//------------------------------//
// Chapter 9: What Could Ruin a Day Like This? 
// Story: Letters for Cheerilee 
// by MephileztheHam 
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“So, what do you want to do today?” the question bounced around in my head for a minute or two. Frankly I didn't want to do anything at all today. I am content with being lazy as I lay here. And where am I you ask? The most comfortably warm place, in the hooves of a certain purple alicorn. 

“Nothing” I simply said, burying my muzzle into my marefriends neck. By Celestia she always smells so sweet. This is heaven for me.

“Really? What about that promise you made with Scootaloo? She's going to be peeved if you don't pick her up” Twilight said flatly. 

“Just give me five more minutes, I wanna hold you for a little bit longer” with a yawn I tightened my embrace on her, and she did the same to me. 

“Cheerilee...” Twilight's voice turned from complacent to stern, an edge of authority in her tone.

“But you're so soft, and you smell so good” I whined to my marefriend, hoping she would cut me some slack. For extra effect I put on my best pouty face and gazed up at her. An unamused expression was my reward, but a twinge of a blush rested on her cheeks. Gotcha!

“W-Well as much as I would love to continue this, we have our own schedules to get to today” I rolled my eyes at her words, even when we're having our special cuddle time she still wants to get work done. I don't blame her though, it has been getting increasingly more hectic these past few days. 

“Fine, you win. But we are going to spend time together tonight whether you like it or not, princess” with a playful grin I tapped a hoof against her muzzle. So with a sigh I started to pull away from our embrace only to be stopped by Twilight's wings fluttering over me. Before I could say a word she pulled my face to meet hers, her lips locking together with my own in one smooth motion. My heart fluttered, every kiss felt as fresh as the first and I love it. But right when I was about to deepen the kiss Twilight pulled away, leaving me hanging on nothing but air. 

“I know we haven't had much time to be alone, but how about we do something special tonight?” I perked up at just the thought of “something special”. My mind was abuzz with thoughts and possibilities of what it could mean. Some thoughts naughty, some chaste. Either way I knew she would give me an answer soon enough. Nonetheless I still asked her just what she meant by special.

“Just how special are we talking about here?” I asked curiously, making sure to add a little extra huskiness in my tone. 

“Oh just a little get together, maybe at your place?” again, the naughty thoughts came rushing back once more. Uncouth images and ideas popping up like daisies in my head. 

“Jeez, can you at least control your thoughts for just a moment? It's like the mind of a horny, hormoned crazed teen up in your noggin! Have some class, sugar!” complained my ever present conscience. I instantly regretted letting my mind fall in the gutter. There's two of us in my thoughts after all. Regardless of how badly I scarred my conscience I focused back on my marefriend.

“Somepony is being a little forward today, aren't we? You'd think we would at least get a few months under our belt before that happens, right?” I teased, playfully bumping my muzzle against hers as I did.

“What ever do you mean? I just simply want to spend some time together in a new locale. Is that so wrong?” Twilight feigned ignorance but I saw that playful smug on her face. She was joking, that much was obvious. However I noticed she has been getting a little intimate lately, but nothing to serious. It hasn't gone past the kissing and cuddling. I for one am fine with that, there is no reason to rush into things. But that didn't mean we couldn't tease each other about it.

“Kidding aside, I think it would be a nice change of scenery. That and I am just dying to see just what your personal library contains” a small sense of dread hung in my head at the very thought. The image of Twilight recoiling in disgust from taking one glance at my romance novels flashed in my mind. I should probably hide the more lewd stories somewhere safe, but then again why should I? A little embarassment is worth staying open to a loved one. There is no need for secrets, no matter how utterely degrading those secrets were.

I should have never told her I had my own little library, what was I thinking though?

“To be fair, you two were smooching like crazy at the time. Who knew book talk would lead to a makeout fest?” Said my conscience. Who knew indeed. One moment we were talking about new best sellers and the next moment she had me pinned on her bed doing...well that is besides the point.

“I dunno, my collection is kind of...trashy, to say the least. You probably wouldn't want to see it...” muttering my words I imagined Twilight's disgusted expression as she pulled a single book from my little library. Suddenly I regret all those years collecting smut, but only a little bit.

“Nonsense! I am sure those books of yours arent as trashy as you say. But I guess I will find out tonight then?” 

“Uh huh”

“Oh come on, it can't be that bad?”

“You'll just have to see it for yourself”

“Whatever you have in your house won't change how I see you, I promise”

“Really?

“I Pinkie Pie promise” now that is the mother of all promises.

“Okay, since you Pinkie Pie promised I'll show you my collection” even though I said that I still felt like I was going to regret it. Besides the foreboding thoughts of the future library encounter in my head Twilight and I stayed cuddling in sweet silence. My hooves wrapped around her, and she did the same. I wish I didn't have to work today and just spend the day like this. Just the two of us together in blissful union.

“I have an idea” well so much for the silence.

“Uh oh” I joked and received a soft poke on the muzzle. Usually I bucking hate when ponies do that, but obviously this was a special case. It's amazing how normally annoying things aren't so bothersome when a loved one comes into the equation. If anypony bopped me on the muzzle I would be slightly miffed, but with Twilight I couldn't help but relish in the once annoying breach of personal space.

“Seriously though, Cheerilee. I think you should take the day off today. Let me handle the workload today while you have fun” I couldn't believe what I was hearing. Twilight wanted me to break the sacred schedule to have fun? 

“Really? But-”

“No but's! You've been working your flank off lately and you deserve a little break from the norm. Besides, I can handle the chores by myself. I've endured worse you know” that is true, taking on a few more chores on her workload won't kill her. But to leave Twilight on her own while I have fun?

“Are you really sure?” I asked once more, hoping she would reconsider. I would rather us spend time together working instead of ditching her with my job.

“Yup, and no amount of asking will change my mind” Twilight' was dead set on this and there was nothing I could do to change her mind. May as well do as she says and take some well deserved tlc I suppose.

“Fine, but it doesn't mean I have to enjoy it” And with those grumbled words she and I embraced one more time. Precious seconds past until she released me from the hug with a content sigh.

“I'll see you later then?” asked Twilight as she and I hopped off her bed. I watched as her horn lit up, summoning several clip boards and pens to her side. Straight on to business as always, schedule this and schedule that.

“Count on it, I will be back at three, maybe later” and with that said I was on my way out.

“Oh! I almost forgot!” well, almost on my way.

“Wha-” and before I could speak I was silenced by a Twilight's lips on my own. Without missing a beat I parted my lips, allowing access to her already thrusting tongue. And before things got sloppy she pulled away. A small smirk rested on her face, such a tease this mare is!

“You are so going to get it later, see you” as I made to leave I made sure to brush my tail against her muzzle. A little tease of my own to tide her by until tonight, fair is fair. That is until she pulled a sucker punch out on me.

“I love you” those three words stopped me in my tracks and left my heart fluttering in my chest.  Be still my beating heart. I looked back to see those purple eyes of hers gazing back at me, a small smile on her face. She had that look on her face, and I loved it.

“Love you too” as the words left my lips I felt the urge to dash to her. To just cuddle the hell out of her like there was no tomorrow. But a certain student of mine was waiting, and there would be plenty of time for some loving. “I'll be back soon”

“I will be counting the seconds until then, my most prized subject” prized subject? Well now, was I really worth being called prized of all things? Probably. 

“Now that was cheesy, and I love it. Until I return, my most beloved princess!” with a chuckle I left Twilight to her work and left the library. Once I was out in the streets of Ponyville travelled to the orphanage and spotted Scootaloo sitting idly at the front steps. She looked bored out of her skull as she kicked her little hooves to and fro.

“Hey Scoots! How's my favorite student?” instantly Scootaloo perked up at my voice. A huge smile appeared on her once bored face. But it was soon replaced with a scowl, oh boy. The little pegasus flew from the orphanage steps and stopped right in front of my face. I offered her a apologetic smile but she still frowned at me. 

“Well?” Scootaloo asked as she hovered before me, forelegs crossed over her chest. Looks like I am in deep in this one.

“I'm sorry that I was late, Twilight and I-”

“Were smooching and making out, you don't have to give me the details, blegh!” Scootaloo stuck her tongue out at me as she gagged. Well at least she understands. Looks like I am in the clear. 

“But you're still late, so you are gonna have to make up for it” crap, spoke too soon.

“Come on, Scootaloo, at least I did-”

“Ah ah ah, still not finished! For being late you gotta...” Scootaloo went silent for a moment as she thought. No doubt something ridiculous in mind for me, can't wait to see what.

“Twenty bits she makes you take her out on a candy shopping spree. Either that or she blackmails you for straight A's for the rest of the year when you get your job back!” pondered my conscience. I really hope he is wrong on both of those suspicions.

“I got it! Here's the deal, you gotta do everything I wanna do and you can't deny any request I have. Deal?” as Scootaloo lay out her terms she held a hoof out for me to shake. With a groan I shook on it and sealed my fate. This won't backfire in any way, no seriously I say that with greatest sincerity.

“I bet it won't be that bad, it will be fun, sugar. Think of it as a bonding experience!” yeah, a bonding experience where I ended up humiliated. And right on cue Scootaloo flew into the air to promptly land right on my back. I looked back to see the smug pegasus laying on my back like I was a damn lounge chair.

“Okay chauffeur, onward! I order you to head in that direction until I see something interesting!” Scootaloo ordered, a hoof pointed forward to Ponyville. I rolled my eyes, and something tells me I will do a lot of that in the near future. I just had to be late, it's going to be a long day...

A Few Hours Later...

I don't know how many hours had passed but what I do know is that Scootaloo has been running me ragged. The bossy little filly dragged me all across Ponyville, we stopped at every place Scootaloo deemed interesting. From antique shops to fruit stands she ordered me around as her chauffeur without a carriage. At least Scootaloo isn't a chubby pegasus, otherwise this would have been a lot more agonizing. But I am not lying when I say that I was having fun.

And sure, I had to spend a few bits but I didn't mind. It's fun to splurge once and in a while.

“Hey, I'm  feeling a bit peckish, how about we stop for a snack?” Scootaloo's spoke in a pompous tone, her stomach growling loudly.

“Now that you mention it, I'm starting to get hungry too. Anywhere special you want to stop at?” maybe we could stop at a fruit stand, I saw somepony selling pears earlier. I could use a healthy snack for an extra boost.

"I'll let you know when I figure that out, just keep walking!” Scootaloo ordered and I disdainfully obeyed. Taking advantage of our moment of solace I took in the bustling image of Ponyville. Everypony was out this fine day, parents with children, ponies on dates and vendors yelling out their daily deals off the side of the roads. I also spotted several children from school running about their day, it was nice seeing such young minds spending their day outside instead of lazing about in their homes.

Truly this is a lovely day, nothing could ruin it. Eventually Scootaloo had decided on a place for us to recooperate, Bonbon's candy shop. Of course she would want sweets instead of something nutritional for her still growing body. Kids will be kids am I right? With that thought the two of us pushed pass the front doors causing a jingle to announce our arrival inside. And that jingle caught the attention of a certain cream mare behind a display of assorted candies. And boy did she look exhausted.

“Good afternoon, Bonbon. Working yourself into a coma again?” I greeted my dozing friend.

“Huh? Oh hi, Cheerilee! What brings you around here?” Bonbon asked with a yawn, her hoofs rubbing the sleep out of her baggy eyes. Poor thing must have been up late working hard on her stock again.

“I'm spending the day with Scootaloo and we've been feeling hungry so we thought we'd drop by” I explained. 

“Yup! And Cheerilee is buying!” Scootaloo said with a smirk as she hopped off of my back to peruse the display of sweets. Secretely I hoped she would choose something cheap, but who am I to tell what she can't get? It's her day to have fun, who cares if my wallet takes one for the team? I'm getting my job back soon, and Twilight promised me a small stipend for all of my work last week.

“Take your time! Alright girl, what's the news? How are you and Twilight doing? Any sign of her buying a wedding ring?” I rolled my eyes at her comment, imagine Twilight asking her to marry me this early in our relationship. I love her, but isn't that rushing into things? I own a few novels that ended like that, they were beyond lackluster to say the least.

“No wedding rings yet, but things have been amazing between us. She's something else I tell you” 

“Oh? Tell me all everything about it, tell your auntie Bonbon all the dirty little secrets!” Bonbon  suddenly seemed a lot chipper all of a sudden. Just the inkling of gossip always did get her attention. For a second I thought about what things to tell her and what to keep to myself. Plus with Scootaloo present that means the more saucy stories will have to be told at a later time.

“Where do I even begin to start? She's simply amazing, Bonbon. She is everything I want in a marefriend, somepony who shares my passion in learning, books and all of that! There isn't a second that goes by where she isn't in my thoughts. I love her, I really do and it feels amazing to feel this way about somepony. I never felt like this when I was with Mortar, is this how it's like with you and Lyra?” 

Bonbon nodded knowingly with a smile on her face.

“You better believe it sister, that is what love is supposed to feel like. And judging by what you told me about her I can tell that you two are going to be inseperable. Never forget that feeling okay? Keep her close to your heart, never let go of her. Tell her you love her everyday, cause if you love her like I do Lyra, then everything will be right as rain!”

Alas, before we could continue our conversation Scootaloo interrupted us as she tapped on the glass display with a tink.

“Can I get that, that and that?” she asked as she gestured to a metric buck ton of chocolate. Bonbon nodded silently as she scooped up the requested sweets in one hefty bag. I watched as Scootaloo greedily took it in her hooves, drooling at the sight of her newly acquired candy. 

“Mark my words, that little filly is going to get cavities soon” my conscience said, sharing my sentiments on Scootaloo's obessions. Chocolate, cutie marks and a rainbow maned speedster. Back when I was her age it was all about books, dolls and school. How times have changed.

“And that's that, thanks for buying them for me!” I Watched as the orange pegasus gobbled down her newly bought sweets in mere seconds. 

“That will be twenty five bits, Cheerilee” groaning at the price I reluctantly paid the price, feeling a little annoyed at the lighter weight of my wallet. Twenty five bits for “luxury” chocolate straight from Canterlot gone just like that. I didn't even get any either! 

“Sorry for the pricing, Cheerilee. Even with a discount for a friend it's still pretty expensive isn't it?” Bonbon smiled sheepishly.

“That was the discount price? What's the original number?”

“Fifty bits” Bonbon squeaked.

“Fifty?!” I gaped, geez that is some expensive chocolate!

“What can I say? I have great taste!” piped in a still munching Scootaloo, almost victoriously so. As I grumbled while Scootaloo devoured the last of her chocolate I said my goodbyes to Bonbon and went back out into the bustling town outside. Some more time had passed as we ended up lounging at the park. I rested with my back against the old oak tree with Scootaloo resting on my lap. 

“So this is the tree where you sent those letters to Twilight, right?” Scootaloo asked, her eyes trailing up the length of the tree. I did the same and couldn't help but feel nostalgic.

“Indeed, the little drop off point for our love letters. Back when I thought I was just writing to some random stallion. Little did I know my pen pal would turn out to be the love of my life. Funny how fate works”

“Blegh, you're getting sappy again!”

“Don't act like that, Scoots. You're going to meet your special somepony one day and you will be just as sappy as me” I can imagine it now, Scootaloo pining over some mare or stallion. Crushing on them as hard as she could, finding ways to deal with her newfound feelings. 

“I smell a sitcom!” chuckled my conscience and as did I. But my laughter only irked my young charge as she huffed in annoyance. 

“No way! I'm never gonna be sappy! I'll be the boss of my future relationship, you know, like a leader! Like Rainbow Dash!” Scootaloo said as she thumped a hoof against her chest with such vigor that you might have confused her for a colt.

“Whatever you say, be the best tomcolt you can be” 

“I'd rather be a tomcolt than a sad sap!”

“Them's fighting words, Scoots”

“And what if they are? What are you going to do about it?”

“I think I might...do this!” I didn't give Scootaloo another second as I booped her on the muzzle and took off galloping. I heard her yell my name from somehwere behind me but I kept running. I counted twenty some seconds until the sound of little wings flapping in the wind caught my ear. And sure enough an orange blur whizzed passed me, along with a sudden thump on the back of my head.

“Tag! You're it!” yelled the orange blur as it flew around me, what a show off.

“Hold it!” I ordered the orange blur, and slowly it stopped to reveal a confused looking Scootaloo. An eyebrow raised at me expectantly as she hovered in before me.

“Okay, let me lay down some ground rules before we continue, alright?” with a sigh Scootaloo nodded once. She never was a fan of rules, especially when it came to me giving her a slap with the ol rule book.

“Rule number one, no flying. If I can't fly then neither can you, plus it's not fair” another sigh and a groan came from the hovering pegasus but she still nodded in acceptance. Good girl.

“And lastly, rule number two. When you tag me, don't put the force of a train behind it, okay?” and with one final nod the chase resumed. This time with both of us on equal grounds, and Scootaloo was still kicking my ass. Everytime I tagged her I upped my speed to get away from her as fast as I could. But no matter how hard I pushed myself I was out of shape. And Scootaloo? She was in her prime. 

“Dang, can you wheeze any harder? How long has it been since you jogged for the hell of it, sugar? Shit aint healthy!” scolded the drag queen in my head. 

“Shut up! My profession doesn't require aerobic exercise, you idiot!”

“Excuses, excuses! You're gonna get fat, all that ice cream is going to go to your hips and I don't want to hear you whining to me when it happens. Oh, and little miss tomcolt is about to tag you” right as my conscience finished his rant I felt a thump against my ribs.  Skidding to a halt I twirled to see Scootaloo already dashing away, laughing all the while. Then a mischevous idea popped in my head.

“Now that isn't such a bad idea, sugar. She'll never see it coming!” grinning at my conscience's words I enacted my devious plan. Checking to see that Scootaloo hadn't looked back I quickly ran to the oak tree, lining myself flat against its bark. And then I waited, listening for the clopping of Scootaloo's hooves against the grass.

“Cheerilee? Where'd you go?” I heard her say from somewhere behind the tree. She was panting, her breaths growing ragged as she spoke. She was getting tired, meanwhile I only felt mildly like I was having a heart attack. And that is even ground in my book.

“I thought we were playing tag, not hide and seek! Come out and face me you coward!” I smiled hearing the annoyance in her tone. But I kept quiet as the seconds ticked away until a loud thunk shook the tree. I nearly laughed at that one, short fuse much, Scootaloo?

“Alright, I'll play your game! I'm not even going to count down too! Ready or not here I come!” and the hunt was on as Scootaloo's hoof steps started coming towards me. Cursing under my breath I slowly circled the tree on the opposite direction, taking extra care not to step on a random twig or pinecone. This went on back and forth as she scoured the park for me, never knowing that I had never even left the tree once. 

“Ahah! Got yo-no it's just a squirrel. Where are you? Maybe here...oop, sorry ma'am! Didn't mean to step in your salad!” I watched as she scoured from bush to bush and all the way to trashing somepony's picnic to find me. It was comical as hell to say the least, but after a solid ten or so minutes of her hunting me I felt like it was time to throw her a bone. 

I whistled lightly, and Scootaloo instantly came running back to the tree. But I wasn't letting her win that easy, again she and I circled around the tree. Eventually I heard her huff and sigh as another thunk hit the tree.

“Dang it! Must have been a bird or something, where is that miss sappy pants?” sappy pants? We're resorting to name calling now? Oh that is the last straw. Waiting a little longer I heard her hoof steps start to head in the other direction. This was my chance, and so with a cheeky grin I made my move. Like a cheetah I sprinted from hiding with Scootaloo in my sights.

“Who're you calling sappy pants, you big chicken!” I roared as I swept up the filly in my hooves. With a tumble we fell over in a heap of hooves and giggles. As our rolling came to a stop I lay on the warm grass with Scootaloo close to my chest. Scootaloo and I laughed like crazy, she wore the happiest grin on her face that you could imagine. Of course my chest hurt a bit with me being out of shape, but seeing Scootaloo smile was worth it.

“Tag you're...it” I said as I caught my breath.

“You...cheated!” Scootaloo panted, a single hoof of hers playfully slapping me across my cheek.

“Yeah, I still won though” and so we lay there on the grass, our eyes to the clear blue sky. Just the two of us relaxing, with Scootaloo resting her head on my belly while I tussled her mane in my hooves absent mindedly. 

Suddenly a shadow was cast over us, something had blocked out our sun. I looked up to see a white young filly standing over us. Her yellow eyes gazing at us curiously like we were the most interesting things on the planet.

“Why hello there, do you need something?” I asked, breaking the silence. But my words seemed to startle the filly as she backed away from me, almost uneasily.

“I-I-I j-just want t-to ask...um...” stuttered the little filly as she struggled to maintain eye contact. Her eyes kept flicking from me and to the ground as she the internal conflict of asking me her oh so important question showed on her features. My goodness the poor thing is as introverted as they come. And just then a second shadow overcame the three of us, this one belonging to a just as white stallion.

“I'm sorry you two, my daughter really wants to ask you a question. Go on, Marble” he said in a soft voice to the filly. Instantly the filly named Marble perked up at her father's assurance. And with a little bit less of a stutter she spoke.

“Can I play w-with your d-daughter? I'm sorry, it's just that y-you two were h-having so much fun and...” well isn't she the cutest shy filly? Wait, did she say daughter?

“Sure! Do you wanna play tag?” Scootaloo jumped up, hovering over Marble with newfound enthusiasm. Wasn't she tired from before? 

“Y-Yeah, that sounds c-cool!” so Scootaloo and Marble left the me alone with the stallion. 

“Kids huh? So spry and all ready to go just like that. Wish I still had that much moxie, how about it, miss?” the stallion offered a hoof and I shook it. Oof, strong grip!

“Cheerilee, nice to meet you. And you are?” the stallion said nothing, merely pointing to the cutie mark on his flank. What looked to be a pile of red bricks stacked on top of each other lay on his flank.

“Let me guess, Brick?” my answer made the stallion laugh like it was the funniest joke ever. He nodded as his laughter died down until it was nothing but residual giggles. And as much as I hate to admit it, his laughing was infectious. What idiots we must have looked, two adults sitting on the grass laughing like maniacs.

“My gosh, that never gets old no matter how many times I tell it. Sorry for the terrible joke, I just couldn't resist!” and so the two of us quickly grew into pleasant acquaintances. We passed the time talking about the weather and what not while our respective fillies went about their games. He tried hitting on me once or twice.  I nicely told him I was taken though. 

And for a second he was as crestfallen as could be, but he instantly reverted back to his cheerful self as if nothing ever happened. Besides that awkward little moment, Brick and I became swell acquaintances. What felt like an hour passed until Scootaloo and the little filly named Marble came back to us. 

“That was fun! Hey Cheerilee, did you see us playing tag? Marble's fast! And she doesn't even have wings!”

“I'm n-not that fast...”

“Are you kidding me? You threw me for a loop the whole time! You're a natural athlete!”

“R-Really? Thanks...” shy little Marble blushed furiously at Scootaloo's compliments, how cute these two are. Looks like Scootaloo made a new friend. As the two fillies chattered amongs themselves Brick and I did the same. Although I wasn't paying much attention, we were just chatting about the weather. At least I didn't have to resort to responses outside of yes's, no's, and the occassional, oh really?

But our ever so exciting conversation about weather patterns didn't last long as Scootaloo came over to us with Marble close behind.

“Cheerilee, I'm ready to go home now. So is Marble, we're dead tired” Scootaloo said with a yawn, the little pegasus leaned herself against me with droopy eyes. Letting my motherly instincts take over I swept her up in my hooves and put her safe on my back. Feeling her hooves hook securely around my neck I started to say my good byes to Brick and his daughter. It's time to get this little scamp back home.

“Now if that isn't the sweetest thing I ever did see. Your daughter is such a cutie pie, you two must be closer than two peas in a pod huh?” the stallion's words stopped me dead in my tracks. Should I correct him? I kind of didn't want to, something about her calling me Scootaloo's mother just ticked something in me. Would I be a good mother to begin with?

“Yeah we are pretty tight, but she's not m-”

“We've been through a lot together, she's my little bundle of joy in this crazy world. But she can be a handful, you should see her when she's grumpy!” the words left my mouth before I could catch them, and right when I was about to take it all back it was too late. The damage was done and it left Scootaloo slack jawed. The stallion on the other hand wore a huge smile and gushed about his own kids or something. Honestly I wasn't paying attention, but I just nodded my head at him and left with the park with Scootaloo on my back.

As we made our rounds through town, Scootaloo kept silent and so did I. Now how was I going to explain that? Should I just say “hey, I've been secretely thinking about adopting you for a while” and just leave it like that? But that would just get her hopes up, I simply can't adopt anypony. Not until I get a steady income again, but would I be up for it when I do?

“Hey, Cheerilee? Why didn't you correct that dude back there?” crap, the spotlight is on me. What do I do?

“Just be honest with the fur ball, why lie?” I can think of several reasons why. But thinking back to when I lied to Twilight, keeping my feelings hidden from her. The results were explosive and I wouldn't want a repeat with Scootaloo. Best to come clean in this case. 

“Look Scootaloo, this is going to be hard to explain, alright? Um, you know that I care about you, right?” Scootaloo said nothing but she nodded. So far so good, don't lose your grip, self!

“Well you and I are like a team, we have a bond. Plus I care about you, a lot more than any of the other fillies in school. Buck, what I am trying to say is that you are one special filly and we have grown quite close. And...”

“And?” Scootaloo's eyes bore right through me, her one worded question hanging in the air. 

“Go ahead sugar, no need to hold back” taking my conscience's words in stride I went for it.

“And you are like a daughter to me, there I said it!” I cringed, expecting some sort of back lash from Scootaloo. Except there was none, only silence. And that could be taken several ways, not all of them good.

“Well duh” wait, what?

“What?” I repeated, this time aloud to the filly. My dumbfounded answer only made Scootaloo laugh as if it was the funniest thing in the world. I was at a loss.

“Come on, Cheerilee. You're getting sappy again and I know that you see me like your daughter. Anypony could see that, why else would you put up with all of my crap? And don't say it's your job as a teacher cause no teacher I know of would let a student sleep, eat and live in their home like a family member” and there goes my one alibi right out the window.

“And you know what else? I kinda sorta, well...”

“Scootaloo?”

“I think of you like the mom I never had sometimes...actually that's a lie. I think about you like that a lot, gosh I sound like a sad sap! This was so much easier to say in my head!”

“Well I think it's the sweetest thing, and the sappiest thing you have ever said”

“S-Shut up! I'm trying to pour my heart out here!”

“Okay, okay, sorry. I'm just poking fun, Scootaloo. But I really did mean it when I said it was the sweetest thing, I too think about you like you are my own daughter. Nothing's going to change that either, you're my pseudo daughter no matter what”

“Suddy what? Wait, so does that mean...that you will adopt me? Maybe, I mean, like it doesn't have to be now or anything! It was just a question, forget I said anything!” she was being so indecisive. She was nervous, and I couldn't blame her. The idea of being adopted by somepony caring must have riled up those dormant feelings of hers. And I am not going to disappoint her.

“Maybe I will” I said, leaving the statement linger in the air for a moment or two to let it sink in. Scootaloo's eyes widened, a smile threatening to show on her lips.

“What? Really?!” her voice was so full of wonder and hope, her eyes sparkling with excitement as she spoke.

“Yep”

“So is that a yes or a maybe?” she sounded unsure, maybe she thought I was joking. But this was far from a cruel joke, the exact opposite. That didn't mean I was going to make the answer easy for her.

“I dunno, you'll have to beat me in tag to find out!”

“Oh heck no, I am not letting you win this time!”

“And here I thought you were tired as hay earlier at the park?”

“Not when something as important as this is on the line!”

With newfound energy we dipped and dodged each other all over Ponyville. Scootaloo and I had the time of our lives, screaming and laughing all the way back to the orphanage. To everypony else they would have seen us as mother and daughter running around like two happy drunk fools. 

Breathless and exhausted, we arrived at the orphanage. Scootaloo eyed the building with a frown, I would too if I had to come back to this gloomy place after having so much fun. 

“So, how many times did I tag you?” Scootaloo asked in between pants. 

“Not nearly enough in my opinion”

“Oh come on!” I laughed as Scootaloo flew around me, punching playful punches against me as we strode into the orphanage. And as we entered I found that it was surprisingly more calm than I expected. I've been in here before once or twice, and let me tell you that it's usually a warzone in here. Making our way past the little colts and fillies going about their day I scoured the place for a certain mare. Just when I was about to give up hope I saw the light brown mare I've been looking for.

And she was currently being swarmed by a horde of blood thirsty children. She was covered in head to hoof in orphans, a few climbed on her back, others dangled from her tan tail and mane. One would think she would be scowling, but instead she boasted a large grin with laughter escaping her lips. As Scootaloo and I drew closer to the scene she noticed our approach, smiling sheepishly like a filly caught stealing from the cookie jar.

“Oh! Welcome, Cheerilee! Um, how're you?” she asked as she gently shook off the kids swarming her.

“Hooves full today?” I said, watching as the orphans continued to circle around her, poking and prodding her to get a reaction out of the poor mare.

“You have no idea, ow! Garnet, what did I say about pulling someponys tail?”  Young Heart scolded the filly hanging from her tail only to receive a flurry of raspberries instead. Before she could berate the filly any more, it unlatched itself and scurried off to Celestia knows where. Question is, was it a boy or a girl?

“Ugh, what a scamp that filly is. Anyways, what's up?

“Uh, yeah, I wanted to ask you a question”

“And what might that be? Oh, welcome back, Scootaloo” Young Heart waved to the filly and received a roll of her purple eyes in response instead. Something tells me these two aren't on good terms. 

“What are the rules on adoption, how would one adopt a lucky filly?”

“Well, first you would have to fill out the appropriate papers and pass home inspection. Background checks do apply as well. Why do you ask? Is there somepony you know that wishes to adopt?”

“Yes, and it's me”

“Splendid, now all you must do is, wait, you? Seriously?” Young Heart gasped, her jaw agape. What? Is there something in my teeth?

“Is that a problem?”

“No, no, no, not at all! I am just relieved to see that you have finally thought about adopting her. If anypony else did, I just don't know if they could show the same love and care you do. Scootaloo tells everypony here about how great you are. Her stories leave quite an impression, and I know a little filly like her wouldn't lie about this sort of thing”

I looked down to Scootaloo and to her blushing face.

“Really? And what things did she say about me?”

“Well, first of al-”

“Okay! How about we take a look at those adoption papers?” Scootaloo interrupted as she flew in between us. Her facing growing red as she tried her best to put distance between us with a flurry of hooves. This should be good, I wonder what is so embarassing that she is trying so hard to protect? 

“She talks about how much she loves you. How you are so kind and caring about her. The way she explained, how did she put it, oh right! You're her sappy guardian angel!” and there it is, 

“Sappy, huh?” I said flatly, eying the pegasus beneath me receiving a half assed smile in return.

“Yes, quite a title in my book! Now then, would you like to look over the adoption papers now?” Honest Heart asked, motioning a hoof towards a stack of papers on her desk. 

“I will” without missing a beat I took the intimidating stack in my satchel and left Young Heart to return to tending the other children. I felt a tug on my leg and I looked down to the source to see a teary eyed Scootaloo. Knealing down to the crying pegasus I wiped away the tears just begging to flow down her cheeks.

“This is really happening right? I'm not dreaming, right?” she sniffled, a hint of worry in her voice. And it's high time I get rid of her worry once and for all. Pulling her into my hooves I hugged my soon future daughter.

“Unfortunately yes, looks like you're going to be stuck with me for a while now” my words caused the filly in my hooves to giggle and snort as she hugged me back with all of her might. Her tears staining my coat as she embraced me, and I couldn't give any less of a damn.

“You mean you're stuck with me, you're the one signing you're death warrant!” Scootaloo giggled.

“I think it's worth it, we're a team aren't we?”

“Eeyup!” Scootalo's simple answer spoke a volume to us both. And so as we both reluctantly broke our hug we said our goodbyes. No, not goodbye, more like, see you later, in our case. Because when I finish reading and signing these forms...oh boy, the adventure begins. But one thing bothers me, am I ready for a filly of my own to take care of?

“I don't see why not, you teach the little ankle biters as a profession. Plus you and Scootaloo are inseperable, what can go wrong?”

What indeed can go wrong? She and I know each other well, having her living with me as a daughter wouldn't be any different than it is now, right? It'll be easy, speaking of easy, this day has been perfectly smooth. Everything has been looking up since the moment I woke this morning. All I had to do now was go on my date with Twilight, and that means I should hold off on revealing my adoption plans until a later date. Besides that, nothing can ruin this day, nothing!

“Speaking of day ruiners, you're going to show miss princess your special book collection. Got any plans for that, genius?” crap, I forgot.

“I can do this! It's just a collection of trashy novels, I can do this!”

Some Time Later...

“I can't do this! Alright Cheerilee, be cool. You can do this, she's just going to find about your dreadful hobby firsthoof. No big deal” I muttered to myself in a futile attempt to reassure myself. But as the visage of my home grew larger with every step so did my anxiety. This is not going to end well, she's going to think I'm a shameless pervert, and leave me because of my deviant hobby.  And that was the best case scenario in my head.

I should have called this off the moment we left the library. Maybe Twilight wouldn't mind if we spent our date at the park, maybe another dinner date? Something, anything else other than let her in my house. She'll look through my little library and everything will turn to shit. I suddenly regret my years of fueling my hobby now...

“Maybe you'll have time to hide the more smutty novels? Before she can check them that is. Create a distraction or something, pretend you have to style your hair or some crap, sugar” maybe that could work. I just have to say I have to use the bathroom and sneak upstairs the hide the more obscene books in my collection under the bed or something.

“What're you thinking? You look deep in thought. Is something bothering you?” asked Twilight as she draped a wing of hers over me. Almost instantly all those feel bad thoughts were snuffed out. Just her touch is enough to calm me down to think straight.

“Nothing, just freaking out over you taking a look at my library. Just nothing, really!” laughing sarcastically I pressed myself deeper into her wing hug. Twilight scoffed at my words complimented with a roll of her eyes and a squeeze of her wing. Sticking my tongue at her I rolled my eyes right back at her. 

“You're worrying too much! I am sure those books are lovely and not as terrible as you say they are” 

“Just don't think any less of me when we get-”

“Home” son of a bitch! I hadn't even noticed we arrived already. Wordlessly I unlocked the front door and let ourselves in. With a sigh, Twilight made herself at home, plopping herself on the infamous couch.  As I made my way to the kitchen to brew us up some coffee the room echoed with a sickly popping noise. Looking back to the alicorn on the couch I caught her stretching her wings, each twist and turn of her appendages created a chorus of pops.

“That sounds painful, coffee?” I grimaced at both the sight and sound as I started up the coffee maker.

“Quite the opposite, and yes please! I've had these kinks in my joints all darn day. Earlier when you were out with Scootaloo I went for some flying lessons with Rainbow Dash...” Twilight halted midsentence, a blush began to appear on her cheeks.

“Oh boy, what happened? You didn't crash, did you?” I teased the mare causing her to mumble and groan to herself. Smiling mischevously I gathered up our two steaming cups of coffee and took a seat next to my still grumbing marefriend. “What was that? I can't hear you with all that mumbling, princess”

For teasing her I received a glare for my effort. Nonetheless she took the cup of coffee she sipped it and as the steaming liquid receeded, so did that look of death. She still looked a bit pissed, her eyebrow furrowed a bit as she drank. She's so cute when she's mad. Eventually as we both finished our coffees in silence Twilight finally took up the courage to explain her misadventure.

“I...ashed...” Twilight whispered, her muzzle scrunched up as she hid herself behind her wings from me. What a cute defense mechanism, let's see what I can do to get her out of that shell.

“What was that? I can't hear you behind there” I sang in a sing song voice. My words however did little to ease her from hiding as another groan escaped her. She was still locked tight behind her feathery shield. Time for desperate measures!

“Well?” putting extra strain on that single word I pushed myself past her wings. Revealing for just a split second the incredibly red visage of Twilight Sparkle before she snapped them back shut. Again I pried open her wings and crawled on top of her. For added effort I batted my eyelashes at her as I gave her the biggest puppy dog eyes I could conjure up. Stacked on top of me laying on top of her, wearing a pouty face and nuzzling her chest? She didn't have a chance to ignore me now.	

“Hmm?” I hummed while keeping up my pouty face.

“Ugh, fine. I crashed into a tree, there I said it” Twilight groaned.

“So...is the tree okay” my voice shook from a barely held back giggle fit. I can picture it now, the elegant princess, Twilight Sparkle, crashing into a tree.

“Hah, ha very funny. No really, I'm dying of laughter over here” Twilight crossed her forelegs together, her eyes pointed straight up towards the ceiling. She tried to push me off but ended up awkwardly falling on her back and on her delicate wings. 

“Ow! Buck, jeez!” she hissed as her wings spasmed beneath her.

“Oh my gosh, they're still sore, aren't they?” way to point out the obvious, self!

“Like you wouldn't believe. Rainbow warned me not to get any kind of sudden pressure on them. Buck me, right?” and now the sudden guilt flowed in. I shouldn't have pushed on her like that, what was I thinking?

“Look, I know that this is partly my fault but maybe I can help? Can I give you a massage?” I asked, feeling responsible for her sudden pain. Gosh I am so stupid.

“Hmm, go ahead” Twilight accepted my offer as she rolled herself over revealing her still twitching wings. Now that looks painful. With a careful hoof I got to work...where do I start? Do I massage the joints, or do I work along the shafts?

“You have no idea what you are doing do you?” she hit the nail right on the head.

“Nope”

“Well then, it's a good thing Rainbow Dash lent me this book” Twilight's horn glowed which caused a book to levitate from her knapsack and into my waiting hooves. 

“Massaging and Stretching, the Pegasus Edition” read the title, interesting and convinient. A little too convinient.

“Really now, a book specifically on wing massage? Were you planning this, princess? Was that poor tree a planned casuality in your devious scheme to get me to massage you?” I teased, making goos use of my pet name for her. Princess, and she hated it when I called her that. I guess she isn't used to being called that yet, but it was fun to see her get flustered over it. 

“Equestria to Cheerilee, you're getting off track!” oh right, sorry my conscience!

“N-No of course not! Planning romantic evenings are one thing, but applying personal injury to it is so illogical. What am I, crazy?”

“Crazy enough to have Rainbow Dash as a flight teacher” 

Twilight grumbled at my teasing and I just smiled.

“Okay, let's see here...start at the base between the joints and blah blah blah. Simple!”

“I don't like the sound of that”

“Hush now, your about to get a Cheerilee patented massage. No purchase necessary!” and with my terrible sales pony impersonation out of the way I began my work. With book in hoof I skimmed over the first few chapters on massaging of the joints. The content was unsurprisingly detailed, every single part of a pegasus's wing was labeled in diagrams. From the scapulars to the alula, everything was presented in great detail. After five minutes of skimming I deemed myself an expert at wing massages and got to work.

With a careful touch I began massaging the spot where the wings connected at the base of her back. Slowly but surely I rubbed the joint of each wing with extra care. I looked over at Twilight for any signs of discomfort, she had her eyes closed, that can be either good or bad right? Nonetheless I continued, keeping extra wary for any signs of pain from  my marefriend.

“The book said to massage each joint for five to ten minutes. Based on the clock it's been five for each one. Next I have to move to the deltoid major and so on if the book is trustworthy. Here goes nothing!”

“I'm going to regret this, aren't I?”

“Just relax and let me know if you feel any discomfort”

“Famous last words!” snickered the gay voice in my thoughts.

“Shut up!” 

An Agonizingly Long Hour Later...

After testing, poking, and prodding Twilight's wings I eventually found out what helped compared to what hurt. In the end after much backlash from Twilight's nagging and slaps I managed to work every kink out of her wings. Let me tell you that it was not easy, massaging a wing let alone two, is a challenge. One I would not take apart of again, unless Twilight needed me of course. But if it wasn't her in the grand scheme of things? Let's just say that wing massage therapy can go buck itself.

It was nowhere near as romantic as my novels described, go figure. But at least Twilight feels better, I think.

“And that is that, finally! How do you feel? Any soreness or anything?” giving one last rub against her back I watched while she gave her wings a tentative flap. Suddenly she flapped them consecutively, any faster and she would fly right off the couch!

“Oh my gooosh, that feels so much better! Thank you so much, Cheerilee” Twilight half moaned half sighed as she flapped her wings. Mesmerized by her flapping I couldn't help but keep my hooves on her for a little while longer. She eeped at my sudden touch, her wings growing rigid as they froze in mid flap. 

“Y-You can stop n-now you know”

“I just want to give my marefriend extra special care? What's so bad about that?” I spoke, not realizing how sultry I sounded before it was too late. That came out way too sexual than I intended. Hopefully she didn't take it that way, not that I would might. And right as Twilight was about to speak, there was a knock on the door.

“Oh come on! I'll get it” grumbling all the way to the front door I opened it to reveal a familiar face. Standing there with the same happy expression as always stood Ditzy. When have I ever seen this mare frown? Always sunshine and butterflies with this one.

“Heya Cheers! Got a letter for ya!” blurted the bubbly mare, a letter held in her jaws.

“Is it from who I think it is?” I asked as I took the letter, not minding that a little bit of Ditzy drool soaked the corners. It's not her fault, without apposable thumbs or magic you have to make do. Your bound to get saliva on something if you have to carry things in your mouth.

“Yup yup! I took a look at the sender at the post office, it's from your school! Probably some good news!” 

“Here's hoping, eh Ditzy?” I said with a smile, hoping this was the letter I was hoping for all month.

“Yup! See ya later!” and with that she was gone leaving me holding possibly the most important letter of the week. Without wanting to wait I tore it open on the spot and read it over.

“Dear Cheerilee, after much debate and meetings we have finally come to a conclusion on your predicament. And I am proud to say that we at the student council would like to formerly reinstate you back into the work force. You are slated to return to your regular schedule next week starting monday. We hope to see more of your wonderful work etiguette, sincerely, Bookworm. Ps, I heard you're dating a princess, how's that going for you?”

No way, no bucking way! I'm getting my job back, wait till I tell Twilight! With letter in hoof I galloped back to the living room intent on screaming the good news. But Twilight was nowhere to be found, where is she? Just then I heard a thump from upstairs. That sounds like it came from my libra...oh shit.

With letter in hoof I rushed upstairs to find that it I was already too late. To my horror Twilight sat on her haunches reading a book. And to make matters worse several more novels floated around her with her magic. I couldn't tell what her expression was with her back turned, but I could imagine she must be disgusted with me. Might as well start apologizing now before my grave gets any deeper, it wasn't like I didn't see this coming.

“I just want to apologize for all of this, I know it's low and some might say depraved. But I digres-”

“I didn't even know they had the sequel to The Lusty Equestrian Maid, where did you get this?”

“Yeah I know, I'm teri-whuh?” did I just hear that right?

“Hm? Oh yes, sorry about not asking your permission to come up here. My curiousity got the better of me” Twilight smiled sheepishly as she returned to her reading.

“It's alright, so...this doesn't creep you out at all? Don't you feel a little bit disgusted?” I was utterly confused, here she is perusing my collection without a hint of disgust in her expression. Instead all I saw was a look of curiosity and...glee?

“Are you kidding me? I love and have read most of these romance series!” Twilight squeaked, the alicorn looked positively giddy at all of the smut surrounding her. Well butter my flank and call me a biscuit, I did not see this coming.

“I never thought of you as somepony to indulge in romance novels, especially the trashy kind. I guess I overreacted again huh?” I felt completely stupid for even feeling worried in the worst place. Even if Twilight wasn't into this stuff, what would make her see me any less than what I am now? I really need to stop doubting.

“I wouldn't say that, it's perfectly normal to be defensive about a hobby like this. Not there is anything wrong about it. And to tell you the truth, I have my own personal collection too!”

“No way, seriously?” this is just getting better and better! Who knew she had such a naughty streak?

“Not joking! I have a small little stash under the floor boards underneath my bed, although it's been neglected as of late. Nevertheless I love reading a nice short story about romance between star crossed lovers. Gets me everytime.”

“Well if you like stories like that you should check out the rest of my collection...

And so began our wonderful night together. Spending time in each other's company, reading romance novels together under the covers of my warm bed. This was just like the sleepovers I had when I was a filly, instead now I shared a passion of romance with the one I loved. All while under the covers giggling like mad mares over which characters would do best as a couple. This is what love is, to share your dark secrets with somepony, to accept each other no matter how bucked up their hobbies are. If I can discuss when the next sequel for my smutty romance novel is coming out with my marefriend and have her share the same enthusiasm for it? 

That's acceptance and true love in my book. 

After a long while things began winding down with Twilight reading on the bed and I replacing all of the strewn out books in the room. Why were there books everywhere? Let's just say things got...explosive. A magic spell may have gone off by accident, nothing serious happened though. And note to self, clean the books of any leftover weeks worth of dust!

“So where has Spike been the whole day? I haven't seen him since this morning” I asked as I cleaned up, only now noticing how it was that he was absent the whole day. Especially on a day nearly stacked with chores. I had Twilight to help me out so I didn't have that much of a stressful time. But still, where did that little guy scamper off to?

“I lent Spike to Rarity to help her with some chores of her own. Gem hunting and all of that I suppose. This way he won't be lazy and he will still have a good time ogling his crush” Twilight answered. 

“Not a bad way to spend the day I guess, do you ever think they would ever be an item, Twilight?” I wondered if that would work out, a grown up Spike hanging around dainty little miss Rarity. How would he even fit in a house when he matures? How would they even...blegh that is an image I didn't want in my head!

“You're telling me! Bring me the brain bleach!”

“Personally, I would love for Spike to be with the one he likes. But I am still leaning on the fact that he will grow out of his crush. Both literally and physically in his case!” maybe she's right. It's just a crush, puppy love that would soon end eventually, maybe.

“Baby dragon's aside, what do you want to do tonight?” I popped the question as I continued my organizing, pausing for just a moment for a answer that never came. Only silence in response. But before I could turn around I suddenly felt lighter than a feather. Taking a look down I saw that it wasn't just a feeling, I was floating! And before I could express concern in the form of a scream I noticed a purple aura around my midsection. A soft giggle sounded out behind me as I hovered through the air.

Now this was surreal, being carried by my marefriend like an pony sized ragdoll. Slowly I twirled around in mid air to face the alicorn I question and the mischevous look on her face.	

“Yes Miss Sparkle? Do you require something? Are my shelfing skills not up to snuff perhaps?” I asked, propping my head on my hooves with a raised eyebrow. 

“As a matter of fact, I do. You are much too slow, too deliberate. Your work etiquette has been lacking as of late, is something on your mind?” said the purple alicorn as she floated me closer, a few feet remained between us. Now what is she doing now? Role playing? As I wondered I noticed a book resting by her side. A certain book about lusty maids and dominating master figures, so that's what she's playing at. Alright, I'm game.

“Now this should be interesting” I thought, flashes of different ways this scenario would end popping up in my head.

“Perfect time for some smutty role play I say, go get her, sugar!”

Now what should I say? Hmm, what would a lusty maid getting caught lazing about say right now?

“Oh I was just thinking about a certain somepony, I'm afraid to say she's been all I could think about lately” playing along with Twilight's game I feigned a worried expression. Running my hooves over each other as I tried to look as meek as possible.

“And who is this somepony? I simply must know of the culprit that has been leading my subject astray. The one who has taken you away from me!” Twilight's raised her voice at me as she interrogated me. She's really getting into this it seems. 

“Where do I start? She is simply wonderful, her very presence drives me insane. Miss Sparkle, please understand I simply cannot get her off of my mind” I said with the most exagerrated sigh I could muster, a single hoof rested over my face for dramatic effect.

“What is so perfect about this mystery mare? I demand you inform me at once!” Twilight raised her voice even higher, but I noticed the corner of her lips curl into a ghost of a smile ever so slightly. She's trying so hard to stay in character. I might just burst out laughing too if I'm not careful.

“How do I even begin to explain? She's an alicorn, her soft fur is a deep exsquisite shade of purple. Her smile melts me to my core, her enthralling eyes, like purple orbs that pierce my very being. And she is so very smart, a savant of the mind! What more do you want me to say?” I said in a voice you'd hear from a terrible soap opera actress. I made me want to roll my eyes something fierce but I stayed in character, I had a feeling it was about to get interesting.

“What else? I am not convinced that this alicorn is amazing. Please elaborate some more, subject!” as Twilight spoke she gave me a gentle shake. Guessing that that was my cue(what is words) for a exasperated moan I performed my terrible acting. Much to Twilight's amusement as her tiny smile threatened to break free. I on the other hand was struggling to hold back my laughter. Gosh my acting is horrible, it's so cringe worthy!

“Well...” I began to say, gathering up every flustering compliment I could think of. Anything to see a blush on my marefriend's face.

“Yes? Do tell!” said my purple princess in a tone I would describe as happily impatient. I giggled a bit as she floated me even closer to her, our faces just inches apart.

“Why, for one thing she is the most amazing kisser. Her lips so soft, her tongue? Wonderfullly invasive and so very warm against my own in our heated moments. And don't get me started on how she uses her oh so dextrous tongue. Such a skill I had not expected of her, but nothing I regret to take part of” as I rolled out the compliments, Twilight's blush grew redder. Looks like I am winning this one!

“W-Well she does sound like quite the mare...wait just a moment! All of the descriptions combined with the earlier details, it sounds like you have been describing me the whole time!” Twilight said as she gasped.

“I am afraid you found me out” I hung my head in shame as I spoke, but mostly to hide the ever growing smile on my face. I don't think I can keep this charade up any longer, it's too cheesy!

“How  uncouth of you to lust over your princess! Unprofessionally deviant is what you are, but I suppose I shant blame you for doing so. I am quite amazing after all” okay, somepony is getting a little too much of herself at the moment.

“It is most unprofessional indeed. I am a foolt to have brung it up, I will accept any punishment that you deem fit” I said with another wistful sigh. I made sure to pose as if I would faint with a hoof against my head for dramatic effect. Barely laughing out loud at my own words I maintained my terrible acting speal. And Twilight looked to be stifling a giggle fit of her own as well. We must look like complete fools right now, but I don't care, I'm having fun!

“Indeed, your punishment will be swift...” Twilight managed to compose herself long enough to speak once more. This time lacing her words with a foreboding tone. I stayed silent as she hovered me closer. Her lips were so close now, I wanted to meet her halfway but I held back. There is no way I'm going to ruin our already fragile role playing moment. Just a bit more...

“And what is my punishment, princess?” I received my answer in the form of a chaste kiss. A single soft peck and she pulled away, smiling with a twinkle in her eyes. And that twinkle couldn't look any more mischevous, a sly grin formed on her lips. My heart beated a bit faster at the thought of what is running through that mind of hers. What devious, naughty ideas could she be conjuring up? I wonder what she would do next, and boy was I not disappointed.

Next thing I knew I was tossed onto my bed with a plop. I moved to sit up only to be forced down by an unseen force. My forelegs were suddenly strapped to my sides, my whole body frozen in place. Struggling a bit to see if I could move I was met with nothing but stillness. That's when I noticed the familiar magical bindings on my body. If my heart was racing before then now it was speeding off a mile an hour.

“Now then, are you comfortable?” my head snapped up to see Twilight looking down on me. Her mane tickling my muzzle as she loomed over me.

“It's a little tight, but I am well, princess” I muttered, shaking myself to rid the tight feeling on my sides. A flash of concern went across Twilight's features as she heard my answer. In that moment her horn glowed and my ethereal bindings loosened. I smiled, even with us role playing she still wanted to be cautious about my well being. And I love her for that.

“There, better?” she asked with a quick peck on my lips. I wordlessly nodded and my answer seemed to calm her down a bit.

“Good, now then...” I watched silently a sTwilight slinked over me. Ever so slowly she ran her hoof tips against my sides, trailing down to my hips. Damnt it did I want her to keep going, but she kept herself tantalizingly close. By Celestia's ass did she tease me, it killed me not to be able to do anything about it. Only being able to lay here and watch as she tortured me with every little sensation.

And I loved every second of it.

“You've been quite the lusty maid, Cheerilee. To think a subject of mine had been lusting over me for so long without me noticing. Here I thought being simply friends sharing a kiss or two would be enough. But now I see that perhaps I have teased you far too much...” Twilight trailed off while she brought her head clost to mine. She gazed into my eyes and I gazed right back. 

Without a word she placed her lips upon my own in a loving kiss. Letting my eyes close I eased into it, letting her take the lead as I parted my lips for her. Slowly her tongue slithered it's way into my mouth, wrapping itself around my own in a warm embrace. Her kissing grew faster, more desperate as she pressed her body against me. I relished in the heat radiating from her, and she no doubt did the same. But right when I was getting into it she pulled away, a strand of spittle connected our tongues.

Now if that isn't a turn on...

“Focus!” my conscience suddenly yelled out from the depths of my mind.

“Shut up!” I thought, loudly.

Shaking myself back to reality I was met with the half lidded gaze of my marefriend. A smirk on her lips, oh here we go.

“Or perhaps I have not teased you enough” Twilight's voice was low and husky as she kissed my cheek. And so to my excitement she kissed down my jaw line, pecking down until she made contact with my throat. Ever so slowly did she peck against my skin, playfull ruffling my fur with a lick here and a prod there. All the while she ran her hooves up and down my chest. Every time she repeated her oh so slow pattern she moved closer south.

I couldn't help but gasp out her name, feeling all tingly from her touch. She's driving me insane, and I loved it.

“Are you alright, my subject? Your breath is quickening...” she asked, her hoof stopping just shy below my belly. It was maddening, she was so close!

“I-I apologize,princess. Your touch is simply sublime, you're driving me insa-ah!” Twilight cut me off as she bit down on my neck. Her teeth gently nibbling along my throat sending tingling sparks up my spine. My heart thumped like mad, my breath catching in my throat. To put it simply I was a twitchy mess and I was at her mercy. Did I mention that I was loving this?

“Shh, I didn't give you permission to speak, subject. If you can control yourself for a little while longer...” she said, her hooves left my body, her touch denied of me. I whimpered her name again and bucked my hips, trying to reach for her touch. Suddenly a flash of light blinded me, as the light died out I found myself speechless. Or more accurately, gagged. An ethereal aura surrounded my mouth effectively silencing me. So much for small talk.

“Tisk, tisk, tisk! What did I just say? Another peep out of you and I'll leave you here alone. All tied up without me, do you want that?” her words stopped me cold, just the thought of her stopping now...that was the last thing I wanted. And my oh my is she getting into the whole master role play or what? She's a natural dominatrix! The nerdy Twilight has a naughty streak, it's kinda hot. Alas I catered to her whim as I forced myself to lay still.

“Good girl, now where were we?” Twilight pondered, a single hoof of hers idly stroking my belly. Said hoof moving slowly at a snails pace back south. No way, is she really going to...? Today? Tonight? I thought she was just kidding earlier, all part of the role playing I thought. 

“Oh my gosh! Oh my gosh! Oh my gosh!” the same thought repeated over and over again in my mind. My heart raced, my breathing eratic and my body felt hotter than the sun. Every signal in my body screaming for me to panic. Was I ready? To spend a intimate moment like that with her? Feelings of insecurity and lust filled my senses, what do I do? What if she leaves me like Mortar did?

What if I wake up to an empty bed again? No, she wouldn't do that. She's nothing like Mortar, but what if...

“Cheerilee? Are you ok?” Twilight's words brought me out of my thoughts, I looked over to see a look of concern plastered on her face. With a flick of her horn she whisked away the aura that covered my mouth. I inhaled and exhaled slowly as my heart beat slowly died down. The excitement was gone replaced with a sense of longing. We were so close, and my panic ruined everything.

“I'm...sorry, I just started panicking. I haven't had...relations in a long time, you know? It's dumb, I'm dumb! Here I am freaking out like it's my first time, gosh I'm stupid!” I kept berating myself over and over again. Hoping that it would somehow fix this, but I knew it wouldn't.

“It's alright, I went a little too fast then? Was I too rough? I followed everything in the books, and you reacted accordingly...”

“No it's not that, I loved everything you did back there. It's just that I don't think that I'm not...” 

“Ready?” Twilight finished my sentence, and her voice sounded beyond worried with just that one word.

“Yes and I just thought, never mind. It's a stupid thought, your going to think I'm stupid” I sighed, rubbing my temples with my hooves to alliate the oncoming migrane. I turned away from Twilight, not willing to look her in the eyes. Why am I so stupid? I can't even look at her, all I could do is shut myself in.

“Try me” I felt hooves work around the crook of my neck, soft feathers tickling me all over. Blinking my eyes open I found Twilight embracing me with all of her might. She nuzzled me, no doubt trying her best to coax me into talking. With a sigh I nuzzled back, time to explain myself.

“I just...I just kept thinking back to what Mortar did to me. How I slept with him, how he broke my heart. I'm afraid if I let you get close you'll throw me away like he did” there, I said it. And I felt a lot better for it, but that nagging feeling still stayed behind. 

“You are so silly” Twilight softly laughed and I was just left feeling puzzled. What's so funny?

“I will never do that to you, I love you too much to ever hurt you. No matter how much your mind doubts me, but I bet your heart tells a different story. Ignore those pesky thoughts for a while, listen to your heart. What does it say?” 

“It says...that I am a huge bucking idiot for doubting all of this. And I agree with it, I'm sorry...” I whimpered into Twilight's chest and she hugged me tighter in return. I felt so safe in her hooves, I never felt this way with Mortar. Why did I even think that she would be the same as him? I'm such a fool.

“You have nothing to be sorry for, I understand completely. Believe me when I say this, I will never abandon you. I love you, Cheerilee, and that is a cold hard fact!” to prove her point she planted a kiss on my lips. Not one of lust or need. But one of love and care. Reluctantly we both pulled apart, our eyes met. 

Right now in this moment, I know she is the one. This mare holding me in her gentle touch, princess Twilight, is the mare I want to spend the rest of my life with. It sounds cheesy as hell, and I couldn't care any less. Just her and I together is enough for me. This is what I always wanted, a pony I could love that loves me for who I am. 

Time passed and I had no idea what time it was. But I didn't care, all I cared about was the mare holding me. She and I whispered sweet nothings to each other as we cuddled. Her hooves ran through my mane as she said such lovely words into my ear. And I did the same, idly tracing semi circles on her chest. This was bliss, no sex, no need for adventure to get our kicks. Just the two of us without a care in the world.

Perfection is what I would call it.

“Oh my gosh! I just remembered! Oh crud!” and I spoke too soon.

“What? What's wrong?” I asked her, hoping whatever that bothered her wouldn't end our cuddling. Anything but that!

“I forgot to write to Celestia today, she's going to kill me! I'm never late in writing to her!” Twilight's voice grew louder and louder as she panicked. Was a letter really that important?

“Calm down, Twi! It's just a letter” I tried to calm her down but she laughed a sarcastic laugh.

“Just a letter? Just a letter?! I never miss a letter, and this one was so important! It was a royal missive, I had to schedule a diplomatic sanction! Do you have any idea what Celestia will do if she doesn't get that schedule?” she was hyperventilating now, and no amount of calming her down was helping. 

“Calm down, will she really freak out as much as you are right now?” I asked, hoping my question could distract her from the issue. It didn't.

“You have no clue! I'm so screwed!”

“Hold on a second, maybe there is still time to write that schedule? When is it supposed to be due?” 

“Tomorrow morning!”

“Oh crap...” well that doesn't leave us much room for error.

“Oh crap is right, what am I going to do?” Twilight asked, her voice full of worry.

“I got it handled”

“Wha-” Twilight couldn't finish what she was about to say, seeing as how my lips were locked on her own.

“Shush now, I have this handled. You wait here and I'll head to the library to get your things. What am I looking for?” as I broke the kiss I hopped off of my bed and prepared to leave. Putting on a warm coat for the cold weather outside I turned to my marefriend.

“It's a blue tinted scroll, with a golden insignia for a seal on it! Hurry!” Twilight didn't need to tell me twice as I sprinted outside. I didn't even bother to lock the door behind me. Bucking hell it's cold out! The things I do for love!

“It'll be worth it! Just imagine the appreciation sex you could get, sugar! Your second chance!” now if that isn't an enticing thought. But right now I would rather get out of the cold, and the library is nearly thirty minutes away. Celestia bucking damnit! Okay, calm down, self. Do it for her, do it for the sweet cuddling!

Meanwhile in Cheerilee's Home...

I listened as the tell tale sound of the front door shutting filled my ears. Cautiously I crept downstairs and found that Cheerilee was indeed gone. 

“Okay, now that she is out of the house I can move onto stage two...” just like I had planned early this morning I whistled as hard as I could. Seconds later there was a knock on the door.

“It's me! Let me in, it's cold out!” Spike's voice sounded out from behind the door. Quickly I unlocked the door revealing a shivering Spike. And his package, a big satchel strapped across his back. He seemed to be struggling under the weight.

“Did you bring everything? Is the letter placed right where I asked?” I asked, using my magic to remove his load. 

“Yep, everything you asked for. Those candles, ingredients and all that stuff! Plus I put that letter right on the welcome mat just like you asked” as Spike spoke I looked inside of the satchel and found that everything was indeed safe inside.

“Fantastic, now for stage three! Spike, you know what to do!” I tossed the bag back to Spike and went to setting the kitchen table. One by one I set the candles I bought down precisely where they should be, one on my side and one on Cheerilee's side. 

“That should do it, hey Spike did yo-”

“Already on it! Dinner should be ready in half an hour!” Spike announced as he went about his duties. I watched proudly as my little assistant hastily prepared the ingredients set out before him. With a steady claw he chopped up vegetables and set a pot of water to boil. “This stew is going to be sweet!”

I chuckled at his enthusiasm. When I asked him this morning what would be a perfect meal for a romantic dinner he instantly offered cooking for me. He said it would be great practice in case he would have to cook something on the fly for Rarity someday. 

“Roger that, do you need any help?” I offered to help but Spike only shook his head.

“Nah, I got this! Just relax, Twi” and so I did, relax I mean. Well, not really, I tried to but it didn't work. I couldn't keep myself still, I tried keeping my head clear of any intrusive thoughts. I recited excepts from stories I read, formulated equations, everything I could think of to keep myself calm. But everytime Cheerilee popped into my thoughts, not that I was complaining. I wonder if she'll like the dinner?

And speaking of dinner, it already smells amazing! It's not even done yet and I want to dig in, what's Spike's secret for cooking so well? Maybe it was his opposable thumbs, yeah definitely those thumbs.

“Twi, your doing the thing that Cheerilee does sometimes! Snap out of it before you go all zombie on me!” rolling my eyes at Spike I went back to thinking about a certain teacher. I wonder if she'll be upset I sent her on a fool's errand, but how else was I going to get her out of the house for all of this? I'm sure she won't be upset, she isn't the type of mare to get like that. And I can't wait for her to come back, just the two of us alone, having dinner under candle light. Well, not entirely just the two of us.

Looking over at Spike I saw that he was still focused on his cooking. He looked so serious, his brow furrowed ever so slightly. And his tongue poking out between his pursed lips. Now if that isn't the most determined expression of focus I ever did see.

“Food's almost done, you should tidy yourself up before Cheerilee comes back!” snapping out of my thoughts I looked to the clock. Nine o clock, wow, had half an hour already passed? Regardless of the time, I quickly went upstairs and went along prettying myself up. A quick shower, a few brushes of my mane, a few mints for good luck and I was ready to go. Smiling at myself in the mirror I went downstairs and found Spike setting up the table. Two steaming hot bowls of vegetable stew rested neatly ready to be eaten.

“And that should do it! Now we just need the guest of honor to show up. Do you want me to hide upstairs now or later?” Spike asked with a yawn.

“Don't worry about it, go on and relax for a while. I'll think of something to tell Cheerilee when she comes back, so relax” and no sooner did the word relax left my lips did Spike fall asleep on the spot. I awed at the sight of the baby dragon sprawled on the carpet floor, his tongue lolling about in mid snore. Focusing my magic around Spike I gently carried him over next to me on the couch. Poor little guy, he's been busy the entire day with my errands. I will definitely make it up to him later for all of his hard work.

But for now I will wait for my marefriend to return, and then things should get interesting. Very interesting indeed.

Somewhere outside...

“Ah, a letter huh? Planning on something romantic, little miss princess? Heh, you just made my job a whole lot easier, you limey cunt!” cackled a shadow as it slinked it's way over to the letter left by Spike. For a second a glow emanated from the shadow's horn and the same light washed over the letter. When the light disappeared the shadow slithered away back into his hiding place in the bushes.

“And now I wait...damn, I should have chosen a better hiding place. This prickly bush is stabbing me in my cobblers! But it's worth it, it'll be worth it...”

Back at the Library... 

Shutting the library door closed behind me I lept back into the quiet streets of Ponyville. Not a soul was out, except for me of course. And boy was it chilly out, thank Celestia I still had this old coat around at home. Shivering slightly against the night air I listened to my surroundings. Nothing, except for the crinkling of Twilight's special scroll in my coat pocket. I hope it doesn't get too crinkled in there. Speaking of letters, I just remembered I forgot to share with her the good news about my rehiring. Oh well, I'll tell here when I get home.

And another thing, how the hell does an oh so special letter get stuck on top of a bucking bookshelf? I had to use a freaking ladder, and I hate ladders. Nearly broke my neck twice trying to climb that stupid thing. Something tells me Twilight planned this, how the heck does she lose a letter all the way up there? Regardless of the cause, I hope she doesn't give me flak over wrinkling it.

I didn't mean to fall on it after tumbling off the ladder, honest!

“Your marefriend won't mind I am sure. A few wrinkles won't be an issue seeing as how you volunteered to brave the cold for her. Or maybe she will go all psycho on you for ruining such an important letter. It can go either way really” well that was reassuring.

And then I heard something, a sound of a small rustle. Or maybe a crack, like somepony stepping on a twig? I looked around, never stopping for a second but never wavering in my alertness. Maybe a stray dog or cat is wandering about?

“Whatever the buck it is I offer that we get the hell back to home! Hustle it up, sugar!”

“You don't have to tell me twice!” and with that said I quickened my pace to a quick trot. No sooner than I started moving faster did the very same sound from earlier pop up again. It matched my movements, every time I sped up so did it, and when I slowed down it disappeared until I moved again. My heart rate picked up speed, the sensation of adrenaline kicking up my nerves like wild fire. It was fight or flight, and I flew the hell out of there, so to speak. 

“What I wouldn't give for a pair wings right now!”

After nearly giving myself a heart attack from running so damn bucking fast I arrived home. 

“Huh? What's this?” I muttered to myself as I noticed something pecuiliar. A letter lay on the welcome mat in front of my home. And it looked familiar, purple envelope...a letter from my admirer. Or Twilight in this case, did she send me another letter? But why? Was she feeling nostalgic?

“Maybe she's trying to be romantic or something? Go check it out, sugar” maybe my conscience's hunch was right. Only one way to find out right? Carefully I picked up the letter and immediately recognized Twilight's hoof work, it had the same style and everything. A wax seal closed the letter, the tell tale insignia of a book she had used when she was still my unknown admirer. Something was off though, the envelope had wrinkles and nicks in some spots.

This definitely wasn't given any care, as if somepony hastily sealed it and left it here for me to find. That doesn't seem like Twilight's style, unless she had left it here only for it to be forgotten. And even that sounds far fetched, this doesn't smell right at all. Yet, I have to open it, I just have to see what's inside. And so as  I went to tear open the envelope I felt an odd sense of foreboding dread in my mind. But why should I worry? It's just a letter, right?

“I don't like this either, sugar. Something just doesn't sit right with me with this dang old letter. Just put that thing down and let us pretend like we read it huh?” for a second I agreed with my conscience, but my curiousity out weighed my flamboyant friend's cautionary words. It's just a letter, how can a slip of paper be dangerous? Carefully I tore through the seal with a careful hoof, and no sooner than the seal had been broken did I hear a soft buzzing noise. And is the letter...glowing?

“What in the-”

A flash of light erupted from the letter and the mare became enveloped by it. No so much as a shriek escaped her as she fell to the ground with a thud. Taking a quick look around the area I found that nopony had noticed the flash. Thank Celestia, that would have been a disaster. And with a silent cackle I left my hiding place from that damn itchy bush, approaching the piled heap that was the mare.

“That spell worked like a charm, sure as hell beats chloroform on a rag. I should probably switch to the whole spell making trade, might be a bit easier than swindling fools. Starting to get tired of conning idiots, getting to risky as of late...lost a few teeth for it too” I grumbled to nopony in particular as I inspected the mare, my trophy. Residual sparks of magic fluttered about her face. Her oh so serene face, the look of complete relaxation. Not a single lick of consciousness, save for the occassional twitch of her ears.

“What a pretty picture you are, Cheerilee. If only you wit was stronger than your curiousity, poppet. I told you that you hadn't seen the last of me, and you know what?” with a gentle hoof I brushed a lock of her mane to my nose and took in her scent. That familiar scent, she still uses the same blue berry shampoo during her college days. “So intoxicating...I really think you and I have some catching up to do...”

I chuckled at my words as I lifted the mare onto my back with a bit of a struggle. 

“Damn, you got a little bit heavier than I remember. Been binge eating ice cream, eh poppet?” Cheerilee said nothing, only soft snoring in response. She looked so peaceful, so delicate, so vunerable. I couldn't help but chuckle at all of this, I can't wait to see the look on her face when wakes up bound and gagged instead of next to that alicorn. Ugh, that purple harlot of a alicorn, bitch ruined my plans before. But not this time.

I wonder what she'll do, how will she react when she finds her beloved missing? I can imagine the scene, a bunch of tears and wails I reckon. Might even call the guard or some princess bullshit to find Cheerilee. Too bad I won't be here to see that harlot squirm, I'm sure there will be a tabloid in the paper about it. Let's see how she likes it when somepony tears something precious from her, I still miss my teeth. Tonguing the empty spaces in my gums I looked over my shoulder at the knocked out Cheerilee.

“It's going to be a long day for us tomorrow, poppet. I have such wonderful things to show you. A little date, just you and I” chuckling at the very thought of what I had planned, I must have looked like a mad stallion. If I keep talking to myself I might grow a conscience, imagine that? Shaking my head of the ridiculous idea I started my trek to the seedy part of Ponyville and to a very special place. But something was bothering me, had I forgotten something?

“Nah, I'm sure it's nothing. I should go, spending too much time out in the open might buck me over. Never know if the guard are prowling out around here, damn pigs. Buck em, am I right Cheerilee? Oh right, you're knocked out aint ya? You won't be for long, and when you do wake up?” with a smirk and one last smug chuckle I trotted with my trophy on my back. The next few hours are going to be quite interesting, very interesting indeed.