> The Princess and I (The Lost Chapters)
>  by Flanagan
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

> Lost Chapter '1': The Game
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

	I woke up a few hours later, my back aching because I’d landed funny on the couch but was too tired to adjust myself. After a couple minutes of stretching myself out in a vain attempt to make the pain go away I decided that the only thing that would actually make it feel better was time. I decided to turn my attention to the clock, I could probably get something productive done before I had to leave, but luck has kind of forgotten about me since Saturday. 

“Oh no…” I gasped, seeing what time it was.

It may have been only eleven thirty, but that wasn’t the issue here, what was the issue was what was supposed to happen within the next four hours. Every year, (Well at least the years I could) I’d always made it a point to go see a Cardinals game and this was the first time I’d have a chance to see one after all of those pesky ‘getting out of the service’ workshops and check-ups were completed.

I’d already bought my ticket about two weeks ago, a really nice spot in Left-center, a prime location for catching a home run if I got the chance. They were playing the Dodgers today, so I knew that even if I didn’t get to see a homer I’d at least get to see two good clubs playing one another. I practically threw myself in the shower, all I needed was a quick rinse anyway, but as I grabbed my towel a certain someone decided to pop into my head.

“Son of a…” I said bringing my hand to my face for possibly the hundredth time this week. “I can’t let Luna stay here all by herself yet… She needs to come to the game too…”

Practically sprinting from the bathroom to my couch I grabbed my computer along the way and flipped it open. Hopefully the Busch Stadium hadn’t been sold out yet, or else I’d have to sell my ticket to one of those people outside the stadium begging for tickets like a man in the desert would for water. Fortunately for me my computer started relatively quickly and I was on the Cardinals website within a minute. I went to the ticket sales, fingers crossed that I wasn’t too late.

“Finally some good luck!” I shouted to myself, there were still a few tickets left, “Now to see if there the seats next to me are taken.”

With several well timed scrolls I found the part of the stadium that I was supposed to be sitting in, just under the ‘Big Mac Land’ sign. Like I said, perfect for catching a home run if it happened, selecting the section I turned my gaze to where I would be sitting. Another bit of luck, no one was sitting next to me, that was good, but the price wasn’t something to be happy about.

“One hundred thirty-seven dollars…” I whispered to myself in disbelief, it was half that price last week, but then again it was game day and they loved milking as much money as they could from the procrastinators. 

“I’d better get a game ball out of this…” I grunted as I typed my credit card number into the ‘purchase tickets’ box.

After all was said and done and I pulled the new ticket from the printer I realized that the only article of clothing that I had been wearing for the past ten minutes was my towel. Normally this wouldn’t be a problem, but on account that there was someone else with me, namely a beautiful young woman, I needed to get decent and fast.

However that was far easier said than done, my entire wardrobe was in my bedroom, where Luna was staying for the time being. I wondered why she wasn’t up and about; normally she’d be awake right now. Deciding to lean more to the cautious side I clinched my towel tightly and began to make my way into the bedroom. The door was already slightly open, that was good, no extra noise except for the obligatory creek that always seemed louder when you were trying to sneak around.

I looked to the bed, Luna was in it sleeping like a rock, must’ve decided that waiting for me was taking too long and that a nap was the best way to pass the time. I liked the logic and the situation; I could easily sneak past her and throw on some clothes before I woke her up. (I’m so brilliant at times.)

Doing everything in my power to remain as quiet as possible I slipped past the bed to my dresser to grab what I needed to throw on. Number six Cardinals shirt, check, jeans, check, undershirt, check, underwear, check and my shoes were still in the living room. (Perfect, now all I need is to-)

“Aedan?” Luna asked wiping the sleep from her eyes, “You have finally…”

At that moment our eyes met and the awkward feeling had washed over me yet again. It may have been better if she was still looked like a pony, but for some reason she was in human form with about the same amount of clothing on her as when she first turned. The only thing that was between me and her was a towel, several feet and some well-placed blankets. Silence filled the room, but even with the situation at hand I did notice something about Luna that I found odd.

Her eyes were glued onto me and her face was getting so red that I swear if there was no sunlight in the room you may have mistaken her for a female version of Rudolph. (Finally an awkward moment for her) It was about time that I’d finally made her uncomfortable, but in truth it was still a tad bit awkward for me. This was really the first time she’d seen me practically naked after all. 

“I should get going.” I said with a dumb half smile plastered to my face. “You should put something on too.”

“Uh… yes absolutely!” Luna replied finally looking away and throwing the covers over her eyes, “We both should make ourselves decent by this world’s standards; it would be highly uncivilized if we do not.”

“Took the words right outta my mouth princess,” I said walking to the door, “Oh and Luna… don’t take too long.”

“I’ll do my best.” Was the last thing I heard before I closed the door behind me.

“Well, that was interesting…” I told myself, letting out a sigh of relief. “Now I’ve just got to-“

I looked down and realized why Luna may have been blushing so hard. Someone was trying to say hi to her in the bedroom. I was utterly speechless, sure it had a mind of its own sometimes but I usually knew what it was doing.

“Down boy,” I said pointing to it, “You know the rules.”

If it could ‘screw you’ it probably could, because it wasn’t listening to me to save my life. After taking a quick cold shower however it decided to finally head the call of its master and I was allowed to throw on everything I needed for the game. At that moment the second face palm of the day decided to grace me with its presence. 

“I forgot to tell Luna what we were doing today…” I grumbled, looking to the tickets on the counter, “I’ll tell her when I get completely dressed, any minute now she’ll be-“

“Aedan!” I heard from inside my bedroom, “I require assistance.”

“Coming Luna.” I replied, throwing my pants and undershirt on at the same time.

I opened the door and sure enough Luna was struggling to find the straps of her bra. (The things I put up with) Taking my place behind her I grabbed her hands and guided them to the dangling strands with ease.

“You know if you keep making me do this I’ll start thinking you like it.” I joked.

“Wha-what?!” Luna exclaimed spinning around before I could set the straps, “I only need help in this form! I do not ask for assistance because I need it… not because I enjoy your presence!”

“Really?” I said with the same half smile as earlier. “So you don’t like me?”

“What? NO!” Luna replied waving her hands frantically, “I was simply saying that I needed assistance, I… I DO like you, a great deal… you are one of the most true friends I’ve-“

“Calm down, sweetheart, I was just messing with you.” I interrupted failing to hold back a laugh, “Now turn around, I’ll get your bra done right.”

Luna’s face went slightly red, but she followed my instructions and with a few quick flicks of the wrist and snaps of the clasp Luna was ‘decent’ by our standards.

“Better?” I asked, her reply was just a simple nod.

She turned to look at me, face still a tad red, I thought it was awkward and adorable all wrapped into one. I couldn’t dwell on that however, right now she was slowing us down.

“Luna you need to throw on something that covers you up a bit more.”

“Why?” she asked looking at her current state of dress, “Are we not staying here for the time being?

“No.” I answered, much to her surprise, “We’re actually going to a baseball game.”

“Both of us?”

“Both of us…” I repeated, shaking my head. “Now I’m sure that every guy with a pulse wouldn’t mind you wearing what you’ve already got on, I’m sure mothers and their kids would appreciate it if you had something a bit less… revealing.”

“It shall be done Aedan.” Luna replied with a nod, “Please allow me some time to ready myself for the upcoming event.”

“I’ll be waiting.” I said excusing myself from the bedroom. I didn’t think that it would take too long, all she really had to do was put on something casual. But as an hour passed I realized that I had made the mortal mistake of giving a woman all the time in the world to pick her outfit.

“Come on Luna!” I yelled opening the door while placing my cardinals hat firmly on my head, “We’re gonna be late!”

“How?” She asked back from inside my bedroom, “According to you we still have nearly three hours before the competition actually begins.”

“That’s not the point Luna.” I called back, “There’s a promotion event going on and if we’re one of the first twenty thousand to get in we’ll get some cool stuff.”

“Cool stuff?” Luna asked popping her head out of the doorway, “As in a conciliation prize?” 

“Uh… yeah…” I answered, (I’d do just about anything to hurry her up right now) “And we won’t get one if you take all this time to get ready!”

“Would you have me wear what I have on now?” she asked from inside the room.

“I don’t even know what you’re wearing!” I replied, “If you look decent then let me see!”

“Very well then…” she said as I saw a hand gently grip the door frame. What followed caught me slightly off guard.

Luna was wearing a light blue Cardinals t-shirt that hugged every last one of her curves perfectly as well as a pair of jeans that did the same. All in all a drop dead gorgeous, yet casual look, she also sported those old shoes that I’d given her a few days earlier.

“Well?” she asked, doing a little spin, “How do I look?”

“Great.” Was all I could say, catching myself not exactly looking at her eyes. “Where did you get the shirt?”

“Dawn picked it out for me.” Luna answered looking to it, “I know that the sporting event that we shall be spectating has this team, so I decided to show support as best as I could.”

“Well you picked it right.” I said scratching the back of my head, “Any particular reason Dawn gave you one with the number twenty three?”

“I believe she mentioned that the man it represented was a ‘hunk’ as she put it.” (Of course, Dawn’s had a crush on David Freese ever since they won it all in ’11)

“Well that’s good and all,” I said walking up to her, “but you’re missing a few crucial articles of clothing.” 

“Such as what?” she asked surprised, “I put every item of clothing on that you showed me, socks, pants shirt and-“

I interrupted her little rant by slapping my extra Cardinals hat on her head. Her eyes initially were full of anger (More than likely a ‘how DARE you interrupt me’ look) but that soon subsided as she noticed that I was holding two gloves in either hand.

“What are those strange items?” she asked, adjusting my hat so she could see better. (I’d forgotten to adjust the size; the cap was way too big for her.)

“These are baseball gloves.” I explained, “We’re gonna be in a spot that may or may not be a place where we’d need them.”

I tossed one of the gloves to her, and with one of the more awkward catches I had ever seen the glove was in her hands. She examined the glove for a while, but before I could explain how to put it on, Luna placed it on her head.

“I don’t understand…” she said staring at me blankly, “Am I not already wearing a head piece?”

My silence was only there to avoid showing the humiliating amount of laughter that was held up inside me, but after a few short breaths I thought I was finally able to explain how she was supposed to use it.

“It… it goes on your hand Luna.” I explained with a stupid grin. “Like this…”

After showing her the proper way to wear a glove Luna mimicked my action to a T. She inspected the glove for a second or two, not quite sure what to make of it before turning her attention back to me.

“I still don’t understand…” she said, “the feeling is… odd to say the least, what material is this glove made of?”

“Lea-“ I quickly covered my mouth, right now would be the worst time to explain where leather came from. “I’ll tell you later, now can we please go?”

“This is the first time I think I have seen you act in such a way.” She said with a cute grin she passed me.

“That’s because this is Cardinal baseball I’m talking about.” I replied closing the door behind us, “Now we’ve got a ways to go, Busch is on the other side of the city.”

“If you insist.” Luna replied rolling her eyes, “If you say we must make haste then let us make haste.”

And make haste we did. I less than twenty minutes we were close enough to the stadium to get a decent spot without having to pay too much. After giving the nice man a twenty I practically ran back to my car and threw Luna’s door open, causing her to let out an adorable squeak.

“Come on Princess!” I said motioning her to come out frantically, “Let’s go, let’s go!”

“You really enjoy these events don’t you?” She asked calmly stepping out while she looked around. “There doesn’t seem to be much here…”

“That’s because you’re not looking the right way Luna.” I said turning her around, “The stadium’s that way.”

“Oh…” Luna said shaking her head like an idiot, “That’s what was on your ‘T.V.’.”

“That’s a fact Princess.”

“It seems… larger… than what it appeared to be…” she replied with a hint of insecurity.

“Well, it DOES hold nearly forty-seven thousand fans when it’s full.” I replied giving her a light pat on the back.

“FORTY-SEVEN THOUSAND?!” Luna shrieked, “The largest city in all of Equestria isn’t even a forth of that size!” 

Suddenly, Luna decided the best way to react was to hide behind me, normally I wouldn’t find that odd. However, since we were out in the open and literally everyone from Clark Avenue to Eighth Street heard her and had turned their attention to us and I personally hated that. At first they were on me, but soon enough they trailed down to the woman that was doing her best to hide behind me. (She was failing in the most epic of proportions.)

“Sorry folks…” I said waving my hands passively, “She’s not really the social type, never been to a big city.”

I’d hoped my bluff would be enough to at least make most of them go away so that Luna and I could both be comfortable once again. Fortunately it worked and all but a few decided to think no more of it and go on with their lives. The only ones who stayed staring were the teens that had been skateboarding on the other side of the street and personally, I think they would’ve stopped and stared without her little outburst. After giving them a quick glare the skaters were on their way and I turned my attention back to Luna, who had started to stare at the ground while kicking at the dirt.

“What was that all about?” I asked, “I thought you royal types love attention…”

“I’m… I’m not very fond of large social gatherings…” she replied sheepishly.

“Excuse me?”

“I’m not very good with large crowds!” she yelled nearly as loud as she had earlier.

“How is that even possible?!” I asked throwing my hands in the air in disbelief, “In the show it said that you went all ‘dark side’ because you wanted more attention!”

“That was different…” she snapped, fury burning in her eyes.

I had to step back for a second, yesterday I saw her as sad as she could be and now today it looked as if she was ready to melt me with heat vision. Then again thinking back on what I said it may have been a bit cruel bringing up such a painful memory like that in a casual conversation. 

“I’m sorry that I said that Luna…” I said shaking my head, “but you could understand where I’m coming from… right?”

Luna just stared at me like she was trying to burn me from the inside out. Now normally I wouldn’t have a problem with it, I’ve been given death stares plenty of times before, whether it be an ex-girlfriend or an Afghan national I’ve seen it and looked right back with a vengeance. This time though, this time seemed different, maybe because of the personal nature of what caused it or the way she did it, but the silence was killing me and I didn’t want to bring her into the game on a bad note.

“Look… I’m sorry about what I said Luna,” I said trying to sound as sincere as I could be, “Can we let the past stay in the past and try to have some fun for the rest of the time being… please?”

Several moments passed until Luna finally rolled her eyes and put a small smile on her face, “Fine…” she said walking past me, “but only because I lack any better options at the moment.”

Taking a deep sigh of relief I took my place next to her, thankful that she had somewhat forgiven me. We walked around the stadium for maybe a minute or two until I finally found what I was looking for. Gate 4 was the closest to our seats, and thankfully there were only a few dozen fans waiting in a line that was sure to increase in size twenty fold.

“Here we are.” I said with a smile pointing to the small group of fans wearing cardinal red. “We just need to-“

“There aren’t many people here.” Luna interrupted looking to the pathetic excuse of a crowd, “Are you sure this event is as important as you claim?”

“Well we are here early.” I said shrugging my shoulders, “And don’t you wanna fancy souvenir to bring back to the pony world?”

“I guess it would be fitting to bring a small reminder of my time here.” She replied, “How much longer until we may enter?”

“Well…” I said looking to my watch, “They really don’t let anyone in until about an hour before the game… so maybe two and a half hours.”

“TWO AND A HALF-“

“Easy there Luna.” I interrupted covering her mouth with my hand, “Yeah we’ve got some time to wait, but that’s the price you pay for getting wanting a souvenir.” 

“If you say so…” Luna said practically ripping my hand away, “But I ask you not to do that without warning again.”

“Will do Princess…” I said with a nod as I allowed her to step in front of me in the ‘line’ that was forming.

The time actually flew by rather quickly. Mainly because Luna was asking all sorts of questions pertaining to the stadium and the way the game was played. (Granted she asked me how the game was played a day or two ago, but I answered it all the same) Soon enough, maybe a minute after the stadium had opened we were the ‘ticket master’. 

“Welcome to Busch Stadium.” He said with a deep sigh, knowing that his thankless job was far from over. “Tickets please.”

“Right here.” I said wiping out our pair from my pocket and handing them to him.

He took a quick glance at the tickets then back to me before his eyes set on Luna, at that moment I swear his mood did a complete one-eighty. A smile suddenly appeared as well as an extra bit of gusto and pride in the work he was doing. Handing both of the tickets to Luna instead of the guy that gave them to him he tipped his hat.

“I hope you enjoy the game ma’am.” He said.

“Thank you sir,” Luna replied with a regal bow, “I most assuredly will.”

“Don’t forget to grab your mini-baseball bat.” He added as I walked by.

“Thank you sir.” I said patting him on the shoulder, “I’m sure we wouldn’t forget.”

He nodded with a smile and went back to his job with the same expression on his face he had before he saw Luna. “Tickets please…” he sighed.

“Are you sure that I they know that I am not royalty?” Luna asked when I caught up with her.  “He surly treated me in a much more appreciable manor than he has the others.”

“I guess you just have that effect on people Luna.” I said looking back to him to see that he was giving me quick thumbs up before getting back to work again. “Come on, I’m sure that you want the reason that I drug you here so early.”
“Absolutely.” Luna said with a slight sneer in her voice, “I’d better get something out of this whole ordeal.”

“If you were anyone else I’d be thinking the same thing.” I replied with a small smirk.

“What’s THAT supposed to mean?”

“Nothing Luna…” I said shaking my hand taking two miniature bats from the dumbstruck part-time teen handing them out. “Here you go.”

“Is… is THIS a baseball bat?” Luna asked in surprise.

“Uh… yeah?” I answered, scratching my head, “What’s the matter?”

“These athletes must be pigmies!” Luna exclaimed, “if this is any indication of their size compared to what I have seen on the-“

“Woah there Luna, slow down!” I said letting out an unusual amount of laughter. “These are just tiny bats, most the guys that play are about as tall as I am.”

“Really?” Luna asked looking up and down, “then they must be considered giants.”

“I’m only six three.” I said shrugging my shoulders, “I mean most of them weigh more than I do, but then again… most of them aren’t as… well… ‘Sculpted’ as I am.”

“Ah… I see.” Luna said given me a quick scan up and down, “You do seem to have more defined physical traits than those I have seen on your T.V. It’s a wonder why you don’t compete in athletics.”

“I’ve got a pretty good reason for not getting into sports.” I said leaving the subject at that, “Now let’s find our seats, batting practice isn’t over yet.”

Luna nodded as I lead her to where we would be sitting. The sun was shining bright as the two of us left the corridor and stepped out into the magnificence that was Busch Stadium. I remember when my dad and I would drive all the way from Kansas City just to see a game, we had to wake up god awful early, but we always made it on time to at least see the first pitch. Those were some good days, I didn’t really have a care in the world back then, other than whether or not I was going to see a home run or not of course. I also didn’t have to contend with taxes, rent, a job or anything else. (I also didn’t have to deal with a princess from a world where the superior life form was magic wielding pastel horses, but that’s beside the point.)

Luna’s reaction was a little underwhelming however, she was frozen in wonder and awe, but there wasn’t anything too special about it. (In truth I was expecting another spectacle where we would be the center of attention yet again, I was thankful that that wasn’t the case however.)

“Right over there.” I said pointing to a set of bleachers that were very close to the away team’s dugout. “That’s where we’ll be sitting.”

“I see…” Luna said looking to home plate. “Are you sure that these are adequate seats? They seem rather far away.”

“You might get to see why they’re good seats here soon enough.” I said as Dodger first basemen Adrian Gonzales stepped to the plate for batting practice.

Not three pitches into his warm up their pitcher tossed the ball directly over the plate. Adrian saw it coming from a mile away and with the crack of his bat, the ball went soaring into right field, finally landing in the second story bleachers. I had to applaud him, the guy knew how to hit and well, but when I turned my attention to Luna she was completely awestruck.

“Did… did you SEE that?” she asked pulling at my arm, “Did you see?”

“I sure did Luna.” I said nodding my head, “It’s a shame that you didn’t get to see a Cardinal do it first.”

“Your Cardinals can do that too?”

“Several of them, but their batting practice is over and here soon the game’ll actually start.”

“This may actually be an interesting competition after all.” Luna said with a smile that reminded me of her.

Before we really knew it batting practice was over and after a very hasty explanation of what to do when the national played the game had begun. The first inning was done pretty quickly; both Wainwright and Greinke had one-two-three innings. I was just glad to see an amazing pitching battle just beginning, but the girl next to me was quite underwhelmed.

“Why haven’t any of them hit the ball as that one man had?” she asked, “Is that not the goal?”

“Not exactly,” I said shrugging my shoulders. “The real goal is to just get a base and hope for the best. Home runs really don’t happen that often and with who’s on the mound for both teams today it more than likely won’t happen.”

“I see…” Luna replied looking back to home plate, “It seems this may be quite a dull experience then.”

“You don’t know that yet.” I said holding back every ounce of anger baseball fans had whenever someone called it dull and boring. “The second inning’s just started.”

Another four innings passed and still there was no score. The Dodgers threatened in the third with a double and the Cardinals had runners on first and third in the fourth, but neither team allowed anything to come of it. By the end of yet another scoreless inning, I could tell that Luna was dreadfully board; I guess I talked it up so much that she expected the seas to part and mountains to bow.

“Is anything going to happen?” She asked me slightly annoyed.

“You never know Luna.” I replied, “Baseball’s eighty percent pitching, fifteen percent hitting and five percent luck.”

“I wish it was the other way around…” she pouted, crossing her arms.

That was a moment that I had to take a picture of, she looked too adorable not to. I pulled my phone out, aiming it her direction ready to take the snapshot. Granted I couldn’t put it on Facebook or anything, I wouldn’t want people to think that I had started to date again anyway. However at the last moment Luna looked to my direction and her eyes lit up in pure excitement. 

“Aedan!” she said happily, pointing behind me. “We’re on the big T.V.!”

“We’re on the wha-“ 

I froze the second I looked behind myself, sure enough we were on the big board, but the lettering under us was what made the blood rush from my face. ‘KISS CAM’ was boldly displayed under a cartoon heart shape, and Luna and I were at its center.

“This isn’t happening…” I said under my breath.

“What?” Luna asked, to the sound of the crowd around us egging us on. (She was so oblivious it hurt sometimes) “What isn’t happening?”

“God have mercy on my soul…” I groaned turning to face her again, ready to do what must be done.

I pulled Luna into me, much to her surprise, but before she could ask me what I was doing I quickly pressed my lips against hers. It didn’t last too long, maybe a second or two but it felt like an eternity to me. Mainly because I knew who she really was, but there was a very small part of me that enjoyed it. I hadn’t kissed anyone since I left Amanda and I guess that all that time just made me want it more. Then rule seventy six echoed in my mind and I released Luna from what possibly was the most unwanted form of contact that you would want after you’d met someone.

Her reaction was the complete opposite however, she started staring at me dumbfounded, trying to process what had just happened. Several seconds later I expected the obligatory ‘how dare you kiss me’ slap followed by her storming out of the stadium, but instead I saw her face practically glow red before she tried to hide herself behind her hair. I couldn’t help but smile at her reaction; it was almost as if she had never been kissed before, which I would find hard to believe, she’s absolutely gorgeous. (For a pony that is.) 

“You alright Luna?” I asked with a smile.

“I-I… I…” she stuttered before looking back to the field and flipping as much of her hair as possible so I wouldn’t be able to see her.

“Alright…” I said shrugging my shoulders turning my attention back to the game.

Several innings later there was still no score, hell there were only five hit total between the two clubs for the entire game. The ninth inning was coming to a close and with two outs and no man on; David Freese stepped up to bat.

“Who is that man?” Luna asked breaking her multi-inning silence, “He has the same number on his shirt.”

“That’s David Freese.” I explained, “He was supposed to be off today, but I guess Matheney thinks he can do something here.”

“Well… he IS quite the ‘hunk’ as Dawn put it…” Luna said with a smile as he took the first pitch for a ball inside.

“Excuse me?”

“He seems to be an attractive male.” Luna explained, pointing to his face on the big screen. “I can see why women of this world would show affection to him.”

“Well… he’s not THAT amazing.” I said rolling my eyes as he took his first strike down the middle. “But yeah he’s a good lookin’ guy.”

“You like him too?”

“Not in the way I think you think I do.” I said quickly, while David took another ball, “Besides I don’t bat for that team.”

“I thought you said you weren’t able to play sports.” Luna replied confused, prompting my hand to meet my face.

“I’ll explain that to you when we-“

The crack of a bat filled my ears as everyone’s eyes, including Luna’s, looked skyward. Freese had hit his pitch and hit it hard, the crowd roared as Matt Kemp ran as fast as he could to the wall. Excitement filled my heart; I hadn’t seen a walk off home run while I was at the stadium my entire life, Luna was excited too, but only because someone had finally hit something. 

One second later I realized something else, not only was that ball going to be a home run, it was coming in my direction. Reacting quickly, I threw my glove into the air along with one hundred other people, in hopes that it would land in mine. I could see it coming closer and closer until finally I heard the sound of a ball being encompassed by a glove. I smiled wildly, thinking that the ball was in my glove, but as I inspected its insides I saw that it was empty. My heart sank a bit, believing that someone a few rows up or down had been lucky enough to snatch it, but as I turned to Luna I saw that she two had her glove in the air, the only difference was that there was a distinct bulge in hers.

“I CAUGHT IT!” She squeaked excitedly looking into her glove, “AEDAN I-“

She didn’t have time to finish her statement before I wrapped her up as tightly as I could out of sheer happiness. Just this morning she thought that that old glove was a weird hat and now it was holding a walk-off home run. (Oh how fate works in the most peculiar of ways.)

“I can’t believe it!” I said with a huge smile, “God Luna, you’re amazing!” 

“Can we keep it?” she asked, “or do we have to give it back.”

“Keep it, keep it, keep it!” I yelled frantically, thinking that she would throw it back on the field. “We may get to get it signed. It IS a walk off home run after all.”

“Could we?” Luna asked with unnecessary puppy eyes.

“Of course.” I replied, “Come on let’s make our way to the dugout, we might be able to catch him before he leaves.”

It took about ten minutes to bod and weave through the crowd that was between us and the dugout, but fortunately David was selected as the player of the game, so he had to stay a bit longer than usual. I used that and my military voice to get his attention the second he finally began to make his way to the locker room. (Marines know how to yell, don’t let anyone tell you any different)

“Hey guys.” He said with a smile. “What can I do for you?”

“We were actually wondering if you could sign this.” I said showing him the ball, “My friend her caught it when you sent it flying.”

“Oh really?” he said with a chuckle as he turned his attention to Luna. “Of course I’d love to sign this for a pretty little thing like you.”

“You are far too kind sir.” Luna replied with a slight blush in her cheeks.

“Anything for a fan.” He said etching his name onto the ball, “Especially if they look like you.”

David then personally handed the ball to Luna with a noticeable wink before he made his way to the locker room, where he was undoubtedly going to get swarmed by the other players. I looked over to Luna with a smile; she was looking at the ball with the same joy and wonder that I had the first time that I went to a Cardinal’s game, at that moment I knew that a fan was born.

About fifteen minutes later we were at the car. Luna was still holding the ball like it was the most precious stone in the world. Granted I would be too, but she insisted that she be the one to hold it until we got back, but when I unlocked the doors and got in Luna was still just standing on the other side, lost in thought.

“There a problem Luna?” I asked, popping my head out, “We should get going about now.”

“Why?” she asked, confusing me.

“Why what?”

“Why did you kiss me?” (Oh great… NOW comes the ‘how dare you kiss me’ slap and then storm away part.)

“Well…” I said, trying to think of the best possible answer without having her get mad at me. “We were on the big screen; people were egging us on… I guess I just wanted it to be over… that’s all.”

“That’s all?” Luna asked, confusing me even further.

“Uh… yeah…” I answered, “I mean it’s no big deal, I mean it’s not like I’m the first guy who’s ever kissed you… right?”

Luna looked away the moment I said that, telling me that I actually answered my own question. I was the first person to ever kiss her. That normally wouldn’t weigh heavily on my mind, but given the circumstances it really blew my mind. I’m sure the look on my face said it all, but I think she was way too busy being shy to notice that I may have been as red as her. I tried to think of something clever to say, but the only thing that kept popping up was ‘you were her first kiss and you ruined it for her, SHAME ON YOU!’ Fortunately Luna had something off topic that put both our minds at ease.

“Could you sign this?” She asked, presenting the ball.

“What?”

“Could you sign this?” she repeated, “This was a rather momentous occasion for both of us, and when you find a way to return me to my home… I want to bring this with me.”

“Really?” I asked, “Why would you want to do that?”

“I want to remember the past.” She replied, “Both good and bad… and I wish to remember the name of the one who aided me in my most dire time of need.”

“Alright Luna.” I said pulling a random pen from my cup holder. “Toss it over here and I’ll sign it too.”

Luna did as I asked and with a few strokes of the pen, my name was sitting opposite David Freese’s. That alone was awesome, but knowing that Luna wanted to remember me when she went home was really cool too.

“Anything else you need Luna?” I asked tossing the ball back to her.

“No…” she said looking to my name with a smile, “You’ve done enough for today, let’s be off to your abode.”

“As you wish…” doing my best Dread Pirate Roberts impression; pushing her door open from inside the car.

Luna hopped in and we were off, the ride took maybe thirty minutes with all the traffic, but we got back just the same. Not a word was spoken between us for the rest of the evening. I guess we just let the day’s events speak for themselves, when the time came Luna went to the bead room and I sprawled out on the couch.

“Well… that was an interesting day…” I said to myself closing my eyes, “I wonder what tomorrow will bring?”
> Lost Chapter '2': The City
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

	My car came to a halt just outside a small, home-style building right off of Chippewa Street. With a flick of the wrist my door was open, I expected it to be followed by the passenger door following suit, but alas I had expected too much. Luna was awkwardly fiddling with the door handle until I came to the other side and opened it for her. (She didn’t know that I put on the child locks and I don’t think I’ll ever tell her)

“Aedan!” She shouted, “I was on the verge of actually succeeding!”

“Sure you were…” I said with a smile, helping her get out, “And I killed Kennedy.”

“Who?”

“Never mind.” I said chuckling slightly, “Come on let’s get inside before the lines get any bigger.”

“What is this place Aedan?” Luna asked looking around the parking lot. “I don’t believe that we have been in this area before.”

“Because we haven’t Luna, all we’ve really done is go to Wal Mart and the apartment; I never really showed you the finer places around St. Louis.”

“Finer parts?” Luna asked, cocking her eyebrow, “What do you mean?”

“You seriously think that my flat and Wal Mart are the only places in the world?” I asked with a smirk, Luna replied with a sheepish shrug of her shoulders. “Well there’s a lot more to the world then just those places.”

“I figured that much, given the fact there has barely been a day that I haven’t seen you ogle over a Cardinals game.”

“I take my sports seriously Luna.” I replied, “Especially baseball.”

“I’ve noticed.” Luna replied with a smile, “Yet my question still stands, what is this place?”

“Ted Drewes Frozen Custard, best damn custard this side of the Mississippi.” I locked the car and began to make my way inside, but I stopped momentarily upon realizing a minor detail. “You know what custard is right?”

Luna’s physical reply was an answer enough. She had let out a grunt and crossed her arms across her chest, the look on her face halfway between pouting and disappointment. “I may have been locked away on the moon in ‘my’ universe, but I know what custard is.” She said trying to stare me down.  

I couldn’t help but laugh a little bit at her attempt to intimidate me all it really did was make her look even cuter. My little chuckle didn’t go over well with her at all however, her face became red and her arms shot from her chest to their respective sides. At that point I really couldn’t contain myself, I started laughing out loud prompting several passersby to look at me like I was crazy, but I just couldn’t help myself.

“AEDAN!” Luna roared at the volume of a fighter jet taking off. “I demand you cease in your-“

“Alright… alright…” I said catching my breath, “I’m done, I swear…”

“I shall hold you to that.” Luna replied regaining her composure before taking her place next to me.

“Why did you laugh?” she asked looking up to me. “I fail to see the humor.”

“Well you were trying to intimidate me.” I answered stopping behind a family in line, “And to be honest… you really aren’t that scary.”

“I beg your pardon.” Luna replied, “I have terrified grown stallions, even dragons have cowered in my presence.”

“That may be true for where you come from,” I said patting her head, “But here not too much.”

“But why?” she asked again pouting, “Why am I so nonthreatening to you?”

“Do you really want to know?” I said stopping at the back of the line.

“Yes… I do.” Luna answered with puppy eyes.

“Well Luna… it’s not that you don’t have a presence…” I explained, “I know plenty of guys that would be afraid to approach you… but not because you’re scary…”

“Then why wouldn’t they approach me?” Luna asked, “If not out of fear then why?”

“Well you would scare them…” I said looking to the ceiling, “But it’s not because you look scary… it’s because you’re… you’re…”

“I’m what?!”

“You’re cute.” I replied as bluntly as I could while shrugging my shoulders, “I can’t get scared of you because you’re cute.”

Luna took a few steps back at the revelation, I was certain that she had already come to that conclusion earlier. (Mainly because of Gordon’s gawking, he DID literally call her ‘hot’ out loud) I guess hearing it from me was a bit of an eye opener.

“Y-you… you think I’m cute?” she stuttered with a slight blush in her cheeks.

“Of course I do.” I answered with a smile, “I may even go so far as to say that you’re drop-dead gorgeous. Haven’t you noticed nearly every man we’ve met doing a double take so they could get another look at you?”

“I-I guess I never really noticed…” Luna said hiding herself behind her hair.

“Well I have.” I answered with a chuckle and patting her back, “but let’s not think too heavily about that right now, let’s just get some food.”

Luna didn’t respond, which I found odd, normally when I mentioned the ‘F’ word she would have something to say. I turned to ask her what was wrong, but as I looked to her I saw the reason for her silence. My hand had never left her body; in fact it somehow managed to make it to her opposite shoulder without my noticing. Luna’s face was nearly as red as it was when she saw me wearing nothing but a towel a few days ago. I smiled a bit when I saw that but quickly realized that we were in public and in less than a second I felt the awkwardness hit me harder than Tyson in his prime.
“Sorry about that Luna.” I said quickly pulling my arm away and slamming it to my side. “I didn’t mean to-“

“It’s… it’s quite alright…” Luna stuttered quickly looking away, “I… I didn’t mind at all.”

“Glad to hear it.” I said with a goofy smile, “I wouldn’t want you to think I…”

I had to stop myself from finishing the statement. I didn’t want Luna to take something I said out of context, again. (Because I already know that’s happened on more than one occasion so far) I mean, sure, if the situation were any different then maybe, but they weren’t. I was still me and she was still her and she still needed to get home, no matter what I may or may not have been thinking at the time. Then the thing she said on one of her first nights here decided to reintroduce itself to the forefront of my thoughts, ‘the perfect mate’, again for whom?

“Think what?” Luna asked, snapping me back to reality.

“Think that it’s our turn to order.” I said quickly pointing to the cashier (Smooth Aedan… smooth) “We don’t want to keep him waiting do we?”

“Oh, I guess not.” Luna replied taking a step forward to the cashier.

“Welcome to Ted Drewes.” He said in a cheeky tone. “What can I get for you?”

Luna paused a bit and looked upward towards the menu board, (At least I didn’t have to remind her about that) tapping her chin as she tried to come to a decision. I didn’t think it would take that long, but silly me I had once again underestimated the amount over complication Luna could bring into a simple task. For five minutes she stood there, pondering on what she should have, even the cashier was getting tired of waiting. For the sake of my and everyone else’s sanity I had to intervene.

“Made a choice yet Luna?” I asked tapping her shoulder.

“Oh no, not yet.” She replied keeping her focus on the menu, “there are many options that one could make.”

“Luna…” I grunted while my hand found usual place on my face, “they’re not that many flavors…”

“To you no, but to me…” she replied turning around “I haven’t even heard of some of the choices.”

“Why not banana?” I suggested, “Do you like bananas?”

“No…” Luna replied blankly as if I should’ve already known about it, “I detest bananas…”

“Ok…” I said looking around confused, “How ‘bout plain old vanilla? Get all classical on your custard and stuff.”

“That is certainly better than banana…” Luna said gaging slightly at the mention of the ‘B’ word. “But it’s so bland… I want something with a bit more kick.”

“Have you ever considered a topping?” I asked, dragging my hand slowly dragging my hand downward.

“As a matter of fact, no.” she replied turning back to the menu, “I assume that could provide the proper ‘umph’ as you put it.” (Okay… now were making prog-) “But which topping?” (… … … shit…)

“I don’t know Luna…” I sighed, “But please pick something, the line’s quadrupled in size since you’ve been up here…”

“I only wish to make a quality decision.” Luna said pouting, “Is that not admirable?”

“It is… but you’ve GOT to pick.” I answered, “It’s not a life or death choice you know.” (I should’ve rephrased that, most life and death decisions I’ve had to make needed to be quick.)

“What would you pick?” Luna asked suddenly. “You clearly have more experience at this then I.”

“Me? Why would you want MY opinion?”

“Because you’re the one who brought me here…” (She got me on that one… well played princess, well played.)

“Well… I’m no connoisseur.” I said looking at the menu, “But I’m simple and easy, Reese’s with vanilla and hot fudge topping… make it two large concretes…”

“Yes sir!” the cashier said enthusiastically. “That’ll bring your total to fourteen seventy-three.”

I gave the man a twenty while the faint sounds of clapping filled my ears (at least SOMEBODY appreciated my work right there). Not a minute later our order was up and I made it a point to be in and out quickly, no point in making people wait any longer than Luna had already made them. I made my way back to my car with custard in toe while Luna followed close behind.

“Um… where shall we be sitting?” she asked the second I pulled out my keys.

“Right here.” I replied unlocking the doors, “You don’t see many tables around here do you?”

“Well… no, I don’t…” She replied looking around.

“Good eye Luna, guess it’s high time you actually learn how to eat like a normal American anyway.” I replied walking over to the passenger side door.

“And how do I do that?”

“In the car.” I answered opening the door.

Luna slid into her seat and closed the door the moment I made it to my side of the car. Within seconds I was in the driver’s seat and more than ready to get something in my stomach, but before I could get a spoonful of amazing down my throat, Luna on cue decided to ask me a question. (I swear she plans this stuff out.)

“Aedan.” She began, “What exactly are… Reese’s?”

My initial shock was soon replaced by the knowledge that she was from a different existence and that I had never eaten junk food in front of her, but still, a world where something like Reese’s didn’t exist is still criminal.

“Well Luna…” I explained, “A long time ago, the world was a terrible place and no one was ever really happy, truthfully everyone hated everything.”

“Really?” Luna asked her eyes widening.

“I’m afraid so.” I continued, pouring one enough sarcasm to drown a fully grown man. “But one fateful day to guys bumped into each other, one holding chocolate, the other holding peanut butter.”

“Where the men alright after their collision?” Luna asked, “Was there an altercation?”

“Almost Luna, almost.” I replied, “But just before push came to shove they noticed that they had gotten peanut butter all over the chocolate and vice versa.”

“What happened next?”

“The men ate the odd combination, then Reese’s was born and the old bitter world was replaced with this… slightly less bitter world.”

“I see.” Luna said looking down to her custard with a new sense of anticipation. “I eagerly await this experience.”

“Well it’s not going to happen unless you actually eat a spoonful…” I said rolling my eyes.

Luna nodded and grabbed the spoon sticking out of her custard similar to the way a caveman would a club and took a single, large scoop from her food. Examining it long enough for some of it to melt, she finally took a bite. The reaction that I saw was quite possibly one of the single greatest moments of my life, it was like she had seen god jumping a motorcycle over a shark while juggling chainsaws and babies with an explosion as the backdrop. (Don’t judge we all have weird thoughts.) It was so epic that I’d forgotten that I had actually brought my camera to capture such a moment and by the time I realized that I did have it the look was long gone, a wide smile in its place.

“This is wonderful!” she exclaimed, preparing another spoonful “I can’t believe that nopony has ever thought of such a perfect combination!”

“It’s pretty good, I’ll give you that.” I said putting down my first spoonful. “Remember not to eat it too fast, wouldn’t want brain freeze you know.”

“Of course.” Luna replied nodding, “But I do believe that after we have finished that we should get more.”

“I don’t think that’s such a good idea Luna,” I said shaking my head.

“Why?”

“Well I didn’t get to looking like this because I ate junk food all day.” I answered, “And I think you’d enjoy keeping your feminine figure.”

“I suppose your right.” Luna pouted, “But there is one last thing I should ask you.”

“I’m all ears.”

“Did I get any on my face?” she asked, “After the first taste I devoured the rest in a most barbaric fashion.”

“Luna…” I sighed, “I don’t think that you’d make that much of a-“

The moment I turned to have a look I was silenced in shock. Everywhere from the tip of her nose to her chin was coated in melted custard. Some of it was even starting to drip from her chin to in between the unbuttoned portion of her blouse. (Clean thoughts Aedan! Clean thoughts! Rule seventy-six!)

“Aedan?” Luna asked, pulling me out of my head. “Is there anything or not?”

“There’s plenty.” I answered nodding. “I’ll get you some paper towels.”

“Thank you Aedan.” She replied with a smile. “I’ll come with you.”

“I think not Luna.” I said putting my hand on her shoulder, “That’s not exactly your most flattering look, I’ll get it myself.”

“Always looking out for me,” she replied cheerfully, “Very well, I’ll remain here.”

“You do that.” I said exiting the vehicle.

While walking back to the stand I had to slap myself one or two times to get my head on straight. I’d already slipped up once today with my hands and now my mind had one foot in the gutter and getting deeper. Sure it’d been a long time since I’ve done anything along those lines, (Last time was Amanda) but nearly having thoughts about Luna? It made me sick. 

I got the paper towels from the cashier and quickly made my way back to the car and handed them off to Luna. She quickly wiped away the access custard along with my ‘almost’ dirty thoughts. Taking a deep breath I buckled myself in and turned the keys until I heard the revving of the engine.

“Did you enjoy your custard?” I asked checking my blind spots.

“Most definitely.” Luna replied, “You weren’t lying about the taste.”

“Glad to hear it.” I said smiling, turning onto the street in the opposite direction.

“Where are we going?” She asked me. “I thought you lived in the opposite direction.”

“I do.” I answered, making a quick glance in her direction. “But the day’s still young, I’ve got a camera and there’s a lot of this place you haven’t seen.”

“And you’re going to show me?”

“I said this was going to be an all-day experience, Luna.” I said with a smile. “Unless you don’t think you can handle it.”

That triggered the response I wanted from Luna, a slight jolt followed by her ‘intimidating’ stare. “I can certainly handle it Aedan.” She replied, in a commanding tone. “Where shall we begin?”

“I’ve gotta place in mind…” I said smiling deviantly as we made our way further into the city.

Twenty or so minutes later, give or take lunch time traffic the two of us were downtown and only a block away from our next location. The mighty and proud Busch Stadium, home of the St. Louis Cardinals. Stopping the car as close as I could without having to pay for parking I stepped out and stared in admiration at its sheer splendor, Luna on the other hand was much more underwhelmed.

“Why are you staring off into space like that?” she asked, waving her hand in front of me, “I doubt that I’ve ever seen you so fixated on an object.”

“That’s why.” I said pointing to the massive structure. “That’s Busch Stadium.”

Luna’s eyes followed my arm all the way until she saw what was holding nearly all of my attention. It was then that Luna was struck by the stadium’s presence; she stood there in silence looking the structure up and down, trying to comprehend it.

“This structure is easily twice the size of Canterlot castle.” She said in amazement. “The architects who built this must be of unparalleled skill.”

“I’m sure there are a few architects that were better than the guys that built this place.” I said laughing to myself, “And it’s supposed to be big, it holds nearly forty seven thousand people.”

“F-forty seven THOUSAND?!” she exclaimed in disbelief, “Equestria’s largest city isn’t even HALF that size!”

“Well, a lot of people like the Cardinals.” I said shrugging my shoulders. “So they need lots of room for everyone.”

“Have you ever been inside?”

“Several times,” I nodded. “I even had plans to go to the game a few days ago.”

“What happened?” Luna asked, “The way you stare at the television when they play I’m surprised something stopped you.”

“The weather stopped me…” I answered, “Canceled via rain, besides where would you go if I could’ve actually gone?”

“I could’ve gone with you.” Luna suggested, “I’m sure that I would’ve enjoyed myself.”

“Given the way you reacted when I told you that the place holds forty seven thousand people…” I answered, crossing my arms, “I doubt that you would’ve been able to handle it, besides I wouldn’t want to get caught in a situation that would be awkward for both of us.”

“What’s that supposed to mean?”

“Nothing really...” I said as a quick image of Luna and me getting caught in the kiss cam flashed through my mind. “Come on let’s go to the front gate.”

Before she could respond I had already bolted towards my next destination and before I knew it I was already on the other side of the street. Taking a deep breath and a better view of the stadium I smiled to myself and outstretched my arms. This place always made me feel better, just for the fact that it brought me back to a much simpler time, back when there was nothing wrong with the world as I knew it. (Or me for that matter)

“Alright Luna…Just follow me and-“ I finally turned around and realized that Luna hadn’t chased me across the street, instead she stared at me from the other side of the street. “Of course she would…” 

“Why did you run off like that?” She called from the other side, “You must remember that I still lack geographic knowledge of this place.”

“I expected you to follow suit.” I called back, “That’s why I said ‘come on’!”

“I wasn’t ready!” Luna replied, throwing her arms in the air.

“I can see that now.” I said walking back to her side of the road. “Now can we please get a move on?”

“Yes.” She replied, “And please try to be more thoughtful next time.”

“Will do, your highness.” I replied with an extra layer of sarcasm.

That time the two of I made sure that she followed me across the street. (That MAY have been a bit overkill, but I every time I think that she’s got a grip of this place it blows up in my face) After a quick orientation of where we were headed we were finally on our way to the main gate.

“We’ve made it…” I said smiling to myself, looking up to sign. “Busch Stadium…”

“Indeed.” Luna said looking around at the bronze statues that graced the entrance. “But who are all of these men?”

“WHO are these men?” I asked slightly insulted at first, but I quickly remembered she wasn’t from here. “THESE men are the greatest to ever wear the Cardinal uniform.”

At that moment I started running from statue to statue, pointing to each one and speaking of them as if they were the pantheon of Greek gods. Dizzy Dean, Rogers Hornsby, Ozzie Smith, Lou Brock, Enos Slaughter, all of them greats of the game of baseball and more than deserving of a statue to commemorate their accomplishments when they played, but in the end there was one who stood above all others.

“And THIS…” I said walking up to the final statue. “This is Stan Musial… the greatest Cardinal of all time.”

“I see…” Luna said with a cute smile. She was thoroughly enjoying her crash course in Cardinal’s history. (The way I was explaining it, not the actual history itself) “That seems to be quite the claim, given the other’s feats.”

“The others WERE greats.” I said lightly touching Stan’s statue, “but HE was the greatest of all.”

“How so?”

“For twenty two years Stan played baseball…” I began staring up to the statue with pride, “and all those years he played for one team… St. Louis.”

“That seems like a great deal of dedication.” Luna said nodding her head.

“It was,” I replied, “in his time he was considered one of the most dangerous batters in the game, with a carrier average of .331.”

“I don’t know what that means…” Luna sighed, lowering her head.

“That’s alright I just want you to know as much about Stan as you possibly can,” I said laughing a bit, “He should be known in as many realities as possible.”

“I’ll do my best not to forget.” Luna said letting out a small giggle, “Surely he didn’t play the game his entire life.”

“He didn’t…” I continued, “But even when he retired he stayed here, helping out and doing his best to make St. Louis a better place.”

“That’s quite the dedication to his fans.” She said, looking to the statue, “It reminds me of my sister in a way.”

“I guess you could say that.” I said shrugging my shoulders, “he was a good man who never forgot who made him.”

“Was?” 

“Yeah… he died earlier this year.” I answered somberly. “I never met him personally, but my dad did once… he said you’d never meet a better man.”

“I’m sorry to hear that Aedan,” Luna said placing her hand on my shoulder, “He seemed like he was very important to you.”

“He was, but people die…” I said coldly, “That’s a fact that you just can’t change… besides he was ninety something, it was going to happen sooner than later.”

“That doesn’t take away the sting of the loss Aedan.”

“I think we’ve been dwelling on the death topic for a bit too long.” I said, putting a smile on. “Let’s see if we can’t get some random guy to take a picture of us in front of the stadium.”

“Why would we do that?” Luna asked, “Aren’t I supposed to keep a low profile?”

“I brought a camera… and I’m sure you want some kind of keepsake for when you go back other than the memory of me constantly running my mouth, right?”

Luna couldn’t help but let out a laugh at what I had said, and truthfully it was a nice way to escape the mood from a few seconds ago. There weren’t many people who could bring me from a depressing state to happy with just a laugh; in fact there was only one I could think of, but that wasn’t really important at the moment. It didn’t take long for us to flag down some guy nice enough to take some pictures before I decided to continue our little excursion.

“Thanks for the help sir.” I said grabbing the camera, “We really appreciate it.”

“Don’t mind at all young man.” He replied with a pat on the back, “I remember when I was your age… a girl like that one of a kind.”

“You have NO idea.” I said as he walked away, “Now to… wait, what?” (Did he just imply that me… and Luna…where?)

“What is it Aedan?” Luna asked, “I did you need to reflect on the statues again?”

“No, I don’t…” I said shaking my head, “Come on… there’s still a place or two that I need to show you.”

And with that we made our way back to the car, I had to drive a tad bit crazy to get to the last spot, Luna didn’t really approve. (Then again I also decided to take a few snapshots on the way there. That may have been a tad bit unnerving for her as well.)

“We’re here.” I said smiling, while putting the car in park. 

“Next time don’t try to KILL us…” Luna said taking in a deep breath, “I nearly experienced one of those ‘heart attacks’ the people on your T.V. talk about… where exactly is here by the way.”

“Well the ‘here’ part is actually over there.” I said pointing to a massive silver structure.

Luna turned to where I was pointing to see what I brought her out here to see, the St. Louis Arch. Her jaw nearly unhinged at the 

“Amazing…” she said in disbelief.

“And you thought the guys who built Busch Stadium were good.” I chuckled.

“They aren’t even complete with it, but I am still amazed…”

“Yeah I know the arch is… wait, what?”

“They’re only halfway complete.” Luna said again pointing to the arch, “The ‘M’ has only one arch done…”

“What?” I asked scratching my head, “exactly what do you mean ‘halfway’ complete?”

“Did you not bring me to another McDonald’s?” she asked confused, “Is that not half of its symbol?”

It took a second for my brain to comprehend what it had just heard, but the second it did I exploded in a wave of laughter the likes of which I had never seen. Luna started yelling at me once I did, but I couldn’t hear anything over the noises coming out of my own mouth. It took several square punches on the shoulder and one very, very low shot to the stomach to finally get me to return to sanity and when I did I still had a huge grin one my face, unlike Luna’s disapproving frown.

“Why must you laugh like that at me?” she asked, starting to pout.

“You make it too easy for me.” I replied letting out a chuckle, “As for what you said this place isn’t a McDonald’s, it’s supposed to look like that.”

“Really?” Luna asked looking back to the arch, “I could have sworn…”

“I guess I can see how you thought that…” I said opening my door, “Now come on, let’s go inside.”

“Inside? As in past its surface?”

“That’s what inside means.” I said, “I want to show you St. Louis in a completely different way.”

Initially she was confused about what I meant, but she followed me nonetheless towards the building after we got out of the car. After about a minute of walking and several bystanders doing a double take of Luna (Which she noticed this time) we were at the stairs that lead to the insides.

“I don’t understand.” Luna said, “I thought you said we were going inside, not under.”

“You’ve gotta go under it to get inside it.” (I really should’ve rephrased that…)

“Doesn’t it seem a bit… dangerous?” Luna asked looking up to the top, “It is a rather large structure…”

“Luna, this thing’s been standing for forty eight years,” I explained. ”Eero Sarrinen knew what he was doing when he designed this…” (Thank you, History Channel.)

“If you say so…” Luna said uneasily following me down into the arch’s entrance.

Once inside Luna calmed down a bit, mostly because of all the other people walking around like it was nothing, but there was still a tad bit of apprehensiveness about her while we walked around. I did my best to ease her mind, staying closer to her then I normally would as I explained everything from gift shops to the actual design of the building itself. Granted there were a few people that saw us and had ideas of their own, but I didn’t really pay attention to them, I was there for Luna. (And it was working very well) After another few minutes of getting her comfortable to the thought of being under the building I decided to take it the opposite direction.

“Luna, you want to see something really cool?” I asked.

“Will we still be under this place?” She asked back.

“Nope.” I answered with a huge grin. (I wasn’t lying)

“Then let’s go.” Luna said pulling at my hand towards the exit.

“Hold up girl, it’s not that way.” I said pulling her back to me, “It’s that way.”

I pointed with my free hand to a line of people standing at a pair of double doors on the corner.

“What could possibly be that way?” Luna asked.

“You’ll see, Luna.” I said still smiling, “You’ll see…”

“You’re plotting something.” Luna said stopping me before I took another step. “I know that smile well enough.”

“Luna…” I began, with overwhelming sincerity, “I’m just trying to show you what this town has to offer in a different way. You know it never hurts to try something different.”

“I suppose you’re right.” Luna sighed with a sheepish grin. “I’ll trust you.”

“I’m glad you can.” I replied escorting her to the line.

It didn’t take long for one set of the doors to open letting some ten people out. Luna’s eyes doubled in size at the sight, I guess to her it was like seeing a rabbit being pulled out of a hat for the first time.

“Aedan!” she exclaimed, pointing to the exiting group, “Did you see that?!”

“Yes, I did…” I said seeing every head in the place turn to me, “Now if you’d keep your voice down so they don’t think we’re crazy…”

“I’m sorry Aedan…” Luna replied, “But those people… that arrived out of thin air!”

“Not really…” I said forcing a smile out of embarrassment, “They’ve been here all along.”

“Then where did they come from?” she asked, looking around. “I didn’t see them when we came in.”

“Where we’re going,” I explained. “They’ve been just in a different place… now please, volume.”


“I’m terribly sorry Aedan.” Luna answered lowering her head, “I guess I became a little excited…”

“Understandable.” I said patting her on the back, “But now let’s just wait… in quiet.”

Luna nodded silently in agreement and with that our wait in line began. It didn’t take long, maybe five minutes, but at last it was our turn and Luna would get to see what I wanted to show her.

“Ready Luna?” I asked looking back to her with a smile.

She was a bit apprehensive at first, but she nodded and stepping inside along with ten or so other people. The doors closed behind her and an eerie sound filled our space. 

“What’s happening?” Luna asked looking to me with a hint of fear in her eyes.

“We’re moving.” I replied at the same time I felt the floor move beneath me.

Luna squeaked and jumped into my arms as if it were instinct, prompting everyone to look at me longer than what I would’ve liked.

“She doesn’t get out much…” I said with an awkward smile, softly rubbing her back in an attempt to comfort her.

“What trickery is this?” Luna whispered, “I’ve never experienced something like this…”

“This is called an elevator, Luna.” I explained, “It’s like the automated doors at Wal Mart, but stairs.”

“So it goes up or down?”

“Yup.”

“Which direction are we going?”

A small ding filled the elevator and a smile came across my face, “Why don’t I show you.” I said as the doors opened.

The two of us stepped into the small room on the other side of the doors along with the rest of our group who already had cameras in hand. Me, I was waiting for the right moment, hopefully I could catch it when it happened.

“You still haven’t shown me anything…” Luna said looking around, “Didn’t you say something about being ‘really cool’?”

“I did…” I said pulling out my camera, “Look out the window.”

“If you insist…” she said rolling her eyes, “I doubt that-“

Luna froze in sheer awe at what she saw, the entire city of St. Louis basking in the glow of the setting sun and with a slight push of my finger, that moment was captured forever.

“Pretty cool, eh?” I said stepping behind her.

“Breathtaking…” Luna replied, still in awe. “I would’ve never guessed this place could be so beautiful…”

“Beauty’s everywhere Luna…” I said getting a tad bit lost in what was in my own field of view, “You’ve just got to look in the right places.”

“That’s very true.” She said turning around, allowing me to see the sun’s rays glow behind her. “Thank you for showing me.”

I didn’t say anything, I was literally frozen in awe at the view and it wasn’t the city. The way the sun tried to shine through her hair, how her eyes seemed to glow, that amazing smile, how her shirt complimented her anatomy, all of it left me at a loss for words. Fortunately, Luna was kind enough to offer me some of hers.

“Aedan?” she asked, “What’s bothering you?”

“Oh… uh, n-nothing…” I stuttered, “Just lost in the view.”

“Really?” she asked, “Because I’ve been in your way for at least a minute.”

(Crap… Think Aedan! THINK!)

“I was… uh… making sure that I could get another good picture before we went back down.” (That’ll do pig… that’ll do…)

“I see.” Luna replied with that damnable smile of hers. “Well are you going to take it?”

“Yeah…” I said reading the camera again and taking a quick shot, “Got it.”

“That’s good,” Luna said turning back to watch the sun continue to set, “Now how about-“

A powerful gust of wind slammed against the top of the arch, causing it to shake violently. It was so strong that it even spooked me, but Luna’s reaction was for lack of better words, overkill. With yet another loud squeak she jumped into my arms and clung to me tighter than a newborn would to its mother. The shaking lasted for only a few seconds, but it didn’t stop Luna from holding on to me for dear life. If it were any other situation I actually may have welcomed the action, but on account that there were about twenty people up here with us and none of them were watching the scenery, I found it to be a tad bit on the awkward side.

“Uh… Luna…” I said tapping her shoulder, “Luna… you’re safe, nothing bad is going to happen.”

She didn’t really pay much attention to what I had to say, but she did look up to me in a way that even made me not want to let go. Her eyes screamed that she needed this, she needed to feel safe and I was the man chosen for the job. I’m not really sure what happened next, maybe it was the sun reflecting off her eyes, maybe it was how tightly she was holding on to me, maybe it was how she was looking at me what I’ll never know, but my brain felt the need to lean in closer. 

Initially Luna was a bit confused at what was happening (Granted I was too) but in a fraction of a second her mood did a complete turnaround. Her body became far less tense and her eyes slowly closed, preparing for what was coming.  However before I subconsciously broke rule seventy six nature decided to intervene yet again. Sending an even stronger gust against the arch the building shook violently, breaking both our actions and causing Luna to cling to me as she had before.

“Let’s go back to the surface…” she said looking outside with cheeks redder than Superman’s cape.

“I think we can manage that.” I said with a chuckle before finally letting her go.

The rest of our time up there was rather uneventful, save the cub scouts there with us chanting that familiar childhood chant making fun of two people who like each other a lot. The ride down was quiet, but several people did look at us with one of those smiles (you know the one) before we actually walked out and back to the car.

“Well…” I said staring off into space, “That was interesting…”

“Absolutely,” Luna replied with a nod, “but I doubt that I would want to do it again.”

“I’ll chalk it up to a ‘once in a lifetime’ experience then.” I said getting into the car.

“Very much so.” Luna added, following suit.

The drive home was relatively quiet, but the downtown lights certainly added a very nice texture to the trip back home. Once we got there we headed back up to my apartment where I fell on the couch and Luna quickly found herself in my bedroom. I stared up at the ceiling, thinking about what happened throughout that day, wondering what was going to happen next.

“I wonder…” I said casting my gaze to the open doorway to my bedroom, “what’s next?”

> Lost Chapter '3': The Dress
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

	It had been nearly a week since my parents made their little unannounced visit and I believe that the Princess and I had subconsciously agreed to put the little emotional outburst we shared in the past. However there was something else that recently came up, Larry had been pestering me about that party he and his girlfriend was going to week before Luna had even arrived, I decided I couldn’t take his nagging anymore and finally said yes to his invite. Larry was ecstatic; first I get him a job now I’m going to a party because he asked me to come. (Next he’s probably going to think that I’ll help him move into a house.)

What I failed to realize was that when I had finally said yes to him the event in question was going on that same evening. Fortunately for me, Mrs. Burns had already given me this week off because she believed that Luna and I needed to ‘relieve’ our mutual stress. Granted, yes something along those lines would’ve nice, but rule seventy six along with rule thirty one (while entertaining guests, no more than three shakes) prevented me from doing what I so desperately wanted to do.

The other thing was I didn’t really have a nice suit in my wardrobe, (Well I did, but those were my old Marine Corps uniforms) so I needed to go out and grab something really quick. I could’ve gone to the big and tall store, but they didn’t open until ten and that was still three hours from now. Furthermore, I never recalled buying Luna a dress for any reason, so I also had to go to a Macy’s or some other fancy shop so my wallet could once again be torn asunder.

“Aedan!” Luna’s voice echoed through my thoughts as I pondered our plans for the day. “I believe you know what I require from you.”

“Coming…” I sighed getting off the couch. (It’s been nearly three weeks, she should’ve already gotten used to putting a bra on… maybe I should stop helping her all together…)

I walked in to the room to see Luna in all her glory, white lace panties and matching bra to boot. At this point I really didn’t care what state of undress she was in, all I knew is that she wanted my help putting the damn bra on. However that was the one thing I found odd, Luna already had the straps in her hands, she could’ve latched them together without so much as a flick of the wrist. Taking my usual place behind her I took both her hands in mine and smiled.

“You’d think you’d be used to this by now…” I said slowly guiding her hands to where they needed to be. “You sure you can’t do this on your own?”

“It’s Difficult!” She said quickly turning around before I could help her latch the bra. “Have YOU ever had to get used to a new body so quickly?”

“No…” I said chuckling at her ‘menacing’ glare. “But I think you’ve gotten the hang of it, hell you sleep in this body.”

“Y-you WATCH me sleep?!” Luna gasped backing away slowly. “Wha-what else have you done while I rested under your care?”

“Easy there Luna I never watched you sleep.” I said throwing my hands up passively, “Besides you know you sleep looking like that, why would you be surprised to know that I’ve seen you sleeping? I wake up a good two or three hours before you anyway.”

“I-I suppose you’re right…” Luna said gaining a noticeable blush, “I guess I’m not used to being on the other point of view…”

“No big deal Luna,” I said shaking my head, “Now let me just… wait… did you say ‘from the other point of view’?”

“Yes.” Luna said casually turning around so I could strap her up. “I’m the one who normally watches other’s sleep.”

“YOU watch other people in their sleep?” I asked, not really believing what I had just heard.

“No,” Luna replied to my relief, “I watch other ponies in their sleep, now if you’d please hurry up with helping me, I’m sure you have plans for us before we attend the gathering Larry had invited us to.”

“Let me get this straight…” I said pinching the bridge of my nose. “You watch other ponies sleep and that’s ok… I mention that I’ve caught a glimpse of YOU sleeping and you get upset?”

“I’ve already stated an apology to you.” Luna said spinning pack around shoving her finger in my face. “And furthermore I don’t physically watch them; I go into their minds, keeping watch on their dreams.”

That just opened up a completely different can of worms. Now not only had I been taking care of someone who controls half of a country, but now I learn that she actually CAN look into someone’s head. (Oh God, I pray to all that is holy that she hasn’t been looking inside my head.)

“I haven’t,” Luna said suddenly. “It’s considered impolite to gaze into one’s thoughts without certain consent.”

“I didn’t…”

At that moment the two of us realized what had just happened. Doing a complete one eighty in Record time Luna’s eyes were directly on mine. The silence between the two of us would possibly make Barney Stinson utter his most famous line.

“I-I didn’t… I didn’t mean to…” Luna said, suddenly turning away, hiding her face behind her hair. “I wasn’t trying to-“

“You were just in my head…” I growled, frozen in place. “How many other times have you done that…?”

“I said I didn’t mean to!” Luna replied, looking back to me with welling eyes. “It was an accident! I swear I’ll never do it again!”

I really didn’t know what to say, I felt a little violated, no one’s ever been inside my head. (Well, not like that at least.) I also felt the slightest bit betrayed, she had been keeping this side of her away from me, she may have even gone into my head before now and I’d be none the wiser. The last thing that rushed through my head was trust, knowing that now my most private thoughts weren’t safe from her, could I really let her stay? The feeling of Luna’s arms sweeping around my back derailed my train of thought, followed by an embrace that mirrored the one she had given me after I was released from jail.

“I’m sorry… I’m SO sorry…” she whimpered, burying her head into my chest, “I swear to you that I’ll never-“

“It’s… alright Luna.” I interrupted, slowly wrapping her up with one arm. “I know you didn’t mean anything by it. I overreacted, that’s all.” 

“Are you sure?” she asked looking up to me as I ran my fingers through her hair. “I could understand if you were angry with me for going into such an intimate-“

“I’ll live Luna…” I said smiling while my hand traveled from her head to under her chin. “It’s not like anything bad happened.”

“That still doesn’t mean I should’ve done it…” Luna replied, sinking her head into my hand. “For what it’s worth I apologize.”

“You did that already.” I said with a smile, “no need to keep doing it.”

At that moment I slid both my hands behind myself, intertwining Luna’s fingers with my own. A small squeak came from Luna, but that seemed to be the only objection to what I was planning to do. Taking a deep breath I slowly maneuvered our hands from my back to her sides, Luna’s eyes hadn’t left mine the entire time, but the amount of red in her cheeks certainly had doubled .

“Something wrong?” I asked with an amount of charm that even surprised me.

“Uh… no…” Luna answered, quickly looking away, “I… I was just wondering what you were trying to do…”

“Well…” I said slowly moving our hands behind her back. “Maybe if I do it this way it’ll be easier for you to remember how to put these damn things on.”

And with that I continued, slowly enough that hopefully Luna could figure it out without my help next time. Making sure that I guided Luna’s hands to the straps I let go of her, the action caused my hands to slightly run down the small of her back, it may have been a second or two, but it was enough to make her whole body shutter. Inadvertently my hands flew up in the air, I really didn’t know why I did that, but all it really did was leave me in yet another awkward position with Luna.

“W-why did you stop?” she stuttered, looking back to me.

“Well… You kinda shivered when I accidently touched you.” I replied, “I thought you didn’t like it…”

“N-no!” Luna said quickly, grabbing my hand. Her reaction startled me a bit. In fact I can’t recall her ever reaching for me that quickly, seeing my expression she slowly pulled the hand she held back behind her and placed it just below her shoulder blade. “I mean… I just want you to teach me this way…”

“Okay…” I said raising my eyebrow placing my other hand behind her back, causing her to shutter again. “Are you sure you’re okay with this?”

“Yes.” Luna replied, quickly placing her hand in mine. “Let’s begin from where we left off.”

My mind was full of I don’t know what at that point. First off, I really didn’t know why I decided to put her bra on while she was staring right at me, second the instant I let her go she shutters, causing me to throw my hand up in the air like that stupid ‘badass’ meme and finally, she actually guides my hands back to where they were behind her. My head was a spiral of junk swirling around the fact that she had kissed me not a week ago. (Now where the hell did THAT come from? I wasn’t even thinking about that until now!)

“Aedan…” Luna said calmly to bring me back to the task at hand. “Are you going to help or not?”

“Uh… yeah,” I said shaking my head momentarily, “where were we?”

“You were about to guide my hands to the straps.” Luna said with a smile.

“That’s right,” I said awkwardly guiding her hand to the center of her back. “Now you’ve got the straps and… done!”

“Wonderful!” Luna said cheerfully, doing a spin for some reason. “How does it look?”

“Beautiful…” 

“What?” Luna said pausing just before she was done with her spin. “I don’t believe I heard what you said.”

“Good!” I said quickly (Where the hell did that come from?) “Now get something else on, we need to go to out in a few hours.”

“Why can’t I just walk around like this?” she asked, pointing to her flawless physique, “You never complained about it before.”

“We might get company.” I answered, “And most people I know aren’t really ready to see someone like you dressed like that.”

“I guess it’s understandable…” Luna sighed looking to her chest, “Especially given how Gordon reacted…”

Luna then made her way to the dresser that had all of her clothes. She didn’t know it, but it was taking nearly every ounce of my willpower to keep my eyes on the back of her head. She didn’t know that the clothes thing was more or less for me, (at least I hope she didn’t know) I couldn’t risk having anymore thoughts read, especially if all she was wearing was lingerie. I was actually about to take my leave when Luna did the one thing in the world that could break my will, she bent over.

Suddenly and unwillingly, my eyes went straight down, fixed on her perfectly portioned posterior. I really shouldn’t have been surprised. She was technically a goddess, so it would stand to reason that she would have the body of one. But I had rules, (some, if not most, unnecessary) and right now, they were in serious danger of being broken. Using every ounce of willpower I had left and then some I tried to look away, but it was no use my eyes demanded that I soak the image in, despite every objection I made.

The only thing that made my eyes break away was the sudden rise of the rest of her body, allowing me to look at the back of her head once more. Relieved that my ordeal was over, I let out a loud sigh, prompting her to look in my direction.

“Why are you still here?” Luna asked, tilting her head sideways, “I require no more assistance.”

“Just taking in the view…” (DAMNIT!)

“View of what?” Luna asked, “The blinds are down and you and I are the only ones in here.”

“Just forget I said that.” I said shaking my head, “I’ll leave you to getting dressed.”

Before I could hear her rebuttal I excused myself from the bedroom and practically slammed the door behind myself. My thoughts were racing, passing through every trial I had to face since Luna and I had met. (What’s getting into man? You’ve known she’s attractive this whole time, why are you acting like this only now?) My thoughts were cut short however by a sudden pressure building up below the waist. A pressure that all men know and one that most welcome, but given where my thoughts have been the past few minutes I wasn’t about to let it go any further.

“Oh, HELL no…” I said pointing downward, “Stay right where you are, you know the rules…”

It obviously wasn’t listening. In fact it was straight up ignoring me. Flustered I decided to storm my way to the couch, there was only a few things that could bring it down, and on account I didn’t want a cold shower at the moment it left me with no choice.

“Last chance…” I said grabbing the remote, and turning the T.V. on to T.V. Land. 

The instant it was done reading the information the screen showed one of the few things that could get me out of my current situation, an episode of The Golden Girls. (Bea Arthur, smite my foe and break his will) It didn’t take too long, maybe a minute, but it did the job and my ‘issue’ was no longer between a rock and a hard place. At that exact moment Luna stepped out of the bedroom, mostly clothed and slightly confused.

“What was that all about?” Luna asked, pulling her shirt over her chest. “I don’t believe I’ve ever seen you act that way.”

“Nothing much…” I said casually shrugging my shoulders as I changed the channel to the morning news. “You hungry?”

“Now that you mention it yes,” Luna said with a smile, “What shall we have for breakfast?”

“For you I’m guessing the usual?” I asked with a smile that only grew when I saw Luna nod her head. “For me… Cheerios will be just fine.”

And with those words I made our breakfasts, not mentioning a single word of the minor skirmish I had with myself. We decided to pass the time with a combination of T.V. and mostly video games. (Granted her skills far surpassed mine by now, but I did my best to put up a fight.) We continued to play around until the clock finally struck ten and I decided to take Luna on yet another (expensive) adventure.

It didn’t really take that long to get to where we needed to go. I got a suit at Big and Tall that seemed to fit the overall look needed for the event. It even came with a bowtie, which alone was reassurance enough for me when the price tag on the damn thing rang just fewer than two hundred dollars. (I had to keep telling myself that so I wouldn’t have an aneurism as I kept looking at the receipt.)

Luna however, was much more difficult. I obviously couldn’t get her what she needed in a Big and Tall and the amount of oversized men staring her up and down for unnatural amounts of time didn’t really help. So we decided to make haste to the only place I could really think of, Macy’s.

“Let’s just get this over with…” I grunted, putting the car in park.

“You seem upset…” Luna said with concern, “Why?”

“Well because of you I’ve spent nearly two thousand dollars these past few weeks and close to eighty percent of that was all for you.” I replied stepping out of the car. “And I seriously doubt that what we’ll be looking for here will be cheap.”

“Couldn’t I just wear what I have on now?” she asked, pointing to her ensemble. “It has done wonders thus far.”

“I doubt that hip hugging jeans and a form fitting yellow tank top would go over very well with the crowd we’re going to be in Luna.” I said shaking my head, “Besides aren’t princesses supposed to like playing dress up?” (Then again women love playing that too.)

“My sister is the social one Aedan.” Luna answered. “I’m the one who keeps to herself when it comes to social gatherings.”

“It’s a wonder why.” I said, “Given the way you look I’d say that you’d be the desire of every guy and the envy of every girl in attendance.”

“I doubt that much.” Luna said trying to hide her blush, “I’m sure you’re just being kind.”

“Hardly,” I said opening the door for her. “You’re drop dead gorgeous. I’m still flabbergasted that no one in your universe other than that one bastard you talked about has tried to make you theirs.”

“As I said I don’t get out much.” Luna said walking into the store, “besides I’ve never really been able just to be me, I’ve always had to give the public a façade…”

“It that what you’re doing to me?” I asked. “Because if you are I might just have to try and figure you out again.”

“Oh absolutely not.” Luna replied turning around. “In all my years you are the only one other than my sister I feel I can be myself around.”

“Glad to hear it.” I said with a nod, “Now let’s get you that dress.”

Luna nodded and we were off to the one place that no man in their right mind ever wanted to go, the Dress section of Macy’s. My anxiety began to grow with each step as the horror of approaching our goal became more and more a reality. Numbers flew through my thoughts, two, three, four even five hundred dollar increments appeared in my head as my wallet shed many Jackson colored tears, but this was something that needed to happen. No matter how much both my gut and wallet begged me not to.

About a minute later the two of us had finally arrive at our destination, but given the fact that I’m a man and really don’t care much for fashion other than if it looks dirty or not, I decided to get one of the ‘experts’ to aid us in our mission. Moving to the cashier’s booth I managed to gain the attention of a very nice looking woman on the other side. Her looks (Though very admirable) weren’t that important, what was important was her fashion sense, and by the looks of it she knew what she would be talking about.

“Can I help you?” she asked in a slightly condescending tone.

“Why else would I flag you down?” I asked, adding a bit more sarcasm than usual. “Do I look like the guy who would know Gucci from Prada?”

“Well if you didn’t check the label I suppose not.” She said peering over her glasses to take a good look at me, “But I must say that I wouldn’t mind seeing you as a Calvin Kline model…” (Okay… that was weird…)

“Uh… thanks?” I said shrugging my shoulders, “But I’m not really the problem.”

“Oh?” she replied, her interest peeked. “And what exactly IS the problem?”

“She is…” I said stepping to the side to reveal Luna, who had somehow been hidden behind me perfectly. “She needs a-“

“My… STARS!” she exclaimed rushing Luna without a second thought. “You are simply PERFECT!” suddenly and surprisingly the woman pulled out a tape measure and started wrapping it around Luna with abandon. “Amazing complexion… Perfect bosom… perfect waistline… the hips to DIE for… Backside beautifully shaped… Legs that go on for miles! I must say, you-“

“Excuse me!” I said placing myself between Luna and her tape measure. “If you would be so kind quit treating my friend like an object.”

“I-I’m sorry sir…” She said regaining her composure. “It isn’t very often that I encounter a work of art.”

“A work of what now?”

“Surely you’ve noticed.” She replied trying to push me aside, to no avail. “But she is as the very definition of beauty!”

“Sure, but that’s not really important at the moment.” I said slowly pushing her away. “Right now we need to get her a dress...”

“A dress you say?” She replied with eyes lighting up. “Well look no further my good sir I’ll have a dozen ready momentarily!”

And with that she zipped off to God knows where leaving me alone with Luna.

“Y-you weren’t lying when you said people thought I was attractive…” she said sheepishly holding her arm, “But… I never expected to be treated… like that.”

“All part of the curse Luna.” I said shaking my head, “Sorry I didn’t act sooner. I was just as shocked as you were.”

“It’s alright,” She replied looking to me with a cute smile, “I know that you’ll keep me safe as long as I’m here.”

“That’s right Luna.” I said placing my hand on her back. “I’m your personal guardian angel.”

“I’m quite thankful for that.” Luna said brushing her hair behind her ear. “More than you’ll ever know.”

“I think I have an idea,” spotting something coming our way from the corner of my eye. “Looks like my undoing has returned…”

“What are you-“

“I have returned!” the woman said rather triumphantly placing over a dozen dresses on the counter. “Now… let’s get started…”

Several minutes later the three of us were standing in front of the Dressing room, dresses in tow. (Granted I was the on carrying them, but I digress) The lady looked to them and took in a deep breath before turning her attention to Luna. 

“We must be quick!” she exclaimed.

“What’s she talking abo-“

Before Luna could finish her question she was pulled into the dressing room, leaving me to stand alone, covered in dresses that I didn’t even want to imaging how expensive they could be. I was alone with my thoughts for a few moments, wondering what was taking so long, until finally the woman burst through the dressing room and made a blind sprint in my direction.

“Quickly!” she said outstretching her hand, “Time is of the essence!”

“Uh… alright…” I said blindly handing her one of the dresses. “Now how about we-“

the sound of a slamming door cut me off and once again I was alone. That didn’t last long however, because soon I was knocked onto my ass by an unseen force. (Though I could probably guess who it was.) I tried to get up, but a sudden and violent increase in weight forced me back down, blowing away one of the dresses that covered my eyes I saw that the cause of my time on the ground was yet again Luna. Only this time her shirt was gone and her jeans had been unbuttoned.

“AEDAN!” she yelled clinging to me like a crazy person. “The woman…. She tried to UNDRESS ME!”

“Wha-what?” I asked before a second figure appeared behind her.

“There is no time to waste!” the woman said grabbing for her arm, “We MUST create ART!”

Luna’s squeak followed by the feeling of her body desperately trying to hide behind me was reason enough for me to get up, but now this crazy lady was trying to whisk Luna away for ‘art’ as she called it. Granted I don’t know much about fashion, but I don’t like it when people upset my friends and I really don’t like it when Luna makes the squeaking noise.

“Now hold up…” I said placing my hand forcefully in the center of the woman’s chest. (Unintentional I assure you.) “What the hell are you trying to do?”

“Sir…” she said condescendingly as she smacked my hand away, “I am trying to craft a masterpiece.”

“Then why did you try to rip her clothes off?”

“I assure you I wasn’t trying to force anything on her.” the woman said still trying to get to Luna. “If she didn’t struggle so much then I’d already-“

“Lady, all I’m hearing is force and struggle.” I interrupted. “And the way my friend here’s acting around you I don’t think we’re in the right place.”

“NO!” She exclaimed backing away, “I only meant to help in making her truly perfect! You’d think given her beauty she’s been a model once or twice.”

“Well she hasn’t…” I said coldly, clinching my fists, “And as you can see she doesn’t really like being manhandled by complete strangers.”

“How foolish of me…” she said burying her sorrows into her hand, “I should’ve been more considerate instead of jumping to a conclusion… now I’ve gone and made a scene…”

“You aren’t lying…” I said looking around to see both confused shoppers and the occasional man staring directly at Luna’s assets. “But I think we should go.”

“NO wait!” she cried grabbing my arm. “We can still make this work! She can put the dresses on herself. I will stand by you and judge them accordingly.”

I turned my attention to Luna. She was still trying to use me as a meat shield between herself and the crazy woman. (Very understandable, given the situation) “Well…” I asked, “Whacha think?”

Luna looked to me for a few seconds before sneaking a peak over my shoulder. I really didn’t know what the look on the ladies face was, but something told me it was sincerely apologetic because Luna looked back to me with a smile and nodded. 

“I think I can manage that…” she said shyly.

“Alright then…” I said walking her back to the dressing room, keeping her covered and making sure I was between her and the fashion woman.

The second she stepped into the dressing room the waiting game began, leaving me alone with Ms. Fashion. We didn’t say anything to one another in an attempt to make it less awkward, but it didn’t really work. So instead of standing their like idiots we took a nearby bench and push it closer to the dressing room, so we could sit down and look like idiots. (They are completely different things)

About ten minutes later Luna walked out of the dressing room, wearing a very nice, dark blue dress that covered her very nicely. It stopped just under her knees, meaning that not many people would take notice of her when we went to the party. That was a good thing, there were enough people gawking at her when she was covered up and I didn’t want to go back to the precinct just because someone thought they thought they stood a chance with her.

“Looks good,” I said nodding. “Looks like we’re done here, time to-“

“NO!” the women exclaimed. “This is NOT the right dress.”

“I said it was good.” I replied looking to her, “Besides it’s-“

“If you need to speak for the dress then it’s not the right one…” she interrupted, grabbing the second dress, “next!”

And so my time as a fashion critic began. Dress after dress looked just fine to me, but the woman (who I had later come to find out was named Iris) continued to say no. The two of us even got into heated debates from time to time, she being on the side of fashion and I standing for price and practicality. That still didn’t stop Iris from running off and grabbing dresses from the lord knows where. I personally never knew that there were so many styles, some I liked, but others I was actually on Iris’s side. An hour passed both Luna and I were getting frustrated, but Iris insisted that we continue until she arrived with the final wave of formal wear.

“These are the last ones…” Iris said placing them on the bench. “If the right dress isn’t in this pile then I recommend you go somewhere else.”

“Thanks for the honesty…” I said dragging my hand down my face, “I’m ready for this to be over…”

“Me too…” Luna grunted from inside her booth, “Can you just give me one of those things already?”

“Here you go…” I said reaching my hand into the booth, the instant I felt a tug on the dress I let go and walked to my space next to Iris.

“Which one did you give her?” she asked as I sat down.

“I don’t know; the one that’s a dress.” I said smugly shrugging my shoulders.

“You’re SO descriptive…” Iris said rolling her eyes. “But either way I hope this is the one.”

“You’re not the only one Iris.” I added, “This party happens tonight.”

“Well I’m sorry that perfection doesn’t come easily.” Iris said sticking her nose in the air. “We’ll just have to see how THIS one looks.”

“Agreed.” I grunted, crossing my arms as I waited for Luna to step out.

Some ten minutes passed and Luna was a no show, leaving Iris and myself confused. She was getting quicker with every dress, but this one was taking her longer than the first one she put on. Growing understandably impatient I turned to Iris expecting an answer.

“What kind of dress did I give her?” I asked, pointing to the dressing room.

“Like I’m supposed to know.” Iris said rolling her eyes, “YOU gave it to her in the first place.”

“Well maybe if you actually LOOKED at the damn things before you gave them to me!”

“Well I NEVER!” Iris said in shock. “How DARE you say that I didn’t examine those dresses before I gave them to you! I know every designer, every price even the amount in stock! And you tell me that I-“

“Um… I’m done…” a voice from the dressing room said.

“Finally!” I replied letting out a sigh of relief, “Now we can get on with-“

I froze the instant my eyes fell upon Luna in that dress. It was straight black, save for the dark blue edgings sparkling across the dress’s tips, but that wasn’t even the half of it. The dress itself looped around her neck, traveling down her body until it split right above her bust line, giving a tantalizing peek at her chest in the process. As the dress continued it split once again at her stomach, the only thing covering her being a transparent sparkling blue mesh. The gown part of the dress slid all the way down to her feet, covering her minus the slit the went straight to her hip. Last, but certainly not least were the things she wore on her arms, elbow gloves, wrapping around her middle finger and traveling all the way up until the halfway point of her bicep.

“Uh… wow…” I managed to utter in my trance. “You… uh… you look.”

“Amazing!” Iris finished standing up and applauding. “I believe that we have finally found the perfect dress!”

“Really?” Luna asked looking to her ensemble. “I found these things rather difficult to manage.” She replied pointing to her gloves.

“That simply adds to your mystic.” Iris said walking towards her to get a better look. “Now all you need is Ardency Inn Midnight Blue lipstick and some blue eye shadow to take the entire town by storm.”

“I doubt that I would be able to do that…” Luna said with a cute smile. “Right Aedan?”

At that point and time my brain was somewhere else. I just couldn’t get over the fact that Luna was beyond any describable word when it came to beauty. Gorgeous wouldn’t do her justice, amazing would’ve been an insult and beautiful would’ve been a combination of both. I don’t know how long I would’ve been staring, maybe until she was out of sight, but Luna’s voice yet again brought me back into the real world.

“Aedan?” she said again. “Did you hear me?

“Uh… yeah I heard you…” I said scratching the back of my head. “And the lady’s gotta point… that dress… it… it really suits you.”

“You think?” Luna asked, her eyes lighting up.

“I meant every last word…” I answered, nodding slowly with a smile.

“Then it’s settled!” She exclaimed rushing me to wrap me up. “THIS will be my attire for the evening!”

“That’s great Luna…” I said returning the embrace, only to notice that there was no back to the dress except for some blue mesh that started just below her waistline. “Glad to see you so happy.”

“I shall be with you both again momentarily.” Luna said letting me go and walking back into the booth, not knowing that my eyes followed her the entire way.

“So…” Iris said standing next to me with a smug grin. “Am I right? Or am I right?”

“You know your stuff…” I said looking to her, “I’ll give you that…”

“Oh darling of course I know my stuff.” Iris said patting my shoulder. “Now all you need to do is accecpt her.”

“What?”

“I said now all you need to do is pay for her.” Iris said walking off to her cahs register. “I’m sure you wouldn’t want a lady to pay for something like that.”

“Don’t you think we should wait until you can scan the price tag?” I asked, “I’m sure that would be helpful.”

“I’ll just be here then.” Iris replied giving me a dainty wave, “Don’t take too long.”

“I’m sure she won’t…” I said taking a seat again, waiting for Luna to pop out of the dressing room.

About a minute later Luna did just that with a huge smile and the dress in toe. After grabbing the things she said Luna would need the two of us finally made our way to Iris. My wallet shuttered, but I had to do this for Luna, her heart was set on wearing that dress to the party. (That and I wouldn’t mind seeing her in it again.)

“Alright…” Iris said looking to her register “With everything here it looks like your total is… just over five hundred fifty dollars.”

“Saywhatnow?” I said quickly blinking like crazy.

“Well it’s actually five fifty one and twenty eight cents.” Iris said with a smile.

I could feel my legs buckle, but the counter prevented me from falling flat on my face. Luna was the first to react, placing one hand on my back and the other on my side in an attempt to reassure me.

“Are you alright Aedan?” she asked gently ribbing my back. “Are you feeling ill?”

“Only in my wallet…” I sighed, pulling out a piece of plastic and handing it to Iris.

“Credit or debit?” she asked smugly ready to swipe.

“Just get it over with…”

“Credit it is…”

And with that another pile of money that I had saved up was gone. Sighing to myself I took my card back and placed it in my wallet and grabbed the small baggie for Luna’s cosmetics (As if she needed them in the first place) and the hanger that held her dress. 

“Thank you for shopping at Macy’s today sir.” Iris said waving. “I hope to see you again soon.”

“Don’t count on it…” I grumbled under my breath before making my way to the exit. 

We left the store without so much as a word. I think Luna understood that I really didn’t like spending a lot of money unless it was necessary, but even if it was that didn’t mean I’d be happy about it. “You know you’re going to make me broke…” I said opening the car door.

“Why would you say that?” Luna asked, “You’re wealth seems near infinite, especially when you wield that small square.”

“A lot of people think that…” I said shaking my head, “And now everyone’s in debt.”

“What?”

“Nothing really…” I said getting inside. “I hope this party’s worth it.”

“Well it IS in several hours… is it not?” Luna asked getting into the car herself.

“Yeah, but that doesn’t mean that we shouldn’t get ready now.” I answered turning it on. “So let’s go home, get ready and try to have fun.”

“I couldn’t agree more.” Luna said with a nod. “I eagerly await this event.”

“Luna…” I said putting the car in drive. “I’ve got a feeling that however this thing turns out… it’ll be big.”