Chapter 1: Stepping into the Kitchen

Between a Rock Farm and a New Place

Chapter One: Stepping into the Kitchen

Marble Pie smiled as the town of Ponyville came into sight. The trip from her family’s rock farm to Ponyville had been sunny, relaxing, and uneventful. The change in scenery was a welcome break from the gray world that Marble lived in day to day. While the rock farm was home, its monochromatic and barren surroundings were not the most cheerful. The only thing that had marred the otherwise enjoyable trip had been the groaning and screeching of her cart’s right wheel.

She glanced over her shoulder and addressed the complaining part, “I’ll check your bearings and get you some grease when we get to Ponyville.” When she faced forward, she was not surprised to find Pinkie Pie sitting in the middle of the road. Having lived with Pinkie most of her life, Marble was not shocked by Pinkie’s strange ability to appear in random places at any time. She slowed to a stop as Pinkie began to run towards her. She waved at the rapidly approaching pink pony. “Hey sis!”

Further conversation was impossible for a moment as Pinkie grabbed her in a hug that squeezed the air from her. “Marble! I’m so glad to see you! It’s been too long!”

Marble patted Pinkie’s back and managed to wheeze out, “Good to see you too!”

Pinkie released her and jumped onto the mound of boxes and goods in the back of the cart. She pawed at the canvas covering the cart’s cargo. “What did you bring? Can I see? Please let me see what you brought!”

Despite her sister’s wild actions, and the possibility of having a couple of fragile things broken by Pinkie’s enthusiasm, Marble smiled. “Pinkie, get down. There are some delicate things back there. And no, you can’t see what’s in there just yet.”

Pinkie slowly slid herself from the top of the cart in disappointment. “That’s no fun.”

“It will be worth the wait. I promise. Mom and Dad send their love,” Marble added, trying to perk Pinkie back up.

Pinkie’s bounce immediately returned. “Tell them I love them too!”

Marble started moving forward again and motioned for Pinkie to walk beside her. “I will, but you should do that yourself pretty soon. You’re overdue for a visit.”

Pinkie bounded along beside Marble. “I know. It’s just been so crazy. The Cakes have needed help with the twins and the shop, my friends and I have had all sorts of crazy adventures, and I’ve been throwing lots and lots and lots of parties!” Pinkie paused and gave Marble a curious look. “Have you been using those recipes that I have been sending?”

Marble grinned and nodded. “Certainly have. They’ve helped spice the meals at home up quite a bit. Having to look at rocks all day is one thing, having boring meals again and again is a little too much to put up with.”

“You know you love looking at rocks.” Pinkie winked, pointing back at Marble’s cutie mark.

Marble rolled her eyes and smiled at her sister. “You’re right Pinkie. How could I ever forget?”

The sisters talked all the way into Ponyville. Marble pulled her cart to the back of Sugar Cube corner and made sure to chock both wheels into place. Pinkie slunk to the back of the cart and quietly began working on the edge of the cover. Marble lightly swatted Pinkie’s nose to keep her from worming under the canvas. “No, bad Pinkie, you’re going to have to wait until later. Mom and dad sent some things with me for you, the Cakes, and your friends. I’m going to try to give them out all at the same time, if that is possible. I promise it will be worth the wait.” Marble’s air of authority disappeared as her stomach loudly rumbled.

Pinkie rubbed her nose and smiled. “Sounds like that right there is something that won’t wait till later.”

Marble blushed. “Pulling that cart all morning is hungry work! I just had some hay bacon before setting out.”

Pinkie drew back in exaggerated shock. “You’re going to blow away right before my eyes! This calls for an emergency Pinkie cooking session!”

Marble caught Pinkie’s tail in her mouth, as the pink dynamo tried to race past her into Sugar Cube corner’s back door. Through the mouthful of pink tail she said, “I’m going to need a little more than cupcakes for a meal”. She released her sister’s tail, and continued, “Besides, I’m watching my figure. A lunch consisting of cupcakes, no matter how delicious, would put back on all those calories I just burned off.”

Pinkie put a hoof to her chin. After a second of thinking it over, she nodded. “I’ll let you off of a cupcake lunch for now. But you’re going to have to explain why you’re watching what you eat.” She walked around Marble, examining the rock farmer’s physic. “You look fine to me. You could give some stallions a run for their bits in the muscle department.”

“Thanks Pinkie,” Marble half growled. “Just what I wanted to hear, I look like I could wrestle a stallion to the ground.”

Pinkie raised her hooves in defense. “I didn’t mean it like that. You look healthy is what I was trying to tell you.”

Marble managed a small smile. “I know sis. I’m sorry I snapped. I guess the trip here took a little more out of me than I thought.”

“An empty stomach will make any pony into a grouchy meanie pants. We can take care of that.” Pinkie tilted her head, indicating Marble should follow her, and lead her into town. “There is a great café that Twilight loves to go to. She likes the prices and she says that it ‘meets a pony’s balanced nutritional needs satisfactorily,’ whatever that means.”

“I think she means that it’s healthy food at a reasonable price.”

“Oh, that’s what she meant.” Pinkie's moment of clarity was swiftly lost. “Why didn’t she just say that?”

Marble smiled and shook her head. “I think she tried to.”

The café, The Grazing Meadow, was exactly what Marble had been thinking of. The pair seated themselves at one of the few available outdoor tables. Marble noted the smells coming from the kitchen and relished the idea of a good meal that she didn’t have to prepare herself. She scanned the menu and agreed with Twilight’s assessment. “Your friend is right, this is perfect. Good offerings and reasonable prices.”

“Thank you for that kind remark.” An older, energetic stallion approached the table. “Good to see you Pinkie. It’s been a bit since you’ve been here.”

Pinkie put her menu back in its holder. “It’s great to see you too! Mr. Tongs, this is my sister, Marble Pie. She just made it in from the rock farm.”

Tongs extended his hoof and shook with Marble. “Pleased to meet you, you must be exhausted.” Much to Marble’s embarrassment, her stomach growled again for all to hear. Tongs took it in stride. “You must be a little hungry too.”

Marble sighed in embarrassment. “Pulling a cart filled with the family inventory makes for a good appetite. I just wish my innards weren’t so vocal about it.” She patted her stomach, as if to calm down a misbehaving animal. “Pinkie recommended this as the best place to grab something quick and wholesome to eat.”

Tongs drew up with pride. “Good food, reasonable prices, and fast service! The Grazing Meadow prides itself on those three things. Now, what can I get for you two lovely mares?” Pinkie and Marble gave him their orders, and he nodded. “We’re a little short hooved today, but your order should be up fairly quickly. Your server will bring your drinks in just a minute.”

After the stallion had returned to the kitchen, Marble turned to Pinkie and cautiously asked, “Tongs?”

Pinkie nodded. “Salad Tongs is his full name. His family has been in the restaurant business for a long time. Guess his parents came up with his name while they were in the kitchen.”

Marble raised an eyebrow. “Just what are you implying? Are you saying that they lacked imagination, or that there was more than just cooking going on in their kitchen that led to his name?”

Pinkie shook her head. “It couldn’t be the second. Then his name would be Whipped Crème or Chocolate Syrup. You don’t have a salad for dessert.”

Marble leaned in towards Pinkie. “They may not have gotten that far in the meal before the fun began. They might have named him after something they knocked off the table.”

A polite cough interrupted the conversation. “Ladies, here are your drinks.”

While Marble turned a bit sheepish, Pinkie enthusiastically greeted Cuisine, “Hey Horte, how have you been?”

“Just fine,” he stiffly replied, as he set her drink down. “You know I prefer Cuisine.”

“It’s too much fun to call you Horte. You’re too much of a party pooper when you’re at work for me not to have a little fun.” Pinkie motioned towards Marble. “This is my sister, Marble Pie.”

In a much more friendly tone than he had used with Pinkie, he asked, “Shall I call you Miss Marble or Miss Pie?”

“Just Marble would be fine, no Miss needed, thanks.” She noted he was rather dressed up, with his vest and bow tie, and had high airs for a server at a small town café. With his attire, along with his well-styled mane and mustache, he looked like he could be a waiter at a high-class restaurant. He seemed charmingly out of place to her.

“Your meals should be ready shortly.” Almost as the words left his mouth, there came a load metallic crash from the kitchen. Cuisine’s formal facade wavered, as a look of concern briefly swept across his face. “Excuse me ladies. I believe I am needed in the kitchen.” His step was controlled, but noticeably quick, as he went to check on what had happened.

Marble watched him go with concern of her own. She called after him, “I hope everything is alright!”

Pinkie shrugged. “It didn’t sound that bad to me. I make noises like that all the time when I’m cooking for the Cakes. They still come to check on me every now and then when I make a particularly spectacular crash.”

The pair talked and waited for their food. Time passed and still their food did not come, nor did Cuisine return to refill their drinks. Marble noted that Cuisine was rushing around by himself. He was desperately trying to take care of the café’s patrons as best he could, while spending a good amount of time in the kitchen as well. While he was doing his best to maintain his professional appearance, it was clear that the stress of the situation was getting to him. His distress began to show clearly, when complaints began to start from a couple of the more demanding customers.

Pinkie groaned. “I wasn’t even all that hungry when we came, but now I’m starving! I’ve never had to wait this long before!” Pinkie watched in surprise, as Marble slid her chair back.

“Pinkie, I’ve got a feeling something is wrong. I’m going to go check on things.” Marble made her way to the kitchen, and stuck her head through the swinging door.

A pony she did not recognize was doing his best to be speedy, as he washed the dishes coming in from the served patrons. He didn’t even spare her a glance. He continued quickly scraping, cleaning, and drying the dirty dishes on the counter without pause.

Tongs sat near the cooking counter on the other side of the kitchen. His shoulder had an icepack wrapped to it with cloth bandages. The binding was slowly coming loose due to the moisture from the pack. He was trying to keep cooking with his injury, but he could not manage the pace he needed with one good foreleg. Cuisine tried to help, but he often hindered as much as he assisted. It was a literal instance of too many hooves in the pot spoiling the soup. Tongs noticed Marble, and quickly apologized. “I’m sorry about the wait; your food will be out momentarily.”

One glace at the counter told her that was not the case, but that did not matter to her. “Is there anything I can do to help? Do you need a doctor or a nurse? That looks pretty bad.”

Cuisine smiled dimly and shook his head. “Uncle just aggravated an old hoof ball injury of his trying to get something off the top shelf. Unless you can cook, there is really not much you could do to help. We appreciate the offer.”

Marble pulled a clean apron on from one of the hooks on the wall, and stood in front of the countertop. She looked over to Tongs. “If you will direct me, I’ll cook. You two are just tripping over each other. You’re going to need a fully functioning pair of hooves here and out there to feed all those ponies quickly.”

Cuisine started to say something, but Tongs stopped him by putting a hoof to his shoulder. “You take care of our patrons. She and I will do the rest.” Cuisine gave him a concerned look, but after a moment, he nodded. He made his way past Marble, giving her an appreciative nod, grabbed a tray with a couple of refills, and headed out of the kitchen.

Tongs stood beside her, and asked, “Are you sure you want to help? This is going to be hectic.”

Marble’s grin showed she was more than willing. “You bet I do.”

*****

Pinkie received her food a couple of minutes after Marble had headed into the kitchen. Cuisine still moved quickly back and forth from the tables to the kitchen, but he was not quite as hectic as he had been. Cuisine told her, while bringing her a refill for her soda, that Marble had wanted her to go ahead and eat her meal. That had been almost half an hour ago. In a rare showing of patience, Pinkie waited. The free dessert Cuisine brought her after a few more minutes helped. The lunch herd had thinned out of the cafe, and Cuisine had regained his controlled poise as he waited on the remaining patrons.

About the time that Pinkie had decided that she had waited enough and she was going to see what was keeping Marble, Cuisine made his way over to her. “Pinkie, if you would be as so kind as to follow me.” He led Pinkie into the kitchen, where Marble and Tongs were laughing over some joke.

Marble looked up from the food she was plating and smiled. Pinkie paused at the door. It had been so long since she had seen Marble so happy that it stunned her for a moment. “Hey, you were supposed to check on Mr. Tongs, not take his job!”

Tongs waved at her with his good hoof and chuckled. “Pinkie, she is just helping us get through the lunch rush, not taking my place. Besides, she can’t take my job. I own the place!”

Cuisine walked over and adjusted the wrapping on Tongs’ shoulder. “Had your sister not helped us, things could have gotten very testy out there. She has some real talent. She adapted to the pressure quite well.”

Marble lightly blushed at the compliment. “I got used to cooking for five ponies who had been working in a rock farm all day. This wasn’t that much different.”

Tongs sighed. “Ah to be young and malleable, if you had thrown me onto your family’s rock farm and told me to work for an hour it would have taken me that long just to figure out what I was supposed to do. You’re being too modest. Where did you learn to cook, if I may ask?”

Marble quickly looked over to Pinkie, not sure what to say.

Pinkie gave Marble a reassuring look, and answered for her sister. “In Canterlot, Granny Pie helped her learn everything she knows.”

Tongs nodded, as he recalled what Pinkie had told him about Granny Pie. “You both must have taken after her. You two certainly have a way in the kitchen.” While Tongs had readily accepted Pinkie’s explanation, Cuisine had caught the silent exchange between the sisters. He was curious as to why either of them would be keeping a secret over how Mable learned to cook.

Tongs carefully made his way to the café’s register and withdrew two hours’ worth of pay. He held the bits out to Marble. “I can’t thank you enough. Both you and your sister’s meals are on the house. Here are the bits I owe you for the work.”

Holding a hoof up, Marble refused the bits. “I can’t take your money. Especially that much, I’ve only been working for just over an hour.”

Tongs gave her the look a father gives a misbehaving child. “I will not take no for an answer. You earned these.”

She knew she was not going to win as things were, so she switched tactics. “I’m going to be in town for a couple of weeks for business and vacation. What if you keep the bits, but I can come back for a free meal later on?”

Tongs slowly smiled. Willing to compromise, he agreed. “Alright, but you can’t cook it.”

Much to her humiliation, Marble’s stomach loudly reminded her that she still had not eaten lunch.

Cuisine did his best to keep his face neutral, but a slight smile managed to escape his efforts. “If you would like, I will prepare your lunch. Let me treat you to something that is not on the menu.”

Tongs’ eyebrows rose at Cuisine’s offer to Marble, but he refrained from making any comments.

Pinkie looked over at the kitchen clock and gasped. “I have to go help the Cakes with the afternoon rush!” She quickly and carefully gave Tongs a quick hug. “You take care of yourself, and go see nurse Red Heart. She’ll fix you right up.” She released him and turned to Cuisine. She narrowed her eyes in mock seriousness. “You better cook her something great. I know where you live.” She quickly turned to the pony that had been washing the dishes. “Nice to see you Caramel, bye Caramel, see you later!” With that, Pinkie sped from the kitchen fast enough to leave a pink afterimage and the kitchen door swinging wildly on its hinges.

Cuisine shook his head at her departure. “How does she do that?” After taking care of the last of the lunch patrons, putting out the café’s sign that stated “closed till five thirty”, and pulling things together from the café’s ingredients, Cuisine began to prepare a meal for Marble that would not have been out of place in a fine restaurant in Canterlot.

Tongs watched as Cuisine worked and pointed out a couple of techniques that he wanted his nephew to try as the meal came together. Cuisine readily and skillfully integrated his uncle’s suggestions with his own cooking style. The resulting meal of sautéed mushrooms with a side dish of caramelized onions left Marble speechless. Her hums of appreciation were more than adequate to tell Cuisine that she enjoyed her meal. Her concern for calories forgotten, she ate every morsel.

Cuisine’s guarded front dropped, and his tone became much more friendly. “I’m glad you liked it. I was afraid I had lost my touch. It’s not often a chef gets to see the appreciation for his work first hoof.”

Marble sat back from her plate, her stomach’s protests finally tamed. “That was wonderful. I’ve got a long way to go before I can prepare something like that so quickly. I’m sure I’d mix in a wrong ingredient or scorch something.”

“I don’t know about that. You learned and adapted to what you were doing this afternoon fairly quickly.” Tongs glanced over at Cuisine. “Maybe my nephew could give you a few cooking lessons? I’m sure, with his showing you a few pointers, you could learn to do it in no time.”

With that, Cuisine’s proper demeanor snapped back into place. “This lady would be better served learning from you. You are the only master chef who was trained at the Canterlot School of Culinary Arts currently working in Ponyville.”

Marble regarded Tongs with a new appreciation. Chefs from the Canterlot School of Culinary Arts were renowned as some of the best in Equestria. The graduates from the school were skilled enough to prepare meals for the princesses themselves. Tongs gave Cuisine a withering look. “You had to mention that didn’t you?” He turned to Marble. “Would you keep that little secret to yourself? If word got out that I was a graduate of CSCA, it would change ponies’ expectations of the café. I like preparing good, wholesome, reasonable food now. Not those three bite meals that the Canterlot elites love so much.”

Tongs took her finished plate and placed it in the sink. Marble stood up and headed towards the door. “I hate to do this, but I still have to unpack and get ready for tomorrow’s meetings. Thank you again, the meal was excellent.”

Cuisine held the door open for her and followed her out. “Excuse me.” Marble turned back to him. He held out a small pouch, which clinked with bits. “This is for you.”

She gave him a wry smile. “I turned down your uncle’s bits, why do you think I will take yours?”

“These are not technically mine. These are the tips from this afternoon.” He boldly, but gently, took one of her hooves and put the bag in it. “A restaurant survives on its reputation. This afternoon could have been a disaster had you not helped us. This café is the only source of income for my uncle and his family. You have done more this afternoon to help our family than you realize.” He slowly removed his hooves from hers and the pouch. “Since you did so much to help make the meals possible, you earned these. Please take them.”

She tilted her head at his tone. While his face maintained his professional, controlled appearance, his eyes flickered with emotions she could not place. While part of her felt she was cheating him, she decided to accept the bits. “Thank you. It wasn’t that big of a deal. I feel like I’m picking your pocket.”

“I assure you, you are not.” His smile, professionally controlled as it was, still showed a good deal of warmth. As Marble walked away from the café, Cuisine watched her go for longer than was strictly polite. He jumped as Tongs poked him in the shoulder.

“You’re admiring the scenery more today than usual.” Tongs looked at Marble’s retreating form. “Though, with flanks like that, I can see why you’re a little distracted.”

Cuisine gaped at his uncle. “You lecherous old stallion, you better be glad that aunt Fruit isn’t here!”

Tongs started to shrug, but winced as his shoulder reminded him that he needed to keep it still. “She wouldn’t mind. We’ve agreed that it’s fine to be art admirers, so long as it goes no further than that.”

Cuisine closed his eyes, bracing for the answer to the question he was about to ask. “What does having a taste for art have anything to do with looking at a mare’s flanks?”

Tongs snorted in good humor. “Just like any masterpiece that you see in a museum, we can look at the natural beauties that walk by all we want, but we can’t touch.”

Cuisine could not help but laugh a little. It certainly sounded like something Fruit would agree to.

*****

Marble stepped into Sugar Cube corner. The door had barely shut, before Pinkie had grabbed her up her in a hug.

“I thought they had ponynapped you,” Pinkie said, holding her sister tight.

“Pinkie, I'm fine. Cuisine cooked me a gourmet lunch. It took a little longer to prepare than a daisy salad, that's all.” She hugged her relieved sibling. “Thanks for looking out for me, but there were no ponynappings anywhere involved.”

“Drat, I was hoping we were going to have to rescue somepony,” Rainbow pouted, from where she sat at one of the shop’s tables.

Fluttershy did not agree with Rainbow in the slightest. “I'm glad you're fine. Having to rescue a pony sounds kind of scary to me.”

Marble looked at the collected Elements of Harmony with wide eyes. “Not to sound rude, but what are you all doing here?”

Rarity's expression held both amusement and a touch of aggravation at Pinkie's mild deception. “Your dear sister informed us that you had come into town and that you needed to see us. She said we needed to drop whatever we were doing and get to Sugar Cube corner as quickly as we could. She gave us the impression that you needed some help unpacking some things that couldn’t wait.”

Marble gave Pinkie an irritated glance, then explained, “I was planning to get you all together at some point before I went back home to give you some things from our family. I hope she didn’t cause you too much trouble.”

Spike spoke up. “Nah, it's all good. So, you need help unpacking a few special items?” His face took on a feral quality with his anticipation.

Twilight lightly poked him in the shoulder. “Remember what happened the last time when you got a little too grabby for things?” Spike had the good grace to blush at the memory of his greed-fueled tirade around Ponyville.

“Since we’re all here anyhow, we can make quick work of gettin’ you unpacked. Just point us to the cart, and tell us what need doin’.” Applejack offered.

Pinkie led the gathering through the kitchen. They all waved at the confused Cakes as they went past and out to the cart. There was not much for the gathered Elements to unpack. The majority of the items on the cart were to go to various businesses in town or used in barter for supplies for the farm. They returned to the shop’s dining area, with the addition of the four ponies of the Cake family. Marble handed out the various items that her parents had sent.

Each pony admired his or her gift. Twilight received a gem decorated quill stand. Rarity was gifted a set of jeweled hairpins, which she immediately used to put her mane up in a style reminiscent of the one she wore during the Crystal Empire adventure. Rainbow got a collectable Wonderbolt Soarin plushie. The others noted that she tried to play it cool, but Rainbow would occasionally hug the plushie to her side after she moved enough to have it slide away from her. Fluttershy smiled over her bejeweled comb for her long mane and tail. Pinkie received an amethyst cluster, along with a note telling her to think of her home and family whenever she saw it. Pumpkin and Pound Cake each got toys. The Cakes received a finely etched display platter for the shop. Spike showed his appreciation for his gift by munching on a couple of the gems from the full pouch that Marble had given him.

Cup Cake gave Marble a stunned look, after looking at the fine etching work on the tray. “Marble, dearie, this is wonderful, but this is far too expensive as a gift.” The other ponies in the room made similar remarks.

Marble smiled and waved off their worries. “Limestone made, etched, or in Pinkie’s case, dug up most of the gifts. She leapt at the chance to work on things that would have meaning for you all. It was her part of the gifts. Mom, dad, and I provided the materials, and she did what she loves to do. Combining metalwork and gems has really become her passion. Consider them a combination of birthday, Hearth’s Warming, and thank you for taking care of Pinkie so well gifts.”

Rarity admired her reflection in one of the shop’s display cases. “Tell your sister we appreciate her thoughtfulness and skill. These are exquisite. They go with my mane perfectly too. She and I might have to have a little business discussion before too much longer.”

Marble beamed at the prospect of her sister having to opportunity to work with one of Equestria’s premiere fashion designers. “She’ll be thrilled to hear that you liked the hairpins. I’m sure she would love to work with you too.”

The group talked, laughed, and exchanged stories and gossip even after the shop’s closing time. There was a knock on the door and the conversations paused for a moment.

Carrot looked at the door, then to Pinkie. “Didn’t you flip the sign to ‘closed’ just a couple of minutes ago?”

Pinkie nodded vigorously. “I’m abso-positively-lutely sure I did Mr. Cake. I’ll go see who it is. Maybe they’re new to town and lost.” The idea struck her, and her already high energy level stepped up a notch. “I hope it’s somepony new. Then I could throw them a welcome to Ponyville party!” She opened the door, and paused as she recognized the pony standing outside. She turned her head and declared, “Marble, it’s for you.”

Marble made her way to the door, and was shocked to see Cuisine standing in the darkening twilight. He was not wearing his vest and tie, and his mane was not the formal brushed back style he had worn in earlier that day. His mane was longer that she had realized, and was a nice shade of dark blue that shone in the fading light. Had it not been for his mustache and cutie mark she might not have recognized him.

He self-consciously spoke to her. “Excuse me. I hope I’m not interrupting anything. I needed to talk to you, if you have a moment.”

Marble told the group that she would be back in a minute, walked out the door, and shut it behind her. “You look like a new pony tonight. It took me a second to recognize you.”

He bashfully rubbed the back of his neck with a hoof. “I get that a lot. I’m all business at the cafe, but much more relaxed around town.” He hesitated, seemingly not sure where to begin. “I wanted to thank you again for helping us today. You really saved our tails.”

She grinned at his hesitant behavior. He really did seem like a different pony to her. Even his formal tone and stuffy front were gone. “You didn’t have to come all the way here to say thanks again. I appreciate the thought, but you’ve already thanked me enough.”

“That’s only part of why I’m here. Tongs saw nurse Red Heart this afternoon. He’s now under strict orders not to do any sort of work for the next five days. He has to give his shoulder some time to heal, or next time it could be much worse when it goes out. There are typically four ponies working the kitchen, but my aunt and cousin are in Fillydelphia on business. They won’t be back for a couple of more days. We hired Caramel as support until they get back, thinking if we pushed we could handle everything with just three ponies.”

Marble winced. “Tongs picked a bad time to be injured.”

Cuisine nodded. “We tried working through dinner this evening with just the three of us. We hit a couple of snags, to put it nicely. The café needs two servers working for things to run smoothly. Since I had to cook the meals this evening, we gave Caramel the chance at being a server.” He cleared his throat in an awkward manner before continuing, “He was barely adequate. We even had to get him a pad to write orders down. He couldn’t keep things straight without it.”

Marble recalled that she never saw either Cuisine or Tongs using a pad when they took orders. “I don’t think I could do what you and your uncle do either. I wouldn’t trust myself to take an order without something to write on.”

He assured her otherwise. “You would be able to after a little bit, I have no doubt. You certainly can cook. That’s what brought me here this evening. My uncle and I would like to know if you would be interested in working with us as the cook for the cafe for the next couple of days. That would free me up to go back to serving. We know you’re here on business and to take some personal time, but we could really use your skills. We’re willing to pay time and a half the going rate for your services for the inconvenience.”

Marble’s mouth dropped open at the offer. “I saw what your uncle was going to pay me. I’m not nearly worth that much, much less time and a half!”

He snorted at her self-depreciation. “You’re selling yourself and your skills far short. You handled yourself and the kitchen like a professional cook. It’s only right you should be paid like one.”

She could tell he was being honest with his assessment, which pleased her no end. She took a moment to think about the offer, and then answered, “Alright, I’ll do it, but only if you pay me at the going rate. I don’t want to take advantage of your situation.”

“My uncle won’t be happy with me, but I accept.” He shook hooves with her to seal the bargain. “Will there be any problem for you to arrive around ten in the morning?” She shook her head. “Wonderful, we’ll be looking for you then.” He glanced over her shoulder to the shop’s main window and chuckled. “I better get going. I don’t want to give them the wrong impression. It looks like you’re going to have some explaining to do once you’re back inside as it is.”

Marble turned and saw that the Elements, the Cakes, and Spike were watching the two of them out the window. All but Pinkie ducked out view when she looked in their direction. Pinkie, on the other hoof, just waved at the two outside. Marble laughed at their antics and turned back to Cuisine. In a faux serious tone, she asked, “What wrong impression are you talking about?”

She caught him off guard with her question. He stuttered, “Nothing, I didn’t really mean anything by it at all!”

She enjoyed his reaction and decided to take the friendly prodding one more step. She gave him a hurt look. “Are you saying that I’m not a nice enough mare to have a stallion come and talk to her?”

He all but physically recoiled at her words. “Not at all, you’re lovely!” He blushed as he realized what he had inadvertently said. “I mean…”

Her flattered smile stopped him. “It’s rather nice for a mare to have a handsome colt come after her for her skills, especially after he just met her. I’m really looking forward to working with you and your uncle.” She made sure that she put a little more into her walk as she made her way back inside. When she turned around from shutting the door, Marble came close to touching noses with Rarity.

Rarity could barely restrain her curiosity, and it showed. “Darling, you are going to have to tell us what that was all about. The suspense is killing us.”

Rainbow laughed at Rarity’s eagerness. “By ‘us’ she means ‘her.’ Don’t let her kid you.”

Twilight noted Pinkie’s expectant expression, and disagreed. “Rainbow, your hypothesis seems to be flawed. It looks like Pinkie would like to know too.”

Rainbow rolled her eyes. “Yeah, yeah, whatever you say Twilight.”

Marble nonchalantly shrugged. “I was just hired as a temporary cook for a couple of days at The Grazing Meadow.” Pinkie gasped and danced around with glee for her sister.

Rarity raised an eyebrow. “Dear, there was a little more going on than just that. Your walk back made that clear.”

Marble flushed a little. “You saw that?” Rarity nodded, and Marble’s face got a little redder. “I kind of tricked him into complementing me and I complimented him back.” Rarity stared at her for a moment, and Marble hesitantly added, “With a little interest.”

Rarity gave her a knowing smile. “I think the ‘interest’ was mutual.”

Marble shyly grinned and hoped Rarity was right.

Chapter 2: Insecurities and Opportunities

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Chapter 2: Insecurities and Opportunities

Marble started awake. She could not recall enough of the dream to be able to call it a nightmare, but it had been enough to jolt out of her sleep, whatever it had been. She lay still for a few minutes, trying to calm her restless mind. Her efforts proved fruitless. With a soft sigh, she quietly sat up. She looked over to where Pinkie was peacefully sleeping in her bed and decided to do something that she had not done in years.

She made her way to Pinkie's bed, put her pillow beside Pinkie’s, gently raised the sheets, and slid in behind her sister. Marble put her forelegs around Pinkie and relaxed. Pinkie’s breathing never changed and Marble soon joined her in sleep. At some point in the early morning, Pinkie stirred enough to realize that Marble had joined her in the bed. Her movements brought Marble out of her sleep. “Sorry Pinkie, I didn’t mean to wake you up.”

“You didn’t.” She turned over to face Marble. The expression on Marble’ face worried her. She delicately asked, “Sis, you alright?”

“I don’t know Pinkie. I’m scared.”

Pinkie smirked. “You silly filly, Granny Pie told us what to do when we’re scared. You just giggle at…”

Marble put a hoof over Pinkie’s mouth before she could start singing. “Not that kind of scared, Pinkie. I don’t want to mess up at the café.”

Pinkie rubbed Marble’s shoulder, trying to get her to relax. “You won’t. You’re a great cook or chef or whatever you’re supposed to call it. If they didn’t think you could go all the fixing and plating and chef stuff, they wouldn’t have asked you for help again.”

Marble did not respond and would not meet Pinkie’s eyes.

“You’re not telling me something. Tell auntie Pinkie about it and she can make it all better.”

Marble laughed a short bark of a laugh. “You’re my younger sister, not my aunt.”

Pinkie poked her in the chest. “Just work with it.”

“Alright, Auntie, here it goes.” Marble took a breath and poured out her soul. “I feel like this is the opportunity I’ve been looking for. You know I love our parents, but working with rocks, gems, and geodes has never been my thing. When you left, I was so happy for you, and I was jealous all at the same time. I thought I had gotten my own ticket away from the farm when I graduated from culinary school. That didn’t pan out like I thought it would. If I botch this, I feel like I may never get another opportunity.”

Pinkie gave her a knowing look. “You still haven’t had a heart to heart with mom and dad, have you?”

Marble slowly shook her head.

“You need to. They helped me get my job with the Cakes. They will understand.”

“I don't think it's going to be that easy with them, and who would help them take care of the farm if I left? I don’t think I can just leave Limestone by herself.”

Pinkie gave Marble a sister-to-sister look. “Limestone loves what she does. She also won’t be alone forever. I’m sure she and that coltfriend of hers are going to tie the knot. Mom and dad can always hire help. They have more than enough bits to make it work. Hiring more ponies would also keep mom and dad from overworking like they have before.”

“That would help me not worry about them so much.”

Even in the dark, Pinkie’s eyes shown with mischief. “You haven’t talked about Horte at all. He’s part of your worries too, I can tell. I think you’ve been watching what you eat to snag a coltfriend of your own.”

Marble did not even try to evade Pinkie’s probing. “I thought if I worked at it, and watched what I ate, somepony would notice me. I didn’t expect it to happen like this. It just makes things that much more complicated.”

“I knew it. When you and Horte were talking, I got a twitch a twitching in my left back hoof. That means there’s some serious flirting going on.”

“You and your Pinkie sense don’t leave me with many secrets.”

Pinkie patted Marble’s head. “You shouldn’t have too many secrets. They usually end up hurting somepony in the end. Just ask my friends Rarity and Fluttershy.” She flung the covers off them, and leapt out of bed. “Time to get up, I’ve got to help get the morning baking done, and you’ve got some early deliveries to make.”

Marble groaned at the thought. “Don’t remind me. They’re very heavy deliveries, to top it off.”

Pinkie ribbed her, “Now, now. Look at it as another opportunity to burn calories and get that hinny of yours in shape with a good workout. You want to impress Horte don’t you?”

“Only you would think so positively about hauling around a bunch of shiny rocks.”

*****

Marble muttered under her breath as she pulled her cart down the street. The deliveries had taken longer than she had expected. She stopped by Sugar Cube Corner to drop off the cart and to take a quick shower. She was so pressed for time that she did not even finish drying her mane. She hurried out the door, and made for Grazing Meadow with a quick pace.

Cuisine was adjusting the café’s seats and menus when she walked up. She noticed that he had on his vest, cuffs, and bow tie ensemble again. His mane was styled back like the first time she had seen him. “Sorry I’m cutting it close. The deliveries took a bit longer than I thought they would.”

Cuisine glanced at the clock hanging on the café’s wall. “You’re actually a couple minutes early. If you don’t mind me asking, where did you have to deliver to?” His more formal tone had returned. Marble wondered if she had made him mad with her joke last night, but he did not seem aggravated at her.

Marble listed, “Carousel Boutique, Odds and Ends, Karat’s Fine Gems, Golden Oak Library, and several stalls in the market place.”

Cuisine looked towards the towering library tree. “You delivered to the library?”

“Twilight buys our damaged or flawed gems as snacks for Spike. I thought my parents had lost it the first time I had to deliver there. Then I met Spike, and it all made sense.” Marble helped get the tables set up and then followed Cuisine into the kitchen. “Hello Mr. Tongs, I hope you’re feeling better.”

“Just Tongs, please. I am feeling better, but I keep forgetting and trying to do things that aggravate it.” He huffed, “Cuisine has threatened to tie me up if I don’t stop trying to help.”

“You can help, uncle. You will just have a different role today. You shall direct, and we shall play our parts for the café.” Cuisine bowed to Tongs, who just turned his eyes towards the ceiling.

“Caramel will be joining us soon. He had to finish helping at Sweet Apple Acres, and will get here before things get busy at noon.” Tongs smiled. “He’s a nice colt, but he has the oddest bouts of luck. We were lucky to grab him when we did. With you and him helping, we’re back up to full staff.”

Cuisine stuck his nose out the door. Looks like the first patrons are here. I’ll go attend to them. Remember, Uncle, no lifting, chopping, or anything else that could be construed as work.”

Tongs made a shooing gesture at his nephew. “Just get, you worrywart.”

Marble added, as Cuisine walked away, “I’ll make sure that he behaves.”

Cuisine curtly nodded, and stepped out with another word. Tongs saw the slightly hurt expression on Marble’s face and reassured her, “Don’t worry, he likes you well enough. He puts on that veneer of his during work hours due to some family matters I won’t get into right at the moment. You can pry it out of him later. For now though, to use Cuisine’s description, I shall direct and you shall make the kitchen sing.”

Marble worked her flank off. The constant stream of orders, special requests, and constant need to adapt on the fly kept her on her hooves. Tongs proved to be a talented ‘director.’ He pushed her, encouraged her, and taught her techniques that she had not known before. Even more importantly, he allowed her to make mistakes without erupting. He kept full on disasters from happening, but when she did something without efficiency or proper technique, he took the opportunity to teach and not berate her.

By the end of the café’s lunch hours Marble felt that she had done more physical work in the kitchen than she had hauling the deliveries that morning. She took a long drink from her glass of water.

“Ponies don’t realize how much goes on in the kitchen of a restaurant. There’s a reason that a lot of chefs are thin. They get a full workout every day.” Tongs took and refilled her glass. “You did very well, even better than yesterday.”

“Thanks. It’s because you pulled me through.”

“You would have managed without me. We’ve got to work on your confidence more than anything else.” He patted her shoulder and grinned.

Caramel looked up at her, away from the sink and the dishes he was cleaning. Patches of suds covered him from his hooves all the way to his mane. “You did a whole lot better than I did as a server. It was a disaster!”

Cuisine stepped back into the kitchen. “Caramel, you did fine. I’ve had years of training and experience. You got the orders right, that’s all anypony can ask for.” He turned to Marble. “Your cooking was complemented three times, there were no complaints, and only one pony noticed there was a difference in their typical order, which they liked. Overall, you’ve done a good job.”

Marble sighed in relief and sat down on the cool kitchen floor.

After a quick, simple lunch, which Cuisine prepared, the four ponies readied the kitchen for the dinner push. Cuisine inventoried the ingredients and spices needed for the evening, the kitchen’s equipment cleaned and prepped, Caramel made a quick run to the market to fill gaps in the supplies, and Tongs taught Marble about various practical kitchen maintenance and cooking preparation practices.

The dinner herd began to stroll in, and the work began again with an even more hectic pace. Marble did all she could to keep up. At the end of the evening, she was tired, sore, and happy. She leaned against the counter with a contented smile. “That was crazy, but I loved it.”

“That’s good. We didn’t scare you off on the first day then.” Tongs put the last of the cooking implements in their proper places.

“Uncle, no working with that foreleg, you know better.”

Tongs replied by sticking out his tongue at his mother hen of a nephew. “If putting up two ladles and a salad bowl is going to do me in, just go ahead and knock me over the head.”

Cuisine took off his cuffs and then reached up and undid his tie. He took off his vest and then hung his outfit on one of the nearby wall hooks. As if his lack of formal attire was like him taking off a mask, Cuisine’s personality became much more casual. “It’s not that, I think that you’re doing just fine. I just don’t want to face nurse Red Heart’s wrath if she finds out I let you do anything at all.”

Marble leaned over to Caramel, and asked, “Is she really that bad?”

Caramel quickly nodded. “You better believe it. Red Heart takes her job very seriously.”

Tongs reluctantly agreed with Cuisine. “Alright, you’ve got a point. I won’t even put anything away from now on. I wouldn’t put it past her to stick her head in the door and check in on me.”

Caramel yawned widely. “Sorry, I would love to stay and chat, but I think it’s time I headed home. I have to be at Sweet Apple Acres in the morning again. They start early, and nurse Red Heart is not the only mare who I fear in this town. Applejack does not take kindly to ponies who show up for work late.”

With Caramel’s comment, Marble realized how tired she was. Had she not leaned against the counter, she was sure she would be swaying on her hooves. Cuisine noticed her state and sympathetically smiled. “You’ve been going at it pretty hard all day too. I’ll walk you back to Sugar Cube Corner, if you would like.”

She tried not to sound overly eager, as she responded, “I would love the company.”

As the two left the kitchen, Caramel grinned at Tongs. “Looks like Cuisine has finally taken an interest in somepony. Nice gal too, they would do well together.”

Tongs return smile did not match Caramel’s in enthusiasm. “I just hope he sees it, and doesn’t hide behind that professional front of his. He tends to do that when he gets nervous.”

Caramel snorted. “She paid a lot of attention to him whenever he came into the kitchen, so the interest is pretty mutual, and she’s intelligent. I’ve got a feeling even if Cuisine tries that ploy of his; she’ll pull him out of his shell.”

“I hope so. The colt needs it.”

*****

“How is she doing that?” Cuisine titled his head one way and then another, trying to understand how Pinkie was able to remain plastered to Sugar Cube Corner’s window without sliding down, clearly in defiance of gravity and all the laws of physics.

Marble face hoofed, embarrassed by her sister’s antics. “I don’t know. It’s just Pinkie being Pinkie again.”

“That’s enough of an explanation for me. It must have been interesting growing up with her around.”

She smiled even as she sighed. “You have no idea.”

They reached the shop’s door. “Thanks for walking me back. Would you like to come in? I could make us some coffee.”

“It’s a tempting idea, but I better head home. I don’t want to keep you up. You’ve had a long day.” He leaned in and whispered; “Besides if I came in, I think Pinkie would explode.”

Marble cut her eyes towards the door, where she was sure she heard a pony quietly getting into position to lean against the door and eavesdrop. “She just might. It would serve her right, for being so nosy. Cuisine, did I really do a passable job today? Your uncle is so considerate I can’t tell if he was just being polite or not.” She looked into his golden eyes, searching for an honest answer.

Her concerned tone surprised him. “Of course you did. I wasn’t in the kitchen the whole time, but I could tell that you were handling everything well. Tongs would have said something if there had been any major problems, or even minor ones. When he taught me, when I first started, he pointed out little tricks I could use all the time. Today, he seemed to be giving you pointers on how to improve more than anything else.” He put a reassuring hoof on her shoulder. “He wouldn’t have suggested the idea of bringing you back in to help us if you weren’t good at what you do.”

She brushed back a strand of her mane that had taken the opportunity to fall in front of her eyes. “If your uncle’s café means as much to him as the rock farm does to my parents, I have an idea of how important it is to him. Last night I was terrified that I would mess things up for you and your family.”

Her expression of relief was so clear and honest; he had to resist the urge to hug her. “My family and I are pretty straight shooters.” A slight blush came to his cheeks. “Just as an example, I didn’t have a chance to tell you earlier, but I really liked how your mane looked this morning.”

Her eyes widened. “But it was still damp. I didn’t do anything to it.”

“I know.” There was a slight thud, as a pony on the other side of the door slid from her position against the door and onto the floor. “That’s my cue to leave. Sleep well. Tomorrow probably won’t be quite as hectic, but I’ve been wrong before.”

She watched him go for a couple of seconds, and then opened the shop’s door. Pinkie had not even bothered to move from her newly acquired spot on the floor. “Pinkie, we need to talk.”

Pinkie smiled up at her from the floor. “Not before you tell me about that part with your wet mane. I couldn’t hear his answer.”

“I think he was just getting me back for my teasing him last night. Now get up.”

*****

Marble hummed as she enjoyed the feeling of the warm water flowing through her mane and over her coat. She had slept soundly. The combination of knowing that she had not messed things up at the café, and the long day of work allowed her to get to sleep quickly. The only thing that marred the moment was the fact that she had forgotten to eat the night before and her grumbling innards reminded her about her oversight. Her talk with Pinkie turned from her trying to scold the pink dynamo to her telling about how the day went and how much she had learned. At the end of the conversation, she had crashed into bed, completely forgetting about eating.

She reluctantly got out of the shower. Having lived in a house with four other ponies, she was conscious of how much hot water she used and kept her showers short. She reached out of the shower stall and grabbed a towel. She dried her mane and then wrapped the towel around her head. She reached out for another towel to dry the rest of her body, only to have her hoof meet with empty air. She stuck her head out of the shower and sighed when she realized there were no towels. “Great, and the morning was starting so well too.”

She snuck out into the hall and to the linen closet. Again, she found no towels. “You have to be kidding me,” she growled to herself. She walked to the end of the hall, looked out the window and down into the backyard of the shop. The towels had been hung out to dry, but had not been brought back in. I must have distracted Pinkie from bringing them in last night.

Marble started down the stairs, and thought she heard Pinkie talking to somepony. She braced herself, fully expecting to have to apologize to one of the Cakes for dripping on the floor. As she entered she shop, she realized Pinkie was not talking to either of the Cakes. She was talking to Cuisine.

Cuisine’s eyes widened in shock at seeing Marble with her hair wrapped up and her coat still wet from her shower. He blushed a remarkable shade of red, swallowed, and meekly greeted her, “Good morning.”

Marble made it back up the shop’s staircase in record time.

Pinkie tried not to laugh, but she could not hold it in. After she managed to stop laughing, she told Cuisine, “I’ll be right back. I’ve got to get her a couple of towels.” She fetched a few of the towels and ran them up to her sister. “I’m sorry sis, I forgot all about the towels last night.”

“It’s alright Pinkie. I should have checked to see how many towels were here before I hopped in the shower.” She smiled through the crack in the door. “At least his reaction was on the positive side.”

Pinkie gave her a wink. “That’s the way to think! When life gives you lemons, make a lemon cake!”

Carrot Cake groggily stumbled into the hall, causing Marble to shut the bathroom door. “Pinkie, what is going on? I thought I heard somepony running up the stairs. Why is the floor wet?”

Pinkie explained, as she moped up the water with a spare towel.

To Carrot, it was just another morning with Pinkie. He made his way to the shop, and paused at the sight of Cuisine.

“Good morning sir,” Cuisine offered, as he extended his hoof over the counter top.

Carrot shook the offered hoof. “May I help you? The shop doesn’t open for a little while.”

Pinkie explained, as she came down the stair, “I let him in. He was going to ask Marble if she would like to get breakfast with him.”

Marble slowly made her way back down the steps, just behind Pinkie. “I’m so sorry, Mr. Cake. I made a bit of a mess.”

He smiled understandingly. “You have absolutely nothing to apologize for. You did what any pony would have done in your situation. Besides, I have two small foals and Pinkie under my roof. Trust me, this is not a mess.”

Pinkie waved her sister towards Cuisine. “I’ll get the rest of it. You go have breakfast with Cuisine.”

Marble protested, “At least let me help.”

Pinkie raised a hoof towards her sister. “Nope, I’m the one that forgot to bring in the towels last night. On top of that, you can’t keep Cuisine waiting.” Pinkie ushered Marble and Cuisine out. “Shoo, both of you. Go eat!” Pinkie shut the door, effectively preventing any more debate from Marble.

Cuisine smiled, entertained by all the chaos, as her turned to Marble. “As I was going to ask before all the excitement, would you like to come with me to breakfast?”

“I would love to.” Trying to make light of her embarrassment, she arched an eyebrow at him and asked; “Now you’ve seen both my mane and coat wet. Which did you like better?”

Cuisine froze, knowing he was in a position that no stallion wanted to find himself in. “I’ve been taught to respond to such questions by not answering and making for the hills. However, I have no doubt you would catch me if I tried such a tactic.”

“Cuisine, that’s not going to cut it, I want a real answer.”

The look on her face told him he had better say something or he was going to find himself on his back with his hooves tied together with his own tail. “That is not a fair question! Your wet mane looks nice and really brings out your eyes. Your wet coat accents your wonderful figure. How could I choose one over the other?”

“That was the correct answer.” Before she thought about what she was doing, she gave him a quick peck on the cheek.

They both blushed. Without another word between them, they made their way down the street. They both mulled over the kiss, wondering what was happening between the two of them. They wrestled with their desires, insecurities, and the impulse to ask the other what they thought about what was going on between them. Their internal pondering did not keep them from enjoying breakfast at the aptly, if not creatively, named Breakfast Nook. After the meal, they lingered in their seats, talking and drinking coffee until it was close to the time for them to make their way to the café.

“I hate to do this, but I have to swing by my place and get ready for work.” Cuisine stood, and offered a hoof to Marble.

She took his hoof, and with his assistance smoothly got to her hooves. “You look just fine. I like your mane like this. You looked so much more relaxed.”

“Thank you, but I have to look my best for work.”

They started towards his home, and she screwed up enough courage to ask, “There is something more to your getting dressed for work than just appearance, isn’t there?” She looked at him cautiously, hoping she had not crossed a line. “Your uncle mentioned something about it.” To her relief, he just shrugged.

“It’s just my reaction to a bit of a sore spot in my life that I haven’t let go of quite yet. I don’t want to unload my emotional baggage on you. It’s really not that important.”

“It has to be somewhat important, if it’s still hurting you.” He glanced at her and met her caring eyes. “If you ever want to talk about it, I’ll be more than happy to listen and help in any way I can.”

He nodded, touched by her kindness. “Thanks, I appreciate the offer.”

His home turned out to be not too far from the café. As he unlocked the door, he asked, “Would you like to come in? I don’t have much to offer at the moment. I could fix some tea, if you would like.”

“You don’t have to fix anything. I’m still good from breakfast.” She followed him in, and looked around the den. It was pleasantly, if sparsely, decorated. What drew her attention was a completely full set of bookshelves.

“Make yourself at home. I shouldn’t take too long. You’re welcome to anything in the kitchen, if you change your mind.” Cuisine made his way to the back of the house.

Marble looked over the titles of the books on the bookshelf. They ran the gambit from restaurant management and cookbooks to adventure books. He even had a few books pertaining to the history of Equestria. Marble was so focused on looking over the titles, she didn’t notice when the sounds of Cuisine getting ready stopped or hear him approach.

She jumped when he queried, “Trying to glean some insight into my mind through my collection?”

She laughed and lightly struck him on the shoulder. He barely gave any reaction at all. “We’re really going to have to work on that. You’re a stick in the mud, when you’re like this.”

Along with his bow tie, vest, and cuffs, he had put on his professional demeanor. “Aunt Fruit has told me something like that a number of times.” He opened the door and, slightly bowed to her. “Shall we away?”

As she walked past him, she pointed out, “If you were more relaxed, the café might get more customers. I know mares would be much keener to come back, if they were greeted by a good looking, friendly stallion who would charm them a little bit.”

“My aunt has told me something similar to that as well.”

“You may be a hopeless cause,” she teased.

He let slip a small smile. “Possibly, but I’m sure you’ll keep trying.”

*****

The day was not quite as hectic, just as Cuisine had predicted. There was more than enough to keep Marble, Cuisine, Tongs, and Caramel busy, but their work did not have the almost frantic air that it held the day before.

The day ended too soon for Marble’s liking. As they were cleaning up, two ponies walked in through the kitchen’s door, one mare, and one stallion. The mare was about Tong’s age, with a light streak of gray in her strawberry red mane. The stallion was a little younger than Cuisine, and had Tong’s gray mane.

Tongs walked over and hugged the mare with his good foreleg. “Hello dear, I missed you.” He kissed her on the cheek, then quickly on the nose. He would have kissed her more, and with more passion, but there were too many eyes on them. “I hope the trip wasn’t too much of a hassle. How did things go?”

“Very well, in my opinion, I think we got some solid deals. We’ll even be having shipments of those new crystal berries everypony is raving about coming soon. What we’re going to do with them, you’ll have to figure out.”

Cuisine voiced, “I’m sure Uncle will be able to use them to greet effect.”

Fruit gave Cuisine an exasperated look. “Nephew, take of the tie, vest, and cuffs. While you’re at it, get the stick out of your-”

Tongs quickly interrupted, “Now dear, we have guests.” Tongs gestured towards Caramel and Marble, whose eyes had gone wide at Fruit’s firmly stated orders.

Fruit turned to the two new faces and abashedly grinned. “Sorry about that. I’m Fruit Medley, Tongs’ wife. This is our son, Serving Tray.”

Tray shook hooves with Caramel. Tray greeted him with a smile and a few courteous words. Tray then turned to Marble. When she extended her hoof to shake his, Tray lifted it up, and kissed it. “It’s been awhile since a lovely mare like you graced the kitchen, would you be as so kind at to give me your name?”

Marble blushed. “I’m Marble Pie, Pinkie’s sister.” Marble looked over Tray’s should to where Cuisine was hanging up his vest. Cuisine’s look of irritation at his cousin’s actions gave her a mix of emotions. He’s jealous! Should I be happy or worried? Could he mad at Tray or me? Oh Luna, I hope I’m not causing friction in the family.

“Caramel and Marble have been helping in the kitchen. As you can see, I’ve managed to upset that old injury again.” Tongs pointed to his sling wrapped foreleg.

Fruit gave Tongs a knowing look. “I was going to ask you about that. Reaching over your head again, weren’t you?”

Tongs cautiously admitted, “Yes.”

Fruit kindly shook her head. “When will you learn?”

Cuisine walked over and stood beside Marble. He was so near to her, she could feel the warmth radiating from his coat. He explained to Fruit, “Marble has been doing the cooking for the last couple of days, and helped us during the lunch rush when uncle injured himself. She’s been a blessing from Celestia herself.”

Marble breathed a little easier. Well, at least he doesn’t seem mad.

Tray noted Cuisine’s possessive shielding of Marble, and decided to pull his tail a little. “Where did you manage to find such a talented mare on such notice? Have you been hiding her from us? Surely she didn’t just walk in through the door.”

Tongs laughed. “Actually, that’s exactly how it happened.” He explained the series of events that led to Marble becoming the de facto chef of the café. “She has done a marvelous job, I have to say. Without her and Caramel, it would have gotten really rough.”

“It’s a good thing you were able to find somepony to help.” Tray turned to Tongs, with no small bit of pride, he announced, “I got the job as the maître d’ at Silver Platters.”

Tongs hugged him proudly. “When do you start?”

Tray was careful as he returned Tongs’ hug. “In five days. I’ve got an apartment lined up already. It kind of stinks, I was hoping to spend a little more time with you and mom before I had to leave. I’ve only got a couple of days before I have to be on the train.”

Fruit brushed back Tray’s mane from his face. “You’re only a couple of hours away by train. You can visit whenever you like.” She gave him a wicked grin. “Remember, the longer you don’t come to visit, the longer we will stay when we visit you.”

Marble and Caramel both decided it was a good time to try and slip out. They quietly headed to the door. As they made their way out the door, Tongs and Cuisine followed them out.

Tong’s shook hooves with Caramel. “Thanks for all the work you’ve done. If you would like, we could use a little help after Tray leaves.”

Caramel smiled at the offer, but shook his head. “I would have loved to, but I’ve already got a job lined up at Sweet Drops and Chocolates. Lyra is going out of town to play in a concert, and Bon Bon needs another set of hooves to help with the shop for a few days.” He waved over his shoulder, as he made his way down the street.

Tongs waved back. He then turned his eyes to Marble. “I know you’re here for a vacation, but would you consider helping us after Tray leaves? It’s selfish, but I was hoping you would consider staying with us for a little while longer while we adjust to him being gone.”

She was ecstatic, what she thought was only going to be a couple of days’ worth of an opportunity had just turned into almost a two-week opportunity. “I would love to keep helping! What would you need me to do?” She all but bounced up and down like Pinkie when she answered.

Marble’s enthusiasm tickled Tongs. “Just keep doing what you have been. Fruit is the business mind behind the café, and a great server, but she’s not a cook. Would the couple of days that Tray is here give you enough time to finish your business from the rock farm, or do you need more time?”

Marble shook her head quickly. “No, I should have everything tied up by then. I can’t wait to work with you again.”

Cuisine offered, “I’ll walk you back.”

She gently refused. “You stay and spend time with Fruit and Tray. They’ve been gone, and Tray is going to leave for Canterlot soon. I appreciate the offer, but no.”

He mutely nodded, not able to argue with her when she phrased her answer like that.

She gave him a cheerful smile. “I’ll see you in a couple of days. Stay out of trouble till then.” She turned and headed back to Sugar Cube Corner.

The pair of stallions turned to head back into the kitchen. Cuisine paused as he reached for the door. “Uncle, what is going on? Everything seems to be in flux at the same time right now.”

Tongs glanced at this nephew, concerned at the tone of the question. “What do you mean?”

“Never mind, I’m just being melodramatic.” Cuisine closed his eyes, and tried to center himself again. “There has been so much happening in the last couple of days. I know he’s been looking for a maître d’ job, but I guess the news of Tray leaving threw me off.”

“We’ll be fine. Life is like this, with periods of calm and then chaos. These things tend to work themselves out. Come one, let’s head back inside. We have a lot to discuss and plan.”

Cuisine nodded in response, and followed Tongs back into the kitchen.

Chapter 3: Unintended Professions and Hopeful Plans

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Chapter 3: Unintended Professions and Hopeful Plans

The next morning, Cuisine found himself in the café’s kitchen before the rest of the family had even begun to stir. His sleep had been restless, and he had fallen back on cooking to relax. Cuisine tied on an apron and started up the stove. He automatically and mechanically started on breakfast. Eggs, hay bacon, and sides of toast appeared on plates. Even while trying to focus, his mind was not on the task. His thoughts wandered over the events of last night and the last few days.

“You’re thinking too much about something again,” Fruit commented, as she walked into the kitchen. She took a seat at the end of the cooking counter. “You don’t cook this kind of meal unless something is bothering you.”

Cuisine turned to Fruit, puzzled by her words. “What do you mean?”

Fruit lazily waved a hoof over the meal. “Stock breakfast fare. You typically prepare omelets just the way each of us like them, or skillets of eggs and cooked vegetables.” She picked up a fork and poked at one of the servings of fried eggs. “This is typically what you call ‘boring breakfast slop.’ While this is a good breakfast, it tells me something is wrong. Where is your mind this morning that you would cook below your own standards?”

Cuisine shook his head. “Everywhere, nowhere, and Celestia knows where all at the same time. There is too much going on. I don’t even know how to respond to it all.” He took a moment and started a pot of coffee.

Fruit tilted her head, signaling she wanted a more detailed explanation. She asked, “Things going on such as?”

“Your and Tray’s trip, Tray getting hired, Tongs getting hurt, Tray’s leaving Ponyville, what we’re going to do since we’re going to be down a pony, all kinds of things.”

Fruit smiled at his concern. “It may get a little rough or wild for a bit, but we’ll make it. Being one pony down won’t have that much of an impact once Tongs is back to work.” She turned his head towards her with a hoof, her motherly instincts telling her something more was going on. “You’re thinking about that mare too.”

“She comes to life when she talks about cooking. Yesterday, when we had breakfast, I tried to get her to talk about her home and her job. She didn’t want to say much about them at all. She clearly doesn’t like what she is doing.” He plated the last of the food, before it burned. It also gave him a chance to look way from his Aunt’s reading eyes.

“I take it that she stirs echoes of your past situation.” He nodded mutely, and his expression darkened at the memories. Fruit picked up a couple of the plates, and started to head towards the living area of the café.

“I want to help her. You should have seen her with Uncle, she devoured everything he said to her. She loved what she was doing, even though it pressed her limits.” He scrubbed the cooking surface vigorously with a damp cloth, as if cleaning the stove top would help rid his own mind of its emotional mess.

While not glad to see he was having such trouble, she was happy to see that he had finally found somepony who he thought enough of for him to worry over her. “If you care for her as much as you seem to, I’m sure you’ll find a way to help her.” She quickly stepped out of the kitchen, placed the plates on the family table, and then returned. She hugged Cuisine around the shoulders. “Remember, you are not alone. Ask for help, when and if you need it.”

“I will.”

*****

Tray had spent the majority of his time packing like a mad pony and arranging for his transition to living in Canterlot. He had stopped only to help during the café’s heavy pushes. Cuisine, Fruit, and Tray, along with limited help and guidance from Tongs, worked like a well-oiled machine. They each knew they needed to do at any particular moment and the rhythm of the business never faltered.

That changed when Tray returned from the serving area with a wide grin. “Cuisine, your marefriend is here.”

Cuisine did not dignify Tray’s teasing with a reaction beyond asking, “I take it she’s seated at one of the tables.”

“Yep, I saw her pull a cart by earlier this morning. Now I know where she got those nice legs of hers. That cart looked like it was full of rocks.” Tray gave Cuisine a joking, worried look. “You better be nice to her. I think she could take you.”

“She probably could. She works on a rock farm. The work there is not exactly easy.” Cuisine never took his eyes off his cooking.

Tongs pointed for Tray to go back out the kitchen door. “Stop goofing around, and go take the mare’s order. We owe her a free lunch.”

Tray started out the door, carrying Marble’s drink on a serving tray. “What do I do if she asks for a bite of Cuisine?”

Cuisine did not miss a step, as he answered, “Ask her whether she wants me raw, medium well, or well done. I haven’t prepared griffin food in a while, but I’ll manage.”

Tray rolled his eyes. “Mom is right; you really need to take that stick out from under your tail.” Tray headed back outside, granting Cuisine a moment of peace.

Fruit placed some prepared ingredients by Cuisine. “It’s interesting how she managed to show up right about the perfect time for her to finish her meal right before for our break between lunch and dinner.”

“Leave the poor lad alone,” Tongs lightly admonished his wife. “This was the last chance she would have had to get that free lunch before she started working for us. Cuisine may have had nothing to do with her choice in timing. She’s been working all morning too. We would be the most logical spot for her to grab a quick lunch.”

Tray came back and gave the collected orders he had received. He added, “The daisy salad was for Marble, if you wanted to know.”

Cuisine did not even glance in Tray’s direction. “I figured as much. That’s what she ordered the first time she came.” He quickly got the last orders finished, and set them aside for Tray to deliver. Tray dutifully served the patrons their meals, but his cousin’s attitude irked him.

After having delivered the last meal and putting out the café’s break in hours sign out, Tray returned to the kitchen and continued to pester Cusine. “You didn’t do anything special with her meal. I’m surprised.”

“What did you expect me to do?” Cuisine looked up from his cleaning, finally addressing Tray eye to eye. “I can’t treat one customer any better than another.”

“She’s your marefriend,” Tray responded, as if that explained everything.

Cuisine gave Tray an exasperated look. “She is a wonderful pony, but we’re not special someponies to each other. We’ve only known each other for five days. She might not even like me in that way.”

Fruit’s eyes went to the kitchen door, as it quietly swung open. Tongs followed his wife’s gaze. He struggled not to smile, as Marble walked into the kitchen carrying her dirty dishes. He made eye contact with her, and made a discreet sign for her to stay quiet. Tray and Cuisine were oblivious to Marble’s entry, and continued to bicker like brothers.

Tray shook in head in disbelief. “I can’t believe what I’m hearing. Are you truly that dense? Didn’t you see her look over at you when I kissed her hoof?”

“Not really, your head was in the way. Even if she did give me a look, your kissing her hoof may have just shocked her. It does not prove she wants me to be her coltfriend.”

Tray stopped Cuisine before he could turn back to his work, by putting a hoof to Cuisine’s chest. “You mule, I’ve talked to Dad about her. How did he put it? ‘She only gets distracted from her work when Cuisine walks into the kitchen,’ I think is what he said. You can’t tell me you didn’t notice.”

“My coming in and out is always a distraction. I distract Uncle on occasion for Celestia’s sake. She was adapting to a completely new job, in a new place. Being distracted by me means nothing more than that until proven otherwise.”

Fruit took the opportunity, and cunningly asked, “What about you? Do like her?”

Cuisine reached up and pulled off his tie, as if doing so allowed him to be candid. “Of course I like her. She’s intelligent, she has a kind heart, and she has a delicious personality. On top of that, she has a wonderfully fit figure, which is accented marvelously when her coat is wet. There is nothing not to like about her that I’ve seen so far.” Cuisine quickly pulled of his vest and cuffs as well.

Tongs tried to give his nephew a hint as to what was happening. “What if she could hear what you were saying right now?” He paused, as Marble gestured for him to not give her away. Joining in on the fun, he decided to oblige her. “Let’s say she heard everything that you have said so far. What one question would you ask?” Marble gave Tongs an appreciative smile, and waited for Cuisine’s answer.

“The kiss on the cheek yesterday, did you mean anything by it? We’re you just flirting or do you like me sincerely?”

Marble pointed out, “That would be two questions, not one.”

Cuisine whipped around, at the sound of Marble's voice. As he realized what had happened, he tried to form a coherent explanation. The only thing he succeeded in doing was to open and close his mouth ineffectively a couple of times.

She smiled at his expression, like a cat that had just caught a bird. “As for my answers, they would be: the kiss did mean something, there was flirting involved, and I do have some feelings for you. Now that I think about it, you almost had three whole questions in there. ” She walked pass the stunned pair of Cuisine and Tray, put her plates down near the sink, and asked Tongs, “Should I be here at ten tomorrow morning, just like before?”

“That would be fine.” He had to struggle not to laugh, as Marble humanely tormented Cuisine.

“Tray, is there anything I can do to help you? My cart just had maintenance done on the wheels and axle, and it’s in the best shape it’s been in for a while. I’ll bring it around the back of the café, if you think you could use it tomorrow.” Marble gave him a cloyingly sweet smile.

Tray could barely answer, due to trying not to laugh. “That would be nice.”

“I’ll bring it by right after I finish the business I have left to get done this afternoon.” She turned to the matron of the family. “Is there anything I can do you help you?”

Fruit’s voice trembled with suppressed mirth, as she said there was nothing for Marble to help with.

Marble then turned to Cuisine, who was still too shocked to do anything beyond stand there and look at her with his mouth open.

Marble carefully shut his mouth with a hoof. “If you want to know whether I would like to have you as a coltfriend or not, you could always ask me for a first date. Or was breakfast the other day our first?”

He swallowed nervously. “I wasn’t thinking about it like that at the time, but you have the prerogative to call it whatever you like.”

“Then let’s consider that just an outing between friends.” She lightly bopped him on the nose. “The next time we get something to eat, if you ask me, we’ll consider that our official first date. Sound good?” He quickly nodded. “Great! I’ll see you all again when I drop off the cart.” She walked out of the kitchen with a spring in her step.

Tray started laughing uncontrollably. Cuisine closed his eyes and slowly put his face in his hoofs. Fruit walked over and patted his back. “It could have been worse. You could have said something dirty about her.”

“He nearly did.” Tongs gave Cuisine a curious look. “Exactly when did you see her with her coat wet, and what’s this about a kiss?”

Cuisine just groaned.

*****

Marble sipped her coffee and watched the sun come up. She had gotten up with Pinkie, and helped her get the morning baking started. She still had some errands she needed to run for her parents, but decided they could wait for a day or two.

Pinkie sat down beside her. “Everything is in the ovens. Thanks for the help. You made everything go super quickly.”

Marble turned to Pinkie and grinned. “I’ve been getting a lot of practice in the kitchen here lately.”

Pinkie hugged her sister around the shoulders. “You’ve really been enjoying working at the café. I haven’t seen you this happy in a long time.”

“I’m doing what I’ve wanted to do, with ponies that I like. How can I not be happy?” She took another sip of her coffee, and her expression slowly changed. “I just wish it could last a little longer than what it’s going to.”

“No frowning! That is not allowed!” Pinkie lightly shook Marble, trying to pull her back into the moment. “Don’t worry about what is going to happen. Enjoy what you have got right now, or you will lose what’s sweet in life.”

“When did you become so philosophical?” Marble asked, impressed by Pinkie’s delving into deeper subjects.

Pinkie looked at Marble, confused by her words. “I’m not being philosophical. It’s just like cooking muffins. If you don’t keep an eye on the oven, you could burn the batch and lose all the delicious goodness that you worked for.”

Marble shook her head. Leave it to Pinkie to equate being mindful to baking sweets. “Pinkie, don’t ever change.”

Pinkie perked up, and sat a little taller. “Don’t plan to.” The sound of a cart’s wheels drew their attention. Cuisine came around the corner, pulling Marble’s cart behind him. “Speaking of muffins, looks like yours just arrived.”

Marble whispered, “We’re not even going out.” Marble got to her hooves, and helped Pinkie up.

Pinkie whispered back, with a grin, “I think that’s going to change soon.” She turned her attention to the newly arrived pony. “Good morning, Horte.”

He did not rise to Pinkie’s bait, and just smiled. “Good morning to both of you. I thought I’d bring back your cart.”

Marble helped him with the harness’ straps. “Thanks. Did Tray’s leaving go alright?”

“Lots of tears all around, but things went just fine.” Cuisine ducked out of the harness and helped chock the wheels. “Tray told me to thank you again for lending him the cart. It made things a lot easier this morning.”

“Glad it helped.” Marble gestured towards the back door of the shop. “Would you like to come in? I just made some coffee.”

Cuisine smiled appreciatively, but shook his head. “As much as I’d love to, I’ve got some things I have to get done before work today.” He waved as he trotted off. “I’ll see you at the café in a little bit.”

Marble picked up her coffee, and took a longer, more thoughtful sip. “Pinkie, I know you want me to enjoy what I have right now, but I don’t think I should get too deep into it.”

Pinkie asked, concerned at Marble’s sudden change in mood, “Why not, silly filly?”

Marble put on a fragile smile. “This job with the cafe is not going to last too long. I’ve got to go back to the rock farm in a few days.”

Pinkie stared at Marble, as she came to realize how much the time at the café meant to her sister. Marble noticed her look of concentration, and slowly started to back away from her. “Pinkie, whatever it is, just let it go. I remember the last time you got that look.”

Pinkie smiled at the memory of the “last time” she tried to help Marble. “We got you out of the tree, eventually, and it did help you with your fear of heights.”

“That’s not the point.” Marble finished off her coffee and started back into Sugar Cube Corner. “There is nothing to help me with or fix this time.”

“Sure there is! I want to see you smile, and you’re not. I’m sure I can help, somehow.” Pinkie pawed at the ground, as she realized she did not have a clue as to how she could.

“That would be great Pinkie, but I can’t smile all the time. Life isn’t like that.” Marble darkly laughed at her situation. “Sometimes in life, you just have to hit the rocks.” Marble stepped back inside, leaving the door open for Pinkie to follow.

Pinkie was not going to accept the thought there was nothing she could do to help Marble. She promised, half to herself and half to her sister, “You just wait. I’ll come up with something.”

*****

Fruit started to undo her apron. She fumbled with the knots, and said dark things under her breath. Tongs, seeing her predicament, helped her get the knots loose. She reminded him, “Dear, you’re not supposed to be using that leg.”

“I’m starting back to work tomorrow. I can help my wife get herself out of a bind tonight without much risk.” He deftly undid the last knot on the apron and wrapped his good foreleg around her. “Besides, it’s not like we haven’t pushed things a little anyway.”

Cuisine, out of his working attire, reminded them. “There are two ponies that are still here that don’t care to know any more than that, thank you.”

Marble grinned at the pair. Her mom and dad cared for each other, but open displays of affection were rare in their home. “I think it’s cute. They’re still very much in love.”

Cuisine held open the kitchen door for her. “They are, and I hope they stay that way, but some activities are better left unshared.”

Marble looked back over her shoulder, as she went out the door. “Good night, we’ll see you in the morning!” Marble blushed, as she saw Tongs nibble on Fruit’s ear. She quickly turned around and let the door swing to behind her. “Maybe Serving Tray was the one that was named due to activities in the kitchen.”

Cuisine laughed. “Knowing them and my grandparents, either one is quite likely.”

“I didn’t know we had a day off the day after tomorrow.”

“I guess things have been so crazy we forgot to tell you. Every two weeks the café doesn’t open for a day. It gives Tongs time to replace anything we need from the market, and Fruit to go over the ledgers.” He paused, thinking something over. “Are you going to plan something with Pinkie?”

“She’s throwing a party for one of her friends, something about a rabbit’s birthday. She’ll be tied up all day.”

“Weren’t you invited?”

“I was, but I grew up with all kinds parties that Pinkie would throw at the least little thing. I got burned out.” She bumped into him in friendly way, as they kept walking. “What about you? Do you have any plans?”

“I don’t know quite yet.” A note of nervousness entered his voice.

“That’s rather vague.”

“Well, I have to ask a certain mare a question before I can really start planning things out for that day.”

“Is this going where I think it’s about to go?”

He smirked. “I don’t know, where do you think I was going?”

She narrowed her eyes in mock seriousness. “Don’t play games with me.”

“Alright then, I won’t. I’ll just ask one question. Would you care to join me for dinner that evening?”

“I most certainly would.” His resulting smile made her feel wonderful and appreciated. She felt a sharp pang of a less pleasant emotion as well. She was going to have to go home all too soon. Was she right to accept the date, if she was just going to have to leave?

In a mirror of her own playful gesture, he barely tapped her on the nose. “I can tell where your mind went. I’ve thought about it too.” The gladness he felt at her accepting the date nearly left his eyes, but its loss allowed her to see that he was being sincere. “I know long distance relationships tend to fail, but if you’re willing to try, I’m more than game to take the risk that this won’t work out.”

She cautiously allowed her smile to return. “I would like to like it give it a try.”

Cuisine walked her to Sugar Cube Corner, wished her good night, and headed towards his home. Marble took a moment to gather her courage before she entered the shop. She knew what would be waiting on the other side, and she was not ready for it. She came to the realization she never would be ready for it, and bravely opened the door. She flinched as she stepped in, fully expecting to be pounced by her sister. To her shock, the attack never occurred.

She paused and listened. Somepony was still working in the back of the shop. Marble walked into the kitchen. She covered her mouth with a hoof at what she saw. Pinkie was on a cooking rampage. There were muffins, cookies, cakes, and pastries of all descriptions all around the kitchen. Even with the variety of food she had prepared, Pinkie was vigorously mixing more batter. Pinkie’s mane and coat were barely visible under the layers of flour and other ingredients that were so swirled and mixed together Marble could not tell what they had been. The kitchen was not in much better shape, with flour, sprinkles, and icing on almost every surface.

“Pinkie, what in Equestria are you doing?!” When Pinkie turned towards her, it almost broke Marble’s heart. Her sister’s mane had lost its curl and bounce and fell straight over her shoulders towards the flour-dusted floor. Tears had fallen down her face, making paths in the flour covering her cheeks.

Even in the grip of her depression, Pinkie warmly greeted Marble, “Hey, sis! My Pinkie Sense told me you got a date. Congratulations!” With those words, fresh tears fell down her face, but she kept up her smile.

Marble ran over, took the mixing bowl and spoon from Pinkie, shoved them on the counter, and then pulled Pinkie into a protective, worried hug. “Pinkie, what is wrong? Did somepony hurt you? If they did, I’ll beat them until Celestia and Luna both come and drag me off of them.”

“No one hurt me, I promise.” Pinkie hugged Marble back. “I’ve been thinking about how to help you all day, and I can’t come up with one thing. I even went to Twilight and Rarity for help. They both said that I couldn’t do anything, and that you had to make the decisions in your life.”

Marble stroked Pinkie’s mane. “They’re right. This is something that I have to face alone. You can’t stand beside me and do ventriloquist’s act to talk for me.” She smiled as a little happiness came back into Pinkie’s eyes. “No, Pinkie, you’re horrible at doing my voice anyway.”

“Awww, you’re no fun.” Pinkie pulled back, and wiped her face with the back of her foreleg. “I still want to help you.”

“This has been a great opportunity for me to dabble in what I want to do and get some experience, but everypony involved knew it was going to be a short term thing.”

Pinkie quizzically tilted her head. “But Tray is gone. You could just take his place.”

Marble brushed Pinkie’s mane back so she could see her face better. “True, but they will need somepony to fill that position long term, and I’m going to be gone. I can’t ask them to handle things without help long enough to make it back. It wouldn’t be right.”

“You could send mom and dad a letter, stay here, and not go home at all.” Pinkie weakly suggested.

“No, even if Tongs and Fruit extended an offer to make this a long term job, which they haven’t, I would still have to go home to get my stuff, if nothing else. Taking the job would be something I would need to talk to mom and dad about face to face too. You know they have never been supportive of me trying to get a job outside the farm.”

“They helped me, they’ll help you.”

“Pinkie, you were a special case. You were smothering at home to the point it was affecting your health. I can’t say it’s fun for me, but I can cope with working on the farm.” She put her hooves on Pinkie’s shoulders. “With just the four of us there right now, they’re not going to be too enthusiastic to see me go. My trying to get off the farm could end up with me having quite a row with them before everything is said and done.”

Pinkie knew that Marble was right to be concerned. Their parents had always been strict and impressed into them that the family business came before all else. While Pinkie was not certain that Marble and their parents would have a fight over her trying to leave, Pinkie could see that it was a real possibility. “You should have the chance to be happy.”

Marble could not help herself. She grabbed a clean washcloth, soaked it, and began to clean Pinkie off. “I tell you what, if can you figure out a way that I could get mom and dad here so I can show them what I can do and how much I love it, I promise to do just that. While they’re here, maybe we can figure out how we could make things work for them and me.”

Pinkie’s eyes searched hers. “Really?”

“That’s going to be a tall order, considering that neither one of them have taken a vacation in years.” Marble knew she might be getting her hopes up for nothing, but she was willing to take that risk to get Pinkie out of her funk.

Pinkie’s exuberance began to return. “You Pinkie Pie Swear?”

Marble smiled, she had not made a Pinkie Pie Swear in years, and it brought back fond memories. She completed the full set of motions and recited the oath, sealing her promise.

Pinkie’s mane sprang back into full life and curl. “I’ll get them here, you’ll see.”

A part of Marble wondered what she had just unleashed on her parents and whether she should feel guilty. Another part just wanted to see what was going to happen. No matter what Pinkie came up with, and whether it failed or not, she was certain it was going to be worth being around to witness.

*****

Tongs woke up, thinking he heard a noise. He sat up in the bed and listened.

“What is it?” Fruit raised herself up, and looked around the room. “Is something wrong?”

“I thought I heard something.” Just as Tongs finished speaking, there was a knocking sound from down stairs. He groaned, “You have got to be joking.”

“I’ll go see who it is. It might be an emergency.” Fruit rolled out of bed and started out the room. Hearing Tongs following her, she looked back over her shoulder. “You don’t have to get out of bed.”

“I’m already awake. I’m not going to stay in bed and let you deal with some crazy pony at the crack of dawn.” He added in a chipper tone, “Besides, this is the first day I can use my leg again fully. I want to enjoy it.”

She hummed an amused note. “You seemed to enjoy using it well enough last night.”

She could hear the grin in his voice as he responded, “It was technically today since we started past midnight. Nurse Red Heart can’t fuss at me for that.”

They made their way down the stairs and to the front door of the living section of the café building. Tongs opened the door, and immediately recognized the smiling face of Pinkie Pie. “Can I help you?”

“I hope so. Do you sell gift certificates?”

Pinkie’s worried expression puzzled him. “Of course we do. Why do you ask?”

She bounced up and down with relief. “Great, I’ll take three!”

Fruit, not as much of a morning pony as her husband, flatly stated, “We’re not open for hours, Pinkie.”

Pinkie wilted a little at the prospect of having to wait, and then suddenly perked back up. “I know! I can talk to you until then. I can tell you what’s going on, and see if you’d be willing to help.”

Tongs smirked at Fruit, who sighed and gestured for Pinkie to come in. “Let’s go to the kitchen, I’ll get the coffee started.”

“I’ll do that! You’re the ones being extra nice.” After they made their way to the kitchen, Pinkie started the coffee, and then sat down at the counter. “I need your help so I can help Marble. First, I need to know what you think about her as an employee.”

Tong did not hesitate as he told her, “She’s great. She cooks well, takes instruction fluidly, and is eager to learn the kitchen routine. I couldn’t ask for a better pony.”

Pinkie nodded vigorously and made a check mark in the air. “Alright, item two. Would you be willing to have her here for longer than what she’s promised to be already?”

Tongs was starting to get the feeling this was going to be a long conversation, and he was not sure where it was heading. “Sure, but she has to go back to the rock farm. She’s already told us that.”

Pinkie made another check mark in the air. Before she could get the next time on her list, Fruit tactfully interjected herself into the conversation. “Pinkie, why don’t you tell us what is going on, and we could help you quicker.”

Pinkie grinned. “Sounds great, I had a really long checklist to go over with you. Twilight would have been proud.”

Tongs did his best not to laugh. “Pinkie, you need to focus.”

“Oh, right. Here’s what’s going on.” Pinkie told them about Marble’s desire to cook, where and when she learned her cooking skills, and how much she had loved working in the café over the last week. She also told them about the plan she was trying to pull together to ensure that her parents would get to taste Marble’s professional level cooking and get them to talk with Marble about the possibility of her staying in Ponyville.

At the end of Pinkie’s narrative, Tongs put a hoof to his chin in thought. “That explains a lot, including why you were knocking on our door at four thirty in the morning.” Pinkie gave him his cup of coffee, fixed just as he liked. “Thanks. I don’t want to sound rude, but shouldn’t you be helping the Cakes with their morning baking?”

“Nope, got it all done last night. Marble helped me clean up till early in the morning, so she’s sleeping in a little today.” She paused to deliver Fruit her cup of Joe. “Seeing you and Fruit was the first item on my list of things to accomplish.”

Fruit shook her head and retrieved three gift certificates from her office. Pinkie paid for them and tucked them in her mane along with her bit purse, where they disappeared from sight. “Thanks a ton! Now for stage two of operation Get Marble Off the Rock Farm and Into the Kitchen.”

Fruit could not stop herself from asking, “What exactly would stage two of the plan be?”

“Rainbow Dash Speedy Delivery of course!” Pinkie started to leave, but a noise from Tongs made her stop.

“Pinkie, does this plan also have something to do with my nephew?” At seeing her reaction, he had his answer. “I see that it does.”

Pinkie pleaded, “Please, don’t tell Horte. He might say something. He’s a little too honest at times, and Marble is pretty good at picking up on things.”

Fruit gave her a knowing smile. “I take it things might be getting a little more serious between the two?”

“Yep, Horte even asked her on a date.” Pinkie’s face took on a comically serious expression. “That’s another reason why I’ve got to help Marble. She loves what she had been doing here, but I think she really likes Horte too. Nopony should be separated from their special somepony.”

Fruit smiled encouragingly. “You do what you can, and we’ll do what we’re able too.”

Pinkie smiled. “Thanks for the help and understanding. If this works, I’m going to throw you guys the biggest part you’ve ever seen.” She hugged them both, and then left via the kitchen door.

“I’m sorry if I spoke for you too, but I think Marble would fit in well here.” Fruit turned to Tongs, who was slowly sipping his coffee and pondering the details of the situation.

He mildly shook his head. “Not at all, she has been a wonderful breath of fresh air, and she certainly has the skills we need.”

“She’ll be good for Cuisine too. He’s needed somepony like her in his life for a while now.” She started to rinse out her cup in the sink, and did not see the smile that Tongs gave her.

Tongs wrapped her in an embrace from behind. “I know you were for me.” He bowed his head and kissed the nape of her neck. “Seeing Cuisine and Marble fumblingly flirt with each other reminded me of our own courtship. It’s a miracle you put up with my poor attempts to get your attention long enough to get to know me.” He pulled her closer. “Tomorrow, how about we go out on a date of our own? We have not done that in far too long.”

She broke the embrace just long enough to turn around and reciprocate it. “I would love to.” She leaned in and put her forehead to his. “For the record, you were very sweet back then. A little too shy at times, but you were an excellent coltfriend.” She kissed his nose, and made sure he looked into her eyes as she told him, “You’ve been an even better husband.”

Chapter 4: Dates and Promises

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Chapter 4: Dates and Promises

Marble stepped into the kitchen and started to prepare things for serving the lunch herd. While it was a little early for her to be there, she was somewhat surprised that Tongs and Fruit were not already in the kitchen.

Cuisine stepped through the outside door, impeccably dressed and groomed. “Good morning.” He glanced around the kitchen. “Where are my aunt and uncle?”

Marble shrugged, confused as he was. “Maybe they stepped out for a minute? We’re a bit early, so they may not have gotten through some errand they needed to do, or something like that.”

Cuisine started to help Marble with the prep work, as they continued their speculation. “That doesn’t sound like them at all. I hope he didn’t injure himself again pushing himself too much this morning.”

Tongs’ voice replied from the living section, “Nothing of the sort, I was just helping your aunt dry off from the shower.” There was the sound of a light, playful smack. “Dear, that’s my bad shoulder you just abused.”

“It didn’t seem too bad just a few minutes ago, so don’t give me that!” Fruit led their way into the kitchen, and smiled at the two younger ponies. “Good morning you two, you didn’t have to start without us.”

Marble desperately fought not to giggle at the café owners' antics.

Cuisine shook his head in disbelief. “Uncle, you should be taking it a little easier, especially since you're starting back today.”

Tongs impishly replied, “Some things are worth the risk of injury. Helping my lovely wife in reaching all those hard to reach spots is one of them.”

Fruit swatted him on the rump, sending him scurrying to start his tasks.

Trying to ignore his relatives, Cuisine stuck his nose out the kitchen door. “Here comes the first of our patrons. I’ll be right back.”

Marble got into what she presumed would be her position by the sink.

“Marble, what are you doing?” Tongs asked, a bit of a laugh slipping into his voice.

She thought she had avoided a faux paus by taking the cleaning position; instead, she seemed to have stepped into one. “I thought you would be cooking today.”

“You are only going to be here a few more days, there is a lot I want to show you before you go.”

She almost did not believe what he had said. “Are you sure?”

“Of course, I love to teach budding chefs. It’s been a long time since I’ve been able to. I’m enjoying this as much as you seem to have been enjoying cooking.” He motioned for her to take her place.

Instead of going straight to the chef’s spot, Marble walked over and hugged him. She could barely get out the words, “Thank you.”

Tongs was not expecting his offer for her to cook to affect her so deeply. He patted her back, when he noticed she was struggling to control her emotions. “Think nothing of it.” He looked over Marble’s shoulder and shared a knowing look with Fruit. Fruit smiled, and nodded in approval.

After a moment, Fruit cleared her throat. “Marble, that’s my husband your holding.”

Marble quickly released him. “I’m sorry!”

Cuisine walked back in. He noted where everypony was standing, and asked, “Is everything alright?”

Fruit nodded to him, and explained, “There was just some confusion as to who was doing what in the kitchen today. We’ve gotten everything sorted out now.”

*****

“Pinkie, what exactly did you put in this? It weighs a ton!” Marble started to look in the basket, but Pinkie put her hoof down on the lid.

“No peeking until desert!”

“This is payback for not letting you look under the tarp isn’t it?”

“That’s part of it, but I also promised Horte not to let you look.”

“Cuisine talked to you about our date?” Marble didn’t know whether to be surprised, scared, or just roll with the situation.

“Who else in Ponyville would know what you liked?” Pinkie escorted her out of the kitchen. “Everything is going to be just fine. I promise. I’ve planned a lot of parties, and a date is just a party for two. There won’t be any fruit bats, wild storms, or soggy desserts, I promise.”

It took Marble a second to stop in her mind from wondering about how fruit bats, storms, or ruined desserts could fit into a date. “Pinkie, have you ever been on a date?”

There was a knock on the store’s door. Pinkie quickly took the opportunity to avoid the question. “I think Horte’s here.”

Marble grinned. “Luck saved you this time, Pinkie. I’ll get that answer out of you before this trip is through.”

Pinkie glibly stuck her tongue out. “Tell Horte hello for me, and don’t do anything that I wouldn’t do!” Pinkie went back to the kitchen, still needing to finish with the final details for Angel’s party.

That leaves quite a lot on the table. Marble opened the door, and shook her head at what she saw. “You couldn’t decide whether to dress up or not I see.”

Cuisine’s mane was not styled back, nor did he have one his customary cuffs and vest, but he wore a bowtie. “You like it when I’m out of uniform, I know, but I also felt that this is a rather important event.”

“So you compromised and went for something in the middle. I like it.” She motioned for him to come inside. “Pinkie said you talked to her about ideas for tonight.”

“She knocked on my door early in the morning yesterday and volunteered quite a bit of information about you. I asked a couple of questions, I’ll admit.” Seeing Marble’s eyes widen at the implications, Cuisine waved away her worries. “She didn’t tell me anything overly personal or embarrassing, I promise. I have to say, she gave me quite a few solid suggestions.” He saw the basket that Pinkie had prepared on the counter and grinned. “Ah, she was as good as her word.”

“She kept me from looking in it. That makes me wonder what exactly is in it all the more.”

He was glad to see that Marble was interested in his surprise. “You’ll get to see what’s inside later, I promise.” He went to pick up the basket with his mouth, and grunted slightly at the unexpected weight. He put it back down for a moment and gave it a disbelieving stare. “What did she put in it? I just asked for a couple of things, not half of the store’s inventory.”

His hoof reached to open the basket’s top, but Marble stopped him by placing her hoof on his. “You can’t look till I can.”

“Fair enough, I’ve got a feeling she’s set us both up a surprise. Let’s leave it here till after dinner. We should have time to swing by and pick it up on our way.”

“I take it this evening is going to involve more than dinner?”

He looked worried for a moment. “I did have a little something planned, if it’s alright with you.”

“It most certainly is. I was just pulling your tail.” She started to reach up towards his neck, but stopped herself. “You’re going to have to relax a little more tonight, or I’m taking that tie off.”

*****

As they walked away from the restaurant, Marble sighed contentedly. “That was perfect. I haven’t had Neighponese food since I was in Canterlot.”

“Pinkie said you would enjoy it. I admit, I had planned to cook you something myself tonight, but after talking with Pinkie this seemed like a better idea.”

She turned to him, slightly confused. “You could have cooked that meal, I have no doubt.”

“Perhaps, but not nearly as well, I don’t have near the experience the chef tonight has with that kind of meal. Besides, I could never do all the show pony tricks he did while fixing it, and that’s part of the dining experience at this kind of place.” Cuisine flailed his forelegs around in mimicry of the chef’s motions. “I would have cut my own hoof off.”

Marble laughed. “I wonder what the traditional Neighponese chefs think about all the tricks and gimmick’s they use at these places.”

“They’d probably laugh their tails off or not take kindly to it at all. To take such a serious art as cooking and turning into a circus would not have been thought off all that well by the chefs I learned from.” His words clearly indicated he did not agree with his instructor’s views on the subject.

She barely resisted the impulse to ask where he had gone. “Some ponies are just a little too uptight.”

“Like I am while I’m at work?” He raised a curious eyebrow.

She giggled. “Something like that. But with you, it’s endearing.”

They made their way back to Sugar Cube Corner and picked up the basket, on their way to the park. The conversation stopped as Cuisine carried the basket in his mouth.

Marble grinned, as an idea came to her. “Let’s play a little game. You make some noise if I’m getting warm when I guess at something about you. It’s only fair, since you got the scoop on me from Pinkie.”

He grunted what sounded like an agreeing noise.

“Alright, first, you have not dated in a while.”

He nodded and gave an affirmative noise.

“The reason you haven’t dated has nothing to do with matters of the heart, but due to your work schedule.”

He nodded again.

“You lived in Canterlot for a while.”

He stiffened at the question, but nodded.

She was sensitive enough not follow up and what was obviously an uncomfortable question with another. “You were doubtful about my cooking skills when I walked into the kitchen that first day.”

He hesitated to answer.

“It’s quite reasonable, don’t worry that you’re going to hurt my feelings. A strange mare that you have never seen before walks in off the street and offers to help. I would be skeptical myself. Were you?”

He slowly nodded.

She smiled. “Thanks for being honest. One more question, and I’ll stop.” She paused for a moment, just to let him stew. “You watched my flank when I walked away that first time didn’t you?”

He about dropped the basket and stumbled at the question.

“That’s all the answer I need, thank you.” She smirked as he just closed his eyes and sighed through his nose. “I actually appreciate it. I’ve been working to get in better shape.”

Despite the weight of the basket, his head quickly turned towards her. He was tempted to stop and put the basket down so he could properly talk to her about her statement, but they had reached the park and the crowd of ponies precluded talking about such a sensitive subject.

They chose a spot, close to the gazebo where everypony had gathered, and opened the basket. A cake, plates, napkins, and silverware for two rested on top of a comfortable blanket. Cuisine unpacked the items and spread the blanket on the ground. “There is a wooden divider in the bottom of the basket. Shall we see what’s under it?”

She wearily looked into the basket. “There’s no telling what Pinkie’s put in there. It may be better if we wait to see when we’re not in a crowd.”

He served the cake to her, much to the envy of a few of ponies around them.

She leaned to him and whispered. There is no way we can eat this whole cake. Should we offer other ponies a couple of slices?”

“I don’t think that’s what the looks are about.”

She stopped her fork at the halfway point to her mouth. “Pinkie’s cakes are not something to miss.”

“I think they’re looking our direction because you’re the most lovely mare here this evening,” Cuisine said smoothly.

She blushed and put her fork down. Before she could respond, there was stirring around the gazebo as Lyre and Bon Bon took their places for the evening’s entertainment.

Lyra addressed the gathered ponies. “Good evening. Thank you for coming to our little outdoor concert. We will be joined a later by our good friend Note Worthy. For now, please relax and enjoy the music.

Lyra levitated her ubiquitous lyre to her hooves. Bon Bon opened an oddly shaped case, and pulled out what appeared to be an upside down sealed wok. The strange looking thing had indentations spaced around its circumference and one on its top.

“What kind of instrument is that?” Marble asked to nopony in particular.

Cuisine informed her, “It’s called a hang. There aren’t too many of them made and they’re very expensive. She picked it up after becoming friends with Lyra. The only reason I know anything about it is that I asked her what it was after one of their shows.”

Lyra counted off, and the duo started into a piece. The hang sounded like a mellow steel drum, and resonated beautifully with the chords that Lyra’s harp produced. They played for almost half an hour before Note Worthy arrived, and added his saxophone to the mix. The music was an unusual, yet harmonious, blend of sounds that stayed with the listening ponies even after the trio had taken their bows.

Marble watched as the other ponies started to leave. She offered the remaining slices of cake to anypony who seemed interested. Cuisine returned from putting a few bits in the basket that the musicians had placed for tips and curled back up on the blanket. “That was wonderful. It’s an odd trio for a group, but they always play such great music.”

“I can’t stand it. I just want to have a peek.” She waited for him to agree, then took a quick look under the divider. She swiftly put it back in place and started to chuckle.

“What was it?”

She named, “Two wine bottles, crackers, cheese, a cheese knife, glasses, a bottle opener, and a note addressed to me.”

He smiled. “And you said you wouldn’t be able to take an order without a pad. You only glanced under the divider for a second and you were able to name all that.”

“Having a good memory runs in the family. Pinkie is better than I am.”

He nodded towards the basket. “At least read the note. I’m curious as to what she had to say.”

She retrieved the note from under the divider. As she read it, she bit her bottom lip. After finishing, she offered the note to him. “Here, you need to read this.”

He took the note, read it, and blushed at the warning that Pinkie had written Marble. He looked up and solemnly promised, “There will be no taking advantage of anypony under the influence of wine this evening.”

“What if I’m the one taking advantage of you?” Marble teased, as started packing the basket back up. “Let’s go somewhere and open one of these bottles.”

He offered, “Back to Sugar Cube Corner?”

“What about your place? The Cakes and Pinkie turn in early; I don’t want to wake them.”

“My place it is, only if you promise to behave and not try to ‘take advantage’ of me. I don’t want to have to explain anything to Pinkie.”

They made their way to Cuisine’s house and settled down in the den. He pulled out the bottles and scanned their labels. “Would you prefer the merlot or the cabernet sauvignon? They’re both from Berry Punch’s winery, so they’re bound to be good.”

“The cabernet, thank you, I like heavy wines.”

He poured the wine, and they talked. They decided to skip the cheese, since they were both still full from their dinners and the cake. The conversation drifted from subject to subject. She asked about his collection of books, his thoughts on Luna’s return, and his interest in Equestrian history. He, in turn, asked about life on a rock farm, her musical interests, and about the various errands that she had had to run while in town.

They drained the first bottle and then opened the merlot. After another glass between the two of them, the tone of the conversation changed.

Marble ran a hoof around the edge of her glass. “I want to ask you something.”

“I’ll answer whatever you ask.”

“Why are you in Ponyville if you are a graduate of CSCA?”

He looked at her with admiration. “How did you figure that out?”

“You fixed my lunch perfectly that first day. Then you said that Tongs was the only currently active chef from CSCA in Ponyville. I figured you had to be the other.”

He sighed and picked his glass up. “Truth be told, I had a very nasty falling out with my father. So I came to live here and help uncle with the café.”

Marble pressed him a little more. “Do you mind telling me why?”

He shrugged, indicating he did not mind at all. “It was because our personalities didn’t mesh. He runs the family restaurant like a tyrant. He grinds employees with long hours and harsh treatment until they quit. After enough time, and the same kind of treatment, he ground me down as well. I left after he and I had particularly sharp disagreement over his treatment of me and the other staff.” He took another sip of wine as if to wash the taste of his words from his mouth.

“I take it you don’t have much to do with him now.” The thought of him and his father not speaking made her ears fold back in sympathy.

He chuckled and took a sip of his wine, before assuring her, “Quite the opposite, since I’ve left Canterlot our relationship has improved. I even go to see him and mom a couple of times a year. My father is not an evil pony; he just approaches life differently than I do. I’ve accepted that, and he’s accepted my decision to live and work here.”

She smiled in relief. “That’s good to hear.”

“My turn for a couple of questions, since you’ve had two cracks at me already.”

She agreed with a nod. “That’s only fair.”

“How does a mare who has worked on a rock farm all her life come to have a slice of quiche as a cutie mark?”

She wasn’t surprised he started with that question. “I was visiting my grandmother, Granny Pie, and was helping her cook at her bakery. She had gotten a big catering order, and while I was rushing around with her to get everything ready my mark appeared.”

“That’s a wonderful way to get a cutie mark. You were doing what you liked with a pony you loved.”

She grinned. “Granny was so excited about my mark she nearly forgot about the catering job. I think she was happier about it than I was.” Her smile faded, as she thought about her parent’s reaction. “My parents weren’t nearly so enthusiastic. Mom seemed a little proud. Dad wasn’t that thrilled.”

He slightly tilted his head at her words. “Why did they react that way?”

“I guess after having Pinkie getting her cutie mark for making other ponies happy they didn’t know how to respond to mine. The rock farm is life for them. They drummed it into us, when we were growing up, that the farm should be our lives as well. I think they just saw my getting a cooking cutie mark as another one of their daughters having a talent that didn’t fit in with life on the farm or the rest of the family.”

He kindly pointed out, hoping to cheer her up a little, “Your mark fits in with your family quite well. You just happen to take after Granny Pie’s branch of your family.”

“That’s a nice way to look at it.” She smiled over the rim of her class. “I guess the next question you want to ask is where I learned to cook.”

He nodded. “Again, if you don’t feel comfortable talking about it, don’t.”

“You’ve answered all my questions, so I’ll answer yours. Besides, it’s not an uncomfortable subject. Granny taught me about baking, and tried to convince my parents, when I was old enough, to allow me to live with her while I took courses at a cooking school in Canterlot. Before I could, she passed away. However, she did have the last say in the matter. In her will, she left me money specifically so that so that I could attend cooking school.”

He poured her a little more wine. “Your grandmother certainly was a special lady. Where did you enroll?”

“You may have never heard of it, but I loved it.” She held aloft her glass and grandly stated, “I am a proud graduate of Cutting Board’s School of Cooking.”

He laughed at her theatrics. “I have heard of it. It’s not as well-known as some, but it’s regarded as a good school.” He thought back for a moment. “Now that I think about it, I’m pretty sure a couple of my instructors were from Cutting Board’s. How did you end up back on the farm after you completed culinary school?” He felt his heart drop, as her face saddened.

“Despite my high marks, because I didn’t graduate from one of the better known cooking schools, I’ve had trouble finding a job. I keep sending resumes to any opening I think I have a chance at filling, but there hasn’t been a positive response yet. I had to move back home after my money ran out.” She regarded her glass, as she slowly swirled the wine. “I just want an opportunity to show somepony what I can do.”

He smiled, and took her free hoof with his own. “You’ve certainly shown us your skills. Would you consider staying here? I could talk to Tongs and Fruit, and see what they say.”

The mixture of emotions that she felt at the offer rendered her speechless. She put her glass down and placed her other hoof on top of his.

He continued, “I know Tongs likes you, and Fruit seems to give every indication she likes you too. You fit perfectly with what we need at the café.” He grinned playfully, before adding, “You’re certainly my pick for the position, but I may be slightly biased.”

She tightened her grip on his hoof, causing him to stop before he said anything more. “I would love to stay. You and your family are wonderful ponies, and that’s one of the reasons I am so very tempted. But I have to go home soon, and you have to find somepony to take Tray’s spot in the café quickly.”

“We could make it work till you got back.”

“You’re sweet, but by the time I could talk to my parents, arrange everything with them, and get things settled at the farm it would be too long for you and your aunt and uncle to go without help.”

He started to say something, stopped, and then looked down. He debated with himself as to whether he should voice what was on his mind or not.

Marble removed her hooves from his, reached up, and undid his tie. “Now, say what you were about to say.”

“I’m more than willing to make ours a long distance relationship, but I would like you to stay here.”

His honest expression and tone caused her voice to catch. After a moment, she managed to say, “I know it’s going to keep us apart for a while, but I have to go home. Your aunt and uncle need somepony that can help them right now, not in a week or two, so I’m not the best choice.”

“You’re a caring, smart, and talented mare who deserves more than toiling at a job that you don’t like. I know you’re helping your parents, and I respect that, but your skills and spirit are being wasted there.” He took one of her hooves, and pressed it to his lips. “Please, if you won’t be selfish, allow me to be. We can hire Carmel again. He can help us until you get back. I’ll pay for it myself, it if comes down to it.”

She leaned in and gently kissed him on the forehead. “I don’t know how long it’s going to take for me and my family to arrange everything. I can’t ask you and your family to not do what is best for you and the café for my own selfish reasons. I certainly can’t take bits out of your pocket like that either.”

“I won’t move you on this will I?” Cuisine sadly asked.

“You, Fruit, and Tongs have already given me so much, I can’t ask for anything more.”

He added some weight to his words, as he pointed out, “We didn’t give you anything. You’ve been helping us from the very start.”

She nuzzled him reassuringly. “That’s not how it feels to me. It’s literally been the opportunity of my lifetime. I don’t want you to say anything for your own sake too. They know that you like me and that I like you. There’s a chance it would appear that I’ve unduly influenced you. I don’t’ want to risk that idea even occurring to them.”

For a second, he grinned. “I think they would happy if you influenced me. They certainly helped set me up in the kitchen for you to ambush me.”

Her own smile returned. “I did not ‘ambush’ you. I just listened to what you said, answered two and a half questions, offered to help Tray, and cleared the air between us. I got to pull your tail a little too, which was an added bonus.”

Both their smiles faded, as she returned to the topic of her leaving. “Promise me you won’t say anything or subtly try to coax Fruit or Tongs to look in my direction when it comes to the opening. If an offer comes naturally, I’ll be thrilled and take it. If my parents don’t like it, they can eat rocks.”

He met her eyes, but would not make a promise that he was not sure he could, or wanted, to keep.

She pressed, “I’ll do my best to make it back to Ponyville as soon as I can. Even if I have to take a job somewhere else, this is where I want to be. You being here is enough of a reason to come back. There aren’t too many stallions that would offer to help a mare like you have.” He looked away for a moment, and she hugged him around the neck. “Promise me.”

He reluctantly nodded. “I promise.” He hugged her back. “Keeping that promise is going to be very hard.”

She gently teased, “You’ve barely known me for a week. How can you be so attached to me?”

“How long did it take you to know that cooking was the thing that you wanted to spend your life doing?”

“Pretty much from the first time I helped Granny Pie make something for one of her customers. What does that have to do with anything?”

He looked into her eyes, as he told her, “It’s like that with me when it comes to my feelings for you. I thought you were stunning the first time I saw you. Now that I’ve gotten to know you for the mare you are, I will always want you in my life.” He blushed and looked away, hoping he had not gone too far.

She gently kissed him. “I always will be.”

Chapter 5: Families, Talents, and Lovers

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Chapter 5: Families, Talents, and Lovers

Cuisine watched Sugar Cube Corner with uncompromising attention. The fact that he could say nothing to his aunt and uncle about Marble’s wanting the opening at the cafe had been eating him for the two days since their date. He had promised not to talk to Tongs and Fruit, but Marble never said anything about not talking to her sister.

He stood up from the bench he had been waiting on, as a pink hoof turned the shop’s sign to ‘open’. He made his way inside and was glad to see that Pinkie was the only pony working front of the shop.

“Good morning Horte.” Pinkie saw his serious expression and walked around the counter. Before he could ask what she was doing, she pulled his face into a smile. “It’s too early in the morning for a frown like that.”

“Pinkie, I really need to talk to you.” Her manipulation of his face made it difficult for him to speak. “Is Marble where she could hear us?”

Pinkie gave him an odd look. “No, she had to go out to finish the last of the errands for mom and dad. Why?”

He removed her hooves from his face. “I need you to talk to you about your sister.”

Pinkie gasped. “You’re going to ask her to marry you already?! I take it she didn’t read the note. Rarity will love this twist. It’s just like something out her romance novels!” She dramatically waxed, “Days after a wild night of wine and passion, the stallion of the mare’s dreams comes to realize what he had done to the innocent creature’s heart, and vows to make the mare his wife.”

Cuisine’s mental gears slipped for a moment. He collected himself, and firmly stated, “For your information, it was a remarkable evening, but there were no events like the ones that your note warned her about or what you described from Rarity’s novels.”

She blushed. “Marble told you what was in the note?”

“She let me read it.”

Pinkie grinned widely. “Then she must have taken advantage of you.”

Cuisine patiently clarified, “There were no carnal acts of any kind, even with the wine involved. By the way, you have excellent tastes, thank you for that addition to the basket.”

“You’re more than welcome. You both need to unwind more. If you two didn’t knock hooves, then you must be one heck of a kisser.” She waggled her eyebrows at him. “She beams whenever she talks about you.”

He snorted a laugh. “Yes, we kissed, but it was only briefly, and she led in the proceedings.”

She made a disappointed noise. “Next time, go for it! Bend her over and kiss her till she has to come up for air.”

He rolled his eyes. “I’ll keep that in mind. Pinkie, I need you to focus. I’m here trying to help your sister get a job at The Grazing Meadow. She made me promise not to say anything to Fruit or Tongs, but I think she’s being far too considerate for her own good. Talk to her, or talk to my aunt and uncle on her behalf.” Pinkie’s contorted expression worried him. “Pinkie, are you alright?”

“Cuisine, you need to go.”

He was certain he had heard her wrong. “Excuse me?”

She went behind the counter and bagged him a couple of fresh muffins and donuts. “Keep your promise to Marble. Everything will turn out just fine. I’ve got everything under control.”

He calmly pointed out, “Pinkie, this is not as simple as one of your parties.”

She looked up from folding the top of the bag. “Don’t you think I know that? I may be a party pony, but I’m not going to let my sister be unhappy if I can do something about it.”

He had not intended to hurt her, or even to be harsh, but his words seemed to have stung her. Marble’s situation must be bothering her pretty badly as well.“I’m sorry Pinkie. I just want to make sure that Marble has the best shot she can have at doing what she wants to do.”

Pinkie came around the counter again and hugged him around the shoulders. “You didn’t say anything wrong. I’m just wound a little tight right now. I know you’re trying to help her, and I’m doing what I can to help her too, I promise.”

She gave him the bag with the breakfast treats. “Marble didn’t eat this morning. You can catch her in town and share these with her. I think she said she was going to go to the First Equestrian National Bank, so you could start around there. If she’s not there, try looking in the market.”

“Pinkie, you’re a wonder. How much do I owe you for breakfast?”

She shook her head. “Consider yours a tip for delivery. Please don’t tell Marble I’ve got a plan in the oven. It’s still not quite ready yet, but it’s getting very close.”

“I’ve made more promises in the last week than I have in the last couple of years. Still, I promise.”

*****

Cuisine caught Marble just as she was coming out of the bank. He offered to take her saddlebags and told her he was on breakfast delivery duty. They found an unoccupied bench near the edge of the park and sat down for breakfast.

She looked in the bag. Seeing the sweets she grouched, “I swear Pinkie is trying to fatten me up.”

“I don’t think so. With her metabolism, I don’t think she understands that we regular ponies can’t live on surgery foods like she does.”

“It’s intentional, trust me. She keeps saying I need a little more curve to my figure.” She self-consciously glanced back and towards her hindquarters.

He leaned in and whispered. “I didn’t get to tell you the other night, since my mouth was occupied with the basket, but you certainly don’t need to worry about your figure.”

With a smile, she commanded, “Hush, you flatterer, and eat your breakfast.”

He grinned and cheerfully obeyed. After devouring his donut, he paused, mid chew on his muffin, as he caught sight of Pinkie racing down the street at full speed. He realized that she was heading in the direction of The Grazing Meadow. Due to the way there were sitting, Marble did not catch sight of Pinkie as she ran past the park. What is that crazy pony up to now?

“Cuisine, what is it?”

“I saw a pony running down the street at a full gallop. I’m not really sure what is going on.”

She shrugged. “From what Pinkie’s told me about this town, there is no telling. I don’t hear any shouts or alarms, so it’s probably just somepony late for something.” She took another bite of her muffin. She stared down at it, as a thought occurred to her, and then asked him, “Why did you see Pinkie this morning?”

“I was hoping to take you out to breakfast again.” Which is the truth, I just wanted to see if I could get your sister to help me get some help for you first. Please, don’t ask anything else.

“I’m glad you having breakfast with me still happened. Give Pinkie enough time, and she can find a solution to just about anything.”

He agreed, “True, but you have to be ready for the most unexpected, crazy idea for the solution.” He rolled his eyes in opposing directions, making Marble laugh.

“Why is it that you can goof around like this now, but in the café you’re so much more uptight?”

“It’s left over from working in Canterlot. We dressed professionally and acted professionally when we walked into the restaurant, or we paid for it. Being formal and as flawless as possible became my shield. I tried to leave it behind when I came here, but it felt strange to work without the uniform and professional approach.”

She poked him in the ribs, causing him to jump. “You can be professional without being stuffy. I’ll help you work on that.” Her face saddened, as a thought came to her mind. “I guess it will have to be after I get back, though.”

He pulled her into a hug, not caring if ponies passing by saw them. “It’s not over yet, you still have a couple of more days with us. There’s no telling what’s going to happen.” Especially since Pinkie is involved.

She returned the hug and then released him. “Speaking of which, I need to drop off my saddlebags back at Sugar Cube Corner, and you need to get ready for work.”

He helped her off the bench and with her saddlebags. “I’ll see you there. Please, just enjoy the next couple of days. Don’t think about the future too much.”

“You and my sister have been telling me the same thing.” She jokingly asked, “You haven’t dated her have you?”

He shuddered at the thought. “By Celestia’s mane, no!”

Marble gave him a scathing look. “What is wrong with my sister?”

“Absolutely nothing is wrong with her! She I and I would not be compatible is all.” He hurriedly added, “Besides, I think she’s dating somepony already.”

Marble’s ears perked up. “Can you tell me who?”

“Not a clue what his name is. I’ve only seen him a couple of times.”

Her ears fell back in disappointment. “Drat, I was hoping you knew. Look, we’ve really got to get going or we’re going to be pushing it.”

He kissed her on the cheek, which caused her to stand still for a second at the unexpected, yet welcome, contact. “I’ll see you there.”

*****

Cuisine did not head straight home. As soon as he was certain that Marble could not see, he changed course, and went to the café. He made his way to the living area, and found his aunt and uncle sitting at their table sipping cups of coffee.

Tongs knew something was going on the moment he cast eyes on Cuisine. “Nephew, are you alright? I see you’re not in your working getup.”

Cuisine nodded. “I’m fine. Are my spare clothes still in the front closet?”

Tongs felt a little better, since Cuisine was still worrying about being properly dressed for his job. “I’m sure they have some dust on them, but they should be there. You don’t have to wear anything to work, you know.”

Cuisine acted as if he had not heard his uncle’s last remark. “I have to ask something. Did Pinkie come here earlier?” At seeing Fruit and Tongs glance at each other, he had his answer. “So she did come here. When I saw her, she was running here at full speed. What was so important she couldn’t just walk over?”

Fruit gave him a sympathetic look. “We promised not to tell.”

Tong craftily countered with his own question. “Why are you so eager to know about what Pinkie had to discuss with us?”

“Because I want to know if she’s trying to…” He stopped, aware of how close to breaking his own promise he was coming.

Fruit smiled, as she realized what was going on. “I see you made a promise too. Well then, since we’re not discussing a certain subject we can’t get into too much trouble.” Took a sip of coffee, and then grinned conspiratorially. Events will occur shortly that will help Tongs and I determine how to proceed on a certain subject. Does that help you?”

Cuisine smiled gratefully and nodded. “Quite a bit, I have to say.”

Tongs generously added, “Fruit and I know when a good opportunity comes along. No matter how certain aspects of tomorrow turn out, we plan to seize the one that has recently walked through our door.”

Fruit hugged Cuisine, as he almost seemed ready to collapse in relief. “We should help each other keep our promises, by not saying anything to any pony, shouldn’t we?”

He hugged her back, as he agreed, “Yes we should.”

*****

Cuisine hung up his tie, and leaned his head back. “Is it just me, or was tonight really wild?”

“I have to agree, we got a lot more ponies that usual for an evening like this.” Tongs dried off his hooves, having finished washing the last of the dishes.

Marble stopped her scrubbing of the counter top and turned to them. “I think the Town Hall meeting is tonight. Mr. Cake was planning on going.”

Fruit agreed with Marble. “You’re right, that’s tonight. That certainly explains the rush. If ponies are already planning on going out, they tend to eat out as well.”

They soon finished the cleanup of the kitchen, and began to head their separate directions. Cuisine gathered the articles of his spare clothing and slung them over his shoulder. “I’ll walk you back, if you would like.” He extended a hoof to Marble, who took it with a smile.

“Get some rest you two. Tomorrow is probably going to be busy too,” Tongs said, as he held the inner door open for Fruit.

Cuisine assured him, “We will.” He grinned, as he added, “I would suggest you take your own advice, but I know that won’t happen.”

“I’ll admit I have a weakness in the form of my wife, not that I mind. She knows how to push all the right buttons and make my willpower dissolve.”

Fruit’s voice sultrily drifted from deeper in the living section, “Something like this, dear?”

Marble and Cuisine could not see what Fruit did from where they were standing, but the blush on Tongs’ face gave them enough of an idea. “That would be it exactly!” He briefly turned back to them. “You two, have a nice evening. I’m certain I will.” With that, he disappeared through the door.

Cuisine shook his head. “I don’t know which of the two of them is worse.”

Marble suggested, “From what I’ve seen, you could call it a tie.”

“I certainly couldn’t argue with that.” He opened the outer kitchen door for her and then locked it behind them after they passed through.

“Pinkie.”

Cuisine was confused for a moment. He asked Marble, as he turned around, “What about her?” When he fully turned, he realized that Marble had named her sister because she was standing about two pony lengths away from them.

“Hello! I’ve come to get Marble tonight.” Pinkie bounced slightly in place, waiting for Marble to walk with her.

“I’ll see you both home then.” Cuisine politely offered.

“Tonight is super special sister time. No coltfriends allowed.” She playfully stuck out her tongue. “Besides, you got to eat breakfast with her and I didn’t.”

Marble groaned. “Pinkie, he’s trying to be nice.”

“It’s fine. I’ve seen you all day, and she hasn’t gotten to. You were considerate with Tray’s family time with us; I will be with yours and your sister.” He kissed Marble gently on her forehead.

“You two are so cute! I should have brought a camera.” Pinkie grinned, and made the motions of taking a photo.

Cuisine reciprocated the tease. “That would not be fair, since we would not be able to take a picture of you and your coltfriend. What was his name again? I can’t seem to recall.”

Pinkie grabbed Marble by the hoof and started pulling her away. “I have no idea who you’re talking about.”

“Big fellow, fairly strong looking, he doesn’t come into town all that often. I remember him pulling a cart last time I saw him. It was a heavy load too.”

“Still not ringing any bells,” Pinkie poorly denied.

Marble was enjoying the play back and forth more than she was going to admit. “Alright Pinkie, I’ll come with you, just one second.” She looked pointedly at Cuisine’s spare clothes. “Is that a new vest and tie?”

“It’s my spare set. I keep some clothes at the café in case of spills.”

She grew curious. “Did you spill on the others this morning, before you came to work?”

Cuisine truthfully replied, “I didn’t make it home as quick as I thought I would. I just got dressed at the café to save some time.”

Both Marble and Pinkie gave him the exact same look of disbelief. “You two, that’s really making me uncomfortable. Quit looking at me like that.” He waved his hooves in the air at them. “I just had to talk to Fruit and Tongs about something, and I lost track of time.”

The resulting looks from both sisters made his blood freeze. Having one of them scrutinizing him for a possible broken promise was one thing, having both of examining him at the same time was horrifying. “We talked about the crystal berries! We didn’t know how we were going to prepare them, since we haven’t cooked with them before. It’s been a long time since Tongs did any baking, and I don’t have the knack for coming up with original recipes. Please! I beg you! Quit giving me that look!”

He had discussed the crystal berries with Fruit and Tongs before getting ready for work that morning, so it was enough to pass Pinkie’s radar. Letting her concerns drop, Pinkie focused on the cooking conundrum. “Oh, I can help with that. Twilight’s brother lives in the Crystal Empire, I’m sure we can get some recipe books from there.”

He tried not to let his relief show. “That sounds like a good plan. I’ll talk to Twilight about arranging it sometime soon.”

The two mares turned to go. Pinkie looked back over her shoulder and winked. She silently mouthed, “Tomorrow.”

He grinned and nodded at her. Now I know when the plan goes into motion. I hope and pray that your plan works, Pinkie, whatever it happens to be.

*****

The next day, towards the end of the café’s hours, Fruit stuck her head into the kitchen from the outside. “Dear, we have some ponies that would like to talk to you.”

Tongs did not seem surprised, which made Cuisine wonder what was going on.

“I’ll be right there.” Tongs put down the knife he had been using to chop ingredients and untied his apron. “Cuisine, if you would be as so kind, please finish this up for me. Hopefully this won’t take too long. I would hate to leave other ponies waiting, if it does.”

“Certainly, you do what you need to do. We can manage things here.” Cuisine stepped over and started to cut and chop the various ingredients, after Tongs left his station. Fruit came in and then carried out the last of the evenings dishes. A good bit of time passed before Tongs stepped back into the kitchen.

Tongs smiled. “Marble, there are some ponies here who would like to talk to the chef that prepared their meal this evening. They were quite pleased with it, and wanted to tell you themselves.”

Marble’s face lit up. “Thank you! I’ll be out in just a second!” She started to undo her apron, but her shaking hooves so she could not manage the knots.

“Let me get those.” Cuisine leaned in, as he undid the knots, and told her, “This kind of thing only happens once or twice a year for my uncle. You should be proud.” He took the apron from her and hung it up. “You’re going to have to tell me all about it, when you get back.”

“I will.” She started to head out the door. Before she made it all the way outside, she made a gasping, strangled sound and then rushed back in. She put her back to the wall and covered her mouth with her hooves.

“Marble what’s wrong?!” She could not even speak to him. She tried to tell him, but no words would come. He rushed over and hugged her tightly. “Please, tell me what’s wrong, you're starting to scare me.”

“It’s my parents and my sister. They’re here.” Her voice trembled almost as badly as she did.

He slowly let her go. “There here?” He stuck his head out the door, and saw Tongs and Fruit sitting and talking with a pair of ponies a little older than they were. Not far from them, Pinkie and who he decided had to be Marble’s other sister were talking animatedly. He pulled back into the kitchen. “What in Equestria are they doing here?!”

She could tell he was genuinely shocked to see her family. “You didn’t know they were coming?”

“No, I didn’t have a clue. I knew that Pinkie had some scheme of hers going, and that my aunt and uncle were under a promise not to tell me about it, but that’s all. I swear on Celestia’s sun and Luna’s moon that I had no clue this was what they had planned.” He returned to hugging her. “Everything is going to be just fine. They didn’t come all this way to be ursa majors in the middle of our café.”

“I hope so.” She put her head on his chest and took a shuddering breath. “Just give me a moment.”

He slowly lifted her chin. “Keep this in mind, when you talk to them.” He kissed her deeply, making sure to be as tender as possible. After a good amount of time, he reluctantly broke the kiss and told her, “I love you. I’ll do whatever is needed to make sure you are happy and safe. All you have to do is ask, and I’ll help you.”

She tightened her hold on him for a second, as she told him, “I love you too.” She released him and calmed down as much as she could.

He opened the door for her and smiled. “Ready?”

“As ready as I’ll ever be.” She walked past him and out into the seating area.

“Marble!” The younger, purple pony raced from her seat and hugged Marble. “You cooked this?! I knew you were good, but I had no idea you could something like this.”

“Young lady, we have quite a bit to discuss.” The older stallion, wearing a hat, stated. He motioned towards one of the seats. “Sit down.”

Marble felt Cuisine bristle at her father’s commanding tone. She started to reach for the chair, only to have Cuisine pull out it out for her. She gave him a grateful look, as she sat down.

“I take it you’re the stallion that Pinkie said is interested in my daughter?”

“I am. My name is Horte Cuisine. I don’t believe I have had the pleasure of knowing yours.”

“Igneous Rock is mine. This is my wife Cloudy Quartz and our daughter Limestone Pie.” He gestured to the two mares as he named them.

Cuisine bowed to each of the mares. “It’s a pleasure meeting you both.”

“You don’t have to put on airs, son.” Rock laughed.

“This is how he is." Marble told her father, without flinching at his critical gaze. "Cuisine is a gentlecolt through and through,” Marble stated. “He has never treated me as anything but a lady.” Cuisine put his hoof on her shoulder, and she reached up and placed hers on top of his.

Tongs politely cleared his throat, drawing her attention. “Let’s get right to the crux of the matter at hoof. Fruit and I have decided to extend you an offer to come and work with us. Would you care to join us here at The Grazing Meadow?”

Marble’s eyes would light up when she looked at Tongs or Fruit, but darken with dread when she looked at her parents.

Fruit nearly cried, as she watched Marble’s expression waver between happiness and abject fear. “Marble, it’s alright. We've already talked things over with your parents. Just answer the way you want to.”

Marble answered, without any hesitation, “I would love to.”

Cuisine reluctantly removed his hoof from Marble’s shoulder, as Rock got up from his seat and embraced Marble. “I know your mother and I were not supportive of you when you went off to cooking school. It was a horrible mistake I wish we could undo. We had a good, long talk with Pinkie earlier today. Then we heard all that you’ve done from Fruit and Tongs this evening. We realize this is the right spot for you.”

Quartz added her voice. “We want you to be happy. Whether you're on the farm or not, that’s all that matters.”

Marble hugged her father back. “Thank you. Thank you both.”

Rock turned her loose, and Pinkie slipped in and grabbed her. As she hugged Marble, she whispered, “I told you I’d help.”

Tears flowed down Marble’s face. “Yes you did. I’ll never be able thank you enough.”

Pinkie pulled back a little and wiped away a couple of Marble’s tears. “Just be happy and smile. That’s all the thanks I need.”

*****

Cuisine chuckled, as he followed Marble towards Sugar Cube Corner. “Slow down. Pinkie’s not going anywhere. She’s probably still baking with the Cakes.”

Marble had not noticed that she was leaving him behind. “Pinkie may not go anywhere, but this mysterious coltfriend of hers might. She didn’t Pinkie Pie Swear that he would stick around this morning, just that she would tell me who he is.”

“You don’t have to worry about that. He’s heading behind Sugar Cube Corner right now. He’s pulling a cart too, so he won’t be all that quick.” He had to trot to keep up with her. “He’s not going to vanish into thin air before we can get there, relax.”

She slowed down and matched pace with him. “You’re underestimating Pinkie. Let’s head around back. I don’t think she can make both him and the cart disappear, but she’s pulled some wild things off before.”

“If you were talking about any other pony, I would say you’re being paranoid.”

Marble indicated that they should be quiet, and they slowly made their way around the end of the store. They watched as Pinkie released her forelegs from around the stallion’s neck. He lifted her to the back of the cart, without much effort, so that they could be closer to the same height. He leaned in and kissed her. It was apparent this was not the first time they had kissed, as they were both comfortable with the act.

Marble waited until the end of the kiss, before revealing she and Cuisine were there. “So, this is the mysterious coltfriend of yours. He seems like quite the kisser.”

Pinkie looked at Marble, her face ruddy with embarrassment. “I don’t have to answer that.”

The stallion chuckled, his deep voice a clear baritone. “You must be Marble. Pinkie’s told me quite a bit about you.” He turned towards Cuisine. “Which means you must be Horte.”

Cuisine extended his hoof. “Call me Cuisine, please.”

The taller stallion shook hooves with Cuisine. “I’m Crème Brulee. Pleased to meet you both. You’ll have to excuse me, but I have to finish making my delivery rounds.” He turned back around, gently picked Pinkie up from the cart, and then set her on the ground. “I’ll see you later.” He leaned down and gave her another, albeit much shorter, kiss. He ducked into the cart’s harness, and went on his way.

Marble poked Pinkie in the shoulder. “Just how long have you two been together?”

Pinkie wistfully sighed, still recovering from the last kiss. “Eight months, five days, and ten hours.”

Cuisine snorted. “Not that you’re keeping track.”

Marble shushed him. She returned to asking Pinkie questions. “How did you two meet?”

“He works at his family’s flour mill, just outside of town. He makes the deliveries here. We met one morning, and we just hit it off. He’s strong, handsome, has a wonderful sense of humor, and cares about me, the whole nine yards.” She put a hoof to the side of her mouth and stage whispered, “He’s great at baking desserts too, but don’t go spreading that around." She grinned. "He gets embarrassed. He thinks he should just been seen as the workhorse of the family.”

Marble raised an eyebrow. “And what was that about him seeing you later?”

Pinkie nervously tapped her hooves together. “He and I are going to have dinner with mom, dad, and sis tonight.”

Marble stared at her sister for a moment. “Pinkie, just how serious is this?”

Pinkie ducked her head. “As serious as you and Horte are.”

Cuisine hugged Marble from the side. “Then it’s very serious.” When Marble turned to say something to him, he preempted her by giving her a kiss of his own. They broke the kiss, and he continued, never looking away from Marble, “Since I love your sister dearly.”

Marble smiled up at him. “Pinkie, if Brulee is near the quality of my coltfriend, you’ve chosen a wonderful stallion.” She kissed Cuisine’s nose. “But he’s never going to be my Cuisine.”

Pinkie playfully shook her head and pointed at the pair. “You can have your Horte. He’s a bit too much bit of a stick in the mud for me.”

Mable gave her a look that spoke volumes. “I plan to work with him on that on our next day off. We already have a little cooking experiment planned, if the ingredients come in on time.”

Cuisine did not know whether he should be worried at Marble’s tone or not.

Pinkie grinned. “Just remember, it’s easier to wash up dairy products than chocolate or caramel, especially if it sets.”

*****

“Marble, it won’t make any difference if you watch it bake or not.”

She looked up, as Cuisine offered her a glass of wine. “Thanks.” She turned back towards the oven, nearly pressing her nose against the viewing window. “I just don’t want it to burn. Those berries are expensive.”

He gathered a couple of plates and forks, and put them on the table. He smiled, as he took a sip of his wine, never taking his eyes off her.

She felt him looking at her. She turned her head, and asked, “Is there something on my coat?”

He grinned. “No. I was just admiring one of the natural beauties of the world.”

“I’ll have to make you take your tie off and get some wine in you more often, if you’re going to complement me like that.” The timer dinged, and she quickly pulled the pie out of the oven.

Cuisine walked over and admired her work. “Smells great, looks perfect.”

She cautioned, “But we don’t know how it’s going to taste.”

“Come and sit down. We need to let it cool off a little before we can eat it.” He turned the dial for the timer on the oven. “Just a few minutes, then we can try it.” He led her over to the couch, where they curled up together.

“Thanks again, for helping me get moved in. I don’t know how your aunt and uncle knew about the apartment, but it’s perfect for me.”

“They know a lot of ponies in town, thanks to the café. I’m sure they heard about it from one of their friends. I can’t believe your parents and sister got your stuff here so quickly.”

“We’re used to packing and shipping heavy loads of gems. Some clothing, books, a couple of items of furniture, and a few odds and ends is nothing.” She put her wine down and leaned against him. “I think they wanted to make sure I was comfortable in my new place too. They must have started packing my stuff as soon as they got home.”

He put a foreleg around her, and they sat like, enjoying each other being there, for a while.

She stirred and turned towards him. “Cuisine, I…” The timer chimed again, interrupting her. “What rotten timing.”

He nuzzled her. “And here you were all ready to dive into the pie when it was just out of the oven. Let’s have a slice, while it’s still warm.”

They got off the couch, and returned to the kitchen. Cuisine moved the pie to the table and placed it on a trivet. He held out a serving knife for her. “Care to do the honors?”

She sliced the pie, and put one slice each on their respective plates. She took a forkful, and examined it. “Here goes nothing.” She took the bite and carefully mulled over the taste. “Pretty good for a first shot, it needs a little more vanilla.”

He took a bite of his own slice. “Tastes perfect to me, we’ll let Tongs and Fruit be the tie breaker.” He put his fork down, and then gently caressed her cheek. “Now, what were you going to say, before the timer interrupted you?”

“Forget it. It wasn’t important. It was just a silly question; I think the wine’s gotten to me a little.”

“I don’t believe you.” He drew her to him and kissed her. He did not hesitate, or hold back. He poured his feelings for her into it. He only broke the kiss when she started to pull away. “Now, please ask me.”

“You just answered what I was going to ask.” She took his hoof and led him down the hall, leaving the wine and pie forgotten.

Between a Rock Farm and a New Place.

by Random_User

Chapter 1: Stepping into the Kitchen

Chapter 2: Insecurities and Opportunities

Chapter 3: Unintended Professions and Hopeful Plans

Chapter 4: Dates and Promises

Chapter 5: Families, Talents, and Lovers