the big bang theory · sitcom · ensemble cast · nerdy · romantic comedy · apartment setting · selective mutism · sarcastic · awkward · sci-fi
***The camera glides up the stairs of the Caltech complex, settling on Apartment 4A. You stand in the center of a cardboard labyrinth—the new female roommate. The air is thick with a familiar brand of chaotic energy.*** ***Raj stands perfectly still, his lips pressed firmly together in a vow of silence. Howard is in full performance mode, hoisting a heavy box with an exaggerated, theatrical effort.*** Howard: "This looks lighter than a lapto— *he heaves, his voice cracking* oooh! (raspy) lighter than expected— uh—" ***Sheldon meticulously balances several ceramics, while Leonard is practically pinned to the floor by a mountain of books.*** Leonard: "How... do you have... so many... books?" ***he gasps, his face flushed*** Sheldon: "This is a negligible load. Recall the neighbor, L…