Coppermane found himself in a dark room. There was nothing here except black void. No windows, no lights, nothing.
"Hello?" Coppermane called out. No answer. His voice sounded muffled, as if the room he was in was tiny. He got up to walk around, extending his arms out to feel for any barriers. He ran into walls almost immediately. The room was only about the size of a walk-in closet. He started to sweat, and his breathing got heavier and quicker. Where was he?
"Hello?!" Coppermane shouted, this time louder. "Anyone?"
Suddenly, behind him, a source of light illuminated the small room. Coppermane slowly turned around to see a medium-sized television screen with nothing but static. His heart pounded in his ear. What was going on?
"Ah, yes. Solitude at last," a voice said through the speakers. A voice that sounded hauntingly familiar to Coppermane.
The static on the screen faded, and Coppermane's heart dropped when he saw a familiar girl standing in the middle of another dark room.
"Fluttershy?" Coppermane said, staring intently at the television screen. Fluttershy was visibly shaking as she held her hands close. Her knees were bent inward, trembling.
"Wh-Where am I?" Fluttershy stammered. A dark silhouette stepped into view, making Fluttershy gasp. "Wh-Who are you?"
The figure stepped out of the shadows, and Coppermane felt his heart drop when he saw who it was.
It was the main bully from his old high school. Neon Lights.
Neon laughed evilly. "Just a guy who has a score to settle."
Coppermane's blood boiled as he watched Neon approach Fluttershy. The camera followed until Fluttershy hit a wall. Her body was visibly trembling.
"What are you doing?" Coppermane pleaded. "No, stay away from her."
Coppermane watched in horror as Neon got closer and closer to Fluttershy as she pressed back further and further into the wall to try and avoid him. She could be heard whimpering loudly as he smiled at her.
"Stay away from her, you son of a bitch!" Coppermane pleaded. "Don't get any closer!"
Neon snickered as he lifted his hand to touch her face.
"Don't touch her!" Coppermane shouted, grabbing the television. "Don't you dare touch my Fluttershy!"
Fluttershy whimpered as Neon caressed her face. She turned her head away from him, and a tear could be seen running down her face.
"Your skin is so soft," Neon said. "That frightened little whimper is so cute."
"What are you doing to her?!" Coppermane shouted. "Get your hands off her!"
"P-Please…" Fluttershy cooed. "Wh-Whatever I did… I-I'm sorry… just… p-please stop…"
Neon snickered evilly. "Oh you did nothing. Your boyfriend on the other hand… I have a score to settle with him."
"C-Coppermane?" Fluttershy asked.
"He needs to pay for beating me up, and I figured the best way to do that would be to... play around with his new girlfriend a bit."
"No... no..." Coppermane said. "Not Fluttershy… anything but that…"
"Now," Neon said, cupping Fluttershy's tear-stained face, "Let's see how much you've learned from him."
"No…" Coppermane pleaded. "Don't you dare…" Coppermane began to sweat, and his heartbeat rang in his ear. "Stay away from her!"
Neon slowly leaned in, and Fluttershy could be heard crying as he planted a kiss on her lips.
"No! Stop!!" Coppermane screamed. "Please!!! Stop this!!! Fluttershy!!!!!"
Coppermane could barely make out tears running down Fluttershy's face, hearing her whimper as Neon continued to kiss her. Coppermane's hyperventilated as he watched in horror. He immediately got up and rammed his body into the walls, trying to break out of his dark prison. He had to save Fluttershy. He charged into the walls over and over again, trying to find some kind of flaw in the structure to break through. But it was no use. He was trapped. Tears streamed down his face and his heart threatened to punch out of his chest. He could only watch in horror as Neon violated his precious Fluttershy.
Neon laughed evilly. "Not bad. Coppermane's taught you well," he muttered as he leaned in to kiss her again. Tears streamed down Fluttershy's face. She squirmed as Coppermane saw Neon's hand slip up her skirt.
"NO!! WHY ARE YOU DOING THIS?!!" Coppermane screamed. "STOP!!! PLEASE!!!"
"NO!!!" Coppermane screamed, springing up in his bed. His breathing was heavy, and his sheets were soaked in sweat. The cold air of the room hit his sweaty skin, making him shiver. He trembled as he held himself in his arms. His heartbeat rang in his ear as his head pounded.
A dream… it was just a dream…
More like a nightmare…
Dreams were usually so fragile, and hardly remembered. This dream, though… it was still fresh in Coppermane's mind, as if it really happened.
Neon Lights… his old bully… violating his Fluttershy… touching her… kissing her…
Tears ran down his face as thoughts of his nightmare dominated his mind. Fluttershy looked so scared… so helpless… and there was nothing he could do. He could only watch as Neon kissed her. Coppermane shuddered at the thought of what might've happened if the nightmare continued.
He couldn't help her. He couldn't save her. There was absolutely nothing he could do.
And it was all his fault…
Fluttershy… I'm so sorry…
THE NEXT DAY
Pinkie Pie ==> Fluttershy, 2:30 PM
Everything's ready! Let us know when you're almost here!
Fluttershy ==> Pinkie Pie, 2:33 PM
Yay! We might be a few minutes though.
Pinkie Pie ==> Fluttershy, 2:36 PM
Oh. Why?
Fluttershy ==> Pinkie Pie, 2:40 PM
Coppermane has been troubled all day, and he won't tell me why.
Pinkie Pie ==> Fluttershy, 2:42 PM
Well, get him over here! I know this party will cheer him up!
Fluttershy ==> Pinkie Pie, 2:45 PM
I'm going to talk to him first, but we'll be on our way as soon as possible :)
Pinkie Pie ==> Fluttershy, 2:49 PM
Okay! See you soon!
Fluttershy put her phone down, and looked over at her boyfriend, who leaned on the steering wheel as stared out through the windshield. They always waited in the car after school for traffic to die down. Normally, they spent this time telling each other about their day. It was a moment to spend some quality time together. Today though, he said nothing. His face was rather stiff, as if he was thinking about something. He didn't even spare a glance at her.
He's been like this all day, and Fluttershy couldn't help but worry. What was he thinking about? What was on his mind?
Fluttershy slowly reached her hand out to touch his shoulder. "Coppermane?"
Coppermane flinched when she touched him. "Huh?"
Fluttershy rested her hand back on his shoulder when she knew he was calm.
"Coppermane, are you okay?" Fluttershy asked.
Coppermane offered a small smile. "Um… y-yeah… I'm fine… wh-why wouldn't I be?" he said with a nervous chuckle.
Fluttershy was unconvinced. She used her hand to turn his head to look at her.
"Coppermane, you've looked unsettled all day," Fluttershy said. "Is something bothering you?"
Coppermane bit his lip. All he could see when he looked at her was Neon's greasy hand touching her cheek. He furled his eyebrows and turned away. The images were just too disturbing.
"Coppermane?" Fluttershy cooed, massaging his shoulder. "Please, let me help you. I can't bear to see you so upset."
Coppermane sighed. He looked at Fluttershy again, and her eyes were filled with worry. The same worried eyes he saw when he rejected her help at the mall.
He leaned back in his seat, taking his hands off the wheel. She only wanted to help him. He's already denied her once, and really hurt her by doing so. He couldn't hurt her again.
"Coppermane?" Fluttershy cooed again, placing her hand on his.
Coppermane looked at her, and bit his lip. How could he say no to such an adorable face?
He interlaced his fingers with hers, giving her hand a squeeze. "Sorry to worry you."
Fluttershy smiled, and squeezed his hand back. "Coppermane, you can talk to me about anything. If you're upset, I want to do everything I can to help. I'm always here for you."
Coppermane offered a smile. "Thanks."
Fluttershy reached her free hand up to brush his hair. "What's going on in that cute little head of yours?"
Coppermane chuckled at the gesture, but his expression quickly darkened as he collected his thoughts.
"Fluttershy… do you think… um…" Coppermane stammered.
"Yes?" Fluttershy asked, sandwiching her boyfriend's hands between hers.
"Do you think… I'm weak?" he asked.
"Weak? Coppermane, no, of course not," Fluttershy cooed. "Why would I ever think that?"
Coppermane sighed. "It's just… I've been thinking. What if something happens to you because I wasn't strong enough to protect you?"
"Coppermane… is this about last Monday?" Fluttershy asked. She saw him bite his lip. "Coppermane, look at me," she said, using her hand to turn his head to look at her. She cupped his face, and offered a smile. "I told you, I don't think any less of you for what happened. The fact that you even tried to protect me means everything to me. Those mean bullies don't know you like I do. I think you're an amazing guy, and nothing will change that."
Coppermane looked into her beautiful teal eyes, and saw that familiar sympathy. The feeling of her cupping his face alone was enough to offer him some solace. Even so, his heart still felt cold with shame.
"Coppermane?" Fluttershy cooed. "Is there anything I can do to help cheer you up?"
Coppermane felt his face heat up as his gaze found its way down to her lips.
"I… I wouldn't mind a kiss," he said, blushing profusely.
Fluttershy giggled at how red his face was, and at how cute his request was. How could she say no to such an adorable face? She leaned in and brought his face closer, connecting their lips in a tender kiss. She felt the tension in his cheeks relax as she kissed him. He caressed her arm with his hand, making her shiver. His lips were so warm and tender…
Fluttershy gently pulled back, and blushed when she saw Coppermane's blissful smile.
"Did that help?" Fluttershy asked.
Coppermane blushed himself. "Well… maybe one more?"
Fluttershy giggled. "Of course," she said, leaning in to kiss him again. She would kiss him as many times as he wanted her to. She could kiss her Coppermane all day.
Fluttershy pulled away again, and his smile seemed even bigger.
"How about now?" Fluttershy cooed.
Coppermane chuckled and blushed. "Perfect. Thank you so much."
Fluttershy smiled, and gave him one more peck before taking her hands away and leaning back in her seat.
"I think I might have something that will make you feel even better," Fluttershy said.
"Really?" Coppermane cooed.
"Mmmhmm!" Fluttershy said, "But… um… can you drive me to Pinkie Pie's first?"
Coppermane looked confused. "Um… sure. Why?"
Fluttershy bit her lip. "I… I forgot something at her house."
Coppermane just looked more perplexed, but shrugged. "Alright, but I'll need directions."
Fluttershy nodded, and tried her best not to squeal with excitement as Coppermane drove them to Pinkie Pie's house.
Fluttershy ==> Pinkie Pie, 3:10 PM
We're just about there! :D
Pinkie Pie ==> Fluttershy, 3:11 PM
AAH!!! Okay, we'll get ready! The door will be unlocked, so just come in. I'm so excited!!! :D :D :D
"Fluttershy, no offense, but why is it so important that I come in with you?" Coppermane asked as Fluttershy brought him to the front door.
Fluttershy giggled. "You'll see."
Coppermane rose his eyebrow. This felt a little sketchy, but he just shrugged it off.
"Alright," he said. Fluttershy opened the front door without any problems whatsoever. Did Pinkie Pie forget to lock her door? Fluttershy led him inside, and the foyer was completely dark. Was Pinkie even home? He looked at Fluttershy, and even in the dark, he could barely make out a big smile on her face. It was as if she was anticipating something.
"So… what did you leave here?" Coppermane asked.
All of a sudden, the lights turned on.
"Surprise! Happy birthday, Coppermane!"
Coppermane nearly jumped out of his skin. He stood still, trembling from the sudden adrenaline rush. He looked around, and saw everyone who had been hiding. Rainbow Dash, Twilight, Flash, Pinkie Pie, Applejack, Rarity, and Sunset, all in various locations around the main room. Coppermane looked over at Fluttershy to see the biggest smile on her face. He looked back at everyone, with equally big smiles.
"Wha… wha… what's going on?" Coppermane stammered.
Pinkie Pie walked up to him. "It's a birthday party, silly!"
"For you!" Fluttershy said, nuzzling his arm.
"For… for me?" Coppermane said. "How did you guys know?"
Fluttershy squeezed his hand. "I told them."
"And the only way to celebrate a friend's birthday is with a party!" Pinkie said.
Coppermane looked around the room, and saw everything that was set up. The counter was covered in bowls of chips, punch, fruit, and a couple pizza boxes. He looked over and saw the big TV with what looked like some guitar controllers and a drum controller. The entire room was covered in streamers, balloons, and confetti. Coppermane nearly teared up. They did all of this… for him?
"Wow… I… I don't even know what to say…" Coppermane said, choking up.
"Are you crying?" Rainbow asked.
"Sorry… I… I'm just… wow…" Coppermane stammered.
"Coppermane, y'all act like you've never had a birthday party before," Applejack said.
Coppermane's eyes went wide, and he bit his lip. He rubbed the back of his neck as he looked away, feeling his face heat up.
"Wait…" Sunset said, "You've never had a birthday party?"
Coppermane sighed, and shook his head. Pinkie Pie suddenly gasped and grabbed Coppermane by the shirt, staring him down.
"How have you never had a birthday party?!" Pinkie beckoned. "What have you been doing on your birthday each year?! What have you been doing with your life?!"
"Pinkie! Let him go, please!" Fluttershy beckoned.
Pinkie obliged, and Fluttershy helped Coppermane straighten his shirt out.
"Sorry," Pinkie said.
"But seriously," Flash said. "How have you not had a birthday party before?"
"What have you done each year, darling?" Rarity asked.
"Well… nothing…" Coppermane said, to everyone's surprise. "Nobody cared. I was all alone. My birthday was just like any other day out of the year."
Fluttershy gave him a big side-hug. "Well, you have friends now!"
"You know it!" Rainbow said.
"Sure do!" Sunset said.
Flash walked over to the TV, picking up a guitar controller. "You play RockBand at all, Coppermane?"
Coppermane's eyes went wide. "Gimme that controller," he said with a big smile, walking over to the TV.
And thus began Coppermane's first ever birthday party. Coppermane usually wasn't one for parties, but he loved this. It was something small, consisting of only his friends and girlfriend. It was a much more intimate setting, rather than a crowd of random people. It made for a much more enjoyable experience for Coppermane.
Fluttershy watched Coppermane as he played games and socialized. He looked so… happy. Every time she looked at him, there was a smile on his face. He was also being rather loud at times, especially when he competed against others in games. Fluttershy didn't know he could be so competitive. It was a rare time when Coppermane was voluntarily coming out of his comfort zone. And he looked happy.
Sometimes when they were doing different things, Coppermane would come over to Fluttershy and randomly kiss her. When she asked why, he just said because he felt like it. Fluttershy didn't mind one bit. It was just too cute. She even returned the favor, surprising him a few times.
He was so troubled earlier today, but there wasn't any sign of it now.
Everyone sat at the island counter, chatting and finishing up their pieces of birthday cake, courtesy of Pinkie Pie.
"Thanks for the cake, Pinkie," Coppermane said. "Did you make that yourself?"
"Yes indeedy!" Pinkie said. "I had some help from Applejack too."
"Aw shucks, it was nothin'," Applejack said.
"But Coppermane, darling," Rarity said, "Before we do anything else, we have something for you."
"Wait… really?" Coppermane said.
Sunset reached below the counter, and came back up with a present in hand. It was in the shape of a medium rectangle, and was flat like a plate. It was wrapped in purple wrapping paper, complete with a pink bow.
"You got me something?" Coppermane asked.
"Of course!" Twilight said.
"From all of us," Sunset said.
"Have you never gotten a birthday present either?" Rainbow asked.
Coppermane shook his head, biting his lip. "Nope."
"Well, we hope it's a great first gift, darling," Rarity said.
"Go ahead, Coppermane," Fluttershy said, nuzzling his arm.
Coppermane took a deep breath, and opened his first birthday present ever. He ripped the paper off, and saw… pictures? He tore the rest of the paper off, and what he saw took his breath away. It was a collage. A collage consisting of pictures of him and everyone here. He remembered the girls wanting to take pictures with him frequently during classes and their band practice, especially since he and Fluttershy started dating, but he never guessed they were conspiring to make this. There were pictures of him with one or more of the girls, a few of him and Fluttershy, a couple of just him, and a few of him and Flash being goofy. But the best picture was the big one right in the middle. It was of all eight of his friends standing in a line together, smiling at the camera. And written on there was:
We love you, Coppermane!
- Your best friends
"Wow…" Coppermane said. He felt a tear running down his face.
"You like it, sugarcube?" Applejack asked.
"I… I love it…" Coppermane said, choking up a little.
"Coppermane we all want you to keep that as a reminder that you're not alone," Twilight said.
"We're here for you," Rainbow Dash said.
"No matter what," Flash said.
"We care about you, sweetness," Rarity said.
Fluttershy gave him a kiss on the cheek, and gave him a big hug.
"You have friends now," Fluttershy said. "Please don't forget that."
Coppermane put his arm around Fluttershy as more tears escaped his eyes.
"Wow… You all have no idea how much this means to me," Coppermane said. "All of this. Thank you… thank you so much…"
The girls all gave him a group hug, making him blush. He looked at Flash, who just chuckled and shook his head.
"You up for more RockBand, Coppermane?" Flash said.
"I mean… once they release me…" Coppermane said. The girls chuckled, and let Coppermane go after a minute. He picked up his present, and took a second to marvel at it.
"Wow…" he muttered to himself. He looked up at everyone. "Thanks again, everyone." And after giving Fluttershy a kiss on the cheek, Coppermane and Flash adjourned to play more games together.
Fluttershy couldn't hold back her excitement any longer, and let out a squeal.
"Oh, this is wonderful! He looks so happy!" she said. "Thank you all so much!"
The girls all pulled Fluttershy into a big hug. Fluttershy couldn't be happier with how successful this party has been. There was absolutely no trace of his troubles from earlier today, and she had her friends to thank. They took the time out of their lives to help make her boyfriend's birthday amazing. Fluttershy knew this would be fun, but also healthy for Coppermane. Showing him that there are people who care about him, and that he's not alone anymore. On top of that, she herself was having a wonderful time.
She truly had some of the greatest friends in the world.
Coppermane only recently found out that this was supposed to be a slumber birthday party, but he didn't mind at all. After going home to get some things, he was right back at Pinkie Pie's house, and continued to have fun with his friends.
As much as everyone wanted to stay up later, they all started to feel drowsy, and agreed that it was time to get some shut-eye. Pinkie had arranged for the girls to sleep in her room while the boys slept in the guest room down the hall. Flash gave Twilight a kiss before they parted for the night. Everyone had adjourned to their respective rooms, except for a certain couple.
In the hall between the two rooms, Coppermane and Fluttershy stood together. Coppermane had his hands on her waist while Fluttershy had hers on his shoulders. They took a moment to gaze into each other's eyes, imprinting every last detail in their minds.
"Fluttershy… thank you," Coppermane said.
"For what?" Fluttershy asked.
"For today. It was so much fun," Coppermane said. "But how did you know it was my birthday?"
Fluttershy blushed. "I… I looked at your online profile…"
Coppermane chuckled. "You stalked my profile?"
Fluttershy's cheeks went redder. "S-Sorry…"
"Don't be," Coppermane said. "This was so much fun, and it's all thanks to you."
Fluttershy smiled, and gave him a kiss on the cheek.
"You're very welcome, Coppermane," Fluttershy said, placing her hand on his heart. "You deserve it after everything you've been through."
Coppermane smiled, and reached up to caress her face. "You're the best."
Fluttershy felt her face heat up, and her body melted when Coppermane leaned in to kiss her. His lips were so sweet. She would've melted onto the ground if he weren't holding her. He pulled back, and they shared a warm embrace.
"Good night, Coppermane," Fluttershy said.
"Sweet dreams, Fluttershy," Coppermane said. They shared one more kiss before parting ways for the night. Coppermane reached the guest room door, but turned around and leaned against the frame to look at Fluttershy again. He wanted to imprint every last detail of her in his mind before he went to sleep. She looked so adorable in her night clothes.
Fluttershy turned around to look at her boyfriend one more time, only to find he was already looking at her. He darted his gaze away, blushing profusely. She blushed herself. He'd been checking her out. She couldn't help but giggle at his shyness. It was just too cute. His eyes slowly met hers again, and she blew him a kiss before quietly proceeding into Pinkie's room.
Coppermane lingered for a little while longer before turning in for the night himself.
"P-Please stop…" Fluttershy said, "I-I'm sorry for whatever he did… j-just please stop…"
Neon stroked her cheek, making her shiver. "Sorry, but your boyfriend needs to pay."
"I… I-I'm sure he didn't mean it…" Fluttershy cooed.
Neon planted another kiss on her lips to silence her. Tears streamed down Fluttershy's face. She squirmed and squeaked as Neon slipped his hands up her skirt.
"Y'know, if he truly loved you, he wouldn't have let this happen to you in the first place," Neon said. "You can blame your piece of shit boyfriend for letting this happen. And you can blame yourself for giving your heart to a failure. Now… let's see what else you've got…" he said, slowly pulling her shirt up…
"Fluttershy!!!" Coppermane cried, waking up in a cold sweat. His eyes were wide open, and his head pounded. His heartbeat rang in his ear again. He looked around. He was still at Pinkie Pie's. Flash slept soundly on the bed. Just a dream… and yet it wasn't just a dream…
It was the same nightmare… taken a step further…
Coppermane shuddered at the thought. Fluttershy… she was about to be ravaged by Neon. He wanted to believe that Neon, even though he hated him, wouldn't go so far as to violate someone like that in reality, but the image was still painted in his head. The thought made his blood boil, but also made his heart fill with untold amounts of shame. Again, he was powerless to stop it. He couldn't rescue her. He could only watch as Neon defiled his precious Fluttershy.
"And you can blame yourself for giving your heart to a failure."
Neon's word cut through him like a knife. Was it true? Has Fluttershy given her heart to a failure? Was Coppermane not trying hard enough? Was he a bad boyfriend? Tears fell down his face. Was he putting Fluttershy in danger just by dating her?
Coppermane's gaze found its way to his backpack, and an idea hatched in his head. An idea that would be productive, and help prove to himself that he's not a failure. He was wide awake anyway, and he didn't want to go to sleep just to watch Neon defile his Fluttershy. He couldn't bear to watch that again.
He sifted through his backpack, and pulled out a pencil along with some sheets of loose-leaf paper. He was about to turn on the light, but remembered that Flash was in here. He didn't want to turn on his phone light either. It was rather bright, and might wake him up too. The only other place he could think of to work was the island counter. Sighing, he slowly got up, and quietly made his way into the hall.
Coppermane walked into the dimly lit hallway, and walked by Pinkie's room. He noticed the door was open. He was about to ignore it, until he saw something that made his heart skip a beat. There, lying in front of the bed, was Fluttershy, sleeping soundly. Coppermane let out a sigh of relief. He knew Fluttershy was never in any real danger, but after his last couple dreams, it was relieving to see her safe, sound, and pure.
He found himself just staring at her as she slept. He felt drawn to her, as if her aura was calling out to him. He bit his lip. He couldn't help himself. He took a deep breath, and quietly entered Pinkie's room. He sat down on his knees next to his slumbering Fluttershy. Coppermane's eyes went wide when he saw what was in her arms. It was the stuffed unicorn he won for her at the arcade. She was sleeping with it. Coppermane smiled at the heart-warming sight. It was so flattering to know how much she liked his gift.
She looked so adorable when she was asleep. She looked even cuter holding her stuffed unicorn. Coppermane lifted his hand to brush her long, silky hair. Her skin seemed to glow in the moonlight. He took this moment to just love her, and admire every facet of her beauty.
"You're so pretty..." Coppermane whispered, gently brushing her hair. He lowered his head down to her cheek. "I'll never let anyone hurt you," he whispered before giving her a gentle kiss on the cheek. Her skin was so soft. He continued brushing her hair, until she moved in her sleep. He pulled his hand away as she stirred, mumbling something unintelligible. She squeezed and nuzzled her stuffed unicorn in her arms before relaxing once again. This time, with a smile on her face.
Coppermane smiled at the sight. She was just too adorable. How was it possible for one girl to be so cute?
I wonder what she's dreaming about?
Coppermane continued to brush her hair and admire her. But unbeknownst to him, someone else was awake as well.
Applejack had been watching everything, pretending to be asleep. She'd been having some trouble sleeping as well, and was a little startled when she saw Coppermane in the doorway. She was about to question why he was awake, but bit her tongue when he walked in the room. She wanted to see what he was going to do. And she was glad she did, because what she saw was one of the most heart-warming things she's ever seen. Coppermane just wanted to watch her sleep. It was so cute and sweet to see him brush her hair and kiss her cheek. He must really love her.
Applejack was so happy for Fluttershy. Fluttershy was without a doubt the sweetest girl in the world, and she more than anyone else deserved someone to love and appreciate her. And being the shy girl she is, she deserved someone to make her feel safe. Applejack and her friends have never seen Fluttershy so happy. She could see how lucky Fluttershy was just from watching Coppermane be so affectionate towards her.
She saw him give her one more kiss on the cheek before getting up. But before he walked out, he took one more glance at Fluttershy. Applejack noticed a more somber expression on his face. She only grew more concerned when he let out a sigh and walked out. And instead of heading to the guest room, he walked downstairs.
Why did he look so troubled all of a sudden? He looked so content when he was next to Fluttershy. Why did he look at her with such a concerned face? Applejack was wide awake, so she decided to investigate. She got up, and quietly followed Coppermane downstairs.
Applejack stopped in the stairway when she saw Coppermane writing something at the island counter. It wasn't in her nature to do something like this, but she decided to do some spying. It was unorthodox for her, but if it involved Fluttershy, then she wanted to know about it. He sounded like he was whispering to himself as he wrote things down.
"I'm not a failure… I won't fail you, Fluttershy… I'm not a bad boyfriend… I'm not…"
Applejack rose her eyebrow at this. A failure? What the heck was he doing? Suddenly, he threw his pencil down on the counter, looking frustrated.
"What am I doing? I don't deserve a girl like her. She deserves someone strong… someone who can actually protect her. I am a failure…"
Applejack couldn't sit idly by anymore. Something was going on. She stood up, and leaned in the doorway. She cleared her throat, jolting Coppermane.
"Is… is someone there?" Coppermane beckoned. Applejack walked out, and greeted him with a smile. "Oh… um… h-hi, Applejack. Y-You're up late."
"Howdy," Applejack said. "Ah was about ta say the same thing. Ah couldn't fall asleep."
"M-Me neither," Coppermane said, rubbing his neck.
"Y'all alright, Coppermane?" Applejack asked, taking a seat across from him.
Coppermane looked confused. "Um… why do you ask?"
"You look troubled, is all," Applejack said.
Coppermane bit his lip. "I… I just have a lot on my mind. Th-That's all…"
"Is it something y'all wanna talk about?" Applejack asked.
Coppermane said nothing. He just looked down, and played with his hands.
"Coppermane, Ah'm your friend. If y'all have a problem, Ah'd be happy ta help in any way Ah can," Applejack said.
Coppermane sighed. "I… I don't know…"
"What's on your mind, sugarcube? Talk ta me," Applejack coaxed.
Coppermane played with his hands, and bit his lip. He let out a long sigh.
"Applejack… have you ever felt powerless?" Coppermane asked
"Powerless? Whaddya mean?" Applejack asked.
"Like… something's going on, something you know needs to be stopped, and you can't do anything about it. No matter how hard you try, all you can do is watch."
Applejack was baffled by the question. She expected a question about Fluttershy, but not anything like this.
"Sugarcube, what are you talkin' about?" Applejack asked.
Coppermane sighed again. "I don't know. I guess… I guess I'm just worried about being a bad boyfriend to Fluttershy."
Applejack smiled upon hearing Fluttershy's name. Now she could ask him about her.
"Sugar, Fluttershy's very happy with you," Applejack said. "Are you happy?"
"Oh, of course I am. Fluttershy's amazing. It's just… she's my first girlfriend, and I don't want to mess up. I want to be the guy she deserves. A strong guy to protect her from harm, and treat her like the special girl she is. I want her to be happy, but… I don't know. I guess I just worry a lot."
Applejack noticed him looking down at the piece of paper.
"What's that, hon?" Applejack asked.
"Oh, this?" Coppermane asked. "It… it's nothing…"
"C'mon, sugarcube," Applejack coaxed.
Coppermane bit his lip, and let out a heavy sigh. He turned the paper and pushed it to Applejack.
"It's something I just started writing. It's my Fluttershy list. Things about her, and things I can do for her to make her smile," Coppermane said. "It… it's kind of stupid…"
Applejack looked over the list, and what she read was breathtaking.
Fluttershy
Birthday: March 15th
Anniversary: October 2ndFavorite Things:
--Animals! Animals! Animals!
--Showing kindness
--Spending time with her friends--Tell her she's beautiful. Remind her every day how beautiful she is.
--Show her how much you adore her, every day
--Shower her with affection, but don't smother her, especially in public. She's just as shy as you, remember.
--At the same time, don't be afraid to show her off in public. Show the world how lucky you are to have her.
--Valentine's Day!
--Cook for her!
--Random gifts! Flowers, candy, cards, etc.
--Attend all of her band rehearsals and concerts. Show her your support! Not only that, support her friends too, because the Rainbooms truly rock!
--Learn how to give a massage.
--Randomly sing for her.
--Stuffed animals! Teddy bears, ponies, dogs, etc!
--Don't pressure her. Make her feel comfortable around you. Don't force her to do something she's not comfortable with, unless you think she can handle it.
--Cuddle with her. Hold her close, and keep her safe.
--PROTECT HER. PROTECT HER. PROTECT HER. Don't let ANYONE harm your Fluttershy.--Above all, remember to let her know how lucky you are to have such an amazing, beautiful, adorable girl like her in your life.
"Land sakes…" Applejack cooed. "Coppermane, this ain't stupid at all. This is amazin'."
"R-Really?" Coppermane asked.
"Sure is," Applejack said. "Y'all really care about her, don't ya?"
Coppermane offered a small smile. "Applejack, you don't know the half of it."
Applejack smiled. "Coppermane, Ah don't think y'all have anythin' ta worry about. Fluttershy would be beside herself if she saw this."
Coppermane bit his lip, making Applejack raise her eyebrow. She remembered something he asked her earlier.
"Coppermane, y'all asked me about if I've ever felt powerless, right?" Applejack asked. Coppermane sighed and nodded. "What was that all about, hon?"
Coppermane looked away, and pursed his lips. "Well… these past couple nights… I've been having this… nightmare…"
Applejack listened intently as Coppermane told her about his nightmares. His bully from his old school, defiling Fluttershy. He told her about how he could see it from a TV screen, unable to do anything but watch as Fluttershy was violated before his eyes.
"I… I couldn't do a damn thing about it. She was out there somewhere being hurt, and there was nothing I could do. I swore on everything that I wouldn't let anything happen to her; that I would protect her. What if I can't do that? What if I'm not even capable? I know it's paranoid, but what if something happens to her one day because I was unable to protect her? And now, because of our relationship, the bullies are targeting her. They hit on her right in front of me, showing no concern for her feeling at all, even after I told them we're together. I want her to feel safe with me, but am I putting her in danger just by dating her? She was perfectly safe until I came along, and now she has to deal with my bullies. She's part of a fight that's not even hers, all because of our relationship. I… I just can't bear the thought of her getting hurt. I remember that dream so vividly. It hurt so much to see her so frightened, and I could do nothing to stop it." Coppermane was tearing up as he spoke, and his voice got shakier. "What if worse comes to worst, and she gets hurt? What if… what if… what if…" He started to stammer, and was in tears.
"Aww, sugarcube," Applejack said, walking over to him. "C'mere," she said, pulling him into a hug, trying to comfort him. She allowed him to cry on her shoulder. "Shh… it's alright, sugar. Ah'm right here."
Applejack held Coppermane for a good three minutes as he got his emotions out. No wonder he wasn't able to sleep. Applejack would be apprehensive to fall asleep too if she were having nightmares like that. He pulled back after a while, and took some deep breaths. His eyes were bloodshot, and his cheeks were puffy and red.
"Oh gosh, now look at me. I'm crying like a baby," Coppermane said. "I don't deserve a girl like Fluttershy. She needs someone who can protect her; not a wimp like me. I'm just an embarrassment to her."
"Coppermane, look at me," Applejack said, lifting his chin with her hand. "Y'all ain't weak just because ya cry. It's sweet that y'all care about her safety so much, even if those dreams are a tad extreme. Y'know… Ah saw ya come into our room a little while ago."
Coppermane's face went bright red. "Oh… y-you saw that? H-How much did you see?"
"Ah saw you watchin' Fluttershy sleep," Applejack said, withdrawing her hand from his chin.
Coppermane rubbed his neck. "Um… s-sorry…"
"Don't be sorry, Coppermane," Applejack said. "It was one of the cutest things Ah've ever seen. It's nice that y'all wanted to watch over her."
"I mean… I just wanted to make sure she was safe… and she looked so cute…" Coppermane said, blushing.
Applejack chuckled. "Coppermane, it would mean the world to Fluttershy to know how much ya care about her. She's always talkin' about ya."
Coppermane rose an eyebrow. "She is?"
Applejack nodded. "She just goes on and on about how sweet y'all are, and how happy you make her."
Coppermane's eyes went wide, and his cheeks flushed red. "I… I make her happy?"
Applejack smiled. "Honey, Ah've never seen Fluttershy happier in my life. I mean, y'all haven't been datin' for long, but still, this is the happiest she's ever been."
A big smile grew on Coppermane's face as he rubbed his neck. Applejack giggled. He really was smitten with Fluttershy, wasn't he?
His expression quickly darkened, though. "But… what if I can't protect her one day? What if she gets hurt, and she thinks I don't care? What if she doesn't feel safe with me?"
"Coppermane, Ah've seen you hold Fluttershy, and there's always a smile on her face," Applejack said. Coppermane smiled again, rubbing his neck. "Ah also know about the time you stood up to your bullies for her. Ah don't think y'all really know how much that meant to her. You were willing to put your fears aside just for her. The fact that y'all care about her safety so much is mighty sweet, Coppermane. But y'all can't protect her from everything. That's just a fact. Things are gonna happen that y'all won't have the power ta stop, but the best thing you can do is let her know that you're always there for her. And don't feel like you're alone. If y'all need help, you have all of us. You and Fluttershy are both our friends, and we won't see either of y'all get hurt. That's what friends are for, right?" Coppermane managed a small smile, making Applejack smile too. "Fluttershy really likes you, Coppermane, and she's lucky to have such a carin' boyfriend."
Coppermane played with his hands, and managed a smile. "Fluttershy's something special, Applejack. I'll always be there for her, no matter what."
Applejack smiled. "Ah trust you will. Y'all feeling better now?"
Coppermane nodded. "Much. Thanks. I really needed this."
Applejack pulled Coppermane into a hug. "That's why Ah'm here, sugarcube. A'm glad Ah could help."
She felt Coppermane hesitate for a moment, but he soon reciprocated her embrace. Coppermane was a good person, they all knew it. He was just a little scared. Applejack and her friends knew what he had to go through in the past, and she could understand why it would leave him so frightened. But Applejack knew that she and her friends would be the perfect people to help bring him out of his shell.
Applejack pulled back, and yawned. "Ah'm plum tuckered. Ah'm gonna turn in. Y'all comin' up too?"
"Actually, I just had some ideas of things I could add to the list," Coppermane said.
Applejack chuckled. "Alright, but don't stress yourself out too much, okay?"
"I won't," Coppermane said. "Um… can you maybe… not tell Fluttershy about this?"
Applejack winked. "Ma lips are sealed."
"Thanks," Coppermane said. "Good night, Applejack."
"Good night, Coppermane," Applejack said. And with that, she walked back upstairs. On the way up, she heard Coppermane murmur something to himself.
"I'm going to make you the happiest girl in the world, Fluttershy," Coppermane muttered. "I won't let you down."
Applejack smiled as she made her way back upstairs. Fluttershy sure had one sweet boyfriend.
Applejack was about to fall back asleep, but was jolted when she saw a silhouette in the doorway. It was Coppermane again. He walked up to Fluttershy, and knelt next to her. He laid a piece of paper next to her, and gave her a kiss on the cheek. He spent a couple minutes brushing her hair before kissing her again, and walking back to the guest room. She could barely make out something on the piece of paper. It wasn't the list, but instead a drawing of some sort. It was too dark to clearly see what it was, but she could only assume it was something sweet for Fluttershy.
Applejack smiled. Fluttershy was so lucky to have such a loving guy all to herself. Coppermane would have many trials to face with Fluttershy, but if there's one thing Applejack knew about her, it's that she would be there for him the whole way. And Applejack knew all her friends would be there for him as well. And she herself would be there too.
Coppermane was in good hands.
Applejack slowly felt her eyelids getting heavier. She adjusted herself to get more comfortable, and allowed herself to finally doze off.