Chapter 44 ~ Epilogue 2

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

"…Remember we'd always see the end as the enemy, now we know it isn't so. I'm starting to realize you've been giving me good advice, about where we go. And if I ever need you you'll be there…in the end. Like a miracle, a miracle. Maybe when we leave it's a rise and not a fall. Is it possible? It seems so real. I'm sure that I can see the stars in your eyes…" KT Tunstall – Miracle

Two years later…

Sheldon had felt strange all day.

It was subtle. But nevertheless it was there, in the way his mind kept wandering. He hadn't had such a difficult time concentrating in years.

This morning was a meeting of Dept. heads, and as Dean of Physics, it was his responsibility to organize and lead the discussion. What was normally a cakewalk for him became an exercise in torture. Focusing on the task at hand was nearly impossible as he kept straying off topic.

He was relieved when his presentation was over and the next Dean took over to present. Returning to his seat, he kept his eyes focused on the paperwork in front of him. He had no desire to meet the eyes of anyone and see the questions there. He was sure his scatterbrained behavior was puzzling more than a few people in the conference room. After all, it was puzzling him.

Five years after he and Amy married, Sheldon was promoted to Dean of Physics at Caltech. He had decided to take a more active role in teaching, using his supreme expertise to shape the up and coming minds of tomorrow.

When President Siebert approached him with the opportunity to be in the running, the first thing he did was ask Amy what her opinion was. As she had always done, she supported him and encouraged him without fail. She told him that while his research was important, passing on his knowledge to others was a gift to be shared.

Sheldon relented that he wished at the time of realizing his capacity for Physics, that there was a teacher as knowledgeable as himself to impart information he needed to know. Amy was right, as she always was.

He also knew the time was coming where he would have to secure a more stable future for himself and Amy. They had two year old Stephen by then. Even though between the both of them they made a comfortable living, if they wanted another child and wanted to put them both through college, it would take a greater salary quotient. Not only would he garner more respect with this position, but the pay increase would ensure a much cushier life for them.

He had been shocked that he was even being considered for such a position. He had only just been promoted to full time Professor two years prior, and he wasn't even tenured. President Siebert told him that, off the record, he was the most qualified for the position. He had long since thought Sheldon had talents few could match, but his pride and his ego had held him back. He as well as the Board had been watching Sheldon's progress for years, and felt he was a suitable candidate.

He had excelled at teaching with practice, and no longer felt it to be an albatross around his neck. He hadn't given up his research, though. He still found time to conduct studies, write papers, and do experiments.

When his name had been announced that he won the promotion, he felt a strange sense of accomplishment come over him. He was no stranger to success. Yet he felt deep down that this was something he truly earned. And not just by having a high IQ. He earned it, by proving himself. That was a good feeling, and one he found he quickly became addicted to.

"Dr. Cooper? The meeting is over."

Sheldon looked up, startled to see his assistant Elaine standing over him, a concerned expression upon her face. He tried to gather his wits, standing up hastily and placing his paperwork inside his briefcase.

"Thank you, Elaine. Did everyone leave?" He asked needlessly, looking around the now empty room.

Elaine nodded, her eyes following his.

"Yes, Sir. Dr. Cooper…are you alright? You seem a bit distracted today. Are you unwell?" Elaine asked kindly, and Sheldon shook his head to dispel her worries.

"I'm fine, Elaine. Thank you. I'll be in my office. Please have the Physics 101 exams on my desk for grading by the end of the day." He said briskly, his shaky voice betraying his animated motions.

Elaine nodded as she watched her boss retreat, certain something was off. In five years working for the Dean, she had never seen him so uncharacteristically distracted. She left the conference room as well, shutting off the light and closing the door.

Back in his office, he found he couldn't get any work done there, either. Standing up, he paced around his desk in a circle, rubbing out some knots in his neck that he just noticed were there.

"I need a cup of tea," He murmured, thinking he should go to the cafeteria and procure a soothing hot beverage. Perhaps he hadn't slept well last night, and his fatigue was catching up with him.

In years past, when faced with a dilemma at work, Sheldon would head across campus to his wife's lab. Sometimes he'd bring a snack, sometimes just himself. Once, he surprised her with a single sunflower. Popping his head in, he caught the delighted look in her eyes when they fixed upon first the flower, and then him. Those were happy days, when Amy was so close by. He treasured them.

He longed to see his wife now, if only for a moment. But she was no longer there.

His brilliant, wonderful wife had been promoted herself last year. Her former employer, UCLA, had offered Amy a position to teach as a Senior Professor in Neurobiology. As her grant with Caltech had run its course, and she decided not to find another investor, it was the most logical solution.

Amy loved teaching and lecturing. As much as she enjoyed research, she jumped at the chance to be able to balance a more comfortable life due to having two children. Sheldon was so proud of her. She also had more time to focus on writing. Two more articles of hers had been published in Neuron magazine. Sheldon joked she should give up teaching altogether and become a full time writer.

He smiled faintly now as he recalled her sassy words during that conversation.

"Oh, I should. Perhaps I should focus entirely on my Cooper/Amelia fanfiction?" She had questioned him, one brow quirked in question.

They were in her lab at the time, packing up her personal items. Sheldon looked around to make sure no one was around before he came over to her, bending down to whisper in her ear huskily.

"Are you trying to kill me, Dr. Cooper?" He had whispered, delighted when he felt his wife shiver.

He had read all of her exploits involving The Time Traveling Physicist Cooper and farm girl Amelia. Her words had simultaneously shocked and aroused him, making him blush so profusely that he was glad to have been alone.

It was more than simply the words. It was the feelings behind them. Amy had felt that way for years; imagining them in scenarios of passion and love which he himself had denied her for so long. The fact she longed for those things in such detail moved him. He had wasted so much time being afraid. But then he supposed, if he had rushed things he might have made an even bigger fiasco of their situation.

No…they moved at their own pace. And he would never trade any of their time together, or what it took to get them to the place they now were.

"Of course not, Dr. Cooper." She had replied innocently, answering his earlier question and giving him a sideways glance. She had sauntered up to her door, closing it and turning the lock. Sheldon had watched her actions, wide eyed, at first not understanding her intent. But when she turned around and began to unbutton her blouse, her intent became loud and clear.

"Amy…that's not a wise course of action," He had murmured, his eyes never straying from hers as she moved closer. His wife smiled seductively at him, lowering another button.

"Oh? Are you sure? I think it's just what the Dr. ordered." She said, purposely using his title. Sheldon groaned and backed up against the wall.

Vixen. He was going to have to use logic now. Surely his brilliant wife could see reason.

"Well…while you are no longer an employee of this institution as of 5:00 pm today, I still am. And this Dr. would prefer not to be caught in flagrante delicto at my place of work." He choked out, his voice trembling.

Amy had already unbuttoned four buttons, her pink lace bra now visible as she continued. Sheldon gulped noisily. He could tell his words stirred Amy by the way her eyes dilated. She tilted her head, her eyes burning a hole into his.

"Ooh…Dr. Cooper. Talk dirty to me," She had whispered, sidling up to her husband and leaning up on her tip toes to bite his earlobe. "I just love it when you speak Latin."

Sheldon knew he was losing the battle as Amy slid her hand down his chest until it reached his belt buckle.

What on Earth was she thinking? He had wondered. But he quickly pushed away any rational thoughts as Amy's fingers unlatched the belt, lowered his zipper and and slid her hand inside.

"Amy…" He had warned, his voice quiet and chastising yet it held a hint of longing. It was that hint that made Amy bold.

"I indigere pectore. Nunc." She whispered throatily, her hands wrapped around Sheldon's prominent manhood. He moaned quietly into her hair.

"Please," He had murmured, surrendering to her touch. Amy kissed his neck lovingly.

"Oh, Dr. Cooper…you never have to beg." She promised, pulling his head down and kissing him soundly.

Coming back to himself, Sheldon shook away the memory of what followed. It wouldn't do to be distracted and have an erection at work. But that memory was one he cherished. His professional, sensible wife had pushed him down on her former desk and had her wicked way with him. Right there, in the lab.

For weeks, he worried that security had caught the entire incident on tape. No one said anything to him, nor did he receive any correspondence alluding to his inappropriate behavior. He smiled to himself, missing Amy in that moment so much that his chest ached. He couldn't wait to get home tonight and see her.

In the years they'd been married, his passion for her had never waned. He found himself longing for her touch at the strangest times and without conscious thought. It took him years to surrender his will and accept the fact he was not the Homo Novus he once assumed he was. He had joined the ranks of the rattled masses, led by hormone fueled thoughts of lust and passion.

And not once had his intellect ever suffered because of it.

What a fool he had been, to deny himself as well as Amy such an integral part of their relationship. But they had made up for lost time all of these years. And then some.

Sheldon returned to his desk, putting his memories aside and once again, tried to focus on getting some work done.

Something kept distracting him, and it took him another hour to figure out what it was…

Wind chimes.

Though his office was now down the corridor from where his old office was, he was still on the same floor as the rest of the Physics Department. Those blasted wind chimes outside that Professor Davenport never took down were still swaying in the breeze. They kept playing a haunting tune that made his blood run cold. He never liked the sound and today, he felt overwhelmed by the dislike.

The only person he knew that was fond of wind chimes except for his University neighbor was Meemaw. He thought of that large set hung on her old tree in the front yard, and the way she loved them because Pop-Pop put them there for her. Sitting back in his chair, he closed his eyes.

He had taken Amy and the children back home to Texas for spring break a few months ago to see the family. Meemaw had insisted they stay with her, citing more room and closer proximity to the beach. Mary hemmed and hawed, but gave in at the end when Amy promised they would bring the children around her place every day.

It was the best vacation they had ever shared. He reveled in watching his beloved grandmother sit on the sofa with his children, telling them tales of childhood and making them laugh. Sheldon had walked out onto the porch one morning, to find Meemaw, Stephen, Ellie, and Amy sitting on the cool grass drinking lemonade and blowing bubbles. He sat down on one of the rocking chairs, unnoticed, silently watching the most important people in his life.

How had he ever gotten so lucky?

Thinking back fifteen years, even twenty…his life seemed like it belonged to someone else. His wants and needs had changed so much over the years. He had grown. Evolved. And that was where the crux of the matter lay.

He was different.

Why had he feared change before? He, of all people, who believed steadfastly in evolution? He smiled to himself as he pictured the old him, stomping his foot at some injustice he couldn't control. Now, every thought and action was with the concern for someone else. The old, selfish Sheldon was gone. He was still very much himself in particulars, though; a thought which made him smile. He didn't have to give up who he was to make others happy. He simply had to accommodate them into his life. Everything else just fell into place.

"Oh, how the mighty fell," He whispered to himself, chuckling wryly.

Just then, Amy sat up on the blanket, spotting her husband's covert spying and waved him over. He went gladly, bounding down the steps as quickly as he could to reach his family.

It was a wonderful time for him, Amy, and the children.

Tears sprang to Sheldon's eyes as he shook himself free of the tender memory, taking off his newly acquired reading glasses and dropping them to the desk gently. Turning 47 recently had brought to light the fact that Sheldon's previously 20/20 vision had faltered. He rubbed his weary eyes, certain he was feeling the stirrings of a headache coming on.

What in heaven's name was wrong with him today? Perhaps he should just go home and get some rest. It was Friday, and it had been a long week. He was looking forward to spending a quiet evening with Amy and the children tonight, and tomorrow he and the guys were having a long overdue outing of paintball. It would be wonderful to engage in man talk again; they hadn't done anything just the four of them in over two months.

Packing up his belongings, he stopped by Elaine's outer office to inform her that he was leaving early and to text him with any questions. The woman smiled, nodding.

"Alright, Dr. Cooper. Have a nice weekend," She said kindly, watching him go.

"Thank you. You as well," He answered, happy to get out of there. He felt as though he were being smothered.

He drove home in silence, not bothering to put the radio on. He'd long since gotten over his fear of driving a car; Amy bought him the safest car she could find for his fortieth birthday - A Volvo. Becoming a father had given him new purpose, both as a man and as a provider. He couldn't expect Amy to shoulder the burden of driving anymore.

Amy teased him at the time that the safest vehicle in his eyes would be a Sherman tank. But she was proud of her husband for overcoming his fear of driving, nevertheless.

He found at times driving to even be therapeutic. It helped to clear his mind of everything else as he focused on the road. Yet today, his thoughts were scattered and he hated driving in such a state.

Grateful for making it home in one piece he turned off the engine and sat in his car, staring at his house from the driveway. It was so good to be home.

Sheldon opened the door quietly, surprised to see his wife standing in the foyer. She was home early as well, it seemed; much earlier than normal.

"Amy! You startled me," He said sweetly, letting out a deep breath of relief. She had been running through his disjointed mind all day, and it was wonderful to finally see her.

He smiled when their eyes met, but the smile quickly vanished as he took in her appearance. Her eyes looked dark and pained, and her face pale as milk. He never put much stock in ESP before, but in the years he and Amy were together, they had grown in sync like yin and yang. He did not like the way his wife looked now, nor did he like his reaction to it. A deep fear spread through his limbs as she continued to gaze at him with a glassy eyed expression. Sheldon swallowed thickly.

"Amy? What's wrong?" He asked immediately, dropping his briefcase by the door and coming to her at once. He grasped her hands in his own. Hers were ice cold, and he unconsciously tried to warm them.

Amy opened and closed her mouth once, and ice ran up Sheldon's back.

"Is it the children?" He asked frantically, tugging her along with him to move. Amy shook her head in the negative, taking a deep breath.

"No. The children are fine, Sweetheart. They're fine," She reassured him, her voice thin and frail.

Sheldon nodded woodenly, overwhelmed with relief. Something was wrong, though. Something was very wrong.

"Amy…what is it? Please tell me." He implored, and the blue of his eyes seemed to darken as Amy looked into them.

"Oh…Sheldon. I…" She struggled, only adding to Sheldon's fear. She closed her eyes momentarily, trying to gather her courage. When their gazes locked again, Sheldon just knew. The compassion in her eyes was impossible to miss.

Hold onto yourself, Sheldon. This is going to hurt like hell.

"Amy…no." He whispered, his voice trembling. She could do nothing but nod shakily, the tears she'd held at bay for the last hour finally bursting forth in a torrent.

He could not hear this. It wasn't real. If he didn't acknowledge it, then it couldn't be real.

Right?

His legs gave way beneath him, and he stumbled to the floor, still holding tight to Amy's hands. She fell to the ground with him, scooting up and sitting between his legs.

"I'm so sorry. Mary called. Meemaw…she was gardening. And…the neighbor across the way found her. It was a stroke. The paramedics said it happened very fast. She probably didn't…didn't feel a thing." Amy sobbed, laying her head on her husband's chest. She threw her arms around Sheldon, holding him tightly to her.

Sheldon closed his eyes, already feeling disconnected from his body. Once again, as in a hospital room thirteen years prior, he felt like a helium balloon that was going to float away. Only this time, the tether which held him fast to the earth was not lying in a hospital bed half dead, but right here. Holding him close and whispering words of love and support.

Wrapping his arms around his wife, Sheldon leaned his head on her shoulder buried his face into her fragrant, comforting hair. The smell soothed him. Grounded him.

He was 4 years old again, sitting on Meemaw's lawn sharing a picnic with her and Pop-Pop. The day was sunny, but unseasonably cool. They had fried chicken, potato salad, and corn on the cob. Sheldon scribbled an equation on Meemaw's linen napkin, and instead of scolding him, she laughed in delight. To this day, the framed napkin resided in her bedroom on the wall.

That was his Meemaw. Always supportive, always his biggest cheerleader. She was so proud of him. She was always…so damn proud of him.

No wonder he felt so terribly off today. He knew something was wrong. Had felt it since awakening.

A huge paradigm shift had taken place. This world no longer held the Spirit of someone so pure and beautiful. Sheldon suddenly felt so bereft, so cold…

"Meemaw…" He sobbed, unable to comprehend the grief that was threatening to smother him whole.

Amy only held him tighter, refusing to let even an inch of space between them. Climbing on his lap, she held him close and kissed his face over and over. She whispered words of comfort and love, cradling him to her.

He would never understand the bond that connected them; the deep, nourishing love that kept him sane. Thank God for her.

Thank God for Amy.

Summertime in Galveston was brutal. The only saving grace from the heat and humidity was the brisk Gulf breezes that seemed to flow in like a reprieve from the gods.

On this particular day, though, there was no sun. Dark, stormy clouds had engulfed the area, pummeling the city streets with their weighty contents.

Nobody cared about that, though. It was only fitting, anyway. Such a somber day was not meant to be bright and cheerful. It would almost seem disrespectful.

The church was filled to capacity; friends and family alike giving their last goodbyes to such a special woman. Everyone in Sheldon and Amy's circle had come to the funeral, to which they were so grateful.

Sheldon twisted the speech in his hand as he made his way to the pulpit. It was an unnecessary prop anyway; he had memorized his speech, of course. But something about holding the paper in his hands was a tangible grounding tool. Looking out over the sea of faces who were there to bid their final goodbye to his grandmother was a soothing balm to his soul. She was much loved, that was crystal clear.

Sheldon's eyes met Amy's for a brief moment, and the love he saw there gave him strength.

"Good morning, family and friends. My name is Sheldon Lee Cooper. We're here today, to pay honor and tribute to a remarkable and beautiful woman. Clara Elizabeth Hollings Buchannan. My Meemaw," Sheldon said brokenly, closing his eyes for a brief moment to gather himself together. He had to do this, for her.

"No grandson is prouder to call himself kin with such an exceptional human being. Clara was…Exemplary. She had a heart as big as the state of Texas, with a wit and charm to match. Everyone who knew her was captivated by her. She was a true Southern Belle, full of graciousness and hospitality.

I learned from a very young age, just how special she was. There was a light in her that shone bright and true. I loved her so much that sometimes…I wondered if we were like kindred spirits.

My grandmother held a master's degree in teaching. She gave up her dream to start a family with my Pop-Pop. She was smart as a whip, and I think I inherited my intelligence from her. She supported me, comforted me, and pushed me, all of the days of my life. I can't say I loved her more than anyone. That wouldn't be fair to my wife and children. But we shared a special bond, Meemaw and I." He said softly, his eyes straying to his wife who was seated in the front row. Amy offered him a watery smile, her lips trembling. Stephen and Ellie were on either side of her, their eyes wet and lost.

Sheldon felt sorry for his babies, that they would not grow up to further enjoy the love of such a woman. It hit him suddenly that the last time they saw her, during spring break, was to be their final memory of her. Tears rolled down his cheeks as he relived how beautiful a time it had been, and what a gift for his children to hold as their last thoughts of her.

Sheldon swallowed, before clearing his throat.

"The day I realized that I was going to propose to my wife Amy, I had gone to see my Meemaw. She took one look at me, and knew what was going through my mind. She presented me with her engagement ring, which my Pop-Pop picked out for her nearly 70 years ago. I once told Amy, that by wearing that ring, my grandparents were bound to us forever. I still believe that. Meemaw loved Amy. Meemaw loved…everyone. And everyone who knew her, loved her in return.

Every beautiful memory I have of her is a gift. She enriched my life in ways I have only now begun to understand. I owe her so much…To know she lived long enough to meet my children and enrich their own lives, is a gift I will forever cherish. Every time I eat cookies, I will feel Meemaw. Every time I hear wind chimes…I will hear her laugh. That incredible laugh, and untouchable grace is no longer here amongst us. When I think of saying goodbye…the notion is just impossible. How can you say goodbye to such a person? Such a force of nature? You can't. So I won't. This isn't goodbye. This is so long. Every time I hear my children laugh, I will hear her voice. Every time I see my wife smile…I will remember my grandparents and their amazing love story. And I will smile too. Knowing I was blessed with my own love story, which she played a big part of. We are particles of energy. Our life force never really dies; it just gets transformed. But if there is a Heaven…if by some magical chance that I and the rest of the Scientists got it wrong…then she is there. No other person is as deserving of such a bestowment. I will honor her memory always. I will see to it that my children, and their children do as well. I love you, Meemaw. That will never change. I hope I continue making you proud of me. Rest in peace," He sobbed, coming down from the pulpit and laying his hand upon her closed casket which was adorned with her favorite flowers.

Yellow roses. Dozens and dozens of the perfect buds, covering her in majesty.

Sheldon smiled sadly, the words of The Yellow Rose of Texas going through his mind. A memory came to him then in an instant; his Pop-Pop playing the song on his harmonica as Meemaw danced around her kitchen like a pro. She was a pure light in an otherwise dark world. He hoped that her Spirit was at peace. The thought of her not being somewhere beautiful right now was too devastating to imagine.

Sheldon walked by his mother on the way back to his place next to Amy, stopping before her and kneeling down. Mother and son stared at each other, grief stricken. Mary took his hands, squeezing tightly. Sheldon may have lost his grandmother, but Mary lost her mother. The pain for her must have been deep. His heart clenched with the fact that he and his siblings would one day lose Mary the same way Mary lost Clara.

Suddenly, Sheldon felt helpless. This life was fleeting; our time here so short. He remembered Arthur's words now as he often did.

Appreciate them.

Sheldon reached out, engulfing his mother in a hug. While hugging was something Sheldon wasn't opposed to with his mother, over the years, they really hadn't done it. Mary sat surprised as Sheldon tightened his grip, his love and grief and support flowing through his body into hers. Mary hugged her son back just as tightly, patting his head like she did when he was a boy.

"There, there baby. We'll be alright." Mary whispered, her voice strong and clear.

The church was silent as first George Jr., and then Missy got up to wrap their arms around their mother and brother. There wasn't a dry eye in the church as the four Cooper's closest to Meemaw wept together for the loss of a woman who loved them more than anything.

Any cried quietly, holding both Stephen and Ellie close. Penny leaned over from behind, patting Amy's back gently.

Yes…if there was a Heaven, Meemaw was certainly there. Sheldon felt better knowing that someone as loving as her was on the other side, standing watch.

At least, for now, he believed that.

Later that evening, Amy put the children to bed and made her way downstairs to the living room. She quietly padded down the stairs, peeking in on Sheldon to make sure she wasn't disturbing him. He had been stoic since arriving home this afternoon, and barely ate anything at dinner.

She knew he was processing this grief in his own way. She was surprised he was doing so well. But she knew her husband better than anyone; she was on high alert for if and when the dam would break.

Mary, George, and Missy had come by earlier, Amy trying to comfort them as best she could. The whole family was feeling this loss, and Amy knew they would for a long time to come. For as much as everyone loved Clara, it was Sheldon who had the tightest bond with her.

Sheldon was sitting on the couch ramrod straight, arms folded across his chest with one hand supporting his forehead. He looked exhausted, and lost in his thoughts. As Amy neared him, his head shot up and he fixed her with a glassy eyed stare. The look on his face broke her heart, and she caught her breath. For several moments they stayed in the positions they were in, at a loss of what to say.

Sheldon felt like his emotions were all over the place. He didn't want to snap at her unnecessarily, an Amy didn't want to set him off in his fragile state. In the end, they both realized they needed each other.

Sheldon reached out with his hand toward his wife, and Amy closed the distance, taking his hand gently.

"Are the children asleep?" Sheldon asked quietly. Amy nodded, coming and sitting beside Sheldon on the couch. She tightened her grip on his hand.

"Yes, finally. Ellie cried herself to sleep, poor baby. She doesn't understand completely what's happened. She said she knows Meemaw isn't here anymore, but I don't think she truly comprehends what that means. Stephen stopped crying a little while ago. He said he had to be strong for his daddy," Amy said, her voice breaking. Sheldon's façade cracked, and he bit his lip harshly.

Sheldon didn't know what he would do without his wife and children beside him now. Their love and strength were the only things holding him together. He turned and looked at his lovely, exhausted wife, noting the dark circles under her eyes. She had taken this tragedy hard, as well.

"Are you alright, Amy? Did you sleep enough last night?" He asked her tenderly, worried for her health. Tears filled her eyes as she reached over and kissed him softly.

"I'm fine, Sheldon. Right now, I'm more concerned with you and the children," She said honestly, and Sheldon nodded woodenly.

"I'll speak with Stephen and Ellie tomorrow. We'll have to give them both extra attention right now, so they know everything will be alright." Sheldon said, and Amy knew he was trying to convince himself, as well.

Amy took the hand she still held, kissing Sheldon's knuckles with tenderness. Her brave, wonderful husband. She wished more than anything that she could take away his pain. But the only thing she could do, was offer him her comfort.

"We'll talk to them together. They'll be fine, Sheldon. They know she was very old, and very happy. They had good times with her in such a short period. I know Meemaw was very happy about that. She not only got to see her grandchildren grow up, but have children of their own. She lived a wonderful, full life. Full of love." Amy comforted, her tears now beginning to fall faster. While Amy knew this was truth, the pain of losing such a cherished family member was difficult, all the same.

Sheldon squeezed her hand, unable to answer. After a moment, he released a deep sigh.

"I know," He whispered. He sounded like what ten year old Sheldon must have sounded like.

Amy nodded, looking around the room wistfully. She remembered the first time she came here, the week before their wedding. Walking into this living room, she could feel the love surrounding her. Meemaw's Spirit was still here. Amy was sure of it. And being a Scientist who did not believe in the supernatural could not dispel that feeling.

Amy snuggled closer to Sheldon, wiping some dried tears on his cheeks.

"Your eulogy today was just…beautiful. She would be so very proud of you," Amy whispered, kissing Sheldon's neck lovingly. Sheldon turned his face into hers, gathering strength from his wife.

"I had to honor her. She deserves nothing but the best. I feel like…I didn't do her justice," Sheldon sobbed, his resolve beginning to falter. Amy reached over, cradling his head to her bosom. She stroked his hair gently, unsurprised when he let the floodgates open and the tears flowed freely.

"Oh, Sheldon. No. You know that isn't true. You loved her more than anyone. You did a magnificent job today. She loved you so much. You honor her with every breath that you take," Amy said forcefully.

Sheldon sobbed loudly, clutching his wife around her back.

"How can I go on without her, Amy?" He cried softly, shudders wracking his body. He clutched Amy tighter, fearing he was going to fall apart. He hadn't felt this lost since the day Amy almost died. "Her wisdom, her advice…all gone now. She'll never…never call me Moonpie again," He wailed, his tortured cries ripping Amy's heart to shreds.

Amy swallowed, tears clogging her throat.

"I don't know, Sweetheart. I honestly don't know. I'm not going to offer you a bunch of clichés. I know what she meant to you, and I know how hard this is going to be. I don't know how you'll go on, but I know with whom. Stephen, Ellie, and I. We will be your strength. And you will go on. You will be alright. Because you know Meemaw would never want you to grieve for her. She adored you. And she will always be right here," Amy promised, laying her hand softly upon Sheldon's heart.

Sheldon nodded rapidly, letting go of all of his grief and surrendering. Amy held him tightly, cradling him and rocking him and whispering words of love in his ears. He cried and cried until he was spent. She held him long into the night, until they both fell into an exhausted sleep wrapped around each other on the couch.

Sheldon and Amy stared at Clara's attorney in shock.

"I'm sorry. Could you repeat that?" Sheldon whispered after he once again found his voice.

The man sighed, holding up the legal document and once again repeating the decree written there.

"I hereby bequest my ancestral home at 7577 Stargazer Lane in Galveston, Texas to my grandson. Dr. Sheldon Lee Cooper and his wife Dr. Amy Farrah Fowler-Cooper."

Amy gasped as her eyes met her husband's in shock.

"She…she left me her home? Where she grew up?" Sheldon reiterated numbly.

The man nodded sternly.

"Yes, Sir. And the land which it sits on."

"But…I assumed…" Sheldon trailed off, and the attorney raised a brow to Sheldon in question to continue.

"You assumed?" He followed, and Sheldon swallowed. Gathering himself, he looked at Amy for some clue as to how to proceed. At the moment, she looked as lost as he did.

"I assumed, the house would be sold and the money divided between our family." Sheldon stated, waiting for the attorney to say that he was mistaken before, and Sheldon's idea was the original plan. But no such scenario was happening. The attorney, Mr. Brooks, took off his glasses and fixed his hands into a steeple on the desk.

"No, Sheldon. Clara was always very clear about the ultimate fate of her home. I've been her attorney for thirty years. And in all of that time, even when you were a child, it was Clara's wish that you would one day own that home and the land as well. All totaled, its five acres." Mr. Brooks said with seriousness, producing a legal sized letter from his folder. "If you decide to sell it, you should get a good price. The last appraisal five years ago valued the house and property at 1.5 million dollars. This should clear up any confusion you may have. Your grandmother wrote you a letter, which I notarized twelve years ago, when you and Mrs. Cooper were married. Clara was very specific that if I was still her attorney, it was my job to deliver this letter to you alone, and in person."

Sheldon stared at the proffered letter for a moment, before accepting it with shaking hands. He looked over at Amy, whose face was clearly etched in surprise.

"Shall I read it aloud?" He asked his wife numbly, and Amy swallowed.

"If you wish." She said gently, and Sheldon nodded.

He tore the envelope carefully, unearthing a single page. It was definitely her impeccable handwriting; curvy and elegant, with enough flourish to light up Texas. Sheldon smiled sadly, closing his eyes as he gathered his courage.

Dearest Sheldon, I guess it's time to do the right thing, and make sure my ducks are in order. I feel the weight of time bearing down upon me these days, Moonpie…I am almost eighty years old now. My time here upon this rock is drawing to a close. Sooner, rather than later now. But I am alright with that, Sheldon. And I don't want you to fret none about me.

When you receive this, it will because I have passed. My only fear is for you, Moonpie. Please…stay the course and do not let grief overwhelm you. You are a Scientist. I leave it to you to remember that this is the ebb and flow of life. I will miss you, my love. And I know you will miss me. Promise me, that you will be strong. You have made me so happy and so proud. To witness you marrying Amy was the highlight of my life. I am secure now in the fact you will be alright. As your future is secure, I want you to be secure in something else.

It is my wish that you and Amy are left this house.

I know you love this house. I think a part of your soul has always resided here. I know George is the oldest, and Missy lives here in Texas, but…you are the grandchild that this house belongs to. Places hold us, Shelly. This place holds you. I knew it when you were a child; the light in your eyes when you'd pull up and see the house from the yard. I will tell you a secret: when you were a little boy, I would secretly wish that one day you would live here with your own wife, and raise a family. If you and Amy want to move in here, it would make me very happy. If you want to just hold onto the place, that's fine too. It's yours to do with as you will. I couldn't bear the idea of giving this house away to anyone but you.

I see so much of Pop-Pop and I in you and Amy. I will be eternally grateful to that beautiful woman for loving my Moonpie so thoroughly. She has a light in her that you can see for miles. It is only fitting that such a woman be the one to take my place in that house.

I don't want you to cry for me, Sheldon. I lived a long, happy life. I loved more deeply than most. But you know that, don't you? To share that kind of love with someone is rare. You take after me in that, as well. I never want you to take love for granted. You are the man I always knew you'd be. A loving grandson and son, a dear brother, and a magnificent husband and father. I am so proud of you. Reach for the stars, my child. And if you are ever blessed with that Nobel award you want so badly, don't forget your Meemaw in your acceptance speech. I will be telling all of Heaven about you. I love you so much.

Always, Meemaw.

Sheldon folded the letter with the utmost care, putting it back inside the envelope and securing it in his jackets inside pocket. Hot tears rolled down his face as he was utterly speechless. Beside him, Amy cried silently, her hands folded primly in her lap. He turned to his wife, the love they had for each other connecting them immediately.

"Amy…" He began, not sure how to voice his thoughts. But as she did with everything, Amy made it better.

"Do you want to live here, Sheldon? In Meemaw's house? Because if you do, then we will." She said with resolute certainty.

Sheldon stared at his wife blankly a moment, stunned. She was a noted Scientist. Why would she want to move out here to Galveston? Why, for that matter, would he? Their entire life was in Pasadena.

Mr. Brooks, sensing the weight of the conversation, quietly excused himself to give the couple privacy. Once the door was closed, Sheldon faced Amy head on.

"You would give up our life in California to live here? Pasadena is our home, Amy." He said quietly. Amy nodded, swallowing.

"Yes, but…it's just a city, Sheldon. Home, a real home…is where you hang your hat."

Sheldon narrowed his eyes in confusion.

"Yes, but…move here? And…do what?" He questioned hesitantly, not knowing the answer to that himself. Amy shrugged.

"I don't know. But as it showed you 11 years ago when you found out you were in possession of my bottle, life sometimes gives you options that you never expected. The children are young enough to relocate without too much upheaval. You can get a position out here at Texas A&M. So could I. We have…choices. I know you love that house. And by living there, you would always have a piece of Meemaw with you. Just…think about it." She implored, her tears not ceasing.

Sheldon gazed at his wife, dumbstruck. How could she love him enough to uproot her life, move away from her own mother and step-father who lived close by? While true, moving to Galveston, they would be surrounded by Sheldon's family…they would lose their friends. The choice seemed unbearable to make right now. Leonard, Penny…everyone.

And yet…the idea of living in the grand old house, with the white picket fence and a lifetime of happy memories…

Sheldon gasped, rubbing his eyes.

"I don't…I can't make this decision right now, Amy." He admitted, and Amy nodded.

"Hey. Calm down, Sweetheart. It's alright. You don't have to make the decision now. You own the house. That's all. The rest, we can figure out, okay?" She whispered tenderly.

Sheldon smiled, feeling the weight of grief lift from his heart momentarily. Amy was here beside him. The rest would work out.

"Okay," He whispered, leaning his forehead against her own.

Later that evening, Sheldon and Amy sat the children down in the living room after dinner. They sat on the couch side by side, Stephen on Sheldon's lap and Ellie on Amy's.

"Meemaw loved you both very much. You know that, right?" Sheldon asked them, his eyes darting between his two children.

Stephen nodded, his eyes filling with tears and his lower lip trembling.

"I know, Daddy. Mommy told us she was very old, and it was just her time to go. But we'll miss her." He said sadly, trying to be brave.

Sheldon tenderly ruffled his son's hair. He looked deeply into his eyes, his own eyes. So blue, and so full of grief.

"Oh, Stephen…I know. Trust me when I say, no one will miss her more than I. She and I were…best friends. Just the thought that she won't be here to see you both grow up, is very hard." Sheldon admitted, smiling tremulously.

Ellie bit her lip, reaching out her tiny hand to stroke her father's cheek.

"Don't cry, Daddy." Ellie whispered, and Sheldon's tears fell faster at his daughter's sweet request.

"I'm trying not to, Sweetheart. Sometimes…crying is good. It helps you deal with the sadness. I want you to know, you both did nothing wrong. Mommy and I love you both, and we're here for you. Okay?" Sheldon asked softly, his earnest gaze settled on his son's.

"Will we move here now, and live in Meemaws house?" Stephen asked innocently, his eyes meeting his father's. Sheldon smiled, and looked at his wife.

"Someday, yes. Would that be alright?" He asked his family. Amy nodded, and Ellie clapped her hands.

"I think it would be nice to live in Texas. Someday," Stephen whispered.

Sheldon chuckled, despite his tears. He thought back to a time when he couldn't wait to escape this place. Yet some of his happiest memories were spent right here, under this roof. He had a lot to consider, undertaking such a change. Amy as well. But he remembered Amy's words from earlier, and felt somewhat calmer.

Home is where you hang your hat.

"Yeah. It would be nice." He said quietly, meeting Amy's eyes. His wife gave him an encouraging smile.

"Someday."

It was on a morning the following October that it happened.

Sheldon found himself running late. And for Sheldon Cooper, that was an anomaly.

Since Meemaws death, things had been slow to get back to normal. True to her word, Amy and the children were a great source of strength for Sheldon. They hadn't yet decided whether or not they would move into Clara's house, but the idea was teasing the back of Sheldon's mind daily.

His family wasn't resentful of the turn of events; they knew the strong bond Sheldon and Clara shared, and knew what her wishes were all along. Selfishly, Mary hoped that Sheldon and Amy would move back to Texas, so she could have her whole family together again.

Sheldon and Amy decided that within the year, they would make a decision. The last few months had been hectic, and this day was no exception.

Sheldon flew out the door, Stephen and Ellie in tow.

Amy had to leave earlier than normal to welcome a guest speaker at UCLA, leaving Sheldon the task of chauffeuring the children to school. He piled Stephen and Ellie into his Volvo XC90, balancing a travel mug of tea on the roof.

"Did you remember to print your book report on the Peloponnesian War?" Sheldon asked Stephen as he snapped Ellie into her car seat and gave her bangs a soft tug. She smiled a toothy grin at her father, and Sheldon winked at his girl.

"I did, Daddy. I even added another five hundred words this morning. I know for a fact this paper will earn an A+." Stephen answered proudly. Sheldon nodded in approval, holding up his palm for a high five.

"I don't know why I even asked." Sheldon said, equally proudly. His son was definitely a chip off the old block academically. While he wasn't as perfect in mathematics as Sheldon himself, he was a straight A student who excelled in Science. At the age of nine, Stephen was already talking about being a Dr. A medical Dr. The joy it brought Sheldon to be able to see his son so accomplished couldn't be measured. He was certain that once older, Ellie would be just as successful. His daughter was already an accomplished ballerina at the age of 6. It was no wonder to Sheldon; he was an excellent dancer himself. It only served to reason his offspring would be, as well.

He slammed Ellie's door shut, grabbing his mug before hopping in the driver's side and looking in the rearview mirror to check that Stephen was buckled in, as well. Luckily the drive wasn't gridlock, and he was able to get the children to school on time.

"Mommy will pick you up today, alright? I love you both and I hope you have a good day. Make me proud," Sheldon said, helping the children out of the car and slamming the door behind them.

"Love you, Daddy." Ellie called out, Stephen waving to his father as well. Sheldon smiled warmly.

The children scampered off into the school, the class monitor waving to Sheldon once his kids were safely inside. He waved back, checking his watch.

Drat. It was almost nine. He was most definitely going to be late.

Racing to work as safely as he could, Sheldon flew up the stairs and bounded into his office out of breath.

"Elaine, I'm sorry I'm late. Do I have any messages yet?" He asked frantically, Elaine already out of her seat and handing the stack of messages to him.

"A few, Dr. Cooper. I'm going down to HR to get some welcome packets for the new student's this semester. I'll be back shortly," She promised, and Sheldon nodded.

"Good Lord…how do single parents do that every day?" He huffed, pulling up his schedule for the day on his laptop. He barely logged on when there was a loud pounding at the door.

"Come in," He said brusquely, annoyed at the fact he was so behind. His sour mood only grew when Barry Kripke strolled it, his face set in a peculiar expression.

"Cooper, we have to talk." Barry said, Sheldon not noticing how pale the other man was.

"I'm very busy, Barry. Can it wait until later?" He said dismissively, rising from his chair to pull out some lesson plans he had in a cabinet by the wall. Kripke made no move to leave, and Sheldon met his gaze with annoyance.

"I can't talk now, I am very behind this morning. I'm running late because I had to drop my kids off at school. Now is not a good time," He said with finality, not sparing him another glance as he continued to rummage through the cabinet.

Ever since Sheldon proposed to Amy all those years ago, his and Kripke's relationship had softened. They still weren't the best of friends, but they helped each other out now and then. And their verbal sparring had long since been laid to rest.

When a full minute passed and Kripke still made no move to leave, Sheldon looked up at him. The expression on Barry's face threw Sheldon for a loop.

"Barry-"

"You might want to sit down, Cooper." Barry said gravely, leaning back on Sheldon's desk. Sheldon narrowed his eyes at his former nemesis.

"And why is that, Barry? Did you put a whoopee cushion on my chair?" He asked dryly, softening the accusation with a chuckle.

Kripke rolled his eyes in frustration.

"Cooper! Sit down," He shouted seriously, and Sheldon did something he never did before. He followed an order from Barry Kripke. He gave him a lingering look before folding his arms across his chest. Coming around to his chair, he sat down slowly and waited for Barry to take the seat across from him.

"Alright. You have my attention. What was so pressing that you barged into my office like a lunatic?" He asked with curiosity.

Kripke chuckled, shaking his head.

"Your sarcastic tone may change once you hear what I have to say." Kripke said quietly, his eyes meeting Sheldon's.

Sheldon swallowed, his eyes glued to Barry's.

"What is it?" Sheldon ventured, unaware that his life was about to change forever.

Kripke smiled tremulously.

"Sheldon…you may want to clear your schedule the rest of the day."

Sheldon nearly ripped the car door off its hinges in his haste to get out of the car. He knew he shouldn't have driven all the way to UCLA in his distracted condition, but only one thought pushed to the front of his mind: get to Amy. Find Amy.

He was already behind at work. The day was wasting, and here he was, driving miles out of his way. He couldn't think about that now, though. He couldn't think, period. He rattled off an email to President Siebert, alerting him to the situation in case he hadn't already heard and telling him that he had to run an errand off campus. Considering the weight of the news, Sheldon was sure he'd understand. And even if he didn't, who cares?

He took the lecture hall steps two at a time, bursting through the door breathlessly. Amy's lecture was over, and she was standing at the lectern with what appeared to be a few students as well as the guest speaker, a Neuroscientist from Sweden.

Amy noticed her husband as he frantically strode toward her, the look in his eyes wild.

What in the world is he doing here in the middle of the morning? She wondered, disengaging from the small crowd.

"Excuse me," She said, meeting him at the base of the stage.

"Sheldon, what is it? What are you doing here?" She asked, trying to remain calm. She gripped his arms, the increasing wild look in his eyes scaring her.

He tried to calm his breathing, but he was on the verge of hyperventilating.

"Amy…Kripke…Nobel nomination…" He sputtered, shaking his head and trying again to speak.

Amy pinched up her face, Sheldon's erratic words not making any sense.

"Sheldon, please calm down. Did something bad happen?" She ventured, relieved when he shook his head rapidly in the negative.

"No! No, Amy. No. Something…Oh, Lord. Something wonderful," He gasped, gripping her arms in turn and pulling her right off the stage and into his arms.

Relieved, Amy released a heavy breath and tremulously smiled at her husband.

"What is it, Sweetheart? Take a deep breath and tell me." She urged softly, trying to ground him by putting her palms against his cheeks.

Sheldon took a few deep breaths, his gaze not faltering from his wife's.

"Amy…Barry Kripke was nominated for a Nobel by the committee for a paper on T-duality he submitted two years ago. That particular paper was a collaborative effort between both of us. Barry…he put my name first, because it was mostly my old research on String Theory relating two theories with different space time geometries. The theory was proven. They've accepted it. We've…we won". He choked out, his gasps turning to sobs.

Amy stared at her husband in shock.

"Sheldon… are you sure?" She asked, daring not to hope. Her hands had suddenly gone numb an her legs felt like rubber.

Sheldon nodded, and for the first time since he burst through the door, a look of joy adorned his face.

"Yes. Amy…We won. I've won a Nobel Prize. We're going to Stockholm December 10th," He whispered, his voice wavering softly.

Amy shook her head, trying to clear it.

"But…I don't understand. You switched your field of study years ago. When did you write a String Theory paper with Barry Kripke?" She asked in confusion. The fact Sheldon did anything with Barry Kripke was news to her.

Sheldon led Amy to a seat in the first row, gently sitting her down before lowering himself next to her.

"He came to me after Ellie turned three. He was at a standstill with his research, and asked me if I'd be interest in collaborating. I didn't tell you; it didn't seem like a big deal. Nothing came of it, or so I thought. He put my name as main contributor, because he felt I contributed the majority of research. He knew how much I lamented not continuing with String Theory, especially since I devoted my life to it. He…he could have submitted it on his own, or when contacted by the committee claimed full ownership. But he didn't, Amy. He allowed my name to go first." Sheldon said in awe, still not comprehending how Barry Kripke could be so selfless. He felt a deep shame at having been so angry at him for so many years.

One thing was clear: Barry always put Science first, and that was what made him a great Scientist.

Amy began to cry, soft sobs shaking her already trembling body. Sheldon took her hand tightly in his own, too overwhelmed to think straight.

"Amy…I can't believe this. I…" He faltered, shaking his head. This had been his heart's desire his entire life.

"I am so proud of you, Sheldon. Oh, god…you did it. Both of you. Caltech must be over the moon that two of their Sr. Theoretical Physicists have won a Nobel." Amy gushed, throwing her arms around her husband tenderly.

Sheldon buried his face in Amy's hair, feeling more content than ever before.

"I think President Siebert will take a page in the Los Angeles Times to announce it," Sheldon said in humor, pulling away to gaze at his wife. Everything good in his life was because of this woman. She blessed him with her love, two beautiful children, and the support to win the most elusive prize in all of Science.

She truly was the key to his happiness.

"I love you so much, Amy. I can't believe this is happening. But even if it weren't…I still have everything I ever wanted with you and the children." He whispered sincerely, tears rolling down his cheeks. Amy wiped them away lovingly.

"And I love you, Sheldon. Meemaw would be so proud of you," She said gently, tracing a path from his cheek to his lips.

Her handsome, brave man. She never could have guessed when she walked into that coffee shop how complete her life would be. She was so very proud to call this man her husband.

"You did it," Amy whispered again in awe. Sheldon shook his head in the negative, biting his lip harshly.

"No, Amy. We did it. You and I." He rasped, staring her dead in the eye with conviction. "I could never have done anything like this without you. I struggled for years to prove myself; prove that I was better than everyone. I was so arrogant, Amy. It took the love of a good woman to prove to me just how unworthy I truly was. But your love…it transformed me. It made me better. And for that…I owe you everything." He said sincerely, wiping away Amy's tears in return.

No further words were needed as Sheldon crushed his wife to him, kissing her passionately and offering everything he had to the one person who had stood by him and believed in him without question. He owed everything to his wife, his very existence.

Amy clung to him, laughing at the sheer joy coursing through her.

Those left in the lecture hall laughed and cheered at the couple's display, not entirely sure what was happening, but knowing it happy nevertheless.

Sheldon stood, pulling his wife to her feet and swinging her around in a circle. He wanted to just scream with how happy he was. It was too much. It was all just too much to understand.

"Let's go. I think this warrant's you taking the rest of the day off." Sheldon chuckled, Amy following suit.

"Oh, yes. I think you're right. We have to tell everyone! Did you call your mother? We have to call Leonard and Penny-"

Sheldon pulled Amy close, kissing her cheek sweetly.

"That can wait. Everything can wait. Right now…I want to take my wife home and have a private celebration. Just the two of us," He said, his voice low and sexy.

Amy gasped at the look in Sheldon's eyes. In every word and gesture they had ever shared, he had never looked at her in quite a way. It was a look that said she had better be prepared. She responded the only way that she could.

"Hoo…"

Sheldon smiled seductively, dragging his wife behind him quickly. He would most definitely show her the meaning of the word 'Hoo' today.

Repeatedly.

A/N – Thank you for reading. The last part will up in a few weeks, probably close to the Season 9 premier.