Chapter 17

This is dedicated to All my Shamy fans. Keep the faith friends.

Thanks again to ShAmy4evr for Beta Reading! She is a goddess!

A Little fluff for you folks!

At lunch the next day, Sheldon had suggested that the gang gather at 4A for dinner and a movie marathon that evening. Howard had jumped at the chance and the invitation had barely been extended before he had proceeded to call Bernadette. When Leonard found out that Sheldon had already extended the invitation to Penny, he nearly hugged him, and offered to pick up the food for evening. Raj said he would stop by after the pet adoption to introduce the group to the new love of his life, but Sheldon was dismayed when he was told that Raj's new love would be the Yorkshire Terrier he had found on the adoption website.

A jejune evening of fussing over some noisy dog seemed infinitely less desirable than what he had planned, which was a thrilling evening with his friends, eating Chinese food and introducing Amy to the wonder of Star Wars. Amy wasn't too sure about the movie choice, but she could not deny that the thought of spending time with a group of friends was almost as good as having a sexy boyfriend. Almost.

As the weeks had progressed, Sheldon's apartment had virtually become the social gathering point for group and he could easily understand why. As he had explained to Amy, he had become the glue that held the group together, and she needed little convincing. Though, in the interests of honesty, he had had to add that with Penny living next door, Leonard was practically begging Sheldon to let him drive him home every night and had even offered to pick him up for work if Amy was ever too tired. Sheldon had advised Amy that the offer had been respectfully declined.

Later that evening, as they waited for Leonard to arrive with the food, Sheldon decided to use the time to explain the thrilling imagined world of George Lucas to Penny, Amy and Bernadette and though he knew that Howard was no stranger to the Star Wars world, Sheldon felt that the engineer could only benefit from Sheldon's more extensive knowledge. However just as he was about to commence, much to everyone's relief, Leonard showed up with dinner.

Unfortunately not only had Leonard's arrival interrupted Sheldon's presentation, but Sheldon's strict order guidelines for his Chinese food had confused him, so instead Leonard had opted for a different culinary treat.

"Leonard! Where is the Chinese food? What is this?" Sheldon looked at the take out bag which said, "Sombrero Del Seoul."

Leonard looked at Penny and explained, "Its Korean Mexican Fusion!"

Penny was thrilled, "Oh so cool, Leonard!"

Grinning with pleasure, Leonard added, "Here try these Goji Tacos! They are amazing!"

She took a big bite and smiled with a full mouth, "Oh man this is so good! You really are a genius!"

Bernadette was also nonplused about dinner, but was soon won over when Howard said something in Korean with a Spanish accent.

Sheldon snorted and looked at his bibimbap tostada with all the enthusiasm as if it were a slice of mud pie. "What in the name of Julia Child is this?"

"Dinner. It's the signature Korean dish with a Mexican flare! Try it!" Penny had finished her Goji Tacos and was starting on the Kimchi guacamole, but Sheldon just pushed his food around, thankful that he had had a big lunch.

Amy, seeing Sheldon's discomfort, took it upon herself to go to the kitchen and fix him one of her signature sandwiches just as Raj arrived with the new love of his life. In his arms was a gorgeous brunette who lapped up every sweet word from his lips. However, the moment they had entered the apartment, the brunette opted to sit on Sheldon's lap, and excitedly tried and kiss him. Raj had brought his new dog to meet the group. At first, Sheldon was mortified that the dog had jumped on his lap as if he had a dog whistle.

"Raj! Don't you have any control over your pet? Tell Cinnamon, the only person allowed to sit in this spot is me!" The dog looked up at Sheldon with deep chocolate eyes and cocked its head to the side, "Okay… Maybe for a minute…"

Raj nearly dropped his leash, "Sheldon! How did you know I was going to name her Cinnamon!?"

Amy overhearing the conversation from the kitchen was surprised as well. She knew Sheldon was intuitive, but to guess that name seemed near wizardry.

Sheldon wracked his brain for an excuse for the knowledge. He had remembered the congress of Sheldons saying that Raj had a better relationship with his dog Cinnamon, than with his Zombie loving girlfriend. Sheldon now had to come up with a reason quickly, "Umm…. Your culture's overuse of spices is legendary. I could have just as easily said Turmeric!"

"I would never name a dog Turmeric! But it was a toss-up between Cinnamon and Nutmeg."

"I rest my case." Sheldon let out a relieved sigh.

"Yvette said it was a lovely name!" Raj said with a smug smile.

Penny piped in with a mouth full of tacos, "OOOH! Yvette! Who's that?"

Raj eyes looked dreamily out into space. "She is the vet that runs the animal adoption clinic. She has luscious thick dark brown hair that you just want to run your fingers through, eyes that sparkle and lips th…"

"Ok, we get the picture, she is pretty." Leonard interrupted as he leaned over to help himself to more Tacos before Penny demolished the lot.

"Pretty!? Dude she is a goddess, and a goddess that has given me her phone number." Raj produced a piece of paper from his pocket and looked as if he had found the Holy Grail.

Sheldon had to offer his advice, "Well, given how you are goin' nuts over this dog, a vet would be very handy to have around. You should call her."

"OKAY! I Will!" Raj started to dial her, but Sheldon cut him off.

"Not now! Damn, boy. As the parlance of your future girlfriend will be: HEEL!"

Raj seemed disappointed, but Sheldon quickly added, "Call her later, she is probably still at the clinic anyway." Cinnamon nuzzled into Sheldon's lap seemingly settling in for the night, "Now, about this dog! She seems to be calm for the moment, but one bark, and she is gone!" Sheldon started to pet Cinnamon.

Amy had now returned to the couch with a grilled cheese with bacon sandwich. She had even managed to cook a smile onto the bread. Sheldon was never more in love with her than that moment when she placed the plate of "normal" food on the table, with a large sympathetic smile that mirrored the grin on his grilled cheese sandwich.

The girls had now moved to open the bottle of wine that Penny brought and as Amy turned to join them, Raj whispered to her. "Not only does he know about everything in the universe, now he is mind reader and dog whisperer! Is there anything your new boyfriend can't do?"

"Not that I have found yet, Rajesh. I keep looking though. I will make it my life's work…" Amy had a dreamy smile on her face as she watched Sheldon tut at Cinnamon, who despite showing too much interest in his sandwich had warmed her way to Sheldon's heart, and he proceeded to explain the plot to Star Wars as if she could understand every word.

Amy had now joined the girls in the kitchen who were watching the whole scene. Bernadette was listening to Sheldon coo over Cinnamon like a baby, "Ahhh… look how Sheldon is fussin' over that dog!"

Amy thought it was adorable how Sheldon was speaking to Cinnamon, even going so far as to compare her hair to that of a Wookie. She chuckled and said, "I know! That dog is getting more love than me tonight!"

"Don't worry, the night is young." Penny winked at Amy and nudged her with her shoulder. "I will make it so you have some privacy with Mr. Snuggly poo over there. Boy, wait till that guy has kids! He is never going to let their feet touch the ground!"

Amy just gulped down her drink and made her way back to the couch to find Sheldon feeding Cinnamon bits of his untouched Korean Tostada.

After the group had eaten their fill of their ethnically diverse dinner, Sheldon once again tried to launch into a lecture on the correct order that the movies should be watched, before starting the marathon, only to realize that their social gathering was about to end. Raj was now eager to call Yvette and also wanted to go to the pet store for some late night shopping for Cinnamon. Howard and Bernadette, for some reason, wanted to leave early, and Amy seeing the look on Bernadette's face didn't have to wonder why and neither did Sheldon, recognizing the same lovelorn look on Howard's face he wore every time he looked at Amy. Penny had decided that instead of a night of Star Wars, she would rather watch America's top model and asked Leonard if he wanted to join her.

"If you guys want to go, that's all fine with me! MORE than fine…" Sheldon looked shyly at Amy.

"We get it Sheldon…."

Sheldon smiled, "Besides, I got a backup copy of Star Wars you can borrow! Make sure you don't put your finger prints on the disks! This is only my second copy of the special edition! The other one is in the vault." Sheldon went to the book case to get the DVDs which Leonard almost took from his hand, but the look on Penny's face stopped him.

"I think we will be fine, won't we Leonard?" She tilted her head and glared him.

Sheldon shook his head, and said calmly, "Penny… please… Would Leonard rather watch the most legendary science fiction franchise of our age, or a bunch of half-naked women tromping around vying for who's the most vain. There's no contest, right Leonard?"

Leonard looked at Sheldon and said flatly, "You're right. See ya later Sheldon!" Leonard happily went over to Penny's apartment, bottle of wine in one hand and Penny in the other without the copies of Star Wars.

"Well! I guess we can see where his priorities lie! How can he give up an evening of Star Wars?" Sheldon placed the DVDs back on the shelf with a snort and returned to his place next to Amy.

Amy shrugged, "Hasn't he seen it like a gazillion times?"

"Amy… please… Exaggerations aside, anyone would be lucky to see Star Wars that much!"

"I'm sure."

"Well, I'm glad it just us! Now we can watch it as much as we want!" Sheldon was thinking of enjoying his favorite movie, and hopefully, cuddling with Amy on the couch. The longer the better and Star Wars was just the ticket.

Amy slumped back on the couch. Now that they were alone, an evening of Star Wars was not really what she wanted, and she was worried that watching the movies was all that he had in mind, "Oh… Sheldon, Maybe we can wait to watch it with the group, ya know?"

"Ah… never worry Amy. I won't deny you the pleasure of Star Wars just because those yokels didn't stick around." Sheldon was trying to make the offer enticing, but seeing the look on Amy's face realized it was a losing battle, so he decided to bring out the big guns. He looked over at Amy and gave her a puppy dog look that would make Cinnamon jealous. It was as if Sheldon was under her tutelage for adorableness and he took the lesson well.

"Donncha wanna stay with me?" Sheldon blinked a few times for added effect.

Amy was sold, but had to shake her head and laugh at his antics. "I do. I really do."

"Good.. Now.. So the only question is, commentary of no commentary… Umm…." Sheldon jumped up to load the movies and didn't notice Amy's long sigh.

Sheldon's back was turned and he did not see Amy grab a curled chip, dip it into the bowl, scoop up a large portion of the guacamole and pop the chip in her mouth. However he spun around swiftly when he heard her say, "Boy, this stuff is good. I never had guacamole before! I didn't think it had cabbage in it?"

Sheldon rushed over to her, "AMY! No you can't eat that!" He pulled the bowl of kimchi guacamole away from her, but the damage was done.

Amy's face scrunched up, "Geez, you take food off my plate all the time! Just yesterday you stole my fries! Don't deny it, I know it was you Sheldon!"

Sheldon shook his head, "YES I was the fry thief, but more importantly, you know you are allergic to avocados!" he rushed over to her and grabbed her hands to wipe off any errant spot of the forbidden fruit.

Amy pulled her hands away and rolled her eyes, "Oh please! I am not! Where on earth did you get that idea? Are you mixing me up with Howard? What is that guy NOT allergic to?" Amy pushed up her cardigan sleeves and rubbed her elbows. "I mean, who ever heard of such a thing!" She reached up and scratched at her neck, pulling at her itchy sweater. "I have never had avocado before, but there is only 2% of the population that has food allergies!" Amy pulled off her sweater, and reached behind her to scratch at her back. "I mean…" She let out a rough cough, but Sheldon had seen enough.

"That's it. I'm getting that Benadryl!" He rushed off to the bathroom and ransacked his medicine cabinet until he found the little pink pills. By the time he had returned, Amy was pulling off her blouse and practically digging troughs in her bare arms.

"Sheldon, why do you have all this allergy medicine?"

"Found out about not only Howard, but Leonard as well. Them boys can't walk in a grocery store without an epi pen and a lotta prayer. I didn't want them to die in my apartment, so I stocked up before they came over."

"That was thoughtful of you, Sheldon."

"Some might call it overly cautious… Now, take these pills. I got some anti-itch lotion here too."

Amy looked up at Sheldon as she grabbed the pills out of his hands downing them with a swift drink of water. She asked, "How did you know?"

Sheldon stammered, "Um… You got green eyes. I um… heard that you folks are more susceptible." He put a dab of the lotion on his hands and rubbed it up and down Amy's bare arms and shoulders while trying not to ogle her chest. Then he moved his hand to her neck and chest rubbing slower than needed, as he looked into her eyes, trying to remain a Southern Gentleman but with difficulty. The lotion was soothing Amy's itch, but his hands were having producing other sensations.

"Um… Feel better?" He never should have allowed the forbidden fruit in the door. He could kick himself for the stupid mistake. If anything happened to her, he would be broken in a way that could never be fixed in his life time.

"No, but the medicine should work in a little bit. God, I just want to scratch my skin off! And these tights aren't helping!" Amy pulled at her tights under her skirt, showing off the tops of her knees, her movement drew his eyes down like a magnet. Hastily he raised his eyes up, only for them to come to rest to her chest instead, which was just as tempting as he watched her arch her back to get at a stubborn spot.

Sheldon took a large gulp, she was wearing a thin tank top that showed off a leopard patterned bra. He had never seen so much of her skin before and the tempting pale canvas of her neck and tops of her breasts were almost too much to take.

"Um… let's get my, I mean your mind off it! I know! Let's start STAR WARS!" Sheldon leaped over to the bookcase to get his DVD's out while Amy slumped back on the couch and gave out a discouraged moan.

After Sheldon had loaded up the movie, he moved back to the couch, but Amy was still digging at her skin. "Now Amy, you can't be scratchin' all night like a cat at the door! Come on, now. I'll hold ya down." Sheldon held open his arms and wrapped Amy up in them. As the first part of the movie started, Amy tried to pull away to scratch herself again, but Sheldon held her steady.

He thought back to story of number Five and his Amy bleeding on the floor after that failed pregnancy. Sheldon had listened to his story that night and though his Amy was okay and this was only a minor allergic reaction, he could now understand the feeling of helplessness, panic and despair that number Five must have had to endure. He had a new respect for his alternate self as he held onto Amy and listened carefully to each breath.

After about 20 minutes, she was calm and he noticed the redness around her face and neck had disappeared, but now Amy was yawning and nodding off.

"Sheldon, I'm sorry I ruined our Star Wars date! I better go home and get some sleep." Amy's eyes drooped down like melting mint chips.

Amy tried to get up, but Sheldon held onto her, "Amy! You can't drive like this! You will be in the arroyo after taking a header off the bridge! You had better stay here tonight."

Amy nuzzled into Sheldon's chest, "Well I know from last week that your couch is quite comfy. Thanks Sheldon. I won't be a bother." Amy let out a yawn but with a smile. She was thrilled to be having another sleepover and only wished she wasn't so near catatonic.

Sheldon let her sit up, "Oh no. No couch for you little lady. You can… um…you can sleep in my bed. Come on, now. You can wear my pajama top I think the bottoms will be too big for you. Let's get you down for the night."

Okay…" Amy was too tired to argue as she staggered off to the bedroom with Sheldon holding her steady. He gave her the top to his pajamas and found an extra tooth brush for her to use. By the time Amy was done with her ablutions, she was practically sleepwalking as he helped her to the bedroom. He tried to keep his eyes off her pale legs poking out of the bottom of his PJ shirt, but he couldn't help himself. Neither could he keep his eyes off her shapely bottom when she bent down to crawl into bed. His rapid blinking and heavy breath didn't calm his pounding pulse, but his concern over her health kept his illicit thoughts at bay.

Sheldon tucked her under the covers, sat on the bed and brushed her hair off her face, gently kissing her on her forehead.

"If you need me, I'll be just in the other…"

Amy sat up and batted her eyes at Sheldon with the same forlorn look he had given her when he had asked if she wanted to stay for Star Wars, "Aren't you going to stay with me?"

Sheldon swallowed and asked in a whisper, "You'd want me to sleep with you here?"

Amy tipped her sleepy head and begged softly, "Please… Stay."

It was just what he hoped for, an evening of having Amy wrapped in his arms, and he wanted nothing more at this moment than to hold her and feel her body next to his. "Okay Amy. I'd like that. Let me just turn down the house, and I'll be right back." Amy gave a sleepy smile, looking forward to snuggling into her new favorite pillow.

As he cleaned up the house with haste so that he could get back to Amy, he thought about how fortunate he was. Sheldon Cooper, a man who had been alone most of his adult life, now had a woman who not only loved him and warmed his heart, but soothed his mind. After about 10 minutes of cleaning the living room of leftover culinary armaments, he dressed for the night and returned to Amy who was blissfully asleep, curled up on her side.

Her sweeping curves were undeniable, and her femininity shone through even under the layers of the comforter and flannel, drawing Sheldon to her. He spent a few moments admiring the image of her in his bed, hoping it would not be the last time.

During all the years of being alone and bitter he would stumble to his bed after a long day of silence. It was a place of rest for his lonely heart. A place where he could close off the world and drift away to dream of happier times. Now as he watched Amy's body rise and gently fall with the deep breaths of sleep, he felt a new comfort. He didn't need a dream to push away the loneliness anymore, all he needed was her. He curled up behind her, and nuzzled into her neck finally finding his new favorite spot.

She was everything he had ever secretly hoped for during the long lonely nights. He had always tried to convince himself that he didn't need anyone. That solitude was his sure path to keeping his genius untainted. And for some of the time, his self-delusion worked. But then he would remember the companionship he had experienced when Missy had stayed, and the contentment he had felt holding and talking to Jake, and knew that that was all his bravado was, self-delusion.

He looked down at Amy as she shifted around and nestled onto his chest with a dreamy smile playing on her lips. It had not taken the congress of Sheldon's to make him fully admit his longing he had known it for some time. But what the congress had done was given him some hope. And every night since he had met Amy he had dreamed of just this situation. Sleeping with his arms around her, holding her near him. He tightened his embrace as if afraid she would disappear, and drifted off to sleep, years of loneliness becoming just a fading memory.

It was just gone 6:00 AM when Amy woke up in the middle of the bed, with a cold sheet next to her. She sat up slightly to check for a light at the bottom of the door that would tell her that Sheldon was down the hall, but as she moved, she felt a hand rest on her thigh, just below the hem of her borrowed pajama top. She smiled and leaned back, nestling her back into Sheldon's strong chest as his warmth surrounded her.

"I thought you'd left."

"No, well, I did a minute ago, but you were asleep. I came back to find you taking up most of the bed."

Sheldon had woken at his normal time to find Amy snoozing on his chest as if she belonged there, as if he had come home. He had quickly taken care of his ablutions and returned to Amy in repose eager to capture that feeling again.

Sheldon's fingers now played with the bottom of the borrowed shirt that had ridden up her thigh. Two of his fingers were glazing over her tender skin. Amy shifted closer, silently encouraging Sheldon's gentle touch.

"Well I got up at 4:00 AM, and by the time I'd returned to bed, you had done the same." Amy had woken up with Sheldon nuzzled on her chest like a teddy bear. Smiling she had run her hand down his hair for a moment hating to pull away from his embrace, but nature called. She had brushed her teeth, and had come back to find Sheldon sleeping in the middle of the bed like a vampire in a coffin. She had wondered if he slept like that every night as it seemed so uncomfortable, not to mention uninviting.

She had allowed herself a few minutes of indulgence as she watched him sleep, then she resumed her place by his side, and tried to claim at least a sliver of the bed. She mirrored his position from before, however as soon as she placed her head on his chest, his rigid like posture relaxed as he unconsciously curled up to embrace her. By the faint moonlight seeping through the shade, Amy could see a slight smile as his face softened in sleep, and she couldn't ask for more than the feeling of Sheldon's warm embrace surrounding her like a poncho.

Amy looked over her shoulder and said, "I guess neither of us are accustomed to another in our beds."

Sheldon leaned over and whispered in her ear, "I should hope not." His minty breath was better than any coffee to wake her up. "But I am all for getting' used to you in my bed."

Amy turned around and snuggled onto his chest, "Oh really?"

Sheldon blushed at his brazen comment, but he didn't want to hide his desire at that moment even if he could. He was being honest, which he thought was refreshing given his recent history with Amy. It had been the best sleep he had ever had, and her warm body now evoked the comforting feel of Amy's breath on his neck as she lay sleeping on his chest. Her presence was a mix between wanting to hold her to keep her safe from any harm that would ever befall her, and the security that she seemed to be doing the same for him. His hand slid up and down on her arm mirroring his action from the night before. It was an unconscious tender touch, but one he now knew he would need every night as he slept.

"Yes really…" Sheldon pulled back her hair and kissed her neck just below her ear. She felt his breath as he nibbled down her nerve, "Sorry this had to be…" He kissed her again, and sucked slightly on her neck, "because of a…." He moved his mouth to her ear lobe and licked the tip slightly as his hands moved around her waist, "accident. Next time, I hope it's because you want to stay."

"Oh… yes Sheldon!" Amy was moaning at this point.

Sheldon smiled through his osculating, "Umm, well maybe you… I was just wondering… if you would want to ya know… stay again? Perhaps you could stay tonight night… You know… after our date?" It was more of question than a statement.

Sheldon's heart sank when Amy did not answer, had he presumed too much, yet again.

Then Amy raised her head and looking into his eyes smiled and with a boa constrictor like hug said, "Oh! I would love that!"

Sheldon let out a sigh of relief. However his next sentence reminded Amy of something from the previous night. "Sorry your Star War's marathon was thwarted by a large green fruit."

Amy pulled away slightly and looked at him again, "I still don't know how you knew I was allergic? I mean… most people…"

Sheldon pulled her in to cuddle her closer and quickly interrupted her, "Oh I know…a lot of people are. Wolowitz would die if we gave him an Almond Joy. Though thinking about it if he brings up the ephemeral merits of the Green Lantern movie again, I might just slip 'im one."

He was still afraid to admit how he came to have privy information, not only on her medical history, but other aspects of her past life that she had not told him about.

However Amy was unwilling to let the matter drop, "Most people aren't allergic to avocados. I mean.. I have never heard…"

Sheldon leaned down and whispered in her ear with a husky voice, "Did you know, the word avocado comes from the Nahuatl word āhuacatl. It means…"

"Yes, I know… testicle." Amy felt his hand ride up her thigh slightly and her wits started to scatter.

Sheldon looked out and thought out loud, "But to have one that large, I mean you would have to be the size of AT-Walker."

Amy was growing more confused by the moment, and Sheldon's hand on her thigh was not helping her maintain any focus, "Um… what's that?"

"It's from Star Wars. Although, given they are robots, I doubt they have genitalia. Which brings us full circle to our original topic."

"Genitalia?" Amy eyes widened.

"NO! Star Wars! Its only 6:30. I got two hours before the guys come get me for Paint ball practice. We could watch one now!"

Amy moaned. The last thing she wanted to do that morning was watch a movie, "Don't you think it would be a bit of a rush to watch it now, can't we just see ONE of the movies for our date tonight?"

"One, oh no… ya got to see them all! But that's a great idea Amy! As you know, I was going to take you to this overly expensive Italian place, but Star Wars is so much better! We can watch the first movie for our date with the director's commentary! Then you can stay the night, and Sunday we finish off Empire Strikes Back in the morning and Return of the Jedi and all the prequels later in the day"

"Oh wonderful…" Amy did not realize that sarcasm would be lost on Sheldon. So much for her Italian dinner, she thought. Then she smiled as she thought she had an out, "But you got that Paintball battle Sunday!"

"Yep, but not till 1:00pm! Then you can come back! It will only be like three hours!"

"Great…"

"Good, I'm so glad you like the idea!" Sheldon could only marvel at his genius. Not only had he convinced her to stay the night, but then he could still have a Star Wars marathon after all! It seemed that kissing was a good positive motivator.

However, Amy had her own plans for the date, and none of them included dopey space movies.

"Um… I really like Italian." Amy snuggled back onto his chest, and as she nibbled on his neck, Sheldon was ready to say yes to anything. Amy kissed him as she said, "I would rather have…" she kissed his ear and glided her tongue to his lobe, "…a nice dinner with you…" pulling his shirt down slightly, she moved her mouth to his clavicle and gave him slight kisses on the bone, "and a quiet evening…" She moved her body over his, nearly straddling him, "and then Sunday can be for space shows…. Okay?"

"Okay… Dinner tonight then Star Wars on Sunday, okay?" Sheldon loved to negotiate with his crafty vixen and playfully grabbed her hips with a ticklish grip.

"Okay!" Amy let out a squeal before Sheldon pulled her down and flipped her on her back with a swift motion that took her breath away. He could have made her watch episode Four of Star Wars and then rush off to paint ball. Instead, he started to kiss her neck again becoming lost in the feel of her skin under his lips, the hint of her passion fruit shampoo, but more importantly, the feel of Amy's hands on his back and chest. Amy had also discovered that kissing was good positive motivator, and her own impassioned kisses and gentle touches distracted Sheldon enough that Amy didn't have to watch Star Wars that morning, or for her date after all.

It was their first make out session, and though Sheldon was definitely ready for more, he didn't want to pressure Amy in any way. His body was urging him to move forward, claim her, devour every inch of her writhing willing body, but his mind reined in his actions. Each kiss Amy gave him was a jolt to a dormant endocrine system that he had long ignored. Being with Amy brushed off the feelings of loneliness, but to be so intimate with her, feeling her supple touch, hearing her moans, and tasting her skin was driving a new desire. Now he was able to understand the appeal of physical touch. He had shied away from it for years. But he knew that only with Amy could he ever feel this comfortable.

Amy was in the same state. Each kiss she gave him, she had to check his reaction: Was it too much, was she too eager. However the look in his eyes each time told her she was safe and each kiss relaxed her and reassured her that her reactions to his touch was reciprocated tenfold. Just being in each other's arms, kissing without hesitation was enough for them that morning. Both of them knew the date night was likely to bring their physical relationship to another level. This was only the first stage for the inexperienced couple.

All too aware of the time, it still took all the strength that she could muster to pull herself off Sheldon's tempting chest. The last thing she wanted was to walk out of his room disheveled and breathless to face the scrutiny of the boys. So with one last heated kiss and a whimper she got up and dressed.

However, once they were both dressed, Sheldon was reluctant to let her go, and Amy was finding it difficult to fix any type of breakfast with him hugging her from behind and nibbling on her neck as she cooked, but she did it and he loved every bite. Cooking in his kitchen seemed so natural to her, it was like second nature.

Just before 8:00 AM, Amy made her escape from his loving arms and with one last impassioned kiss, promised to be back for their date on time. She walked dreamily to her car, opened the door and got in, but then just sat there staring off into space, thinking over the events of the morning. She had loved waking up in his arms. She felt comfortable and safe. She could still feel his hands on her body, and the sensations his kisses had caused, had only increased her desire. Amy knew that she wanted more, but she wondered if she ready.

Her strict childhood had taught her that she should shy away from sex, or anything that would label her a loose woman. She had only known Sheldon for four weeks, and already that archaic upbringing had been forgotten thanks to the thrill that she felt when she was with him. She wanted him more than air, and more importantly, she trusted him. She shouldn't, in fact she should be on guard, but love had killed any doubts.

She called Penny up, and asked if she would be willing to have a spa day to gussy her up for her date later that evening. Penny would have said yes to anything just to get her off the phone at the ungodly hour of 8:00 AM.

Sheldon rushed through his exercises, took a quick shower and dressed in the combat gear ready for the paint ball practice for the next day's battle, and not a moment too soon as the boys knocked on Sheldon's door punctually at 8:30.

Though Sheldon had told the boys he was able to shoot, he had not told them how good he was and was looking forward to seeing their surprised faces.

Howard set up the targets 75 yards away. They were straw dummies with photos of Kripke's smug face stuck to them. As soon as Howard cleared the field, Sheldon sat and took aim. He breathed though his nose, and closed his eyes to clear his mind. Once he opened his eyes, he was in a self-made sensory deprivation bubble and his only sight was between Kripke's eyes. He shot off five rounds, all of which hit Dummy Kripke in the heart, and one on his crotch.

"Holy shooting, Sheldon! You only missed one!" Raj hadn't even got a shot off yet.

Sheldon snickered, "No… I didn't miss."

Though Sheldon's marksmanship was uncanny it could only take them so far. The trick was strategy and Sheldon had that in spades. With the help of Sheldon's plan, Leonard's low center of gravity, Howard's small stature and Raj's willingness to be bait, they all felt that they might have their first victory and more importantly, put Barry Kripke in his place once and for all.

Leonard drove Sheldon home as he wanted to take a look at the spare room to plan his move, but actually spent more time thinking and talking about the occupant of 4B. Sheldon had to remind him more than once that Penny was out with Amy since Amy had texted him that they going to be busy for the day. Eventually Leonard wandered off to take a look at the spare room, and seeing the crib still there asked Sheldon why he had it.

Sheldon had never spoken about his past with his new friends, and Leonard was curious if he had had a previous relationship. Sheldon shook his head, and said, "My sister stayed with me for a spell. She and her baby, Jake. It was 15 years ago."

"15 years… Why didn't you get rid of the baby stuff?"

It was a good question which Sheldon did not really have an answer for. When his sister had left with the baby, he had just closed the door, and never really entered the room again, except to use the pull up bar he had placed across the door frame like a barrier and used it more than ever. The room was a bitter reminder of his dashed hopes. He had often chastised himself for thinking he could have an ersatz parent relationship with Missy's child.

"Well, I never got around to it." Sheldon waved his hand to brush off the question, "Solving the mysteries of the universe has been a full time occupation, ya know?"

Leonard could see it was sensitive topic, so he decided to change the subject. "Well… um… when I move in, I can help you donate it or something…."

"Nah. Might need it someday." Sheldon held onto to the side of the crib as he looked down lovingly at the blanket still folded on the side. It was a baby blanket he had found online with quilted stars and planets. He smiled as he remembered Jake's gnawing on the corner of the blanket like a sucker in an attempt to soothe his gums.

"Wow, Sheldon! You really think you might have kids with Amy? You guys only just started dating!"

"Well… I like to plan ahead. Besides, you and Penny might beat us to it." Sheldon's confidence in Leonard was always welcome to his new friend's ears. However, years of rejection from numerous females was hard training to overcome. "Or Howard… or even Raj with that vet lady."

"Sheldon, I doubt I or anyone one of us would ever beat you to having kids. I mean you and Amy are already dating and doing Latin things while Penny is just nice to me. I think I might be like a pet to her. A lost dog or something."

Sheldon rolled his eyes at his friend's lack of confidence, "Firstly Leonard, there are no Latin things with Amy! Really! Oh… unless you mean that game we invented where we translate rap lyrics into Latin! That was a hoot!" Sheldon said in the same beat as Snoop Dogg's song Gin and Juice, "in mentem meam praepararentur pecuniaeque describerentur atque animo meo."

"Understanding of money? What?" Leonard's Latin was a little rusty.

"With my mind on money and my money on my mind! God, Princeton classical education is uninspiring, Leonard! Really!" Sheldon shook his head at his friend, but Leonard did the same back to him with an added eye roll as he tried to get Sheldon back on topic.

"As thrilling as that sounds…" Again, sarcasm was lost on Sheldon. " … get back to Penny! Why do you think I could have a relationship with her? Let alone have kids BEFORE you and Amy, who I might add seems custom made for you…"

"Amy isn't custom made for me. It is just that she and I meant to be together. There is not a universe I am not with her. It is the same for you and Penny. I just know it, don't ask how. You couldn't understand the math involved." Sheldon wondered if he should reveal the congress of Sheldons to Leonard, but not before he had proved the theory. It was his secret project to get proof and that was the only way would be able to reveal the truth not only to his new friends, but to Amy as well. Once she saw the evidence, Amy would believe him, she would not think he was crazy, he was sure of it. He might have to walk Leonard through the math though.

Leonard was perplexed as ever with Sheldon's explanation, but by now he was getting used to his new friend's odd manners. Sheldon finished his thought, "Look… What if you KNEW you had a shot with Penny? You could see the future, so to speak. Would that change your actions? Would you feel that you two were meant to be?"

"Sure! But knowing the future and being able to change the present are two drastically different things. I mean, has Star Trek 4 taught us nothing!"

"True a cautionary tale if ever there was one. But more to the point just know you are meant to be. Plan your actions accordingly, and most of all, remember, Penny's use to men who just want her for her socially accepted physical attributes, not her heart or those 40 guys might have stayed for more than one night."

"WHAT?" This was the first Leonard had heard of Penny's track record. It wasn't the number that intimidated him, it was the idea of any comparison to the ex's, like Kurt that had Leonard worried.

"Never mind… I got a sneakin' suspicion, that with you… it's not JUST carnal desire, yes?"

Leonard had to agree, "Yes. I mean she is hot as hell, but there is kindness about her I love more than her curves."

Sheldon looked him in the eye and said, "Look… Penny just needs to change her modus operandi. I told her as such, but she seemed less than eager to hear my advice or Latin translations. Funny… Maybe you two are good for each other after all!"

"I understand Latin, Sheldon, just not to Rap lyrics!"

"Well, regardless, when Penny recognizes that her mate assessment methodology is flawed, that's where you come in!"

Leonard was thrilled at the prospect, "EXACTLY! That's why I gotta move in, Sheldon! I need to see her every day! To convince her to be with me! It will take constant pleading!"

Sheldon sucked in his bottom lip, "I know.. I know…"

"Did you complete the agreement yet?"

"I just gotta check a few things Leonard…" Sheldon exited the room in a rush almost hitting his head on his exercise bar. The last thing he wanted was to disappoint his new friend, but he wondered how he would be able to convince Amy to stay overnight if Leonard was always within ear shot in the next room.

"Look, come by tomorrow, around 11 or so… We can discuss it more." Sheldon offered. He was so eager for the subject to be dropped that he did not think how it would affect his date with Amy. Little did he know his rash invitation would come back to bite him.

"Okay!" Leonard skipped out of the room. Sheldon suddenly realized that having friends and a girlfriend needed a lot of juggling. No wonder Sheldon One had seemed to be so stressed out.

However time was getting on and Sheldon had to rush Leonard out the door so that he could ready himself for his date. He was able to sneak in another shower, and hour or so of rest before he waited for Amy to knock on the door.

For the date tonight, Sheldon had hoped to discuss the relationship agreement he had drafted, but after working on the roommate agreement for Leonard, he realized he wanted to combine the two. The relationship agreement had outlined their mutual expectations but he realized he didn't really need it after all. His expectations were already met so he drafted it as a promise to her. A promise of what he would do, how he would act, and more importantly how they would resolve any conflict. He knew he would screw up if the other Sheldon's were any indication.

As he laid down for a few moments in the bed they had shared the night before, he let her fragrance still lingering on the linens surround him like a cloud of hope. Could he live with Leonard as a roommate and still have Amy be with him every night. He wished he had an inter-dimensional phone line. He could ring up Sheldon Three and ask him how he had done it. Or even Sheldon Two, although he had it easy with sneaking over to Amy's apartment in 4B. Maybe Leonard could do the same thing, spend more time in 4B, than in Sheldon's home.

Sheldon knew that something would have to give, and he knew which brunette would win the battle. Standing in the spare room as he had talked to Leonard, holding onto the rail of the crib had evoked a new longing in Sheldon. The prospect of having a child with Amy was a dream he dared not hope for without discussing it with her. He knew he had pushed her before, suggesting marriage and making assumptions even before he had told her he loved her, let alone allowed her the time to settle into her own feelings. He would have to hold back his longing for not only the woman he loved to be next to him every night as he slumbered, but the delicate sounds of their child cooing in the next room. Still, it was possible, and that was enough… for now.

A/N: Well folks I am riding high. Went to the taping last night with good friends from forum. I will say nothing to spoil, that's not how Hazelra rolls. Suffice to say... Keep the faith.

There is no such place as Sombrero Del Seoul. Be if there ever is, I have dibs on the name. Same as Thai the knot!

PS: Yes, your crazy author had Sheldon do Snoop Dogg lyrics... I know... I'm crazy.

Next time! Star Wars, Sheldon Hopes... A New Hope... let's say.