The "30 Outstanding Figures at 30" award had Rajesh swaggering again.
His various flamboyant displays made everyone look at him sideways.
"Adam, we officially invite you to join our circle of friends."
That day, Adam had come over to discuss their recent physics study progress with Leonard when Sheldon formally invited him.
"So I didn't count before?"
Adam teased.
"Now you'll be a regular."
Sheldon explained bluntly, "You need to come over more often and participate in our activities."
"Or you can organize activities and invite us over instead."
Howard waggled his eyebrows.
"I'd rather attend events you organize, too."
Leonard smiled.
"Looks like you've really had enough of Rajesh showing off."
Adam understood.
"It's infuriating."
"Rajesh is an asshole!"
The moment Howard and Leonard brought it up, they were filled with righteous indignation.
"He invited Penny to his award ceremony!"
Leonard had originally been the most restrained about it, but in the end, he was also the angriest.
"He worried about it all night."
Sheldon shrugged.
"Don't worry..."
Adam had wanted to comfort Leonard, but when he considered Rajesh and Penny's personalities, the words died in his throat.
"So, are you joining or not?"
Sheldon pressed.
"Sorry."
Adam shook his head. "In your original group of four who always hung out together, Sheldon is the brains, Leonard is the muscle, Howard is the comedian.
And Rajesh is a foreigner who tries hard to fit in but always ends up failing.
The roles of those four friends are clear and harmonious. If I joined, what role would I take?"
"Hmm."
Sheldon considered it. "That assessment is very accurate. It aligns perfectly with my own thoughts."
"You can be the all-rounder."
Howard laughed. "You're the brains, the muscle, and you can be funny. Basically, as long as you're willing to join,