8-10 Years Ago
Caramel was running through the street in his neighborhood in Manehattan not paying attention to where he was going. The young colt was having too much fun tossing his ball into the air and bouncing it off of his nose to notice, and he certainly did not notice when he ran right into a filly. A filly he would meet again years later.
“Whoa,” yelped the orange filly.
“Oh I’m sorry,” Caramel said quickly forgetting his ball being worried for the filly he ran into. He knelt over and helped her back to her hooves. When he saw her, he was stunned by how pretty she was. Her hair was a bit exaggerated but she had the most beautiful and honest green eyes he ever saw. All he could was stare.
“Oh don’t ya’ll worry none,” Applejack said. ‘Shoot say it right,’ she scolded herself. “I mean,” She said quietly, “That is quite alright. Accidents do happen you know.” She gave him a warm smile.
Caramel shook his head, “Why are you talking differently?”
“Why I am certain I have no idea what you mean,” Applejack replied keeping the smile that was being forced to remain on her face.
“You said something differently after I bumped into you,” Caramel said, “I’m really sorry about that by the way, but why are you talking like that?”
Applejack sighed knowing that the jig was up, “Mah name’s Applejack. And ah ain’t from Manehattan. Ah’m living with mah aunt and uncle Orange while I figure what mah special talent is.”
“I like your voice,” Caramel said, “It’s pretty.”
Applejack blushed, “Thank ya.” She looked up and saw the clock tower, “Oh no ah gotta go! Sorry but ah’m late fer lunch.”
“Wait,” Caramel said pulling a camera out of his pack, “Let me get a picture first.”
“Ya want my picture,” Applejack asked confused, “Well shoot go for it. It’s your film.” She gave him a warm smile and Caramel took the picture. “It was nice meetin’ ya,” Applejack said as she ran back to her relatives’ apartment.
“It was very nice to meet you too, Applejack,” Caramel said. ‘She was so pretty,’ he thought to himself. He ran across the street to collect his ball and continued to the park. The day was lost anyway. All he could think of was the filly with the orange coat and blonde mane. That filly would fill his thoughts for years.
4 Years Ago
“You are going to law school and that is final,” Caramel’s father screamed at him, “I don’t care what your cutie mark is. No colt of mine will throw their life away on some stupid farm. That is for pathetic stupid ponies.”
“Well that’s too bad, father,” Caramel shouted, “I refuse to go and you can’t make me. This is my life not yours, and I don’t need your approval!” He turned to go to his room and the door slammed shut. He turned to the butler, with a smirk turned around lifted his rear legs, and bucked the door off its hinges. “That takes care of that,” he said.
His father was not finished. He followed his son into his room and shouted, “This is your final warning. You either go to law school or get out!”
Caramel was stunned by the words and for a moment did not know what to do. He looked to his father, back to his bed, and then with finality said, “Fine. I guess I don’t live here anymore.” He went to pack his things and stopped when he heard his father.
“Then get out,” he said, “You are no longer my son and if you take anything I will have you arrested.”
Caramel faced his father stunned but only said, “May I at least take my pack with me, sir?” His voice dripped with sarcasm and his father snorted and walk out of his room. Caramel went about the task of trying to figure out what to take. There were a great number of personal mementos but nothing he wanted to take with him. Instead, he walked to his pillow, lifted it, and took the only thing that gave him comfort all these years. His father was very demanding and a powerful lawyer, but Caramel was not a lawyer. He had no interest in such things, and his father hated it. All the times his father would yell at him and force him to tears, Caramel would run to his bed, reach under the pillow, and look at the photo of the beautiful filly he met years before. Tonight, he once again reached under the pillow, grabbed Applejack’s picture, and placed it in the pack. It would be the only item he took with him.
“Goodbye,” Caramel said as he walked out the door. He left his former home and the city of Manehattan and did not return for years. After he left his father said softly to his butler, “Of all the times to gain a backbone.” He turned and entered his office knowing that he no longer had a son.
Caramel was outside in the street and had no idea where to go. He had no money no possessions and no home. With a heavy sigh, the young colt made his slow way out of town. He got his cutie mark when visiting a farm and he decided to find a farm to work at.
Though sad at his sudden loss of family, he walked at a quick pace away from Manehattan and continued on the road unknowingly to Ponyville. The first night went quickly and he slept soundly under a tree with Applejack’s picture in the pack.
When he woke up in the morning, he opened the pack and looked at the picture. ‘Well I’m lost and have no idea what I’ll do,’ he thought, ‘but as long as you’re with me, Applejack, I know I’ll be ok.” He stretched and continued his way to Ponyville.
His stride slowed down and by the third day, he was starving and dehydrated. He was walking in a zigzag along the road, and it was a few hours later he passed out. He laid slowly baking in the sun unable to move and barely able to breathe. His vision faded just as he heard faint hoof steps nearby.
Hours passed and Caramel woke up in a strange place. His head was spinning and he felt hot. His vision cleared and he saw that he was in a house. Slowly, he rose and saw that he was in a bed and the source of the heat was the covers. He removed them and looked around the room. It was very plain with only a dresser and a table with a mirror and the bed he was laying in. He turned toward the door when he heard it open.
In walked an old mare and Caramel sat up slowly and tried to stand out of respect. “Ya’ll just stay there,” the old mare said. She was green and slowly made her way to Caramel with a pitcher of water. “Here ya go,” she said, “You were half starved and nearly dead when Mac found ya.”
Caramel drank the water and thought, ‘This is so delicious.’ Perhaps it was his dehydration, but he had never tasted water so good before. He placed the glass back on the tray, “Thank you very much for the water, ma’am. I appreciate you saving me. My name is Caramel, and if I may ask your name?”
“Weren’t nothing,” the old mare said, “An’ you don’ need to be standin’ on airs for me. The name’s Granny Smith and that’d be fine enough with me.”
Caramel nodded and said, “Well thank you very much Granny. Now how can I repay you?” Before Granny could respond he said, “I am not about to take your kindness for granted. I want to help and I intend to do so. I take it this is a farm, and I think my talent is working on a farm.” He looked at Granny Smith and said, “If you have the room I would like to work for you.”
“Well,” Granny said, “We’re a pretty small farm and don’t really hire ponies except for Winter Wrap-Up or Apple Buckin’ Season, but I can make an exception.” She smiled at Caramel. “Welcome to Sweet Apple Acres, Caramel.” She stood and said as she left the room, “My granddaughter Applejack will bring you something to eat.”
Caramel’s heart stopped when he heard the name, ‘Did she say Applejack,’ he thought. He looked over the side of the bed and saw his pack there. He reached inside and carefully grabbed the old photograph. ‘Could it be the same Applejack,’ he wondered. He flipped the photo over and read the noted he wrote over the years, ‘The prettiest pony I saw. The prettiest pony ever. The reason I can get out of bed in the morning. The reason I don’t cry myself to sleep.’ He placed the photo under his pillow and turned to the door when he heard a slightly familiar voice, “Well ah heard somepony is in a powerful need for some food.”
Applejack walked in with a tray on her back, and she turned to Caramel and smiled warmly, “I know ya’ll are in a bad way, but could ya help me out here?”
Caramel stared and Applejack laughed, “Must be the most beautiful thing ya’ll seen in a while.” She was referring to the food.
“Most beautiful thing I’ve seen in years,” Caramel was referring to Applejack. He slowly grabbed the tray and placed it on the small table next to the bed, “Thank you very much Applejack.”
“How’d ya know mah name,” she asked.
“Granny Smith told me,” he said quickly. ‘She is the same pony,’ he thought, ‘How is this even possible? Is this a fever dream?’ He saw that Applejack was about to leave and he said, “Would you care to join me?”
“Oh no,” Applejack said blushing slightly, “There’s only enough for you.” She turned and stopped when Caramel spoke.
“I would feel more comfortable sharing my food with somepony than eat alone in a strange place.” That was true. He did not know where he was and it was a good excuse to get Applejack to stay a bit longer.
“Well,” Applejack said, “Sure. Why not?” She split the food on the single plate and both ate in silence. When they were finished, Applejack went back downstairs with the tray on her back. “Ya’ll rest up now,” she said, “We get up early round here.” She gave him a warm smile and left the room.
Caramel rested his head back on the pillow and looked at the old photo. With a smile, he placed it under his pillow and said softly, “I’m home.”
Present Day
“Look Mac,” Caramel said, “All I’m saying is that there is a different way to do things.”
“Yes, and there’s a certain way we do things here.”
Caramel sighed, “Aren’t you afraid of being stuck in the past?”
“Nope,” Mac said.
“Ok,” Caramel said, “I’m only trying to help.”
“Ah know,” Mac said, “Let’s finish up this barbed wire.”
“Right,” Caramel said.
Both stallions were repairing a stretch of fencing that was damaged in the last storm. Applejack and Big Mac blamed Rainbow Dash on being over zealous again, but Caramel knew that there was a freak storm from the Everfree Forest at the same time. There was no way Rainbow could have known, and when he tried to convince the Apples, he was ignored. ‘I guess I’ll never learn to argue with an Apple,’ he thought. “Ouch,” he yelped. The barbed wire rather sharp and even though he was wearing thick gloves he was still pricked.
“Be careful,” Mac said. After all these years, he stopped noticing when Caramel hurt himself, but this time he had to say something. “What’s goin’ on with you, anyway,” Mac asked.
“What do you mean,” Caramel asked.
“Well,” Mac said, “Your work’s getting’ sloppy and for you that’s sayin’ something. Your mind just isn’t here.”
“Yeah I’m sorry Mac,” Caramel said. He wanted to ask Applejack out for a long time. Ever since he saw her four years ago, he tried to ask her out, but never gathered the nerve. Now it was affecting his work. The only reason he still had his job was considered a friend of the family.
“Just tell me her name,” Mac said.
Caramel gulped and said, “No.”
“Why? Think ah’ll laugh at ya?”
“No,” Caramel said, “It’s more along the lines of looking out for my own skin.” He knew better than to try and sneak anything past Big Mac. The red stallion was much more perceptive than ponies ever gave him credit for.
Mac turned to Caramel and said softly, “This is where you tell me it isn’t Applejack.”
“Well it certainly isn’t Applebloom,” Caramel said jokingly hoping to defuse the situation.
Mac glared at him.
“Ok ok,” Caramel said, “It’s Applejack. Look Mac I’m sorry, but I’ve loved her for a long time.”
“Four years of barely knowing her is hardly a long time,” Mac said.
“It would be closer to ten years Mac,” Caramel said, “I met her back when I still lived in Manehattan and I took her picture. I kept it and it comforted me, and now I live on the same farm as her. I don’t know what to call it, but I can’t ignore it.”
Mac looked Caramel in the eye and was surprised by the determination he saw in them. The only other time Caramel had that determination was four years ago when he left home. “Well if you want my blessing, I guess there are worse ponies out there. You gonna ask her out?”
“I don’t know,” Caramel said, “I really want to but I’m scared.”
Mac laughed, “Then until you do, you don’t work here.”
“You know what happened the last time I was given an ultimatum,” Caramel asked.
“Eeyup. You nearly died.”
“Right,” Caramel said. ‘Not the image I wanted to project,’ he thought. “Ok fine.” He began to walk back to the farmhouse, turned around, and yelled, “Of course I don’t see you making the long walk over to Sugarcube Corner.” He smiled to himself and walked back towards his room.
On the way, he saw Applebloom gathering various materials. “Hey Applebloom,” he called.
“Howdy Caramel,” the filly replied, “What’s the score today?”
“Six out of twenty,” he said proudly.
“It that six mistakes or six without,” Applebloom asked.
“Six with,” he said.
“Nice,” she squealed, “A new record.”
They slapped hooves and Caramel made his way inside. His room was just as plain as when he first arrived. Ever since he left Manehattan, he had no desire to own anything. He walked to his bed and reached under the pillow. The pillow was worn but well cared for. He flipped it over and wrote down on the back, ‘Love of my life.’ He turned to leave and placed it under the pillow but not entirely. Part of it was visible and he did not notice.
The sun was high in the sky and Caramel knew that Applejack would be in the kitchen eating lunch. What he did not know was that she was looking for him. She wanted to have lunch with him since they did not spend much time together.
Applejack walked up to Big Mac and asked, “Hey where’s Caramel?”
“Ain’t here.”
“Well ah can see that,” Applejack said, “Ya know where he is now?”
“Nope,” Mac said, “I sent him off to you cause he had something he needed to ask ya.”
‘Now what could that be,’ Applejack thought. “Yeah that’s what ah’m here. Just making sure I heard him right. Kind of an odd question wasn’ it?”
“You’re an awful liar, sis,” Mac said, “I ain’t telling you. You just get the question from Caramel.”
“Fine,” Applejack said, “he’s probably in his room readin’ or somethin’.”
“Eeyup,” said Mac and continued working on the fence.
Applejack ran back to the farmhouse and knocked on Caramel’s door. It swung open and she saw that he was not there. She was about to leave but noticed something underneath his pillow. Slowly walking up to it and saw it was a photograph. She gasped when she saw it, ‘That’s me.’ She flipped it over and read the notes Caramel wrote on it. ‘Love of my life,’ she thought. Her head was swimming. She had no idea Caramel felt that way, and she suddenly remembered him from all those years ago. ‘He was that nice colt that told me ah was pretty,’ she recalled blushing and did not hear Caramel enter the room.
“Something wrong Applejack,” he asked.
Applejack screamed and dropped the photograph.
Caramel saw the photo slowly float to the ground and sighed, ‘guess it’s too late.’ “I’m sorry Applejack. I, I’m sorry.” He turned to leave another home and was stopped by Applejack’s voice.
“Don’t go. Please.” Applejack walked to Caramel and said, “How long have you had this picture?”
“Long enough to know true beauty,” Caramel said, “Applejack I’m sorry you found out this way, but I love you. You don’t know me very well other than that stupid clumsy pony that can’t get anything right, but I just want to,” he trailed off. He shook his head, “No. I don’t deserve you and I never will. I ruined things here just like I ruined things back in Manehattan. It seems I’ll never have a home.”
“Don’t say that,” Applejack said with tears in her eyes. “You ain’ stupid, and yeah you’re a lil clumsy. You’re still one of the hardest workin’ ponies ah know, but ah never saw you like that.”
“I know,” Caramel said.
“No you don’. I said I never saw you like that before. I’m not sure now.”
Caramel’s heart began to beat faster, “Do you mean that you’ll give me chance?”
“I dunno,” Applejack said with a sly smile.
“Well I’m not going to let this chance pass me by. Applejack would you honor me by allowing to take you to dinner tonight?”
“Well,” Applejack said remembering their first meeting all those years ago, “I would be delighted to have such a gentlecolt show me a wonderful time.” She finished with a small bow.
Caramel laughed and said, “I hope you never do that again. I love your voice. It’s…”
“Pretty I remember,” Applejack said, “Well I should get ready for tonight.” She leaned in and gave him a kiss on the cheek.
Caramel waited for the sun to begin to set and grew very anxious. He wanted their first date to be perfect. The plan was simple and that was the point. They would enjoy a quiet picnic under Luna’s moon.
Once dinnertime came around, Caramel made his way to the kitchen and met Applejack there. He looked inside and saw only Applebloom and Granny Smith inside. “Where’s Mac?”
“Oh he had something important to take care of at Sugarcube Corner,” Applebloom pouted, “And he couldn’t take me with him.”
Caramel laughed and said, “Don’t worry Applebloom. Next time I’m in town I’ll get you a batch of cupcakes.”
The filly lit up and went back to eating her dinner.
The two ponies made their way to the picnic site and Applejack smiled at the display.
“I know you prefer simple over extravagant, “Caramel said.
“I love it,” Applejack said. She turned to Caramel and they both sat down.
Though he made the meal, Caramel did not remember any of it. He was entranced by Applejack. She was talking and her eyes were darting every which way and he followed them eagerly. Once the meal was finished, they laid down and looked at the stars. Applejack rested her head on his side and said softly, “This is a great first date. Thank you.”
“It’s not as perfect as you deserve,” Caramel said, “But it’s the best I can do.” He leaned and kissed Applejack on the cheek causing her to blush.
They remained for another hour before heading back home. Caramel walked Applejack back to the Apple home and said, “Well, goodnight Applejack. Thank you for giving me the chance. I would like to see you again. If that is acceptable.”
Applejack laughed, “I’d love to see you again, too.” She leaned and kissed him on the cheek.
Caramel paused for a second, ‘Oh go for it.’ He leaned in and kissed Applejack on the lips. She instantly returned the kiss and time froze. When both ponies broke kiss they were blushing. She smiled at him slyly and went inside.
Caramel went to his room and went to sleep thinking, ‘I have the perfect life.”
“Well, I don’t see you making that long walk down to Sugarcube Corner!”
Big Macintosh still had Caramel’s words in his head even as he worked harder to ignore them. It was not that Caramel was wrong. Mac wanted to ask Pinkie Pie out for a while now, but he never quite figured out how. At least that excuse satisfied him until today. He knew how to ask Pinkie out on a date. The problem was that he could never think of an excuse to go and ask her out. He tried offering to take the Cakes their daily apple shipment, but Applejack would always insist on it so she could visit with Pinkie for a bit. Mac would never deny his little sister any chance to spend time with her friends, and seeing her leave the farm occasionally to have fun was always welcome.
Today was different. If Caramel could pony up and bring himself to ask Applejack out, then he should be able to do the same. ‘I’ll go once this fence is finished,’ he promised himself. He was content to content to allow himself this excuse and for a while, he forgot all about Pinkie. That did not last long when Applejack arrived.
“Hey where’s Caramel?”
“Ain’t here.”
“Well ah can see that,” Applejack said, “Ya know where he is now?”
“Nope,” Mac said, “I sent him off to find you cause he had something he needed to ask ya.”
Applejack shifted nervously, “Yeah that’s why ah’m here. Just making sure I heard him right. Kind of an odd question wasn’ it?”
“You’re an awful liar, sis,” Mac said, “I ain’t telling you. You just get the question from Caramel.”
“Fine,” Applejack said, “He’s probably in his room readin’ or somethin’.”
“Eeyup,” said Mac and continued working on the fence smiling as his sister left in search for Caramel.
Mac let out a heavy sigh, “Well, ah’ve put it off for long enough.” Before he could change his mind, he began walking towards Sugarcube Corner. The warm summer sun along with a cool breeze did wonders to dry his coat, but he knew that arriving to ask Pinkie out smelling of work would be a bad idea. ‘Fine. I’ll take a quick bath, but ah’m doin’ this.’
The walk back to the house was not long, and Mac kept going through his mind about what he would tell Pinkie. He was never one for jokes or even small talk, but the quiet stallion knew that Pinkie would carry the conversation. Mac laughed to himself, “If conversations were bricks, that pony could carry the world on her back.”
His returned to Caramel and his challenge. Mac’s thought went back to when he told Caramel about his feelings for Pinkie.
Caramel and Mac worked the fields as usual, but that day was slower going than normal. Small talk made the work go smoother.
“It’s a hot one today, ain’t it Mac?”
“Eeyup.”
Caramel and Mac continued their fieldwork in silence once more. Caramel sighed, “You know Mac, I don’t mind working with you, but you really need to work on your conversation skills.” The brown stallion kicked a rock to the side, “Did Applejack have fun at Pinkie’s party?”
“Eeyup.”
“That can’t be the only thing you say, Mac. I have an idea. Is there anypony that you have your eye on?”
“Eeyup.”
Caramel laughed, “Ok, now who is it?”
Mac continued to till the soil, but he stopped a few feet further ahead, “Pinkie.”
“What was that?”
Mac let out a small sigh, “Pinkie Pie.”
“Really? You know, I would thought that-”
“Don’t say it.”
“What? I just thought that-”
“Fluttershy?”
“Yeah.”
“Why?”
“No need to get mad. I’m just saying that you’re both quiet, and I’ve heard ponies mention that you would make a cute couple.”
Mac groaned, “Look, ah’m not saying that ah don’ like her. She’s friendly and all, but I don’ think that we’d be as good a fit as ponies think. Ah mean, whatever happened to ‘opposites attract’?”
Mac shook his head to get rid of the memories. He was unable to convince Caramel that he was not interested in Fluttershy as more than a friend, but Mac was undeterred. Today he would ask Pinkie Pie out.
Nearing the Apple Family home, Mac saw his baby sister, Applebloom, playing in a mud puddle. The large stallion, quite adept at stealth, snuck up to his sister and playfully knocked her over.
“Eep!”
Mac had a good laugh as his sister flailed about in the mud, but he still gave her a helping hoof.
“Mac,” Applebloom sputtered, “What’s the big idea?”
“Sorry, sis. Ah couldn’ help mahself. Ya ain’t hurt now are you?”
Applebloom shook her coat and mane as clean as best she could, and she made certain that she got mud on Macintosh. “There. Serves ya right.”
“Ah guess so.” The two enjoyed a laugh, “Alright sis, we should get you fed. I hafta get cleaned up. Got some business to take care of in Ponyville.”
The yellow filly’s ears perked up, “What kinda business?”
“Somethin’ important over at Sugarcube Corner, and before you ask, ah’m sorry but you can’t come.”
The filly sat down in the dirt, “Aww why not?”
The red stallion put his sister onto his back and entered the house. As they entered the kitchen, he placed Applebloom on the table. He grabbed a washcloth and began to wash the some of the mud off the filly. Mac smiled at his sister, “Sorry, but this won’t be much fun for ya. You know that if I could take ya, I would.”
Applebloom took the washcloth and tossed it into the hamper. She nodded and said, “Ok big brother. Don’t worry 'bout makin’ me anything ta eat.”
Before Mac could say anything, Applebloom was out the door. Within moments, he heard the familiar sound of the filly jumping back into the mud puddle. Macintosh found it cute and enjoyed a chuckled at his sister’s fun.
He entered the bathroom and filled the tub. Sitting down, he was expecting to get cleaned up quickly. That is until his eyes caught sight of a pink hairbrush.
That hairbrush was his birthday gift from Pinkie Pie the year before. He was working the fields as usual, but this year the rest of his family had to take a trip to Fillydelphia to settle a shipping dispute. Mac did not mind, so he set to work plowing the fields to get them ready for planting later that week. He worked most of the morning in quiet comfort when a soft but distinct hopping sound could be heard. Not even bothering to stop he simply said, “Mornin’ Pinkie.”
“Gosh, Big Mac, I can never sneak up to you.” The pink pony kept hopping toward the quiet stallion and stopped right in front of him. “What’re you doing?”
“Just getting the ground ready, so when Applejack gets back from Fillydelphia we can get the saplings planted.”
“I see. Need any help?”
“I appreciate the offer Pinkie, but it’s simple work. Something to take mah mind off of being a year older.” Within moments, he realized his mistake, though it could be said that it was intentional.
Pinkie Pie jumped into the air, stayed there longer than she should have, and dove into Mac, “Why didn’t you tell me it was your birthday?”
“It’s no big deal. I just don’ wanna fuss ponies.”
A sharp gasp escaped Pinkie, “No big deal? It certainly is a big deal. We need to make you a birthday party!” Before Mac could utter a word of protest, Pinkie had pulled a large satchel from, somewhere. She smiled at Mac, “Don’t you worry. I got it all under control. It’s a good thing I keep emergency party supplies on me at all times.”
“About that. Just where do you keep those supplies?”
Pinkie tilted her head, “I don’t understand. Anyway, I’ll get everything set up in the barn. Be there in one hour.” She placed her face up to Mac’s, “One hour.” She then took off in a pink streak to the barn and both doors slammed shut behind her.
‘I sure wish I could have told her that I don’t have a watch. I’ll just finish up this patch. That should take about an hour.’ Mac quietly continued his work plowing the field, but his mind was on the pink pony that had given up whatever plans she had to make a party for him. It was a touching gesture and he certainly did not want to be rude.
He finished the plowing faster than it should have taken, and he slowly made his way to the barn.
‘Should I knock? It’s my barn, but what if Pinkie’s still getting everything ready?’
Still staring at the barn door trying to figure out what to do he said, “I guess y’all are done decorating?”
“Shoot! I thought I had you.” Pinkie began to open the door and stopped, “How do you always catch me?”
Mac smiled, “It’s a secret.”
“Aww, tell me. Please.”
Mac looked into those blue eyes and felt his heart melt. He shook his head and gave up, “If’n you really wanna know, I can smell ya. You always smell like sweets.”
Pinkie stared at Mac, “So you can smell me coming?”
“Eeyup.”
Pinkie smelled herself, but she stopped when Mac nudged her.
“Ah didn’ say you stink or smell bad. It’s like that friend a yours, Rarity. I can smell her too, but she always smells like perfume or something fancy that doesn’ seem to fit here. You smell like cakes and treats, and it’s a nice smell. Ah didn’ mean any offense, and ah apologize if ah did.”
Pinkie smiled, “No need to be sorry.” She threw the barn doors open, “Now let’s party!”
Mac walked inside the barn and was awed. The entire barn was decorated with banners, balloons, and there even was a birthday cake for him. He slowly walked inside and could not help tear up over the kind gesture from this pony that he did not know well.
“Thank you.”
Pinkie smiled, “Don’t mention it! It’s what friends are for. Now let the fun begin!”
The party itself was a blur in Mac’s memory, and the only thing that stood out was the pink pony. It was only Mac and Pinkie Pie there, and a few times she asked if he was bored. He tried to assure her that he was having the most fun that he could remember, and she took him at his word. She was able to get him to dance with her, but in the back of Mac’s mind, he knew that this could not last.
Sure enough, Pinkie began to clean up, but Mac stopped her. Her warm smile made him feel like a million bits, and she gave him a box. It was not wrapped, and she apologized that she did not have time to find a good present.
Mac took the box telling her that he would be happy with whatever was in there. He opened it and saw the hairbrush. He began laughing and was soon joined by Pinkie.
“Whattcha thinkin’ bout big brother?”
Snapping back to the present, Mac found himself still in the tub and his baby sister looking at him curiously. He smiled, “Just lettin’ mah mind wander. Can ya pass me that towel?”
“Sure thing. Ah just came in cause the girls want to try a little crusadin’ before dinner.” She placed the towel next to the tub and left the bathroom.
Mac quickly finished getting cleaned up and dried himself. He slowly made his way out of the house, and walked even slower towards the entrance to the farm. Upon reaching the Sweet Apple Acres entrance, he realized that in a way this was a point of no return. He could turn around and get back to work, or keep walking down that road to ask out a pony that might not even be interested in him.
In the space of a few moments, he began walking towards Ponyville. His mind was set, and he would see this through. Anxiousness caused him to want to increase his speed, but he kept to a walk for fear of arriving smelling of sweat.
He arrived at the town limits, and he felt relieved that there were not many ponies out and about. Having made many deliveries to Sugarcube Corner, he knew the way and arrived just as ponies finished their lunches. ‘Seems like ah’ll be able to talk to Pinkie alone,’ he thought with relief.
Quickly scanning the room, he saw Pinkie wiping down a counter. He walked slowly up to her and said, “Afternoon Pinkie. Can ah have some pie?”
Pinkie smiled, “Absolutely! What kind do you want? We have apple, peach, cherry, razzleberry, blueberry, lemon, key lime, cheesecake. You know it’s funny that cheesecake is called a cake but you make it like a pie. I mean, a pie is crust, filling crust, right? And cake is frosting, cake, and whatever gets burned by the pan. Cheesecake doesn’t do that. It’s just super yummy filling and crust. So what can I get for you?”
“Ah’ll have a slice of cheesecake if ya don’ mind.”
“One slice of cheesecake coming up.” Pinkie hopped into the kitchen and returned with a plate. She cute a slice of cheesecake and poured some milk into a glass. “There you go. You know it’s funny that ponies call cheesecake a cake even though you make it like a pie.”
Mac nodded and took a bite out of the cheesecake. “This is mighty good, Pinkie. You make this yourself?”
Pinkie blushed, “Yeah, I made the pies this morning, but what I really want to do is bake some of the tougher recipes.” She sat down, grabbed a fork, and took a bite from Mac’s cheesecake. “There are some really good recipes that the Cakes use on special occasions, and I’d really like to try making some. I know I can do it.” She looked at Mac, “What do you think?”
The quiet stallion took a breath and said, “Well, ah reckon that if’n you keep workin’ hard, the Cakes will see that you deserve a chance to come up with some new recipes that they can use.”
“But, I never said anything about-”
“Ya didn’ have to. Ah can tell. Ya wanna be a baker and try creating new treats for ponies to enjoy.” He put a hoof on Pinkie’s shoulder, “Just give it some time, and ah know you’ll get your chance.”
Pinkie blushed and looked down on the plate, “Oh no! I ate your cake! I’m so super-duper sorry. I’ll get you another slice.”
“Don’ worry about it, Pinkie. If it bothered me, ah would’ve stopped you.”
“So you’re not mad?”
“Nope.” Mac took a drink from his glass, “There’s a reason why ah came over. There’s something ah need to ask you.”
Pinkie pulled up a stool and sat down, “Sure Mac. What’s up?”
Mac cleared his throat, “Ah was wondering if you had any plans for tonight.”
Pinkie giggled, “Do I look like a pony with a plan?” She looked up, “Do I have any plans? Hmm, I don’t think so.” She shook her head and smiled, “Nope. No plans.”
“Good cause ah was wondering if you would like to go to dinner with me tonight.”
“Like, a date?”
“Eeyup.”
Pinkie looked up and tapped her chin with a hoof, “Hm.” She looked at Mac who was sitting quietly. She looked up again and said a bit louder, “Hmmm.” Once again, she looked at the stallion who remained as loud as a statue. She tapped her chin harder and said loudly, “Hmmmmmm.” Pinkie turned to Mac, “You’re just going to wait until I answer aren’t you?”
“Ah got all day, and you’re worth waitin’ on.”
Pinkie blushed, “Gee, thanks. Ok it’s a date!” She stood up and looked around, “What do we do now?”
“What do ya mean?”
“I mean do we shake hooves or hug?”
Mac laughed, “Ah’ll take a hug, but only if ya’ll are comfortable with it. Ain’ about ta force you to do something ya don’ want to.”
“Thanks Mac!” Pinkie leaned over the counter and gave Mac a small hug. “What do you have planned for right now?”
“Haven’t thought that far ahead. Ah was too worried that you would turn me down to think of anything.”
“You were worried?”
“Eeyup.”
“Aww! Okay then. We just need to think up something to do until dinner.”
“Don’t you have work to do here first?”
Pinkie took Mac’s glass and placed it on the counter behind her, “Not really. The lunch rush is done. Right now, I would look for Dashie or Fluttershy. Usually Dashie since she’s harder to find.”
“For the challenge, right?”
“Exactly!” Pinkie leaned into the kitchen and yelled, “Mr. Cake, Big Macintosh asked me out on a date. Can I take the rest of the day off?”
Though thought to be impossible, Mac turned noticeably redder.
A hearty laugh emerged from the kitchen, “Sure thing Pinkie. Have fun.”
Pinkie walked around the counter and stared at Mac, “Are you alright? You look, redder.”
Mac cleared his throat, “Eeyup. I’m fine. Uh, so what would you like to do?”
“I dunno. Let’s just see what the day brings. Sound good?”
Mac smiled, “Eeyup.”
Pinkie gave Mac a hug and stretched a leg out to the distance, “Adventure awaits!”
“Let’s just start with a walk.”
“Okie dokie.”
The two ponies left Sugarcube Corner, and before they could pick a direction, Pinkie began bouncing to the south.
‘Looks like ah’ll have mah hooves full,’ Mac thought to himself. He ran up behind Pinkie, lowered his head, and scooped the pink pony onto his back. Mac laughed as Pinkie squealed.
“Wee! Okay Mac, lead the way.”
The red stallion decided to take a stroll throughout Ponyville. He enjoyed the feeling of Pinkie Pie lying on his back, and he wanted to treat her to a great day.
Their first stop was a flower vendor. Mac smiled at the pony, “Howdy Lilly.”
She smiled at the pair and said, “Hello Macintosh. Care for some roses?”
“No thanks. How about some wildflowers?”
“Are you sure?”
“Eeyup.” Mac placed some bits on the stall and lifted a small bouquet of wildflowers to Pinkie.
“Ooh, pretty.” She sniffed the flowers and added, “Are they for me?”
“Eeyup.”
“Oh thanks Mac.” Pinkie grabbed the flowers and jumped off of Mac’s back. “I can walk.”
The two continued their walk through Ponyville, and soon found themselves near Carousel Boutique. Sweetie Belle was sitting on a bench drawing a picture. Pinkie hopped up to the filly, “Hey Sweetie Belle! What’re you drawing?”
The filly looked up at Pinkie, “Hey Pinkie. I’m just doing a drawing of Scootaloo and Applebloom. I think it’s coming out pretty good.” She slid the picture over to Pinkie.
Pinkie looked at the drawing and said, “It looks good.”
Mac grabbed the picture and turned it right side up.
Pinkie laughed, “Ooh. Oops.”
Sweetie Belle glared at Pinkie and took the drawing back, “So what are you and Big Mac doing?”
“Oh we’re just wasting time until dinner.”
“Pinkie ah’m not sure you wanna say that so loudly.”
“Why’s that Mac? What’s the worst that could happen? I mean we’re just waiting for our date.”
Mac immediately brought a hoof to his face because he knew that within moments a white unicorn would rush out of the boutique and begin to ask them about their date. To his surprise, Rarity did not exit the boutique. He let out a sigh of relief and turned around only to wind up facing Rarity.
“Did I just hear somepony say something about a date?”
Pinkie hopped next to Mac, “Hiya Rarity! Yup, Mac asked me out to dinner, so we’re just waiting until it’s time to eat.”
Rarity smiled at the two, “Well, this is simply wonderful. I for one thought that you and Fluttershy would be a better fit, but who am I to question matters of the heart? It chooses who it will.”
Mac cleared his throat, “Well, it was nice talking to you Rarity, but ah reckon that we should-“
“Nonsense! I must hear about the whirlwind courtship that must be occurring right now.” Rarity turned to Sweetie Belle, “Oh that’s a lovely drawing. Scootaloo and Applebloom are coming along nicely, but could you do I a favor and set some tea out for Pinkie and Macintosh?”
“Sure thing, sis.” The filly hopped off the bench and trotted inside towards the kitchen.
Once Sweetie Belle was out of sight Rarity leaned to Pinkie and Mac, “To be quite honest, they look like blobs, but I learned to guess from the colors she uses.” She levitated the drawing, “Another masterpiece for the wall.”
“I thought you didn’t like it.”
“Pinkie, whether I like it or not is irrelevant. What matters is that I don’t stifle her creativity. Our parents encouraged me to pursue my passion, and I intend to make certain that Sweetie Belle has the same opportunity. Please, come in.”
Mac let out a quiet sigh and followed Pinkie inside. He was grateful that Pinkie was there to carry the conversation, or so he thought.
Once the new couple sat at the table, Rarity turned to Mac, “Tell me, just when did you fall for Pinkie?”
“Last year on my birthday.”
Rarity leaned closer, “And?”
Mac glanced at Pinkie who was also eager to hear the story. “It was when Pinkie threw the birthday party for me.”
Pinkie tapped her chin with a hoof, “Party?”
“Ah don’ expect you to remember, Pinkie. It was just one out of many parties you had.”
“Nonononono. This is important.” Pinkie jumped up, “Now I remember! You were working the field and I threw you a party in the barn.”
Rarity giggled, “What kind of party Pinkie?”
“Oh pretty standard one. There were balloons, streamers, and Mac even danced with me.”
“Macintosh? That Macintosh danced with you?”
“Yup, and boy was it tough to get him to. He just sat there. I thought he was bored.”
“Pinkie ah wasn’t bored. I’m just not used to spending time with ponies, and it was a lot of fun dancin’ with ya.”
“I still need to get you a better gift.”
“No need. I still have the brush.”
Pinkie blushed, “You still do?”
Mac smiled, “Eeyup.”
Rarity took a sip of tea, “Tell me Macintosh, what spurred you to ask Pinkie out?”
“Caramel sorta challenged me to do it on account that ah kept draggin’ mah heels. Ah reckon right now he already told Applejack how he feels about her.”
Rarity squealed, “Caramel likes Applejack? Oh, that’s so adorable. It seems everypony is finding love.” She put a hoof to her cheek, “Will I ever find love?”
“Ah think ya will, Rarity. It just takes finding somepony that makes you feel really special.”
Rarity smiled and suddenly squealed again, “Ooh, idea! Macintosh, I am going to have to ask you to leave and return in a few hours.” She turned to Pinkie, “I have to get you ready for your date.”
“Aww. I wanted to hang out with Mac.”
“I know Pinkie, but this is your first date. We must ensure that it is perfect.” Rarity smiled at Macintosh, “Please go down to the café in the town square and get a table for tonight. I imagine that by the time you return, Pinkie will be ready for your date.”
Mac nodded slowly, “If you say so, Rarity. This ok with you Pinkie?”
Pinkie smiled, “It’s ok. I’ll see you later!”
“Eeyup.”
Mac left the boutique and slowly walked to the town square to the café. He gave the hostess a warm smile, “Afternoon. I would like to reserve a table for two tonight.”
The hostess smiled, “Certainly. Under what name?”
“Apple.”
The hostess wrote down on a sheet of paper, “Very well. I have a table for you at five this evening. Is that alright?”
“That’s fine.”
“Wonderful. I will see you tonight.”
Mac nodded and made his way back to the boutique. The clock tower read half past four, so Mac hurried his pace. When he arrived, Rarity was outside, and when she moved to the side, Mac was floored.
Pinkie was wearing a pinkie candy themed dress. It had a glimmer to it that gave it the appearance of powdered sugar. Rarity managed to style her mane and made her makeup subtly. However, none of that mattered since all Mac could think while looking at Pinkie was, gorgeous.
“Well, I know that Macintosh approves,” Rarity said with a giggle. She gently nudged Pinkie toward the red stallion, “Now go on you two, and have a great time.”
“Thanks Rarity. Let’s go Mac.” Pinkie began hopping towards the square.
Rarity was about to protest but Mac stopped her.
“Shouldn’t try and change her too much. Ah didn’ fall for Pinkie cause of a dress.” He smiled at Rarity and ran to catch up to Pinkie.
“Pinkie, are you comfortable?”
“Yeah, it’s just that I don’t dress up that often. Do you like it?”
“You’re beautiful, Pinkie. I thought so before I asked you out.”
Pinkie blushed and leaned against Mac, and the two arrived at the café.
The hostess smiled at them, “Apple? Party of two?”
“Eeyup.”
“Right this way please.”
Pinkie and Mac were seated at a small table that had a lit candle. The hostess levitated a menu to Mac, “Whenever you’re ready sir.”
Mac looked over the menu nervously. His worry that he would order something that Pinkie would not like was clear.
Pinkie put a hoof on his, “Just order whatever. Trust me, I’ll eat it and love it.” She gave him a large grin.
Mac relaxed, “Ok Pinkie.” He turned to the hostess, “Ah’ll have a large order of hay fries, and mah friend-“
“Date,” Pinkie interrupted sticking her tongue out at him.
Mac smiled, “Eeyup. Mah date will have the seasonal fruit salad, and could you add the apple-honey sauce?”
“Of course. If you’ll excuse me?” The hostess gathered the menus and went to the kitchen.
“Mac,” Pinkie said quietly, “Are you sure you want to get me that salad? Fluttershy told me about this place when Rarity treated her to lunch once, and she said it was really expensive.”
Mac smiled, “Don’ worry bout it Pinkie. You are worth every bit.”
“Thanks Mac, but I don’t want you to spend so much on me. I’m not used to it.”
The waiter arrived with their drinks, and Mac raised his glass, “Well then, here’s to two farm ponies. Simple things being us the most joy.”
Pinkie nodded and lifted her glass, “Yup. There is nothing better than making ponies happy.”
They both took a sip from their glasses. “Looks like the foods ready.”
Sure enough, the waiter arrived with both plates, “Enjoy.” The waiter bowed his head and returned to the kitchen.
“This looks so yummy. Thank you Mackie.”
Mac smiled, “You’re welcome Pinkie.” He chuckled, “Can’t think of a good nickname for ya.”
“That’s ok. Some ponies don’t have the knack for it.”
“Don’t make me call you Di,” Mac said before he was hit with a cherry.
“My sister Inkie used to call me that.”
“Then ah think we found your new nickname,” Mac said with a smile.
“Call me that again and you’re gonna be wearing this salad.” Pinkie’s eyes narrowed.
“Whatever you say…”
Pinkie slowly picked up her plate.
Mac smiled, “Pinkie.”
Pinkie laughed, “I don’t need a nickname anyway. Pinkie is just fine.”
“Eeyup.”
Both ponies ate their meals in silence, and Mac settled the check. The walk back to Sugarcube Corner was quiet.
“I need to help the Cakes close up, but I had a really good time.”
“Me too Pinkie.”
Pinkie turned to enter the store, but she was stopped by Mac.
“Pinkie, will it be alright if I were to see you again?”
Pinkie smiled, “I’d love to.”
Mac nodded, “May I give you a kiss goodbye?”
Pinkie’s heart fluttered, “Uh, sure.” She closed her eyes and lightly pursed her lips. Her face flushed red when she felt Mac kiss her on her cheek. She opened her eyes and gently rubbed her cheek. “Thank you Mac.”
“I’ll stop by tomorrow, and we can go to lunch. I think ah’ll treat you to a home cooked meal.” He nodded and turned to return to Sweet Apple Acres.
Pinkie entered Sugarcube Corner, and she did not hear the Cakes’ questions about her date. She slowly made her way upstairs to get her apron, but all the way up there, she was trying to figure out what she was feeling.
She recognized the feeling. She was happy. Except this was new kind of happy. This was not a fresh baked batch of cupcakes happy. Or even throwing a friend a surprise party happy. It was not even ‘falling down the stairs and finding some bits on the bottom step’ kind of happy.
All Pinkie knew as she placed her hoof to her cheek was that she never wanted this new kind of happiness to fade away.