//------------------------------//
// Chapter 2 
// Story: Roads of Life 
// by PonyWrites 
//------------------------------//

        Scootaloo didn’t really pay attention during the car ride, where ever it was going. That cappuccino Rarity gave her must have worn off. Her eyelids felt like lead weights, and a nap sounded fantastic. During the trip, she came within a few blocks of where her parents lived, which made her chest feel like it was about to cave in, but then continued on and the feeling gradually faded. 
        The car came to a stop and Rarity exclaimed “We’re here!” Scootaloo looked out the window and her groggy vision solidified. “The mall?”
        “Indeed. We’re going shopping!” Ugh, why?
        Scootaloo could hardly contain her nonexistent enthusiasm as she put one foot in front of the other following the two girls who seemed far too happy. Sweetie was holding her hand and half dragging her, while Scootaloo stared at her feet. Couldn't she just take a nap? The first shop they went to was called “Ugly Mugs” which sold coffee and coffee accessories. Scootaloo’s eyes swelled in excitement. Rarity ordered for the three of them while Scootaloo stared dumbstruck at the menu. How many ways were there to have coffee? Sweetie gently nudged her to a seat.
        “This one’s a cinnamon dolce latte. I think you’ll like it.” Rarity sat an unmarked white cup with a cardboard sleeve in front of her. Scootaloo breathed in deeply. The drink smelled like cinnamon and caramel on an autumn day, next to a cozy fire. Would all coffee be this flavorful?
        “Before we begin in earnest, we have a matter of business to discuss. The window you broke will cost five-hundred dollars to replace. We aren’t mad about it; our parents were planning on replacing them with more energy efficient models anyway. Five hundred dollars is about two weeks of wages. Since we’re in school and can’t work full time, it would take you about a month.” Scootaloo tried to shrink to nothing in her chair as Rarity went on. “Oh don’t look so terrified, please. We can already pay for it. Working for me would be more symbolic than anything. I’ve discussed this with Rainbow Dash and for the next month you’re to come home with me for a few hours and help around the shop.” Scootaloo scowled. “I know being around fabric isn’t your idea of a good time, but I want to make it clear I do not appreciate helpless romantics vandalizing my house. And think of it this way, you get to spend more time with Sweetie.”
        Scootaloo perked up a bit from either the coffee or the idea of spending even more time with her girlfriend. “Rarity isn’t really too bad to work for. I help out all the time,” Sweetie said.
        Scootaloo sighed. “Ugh fine. I’m not your slave and I refuse to do the dishes. I can cook pretty well if you ask nicely.”
        “We have a dishwasher. You aren’t expected to cook, just do simple things like organize fabric, model a few dresses, do basic math. You aren't a house-maid.”
"Though you would look cute in a maid outfit," Sweetie pointed out, causing her sister and girlfriend to give her a flat stare. 
        “I guess if I have to.” Scootaloo huffed and crossed her arms. People were always telling her what to do. 
        “You do.” They sipped coffee in silence for a while. Would she get coffee working at Rarity’s? It might not be so bad then. Finally they each finished their drinks and Scootaloo felt like she was once again among the living. Maybe this is why she wasn't allowed to have coffee. 
        “So, where to first? We’re mostly after clothes mind you, but if you really want some item I’m sure the Dashes won’t mind. Rainbow gave me her mother’s credit card.”
        “Ugh, I hate clothes shopping.” Scootaloo said, face turning sour.
        “The final say is ultimately yours, but I’ll offer advice on your choices, if you want. Rainbow said if you cooperate she’ll take you to the skate park tomorrow.”
        “I can go by myself.” Sweetie leaned over and whispered into Scootaloo’s ear. “I normally shop at Rye, if I ever go.”
        “Oh darling, of all the places. I know a place with similar wears, that isn’t overpriced and has better quality.”
        Scootaloo sighed, then looked at her girlfriend’s devious smile. “Fine, we’ll go there first.”
        “The Shop Called Grunge” was a tight little alcove next to the food court. It smelled oddly clean, like metal, and some odd experimental jazz flowed from the speakers. A girl that had enough metal on her face she looked like a robot walked up to Rarity and gave her a big hug. The two talked a bit, Rarity occasionally pointing at Scootaloo, who just stood there and tried not to run. They were talking about how terrible she was… shut up. Scootaloo distracted herself by looking on the racks. She already found a pair of skinny jeans she liked, washed out and torn. Then some awesome studded belts to consider, and then, on the shirt rack, she saw it. 
A red background set off a majestic winged horse of black outline, head held high and wings pointed up in triumph. An intricate pattern of gears and chains filled the space remaining. Alas, it was short sleeved. No matter, she could find a button up or something… she began looking around and before she knew it her arms were full of jeans, belts, shirts and a few accessories. She saw a lightning bolt hair clip she liked, but started to wonder if she would ever use it.
Meanwhile, Rarity realized she had done too much catching up with her old friend and business contact. “Oh, I see you’ve already busied yourself. Would you like to use a fitting room?”
“There are a few things I’m not sure would fit and I’d… like your opinion on a few things. I don’t have the greatest fashion sense.” Scootaloo chuckled dismissively, but Rarity knew it was a big step for her to ask for any advice, other than from Rainbow. 
Rarity smiled, “I’d be more than happy to help. The changing rooms are in the back.” Rarity pointed. Scootaloo took her burden to the changing stalls. Rarity turned to her sister. “Just what exactly did you promise her anyway? I would have thought a day with Rainbow Dash could get her to do anything.”
“A kiss for each outfit she tries on.” Sweetie grinned manically. 
“We might be here awhile.”
        Scootaloo returned, and did a short twirl in her new outfit. That was probably the girliest thing she was humanly capable of. “Well, what do you think?”
        “Green, for you, dear, should be an accent, not the main focus. I do like the undershirt, it seems to fit you quite well. For an over shirt I would um…” Rarity rummaged through the racks until she found a white shirt with purple and red splotches on it. “Try this one.” Scootaloo changed shirts on the spot and admired herself in one of the shop’s many mirrors, and she did look way better. And so the next hour went. Scootaloo made several adjustments to her color choices and styles, trusting Rarity and Sweetie’s opinion. They definitely knew more about this stuff than her. The shop’s owner also sold perfumes mixed by her girlfriend. Scoots saw one called "Metallic" and gave it a sniff test. It smelled like light oil and polished brass, The scent seemed to resonate with her, so she bought a whole bottle. Her entire purchase totaled in the hundreds which caused her to sweat nervously. It was too much! Her mother would... oh, right.
        Rarity swiped the card, paying no mind to the price. Scootaloo blinked a few times from confusion. They went for smoothies and began the trip back. Surprisingly, Scootaloo didn’t want to try on any more clothes, or even shop around for some accessories like Rarity suggested. Accessories were a crucial part of identity, and she urged Scootaloo to at least browse, but the girl was utterly disinterested.
Sweetie delivered on her promise but it quickly devolved into making out in the back seat. Rarity scowled. She tried to think back to when she was a horny teenager, i.e., yesterday. She couldn’t really blame them, and her expression softened. Scootaloo deserved a good make-out session, after all she's been through, but Rarity didn't understand such displays of affection. It just didn't process in her asexual mind. Only once did she feel the need to remind them she was still in the car. Fortunately the car ride was short, and Scootaloo waved good-bye and thanked Rarity for the advice and taking her. 

        Scootaloo trudged her two huge shopping bags into the house. Rainbow had just got back from soccer practice, judging from her grass stains and the odor of sweat. She was chugging water in the kitchen.
        “Hey, squirt. So the trip went well?”
        “Yeah, thank you so much.”
        “It was mom’s idea. Oh, that reminds me.” Rainbow dug in her pockets for something, and produced a regular looking key on a chain. “Since mom and dad are usually at work you’ll need your own key.” Scootaloo took the chain and put it around her neck. The cool metal felt comforting. She stood there for a moment, staring at the key.
"What's up, squirt?"
"Aren't you going to tell me to show you what I bought or something?"
"If you really want to, I guess. You don't have to."
"Ask how much it cost?"
"Don't give a fuck, it's not my money. Mom would like to know though. She watches finances like a hawk. She'll be home later. But trust me, you could have bought out the entire mall and she'd be fine. If she wanted to limit how much you could buy she'd give you cash." Rainbow took another guzzle of water. "You didn't answer my question, do you want to show me? I don't mind either way."
Scootaloo was trying to process the fact she now had free choice in disclosing her purchases to those closest to her. She was expected to show clothes purchases to her mother, which is why she usually bought safe options like tee shirts without print. They'd go under her hoodie anyway. Like a traveler that's had too much of the same thing, she took the path not-yet tred. "Eh, you'll see them eventually anyway." 
"Alright. Hell, you went shopping with Rarity. She's good with that junk. Anything in that bag is probably fabulous."

        Scootaloo blinked when she saw her closet had been filled with hangers since she had been gone. Even looking at her bags she knew she wouldn’t use them all. Then she dropped the bags as she looked at the room further. It had been redecorated as well, with pinups of famous female athletes and paintings of dark colors with a splash of purple red, and orange here and there. The painting had no definite subject, but Scootaloo thought she saw a wrench, a pair of wings, and a skateboard in different paintings. She looked at the corner of one and saw the initials SB. Where did they even find the time to hang these up? She was a terrible girlfriend; she didn’t even know Sweetie painted. Her skateboard had been moved to a rack with room for more. It seemed so bare she started to fantasize about all the decks she wanted. She began unpacking her new purchases, but on the bed she saw an envelope with messy handwriting “Scoots.” She abandoned her task for now and opened it. 


“As you can see, we decorated your room while you were out. I hope you don’t mind the posters. They’re some of my favorite athletes. I figured since you’re also a flaming lesbian, you would… appreciate them. You’re welcome to change anything you like. This is your room. I just got it started. We got you some blackout curtains so you can sleep until noon on the weekends, because who doesn’t want to do that? We got a nice desk for you from the attic, and while we were up there I decided to grab a coat rack. Not sure why. Anyway, make yourself at home.
Love Sis."


        For Prism Dash, it was another tough day at the office. Tough days were good, they meant profit. She must have sold a few hundred total boards, bikes, accessories and gear. All she wanted to do right now was collapse on the couch and take a nap, but she had dinner to cook. She opened the door and smelled something like cinnamon and sugar, mixed with a whole apple orchard.
        “Rainbow, are you cooking again? You know what happened last time!” She walked into the kitchen to find Scootaloo womaning the stove. The girl tossed what looked to be apple chunks in a wok and turned to greet her.
        “Oh, hey.” Well, at least she was speaking now. 
        “You know, I usually cook.”
        “I just wanted to repay you for my room and clothes.” She probably can't fathom there wasn't a catch.
        “Oh that’s nothing. Girls gotta have clothes. Where did you learn to cook?”
        “Mom. And cooking shows. Mostly the shows, mom wasn’t that great.” Scootaloo smirked, much better than the scared little girl that came in just yesterday. Prism looked at what was cooking. Pork Chops, she guessed, wrapped in bacon and doused with maple syrup were frying in a pan. In the walk were indeed apples, seasoned with cinnamon, sugar and cloves, Scootaloo told her. It would take about twenty minutes more, she said. Prism saw the receipt of Scootaloo's grand shopping adventure and pocketed it. 
        “Well, in that case, I’m going to take a nap. Thank you.”




        “Well, what first?” Scootaloo moaned. Today was her first day working off her debt, and after a rough (they all were) day at school she wanted to crawl in a hole and stay awhile. 
        “You’ll just love it, I’m sure.” Rarity’s sarcasm could cut glass. “Thanksgiving is around the corner and I have a few orders by some people that insist their daughters wear a dress to family gatherings. There are a few around your size, and I need you to model for a bit.” The door opened. “Oh, just in time darling!” Rarity gave a big hug and kissed the cheeks of Fluttershy, who just walked in. "Thanks so much for agreeing to help me today.” Rarity released her grip. “And of course, casual skirts are in this year, and a few classmates have some orders, so Fluttershy will be helping with those.” Rarity sighed slightly. “But first, I can’t do anything without coffee. Addiction is a wonderful thing.”  Make that "able to cut diamonds.
        “If I could just have some tea, please. Earl grey.” Fluttershy murmured.
        “Of course dear. Scootaloo, what about you?”
        “If I’m working with you, I had better get some strong coffee. You’re almost tolerable then.” She hoped Rarity didn’t notice the insult. She’d probably be spanked… wait, she’s not her mom!
        “Mocha cappuccino then? I’m a chocolate mood myself.” Scootaloo nodded as a reply. Rarity boiled water and prepared a tea pot, as well as firing up the espresso machine. “Scootaloo, a word of advice. You’re only fourteen so you don’t really have to worry, but don’t talk to your future employer that way, unless you have a good relationship with them. I will be the first to admit we’re polar opposites. That’s why Rainbow never comes here. It’s a threat to her womanhood or something. That said, I don’t mind the playful jab every now and then. Just expect to have it returned. I know this isn’t your cup of tea, pun intended, but that’s kind of the idea. This is basically a punishment, though not the kind you’re probably used to receiving.”
        “Yeah, I’d usually get a thirty minute lecture and then be forced to apologize. I’m not sure which is worse.”
        “Well, you already know what you did was wrong, and quite frankly stupid for any number of reasons, so I’ll spare the lecture. I know you’re sorry, but sorry isn't always good enough. I’m not cruel, I’ll treat you fairly. After all, we’re business partners now. That means we’re equal.” Rarity smirked as she set the mugs down. Scootaloo blinked. An equal? She would be treated fairly? This might not be so bad after all. But she's probably lying to make Scootaloo take her guard down. 
        Rarity was fixing the dress Scootaloo was wearing. She said something about how the fabric sits, but Scootaloo didn’t understand. She backed away, hands forming a steeple under her chin. She seemed rather satisfied. “Scootaloo, what do you think?” 
        “I think I barfed once and it looked like this pattern.” Oh shit, scolding in three… two…
        Instead, Rarity chuckled. “You’re absolutely right. Personally I would never use such a print for the base color. I know they were going for falling leaves, but good god. Anyway, Sometimes you’re at the mercy of the client. This soccer mom walked in and said, here’s my thirteen year old’s dimensions, give me a dress for Thanksgiving in that fabric. Oh how I loathe soccer moms.” Rarity pinched the bridge of her nose. “This is after I tweaked it so it wouldn’t be so loud. I still hate it, but I have to fill the coffers somehow. It scarcely matters in the long run. By next year I’d wager the daughter’s breasts will have developed…. oh, no offence.” Scootaloo shrugged. “And will stop wearing lily of the valley perfume, and order her own dress.”
        Scootaloo didn’t realize working here would require a dictionary. What was a ‘coffer,’ for starters. Sounded like a disease. But Rarity had asked her opinion, and she gave it. Nothing happened, heck she even agreed. Perhaps it was mostly the coffee, but Scootaloo’s mood lightened up. 
        “What’s lily of the valley?” 
        Rarity scowled, “It’s this perfume that mothers buy for their pre-pubescent girls. Some think it smells nice. Interestingly enough, the plant is toxic. I must confess I wore it for a time, before moving on to a more mature scent.”
        “Are you calling me short? I’m modeling for twelve year-olds?”
        “No, flat, and yes. In that order.” Scootaloo crossed her arms to cover her… lack of chest.
        Fluttershy chuckled. “Sorry, I just remember thinking I was the same way. I was a late bloomer, then I just sort of ended up with these…” Fluttershy covered her chest, suddenly self-conscious she was the largest in the room. “You may grow a lot, but even if you don’t, you’ll be a wonderful young woman.” Fluttershy smiled like she actually believed it. 
        The day wore on as Scootaloo modeled way too many dresses. She had worn more today than she had in her entire life. 

        “If you don’t mind me asking, dear, it’s a rather silly question, but are you a suit or dress lesbian? I know a lot of people don't like to categorize. You don't have to answer.”
        Scootaloo shrugged again. “No offence, but I haven’t seen any dresses I’d actually wear. So I guess suit?”
        Rarity hummed. “Tell you what, I’ve been too limiting. Since you’re flat as a board you can try on a suit… by that same soccer mom… for her fourteen year old boy. We’ve done all the dresses that fit you.” Rarity quietly hissed the next words, “She has a lot of children.” The fashionista plucked a suit off the rack, knowing where it was, and handed it to Sweetie, who was serving as the fitting assistant today, helping both ‘Shy and Scootaloo into their outfits.
        Scootaloo walked out of the fitting room, Rarity giving her a quizzical glance. Sweetie had taken some liberties with this one. Scootaloo wore the pinstripe suit well, and it fit her shape nicely, save the chest, which was more pronounced than Rarity realized. Just tighten up a bit of the lines and it would practically be hers. Two buttons on the shirt were undone, and Sweetie presumably was responsible for the undone bow-tie around her collar. “That had better be soda.” Rarity pointed to the Old Fashioned glass with a straw.
        Scootaloo nodded, then took a sip. Rarity nodded.
        “He’s about your shape, so it doesn’t look like I’ll have to make any major adjustments for him. Let’s take a break. And take off that suit before you splash cola on it.”
        “Yes mom.” Scootaloo said, and Rarity wondered if it was intended to be ironic or not. 
        Scootaloo had apparently already made herself at home (though to be fair, this was one of the few places Sweetie and her went on dates and therefore felt comfortable) as she severed off a banana for a snack, while opening the fridge and pouring herself some milk. Sweetie had apparently made some no-bake cookies while her sister wasn’t looking. This was either the move of a thoughtful girlfriend, or thoughtful sister. Scootaloo also grabbed a handful of those. Rarity squinted. She wasn’t one to judge eating habits, but surely if she continued like this she’d put on a few unflattering pounds. Scootaloo, being so comfortable with her surroundings, had stripped to a tank top and boxers. Rarity squinted further. Definitely a suit. Rarity brewed more coffee and chattered with Fluttershy. 
        Scootaloo and Sweetie gave each other a final swapping of lip gloss and Sweetie retreated to her room to do homework. A more cynical Rarity guessed that wouldn’t really be the case for another fifteen minutes or so. 
        “Rarity, can I ask you something?” Scootaloo queried, her voice a mumble that put Fluttershy to shame.
        “Why, yes, what is it?”
        “Well, I have this date planned in like a week, and I was wondering… it’s kind of a fancier place than we’ve ever gone to.”
        “You want a suit?”
        “I can pay, I swear. I have some money saved--”
        Rarity placed a finger on Scootaloo’s lips. “Oh don’t worry about that dear, I’d be happy to make one, free of charge. Everyone needs some good formal wear. You're dating my little sister; I want you both to look your bests. If you’re worried I’ll just tack it on to the cost of the window and keep you here forever, worry not. I have more integrity than that, and frankly, I don’t want to keep you here that long.” Rarity half-smiled.
        “Alright, I’ll believe you. Thanks.” Scootaloo half-tackled half-hugged Rarity with her eyes clenched shut. Rarity, after overcoming the shock, patted her on the back. Scootaloo said “bye” one last time, and rushed off.

        “Have a good day at work?” Rainbow smirked as she wiped off her milk-mustache. 
        “Yes actually.” 
        “Wow. I’m impressed. Let me guess, you made out with Sweetie most of the time.”
        “No, not most of the time…”
        Rainbow chuckled. “Alright, I’d better get started on homework.” She said, pouring another glass.  Scootaloo retreated to her room and remembered all she had was to read some stupid book so she decided to put it off to tomorrow. She got out her phone and texted Sweetie.
Dumb question: do you think my boobs are too small? Heck even Apple Bloom’s were bigger, but both of them were in the “flat” category. Sweetie on the other hand… wasn’t. 
Scootaloo could practically hear the exasperated sigh before her girlfriend’s reply. For the 1234900th time, they’re perfect. You’re perfect. Stop worrying.”
        Alright. ilu <3333
        You know what I just realized? That would have been the perfect opportunity to ask for a pic.
        u still want one?
The image Sweetie sent in reply was all the answer Scootaloo needed. It would be impolite not to send one of her own.

And so the week continued. Making out with Sweetie, trying on clothes while Rarity did some design thing to them, balancing the books and cleaning the shop (but not the "Inspiration Room"). Scootaloo didn't much care for working, but she did finally decide it was better than being lectured. Not that she even listened to those; she would let her mind wander while her mother or father blabbered on about... whatever. They appealed to guilt, god, and morality. Scootaloo didn't take too much of it in except there were good and bad people, and from what she saw in High School, bad can become good, so the opposite must be true. She wanted to be a good person, but who doesn't? What makes a person good? Surely there was someone to ask about it.