Due to forces beyond his control, not to mention a few inconvenient laws, a being from Tartarus is forced to travel through the cities and towns of Equestria in order to go home. During the trip, however, he and his guide begin to develop feelings for each other. Which only gives them a few days to either take a risk or lose a chance.

This story was an entry for the Mare x Monster Story Contest held by The Monthly Contest Club. Click here to learn more about the group, the contest, and its contestants!

Edited by the awesome and detail-oriented stupidhand14!

Cover art by the cute and talented Little Tigress!

Black Paint has become really close to his friend, Fluttershy, over the past few years. In fact, she's the only pony in all of Equestria to whom he's trusted his darkest secret: he's a lycan, a pony who can freely change between equine and lupine forms. They've become so close that he's beginning to wonder if they really should be more than friends. However, he's afraid to let her know how he feels about her. On the night of the Grand Galloping Gala, which is the same day as Hearts and Hooves Day, he begins to lower his defenses and open his heart to her. Unfortunately, more secrets than his love for her are spilled in the process.

(Special thanks to Rhawkas for pre-reading and editing)