//------------------------------//
// Hearth's Warming Hearts 
// Story: Sweetie Belle's Secret Hearth's Warming 
// by RS-Belle14 
//------------------------------//

“I should totally take a picture of her.”

“Hehe…Ah’m debating on whether to stop ya or not.”

Apple Bloom and Scootaloo giggled at the sight of the slumbering Sweetie Belle. They both have known of their friend’s sleeping habit for some time, but seeing it first-hoof is still a rare occurrence. They didn’t mean to laugh at her, but seeing Sweetie Belle sleep with a familiar looking plushie was just too much for them. 

“Hehe…Hey, Sweetie Belle,” Apple Bloom gently poked Sweetie’s foreleg “wake up.”

Sweetie Belle continued snoring. “Come on, Sweetie Belle. We gotta go.”

“I got an idea,” Scootaloo trotted to other side of the bed. With a slight giggle and a devious look on her face, she quietly leaned over and pulled Sweetie Belle’s plushie from her sleeping hooves. 

Sweetie Belle’s hoof began to look for her missing companion. Squirming around, Sweetie Belle finally began to wake up. Her eyes slowly opened, and her senses gradually came back to her. Once she was aware, she sat up and then turned to her snickering friends.

“Oh, hey girls! What are you doing here?” Sweetie Belle noticed their chuckles “What’s so funny?”

“Gee, Sweetie Belle,” Apple Bloom began. “Ah don’t know. Don’t ya feel like something’s missing?”

“Like what?”

“Like this Spike doll!” Scootaloo revealed Sweetie Belle’s missing plushie. 

“EEK! GIVE THAT BACK!”

A green aura surrounded the plushie as it was pulled from Scootaloo’s hooves and into Sweetie Belle’s. Sweetie Belle’s friends could no longer suppress their laughter.

“Stop it! That isn’t funny!”

“Haha oh come now, Sweetie Belle. We didn’t mean nothin’ by it.”

“Yeah. We were just trying to wake you up.”

Sweetie Belle turned away in embarrassment.

“It’s okay, Sweetie Belle. We won’t do it again,” Apple Bloom comforted her friend. 

A still blushing Sweetie Belle turned toward her friends. “You promise not to make fun of me anymore?”

“We promise,” Apple Bloom and Scootaloo said in unison.

“And promise not to tell anypony about this?”

“We won’t,” Apple Bloom vowed. “But Ah still don’t see what yer so embarrassed of. Ah think it’s kinda sweet.”

Sweetie Belle blushed. “Really?”

“Course Ah do. And maybe ya shouldn’t be trying to hide your feelings from us or… ”

“Hey girls, could we stop with the sappiness and focus on the task at hoof?” Scootaloo ruined the moment. “We got gifts to buy!”

“Oh right. Hey Sweetie Belle, we gotta go get our Secret Hearth’s Warming presents.”

“Oh no,” Sweetie Belle looked at her clock. “I forgot to set my alarm clock. Sorry, girls.”

“Less sappy, more get ready!”

Scootaloo made her point. Hopping out of her bed, Sweetie Belle made her way towards her closet.  Soon enough, Sweetie Belle was dressed to embrace the cold. 

“Nice scarf.”

“Thank you. Rarity made it for me.” Sweetie Belle winced a bit at her remark. “I’m ready. Let’s head out Crusaders!”

The Cutie Mark Crusaders left Sweetie Belle’s room and made their way downstairs towards the front door. Passing by the dining room, Scootaloo and Apple Bloom thanked Hondo Flanks for letting them in earlier. Finally reaching their current destination, they exited Sweetie Belle’s home and entered Ponyville’s winter wonder land.

“Wow,” Sweetie Belle admired the snow and decor. “It’s beautiful.”

“Ah know, right? Almost makes me wish it were Hearth’s Warming every day.”

“I’ll say. The weather team really outdid themselves this time.”

“Ha, well it is Rainbow Dash we’re talking here. She’s awesome! How could this not be great?”

Sweetie Belle and Apple Bloom snickered. After soaking in the scenery a little longer, the trio made their way to town. 

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

“You gals found anythin’ yet?”

“Yeah. It took a while, but I got the perfect gift. How about you, Apple Bloom?”

“Ah think Ah might’ve found something to make the final touches for my gift, but Ah’m still not too sure. What about you, Sweetie Belle?”

“Well, actually, I need to go to another store to get my gift. But first” Sweetie Belle’s stomach growled. “I need to get something to eat.”

“I could go for a snack, too. Let’s go to Sugarcube Corner.” 

“Yeah, Ah could go for some of Pinkie Pie’s special hot chocolate.”

“I guess we’re heading to Sugarcube Corner.”

Agreeing with the local sweet shop, the Crusaders fought their way through the shopping crowds. It was a difficult battle; one that saw many gift bags hit the ground, and many gingerbread ponies had lost their homes. When it was all over, Sugarcube Corner finally came into sight. Grateful that their battle was over, the Crusaders entered Sugarcube Corner.

“Howdy there, Mrs. Cake.”

“Oh, hello Cutie Mark Crusaders. How are you all doing today?”

“We’re great. We were just doing some Secret Hearth’s Warming shopping.”

“That’s wonderful. How did that go?”

“It was pretty exhausting but fun!  But we could really use a break,” Sweetie Belle’s stomach growled again. “Hehe plus, I haven’t eaten anything yet, and Apple Bloom said Pinkie Pie is making her special hot chocolate now.”

“Well, Apple Bloom is right. I’m sure Pinkie would be happy to make you some of her hot chocolate. Oh, Pinkie Pie!” Mrs. Cake called out.

“Yes, Mrs. Cake?” Pinkie Pie appeared behind Mrs. Cake from seemingly out of nowhere.

“These three fillies would like you to serve them something special.”

“Ooo like what? A cake? A pie? Or a new dress? An invitation to the Grand Galloping Gala? The soundtrack to the third movie in a series that stars multicolored, biped creatures that are struggling to face teenaged problems, magic, and magical villains because magic was not originally part of their non-magical world, and they are just now starting to understand magic because they have magical friends from another world that did have magic who brought magic to their non-magical world so they all have magic now? Or…”

“I think they just wanted your hot chocolate, dearie.”

“Ooo that was my fourteenth guess! Coming right up!”

“Hey Pinkie, could you bring me a cupcake, too?” asked Sweetie Belle. “I haven’t eaten breakfast yet.”

“The usual?”

“Yes please.”

“Absolutely!”

Pinkie Pie disappeared into the kitchen. Not long after, she reappeared and delivered the orders. The Crusaders paid their bill and sat down to enjoy their meal.

“So Sweetie Belle,” Scootaloo began while drinking her beverage. “what store do you want to go to anyway?”

“Oh…it’s uh…the comic book store.”

There was a silent pause at the Crusader’s table. Apple Bloom and Scootaloo looked at each other and then at Sweetie Belle. They knew there was only one name on the Hearth’s Warming drawing that would want a comic book.

“Sweetie Belle, do ya mean to tell us that ya drew Spike’s name fer yer Secret Hearth’s Warming gift?”

“Um…” Sweetie Belle blushed with a bit of an annoyed look. “Maybe.”

Scootaloo and Apple Bloom stared into each other again in shock. Then they suddenly burst into fits of excitement. 

“Sweetie Belle, this could be your chance! You can finally make Spike your special somepony…err dragon.”

Sweetie Belle rolled her eyes as she took a sip of her hot chocolate. “Thanks Scootaloo, but I don’t think getting him a gift will make him my special somedragon. I’ve tried to get him to notice me plenty of times before, but he hardly ever acknowledges my existence. He’s just too busy. He’s always helping Twilight or some other pony,” Sweetie Belle sighed “like my sister. Full grown mares. I can’t compete with that, much less Rarity. She always gets the spotlight. Everypony HAS to pay attention to her.  Don’t get me wrong; I love her, but I’m just being honest. Besides…he likes her. And if that’s the case, there’s no hope for me,” Sweetie Belle took a deep breath and put on a small smile. “I just want to get him a gift he’ll like. That’s it. I’m just happy I get this opportunity to make him happy. That’s all that matters to me.”

“Don’t talk like that!” Scootaloo interjected. “You can totally get Spike to be your special somedragon!”

“Yeah! Ya just gotta come up with a good plan!”

“Thanks girls, but I don’t think any plan will work.”

“Not just any plan. THE plan. And your gift is the start of it all!”

“I already said that a present isn’t going to help.”

“I said your gift was just the BEGINNING. Listen,” Scootaloo ordered. “Here’s what you have to do. First, you go and find him the most amazing gift that he’ll love. Second, you show up to Hearth’s Warming party all dressed up and snazzy. He won’t be able to take his eyes off you. Third, you give him your present, and while he’s gushing all over it, you start a conversation with him and throw in some of your pony charm. Finally,” Scootaloo had a triumphant look on her face. “you catch him under the mistletoe.” Sweetie Belle’s face turned very red. “Then he realizes you’re the one for him and bingo. You got yourself a coltfriend.”

Sweetie Belle thought to herself. It does sound like a good idea.

“Do you think your plan would really work?”

“Of course I do! Why wouldn’t it?”

“Well, if I dress all dolled up for the party, you can bet my sister will too. And there’s noooo competing with that.”

Scootaloo slapped a hoof on her face. “Forget about Rarity!”

“Yeah! Yer takin’ her too seriously!” Apple Bloom calmed her tone. “Just stop for a second and think about it. Spike has been chasin’ her fer a while now, and they aren’t together. She doesn’t like him that way, Sweetie Belle.”

“But he likes her.”

“So what? Ya said it yerself; she’s always the center of attention. Rarity gets Spike’s attention and others’ as well. She’s a beautiful mare.”

“Yeah, over half of Equestria likes her,” Scootaloo joined in. 

“She ain’t wrong. Everywhere ya look, there’s at least a pony or a dozen goin’ gaga over Rarity. Why, just the other night my sister was talkin’ about the way Rarity swings her hips back and forth, and the way she flipped her hair, or the way her tail would…”

“Umm Apple Bloom, I think you’re going a little too personal there.” Scootaloo awkwardly stopped her friend.

“Oh…uh hehe, right,” Apple Bloom composed herself back to her calm character. “But Sweetie Belle, ya have to realize that Spike is there fer the takin’, and it might as well be you. And Ah’m not saying that just because yer Rarity’s sister.”

“Then why do you think it should be me?”

“Because yer you. Yer fun. Yer kind. Yer beautiful. Anypony would be lucky to have ya.”

“You make it sound like I should audition for Miss Equestria.”

“Ugh!” Scootaloo joined in again. “Why are you being so complicated about this?”

“Because I…” Sweetie Belle lowered her head and sighed. “I don’t know. I’m just…scared, okay? What if he says no?”

Scootaloo approached her friend. “So what if he does? You’re young. There are plenty of other ponies in Equestria. But that won’t be necessary,” She reassured. “He won’t turn you down.”

“*Sniff* Are you sure?”

“I am.”

“Ah am, too.”

Sweetie Belle looked up to her fellow Crusaders and smiled. “You two are the best friends a pony could have,” Sweetie Belle embraced her friends. “But Scootaloo…”

“Yeah?”

“I never took you for the sentimental type.”

Apple Bloom giggled. “That’s what Ah was thinkin’. Fer all her talk about not liking it, she can be very ‘sappy’.”

“I am not sappy!”

“Ya sure? Even with all that ‘Ah believe in ya, Sweetie Belle.’?”

“Haha. Scootaloo might be the most delicate pony in Ponyville.”

“Hey! Take that back!”

“Hehe Ah bet Fluttershy would think yer too delicate.”

“Stop it!”

Apple Bloom and Sweetie Belle chuckled the last of their laughs, much to Scootaloo’s delight. “Don’t worry, Scootaloo. We’re done,” Sweetie Belle closed her eyes. After taking a deep breath, she opened them and said “Okay, I’ll do it. I’ll try to make Spike my special somedragon.”

“For real?!”

“Yer really gonna try?!”

“You’re absolutely, positively going to try to get that cute little dragon to be your oh-so-special companion for ever and ever?”

The three fillies looked towards the source of that last comment.

“Pinkie Pie?”

“Yessss?”

“…What are ya doin’ here?”

“Oh, I’m sorry for intruding, but Gummy was telling me how you three were being a bit noisy in this empty if-not-for-you restaurant, and I was like ‘Yeah, I can practically hear them from here. I should probably tell them to quiet down a bit or somepony would hear their potentially romantic conversation.’ But on the way here, I accidentally heard everything that was relevant, and now I’m super excited! Oooh Sweetie Belle, I’m sure you two will be super happy together! I pinkie promise to make you and Spike the best relationship celebration party EVER!” Confetti popped behind Pinkie.

Sweetie Belle smiled at her pink friend’s support. “Thanks Pinkie, but one step at a time. He has to say ‘yes’ to me first.”

“Oh I don’t think that’ll be a problem!”

“Ha thank you, but I still think we should wait for his answer. And could you keep this between us until after I ask him?”

“Cross my heart and hope to fly, stick a cupcake in my eye!”

“Thank you, Pinkie.”

“You’re welcome!” Pinkie began to trot away. “See ya at the Hearth’s Warming Eve party!”

Apple Bloom turned back towards Sweetie Belle. “Wow, Sweetie Belle. Just imagine, in just one more day, yer gonna get together with Spike.”

“Oh, um, actually…”

Scootaloo rolled her eyes. “What is it this time?”

“I mean, I’ll definitely ask Spike to be my special somedragon, but I don’t think it will be at the Hearth’s Warming Eve party. I’m not sure I’ll be ready by then.”

“What do ya mean ‘ready’? Sweetie Belle, the party could be yer best chance.”

“I know, but I think I should practice first. What am I supposed to do if I’m talking to him and all of a sudden I freeze up?”

“Hmm, Ah guess ya do got a point there. Yeah, maybe…”

“Nope. Nope. Nope, nope, nope.” Scootaloo interjected. “I’ve had enough of this. Sweetie Belle, I’ve got a good reason why you should ask Spike at the party,” Scootaloo place her foreleg around the unicorn’s shoulder. “Sweetie Belle, my dear friend, you should take your chance at the party because it could be your last chance. Ever.”

Sweetie Belle was confused. “Why would it be my last chance?”

“Sweetie, Sweetie, Sweetie…don’t you see?” Scootaloo looked toward their third member. “Apple Bloom, what can you say about Spike?”

“Um Spike? Well,” She thought for a moment. “He’s a great guy, definitely fun to be ‘round, really nice, pretty helpful most of the time, and kinda handsome if Ah may say so.”

“See, Sweetie Belle? You think Spike is a great guy, and Apple Bloom thinks he’s a great guy.”

“Yeah…so?”

“So, would you prefer to have Spike as your special somedragon or a pony like, say, Snips, Snails, or some pony who does nothing but play video games and cries for his mommy?”

“OH SWEET CELESTIA! I’d choose Spike!”

Scootaloo turned her head back to earth pony. “Apple Bloom, would you date Spike?”

Apple Bloom reddened. “Scootaloo! Ah don’t think ya ought to be askin’ that sort of question!”

“Don’t worry about it,” Scootaloo kept her relaxed her tone. “I’m just trying to prove a point. Sweetie Belle knows you wouldn’t chase Spike. Come on, answer the question.”

Apple Bloom stood silent for a moment. With a bit of a color on her face, she nervously answered. “Well, if Sweetie Belle didn’t already like em, Ah guess Ah would.”

Scootaloo looked back to the pony under her foreleg. “You understand now, Sweetie Belle? Spike is a catch. A lot of fillies would prefer him over other colts. If you don’t ask him at the party, some other pony might. He could be off the market before you take your chance, and Celestia knows who he’ll choose out of all fillies. He could end up with…” Scootaloo whispered a name in Sweetie Belle’s ear. A name that sent shivers down her spine. A name that gave Sweetie Belle a vision. A horrible, horrible vision.

~Sweetie Belle’s mind~

Spike skipped happily across Ponyville with a bouquet of flowers in his claws. He greeted every pony that came his way with a smile. Spike couldn’t be happier. He continued to prance until he finally reached his destination. With an eager look on his face, he knocked on the door.

“Who is it?”

“It is I, my sweet.”

“Oh, Spikey!” The door opened. “I’ve been waiting for you.”

“Sorry to keep you waiting, milady. I hope these flowers that I picked from the finest gardens in all of Ponyville are to your liking, my dear.”

“You are such a sweetie! Awe, they’re beautiful.”

“Not as beautiful as you.”

“Awe. So, where are you taking me?”

“You’ll be happy to know that I have made reservations for two at the biggest, fanciest, most expensive restaurant in Ponyville.”

“Really? This will be the best date ever!”

Taking her hoof in his claw, Spike replied. “Every date is the best with you, Diamond Tiara.”

~Back to reality~

Sweetie Belle stood motionless with a look of shock in her eyes. Her friends were getting concerned.

Scootaloo had taken her leg off of Sweetie Belle’s shoulder. “Hello? Sweetie Belle?” She waved her hoof in front of Sweetie Belle’s unmoving eyes. “Can you hear me? You okay?”

“What’s wrong, Sweetie Belle? Please, say somethin’!” Apple Bloom turned to Scootaloo. “What in the wide world of Equestria did ya say to her?!”

“I was just trying to help! All I said was Spike could end up with…”

“EEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKK!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!” Sweetie Belle let out a powerful shriek. Her shriek was so powerful that its sound waves traveled far and wide. First, they reached the kitchen, then outside Sugarcube Corner, then all of Ponyville, and finally all of Equestria.

~Elsewhere in Ponyville~

“What is it, Diamond Tiara?”

“I’m not sure…I feel…a disturbance.”

~Back in Sugarcube Corner~

Though shaken, Sugarcube Corner stayed in one piece.  Wobbling to their hooves, Apple Bloom and Scootaloo slowly approached Sweetie Belle. 

“Hey, Sweetie Belle…ya feelin’ okay?”

Sweetie Belle murmured in between breaths. “Yes…I’m okay…much better…thank you for asking.”

“Hey, I’m sorry I told you that. I didn’t think you’d react like that.”

“No no…it’s fine…really.”

“Are you sure, Sweetie…”

“You are ABSOLUTELY right, Scootaloo! I must make Spike my special somedragon TOMORROW! We must let nopony else have him. NOPONY! Especially not her!”

“Err, Sweetie Belle, Ah think ya need to calm down first. Yer startin’ to scare me.”

Pinkie Pie appeared from the kitchen. “Wow! Did you hear that? I never heard anything like it in my life! I wonder what could’ve made…” Pinkie noticed Sweetie Belle. “Hey, are you okay?”

Sweetie Belle took one more deep breath and let it out. As she exhaled, she shook her head and finally composed herself. “Wow. That was some rush. Sorry everypony.” 

Pinkie Pie, Apple Bloom, and Scootaloo all let out a sigh of relief. “But you’re still right, Scootaloo. I have to ask Spike tomorrow. I’m not running away anymore.”

“Really?”

“Really. I like Spike, and I want us to be together.”

“Wow,” Pinkie Pie was surprised. “You sound so confident.”

“Yeah, no kidding. Are you sure you’re feeling all right?”

“I’m sure. Now come on, I’ve got to find my dragon the perfect Hearth’s warming gift! You with me, Cutie Mark Crusaders?!”

Scootaloo and Apple Bloom looked at each other. Though a bit stunned from Sweetie Belle’s poise, they nodded heads and agreed. “We’re with you!”

“Great! Let’s head out, Crusaders!” Sweetie Belle turned to their attendant. “Thanks for everything, Pinkie. Wish me luck!”

“Good luck!”

The three fillies galloped their way out of Sugarcube Corner, led by Sweetie Belle, full of energy. Pinkie Pie watched as the trio headed to Celestia knows where. While happy with Sweetie Belle’s resolve, Pinkie couldn’t help but shake her head a bit. Oh Sweetie Belle, why do you have to make this so complicated for yourself? Pinkie Pie began to clean the table, thinking of everything that had just occurred and what she was told. Pinkie giggled. “Ah, young love.”

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

The Castle of Friendship stood bright and decorated for the holidays. Its crystal beauty was complemented with shining lights of green and red, with various ornaments of the holiday season to complete the scenery. It indeed was a sight to behold.

Many of Ponyville’s residents admired the view of the royal home of Princess Twilight Sparkle. Among these residents were three fillies, whom stood before the castle doors. 

“Well, here we are. Ya sure yer ready, Sweetie Belle?”

“I’m more than sure. Let’s do this.”

Sweetie Belle knocked on the doors, and the three awaited an answer. Soon enough, the door opened, revealing a small, purple dragon on the other side.

“Oh, hey girls! What’s up? Ready to party?” Spike greeted the guests.

Scootaloo came up. “Yeah we are! And trust me; we’ve got big plans for tonight. Isn’t that right, Sweetie Belle?”

“Um…yeah! Absolutely! Plans big! I mean big plants. No! I mean PLANS. Big PLANS!”

“Are you all right? You sound kinda nervous?”

“Me? Nervous? No! No nervous! Party now?”

“Um, okay. Your sisters are already here. Come on in.”

Spike made his way back inside, but before the Crusaders entered the castle, Apple Bloom stopped the trio. “What’s goin’ on with you? Yer more nervous than my grandmother when she sees an orange. Weren’t ya just oozing with self-confidence a minute ago?”

“I’m sorry. I guess I just kind of lost it when I saw him. Don’t worry about it. I’m good now.”

“Ya sure?”

“I think so.”

The Crusaders entered the castle and soaked in all of the Hearth’s Warming decorations. Trotting while admiring the lights and ornaments, they caught up to the patient drake.

“There you guys are. What happened? Did you get lost?”

“Um, no. We were just…parking my scooter.”

“Really?” Spike looked curiously at Scootaloo. “Then why are you still riding it?”

“Oh um, we couldn’t find a spot. Too much snow for me to just leave it out there.”

“Can’t argue with that,” Spike bought it. “If you want, you can leave it in my room. I’ll show you where it is after we get to the party.”

“Sounds good to me.”

The youngsters found the party and fellow attendants after a short trip. The festivities appeared to have already started, with Applejack and Rainbow Dash enjoying another friendly competition of bobbing for apples, Twilight and Pinkie enjoying some punch, and Rarity having a conversation with Fluttershy.

“Speaking of which, did you hear that loud, shrieking noise earlier?”

“Oh goodness, yes. All of my little friends are still shaking from it. I wonder what could’ve caused it.”

“I have no idea, darling. I’ve never heard anything quite like it.”

“I have my suspicions,” Twilight entered the discussion, taking a sip in between sentences. “Though I cannot confirm this, that sound did seem familiar. It reminded me of one my past experiences through the portal.” *Sip*. “I believe that sound was the work of none other than the Sirens.”

“My word. The Sirens? But I thought you said their powers were gone.”

“It appears not. They must have regained their powers and somehow returned to Equestria. I believe that sound was just the beginning, but don’t worry. I’ve alerted Princess Celestia and the royal guards. A search is currently in progress.”

“Those ruffians! Making Princess Celestia and others miss this most wonderful of holidays.”

“It can’t be helped. I offered my assistance, but Princess Celestia said at the very least, we should still enjoy Hearth’s Warming.”

“Rarity!” Sweetie Belle ran up and hugged her sister.

“Oh you finally made it!” Rarity hugged back. Rarity took a moment and admired her sister. “My, my, don’t you look precious?”

Sweetie Belle was wearing a lovely pink sweater and scarf combo that matched her mane. “Ha. Well, just thought I’d show up to the party in style,” Sweetie Belle blushed. “Thanks for making them for me.”

“Oh, it was a pleasure, darling,” Rarity let go of her sister. “Would you like to join me and Fluttershy?”

“I’d like to, but I think Scootaloo and Apple Bloom are waiting for me.”

Rarity smiled. “Very well. You three have fun.”

“We will! Thanks!”

“And Sweetie Belle,”

“Yes?”

“Maybe you should include Spike into your little group. I think he could use the company.”

“Oh,” Sweetie Belle paused. “Sure, we can do that.”

~Sometime Later~

Everypony greatly enjoyed the Hearth’s Warming Eve party; Pinkie Pie’s catering was delicious, Twilight’s party plans were fun, and the children were playing (mostly) friendly games. As the clock approached midnight, the ponies settled down a bit and began to prepare for the traditional exchange of gifts. However, one little unicorn felt she needed more time.

“Ah shucks,” Scootaloo slumped when she landed on Apple Bloom’s property.

“Ha! That’ll be 500 bits, please!”

“Yeah, yeah. Take your money,” Scootaloo bitterly handed Apple Bloom her play money. “Spike, your roll.”

“Right. Come on lady luck,” Spike rolled the dice. “For crying out loud! Thanks a lot lady.”

“Ah’m sorry fer yer troubles, but Ah do have a business to run,” Apple Bloom teased.

Sweetie Belle giggled. “My turn!” She rolled. “Finally! I’ll buy it!”

“Spiiiike?” Twilight called out. “You and the girls come here now. It’s almost midnight.”

“Already?” Sweetie Belle was nervous. “But we’re not finished with the game yet.”

“You know what? I think Twilight’s right,” Spike had a smug look on his face. “I think we should stop playing now.”

Scootaloo approved of Spike’s resolve. “She’s totally right. Let’s get going.”

Sweetie Belle didn’t want to go yet “But…”

“Come on Sweetie Belle. We’re about to exchange our gifts.”

“Alright,” Think Sweetie Belle, think. “You two go ahead. Apple Bloom and I will put the game away.”

Spike and Scootaloo left while the remaining two began to put the game away.

“Ah don’t suppose ya let them go just because they were bein’ sore losers, did ya?”

“Apple Bloom, I don’t think I can do this. I don’t think he’ll want to be my special somedragon. I mean, just think about everything that’s happened tonight,” Sweetie Belle was frantic. “He hasn’t complimented my outfit, I’ve hardly been able to say one word to him, and I’ve practically made him bankrupt! Maybe I shouldn’t ask him tonight.”

Apple Bloom wasn’t fazed by Sweetie Belle’s rant. Rather, she was half expecting this from her. She knows how delicate her friend can be. Smiling softly, Apple looked at Sweetie Belle. “Do ya really think that, or are ya still scared?”

“I’m scared!” Tears began to fall from her eyes. “Why am I such a baby about this? It shouldn’t be this hard! It’s not fair! Why can’t I be brave?” The tears fell freely. “I just want to be with him, but I’m too big of a coward to even try to ask.”

“Sweetie Belle, don’t be puttin’ yerself down like that,” Apple Bloom wiped some of the tears off. “It’s okay to be scared. Most everypony would be.”

“I know, but…I don’t know. I’m scared and I don’t even know why.”

“Look,” Apple Bloom lifted Sweetie Belle’s chin. “Applejack told me that bein’ brave ain’t about not bein’ scared; it’s about confrontin’ yer fears. Ya can’t always run away from yer fears because then ya miss out in some of the best things in life. Ah think ya should ask him tonight. If ya don’t, Ah’m not sure ya ever will. If ya keep puttin’ this off, he might not be ‘round for ya no more, and you’ll be left wonderin’ of what coulda been.” Apple Bloom wrapped a hoof around Sweetie Belle. “As yer friend, Ah don’ wanna see ya like that.”

“*Sniff* Thanks, Apple Bloom.”

“Yer welcome. Ya gonna do it?”

Sweetie Belle nodded. “Yes, I’ll do it.” They hugged. “I’m not running away anymore.”

“Apple Bloom?” Applejack walked by. “There ya’ll are. Come on, it’s almost time.”

Applejack, Apple Bloom, and Sweetie Belle made their way to the rest of the group. They were all by the Hearth’s Warming Tree, waiting for the clock to tick midnight.

“Hey, you made it!” Pinkie Pie jumped. “You’re just in time! By my calculations, it’ll be Hearth’s Warming in 5…4…3…2…1!” Nothing. “Hmm, it appears my calculations were a bit *Ding* HAPPY HEARTH’S WARMING EVERYPONY!”

Happiness filled the room and ponies. The special holiday had finally arrived. Cheers and hugs were given to every party attendant while “Happy Hearth’s Warming” echoed through the castle. What a joyous time it was.

“Alright, everypony,” Twilight began. “It’s time for the Secret Hearth’s Warming gifts! Who wants to go first?”

“Me!” Scootaloo shouted. “I got Rainbow Dash!” She ran towards her hero. “Here you go!”

“Thanks, Squirt,” Rainbow Dash opened her gift. She wasn’t expecting anything too spectacular, but when she saw her present, Rainbow Dash beamed as she unintentionally flew. “OHMYGOSH! OHMYGOSH! OHMYGOSH! A SIGNED, FIRST-EDITION OF DARING DO AND THE QUEST OF THE SAPPHIRE STATUE! BEST PRESENT EVER!” Rainbow Dash descended to her young disciple and embraced her. “Thanks little buddy.”

“M…My pleasure, Rainbow Dash. Happy Hearth’s Warming.”

Snickering at her friend’s jubilation, Rarity stepped up. “Why don’t I go next?” Rarity trotted towards the Crusaders. “I drew your name Apple Bloom.” Rarity gave the young Apple an envelope. 

“Thank ya kindly, Rarity,” Geez, a gift card? “WOAH! An autographed picture of Sapphire Shores?!”

“Mhm, but look it at a little closer.”

“’To my loyal fan, Apple Bloom’. It has my name? IT HAS MY NAME!”

“Happy Hearth’s Warming, darling.”

“Um, Twilight?” Fluttershy approached the alicorn princess. “Happy Hearth’s Warming,” Fluttershy presented Twilight a tiara with various flowers. “My little friends and I made it for you. We hope it’s a crown worthy for you.”

Twilight levitated the crown to her head. “It’s perfect, Fluttershy. Thank you,” Twilight turned back to the rest of her friends. “Who wants to go next?”

“Ah’ll go! Hold my autograph Applejack, and don’t let anythin’ happen to it!” Apple Bloom trotted to Fluttershy. “Miss Cheerilee helped me make ya this birdhouse in school, but Ah decorated it entirely by myself. Ah hope ya like it.”

“Oh, it’s lovely. I’m sure my birds will be very happy. Thank you, Apple Bloom.”

“Hey Rarity,” Rainbow Dash flew over to the unicorn. “I got you this necklace from Cloudsdale. I figured you wouldn’t have this one since it can’t be found on the ground.”

“I must say, I don’t have this type in my collection. How thoughtful of you, Rainbow.” 

“I know. I’m just awesome like that,” Rarity and Rainbow Dash shared a laugh.

Twilight approached Applejack with a gift. “This is for you,” Applejack began to unwrap her present.

Spike leaned his head towards the Cutie Mark Crusaders. “5 bits says it’s a book.”

“It’s a book!” The Crusaders laughed alongside Spike. “It’s all about farming! I thought you might like it.” Twilight smiled brightly.

“Gee, it does look mighty useful. Thank ya, Twilight,” They hugged. “Speakin’ of useful, Ah made ya a little somethin’, Scootaloo.” Applejack carried a big box to the little pegasus.

Scootaloo opened the box. “What is it?”

“It’s a little trailer. You little fillies are growin’ up so fast Ah figured ya might need more space than that little wagon can provide. Now yer scooter can pull yer friends in this.”

“That does sound good. Thanks, Applejack.”

“So,” Twilight began. “Who is left?”

“I haven’t gone yet!” Pinkie jumped in front of Twilight. “I got Princess Luna!”

“That’s great, Pinkie. Why don’t you…wait, Princess Luna? She was in the drawing?”

“Oh, she wasn’t. It’s just that when we were drawing names for the Secret Hearth’s Warming presents, I drew my name! At first, I was super excited because I was sure I would get myself a totally cool present, but then I realized I would know what my present would be before I opened it, and that would ruin half the fun. I wouldn’t allow such fun to be ruined, so I considered my options. I thought about maybe switching names with somepony, but then I thought ‘Nah, that would mean that two ponies would know who’s getting a gift, and then the Secret Hearth’s Warming gifts wouldn’t be so secret.’ So, then I came up with a great idea; I thought I would get a present for somepony who wasn’t taking part of our gift exchange! All I needed was to think of a pony to get a gift for. I thought and thought and ate a cupcake and thought, and then I thought ‘Hey, Princess Luna was on the moon for a really, really long time. I bet she missed out on so many Hearth’s Warmings, presents, and Hearth’s Warming presents.’, so I got her a present for Hearth’s Warming!”

Twilight and the others soaked in everything that Pinkie Pie had just said. It was rather odd, but it did seem like a genuine nice thing to do.  “Wow, Pinkie” Twilight finally said. “I think that is a good idea.” Everypony nodded in agreement.

“Indeed, darling. What did you get her?”

“I got her” Pinkie presented her gift “an autographed, first-edition copy of The Fifty Shades of Hay!”

All of the other mares gasped and turned red.

“What’s wrong?” Apple Bloom was puzzled. “Why did everypony get so quiet?”

“Umm…that’s a discussion for ‘nother day, Sugarcube.” Applejack uncomfortably rubbed the back of her head.

“Why? It’s just a book.”

“We’ll talk about it when yer older, Apple Bloom.”

“But…”

“When yer older!”

“Hey Rarity, don’t you have that book?”

“SWEETIE BELLE!” All heads turned to Rarity. “Umm…Sweetie Belle, you silly filly, you’re thinking of the book about the various shades of gray. That’s for my dress designs! Yes hehe,” Panicking, Rarity asked. “Now, who is left?”

Oh no. I didn’t want to ask Spike in front of all these ponies. Oh, this is going to be so embarrassing.

“Hold on, everypony! We can’t move on until I send Luna her gift,” Pinkie hopped towards the fillies. “Spike, would you please send this to Princess Luna?”

“Of course.”

Spike inhaled as he prepared to send the book. As his fire engulfed Luna’s present, Pinkie quickly gibbered a barely audible “Don’tworryIgotyourback.”

“LOOK EVERYPONY!” Pinkie pointed towards the window. “IT’S THE SIRENS!”

“WHAT?” Twilight was staggered. “You five follow me! You four stay here. No questions. The Sirens are much too dangerous. Come on everypony! We won’t let them get away!”

The mares ran hastily towards the exit to confront the threat. As they hurried, Pinkie turned her head for a moment and winked to the fillies without the other mares noticing.

Understanding the situation, Sweetie Belle let out a breath she didn’t know she was holding. Thank you, Pinkie Pie.  Sweetie Belle turned to the other two Crusaders and nudged her head towards the kitchen. Scootaloo and Apple Bloom nodded in agreement and quietly exited. Sweetie Belle turned back to Spike, who was still staring in the direction the mares had gone. Okay Sweetie Belle, it’s now or never.

The unicorn walked up beside Spike. “Well, that was weird.”

“Yeah, no kidding. I can’t believe that just happened.”

“And on today of all days. We didn’t even get to finish exchanging gifts.”

“Huh? Oh, right!”

“Well, it looks like they might be gone for a while, so…” Sweetie Belle levitated a wrapped gift to Spike. “I thought maybe I wouldn’t make you wait.”

Spike looked genuinely surprised. “Wait, you drew me?”

“Mhm,” Sweetie Belle smiled. “Well, aren’t you going to open it?”

“I will, but first, just wait here a sec,” Spike ran towards the Hearth’s Warming tree and picked up one of the presents. He jogged back to Sweetie Belle and gave it to her. “I drew you, too!”

“Really?!”

“Yeah, I know! How about we open them together?” 

“Okay!”

Spike and Sweetie Belle eagerly opened their gifts. 

“Wow, Spike!” Sweetie Belle held up a beautiful reindeer plushie. “You got me Velvet?! How’d you know?!” No answer. “Spike?”

Sweetie Belle turned her head away from her new plushie and back to Spike. The little dragon was frozen; flabbergasted by the present Sweetie Belle had given him. In his claws stood a large, beautiful, heart-shaped gem.

“Woah…Sweetie Belle…thank you,” Spike held it up. “Where’d you get this?”

Sweetie Belle blushed. “I went to the place my sister usually finds gems. It took some time, but I was able find a cerulean sapphire. I’m glad you like it.”

“It’s the best gift anypony’s ever given me…Thank you, Sweetie Belle.”

Now’s your chance. You can do this. “Spike, I want to tell you something,” Spike withdrew his focus on the gem and turned to Sweetie Belle. “Well…um you see…” Deep breath…and let it out. You’re not backing down now. “Spike, we’ve known each other for a while now. Whenever we’ve been together, we’ve had a lot of fun. I’ve had some of the best times of my life with you; we’ve gone on adventures, we’ve gone to parties, and sometimes we just hanged out,” Keep going. You can do this, Sweetie Belle. “Remember when we danced at Shining Armor’s and Cadence’s wedding? That was actually the first time I’ve ever danced with anypony. It was so much fun. I still keep the picture of it in my room,” Good, now tell him. “I wanted to give you the perfect present because I wanted to tell you…” Say it. “Thank you,” Ugh! Don’t back down! Say it, already! “And that I…” Say it. “…I really…” SAY IT. “…I mean to say that…I…might…” IN THE NAME OF CELESTIA, JUST SAY IT! “…I like you, Spike. I like you a lot.”

“Sweetie Belle…”

“I really, really like you. Will you be my special somedragon?”

Spike stood there, motionless. Sweetie Belle was getting scared. “Spike?”

Spike moved closer to Sweetie. “Yes,” He hugged her.

“Really?!”

“I’d be happy to be your special somedragon. And, actually…" Spike rubbed his arm in embarrassment. "I was thinking about asking you myself.” 

“What?!”

“Ha yeah, I know. I guess ya beat me to it.”

“I…didn’t know you even liked me.”

“Me neither, up until a few days ago when I went into your room,” Sweetie Belle just stared at Spike. “Hold up, context is important in this one. See, it was right after I found out I would be getting you a present for today.”

~A Few Days Earlier~

Spike walked along the streets of Ponyville heading to Sweetie Belle’s house. It was a normal walk like any other. Getting close to the dock, Spike had his destination in sight.

*Knock knock* “Coming,” Hondo Flanks opened the door and saw Spike. He turned his head and yelled out. “Honey! Sweetie Belle left her little doll outside again!”

“Huh? What doll?”

“And it’s come to life, too! Wait, what?”

“Um, hi Sir. Is Sweetie Belle home?”

“Nah, she just headed out with her little friends. Shouldn’t you be up in her room?”

Spike thought. That might actually give me a clue for what to get her. “Sure, but do you think she’ll mind?”

“I wouldn’t think so considering that’s where she’s supposed to leave you.”

Spike walked in. “Um, okay. Thank you, Sir.” This is weird.

“No problem, dolly.”

“Which way is her room?”

“Upstairs, second door on the left. No wait, that’s the bathroom. Second door on the right.”

“Thank you, Sir.”

“You’re welcome,” Spike walked upstairs. “Eh, magic dolls these days. They come to life and all of a sudden they forget where they’re supposed to be.”

Spike entered Sweetie Belle’s room. So this is it? Nothing too out of the ordinary. Spike observed the room for a moment, trying to find inspiration for a good gift. Not too long into searching, he found it over Sweetie Belle’s bed. Hey, isn’t this poster from that new fighting game?  This is perfect! I never took that filly for the violent type.

Satisfied with his discovery, Spike was about to leave when something on Sweetie Belle’s bed caught his attention. Hey, what’s this? Spike spotted a familiar looking stuffed animal. “Wow, it’s a little me! That’s so cool! I didn’t even know they made these. I gotta ask Sweetie Belle where she…wait. Why does Sweetie Belle have this?”

“It’s her favorite doll,” An older mare appeared behind the dragon. “Now I see what my husband meant when he said her doll came to life.”

“Pardon me, Mrs. I didn’t mean to intrude. I was just looking for some inspiration.”

The mare gave Spike a sympathetic smile. “You’re getting my daughter a gift, right?”

Well, she’s smart. “Yes, I am, but would you mind not tell anypony? It’s supposed to be a secret.”

“Not a problem,” She approached Spike. “My name is Cookie Crumbles, and you must be Spike. It’s a pleasure to finally meet you.”

“You know me?”

“You bet. You’re the one who saved the Crystal Empire, and you’re always appearing in the news with Princess Twilight. Plus, my little Sweetie Belle might mention you every so often.” Cookie Crumbles chuckled.

“She does?” Spike was a little surprised. 

“Oh, you don’t know the half of it,” Cookie Crumbles directed her attention back to the object in Spike’s possession. “You’re probably wondering about that. Well, it was a present my other daughter made for her. Oh, you should’ve seen the look on her face. I’m not sure I’ve seen her so happy,” She had herself another good laugh. “Well, I think I’ve taken enough of your time.”

“Not at all, Ma’am.”

Cookie Crumbles began to exit Sweetie Belle’s room. Halfway through crossing the door, she turned her head around. “I hope you get my daughter a good gift. Coming from you, it’s going to mean a lot to her.” She left.

~Back to the Present~

“It was a lot to take in. For the next few days, I was trying to understand how I felt about all of it. And then I…” Spike stopped and held Sweetie’s hooves. “Long story short, I like you, too.” They hugged.

The couple embraced until they heard a collective “Awe!” They turned around and found the mares had returned.

“Oh, isn’t that adorable? My little sister is in love!”

Twilight joined in. “*Sniff* It’s adorable! I’m so happy for you Spike!” She levitated Spike towards her for a very tight hug. “But you must be prepared. I think it’s time we look at some special books about mares and stallions, Spike!”

“And Sweetie Belle, don’t let my sudden burst of euphoria confuse you. It’s time we had a talk about relationships.”

“Alright, alright, you two,” Pinkie intervened. “They just got together, let them have their space. Besides, aren’t we supposed to be having a party?!” Confetti blasted.

“She’s got a point guys,” Said a smug Rainbow Dash.

Applejack joined in. “Yeah, ya’ll should settle down. It’s Hearth’s Warming.”

“Yeah!” Scootaloo and Apple Bloom emerged from the kitchen. “Let’s party!”

Rarity and Twilight submitted, Pinkie Pie unleashed her party cannons, and the party continued. The ponies were back in the holiday spirit. 

Sweetie Belle came up to Pinkie Pie. “Thanks, Pinkie. For everything.”

“Oh, don’t mention it,” As she was squeezing Sweetie Belle, Pinkie winked at Spike, wording “I told you I could help” with her mouth. Spike shrugged and nodded in agreement.

Spike went up to his marefriend. “This is some Hearth’s Warming, huh? So, where do we go from here?”

“Chances are, we’re gonna go through some awkward times with Rarity and Twilight, but I don’t mind. Small price to pay if you ask me,” Sweetie Belle joked.

Spike giggled. “Hey, check it out.” He pointed upward.

Mistletoe. Sweetie Belle blushed. She smiled alongside her special somedragon.

~The Royal Castle of Canterlot~

“Her sweat glistened under the moonlight as the gray stallion stroke her…”

“Hello, Luna," Celestia walked in. "What are you doing?”

Luna chucked her object over the castle’s balcony. “Nothing, sister!”

“OW! That book hit me right on the head!”

End.