Spike felt like he was living in a nightmare that just wouldn't stop.
A nightmare that saw fit to take place within the Ponyville Supercenter at precisely 2 a.m. He had to constantly remind himself why he was crazy enough to brave the midnight hours in the middle of a snowstorm, just to keep himself from going insane.
"Alright, Spike. You can do this. Rainbow is only gonna be pregnant for a couple more months, and then she'll stop asking for outrageous food and grocery items like this."
Pulling out the list, Spike glanced over it, checking off the items he had already gotten.
"Let's see… Cantaloupe? Check. Almond butter? Check. Cocoa Splosion? Double check. Sassafras Vinegar Rice Cake? ...Ugh, check. Now let's see, one last item here… It can't be. No!"
It was far beyond his worst nightmare, or the nightmare of any male creature for that matter. Looking over the list one last time to make sure he wasn't seeing things, he realized there was no mistake.
"Paradise Protection Plus Pads… why me?!"
Steeling his nerves, he accepted that fate hated him and travelled to the aisle he had hoped he would never have to go down.
Passing packs of tampons and other things, he eventually was able to search out the item needed.
"Alright, Paradise, yeah, protection," he said, mumbling to himself, verifying the item's legitimacy. Unfortunately, two stallions just happened to walk by and, of course, snickered and laughed.
Pouting and cursing under his breath, the tired and embarrassed dragon found his way to the checkout, where a younger mare was waiting. "Oh no…"
One by one, Spike put up the items he was purchasing. The mare simply hummed and smiled… until she got to the pads, which is when she looked up at Spike.
Oh no, here it comes.
"Your mate sure is lucky to have somepony as dedicated and loving as you," she said sweetly, putting the item in the bag with the rest.
Spike turned his thoughts to the mare waiting back home for him. Rainbow Dash, the love of his life. After a few seconds of thought, he realized he'd be willing to do this and anything else she needed of him just because he loved her.
"Yeah, well, she's too awesome to not love."