Come Monday, another school week started. Very little was out of the ordinary throughout most of the day until lunch period. I sat down on my spot at my group's lunch table to find Rarity going on about the fun she had talking to Octavia. Fluttershy was excited with the idea of the three girls hanging out when Rarity brought it up, letting out a “Yay” that the group could barely hear. When Rainbow Dash and Applejack asked me if I tried anything while assisting Octavia at the mall, I told them that I hadn’t, and Applejack confirmed that I was telling the truth. I secretly thanked the Lord that they didn’t ask any other questions that would lead me to bring up Octavia asking me to be her date for the wedding, her hugging me at her front porch, and what it meant to me. I didn't see Applejack call someone out on a lie yet, and I didn’t want to risk finding out what would happen if she did.
However, during English class, Octavia was acting unexpectedly chipper. I talked to Sonata by the classroom door, asking about her weekend, when Octavia walked over with a big smile. She greeted both of us with a gleeful tone, which took Sonata and I aback before we greeted her back. I repeatedly glanced at my crush during class to see her still smiling while listening to Ms. Cheerilee and taking notes. I was glad that she was happy, but I couldn't stop wondering why. Then, about forty-five minutes into class, I remembered Rarity also bringing up during lunch that Blueblood was checked out of the hospital the day before. My heart sank as I thought about how that would make Octavia happy, making me low in spirits for the rest of class.
When school ended for the day, I said goodbye to Sonata before Octavia and I walked over to the music room where Starlight Glimmer was waiting for us. We did our homework together, with math being as hard as ever, but Octavia was still cheerful despite struggling with homework too, which weirded Starlight Glimmer and me out. I started to think that Blueblood being checked out wasn't the only thing on her mind that maybe she talked out the problems with their relationship and it made her happy to be dating her boyfriend again. I thought to myself that was too good to be true for my crush, but when I considered my luck when it came to wanting to be with her, I couldn't rule out the possibility.
Finally, around 4:30, Starlight Glimmer had to head home before her dad got worried, so we decided to call it a day with Starlight Glimmer heading home and me walking Octavia to her house. The two of us walked in silence for the first couple of minutes with the gray girl still in high spirits, and I decided to take the opportunity to find out if any of my guesses were correct.
"Say, Octavia."
"Hmm?" Octavia asked.
"You've been acting really happy today," I said.
"Oh? Is there something wrong with me being happy?" Octavia asked.
"No, no, it's not that at all," I said, waving my hands in defense. "It's just a bit of a surprise. Is it because Blueblood is out of the hospital?"
Octavia's demeanor faltered for a second before she turned to me with another smile and said, "Yes, he is, but that's not why I'm so happy."
"It's not?" I asked puzzled. "Then why are you so happy?"
"It's a secret," Octavia answered.
"A secret?" I asked. "Can't you tell me what it is?"
Octavia looked away from me and hummed in thought, and said with a wink, "We'll see."
I stared at her, more confused than before. I reluctantly let it be while we walked in silence again. I felt better knowing that her happiness didn't have to do with Blueblood, but I still wanted to find out what's going on. Then, as we were about to turn to a corner, Octavia stepped in front of me, her hands behind her back.
"Rough Draft, do you need to be home straight away?" She asked.
"Uh, no. I just need to be home by seven, which is usually when my parents and I have dinner," I answered.
"In that case, would it be alright if we took a little detour?" Octavia asked.
"What did you have in mind?" I asked.
"Well, Starlight Glimmer and I went to this diner that Pinkie Pie works at called Sweet Snacks Cafe for lunch yesterday," Octavia said. "The food was great, but I wasn't able to get any milkshakes because I was full, so I'd like to go back and try some since Pinkie Pie said they're really good."
"Pinkie said that?" I asked. "That's a shock. She took me to Sugarcube Cafe for milkshakes the day I moved to Canterlot, and those are pretty good."
Octavia giggled, covering her mouth with her hand, and said, "Starlight Glimmer said something similar."
"Really? Did she try a shake?" I asked.
"She said that she was going to try one before I left," Octavia said. "I didn't think to ask her if she did during our study group, now that I think about it, but that's fine. I'd rather we find out for ourselves rather than take her word for it. So, would you care to join me for a shake?"
It took a moment before I fully processed that she just asked me before I smiled and said, "Sure. That sounds great."
"Lovely. Then let's head over there," Octavia said.
I happily nodded before Octavia led me in the direction toward Sweet Snacks Cafe. Unknown to the two of us, the Dazzlings were walking down the street near where we were. The three of them were heading home after finishing work early with only a few performances at the Siren's Cafe during the couple of hours since school ended, much to Adagio's disappointment.
"I can't believe so few came to watch us," she grumbled. "I thought my fans were more loyal than that."
"Well, it's hardly their fault if they've become busy with homework," Aria said. "I mean, we're in the second week of the school year, and we have a fair share of homework to take care of ourselves."
"That doesn't mean there has to barely be anyone at the cafe," Adagio said. "Not even Camera Flash came to watch us."
"Well, that's not exactly a bad thing," Aria said with a shrug. "Besides, what do you care? I thought your focus is on that Rough Draft dweeb."
"Just because I want a committed relationship with Rough Draft doesn't mean I can't still enjoy seeing other boys fawning over me," Adagio said. "Besides, getting together with him will break their poor, misguided hearts. No harm in making the most of keeping them on the hook before I'm officially taken."
"Whatever you say, Adagio," Aria said.
Sonata became worried about her sisters' conversation while she walked behind them. By this point, Adagio's interest in me had been brought up multiple times ever since Camera Flash gave her the photos, and she wished there was a way she could warn me again without Adagio finding out. Her only silver lining was that Adagio and Aria still believed that Octavia treated me like a slave.
Unfortunately, the Dazzlings took a turn around the corner and saw Octavia and I walking down the street in the opposite direction. Adagio pushed Aria and Sonata back to the corner of a building before we noticed them and held her finger to her lips for silence. The three girls peaked their heads out of their hiding place to see Octavia and I walked side by side, talking happily. Sonata's blood drained from her face as it hit her that we didn't look like I was enslaved like she said I was to her sisters. She dared to turn to the two other Dazzlings to find Aria looking at her suspiciously and Adagio glowering at her. Before she had a chance to talk, Adagio grabbed Sonata by the collar and forced her against the wall.
"So, he isn't going to think about my offer because he's Octavia Melody's lackey, is he?!" She growled. "'She's going to make Rough Draft work to the bone!' Weren't those your exact words?!"
"That's what Rough Draft said!" Sonata cried out in fear.
"Then how do you explain Octavia Melody not making Rough Draft do anything for her?" Aria questioned.
"I don't know!" Sonata cried. "Octavia was acting giddy like that during class too, and both Rough Draft and I were confused by it."
"He doesn't look that confused to me," Adagio snarled.
"I swear, that's all I know!" Sonata whined. "Whatever stopped Rough Draft from being confused must have happened after class!"
"Likely story," Aria said. "I bet you were lying about the whole lackey thing too."
"No, she's telling the truth about that," Adagio said.
Aria turned to Adagio and Sonata stopped struggling to look at her sister, confused
"How do you know?" Aria asked.
"I have a reliable source to back it up," Adagio said before yanking Sonata's hair again. "Which is something you wish you have right now."
"Please, you have to believe me!" Sonata begged. "How am I supposed to know something if I'm not there to find out?"
Adagio clenched her teeth until she saw Octavia and I cross the street. She let go of Sonata and studied the way Octavia and I were getting along. Aria raised her eyebrow at her sister, who furrowed her brow and put her hand on her chin in thought.
"How are you supposed to know indeed," Adagio said. "Now that I think about it, this doesn't match with what my source was saying either. She's supposed to be using him, and yet they're talking like they're friends. Something else is up."
"Well, whatever it is, it shoots down your plan to 'rescue' him," Aria said with a shrug. "You're gonna have to find another way to get Rough Draft."
Adagio turned to her sister, smirking, and said, "You forget that I still have the pictures of the two of us."
"So what?" Aria challenged. "You said you're gonna use those to make your interest in him public. What good is that if you don't know anything about the guy?"
Adagio stared at her sister for a moment before she put her hand on her chin again and watched Octavia and I while she brainstormed. Then, she smirked and said, "You know what, Aria? That's an excellent point, and I know just how to fix that problem."
With a snap of her fingers, Adagio followed Octavia and me with Aria and Sonata obediently following her. The blue Dazzling became worried as she walked behind her sister, concerned with what was on Adagio's mind and wondered who was Adagio's reliable source. After a few more minutes of walking, they stopped as Octavia and I went inside Sweet Snacks Cafe, and Aria smirked before turning to her sister.
"So, he has no time to go to our cafe but has plenty of time to eat out at a diner with Octavia Melody. So much for his promise to think about your offer, Adagio," she said.
Adagio frowned again and turned to Sonata. She took out her wallet from her pocket and put a five-dollar bill in Sonata's hand, saying, "This is what you're going to do…"
**********************************************************************************************
As soon as Octavia and I went inside the diner, I looked around in awe of the bright neon lights, the blue walls, and the jukebox playing music. Only a quarter of the booths were taken with students studying while drinking milkshakes and sports teams eating nachos after practice. Octavia smiled at the way I was looking, figuring out for herself that I had never been to an establishment like Sweet Snacks Cafe back in Appleloosa.
Before either of us knew it, Pinkie Pie was rolling toward us with her rollerblades, smiling brightly.
"Hey, you guys. You here for some milkshakes?" Pinkie asked.
"Yeah. How did you guess?" I asked.
Pinkie Pie let out a high-pitched giggle and pet the top of my head, saying, "Silly Rough Draft. As you can see, anyone who comes here at this time on a school day is either here for milkshakes or nachos. Besides, Octavia told me that she hoped to come back for milkshakes yesterday, so that makes what you're doing for your date a giveaway."
My cheeks turned beet red, and I shouted, "Pinkie," while Octavia chuckled.
"We're not on a date, Pinkie Pie," she said.
"Sure you aren't," Pinkie said with a smug look. "Anywho, let's get you lovebirds a place to sit."
My cheeks turned maroon while Pinkie grabbed a couple of menus and escorted Octavia and I to a booth with a window before she rolled away. I looked away from Octavia the entire time, trying to hide my blush with the menu, which made Octavia smile.
"Don't worry about what Pinkie said, Rough Draft," she said. "I'm sure she was just teasing you."
I peaked from my menu to look at Octavia and said, "I want to believe that, but I can never tell for sure with that girl."
Octavia giggled with her mouth closed before we started to look at our menus with my blush fading away. For a minute, I browsed through the milkshake flavors, trying to get what Pinkie Pie said out of my mind. The number of flavors wasn't as many as there were at Sugarcube Cafe, but some of them were mixtures of flavors such as mixing banana with chocolate and blackberry with orange, which looked interesting.
"Have you decided what you're going to get?" Octavia asked.
"Not really. They have some unique options," I said.
"Indeed. I can't say I've heard of mixing milkshake flavors before. It sounds like it would be an interesting experience," Octavia said.
"You're probably right," I said. "Speaking of which, I'm assuming you've never had milkshakes before?"
"Actually, I have," Octavia answered. "My grandfather used to take me to this little restaurant in Manehattan for milkshakes. It irritated my mother that he was feeding me something like that, but he wanted to spoil me like a normal grandfather."
"Interesting choice of words," I commented. "If I didn't know any better, I'd assume most grandfathers in Manehattan aren't exactly 'normal.'"
"I suppose there is a running theme behind my old life in Manehattan," Octavia said, smiling. "Regardless, I was pretty close to my grandfather, and I enjoyed drinking milkshakes with him, Lord rest his soul."
"That sounds nice," I said.
Octavia nodded and asked, "What about you? Are you close to any of your grandparents?"
"Not really," I answered. "Most of them died when I was very young. It was just my parents and me for as long as I can remember."
"Oh, I see," Octavia said. "I assume you have had milkshakes before, though?"
"Oh, yeah. There was a tavern in Appleloosa that had milkshakes and floats. It was one of the few things outside of my old house that I liked out there."
Octavia smirked and said, "Now look who's the one with a running theme over where they last lived."
"Heh. Fair point," I said. "Honestly, I have lived here for all of three weeks, and I could write a novel-length book on how Canterlot is better."
Octavia chuckled and said, "I probably can write a novel too, but I bet mine would attract more attention because Manehattan is better known than Appleloosa. Your book would look like a cheap knockoff of mine."
"Hey, them's fighting words," I said, smirking. "Besides, I'm the writer between the two of us, so mine would get better ratings."
"Oh, I suppose that's true," Octavia said with a sly look. "On the other hand, you're my assistant, so I could have you write my book for me so that it would get both the attention and the ratings."
"Hey! That's fair!" I whined.
"Of course, it isn't. I'm a snobby rich lady from Manehattan, so I get whatever I want," Octavia said.
The two of us were silent for a moment, staring at each other before we burst out laughing. I moved my head back as I laughed while Octavia held on to her gut. By the time we finished laughing, Octavia was wiping away her tears, and I was resting my forehead with both hands while still giggling.
"How about this? I write both books, and you use your influence as a 'snobby rich lady' so that they both get a lot of attention?" I suggested.
Octavia snorted and stretched out her hand, saying, "Deal."
I shook her hand, and we silently went back to looking at our menus. I struggled to focus on the menu because I was still laughing on the inside. I glanced up from my menu and saw Octavia smiling as she browsed through the options, still ticklish from our jokes herself. I smiled at the sight until I noticed something from the corner of my eye. I turned my head to see Sonata sitting alone in a booth next to the jukebox. She was resting her head with her hand and looking at her menu with a glum face. I was confused about what she was doing without her sisters, but at the same time, I was sad for her that she was alone. The next thing I knew, two gray fingers snapped in front of me, and I broke my gaze before turning to Octavia.
"Rough Draft, I called your name three times," she said.
"Oh, I'm sorry," I said. "What is it?"
"I was asking what is wrong," Octavia said. "You were looking rather glum. Are you feeling unwell?"
"Oh, no. Nothing like that," I said before pointing at where Sonata was. "I just noticed Sonata was sitting there alone."
Octavia turned her head to look at Sonata, puzzled, and said, "That's strange. What is she doing without her sisters?"
"The Dazzlings are usually together, aren't they?" I asked.
"They're about as inseparable as Blueblood and I used to be," Octavia said. "Maybe she's waiting for Adagio and Aria?"
"No, there's only one menu," I said. "I think she's completely alone."
"Oh, the poor dear," Octavia said.
Sonata was starting to play with her menu while we watched. Pinkie Pie rolled over to her booth and asked if she had decided anything, and Sonata forced a smile on her face and said she was still browsing. Pinkie smiled and said that she'd be back to check up on her again before she rolled back to the counter. As soon as Pinkie was gone, Sonata's downcast demeanor returned and she looked down at the table with a sigh. I frowned and took a moment to think before turning to Octavia.
"Octavia, would it be alright if I invite Sonata to sit with us?" I asked.
Octavia turned to me, surprised with my request. She hesitated, preferring to have this time be just for the two of us, but she couldn't deny that she admired my sympathy and was feeling compassionate towards the Dazzling as well. She smiled and nodded with an "Mmm-hmm," and I got up from my seat and walked over to Sonata's booth. She was still playing with her menu before noticing me and forced another smile, saying, "Oh, hi, Rough Draft."
"Hey, Sonata. Here for a milkshake?" I asked.
"Sure am," Sonata replied.
"Well, Octavia and I are getting some milkshakes too, so why don't you come sit with us?" I suggested.
"Really?" Sonata asked, instantly excited.
"Sure. Come on over," I said.
Sonata beamed as she stood up, took her menu, and followed me. Octavia smiled at Sonata as she and I sat opposite from the gray girl and said, "Hiya, Octavia."
"Greetings, Sonata. Fancy seeing you here," Octavia said.
"Oh, well, my sisters and I got off work early, so I had some free time and decided to come to Sweet Snack Cafe since I've never been here before," Sonata explained.
"Indeed? Where are your sisters?" Octavia asked.
Sonata cringed at the question and looked out the window where Adagio and Aria watched behind a bush outside. The blue Dazzling could see Adagio glaring at her, sending shivers down her spine before she turned to Octavia with a forced smile and said, "Oh, they're around."
Octavia and I were unsure how to react to her hesitation, but we silently decided to let it go. The three of us picked up our menus and looked again through them for what was the third time for Octavia and me. After a couple of minutes, I put my menu down, having made my decision just in time for Pinkie Pie to roll over to our table.
"Hey, you invited Sonata to join you on your date," Pinkie said.
My cheeks turned red again, and I once again shouted, "Pinkie!"
"You guys are on a date?" Sonata asked, confused.
"No, we're not, Sonata. She's just teasing," Octavia answered before turning to Pinkie. "And yes, we thought it best that she joined us."
"Aw, that's nice," Pinkie chirped. "There's nothing wrong with eating together with more friends. Speaking of which, have you guys decided what to get?"
"I have," I answered.
"As have I," Octavia said.
Sonata nodded with a cute smile.
"Awesome! What can I getcha?" Pinkie asked.
"I would like the blueberry-strawberry swirl," I answered.
"I would like that too, please," Octavia said.
"And I'll have an orange-kiki-cheery blast," Sonata said.
"Excellent choices," Pinkie said while she took our menus. "I'll bring them over in a jiffy."
The pink waitress rolled away, and Octavia, Sonata, and I began waiting patiently for our drinks. I looked back and forth at the two girls, trying to think of how to start a conversation to pass the time until Octavia cleared her throat.
"So, what made you decide on the blueberry-strawberry swirl, Rough Draft?" She asked.
"Well, they're both good flavors, and I was thinking of trying the blueberry flavor if they had it here to compare it to the one I had at Sugarcube Cafe," I answered. "How about you?"
"Oh, about the same, except my interest is on strawberry," Octavia answered. "It was my regular choice whenever I went out for shakes with my grandfather, so I wanted to get some strawberry even if it's mixed with another flavor."
"Wow, you guys chose the same drink over two different flavors. That's kinda cute," Sonata said. "You sure you guys aren't on a date?"
My cheeks turned red again, and I muttered, "Et Tu, Sonata?"
Octavia giggled and said, "We're sure, Sonata."
"Then why is Rough Draft blushing?" Sonata questioned.
"Oh, he's just bashful over the idea of being on a date" Octavia smiled.
Sonata turned to me and asked, "Really? How can you get like this just over the idea?"
"Let's just say I didn't talk to girls much before I moved to Canterlot," I answered.
Sonata "Oh" ed in response while I shook off my blush. Just then, Pinkie Pie rolled back to us with a tray carrying out shakes in glasses. She handed the drinks and some straws to us and said "Bon Appetit-e-o" before she left. I shook my head over how she said "Bon Appetit" before I took my straw out from its wrapper and put it in my shake. Octavia, Sonata, and I simultaneously took sips of our milkshakes, and Octavia and I went "Mmmm" while Sonata took a longer sip until she got a brain freeze.
"Ow. Ow. Owie. Owie. Owie. Owzer, wowzers," she whined
"You should have paced yourself, Sonata," I said.
"I know, but I couldn't help it," Sonata said, holding her head with her hand. "This is the sweetest milkshake I've ever had."
"I must admit, this shake exceeded my expectations. I had a little trouble resisting the urge to sip more than I should," Octavia said, smiling. "What about you, Rough Draft? Do you like your drink?"
"Yeah, it is tastier than I imagined, too," I answered, smiling back. "I never thought blueberry and strawberry would mix so well. Learn something new every day, right?"
"Indeed," Octavia said.
We drank in silence again with Sonata taking smaller sips. When she was half done with her shake, Octavia looked at me while I was focused on my drink and decided to take the opportunity to carry out her true plan.
"Rough Draft?"
"Hmmm?" I said while still drinking through my straw.
"Do you mind if I ask questions about you?" Octavia asked.
Sonata and I looked up from our drinks, looking at the gray girl curiously. I was silent for a couple of seconds before I replied, "Uh, sure. What do you want to know?"
"Well, since we've established that you are a nerd, I'd like to know what nerdy things you're into specifically," Octavia answered.
I looked at her, bewildered, unsure of whether or not I heard her correctly, and asked, "You want to know what things I'm into specifically?"
"I do," Octavia confirmed.
"Why?"
"Enlighten me."
I continued to look at her dumbfounded for a few more seconds, still unsure that a beautiful girl of high class like Octavia asked me about the things I was into. I turned to Sonata, who shrugged, and sighed before turning back to my crush.
"Okay then," I began. "If we're talking about specific science-fiction and fantasy franchises and shows I'm into, then I would say I'm into things like the Lord of the Rings, Narnia, Harry Potter, Transformers, and Star Wars."
"Interesting," Octavia said. "Do you have a favorite out of all of them?"
"Uh, well, I would say I have more focus on Star Wars than anything else," I answered. "I do like to play this online Star Wars game called Star Wars: The Old Republic a lot, and I like to write fanfiction of me as a Jedi in the Star Wars universe."
Octavia looked at me, confused, and asked, "Sorry, what's a Jedi?"
"They're these samurai guys with laser swords and mystic powers," Sonata answered before she covered her mouth and turned to me. "Sorry. That was your question."
"It's fine," I said. "Besides, that's more or less the gist of it. Most people refer to them as space wizards, but there are aspects about the Jedi that are samurai-like."
"I see," Octavia said. "And what is it about Star Wars that drives you to write fanfiction on it above all the other things you like?"
I furrowed my brow and looked down at my shake as I said, "I don't know. I love all of the other things I'm into and wish I could be some of the things in those respective universes like an elf warrior or a wizard and things like that. I guess I like the idea of being a Jedi more because they can do so much with their abilities and their lightsabers - er, the laser swords Sonata was talking about, and I like the idea of being more than what I am as a Jedi."
Octavia smiled and said, "That sounds nice."
I looked at her, surprised again, and asked, "You really mean that?"
"I do," Octavia said. "Truth be told, I think I'm similar that way when I play my cello."
"Uh, no offense, Octavia, but being a cellist and wanting to be a Jedi are totally different things," Sonata said.
"I'm not talking about being a Jedi, Sonata. I'm talking about feeling like you're more than what you are," Octavia said.
"What do you mean?" Sonata asked.
Octavia turned to me and asked, "Do you remember when I played for you and Starlight, and you said I had a deep passion for expressing something with the song I was playing, and it made you wonder what it was?"
"How could I forget?" I answered with a smile.
"When I play a song that has a certain theme like that one, I feel like I'm in my own world where I have more control than I have in real life," she said. "There are times when I want to say how I feel but I either don't have the words to say it, or I know the words, but I can't say them to whomever I want to say it to. So, even if no one understands it, I express it with my cello. Music has the power to move people or let out what the musician has to say, and as the musician, I have control of that power in a way that makes me feel free. It's not the same as wanting to be some magical samurai, but I think writing how you feel, even if it's fanfiction, can be just as powerful in its own way."
Sonata and I were astounded by the way Octavia compared music to fanfiction. I couldn't believe my crush had an optimistic outlook on what I was into without even looking at my stories or having seen Star Wars. Part of me wanted to pinch myself to check if I was dreaming, but I decided against it, thinking I didn't want this dream to end. And yet, the fact that she said those things made it crueler that she was still with Blueblood and I could only be by her side for a short time.
"Wow, I didn't understand what you were saying, Octavia, but it sounded deep," Sonata said.
Octavia chuckled bashfully and said, "Sorry. It appears I have rambled."
"No, don't apologize," I said. "I really appreciate what you said. It made me feel better about who I am."
Octavia turned to me, taken aback by my response, with her cheeks turning red. I was confused that I was making her blush, but I decided to pay no mind, figuring Octavia was just flattered. She shook off her blush and said, "Yes, well, you should feel good about yourself, Mr. Draft. After all, I didn't ask you to be my date for the wedding for nothing."
"Wait. What?!" Sonata shouted. "This whole thing wasn't a date, and yet you're going to a wedding together as a date?!"
My cheeks instantly heated up once more, and I said, "Sonata, she's not talking about a date, date. I'm her plus one while she performs with the wedding band."
"Oh," Sonata said, scratching her head in embarrassment. "Sorry. I get confused, sometimes."
"It's quite alright," Octavia said with a smile. "I suppose we should blame Pinkie for your stupefaction."
"I know I do," I muttered.
"Thanks," Sonata said. "Who's getting married?"
"Principal Celestia and Vice-Principal Luna's niece, Cadance," I answered.
"Oh, yeah. I think my sisters and I heard about that," Sonata said. "Their niece is getting married to some guy from Crystal City named Shining Armor."
"Indeed, and it's in a couple of weeks," Octavia said.
"That's exciting," Sonata said. "Are you two going to dance?"
Octavia furrowed her brow and said, "Now that you bring it up, I'm afraid that would be difficult since I'm in the wedding band."
"Aw, that's too bad," Sonata said before turning to me. "Sounds like you won't be able to do much as Octavia's date." I winced at her words, and her eyes widened, realizing that she hurt my feelings. "I'm sorry! I didn't mean it like that!"
"It's okay. I know you didn't," I said. "But you have a good point. I won't be able to do much apart from being there for Octavia. Still, I am glad I will be able to do that on her first gig."
Octavia smiled and said, "I'd expect nothing less from a guy as sweet as you, Rough Draft. Although, I also agree with Sonata, so how about this; after the wedding, we could go somewhere where we can dance together?"
My eyes widened, and I asked, "Really? You want to do that?"
"Absolutely," Octavia said. "After everything you've done for me and especially after being there for me at the wedding, you deserve something as a reward. Don't you think?"
Once again, I was surprised by what she said. By this point, I was thinking the Lord himself was blessing me more and more with how I would spend what precious time I had with Octavia Melody. I smiled back at Octavia and said, "Okay, you have yourself a deal, Ms. Melody."
"Excellent," Octavia said before asking with a teasing smirk. "Come to think of it, though, have you ever danced before?"
My smile disappeared, and I bashfully looked away from Octavia, stirring my milkshake with my straw.
"I'd like to plead the fifth on that," I said.
"That's what I thought," Octavia said. "In that case, why don't we practice between now and when it's the wedding."
I opened my mouth to say yes, but then I stopped myself and looked down to think about it. Octavia and Sonata looked at me, confused, thinking I was going to say yes right away. After a few seconds, I looked up at Octavia and said, "Actually, Octavia, I would like to learn it from somebody else."
"Why?" Octavia asked, sounding hurt.
"Because I want to be the best date I can be for your big night," I explained. "And the way I look at it, that should include dancing with me at my best. You will deserve it too because I know you're going to be great performing at the wedding."
Octavia looked at me, surprised by my answer, while Sonata looked at me as though I had sporadically professed my undying love. I became uneasy with how they were looking at me, wondering if I accidentally hinted at my crush on Octavia. After several seconds, Octavia smiled and asked, "Honestly, Rough Draft, are you going to constantly be sweet to me on purpose just like when I make you blush?"
"Don't tempt me," I replied with a grin, thankful that she was still unaware of my feelings.
Octavia giggled with her mouth closed again and said, "Very well. I will wait until after the wedding to dance with you."
"But how do you plan to learn how to dance, Rough Draft?" Sonata asked. "I don't think there are classes anywhere in town that can teach you how to dance in so little time."
"I'll think of something," I answered. "I bet Rarity knows a thing or two about slow dancing."
"Mmmm. I think that is a safe bet," Octavia said. "Regardless, I'm feeling more excited about the wedding."
"So am I, Octavia. So am I," I said with a smile.
*********************************************************************************************
Eventually, the three of us finished our milkshakes and paid for our drinks at the cash register. We exited the restaurant and walked down the sidewalk until we were at the corner, and Octavia turned to Sonata.
"Well, this was lovely, Sonata, but it's high time that Mr. Draft takes me home," she said.
Sonata flinched and forced a smile on her face as she replied, "Oh, yeah, I better go too. My sisters should be expecting me home soon."
"Of course," I said, smiling at my friend. "I'm glad that you could join us, Sonata."
Sonata cutely smiled back and said, "Me too. I had fun, and my milkshake was yummy."
"Yes, our shakes were delectable," Octavia agreed. "We should do this again sometime."
"I'd like that a lot," Sonata said.
"Same here," I said. "Though are you sure you can make it home okay, Sonata? I could walk you home after I escort Octavia if you want."
Sonata looked away bashfully, touched by my offer, and said, "I'll be fine, Rough Draft. I can make my way home from here."
"Okay. If you're sure," I said. "See you tomorrow."
"Yes, see you tomorrow," Octavia said as the two of us began walking away.
"Goodbye, guys," Sonata said.
The blue Dazzling waved goodbye with her arm while Octavia and I walked away. As soon as we were out of sight, however, Sonata's cheerful demeanor disappeared in an instant. She turned around just in time to find Adagio and Aria already standing behind her. The poor girl flinched and took a step back, startled by her sister's sudden presence as Adagio glared at her with her arms crossed.
"So, I saw you had a good time," she said.
"Y-y-yes, I did," Sonata said.
"Were the milkshakes good?" Adagio asked.
"Very," Sonata mumbled.
"You have some money left, I presume?" Adagio asked.
Sonata reached into her pocket and took out leftover money from paying for her shake. Adagio snatched it from Sonata's hand and put it back in her wallet before turning back to her blue sister and asked, "Now, what did you find out?"
Sonata took a moment to find the best way to answer Adagio before she said, "Well, Octavia isn't treating Rough Draft like a slave."
"What a shock," Aria said sarcastically.
"And why isn't Octavia doing that even though you said she was going to?" Adagio asked.
"Uh, honestly, I'm not sure," Sonata said.
"You're lying!" Adagio hissed.
"No, I'm not!" Sonata shouted, holding her hands up defensively. "I couldn't get a clear understanding of what's going on between Rough Draft and Octavia. If anything, it was almost like I was the third wheel for a date."
Adagio's menacing glare faltered into a puzzled look, and she said, "Explain."
"Well, for instance, Pinkie Pie was teasing them by saying they were on a date, which made Rough Draft blush because he's never gone out with a girl, but after that, he and Octavia were talking like they were on their first date," Sonata said. "Octavia asked questions about all the nerdy things he was into, and then they talked about their interests in playing the cello and writing fanfiction. Sometimes Rough Draft would blush, sometimes Octavia would blush, and then they started talking about going to a wedding together."
Adagio looked at Sonata baffled, and even Aria showed a hint of confusion in her wooden face. The yellow Dazzling looked down in thought as she said, "This doesn't make any sense. Why would Octavia Melody want to go out for milkshakes and go to a wedding together with Rough Draft if he's supposed to be her slave?"
"Are you sure your source about Rough Draft being her slave is reliable, Adagio?" Aria asked.
"Positive," Adagio said. "The person who told me that Blueblood threatened Rough Draft to work for Octavia Melody couldn't be more legit."
Aria furrowed her brow, still skeptical, and said, "If that's the case, then Rough Draft and Octavia Melody are ignoring Blueblood's demands behind his back. Octavia Melody might be using the time away from him to have a friend for once since he's so possessive."
"Yes, that has to be the only reason," Sonata said enthusiastically, hoping that crediting Adia's assumption might convince Adagio to leave Octavia and me alone. "I mean, come on, it's not like Rough Draft and Octavia are dating or anything."
Adagio was still looking down while her sisters talked, but as soon as Sonata said the word "dating," her eyes widened, and her mouth opened slightly. Sonata and Aria looked at her, confused as Adagio looked as though she realized something horrible was happening.
"Uh, Aria, she does know I was serious when I said they aren't dating, right?" Sonata asked.
Aria frowned and looked at their leader with her hand on her hip, saying, "The way she's been acting lately, I seriously doubt it."
"But I said that they weren't on a date," Sonata protested. "Heck, they wouldn't have invited me to join them if they were. There's no way they could be romantically interested in each other."
"Not necessarily," Adagio said as she looked up and glared at where Octavia and I were last seen. "They might not have gone on an actual date, but if Octavia Melody is so interested in getting to know Rough Draft better and the two of them were blushing during their conversations, they could be beginning to think about each other romantically."
"Oh, come on, Adagio. You're making things up," Aria said. "Octavia Melody is a high-class girl dating the wealthiest guy in school, and Rough Draft is a nobody. You would never have given that guy so much as a sideways glance if you didn't hear about him knocking Blueblood off the balcony. Besides, what does it matter if Rough Draft was blushing? Sonata just said he has never gone out with a girl before, so the idea of any girl going out with him would make him bashful. He was blushing the entire time you made a move on him, for crying out loud."
"Yeah, Aria's right," Sonata said. "The way Rough Draft blushed whenever Octavia complimented him was nothing compared to when you approached him. She only made his cheeks turn red while you made him flush all over his face. He clearly finds you more attractive."
"Of course, Rough Draft is more attracted to me. I am a goddess. No girl can allure guys more than me, and everyone knows it," Adagio boasted. "The issue is Octavia Melody's blushing hints that she might begin to feel something for him."
"Again, I must point out that she's in a relationship," Aria said.
"That doesn't mean she's incapable of giving in to the temptation of cheating," Adagio claimed.
"Octavia wouldn't cheat on Blueblood," Sonata said.
"And what makes you so sure?" Adagio asked.
"Because Octavia is a good person," Sonata answered. "She wouldn't be disloyal to her boyfriend even if it's Blueblood. The fact that she's been with him for so long proves that."
"That proves nothing," Adagio growled. "No matter how devoted a person may be, you can't trust them to be committed forever."
"How would you know?" Aria challenged.
"I know," Adagio stated. "Octavia Melody may not see it that way, but she is acting that way over anything Rough Draft says to her. That proves there's something special about him that will eventually drive her to abandon her devotion to Blueblood, and that makes him a bigger prize that must be mine."
"Ugh, you really need to let go of your obsession, Adagio," Aria said. "If you're so obsessed with a guy that you're making up stories about someone being your rival for him, then you need to let him go."
"Never!" Adagio snarled. "I will not back down from a challenge. If anything, I'm thankful that Octavia Melody might be a threat to my goal. It makes it fitting that obtaining the one boy I want to be with would be a real sport compared to the boys that I have wooed with little effort."
By this point, Sonata was resisting the urge to whimper like a frightened dog from the way Adagio talked about Octavia and me. Aria groaned and put her hand on her forehead as though she had a headache.
"I'm worried about you, Adagio," Aria said. "Not enough to get you real help, but I'm worried about you."
Adagio scoffed and said, "You speak as if I have a care for your opinion." She turned back to Sonata and said, "Now then, who is getting married?"
Sonata paused, hating that she had to continue feeding information, and said, "They're going to Principal Celestia and Vice-Principal Luna's niece's wedding."
"They're going to that high-class wedding?" Aria asked, surprised.
"Hmmm. That does make sense," Adagio said, her hand on her chin again in thought. "I imagine Octavia Melody is invited because Blueblood is the bride's cousin. Am I correct, Sonata?"
"Er, I don't know about that, but Octavia did say she's in the wedding band," Sonata answered.
"Huh. Doesn't sound like she and Rough Draft will have much of a date if she's playing in the band," Aria said.
Once again, Adagio lifted her head with a look of realization. Sonata took a step back in fear, and Aria raised an eyebrow as Adagio began to cackle with a devious grin.
"Excellent point, Aria," Adagio said. "Sounds like I have a perfect opportunity to make my next move at the wedding."
"But you aren't invited to the wedding," Aria said.
"I'm not invited yet," Adagio said confidently.
"What's that supposed to mean?" Aria asked.
"Oh, I know a boy or two who would love to have me as their plus one," Adagio answered. "And I know someone in Manehattan who could make a dress for me that will make cute, little Rough Draft adore me." Adagio turned her gaze back to Sonata, who backed up into a wall. She put her hands on the wall from opposite sides of Sonata's face, and she learned her head until it was inches apart from her blue sister. "Now, tell me every little nerdy thing you've learned about Rough Draft."