trying to be there for Sheldon. She wondered if Sheldon knew how much he honestly cared for him.
"Okay," She agreed, blowing the Sheriff a kiss.
Unable to do anything but wait, Mary turned her eyes towards Amy.
"How 'bout you and me go get some kettle corn, Darlin'?" She asked in a watery voice. Amy nodded.
"I'd like that." Amy whispered, smiling as Mary linked her arm with hers.
As they walked back towards the fire, Amy couldn't help but steal glances in the crowd, looking for Sheldon. Mary noticed, smiling serenely.
Maybe her dream would come true after all?
Xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
The cottage was dark when they arrived back, save for a lone lamp in the dining room. Chaucer was curled up under the table and his ears perked up when they walked through the door.
Sheldon threw his car keys in the bowl by the door, the sound making a heavy clank that had Amy worried he broke it. Her eyes followed him as he went into the kitchen, grabbing a beer out of the fridge and popping it open. She watched him drink it down greedily, unaware they even had beer in there.
She knew he wasn't much of a drinker, and his actions worried her. He hadn't said a word to her on the way back from the bonfire, the silence in the car making her crazy. She wasn't surprised, though. She knew this Brett character was the one Sheldon had feared and hated most growing up.
Sheldon threw his empty beer bottle in the recycle bin under the sink, leaning up against it and crossing his arms tightly. Amy could tell he was wound tighter than a drum and didn't know exactly what to say to him that wouldn't upset him even further. But she figured she'd start with the obvious.
"Do you want to talk about what happened tonight? You were having such a good time before…you know." She said quietly, attempting to step closer to him. Sheldon realized what Amy was doing, though, and skirted around her, heading for the stairs.
"Thank you, but I don't. Goodnight." He said abruptly, trying to keep his composure before he broke down in front of her. He had to get out of here. He couldn't let her see him like this. Not again.
Not only had Brett brought up long buried feelings of fear and insecurity, he had humiliated him once again by saying what he did about Sheldon never dating, or sealing the deal with a woman. Then to add kindling to the inferno, he had dared to put his slimy hand on Dr. Fowler. Each time he closed his eyes, Sheldon's perfect memory replayed the look of his appendage on her dainty back. He didn't know what came over him in that instant. All that had mattered was getting Amy away from him.
Sheldon made it halfway to the living room before Amy stopped him by grabbing his sweater gently. He turned around with closed eyes, wishing she would just let this drop.
"Talk to me." She begged, afraid for him. He seemed like he was on the edge of something terrible. Common sense told her to leave him be. She knew he suffered from PTSD, and he might lash out at her. But her growing feelings for him told her that he would never hurt her. She only prayed that she was right.
"Please." She implored, her eyes open and kind.
In that moment, Sheldon wished that he could halt his tongue. But there was no way he could. Long suppressed feelings of helplessness came gushing out, and he was powerless to stop it.
"What do you want me to say, Amy? That I was angry to see my childhood bully hitting on you? Because I was. I wanted to pick him up and throw him into that fire." Sheldon thundered. "He had no right to assume you weren't with me. How dare he lay his filthy hand on you? How dare he curse in front of you? How dare he even look at you! He isn't fit to lick the ground you walk upon. I wanted to rip him apart. He has no respect. He never did." Sheldon yelled angrily, his eyes wild.
Amy raised a hand to her heart, rubbing an imaginary wound there. She hated that Sheldon was in pain and she didn't know how to help him. The idea that he could be jealous of Brett asking her to dance floored her. But it was more than that; he was protecting her from the same wolf that used to torment him. The fact he cared enough about her to do that made her want to hold him.
Something else forced its way to the forefront of her scattered thoughts.
"You…you called me Amy." She whispered, waiting until Sheldon raised his eyes to hers before moving closer to him. "You've never called me that before." She said, her soft voice cracking.
Sheldon opened and closed his mouth, staring at her with a repentant expression.
"I'm sorry. I never should have been so disrespectful. You didn't give me permission to call you by your given name," Sheldon apologized, moving once again to go upstairs. Amy blocked his way.
"It's fine. I like it." She admitted shyly. Sheldon swallowed roughly, not knowing how to respond to that.
She is Dr. Fowler. Dr. Fowler. Dr. Fowler… Clinical and detached. Stay clinical and detached.
"Excuse me," He mumbled, trying again to go upstairs. Amy didn't try to restrain him again, but called out to him in a last ditch attempt to try to comfort him.
"Please, Sheldon. Stay here and talk to me. I want to help you. You shouldn't be alone right now." She said thoughtfully.
Sheldon stopped midway up the stairs before returning to the bottom. He was tired, and confused, and raw. The last thing he wanted to do was take out his anger on Amy. But he had to know.
"Why do you even care? Why? Why are you so eager to help me? Am I some charity case that you feel you have to help in your mission to heal the world?" He beseeched, pain evident in his every word.
Amy rapidly shook her head back and forth.
"No, of course not. I just…care. I do. Can't you simply accept the fact that someone cares? Without strings attached and without being forced to?" She asked him plaintively.
Sheldon's face twisted up with something painful. He thought of his friends, and how they all put up with him due to some strange friendship code. He had to have a roommate agreement with his own best friend, out of fear of him just walking out on him one day.
There were always strings attached, Sheldon thought in desolation.
"No! I can't. Because people lie. People laugh. People don't want to know the real me. They think I'm tedious. Overbearing. Exhausting. They say they care, but they really don't. People leave." He whimpered, his lips contorting in grief.
Amy gasped at Sheldon's honesty. Tears rolled down her cheeks as she realized how alike they truly were. If only Sheldon knew…
Sheldon balanced from foot to foot, seemingly lost in what to do next.
Amy knew what she had to do, and she prayed she had the courage to do it. Stepping closer to him, Amy reached out and put her hands on top of Sheldon's. His eyes widened and drifted down to see the way she delicately wrapped her fingers around his tight grip.
"I'm here! I'm here now, and I'm not going anywhere. I'm your friend, Sheldon. Please, believe me. Please, trust me. " Amy said passionately.
He wanted to believe her so badly.
"Why are you doing this?" He whispered, tears clogging his throat.
Amy offered him the only explanation she could.
"Because…you're worth it." She answered with feeling, her tears streaming down her cheeks to pool on her lips.
Dams are considered to be "installations containing dangerous forces". No statement was ever truer. Because Sheldon Cooper's dam was breached that night, and the force behind it was staggering.
Sheldon closed the distance between them and reached out to grab Amy so tightly that he worried he was going to crack one of her ribs. His arms engulfed her small frame, delighting in the way her own arms encircled his back. She was so small, yet so strong as well. A beautiful paradox.
"I'm here, I'm here." She repeated over and over. "Let it out. Let it go. He's not worth your tears, Sheldon. It's over. You've moved so far beyond him. He's in the past. Let him remain there," She whispered.
His tears began to flow in a never ending ebb, soaking her shoulder and neck. He stooped down due to their measurable height difference, wrapping his arms lower around her waist and back. He had never hugged anyone this way in his entire life. This needy, all consuming contact that made him feel empty and filled up simultaneously.
"I hate him. I hate what he did to me. I hate how I still can't get past it. I hate how he struts around thinking he is some king of the hill. I hate…I hate…that he dared to touch you," Sheldon moaned, burying his face in Amy's neck and sobbing. "What if I weren't there to protect you? God knows what that monster is capable of." He cried.
Amy guided Sheldon over to the couch, not breaking contact and falling down with him with a soft thump. She cradled Sheldon tightly, running her fingers through his soft as silk hair. He cried and cried, the sobs wracking his tall frame so deeply that they were both vibrating. Amy held on, afraid that if she let go he would disappear.
"I'm sorry. I'm so sorry," He whimpered over and over, and Amy didn't know if he was seeking atonement for his former behavior or for breaking down on her tonight. It didn't matter anymore. It broke her heart that she had to be the one to comfort him after years of bottling it up inside of him. But then again, she knew she'd have it no other way. If he trusted her enough to confide in her, then she was glad she could be of comfort. No one had ever needed her before. The feeling was overwhelming, in a good way.
Amy kissed Sheldon's temple, closing her eyes as his scent overwhelmed her. He slid his head sideways, and Amy stared at his wet eyelashes with a lump in her throat. She kissed his forehead tenderly, which only seemed to make Sheldon cry harder as years and years of pent up anger and frustration came pouring out. Through it all, she never released him.
They fell asleep in an exhausted pile of limbs, time just drifting away.
Hours later Sheldon stirred and lifted his head, his gaze drifting over to find Amy snuggled next to him on the couch fast asleep. His arms were still wrapped around her body, and Sheldon tried to untangle them gently as so not to wake her. He moved off of her and sat up, shocked to realize he had been practically lying on top of her using her for a pillow. A gush of air came forcefully from his lungs as earlier came flooding back.
He was embarrassed over his behavior. But he was even more embarrassed over his blatant jealously. He was being overprotective of Amy once he saw the way Brett was looking at her. But it was more than that. He was jealous. When he walked up and saw them together, his mind…his beautiful, perfect mind…scattered of every intelligent thought save one:
She is mine.
Sheldon leaned forward, placing his head in his hands. He was exhausted from crying, drained from the mental break down, and strung out from these emotions that were coursing through him like lightning. Turning back to Amy, he was startled to find her awake, watching him with drowsy eyes.
"Are you alright?" She whispered in the dimness, her voice tender.
Sheldon bit his lip harshly.
"Yes. Thanks to you." He admitted, lowering his gaze.
Amy smiled at him, feeling her heart skip. She sat up gingerly, looking around bashfully at their position. Her wool skirt had risen up and her lower thighs were visible. Sheldon followed her vision, turning away quickly once he noticed what Amy was looking at.
"I need to get up and stretch," Amy said quietly, and Sheldon jumped up at once.
"I'm sorry you were so uncomfortable. You need to go upstairs and get a proper nights rest. It's only after 2 am. You have plenty of time to get some sleep," He said softly, watching her like a hawk.
Amy nodded, her eyes meeting his.
"Will you be alright?" She whispered sweetly, and Sheldon had the unbearable urge to engulf her in his arms again. This time, though, he wanted to do more than hug her. He wanted to kiss her senseless. Brand her as his own and never let her go.
The thought frightened the hell out of him, and he took an involuntary step back from her to distance himself.
"Yes. I'll be fine. Goodnight, Amy." He said softly, and Amy knew it was time to leave him be for now.
"Goodnight, Sheldon. Sweet dreams." She murmured, heading upstairs swiftly. She turned to Chaucer, curious as to why he hadn't followed her.
"Come on, boy. Bed time." She called out in his favorite voice, but the gentle giant wouldn't move from his post by the couch. He scooted closer to Sheldon, laying one of his massive paws across Sheldon's foot. Amy gazed back at Sheldon in surprise, who looked equally shocked at Chaucer's behavior. Sitting back down on the couch, Sheldon leaned down and stroked the dog's head gently. Chaucer got up, placing his head on Sheldon's lap and stared at him with longing.
Amy began to cry, touched at the scene. She knew Chaucer was developing feelings for Sheldon, but she never imagined he would be so protective over him. He was telling Sheldon that he wanted to stay with him.
"I…I think he'd like to stay with you tonight. Do you mind?" Amy asked, her voice strained. Sheldon met her teary eyed gaze with his own.
"No." He whispered simply, petting Chaucer's face and neck.
Amy nodded, not allowing herself to break down until she was safely in her room.
Undressing on auto-pilot, Amy threw on her silk pajamas and slid the covers off of her bed to climb in. The sheets were cold and Amy shivered and tried to adjust. Her heart was in tatters. She knew to her core that what she wanted to do was go back downstairs to Sheldon, and hold him again. All night. He was so warm and strong.
Waking up wrapped in his arms had been an experience she would never forget. It was the first and probably last time something like that would ever happen to her. She tried to savor each moment in her mind, hanging on to it tightly.
She had laid there in the dark earlier, silently praying he wouldn't move. When she felt Sheldon untangle himself from her, she nearly had cried. She supposed it wouldn't have been proper, to let their embrace go on longer than what was appropriate. He had needed comfort, and she had given it.
Amy sobbed into her pillow for hours that night, knowing the time was coming where she would have to open up to Sheldon as well. He deserved her honesty.
She only hoped that she had the strength to give it.
A/N – Thank you for reading. A subtle shift has taken place this chapter in the fact they are on a first name basis now. As always, let me know your thoughts. x