> The Song That Stole His Heart > by Thunderstorm823 > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- > Prologue > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Lightning sighed as he sat down on his new bed, tomorrow he would start his first day at the new Ponyville High. He wasn't excited, nor was he disappointed. All he wanted was to stay home for the week to think than go, but there's no change in plans now, he just has to deal with it. "Lightning! Dinner!" His mother called, a gentle mare using her jaws to set down the plate of food on the table where Lightning would always sit, she sat down and used her magic to pour some milk into two cups and put one of them next to Lightnings plate. Lightning came out of his room and sat down on the chair and looked down at the food, as hungry as he was he didn't feel like eating, so he sat there, staring at each bit of detail on the food. "Lightning? Are you alright?" His mother asked, Lightning looked up in surprise and sighed. "It's nothing..." He said softly, slowly starting to eat. "I know... it's going to be different in this new town, but trust me, you'll be fine." She smiled at him. "You'll be fine my son..." She said in a calming voice. He shrugged, his expression staying the same. He then began to actually eat, maybe a little too much. His mother than began to worry, she looked down, he's always been sad ever since she told him they were moving. After dinner, Lightning immediately went to bed, with a hesitation, his mother put the food away and went to bed herself, ready to start the job search tomorrow. Lightning got woken up by his alarm and hit the button on the box with his wing and slowly began to stand up, he slowly walked to his saddle bag and picked it up, as it was on his back he then left his mother a note that he had left early, thinking about looking around town. Lightning looked around the town to find something to eat since he didn't eat the much yesterday, he then came across a place called Sugar Cube Corner. As he entered the place, he was surprised to see it was open this early. What he also didn't know was that the Cutie Mark Crusaders were there as well, he looked around the place and walked up to the counter, forcing a smile. A pink surprised pony walked up, and gasped seeing Lightning. "You're new here aren't you?" She asked. All he could do was nod, his smile starting to show a weakness that even the Pink pony would know that he isn't smiling for real. "What's wrong?" She asked in a calming voice. Lightning shrugged, he was really sociable, so he kept to himself. She began to think and smiled. "What can I get for you?" Lightning began to speak but it was hoarse. "Just a cupcake..." He said, with sadness in his voice. She sighed. "Hey, I'm Pinkie Pie, here." She handed him a cupcake. "It's on the house..." She whispered. "Don't tell on me..." She smiled backing away, looking around as she entered the kitchen again. Lightning smiled softly, shaking his head, then he sat down at a table, putting his saddle bag on the table, then started looking at the cupcake. All he could do was stare at it, he was hungry, but something was stopping him from eating. As he looked over, at the kitchen he saw things being thrown around, as he began to feel confused he ignored it, then picked up the cupcake in his hooves, than he took a small bite of it. He looked at the time and sighed, about an hour left till school starts, he turned back to his cupcake and ate more of it till he had finished it. Lightning got up from the table and grabbed his saddlebag, putting it on his back, then thanked Pinkie one last time before stepping out of the doors. He then began to walk to the school, he never used his wings, he loved flying but, he was too depressed. Lightning saw the school up ahead and sighed, the school was next to a forest, and he could've sworn to have seen and heard things in there, his heart began to beat from fear of someone following him, he wasn't far now, he began to trot a little getting closer. Then a shout came from the forest. "LOOK OUT!" Lightning jumped, looking over, only to see something about to crash into him, he shut his eyes and blacked out. His eyes opened as he shook his head, than looked up to see three mares standing above him, he rubbed his eyes looking at them. "Are you okay?" Scootaloo asked. "We're sorry, we didn't mean to crash into ya." Applebloom said. "That was fun! Can we do that again!" A squeal came from Sweetie Belle. "SWEETIE!" Applebloom and Scootaloo shouted, all Sweetie did was giggle into her hoof. Lightning blinked, in dizziness. "What happened?" He asked. "We were trying to get our Catapult Cutie Marks... looks like we aren't ready for that one either." Scootaloo explained, then they started to laugh nervously. Lightning sighed, slowly standing up, looking at the clock on the school wall. "Class is about to start..." He said. "Yup!" They all said in unison. Lightning smiled slightly, then walked past them. "See you in class." He said, as he began to walk away. Sweetie Belle gasped loudly, but Lightning didn't hear her. "What is it Sweetie?" Applebloom asked. "He doesn't have a Cutie Mark!" Sweetie excitedly said. Scootaloo laughed. "And you found out by looking at his rump." Sweetie blushed. "What? It's on everyone's..." She embarrassingly said. "But I think we found a new member to our crusade!." She smiled. "Eh... he seems so sad though." Applebloom pointed out. "He doesn't look like he's from here, let's find out more about him, without talking to him of course." Sweetie smiled. Scootaloo sighed. "I feel like a stalker though, it's weird Sweetie..." "Come on, we do it all the time, it's easy, come on, the bell's about to ring." Sweetie smiled and started to trot to their classroom. "Alright students, we've got a new student, his name is Lightning, he just got here from... Where was it you were from?" The teacher asked him. Lightning sighed. "I'd rather not say..." He said. "Okay then, well now that we have a new student let's help him with today's subject." The teacher smiled and began to teach the lesson. The Cutie Mark Crusaders began to watch his movements, and then the would meet after class to see what they got of him. Lightning wrote down notes, he would normally bite on his pencil when he was thinking, and his right wing would itch. Sweetie than got distracted, looking at him in a different way when the teacher called her name she jumped. "Sweetie, do you know the answer?" The teacher asked. Lightning turned to look at her, waiting for her answer. Sweetie stuttered, then sighed. "I'm sorry, I wasn't paying attention." She admitted. The teacher sighed. "Alright, make sure you focus, quit dosing off." She warned, then called on someone else. Sweetie sighed, looking down at the paper, listening to the teacher, but occasionally would look at Lightning. Scootaloo noticed this, and she began to snicker, knowing her secret. After class Lightning grabbed his saddle bag and put it on his back, and headed out of the room. The Cutie Mark Crusaders gathered at the library to discuss things. "So, did you girls get anything off him?" Sweetie asked. Applebloom smiled. "He bites on his pencil." Scootaloo stared at Sweetie, with a silly grin on her face. "He also caught the eye of a pony, crushing on the new pony huh?" She asked Sweetie, getting ready to laugh. Sweetie blushed brightly. "You saw me staring at him weren't you?" She asked, a little embarrassed. Scootaloo then started chuckling. "I might of saw some drool coming down your mouth." Applebloom smiled. "How adorable." She snickers. Sweetie covers her head. "Alright I do, can we just drop it." Sweetie says a little defensively. Scootaloo sighed. "Don't worry, I'm only messing with you." She chuckled. "I know..." Sweetie said. "It's still embarrassing..." "Well, speak of the devil." Scootaloo smiled, pointing behind Sweetie. Sweetie turned around and saw him sitting at a table alone, he wasn't eating, he was only playing with his food. Sweetie's heart melted, then she sighed. "He looks so alone, I just want to hold him and tell him everything will be okay..." She said out loud. Scootaloo laughed. "Maybe some smooches could be added." She begins to make kissy noises and chuckled. "N-No..." Sweetie blushed again. "This is a really weird feeling." She sighed. "But it feels amazing." "It's probably because you like him." Applebloom said. "Go talk to him." She smiled. "What? Are you crazy? I can't go over there, what if he thinks I'm weird?" She asked, a little shocked. "Well, we did crash into him, that's more worse than being weird." Scootaloo pointed out. "Yeah, you're right... maybe I should talk to him... but I feel so nervous." Sweetie sighed, looking at him, feeling bad for him. Lighting stared at his food, then closed his eyes, his head tilting down, he sighed as a tear fell down his cheek. He wiped it away quickly looking around if anyone saw that, he sighed, laying his head on the table, staring at his food. Sweetie sighed. "What happened with him?" She asked. "Who knows...?" Applebloom sighed, than looked to her left seeing someone walk this way. "Oh no..." Applebloom wide eyed. They both looked and two colts grabbed Scootaloo and Applebloom and held them back. Sweetie got out of her chair and backed up. "Danger, go away..." She begged. "Come on Sweetie, we all know you like me, just let it happen huh?" Danger asked. Lightning saw this and sat up, watching. Sweetie got backed up into a corner, trying to get as far as she could away from Danger. Danger put on a hoof on her cheek, lifting her head up. "Stop resisting." He smirked. All of the sudden someone touched his shoulder, he turned, seeing Lightning turned around seeing him. Sweetie blushed seeing him this close, with one move, Lightning socked him in the face, than grabbed him and threw him away from Sweetie. "You two, let them go." Lightning ordered, and they didn't hesitate, they started backing up. "And you...." He looked at Danger on the ground. "Leave.... Her... ALONE!" He shouted, Danger got up and started trotting as fast as he could. The Cutie Mark Crusaders looked at him with awe, he looked at them, than sighed. "Don't let them do that to you girls, they are nothing but cowards." After he said that, he walked back to his table and began eating. Scootaloo and Applebloom went over to Sweetie. "Are you okay?" They asked. "He saved me..." She sighed, than she smiled, staring at him again. "He looks cute when he's angry." Scootaloo looked at Applebloom then they snickered. After School, Lightning opened the door to his house and sighed. "I'm home!" He called out. His mother was cooking him lunch. "How was school?" She asked. "The same... it's always the same..." He sadly said. "I heard there's a place to get working, I'm leaving in an hour." He explained. "Alright, I found myself something to do as well, and I just finished your food, here." She handed him a plate with a flower sandwich, he smiled softly. "Thanks mother." He looked at her, then sat down at the table, eating normally. His mother sat across from him and started eating. "Was there anything different about that school?" She asked. Lightning shrugged, then looked up. "There was this interesting group though..." He said. "Were they nice?" She asked. "Well, they caught the attention to colts that don't take no for an answer." He looked down, eating more. She smiled, finally hearing her own son talk in a long time. "Well I hope you took care of those colts for them." He smiled. "I did..." Then he started daydreaming, staring at the ground. "Well, you should probably should head out, ponies love it when others are early." She smiled, putting the food and dishes away. Lightning nodded. "Yeah, thanks mom, love you." He smiled, heading for the door. "Love you too son, have a nice day at work." She smiled, washing the dishes as Lightning closed the door behind him. Heading to the barn for work. > Chapter One: The Barn > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- As Lightning got close to the barn he sighed, ready to get working. He walked up to the door, and casually knocked on it. Applebloom looked over. "That must be a worker!" She said excitedly. Applejack laughed. "I guess your ad at school worked out." She smiled, opening the door. Lightning forced a smile. "I'm here for the job opening, I'm a great worker." He said, with confidence. "Well we are going to have to test that aren't we?" Applejack chuckled. "Come on, I'll show you around." Applebloom saw him and her eyes widened, that was unexpected. Applejack showed him around the house and introduced him to the Apple family. After a few hours of it, he got to work, he had to work with Applebloom to get some of the apples out of the trees, Applebloom pulled the cart and Lightning bucked the trees. It was silence at first, then Applebloom spoke. "I never got to say thanks for saving my friend." Lightning poured the apples into the cart and sighed. "It was nothing, they were nothing, they think they have what it takes but really they are cowards on the inside." Lightning explained. "And you're welcome." Applebloom smiled. "I never got your name." "Lightning." He said, going over to the trees and bucking it, catching the apples in the baskets. "I'm Applebloom, the mare you saved was Sweetie Belle, our other friend is Scootaloo." Applebloom said. "It's nice to meet you, say hi to the others for me." Lightning smiled, pouring the apples into the cart. "Yeah, or you can say that to them yourselves, we have a tree house around here, I'm meeting my friends there after this." She explained. Lightning stopped for a second starting to think. "I'll think about it." He said as he went back to work. "Sweetie Belle's going to be there..." Applebloom smiled, seeing if he would react. Lightning turned slightly, but shook his head, at first he was at a loss of words. "Alright." Applebloom smiled. At the tree house, Sweetie and Scootaloo were playing a game, they were jumping around the room giggling. "Come on, let's wave to Applebloom, she's coming." Scootaloo smiled as they both went to the porch. "There's the tree house." Applebloom pointed at it. Lightning looked over and chuckled. "That is an awesome color." "You like pink?" She asked. "Yeah, what's wrong with me liking pink?" He asked. "Nothing." She chuckled. Sweetie Belle looked out, seeing Applebloom she began to wave till she saw Lightning. She gasped and quickly hid in the tree house. "Oh no, he's here..." She said to herself. Lightning looked over seeing Scootaloo. "Didn't you say Sweetie was there?" He asked as he never saw her. Applebloom looked away to chuckle to herself, then smirked. "Let's go say hi, take a break." She said. Lightning smiled. "Alright, that sounds like a good idea." Lightning sighed, taking off the basket and putting it near the cart and they both went over to the tree house. Scootaloo resisted herself from laughing, she went inside. "He's coming." She whispered to Sweetie. She squealed. "Stall him!" She freaked out, going over to the mirror to fix her messy hair. Lightning began to walk up the stairs with Applebloom, Scootaloo went over and stopped him for a second. "Name?" She asked. "Uh... Lightning." He said. "And you don't need to introduce yourself, Applebloom already told me your names so..." He smiled. Scootaloo smiled, looking into the tree house, Sweetie smiled, nodding and sat down where she was and took a deep breath putting a smile on her face. Lightning entered the tree house, he smiled. "Like I expected, girly." He joked. Sweetie giggled. "H-Hi." She stuttered, she shook her head and sighed. "Hi." She collected herself. Lightning sat down looking around the room. "I'm liking it, who built it?" He asked. The Cutie Mark Crusaders gathered together. "We did!" They said in unison. "It's awesome, but I think we should probably get back to work Applebloom, don't want to get in trouble." He said. "That's a good idea, come on." Applebloom headed for the door and said bye to the gang. "Nice meeting you girls." Lightning smiled, waving goodbye as he went back to the cart. Sweetie sighed, looking down, shaking slightly. "That was embarrassing..." She groaned. Scootaloo smiled. "Don't worry, he didn't notice." She said, cheering her up. Sweetie shrugged, looking out the window, watching him walk away. She sighed. "You don't mind if I sing do you?" She asked Scootaloo. "No... Go on, I'm just about to leave anyway." Scootaloo smiled, turning and going to the door. "I'll be back, tell Applebloom that too." She smiled, flapping her wings and taking off. Sweetie sighed, watching him walk away, beginning to sing to herself. Sweetie climbed into bed after singing, exhausted, she fell asleep. "Where are you going?" Sweetie called, snickering. "Come back." She started trotting faster to him. Lightning turned around and chuckled as he got tackled into a hug by Sweetie, making him fall on his back, he chuckled looking up at her. "You're weird..." He whispered. "I'm weird for you..." She whispered, nuzzling against him, she slowly closed her eyes, feeling their lips touch together. It felt real, it felt soft and fluffy. Lightning smiled, kissing her deeper, slowly pulling away. "I love you Sweetie Belle." He said under his breath, their breath crossed as they both hesitated to kiss again, Sweetie smiled. "I love you too Lightning..." She said, kissing him again. "Don't let me go..." She whispered. "Never..." He whispered, kissing her horn, she gasped softly, nuzzling the corner of his neck. "Just one more thing..." He whispered. Sweetie looked up. "Anything..." She whispered. "Wake up..." He whispered. "Sweetie, wake up." Applebloom was shaking her. Sweetie woke quickly, bumping her head on the top bunk. "Ow..." She groaned. "You okay?" Applebloom chuckled. "I came in here and I witnessed you making out with your pillow." Sweetie gasped, looking around. "He's not here is he?" She asked. "No, he saw you sleeping and said he didn't want to bother, he also told me to say goodnight." Applebloom sat down on the bed. Sweetie sighed, frowning slightly. "Applebloom... How do you fall in love with a complete stranger?" She asked. Applebloom started thinking. "Well, it could be love at first sight, or maybe you're just crazy." She teased. Sweetie smiled. "Then I'm crazy... I wonder..." She mumbled. Applebloom looked around. "Where's Scootaloo?" She asked. "Oh she said she'll be right back, I guess I decided to get some sleep..." Sweetie Belle sighed, putting her head to pillow again, looking up at the top bunk. "Applebloom, what's wrong with me?" She asked, frowning again. Applebloom looked over. "Huh? What are you talking about, there is nothing is wrong with you." She said. "I feel like there is... I've fallen in love with a stranger, how do you do that?" Sweetie asked. Applebloom shrugged. "It's the way of life." She smiled. "Who knows, it might be fate." Sweetie Belle sighed. "Well, I didn't feel that way when I was with Spike, even though... I felt so wrong for breaking his heart, what if it's just a fling? What if I'm wrong? Again...." Applebloom sighed, putting her hoof on hers. "Don't worry about it, sure if it is, then do it again, ponies move on. It's just how it is Sweetie." "But... What if..." Sweetie then cut herself off with a sigh. "It's no use, what if he doesn't like me?" She asked. Applebloom shrugged. "You'll never know unless you ask." She put her hoof on Sweeties chest, feeling her heart beat fast. "Just listen to your heart, which is telling you to do it." Applebloom smiled at her. Sweetie smiled, hugging Applebloom. "You're such a good friend Applebloom, where's Scoots, I want a Cutie Mark Crusaders hug." She chuckled, making Applebloom do the same. Scootaloo landed into the entrance. "What I miss?" She asked, smiling. Applebloom and Sweetie both got up and went over to her, hugging her tight. "Ah! No!" Scootaloo laughed, giving them a hug. "Just this one time, but that's it!" She laughed. Sweetie Belle pulled back, wiping away a tear. "I think I'm going to get some sleep, there's no school tomorrow so... Can we have a sleepover?" She asked. Applebloom nodded, as did Scootaloo, they both yawned. Sweetie Belle looked out the window seeing it dark. "How long was I asleep?" She asked. Scootaloo shrugged. "I'm guessing a few hours." She smiled. "Shall we get to sleep?" Applebloom asked. They all nodded staring at each other, then raced for the bunk beds to see who would get the top bunk first. Sweetie and Lightning kissed lovingly on a couch in the middle of the Carousal Boutique, the kissed broke after a few minutes of passionate kissing. "Sweetie... I think... I'm in love with you..." He whispered, nuzzling her neck. Sweetie smiled, then giggled. "I feel the same way..." She whispered, kissing his neck. "I'm afraid someone will catch us..." She whispered. "I don't care anymore, I love you, doesn't matter who see's anymore. The more important thing is that I'm with you, that's all I want." He whispered. "Then why won't you tell me?" She asked, looking up at him, her eyes watering. "What are you talking about?" He asked. "You sit by, you just met me... why would you love me?" She asked. "I just want to protect you..." He whispered. "I'm not yours to protect, besides, I can handle myself..." She whispered. "Sweetie.... Please..." He whispered. "Shh... Let's not get into this... all you have to do is ask... it's not that hard..." She whispered. "But what if you say no?" He asked. "Wake up Lightning" She whispered Lightning gasped awake, looking around the room, breathing heavily. He looked at the ground confused, then looked outside, looking up at Luna's moon and a shine came from it, he knew what he had to do tomorrow. > Chapter Two: The Spark > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Lightning walked out of his room in the morning and sat down at the table. "Morning Mom." He smiled. His mother turned. "Morning, I have a favor to ask you." She said, walking over, giving him his plate. "What is it?" He asked, as he bit down on his breakfast. "I need you to go grocery shopping today, here's the list." She used her magic to give him a piece of paper with notes on it. Shopping List 5 Apples 5 Bananas 5 Carrots 1 Full Suit 1 Dress 10 Muffins and Cupcakes "What's with the formal attire?" Lightning asked. "Oh, there's this place that's having a party and we need it, it's a formal party." His mother smiled. "Alright, I'll leave in a few minutes." He smiled The Cutie Mark Crusaders were drinking some milkshakes at Sugar Cube Corner, smiling and telling jokes. After some laughter Scootaloo smiled. "So Sweetie, you singing at the party?" She asked. Sweetie shrugged. "I don't know, I'm not very comfortable singing in front of the crowd." Applebloom bumped her shoulder. "Why not? We've heard you sing, you're great." She complemented. Sweetie smiled. "Well... I've got a song in mind... but what of Lightning's going to be there?" She asked. Scootaloo smiled. "Well, he probably is, it's a Pinkie Pie party, you never know." She rubbed Sweeties back slightly. "What song were you playing on singing?" She asked. Sweetie told them what she was going to sing and they daw'd. "How sweet that would be." Applebloom said. Sweetie nodded. "Too far?" She asked. "Pfft." Scootaloo scuffed, smiling looking away. Sweetie smiled. "At least the song will be played there, I might as well go outside and sing." She chuckled. They then went on a talk about something else and laughed, then the door opened and Lightning came inside, he looked around and went up to the counter, his voice inaudible to them. Sweetie rested her head on her hoof and smiled goof like at him, blushing slightly. Lightning looked over and smiled, waving to them. They waved back and Sweetie looked down, still looking at him. "Oh...." She groaned. Applebloom started thinking. "Wait... Didn't he hit Danger?" She asked. Scootaloo nodded. "Yeah, pretty hard..." She said. Sweetie then frowned. "Why would he just do that out of the blue? I never thought of that..." She said, then looked down. Scootaloo laughed. "But he deserved it." She pointed out. They both nodded their heads, and Sweetie sighed. "I wonder why he's so into me... I didn't even do anything." She said. Applebloom smiled. "Well, what he's doing is no way to like someone, he's WAY to forceful." Scootaloo sighed. "I don't know what would happen if we weren't with you..." She said. Sweetie shook her head. "I don't want to think about it, it didn't happen, I shouldn't worry about it." She said, then looked at Lightning, then smiled. Lightning then put the muffins and cupcakes into his saddlebag and put it back on, then headed for the door. "Go ask him out, before he gets away." Scootaloo teased. Sweetie blushed, then ducked her head. "No..." She whined. "I need to get home anyways...?" She thought, then shook her head. "No, I'm going straight home after this." She sighed. "Chicken." Scootaloo laughed. "Look who's talking." Applebloom teased, chuckling. "I'm not a chicken!" Scootaloo shouted, laughing. Sweetie sighed, opening the door to the Carousal Boutique. "Rarity, I'm home!" She called out. "Oh I'll be there in a second Sweetie Belle, I got to gather the attire." Rarity called back. "What do you need it for?" Sweetie asked. "For my client, he should be there." Rarity said. "That would be me." Lightning smiled, waving. Sweetie gasped. "Oh... You scared me..." She sighed. Lightning shook his head. "Sorry, I do that a lot." He said, with a smile. Sweetie sat next to him, then looked at him. "When... you rescued me... you didn't give it a second thought on talking to him, instead you used violence..." She reminded him. He sighed. "Sorry... I sometimes lose my anger at times... and what he was doing was not cool..." He looked over at her, then smiled. Sweetie smiled back, looking down. "So, you going to the party?" She asked. Lightning nodded. "Yeah, my mother met a pony named Pinkie Pie and she said she was throwing a party and said to bring formal attire." He explained. Sweetie nodded. "Pinkie's crazy..." She smiled, shaking her head. "She's also really nice..." He smiled. Spike came downstairs and saw Sweetie, he looked down and away, going about his business. Lightning looked at him, then whispered to Sweetie. "Is that what I think it is?" He asked. Sweetie looked down. "That's Spike... he's harmless..." She sighed. "Really harmless..." She shed a tear. Lightning looked at her, he was going to ask what was wrong but... it was none of his business. "Hey... cheer up, things get better." He put a hoof on her back and rubbed around. Sweetie blushed, her heart beating fast. "L-Lightning...?" She stuttered. "Yeah?" He looked over at her, his hoof still on her back. She smiled nervously. "Would you like to...." "Alright deary, here you go." Rarity came downstairs using her magic to hand Lightning the formal attire and put it on his back. "Hang on..." Lightning said, turning to Sweetie. "What was that?" He asked. Sweetie sighed. "It's nothing, go, the party starts soon." She said. Lightning sighed. "Alright, I should head out, I'll see you later today." He said goodbye and headed out the door, sighing, breathing slightly, he shook his head and kept walking as the door closed behind him. "Dang it Rarity...." Sweetie groaned. "What I do?" Rarity asked confused. "Can I tell you something?" Sweetie asked. "Of course Sweetie Belle, you can tell me anything." Rarity smiled, sitting next to her. "What's it like being in love?" Sweetie asked. Rarity put a hoof to her chin. "Well... it.... hm..." She began to think harder. "Why do you ask anyway?" She asked. Sweetie rubbed the back of her head, and blushed. "Oh..." Rarity smiled. "I see what you mean... listen, love can be a hard thing, it's never going to work if you sit by and not say anything, and if it's bound to happen it'll happen, you'll just have to wait." She smiled. Sweetie sighed. "You know how much I hate waiting..." She looked down. "I know Sweetie... I know..." Rarity smiled, rubbing her back. "Want to help me decorate the party? It'll keep your mind off things." She asked. Sweetie nodded, smiling. "I'd love to." *The Party* Lightning sighed, sitting down at a chair, his mother went to go chat with the other adult ponies as he looked around the room. He closed his eyes and began to daydream, mostly about Sweetie, but he didn't know why he had a connection to her. "Boo!" Pinkie shouted next to him, Lightning jumped out of his chair. Pinkie giggled, falling on the floor laughing. "That was funny!" She said over her laughter. Lightning rolled his eyes, sitting back down. "Yeah... hilarious." He smiled, sitting back in his chair. His thoughts soon took over him again, as a slow smile came upon his lips. Pinkie noticed this and tilted her head to the side in confusion. "What are you thinking about?" She asked, slowly smiling. He smiled brighter. "Somepony special..." He mumbles, as if the word in his head had caused his heart to skip a beat when he looked up, seeing that same special somepony come in. Sweetie Belle. Sweetie wore one of her green dresses, Rarity spent awhile making it, it had some gems on them, causing it to shine. As Lightning drifted up to her face, he saw the soft makeup on her, red lips, blue eyeshadow, and gems hanging from the earrings she wore. Sweetie looked across the room, to catch Lightning staring at her. She blushed, wondering if he was just daydreaming or literally staring at her. As the music blasted through the speakers, Lightning shook his head escaping his trance. One thing led to another, and now he's on the dance floor, slowly dancing to himself. He slowly looked down, sighing, as a slow beat began to play and the music began to slow down into a dance only for couples, he looked around. Seeing other ponies, dancing closely, nuzzling one another, his heart dropped at the sudden realization. He's alone, he's always been alone, not only that his thoughts were also the ones rejecting his passions and urges. After a few moments lost in thought, he decides to get some fresh air. As he makes his way off the dance floor, some of the ponies were cuddling, Lightning would constantly hear the words "I love you." come from their mouths as he exits the crowd to the door. Lightning sat outside, the music playing softly, able to be heard from outside. He leaned against the wall, thinking to himself, maybe he should start putting himself out there, maybe try to ask a few mares to push his luck, but the thought of that quickly made him frown. The only pony he thought of was Sweetie Belle, that name was always so wonderful to say, the only reason of acting the way he did when he was around her. The thoughts in his head turned dark as he began to remember his past, he closed his eyes, slowly remembering what his father had down to ruin his life for the better, only to realize, his father was the reason he hit Danger, his father was the reason for Lightning acting like a complete tool. He pushes that memory and thoughts out of his head quickly, he sat there, waiting for the slow dance music to finish. "Quite the party huh?" A familiar voice shot through Lightnings ears as he looked up, finally did he realize that he was crying. Sweetie's eyes widened. "Lighting? A-Are you alright?" She asked, sitting next to him. Lightning sniffed, quickly rubbing his tears away as he sat up. "I- I'm fine..." He stuttered, then sighed in defeat. He closed his eyes, digging his head into the wall behind him. "You don't look fine, what's happening?" She asked. "Whatever it is, you can tell me." She whispered, her heart sank seeing him like this, even if she had to hold herself back from doing something she might regret, even though it would be worth it. Lightning sighed, shaking his head. "You wouldn't understand..." He uttered, his tears beginning to flow more. "It's just something I have dealt with my entire life... nothing you wouldn't care about..." He whispered, slowly as tears made way to his mouth, making his lips taste salty. Sweetie rubbed his arm gently, putting a hoof to her chin to make him look at her. "Why do you think I wouldn't care?" She asked. Lightning looked into her eyes, the bright green glow to it made his heart begin to beat faster, only to sink once he finally realized it's time to let it out, to tell something about his past that no one knew about, only him and his mother. "I'm sorry." He whispered. "Don't be, tell me what's on your mind." Sweetie's ears flickered, ready to listen to whatever he had to say. "When I came to Ponyville, I didn't expect to be greeted so greatly, despite the part of you crashing into me.... This is the most fun I've had in all my years..." His smile turned to a frown, thinking back. "I used to be at Fillydelphia, the place was small so... there wasn't that many places to be so I mostly stayed home, being home schooled by my mother, her lessons taught me more than a school could, my father; however, didn't like the idea of me going to school, he couldn't stand the thought of me growing up and moving out so he kept me at home, wanting only to be his little colt again." His eyes began to water once more as he continued to the story. "One night, I had enough of it, there was a place that I always wanted to go, it was for ponies all ages to gather around and tell stories. Have a great time, and it gave me a chance to finally be social." Sweetie slowly leaned closer, listening to his story, she had an idea of where this was going but kept listening. "My father got angry when I told him that I was going, he told me to stay home, said I was grounded even though I didn't do anything. I yelled at him, saying I was a big boy, and if I wanted friends I was going to..." Lightning looked down as he suddenly shivered. "H-He...." He mumbled, almost having trouble to say what was to come. "He.... He beat me..." Sweetie gasped, holding a hoof to her mouth in surprise, something she wasn't ready for. "And he.... he didn't stop...." Lightning had trouble beginning to speak as the sound of his cries slowly drifted from his dry mouth. "He threatened.... to kill me...." He mumbled, then something clicked. "Why am I even telling you this, I barely know you..." He whispered. Sweetie's eyes also begin to water, looking at him with desperation to just kiss him, hug him, to tell him everything was going to be okay, the sudden realization of why he hit Danger came to her, because the same way Danger acted, resembles his fathers, being uptight, always to get his way even to use force. "You do, please..." Sweetie whispered to him. "You can tell me more if you like..." Lightning nodded. "He turned into something that wasn't my father, the pony that had to get him off of me... was my mother. She got angry at him, but I don't remember some of it, since... I blacked out." Sweetie's hoof brushed up against his, Lightning looked at it, wanting to just cuddle with her till the problems went away. But he thought she wouldn't appreciate it, he looked up, as he began to make eye contact. Sweetie whimpered slightly, noticing their muzzles so close to each other, and with only one swift motion, they would end up touching lips. "I'm sorry.... I'm sorry you had to go through that." Sweetie whispered. "Something like that can be.... traumatic..." Her words slowly faded, as she realizes their faces was as even close as before, they both could feel each others warm breathing as the tension became more intense with each second they sat there. Sweetie looked into Lightning's eyes, as his tears slowly began to drift away, she could till by the look in his eyes that he wanted to move so bad to kiss her, her bottom lip slowly rubbed up against his, as their lips were touching but not fully kissing. Lightning's problems seemed to have been forgotten, all the worries of being alone, even the memories of his own father began to drift away at this one moment that would soon be eternal bliss, he took the chance, pushing his lips into her's as he began to kiss her. Sweetie's heart and eyes began to flutter, her heart beating fast, her eyes closing fully, as she began to kiss back, putting a hoof to his chest. At this moment, Lightning knew the first love he would ever have would be the most caring pony he had ever had the chance of meeting. The kiss turned passionate, their lips opened as they both let their tongues touch, they slowly eased into it, the kiss became more lovingly as their hooves rubbed up against their bodies, the slight poking of ones horns into the mane of a Pegasus that's wings slowly began to spread in pleasure. The kiss lasted through a few songs that was still playing, the rest of the Cutie Mark Crusaders were looking for their other member, confused on where she might be. But only to be found minutes later, when they both come back in, with Lightning's wing over the back of Sweetie Belle who nuzzled against his neck as she leaned on him. Applebloom and Scootaloo noticed them and they began to blush, in confusion they walked over, only to ask one question that raced through both their minds. "What happened?" They asked. Sweetie smiled. "Something magical..." Her eyes closed as she softly giggled, nuzzling against Lightning's neck as he stroked her hair, the night was the best that he ever had. A permanent smile on his face, as everyone began to realize what was happening. Rarity looked over, seeing them close together, she smiled, looks like somepony took her advice. She turned back to her friends. Lightning's mother, turned and noticed her own son, nuzzling against a beautiful mare, which made her smile. 'My little colt is growing up, I'm so proud...' She thought, she turned back to the group she was talking to and began talking with the same smile. In the corner of the room, sat Danger, staring at the couple that danced to a love song, the anger built inside him, Lightning took the only thing Danger wanted, and he was going to do whatever he needed to do, to get her, he smirked as his mind came up with a plan. Lightning and Sweetie slow danced, their eyes locked in one another. The beat of the song coursing through their ears as the danced along to it, after a few minutes they kiss once more, their hooves wrapped around their neck as the stopped dancing, their lips locked together, their tongues having a slow dance of their own as Luna's light shined brightly at midnight. They ended the night with a kiss, as they both began to walk away from each other. "See you at school." Sweetie smiled at him. Lightning smiled back at her, he returned the goodbye and they both parted, as Lightning made his way home, he took off his suit that had sweat all over it, his muscles began to feel more relaxed as he laid down on his bed, his eyes firmly closed, and only Sweetie Belle was the image he would see in his dreams. This was the start, of something beautiful. > Chapter Three: The Song > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- By the time Lightning woke up in the morning and was sitting at the table, his mother kept shooting him looks, waiting for him to tell her what happened last night. Lightning looked up at his mother, then raised an eyebrow. "What are you staring at?" He asked, smiling softly. His mother groaned. "I saw you dancing with a mare, tell me about her." Lightning smiled, looking down at his food. "She's sweet... She's amazing, caring, and so many things I can't name off the top of my head. She was part of the strange group I told you about, I just didn't realize it till now, that I had feelings for her. There... Happy?" Lightning smiled more, giving his mother a sarcastic look. His mother made a simple 'Daw...' noise, then smiled at him. "You going to visit her today? I think she'd like that." She asked. Lightning smiled. "I was just about to ask, I guess I should leave after breakfast." "Alright, you have fun, I got to get ready for work." She smiled, standing up from her chair. "Where are you working?" He asked. "Oh, I got a small job at Sugar Cube Corner, I'll be helping out Pinkie with the cupcakes." She smiled, heading to her room. Lightning smiled, then frowned. "Oh crap." He got up from his chair, forgetting he had to work as well. He went to the bathroom and brushed his teeth quickly, washing himself off so he wasn't so dirty. He threw on his saddlebag and headed out the door, galloping to the barn. "Alright Rarity, thanks for breakfast, I've got to get going to the clubhouse." Sweetie Belle smiled, but as she tried getting off the chair, she was stopped by Rarity. "Wait a minute Sweetie Belle, I wanted to discuss something with you." She smirked, slowly putting stuff away with her magic. "Last night, at the party, I saw something that looked like my little sister, dancing with a stallion." Rarity began to tease her, seeing that Sweeties cheeks have become red. She smiled, looking down. "I know... It was great... Thanks Rarity." Rarity rubbed her back. "Just one more thing before you go." She looks into Sweeties eyes for a brief moment. "What is it?" Sweetie asked. "Colts sometimes have no control over what they do, due to urges, if he starts pushing things too far, something that you don't want. Give him a little slap on the wrist, but in this case, slap him in the face, that will bring him to his senses." Rarity warned. Sweetie smiled. "I'll be sure to make note of that." Rarity smiled, giving her a light nudge on the shoulder. "If you need any advice, your big sister is always here to help." She whispered, before trotting off to the other room. "You can leave now darling," She said, before exiting the room. Sweetie thought for a second, before gathering some things and headed out, going straight towards the club house. "You're late sugar cube." Applejack snorted, looking down at Lightning. "I know, I'm sorry... it won't happen again, I promise." Lightning stood proud, only in the back of his mind did he want her to forgive him. "This is your first time, so I'm going to let it slide, but next time, I won't be so easy, got it?" Applejack asked, Lightning nodded, his eye narrowed looking towards the ground. With that, Applejack turned and trotted off, getting back to work. Lightning didn't hesitate, getting to work himself so Applejack wouldn't give him a new one. He began picking up the rotten apples and putting it in his basket while Applebloom picked up the fresh ones. "Try not to be late again..." Applebloom started. "My sister can be an angry pony, so I would try to stay on her good side." "I'll try to." Lightning sighed, as he continued to work. A few hours have passed as they made their way to the tree house, picking up the apples around there. As Lightning sighed, and whipped the sweat from his forehead from the Celestia's hot sun, he looked towards the clubhouse, hearing something near it. "~Cause I need you... and I miss you... and now I wonder... if I could fall, into the sky, do you think time would pass me by?" "Hey... Applebloom, do you hear that?" Lightning asked, hearing the sound a music playing. Applebloom smiled. "Scootaloo must not be there, I can tell ya now, it's Sweetie Belle." Lightning listened more. "~....Cause you know I would walk a thousand miles if I could just see you.... tonight.~" "I'm surprised she hasn't earned her cutie mark from that voice." Lightning smiled, staring at the clubhouse, listening to her singing. Applebloom chuckled. "You might want to get back to work, Applejack doesn't like slackers." Applebloom warned once again. Lightning nodded. "Just give me a second...." He breathed, loving the sounds coming from her singing. After the work has been finished it was already dawn, the sun would soon fade. But Lightning wanted to make a visit, with his new fillyfriend. Climbing up the steps, kept his heart beat steady, but soon would beat fast seeing her again. As he entered the clubhouse, the only sense of joy filled him, as Sweetie noticed him. "Lightning!" She squealed, jumping up off the bed she was sitting on and tackled him into a hug. "You came to visit me! How sweet." She said, ecstatic. Lightning chuckled, rubbing her head. "Of course, nothing will keep me away to hearing your sweet voice." He whispered. Sweetie blushed, pulling away, then blushed even more, noticing how close she was to him, their eyes gazed at each other. Lightning stared with anticipation, while Sweetie looked back with thoughts either to get off him, or kiss him, it caused her bottom lip to quiver. "My sweet voice huh?" She mumbled under her breath. Lightning smiled at her, putting his hooves on her sides. "It's so sincere, it makes me want to cry." He teased, snickering. Sweetie looked at what she was doing, only to want it more, but she couldn't, they just met, but she didn't want to back away, in spite of hurting his feelings. So, she did what she had to and pressed her lips against his, the loving sensation coursed through the two as they shared a bond of love. But it ended, Sweetie pulled away from his lips and smiled down at him. "It's getting late... School is tomorrow, you should probably get home if you don't want your mother to worry." She whispered, she nuzzled him as she got off of him. "I got to get home too." "I'll walk you home." Lightning smiled, standing up. Sweetie smiled. "I'd like that, let's hope your mother doesn't get angry at me." She put on her saddlebag and went up to kiss Lightning again. "She won't, she's finally happy I'm growing up." He smiled. "Well, shall we start walking?" Sweetie asked. Lightning nodded, nuzzling her cheek before kissing it. "Let's go." He whispered, putting one of his wings around her and they both exited the clubhouse. A few minutes of walking, Sweetie began to drift slightly, Lightning carried her up. "Would you like me to carry you?" He asked. As Sweetie began to say something, she drifted more, causing Lightning to chuckle. "I guess you must of been singing too much." Lightning lifted her up with his wing onto his back and continued to walk. Sweetie blushed slightly. "Y-You heard me sing...?" She asked, slightly dizzy. Lightning grinned. "You're pretty good at it..." He complimented, seeing the Carousal Boutique. Sweetie smiled softly, as Lightning walked up to the door, knocking on the door. Rarity had opened the door, then sighed as if from relief. "Had me worried for a moment, please, take her to her room, I'm a little busy at the moment." Rarity opened the door more and went back to making one of her dresses for her clients. Lightning entered and headed upstairs, he had no idea where Sweetie's room was, until she pointed to the door. "There..." She mumbled. Lightning went inside the room and laid her down on her bed, putting the covers over her. He kissed her forehead. "Goodnight Sweetie..." He whispered. As he turned to leave, something grabbed his hoof. "Wait..." She mumbled. "Lay with me for a few minutes." She whispered. Lightning smiled, climbing onto the bed, wrapping his hooves around her. But Sweetie turned, so their chests were close together, her tired eyes looking up at him, her smile plants on her face as she kisses him softly with her eyes closed, they kept their lips together as Sweetie fell asleep in his arms. Lightning opened his eyes, only to slowly pull away and to smile, he sighed, kissing her forehead. "Goodnight My Sweetie..." He whispered, before getting off her. After one more quick glance, he set onwards to home. Lightning laid down on his bed, closing his eyes, hearing Sweetie's singing remained lodged in the memory he would cherish forever. Tomorrow, school would start, a day of Danger's Reckoning. > Chapter Four: The Ambush > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Lightning sighed in class, listening to the teachers lecture. Sweetie started writing down a note, and slowly passed it to Lightning when the teachers back was turned. Lightning smiled, opening the letter. Hey <3 Lightning pulled out his pen and began writing down, passing it back to her. Hey, I was thinking we could go get some milkshakes at Sugar Cube Corner, you in? <3 Lightning watched as she read it, seeing a smile pop on her face, then she began to write down on it. Maybe we could share one...? The conversation had continued for awhile. Lighting: Sure, to get you more interested, I got paid yesterday how about some shopping after? Sweetie: So, milkshakes and shopping. BEST IDEA EVER!!! Love you. <3 Lightning: Love you too. <3 we should probably stop before the teacher catches us. After she read the last one she looked to Lightning and nodded, with a big smile on her face. The bell rang, and they all exited the class, Sweetie waited for him at the door. As he got there, he smiled, kissing her softly. "I'll meet you there, I got to put my stuff in my locker." Sweetie sighed. "Fine, but if you are late, you are paying for whatever I want." She warned. Lightning chuckled. "I was already planning on doing that." He kissed her again. "I'll be there, bye." He whispered, pecking her on the lips again. "Bye..." She whispered, pecking one more time and they both went in different directions, Sweetie went straight to Sugar Cube Corner, while Lightning went straight to his locker, putting away his stuff. Lightning exited the school and began flying, heading over to Sugar Cube Corner, but then... Something grabbed his waists, and threw him down to the ground, he tried to flap his wings but to no avail, he felt a sharp pain in his back as he landed on the ground, bouncing off slightly. Magic wrapped around him and dragged him into an alley, Lightning opened his eyes, looking around. Only to see Danger, with his friends. "You..." Lightning mumbled. "Yes me, you stole her from me, and for that you must pay." Danger said, then grinned, lifting Lightning from the ground and slammed against the ground. "Not so high and tough now are you?" Danger asked, slamming Lightning against the ground again only this time, on Lightning's leg, causing him to cry out in pain. They all took turns, beating Lightning up, till he laid there, motionless. Danger stood over him, then grinned, pulling out a knife. "Let's see, what could I take for a souvenir?" Lightning wanted to move, but everything hurt. He could watch as the knife got close to his face before hearing something. "HEY!" A shout came from the entrance, as they all got lifted with magic, two Pegasus went over to Lightning. "Okay, he's breathing." A rainbow mare said to the other. "Oh my, he doesn't look so good." The other said. A purple unicorn had Danger and the others. "I'll handle them, you handle him." She called out. "Quick Fluttershy, help me get him to the hospital." The rainbow mare ordered as they both picked Lightning up and headed straight to the hospital. Sweetie sighed, looking at the clock. "I didn't know people would be 3 hours late." She looked down. "Why am I even staying?" She asked herself. Pinkie went over, smiling at her. "Got stood up huh?" She asked. Sweetie nodded. "I'm worried, and a little angry." She admitted. Pinkie sighed, pulling out a cupcake. "Here." She handed it to Sweetie Belle. "Thanks Pinkie." Sweetie smiled. "I think I'm just going to go home." She sighed, standing up from the chair, taking the cupcake with her. "Well, next time you see him, give him a good thrashing." Pinkie smiled. "Oh trust me, I will." Sweetie said a little angry. Lightning's vision was blurry, but he could see around him. He saw two figures, trying to make them out until they spoke. "He has a few broken ribs, his wings are badly injured, broken hind leg, and a bruised kidney." The doctor explained. "He might be here for a few weeks, he'll live, but he won't be able to fly for a long time." "What? Won't be able to fly, who would do this to him?" His mother asked. "Don't worry Madam, they are in custody." The doctor said. "They won't be out for a long time." Lightning's mother sighed. "Thank you, I appreciate it." The doctor nodded, with a smile, then left the room saying he would be back to check on him. His mother, brushed her hoof against his bruised check softly. "I never thought I'd see you in a hospital bed again." She said a little teary. Sweetie entered the Carousal Boutique with an angry expression. Rarity looked at her, while she was talking to Twilight. "Sweetie Belle, you're home." She then noticed her angry expression. "One minute Twilight, Sweetie what's wrong?" She asked. "Oh nothing's wrong, only that I had to sit at a table in Sugar Cube Corner for three hours waiting for Lightning." She sarcastically scoffed. "Sweetie... You didn't hear what happened did you?" Rarity asked. "What are you talking about?" Sweetie asked. Rarity sighed, walking over to her, explaining everything that had happened. Sweetie's angry expression changed, to frightened. "I'm sorry Sweetie Belle." Sweetie looked down, tears formed in her eyes. "I'm going to go visit him." She said, as she rushed to the door. Rarity let her, sighing. "Who did it?" She asked Twilight. "I got the name Danger Driver." Twilight said. Sweetie ran into the hospital, going up to the desk. "I'm here for Lighting." She said quickly. "Sure one second," The receptionist pressed a button. "Room 20, down that hall." She pointed down a hallway, and Sweetie began trotting over. Lightning had awaken, his mother had left after a few minutes of visiting. Lightning looked around the room, finding nothing to do. Sweetie entered, seeing him laying in bed. "Lightning." She smiled, going over to him, and pulling him into a hug. Lightning grunted slightly. "Easy... Easy..." He gasped from pain. Sweetie loosened her grip. "Oh sorry... I was so worried. When you didn't show up, I was angry. Then I heard you were here, what happened to you?" She asked. Lightning sighed. "That stalker of yours sure can pack a punch." Lightning said. Sweetie's eyes widened. "Danger did this to you...?" She asked, tears forming again. Lightning nodded. "I'm fine, now that you're here..." He whispered, wrapping his hooves around her. "Sorry I'm late." He joked. Sweetie chuckled, wiping away tears. "Looks like you are buying whatever I want." She smiled, leaning closer. "Darn it..." Lightning smiled, kissing her softly. "If you need anything, ask me now." She said. Lightning thought for a second, then smiled. "Sing..." He whispered. Sweetie blushed, then shook her head. "I don't know if I can..." She was cut off with Lightning's hoof and his shushing. "You said anything." He whispered. Sweetie smiled, sighing. "Alright... but if you say I'm bad, I'm leaving here." She warned. "Doubt it." He smiled, waiting for her to sing. Sweetie took a deep breath, looking around. She grabbed a plastic cup from the water station and brought over to the end table, then she began to make a beat. Lightning listened, smiling softly, loving her singing. But what he didn't notice is that a group of ponies stopped at the doorway, hearing Sweetie sing. Twilight, Rarity, Fluttershy, Applejack, Rainbow Dash, Pinkie Pie, Applebloom, and Scootaloo all listened. Smiles formed on their face, watching from the doorway. As the song ended, cheers came from the doorway and the sound of clapping hooves. Sweetie and Lightning looked over, Lightning smiled, he looked over at a surprised Sweetie, with her cheeks as red as an apple. Lightning put a hoof on her face, making her look at him. "You see... you have a powerful voice, one more thing... I want you to perform." He smiled. Sweetie smiled, nodding. "Only if you are going to be there." She said. "I will, I promise." He whispered. Pinkie smiled, as the group entered. "That was amazing!" She cheered. Lightning looked over. "Do I know you guys?" He asked the only three that he didn't know. They shrugged, but Twilight spoke. "We saw what was happening to you, we heard your cries, we wouldn't just sit by." She smiled. "And you look okay, except for that cast holding your leg up." Lightning smiled, looking at the cast. "They put it back in place, it doesn't hurt, but they insist I have it just in case. I also hear flying is going to be hard for me." He then frowned for a minute, staring at his wings slightly moving them. Sweetie rubbed his forearm. "You'll be okay." She smiled, kissing his cheek. They all began to go into a conversation that lasted all night, as they all began to part, Sweetie said she was going to sleep here tonight. Rarity was skeptic, but was convinced, she told her to be safe and left. Sweetie cuddled up to Lightning. "I'm so glad you are okay..." She whispered. "I'm so glad you visited me..." He whispered back, kissing her snout, making her giggle. "I love you Lightning..." She whispered again. "I love you too Sweetie Belle..." He closed his eyes, kissing her one last time before they both slept in each others arms. Lightning knew that he had found the one pony that would make his life great. But all good things must come to an end sooner or later, the fear of that shocked him as he escaped that fact and closed his eyes, the sound and feeling of her breath as a lullaby to him, he slowly slept. Luna's moon shined over the room, as they both dreamed they were together smiling and kissing. Only making the Mare of the Moon giggle, watching them. > Chapter Five: The Request > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- The past couple of weeks was long, but Lightning spent every waking moment with the pony of his dreams. Sweetie Belle, they talked constantly, cuddled together constantly. They would share stories, sometimes Applebloom and Scootaloo would come by, saying they had come up with ideas to get their cutie marks. As they were going over ideas, Lightning had interrupted them. "You do realize you don't go after the things you aren't familiar with, Scootaloo; you're good with a scooter. Applebloom; you built the Cutie Mark Crusaders clubhouse." He stated, then looked over at Sweetie. "And Sweetie... you have a beautiful singing voice." He whispered. That was a few days ago, Lightning is staring at the ceiling with Sweetie laying next to him. The nurses have recently took off his cast and told him to be careful with it, don't want to break it again. Lightning heard a soft whimper, then looked down at the white unicorn, who had a terrified look on her face. He smiled, rubbing her back holding her close, kissing her forehead, in order to get rid of the horrible dreams she was having. She slowly began to smile, cuddling against him tighter, her muzzle rubbing against his chest. Lightning smiled, how in Tartarus did he get a filly like her? He watched her sleep, the sounds she made while asleep was so cute. Her breathing flowing along his chest, but something caught him by surprise. He felt something brush up against his abdomen, making him gasp, it was her foreleg, slowly wrapping itself around Lightning's flank. The legs tightened, pulling his waist closer to her so their bodies pressed up against each other. Lightning's eyes were widened, but then he began to breath slightly, something was aching. Urges came to his head, but he pushed them out of his head, all he had to do was go back to sleep. He closed his eyes, falling asleep, or at least tried to. "I love you Lightning...." Sweetie whispered. Lightning opened his eyes looking down, she was awake. "When you get out... We should spend one day together.... Just us..." Lightning cuddled closer, pulling her into a heartwarming kiss. After a few more seconds he slowly pulled away, they both opened their eyes looking at each other. "I love you too..." He whispered. "We will spend one day together, Sugar Cube Corner, then some shopping." He smiled. Sweetie smiled, squeezing him tighter with a sly smile. "And maybe a motel..." She whispered. Lightning looked at her with concern. "What?" He asked, his teeth showing off slightly. "You heard me..." She giggled, kissing him softly. "Well then... if that's what you want to do..." Lightning smiled, kissing her snout. "Just one more thing..." Sweetie whispered. "Anything..." He whispered. "Can you sing too?" She asked. The question made Lightning think for a second, he did have a guitar, he played it most of the time. He has only sung once in his life, and he barely remembers it. "I don't know..." He whispered to her. "Can you sing for me?" Sweetie asked. Lightning sighed. "I don't know many songs." "I don't care..." She whispered, holding him closer. "Make it up if you have to." Lightning sighed, thinking of something to sing. "Alright, I got one." He whispered. "But I can't with you squeezing me." He chuckled, she let go and they both sat up, and she waited for him to sing. Lightning sighed, as much as he can't remember if he could sing or not, he decided to go for it. Sweetie smiled, listening. He actually sang pretty well, her blush brightened as he wrapped his hooves around hers, singing close to her muzzle, feeling his breath. Sweetie quivered as he continued singing. Her heart beat fast, listening to his voice. As Lightning ended the song, he kissed her softly. Sweetie kissed back, her lips pushing harder against him. She wanted to take the next step, her tongue slowly sliding against his upper lip to let him know she was coming in. Lightning opened his mouth more, meeting her urges, while doing the same. Their tongues explored their mouths, after a few minutes of that they slowly touched tongues. Making them dance, play, and fight. Lightning lowered Sweetie onto her back, pushing their bodies together as they shared a kiss that would last forever. They kissed for hours, sometimes switching positions so Sweetie was on top of him, or laying on their sides. Then, they finally pulled away. Breathing heavily, and staring at each other. "That..." Sweetie stuttered. "was amazing..." She nuzzled Lightning, wrapping her hooves around him, he smiled, doing the same. "I'm glad..." He whispered. "Wait, the long kiss or my singing?" He asked out of breath. Sweetie smiled. "Both..." She whispered, wanting to kiss him but was too tired to. Lightning smiled, seeing Celestia's sun shining over the room. "Well, I'm being let go today, shall we have the day to ourselves today or some other time?" Lightning asked. Sweetie smiled. "Today..." She whispered. Lightning smiled, pushing the last of his breath to kiss her. They didn't move, and they kissed slowly. Today, they would start the day that they will never forget. > Chapter Six: The Date > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- "Lightning..." Sweetie whispered as they cuddled together in the motel bed, sweat coming down their faces, with short breaths coming from their snouts. "Promise me something..." "What is it love...?" Lightning whispered, stroking her hair while she talked. "Promise me... when we are older, we will go on the same date as this one..." Sweetie looked into his eyes, waiting for him to speak. Lightning smiled, kissing her softly. "I promise..." Sugar Cube Corner, the first location after Lightning had been checked out of the hospital, the start of the most amazing date Lightning and Sweetie would ever have. Sweetie and Lightning entered Sugar Cube Corner, hearing a guitar playing. "Lightning?" The guitar guy stopped. "Holy crap, it's you." The pony who was talking to Lightning was Golden Guitar, a good friend. "Oh my Celestia, Golden it's been a long time." Lightning went up to him and pulled him into a hug. "Hey, this is Sweetie Belle, my fillyfriend." Lightning introduced. "It's nice to meet you," Golden smiled, waving to her. "Hey Lightning, how about we sing just like old times?" Golden asked with a smile. Lightning looked over at Sweetie, as if asking for permission. "Go ahead." Sweetie smiled. "I'll just sit over here." She said, sitting down at the table in front of the stage. Pinkie had brought over two milkshakes, and a third one for sharing, Sweetie was glad that Pinkie had her back on this one. "So we doing freestyle or Coffee shop love?" Golden asked Lightning. "Ah, Coffee shop love... let's do that one." Lightning smiled, sitting next to Golden. Golden began to play on the guitar, Sweetie listened and giggled at the jokes within the song. (I just want to say I love this song, so I decided to fit it in here because it is an amazing song!) As the song ended, clapping and cheers were heard from the other ponies in the shop. Lightning watched Sweetie, then winked. "Golden, I have something to ask you...." He started, he leaned over and whispered in his ear. Golden smiled and nodded, what Lightning said to him was inaudible to Sweetie. Lightning walked over, sitting right next to her and began sipping on his milkshake. "How was that?" He asked, with a smile. "Awesome as always, what did you say to him?" Sweetie asked, curious. Lightning turned, nodding his head. Golden got up and put his guitar on his back, heading off stage. "What's going on?" Sweetie asked, confused. "Do you hate surprises?" Lightning asked. "Ugh, I hate them...." Sweetie sighed. "Just tell me already..." She gave a puppy face, she hated waiting for surprises. "Not going to work, just wait." Lightning smiled. Sweetie sighed, then she saw Golden again, he came by with a black box and set it in front of Sweetie Belle. Her eyes widened, looking up at Lightning confused. He stared back, smiling. "Open it." He said. Sweetie used her magic and opened it slightly, looking inside. Something shined inside, she gasped as she opened it all the way. Lightning whispered into Golden's ear. "You still got that necklace?" He asked. "Oh my god... where did you get this?" She asked. "Of course I do." Golden said. "Let's just say Golden lost a bet." Lightning smiled. "Then you are no longer in debt my friend." Lightning smiled, standing up and walked over to Sweetie. "It's so beautiful..." Sweetie squealed with joy, putting on the necklace. "I love it. Thank you." She smiled, pulling him into a hug, nuzzling his cheek with a soft kiss. "Your welcome, anything for you..." Lightning whispered, he put the milkshake with two straws in front of them, and held one of the straws to Sweetie. She blushed, taking the straw and sipping while Lightning joined her. The taste was amazing but all he could think of was that they were nuzzling as they drank from the milkshake. Pinkie watched from afar, feeling her heart sink from young love. "Time for a party." She said under her breath, running into the kitchen to plan yet another party. After they finished the milkshakes they began to walk through town, one of Lightning's wings wrapped around Sweetie. She leaned on him, as they walked to their next destination; Shopping district. They went to every stall in the shopping district, Sweetie didn't buy any clothes cause Rarity already makes enough of those for her. But they bought a lot of things, but luckily Lightning left with a few more bits in his pocket. Sweetie giggled. "That was so much fun, we got so much stuff!" She laughed. "Yeah, we were there for hours now." Lightning smiled, seeing the sun start to hide behind the mountains. "It's getting late, shall I walk you home?" Lightning asked. "Well... not yet." Sweetie smiled slyly, walking up to him. "I was thinking more of a private place..." She whispered in his ear. Lightning chuckled slightly. "I was actually thinking you were kidding." "Well, I'm not today, this is a very special day after all." She whispered. "What are you talking about?" Lightning asked, forgetting it was the most important date. Well, I guess all the hearts and couples roaming the area he was to distracted to notice. "Hearts and Hooves day silly, you're telling me you forgot?" Sweetie asked. Lightning looked down. "Oh... I guess I got a little distracted." He looked up with a sly smirk. "Shall we...?" He whispered, gesturing his head in the direction of a motel. She smirked. "We shall." Lightning bringing his head down and pulling on Sweetie. "What are yo- Ah!" Lightning put her on his back and began to gallop. "That excited huh?" She asked, giggling. They checked in for one night and they rushed to their room, kissing slightly. As they entered the room, Sweetie pulled back. Then walked over and sat down on the bed, then sighed. "Okay, I'm ready." She smiled. Lighting looked at her with concern. "What's wrong?" He asked. "Nothing, it's just, I've never done this before, I guess I'm a little nervous." She sighed. Lightning walked over and sat down next to her, wrapping his wing around her. "We don't have to if you don't want to, we can just cuddle for the night." Sweetie turned to him. "Well, it's just..." She sighed. "I'm just afraid." Lightning looked into her eyes, leaning close to her face. "I won't do anything that will hurt you, if you aren't ready I'll understand. We don't have to do this..." He whispered. Sweetie looked up at him, her heart sank, knowing she had found the right colt that would help her through the pain that Danger had gone through. All she has to do now is to tell him. "I want you to listen for a minute..." Sweetie whispered. Lightning perked his ears, with a smile on his face, letting her know he was listening. "A few months ago, before you came into my life... Danger had this thing for me, at first I was skeptic but then he started talking to me. He took me out on a date, he treated me like a princess." Sweetie sighed sadly. Lightning's smile faded, but he was still listening. "He began to walk me home, and my friends were watching from a distance, they told me not to go out with him because he was a pig." She said. "They were right..." Lightning held her close, knowing where this story was headed. Sweetie took a deep breath, and continued. "He showed me a shortcut... through an alley, I was confused until he stopped me. he started..." She whimpered, looking down. "... touching me..." It sounded like it was hard to say what she was trying to. "...rubbing my horn..." Tears formed from her eyes. "...But before things got worse, Scootaloo tackled him, while Applebloom got me away from him..." She cried slightly. "Even if it was quick, it still felt so wrong..." She whimpered. Lightning pulled her closer, closing his eyes as her tears damped his shoulder. Sweetie cried for awhile, before she finally calmed down. "He was only using me, for my body." She said angrily, breathing heavily. "I had to tell you, I'm sorry..." "Don't be... You have nothing to be sorry about." Lightning held her closer. "Then... you came along, I think it was love at first sight or... something that made me want to be with you." She whispered. "I loved you from the very beginning, I still want to go through with this... if you don't mind..." Sweetie looked up at him, Lightning smiled brightly. "To be honest... I did too, I fell in love with you even without realizing." He whispered. "And if you are certain you want to go through with this, I'll be as easy as possible, I won't do anything you don't want." Sweetie smiled. "Thank you Lightning..." She whispered, then gasped softly from the surprise kiss that Lightning had given her. To her embarrassment, her horn sparked causing a noise, making Lightning jump. Sweetie blushed as it happened. "What was that?" Lightning asked. Sweetie's blush was a bright as a shinny red apple. "Uh... he he." She giggled nervously. "I guess I got a little too excited." She smiled. Lightning smiled. "You're not the only one..." He whispered, kissing her again. They both moved themselves to the inside of the covers on the bed, kissing with their tongues having a mind of it's own. A moan came from Sweetie as Lightning pulled back, they stared into each others eyes. "I love you Lightning." Sweetie whispered breathlessly. "I love you too Sweetie." Lightning whispered, they began to kiss on the bed, leading them to a ritual of love and passion. One that will make them into a real couple. Although Lightning and Sweetie shared this bond, someponies wouldn't be so humble about this, so they kept it to themselves as their own dirty little secret. > Epilogue > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Lightning had kept his promise after five years. Through the following years, Lightning and Sweetie were lucky enough to get their Cutie Marks. Sweetie Belle had promised Lightning that she would sing in front of a crowd, and when she did, her Cutie Mark had appeared. Lightning on the other hand, although he could sing, but his special talent was the guitar. He played it only a few times, and for once in his life he finally realized how good he was and got a Cutie Mark just as Sweetie did when he played in the background in Sweetie's song. Lightning and Sweetie had also moved in to their own apartment, they both had enough to pay for it so, they went for it. Lightning laid in bed next to Sweetie, but her back was turned. "Hey..." Lightning went over, wrapping his hooves around her. He looked over at the clock and smiled. 12:00 AM Sweetie gasped at the sudden touch, she was already awake, she quickly wiped away tears and turned to him. "W-what is it?" She asked. Lightning smiled. "Happy 5th Year Anniversary." He whispered. Sweetie turned her head, kissing him softly. "I'm glad you remembered..." She smiled. "Please, I would never forget the day I started dating you..." He whispered. "Now, let's get some sleep, we've got a big day tomorrow." Lightning laid back down, turning slightly, opening a drawer slowly and pulling out a small black box, inside was an engagement ring. Sweetie had her back turned still, more tears began to shed. She was going to tell Lightning tonight, even if he gets angry or not. Lightning put away the ring, he turned his head to Sweetie, then cuddled against her. His affection was going to make it hard for Sweetie to tell him, it might hurt him as much as it hurt herself. "Here are your milkshakes!" Pinkie said excitedly, putting two milkshakes near them and darted back to the kitchen. "Thank... you..." Lightning smiled, but faded when she disappeared. "Huh..." He smiled, turning to Sweetie. But his smile faded seeing a sad look on her face. "What's wrong?" He asked. Sweetie jumped slightly, shaking her head. "Nothing..." She sighed. "I need to tell you something..." "I have a something for you..." They both said at the same time. "You first..." Lightning insisted, leaning forwards, he was a little worried for her. "Lightning..." She whimpered, looking down, tears starting to shed again. "I have... something shocking..." She sighed, she took a deep breath and went for it. "I'm pregnant..." Lightnings eyes widened and looked down, Sweetie looked down, expecting the worse. "That's amazing..." He mumbled, looking up at Sweetie with a smile. Sweetie looked up, seeing he was mad. "Your... not mad?" She asked, wiping away tears. "No... I'm not..." He smiled even more, he opened his wing and pulled out a tiny black box. But kept it under the table so Sweetie wouldn't see. "Because, I had a question to ask you." He smiled. Sweetie looked up at him, her smile starting to show. "What is it?" She asked. Lightning lifted his hoof and opened the box. Sweetie gasped looking at it, it dawned on her, a bigger smile planted on her face. "Sweetie Belle... Will you marry me?" Sweetie giggled, wrapping her hooves around him with a tight grip. "Yes! I will!" She cried. "I was so worried you thought me being pregnant would scar you... I love you so much..." Lightning smiled, hugging her back. "I love you too... You remember that promise?" He asked her. Sweetie smiled. "I'm guessing we are going shopping huh?" She asked. "Or maybe we could skip that one..." Lightning gave a sly smirk. "Well then the promise wouldn't be fulfilled since we did go shopping when I made the request." She whispered. "True, alright. Let's finish our milkshakes and we will be on our way." He said. Lightning and Sweetie had gotten married, everyone went, luckily Pinkie planned it. A few months after the wedding Sweetie gave birth to Night Light, the promise became a tradition, every 5 years Sweetie and Lightning would go on the same date. Danger on the other hand, had moved to Canterlot, determined to change who he was. He never acted like an idiot and had fallen in love with a filly just as bad as he used to be, he found somepony that was just like him. Lighting's mother found her dream job, she found out that her magic was needed for the Mayor, as her secretary. She lived alone for the rest of her life, but would always help out as a grandmother. And the years would go on, with no regrets behind them. THE END!