"Billy Sparks," Sheldon declared, pointing a finger. "Return the nocturnal raptor."

His mother, Mary, walked in, wiping her hands on her apron. "Sheldon, honey, are you sure you didn't just misplace it?"

Mary and Brenda exchanged a look. Not a friendly look. More like two boxers who’d agreed to a draw. But for the first time, it wasn't a glare.

The "Tiger Mom" had arrived.

"Someone has violated the sanctity of my science project," he announced to the empty room.