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// Ch 1 Sugar on Wheels 
// Story: Pinkie vs the robo-pony 
// by Reily 
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It was a quiet day in the Sugarcube Corner. All of the tables were empty. Mr. Cake double-checked to ensure the sign was set to open. It indeed was. But where were all the customers? Mr. Cake wondered to himself while pacing back and forth. The restaurant was usually bustling and had several orders coming through. “What went wrong? Was our latest promotion not good enough? Have everyone’s tastes changed? Is everyone going through a recession and we need to lower prices, but what about our profit margins?”, Mr. Cake continually thought to himself. 

"Sweetie, I know you're stressed out. Maybe take a seat and read the paper?" 

"You're right dear. But what are we supposed to do without any customers?" 

At that minute, Pinkie Pie decided to come downstairs. Their beloved tenant and employee never fails to help attract people to their business. Her parties helped spread the word about how good the food at the restaurant was, and she always carried her workload.  

"Heya Mr. and Mrs. Cake the diner sure is empty. Oh well. More time to clean tables." 

Pinkie then retrieved a bottle of cleaner and some paper towels and got to work. The tables were spotless except for the occasional crumb, but in Pinkie’s mind it never hurt to make it so you can see your reflection in it.

"Hey look at this dear. Several restaurants including Donut Joe's are now doing a home delivery option. Delicious freshly prepared food, right at your doorstep."

"You thinking what I am?" 

"Agreed darling. But who could we count on to handle delivering the food to the customers? Hmmm..."

Mr. Cake thought for a few minutes then was interrupted. 

"Tables are done, Mr. Cake. Anything else I can do for you?" 

It was at that moment Mr. Cake realized the answer was right in front of him. 

"Pinkie. How would you feel about receiving a promotion?"

"A promotion! Oh boy, Mr. Cake, I'm so excited! This calls for a party! I've got to go tell all my friends." 

Mr. Cake sighed. As much as he loved his employee and tenant, she could be a bit much sometimes. He waited until his ears stopped ringing and began to say his piece. 

"Slow down their Pinkie. Let's not get carried away. The missus and I still need to get some stuff prepared for you. If it goes well, then you can celebrate. But until then, please be patient." 

"Wait, what kind of promotion is it, Mr. Cake?"

Pinkie Pie said tilting her head. Getting a promotion never occurred to her, but the possibilities in her mind remained endless. She always dreamed of one day owning a store like this and catering for important celebrations. Not to mention helping set up the parties themselves. “Yes, yes, yes. After all these years, I can’t wait.” 

"You'll be handling our food deliveries. Think you can handle it?" 

 Pinkie’s bubble immediately popped. “Focus Pinkie, you can’t let the Cakes know you’re slightly disappointed. Just think of lollipops and rainbows. Lollipops and rainbows.” 

"You can count on me. I won't let you down. I can deliver food lickety-split." 

Pinkie then proceeded to salute. “I won’t let you down Cakes.”