//------------------------------// // Family Dinner // Story: My Chemical Reaction // by MysteriousStranger //------------------------------// Aria’s POV It was a warm day in Canterlot City and I was just coming back home from the store. I left in secret to make a quick purchase without my sisters knowing. I knew if they found out what I bought, I’d never hear the end of it! Quickly, I walked down the streets, nearly on the brink of running, as I skimmed past people, barely avoiding rubbing shoulders with them.  When I finally reached my home, I opened the door quietly. Like a stealth assassin, I checked my surroundings for any sign of my sisters. Once I was sure the coast was clear, I moved quietly across the room, tip toeing to avoid the old creaking in the old floor boards to my room. After closing the door I sighed in relief, I took the bag I was carrying to my bed and opened it. Smiling, I reached in and pulled out a larsh hair brush that was black with a few fake gems lining it. “A promise is a promise, Sparks.” I said aloud as I took the plushie wolf Twilight gave me and started to brush the plushie’s hair. I thought I would hate doing this, and at first, I did feel weird, but given that Cynthia was a hatchday gift (I can’t believe that Sonata and Adagio managed to make me say that) from Twilight, I started to enjoy it. I’m taking good care of the plushie so it lasts longer than anything Sonata ever got. If Twilight still has her plushies from when she was a kid, I can do the same. I’ll show her how responsible I can be.  While sitting there brushing the wolf plushie's hair I thought about Twilight and wondered if she’d let me brush her hair like this. I looked at my own long hair, running my fingers through it. Would Twilight like to brush my hair too? While I was thinking this my privacy was once again interrupted when my door was opened from outside and Sonata came bursting in. “Hey, Aria! Guess what?!” She showed up so suddenly that I wasn’t able to hide Cynthia nor the brush. Her annoying smile turned into a wide eyed expression of shock and she gasped before pointing at me.  "Waaait... Is that a doll... ?" Oh no. A stupid grin I know very well rapidly formed in her face "And you’re brushing it's head!”  She started laughing like a mad woman, pointing at me. "Aren't you such a good little mommy?" She said in a mocking tone that made my temper explode. “Sonata! Stop entering my room without my permission, you annoying spaz!!!” Enraged and embarrassed, I grabbed my pillow and violently threw it at Sonata, but she dodged it and I hit Adagio instead, who was just passing by when this happened. The room fell completely silent and the pillow stayed in my older sister's face. She sighed heavily while removing the pillow from her face. Still holding it in her hands, she looked at both of us. Our older sister remained still with a frown on her face. “What’s going on here?!” Adagio exclaimed as she looked from Sonata to me. “The usual! Sonata keeps bursting into my room without knocking!” I angrily pointed at Sonata as I spoke. “Why do I have to knock? Sisters should get a free pass!” Sonata said as she crossed her arms while frowning. I retorted pointing angrily back at my little sister. “No, you don't! You know I like my privacy!” “You should respect her boundaries, Sonata.” Adagio said, sternly to her. My younger sister looked at Adagio. “But I wanted to talk to her and she locked herself up here!” She whined. “Just. KNOCK!” I said, standing up from my bed. “I’ll answer, most likely annoyed, but I’ll still answer.” Adagio adopted a grin looking at me and my plushie. “Yes, Sonata, knock and let her hide her doll to keep her happy.” “Hey!” I pointed at Adagio. “Cynthia’s not a doll, she’s a plushie and she was a gift from Twilight. You will respect her!” My older sister chuckled. She tried to hide it behind her hand, but she failed miserably. “You’re even using pronouns for that toy. And it has a name! I never thought I would see the day.” I groaned. There’s no point in continuing to argue about this, so I better let the subject drop. “Anyway, what did you want to tell me, Sonata?” As usual, the idiot airhead had forgotten what she was going to say. She was so scatterbrained it made my head hurt. I love my little sister, but she always managed to find new ways to test my patience.  “Huh? Oh!” Sonata pulled out a piece of paper and gave it to me. “It’s the leaflet Fluttershy gave to Adagio at the party yesterday. They have lots of dogs but Adagio won’t let me get one.” “I already have enough with cleaning for you two. I don’t want to add more into the mix.” Our older sister said with a frown, but then smiled. “I still think Sonata should get a pet, so Fluttershy will take us to a pet store.” “Us? As in, me included?” I asked. Adagio sighed. “Come on, Aria. It has been a while since the three of us did something together. What else are you going to do?” I didn’t reply. Instead, I remained glaring at Adagio. It was true it had been years since we did anything together, minus the Battle of the Bands thing. I’d never admit it, but I did miss doing things with them on occasion, I guess it wouldn’t kill me to hang with them once in a while. None of us said anything until my phone started to ring. Only one person can be calling me. “It must be Twilight.” I said as I pulled out my phone with a smile. “That girl just can’t get enough of you, huh?” Adagio said with a big smile. “Shut up and get out of my room.” I said, glaring at my older sister again. “You can talk with your girlfriend in front of us.” Adagio said with a smug smile and crossing her smile. “I want to stay too!” Sonata said while raising her hand and smiling widely. She also pushed herself into my personal space. I groaned, shoving my sister away and pulled out my phone. I wanted to keep arguing but I knew there was no point in doing so. Besides, I didn’t want to make Twilight wait any longer. I accepted the call and turned away from my sisters. “Hi, Sparks! How are you?” “Aria!” She sounded happy, as usual. I smiled, forgetting that I wasn’t alone in my room. I began talking casually to my girlfriend. “I’m fine. How about you? And Cynthia?” “She’s… healthy. I’m keeping my promise.” I glanced at my plushie, petting its soft head before speaking again. “She’s on my bed right now. I got her a little something. A… brush.” “Really?” I could tell she was grinning now when she squealed. “Aww, you’re such a good mommy!” “T-Twilight...” I blushed, completely embarrassed. Sonata said the same, but coming from Twilight… it was different. My girlfriend giggled. “It’s true! Anyway, I’m calling you because my parents just had an amazing idea! They want to invite you for dinner next weekend.” I got both surprised and worried when I heard this. “What?” My eyes widened in surprise. “Y-You mean they’ll be there too?” “Yeah.” She sounded worried. “If you don’t want to, we can call it off-” “No, no, no!” I interrupted her. “I want to! I was surprised, that’s all.” “What is it?” Adagio asked in whispers. I blocked the speaker of my phone before replying to her. “Twilight’s parents wants me to have dinner at their home.” I unblocked the speaker to talk to Twilight again, but Sonata spoke before me. “Sweet! Adagio and I haven’t been at her house yet. It will be fun!” “Sonata! That’s not-!” However, before I could finish correcting my younger sister, a male voice was heard from Twilight’s side. I recognized the voice of her father talking. “Who’s that, kiddo?” “One of Aria’s sisters, Sonata.” Twilight replied. “Oh, that gave me an idea!” Twilight’s mother spoke next. “Why don’t you invite her sisters too and we have a big family dinner?” “Uh...” My girlfriend was speechless and I was left dumbfounded. “Twilight… your parents can hear…?” “Y-Yeah. They insisted on listening so I have the speaker on.” “Wow, your parents and my sisters already have something in common.” I smiled into the phone, but Adagio killed the mood again. “What’s going on?” My older sister asked, confused because she couldn’t hear. Again, I made sure Twilight, nor her parents, didn’t hear when I answered her. “Twilight’s parents heard Sonata and want to invite the three of us for dinner.” “Oh, really?” Adagio spoke again. I nodded and Sonata grinned. “Yes! Say yes!” My younger sister was jumping excitedly. I didn’t look at her, instead focusing on our leader. “Do you have a day off this weekend?” I asked. Adagio placed a hand on her hip and smirked. “Yes, on Sunday.” I nodded at her before turning to the phone. “Can we do it this Sunday?” “Yes we can!” It was Night Light, the one who answered. “It’s settled, then.” Twilight said excitedly over the speaker. ”We’ll see you on Sunday!” “I can’t wait.” I said, smiling at the phone. “See you then!” “Bye bye!” Twilight seemed excited when hanging up. I, on the other hand, wasn’t. As soon as I hung up, I glared at Sonata. I stormed up to her, and she hid behind Adagio cowering in fear.  “Why, why, why did you have to open your big mouth? Now you’ll have to come too!” “What’s wrong with that? I think it will be fun!” My younger sister grinned, failing to see her mistake. I growled, causing my sister to hide even more behind Adagio for protection. Adagio cleared her throat, clearly not pleased with my behavior. I groaned, giving my full attention to my other sister and ignoring my cowering little sister. “Can you do something? Maybe pretend to be sick or suddenly busy so I get to go alone?” A little spark of hope parked in my heart when Adagio seemed to give it some thought. My hopes were shattered and smothering to dust when she shook her head. “That’s not a good idea, Aria. They expect the three of us to show up.” My older sister said while crossing her arms. She smiled before continuing. “Besides, I do want to go and meet her parents.” “Seriously?!” Adagio reaffirmed with a shrug. ”I can’t believe you! You’ll both embarrass me in front of Twilight and her parents!” “Oh quit being so dramatic, Aria. When you’re dating, it’s common for families to gather together. This is good because it means that you haven’t screwed up yet.” As much as I hated admitting it Adagio was right. Twilight’s parents did like me enough to trust me with their home and daughter. Clearly I was doing something right. I felt a sense of pride and accomplishment knowing I made this whole thing work out.  “Again, thank you for your support, Adagio.” I said, glaring at my older sister. “You’re welcome!” Adagio grinned. “Now, get ready. Comb your hair. We’re meeting with Fluttershy at the pet store soon.” I blushed, putting Cynthia away. “I don’t-” “I know you have a brush now Aria. Brush your hair and let's go.” “Yay! Cute pet, here I go!” Sonata cheered before leaving my room. Adagio followed after her while I remained standing in my room. Dinner with my family and Twilight’s? I have no idea how it will go. Before Adagio got far I reached out and grabbed her wrist but I hesitated and she escaped my grasp following Sonata out my room closing the door behind me. She peeked in one last time winking at me and left me alone to get ready. I looked at Cynthia while unbinding my hair so I could brush it easier. My hair was so thick I couldn’t brush all of the knots out in time. So, with the time I had, I took the brush I got for Cynthia and began tediously brushing my hair. I could feel the knots in my hair with each stroke hooking into the tiny bristles. I looked at my hair again and smiled. One say, I'll ask Twilight to do this for me, maybe she’d let me do hers too. Not that my girlfriend needed it.  I felt her hair before, silky smooth and not a single knot in it. Unlike mine which was nasty and barely kept. Yet, she always said I looked good, then again we never really inspected each other's hair closely. I know Sonata takes good care of hers which was very much like Twilight’s. Then I imagined what it must be like for Adagio, with thick beautifully curly hair like hers it must be a nightmare keeping and maintaining it. I was lucky to have long thick straight hair. I guess it wouldn’t be so bad to do things with them at times. Maybe, just maybe it was time I tried to make a real effort to reconnect with them. Maybe…  Sunday night arrived and I was feeling more nervous than I ever felt. My sisters and I were heading towards Twilight’s place in a taxi for dinner and I found myself counting down the seconds with eager anticipation. Adagio had us wear the clothes her friend Rarity gifted us on our hatchday. I didn’t want to use it, but Adagio told me that Twilight would appreciate it if I wore it. It was actually comfortable.  Adagio’s friend really knows her stuff. She managed to capture my original outfit style with a black vest, and new pants, even new boots! How she got my size was a call for concern, but Adagio assured me she told her my sizes. Adagio herself was wearing a long sleeve pink shirt over a darker magenta shirt with matching leggings and mini shorts to go with it along with spiked boots like she had before. Sonata’s outfit had the least amount of alterations, mostly a slight color change but with a dark purple skirt and boots. I really liked how we looked, and that Rarity girl sure earned herself brownie points with me on this. As we drove along in the taxi, Sonata was on her knees, worriedly looking from the back window. I sighed, rubbing my head knowing what she was worried about. “Are you sure Ham Ham will be okay on his own?” I slapped my hand across my face dragging it down at my sister's antics.  “He’s in his cage with enough food and water for a day and we’re only gone for the night.” I said with a bored tone. “I’m sure your hamster will be okay.” “Your sister is right, Ham Ham will be fine.” My older sister placed a reassuring hand on Sonata’s shoulder, but she didn’t waste the opportunity to give us orders. She’s so bossy. “Alright, Aria, Sonata, once we’re inside Twilight’s house, make sure to behave yourselves. I want to leave a good impression.” “I have already left a good impression. Worry about Sonata.” I said. “I can behave!” Sonata whined. “I have never received a complaint from anyone at work.” Both Adagio and me rolled our eyes. I had no doubt about that, but when Sonata was out of work she was a wild child. I just hoped she could keep herself under control at Twilight's place. “I must still warn you, Sonata.” Adagio said, adjusting her shirt. “You must watch yourself when you eat. We’re having pasta, which will most likely have tomato sauce. Don’t stuff your mouth and please remember to chew your food and swallow before you talk. Alright?” “This dinner is important to me.” I said while glaring at my little sister. “Don’t blow it.” “Oh, and Aria-” Adagio turned to me. “I would suggest you watch your tone when talking to us. It’s true that Twilight’s parents already approve of you, but you have to keep that good impression.” “You don’t need to tell me twice.” I said while looking away from her.  The taxi stopped after that. My sisters and I got out and waited for Adagio to pay the driver. “That’ll be $74.50 please.” My sister paid the driver. “Here you go. Thanks for the drive.” “You ladies have a good night, stay safe out there.” The driver said as he pulled away. Adagio waved to him and we turned to face us. We were right in front of Twilight’s house, so I walked towards the front door and rang the bell. I immediately could hear Spike’s barking approaching until he reached the door, followed by gentle scraping at the door. Seconds later, I heard Twilight’s voice on the other side. “Spike, do you have to do that every time?” I smiled just as the door opened with my girlfriend on the other side. “Aria, Adagio, Sonata! You made it!” She said before giving each of us a hug. Mine lasted longer. “Did you doubt us?” I said while I returned her hug petting her silky smooth hair. My girlfriend giggled and moved her head to look at me. “Come on in. Dinner's almost ready.” She said as she took me by my arm to lead me inside, with my sisters following right behind us. As we walked, I could appreciate her look. My cub was wearing a cute purple skirt with a light magenta shirt with her favorite crescent moon and star logo on it. Over that she was wearing a light blue zip-up sweater. She was really cute, it made me feel outclassed, even though I knew she'd like me all the same. “You have quite a place, Twilight. Truly remarkable.” Adagio commented once we were inside. “Yeah! So fancy!” Sonata said as she leaned down to pet Spike. Twilight giggled. “Thank you. I’ll introduce you to my family!” She excitedly said as she practically started to skip.  She’s so adorable. Watching her always made me feel like my heart would explode. I did my best to walk beside her while she skipped her arm locked with me. She smiled at me and whispered. “You look awesome wearing Rarity’s gift.” She said before kissing my cheek. I was left speechless and enchanted by her perfume. My jaw dropped and I placed my hand on the cheek she kissed me. Then I turned around and I saw both of my sisters with knowing smirks. I glared at them before turning my head around again, When we reached the dining room, I immediately recognized Twilight’s parents, but there was also a new face. A young man, well dressed, blue hair and very well built. “Those are my parents, and that over there is my big brother, Shining Armor!” Shining Armor waved his hand at us. “Hey.” “Hello!” Sonata excitedly waved back. While my sisters approached Twilight's parents, I walked towards Shining Armor, with my arms crossed. “It’s nice to finally meet you Shining Armor.” I said as I smirked. Time to make a good impression. “The feeling is mutual. You may call me Shining.” He smiled. “My little sis has said a lot of things about you. Good things. I’m happy she found someone like you, willing to protect her and make her happy.” “Yeah...” I said as I glanced at my girlfriend. She was with my sisters while they talked with her parents. Twilight made eye contact with me and smiled widely. I returned it and kept it as I glanced back at Shining. “She has helped me as much as I helped her. The old me hated gatherings like this one.” “No kidding?” He was a little surprised, but he kept his smile. “I would never have guessed.” “Let’s just say that if our paths hadn’t crossed, you and I would probably have met in a different way.” “Then I’m glad that wasn’t the case.” He said before placing a hand on my shoulder. “You seem nice. I would like to see you more often, but I’m a busy man.” I curled my lip to smile.  “So I’ve heard. Good thing you could make it today, huh?” I commented. “Yeah, my partner owed me a favor and traded her day off with mine. The moment I knew I would be able to meet my sister’s girlfriend, I just had to come. Besides, I have been meaning to dine with family for a while.” “May I have your attention, please?” Velvet said as she clasped her hands. “Get to your seats. Dinner’s ready!” "Yes! I'm hungry!" Sonata happily said as she approached the nearest chair, but Adagio stopped her before she sat. "We have to wash our hands before sitting down, Sonata." "But I already did it at home!" Sonata whined. "It doesn't matter. Wash them again." Adagio said before smiling at Velvet and Night Light. "Where's the bathroom?" “Down the hall, second door on the right.” Night Light replied. “Thank you.” My older sister said as she headed to the door. “Come on, girls.” “I’m going!” I said, groaning as I followed Adagio and Sonata to the bathroom. I waved to Shining who seemed amused by something though I didn’t know what.  “Remember, behave properly.” Adagio said while we headed to the bathroom. “Don’t fight like in our house.” “I know, Adagio. You don’t need to remind me.” I said with an annoyed tone. “There’s nothing wrong with making sure.” Adagio said as she smiled. She gently placed her hands on my shoulders guiding me along, or rather following me. I knew where the bathroom was from previous visits. It was easy enough to find and wash our hands. Sonata of course managed to get lost after being distracted by something shiny.  When we returned, Velvet was starting to serve. She gave the first plate to Shining Armor, who passed it to Twilight. I sat next to my girlfriend, while Adagio sat next to me and Sonata next to her. Twilight passed me a dish, and following the family’s lead, I passed it to Adagio, who passed it to our younger sister. Once everyone had their plates full, Velvet sat down and passed the grated cheese. There was a bottle of juice on the table. Each of us filled our own glasses, while the adults got some wine. “This is nice. We haven’t had the table this full since the Holidays.” Velvet said happily, clapping her hands together.  "Yeah, sorry about that." Shining Armor said with guilt. "You have nothing to apologize about. We know your job is demanding.” Night Light said with a smile. "Speaking of the holidays-" Velvet spoke. "Aria, you and your sisters are welcome to join us this year." "Thanks." I replied with a grateful smile.  Then I turned to Twilight, but she was staring at her food while blushing. I softly rubbed my foot against hers to catch her attention. When she looked at me, I shot her a smile. She smiled back and nuzzled her leg with mine. “I won’t pass up the chance to have dinner with all of you again.” I said gently.  Twilight placed her hand on mine before speaking. “It’s a pleasure to have you as guests.” "I would love to invite you over to our own house, but I'm afraid it's not as spacious as yours." Adagio said before eating some of the pasta. "Mmm, it's delicious!" "Thank you." Velvet said. "Don't worry. Our doors are always open for you guys." "Yay! Dinner at Twilight's every weekend!" Sonata said with excitement. I quickly looked at my little sister. "Sonata, no." I took a bite of my food, and Sonata huffed and continued eating.  Velvet chuckled. “She has quite a personality, doesn’t she?” “It can get tiring sometimes.” I commented before grabbing a bite from my food. “Hey!” Sonata whined, but I ignored her. “If you don’t mind-” Night Light spoke up. “Can you tell us more about you?” “Of course.” Adagio said. “I work in the fashion industry for Hoity Toity. I’m one of his top designers. There’s nothing I love more than designing clothes.” “That’s neat.” Shining Armor commented. “Do you focus on a gender or both?” “Just for ladies I’m afraid, but I might try to design male one day.” Adagio replied before taking a sip from her drink. “I work at Burger Princess!” Sonata exclaimed. “I’m trying to come up with a new burger but my superiors tell me that I add too much spice.” “You always do.” I commented. “That’s why I don’t want you in the kitchen.” “I’m trying to improve!” My little sister pouted. “Practice makes better.” Night Light said chuckling. “If you want spice to be an ingredient, keep adding less and less until all ingredients are balanced.” Sonata nodded. “Yes, maybe I should.” There was silence after that in which I just focused on my food. When I had my mouth full, I raised my head to notice that Twilight’s family was looking at me. I guess it’s my turn...  I swallowed before speaking. Will they still like me when they hear what I'm going to say? “I… don’t have a job. I never applied for one.” "Oh?" Night Light was the first to speak. "Any reason why, if you don't mind me asking?" "I never thought I needed one." I looked around, ashamed, but no one was glaring at me, so, I continued. “I never thought about the future. All I did was watch T.V. and read a book once in a while.” I think I should be honest. I have no reason to lie. “It wasn’t until I met Twilight that I became more active. I started to read more, I realized I enjoyed stargazing and I also started to go for walks.” I looked at Twilight, smiling. She returned the smile and squeezed my hand. “She’s helping me to discover a side I never knew from me, or I was ashamed of, and I’m thankful for that.” “A-Aria...” Twilight placed her other hand on mine. I followed her lead and gazed into her eyes. “It’s the truth.” I said without breaking eye contact. I was about to lean in to kiss her, but I was reminded that we weren’t alone when I heard Sonata’s voice. “Aww! I like it when Aria is all mushy-mushy!” I glared at my little sister before turning my attention to Twilight’s parents again. They were smiling. “I’m happy to hear that my daughter was such a good influence on you.” Night Light said. “And it’s okay if you don’t have a job.” Velvet spoke next. “That doesn’t change our opinion on you. You’re still a good girl who takes good care of our little baby girl.” “M-Moooom...” Twilight blushed. She was embarrassed, but still smiled while placing an arm around her mother's. “We also don’t have to worry about any potential… accidents in the future.” Twilight’s dad commented. I didn’t understand what he meant, but apparently my girlfriend did, because I heard a loud thud next to me, and when I turned around, her face was on the table. I also noticed that she turned deeply red. “Dad!” Shining Armor said as he slapped his father on his back. “I asked you not to make any of your dad jokes tonight!” "I'm just saying! Night Light defended himself. "I'm confused." I said before looking around at everyone. “Can someone explain?” “I’ll explain later, Aria.” Adagio said before turning to Night Light. “Sorry, I’m afraid she doesn’t know much about the birds and the bees.” “Oh.” The man chuckled. “Then I really don’t have to worry.” “Could someone change the subject, please?!” Despite her voice being muffed, I still could understand Twilight. “I’m on it!” I might not understand what’s going on, but I’m not going to let Twilight be uncomfortable any longer. I glanced at her brother and smiled. “So, Shining, I really admire you for your job. I actually watch a reality show about police working live.” “Oh, yes, I have heard about that show.” He didn’t hesitate to come to his sister’s aid. Twilight didn’t lie about how cool he is. “My boss mentioned that a crew is coming into town to show our work to the public. I don’t really mind, but my partner Chrysalis and a few other officers aren’t a fan of the idea. Still, the contract has been signed and everyone must accept it, even if they don’t like it.” “You will be famous!” Sonata joined in. “You could be walking on the street and meet some fangirls. You’re good looking!” Shining chuckled and blushed. “They’ll be disappointed, I’m afraid. I’m already seeing someone.” “So everything is going well with you and Miss Cheerilee?” Twilight joined the conversation as well. Her face was no longer flushed. “Things are great, yeah. I’m starting to be less nervous around her.” “I’m glad.” Twilight smiled. “She has been more cheerful lately in class and it’s heartwarming to know that you’re the reason.” “I smile like an idiot while I’m at work. Chrysalis won’t stop teasing me while we’re doing the reports.” Shining rubbed his forehead. “She’s really cool to work with, but she can be a bit much at times.” Dinner continued without another incident. We all talked about different topics and got to know each other more. I wish I would be able to see Shining Armor more often. He’s amazing! I always admired cops for what they did, detectives, SWAT teams, they were always facing danger to save lives. It reminded me of how I dealt with bullies for Twilight. It gave me hope for the future, that as long as there are people like Shining and me the world could become a better place. One I would happily share with Twilight. After dinner and before dessert, I went to use the bathroom. After washing my hands and walking out, I was greeted by my girlfriend’s smile. When I was about to greet her, she took both of my hands and pulled me along down the halls towards her room. I also saw Spike following us. “I have something for you in my room. Follow me.” I allowed her to take the lead guiding me to her room. “Sure.”  Twilight giggled and released one of my hands and turned to her pet. “Spike, would you mind waiting outside just a minute?” “I don’t mind.” Spike said, wagging his tail happily. I leaned down to scratch him on his head before Twilight led me to her room. She closed the door behind her and sighed leaning her back against it.  “Thank you for noticing my embarrassment earlier. I can’t believe my dad said that!” She slapped her hands covering her face which was turning red again. “I don’t want you to feel embarrassed, so I’ll wait for Adagio to explain to me what the deal was.” Twilight glanced at me, still smiling. “Again, thanks.” I smiled at her, but then raised an eyebrow in confusion. "Why did you ask Spike to wait outside?" "Because…" My girlfriend gave me a funny smile and made a hand gesture, signaling me to approach her. I did so as I grinned. When I was at reach, she placed her arms around my neck and got on her tiptoes to reach my face. "I didn't feel comfortable kissing you in front of my family and I didn't want to expose him to it." I smiled at her. "You're such a caring owner.” Twilight giggled and I kissed her in the middle of it. The kiss turned into two, then into three, and four. I stopped counting after the fifth, instead focusing solely on holding her close. “So...” I said between kisses. “Dinner’s going… well?” My girlfriend nodded kissing me back, her hands running through my hair. “Yes… I worried when your sisters came along, but… it turned out to be a good idea in the end.” “True… I’ll still glare at Sonata, though.” Twilight laughed softly and gave me one last kiss before pulling away. “About what you said earlier with me about improving your life...” “I was lost. I didn’t care about anything, I just… existed.” I placed a hand on her cheek and caressed it with my thumb. “Then we met and everything changed from day one. I’m trying new things and actually enjoying every second of my life here. Enjoying every second I spend with you, cub.” “Oh, Aria...” Twilight placed her hand on the one I was using to stroke her cheek. “I can’t wait anymore. I’ll give you that surprise right now.” “That’s right, we had a reason to be here. I almost forgot.” I said as Twilight turned around and headed to her desk. I looked around and found her plushies. I recognized the star I gave her, but I also saw a stuffed donkey and an owl. “So, those are Mr. Smartypants and Miss Serenity? They’re cute.” “Hmm?” My girlfriend glanced at her plushies. “Yes. The donkey is Smartypants and the owl Miss Serenity. It feels good to have them in view.” She commented before walking towards me, holding a small box while wearing a beaming smile. “Behold, a little something for you to enjoy before dessert. Just don’t tell your sisters.” I rolled my eyes, but said nothing. I wasn’t sure if that’d work but I’d try at least. It’s hard keeping secrets from my sisters. They have a way of sniffing secrets out of me. For Twilight I'd happily try though. “It will be our secret, don’t worry.” Satisfied with my reply, Twilight opened the box like the bad guys would open their suitcases in action movies. Slowly and dramatically, with the slow build-up for tensions sake. When the box was opened I looked inside, I could see chocolates of all kinds of shapes. My jaw dropped to the floor. “You can take a couple now and take the rest home.” “Cub...” I was speechless. Since I was unable to thank her with words, I grinned at her and took a random chocolate to my mouth. I noticed that it wasn’t just plain chocolate. It was filled with something. The taste of it after swallowing was familiar but I couldn’t remember what it was. “Mmm… this one has a surprise inside.” “Yes, some of them have a peanut filling. It’s such a delicious mix and I thought-” Twilight stopped talking when I started to cough. “Aria?” I tried to speak, but the coughing became violent. I was already feeling at a loss of air. I need to tell Twilight about my allergy, but the swelling had already started and I wasn’t able to speak. Instead, I was wheezing and struggling to breathe. Unable to warn her I reached out for her, and she grabbed my hands squeezing them tightly. My vision started to become distorted and I got on one knee as the coughing continued. Twilight rushed to my side, visibly scared. “Aria, what’s going on?!” I could barely hear her, even when I had her right in front of me. With struggle, I managed to speak as coherent as I could. “A-Adagio… n-now…!” Twilight hesitated to leave me alone, but she ran out of the room. After she left, I collapsed on the floor face down. I struggled to breathe and I felt too weak to turn around. I was losing my vision when I heard distorted footsteps approaching. Someone turned me around and I had a blurry vision of my sisters with Twilight, Spike and Shining Armor around me. My girlfriend’s face was above me, so my head must be on her knees. I think I also saw Twilight’s parents by the door. Sonata gasped. “Her face… turning weird... again!” “Hold her still!” Adagio said as she took a syringe from her purse. I could barely see Adagio applying the injection on my chest, but I could feel it. Knowing that I got the medicine in time, I allowed myself to pass out. Before falling unconscious, I could hear a little more. “The ambulance will be here soon!” I think that was Velvet. It was hard to distinguish it. “I’ll try to keep her stable until they arrive. I have the basic training...” Everything went dark. It wasn’t the first time this happened to me so I know I’ll wake up again… but it wasn’t going to be a pleasant experience.