Chapter Thirty-Eight

The Complete Package Hypothesis

Leonard opened his eyes on the morning of his wedding day, surprised he got any sleep at all. He'd be marrying Penny mere hours from now, something he dreamed of for years. Still, nerves wracked him, and he felt rather lonely, Penny having spent the night at the Wolowitz home to avoid being seen before the wedding. Leonard needed company, someone to talk to, reflect with. Looking at the clock, he saw it just after 6 a.m. Sheldon would be up. They could have breakfast together like old times. Leonard put on his robe and headed across the hall.

Knocking on the door, Leonard heard no movement inside. Curious. Sheldon should be up. Leonard knocked again, finally hearing movement within. The door opened, and Sheldon stood before him.

Leonard eyed his friend, shocked by his appearance. Sheldon wore no shirt and his hair stood on end, eyes still sleepy.

"Good morning, Leonard," said Sheldon, sounding the same, his tone not matching his appearance. "Happy wedding day."

"Hey, so I was thinking we could have breakfast. I'm feeling a little nostalgic. And nervous as hell. You know, we can talk about the past, the future. We could be quiet as not to wake Rosemary," Leonard said.

Sheldon stood in the doorway studying Leonard like he didn't understand what he said. Looking back into his apartment, Sheldon turned back to Leonard, biting his lip.

"Can you come back in an hour?" Sheldon asked.

"Oh, come on Sheldon," Leonard said, feeling a little irritated. "After all I do for you, I just need…"

"Rosemary is in my bed," Sheldon said matter-of-factly.

Leonard felt his jaw drop. Staring at Sheldon, his appearance suddenly made sense. What the hell happened? Had Sheldon done…it? This was huge. A wide grin spread across Leonard's face.

"You dog," said Leonard, winking at his friend.

Sheldon gave Leonard a perplexed look. "I don't understand."

Leonard nodded. "You and Rosemary? Way to go! So, how was it? You seem surprisingly calm."

Sheldon's eyes widened as if realizing what Leonard was talking about. "We did not engage in coitus, if that's what you're thinking. But we did…um…" Sheldon faltered.

Leonard laughed, backing up. "I get it, Sheldon," he said. "I'll leave you to Rosemary."

"Wait, Leonard," said Sheldon. "Please come back in an hour. I would be happy to make you breakfast. If you don't mind Rosemary joining us."

"Of course not," smiled Leonard. "And I'll give you two hours, stud."

Leonard chuckled and retreated to his apartment.

Sheldon shut the door, shaking his head. How long before this went around the group? He returned to his room, staring in the doorway for a moment, not believing the view. Rosemary was still asleep, lying on her stomach, hair everywhere, the blanket only up to her waist, revealing her bare back. Sheldon's heart rate quickened at the sight, his eidetic memory replaying their adventures from the night before. He returned to the bed, lying beside her, and she turned around to lie on her back, giving him a nice view of her breasts. He draped his arms across her stomach and snuggled into her, sighing, feeling deeply happy. He wished he didn't have anything else to do all day except lie next to Rosemary.

After several minutes, she stirred, opening her eyes to meet his.

"Hey handsome," she said, her voice sleepy.

Sheldon moved to kiss her softly

"Good morning, Rosemary," he said. "Did you sleep well?"

"Oh yes," she said. "Better than I have in a long time. You?"

Sheldon nodded. "I had fun last night, Rosemary. I really enjoyed what we did."

"Me too," she grinned and kissed the tip of nose, causing him to look cross-eyed. She giggled at his expression.

Sheldon discovered that the mere sound of her laughing set him aflame, and he brought his mouth to hers in a passionate kiss, one hand creeping up to cup her breast. He found he simply couldn't keep his hands off her.

Rosemary pulled away from their kiss. "Did I hear someone…ohhhh, Sheldon…the door….ah…someone at the door?" she barely got out at he moved down to kiss her breasts.

Sheldon didn't answer, his mouth busy playing with one of her nipples. He loved watching the skin change, the tip harden. And he got harder just watching and listening to her reaction.

"Sheldon?" she said between labored breathes.

"My friend Leonard wanted to have breakfast. I told him to wait," he answered before returned to licking the tip. God, he could do this all day. She tasted good, smelled delicious…

"But he's the groom," Rosemary said, pushing his head away. "And you're the best man. You belong to him today. Let's make breakfast for him. He's probably nervous."

Sheldon sighed, and pulled away. "Very well." He hesitated. He never left things unfinished. "Rosemary, I need to do what I just did to your other nipple."

Rosemary's eyes widened. "What?"

"I have these…things I need to do. Knock three times on a door. Count the stairs as I go down," he pondered the situation. "And now apparently stimulate both your breasts in the same way."

Rosemary began to laugh hard. "Well, be my guest. I can deal with a bit of obsessive compulsive behavior in bed."

Sheldon continued his work, but couldn't keep his hands away, and they ran up and down her body as he kissed and licked her. Suddenly, she pushed him over and was lying on top of him, one leg across his waist, just above his erection. Her hair fell into his face as she kissed him on the lips and moved down to suck on his neck. He reached around and pressed her body to him. How did anyone ever do anything else? He wished he could be in bed with Rosemary all the time, making out, reading comics…

She'd stopped moving and lie on top of him with her face against his neck. He could feel warm water against his skin.

"Rosemary?" he asked.

She looked up into his face, tears falling down her cheeks. "Sheldon, how the hell is this going to work?"

"What?"

"Us," she said. "I'm leaving tomorrow. I've gotten to know you over Skype. We have all these things in common. And now we're together going to see Star Wars and having meals and making out. Sheldon, we spent the night together! And then we're going to be a part again. My heart hurts, Sheldon."

"I…" Sheldon began, but faltered. "My heart hurts too, Rosemary."

They lay in bed for a long time not speaking, just holding one another. Finally, they got up to make breakfast.

Sheldon made French toast and sat in the living room with Rosemary and Leonard, all three in their pajamas.

"I'm glad I have the opportunity to talk with you," Rosemary said to Leonard. "I never got a chance to really meet you, and I know you're Sheldon's best friend."

Sheldon enjoyed listening to Rosemary talk to Leonard, his friend asking her questions, interested in her. Rosemary asked about Leonard and Penny, prompting Leonard to tell their story. Listening to their romance, Sheldon began to wonder if he would ever be sitting talking to Leonard on his wedding day. That thought alone shocked him. Sure, he'd bought an engagement ring last spring but hadn't even planned a proposal, and the actual marriage seemed light years away. Looking at Rosemary listen to the story of Penny and Leonard made him think about what their story would be.

After cleaning up, the three separated to get dressed. Leonard came back in his tux, and both men stood in the living room helping each other finalize their looks. Rosemary burst into the room, interrupting their conversation on types of smiles for the formal pictures. Sheldon felt his breath taken away seeing her, and he stopped just to gape at her. She wore a knee length turquoise gown made of some shimmery fabric, the scoop neck allowing for a string of gemstones, her earrings matching. Her hair half-up, half-down, she wore a large barrette highlighted with more multi-colored gems. Sheldon's gaze fell down to her legs, seeing muscular calves over bare feet. She held two pairs of shoes.

"Okay Sheldon, I need help," she said, holding up a pair of black flats and a pair of silver heels. "Which one?"

"Um…I don't know," he said. He suddenly realized Rosemary wore a different pair of shoes everyday she was with him. "Rosemary, how many pairs of shoes did you bring?"

"Not important," she said. "Flat or heels?"

Sheldon had no idea what to say. He never paid attention to shoes, and yet this woman stood there demanding he actually care. He eyed them, thinking which he would prefer.

"Flats."

She looked at him, her brow furrowed. "Really? You don't think they'd make my legs look short?"

"Um, heels?"

"Sheldon, don't you care?"

Sheldon looked to Leonard for help, utterly baffled by what to say. Leonard just patted him on the back. "Good luck with this, buddy. Leave in five minutes?" He returned to his apartment one final time.

Refocusing on Rosemary, he needed to sound like he cared about something he really didn't. He knew this is an area he failed at miserably when he dated Amy. He didn't care about dumb things like shoes but also disregarded important things, like her work accomplishments and family troubles. He would learn from his mistakes with Amy, use their past relationship as a lesson, like Howard advised and even Amy said on Halloween, like some old wise sage of the desert, dressed like Clint Eastwood.

"I think the flats look fine on your feet and will be more comfortable for dancing, which I intend to do with you a lot," Sheldon answered. "And your legs won't look short. You have excellent muscle definition that has already attracted my attention."

Rosemary smiled at him. "You're sweet, Sheldon. Okay, I'll go with the flats." She kissed him lightly on the lips before sitting to put on her shoes. Minutes later, the three headed downstairs to Sheldon's car to drive to the hotel.

As the formal photos wrapped up, Erik realized how lucky he was with his family. Penny's was difficult to wrangle, but Leonard's was just bat shit crazy. In fact, Leonard's mother questioned Erik several times about his methods before Erik asked point blank in a deeply sarcastic tone the last time one of her photos was published in National Geographic or used in a national Nike advertising campaign. She shut up, and Erik saw both Leonard and Penny stifle smiles.

After the family photos, the bridal party began to assemble. He decided to do a large group shot before breaking them down into bride, groom, groomsmen, etc. As they were getting organized, Raj leading the way in placing everyone, Erik glanced over to see Laura sitting with Rosemary on a nearby bench. He felt happy that Rosemary seemed to get along with the group – one must always show allegiance to fellow Washingtonians. Amy actually seemed to really enjoy the woman and on the way home from the rehearsal dinner talked with Erik about how if she could pick someone for Sheldon to move on with, Rosemary fit the bill nicely. At this point in their relationship, Erik could read Amy pretty well, and knew she spoke the truth.

He glanced at the group, seeing Amy standing with her friends dressed in a mint green gown. He felt love surge in his heart, and he left his position at the tripod to walk over to her. She smiled at his approach.

"Hey, sweetie…" was all she got out before Erik took over her lips.

He slid his mouth to her ear and whispered, "I know you're not supposed to say this to anyone but the bride, but you are seriously the most beautiful woman here, and I cannot wait until our adventure this week."

He returned to her lips briefly then backed away from her to look into her eyes. Amy smiled brightly, and he felt a little overwhelmed. He wanted to spend the rest of his life with this woman; would she say yes to him?

Turning and heading back to his post, he saw Laura laughing. "Nice shade of lipstick, Erik," she shouted.

"Thanks, I do rock a light mauve."

After the formal shots, Erik walked back to his car to switch out tripods, cards, and lenses. Amy joined him, loving seeing him in his white tuxedo. He was, by far, the most handsome man here. And snappy too. His angry retort to Leonard's mom had become the highlight of the day so far.

Carrying a couple of items, she held his hand, thinking about the next day. They'd be on their plane in less than 24 hours, headed to Europe. While Amy had been to Paris before for a conference, she only had time to do a bus tour of the city. Now she would have the opportunity to look around, explore. She'd made plans for the days Erik worked, and they'd filled the rest of the time together with sightseeing and dining reservations. Erik's Paris counterpart even asked them for dinner. She felt like this was a little taste of the adventures Erik went on during his traveling years.

Walking into the parking lot, they passed by Sheldon's Camaro, and Amy smiled. He bought a car, played basketball, had a new girlfriend. Sheldon had changed quite a bit since they broke up, but it had happened so gradually, Amy hadn't realized it until she sat next to Rosemary at dinner the previous evening. And Amy liked her, a lot. In fact, she wished the woman lived nearby so they could talk more. As her and Erik drove home from the rehearsal, she realized she now felt more happy than angry. She'd had a lot of guilt about breaking up with Sheldon, getting to know Erik while they still had the Relationship Agreement, kissing him no less. She didn't believe in things like fate, but she began to reconsider when she thought about how she met Erik mere hours after asking for a break from Sheldon.

Looking at Erik walking next to her now, resembling someone from a spy movie in that white tux, she felt finally at peace with the whole Sheldon situation. They had their five-year romance (Amy still hesitated to think about it as such, considering she now had a different frame of reference), learned from each other, and moved on. It was sad to think about it that way, but there it was. Something occurred to her that hadn't before as she helped Erik switch out lenses. Amy and Sheldon were both now with people quite different then themselves. Erik was a photographer, a visual artist, and Rosemary a historian, someone not even in the science community, which still shocked Amy. Were her and Sheldon simply too much alike? She thought of Leonard and Penny, night and day from each other, getting married, starting a life together.

Amy watched Erik working, his fingers moving over the equipment, and thought about what a fascinating and fun person he was, how they took care of each other, laughed together. Placing her hand on his shoulder, he looked up and smiled, standing up to kiss her.

"Erik Koster?" came a woman's voice from behind them.

The couple turned to see an older woman walk toward them. She had short gray hair and a simple outfit of jeans and a blouse. Amy turned to Erik to see a big grin spread across his face.

"Jill, oh my God, it's been forever," he embraced the woman.

"Oh my dear, you are looking wonderful, my golden boy" she said, her Australian accent coming through. She turned to Amy. "And who is this lovely woman?"

"This is my girlfriend Dr. Amy Fowler. She's a neurobiologist from Caltech," said Erik. "Amy, this is Dr. Jill Henderson, the lead primatologist of the study I did photography for."

"Yes, that photo of Patricia still graces the wall above our mantel," said Jill.

"I have that same photo in my lab," said Amy, immediately liking the woman. Erik had spoken very highly of her before.

"What brings you to the L.A. area, Jill," asked Erik.

"Oh, my niece just had a baby. Off to visit her again before leaving tomorrow," she said, looking intently at Amy. "Neurobiologist?"

"Yes," said Amy, feeling a little strange under the woman's gaze. "My focus is on addiction. I've used primates many times in my studies, the current one included."

"Hmmm," Jill said. "And you're with Erik?"

"Yes," said Amy, glancing towards Erik for help.

He turned to her and smiled. "You'll have to pardon Jill. She gets a bit distracted."

Jill slapped Erik on the arm, laughing. "Just got lost in thought, golden boy. So what are you doing in California and not in some Godforsaken backwater bush photographing wildlife or steam vents or both?"

"Working for Disney in advertising," said Erik. "Taking photos, putting together commercials for the parks. Doing some freelance work, some sports shots. Today I'm doing a wedding for some friends. Amy is a bridesmaid."

"Amy…" Jill said again. "Neurobiologist who studies addiction and uses primates. So you're very familiar with primate behavior?"

"Yes," said Amy, surprised the conversation went back to her. "I love working with them. Behavior studies in general for both humans and primates are fascinating."

"Yes, indeed," said Jill, her gaze shifting between Amy and Erik. "My favorite photographer Erik Koster is dating a neurobiologist who focuses on behavior and is familiar with primates. My, aren't you two the complete package."

Erik laughed. "What does that mean?"

"Oh, nothing," Jill said, still regarding Amy with a smile. "Just thinking out loud."

"Jill, you haven't changed a bit," Erik said. "You're doing that thing again, where you just stare…"

"I do observe primate behavior, Erik," Jill laughed.

"Are you calling Amy and I monkeys?" Erik scoffed mockingly.

"Well, we are," corrected Amy.

Amy and Jill laughed together, Amy liking this woman even more.

Jill turned to Erik. "I like this neurobiologist of yours, Erik. And unlike me, you have changed. You seem…happy. And healthy. I remember you coming to us during a very dark time." Jillian turned to Amy. "Weren't the Beatles right, my dear? Love is all you need." Jill looked back at Erik. "I wish we had more time to visit. I think the last time we spoke was over e-mail last year when you contacted Stan and myself for a letter of recommendation. Do you have your card?"

Erik produced his card from his pocket. Jill flipped it over, pulled a pen from her purse, and handed the card to Amy.

"Please write down your information as well," Jill said. "I'm guessing you are not carrying your own card in that lovely gown. I always put all my essentials in my husband's suit pockets."

Amy laughed as she wrote her information on the back of Erik's card, thinking about her ID and lipstick in Erik's pocket. She handed the card back to Jill who studied it and again looked intensely at the two of them.

"You are a beautiful couple," she finally said. "I will definitely be in touch." She gave them both a quick hug and disappeared into the rows of cars.

Amy watched her go. "She's…wonderful."

"Oh yes," said Erik. "Jill and Stan, her husband, helped me so much, Amy. You have no idea. They knew when to talk and when to leave me alone. They are truly amazing people. And she'd just as quirky as ever."

Amy smiled. "Even more so than me and my friends?"

Erik laughed. "Um, you guys are quirky. Jill is on a whole other level. Maybe eccentric is a better word. Like crazy, in a good way. She's…well, incredibly smart and artistic. Like, combining science and art. Hard to explain, but she just looks at the world differently. I read her field notes one time, and some of it was in verse. Like a sonnet. She's really outgoing and always says exactly what's on her mind. She doesn't care about what people think. Her husband Stan is a children's book author and illustrator. Really popular in Australia. Uses bush animals as characters. They work well together. I'd watch her out taking notes as he would sit next to her and draw. They'd sit together for hours not talking and come to camp that night and entertain us with their stories."

"What do you think she meant by us being the complete package?" asked Amy as Erik closed the trunk, and they headed back inside to get ready for the ceremony.

"Dunno," he chuckled. "Could mean anything. She was fascinated by you. And she should be. You would enjoy talking with her. I saw how she was studying you. Expect her to contact you in the near future."

The complete package, thought Amy, smiling as she looked at Erik. The biologist and the photographer. Amy once again thought about their differences and how they added up to make something wonderful.

The ceremony began, and Sheldon found himself linking arms with Bernadette, standing in front of Penny and her father. Leonard already waited at the altar, and Howard just began down the aisle, guiding Penny's sister, followed by Raj and Amy. Sheldon turned around before beginning his journey, looking at Penny. He remembered the first time he met her, how young she'd been. How young they'd all been. How she became a good friend, helping him navigate difficult social situations, while at the same time mocking him. Of course, he'd mocked her throughout the years as well, and would continue to do so. Now two of his best friends were getting married. Never one for sentimentality, Sheldon suddenly found this moment profound. He let go of Bernadette, and stepped up to Penny. He reached out his hand to her, and she released her father's arm, grasping Sheldon.

"I am so very happy for you, Penny," he said. "You look beautiful."

Penny beamed at him. The two returned to their spots, and Sheldon guided Bernadette up the aisle. Rosemary sat in the back row with Laura, and she gave him a small wave as he passed. Looking up at the front, he saw Leonard waiting at the altar with the judge, all smiles, eyes only on Penny. While Sheldon still felt irritated about the wedding taking up so much of his time, seeing his two friends finally marry after all this time was a relief.

After the wedding, the bridal party assembled in a receiving line as guests moved into the other ballroom for the reception. Sheldon stood greeting people he didn't know, growing bored with the tedium. He ran the best man speech over and over in his head, knowing that was the next, and final, thing expected of him. He had a car now – perhaps he and Rosemary could slip out early. Thinking her name seemed to summon her, because now she stood in front of him, her and Laura the final two in the line as all the other guests mingled in the other room before dinner.

Rosemary took Sheldon's hand and smiled up at him. "You looked so handsome up there."

"Thank you," he said. "Did you see how gracefully I handed over the ring?"

"Yes, you were amazing," Rosemary laughed, standing on her toes to kiss his cheek. "Now just your speech and after that, we can dance."

"Hey Sheldon," said Raj, Laura hanging off his arm. "I was commenting to Erik the other night how it's funny you and Amy both found people from Washington."

"Ha, I thought the same thing when Sheldon told me Erik was Amy's boyfriend," Rosemary laughed. "Same college and everything." She paused. "Laura, did you happen to see where the ladies room is?"

"Yeah, down the hall leading to the kitchen," she said, wrapping her arms around Raj.

"See you at the table, Sheldon," said Raj. "Can't wait for your speech." The couple left.

"I don't think it's a big coincidence you and Erik being from the same state, same college," said Sheldon. "You're still in the proximity of the west coast, so us running into one another had a higher chance of probability than had you lived in central China."

"Well, it seems you and Amy just needed some of that Pacific Northwest culture, you know, grunge music and apples and flannel shirts," Rosemary winked. "And you know what the Beach Boys said about northern girls and the way they kiss…"

"I'm afraid I'm unfamiliar…"

"They keep their boyfriends warm at night," she whispered in his ear, running her lips softly across his cheek before walking by him to head to the restroom.

Sheldon stood there, stunned by how her simple words could get him so aroused so quickly. Images from the evening before, Rosemary moaning under his touch, feeling her underneath him, on top of him this morning, filled his mind. He knew he was prone to obsessions – was he now obsessed with Rosemary? He soon realized he stood alone in the ceremony room, everyone else filing in to mingle and get seated for dinner. And the speeches. Sheldon didn't feel nervous about the speech any longer; in fact the only thing on his mind was Rosemary and the way she kissed.

He walked in the direction Laura said the restrooms were, noticing the door to the kitchen open, waiters beginning to bring out appetizers. Sheldon leaned against the wall down the hall a bit from the women's room. Several moments passed and Rosemary emerged. Sheldon grabbed her gently, backing her against the wall, finally planting his hands against the wall on either side of her head.

"How do you do that, Rosemary?" he asked, his voice low again. Lust. He was certain now of the feeling of lust.

Rosemary was laughing, looking very amused at him. "What? I just quoted the Beach Boys. You never listened to…"

Sheldon dived in for a kiss and soon the two were locked together.

The bridal party began to take their seats for dinner. Bernadette glanced around for Sheldon. Although they decided to give their speeches toward the end of the meal, Bernadette felt responsible for making sure Sheldon did the right thing.

"Howie, have you seen Sheldon?" she asked.

"He might be waiting for Rosemary. She needed to use the restroom," said Laura, who then paused. "But that was a little while ago."

"Oh God," said Bernadette, grabbing Howard. "He's got transportation now. He probably high-tailed it out of here. Help me find him."

Bernadette and Howard moved into the other room, where hotel employees were already clearing the ceremony set-up. The couple walked in the direction of the bathroom. Coming around the corner to the hall leading to the kitchen, Bernadette froze in her tracks, Howard beside her. She felt her jaw drop at the sight that greeted her.

Rosemary leaned her back against the wall, one hand caressing Sheldon's neck while the other was firmly planted on his behind. Sheldon leaned against her, hands running up and down her body. They were French kissing, oblivious to the occasional waiter who walked by, the young men with knowing smiles on their faces.

"Are you seeing this or am I hallucinating?" asked Bernadette.

"Yeah, I see it," Howard answered. "I don't really know how to respond."

The two were quiet for a moment before Bernadette finally called Sheldon's name. The physicist quickly broke his kiss with Rosemary and turned toward his friends, not letting his girlfriend go. He looked at them as if he didn't recognize either Howard or Bernadette. Rosemary turned red, looking embarrassed, and disengaged herself from Sheldon, straightening her clothes and hair.

"Sheldon, it's time for dinner and the speeches," said Bernadette, trying to keep a large grin from spreading across her.

Sheldon seemed to come to, because he stepped back from Rosemary and began straightening his tuxedo, running his hand through his hair.

"Here Sheldon," said Howard, guiding him towards the men's room. "You need a better fix than that. You want to look good for the photos. Meet you ladies at the table?"

Bernadette nodded as the men disappeared. She walked with Rosemary to the reception.

"So you and Sheldon are quite…taken with each other," the blonde said, giggling a bit.

Rosemary appeared nervous. "Yes, I really like him." She smiled, looking at the ground. "He's very…passionate."

"Well, it's new for us all seeing this side of Sheldon," said Bernadette. "I'm glad he found someone so sweet."

"Thank you," Rosemary smiled, then looked sad. "I just hope we can figure out what to do after this weekend. Seeing him, being around him, and then leaving, is going to be hard."

Bernadette felt bad for both Rosemary and Sheldon, hundreds of miles apart. She had Howard by her side every day, for better or for worse. And Bernadette liked this version of Sheldon, actually cute, still an ass, but adorable in his gangly way. She hoped they could work it out.

At the end of the meal, Howard tapped on his glass to get the room's attention. Bernadette looked across the table to Sheldon.

"You ready?"

He nodded, looking nervous. She noticed he'd been drinking iced tea, but he quickly reached for the bottle of red wine on the table. Rosemary put her hand on his, stopping him.

"Bad idea," Bernadette heard Rosemary say. "Yoshi sent me a link to a YouTube video of you taking off your pants during a speech. You looked drunk. You can do this without the wine. It's only a paragraph long, and you've practiced. And I'm right here beside you."

Bernadette smiled, and stood up, giving her speech, which consisted of funny stories of Penny and Leonard, which made the audience laugh.

"And now for the best man, Sheldon Cooper," she said, sitting down and gesturing to Sheldon.

Sheldon rose. "That's Dr. Sheldon Cooper," he said, getting small laughter from the crowd.

Bernadette crossed her fingers under the table. Sheldon looked down at Rosemary, who just smiled up at him, nodding. He turned and looked directly at Penny and Leonard.

"I am the most important person in this room," Sheldon began. "I am the only one here who observed the exact moment Penny and Leonard met, the moment that led to us all being gathered here today. Leonard was already my best friend, and Penny soon became another, and to watch them over the past several years has been both frustrating and delightful. Now they are married, which puts an end to this roller coaster courtship and begins their life together. A life I hope to be a part of because as most of you know, watching Penny and Leonard is never boring. Cheers to the couple."

The assembly applauded, and Sheldon sat down, receiving a quick kiss from Rosemary. Bernadette and Howard shared a glance. While not the most poignant best man speech, Sheldon spoke from the heart, rare for him. As Bernadette watched Sheldon begin talking to Rosemary again, she found herself hoping Sheldon could finally find happiness in someone other than himself.

Amy soon found dating the photographer at a wedding meant you didn't get to dance with your boyfriend very much. Still, she danced quite a bit, a couple times with Stuart, once with Barry Kripke, several times with her girlfriends to loud dance numbers. She danced with Sheldon, allowing her the opportunity to tell him how much she liked Rosemary and ask him about the publication of his paper. He seemed so relaxed, at ease, a Sheldon she rarely saw. As the song ended, Sheldon took her hand and guided it into the waiting Erik's, Amy surprised to find him without his camera for the moment. Her boyfriend grabbed her, and they twirled around the dance floor, "A Whole New World" from Aladdin suddenly playing.

"I made a special request," Erik said. "I know we never spoke of it, but I've always kind of considered this our song."

Amy remembered well the day months ago when they drove to Disneyland, the day they first kissed, the day she made the life changing decision to take a chance on Erik, give herself an opportunity at love, romance. As the song played, they leaned their heads together, singing along softly, Amy loving his quiet voice sing slightly off key. The song ended, and another slow number began, Erik still holding tight to Amy.

"You think we'll ever be here one day at our own wedding?" asked Amy suddenly, wondering why she had. She avoided talking about such thinks since Bernadette, Penny, and Laura hinted toward a Paris proposal. Perhaps out of fear or not to jinx things, she wasn't sure.

"Oh hell no," said Erik.

Amy, who had been holding him with her head on his shoulder, felt a pang in her heart. Perhaps she'd been wrong, the girls mistaken. They were still a new couple, right? Too soon, maybe? Amy brought her eyes to look at Erik, seeing him considering the ceiling.

"Why not?" asked Amy meekly.

"The lighting in here is crap," said Erik. "Seriously, it's been a frustrating photography day. I'm glad I was able to do the formals outside. Natural lighting is always best." He smiled down at her. "So no, we would never get married here."

Amy placed her head back on his shoulder as they moved slowly across the dance floor.

A half hour later, Erik plopped down next to Sheldon, who sat watching Rosemary dance with Howard. He browsed through the reception photos he'd taken so far, still frustrated with the terrible lighting in the ballroom. He'd need to clean a lot of these up on Photoshop. Still, he felt certain that he'd gotten all the couples and families, with Raj's help of course. Only the garter and bouquet tosses remained out of the events of the day. Exhausted, Erik felt grateful for the 14 hour flight the next day. Of course they had a stopover in Montreal, but he could just sit beside Amy and relax.

"Hey, so Rosemary is really great," said Erik. "When you guys getting together again? Have you figured out how you're going to work this long distance thing?"

Sheldon looked over at Erik sadly. "No. I hope we can figure it out. I enjoy talking with her over Skype, but being around her makes me feel…whole. And excited. And at home, comfortable. I don't know why. To go back to just looking at her through a screen will…" Sheldon stopped.

Erik regarded Sheldon thoughtfully. "May I offer you some advice?"

"Please. I've observed and taken notes on your behavior before. You seem adept at relationships and social situations in general. Perhaps more so than my other companions. And you helped me pick out an excellent vehicle," Sheldon said. "I value your opinion."

Erik stared at Sheldon. "Um, observed and taken notes?"

Sheldon fidgeted and shifted around in his seat. "Well, I'm a scientist. Just…ah…getting to know you."

Erik still felt a bit uncomfortable at the moment, but he continued. "You and Rosemary should make a calendar of when you can get together over the next couple of months. Then you know, have something to look forward to. The counselor I've been seeing the past few months since my recent anxiety attack…"

"You have anxiety?" asked Sheldon.

"Ah, yes. Amy never told you?"

"No."

Erik only nodded, grateful for her and Raj's discretion. "Anyhow, she has me create a calendar of things I need to do, color-coding them for priority. You can color code things, have events and dates set. And you stick to the calendar, no exceptions."

Sheldon seemed thoughtful. "Yes, yes, we can do that." His eyes lit up as he looked at Erik. "We can plan one this evening. Thank you, Erik."

Erik smiled, still concerned about being observed by Sheldon, and turned his attention to the activity on the dance floor. The reception was nearing an end, Penny and Leonard ready to head up to the honeymoon suite, the hotel staff looking to begin cleaning up.

"All right, time for the garter and bouquet toss," Erik said, readying his camera. "Better get in there, Sheldon."

"You coming too?"

"Ha! Um, no. I caught the garter at my sister's wedding," Erik said, shaking his head at the memory. "Things didn't go too well. I'm not a superstitious person, but maybe I need to sit this one out. Just take pictures."

The assembly laughed as Leonard dived under Penny's dress to retrieve the garter. Standing with his back to the group of unmarried men, he sent it slingshot-style behind him. Nobody else had a chance since the garter hit Raj square in the face, falling into his hands.

"Oh my God," said Laura, standing beside Erik. Erik began to laugh.

The women then assembled. Penny locked eyes with Erik, who stood near her to get a good shot. Throwing the bouquet in a large arch, the flowers landed in the center of the group, right into Laura's arms.

"Oh my God," Erik heard Raj say behind him.

Erik quickly grabbed the couple, getting photos of them with the garter and bouquet. Both looked a little stunned and nervous with each other, which of course made for the most adorable photos. After the shots, Erik approached Raj.

"You still good to pick us up tomorrow at 10 a.m.?" he asked.

"Yes, and I'll slip you the ring. And Cinnamon and I are really looking forward to having Honeybee over for the holiday," Raj answered.

"Well, looks like you're the one who needs the ring," winked Erik. "Thanks for your help, man."

"No problem," Raj said, looking worried. Erik just slapped his friend on the back and laughed.

As Penny and Leonard left, Erik found Amy.

"Ready to go, babe?" he asked.

"Yup," Amy said. "I love this dress, but I am really looking forward to getting out of it."

"Ohhh…me too," he said, grabbing her around the waist and pulling her against him, kissing her deeply. He pulled back to look in her emerald eyes, reminded of the coming week.
Of Paris. Of the ring. "Okay, so maybe I'm kinda exhausted and need to finish packing. Rendezvous in Paris?"

"Oui," she answered with a smile.

As the friends were saying goodbye, Rosemary pulled her phone out of her clutch and noticed she missed a call from her sister only minutes ago. Stepping out into the courtyard, she called Lillian back.

"Hey, just wanted to see how your weekend was going," Lillian said. "You're of course going to fill me in on all the dirty little details when we get together this week, right?"

"It's been really good. A lot of fun," said Rosemary. "His friends are really nice, and we've gotten to know each other even better. And…I think I need to call this thing off now, Lil."

"Wait, what?" her sister said, sounding shocked. "Why?"

Rosemary had been thinking about it all day. She was only getting more familiar with Sheldon, more attracted to him in so many different ways. His intelligence, laced with that arrogance she found slightly enduring and off putting at the same time, making her want to argue with him. And the arguments were fun. She enjoyed a lot of the things he cared about; she finally found someone who understood her little obsessions. And he was so sexy, in a shy, bumbling sort of way. She knew he'd be great physically from the kiss they shared in front of her house, but the slow and hot make out session from the night before and this morning still sent shivers through her. And him grabbing her in the hall before dinner. He'd set her whole being on fire. She wanted more of him, his mind and body. But the long distance thing would never work; it would hurt to be away from him now. And it would eventually end like everything else.

"I think I'm falling for him," she finally told her sister. "And…I just know it's going to end, so why prolong things. Make this just a one-weekend thing, and we move on."

"Move on to what?" Lillian said angrily. "You always sabotage yourself, think you don't deserve to be happy. That things won't work out. How the hell do you know? Just because things with other guys didn't work out doesn't mean they won't with Sheldon. You go back to your little world, all by yourself. Don't you want someone to share it with?"

"Lil, you have no idea what…" Rosemary began.

"No, I do have an idea. You put yourself out there all the time for work and school. You take risks," Lillian interrupted. "Why not with love, Rose?"

"Because I gave up, okay," Rosemary shouted into the phone. "A couple years ago, just gave up. There's something wrong with me, Lil. I'm not girlfriend material. I couldn't marry Mike and after that, couldn't even see anyone for more than one date. I don't know when it happened, but I just gave up. Decided to be alone. And I work well alone, you know that."

"But Sheldon…"

"Yeah, it was fun flirting with him at Thanksgiving, and talking on Skype, and going to dinner and a movie, and messing around in his bed, and dancing, and watching Doctor Who, but…" she stopped.

There was silence on the line. She was falling for him in a way she never felt before. But she was scared.

"Don't give up on yourself, Rose," said Lillian quietly. "You deserve happiness. Sheldon deserves happiness. And you make each other happy. Just because it will be hard doesn't mean it won't work out."

Rosemary didn't respond.

"Listen, I love you unconditionally, and I will always be on your side," said Lillian. "But this sounds like something real. I could see it. Yoshi could see it. Glenn and Sally could see it. Hell, you two have been the main topic of conversation the past few weeks, even more than the mountain coming back to life. I think you can see it too. Give this a chance. Give yourself a chance, Rose. Please."

"I don't know, Lil," she said finally, feeling tears come to her eyes. She glanced to see Sheldon entering the courtyard, walking toward her. "I've gotta go."

"Please, Rose," Lillian said. "Take the risk."

"I love you, Lil."

"Love you too."

Rosemary hung up and turned to Sheldon. He smiled at her, and she felt her heart begin to knock in her chest.

"Are you ready to go?" he asked.

She only nodded as he took her hand, and they walked silently toward the car. The drive back to Sheldon's apartment was quiet. About halfway home, Rosemary broke the silence.

"Sheldon, when we return home, we need to have a serious talk," she said quietly, trying not to reveal any emotions.

"Yes, we do Rosemary," Sheldon said. She could see him smiling broadly. "Yes we do."

Author's Note: Will Rosemary break Sheldon's heart, or can this couple of Whovians work out a successful long distance relationship?

Sorry (not sorry?) for the long chapter. Wanted to keep the wedding events together and introduce an important new character. Hope you're continuing to enjoy this story. I appreciate you reading.