“Wake up, Spike,” Twilight called from the kitchen.
“It’s almost noon, and he’s still asleep,” she mumbled.
She trotted up the stairs and saw Spike fast asleep on what used to be her guest bed. Her gaze fell to the floor where Spike kept his old basket, but now he used it to hide his favorite gems.
Twilight could never understand why Spike needed to hide his gems. It wasn’t as though anypony in Ponyville could eat them, and the last time there were any concerns over thievery, it involved Rainbow Dash and a pair of slippers.
Must be a dragon thing, she thought before turning toward their bathroom.
“Last chance Spike,” she said just above a whisper, “Wake up or else.” When the sleeping dragon failed to respond, she smirked and prepared her trusty method of waking him up.
After a few minutes, Twilight stood ready with a bucket of water levitated over Spike’s head. “You gonna wake up now,” she asked.
Spike mumbled something and rolled over.
“Okay, you asked for it,” Twilight said as she flipped the bucket over and jumped back with a mix of a gasp and a scream at the ensuing gout of flame and steam.
“Not this time, Twilight,” Spike said. He put his hands behind his head and laughed, “Not even a drop-”
His thought went unfinished as he found himself doused with water. After shaking the water off of his head, he turned to Twilight, who had a grin on her face.
He rolled his eyes and said, “Figures you would have a backup, but don’t tell me you were planning on using all five buckets?”
Twilight shrugged, “It doesn’t hurt to be prepared, now get up.”
“Fine” Spike sat up and stretched, “You hungry?”
Twilight shook her head, “No, I already had something to eat.”
Her eyes turned towards the front door, “Besides, I want to visit Fluttershy.”
“Yeah, me too,” Spike said, rubbing his eyes. “How’s she doing? Losing Angel must be really hard on her.”
Twilight sighed and said, “It’s been tough, but Angel was an old bunny. It was only a matter of time.”
Spike sighed, “Just don’t talk like that around Fluttershy.”
“I know. We should go so we don’t miss out on Pinkie’s party.”
“Hold on, I forgot something,” Spike said, running to his old bed. After a minute, he turned around with one hand behind his back. With his free hand, he leaned forward and hugged Twilight, “Happy Hearts and Hooves Day.”
“Thanks, Spike, Happy Hearts and Hooves Day to you too.”
Spike took a step back and placed a lilac blossom in Twilight’s mane. “There we go. Now you look even more beautiful than you usually do.”
Twilight blushed and said, “You do this every year.”
Spike shrugged, “Why not? It’s like a tradition now, and the flower was free.”
“Way to kill the moment, Romeo,” Twilight said.
“Yeah, yeah,” Spike said, “Now let’s go see Fluttershy.”
Twilight nodded in agreement, and the two left the library on their way to the small cottage on the outskirts of Ponyville.
---
The pair enjoyed the sights of the normally quiet town, caught in the joy of Hearts and Hooves Day. Many couples enjoyed lunch at the cafes, while others picnicked in the park.
“Love is certainly in the air,” Twilight said as they walked.
She smiled as she walked with Spike. The dragon had grown quite tall in the past few years.
“Sure is,” Spike said. “I heard Scootaloo’s back in town.”
Twilight nodded, “From what I read in Rainbow’s letters, she’s taking a small break from CMC Productions for something personal.”
“Oh,” Spike said, “Still, it’s cool that they’re still together. Who would’ve thought that Scootaloo would become a dancer?”
“True, and I’m glad Sweetie Belle decided to take up singing. She’s amazing on stage.”
Spike smiled at the memory of his and the Cutie Mark Crusaders’ various quests that, more often than he cared to admit, ended with all four of them covered in tree sap.
“I remember when Sweetie Belle went to Fluttershy for singing lessons.”
He scratched his head and added, “Maybe we can take Fluttershy to their next show, that might help her feel better.”
Twilight smiled, “It’s worth a shot.”
The two nodded and picked their pace to the small cottage. It didn’t take them long to reach Fluttershy’s home, and the stark silence of the area reflected the emotion of the kind caregiver.
“Looks like she’s still grieving,” Twilight said.
Spike didn’t hear her as he ran to the door and knocked. He turned to Twilight and whispered, “I hope she’s feeling up to going to the party tonight. I don’t want to think of her being here alone.”
Before Twilight could respond, the top portion of Fluttershy’s door opened, and Pinkie hugged both of them.
“It’s great to see you guys,” Pinkie squealed, “Flutters has been so super-duper sad since Angel Bunny...”
She couldn’t finish the sentence, but she recovered and smiled at her friends, “Come on in.”
She turned and shouted, “Fluttershy, Twilight, and Spike are here.”
Pinkie’s ear twitched as though she heard something, but neither Spike nor Twilight heard anything.
“You’re not a bother,” Pinkie shouted with a huff.
She turned to Twilight and said, “Sorry, she’s still beating herself up over what happened.”
“But it wasn’t her fault,” Spike said.
He leaned into the doorway and shouted, “You gave Angel a great life. He was happy here, and you know that. We don’t want to lose you too.”
Twilight grabbed Spike by the tail and pulled him back, “And you told me to be careful about what to say?”
“Sorry, I just don’t like hearing Fluttershy thinking this is her fault.”
Pinkie glared at Spike but spun around when she heard a quiet voice.
“Hello, everypony. I’m sorry about the mess. I haven’t had time since. Since...” The yellow pegasus fell to her haunches and began sobbing into her hooves.
Pinkie rushed to her side, followed quickly by Spike and Twilight. Pinkie hugged Fluttershy and whispered, “It’s okay, Flutters. We’ll take care of this.”
Twilight nodded, “Of course, we will.” She turned to Spike and said, “You take the kitchen, I’ll get this room, and Pinkie can stay with Fluttershy.”
Spike saluted and said, “Got it.”
Before heading into the kitchen, though, he kneeled next to Fluttershy and hugged her. The yellow pegasus couldn’t return the hug, but she leaned into him. Spike gently released his hug and entered the kitchen.
Twilight levitated a duster and turned around, ready to clean up Fluttershy’s home, and she would’ve started had there been anything to clean.
“Twilight,” Spike called from the kitchen, “It’s already clean in here.”
He entered the living room and said, “There were only a few dishes in the sink, so I washed those.”
“Thanks, Spike,” Pinkie said. She turned to Fluttershy, “You wanna plant those flowers for Angel Bunny?”
Fluttershy gave Pinkie a weak nod and slowly rose to her hooves. She took a deep breath and asked Twilight, “Could you bring those flowers, um, if-”
“Done,” Twilight said, “And I don’t mind.” She turned to her left, noticed a bundle of flowers, and she levitated them. “After you, Fluttershy,” She said.
Fluttershy nodded and, shakily, began to move to the front door. She staggered a bit, but Spike held her steady. The three ponies and dragon made their way to the back of Fluttershy’s cottage, where a small stone marker stood. Spike held the trembling Fluttershy as they got closer, and he took the flowers from Twilight.
He looked at Fluttershy and asked, “Mind if I put the flowers? I kinda want to say something to the little guy.”
Fluttershy nodded and buried her face into Pinkie’s side.
Spike walked up to the marker and sighed, “Here you go, Angel.”
He placed the flowers and said, “I’ve known you for a long time, and you were a pain every day. Still, you were different. All the bunnies around here are cute and hop around.”
Spike laughed and said, “You couldn’t do that. Nope, you had to always have your way, but...”
He glanced back to Fluttershy and said, “But you took care of Fluttershy. You were pushy and a jerk, but you looked out for her. Just like Rainbow used to. Don’t worry, though. We’ll be here for Fluttershy, so you take it easy.”
Spike turned and made his way back to the ponies. He placed a hand on Fluttershy’s shoulder, causing the yellow pony to look up at him. “We’re here for you, Fluttershy.”
Fluttershy smiled and said, “Thank you. All of you, but I think I should get some rest.”
“Aren’t you coming to Pinkie’s party,” Spike asked.
Fluttershy shook her head, “I. I don’t think I can.”
“But it won’t be the same without you there.”
Pinkie and Twilight glared at Spike, but their attention returned to Fluttershy as she began crying.
“You’re right. I’m being selfish, but I don’t think I can go anywhere yet.”
Pinkie sighed and said, “Come on, Flutters. I’ll make you some yummy lunch, and we can talk without some silly head saying the wrong things.”
She turned her gaze to Spike and stared daggers into the dragon before helping Fluttershy back inside the cottage.
Twilight tried to follow them, but Spike stopped her.
“What are you doing,” she asked.
“I think we should let Pinkie take care of Fluttershy.”
Twilight rolled her eyes, “I still want to help, Spike. You’re the one who made things worse.”
“I know, but I think Pinkie should help Fluttershy alone.”
Twilight raised an eyebrow and asked, “What makes you say that?”
Spike shrugged and said, “Just a hunch.”
“I don’t know,” Twilight said, “Fluttershy needs her friends to stand by her.”
“And we will,” Spike said, “But right now, we should give her some space.”
Twilight tapped her chin with a hoof and said, “No. We need to be here for her. There will be other parties. Fluttershy is more important.”
She turned to go back inside the cottage when the door opened.
“Hey,” Pinkie said, “You guys should go to Sugarcube Corner.”
She glanced back towards Fluttershy’s kitchen, “I’ll try and make it if Flutters is feeling better.”
Before Twilight could respond, Pinkie groaned and said, “I gotta go. Fluttershy keeps insisting on making lunch.”
Pinkie closed the door, and Twilight and Spike heard her shout, “Flutters, I’m gonna make you smile if it’s the last thing I do!”
Twilight glanced at Spike and said, “I think we should go.”
“That’s what I said.” Spike put his hand on Twilight’s shoulder, “Don’t worry. Pinkie will take care of Fluttershy. I bet we’ll see her at the party tonight.
“I hope so. Well, let’s get going. With Pinkie here, we’ll have to help set up Sugarcube corner.”
Spike nodded, and they began walking towards Ponyville.
Along the way, they spotted a familiar mare.
“Hey, Scootaloo,” Spike called.
Scootaloo stopped and smiled at the dragon, “Hey, Spike. What’s up?”
“Not much. We’re headed to Sugarcube Corner to help set up Pinkie’s party.”
Scootaloo tilted her head and asked, “Did the library move? Why are you this far out of town?”
Spike shook his head, “No, the library’s still in the same spot. We just visited Fluttershy.”
“Oh,” Scootaloo said, “How’s she holding up? Rainbow told me what happened in her last letter.”
Twilight sighed, “She’s still mourning, and it’s going to be a long while before she begins to feel better. I don’t think she’ll make it to tonight’s party.”
Scootaloo shifted uncomfortably, “That sucks. I was really hoping to see her there. It’s been too long since we talked.”
Spike smiled, “That’s right. She was your foal sitter after Rainbow began living at the Wonderbolt Academy. I remember having sleepovers with you girls.”
Scootaloo laughed, “Yeah, it was a lot of fun. I remember when Sweetie Belle sang for us. She was so nervous that she ran into the kitchen.”
Spike scratched his head, “I don’t remember that.”
“You weren’t there that night. Fluttershy walked into the kitchen, and Apple Bloom and I were laughing until we heard Sweetie Belle crying. We ran into the kitchen to find out what was going on.”
“What was wrong with Sweetie Bell,” Twilight asked, “She’s a wonderful singer, and I don’t remember her showing any signs of stage fright. Hm...” She tapped her chin with a hoof, deep in thought.
“Uh, Twilight,” Scootaloo asked, “Are you okay?”
“She’ll be fine,” Spike said, “She’s been on a psychology kick lately. Probably trying to figure out what was bothering Sweetie Belle.”
Scootaloo rolled her eyes and said, “It’s obvious. She was afraid of what we’d say. Sweetie Belle sang for us before, but this time was different.”
She shrugged, “I guess that was when she decided to try singing as her special talent.”
Spike nodded, “She sure is good at it.”
“She sure is. Anyway, what have you been up to?”
Spike shrugged, “Nothing much. Twilight’s been doing some research on dragons to see how fast I’ll grow.”
Scootaloo nodded, “Yeah, you’re really tall now. Can you breathe fire better?”
“Yup, I’ve been getting better at it with practice. Twilight thinks that I might be able to use my fire for more than just burning and sending letters.”
He glanced back to Twilight and saw that she was still deep in thought.
Spike sighed and said, “Yeah, Twilight was telling me about this theory that dragon breath is similar to unicorn magic.”
“What do you mean?”
“Well, dragons migrate a lot, so Twilight thinks they don’t waste time building things like hospitals. She thinks dragons use their breath for different things like medicine or growing food.”
Scootaloo giggled, “Well, don’t expect me to make you my new doctor.”
Spike laughed and said, “Don’t worry. Twilight wants to study how my fire can be used for medicine, but I don’t want to burn anypony.”
He glanced at Twilight and shook his head, “Yeah, she’ll be like this for a while.”
He smiled and asked, “So, have you seen Rumble since you’ve been back?”
Scootaloo blushed and said, “Yeah, that was my first stop. He was in a weather meeting, but we still had some time to hang out.”
She looked up at the sky and said, “Well, I better go. I want to see how Fluttershy is doing.”
“That sounds good. Take care.” Spike waved at Scootaloo.
“Bye, Twilight,” Scootaloo said.
When the unicorn failed to respond, Scootaloo leaned towards Spike and whispered, “Are you sure she’s okay?”
“Yeah, she’ll snap out of it soon enough.”
“If you say so. See you, Spike,” Scootaloo began running down the path toward Fluttershy’s cottage and shouted, “Bye, Twilight!”
Spike watched Scootaloo run off before turning his attention back to Twilight, playfully punched her shoulder, and said, “Still with us?”
Twilight shook her head and began looking around. “Where’s Scootaloo?”
“She left a little while ago,” Spike said, “You need to stop drifting off like that.”
Twilight facehoofed and said, “I can’t believe I did that.”
She glared at Spike, “What didn’t you stop me?”
Spike shrugged, “I wanted to catch up with Scootaloo.”
“Did you find out why she took time off from CMC Productions?”
Spike grinned sheepishly, “Um, I forgot to ask.”
“Great. Well, we can still ask her at the party. Come on. We need to help set up the party.”
With that, the two hurried on towards Sugarcube Corner.
---
“Hello, Mr. and Mrs. Cake,” Twilight said as she entered the bakery.
She looked around and saw their progress or lack thereof.
“Can we lend a hoof,” Twilight asked.
The two bakers enjoyed a sigh of relief at the offer.
“You sure can,” Mr. Cake said. “I have no idea how Pinkie manages to set up her parties so quickly. We’ve been at this all day and still haven’t finished.”
Spike grabbed a box of decorations and said, “Well, we’re here now, so why don’t you take a break?”
“Thank you, Spike,” Mrs. Cake said, “We’ll grab a quick bite and check on the pastries for tonight’s party. We won’t be long.”
Twilight smiled, “Take your time. We’re glad to help.”
She watched Spike finish hanging a banner and then finish decorating the tables.
The Cakes joined them ten minutes later, and between the four of them, they managed to get Sugarcube Corner ready in just over an hour. They were enjoying a break when they heard somepony enter through the kitchen.
“Pinkie,” Mrs. Cake asked, “Is that you, dear?”
Pinkie ran into the room and said, “Hi, Mr. and Mrs. Cake.”
She looked at Twilight and waved her over.
Twilight and Spike made their way to the kitchen, and Spike smiled when he saw Fluttershy sitting by the door.
He hugged her and said, “It’s great to see you here, Fluttershy.”
She smiled at the dragon and said, “Thank you. I feel a bit better now, but...”
“Don’t worry about that, Fluttershy,” Spike said, “It’s great that you’re here.”
“Give her some room, Spike,” Twilight said, gently pushing the dragon away from Fluttershy.
She smiled warmly at her and asked, “Are you feeling better?”
Fluttershy sighed and said, “No, but I want to see my friends.”
She turned to Pinkie and hugged her, “Thank you.”
Pinkie returned the embrace and said, “No problem, Flutters. I’m not gonna let you be all sad if I have anything to say about it.”
Fluttershy smiled and looked around the bakery, “This looks wonderful.”
Pinkie bounced around the room, “Yup, Twilight and Spike did a super duper job.”
She stopped bouncing when she saw the punch bowl, “Now this is a party room!”
Twilight and Spike shared a sigh of relief, it wasn’t easy to get Pinkie’s party approval, but they did it.
“What do you want to do until the party starts,” Spike asked.
Pinkie shrugged, “I was going to finish setting up the party, but it’s done.”
She smiled and added, “I guess I’ll hang out with Flutters.”
Fluttershy blushed and said, “Oh, you don’t have to, Pinkie. I’ve bothered you enough.”
“No way, silly. You’re gonna have fun tonight.”
Pinkie’s stomach began to rumble, causing her to blush, “I guess it’s time to eat.”
“Didn’t you eat at Fluttershy’s,” Spike asked.
Pinkie shook her head, “Nope, I made Flutters some lunch, and then Scootaloo showed up, so I gave her what I made for me.”
Another rumble from the pink pony’s stomach caused her to giggle, “I’d better calm my tummy down.”
She hopped towards the fridge, pulled out a daisy sandwich, and ate it in one bite.
Pinkie sat down and sighed, “That hit the spot.”
“That’s good,” Twilight said. She turned to Fluttershy and asked, “How was Scootaloo’s visit?”
Fluttershy smiled, “It was wonderful to see her again. She couldn’t stay long, but we had a nice talk. She said that she had a surprise for tonight.”
“Did she say what it was,” Spike asked.
Pinkie giggled, “Silly, if she told us, then it wouldn’t be much of a surprise.”
“That’s true,” Twilight said, “Still, I bet it has something to do with her being in Ponyville.”
“Twilight, maybe we shouldn’t talk about Scootaloo behind her back,” Fluttershy said as she rubbed a hoof along the floor.
“Yeah, you’re right, but I’m curious about why she’s here.”
“She promised to tell us tonight,” Fluttershy said. She shifted nervously and said, “I hope it’s something nice.”
“I’m sure it is. I guess now we wait,” Spike said and sat down.
They managed to sit still for ten seconds before Pinkie began to fidget. “Be right back,” she said as she ran upstairs.
Twilight looked at Fluttershy and asked, “What was that all about?”
“I don’t know. I hope she’s okay.”
Twilight smiled and hugged Fluttershy, “I’m sure she’s fine. She’s probably just bored.”
“I’m back,” Pinkie yelled, carrying a stack of board games on her back. “Now, let’s have fun!” She set the games down and sat next to Fluttershy. “What should we play?”
Twilight looked over the games and smiled as she found one from her foalhood. “Let’s play Word ‘Em Up.”
“Figures you’d pick the game where you have the advantage,” Spike laughed.
“No. I know Pinkie has an excellent vocabulary. This is fun and educational.”
Spike shook his head, “No such thing.” He stood up and went to the counter, “Anypony, want something to drink?”
“Um, if it’s... never mind,” Fluttershy trailed off. She squeaked in surprise when Pinkie nudged her with an elbow and said, “Water, please.”
“You got it.” He poured Fluttershy a glass of water, placed it near her, and sat down.
“Thank you,” Fluttershy whispered and took a sip of water. She laid down on her stomach and watched Pinkie and Twilight set up the game.
Both ponies spent the next few hours playing, and the final score had Twilight win by a single point.
“Wow, Pinkie, that was more challenging than I thought. Your vocabulary is impressive. Why don’t you use it more?”
Pinkie giggled, “I don’t know.” She glanced at the clock, “Oh boy, it’s almost party time!”
As she said those words, Applejack entered the bakery, “Evening, all.” She saw Fluttershy and smiled warmly at her, “How’re ya holding up?”
Fluttershy managed a small smile and a nod, but Applejack stopped her when she tried to speak.
“It’s good to see you here, sugarcube. We’ve been mighty worried about you.”
Fluttershy’s face fell as her gaze moved to the floor.
“Hey now,” Applejack said as she lifted Fluttershy’s chin with a hoof, “You got nothing to be sorry for. We’re your friends, and we love you.”
Fluttershy smiled and hugged Applejack, “Thank you.
---
Spike and Twilight enjoyed a glass of punch as they watched ponies dancing together.
“We do good work,” he said as he passed Twilight a fresh glass.
Twilight laughed and said, “That we do.”
The two clinked their glasses together and took a drink.
Spike kept his eyes on the entrance of Sugar Cube Corner and nearly fell over when he felt a nudge.
He regained his balance and turned to Twilight.
“What was that for?”
She shook her head, “She won’t be here for at least another ten minutes. Can’t you at least pretend to enjoy my company?”
Spike rubbed his arm and said sheepishly, “Sorry. I’m just looking forward to seeing Rarity again.”
Twilight rolled her eyes, “Didn’t you see her yesterday?”
“Yeah,” Spike said, grinning, “But that was yesterday.”
“Why do I even bother?”
Spike’s attention returned to the entrance as he waited for his beloved unicorn to arrive, and Twilight got out of her chair.
“I’m going to check on Fluttershy.”
He looked back and said, “I’ll be there when Rarity gets here.”
“Okay,” she said, “But make time for Fluttershy.”
“I will, I promise.”
Twilight placed a hoof on his shoulder, “I know. I guess it’s just not fun knowing that my date is waiting for another pony.”
Spike was in the middle of taking a drink before giving a poor mare an impromptu shower.
“I am so sorry,” he told the mare as he handed her a handful of napkins.
He waited for the mare to walk away, her mumbles of disgust still audible, before turning to Twilight, “That’s not funny.”
“I didn’t expect you to react like that,” Twilight said.
Spike gave her another glare before saying, “Give Fluttershy a hug for me, I’ll be there as soon as Rarity gets here.”
“Okay, message received.”
Twilight walked toward the kitchen where Pinkie held Fluttershy’s Hearts and Hooves party. The crowd of ponies made going slowly, but she made it to the door with little trouble. She glanced back to Spike and let out a soft sigh that held a dull ache.
She turned her attention to the door and stepped inside. Once inside, a broad smile grew on her lips when she saw a surprise.
“Rarity?”
The beautiful white unicorn turned to Twilight and said with a smile, “Hello, Twilight. Are you enjoying the party?”
Twilight nodded, “It’s nice, but I thought you weren’t here yet.”
Her happy grin twisted ever so slightly to a more sinister one as she knew Spike stood watching a threshold Rarity wouldn’t be crossing tonight.
“Is something the matter,” Rarity asked, “Your smile is a tad off.”
Twilight shook her head, “Oh, it’s nothing. I was thinking of something funny. That’s not important. I thought you would be here later.”
“I know it’s normal for me to arrive fashionably late, but I simply had to be here for my dear, dear friend.”
Rarity nuzzled Fluttershy for added emphasis, and the shy pegasus blushed in response.
“Th-thank you, Rarity,” Fluttershy whispered.
Rarity placed a leg around Fluttershy, “Think nothing of it. We are friends, and I will be by your side for this.”
Fluttershy’s smile seemed to broaden a width that would have been lost on all except those trained in scientific observation, keen attention to detail, or those whose happiness is their business. In other words, everypony in the room noticed.
“It’s good to see you are feeling better,” Twilight said as she sat next to Fluttershy.
“Flutters is super tough,” Pinkie said, “I just know that she’ll make it.”
She hugged Fluttershy tightly and added, “I made your favorite.”
Rarity giggled, “And what would that be? She says that anything you make is her favorite.”
Pinkie stuck her tongue out at Rarity, “I never said it was a tough choice. Besides, this is a special treat.”
“You didn’t have to,” Fluttershy said.
“Have to,” Pinkie asked, “No, but I wanted to.”
Fluttershy rested her head on Pinkie’s shoulder, “That’s nice.”
Pinkie turned to Twilight, “Can you pass me that tray? I’m a little...”
Twilight smiled and levitated the tray over to Pinkie.
“Thanks.”
Pinkie took the tray and said, “This is special, just for you, Flutters.”
Fluttershy looked at the tray of cooling pastries.
Heart-shaped tarts topped with raspberry and lemon creme.
She opened her mouth but could only squeak as the kitchen door flew open.
“Hey, Twilight,” Spike called, “How’s-”
His jaw dropped when he laid his eyes on Rarity.
“Hi, Rarity,” he said with a loopy grin.
“Would you be so kind as to close the door,” Rarity scolded.
He stared at the white unicorn for a few moments before her command registered.
“Oh, right,” he said as he closed the door.
He turned his attention to Fluttershy, “Sorry about that, I didn’t mean to scare you.”
“It’s okay,” Fluttershy said, “I know you didn’t mean to.”
Spike smiled and said, “Thanks.”
He looked to Rarity, “Happy Hearts and Hooves, Rarity.”
She looked at him and smiled softly, “Thank you, Spiky. Have you found your Special Somepony yet?”
“Sure have,” he said, “I’m just making sure I’m good enough to let her know.”
Rarity’s glance at Twilight went unnoticed by Spike.
“I’m sure, whoever she is, thinks you’re just perfect,” Rarity said.
“Rarity,” Twilight hissed.
“What’s wrong,” Spike asked.
The blood began to drain from Twilight’s face as her mind raced for a response. Thankfully, Rarity reacted quickly.
“Twilight is merely reminding me that now is not the time for thinking of love. We are here for Fluttershy, and that’s far more important.”
She placed a hoof over Fluttershy’s mouth and added, “And I will have no argument from you. Is that clear?”
Fluttershy gave her a slow nod.
“Wonderful.”
Rarity levitated a tart and smiled, “Perhaps some coffee would be best with this.”
“Spike, would you-”
Fluttershy gave Rarity a gentle tap and whispered, “He’s over there.”
“He is such a dear,” Rarity said as she let the tart return to the tray.
She rose to her hooves and smiled at Twilight.
“What,” Twilight asked.
The increasing warmth on her face told her that she knew what Rarity had in mind.
“It’s Hearts and Hooves Day. You know what you need to do.”
Twilight shook her head, “Can’t.”
“Can’t what,” Fluttershy asked.
“Well,” Twilight said, “It’s hard to put into words, but I guess I-”
She cleared her throat and said with a nervous chuckle, “I guess I can always reorganize the shelves another day.”
“Sounds like you’re finally listening to me,” Spike said as he poured three cups of coffee. He passed Fluttershy her cup.
“Cream, no sugar,” he said, smiling.
“Thank you,” Fluttershy whispered.
A collective scream escaped the group as the kitchen door flew open, and Pinkie Pie ran inside.
“Flutters,” she shouted, “Scootaloo’s here, and she wants to talk to you.”
Pinkie hopped over to Fluttershy and giggled when she saw the pegasus shaking.
“Oopsie. Sorry about that, Flutters.”
Fluttershy took a deep breath and said, “It’s okay. I’d like to see her again. It’s been too long.”
“It’s only been a few hours,” a new voice laughed.
Rarity rose to her hooves and said, “Scootaloo, you look lovely.”
“Thanks, Rarity,” Scootaloo said, “It’s been too long.”
She walked over to Fluttershy, sat down, smiled, and gave her a gentle nudge.
“Hey,” Scootaloo whispered.
Fluttershy smiled and hugged the young mare.
Scootaloo held the embrace and whispered, “I saw the memorial, that was really nice.”
Both ponies remained still as Fluttershy wept softly. Her soft cries seemed to counter the low bass thumping through the kitchen walls.
“He was important,” Scootaloo said after a while, “To both of us.”
Fluttershy nodded and rose to her hooves.
“Scootaloo,” Twilight asked, “Why are you taking a break from your group?”
Scootaloo smiled, “It’s a secret. At least, it will be until Rumble gets here.”
Rarity cleared her throat and asked, “You wouldn’t be in, how should I put it, a...”
“A family way,” Scootaloo asked as she rolled her eyes.
A sudden crash brought everypony’s attention to Fluttershy. She dropped the plate she was holding and was now staring intently at Scootaloo.
“Relax, Fluttershy,” Scootaloo said quickly, “I’m not. Apple Bloom was the first to ask me that.”
She smiled and said, “You taught me better than that.”
“I know,” Fluttershy said, “I was just thinking about you being a mom.”
Scootaloo sat down in a chair and shook her head, “I’m not going to be a mom any time soon.”
“Perhaps we should give them some time to catch up,” Rarity said as she motioned for Twilight and Spike toward the door.
“You don’t have to,” Fluttershy began.
The kitchen door flapped open, causing her to flinch slightly as the music got louder for a brief moment.
“Go,” she finished.
Scootaloo laughed, “I don’t know why you bother arguing. They’ll do whatever it takes to make you happy.”
Fluttershy sighed and sunk into her chair, “They’re nice.”
She looked up at Scootaloo, “Have you been eating well? You look a little thin.”
“I’m a dancer,” Scootaloo said with a shrug, “It comes with the territory.”
Her eyes fell onto the tray of tarts, and she added, “But I’m not about to pass up something Pinkie made.”
She picked up one of the tarts and began to eat, her eyes closed as she let out a happy sigh.
“It’s been too long since I’ve eaten one of Pinkie’s awesome cakes.”
Her eyes shot open when she felt a boop on her nose.
Pinkie stared at her and said, “That’s a tart.”
She hardened her stare at the now shivering pegasus and moved the tray of tarts away.
“And I can whip you up a cake in no time,” Pinkie shouted happily.
Scootaloo stared at Pinkie until she felt a light tap on her shoulder. That was when she let out the breath she didn’t even realize she was holding.
“Pinkie, don’t scare me like that,” she said.
Pinkie giggled, “Desserts are serious business. You sure about that cake?”
Scootaloo shook her head, “Uh, yeah, I’m sure. Thanks?”
“Don’t sweat it. Oh, and these tarts are just for Flutters.”
Fluttershy reached for the tray and said, “Pinkie, if Scootaloo wants to eat them, she can.”
“Well, what Flutters wants, Flutters get,” Pinkie said happily, “I’ll be outside.”
She gave Scootaloo a quick hug before hopping out of the kitchen.
Fluttershy nudged a tart over to Scootaloo with her nose and smiled.
“Thanks, Fluttershy.”
Scootaloo ate her second tart.
“How does Pinkie make such delicious desserts,” she asked.
Fluttershy fiddled with her hooves as she stared at the tray of tarts, began to shiver, and looked up when Scootaloo nudged her.
“Talk to me. I know you miss him, but I’m here.”
Fluttershy took a deep breath and held it for a moment, and she let it out and gave Scootaloo a stern nod.
“I know you are,” she said, “And I’m so happy that I have my friends to support me.”
Her eyes drifted up to the ceiling, and she added, “I don’t want to think about Angel in the past tense. It feels mean.”
“Then don’t.”
Fluttershy tilted her head and asked, “What?”
Scootaloo smiled, “Don’t think about him in the past. He was, I mean, is the most important animal friend you have. You’ll know when you’re ready to move on.”
Fluttershy sighed, “How will I know?”
She flinched when Scootaloo poked her in the chest, “Right there. You taught me to listen to my heart, and you'll know when your heart tells you it’s time. Just let yourself be selfish. Everypony knows that you deserve some time for yourself.”
“I’ll, I’ll try,” Fluttershy said.
Scootaloo laughed, “It’s a start.”
A comfortable silence fell between the two ponies. Tarts were shared, and Scootaloo’s eyes scanned the kitchen. When her eyes fell on the clock, she began to feel nervous.
“Where’s Rumble? He’s never late.”
Fluttershy looked up at the clock and asked, “Is it important that he be here on time?”
Scootaloo’s face turned red before saying, “Uh, no. I just want him here.”
Fluttershy nodded and gave Scootaloo a small smile.
“Would you like to go wait for him?”
Scootaloo shook her head, “Nah, he can find me. I’d rather stay here.”
The two ponies sat in comfortable silence as the muted music sounded through the wall, and Scootaloo got to her hooves when somepony knocked on the door.
She opened the door and smiled, “Hey, Rumble. What took you so long?
“Sorry, Scoots,” Rumble said as he kissed her on the cheek, “I had to stop and grab something.”
He reached into his pack and pulled out some wildflowers.
Rumble placed them next to Fluttershy and sat down.
“How’re you holding up?”
Fluttershy nodded, “I’m feeling much better. Thank you.”
“That’s good to hear.”
Rumble turned to Scootaloo, “You tell them yet?”
She rolled her eyes, “No. Remember, I told you that I wanted you here.”
Rumble rubbed his face and laughed, “Oh yeah, sorry.”
“What is it that you wanted to tell me,” Fluttershy asked Scootaloo.
“It can wait,” Rumble said, “At least for a bit.”
Scootaloo sat down next to Rumble and rested her head on his shoulder.
Fluttershy smiled, “You are so sweet together. Thank you for being here.”
---
“Spike,” Rarity said, “Can you please keep an eye on our drinks? I need to use the little filly’s room.”
Spike nodded, “Sure thing.”
Rarity nudged Twilight and began to walk to the restroom.
Twilight sighed and followed.
Once in the restroom, Twilight said, “I know why we’re here, so you can drop it. I can’t do it.”
“Twilight,” Rarity said, “I’ve seen how you look at Spike. You truly care for him, and he has grown quite a bit these past few years. You must say something.”
Twilight walked to the mirror and sighed, “I know. You’re right.”
She tapped a hoof to her head, “I know that you’re right up here.”
“But, here,” she said, tapping a hoof to her chest, “It a mess. Every time I think of bringing up the subject, I choke.”
Rarity smiled and asked, “Are you worried that he will react poorly, or are you afraid that he will react positively and you haven’t thought that far ahead?”
Twilight stared at her reflection and said, “I don’t know. What if things don’t work out?”
“And what if they do,” Rarity asked, “Are you so fearful of being happy?”
Twilight sighed, “Yes. I know what to do but don’t know how to do it.”
“If you need help,” Rarity said, “I will gladly assist.”
She took Twilight’s face in her hooves and said, “I want the both of you to be happy.”
Twilight smiled, “Well, today’s the day.”
Rarity smiled, “You’re lying, but it’s good that you’re saying it. Now, let’s figure out how to make it happen.”
They left the bathroom and returned to Spike.
“Sorry we took so long,” Twilight said, “How’s the party?”
Spike shrugged and said, “It’s okay. I’m still thinking about Fluttershy.”
“Because you’re a good dragon,” Rarity said, “Oh, I’m sorry, I seem to have taken your seat, Twilight.”
“But you were already sitting here,” Spike said.
Rarity waved a hoof and switched seats with Twilight.
“Do something,” Rarity whispered.
“Here,” Twilight asked.
Rarity nodded.
Twilight took a deep breath and said, “Spike, can I talk to you for-“
“In a minute, Twilight,” he said, “First, there’s something I gotta do.”
He walked to Rarity and asked, “Can we talk outside? It’s kind of important.”
Twilight felt the blood drain from her face and her heart sink to her stomach.
“Of course, Spike,” Rarity said, “Go on ahead, and I will meet you shortly.”
He nodded and left the bakery.
“Oh, I was dreading this day,” Rarity said, “But I had better let him down gently.”
She put a hoof on Twilight’s shoulder, “Now, tonight is the only night when I can forgive inaction on your part, but you must tell him soon.”
Twilight nodded and watched Rarity leave.
---
Spike paced back and forth, mumbling a speech he’d been practicing for years.
He turned when he heard the bakery door open.
“Hey, Rarity,” he said, “Care to go for a walk?”
Rarity nodded, “Certainly, but let’s not stray too far.”
“Right,” Spike said, “Just over to the bench.”
They walked to a nearby bench and sat down. Neither spoke but enjoyed the crisp winter evening.
After a few minutes, Spike said, “Well, you know, with what today is, you can probably guess why I wanted to talk to you.”
Rarity nodded, “I can certainly guess. Do you need help in confessing to your possible special somepony?”
“Not exactly,” Spike said, “I know what I want to say, just not how to say it.”
Rarity giggled, “I’ve heard that before, then simply let it out and see what happens.”
“Rarity,” Spike said, “I love you. I’ve always loved you and want you to be my special somepony.”
Rarity smiled but said nothing.
Spike waited and asked, “You okay? Did you hear me?”
Rarity nodded, “I heard you, and I believe you.”
“And,” Spike asked.
Rarity shook her head, “It’s more of a but than an and.”
“What,” Spike asked, “Why? I’ve done everything you ever asked. I’ve always been there, and you don’t even like me?”
“Spike,” Rarity said, “I adore you. I do, but I cannot give you what you seek. You are not the dragon for me, and I am not the pony for you. I don’t wish to be cold, but I must be honest, if nothing else because I adore you so much.”
Spike got to his feet and took a few steps from the bench. He clenched his hands into fists and spun around.
“You don’t think I’m good enough for you,” he said, “That I’m not high class enough or rich enough, is that it?”
Rarity narrowed her eyes, “Spike, I understand that you’re upset, so I will let that little outburst slide.”
She got to her hooves and said, “Because if you know me half as well as you claim, then you know everything you said was a lie. If I were the pony you claim, I would have left Ponyville long ago. I wouldn’t be friends with such a loving pony as Fluttershy.”
Rarity poked a hoof at Spike, “And I wouldn’t even try to be tactful in this situation.”
Spike took a step back but kept his eyes on Rarity, shaking with anger, and took a deep breath.
He let it out slowly and said, “So that’s it? I tell you how I feel, and you say thanks but no thanks?”
“It’s not as harsh as that,” Rarity said, “But I do owe you the courtesy of being honest.”
Spike nodded, “I guess you’re right. I’m sorry, Rarity. I shouldn’t have yelled at you like that.”
Rarity smiled, “And you are certainly forgiven. Now, let us return to the party and Fluttershy.”
“Yeah,” Spike said, “And Rarity?”
“Yes,” Rarity asked.
“Thanks,” Spike said, “For being honest.”
Rarity smiled, and they returned to the bakery.
---
Rumble looked at the clock and said, “I think it’s about we get going.”
Scootaloo said, “Okay, you got everything ready?”
He nodded and helped Scootaloo and Fluttershy up.
“Is this the surprise,” Fluttershy asked.
Both ponies nodded.
“We’ll be out in a bit,” Scootaloo said, “If you don’t feel comfortable, we can tell you now.”
Fluttershy shook her head, “No, I think I’ve burdened my friends enough. I’ll go see if I can find Twilight.”
“Okay,” Scootaloo said, hugging Fluttershy, “We’ll see you in a bit.”
They left the bakery, and Fluttershy stood at the door leading to the party room.
She stood there for a minute before smiling.
“Thank you, Pinkie,” she said.
“Don’t you sweat it, Flutters,” Pinkie said, “We’ll go when you’re ready.”
Fluttershy took a deep breath and stepped through the door.
The music was loud, but she had grown used to it. She found Twilight and sat down next to her.
“Good to see you,” Twilight said, “Where are Scootaloo and Rumble?”
“They had to leave,” Fluttershy said, “They said that they had to get the surprise ready.”
Twilight nodded, “That’s good. I guess we wait.”
Rarity and Spike returned, and Twilight could see that Spike was upset.
“Hey,” she said, “You okay?”
“I don’t want to talk about it,” he snapped.
Twilight flinched, “Sorry.”
Spike let out a frustrated sigh but didn’t say anything.
Pinkie Pie hopped onto a table and motioned for the music to stop.
The dancing ponies all turned to Pinkie, and a murmur of confusion filled the room.
“Don’t you worry,” Pinkie said, “The party ain’t over yet. We have a super special announcement.”
She jumped off the table, and a light shone onto Scootaloo and Rumble, who stood on a nearby stage.
For all her experience being on stage, Scootaloo was visibly nervous, and Rumble took a step forward.
“Good evening, everypony,” he said, “Scoots and I wanted to share some good news.”
He glanced back, and Scootaloo stepped forward.
She took a deep breath and said, “We’re getting married.”
A chorus of cheers erupted, and the party resumed.
The couple shared a quick kiss and stepped off the stage.
Scootaloo and Rumble returned to Fluttershy. Along the way, they stopped and thanked the well-wishers they passed.
Fluttershy smiled warmly, “That’s wonderful news. I’m so happy that it was a nice surprise.”
Rumble smiled, “Well, it’s good to see you smiling, Fluttershy. I hope to see you soon.”
“Oh,” Fluttershy asked, “Do you have to go?”
“Yeah,” Scootaloo said, “He has to get the weather schedule for the week.”
Rumble kissed Scootaloo and waved goodbye to the ponies.
“That’s so sweet,” Twilight said.
Spike grumbled something and accidentally knocked over his drink.
“Great,” he shouted, “Just what I needed.”
“Spike,” Twilight said, “Let me help you.”
“I got it,” Spike said.
Twilight placed a hoof on his shoulder, “I know you’re upset. I understand-“
He glared at her, “You have no idea how I feel.”
Twilight quietly gasped and hopped off her stool. Before Spike could say anything, she was already leaving through the kitchen.
Rarity glared at him, “You may be upset, but that does not give you the right to lash out. Go apologize.”
Spike glared at his spilled drink and took a deep breath.
“Yeah,” he said, “You’re right. It’s just she has no idea how I feel.”
Rarity didn’t respond as she pushed him toward the door.
Spike entered the kitchen, and Twilight was not there. He left the bakery and saw her sitting on the bench Rarity and he sat a few minutes before.
“Hey,” he said, “Look, I’m sorry for yelling at you. I was out of line.”
He got a better look at Twilight. She held the lilac flower he gave her in her hooves, and when she looked up at him, he saw that she was crying.
“Twilight,” he said, “What’s wrong? I didn’t mean to make you cry.”
Twilight wiped her eyes but stayed quiet.
Spike sat down and said, “I know you mean well, but let’s be honest, you don’t know how I feel. You don’t know what it’s like to have the one you love just completely ignore you.”
Twilight hopped off the chair and threw the flower at Spike.
“I know exactly how you feel,” she shouted.
Spike got to his feet and asked, “How can you know how I feel?”
Twilight glared at Spike and cried, “I know because I love you.”
“What,” Spike asked.
Twilight stomped a hoof on the ground, “I love you, but you always kept talking about Rarity. How am I supposed to compare?”
“Hold on a second,” Spike said, “Are you serious?”
Twilight took a step back and began to cry, “Even when I finally tell you, you don’t believe me.”
Spike took a step forward and placed a hand on her shoulder, “Twilight. I’m sorry. I didn’t know. Why’d you wait-“
“You didn’t have a plan, did you,” he asked.
Twilight wiped her eyes, “You think I wanted to tell you like this? With you angry and upset. I don’t know when the best time would have been, but it certainly isn’t now.”
Spike sat down on the ground and said, “I’ve been a jerk.”
Twilight nodded and stayed quiet.
“I mean more than usual,” he said.
Twilight managed a small smile.
Spike leaned a placed her head on his shoulder, “I’m sorry for being such a jerk to you.”
She sighed and smiled as Spike placed an arm around her.
“This is not how it was supposed to go,” she said.
Spike chuckled, “You’re telling me, but Twilight?”
“Don’t,” Twilight said, “Just let me have this moment.”
Spike hugged Twilight and said, “I was just thinking.”
Twilight looked up at him, her eyes still teary, “Yeah?”
Spike pressed his head to hers and said, “I want you to be happy. Nothing is more important to me than that.”
Twilight smiled, “So, you asking me out?”
Spike nodded, “That I am. I wasn’t just blowing smoke when I said that you’re beautiful.”
“I thought that was a joke,” Twilight said.
“Half joke,” Spike said, “I still mean it. I’d love to take you out on a proper date. Maybe things will work out.”
Twilight smiled, “That does sound nice.”
She blushed and added, “Though there’s a slightly less scientific but equally promising method.”
Spike chuckled, “And what’s that?”
He turned to face Twilight, and she kissed him.
Only stunned for a moment, Spike returned the kiss.
The two stayed in the cold for a while, and Twilight rested her head on Spike’s shoulder again.
“Well,” he said, “That’s one way to get an answer.”
Twilight nodded, “It’s not completely scientific, but...”
“Something about anecdotal evidence,” Spike asked.
Twilight giggled, “You know me too well.”
Spike shifted his position and held Twilight with both arms.
“I don’t think you have enough data,” Spike said, “So what do you say to dinner this Friday night?”
Twilight smiled and nuzzled against Spike’s chest, “I’d like that.”
“Good,” Spike said, “Should we get to the bench or back inside?”
Twilight looked up at the sky. The weather ponies did a good job keeping the sky clear, and the stars shined brightly.
“I’d like to stay here,” she said, “With you.”
Spike nodded, “Okay, but I’ll be right back.”
He got to his feet and grabbed some nearby branches. When he got back, he arranged them into a makeshift campfire.
He took a breath and, with a controlled burst, set the branches alight.
“Good thinking,” Twilight said as she got closer to the fire.
Spike sat down and held her.
Twilight smiled and said, “Thanks, Spike.”
She smiled when Spike kissed her on her head, and she leaned closer.
From the bakery, Rarity saw it all unfold. She wiped a tear from her eye and returned to the party.
Scootaloo sat with Fluttershy, and the yellow pegasus kept trying to fix the young mare’s mane.
“Fluttershy, it looks fine,” Scootaloo protested.
“Just a little more, and I’ll be done,” Fluttershy said.
Rarity giggled as Scootaloo finally relented, and Fluttershy finished fixing her mane.
“Better,” Scootaloo asked.
Fluttershy nodded, “You look lovely. I’m so happy for you and Rumble.”
Scootaloo hugged Fluttershy and said, “Thanks. It means a lot that you were here for the announcement.”
She placed her forehead against Fluttershy’s and said, “I know this isn’t a happy time for you, but I mean it. Thank you.”
Fluttershy hugged Scootaloo and smiled.
Rarity yawned and said, “It might be time to start heading home.”
Scootaloo looked at the clock and remembered that she was in Ponyville.
“Good idea,” she said, “I’ll take Fluttershy home.”
Pinkie Pie bounced up to Fluttershy, “Hey Flutters if you don’t wanna go home, I can get the spare bed ready.”
Fluttershy shook her head, “No, I want to be home.”
“You sure,” Pinkie asked, “I can spend the night, so you’re not lonely.”
Scootaloo placed a hoof on Pinkie’s shoulder and said, “I’m spending the night at Fluttershy’s.”
Pinkie smiled, “Good, so Flutters isn’t lonely.”
She hugged Fluttershy and said, “Tomorrow, I’m making you breakfast.”
Fluttershy hugged her back and said, “I can’t wait.”
She smiled at Scootaloo and said, “Then, shall we?”
Scootaloo nodded, and they left the bakery.
Rarity smiled at the sight of one of her dearest friends feeling better, but her mind returned to the pair outside.
She looked out the window and smiled as Twilight now lay against Spike. There would be time to gossip and tease Twilight tomorrow. Tonight was for these two.
---
“Spike.”
“Yeah, Twilight,” Spike asked.
“Um,” she began.
Spike tightened his hug on her and said, “For tonight, don’t overthink it.”
Twilight pressed against his chest and said, “That’s going to be hard.”
She smiled when Spike kissed her on the head.
“Then think away,” he said, “But don’t worry about everything going according to plan. We’ll figure it out.”
Twilight looked up at Spike and gave him a quick kiss.
“Happy Hearts and Hooves Day,” she said.
Spike smiled, and after another kiss, they enjoyed the night sky.