//------------------------------// // Big Mac's Big Date // Story: Romance and the Apple Family // by PatRoison //------------------------------// “Well, I don’t see you making that long walk down to Sugarcube Corner!” Big Macintosh still had Caramel’s words in his head even as he worked harder to ignore them. It was not that Caramel was wrong. Mac wanted to ask Pinkie Pie out for a while now, but he never quite figured out how. At least that excuse satisfied him until today. He knew how to ask Pinkie out on a date. The problem was that he could never think of an excuse to go and ask her out. He tried offering to take the Cakes their daily apple shipment, but Applejack would always insist on it so she could visit with Pinkie for a bit. Mac would never deny his little sister any chance to spend time with her friends, and seeing her leave the farm occasionally to have fun was always welcome. Today was different. If Caramel could pony up and bring himself to ask Applejack out, then he should be able to do the same. ‘I’ll go once this fence is finished,’ he promised himself. He was content to content to allow himself this excuse and for a while, he forgot all about Pinkie. That did not last long when Applejack arrived. “Hey where’s Caramel?” “Ain’t here.” “Well ah can see that,” Applejack said, “Ya know where he is now?” “Nope,” Mac said, “I sent him off to find you cause he had something he needed to ask ya.” Applejack shifted nervously, “Yeah that’s why ah’m here. Just making sure I heard him right. Kind of an odd question wasn’ it?” “You’re an awful liar, sis,” Mac said, “I ain’t telling you. You just get the question from Caramel.” “Fine,” Applejack said, “He’s probably in his room readin’ or somethin’.” “Eeyup,” said Mac and continued working on the fence smiling as his sister left in search for Caramel. Mac let out a heavy sigh, “Well, ah’ve put it off for long enough.” Before he could change his mind, he began walking towards Sugarcube Corner. The warm summer sun along with a cool breeze did wonders to dry his coat, but he knew that arriving to ask Pinkie out smelling of work would be a bad idea. ‘Fine. I’ll take a quick bath, but ah’m doin’ this.’ The walk back to the house was not long, and Mac kept going through his mind about what he would tell Pinkie. He was never one for jokes or even small talk, but the quiet stallion knew that Pinkie would carry the conversation. Mac laughed to himself, “If conversations were bricks, that pony could carry the world on her back.” His returned to Caramel and his challenge. Mac’s thought went back to when he told Caramel about his feelings for Pinkie. Caramel and Mac worked the fields as usual, but that day was slower going than normal. Small talk made the work go smoother. “It’s a hot one today, ain’t it Mac?” “Eeyup.” Caramel and Mac continued their fieldwork in silence once more. Caramel sighed, “You know Mac, I don’t mind working with you, but you really need to work on your conversation skills.” The brown stallion kicked a rock to the side, “Did Applejack have fun at Pinkie’s party?” “Eeyup.” “That can’t be the only thing you say, Mac. I have an idea. Is there anypony that you have your eye on?” “Eeyup.” Caramel laughed, “Ok, now who is it?” Mac continued to till the soil, but he stopped a few feet further ahead, “Pinkie.” “What was that?” Mac let out a small sigh, “Pinkie Pie.” “Really? You know, I would thought that-” “Don’t say it.” “What? I just thought that-” “Fluttershy?” “Yeah.” “Why?” “No need to get mad. I’m just saying that you’re both quiet, and I’ve heard ponies mention that you would make a cute couple.” Mac groaned, “Look, ah’m not saying that ah don’ like her. She’s friendly and all, but I don’ think that we’d be as good a fit as ponies think. Ah mean, whatever happened to ‘opposites attract’?” Mac shook his head to get rid of the memories. He was unable to convince Caramel that he was not interested in Fluttershy as more than a friend, but Mac was undeterred. Today he would ask Pinkie Pie out. Nearing the Apple Family home, Mac saw his baby sister, Applebloom, playing in a mud puddle. The large stallion, quite adept at stealth, snuck up to his sister and playfully knocked her over. “Eep!” Mac had a good laugh as his sister flailed about in the mud, but he still gave her a helping hoof. “Mac,” Applebloom sputtered, “What’s the big idea?” “Sorry, sis. Ah couldn’ help mahself. Ya ain’t hurt now are you?” Applebloom shook her coat and mane as clean as best she could, and she made certain that she got mud on Macintosh. “There. Serves ya right.” “Ah guess so.” The two enjoyed a laugh, “Alright sis, we should get you fed. I hafta get cleaned up. Got some business to take care of in Ponyville.” The yellow filly’s ears perked up, “What kinda business?” “Somethin’ important over at Sugarcube Corner, and before you ask, ah’m sorry but you can’t come.” The filly sat down in the dirt, “Aww why not?” The red stallion put his sister onto his back and entered the house. As they entered the kitchen, he placed Applebloom on the table. He grabbed a washcloth and began to wash the some of the mud off the filly. Mac smiled at his sister, “Sorry, but this won’t be much fun for ya. You know that if I could take ya, I would.” Applebloom took the washcloth and tossed it into the hamper. She nodded and said, “Ok big brother. Don’t worry 'bout makin’ me anything ta eat.” Before Mac could say anything, Applebloom was out the door. Within moments, he heard the familiar sound of the filly jumping back into the mud puddle. Macintosh found it cute and enjoyed a chuckled at his sister’s fun. He entered the bathroom and filled the tub. Sitting down, he was expecting to get cleaned up quickly. That is until his eyes caught sight of a pink hairbrush. That hairbrush was his birthday gift from Pinkie Pie the year before. He was working the fields as usual, but this year the rest of his family had to take a trip to Fillydelphia to settle a shipping dispute. Mac did not mind, so he set to work plowing the fields to get them ready for planting later that week. He worked most of the morning in quiet comfort when a soft but distinct hopping sound could be heard. Not even bothering to stop he simply said, “Mornin’ Pinkie.” “Gosh, Big Mac, I can never sneak up to you.” The pink pony kept hopping toward the quiet stallion and stopped right in front of him. “What’re you doing?” “Just getting the ground ready, so when Applejack gets back from Fillydelphia we can get the saplings planted.” “I see. Need any help?” “I appreciate the offer Pinkie, but it’s simple work. Something to take mah mind off of being a year older.” Within moments, he realized his mistake, though it could be said that it was intentional. Pinkie Pie jumped into the air, stayed there longer than she should have, and dove into Mac, “Why didn’t you tell me it was your birthday?” “It’s no big deal. I just don’ wanna fuss ponies.” A sharp gasp escaped Pinkie, “No big deal? It certainly is a big deal. We need to make you a birthday party!” Before Mac could utter a word of protest, Pinkie had pulled a large satchel from, somewhere. She smiled at Mac, “Don’t you worry. I got it all under control. It’s a good thing I keep emergency party supplies on me at all times.” “About that. Just where do you keep those supplies?” Pinkie tilted her head, “I don’t understand. Anyway, I’ll get everything set up in the barn. Be there in one hour.” She placed her face up to Mac’s, “One hour.” She then took off in a pink streak to the barn and both doors slammed shut behind her. ‘I sure wish I could have told her that I don’t have a watch. I’ll just finish up this patch. That should take about an hour.’ Mac quietly continued his work plowing the field, but his mind was on the pink pony that had given up whatever plans she had to make a party for him. It was a touching gesture and he certainly did not want to be rude. He finished the plowing faster than it should have taken, and he slowly made his way to the barn. ‘Should I knock? It’s my barn, but what if Pinkie’s still getting everything ready?’ Still staring at the barn door trying to figure out what to do he said, “I guess y’all are done decorating?” “Shoot! I thought I had you.” Pinkie began to open the door and stopped, “How do you always catch me?” Mac smiled, “It’s a secret.” “Aww, tell me. Please.” Mac looked into those blue eyes and felt his heart melt. He shook his head and gave up, “If’n you really wanna know, I can smell ya. You always smell like sweets.” Pinkie stared at Mac, “So you can smell me coming?” “Eeyup.” Pinkie smelled herself, but she stopped when Mac nudged her. “Ah didn’ say you stink or smell bad. It’s like that friend a yours, Rarity. I can smell her too, but she always smells like perfume or something fancy that doesn’ seem to fit here. You smell like cakes and treats, and it’s a nice smell. Ah didn’ mean any offense, and ah apologize if ah did.” Pinkie smiled, “No need to be sorry.” She threw the barn doors open, “Now let’s party!” Mac walked inside the barn and was awed. The entire barn was decorated with banners, balloons, and there even was a birthday cake for him. He slowly walked inside and could not help tear up over the kind gesture from this pony that he did not know well. “Thank you.” Pinkie smiled, “Don’t mention it! It’s what friends are for. Now let the fun begin!” The party itself was a blur in Mac’s memory, and the only thing that stood out was the pink pony. It was only Mac and Pinkie Pie there, and a few times she asked if he was bored. He tried to assure her that he was having the most fun that he could remember, and she took him at his word. She was able to get him to dance with her, but in the back of Mac’s mind, he knew that this could not last. Sure enough, Pinkie began to clean up, but Mac stopped her. Her warm smile made him feel like a million bits, and she gave him a box. It was not wrapped, and she apologized that she did not have time to find a good present. Mac took the box telling her that he would be happy with whatever was in there. He opened it and saw the hairbrush. He began laughing and was soon joined by Pinkie. “Whattcha thinkin’ bout big brother?” Snapping back to the present, Mac found himself still in the tub and his baby sister looking at him curiously. He smiled, “Just lettin’ mah mind wander. Can ya pass me that towel?” “Sure thing. Ah just came in cause the girls want to try a little crusadin’ before dinner.” She placed the towel next to the tub and left the bathroom. Mac quickly finished getting cleaned up and dried himself. He slowly made his way out of the house, and walked even slower towards the entrance to the farm. Upon reaching the Sweet Apple Acres entrance, he realized that in a way this was a point of no return. He could turn around and get back to work, or keep walking down that road to ask out a pony that might not even be interested in him. In the space of a few moments, he began walking towards Ponyville. His mind was set, and he would see this through. Anxiousness caused him to want to increase his speed, but he kept to a walk for fear of arriving smelling of sweat. He arrived at the town limits, and he felt relieved that there were not many ponies out and about. Having made many deliveries to Sugarcube Corner, he knew the way and arrived just as ponies finished their lunches. ‘Seems like ah’ll be able to talk to Pinkie alone,’ he thought with relief. Quickly scanning the room, he saw Pinkie wiping down a counter. He walked slowly up to her and said, “Afternoon Pinkie. Can ah have some pie?” Pinkie smiled, “Absolutely! What kind do you want? We have apple, peach, cherry, razzleberry, blueberry, lemon, key lime, cheesecake. You know it’s funny that cheesecake is called a cake but you make it like a pie. I mean, a pie is crust, filling crust, right? And cake is frosting, cake, and whatever gets burned by the pan. Cheesecake doesn’t do that. It’s just super yummy filling and crust. So what can I get for you?” “Ah’ll have a slice of cheesecake if ya don’ mind.” “One slice of cheesecake coming up.” Pinkie hopped into the kitchen and returned with a plate. She cute a slice of cheesecake and poured some milk into a glass. “There you go. You know it’s funny that ponies call cheesecake a cake even though you make it like a pie.” Mac nodded and took a bite out of the cheesecake. “This is mighty good, Pinkie. You make this yourself?” Pinkie blushed, “Yeah, I made the pies this morning, but what I really want to do is bake some of the tougher recipes.” She sat down, grabbed a fork, and took a bite from Mac’s cheesecake. “There are some really good recipes that the Cakes use on special occasions, and I’d really like to try making some. I know I can do it.” She looked at Mac, “What do you think?” The quiet stallion took a breath and said, “Well, ah reckon that if’n you keep workin’ hard, the Cakes will see that you deserve a chance to come up with some new recipes that they can use.” “But, I never said anything about-” “Ya didn’ have to. Ah can tell. Ya wanna be a baker and try creating new treats for ponies to enjoy.” He put a hoof on Pinkie’s shoulder, “Just give it some time, and ah know you’ll get your chance.” Pinkie blushed and looked down on the plate, “Oh no! I ate your cake! I’m so super-duper sorry. I’ll get you another slice.” “Don’ worry about it, Pinkie. If it bothered me, ah would’ve stopped you.” “So you’re not mad?” “Nope.” Mac took a drink from his glass, “There’s a reason why ah came over. There’s something ah need to ask you.” Pinkie pulled up a stool and sat down, “Sure Mac. What’s up?” Mac cleared his throat, “Ah was wondering if you had any plans for tonight.” Pinkie giggled, “Do I look like a pony with a plan?” She looked up, “Do I have any plans? Hmm, I don’t think so.” She shook her head and smiled, “Nope. No plans.” “Good cause ah was wondering if you would like to go to dinner with me tonight.” “Like, a date?” “Eeyup.” Pinkie looked up and tapped her chin with a hoof, “Hm.” She looked at Mac who was sitting quietly. She looked up again and said a bit louder, “Hmmm.” Once again, she looked at the stallion who remained as loud as a statue. She tapped her chin harder and said loudly, “Hmmmmmm.” Pinkie turned to Mac, “You’re just going to wait until I answer aren’t you?” “Ah got all day, and you’re worth waitin’ on.” Pinkie blushed, “Gee, thanks. Ok it’s a date!” She stood up and looked around, “What do we do now?” “What do ya mean?” “I mean do we shake hooves or hug?” Mac laughed, “Ah’ll take a hug, but only if ya’ll are comfortable with it. Ain’ about ta force you to do something ya don’ want to.” “Thanks Mac!” Pinkie leaned over the counter and gave Mac a small hug. “What do you have planned for right now?” “Haven’t thought that far ahead. Ah was too worried that you would turn me down to think of anything.” “You were worried?” “Eeyup.” “Aww! Okay then. We just need to think up something to do until dinner.” “Don’t you have work to do here first?” Pinkie took Mac’s glass and placed it on the counter behind her, “Not really. The lunch rush is done. Right now, I would look for Dashie or Fluttershy. Usually Dashie since she’s harder to find.” “For the challenge, right?” “Exactly!” Pinkie leaned into the kitchen and yelled, “Mr. Cake, Big Macintosh asked me out on a date. Can I take the rest of the day off?” Though thought to be impossible, Mac turned noticeably redder. A hearty laugh emerged from the kitchen, “Sure thing Pinkie. Have fun.” Pinkie walked around the counter and stared at Mac, “Are you alright? You look, redder.” Mac cleared his throat, “Eeyup. I’m fine. Uh, so what would you like to do?” “I dunno. Let’s just see what the day brings. Sound good?” Mac smiled, “Eeyup.” Pinkie gave Mac a hug and stretched a leg out to the distance, “Adventure awaits!” “Let’s just start with a walk.” “Okie dokie.” The two ponies left Sugarcube Corner, and before they could pick a direction, Pinkie began bouncing to the south. ‘Looks like ah’ll have mah hooves full,’ Mac thought to himself. He ran up behind Pinkie, lowered his head, and scooped the pink pony onto his back. Mac laughed as Pinkie squealed. “Wee! Okay Mac, lead the way.” The red stallion decided to take a stroll throughout Ponyville. He enjoyed the feeling of Pinkie Pie lying on his back, and he wanted to treat her to a great day. Their first stop was a flower vendor. Mac smiled at the pony, “Howdy Lilly.” She smiled at the pair and said, “Hello Macintosh. Care for some roses?” “No thanks. How about some wildflowers?” “Are you sure?” “Eeyup.” Mac placed some bits on the stall and lifted a small bouquet of wildflowers to Pinkie. “Ooh, pretty.” She sniffed the flowers and added, “Are they for me?” “Eeyup.” “Oh thanks Mac.” Pinkie grabbed the flowers and jumped off of Mac’s back. “I can walk.” The two continued their walk through Ponyville, and soon found themselves near Carousel Boutique. Sweetie Belle was sitting on a bench drawing a picture. Pinkie hopped up to the filly, “Hey Sweetie Belle! What’re you drawing?” The filly looked up at Pinkie, “Hey Pinkie. I’m just doing a drawing of Scootaloo and Applebloom. I think it’s coming out pretty good.” She slid the picture over to Pinkie. Pinkie looked at the drawing and said, “It looks good.” Mac grabbed the picture and turned it right side up. Pinkie laughed, “Ooh. Oops.” Sweetie Belle glared at Pinkie and took the drawing back, “So what are you and Big Mac doing?” “Oh we’re just wasting time until dinner.” “Pinkie ah’m not sure you wanna say that so loudly.” “Why’s that Mac? What’s the worst that could happen? I mean we’re just waiting for our date.” Mac immediately brought a hoof to his face because he knew that within moments a white unicorn would rush out of the boutique and begin to ask them about their date. To his surprise, Rarity did not exit the boutique. He let out a sigh of relief and turned around only to wind up facing Rarity. “Did I just hear somepony say something about a date?” Pinkie hopped next to Mac, “Hiya Rarity! Yup, Mac asked me out to dinner, so we’re just waiting until it’s time to eat.” Rarity smiled at the two, “Well, this is simply wonderful. I for one thought that you and Fluttershy would be a better fit, but who am I to question matters of the heart? It chooses who it will.” Mac cleared his throat, “Well, it was nice talking to you Rarity, but ah reckon that we should-“ “Nonsense! I must hear about the whirlwind courtship that must be occurring right now.” Rarity turned to Sweetie Belle, “Oh that’s a lovely drawing. Scootaloo and Applebloom are coming along nicely, but could you do I a favor and set some tea out for Pinkie and Macintosh?” “Sure thing, sis.” The filly hopped off the bench and trotted inside towards the kitchen. Once Sweetie Belle was out of sight Rarity leaned to Pinkie and Mac, “To be quite honest, they look like blobs, but I learned to guess from the colors she uses.” She levitated the drawing, “Another masterpiece for the wall.” “I thought you didn’t like it.” “Pinkie, whether I like it or not is irrelevant. What matters is that I don’t stifle her creativity. Our parents encouraged me to pursue my passion, and I intend to make certain that Sweetie Belle has the same opportunity. Please, come in.” Mac let out a quiet sigh and followed Pinkie inside. He was grateful that Pinkie was there to carry the conversation, or so he thought. Once the new couple sat at the table, Rarity turned to Mac, “Tell me, just when did you fall for Pinkie?” “Last year on my birthday.” Rarity leaned closer, “And?” Mac glanced at Pinkie who was also eager to hear the story. “It was when Pinkie threw the birthday party for me.” Pinkie tapped her chin with a hoof, “Party?” “Ah don’ expect you to remember, Pinkie. It was just one out of many parties you had.” “Nonononono. This is important.” Pinkie jumped up, “Now I remember! You were working the field and I threw you a party in the barn.” Rarity giggled, “What kind of party Pinkie?” “Oh pretty standard one. There were balloons, streamers, and Mac even danced with me.” “Macintosh? That Macintosh danced with you?” “Yup, and boy was it tough to get him to. He just sat there. I thought he was bored.” “Pinkie ah wasn’t bored. I’m just not used to spending time with ponies, and it was a lot of fun dancin’ with ya.” “I still need to get you a better gift.” “No need. I still have the brush.” Pinkie blushed, “You still do?” Mac smiled, “Eeyup.” Rarity took a sip of tea, “Tell me Macintosh, what spurred you to ask Pinkie out?” “Caramel sorta challenged me to do it on account that ah kept draggin’ mah heels. Ah reckon right now he already told Applejack how he feels about her.” Rarity squealed, “Caramel likes Applejack? Oh, that’s so adorable. It seems everypony is finding love.” She put a hoof to her cheek, “Will I ever find love?” “Ah think ya will, Rarity. It just takes finding somepony that makes you feel really special.” Rarity smiled and suddenly squealed again, “Ooh, idea! Macintosh, I am going to have to ask you to leave and return in a few hours.” She turned to Pinkie, “I have to get you ready for your date.” “Aww. I wanted to hang out with Mac.” “I know Pinkie, but this is your first date. We must ensure that it is perfect.” Rarity smiled at Macintosh, “Please go down to the café in the town square and get a table for tonight. I imagine that by the time you return, Pinkie will be ready for your date.” Mac nodded slowly, “If you say so, Rarity. This ok with you Pinkie?” Pinkie smiled, “It’s ok. I’ll see you later!” “Eeyup.” Mac left the boutique and slowly walked to the town square to the café. He gave the hostess a warm smile, “Afternoon. I would like to reserve a table for two tonight.” The hostess smiled, “Certainly. Under what name?” “Apple.” The hostess wrote down on a sheet of paper, “Very well. I have a table for you at five this evening. Is that alright?” “That’s fine.” “Wonderful. I will see you tonight.” Mac nodded and made his way back to the boutique. The clock tower read half past four, so Mac hurried his pace. When he arrived, Rarity was outside, and when she moved to the side, Mac was floored. Pinkie was wearing a pinkie candy themed dress. It had a glimmer to it that gave it the appearance of powdered sugar. Rarity managed to style her mane and made her makeup subtly. However, none of that mattered since all Mac could think while looking at Pinkie was, gorgeous. “Well, I know that Macintosh approves,” Rarity said with a giggle. She gently nudged Pinkie toward the red stallion, “Now go on you two, and have a great time.” “Thanks Rarity. Let’s go Mac.” Pinkie began hopping towards the square. Rarity was about to protest but Mac stopped her. “Shouldn’t try and change her too much. Ah didn’ fall for Pinkie cause of a dress.” He smiled at Rarity and ran to catch up to Pinkie. “Pinkie, are you comfortable?” “Yeah, it’s just that I don’t dress up that often. Do you like it?” “You’re beautiful, Pinkie. I thought so before I asked you out.” Pinkie blushed and leaned against Mac, and the two arrived at the café. The hostess smiled at them, “Apple? Party of two?” “Eeyup.” “Right this way please.” Pinkie and Mac were seated at a small table that had a lit candle. The hostess levitated a menu to Mac, “Whenever you’re ready sir.” Mac looked over the menu nervously. His worry that he would order something that Pinkie would not like was clear. Pinkie put a hoof on his, “Just order whatever. Trust me, I’ll eat it and love it.” She gave him a large grin. Mac relaxed, “Ok Pinkie.” He turned to the hostess, “Ah’ll have a large order of hay fries, and mah friend-“ “Date,” Pinkie interrupted sticking her tongue out at him. Mac smiled, “Eeyup. Mah date will have the seasonal fruit salad, and could you add the apple-honey sauce?” “Of course. If you’ll excuse me?” The hostess gathered the menus and went to the kitchen. “Mac,” Pinkie said quietly, “Are you sure you want to get me that salad? Fluttershy told me about this place when Rarity treated her to lunch once, and she said it was really expensive.” Mac smiled, “Don’ worry bout it Pinkie. You are worth every bit.” “Thanks Mac, but I don’t want you to spend so much on me. I’m not used to it.” The waiter arrived with their drinks, and Mac raised his glass, “Well then, here’s to two farm ponies. Simple things being us the most joy.” Pinkie nodded and lifted her glass, “Yup. There is nothing better than making ponies happy.” They both took a sip from their glasses. “Looks like the foods ready.” Sure enough, the waiter arrived with both plates, “Enjoy.” The waiter bowed his head and returned to the kitchen. “This looks so yummy. Thank you Mackie.” Mac smiled, “You’re welcome Pinkie.” He chuckled, “Can’t think of a good nickname for ya.” “That’s ok. Some ponies don’t have the knack for it.” “Don’t make me call you Di,” Mac said before he was hit with a cherry. “My sister Inkie used to call me that.” “Then ah think we found your new nickname,” Mac said with a smile. “Call me that again and you’re gonna be wearing this salad.” Pinkie’s eyes narrowed. “Whatever you say…” Pinkie slowly picked up her plate. Mac smiled, “Pinkie.” Pinkie laughed, “I don’t need a nickname anyway. Pinkie is just fine.” “Eeyup.” Both ponies ate their meals in silence, and Mac settled the check. The walk back to Sugarcube Corner was quiet. “I need to help the Cakes close up, but I had a really good time.” “Me too Pinkie.” Pinkie turned to enter the store, but she was stopped by Mac. “Pinkie, will it be alright if I were to see you again?” Pinkie smiled, “I’d love to.” Mac nodded, “May I give you a kiss goodbye?” Pinkie’s heart fluttered, “Uh, sure.” She closed her eyes and lightly pursed her lips. Her face flushed red when she felt Mac kiss her on her cheek. She opened her eyes and gently rubbed her cheek. “Thank you Mac.” “I’ll stop by tomorrow, and we can go to lunch. I think ah’ll treat you to a home cooked meal.” He nodded and turned to return to Sweet Apple Acres. Pinkie entered Sugarcube Corner, and she did not hear the Cakes’ questions about her date. She slowly made her way upstairs to get her apron, but all the way up there, she was trying to figure out what she was feeling. She recognized the feeling. She was happy. Except this was new kind of happy. This was not a fresh baked batch of cupcakes happy. Or even throwing a friend a surprise party happy. It was not even ‘falling down the stairs and finding some bits on the bottom step’ kind of happy. All Pinkie knew as she placed her hoof to her cheek was that she never wanted this new kind of happiness to fade away.