> ButterflyCakes II: Kindness and Laughter
>  by FlameingToast
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

> Prolouge: First Date
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Fluttershy nervously chewed the inside of her cheek as she stood in front of Sugarcube Corner. It had been a few days since she and Pinkie had admitted their feelings for each other. So far they hadn't really talked about it too much. Fluttershy took a deep breath and pushed open the doors, a little scared.

Pinkie Pie looked up from the counter and saw Fluttershy. Her eyes lit up and she began to grin. "Hi Fluttershy!" Pinkie excitedly said.

"Hey, Pinkie." Fluttershy mumbled, blushing. "I was wondering...if I could talk with you." 

Pinkie Pie nodded her head "Sure thing Fluttershy!" She trotted towards the stairs "Follow me! I have a break in two seconds any way."

Fluttershy swallowed her fear and followed Pinkie upstairs to her room. Pinkie Pie jumped onto her bed started bouncing on it. Fluttershy just tried to avoid looking at her.

"So, whatcha want to talk about?" Pinkie Pie grinned as Fluttershy's face grew red again "Your so cute when you blush!" She added, making her blush even more.

Fluttershy gulped "Well..remember how we said that we liked each other?" 

Pinkie chuckled "Yeah, I'd think that I'd remember that!" 

Fluttershy nervously laughed, and then continued "So, I was thinking..." she trailed off looking at the ground.

"C'mon Flutters!" Pinkie smiled stepping off of the bed and walking over to Fluttershy "You can tell me anything!"

"Would you like to go on a...date?" Fluttershy whispered. This is where she says no, Fluttershy sadly thought, looking at the ground.

Pinkie Pie squealed and tackled Fluttershy with a bear hug "I thought you would never ask!" She planted a small kiss on her forehead.

Fluttershy gave a sigh of relief "I thought that you would say no. I'm glad you didn't though." Fluttershy smiled and stood up, after Pinkie let go of her with her death grip.

"Of course, I'd say yes! I like you, remember?" Pinkie laughed.

"I know...but I couldn't help being nervous. How about I pick you up from here at seven." Fluttershy asked, feeling considerably happier than she had been in ages.

Pinkie jumped up and down excitedly "I can't wait!" She paused in midair as another thought crossed her mind "Does this mean were marefriends?" 

Fluttershy frowned "I'm not sure...we didn't really talk about these things." 

Pinkie tapped her chin in thought "Oh yeah. We didn't, did we?" She shrugged "Let's just talk about it tonight."

Fluttershy felt light headed and giddy "Sure thing Pinkie. See you then."  Pinkie Pie was about to protest her leaving, but Mrs. Cake's voice could be heard from downstairs "Pinkie Pie! Get down here, we have customers!"

Pinkie shot like a rocket down the steps saying "See ya tonight."


***


Pinkie Pie kept looking at the clock. It was nearing seven, and she was more anxious than she cared to let on. Come on Pinkie, calm down! It's just a date that could decide your future relationship with Fluttershy, nothing to worry about!

Pinkie frowned. We both like each other, there's no way that it can't go well. Could there?. Her ears perked up when she heard a faint knock at the door.

Pinkie Pie opened the door and saw Fluttershy balancing a picnic basket on her back "Hey Pinkie." She said "I thought we could have a picnic...if you like that idea?"

"Yeah, that sounds awesome!" Pinkie said, following Fluttershy as she began to trot towards their date. "I'm starving!" Pinkie added as her stomach growled.

Fluttershy chuckled "Well, I brought plenty of food. I even made those cookies that you love." She and Pinkie were starting to leave Ponyville, and from what direction they were going in it seemed like they were heading for the Whitetail Woods.

Pinkie Pie gave a comical gasp "The super sugary chocolate ones!" she said hopefully.

Fluttershy chuckled "Yes, those are the ones." Fluttershy pointed a hoof a hill at the edge of the Whitetail Woods with a tree standing on it. Under the tree was a red and white checkered blanket. "Here we are!" Fluttershy grinned. So far so good.

"Race ya to the top!" Pinkie suddenly exclaimed running to the hill. To her surprise, Pinkie found Fluttershy chasing after her. They were neck and neck as they neared the top. Pinkie Pie reached the blanket a few seconds before Fluttershy. Both ponies were catching their breath as they sat down on the picnic blanket.

Pinkie Pie laughed "I never thought that I'd get you to race." 

Fluttershy grinned "Well, normally I wouldn't. But I feel like I can act a little silly around you." 

Pinkie Pie beamed "That's really sweet!" She then rummaged through the basket "Speaking of sweet, I really want those cookies!"


***


"So then Pound Cake started ripping pictures off of the wall, and I had to keep grabbing them and putting them back up." Pinkie Pie recounted her latest babysitting escapades to Fluttershy. Fluttershy was holding back laughter, just in case it hurt Pinkie's feelings.

The date had been going well enough, it was just like a regular picnic that they both had had with their friends.  But this felt more special. So far they had just ate food, talked, and laughed together. Time didn't seem like it was passing, but as Fluttershy noticed, it was getting dark. 

"Pinkie, maybe we should start heading home." Fluttershy sighed, she didn't want to leave. However, there were animals to be fed.

Pinkie's face fell "Aw. Is it because your not having fun?" She asked worriedly.

"I'm having tons of fun right now." Fluttershy stated cheering Pinkie up. "But I need to feed the owls, and it's getting dark."

Pinkie blinked, and then looked around. It had gotten dark, and she had been to wrapped up in conversation to notice. There were fireflies everywhere, green lights from them were flickering all over the place.

"Well, Pinkie Promise me we'll do this again. Okay?" Pinkie Pie asked "That sounded a lot less needy in my head." Pinkie added chuckling.

Fluttershy smiled wide "Sure thing..marefriend." She put emphasis on the word.

Pinkie Pie tackled Fluttershy into another bear hug, except this time it sent them both tumbling down the hill. The two ponies landed next to each other at bottom of the hill covered in grass. Fluttershy gave a small "Ow..."

Pinkie Pie either wasn't hurt, or she didn't care. All she cared about was that she had a marefriend. Fluttershy was her marefriend. Pinkie Pie got up and held a hoof to Fluttershy, still dazed on the grass.

"Come on marefriend. Let's go home!" Pinkie smiled as she helped Fluttershy up.


> No Secrets Amongst Close Friends
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Fluttershy was lounging on her couch, reading a magazine. She had fed all the creatures that needed her help, and to be truthful she was a little bored. She glanced at the clock on a nearby table and saw that it was almost noon.

It was the quiet all around her. Normally the peace and quiet was calming, but after spending so much time with an energetic pony, it just wasn't the same. It was too silent, except for the occasional chirp of a bird.

I should go see one of the girls, she decided. I haven't seen Rarity in a while. I should stop by and say hello. Fluttershy sat up from the couch and stretched her wings. As she was flying out of the door she said "I'll be gone for a little bit Angel, try to stay out of trouble."

Fluttershy smiled as she left her house and felt the warming sunlight. It looked like it was going to be a perfect day. She was only hovering a few feet off of the ground, but the small breeze felt nice. Fluttershy was barely paying attention to her surroundings, just enjoying the day, and before she knew it she wound up at the Carousel Boutique's doorstep.

Fluttershy knocked on the door and patiently waited for Rarity to answer the door.

"Welcome to the Carousel Boutique!" Rarity recited as she opened the door.

"Hiya Rarity." Fluttershy muttered.

"Hello Fluttershy!" Rarity smiled. Motioning for Fluttershy to come inside she said "I haven't seen you in ages!" Over emphasizing the word ages.

Fluttershy chuckled at the slightly over dramatic greeting "I saw you last week."

Rarity nodded "Ages, weeks. Same difference. Would you like something to drink?" She offered.

"Water please." Fluttershy asked, trotting into the sitting area. She sat in one of the chairs and waited for Rarity to return.

After a few moments, Rarity returned with a glass of water. She handed the glass to Fluttershy, receiving a small thank you, before sitting across from her,

"So, what made you decide to stop by?" Rarity asked curiously.

Fluttershy grinned "Well, I was a little bored at home. Also, as you said, its been ages since I've seen you."

Rarity raised an eyebrow "You were bored?"

"Yeah" Fluttershy nodded "It was to quiet there. To be honest, it was a little strange"

Rarity raised her other eyebrow "Okay, now I've seen everything. You didn't like it being quiet?" She asked incredulously. Why would she-oh. Rarity smiled in understanding as she got an idea.

"It's because of Pinkie Pie isn't it?" Rarity asked.

Fluttershy spluttered, and spit out the water she was drinking "P-Pinkie P-Pie? What do y-you mean?" Fluttershy nervously asked.

"I meant that after spending a whole week living with another pony, it might take a little bit to adjust back?" Rarity frowned "What did you think I meant?" Rarity asked. Maybe Pinkie worked up the courage to tell her? Rarity studied Fluttershy's blushing face. From the looks of it, Fluttershy said yes. But they didn't tell us!?

Rarity pursed her lips and narrowed her eyes at Fluttershy "Is there anything that you would like to tell me?"

Fluttershy shrank against the chair "Umm...not particularly." She muttered, allowing her mane to cover her face.

Rarity stared at Fluttershy for a few moments longer before stating "Pinkie asked you out." Fluttershy gave a small eep as she tried to sink deeper into the cushion.

Rarity smiled and clapped her two front hooves in delight "I knew that she could do it! how long have you two been dating?"

Fluttershy tried to stop blushing as she answered "She told me she liked me about a week ago...we went on a date two days ago."

Rarity gave a girlish squeal "My little Fluttershy has found herself a mare!" Rarity then allowed herself to frown "Why haven't you told anypony?"

Fluttershy manged to calm herself down "I'm not sure...I don't want anypony to think badly of Pinkie or me."

Rarity shook her head "Nonsense. You need to tell ponies about something as important as this."

Fluttershy looked mortified "You want us to tell everpony in Ponyville!?"

Rarity quickly responded as Fluttershy started to freak out "No, of course not!" Rarity placed a hoof on Fluttershy's shoulder "You can start out small. Just tell the rest of the girls."

Fluttershy bit her lip "I..dunno Rarity. I'm not sure what Pinkie Pie wants."

"I'm sure that she wants to tell them." Rarity said encouragingly.

Fluttershy stayed quiet for a few minutes before slowly nodding "You're right. Pinkie and I can't keep our relationship hidden."

Rarity gave Fluttershy a hug and said "that's the spirit! I'll invite everyone over here at eight. You and Pinkie can give them the good news then!"

Fluttershy felt like she had butterflies in her stomach, but she gave a weak grin and tried to ignore the feeling "sounds like a plan."


***


Pinkie Pie was about to hop out of Sugarcube Corner, but as she opened the door she found Fluttershy at the doorstep.

"Oh, hey Flutters!" Pinkie grinned enthusiastically.

Fluttershy smiled as well, feeling marginally better. I should just come right out and say it "Pinkie, Rarity wants us to come over to the boutique at eight tonight...to tell all the girls about our relationship."

Pinkie jumped up and down in place "Awesome! I can't wait to see their faces when we tell 'em!"

Fluttershy blinked in surprise "Really? You're not worried...not even a little bit?"

Pinkie twiddled her hooves embarrassingly "Well...when we had the chickenpox, I kinda asked Rarity for advice. I was worried then, but I realized that all our friends won't think of us differently."

Fluttershy was surprised again "That's actually making me feel better about all this." Fluttershy looked around to see that nopony was watching before planting a light kiss on Pinkie's nose "You always know what to say to calm me down."

Pinkie beamed planting a kiss on Fluttershy's cheek, not caring if anypony saw. Nopony did though, which Fluttershy didn't mind. "I was about to go see if you wanted anything to eat, but while were here why don't we get some cupcakes?"

"Sounds great." Fluttershy replied.


***


Fluttershy and Pinkie Pie were standing in Rarity's living room. across from them was Rarity and Twilight sitting on a couch. Applejack was sitting in a chair, and Rainbow Dash was hovering lazily above them all.

"So, Rarity says that you two have an announcement?" Twilight asked.

"Yeah." Rainbow Dash began "It better be important, I'm missing the perfect night to practice."

"Oh, hush sugarcube." Applejack rolled her eyes "You'll have time to practice yer tricks."

Rarity shushed all of them, before turning to the couple "So why don't you two tell them the good news. That is, if they don't interrupt you first."

Pinkie Pie put a hoof around Fluttershy's shoulder "I'm not sure how the best way to tell you all this is. So, I'll just say it. Fluttershy and I are dating!" She smiled.

Rainbow Dash laughed after a few seconds "Nice one Pinkie! for a moment I thought that you were serious."

Fluttershy turned her head towards Pinkie and kissed her on the mouth drawing gasps from Rainbow Dash and Twilight, and an 'awww' from Rarity. Applejack just grinned, seeing her friends happy.

Fluttershy broke away from Pinkie "Believe her now?" Everypony was quiet for a moment.

Twilight was the first to break the silence "Congratulations! You two make such an adorable couple!" She grinned at them.

Applejack nodded in agreement "Yeah, congrats." Applejack shook her head "Never woulda thought that you two would end up together." 

Rainbow Dash chuckled embarrassingly "I totally knew that it wasn't a joke." She coughed "It's cool that you two are dating....I'm not really sure what to say. I'm not for all this touchy feely stuff."

Pinkie grinned "That's okay! I know you mean well." She stepped forward slightly before exclaiming "Group hug!"

Fluttershy found herself squished in between her closest friends as their supportive remarks ran through her head. "You girls are the best!" Fluttershy said. She felt so happy and relieved as she returned the hug that she even teared up a little bit.


> A Letter From Home
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Pinkie Pie slowly blinked open her eyes as bright sunlight hit her face. She yawned as her eyes adjusted to the now lit up room. Hopping off of the bed, she rubbed her eyes, trying to wake herself up a little bit. Pinkie opened her door, and started walking downstairs. She stopped in her tracks when she smelled something from downstairs; her tired expression was replaced with an energetic one when she realized that somepony was cooking pancakes. 

Pinkie Pie flew down the rest of the steps, and quickly found her way into the kitchen. Mr Cake was pouring some more batter into a pan as Pinkie Pie came to a halt at the doorway. She sat down on one of the chairs and started to salivate at the thought of delicious, fluffy pancakes.

Mr Cake glanced back at Pinkie, who was staring intently at the batter. He chuckled lightly, and flipped the pancakes that were done onto a plate and placed it in front of Pinkie.

"Here you go Pinkie Pie. I don't know how you manage to be so energetic so early in the morning." She shook his head and returned to the oven.

Pinkie Pie grinned "I smelled pancakes, and that woke me up right away! Pancakes are probably my third or fourth favorite food that ends in cake!" She licked her lips at the stack of fluffy pancakes and drowned them in maple syrup. After they were drenched in the stuff, she picked up a fork and looked at it and then at the pancakes. She shrugged, put the fork back onto the table and dove head first into the pancakes.

As Pinkie Pie was frenziedly devouring the food, Mrs Cake walked into the room with her foals on her back. She put each one into their respective high-chairs next to each other, or she tried. Carrot Cake teleported from the chair to under the table, and Pound Cake, who saw where his sister went, flew out of the chair and dove underneath to join her.

Mr Cake set down plates for his wife and their foals as Mrs Cake picked the two foals up from under the table, and put them in their high-chairs again. She sat down next to Pinkie and decided to eat her own breakfast with a utensil, instead of her face. 

"I'm going to check if the mail’s here." Mr Cake said as he walked over to his wife and planted a small kiss on her lips, before trotting out of the kitchen.

"Okay then, sweetie." Mrs Cake said through a yawn, trying her best to stay awake. 

"Have they been a lot of trouble?" Pinkie asked the tired looking mare. She had bags under her eyes, and her mane had random hairs sticking out as if she hadn't brushed it.

Mrs Cake smiled weakly "They don't seem to sleep." She yawned before continuing "I was hoping you could watch them for a couple of hours, so that I can catch up on some shut-eye." 

Pinkie Pie nodded "Sure thing Mrs Cake!" Pinkie smiled at the twins “It’s been awhile since I've got to watch them." She started making faces at the foals, like sticking her tongue out and crossing her eyes. The babies started giggling at Pinkie's antics, and even Mrs Cake gave a small chuckle.

Mr Cake trotted back into the kitchen, holding a few letters in his mouth. He put them on the counter and started looking through them. 

"Water bill, Electricity bill." He muttered sorting through what he expected to see. He took the last letter, read who it was addressed to, and put it in front of Pinkie, who was still entertaining the foals.

"There's a letter here for you Pinkie Pie." Mr Cake said as he went back to the oven and began cleaning up.

Pinkie picked up the letter, and smiled when she saw it was from her mother. I haven't heard from her in forever, she thought as she opened the letter. 



Dear Pinkamena 

I know that it's been a while since I've written to you, but I wanted to tell you that your sister Inkie’s birthday is in a week. I was hoping that you could come home for it. You could help us throw her a surprise party! I know Inkie and Blinkie miss you, and your father would like to see you again. 

Anyways, that aside, how have you been lately? Everything at home is the same really, except Clyde broke his hoof about a month ago, he couldn't work all day like he loves to do. You know your father though; we practically had to drag him inside. Still, it wasn't as bad as when he got the flu, do you remember that?

Well, we hope to have Inkie’s party Saturday, but you could come earlier and catch up with everypony. Hope to see you soon!

Sincerely, Mom 



Pinkie Pie smiled broadly and sat up from the table. Pinkie started to hop towards her bedroom, "time to pack!"


***


Fluttershy hummed tunelessly to herself as she watered her garden, she hovered over the patches of flowers and tried to distribute water evenly between every flower. She smiled, enjoying the relaxing effect nature had on her. After making sure that everything had been watered she placed the watering can on the ground.

Fluttershy sat on the ground and gazed at her surroundings, just enjoying the quiet and scenery. Fluttershy closed her eyes, and took a deep breath of the fresh air. Sighing contentedly, she opened her eyes and found another pair of eyes. She jumped backwards, and ended up falling on her back.

Pinkie Pie leaned over her "Sorry if I scared ya flutters." Pinkie said as she helped Fluttershy off of the ground

"It's fine." Fluttershy smiled, feeling her heartbeat return to normal. "I just didn't except anypony to be here."

Pinkie grinned "It's okay." 

Fluttershy leaned closer to Pinkie and kissed her on the cheek "So, what brings you by? I thought you had to work at the bakery today?"

Pinkie Pie shook her head "Turns out the Cakes gave me the day off." Noticing Fluttershy's curious expression, she took out the letter from her mane and handed it to Fluttershy "I got this in the mail this morning, and I think that I'll have to leave tomorrow." 

Fluttershy's eyes scanned the letter "How long will you be gone?" Fluttershy tried to smile. She was happy that Pinkie would be seeing her family, but she was also sad that Pinkie would be gone for a while. Stop thinking like that, she chastised herself, that's selfish.

Pinkie Pie tapped her chin in thought "It'll probably be for about a week." 

Fluttershy sighed "Well...I hope you have fun seeing your family." She gave a smile "Hurry back though, I'll miss you."

Pinkie Pie grinned "Actually, I was hoping that you would come with me!" 

"...What?" Fluttershy stared at her marefriend confused.

Pinkie laughed "Well, I was hoping that you'd come with me. Don't ponies that have been dating a while meet each other’s parents?"

"Yes, but would now really be the best time?" Fluttershy asked "I wouldn't want to be a burden…" she trailed off, not able to think of any logical reasons to not go; besides that she was nervous.

Pinkie chuckled "You won't be a burden silly, they won't mind!"

"I'll be meeting your p-parents." Fluttershy stated, trying not to panic

"That's kind of what I just said silly." Pinkie hugged Fluttershy "There's nothing to worry about, I'm sure they'll love you!"

Fluttershy disagreed; there was a lot to worry about. "B-But it’s meeting your parents! This is a big step in a relationship! What if they don't like me? What if they-" Pinkie held her hoof to Fluttershy's mouth stopping her mid rant.

"I'm guessing from all this worrying, that you'll be coming with me?" Pinkie asked hopefully.

Fluttershy took a deep breath "Yeah, it does. I guess I'd have to meet your parents eventually, and I'd miss you if you left for that long." Fluttershy looked away blushing.

Pinkie Pie tackled Fluttershy into a hug "That is so adorable!" She laughed as Fluttershy's face grew redder. "You're the best marefriend ever!" Pinkie added before kissing her.

Fluttershy eagerly returned the kiss, just enjoying Pinkie's presence. Although in the back of her mind she was still worried, she had a crazy fun loving pony to help make her feel better. It's going to be just fine, Fluttershy thought as they broke apart smiling at each other.

"I wonder how surprised they'll be when they find out I like mares." Pinkie wondered aloud 

Fluttershy blinked "Your family doesn't know?" Pinkie shook her head.

"A lot of ponies in my hometown aren't really open minded." She shrugged "I always wondered what my parents thought." She grinned at Fluttershy "Well, We'll find out tomorrow!!"

Fluttershy felt light headed, while Pinkie felt giddy and excited to be going back to her family with her special somepony.
> The Train Ride
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Pinkie Pie tried to close her suitcase, but the sheer amount of party supplies made it impossible to do so. Frowning, she tried jumping on the suitcase, but all that did was knock it off her bed and spill the contents everywhere.

Pinkie giggled. Maybe I shouldn't be trying to pack a piñata. Before Pinkie could begin trying to stuff almost everything back into the suitcase, somepony knocked on the door.

"Pinkie Pie? Can I come in?" Mrs Cake asked from the other side of the door.

"Yeah, you can come in!" Pinkie said, as Mrs Cake pushed open the door. She made sure not to step on the balloons, streamers, and other party supplies covering the room.

Mrs Cake smiled. "I just wanted to say good bye. I hope you have fun this week with your family." She gave Pinkie a small hug.

Pinkie smiled back. "Thanks Mrs Cake, A little vacation is just the thing I need right now."

Mrs Cake raised an eyebrow. "Vacation? You just waltzed out the door this morning and didn't come back until noon."

Pinkie nervously chuckled. "Yeah, sorry about that; I got caught up in talking with Fluttershy and the girls."

Mrs Cake laughed. "It's fine; there are never many customers in the morning anyways." She turned around. "Well, I hope that you have fun."

"Don't worry, Fluttershy and I will have a ton of fun!" Pinkie replied.

Mrs Cake turned around. "You seem to be mentioning Fluttershy a lot lately. Is there anything going on between you too?" She said half-jokingly.

Pinkie Pie nodded enthusiastically. "Yup. We're marefirends now!" Seeing Mrs Cakes surprised expression, she added "I guess I hadn't told you, huh?"

Mrs Cake shook her head walking back into the room. "No, you hadn't." She grinned. "I'm happy to hear you've found a special somepony."

"Aww, thanks Mrs C!" Pinkie Pie beamed, beginning to pick up the debris around her room.

"Well, I hope everything works out with you two." Mrs Cake said as she left, closing the door behind her.

I know the most thoughtful ponies, Pinkie thought as she finally managed to pack as much as she could into her suitcase. She placed the bulging bag near her bed before turning off the lights and jumping into her bed.

Pinkie Pie moved around, trying to find a comfortable position; usually she fell asleep as soon as her head hit pillows, but tonight she was having difficulty. She was excited for the trip tomorrow, but she didn't think that was why she wasn't falling asleep.

Sitting up in her bed, Pinkie Pie realized she was feeling a little bit worried. I hope everything works out, she found herself thinking. It was starting to dawn on Pinkie that she had no idea if everything was going to work out; none of her previous relationships had lasted long.

She lied back down and tried to go to sleep, But she still couldn't fully calm down. It's going to be fine, just go to sleep! After a few minutes, Pinkie Pie drifted to sleep.


***


Pinkie Pie and Fluttershy were sitting on a bench, waiting for the train to arrive. Both ponies looked a little tired, and neither of them was in a talkative mood. Fluttershy was reading a newspaper, but she found herself glancing at Pinkie Pie.

Fluttershy's worries for meeting Pinkie's parents were replaced with worries about Pinkie herself; she had been in a pensive mood for most of the morning.

Fluttershy was about to ask Pinkie about it, but stopped before she said anything. She doesn't look sad, but something's definitely on her mind, I should ask her what’s wrong if she doesn't tell me soon.

"Uh, Fluttershy?" Pinkie asked, snapping Fluttershy out of her thoughts. "When is the train getting here?"

"Right now." Fluttershy replied noticing the train in the distance. After it came to a stop in front of them, Pinkie and Fluttershy boarded the train and began looking for a good spot to sit.

They both walked through the train until they came to a suitable compartment. The small compartment had two booths facing each other, and a luggage rack. Pinkie threw her bags up to it, and Fluttershy hovered up to it to make sure everything was secure.

They both sat down opposite each other, and felt the train begin to move. Pinkie Pie was shuffling around in her seat, trying to get comfortable.

"How long is the train ride again?" Fluttershy asked hoping it wouldn't be too long.

"About four hours, we should get there around lunchtime. I brought some cards and stuff if we get bored" Pinkie answered, looking out the window as the train gained speed.

Fluttershy frowned. It wasn't like Pinkie to act this sombre for anything. "What's wrong Pinkie?" Fluttershy asked. "You haven't been acting like yourself this morning."

"What do you mean? Nothing's wrong." Pinkie smiled unconvincingly.

Fluttershy frowned "Please Pinkie, if something's bothering you, you can tell me." She gave a reassuring smile. "Remember, we're in a relationship now and we need to be there for each other."

Pinkie relented. "You're right Flutters...it's just..." She looked out the window at the grassland speeding by. "I'm not sure how to explain."

Fluttershy patiently waited for Pinkie Pie to continue. If she could coax the issue out, then hopefully Pinkie would go back to being cheerful.

Pinkie sighed. "Well, last night I realized that I'm not sure how this'll work out." She glanced up at Fluttershy. "I want my family to approve of us, I haven't had a serious relationship before and I want everything to go well."

Fluttershy was surprised, she had never seen Pinkie worry over something like this before. "Well, I don't know either but as long as we're together, I’m sure it'll be fine." She smiled. "I'm worried too, but it's normal to be."

Pinkie smiled "I know… it's just that I've never been in this situation before." She held up a hoof before Fluttershy could respond. "I like you a lot, Fluttershy. I don't want you to get hurt if my family doesn't approve of us." She sighed, before she suddenly found Fluttershy's warm lips pressed against her own.

Pinkie pressed back, and felt her worries melt away. After a few moments, they broke apart.

Fluttershy smiled gently. "You don't need to worry for me; we should just stop worrying and enjoy the trip."

Pinkie blushed. "Sorry, I know I'm not usually worried about stuff. But, I think I'm good now." She hugged Fluttershy. "Thanks Flutters."

Fluttershy hugged her back. "It's okay; just...tell me If something’s bothering you next time, okay?"

Pinkie Pie beamed. "As long as you promise there'll be kissing afterwards, then sure." Fluttershy and Pinkie Pie chuckled, both ponies in a much happier mood.

After Pinkie Pie was back to her usual joyous self, she and Fluttershy spent most of the ride talking and playing cards. After an hour or two, Pinkie Pie laid against Fluttershy and took a nap, while Fluttershy read a book Twilight lent her. Pinkie Pie was still sleeping when the train arrived at their destination.

Looking out of the window Fluttershy saw the town they had arrived in. It definitely wasn't big, but wasn't as small as she imagined. The ground was a mixture of bare, dusty dirt and browning grass. From where Fluttershy could see, the roads were cobblestone. She couldn't tell much more because of the train station blocking her view, but she was sure Pinkie would give her a full tour.

Looking back at her marefriend, Fluttershy grinned; noticing that Pinkie had snuggled up to her. Fluttershy was surprised to find she was feeling more excited than nervous. Pinkie's really starting to rub off on me, Fluttershy thought with a chuckle as she gently shook Pinkie awake.

Pinkie Pie slowly blinked her eyes open before sitting up. Stretching, she froze when she noticed the train had stopped. Gasping, Pinkie leaped out of her seat to the window.

"We’re here!" Pinkie exclaimed before grabbing her bags and rocketing out of the compartment.

"Pinkie, wait for me!" Fluttershy yelled after Pinkie, hurriedly trying to get her own bags down as Pinkie Pie trotted back to the compartment.

"Sorry." Pinkie grinned.


> Back Home
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Pebbleston was a small town, a lot like Ponyville. The earth was dusty and mostly bare, with the occasional scruff of bush or half dead grass. In the distance there was a giant mountain range. Fluttershy could see a small forest at the edge of the mountains, and scattered dead trees could be seen between the mountains and Pebbleston. A gray cobblestone road weaved through the town. Various houses and stores were not far from the road, with a few farther out of town.  Fluttershy and Pinkie Pie stood next to each other surveying the area.

Just like it used to be! Pinkie thought with a grin. Fluttershy looked around with a small smile, the town looked cozy enough; it had the same charm Ponyville had, it wasn't huge but it seemed to be peaceful, if not a little barren.

"C'mon." Pinkie said, nudging Fluttershy out of her reprieve. "I'll show you around later, but right now I wanna get to the farm and surprise my parents!"

Fluttershy laughed a little at Pinkie's enthusiasm. "Sure thing Pinkie." She said, as Pinkie began to trot down the street. Various ponies glanced at them, and most didn't look at them for more than a second, but others recognized Pinkie Pie and waved to her. Pinkie would wave back and give them a big grin, while Fluttershy gave them a small, nervous smile and tried to hide behind Pinkie.

After a few minutes, they came to the town square, which was a circle with a big fountain and a statue of an earth pony mare on it. Fluttershy looked back to ask Pinkie who the statue was of, and was surprised to find that she wasn't there. Fluttershy felt herself begin to panic "Pinkie!?" She nervously called out, as she looked around for her. Without Pinkie's calming presence, Fluttershy started to feel worried and even a little scared. As she was resisting the urge to curl up into a ball, she heard Pinkie call out to her.

"Hey Flutters!" Pinkie yelled, while beckoning for her to come with her hoof. "It's this way." And she continued to trot down a dirt path that Fluttershy hadn't noticed. Fluttershy quickly flew over to Pinkie, landing next to her; feeling her heartbeat slow back down to it's normal rate.

Fluttershy and Pinkie walked in silence. Fluttershy felt some of her anxiety return as a large windmill and silo came into view. This is really happening...  Fluttershy thought, feeling both excited and nervous. She glanced over to Pinkie to find a similar expression on her face. Pinkie stopped trotting, and Fluttershy quickly stopped as well

Pinkie looked around at the rocks surrounding them. "It's hard to believe that I grew up in a place like this." She turned to Fluttershy with an expression she had never seen on her face before; she looked sad and happy, all at once."I got my cutie mark here, and suddenly my boring and sad life was over! Everything was so much better than it ever had been, but things didn't change a whole lot." She shrugged. "I guess that's why I didn't want to stay here."

Fluttershy was shocked, Pinkie was almost never serious about...well, anything. She leaned next to Pinkie and nuzzled her cheek. "Pinkie, I love that you're telling me all of this." She planted a kiss the tip of her nose. "But I think we've been serious enough for one day."

Pinkie blushed lightly, her expression brightening. "Yeah, what is with me today?" She laughed for a moment before suddenly shouting. "C'mon! I'll race ya to the door!" Pinkie grinned at Fluttershy as she ran past her.

Fluttershy found herself laughing. "Pinkie! Get back here!" She said to the running mare. So can I go from being anxious, to giddy?  Fluttershy thought before racing after Pinkie. She almost caught up to Pinkie, but ended up stopping at the doorstep a few seconds after Pinkie.

They both stood motionless for a few moments, catching their breath, before Pinkie knocked loudly on the door. The sound of muffled hoof steps could be heard as somepony walked towards the door. There was a slight creak as the door was opened by a grayish blue mare. Her similarly colored hair was pulled into a bun, and a few signs of silvery gray were able to be seen. She was wearing glasses with a gold chain, and her light blue eyes lit up when she saw Pinkie's face.

"Pinkamena!" The mare exclaimed, adopting a large grin. "I haven't seen you in months!" She threw her front hooves up, and so did Pinkie as they embraced.

"It has been a while mom." Pinkie said with a small chuckle. "But I'm back for a bit." Pinkie's mother was about to say something to her daughter when she noticed Fluttershy.

"And who might you be, dear?" Pinkie's mother asked curiously.

Pinkie tapped her forehead. "Oh, right! I haven't introduced you two. Mom, this is Fluttershy. I hope it's alright if she stays with us."

"Of course!" Pinkie's mom grinned. "It's nice to meet you Fluttershy. My name is Roxy, or you can call me Mrs Pie." Roxy held out her hoof and Fluttershy tentatively shook it.

"N-nice to meet you, as w-well." Fluttershy said, trying not to stammer.

Pinkie chuckled. "She's a little shy, but really kind and sweet once you get to know her." Pinkie said, causing Fluttershy to blush. Roxy didn't seem to notice.

"Well, come on in you two." Roxy said, opening the door wider. "Clyde and Blinkie are in town, and Inkie is over at her coltfriend Geode's house."

The inside of the house was clean and neat. Fluttershy and Pinkie Pie went through the door into the entrance way, with a flight of stairs in front of them that led to the second floor, and a kitchen to the left through an arch. Instead of going to either of these, Roxy led the mares into a sitting room, directly to the right of the door.

It was a small room, with a big window looking out on the dusty field, filled with rocks and scattered trees that were either dying or had very little leaves clinging desperately to their branches. There was a big couch set against the wall, with a long coffee table in front of it. Pinkie and Fluttershy placed their luggage on the floor, and sat down next to each other.

Roxy smiled at them "I'll be right back with some tea." She trotted towards the kitchen. Once she was out of earshot, Pinkie turned to Fluttershy.

"So, what do you think?" Pinkie asked eagerly.

"She seems very nice." Fluttershy said with a smile. "And this house is wonderful." The house was very orderly; everything looked like it was perfectly in its place.

Pinkie grinned, flopping onto a pillow on the couch. "Yeah, I remember always running through here, and up the stairs, and up to the attic. Mom hated it when I knocked over the bookshelf." She giggled. "I might've been more energetic than I am now, if that's even possible!"

Fluttershy shook her head. "I don't think that's possible." They both shared a laugh at this. Fluttershy felt herself gain a little more confidence from simply laughing, and she thought there's not a chance that this can go wrong! 

Roxy returned to the sitting room, and placed a tray with a kettle and cups on the table. She poured Pinkie, Fluttershy, and herself a glass before sitting down in a chair next to the table.

"I hope you like peach tea, Fluttershy." Roxy said, taking a sip of her own tea.

Fluttershy nodded. "I love peach tea, and thank you."

Roxy grinned. "My, what a polite young lady. So, tell me Fluttershy." Roxy placed her cup on the table. "How did you come to know Pinkamena?"


***


After almost an hour of talking and catching up on random subjects such as how the Cakes were doing, and if Pinkie had gotten the candy she had sent, Roxy got off her chair.

"Well, you two should unpack your things. I trust it'll be fine if you two share a room?" Roxy said picking up the tray.

"Not a bit!" Pinkie said jumping off the couch. Roxy rolled her eyes, while Fluttershy got up and followed Pinkie Pie.

Pinkie Pie and Fluttershy trotted up the stairs and walked down the hallway to a dark brown door. Pinkie opened the door and ran into the small room. The room wasn't too much, mainly a bed, a dresser, and a desk. There was a small window, overlooking the pathway that led to the farmhouse. Fluttershy took her suitcase and placed it near the bed, while Pinkie threw hers vaguely at the desk and bounced onto the bed.

Fluttershy stood, while Pinkie Pie was jumping on the bed. "So… When are we going to tell everyone?" Fluttershy asked.

"Hmmm." Pinkie said, continuing to jump. "I guess we can just tell my parents as soon as my dad gets here." She looked out the window and saw two ponies in the distance walking towards the farmhouse. "Huh, I guess he's here now." 

Fluttershy glanced out the window, but couldn't make out anything specific about the ponies. "Well, I guess we should tell them pretty soon."

Pinkie hopped off the bed. "Really? I'd thought that you would want to wait."

Fluttershy shook her head. "I'm feeling pretty confident that this will work out." Fluttershy half-smiled. "Besides, I keep switching between happy and nervous, and it's starting to get on my nerves."

"That's the spirit!" Pinkie said, putting a hoof around Fluttershy's shoulder. "Let's do this!" 

Fluttershy nodded. "Y-yeah, we can do this." 

Pinkie and Fluttershy walked downstairs in silence, although Pinkie wasn't showing it; she was just as anxious as Fluttershy. They stopped at the foot of the stairs and waited as two ponies opened the door.

One was a dull orange stallion, with yellow orange eyes. His mane was gray, and he wore a black fedora. The other was a mare a little older than Fluttershy. She was dark blue, and had a dark gray mane. The mare broke into a big grin when she saw Pinkie.

"Sis!" She yelled, tackling Pinkie into a hug.

"Blinkie, it's been forever!" Pinkie said, hugging her sister back. She let go of her sister and looked at the stallion that had a small smile on his face. "Dad!" Pinkie yelled before rocketing into her father, causing him to let out a little oof from the impact.

"Hello, Pinkamena." He said. "Long time no see." He looked over to the yellow pegasus standing at the edge of the stairwell. "And who might this be?"

Blinkie looked up and noticed Fluttershy for the first time. "You're Fluttershy...right?" 

Fluttershy nodded. "Yes, it's nice to meet you Blinkie." She then smiled at Pinkie's father "and it's a pleasure to meet you as well, Mr Pie."

Blinkie let out a snort of laughter. "You are exactly how Pinkie described you." she held out a hoof. Fluttershy coyly reached out and shook it.  

"So.." Pinkie's father asked. "Are you going to be staying with us?" Fluttershy and Pinkie nodded in unison.

Pinkie beamed. "Yeah! We have some news to tell you!" 

"Oh?" Roxy said, walking into the room. "Why didn't you girls tell me when we were talking?"

Pinkie grinned. "Well, this is something I wanted to tell all of you at once. It's kind of a big deal!"

The three ponies stood in silence, there curiosity piqued, as Pinkie jumped over to Fluttershy and nuzzled her cheek. "We're dating!" She shouted, as Fluttershy nodded weakly.
> Confrontation
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

The room was so silent, that you could hear a pin drop. Fluttershy's eyes darted nervously between Roxy, Clyde, and Blinkie. Pinkie looked calm and had a small smile on her face, but she was beginning to think that this had been a bad idea. A really bad one.

Blinkie blinked, looking between Pinkie Pie and Fluttershy with a slightly confused expression on her face. "Wait a second, you mean that you two are dating?"

Pinkie and Fluttershy slowly nodded together, feeling nervousness creep back into their minds at Blinkie's reaction. But Pinkie and Fluttershy were both glad and a bit surprised to see her confused visage turn into a large smile.

"I can't believe it! My little sisters got a marefriend," Blinkie exclaimed, "I always knew that you'd find your special somepony!"

She turned her attention to Fluttershy who was at a loss for words. "You have to tell me how you met Pinkie, and your first date!"

"O-oh, well we had a picnic for our f-irst d-date." Fluttershy replied, realizing that she had been holding her breath since Blinkie opened her mouth.

"Yeah, it was actually really romantic." said Pinkie, who couldn't help but blush as she gave Fluttershy a sideways glance. "Something small, but Fluttershy wouldn't want a huge party or anything-would you?" Pinkie quickly turned to face her.

Fluttershy just stared at Pinkie, after a few seconds Pinkie turned back to her sister. "I guess not."

"Just wait until Inkie hears this!" Blinkie grinned as she took Fluttershy by the hoof. "C'mon, you just have to tell me everything." Blinkie either didn't notice Fluttershy panicked expression as she dragged Fluttershy into the living room, or she just didn't care.

Pinkie giggled quietly at her marefriend's obvious distress and her sister’s excited reaction, and turned towards her parents who had remained silent since the announcement. Feeling optimistic, she broke the awkward silence.

"Sooo...what do you think about the news?" Pinkie asked, hoping for the best.

"Well, this is certainly unexpected." Roxy stated, trying to think of what to say. The surprise was wearing off, and Roxy didn't really know what to think. Instinctively, she felt like she should be telling Pinkie how wrong it was to like a mare, but being close minded was not something Roxy wanted to be.

So, she answered as honestly as she could. "I don't really know, Pinkie. You two did seem to be very happy this afternoon..." She trailed off, failing to come up with any reason that they shouldn't be together. 

"Yeah!" Pinkie grinned, in spite of feeling nervous at her mother’s answer and her father’s continuous stony expression. "We haven't been dating for too long, but I really really like Fluttershy."

Roxy gave a small nod. "Well, if you're happy then I am too, after all, that's all a mother really wants." She gave a half-hearted smile as Pinkie ran over and hugged her.

"Really?" Pinkie beamed.

Roxy nodded, "Yes, but it may take a bit to get used to. But, I want to support my child."

Roxy looked over to Clyde. "Clyde, I hope that you're going to support your daughter as well?" Adding a bit of edge to her voice to show that he was going to, whether he liked it or not.

Clyde frowned, "Well, I'm not going to say I approve of anything yet." He turned to Pinkie and said grudgingly "But I guess it would be wrong of me to not at least give her a chance."

Pinkie was beaming; glad she didn't get a completely negative response from her father. "I'm sure you'll love Fluttershy, she's so amazing!" Pinkie quickly sprinted into the living room, eager to share the news with Fluttershy.

Clyde looked at Roxy. "You know that I don't like this, right?"

Roxy nodded. "Clyde, I'd like to think that you'd support your own daughter! This may be a little different, but I think Pinkamena really likes that filly."

Clyde shook his head. "This isn't something you can just spring on a pony, and expect them to accept it!"

"Then how did I?" Roxy replied.

Clyde glared "But I'm not a liar, so I will give Fluttershy a chance."

Roxy sighed, knowing that her husband was going to fight this however he could. "Alright, well I think it's about dinnertime. Could you fetch me some nutmeg from the pantry?"

"Sure." Clyde replied, heading into the kitchen, glad for the distraction.


***


"So, how long have you and Pinkie been dating?" Blinkie asked Fluttershy with a large grin. They were sitting next to each other on the couch in the living room.

"Well, about three weeks." Fluttershy replied, feeling a little less nervous at Blinkie's positive, yet a little overly energetic, response.

Blinkie blinked in surprise. "Only three weeks? Why come 'meet the parents' that early?"

"Pinkie thought that it would be a good idea since she was already coming here..." She gave a small frown. "But to be honest, I'm really worried about what everypony’s going to think."

Blinkie gave a knowing nod. "Yep, meeting your significant others can be hard. The last guy I dated, his mother hated me." She laughed. "I don't think she thought I was 'refined' enough for her son, or something. It didn't end to well."

She saw Fluttershy's eyes widen. "Heh, that probably didn't make you feel better, huh?" Blinkie chuckled. "Don't worry, I'm sure my mom and dad won't do anything too bad."

"Really?" Fluttershy started. "They didn't look too thrilled..."

Blinkie waved a hoof. "Don't worry, my dad's face is always like that."

Fluttershy shakily laughed. "Pinkie Pie has really given me some confidence that this would go well, but all this worrying is really starting to take a toll on both of us."

Blinkie gave a comforting smile. "Well, if it counts for anything; I think you and Pinkie look adorable together, and you seem like a really nice pony."

"R-really?" Fluttershy asked, feeling some of the pressure abate.

"Yeah." Blinkie suddenly narrowed her eyes, and her voice lost its chipper tone. "But if you hurt my little sister, there will be Tartarus to pay."

Blinkie smiled as Fluttershy looked shocked. "Anywho, I have some more questions about you girls. When did-"

Her sentence was interrupted as Pinkie Pie rocketed into the living room, jumping onto Fluttershy. Pinkie looked down at Fluttershy with a large grin.

Fluttershy looked up at Pinkie. "Pinkie, what are you doing?" She said slightly panicked.

"This!" Pinkie exclaimed leaning down and kissing Fluttershy. Fluttershy eyes widened in surprise. A moment after the initial surprise, Fluttershy leaned into Pinkie's soft lips. After a few all too short seconds, Pinkie and Fluttershy broke apart. 

"C'mon you two, save it for the bedroom." Blinkie giggled from a mere foot away.

Pinkie nervously laughed. "Heh, well I'm excited." She had a barely noticeable red tinge to her cheeks. Fluttershy's face, however, was a deep red and all she gave was a small embarrassed squeak.

"My mom likes you!" Pinkie said, still looking down at Fluttershy. "And I think my dad does too, at least I think he does, doesn't matter, he will when he gets to know you. Sorry, I'm rambling, just got excited."

"That's good, but Pinkie?" Fluttershy asked.

"Yeah?" Pinkie said with her tongue sticking out of the side of her mouth.

"Could you get off me?" Fluttershy said, causing Pinkie to laugh.

"Oh, sure thing!" Pinkie said, getting off Fluttershy and sitting between her and Blinkie. "So, what have you girls been talking about?"

"I was just about to ask Fluttershy if she has any embarrassing stories about you!" Blinkie smiled as Pinkie playfully shoved her.


***


"Dinnertime!" Roxy shouted from the kitchen, interrupting a story Blinkie was telling Fluttershy about Pinkie's childhood.

Blinkie frowned. "I guess I'll have to finish my story later. Don't worry; I can't wait to tell you what happened after she found the fireworks."

"Yeah!" Pinkie Pie giggled. "It's a pretty great story. Well, not for Inkie."

Blinkie nodded. "I'm pretty sure she still hasn't forgiven you for setting them off in her room." Fluttershy remained quiet, suddenly glad that she never had any siblings like Pinkie.

The three ponies got off the couch and trotted towards the kitchen. Roxy smiled at them "The food’s in the dining room. Fluttershy, I hope you like pumpkin soup."

Fluttershy smiled. "Well, I've never had pumpkin soup before. But it smells lovely."

"Well, you're in for a treat then." Blinkie said, leading them through the kitchen to the dining room "My mom makes some amazing soup."

Pinkie nodded vigorously, licking her lips "I lived off of this when I was a kid...well, this and cupcakes."

Fluttershy looked around as they entered the dining room. The dining room was fairly small; most of the space was taken up by a large wooden table. There were two chairs on each side of the table, and one at the head of the table. The room was sparsely decorated, with only two paintings adorning the walls. There was a small window, but it was too dark to see anything clearly in the distance.

Pinkie Pie and Fluttershy sat next each other near the doorway, while Blinkie sat across from them. The table was already set, and there were small bowls of light orange soup, with a small plant floating on top of the soup. 

Roxy and Clyde walked into the dining room and sat down at each end of the table. They all started to eat the soup, and everypony was quiet as they enjoyed the meal. After a few minutes or so, Roxy decided to try and start up a conversation with Fluttershy.

"So, how is the soup, Fluttershy?" Roxy asked as she swallowed a spoonful.

"It's very good soup Mrs Pie." Fluttershy said, eating another spoonful of her own. "I just might have to look into finding a recipe for pumpkin soup when I'm back in Ponyville."

Roxy smiled warmly. "Nonsense, I'll let you borrow mine. My mother taught me the recipe when I was around eight years old. I'll show you it tomorrow."

"Thank you, Mrs Pie." Fluttershy said.

"Call me Roxy, dear." Roxy grinned.

"O-okay, Roxy." Fluttershy replied. Pinkie watched the conversation with her own grin, glad to see that her mother was making an effort to make Fluttershy comfortable.

"So," Roxy began, "how did you and my daughter first decide that you liked each other more than friends?"

"W-well, we both got sick and decided to stay with each other until we felt better. That was really when I started to realize that I liked her more than a friend." Fluttershy laughed. "It was a pretty interesting time."

"Aww." Pinkie smiled, giving Fluttershy a small nuzzle. "Yeah, the chicken pox was really annoying, but spending the time with Flutters made it worth it!"

"At least something good came out of it." Roxy said, turning her attention back to the soup.

Clyde looked at Fluttershy for a moment before asking "So, Fluttershy. What exactly is it that you do?"

"Oh, well I take care of any creature that needs my help." She smiled "I'm a veterinarian of sorts."

"Really? That sounds like it would be a interesting job." Clyde said.

Fluttershy earnestly nodded, "Yes, it's so wonderful helping all the animals in Ponyville. I couldn't ask for a better job!"

Clyde nodded, stony faced as ever. "Yes...that does sound like it would be a rewarding career. So, why did you decide to ask Pinkamena on a date?"

Fluttershy glanced at Pinkie. "W-well she always so energetic, and she makes me laugh and smile. She's also really sweet and always knows just what to say."  Fluttershy blushed. "I guess there are a lot of things that I like about her."

Clyde gave a small smile. "Yes, Pinkamena certainly knows how to make ponies smile, and she can be a bit energetic."

"A little!?" Blinkie asked incredulously, "we are still talking about the pony who would sometimes stay up all night jumping around the house, right?"

They all had a laugh at this, and everypony returned to their soup. It was quiet around the table, and Pinkie was internally celebrating. This is great! They like Fluttershy! Now I can show her around town, and introduce her to Inkie, and she can help me plan the part, and- her thoughts were interrupted as Clyde cleared his throat.

"Well, I did say that I would give this – relationship – that you two have a chance." Clyde started "But, I can't say I approve."

"...What!?" Pinkie asked, shocked.

Clyde shook his head. "Listen, I don't know what it is that you see in Fluttershy. But you need to get over your silly crush and find a proper stallion." He turned his head to a distressed looking Fluttershy. "No offense, but Pinkamena needs a nice strong stallion to be with."

"WHAT!?" Pinkie exclaimed. "How can you say that!? Fluttershy is an amazing, kind, strong pony!"

"Well, why isn't she telling me that?" Clyde looked at Fluttershy's expression. "Again, I'm not trying to be mean, and I'm sure you're a good friend to Pinkamena. But, marefriends? My daughter deserves a strong pony to help support her."

"I-I-I've b-been a gre-great special s-somepony to Pinkie." Fluttershy stammered, trying to defend herself. She was trying to hold herself together for her and Pinkie's sake, but she could feel tears welling up in her eyes from Clyde's harsh words. "W-we haven't been to-together for long, but we've been b-est friends f-for a ve-very long time."

Roxy looked at her husband, shocked "Clyde! What do you think you're doing!?" She said angrily.

Clyde frowned. "I'm doing what any sane pony would; I'm stopping this mess before it gets any worse!" 

"This isn't a mess!" Pinkie exclaimed, angrily getting up from the table. "How could you say that!? Fluttershy and I-" She turned away from her father as Fluttershy got off of her chair, and ran towards the stairs. Pinkie was sad and angry to see tears running down Fluttershy's face.

"Look what you've done! You've made Fluttershy, who only wanted to be accepted by you, cry!" Pinkie met her father’s eyes with a glare, before trotting after her marefriend.

The dining room was silent for a few moments, before Blinkie got up from the table and slowly shook her head. "Dad, that was terrible." She frowned. "I thought that you'd be able to support them, but you insulted their relationship! You should be ashamed." 

Clyde glowered. "You shall not speak to me like that in my house." 

Blinkie scowled. "Can't you see how much this meant to Pinkie? To Fluttershy!?" 

Blinkie trotted out of the dining room, leaving Roxy and Clyde alone. Roxy sighed, "Clyde, what did you think would come of that? Do you really think Pinkamena will just abandon Fluttershy if you don't approve?"

"One could hope." Clyde said, as his own wife's eyes narrowed into a glare. "Listen, I just want what’s best for Pinkamena, and she needs a strong stallion to help support her in life. Look at what that mare did, she ran off!"

"Well, I don't blame her! You were being incredibly rude." Roxy frowned, knowing full well that her husband’s stubbornness was near impossible to overcome "Did it ever occur to you that maybe you don't know what's best for Pinkamena?" 

"I stand by what I said." Clyde said, although with a tiny amount of regret. Maybe I shouldn't of been as harsh with the filly...but I needed to make a point. Pinkamena would never be happy with a weak filly like that.

"Is it because she's a mare?" Roxy asked, feeling some of her anger abate; being replaced by tiredness.

"Well...that certainly didn't make things better." Clyde admitted, "But I could manage to deal with that, it's just that Fluttershy seems to be a weak and timid pony, how can she help take care of Pinkamena if she can't even defend herself?"

Roxy frowned. "I'm not going to say anything else, but I highly suggest that you apologies to Pinkamena and Fluttershy in the morning. It also wouldn't hurt to say you’re sorry to Blinkie for her having to witness your little rant."

Clyde snorted, as Roxy got up from the table and began to pick up the mostly empty bowls of soup.


***


"Fluttershy?" Pinkie whispered as she opened the door to the guest bedroom. Fluttershy was lying face down on the bed, her pink mane in disarray. She was quietly sobbing, and the sight cause Pinkie's heart to drop.

Pinkie shut the door behind her, and walked over to the bed. She climbed onto it and sat next to Fluttershy. "Fluttershy, don't cry. My dad didn't mean those awful things."

Fluttershy lifted he head from the pillow and looked at Pinkie. "B-but it's t-true! I just choked up, while you defended me." She said, sobbing.

"Hey," Pinkie said softly, bringing Fluttershy into a hug. "You were awesome down there."

"No I wasn't." Fluttershy said, burying her face in Pinkie's shoulder. "I let you down when I ran away like a f-foal."

Pinkie shook her head vehemently, lifting Fluttershy's head so that they were face to face. "You didn't let me down! I don't want to hear you ever say that again either! If anything, I'm proud of how you stood by me. It's just not fair that my dad was such a meanie."

Fluttershy frowned, "But-" Pinkie silenced her by placing a hoof on her mouth.

"What did I just say?" Pinkie said with a comforting smile. "I like you Fluttershy, and nothing's going to change that." She laid down still hugging Fluttershy.

Pinkie was about to say something else, but a soft knock on the door stopped her. "Pinkie? Fluttershy?" Blinkie asked from behind the door.

Pinkie looked at Fluttershy, Fluttershy nodded. "C'mon in Blinkie." Pinkie said.

Blinkie peeked her head through the door, and gave a half-hearted-smile as she walked up to the bed. "Hey, I figured I'd see how you two girls are doing after dad's little rant."

Pinkie sighed. "I thought for sure that he would give Fluttershy a chance."

Blinkie nodded. "Well, if it's makes you feel any better; I think you two are perfect for each other." She looked at Fluttershy. "Don't worry, he'll come around."

Fluttershy shook her head. "I don't think Clyde will magically change his mind..."

"You know, I'm sure you can change his mind." Blinkie said. "Why don't you two come into town tomorrow? I think Inkie would love to see both of you, and maybe it'll take your mind of things."

Pinkie leaned over and hugged her sister. "Thanks Blinkie, you’re a really great sister."

Blinkie smirked. "I know, I'm the greatest!" Prompting a chuckle from Pinkie, and even a small smile from Fluttershy. "Well, goodnight Pinkie, Fluttershy." Blinkie turned around and left the room, closing the door behind her.

"Tomorrow we can see Inkie, and sort out how to make my dad change his mind." Pinkie said, giving Fluttershy a small kiss on the cheek. "Don't worry, this'll turn around!"

Fluttershy slowly nodded, managing a smile. "Pinkie, how did I deserve such a wonderful pony to have as a marefriend?"

Pinkie laughed. "I'm the one that should be asking that, silly." Pinkie smiled as Fluttershy rested her head on her stomach.

Fluttershy was still sad, sad that Pinkie's father didn't approve and about how she didn't defend their relationship as well as she could have, but the warm embrace of Pinkie was making her feel a lot better. After a few minutes she found herself incredibly tired after the hectic day. Closing her eyes, the last thought that Fluttershy had before drifting off to sleep was I'm going to prove to him just how strong our relationship is.