Disclaimer: I own none of these characters. They are the property of the creators of The Big Bang Theory.

Walking reluctantly, Amy felt her pulse pound her temple as she followed Penny and Bernadette down a short, musty hallway. Slowing their pace, the three friends stopped short when they eventually approached a door, which led into their self-defense class, already in progress. The room, tucked in the back corner of their local gym, was large and very crowded; full of women in spandex with high, tight ponytails. After checking the roster on the door, Amy lifted her chin, nodding that she'd found their names on the list.

"It's the correct class," she offered, her nerves still gripping her. Together, they emerged from the entrance and soon blended into the small crowd, surveying and waiting, not sure exactly what they should do. Out of nowhere, Bernadette lifted her arm, waving to a confident, tall woman with broad shoulders; a woman who puffed out her chest when she looked over curiously in their direction. The towering blonde quickly strolled over and slapped Bernadette on the back; her eyes gleaming while holding a huge, sloppy grin.

"Bernadette, I can't believe it's you!" she said, her voice booming over the chatter. "My goodness, how the hell are ya?"

Bernadette smiled brightly; her eyes full of admiration. "I'm great," she said, and quickly turned to her friends. "This is my friend, Amy, and my friend, Penny." Then she turned back, sliding her arm around the woman, giving her a quick hug. "And Amy and Penny, this is my friend, Joy."

Amy smiled cordially, while Penny's eyes widened, locking onto the woman with suspicion. Without noticing, Bernadette continued happily. "Joy and I met during my last self-defense class," she explained, and looked over to her old friend. "Wow, it's been, what? About a year and a half?"

Joy smacked some gum in her mouth. "Yeah, I think so. Man, I was so glad when you e-mailed me." She paused, wiping her nose. "So, how'd you hear that I became certified?"

"Oh, do you remember Karen?" Bernadette asked quickly. "She's the one that took that spin class with you." Joy nodded, while Bernadette continued. "I saw her at the store a while back. She told me."

Nodding, Joy responded, "Cool." Then she turned, and looked Amy up and down. "So, are you ready to kick some ass?"

Amy stiffened, and widened her eyes. "Uh... sure."

Joy grinned and then snorted, wiping her nose again. "Too bad we don't have any real men here, am I right?" She slapped Amy on the back, then turned to a trash can next to her, sitting by the wall. There, she expelled her gum, before wiping some spit from her mouth.

She began to move away, calling behind her, "Okay, then. Class is about to start. You guys just find an empty spot."

When she was gone, Penny turned to Bernadette, blinking. "Is that the Joy? The one you set Leonard up with?"

Bernadette grinned. "The one and only."

Penny brought a hand to her mouth, hiding her smile. "She's teaching the class?" When Bernadette nodded back, Penny's expression widened. "Oh, I so can't wait to tell Leonard I met her! She's just, well... she's lovely, isn't she?"

Bernadette shook her head, rolling her eyes. "Be nice."

They found a spot to sit on the floor with the other women, and Joy immediately began, startling all of them with her booming, loud voice.

"Welcome to self-defense class," she announced harshly, before abruptly leaving the group, walking over to the adjacent wall. They sat and stared, as she grabbed a huge dummy that looked like a man, and slid it across the floor. It was tall, and the top was molded into the shape of a man's chest, while the bottom looked like a "U" turned upside down.

From the floor, Amy could see that the top looked to be made out of rubber, while the material on the bottom seemed softer, like a punching bag. She assumed that was supposed to be the man's legs, and of course, his private area.

Joy smiled wickedly at them. "We're here because, as you know, the world is full of assholes." Leaning her weight against the dummy, she scratched her armpit, before looking over to Bernadette. "Bernie, would you mind coming up for a quick demonstration?"

Bernadette smiled from the floor and lifted; then walked slowly to the front of the class. Joy turned her so that her back was in front of the dummy. "Bernie here is walking to her car in a dimly lit parking lot. A man has just come up to her from behind and grabbed her with both arms." She looked to Bernadette. "So, honey, what do you do?"

Bernadette cleared her throat. "Well, if I remember correctly," she said, backing up closer to the dummy, "I try to soften the grip of the attacker by moving my elbows back into his chest. Like this." Bernadette jerked her elbows back, and the dummy bounced away.

Joy nodded. "Good. That also distracts him so you can do what?"

Bernadette balled up her fist. "A hammer fist to the groin." She jerked her arm back, punching the dummy in the middle of its "U". Everyone in the room flinched, while Bernadette smiled with pride.

"Thanks, Bernie. Great job," Joy said, slapping her on the back. Bernadette nodded, while Joy motioned for her to sit down. "Ladies," Joy said, turning back to the class, "that was my good friend, Bernadette. We took a Israeli Krav Maga class together a while back, and as you can see, even though she is small; she is definitely not defenseless."

Joy scratched the spandex near her crotch, before loudly clearing her throat. "Now... this is a basic class of self defense. For six weeks, we'll learn some standard moves with the dummy here, and then, during our last class, we'll practice with a live person. My brother Joe has hesitantly volunteered to be the punching bag. He'll be wearing protection, of course."

She paused, and then abruptly, she turned, pointing to a woman sitting close to her on the floor. "You. What's the first rule of self defense?"

Surprised, the woman looked up, stammering. "Um... I..."

"Speak, woman!" Joy barked, waiting, and then gave up, turning her attention to Penny.

"You!"

Penny widened her eyes, and then opened her mouth slowly. "You kick him between the legs?"

Joy smiled. "That's not a rule, but I like the way you think." With a serious expression, she looked to the class. "The first rule of self defense is that there are no rules. In a life or death situation, you do whatever you can to hurt the assailant and survive. It's war, it's your life, and you have to win. You hurt the asshole and then get the hell out of there."

She looked back down to Penny. "Come up here, Penny."

Penny stood and walked over, and Joy turned her face toward the dummy. "You're on a date and a man tries to force himself on you. What do you do?"

Penny immediately jerked her leg back and kicked the dummy as hard as she could between its legs. It bounced all the way to the floor.

"That's it, woman, you hurt that son of a bitch!" Joy yelled. "Do it again!"

Penny kicked it again even harder than before, and the class burst out in cheers. Joy nodded to her, smiling proudly.

"Obviously not your first time."

Penny nodded back, laughing, before returning to her seat. She patted Amy's shoulder as she sat down, and Amy smiled back at her, before looking over to Joy; her eyes searching.

"You!" Joy immediately pointed to Amy. "You look like you have something to say."

Amy's expression widened, as color rose to her cheeks. Everyone was looking at her, and she spoke softly.

"Yes, I have a question," she agreed, her voice stiff. "What if he has you pinned against a wall?"

Amy felt Penny take her hand, while Joy narrowed her eyes.

"Speak up! I can't hear you."

Amy frowned, glaring, before clearing her throat. "What if he has you pinned against a wall?"

Joy studied her, her lids lowering. "Do you have experience with that?"

Amy felt herself flush, but said nothing, as Joy put her hand on the dummy.

"There's several techniques you could use," she told her. "Why don't you come up and we can try a couple out?"

Penny patted her shoulder. "You can do it, Amy."

"Get up here!" Joy bellowed. Amy glared at her again, before slowly lifting and moving from the floor. She walked nervously to the front, her head down, while Joy placed her hands squarely on her hips, watching her.

"You think I'm a bitch; just admit it," she challenged when Amy approached and stood in front of her. Eyes piercing, Amy remained silent, but kept her gaze. "That's good," Joy said, while a smile played on her lips. "Use that anger and let's hurt this asshole." She turned Amy toward the dummy and stood behind her.

"Okay, I'm the wall behind you. Now move the dummy closer," she instructed. Amy complied, taking a breath as she looked at the thing; the plastic mere inches from her nose. She felt her heart hammer while distinct images from her memory came flooding back.

"So, what do you want to do?" Joy asked.

Amy took a quivering breath, trying to focus. "Push him," she whispered.

"Speak, woman!"

Frowning, Amy felt anger rise in her chest. "Push him!" she yelled.

Behind her, Joy smiled. "Yes! One advantage you have is that he's close to you. That means you're also close to him. Which means you can hurt him."

Amy nodded, while Joy turned her head. "So, push him with one arm, and then with the other arm, hit him. You're going to use what's called a forearm strike. Ball up your fist and hit him square in the chest as hard as you can."

Amy balled her fist.

"Do it!"

Amy struck it, as hard as she could, in the middle of its chest.

"Now, lift your knee and smash his nuts!" Joy yelled.

Amy did what she said, using all of her energy, and the dummy bounced away.

Joy nodded with approval. "Okay... this time let's try an elbow strike. Try to push him away, while lifting your elbow, turning and hitting him square in the face."

Amy turned, raising her elbow, and hit the dummy in the face with all of her might.

"Now kick that son of a bitch again!"

Amy kicked it, and then kicked it again, and then again, using more strength than she knew she had. Catching her breath, she stood up tall, watching as the dummy bounced back and forth in front of her.

"Again!"

Amy mustered more energy, and did exactly what Joy said. She raged on the thing, punching it again in the chest and kicking it between the legs until she almost lost her balance. Everyone in the room cheered, until she finally slowed down; her chest rising and falling with each sputtering breath.

Stepping back, Joy looked at her intently, fully satisfied. "You almost killed that son of a bitch. Good job."

Amy grinned and straightened, suddenly feeling very confident, as she glanced happily down to the floor. She saw Bernadette and Penny huddled together with huge smiles, beaming back at her, their eyes filled with pride.

Sheldon blinked, and blinked some more; the image in front of him coming into focus, very slowly.

Roger Clemmons?

Pushing a hand to his pocket, he stood silently, feeling awkward and curious, all at the same time. Roger returned his gaze and brought up a wrinkled fist, rubbing red-rimmed eyes in what seemed to be a fit of emotion. With a blank expression, Sheldon watched as the old man's chest heaved beneath his black blazer.

Then, Roger brought down an arm and offered Sheldon his hand.

Sheldon looked at it, eyes wide, as the old man slowly stepped forward. With an overwhelming desire to flee, Sheldon hesitated with a feeling of sudden fright, but then he forced himself to remain, keeping his stance.

Why? he thought. Why is Jared's father here?

Timidly taking a step, he clasped his hand over Roger's. "Mr. Clemmons," Sheldon began, his jaw clenched, his expression stern. "This is certainly a surprise."

Roger nodded back, his grip tight on Sheldon's fingers. "Yes," he said hoarsely. "It is."

Sheldon caught his expression and frowned, feeling a sudden sadness when he studied the older man's swollen, tear-stained features. Roger looked as if he'd aged several years in the days since he'd last seen him, and Sheldon felt his pulse race with the memory returning to his mind. The fear he felt while standing on that doorstep in Oregon was still fresh to him, as well as the overwhelming pain he'd experienced later during that trip.

Sheldon brought a hand to his neck, shuddering with the thought. "Why are you here?" he demanded.

Roger glanced to Sheldon's hand, before looking away with anguish. He took in a breath and then coughed, as he reached into his pocket for a crumpled tissue.

"Dr. Cooper," he finally said, looking sheepish. "I know I'm the probably last person you want to see, or talk to. I just need a moment of your time. Please."

Shifting on his feet, Sheldon eyed him, and noticed something very soft in his expression. He was reminded of the comfort Roger provided when he'd arrived in Oregon and attempted to face Jared. Letting out a breath, he reached into his pocket, finding his keys.

"Very well," he muttered, before walking to the door, and Roger stepped back. Sheldon opened it and moved to the side, allowing Roger plenty of room to enter. "You can have a seat on the couch," he instructed.

Roger let out a breath and looked relieved, as a slight smile played on his lips. "Thank you. It will be nice to sit down. I'm a bit winded after climbing those stairs."

Sheldon nodded and watched as Roger shuffled into the room, feeling slight hesitation before closing the door. Leaving it open, he walked briskly past the couch and then down the hall, checking for Leonard's presence in both of the bedrooms. When he couldn't find him, he returned back to the door and glanced anxiously across the hall to Penny's apartment. Recalling that she was gone to class with Amy, he turned and walked steadily back to the kitchen, leaving the door wide open.

Roger settled himself on the couch, while Sheldon picked up a note on the counter. Reading it, he became aware that Leonard was currently at work.

"I'm not a threat to you," Roger suddenly said, looking up. "I'm a 75-year-old man. You don't have to leave the door open."

Sheldon sat the note down before clearing his throat. He paled as Roger studied him.

"Again – why are you here?"

Roger shifted in his seat, while bracing himself upright with his hands. "Can we talk?" he inquired, in a tone that was almost begging. "Can you sit next to me?"

Sheldon pushed back from the counter and sighed. "I suppose." Then he hesitated. "Do you need a beverage?"

Roger shook his head. "No, I'm fine. But thanks for asking."

Nodding, Sheldon slowly strolled over; his thoughts clouded with confusion. He sat down in his spot, before turning apprehensively in Roger's direction.

The old man seemed to read Sheldon's thoughts. "I know I'm being very bold, coming over here like this," he admitted, almost choking on his words. "But I just had to see you again. One more time – I had to see the man that sent my Jared back to prison."

Sheldon peered at him. "Jared sent himself to prison, Mr. Clemmons..."

"Yes, I know. I know. You misunderstand me." Roger brought out his tissue and wiped his nose. Sniffing, he looked down to his lap, while wringing and clenching his fists. A tear fell from his face, as he brought the tissue back up, wiping it away.

"Mr. Clemmons," Sheldon interjected, this time, in a softer tone. "I don't want to rehash what happened. But please, just tell me, really. Why are you here?"

Roger nodded, while taking in a quivering breath. "Forgive me, Dr. Cooper. I'm an old man, and I've been in a car for many hours. We drove all night to come and visit you. We left straight from the funeral, and I'm very tired and weak."

Sheldon's eyes rounded as Roger looked up, meeting his gaze. "Funeral?"

Roger blinked, his voice barely above a whisper. "Yes, Dr. Cooper. My son committed suicide. He is dead."

Feeling a lump in his throat, Sheldon blinked; his mind completely blank. He had no idea what to say.

"It's okay," Roger offered, holding up a hand. "I expect no sympathy. I wanted you to know, since this news will affect you, and your girlfriend." He paused, wiping his nose again. "I know both of you were probably worried about your pending charges, and whether or not you would have to come back to Oregon. And I know your girlfriend didn't want to face Jared again. So, anyway... it's over for both of you. I just wanted you to know."

Sheldon watched Roger avert his eyes to the couch. Sheldon also looked away, and he sat in uncomfortable silence. A huge part of him was relieved, until he looked back to Roger, and witnessed the pain on his face.

"I'm sorry for your loss," Sheldon said softly, as Roger looked quickly back up. "He was your son. It must be very difficult for you."

Roger's frown deepened, and he shook his head. "Yes, it's been difficult, but not as bad as the day I learned of what he did to you." At that, Roger reached across the couch, trying to grab Sheldon's hand. Instead of offering it, Sheldon recoiled, and moved further back to his spot.

Roger crossed his arms. "I'm sorry. I don't mean to be forward, but that brings me to the other reason why I'm here." He paused, taking a shaky breath. "I want to apologize to you for my son. I... I... can't tell you enough how deeply sorry I am. For everything. And," he hesitated, clearing his throat, "I want you to know that I'm happy for you, Sheldon. I'm so happy that you were able to defend yourself, and make it out okay. I know Jared, and I know how strong and ruthless he was, especially when under the influence. Please don't think I'm being too forward, but I just wanted to tell you that."

Disbelieving, Sheldon gaped at him. Then he blinked, his expression growing softer. "I tried to defend myself, Mr. Clemmons. But, ultimately, I needed help to escape what he... did." Sheldon paused, meeting his eyes. "I do appreciate your sentiment, and I realize that you're grieving. But I don't need any attention from you. It's okay. You didn't have to come here."

"Oh, but I did," Roger cut in. "As soon as I left the funeral, I knew I had to see you. I had to see the man – the physicist – that defended himself against my son and brought him down. I just had to see you again... and thank you."

Sheldon blinked, realizing that his eyes were moist. "Why are you thanking me? Your son is dead..."

"Yes." Roger's voice was heavy, full of emotion. "But he left a note, Sheldon. After a few days in jail, the alcohol and those damn drugs finally left his system. Believe it or not, he felt remorse. For his ex-wife. For your girlfriend. And, for you."

Roger coughed into his tissue before bringing it down. "He killed himself because he couldn't believe what he'd done. Damn it, he almost killed you, Sheldon. And he knew it." Roger couldn't look at Sheldon, and turned his eyes away.

"Thank God – he finally felt remorse. At least I know he died knowing he'd done wrong. At least I know it was my Jared that wrote that letter, and not those damn drugs."

Then Roger broke down and wept, his hands up, covering his face. Sheldon stared at him, eyes wide, and scooted over on the couch. He patted him on the back, while looking down.

"You were a good father," he stated.

Roger chuckled through his fingers. "You don't even know me, Dr. Cooper. But thank you."

He brought down one of his hands, and wiped his face with the other. He looked slowly around the apartment, trying to calm down.

"This is a nice place you have," he commented.

Sheldon moved back, hands in his lap. "Thank you." He sat silently, watching Roger continue to sputter with his tissue.

"Are you sure you don't need a beverage?"

Roger shook his head, while another chuckle began to rise in his throat. "Aren't you the polite one? But, no. Thank you, though." He paused then, his watery eyes studying Sheldon further. "Obviously, your father does a much better job with you than I did with my son."

Sheldon looked away, clearing his throat. "My father is dead."

"Oh." Roger stared at him, unsure. "Well, he must have been very proud of you."

Sheldon was silent, and looked to the couch. He said nothing.

Rubbing his neck, Roger eyed him and then sighed, looking around the room. "I was so proud of Jared when he was younger. He was a football star in high school, did you know that?" He paused again, shaking his head with remorse. "He was so popular; everyone loved him. I know that's probably hard for you to believe." He frowned, seeming to think to himself. After a moment, he sighed heavily, and continued.

"His mother and I did everything we were supposed to do. We encouraged him; gave him a loving home. But I suppose..." Roger trailed off, almost to a whisper, "we must have done something wrong. I will feel guilty to my grave."

Sheldon moved his head, catching the old man's eyes. "Don't blame yourself," he said.

"Who else is there to blame?" Roger shook his head vigorously. "I mean, look at you, Sheldon. Such a nice boy with such a promising future. And you sit here – with the father of the man that almost killed you. And you try to lift his spirits. You're a saint, Dr. Cooper."

Sheldon lifted a brow at him. "That's the first time I've ever been called that."

With his statement, Roger finally managed a smile. He searched Sheldon's eyes. "I'm so sorry, Sheldon. For everything."

Sheldon looked away then, and cleared his throat. "Mr. Clemmons, I appreciate that you came, and I'm sorry, too. For your loss."

Roger nodded and he sat again in awkward silence, until he began to push his body forward. "Well, I know I've probably overstayed my welcome. My ride is waiting for me downstairs, so I will go, and leave you in peace."

Nodding slowly, Sheldon pushed himself from his spot and lifted, before following Roger to the hallway. When they reached the exit, Roger turned around, looking up to Sheldon.

"For what it's worth, Dr. Cooper... I'm sure your father was very proud of you."

Sheldon tightened his lips, staring down at the old man.

"My father was a drunk, Mr. Clemmons," he stated.

Roger widened his eyes, shifting on his feet as he held Sheldon's stare.

"But you loved him," he said slowly.

Looking away, Sheldon didn't say a word. Taking the hint, Roger cleared his throat and walked away, his head down as he reached the stairs.

"Have a safe trip home," he heard Sheldon say.

Turning, Roger nodded, but then opened his mouth, hesitating to speak.

"What is it?" Sheldon asked.

The old man gripped his hands together; the leathery skin moving its way across his knuckles. He looked up sheepishly, hoping to boldly make a request.

"I don't suppose... I could write to you?" he asked. "I'd love to know how you're doing. If that's okay?"

Sheldon brought a hand to his back, and felt heat begin to move across his cheeks. After a moment, he responded, while swiftly moving the same hand over to the door.

"Certainly," he said curtly, as he grabbed the knob. "That would be fine."

A slight smile hovered over Roger's lips, and then he turned, slowly descending the stairs. He made his way down while bringing a wrinkled fist back to his eyes, attempting once more to rub the pain away.

Amy wiped her brow and watched as Penny and Bernadette joined her in the corner of the room. The rest of the women were milling about, talking enthusiastically, while the class slowly came to a close. Amy placed her hands on her knees, catching her breath, feeling her body tingle with the inhale of fresh air.

Joy had lined all of them up after her "demonstrations" early in the class, and then displayed her technique for three different moves or "strikes". Each woman had a chance to practice by hitting the dummy, while Joy stood to the side, instructing, and screaming curse words of encouragement.

When Amy nodded to her friends, she turned her attention to the front of the class, where Joy was waving, demanding all of their attention. The room grew silent as every head turned to the front, watching their instructor.

Joy cleared her throat. "In the next class, we'll learn three more strikes, and we'll talk more about what to do in challenging scenarios," she said, placing hands on her hips. Then she smiled, bringing her chin up. "Everyone did very well today, so be proud. And remember, when you're prepared and empowered with right knowledge, you become the victor instead of the victim." She paused, grinning, her voice still booming.

"All of you have taken a courageous first step. I look forward to seeing you next week!"

She dismissed the class, and the room again began to fill with chatter. Amy looked back over to Penny and Bernadette, watching as they quickly grabbed their things from the floor. She was suddenly struck with how tired she felt – her arms ached and her foot tingled from kicking the dummy so many times. But, she thought, it was worth it. She felt empowered, and stronger than she'd ever, ever, felt before.

I feel good, she thought.

Joy approached them then, and turned her attention immediately to Amy.

"Great job today," she said, slapping Amy on the back. "You're a natural at this."

Grinning, Amy beamed back at her, before flipping her hair. "Yes, I know," she said, in a confident tone. "This is such a wonderful opportunity for me to demonstrate my abilities."

Over to the side, Penny and Bernadette glanced at each other. Then they looked back to Amy, eyes wide.

Joy slapped Amy on the back again. "That's what I like to hear!" she exclaimed. "I can't wait to see you gals next week. Don't forget to practice in front of the mirror."

"Oh, don't worry," Amy replied, still grinning, and looked over to her friends. "My brain's releasing so much serotonin right now, you girls may want to stand back." She stretched her arms over her head, before placing outstretched palms on her hips. "There's no telling what I might do."

Penny and Bernadette glanced to each other again, and then looked back to her, eyes stretched. Amy grabbed her bag, flipping her hair again, as she strode quickly from the room, without looking back. Following close behind, Bernadette stifled a giggle and leaned over to Penny.

"I guess a self-defense class was a good idea," she commented.

Penny nodded, smiling. "Yeah, no kidding."

When they finally caught up to her, Amy was already at the car with her chin up, gazing at the sky. "It's getting late," she commented to them, while Bernadette fished for her keys. "I want to get back. I need to talk to Sheldon."

Bernadette looked at Penny. "Sure." They loaded into the car and Bernadette pulled away; the conversation quickly turning to the class, and, to their instructor. Bernadette and Penny began to chat, mainly about the double date Bernadette and Howard had shared with Leonard and Joy. The conversation finally ended with Penny throwing herself back against the seat cushion in a fit of uncontrolled laughter.

When she finally leaned up, her quivering head bobbed up and down between Bernadette and Amy. "She actually said she needed to take a wicked whiz? Oh my God, I can't wait to tease Leonard about this!"

Bernadette grinned, looking behind her. "I know. I wish you could have seen his face when she said that. But, you know, I really do love Joy. When we took that class together, she was the best student there. So, I'm not surprised that she decided to become an instructor."

Amy nodded from the passenger seat. "Yes, she's a bit unconventional, but effective. I really, really enjoyed it."

Penny giggled in the back and then forcefully hit the side of the car with her foot. "Kick that son of a bitch!"

They exploded in laughter, and Bernadette wiped her eyes, looking to Penny in the mirror. "I swear, she must have cursed a thousand times!"

After finally settling down, the three of them rode in silence for several minutes. Amy looked out the window, watching as the buildings become a steady blur; her mind occupied on other things. After a moment, she took a deep breath and looked over to Bernadette, before glancing behind her to Penny.

She settled herself into the seat and blinked, working to keep her voice controlled.

"Sheldon proposed to me."

All at once, Bernadette slammed on brakes, causing them to scream at the top of their lungs, while their bodies jerked forward forcefully. Slowly, as they continued screaming, the car finally skidded to a halt. Bernadette shakily moved her head and checked behind them, letting out a breath when she realized they were still okay.

"Bernadette!" Amy cried. "What did you do? There could have been a car behind us!"

"I know!" Bernadette gripped the wheel, as Penny moved forward to the front, shoving her arms to Amy's shoulders. She moved Amy around to face her.

"Amy, what the hell did you just say?" Her eyes were wide with shock.

Amy blinked back at her. "Sheldon proposed to me, okay? Now, Bernadette, please get the car moving or get off the road!"

Bernadette jerked the wheel and moved them to an empty parking lot, which adjoined a nearby business. When she stopped the car, the air was thick while all eyes trained on Amy.

Taking a breath, Amy clarified. "He asked me this morning," she said, feeling a leap in her heart. "But I didn't answer him."

Her friends sat there, staring and blinking, until Penny raised her arms, grabbing both seats in front of her.

"Now, just hold on. Just hold on a damn minute." When she had their attention, she began to glide her arms in front of her, as if she were settling down a class of mischievous children.

"Everyone just calm down. Just calm down! I have something to say!"

Amy and Bernadette turned to their friend; eyes wide and trained on her reaction. After a moment, Penny shook her head wildly and took a deep breath, before looking wistfully into the air.

"Okay, I forgot what I was going to say."

Once again, the car shook with laughter, and Penny grinned sheepishly. Amy smiled back, gazing at her friends, eager to tell them everything.

"Start from the beginning," Bernadette prodded, and turned off the ignition, settling into her seat. Penny scooted closer to Bernadette, her eyes eager with anticipation.

Amy took a breath and told them the events of that morning, ending with the moment Bernadette had knocked on her door. Then she paused, and Bernadette just blinked at her, while Penny retreated back to her seat, kicking the side of the car again.

"That son of a bitch!"

Bernadette shot Penny a warning look, but Amy held up a hand.

"No, no. It's okay." Then she looked to Penny, narrowing her eyes. "But I don't think Mary Cooper would appreciate that sentiment."

Penny sighed heavily and frowned, but her expression soon lifted when she realized Amy was smiling again.

"Amy, why aren't you upset?" she asked.

Shaking her head, Amy looked to Penny, then back to Bernadette. "I admit that earlier I was hurt, confused, and... I suppose, frustrated. But, believe it or not, I feel better now. In fact, I'm very eager to see him."

Bernadette blinked at her. "But... you told him that you loved him, and he..."

Amy held up her hand again. "I know. I know. But, whether I like it or not, I understand Sheldon. He's not ready to tell me, and that's okay. I can live with that."

Bernadette glanced to Penny, her eyes still wide. Penny returned her gaze, then moved her stare back to Amy, her expression becoming soft. "I know that he loves you, Amy," she said with confidence. "He's just stubborn, you know."

Amy pressed her lips together and nodded in Penny's direction. "Thank you, bestie."

Blinking, Bernadette looked from Penny, back to Amy. "But, what are you going to do?" she asked softly. "What are you going to tell him?"

Amy held her breath for a moment, then slowly exhaled, before speaking with purpose. "It came to me when our class was over, out in the parking lot. I've made a decision, based on what really happened."

She took another breath, keeping her voice steady. "It wasn't a real proposal. We all know that. Sheldon wants something on paper, and without the relationship agreement, he figured this to be the next best thing. And... that's okay. I'm good with it." She paused, preparing herself to say it out loud.

"So, I'm going to let him off the hook. I won't hold him to it."

She paused again, before looking to her hands. "I know some day we'll be married – I know that – but not until he asks me for the right reasons. That's what I deserve."

Penny blinked, a tear forming beneath her lids. She reached out for her friend. "Oh, Amy..."

Amy looked up at her, continuing to smile. "It's okay. I'm okay. Really. I'm better than I've been in a long time. It really has been a great day for me. I feel very empowered, especially after that class."

Bernadette also reached out and took Amy's hand. "Really, Amy?"

Nodding, Amy beamed back at her. "Yes. Really. I know that some day Sheldon and I will take that big step, and get married. We've come so far, and I'm very encouraged. It's obvious that he wants to be with me – now more than ever. Why else would he want to spend every night with me, if he didn't?"

Amy looked into the air, sighing, and then smiled broadly, using a more confident tone.

"There's no going back now." She grinned, her eyes dancing with joy. "Don't worry. It won't be long until he's professing his love for me."

Both Penny and Bernadette's jaws dropped and they stared, before glancing to each other and back again. Amy looked back at them, blinking.

"What?"

A chuckle rose in Penny's throat as she looked knowingly at Bernadette.

"It's just that..." she froze, and then smiled back to Amy. "We've missed you." She grinned some more, and squeezed Amy's hand.

"Welcome back."

Both Penny and Bernadette were beaming as Amy studied them, frowning in confusion.

"Have I been somewhere?"

They just grinned, and Amy continued to stare, blinking, until eventually she felt her lips curl up. Penny squeezed her fingers further, while Bernadette sat upright, grabbing the wheel and moving to turn the ignition. Without saying another word, they continued to smile at each other, with mutual understanding, as the car slowly pulled back to the road.

The laundry room was empty when Sheldon entered and hoisted a huge basket up, with clothes spilling out as he slid it across the table's surface. He pulled his cell phone from his pocket and sat it next to him; his eyes searching over its continued silence. He felt a pang of disappointment, recalling that he'd also checked Penny's apartment before descending the stairs. He knew that Penny was still gone – which meant Amy was still out as well. Sighing, he began to unload and separate shirts from pants, and lights from darks.

He didn't bother with presorting and presoaking before coming down – he just wanted to get it done. And for some reason, he realized that he didn't care. Sighing, he hurriedly threw the clothes into the correct piles, while his brain attempted to process his lack of interest in things that used to comfort him – like doing the laundry on Saturday night. He wasn't sure why these things seemed less important to him than they used to be.

He glanced to his phone again and moved to the washer. Flipping the knob, he began to stuff it, sighing heavily in his boredom, glancing behind him one more time. The phone was still silent.

Maybe I should call her.

He turned and went back to the table, grabbing another load as he shook his head. No, he thought. Not yet. She's probably still in her class. He moved to another washing machine and threw in some socks and underwear, before turning the knob once more.

Placing his hands on the cool steel, he braced his body; his eyes trailing over a cascade of water flowing into the machine. He stood there, and for some reason, he felt his eyes flutter; the moisture under his lids suddenly beginning to sting his eyes. An image of Roger and Jared standing together in Oregon was fresh on his mind – and plaguing his senses – along with the image of Roger's face, just moments before, when he'd revealed to him news about his son.

Taking a breath, he tried to imagine Roger at Jared's funeral, saying good-bye, and then leaving immediately to come to Pasadena; riding all night long in a car, just to see him.

I'm sure your father was very proud of you.

Sheldon closed his eyes, his thoughts swirling. What is it about that man that causes me to feel empathy? he wondered. He'd felt it when he met him in Oregon, and he'd felt it again today, causing him to say words of comfort to a man he barely even knew – a man that he should have shunned and avoided. But instead, he'd accepted him into his home, and even told him that he'd been a good father.

Why did I say that? Sheldon thought. I don't even know the man.

Sighing, he took a breath, recalling the grief he'd experienced during his own father's death. Soon, an image of his mother came to mind, causing him to shake his head, determined to remove that all-too familiar scene from his thoughts. But he couldn't, and he saw her – standing next to his father's casket, holding a single rose in her hand as she wept. He'd watched her as she'd lifted the rose and placed it on top of the hard metal, while he just stood there, staring at her, confused by his own feelings and lack of emotion.

Opening his eyes, he slammed down the lid to the machine, and turned back toward the table. Moving the remaining clothes back into the basket, he mumbled under his breath, "Jared was a drunk, and my father was a drunk."

He took a breath, recalling Roger's face, and his tears.

They both hurt people that loved them, he thought.

Shoving the basket back, his mind began to swirl with more damaging thoughts.

They were the same.

Leaving the clothes there, he strode out of the room and headed for some fresh air, determined to clear his mind and take a long walk... destination unknown.

Before Amy could reach her building, Penny suddenly jumped from Bernadette's car, grabbing her from behind.

Startled, Amy turned quickly, scolding her. "Penny, don't do that! I almost had to bring you down!"

Penny giggled at her, but then, her expression turned serious. "I'm sorry, Aimes. But, do you remember what I said before in the car? About how I know that Sheldon loves you?"

Amy nodded, while Penny embraced her and quickly pulled her back, holding their hands between them. "Just because he can't say it doesn't mean it isn't true. Just remember that, okay?"

Smiling, Amy squeezed her bestie's hand. "I will."

Satisfied, Penny called out to her as she ran back to the car. "Just make sure to call me after you talk to him. I want to know every detail!"

Amy grinned at her and waved, as she watched the car pull away. Turning and full of energy, she took the stairs leading to her apartment two at a time, while flipping her phone from her purse. She brought it quickly to her ear and waited, holding her breath, listening to Sheldon's phone ring, over and over.

There was no answer.

Frowning, she brought the phone down and found that she was already at her floor. Bursting through the stairwell door, she quickly rounded her hallway, but stopped short when she saw a woman standing there, waiting for her by the apartment. She was petite and blonde, and wearing a black fitted dress.

The woman turned and watched as Amy approached, smoothing her hair and holding her hands in front of her. Amy dropped her phone back to her purse; her expression impassive as she approached the woman. When she reached her, the woman smiled timidly and stared at her curiously.

"Amy Farrah Fowler?" she asked, holding out her hand. "It's nice to meet you. I'm Beth Clemmons."

Amy shifted on her feet and eyed her suspiciously, but eventually took her hand. "You," she stammered, as shock settled into her features, "you're Jared's ex-wife?"

Nodding, Beth shook Amy's hand, before letting it drop. "Yes," she responded quietly, lowering her eyes. "Do you have a moment? I'd like to talk with you."

Suddenly aware that she was a mess, Amy looked down at her T-shirt and sweats, and then smoothed her ponytail with her sweaty palm. She glanced away, and then back again.

"Is this a bad time?" Beth asked. "I'm sorry for the intrusion. I just..." Beth stopped, and blinked, her eyes tired and heavy. "I really would like to thank you, and your boyfriend. For everything that both of you did."

Amy's expression slowly changed. "Oh. Well, that's okay. We didn't do anything..."

"But you did," Beth cut in, before taking a deep breath. She looked to the floor.

Amy watched her, in awe that Jared's ex-wife was standing there. She was a beautiful woman, but her eyes were sad, and full of regret and pain. Amy recalled the police reports she'd read detailing Beth's charges against her husband, and instantly, she decided to invite her in. But before she opened her mouth, Beth spoke again.

"I don't know if you realize it, Miss Fowler, but your boyfriend probably saved my life," she said.

Amy stared at her, speechless, as Beth continued.

"After your boyfriend – Dr. Cooper – was attacked, the police investigated Jared's bedroom," she clarified. "They uncovered evidence from the computer that Jared was investigating me, and my whereabouts. He was planning to find me, just before your boyfriend arrived at his house." She paused and took a quivering breath, while her eyes searched, boring into Amy's soul.

"Please," she said softly. "I just want to talk to you for a moment. I have news that I need to share with you, plus, someone is waiting for me in the car. So, I'll only take a few minutes of your time."

Amy suddenly reached out, taking her hand. Her voice was gentle. "Yes, of course. Do you want to invite your friend in the car up as well? I could make some tea."

Looking relieved, Beth shook her head. "No, the person in the car is Jared's father. We drove up together, and he's already talked to Dr. Cooper. It's my turn now to talk to you. We felt that would be best."

Amy blinked her eyes, shocked. "Jared's father visited Sheldon?"

Nodding, Beth noticed Amy's expression. She managed a reassuring smile. "Don't worry, Amy. It went well. Dr. Cooper is okay."

Reaching to her purse, Amy felt her phone, and quickly pulled it out. She looked at it, wondering why Sheldon hadn't answered his phone, and why he hadn't returned her call.

She cleared her throat, and attempted to hide her uneasiness. "Okay. Let's go inside and talk."

She turned, punching in her security code, before moving to the side so Beth could enter. Holding her breath, she closed the door behind her, watching as her unexpected guest slowly, and timidly, sat down on her couch. Beth's hands were shaky as she smoothed her black dress over her knees, and when she looked up at Amy, fresh tears suddenly spilled from beneath her lids.

"Miss Fowler, you have no idea how much this means to me," she said, her voice cracking.

Amy nodded, grabbing a tissue box from one of her side tables. She walked over, offering it to her.

"Actually, I probably do," she said soothingly, and then took a seat next to Beth, making sure to keep her cell phone close, grasping it tightly with her hands.

Stay tuned for Chapter 22.

Author's Note: I've never taken a self-defense class, so I tried my best to write that scene based on Internet and YouTube surfing. I apologize if anything is inaccurate.

Please review, and watch for the next chapter to come soon. :)