~Chapter 21~

A/N- Thank you so much for each and every review. I answer them all, because your enjoyment and love of this story is what gives it life. All of YOU contribute to their love story, as well, by inspiring me. Please forgive any typos; I have the heart of a 10 year old, but the eyes of an 80 year old. :D So…Sheldon Cooper. Sheldon Cooper in a tailored suit, in a limo, at a wedding, and he's dancing…it's getting hot in here. I need a drink. Join me at the bar, my treat. Erika, (coolshamyshipper) this song's for you. :) Thank you for the inspiration. It's PERFECT for this chapter.

Disclaimer: I own nothing of The Big Bang Theory. This is for entertainment purposes only. No copyright infringement intended.

"…You look so wonderful in your dress- I love your hair like that- The way it falls on the side of your neck- Down your shoulders and back-We are surrounded by all of these lies- And people who talk too much-You've got that kind of look in your eyes- As if no one knows anything but us…" Ed Sheeran - Tenerife Sea

The limo ride to the Church was an exercise in torture. Plain and simple.

Sheldon had endured dental exams that were less anxiety inducing. He tried to remain cool and calm, but he was failing. He draped one elbow on the door handle, the other on the seat between them, but that felt odd. He wasn't some gigolo. He tried folding his hands on his lap, but his hands felt clammy. Oh, dear…that won't work, either. He detested clammy hands, even his own. He felt awkward and out of place.

It didn't help that the Church was nearly across town, or that they had the poor luck of catching every red light.

Sheldon and Amy sat side by side, encased in buttery soft leather and luxury. While this vehicle was top of the line, he could care less about the plush interior. Sheldon could barely stop his eyes from drifting over to his girlfriend. She sat calmly, staring straight ahead as was her usual manner when she was reflective.

Why did she have this effect on him? She looked so lovely that he wasn't sure he could keep it together. He stole glances at her, entranced by the way her full lips opened and closed and she bit her lips thoughtfully. Or the way her long lashes fluttered as she blinked. Or the way her hair fell, just so, across her neck and down to her collarbones. He gulped thickly as his eyes roamed lower, staring spellbound at the way her shapely breasts curved into a smaller waist.

Dear God…he groaned inwardly, feeling like a sixteen year old school boy. No. That was an incorrect analogy. He never experienced these…desires…at sixteen. They were as new and frightening as they were exciting.

Everyone assumed he was oblivious to Amy and her attributes. He hid his feelings well for the most part. Yet as of late, they were becoming more and more impossible to hide. Seeing her dressed so perfectly, looking so healthy and vital after the month they'd experienced…he wanted to say forget the wedding and just be alone with her.

Sheldon Cooper needed order. He needed structure. And he needed familiarity. Without it, he felt like a tumbleweed rolling across the Texas plains. He was quickly realizing that there was nothing about this evening that was remotely ordered, structured, or familiar.

And that threw his mind into a tailspin.

It wasn't that he blamed Amy for the fact he was here, or how the way she looked was making him react. It was simply the fact that Sheldon wasn't accustomed to dressing up, attending a wedding willingly, or feeling completely overwhelmed by Amy. Their relationship had always been easy and effortless; a romance of the minds. Suddenly, he is found himself imagining…scenarios. Wondering how the skin would feel on her bare shoulders. What her scent is like tonight at the pulse point at her throat. What sounds she would make if he were to place his lips there.

This was madness.

Amy, likewise, was having a hard enough time restraining herself. Seeing her boyfriend dressed so elegantly, his long legs stretched out across the floor of the limo, gave her mind free reign to roam. And roam it did…it was all she could do not to drape herself across him like a blanket and have her way with him right here, right now. The shy smiles he normally gave her were nowhere to be found tonight. He was staring at her like he was dying of thirst and she was the last drink on Earth.

Amy found herself squirming in her seat, trying to remain calm. He had been blatantly staring at her body, and she felt completely exposed. She would have originally thought he didn't like her look tonight, due to his stoic face, had it not been for the fact he couldn't keep his eyes off of her.

Maybe Penny was right, and he actually did like her dressed so… provocatively.

Well, for Amy, anyhow. Of course, anything above the knee was provocative for her.

Amy caught her breath as she turned in her seat and Sheldon's eyes met hers. He slid a tad closer to her, swallowing.

"Amy?" He said quietly, not sure what it was he was asking for. He licked his lips and Amy followed the motion with her eyes.

"Yes?" She managed, licking her own lips now as well. His gaze widened and swept down her body before closing his eyes. If she only knew the thoughts going through his mind right now…

"We've arrived, Sir." The driver interrupted on the intercom. Both Amy and Sheldon sat back as though they were teenagers caught kissing by the Principle.

"Thank you," He murmured, taking a deep breath. The car came to a stop, and Sheldon exited the car himself while the driver came to open the door for Amy.

"I will be waiting, Sir." He said cordially, and Sheldon nodded.

He felt strange taking Amy's hand to escort her inside; he'd never done such a thing before and didn't know how she would feel about it.

Sheldon collected himself, walking a pace behind Amy as they entered the church, and placed his hand on the small of her back. Amy froze, staring back at Sheldon with wide eyes. The gesture was devastatingly intimate, and as he maneuvered her a few steps out of the walkway to allow others to pass, he realized that his hand had slid lower than intended.

"Are you expected to find your mother, or to go greet your cousin?" He whispered, leaning his head down and staring into her eyes.

Amy found herself locked in Sheldon's gaze, not understanding why his benign question was having such an effect on her. Perhaps it was his voice, which had dropped an octave. Or the way his eyes were steadily focused on hers, attuned to her every move. Every coherent thought fled as she watched his gaze slide down to her mouth, then back to her eyes again, his long lashes batting innocently. He hadn't moved his palm yet, and the feel of it on her backside was making her grow lightheaded.

Did he not realize the effect he was having on her? Had always had on her, from the first? Even when he was being impossible, narcissistic, childish, or petty, she spied something inside of him that made her love him in spite of it, perhaps because of it. He was such a youngling at heart and mind, never fully maturing in so many ways. Yet the way he was looking at her now, gave her every indication that he was fully and completely a man.

Her man.

Her body tingled as she inhaled his concentrated scent, so close to her. Her eyes zoned in on his Adam's apple, and she watched it bob when he swallowed.

"I…I'm not seeing Cassidy until the reception. I have no wish to fawn over her. And I'm sure my mother and sister are already seated. We can try to find them," She said quietly, and Sheldon nodded, once again steering her toward the front of the church. He knew Amy was nervous being here, and he resolved not to push her. Whatever she wanted tonight, she would get.

They walked towards the altar, an usher handing them a program and asking which side, bride or groom.

"Bride", Sheldon answered briskly, moving purposely down the aisle. Amy spotted her mother, sister, and brother- in- law. She nudged Sheldon that she'd found them, and he surprised her by taking her hand in his.

"It will be alright, Amy. I promise."

The confident and sweet way he said it put her mind at ease. She had no idea where this behavior was coming from, but she was grateful. She smiled softly at her boyfriend, as he led her into the pew.

Mrs. Fowler stood slightly to greet her daughter, her smile wide as Amy leaned in to hug her.

"Amy…I'm so glad you came. I just knew you would. And you look absolutely breathtaking," She gushed, her gaze moving past Amy to land on Sheldon. Her look was kind but Sheldon felt his stomach flutter. The last time they saw each other was at the hospital. It was a turning point in Sheldon's life. Their conversations opened his eyes to a great many things. That was why he was here with Amy today, at this wedding.

Sheldon waited until Amy was done with her greetings. He moved in towards Mrs. Fowler, taking her hand in his and laying a kiss on her knuckles worthy of Rhett Butler. He was raised in Texas, after all, and Southern gentlemanly values were instilled in him from the cradle.

"Good evening, Mrs. Fowler. It's lovely to see you again. Under decidedly better circumstances," He said, trying to import some humor into his statement. Amy's mother nodded, smiling serenely.

"Yes, Sheldon it is. Thank you. I'm glad you could come with Amy tonight. And you both look so wonderful," She said, admiring not only her daughter, but her handsome boyfriend's attire. He looked marvelous.

She was proud to show off her baby daughter the Neuroscientist, who so happened to have a brilliant Physicist for a boyfriend. For years the family had teased and taunted Amy. Mrs. Fowler was ecstatic that her daughter was finally coming into her own.

Amy waved at her sister Charlotte, who was seated on the other side of their mother. Charlotte flashed her a toothy grin, her eyes moving back and forth between Amy and Sheldon. She raised her brows flirtatiously and Amy shook her head, smirking. She could tell that her older sister was going to drive her nuts tonight trying to wheedle out of her the goods on Sheldon.

"Thank you for coming tonight, Dear. I know you didn't want to, but I'm glad that you did."

Amy turned to her mother, frowning.

"I'm only here for you, Mother. And Aunt Jeannie. Let's not make a big deal of this, shall we?"

Mrs. Fowler nodded. "Alright. It's just, Auntie Jeannie and I are so close. It's a shame our daughters aren't."

Sheldon sat still as a statue, his eyes roaming around the Church. His left knee kept brushing against Amy in a soothing manner. He tried not to eavesdrop on Amy and Mrs. Fowler's conversation, but with his Vulcan hearing, it was impossible.

"Yes, well…that is not my fault. That ship sailed years ago, and my dignity was on it. But no more. I'm here to take it back."

Mrs. Fowler sighed, sadly.

"Amy, I know Cassidy has a lot to answer for. But perhaps, she is growing up. Maybe the both of you could forge a relationship now that you're older. She doesn't have any real friends," Mrs. Fowler said, hopefully, and Amy shot her a bitter look.

"Huh. Big shocker there. Absolutely not, Mother. I have no desire to forge anything with Cassidy. She is a bully, a snob, and the most callous person I've ever known. I'm through being her punching bag. I'm here to fulfill my family obligation, and then leave. Let's just get through this night, okay?" She whispered angrily, and Mrs. Fowler knew to drop the subject.

Sheldon's hands balled into fists as he absorbed this new information. He himself was no stranger to bullying; growing up in a state like Texas, where boys are taught to shoot guns at two and ride horses by three, his peers didn't take kindly to a boy genius who had no time for those pastimes. Regular taunts and beatings were a daily occurrence, but Sheldon learned to rise above it. He was also no stranger to being mistreated by his siblings. George Jr. and Missy were sometimes as cruel as their classmates.

Yet hearing that his Amy, his sweet, kind, beautiful Amy…was abused by her cousin and everyone ignored that fact enraged him.

Lost in his thoughts, Sheldon didn't even notice Amy's hand on top of his. He was startled out of his reverie and turned to look at her, noticing her concerned gaze.

"Sheldon, I was calling you for over thirty seconds. Are you alright?" She whispered, and he simply nodded.

"Yes, I'm fine. I was just…daydreaming."

Amy shot him a peculiar look. Sheldon Cooper, daydreaming?

He motioned to Amy with a nod in her mother's direction.

"Are you alright?" He asked, his voice clouded with concern and tenderness. Amy smiled sadly, looking down.

"I'm fine," She whispered.

No other words were said as they waited for the ceremony to begin. Sheldon glanced around at the room full of strangers. Most of them looked happy and some looked bored. It was a strange feeling, being there to witness two people joining their lives in matrimony. For the majority of his life, the idea of marriage seemed pointless. He had assumed he would remain a bachelor forever. He needed no one. Or so he thought.

He had to admit, the strange feeling in his stomach gave him pause. So did the knocking of his heart when he looked over to the groom, already standing by the altar awaiting his bride. The poor fool looked terrified. He was no expert, but he assumed on One's wedding day, there would smiles and not frowns.

The wedding processional began to play, and one by one the maids were walked down the aisle by groomsmen to their respective places up front. Sheldon sat motionless as he took in the scene.

Wagner's 'Here Comes the Bride' began, and the guests rose to their feet. When the bride came into view, looking smug and beaming a megawatt smile that was too fake for Sheldon's taste, his lips curled in distaste. She looked overconfident and overly made up. This woman had nothing on his Amy. Amy, who was radiant without even trying. Amy, who had never hurt another soul in her life.

Amy, who deserved a day like this so much more than she did.

Sheldon's breath caught in this throat, and he gasped quietly. What the blazes was he thinking? All of this wedding nonsense was making him crazy. Resolving to stop thinking like a hippy, he shook off the strange feeling and stood upright. But when Amy tentatively touched his hand, he could no longer deny the feelings of affection bubbling up inside of him. He took her hand in his without looking at her. He promised her he would support her today. That was exactly what he was going to do.

The vows were typical of an Anglo Saxon ceremony. Love. Honor and Obey. Richer or poorer. Blah, blah, blah. No special vows, no meaningful professions of love. Sheldon was certain there was no pre-nuptials nor relationship agreement involved. He took one look at the hapless groom, actually feeling bad for him. He was marrying a wolf in sheep's clothing.

Whatever…it was his problem.

The ceremony ended, the guests rising and chatting amongst themselves. Mrs. Fowler excused herself, presumably to visit her sister. This left Amy and Sheldon alone with Charlotte and Joe.

"Come here, you little brainiac, you!" Charlotte said affectionately, embracing Amy in a gentle hug. Sheldon watched in amusement as Amy's sister patted her head.

"Are you alright now? You had us all worried sick, you know. I wanted to come out to California, but Joe was away on business and we had no one to watch the kids," She said sadly, her eyes taking in her sister with concern. Amy smiled.

"I'm fine. All better now, Charlotte. I was a model patient, only passing out the once. Of course, it lasted a week," She said in humor, but Charlotte didn't find it amusing.

"God, you scared me Amy. Please don't do that again." She said tenderly

Amy bit her lip and nodded. Charlotte's eyes strayed to Sheldon, and Amy decided introductions were in order.

"Charlotte, this is my boyfriend Dr. Sheldon Cooper. Sheldon, this is my older sister Charlotte and her husband Joe."

Sheldon smiled politely, nodding his head. Joe stepped up and held out his hand to Sheldon. Biting the bullet, he gripped Joe's hand firmly. Surprisingly, Sheldon didn't cringe.

"Nice to meet you, Sheldon. Char and I have heard a lot about you. You're a Physicist?" He asked Sheldon, impressed. Sheldon nodded.

"Yes. Theoretical. I work at Caltech University, the same as Amy."

Charlotte beamed in Sheldon's direction.

"So you're the one who has stolen my baby sister's heart," Charlotte said kindly, eyeing Sheldon up and down with admiration.

Sheldon didn't know how to respond to such a statement. They certainly knew more about him than he did about them. He looked at Amy, helplessly.

"Sheldon is one of the country's top leading Physicists working in the field. His previous field of study was String Theory. But he's since moved to Dark Matter." Amy said proudly.

Charlotte and Joe smiled, turning to each other.

"That is some resume, Dr. Cooper." Charlotte gushed, and Sheldon blushed.

"Sheldon, please." He said automatically, feeling more at ease. They were very nice people and Sheldon realized he had no reason to be so nervous.

The Church had emptied out, everyone moving on to head to the reception.

"I'm so glad you decided to come, Amy. And you look…whoa." Charlotte said, shaking her head back and forth.

"I promised Mother I would. Although the last thing I want to do is share in Cassidy's joy." She said angrily. Charlotte nodded.

"I know. I spoke with her this morning, and all she could do was complain about the caterer Auntie Jeannie hired. Never mind the fact my husband and I flew across the country for this. She hasn't changed one bit. Mother demanded we come, as well. At least we're here together. We have a lot of catching up to do. And I wanted to visit Great Aunt Flora."

Amy gave her sister a quick hug. "We'll see you at the reception, alright?"

Both Charlotte and Joe waved to them, ushering out their children who had fallen asleep. Amy turned to Sheldon to find him standing there, staring at her thoughtfully.

"Your sister and her husband seem nice." He said quietly. Amy agreed.

"Yes. They are very nice. I miss her very much. They live in Boston where Joe is an attorney."

This piqued Sheldon's interest.

"I never even knew until recently that you had a cousin, let alone a sister. Why didn't you ever discuss her with me; you're obviously very close." He said, his voice serious. Amy shrugged.

"I don't know, Sheldon. I guess…you never really asked me about my family. I could have volunteered the information, but you rarely seemed interested anytime I brought up a family issue. I'm sorry. I didn't mean to keep you in the dark."

Sheldon stared at Amy, at a loss. Once again, his failures as a boyfriend were glaringly obvious. That they were together for four years, and he had no idea she even had a sibling until Mrs. Fowler told him in the hospital grieved him. He resolved right then to fix this.

"I'm the one who is sorry, Amy. I should have listened to you more. I should have taken a greater interest in your life. From now on, I will. I promise."

His voice was so sincere, that Amy could hardly answer him. She smiled and nodded her head.

"Thank you, Sheldon."

He looked around the abandoned Church, coming back to his senses. "Shall we?" He asked, extending his arm again.

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Sheldon had to admit, the reception was lovely. Even though it was held at the Botanical Gardens and he was certain he would have an allergy attack by the end of the event.

The elegant colors of black and pink were everywhere, and little touches such as floating lanterns dotted the canopy above them, while flowers floated in the pool beside them.

He often wondered if such trappings were necessary. He supposed, having such surroundings on a special day only added to the memory of it. With his eidetic memory, though, it rarely mattered. He remembered every specific detail, down to the smallest spec.

For instance, he would always remember that tonight, Amy smelled of fresh cut roses. And that little blond highlights in her hair were being teased out by the soft lighting. He'd remember the way her straight teeth looked when she laughed at something her sister whispered to her, or how her soft cheekbone rose into an apple when her little niece sat on her lap and took a lock of Amy's hair in her chubby fingers. Each moment that passed, he found himself more and more entranced by Amy.

When did this happen? Was it when she fell ill, or had it been building before then? Surely, it must have. He could trace back his burgeoning feelings for her beginning to flourish ages ago. Yet it wasn't until their date in Santa Monica that he actually knew without a doubt that he was in love with her.

Yes, he loved her. And he'd told her as much on prom night. Finally admitting to her something he never thought he would. But it was more than that. So much more. He didn't just love her. He was in love with her. And almost losing Amy before he ever got a chance to express that nearly drove him over the edge. Sheldon wasn't used to needing people. He didn't like to admit he needed anything or anybody. It was becoming clearer to him each day how much Amy meant to him. The thought left him breathless.

"I'm going to take this little one to the bathroom. Be right back," Charlotte said, picking up her daughter gently. Amy watched them go, a wistful look on her face that had Sheldon tilting his head as he studied her.

He thought back to what Mrs. Fowler said in the cafeteria that morning they met in the hospital; about Amy maybe wanting marriage and children. Seeing her with her niece just now, he knew without a doubt she would make a wonderful mother. She was warm, gentle, and sweet. And she had the most brilliant mind he'd ever encountered. Any child would be lucky to have Amy for a mother.

Amy took a sip of her wine, staring around the gardens. She set her glass down, her eyes meeting Sheldon's.

"Are you ready to greet your cousin?" Sheldon asked her, tenderness apparent in his voice. Amy rolled her eyes. It seemed the time had come.

"I suppose. I can't put this off forever. Let's do this. But I can't promise anything; there is already a TSA agent out there who can attest to my wrath," She said, and Sheldon chuckled. Perhaps the second glass of wine he brought Amy earlier was a big mistake.

Together, Amy and Sheldon navigated the crowd to where Cassidy was standing, talking with the best man. At their approach, he excused himself and Sheldon stared after him a moment before turning his attention back to Cassidy.

Amy looked pale and withdrawn at the prospect of facing her cousin. She had been quiet upon seeing Cassidy walk down the aisle, and it had only worsened as the ceremony wore on. This would not do. He wanted Amy to prove to the snobby woman she had risen above whatever childish torment had been inflicted upon her.

Sheldon took her arm, in essence taking command, and guided her over to her newly married cousin.

"I won't let go of you," He promised, his hand sliding down to enfold her own. The warmth she found there calmed her.

"Okay," She whispered tightly.

The woman had the good grace to smile in Amy's direction, though it seemed forced. When her eyes met Sheldon's, he could swear he saw her smirk. He shrewdly narrowed his eyes, feelings of protectiveness swarming in his blood.

Game on bimbo, he thought.

"Congratulations, Cassidy. I hope you'll be very happy," Amy said, smiling her best smile. Sheldon could hear the strain in her voice, and how it sounded nothing like the relaxed and genuine Amy he knew.

Cassidy's eyes raked over Sheldon as Amy spoke to her, ignoring her cousin entirely. The action made Sheldon want to take a shower with bleach. And perhaps a brillo pad. He felt tainted by here mere eyes on him.

"Aww… thank you, Amy. Who is this tall drink of water you have with you?" She asked unabashed, causing Amy's temper to flare.

Sheldon bowed curtly in her direction. "I'm not a drink of water. Do you suffer from myopia? My name is Dr. Sheldon Cooper and I am Amy's boyfriend." He made no attempt to congratulate her, or give her any salutations a new bride would receive such as a hug or a kiss on the cheek. He simply stood still, holding Amy's hand tighter and glaring at Cassidy with undisguised distaste.

Cassidy's eyes shifted from the one to the other, calculating.

"Boyfriend, hmm? How sweet. I'm so happy that you finally managed to find yourself a man. What did you do, stick one of your hot needles into his brain? Well, good for you, Amy. I'm just glad that you finally got over those 'awkward years'." She said, using air quotes and grinning.

Sheldon couldn't help but notice in dismay how her comically large breasts were nearly forcing their way out of the top of her dress. It was not a good look on what should have been a demure bride.

Amy blinked rapidly at her undisguised insult. Managed to find herself a man? Awkward years?

Stepping forward, Sheldon towered over Cassidy who was similar to Bernadette in height. He'd never hit a woman before, but he felt his blood begin to simmer at her ire toward Amy.

"I can assure you, Amy didn't have to stick a needle anywhere to make me love her, thank you very much." He said coldly, arching an eyebrow in challenge. Part of him felt like a cad for acting this way at this woman's wedding. The other part said who cares? Cassidy pursed her lips, smiling at him.

"I can see you are protective of our little mud pie here. That's rather sweet."

The caustic nickname caused Amy to gasp. How dare she?

"I told you never to call me that again." Amy said hotly.

Cassidy giggled like a hyena.

"Calm down, mud pie. I'm just joking."

"I don't appreciate you talking to my girlfriend that way." Sheldon sputtered angrily. Cassidy seemed nonplussed.

"Everyone at school called her mud pie growing up. Not because she ate mud pies, but because she had hair the color of drab mud. Still does, I see," She said in disdain, her eyes rolling over Amy's hair before shaking her head. "Amy, dear…you are too old to not take better care of yourself. How on earth are you ever going to keep a man like him-" She motioned to Sheldon with a red fingernail – "If you don't try to do something with your looks."

Sheldon had enough.

"Excuse me, but just who the hell do you think you are talking to? I don't care if it is your wedding day. You will apologize to my girlfriend right now."

Cassidy laughed, the fake sound bouncing in the air.

"Or what, stretch? You'll tell my mommy on me?" She challenged defiantly. Sheldon narrowed his eyes at the woman, his mind awhirl.

"No. Your mommy is here and can already see what a little brat you're being."

Cassidy, Sheldon, and Amy swung around, staring in shock at Amy's Aunt Jeannie. She had her arms folded and a stern look upon her face. Cassidy visibly shrank back for a moment before she collected herself, smiling sweetly at her mother.

"That won't work, Cassidy. Not this time. How could you say such cruel things to poor Amy? Have you any idea what your cousin has been through recently? I thought you had gotten over your antics after high school. I can see that's not the case. I'm very disappointed in you."

Cassidy narrowed her gaze at her mother.

"Oh, Mother. I was just joking here with mud- Amy. She knows I didn't mean anything by it. Right?"

Her eyes zeroed in on Amy with calculated derision, so certain she would back her up like the old days. Back then, she would inflict bodily harm to Amy, and she would be too afraid to say anything.

Those days were long gone.

Mrs. Fowler came over, her face weary as she took in the scene and realized that Amy's worst fears had come to pass.

"Actually, Aunt Jeannie…your daughter here needs a lesson in how to behave while in public. And in private, for that matter. I knew it was a mistake coming here. And I'm sorry that you had to witness this. But I have to say this, or I'll regret it for the rest of my life."

Amy turned to look at Sheldon, who was watching her with a mixture of anticipation, fear, and admiration. The tiny smile he offered her held a world of messages, but the one gift that stood out from the rest was courage. Sheldon gave her courage.

He had given her courage to fight while near death, and to make the long journey home from wherever she had been. He gave her courage to face the future, because together…they were unstoppable. And he gave her courage now, being here with her to face her biggest fear; a childhood bully that made her life a living hell.

Cassidy waited for Amy to begin to cry, as usual. Or beg her to be nice. Or some other lame comment. She was completely unprepared when Amy stepped forward and met her up close.

"You are a mean, ugly person who will never be happy because you don't understand how truly wretched you are. And I do feel sorry for you. Because no matter how many hair extensions you put in, or how many breast enlargements you get…you will always be ugly. Your soul is ugly. And I pity you."

Cassidy gasped at her cousin's courageous statement.

"How dare you? This is my wedding day, and you are ruining it. Why are you even here, if I offend you so much?"

Amy looked from her Aunt Jeannie to her mother, who was in tears. Both women looked upset on her behalf.

"I'm here because of my mother. And because of your mother, whom I love very much. Because they can't be blamed for your behavior. You are just as horrible now as you were then." Amy said, her voice firm and strong.

Cassidy rolled her eyes in a bored fashion.

"Are you finished? Because I have real guests to attend to."

Amy laughed a hollow laugh, shaking her head.

"By all means. Attend to your minions."

Cassidy picked up the train of her gown, about to stroll away, when Sheldon came forward.

"Just a moment," He said haughtily, letting go of Amy's hand.

He stepped up to Cassidy and leaned into her. Amy watched in confusion as he whispered something in her ear. Cassidy's face morphed from smug into terrified, her eyes widening dramatically. She couldn't hear what Sheldon was telling her, and for all intents and purposes it looked like he was kissing her cheek in congratulations. But Amy knew better.

When Cassidy's eyes watered and she turned away quickly, Amy finally blinked. Sheldon turned and gazed at her in silence from where he stood, Amy's confusion growing as Cassidy came right up to her.

"I'm sorry for my rude behavior. Enjoy the festivities," She said hastily, rushing off.

Amy was glued to the spot, not sure if Cassidy was sincere or not. She decided in that moment, it didn't really matter anyway.

"Oh, Amy…I am so sorry, honey. I can't believe my daughter sometimes. Are you alright?" Aunt Jeannie asked with tenderness, and Amy looked away from her boyfriend.

"I'm fine, Aunt Jeannie. But maybe we should leave."

Her aunt took her hands in hers, squeezing gently.

"Please don't go. Your sister is here all the way from Boston. And Aunt Flora would be so upset if you didn't spend some time with her. But I'd understand if you don't want to stay." She said sadly.

Amy looked from her mother to her aunt, frowning.

"I just don't feel that I belong here." She whispered honestly. Jeannie gasped.

"You most certainly do belong here. We are your family. I am sorry for my daughter's actions. But don't let that ruin your night. Besides, look at you! You look beautiful. Take your young man out on the dancefloor and enjoy yourselves. Please? For me?"

Amy smiled at her aunt. "Alright. For you." She said sweetly.

Mrs. Fowler walked up to her daughter, pushing a lock of hair away from her cheek.

"I am very proud of you. You stood up for yourself, even if it was to family. You were right, Amy. She will never be truly happy. Unlike you."

Mrs. Fowler's eyes found Sheldon's, who was standing off to the side quietly.

"Take care of her." She said gently. Sheldon nodded.

"Always."

Her mother and her aunt walked away, leaving Amy standing there shell shocked.

"What happened? What did you say to Cassidy?" She asked Sheldon when he came back to stand at her side. He looked at her seriously.

"I told her that if she didn't apologize to you, I would tell her new husband she was having an affair with the best man."

Amy gaped at Sheldon, her mouth hanging open.

"Sheldon! Why would you do that?" She asked him with concern. She couldn't stand the woman, but she didn't want to ruin her marriage.

Sheldon raised a brow. "Because, it's true. Did you see the way they were looking at each other during the ceremony? And when we walked over to her how quickly he ran away? I took a chance…and it paid off. She was caught unawares, the simpleton."

Amy was paralyzed with shock.

"How on Earth could you detect that, Sheldon? You never even met them before."

Sheldon shrugged, pursing his lips.

"Body language? Facial expressions? I don't know…the point is, she knows now not to underestimate an irresistible force."

Body language? Sheldon could not detect something as mundane as the concept of sarcasm, yet he picked up on the fact her oversexed cousin was secretly having an affair with her new husband's best friend. Okay…

She narrowed her eyes at her boyfriend, smiling playfully.

"Funny…I've never pictured you as an irresistible force before," She said, her voice full of humor.

There was no humor in Sheldon's voice when he replied.

"I'm not, Amy. You are." He whispered.

The smile slid off her face as she took in his meaning. Sheldon held her gaze, unwavering, and in that moment Amy felt like she could fly.

"I told you it would be alright, did I not?" He asked her sweetly, smiling in his gentle way. Amy couldn't help but grin in return.

"Yes, you most certainly did."

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Sheldon rarely drank. Usually when he did, he was either goaded into it or tricked into it. Tonight, though, he chose to partake in libations to help loosen him up.

After his run in with Cassidy, he needed to calm down. He knew his limit, so when the waiter asked him if a second long island iced tea was required, he politely declined. He felt pleasantly relaxed, eyeing the dancing guests.

He and Joe were standing at the bar getting their ladies another drink. While watching the festivities, Joe caught him up on the latest family gossip. Amy's great Aunt Flora was there, still going strong in her nineties. She was dancing with a younger man and doing quite a good job of it.

Sheldon felt bad that he had gotten out of going to her birthday party all those years ago. She looked like a hoot, and someone his meemaw could get on with quite well.

He glanced over at Amy who was nursing a glass of wine, watching the festivities with a thoughtful look on her face as she chatted with her sister. She obviously didn't want to be here, but was making the best of it. He admired that about her; she fit right in everywhere, allowing herself to experience new things. So unlike himself, who never wanted to stray too far from his comfort zone.

He found that he admired a great many things about Amy Farrah Fowler.

He never realized it before, but she fit seamlessly into his life, and had done so from the very beginning.

Joe broke Sheldon out of his thoughts.

"I wanted to tell you how good it is to see Amy looking so well. I've known her many years, and she's never been this happy. You are good together," He stated confidently, taking a sip of his scotch. Sheldon nodded his head in agreement.

"We are," He attested, smiling.

Joe returned the gesture, motioning to Amy's mother.

"I don't know what you did to Margaret, but she is completely smitten with you," Joe chuckled, and Sheldon's eyes widened comically.

"She is?"

Joe eyed Sheldon, catching the scared tone of his voice.

"Oh. No, not like that. I mean…well, you know."

Sheldon nodded, relieved. He thought it was high time he asked his girlfriend to dance.

"Excuse me, Joe. I think I will see if Amy would like to dance."

Joe nodded, collecting the drinks for the girls.

Sheldon looked toward their table, noting Amy and Charlotte engrossed in conversation. He thought he would give them a moment to chat.

"So…your Sheldon is something else. He's very handsome, Amy. Now I can see why you've kept him all to yourself for so long," Charlotte said, winking at her sister.

Amy blushed, the action causing Charlotte's smile to grow even wider.

"Hmm…so it's like that, huh?" She giggled, and Amy lowered her gaze.

"It's not like that, Charlotte. At least, not yet. We aren't your typical couple."

Charlotte perked up, leaning over closer to her sister.

"Define typical. What works for others may not work for you. And that's alright. You always were your own person, Amy. Something tells me, Sheldon doesn't bend to others' opinions of him, either. You look perfect together. You are perfect together. It's like…you are the Sun, and he is in orbit around you. It's…I can't tell you how wonderful it is for me to see. I am so happy for you." Charlotte murmured, her eyes filling with tears.

Amy was stunned. Her whole life, she never thought she would find love; especially not the deep kind that lasted. To know Sheldon loved her, and to have it affirmed by other people…she felt too choked up to speak.

Charlotte noticed Amy's hesitance.

"Amy…you know that man is crazy about you, right? Mom told me how he behaved while you were in the hospital, but to see it with my own eyes…that man is head over heels in love with you. What did you do to him?" She asked in wonder.

Her baby sister was always shy and academically inclined. Yet she had found herself a wonderful man who loved her. She was dying to know Amy's secret.

"I…I don't know. It's more what he did to me," Amy said in awe.

Charlotte's eyebrows reached the stratosphere.

"And just what has he done to you?" She hedged, making Amy blush even harder. Despite the taunting, Amy giggled.

"Would you please stop? You're driving me insane. Nothing, alright? We haven't…we're both…" Amy faltered, and Charlotte's entire demeanor changed. Realization dawned, and she placed a hand on Amy's arm, stroking gently.

"Really? Both of you?" She asked incredulously.

Amy nodded.

Charlotte sat back, eyeing her sister with affection.

"Wow…that's amazing. And by amazing, I mean good. Very good."

Amy hesitantly met her sister's gaze.

"It is? You don't think it's weird?"

Charlotte narrowed her eyes.

"Weird? Are you joking? I think it's wonderful. Amy…do you understand what a special gift it is, making love to someone you truly love for the first time? And the fact that there was never another…wow. I envy you." She said sincerely.

Amy's eyes softened.

"You…you envy me? Are you serious?"

Charlotte nodded firmly.

"As a heart attack. You are brilliant, beautiful, brave…and now, you have this love story that is just…magical."

'You'll see, and you'll believe, and it will be…magical.'

Amy stared at her sister, her breath halting.

"What did you say?" She asked, a strange feeling washing over her. Charlotte took the glass of wine in front of her away.

"I didn't say anything. I think you've had enough alcohol," Charlotte laughed.

Sheldon and Joe returned to the table, Joe setting an iced tea down in front of his wife. Sheldon sat beside Amy, his eyes taking her in. She looked distracted.

"Are you alright?" He asked her with concern, and Amy shook her head clear of the cobwebs.

"Yes. Fine."

Sheldon nodded, still not convinced.

"Excuse us. We're going to dance," Joe said brightly, and Amy waved to her sister.

As soon as they left, Sheldon scooted his chair a fraction closer to hers.

"I am so proud of you, Amy. You really shined tonight. But of that, I had little doubt."

The sweet words touched her deeply. Her boyfriend had been pleasantly shocking her lately with his actions. Tonight had been no different. She turned in her chair, her eyes greedily taking him in. Boldly, Amy reached out her hand and drew her fingers down his temple to his cheek. Sheldon stared at her, transfixed.

"You have the nicest skin, Sheldon Cooper. Has anyone ever told you how handsome you are?"

Sheldon's breath hitched in his chest. Hearing such a statement out of a woman's mouth, this woman's mouth…turned his carefully constructed façade inside out.

The only women who ever called him handsome outright were his mother and his meemaw.

He swallowed thickly, his eyes roaming across her face.

"No," He answered truthfully. Amy smiled gently at the softness of his voice.

"Well, I'm glad I'm the first. It's true. Your skin, and your eyes. I've never seen such a shade of blue before. I love the way they change colors depending upon your mood. And your lips," She drifted off, feeling herself flush madly.

Sheldon noticed the becoming blush on her skin, and it increased his ever growing desire.

The strains of A-Ha's 'Velvet' began to play, and Sheldon smiled.

Tearing his eyes away from her face, he motioned out to the dancefloor.

"Would you care to take a turn, Dr. Fowler?"

Amy nodded, taking his proffered hand. They reached the center of the dancefloor, eyes locked. Sheldon pulled her closer, confidently sliding his arms down to encircle her waist. Amy could swear time stood still.

"Let's give 'em something to talk about," He whispered in his best Texas drawl as the dance began. Amy didn't understand the pop culture reference, but she did understand the tone of his voice. Her insides turned to marshmallow as the strains of the romantic song began.

Sheldon guided Amy effortlessly across the floor, leading her like a professional dancer. It never ceased to amaze Amy what a wonderful dancer her boyfriend was. She supposed she had Mary Cooper to thank for that. Of course, Sheldon excelled at everything he did.

"How is it that you can dance in those shoes? I seem to remember a time when you could hardly walk in heels," Sheldon chuckled, taking Amy's hand as he spun her around in a circle before collecting her again and pressing her against him. Amy's heart thumped wildly against her ribs.

"I don't know. Maybe it's one of the things I brought back from the 'other side'. Perhaps my balance has improved." She said, giggling. The sweet sound reverberated inside of Sheldon's soul.

They spent the rest of the evening dancing, laughing, and enjoying each other's company.

Sheldon gazed at her deeply, the urge to kiss her too strong to deny. He pictured an angel on one shoulder and a devil on the other, each goading him on. In the end, he needed no prompting.

Charlotte had been mistaken. It wasn't Sheldon caught in Amy's orbit. It was Amy trapped in his.

She had never felt so loved or desired before as Sheldon held her tightly, his eyes burning into hers with promises she could only dream of. Amy was helpless to react as he inclined his head to hers.

"I think I need to check into that commune sooner than I thought," He murmured huskily. Amy's eyes lowered.

"Oh? Why is that?" She whispered.

Without another word, his mouth covered hers, his eyes falling shut as if in prayer. Neither one cared they had an audience. Neither one cared that there was a jealous, angry bride standing across the room eyeing them with envy, or that Amy's mother was secretly making her own plans for a daughter's wedding in her head.

All they cared about, was each other. They let go. And letting go never felt so sweet.

A/N- Thank you for reading. Next chapter: Whatever is a man to do after dropping off his girlfriend at her door after a night of romance?