> Amor Vincit Omnia
>  by BRyeMC
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

> Pinkie's Balloon Pop III: Balloon with a Vengeance [Halloween]
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

	“Are you almost ready? You know I don’t like being late.” Clyde shifted his black-felt hat so he could look at himself in the large mirror in the main lobby of Rarity’s shop-slash-home. The Halloween party was about to start and like he was accustomed to for almost a year now, Rarity always took extra time to get herself ready. 

“I’m almost ready!” yelled a voice from upstairs. Clyde smiled and looked back at the mirror, looking at his costume again. He nodded to himself on how well the costume turned out.

He wore an old, torn duster that was a few inches from touching the floor. The duster’s leather smell was rather strong, even though it was in Magnum’s closet for a long period of time. Underneath the duster, Clyde’s outfit consisted of a black button-up woolen shirt covering a plain white shirt and dark colored jeans. His boots were mostly covered by the ends of his jeans, which was fine by him, as he didn’t like wearing them anyway. Around his waist was his belt that had a holster for his fake revolver and around his neck was a black bandana. His bronze belt buckle shined in the mirror as he put a hand through his black hair and put his black hat back on his head.

Clyde took out his phone from one of his duster’s pockets and sighed. “Rarity, the party starts in five minutes.” He glanced up the stairs and in the hallway’s darkness, he heard the sound of high heeled boots clicking around upstairs. He turned away from the stairs and walked over to the counter. He leaned against it as he scrolled through the sports feed waiting for her to come downstairs.

In roughly two minutes, the sounds of the boots clicked louder as they echoed down the stairs. When the noises stopped, Clyde turned his head. As he saw Rarity, he instantly forgot where he was.

Rarity’s outfit matched Clyde’s theme of an outlaw. She wore a white lace and burgundy-trim black dress with a scarlet corsage that was placed on her dress near the chest area. A see through black, white, and red overskirt surrounded her lower body to give off a duster-type of look. Her black high-heeled boots and matching lace stockings ran up to her mid calf and thigh, respectively. To top it off, she also had a pair of black lace, fingerless glovelets. She looked over at Clyde and flipped the end of her violet and curly hair, making sure not to tip the white hat off her head. 

“So? I take you like it?” She smiled at him. Clyde didn’t respond as he stood there looking at her outfit. To him, it was just like her nurse outfit she wore last year on Halloween day. “I guess I failed impressing you...”

Clyde broke out of his daze at the sound of disappointment in her voice. “What are you talking about? You look stunning. Like always.”

“You’re just saying that,” said Rarity with a grin. “You’re bias towards me.”

“Eh,” said Clyde with a shrug. “Maybe.” He slyly looked over at her to see her walk up to him. After a gentle punch in the arm, Rarity wrapped her arms around him and gave him a loving kiss. After the kiss was over, Rarity leaned a few inches away from him to look into his eyes. 

“So, my love, out of this costume or last year’s, which do you prefer?”

Clyde thought for a moment before he felt heat in his cheeks. “I actually like them both and would not be opposed of you wearing them more often.” He laughed before giving a smirk.

Rarity giggled. “Is that so? Maybe I will wear them again, but you have to behave first.” She dropped a wink and Clyde instantly felt his cheeks blaze. Before he could react, Rarity hugged him tighter and leaned in for another kiss. She was abruptly stopped by a phone alarm going off. She frowned and stepped backward away from him.

Clyde took his phone out of his duster and read the small text on the screen. “It’s noon. The party has started,” he said, relaying the message to his lover. 

Rarity shrugged this time. “Oh well. Now everyone can witness our fabulous costumes as we walk in late!” 

“I thought you told me you hated being “fashionably late”?” questioned Clyde. 

“Usually, but today I don’t think it matters much. We are only going to a simple Halloween party.” She walked over to the shop’s main door and looked back at Clyde with a smile. “Aren’t you coming, darling? We have parties to rob.” 

Clyde laughed and tipped his hat. “Of course.”

After locking up the shop door, as her parents and sister were somewhere else for the day, Rarity climbed into the passenger seat of Clyde’s car. He quickly ran to the driver side and entered the car. Once he knew the two of them were ready, he drove off.

Clyde was extremely grateful that Coach Iron Will showed generosity in the young basketball season so far. Last year he had practice mostly every day around this time, so the only Halloween activity he was able to do outside of school was watch the Trotsburg movie with Rarity. Of course, for this year, he wanted to spend more time with her compared to last anyway as she was his girlfriend now instead of just a good friend.  

“Do you think there will be a “Best Costume” award for us to win here?” asked Rarity as Clyde turned onto a street. 

“I doubt it,” said Clyde, paying attention to the slow driver’s actions in front of him, “he said it was only going to be a basic costume party, even though it’s at noon.” He briefly looked over at her. “Why?”

“Oh, nothing. I just wanted to win as many awards and events I can this year with you. You already helped me win back my crown at the Fall Formal a few weeks ago, so I wanted to make sure I kept winning, whether they were as important as a school crown or not.”

Clyde laughed. “I’m sure you’ll win more stuff as the year goes by. Hopefully I can win a game for the basketball team in the playoffs this year, too.”

Rarity grabbed his right arm, the arm he usually has on the center armrest while driving, and smiled. “You’ll do fine this year, Clyde! When I watched some of your games at the park during the summer and I can confidently attest with my own eyes that you improved drastically!”

“I tried,” replied Clyde with a nod and smile. He flicked on the radio and the two of them listened to the music for the rest of the drive. 

After a couple of songs and minutes, Clyde pulled along the curb in front of a house. There were plenty of cars already parked in the driveway and along the curbs, but Clyde luckily found a spot near the end of the driveway. He helped Rarity out of the car and together, the duo walked up the driveway and knocked on the door. The door remained closed for a few moments, but soon, a certain boy lit up as he opened the door.

“Aw shit, it’s my dawg, C!” said Tyrone excitedly. Sounds of the party in the house boomed out the door. Tyrone clasped Clyde’s hand and looked at him. “So, what are you, dawg? A cowboy?”

“Even better,” said Clyde, drawing his revolver and spinning it on his finger, “we are outlaws.” He put the fake gun back in its holster and chuckled.

“Aren’t we just simply lovely?” asked Rarity, trying to look flirty and evil, before giving up and hugging Clyde’s side. 

Tyrone nodded at them with a smirk. “I’d say so.” He quickly turned around and motioned them inside. As the door behind them closed and they stood in the foyer, Tyrone looked at Rarity. “Your one friend is downstairs getting something ready.”

“Who?”

“That Pinkie girl. She showed up in a waste collector outfit and a big trash bag. I asked what the bag was for, but all she said was it’s important to the party.”

“Oh!” said Rarity suddenly as if she remembered something. “I will go help her. She’s downstairs, yes?”

“Yeah, girl. Near the pool table. The layout of this house hasn’t changed since New Year’s so you’ll find her easily.”

“Perfect.” Rarity turned to Clyde. “I’ll be downstairs if you need me, darling.”

Clyde nodded. “I’ll be down then. Have fun.”

Rarity flashed a big smile. “Oh, we will. Just wait.” She gave him a kiss and walked away, giving one last wink before turning the corner and entering the party in the living room. Clyde kept a smile as he watched her walk away. 

“Damn, dawg,” said Tyrone with a whistle, “how’d you get lucky and get with her?”

“Don’t even think about it,” said Clyde with a deadly look.

“Chill, dawg. Damn. You know I have a bae, and plus, you’re my best dawg. I also know how much she means to you. You told me yourself.”

Clyde gave a light chuckle and a nod. As he looked at Tyrone, he noticed something odd about him. “Hey, T, when are you dressing into your costume?” Tyrone was wearing a basketball jersey and some shorts. 

Tyrone burst into a laugh. “I am in my costume. I don’t need to “dress-up” and pretend to be something I’m not. I’m a baller so I have to show my passion.” He pinched and held up the jersey, making sure Clyde could see the ‘23’ on his chest. “One day, my jersey will be worn all over the nation.”

“I believe in you, T,” said Clyde patting his friend on the shoulder, “but we still need to win a championship for the school first.” 

“Yeah, dawg. We’ll–”

“TYRONE! STOP SLACKING AND GET BACK TO ATTACKING!” 

Clyde was confused on where the girly shout came from, but Tyrone froze in place and stood up straight. “Yes, Coach!”

Clyde looked behind Tyrone to see a small girl dressed in a gray baggy hoodie and matching sweatpants. Around her neck was a shiny whistle and In her hands was a clipboard. Her rainbow hair illuminated the room with its various streaks of colorful light. 

“You dressed up as Coach Iron Will?” asked Clyde with a laugh towards First Light. Iron Will wore the same hoodie and pair of sweatpants everyday so the costume wasn’t hard to replicate. First Light seemed to make the plain outfit look better than Iron Will himself could.

“Of course!” giggled First Light. “Bae needs motivation so he can be the best baller he can be!” Her light-hearted giggles instantly faded and her face turned serious. Clyde could tell she struggled trying to look serious but he found the attempt amusing. “Don’t be boring like my brother, show them how to smother!”

“Y-yes, Coach!” Tyrone dropped to the floor and began doing push-ups. “Sorry, C, but I have to train. Enjoy the party!” He continued his pace as “Coach” First Light giggled and yelled at him for slowing down. Clyde gave them a wave and walked to the kitchen.

For the next few hours, Clyde spent time talking to his peers or teammates and eating some food. He talked to various people, but mostly the fellow basketball team, such as Thunderlane and Bulk Biceps. The Halloween party didn’t have nearly as many people as Tyrone’s New Year’s party, but there still were plenty enough for a party. For some reason, Clyde couldn’t spot Rainbow Dash anywhere. Normally, Rainbow Dash attended every school or public event possible, so her absence confused him. After the long debate about a sports team, Clyde walked away from a group of boys and headed to the basement. 

As he was walking down the steps, Clyde noticed the carpet of the basement was covered in a sea of orange and black balloons. When he reached the floor, he looked around and saw Pinkie standing by the large TV, waving at him. She was standing by two other girls Clyde was used to seeing when he was with Rarity during school or sometimes at other random gatherings. “Hiya, Clyde!” shouted Pinkie Pie with a smile. Her waste collector costume outfit was a really random costume, but then again, it was perfect for Pinkie.

“Hi...” whispered Fluttershy, giving a slight wave. Fluttershy was one of the least known out of Rarity’s normal group of girls she hung out with that Clyde knew. Due to her quiet personality, Clyde never had a chance to talk to her, even after all this time of being Rarity’s boyfriend. He was, however, always glad to see she didn’t act like she hated him, but he also never could see Fluttershy hate anyone, just like Pinkie. She wore a long, brown trunk for a costume, with a hat with fake branches and leaves spreading outward. He knew Fluttershy always liked nature and animals, but he didn’t understand why being a tree was an option for a costume. 

The third girl gave a welcoming smile. “Hello, Clyde.” Even though she was wearing a mask, Clyde knew the bright red and yellow hair. Her purple masquerade mask accented her purple and gold Victorian-styled dress.

Sunset Shimmer was a newly added member to Rarity’s group of friends after the Battle of the Bands event that occurred shortly after the Spring Fling. Compared to the Sunset Shimmer he briefly met during Fall Formal week over a year ago, he liked this Sunset Shimmer much more. He wasn’t as acquainted with her as much as Rainbow Dash, but Clyde had a few interesting conversations about music and sports with her during a shopping day with the girls during the summer that Rarity dragged him to, even to his disinterest with the idea. Luckily for him, it was the only “Girls Shopping Day” he was forced to go to.

“Hello, ladies.” He noticed someone was missing with them and frowned. “Where’s Rarity?”

A sudden giggle later, a pair of arms quickly wrapped around his torso from behind him. The pair of arms hugged him tighter before he heard an angelic voice behind him. “Looks like you found me.” She stood on the tip of her toes to place her head on his shoulder. “Do you like what we did with the place?” she asked.

Clyde tried quickly counting the balloons in his head, but gave up after twenty. There were at least two-hundred, maybe more, balloons scattered around the basement. “It’s dangerous to step anywhere, but I’m guessing this is another one of your “Balloon Pops”?” asked Clyde towards Pinkie.

“Yup!” she answered in joy. “I carried in a big trash bag full of them! Rarity and the girls helped me with making these for the past week!”

“Yeah, and of course your balloon pump broke, so we had to manually fill them with air,” said Sunset Shimmer, rolling her eyes. She shrugged and a smile formed. “But, it was fun filling them up with its contents, though.”

“Oh, yes! Spending time with the girls was very fun! Especially making these balloons!” agreed Fluttershy. 

Clyde looked down at the balloons. The dark colors of the balloons made it impossible to see through them. “What is the prize this time? More movie tickets?” 

Rarity and the girls laughed. “There aren’t prizes, per se, darling. However, there could be a prize if you get lucky.”

“What?” asked Clyde extremely confused. 

“You and everyone else will find out soon enough,” nodded Pinkie.

“Oh, okay. When is that?”

“Now!” Pinkie skipped through the balloon field as if they were mines and hopped up the stairs to the main floor of Tyrone’s house. She leaned through the door and took a deep intake of air. “HEY EVERYONE! COME DOWNSTAIRS!” she screamed. After she gave a laugh, Pinkie quickly slid down the stairs and skipped back to her original spot near the TV, giving a large smile as if nothing happened.

Soon, the people in the kitchen began filing down the staircase and carefully found a spot to stand. Tyrone’s basement was spacious enough for all the people, but with the balloons on the floor, people had to gather closer to each other in order to see Pinkie. Tyrone eventually walked down the stairs and stood on the bottom step. “Aight, girl. Everyone is down here. What’s with these balloons?”

“Okie dokie! Friends, lend me your ears! It’s time for another installment of Pinkie’s Balloon Pop!” Pinkie jumped in the air to celebrate, flailing around and screaming in joy, while everyone casually stood there confused. Once grounded, Pinkie lit up a grin. “Unlike my last few balloon pops, this time the contents of these balloons are much more deadly!”

“Deadly?” asked a boy in fear, “you’re going to kill us?!”

“What!? No!” Pinkie shook her head. “We are playing Truth or Dare!” The room fell silent and a few coughs and sighs were heard from the crowd of people gathered in Tyrone’s basement. “Oh, come on! It’ll be fun!”

“I-I don’t know, girl,” said Tyrone scratching his head, “that may sound fun and all, but I don’t know if we can dig that, you feel me?”

“I think you’re just scared, T,” said a voice from the crowd. Tyrone quickly looked for the source before it stepped out of the crowd to face him. Thunderlane’s grin on his face made Tyrone shake his head at him. 

“I ain’t scared, dawg.”

“Then why don’t you go first?” said Thunderlane with another smug grin. He shifted his combat helmet on his head and crossed his arms. Thunderlane was decked out in a soldier outfit, combat helmet and all. 

“You don’t think I will?” laughed Tyrone.

“Nope.”

“Shit, I’ll do it.” The crowd cheered and Clyde shook his head. Tyrone let peer pressure win again. Tyrone took a few steps away from everyone, his head hovering over his chosen balloon. As he lifted up his foot, a shout from Pinkie stopped him.

“Wait!” yelled Pinkie, holding up her arms. “I didn’t tell you how to play!”

“I just stomp, girl,” said Tyrone, his foot still in air, “I got this.”

“No!” Pinkie shook her head. “Not that part, silly! That’s obvious! I meant the Truth or Dare part of it!” Tyrone lowered his foot and waited for her answer, giving a sigh. Pinkie looked across the room and nodded. “‘Kay! Before you begin, you must declare Truth or Dare! After popping the balloon with any means you want, then, you must obey the corresponding slip of paper within! There’s a slip for each. After the person is done with their Truth or Dare, they pick the next one in line!” She exhaled and smiled.

Tyrone smirked. “Aight. Dare.” He slammed his foot to the ground, smashing the orange balloon underneath. The loud explosion caused a few people to jump, including Rarity, which Clyde felt hug him tighter in reaction. Tyrone slowly lifted his sneakers and bend down to pick up his Dare slip. As he stood up, he frowned. “Break the nearest portrait on the wall?” He looked around the basement and once he saw a portrait, he began to cry. “Not that one... My mama is going to beat me...”

The room glanced at the portrait on the wall that Tyrone was crying about. It was a small dog, a tan chihuahua from what Clyde could tell. The dog had to be somewhat of importance to Tyrone’s family if there was a painted portrait on the wall of it. Tyrone sulked over to the portrait and sniffled. He took it off the wall, and with a mighty sigh, smashed it against the wall. The frame of the portrait fell apart and the picture of the dog fell to the floor and disappeared under the ocean of balloons. 

A few members of the crowd laughed or coughed as Tyrone sadly walked back to Thunderlane. He looked at him angrily. “If I get grounded because of you, I know where to find you, dawg.”

Thunderlane waved him away. “Yeah, yeah.”

“Go ahead. Your turn, dawg.”

Thunderlane shrugged and burst into a chuckle. “Fine with me. I’ll pick Dare, too.” He picked up the black balloon under him and smashed it together with his palms. As he read the small slip, he twitched his eye. “Seriously?!”

“You can’t back out of it now!” said Pinkie with a giggle. She couldn’t possibly know what it was, but Clyde knew most of these dares had to be embarrassing or something of the like.

“You heard her,” stated Tyrone with a nod. Soon, the crowd around Tyrone begin to holler, awaiting Thunderlane’s actions. 

Thunderlane shook his head and looked over at Tyrone. “Hey man... I need to borrow an orange.”

“Why?”

Thunderlane gulped and his face turned red. “I need to passionately kiss an orange for a minute...”

Tyrone blinked a few times before he, and the rest of the crowd, burst into a laughter. Thunderlane shook his head in embarrassment trying to conceal his face. 

“Oh man,” laughed Tyrone, almost unable to breathe, “that is hilarious, dawg!”

“That is funny!” laughed Pinkie, “I don’t even remember who put that one in there!”

“Just get the damn orange!” yelled Thunderlane in embarrassment. “I want to get this over with!”

Tyrone patted him on the back before running up the stairs. After a few seconds, he ran back down the stairs to the basement with an orange in his hand. He handed it to Thunderlane while giving a coy smile. Thunderlane quickly grabbed it, trying his best to ignore the laughter around him. After a sigh, Thunderlane placed his lips on the orange and began to “passionately” kiss it. The rest of the room fell silent as they watched Thunderlane move the orange around in his hands and use his lips and tongue to kiss it all over. After the minute was over, Thunderlane dropped the orange to the floor and shook his head rapidly, nearly sobbing. “I can’t do that anymore, man. I just can’t...”

“There, there, dawg. You did good.” Tyrone game him a hug while Pinkie burst into a loud laugh. She looked around the room at the growing amount of smiles and smiled herself. 

“I told you this would be fun! Who's next?!”

The Truth or Dare Balloon Pop went on like this for hours. The silly twist of the balloon pop soon took the party by storm, and laughter and ‘oohs’ carried throughout the basement. Pinkie had the biggest smile of all in the basement due to the fact so many people began to enjoy her newest activity. 

Clyde noticed a lot of people picked Dare, which led to some interesting situations. Bulk Biceps had to sing a famous boy band song and dance to it. Seeing him do that in his snowflake costume made it even more amusing for people. As for a random girl, she had to say the whole alphabet of a foreign language while spinning. 

Eventually Clyde was up and he decided to pick Truth for once. As he read his slip, he was glad it wasn’t something too embarrassing. Clyde said his favorite guilty pleasure song and walked back to his spot against the wall beside Rarity. Instead of picking an obvious choice for whose turn it was next, he picked Pinkie. Rarity gave him a pout.

“Finally! Truth!” Pinkie hopped off the couch and circled the room looking for her prey. After a quick nod, she dove down and held a orange balloon above her head. The balloon somehow popped by a magical force, or maybe because it was Pinkie, and the Truth slip landed perfectly in her palm. “Say the name of your crush!” she read aloud before giggling. “I don’t have a crush! I love everyone!” A few groans from random boys emitted, but Pinkie ignored them and continued her giggles. After a few moments, she glanced at Fluttershy and Sunset, before stopping at Rarity. “Your turn, Rarity!”

Rarity smiled. “With pleasure. I pick Dare.” The crowd fell silent and Clyde felt a nervous feeling within him. He hoped she didn’t get a dare involving another boy, because he would have to stop it. He wasn’t going to have any of that, even if it was a trivial party game.

Rarity stopped at a black balloon near the TV before digging her heel into it. With a loud pop, the balloon burst and she bent down to pick up the Dare slip. As she returned to a standing pose, she smiled with lowered eyes and looked directly at Clyde. “Oh, hello there, darling...”

The eyes in the room all slowly turned towards Clyde as well, making him feel nervous again. Clyde ignored them as best as he could to focus on Rarity. After knowing her for over a year now, he knew that look by heart and realized something was about to happen that Rarity, himself, or the both of them would enjoy tremendously. His nervousness washed away and he smirked. “I’m guessing I’m involved, so what is it?”

Rarity kept her coquettish gaze on him and giggled. In his peripherals, Clyde saw Pinkie, Fluttershy, and Sunset look at each other before smiling. “It looks like I have to be locked in a room and make out with someone in a matching costume for the rest of the game?” Rarity closed her eyes and elegantly chuckled. “How in heavens did I ever manage to get this lucky?” 

“Wait, are you serious?!” asked Clyde in bewilderment. Boys from the crowd sighed in disappointment, wishing they had the same fate as him. Rarity walked towards him and handed him the slip.

“See?” she said with a big smile.

Clyde looked down and, sure enough, the dare Rarity detailed was written on the paper. He saw that there was a purple heart for a period to end the sentence on the dare, but before he could question it, Rarity grabbed his hands and led him away from the crowd. Girls in the crowd, including Pinkie and them, oohed at them while most jealously-filled boys shook their head. Clyde couldn’t feel anymore prouder of the moment, even though he could kiss her anytime he wanted to.

“Get it, C! Get it!” called Tyrone as Rarity led Clyde down the hallway of the basement. They stopped in front of the small door and Rarity quickly shoved Clyde inside. 

She turned towards the crowd and smiled. “Now, now. Don’t be prying on us~!” she sang before closing the door and letting darkness enter the room. 

The room was completely in a blackout and Clyde didn’t know what to expect. Suddenly, arms wrapped around him and he felt a gentle breath close to his face. He instantly blushed and put his arms around her. “So, I–”

“Shh,” whispered Rarity. He felt one of her fingers cover his lips. “My dare was to make out with you, not hold a conversation. I figured we could mix it up for a bit, so save the talk for later, darling.” She quietly giggled to herself and Clyde saw a sparkle in her sapphire eyes. Her eyes were the only visible light in the room. 

Clyde couldn’t respond back as he felt Rarity press against him and kiss him lightly. He returned the action and soon, the two of them began kissing each other lovingly in complete blindness. Clyde had never kissed her in “complete” darkness before, but he did seem to enjoy it just as much. He never really saw her anyway while they kissed in complete daylight, as his eyes were always closed, so almost nothing changed. Their love for each other hadn’t changed nor had their personalities. What did change, however, was the setting and the clothing that they wore, which both of them didn’t care about at the moment. 

As minutes went by and Clyde and Rarity continued their kissing deadlock with each other in total blackness, a single thought flowed through his mind. This was the best Halloween ever.





~	~	~





The city of Canterlot was beginning to be bathed in the glow of twilight as Tyrone’s Halloween party drew to a close. After Rarity’s dare, the Truth or Dare game lasted a few more rounds until everyone went. Fluttershy had to break open the closet door to get Rarity to stop kissing Clyde. Rarity gave Fluttershy a pout before clinging back onto his arm. Fluttershy smiled at them before helping Pinkie and Sunset Shimmer clean up the remnants of the balloon pop.

Eventually, Clyde and Rarity said farewell to their friends and peers and were stopped by Tyrone as they walked out of the house.

“Ey! Wait up, C!”

Clyde turned around. “What’s up?”

“What are you two doing tonight? Bae wanted to go to that haunted house near the mall and I figured, since you are my best dawg, wanted to come, too.”

“A haunted house?” questioned Clyde. Clyde always wanted to see what the thrill of a “fake” haunted house was, but he never had an opportunity to go with someone else. He refused to go himself because truthfully, he wasn’t a huge fan of horror-related things. That was until he met Rarity.

“A haunted house?” repeated Rarity with disinterest. “Absolutely not! Why would I go to some strange, dilapidated building where strange people that are dressed up in awful looking costumes try and grab me?”

“Come on, Rarity. I’ll be there with you if you need something to hold onto.” Clyde gave her a grin, but she shook her head.

“Yeah, girl. All you gotta do is let C carry you through it if you want. The people are saying this house is freaky.” Tyrone nodded. 

Rarity crossed her arms with her head up high to ignore them. After a few seconds, she instantly smiled as if she had a revelation. “Now that I think about it, maybe we should go, Clyde. It could be fun.”

“Yeah!” exclaimed Tyrone happily. “We’ll meet up at the place around eight or so, C. You know where it is, right?”

“You just said it was by the mall. I’ll find it.”

Tyrone rubbed his head and lightly laughed. “Aight, dawg. See you then. Peace!” Tyrone quickly ran back inside of his house allowing Clyde and Rarity to enter the car. After starting it up, handing the auxiliary cord to Rarity to allow her to listen to her music from her phone, and pulling away from the curb in front of the house, Clyde drove back towards her home.

“So, how did you know?” asked Clyde a minute later at a traffic light.

“Excuse me?”

“How did you know which balloon it was on the ground? There were way too many to get that lucky.”

Rarity looked out the passenger side window. “Clyde, I have no idea what you are talking about.”

“Sure,” said Clyde with a smile. “You obviously had something to do with it. The slip was in your handwriting and there was that small heart you usually use when you write about or towards me.”

Rarity giggled and let out a dreamy sigh. “You have to admit, I did create a wonderful dare for myself.”

Clyde raised his eyebrow. “So, it was you?”

“Of course it was, darling! It was quite easy, too.” Rarity pulled out a small bottle of nail polish from her boot and showed it to him. The color was as black as the balloon she popped. “As you know, the girls and I spent some time with Pinkie this week to write these slips. I wanted to have fun, so I wrote my own dare, since our matching costumes were to signify us being a couple. Anyway, I placed the dare in a black balloon and marked it with this nail polish. It might be the same color, but this has certain glimmer so I could easily tell which balloon it was. You know what happened next.”

“I love how creative you are.” Clyde gave her a grin which caused her to smile greatly.

“Thank you, my love. I have to be creative at all times for my work and having you around now helps me very much!” She grabbed his right arm and snuggled into it. “Are you ready for the haunted house tonight?”

“I’m surprised you actually decided to go. Normally you hate horror stuff.”

Rarity slyly grinned. “I do. However, I figured if this house is truly as scary as people say, then I have a perfect excuse for you to stay over tonight! You have to protect me at all costs, correct?” She gave him a usual flirty wink.

Clyde smirked and quickly snapped his focus back to the road to prevent a crash. At a stoplight, he thought about something again he told himself earlier. Now it was a fact.

This was definitely the best Halloween ever.
> "...Your eyes are like starlight now." [Christmas Eve]
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

	At a quarter to six, Clyde stepped out of his car and shut the door. He walked around the car that was parked in his normal spot and gave the car a small ‘beep’ with a press of his keychain button. He patted the pockets of his jacket and quickly walked inside of Rarity’s home, trying to get out of the extremely cold weather as fast as he could.

Just like the prior year, Rarity invited Clyde to join her family for Christmas Eve dinner again for this one. Clyde always liked being around her family, and thoroughly enjoyed the moments where they invited him to do stuff with them, like the week-long summer vacation to their beach house in July. Even though he wasn’t part of their family, they made him feel like he belonged. It was something he hadn’t experienced in years.

Clyde hung up his jacket near the door entrance and patted down his black sweater in case there was lingering dirt or dust on it. His outfit was similar to last year’s, except instead of wearing khaki pants, he wore his jeans. He tucked his phone in his jeans pocket and walked towards the kitchen, hearing voices from upstairs as he passed the staircase by the doorway. He walked through the curtain and saw Rarity’s father standing by the oven.

“Hey,” called Clyde with a wave.

Magnum turned to him and smiled. “Good to see you, Clyde. How’ve you been?” Magnum wore what he had on last year–a maroon sweater with khaki pants. Clyde knew he wasn’t much into dressing formally, even for a simple family dinner.

“Pretty much the same. The season is underway and we are in the same spot as we were last year.”

Magnum nodded. “That’s good. I haven’t been able to watch a game yet this year.” He gave a humorful yawn. “Sometimes people are just too lazy to get off the couch.”

Clyde chuckled. “Well, none of the games have been close so far, so you aren’t missing much. Tyrone refuses to lose again and Rainbow Dash still is the number one option for when he begins drawing more defenders on him.” 

Magnum nodded. “Old Iron Will finally has a good basketball team now. It’s probably the best team he’s coached since my days on the football team.” A female scream emitted from upstairs, in which Clyde assumed Sweetie Belle was running from Rarity who needed to use the bathroom mirror. Magnum shook his head. “Women. They take so long to get ready. Anyways, Rarity told me a few weeks ago you wanted to join the football team during the fall?”

“Well, Coach wanted me and Tyrone to be the corners to help us with agility and routes,” said Clyde. “I thought it would be cool, as I like defense more than offense personally, so I told Rarity about the idea. She quickly defused that idea from happening, however.” Clyde sighed.

Magnum frowned. “What for?”

“She didn’t want me to get hurt so then I couldn’t play the sport I actually was good at. Football is more injury prone than basketball, so she has a point. I think Tyrone and I could have been some awesome cornerbacks, though.” Clyde laughed at the idea in his head of Tyrone returning an interception for a touchdown and doing a little dance to celebrate, even if he knew he was going to get flagged for it.

“That’s too bad you didn’t play,” said Magnum, “I could have easily helped you become a good corner. After all, I was a pretty good quarterback.” He gave a smirk and Clyde knew he was joking around like always. A common inside joke of Rarity’s family that he learned over the year was Magnum always bringing up his high school days as the quarterback of Canterlot High. While the girls got annoyed with it, Clyde thought it was funny. Clyde knew he was a amazing player so he didn’t mind Magnum talking about it all the time. 

“Look who’s here!” exclaimed Pearl as she walked into the kitchen. Pearl was dressed in another festive dress that matched Magnum’s maroon sweater in color. The dress wasn’t suited for a gala, but it was perfect for this informal occasion. She walked up to Clyde with a big smile and gave him a friendly hug. “Don’t you look handsome tonight, dear! Rarity will be down soon. You know her.” Clyde fought off his reddened-embarrassed cheeks and nodded. Pearl walked over to the oven and looked at her husband. “Did you check the turkey like I asked?”

“It’s almost done,” said Magnum as he began placing the silverware and plates on the dinner table. 

Pearl opened the oven door, and after waving away some hot air, closed it. She turned to Clyde. “Say, this will be the first meal you ate with us since our summer vacation to the beach house!”

“I guess it will be, huh? Ever since school started again, I’ve been busy and unable to just relax.”

“That’s understandable, dear. So has Rarity. However, she tells us that your nightly phone call or web chat with her brightens up her mood!” 

Clyde lovingly smiled. “She brightens my mood as well. To be honest, I’m not even sure where I would be now if I never met her. I probably wouldn’t be playing ball for the school and I wouldn’t have as many friends as I do now, too.” He glanced down at the polished kitchen floor with saddened eyes.

“Don’t say that! I’m sure you two would have met eventually.” She walked up to him and placed her hands on his shoulder. He looked at her to see a smile. “Besides, it doesn’t matter now to say stuff like that. What matters is what you two have done together since meeting! I’ve never seen Rarity so happy before ever since she began talking to you, so as her mother, I love having you join us for events like this! Seeing you two together brings a big smile on my face!” Pearl’s large smile caused Clyde to mimic it.

“Thank you,” Clyde nodded. “I had a lot of fun with you guys during the summer.”

“Of course! You’ll always be welcomed to join us for any vacation, especially since Rarity invites you to everything. I’m surprised you didn’t want to go with her to the beach house during August.”

Clyde slightly laughed. “She told me the August trip was going to be an annual thing for her and her friends to hang out at the beach. That’s her time with her friends so I would have felt out of place. I talked to her every night, like we always do, so it didn’t matter to me.”

A small click came from the oven and Pearl turned to it. “Looks like the turkey is about done!” She quickly rushed over to the oven and carefully removed the cooked turkey. She then began scavenging the refrigerator in search of other materials to work on the side dishes.

“Hey, Clyde.” Clyde turned to see Sweetie Belle walk past him and take a seat at the dinner table. Sweetie Belle was the last of Rarity’s family to seem to bond with him. Early on, she didn’t talk to him that much or even attempted to. It wasn’t until after Clyde and Tyrone helped her and her “Crusader” friends win a dodgeball tournament at school that she talked to him as much as her parents did. 

“Hey,” replied Clyde warmly. He looked at her attire of a red sweater and black skirt. The sweater was a little big on her, making him think that it was Rarity’s at one point when she was younger. 

Sweetie Belle picked up a the glass of water in front of her and gulped it down. She looked at Clyde. “Rarity is still getting dressed. I don’t know why it’s super important for her to get so dressed up for a dinner, but whatever.”

“Well, you know she loves to look marvelous whenever possible,” said Clyde with a smile. 

“Yeah, tell me about it,” said Sweetie Belle rolling her eyes. “Try living with her. You’ll never see the bathroom for hours.” Clyde cracked a smile.

“Sweetie Belle, I’m not that bad with the bathroom usage,” a voice cooed from behind. “I just want to look nice for my wonderful boyfriend is all. Besides, Clyde understands and has no problem with it.” Clyde didn’t have any time to turn around, as a pair of arms hugged him from behind. Rarity kissed him quickly on the cheek and rested her head on his shoulder. “Good evening, my love,” she purred.

He turned his head to look at her. “Are you finally done making yourself look even more beautiful?”

Rarity smiled. “Why don’t you tell me how I did?” She let go of him so he could turn around and look at her fully, outfit and all. She wore a tan colored long-sleeved shirt along with a cotton maroon pleated skirt. It was as long as her usual everyday skirt she wore, but to go with a classy theme, she wore straight black tights underneath. Her luscious hair was extra shiny and styled, even more than her already everyday styled hair. Rarity batted her eyelashes and playfully winked. 

“Why have me say something you already know? asked Clyde with a smirk. “You will never not be beautiful to me.”

“Because I simply adore you saying it.”

“Rarity, quit flirting with him and come help get the table ready,” ordered Pearl from across the kitchen. 

“But, mother,” whined Rarity. She gave a pout, but only Clyde was paying attention to it. “Why can’t Sweetie Belle do it? She’s just sitting there!”

Pearl ignored her plea and showed a slight smile. “Because in a few years, you’ll need to learn how to set a table for your family.”

“You heard her,” teased Clyde.

Rarity shot him an angered look before smiling and walked over to her mother. Clyde took a seat across from Sweetie Belle and sat there waiting. Since Clyde was always treated as the guest, he never was asked to help, even if he asked to lend a hand himself. If the meal was going to be anything like the year prior, he couldn’t wait to eat.





~	~	~





Following dinner, and after some hot chocolate, Clyde spent his time on the couch cuddling with Rarity and watching some typical Christmas movie on some TV channel. He never got to see the ending, let alone a majority of the movie, as the both of them fell asleep within a few minutes of it starting. 

Eventually, he felt a gentle breath over his face and he slowly opened his eyes. His first sight landed on a pair of sapphire eyes. 

“Are you awake, darling?” asked Rarity in a whisper. She looked at the time on her phone’s screen. “It’s a quarter after eleven and I know you told me you wanted to be home by midnight.” She frowned. 

“What’s with the frown?” 

“I hate seeing you leave is all,” she said with a smile. 

Clyde laughed. “I guess it depends if it’s still cold out then. I don’t feel like waiting for the car to start up for a few minutes just to drive home. I’ll check after we finish with our presents to each other.”

“Good!” Rarity beamed before dropping her expression into shock. “Presents! I must have forgotten to bring them downstairs! Will you excuse me for a moment and wait in the shop lobby for me, darling?” 

“Of course.” 

Rarity quickly kissed his cheek before quietly rushing upstairs. Clyde sat up and looked around the living room. The TV was still on, but mute. Rarity’s parents and sister were not in the room, so Clyde assumed they left the TV on for Rarity and him. He yawned and walked over to the shop section of the home. He flicked on the lights of the room and sat down on the cushioned bench near Rarity’s massive wall of shoes after taking his jacket off the hook by the door. 

A few weeks ago, Clyde and Rarity decided that since Christmas Eve was special to them, their exchange of gifts would be that night. Clyde felt terrible last year for not getting her something, even though they weren’t dating. After all, she did gift him a customized basketball sleeve that he continued to wear for every game, practice, and park session. Because the gift was from her heart, it became one of his favorite things he owned. 

Clyde smirked as he looked down at his jacket. He patted the pocket, making sure the items were still in place. He couldn’t let a slip up of not giving her a gift again, so he had to make sure this year counted. 

Within a couple of minutes, Rarity walked into the shop lobby with a large Christmas present bag in hand and Opal following her. She carefully placed it on the floor beside him and sat down. Her face was lit up with excitement. “So, care to open yours up first?” Opal brushed against his leg and hopped up beside of him, giving a small pur. 

He rubbed Opal’s head and before he could answer Rarity, she reached into the bag of presents and pulled out a thin and rectangular present. “You’re quite eager.”

Rarity smiled. “Presents are always fun! Especially since you owe me big time for not getting me something last year!” She giggled watching Clyde turn red.

“Yeah, sorry about that...”

“Clyde, it’s fine. I’m not angry with you.” She handed him her first gift to him and grinned. “Now, enough with that, let’s get to the fun part!”

Clyde smiled and nodded at her before focusing on the wrapped present in front of him. Instead of guessing what it could possibly be, he carefully tore open the corners and ripped away the glimmery and elegant wrapping paper. When he saw the object, a large grin appeared on his face and he gave a laugh.

The thin and rectangular gift was a framed collage that was shaped into a heart. All the pictures within the heart were pictures of Rarity and him throughout their time together. He quickly scanned the heart and recollected many memories he had with her, like their Valentine’s Night snuggle ‘selfie’, the Spring Fling, the beach house visit, the Fall Formal from a few months ago, and other random pictures she took with him over the year. Clyde wasn’t a big fan of getting his picture taken, but he always let her take pictures with him anyway to make her happy so she could put it on her various social media accounts. At least all the pictures were used for a good cause he thought to himself as he looked near the bottom of the frame. It had their names with some romantic quote about love and fairy tales.

“I thought you could use more decoration for your room!” said Rarity excitedly, “I had two of these made. The other is already hanging up near my bed.”

“Have we really taken that many photos together already?” asked Clyde with a bit of humor in his voice. 

“Yep! And we still have so many more photos to add to the next collage, too!” Rarity laughed. “I’ll make more every year or so.”

“Fine with me,” grinned Clyde. “My room is pretty bland so I could use some Rarity to make it better. After all, she makes everything better.”

“I love you too,” she cooed, handing him his next present.

Clyde smiled at her before beginning his attack on the wrapping paper. The cubic box was somewhat heavy so he took extra precaution while opening the present. After removing all of the tape on the wrapping paper, he pulled it off to see the newest gaming console that Tyrone got last year. The console was bundled with the newest version of the yearly basketball game. Since it was over a year the console came out, the price had decreased slightly. However, it was still expensive.

“Since I know how much you love playing that basketball game with your friends, I had to get you one!” Rarity beamed. “Plus, this console can do so much more than gaming, but you already know that. I know how girls say boys don’t text while they are playing these games, but there’s an app where you can web chat while playing! Now we can continue our nightly calls to each other!” Rarity smiled away.

Clyde kept his gaze on the box and looked up at Rarity. “I never imagined I would ever get one of these. I hope it didn’t cost you that much.”

Rarity shrugged. “Truth be told, I spent the most this year on you than all of my friends and family combined, but it’s perfectly fine with me. I love you very much so you deserve the best things.” She smiled and leaned at him to hug him tightly.

“Thank you, Rarity,” said Clyde sweetly during their hug. She responded by hugging him tighter. 

After Rarity wanted to end their hug, she pulled away from him and slyly smirked. “So, is it time for my gifts?”

Clyde nodded and after a few seconds, burst into a laugh. 

“What’s so funny?” she pouted. “You don’t like my presents?”

“What, no! Compared to your gifts, mine are terribly wrapped.”

“Oh.”

“Like, they aren’t even wrapped.”

“Clyde...” Rarity shook her head. “What’s a present without it being wrapped?”

Clyde scratched his head. “In my gifts’ defense, they aren’t big enough to wrap up.”

“I’m teasing,” she giggled. “No matter what they are, I’m still excited!” She looked at him and grinned. Clyde could tell her anticipation was at the highest point. He reached into his pocket and pulled out a small envelope. He handed it to her.

“An envelope?” asked Rarity apathetically. 

“It’s the ‘wrapping paper,’” laughed Clyde. 

Rarity sighed before giving a small grin. “While your attempt was cute, I really need to teach you better ways to present smaller gifts to people without the need of wrapping paper.” She laughed and took the envelope. After opening it, she pulled out a gift card to the mall in Canterlot.

“Since you love so many shops at the mall, I couldn’t pick just one so there’s $100 to whatever store or stores you want to spend it on.”

“Perfect! I’ll probably spend this in one day easily!” 

Clyde knew she wasn’t kidding. He pulled out another envelope from his jacket and handed it to her. 

“Clyde.”

“Yeah, I know. No more envelopes, but I promise this is the last one.”

Rarity opened the second envelope and found a nicely folded piece of paper inside. She opened it up and quickly read it, trying to figure out what it was. After a scan, she looked up at Clyde confused. “You are taking me on a trip to Manehattan on February 6th, but I’m not really–” She suddenly dropped the order slip and gasped, holding her hand close to her mouth. “Clyde! No! You didn’t!” She picked up the paper off the floor to look at the date again. Once she saw the same date, she dropped it again and lightly screamed in joy. Clyde sat there with a smirk, leaving Rarity to voice her reaction. “I can’t believe this is happening!” Her face turned to him and her large grin easily captivated him. 

“I assume you like it?”

“Yes! I love you so much!” She lunged at him and hugged him tightly again, almost knocking him off of the cushioned bench and onto the floor. After she calmed down, she dreamily sighed. “I can’t believe I’m going to Manehattan with the most fabulous boy in the world for Fashion Week!”

“While I couldn’t afford getting you into a public showcase to show off your designs, I thought getting to see other people’s works might help your clothing just as much. I asked your friends and family if they wanted to go as well, but they all had something to do that week or just didn’t want to. Truthfully, I think your parents didn’t want to go because they want to see if I can take care of you for a week without help.” 

“Hmm, possibly. However, I have complete faith in you and can’t wait to spend a whole week in Manehattan with my love!” She snuggled into his shoulder. “There are so many things to see and do! I can probably make a collage about our week in Manehattan alone with all the picture opportunities the city holds!”

“Yeah, and thankfully we will only miss a day of school because winter break is around that time.”

“What about basketball?” asked Rarity worriedly. “I don’t want you to miss out on games because of me.”

Clyde flashed her a smile to comfort her. “The playoffs won’t start until the Monday after we get back. Which means our bus will return home on Valentine’s Day, so I guess I need to think of something we can do that day, too.” 

“That week will simply be divine!” cooed Rarity, sighing in bliss. She rested her head on his shoulder and hugged his torso. “Thank you for your gifts, darling. You definitely made up for last year.”

“But... I still have another present to give you.”

Rarity instantly shot upright. “Really?” she asked with sparkles in her eyes. 

“Unless you want to wait until next year...”

“No!–she coughed–I mean, I would love to receive another present tonight.” She giggled and playfully winked to make him forget his sudden outburst. Clyde gave a smile and stood up, grabbing her hands and leading her towards the large mirror in the room. He turned her towards the mirror and stood behind her. “What are you doing, Clyde?”

“Close your eyes.”

Clyde saw her smile in the mirror before closing her eyes. He took out his last gift and opened the small box containing it. After fooling around with the small chain, he placed the necklace around her neck and carefully clasped it together, making sure not to pinch her skin. He glanced at her through the mirror and smiled. 

“Can I open them yet?”

“Now.”

Rarity slowly opened her enchanting eyes. Upon seeing the new item around her neck, she instantly smiled and awed in joy. 

The silver necklace held a small heart shaped pendant that shined with its bright luster. Also made of silver, the pendant contained multiple diamond and  light blue diamond studs that covered the heart. Rarity seemed to enjoy it as she gently touched it and awed watching the diamonds sparkle.

“I wanted to put my favorite insignia as a pendant, just like how you put your diamonds on my basketball sleeve, but I realized mine isn’t as fashionable as yours, so I decided to go with finding a suitable pendant instead.”

Rarity grinned and leaned backwards, pulling Clyde’s arms around her so he could hug her from behind. Rarity was always a fan of surprise or known hugs from behind, and she did it to Clyde nearly every day. Clyde had no objections for letting her be the one being hugged this time. As his head rested on her shoulder, he heard her hum blissfully. Clyde didn’t dare to speak, but he soon also didn’t have to as Rarity leaned her farther back, turned her head slightly, and kissed at Clyde’s mouth. The two of them kissed in romantic silence for a good minute until Rarity broke out of the hug and turned to face him. Her eyes shone like the stars.

“I couldn’t wish for anyone else to spend Christmas with other than you, Clyde. Your gifts were simply magnificent and made mine look awful.” Her luminous eyes filled with sadness.

“Awful? Except the video game console, all of your other gifts have came from your heart and I can’t ever be disappointed in them. I love you and your creative mind,” said Clyde with a laugh and poking her forehead. “I had to get you wonderful gifts because you deserve them. Christmas Eve last year was one of the best nights I ever had, and it was all because of you.”

Rarity pecked him on the lips again. “It was a good night for me as well. Tonight could have been even better if you didn’t have to leave...” she gave a pout.

“I said I’ll check to see if it was still cold out,” said Clyde with a smirk. He walked over to the door and opened it up. The cold air quickly entered the shop, but Clyde knew it wasn’t too cold to make cars take long to get going. He took a deep breath of the cold December air and shut the door.

“You know,” he said while turning around to face Rarity, “I think it’s still a little too cold for me to leave. My new game console can wait for me to play in the morning.” Rarity’s face lit up again, as if he had another present for her. Clyde wasn’t sure if she knew he was lying or not, but he knew either way she didn’t care. 

“Shall I start the movie for us to not watch?” asked Rarity with a sly smile.

Clyde laughed. “Of course.”
> Paging Nurse Rarity [New Year's Eve]
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

	Clyde laid on the couch in his home feeling completely miserable.

Some hours ago, Clyde caught hold of a cold and felt awful ever since. His voice was now hoarse due to his coughing spree, his fatigue was as low as it was after he played a basketball game, and his head was pounding with a mean headache. He wore sweatpants and a normal shirt so he could feel better about laying around Clyde coughed again before turning on the first of the yearly college football Bowl games on his TV. 

Within a few minutes, his phone vibrated off of his chest and fell to the floor. Clyde struggled turning to his side to pick it up, but quickly answered it when he saw the name on the screen.

“Darling!” boomed a lovely voice from the phone into Clyde’s ear. “I just finished the outfit I needed to work on all week! Are you ready for the New Year’s party tonight or are you still under the weather?”

“I...” Clyde stopped and coughed away from the phone, “I’m in no condition to go...”

“Oh, my. Your voice sounds absolutely dreadful.”

Clyde frowned. He didn’t have a choice sounding this dreadful. “If you want to go to the party tonight, go ahead. All I’m doing tonight is laying here watching football anyway.”

“And leave you alone again! The only reason I went to last year’s was because you asked me to go and...” Rarity didn’t finish her sentence as she giggled into the phone. Clyde smiled too as he knew she was talking about their first kiss, or the multiple kisses that soon followed after it. Her voice quickly returned after her giggles ceased. “So! If you aren’t going, then neither will I! Instead, I’ll help nurse my love back into perfect condition!”

It took a few seconds for Clyde to realize what she said. “Wait, so you want to come over?” He pulled the phone away from him again to cough. 

“I’m coming over to nurse you back to tip-top shape. I’ll be over in a few!”

Clyde never opposed of having Rarity visit him at his house for once, but he didn’t want to get her sick. “The door is probably locked and I don’t feel like getting up...”

“It’s quite alright, Clyde. I know where the second key is. I only know because I still have it!” 

“Oh yeah, that’s right...” 

“I’m hanging up now, Clyde. I don’t want you to speak until I’m there, okay? I will help you feel better and will see you in roughly thirty-or-so minutes! Bye!” She made a kissing noise to him before hanging up.

Clyde threw his phone onto the floor and sighed. He hated being sick and it seemed like every winter he caught something to make him feel weakened for a few days. He especially hated being sick on the important days where he had to be somewhere or do something. However, he always felt better no matter what condition he was in when Rarity was near him so he hoped she could end his cold quickly.





~	~	~





Clyde must have dozed off, because soon he heard the doorknob turning. He looked at his phone and about thirty minutes went by since Rarity got off the phone with him. He remained watching TV as he heard the front door open and close. After a few footsteps, Rarity came into his view and looked down at him. She was wearing her “comfy” outfit, composed of one of Clyde’s hoodies and her favorite leggings. What caught Clyde’s eye was the fancy-looking tote bag that hung on her shoulder.

“Hello, darling! Are you feeling better?”

Clyde shrugged. “I just woke up from my nap. Hopefully since you are here now, I’ll get better soon so we can go to T’s party.” Rarity smiled at him and Clyde tried to, but a sudden cough stopped him. He sighed again and looked at her tote bag. “What’s with the bag?”

“Oh, this?” asked Rarity taking it off of her shoulder. “I decided to bring along some blankets and stuff for tonight in case you don’t get better. You can stay on the couch while I’ll sleep on the reclining chair.”

“You could sleep in my bed if you want,” stated Clyde weakly. “It would be way more comfortable for you than that chair, but of course you know that.” 

Rarity’s face filled with worry. “But then I wouldn’t be able to take care of you throughout the night! I would be upstairs and what if you wanted a glass of water in the middle of the night? You might be too weak to pour it! Even worse, you might fall down and since your voice is damaged, I might not hear you!” 

Clyde shook his head and chuckled. “What would I ever do without you?”

Rarity gave him an alluring smile. “Anyway, I’m going to use the bathroom, Clyde. Don’t get up and worry me!” 

“Don’t worry. I’ll be laying here... like I have been all day,” said Clyde with disappointment. He heard her elegantly run up the stairs. Since the staircase leading to the upper floor was behind his head from where he lay and towards the kitchen, Clyde wasn’t able to see if she took her bag with her. Of course, it didn’t really matter to him much as he only wanted to end this slight sickness.

He faintly heard the bathroom door from upstairs swing open a few minutes later. As the sound of Rarity walking down the stairs grew louder, Clyde noticed a clicking noise was becoming more clear as well. When Rarity finally reached the bottom floor again and walked in front of the TV, Clyde instantly felt his temperature rising.

With her hands on her hips, Rarity looked down at Clyde with a seductive smile. Her outfit from a few moments before was gone and she was now wearing her short white dress that she wore for Halloween last year during school trying to masquerade as a nurse. He realized that the clicking noise was from her high heeled shoes. The little hat with the red cross was the only missing piece of the outfit, but Clyde knew she didn’t have to wear it to make him understand what she was dressed up as again. 

She sat down on the edge of the couch near Clyde and put a hand to his head. “My, you are on fire, darling.”

“It’s probably because you wearing that outfit again...” 

Rarity smiled. “I just had to wear it again to make you feel better. Plus, I told you I was going to nurse you back to perfect condition. It was only the most logical choice to wear it tonight.” 

Clyde didn’t answer, mostly because he didn’t know how to answer. Clyde’s one weakest was seeing Rarity in sexy and seductive outfits, as it made him extremely flustered as it would with any boy his age. Rarity knew herself this weakness a little after they began talking to each other through text messages so she always tried making him feel that way for fun. Instead of being used to it by now, Clyde always felt like he was that shy boy when he first saw her in the gymnasium. 

“Can I get you some water, Clyde?”

“Please...”

She gave him a wink and briefly got up and made her way to the kitchen. Clyde soon heard the refrigerator open and close. The clicking began and Rarity stood over him with a bottle of water in hand. 

“Thanks,” said Clyde hoarsely. He grabbed the bottle without looking at her to avoid being flustered again. 

“Ahem.” Rarity frowned. “For tonight, you will address me as ‘Nurse Rarity’, darling.”

Clyde blinked. “What?”

“You are my patient and I am your nurse. It only makes sense.” She winked again.

Clyde blushed and quickly drank some water. “Rarity, I really–”

“Clyde. What did I just say?”

Clyde frowned. “Sorry. Nurse Rarity, I really don’t think this is all necessary. I only have a slight cold. I love you helping me, but don’t you think the whole nurse act is overdoing it?” He gave a weak smile after coughing into his sleeve. 

Rarity sat at the edge of the couch near his chest again and sighed. “And here I thought you were going to feel instantly better if I wore this outfit tonight and took care of you.” She looked at him slowly and lowered her eyes. Clyde saw her smile slowly form into a sultry grin. “Besides, darling, I thought you always wanted me to roleplay as a sexy nurse.” She winked.

“T-That’s for something completely different! I-I...” Clyde’s face blazed red as he reached for the bottle of water on the floor to calm down. 

“I know it is, I’m just teasing, like always,” cooed Rarity. She touched his forehead again and giggled. “At this rate, I’m going to make you sweat away this cold with all this suggestive talk.” She blew air into his face while he downed the water as fast as he could. Clyde threw the empty bottle of water to the floor. “Are you all cooled off now?”

Clyde coughed. His face was still warm, but it probably was because Rarity had eye contact with him. “For now... until you say something else.”

“Oh, Clyde...” she giggled. “Why would I ever do such a thing?”

Clyde shook his head with a laugh. He finally found the strength to look away from Rarity’s nurse outfit to look at the TV. He never really made much attention to college football, as he liked college basketball more, but every New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day had the big Bowl games on that he watched with his brother before he moved to Canterlot. Normally he would have been getting ready to attend Tyrone’s party like he did last year, but all he could do was stay home and get better. At least he had his favorite girl in the world and her flirty and seductive shenanigans to keep him company for the day. 

“Would you like me to make you some soup, Clyde?” asked Rarity.

“If you don’t mind. I should have a can or two somewhere in the kitchen.”

“Don’t mind?” asked Rarity aghast. “I'm your nurse! It’s my duty to fulfill your needs! I’ll go make some soup!”

Clyde smiled at her. “Thank you, Nurse Rarity.”

“That’s much better,” said Rarity with a nod. “Since you are behaving like a good patient should, maybe the sooner I’ll wear this again when you aren’t sick.” She quickly kissed his burning cheek and giggled, before walking towards the kitchen again.

Eventually, Clyde was called to the kitchen to eat a bowl of soup. After laying down for almost half a day now, he had no problem with taking a small walk. There was enough in the can for both of them to have a bowl. After finishing, Clyde felt saddened watching Rarity eat her bowl because of his condition, but she didn’t seem to complain about it. He wanted them to go eat a more refined meal for the holiday before the party but wasn’t able to. With a frown, he put the bowl in the sink and walked back to the couch. He grabbed the game controller beside him and flipped on the output channel. 

He felt a lot better now than he did before Rarity came over. His cough remained, but it was greatly reduced. His headache was gone, probably because he “sweated” it away, and his voice didn’t sound nearly as bad. He figured just a good night of sleep would purge the cough from his system and he would be fresh to start the new year. 

Once she was done eating and cleaning everything up, Rarity sat down on Clyde’s reclining chair to watch him play his basketball game. Rarity was never much of a gamer, but since Sweetie Belle and her friends had some knowledge of it, she at least knew why she never bothered with games. Most of the them were “too barbaric, inappropriate, or idiotic” for her. She didn’t mind sport video games, however, mostly because she knew people could actually be an athlete in life instead of a space-soldier that can travel to other galaxies or a murdering pirate assassin that can jump off buildings without dying. 

Usually, whenever Rarity watched Clyde play, she had a habit of calling him out whenever he messed up or missed a shot just to tease him and make him focus more, but for that night, she let him play in solace. Clyde figured it was because he was sick.

Clyde eventually won the game and decided to turn on a movie for them instead letting her sit there. They decided on a comedy movie for once, instead of the usual romantic or romantic comedy genre. Rarity quickly threw a blanket around him before she sat down beside him on the couch. She gave him a smile and tightly hugged him and his blanket. Clyde felt so warm and content that his eyes began to give out on him.





~	~	~




Clyde wasn’t sure if the movie ended exactly around midnight or she turned it off, as he fell asleep shortly once the movie started. He believed he never even saw one part of the movie before falling asleep, only a preview or two of other similar movies. When his eyes were focused, he saw that the midnight event on TV and heard the people on TV get louder and louder in excitement. 

“You’re awake!” said Rarity excitedly. “It’s only two minutes until midnight!”

“Really?” asked Clyde groggily. “Sorry I fell asleep.”

“It’s fine, Clyde.” Rarity gave him a smile. “You need rest, I understand that. I just hoped you would wake up to see the New Year!”

Clyde nodded and yawned. He noticed Rarity was still in her nurse outfit. “You’re still in that?”

Rarity looked over at him with a pout. “Why wouldn’t I be, darling? Unless... you don’t like it anymore.”

“What? No! I just figured you would be laying around like me at this time.”

She seductively grinned. “I could take it off for you right now since you want me to...”  Clyde blazed red again as Rarity winked at him. “No, but I was going to go change back to the outfit I came here in after the New Year’s special is over.”

As on a queue, the countdown flashed on the TV and the two of them watched in silence. Last year Clyde knew what amazing event happened shortly after the clock struck midnight. As he wondered what he wished would happen in this new year, the TV flashed in bright colors and the people on it celebrated. 

“Happy New Year’s, my love!” beamed Rarity, giving him a hug. 

Clyde smiled in return. “I wish I could kiss you, but I’m still sick.”

Rarity frowned, but soon shrugged. “It’s alright, darling. We kiss all the time anyway. I’m sure we could both live without kissing in the next few seconds.” She turned away from him, but quickly giggled and kissed at his mouth. Clyde expected a quick kiss, but it eventually turned into a slow and passionate one. The kiss reminded him of their first kiss at midnight last year, but it also showed him how much better they both got at kissing each other. Rarity withdrew from him after a few minutes with a grin. “That was so worth it.”

“If you get sick, don’t blame me. I warned you.”

Rarity stuck out her tongue and giggled. “That’s alright. You know I have to feed my kissing desire whenever you are near, Clyde. But if I do get sick, then I can count on Nurse Clyde to take care of me.” She looked down at her outfit and laughed. “Although, you’ll probably need to find another costume. This won’t fit you.”

“Act like I would wear that,” said Clyde, trying to find humor somewhere in his weakened voice. He took a look at her bright blue eyes and couldn’t help to smile. “You know, I always wanted to kiss you while you were wearing that costume.”

“I know. And more,” purred Rarity causing him to blush. She rested her head on his shoulder and looked up at the ceiling, dreamily sighing. “This day marks our official first year of dating being a success, however, I believe we actually started unofficially dating after that movie in October.”

“You think so?” asked Clyde. 

“Certainly! After that movie, we began talking to each other a lot more. I know you were too nervous to say anything, but I wanted you to at least ask me if I felt any similar feelings. Fortunately, we still managed to make it to the holidays without any problems and soon became a couple!” She turned and pecked him. “While this wasn’t an ornate New Year’s celebration, I still enjoyed taking care of you in a simple way to spend the night together.”

“I did, too. Thanks for being here with me, Nurse Rarity.” 

Rarity giggled. “Of course, darling.” She quickly stood up and walked towards the staircase. “I’ll be back down after I change out of this. Don’t worry, though. You’ll see your sexy Nurse Rarity again, my love.” She dropped her flirty gaze and wink on him.

“I can’t wait,” stated Clyde with a large grin.

Clyde let the clicking heels noise wander upstairs until it ceased. He adjusted the blanket around him and put and pillow behind his neck to support his head. After crashing his head into the pillow, he began thinking about the new year.

It was hard to top last year’s compared to what Clyde had been through, but he had no doubt Rarity and himself could think of ways to improve their already strong and loving relationship. 
> Striking Out [Valentine's Day]
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

	As Clyde opened his eyes, the plain, yet, very clean, white ceiling loomed above him. He gave a yawn and closed his eyes again, trying his hardest to fall back to sleep . After a few moments, he opened his eyes again and blinked. He soon realized he was laying on the carpet of Rarity’s bedroom. 

Confused, Clyde looked at his phone that laid a few inches from his head and checked the date. It was Valentine’s Day and almost three in the afternoon. He put his phone down and yawned again. As he yawned, he heard and saw the massive bed that towered to his left move and soon, Rarity’s face poked from the side looking down at him.

“Clyde? Whatever are you doing down there?” she asked with a slight giggle.

Clyde smiled and shrugged and quickly sat up. Even while sitting down, her bed was still taller than him, but she leaned down to hug him anyway. “Did you sleep alright?” he asked her.

“Of course! My bed is a comfy heaven!”

“I slept surprisingly well on the floor without a pillow and a blanket,” laughed Clyde. 

“Why were you down there anyway?” she asked him. “You’re always welcomed to sleep with me. There’s plenty of room.” Her usual wink caused him to smile again. After seeing her wink, he began remembering the events of why he woke up on the floor.

“I guess when I carried you up the stairs and tucked you into your bed, my mind must have shut down after it knew you were safe in your bed. I either passed out while I stood up or maybe I rolled off your bed and was too tired to wake up.” Clyde laughed.

That was the best explanation he could think of. Due to the past week, Clyde never felt as tired as he felt now. Manehattan was a huge city and because they explored as much as they could in the week they were there, Clyde never rested peacefully. Time was of essence in their week-long travel so they had to do as much as possible. 

In general, Clyde and Rarity both enjoyed Manehattan together with the little amount of time they were there. Not only did they get to see many of the famous locations the city contained, Rarity was able to witness many famous fashion designer show off their new collections. Plus, Manehattan was home to a plethora of stores so she always had something to do. As for Clyde, he finally was able to see a Manehattan Kneighs game. Even though they lost, like they always had this season, the two of them had a ton of fun and even got featured on the ‘Kiss Cam’. Clyde never spent so much money in a week before, but he didn’t have a single regret. Manehattan was truly a gem of a city and it was only fitting that he made sure his own gem was happy in it. 

The bus to return them back to Canterlot left Manehattan at six in the evening the prior day. Since the bus ride was roughly five-to-six hours, the passengers had small TVs implanted into the headrest of the seat in front of them. Clyde decided to listen to music while Rarity either watched the movie, texted her friends, or uploaded the thousands of pictures she took during the week. When the bus finally arrived at Canterlot a little past midnight, Clyde drove Rarity back to her home. Rarity fell asleep before Clyde pulled up to her home, so he gently carried her inside and instead of driving home, he quickly fell asleep, too.

Rarity leaned forward and kissed his forehead. “I thank the wonderful mind of my darling, Clyde, for making sure I was home safe before shutting down.”

“Same,” he agreed. “I honestly can’t remember if I was even tired while driving last night. Good thing my priorities kicked in. I left our belongings in the car last night so I'll help you carry your bags and suitcases of clothes that are still in the backseat. ” Rarity smiled at him again. Clyde stood up from the ground and stretched. “It’s good to be home, though. The playoffs begin in two days and I can’t wait.”

“And I can’t wait to watch you! You guys will certainly win this year. You’re much more skilled than from what I saw last year. It’s probably because of me!”

Clyde smirked. “Most likely. I have to make sure I don’t let you down.”

Rarity lowered her eyes and crawled to the end of the bed and pulled him onto it. She kissed him for a minute and suddenly stopped. Her voice was close to a whisper, but it was clear enough for him to hear it perfectly. “Happy Valentine’s Day, my love.” 

Clyde grinned. With the sudden change of topics, Clyde knew it was going to be hard for him to let her down while playing basketball. She always kissed him after every game for just doing a good job, even if he didn’t score. 

“So, what would you like to do tonight?” asked Clyde. 

“Tonight?”

“Yeah. You know, for Valentine’s Day.”

“Oh!” Rarity frowned and shook her head. “We don’t have to do anything fancy or superb for tonight. Manehattan was a Christmas and Valentine’s gift from you. You spent so much on me as of late.” She smiled.

“You got that right...” said Clyde with a slight chuckle. 

“Anyway! Instead of doing something alone, why don’t we hang out with the others? We haven’t seen any of them in over a week!”

Clyde nodded at the idea. “What did you have in mind?”

“Well, not me, Pinkie.”

“Huh?”

Rarity reached behind him and picked up her phone off the bed. She opened up the group chat she was in with her friends and scrolled upwards through the messages. After finding the text, she showed Clyde the message. “She wanted to know if everyone wanted to go bowling tonight! She can reserve the whole place for a group of us for laser bowling.”

“Bowling?” questioned Clyde. “I haven’t bowled since I was a small boy, so I would be rather rusty.”

“That’s alright, darling! I bet a lot of us wouldn’t be aces. We just want to have fun!”

“I guess that’s true. Who would all go?”

“Well, you and me of course, and all of my best friends. Pinkie asked me to tell you that you were in charge of bringing the boys.” She gave him a wink. “After all, it is Valentine’s Day and it’s much more fun when you have a date. Luckily for me, my date is right beside me.”

Clyde smirked and let her kiss him and snuggle his neck, listening to her adorable squee of joy. “Any particular boys?” he asked her as he quickly tried to figure out who would want to go bowling later that evening. It was already three in the afternoon so it was quite short notice.

“It doesn’t matter to me in the slightest. You’re picking for the girls.” 

Clyde rubbed his chin. “I’ll see what I can do.”





~	~	~





It was roughly 10 at night when Clyde pulled into the parking lot of the bowling establishment Pinkie wanted everyone to go to. He found a spot to pull into and quickly turned the car off. After helping Rarity out if the car, the two of them entered the building. As Clyde and Rarity walked into the main lobby, a sudden shout yelled out.

“It’s Rarity!” shouted Pinkie who dove over the counter and nearly tackled Rarity to the floor. She continued her hug until Rarity gently pushed her off. 

“Hello, Pinkie. I’m glad to see I was extremely missed.”

“Of course you were! We missed your rants about people's clothing choices at lunch!” Pinkie’s big smile lit up the room.

Rarity crossed her arms and laughed. “It’s not my fault people don’t understand basic chic.”

Pinkie snorted and giggled. “Tell me about it!” She looked past Rarity and smiled at Clyde. “Hiya, Clyde! Glad to see you, too! Did you tell some people to come on out and bowl with us?”

Clyde nodded. “I sure did. They should be here any minute or so. I’ll just wait out here until they get here.”

“Awesome! Tell them everything is on the house tonight!”

“It is?” asked Clyde surprised.

“Duh! I planned this, so I paid for everyone’s fee!” said Pinkie happily. “I thought it was a good way to welcome you two back to Canterlot after living the luxurious life in Manehattan for a week!”  

“I appreciate that, Pinkie, thanks,” said Clyde sweetly. While he never turned down free gifts, or at least tried to give them something in return, his mind was jumping in joy as he didn’t have to buy anything else. Of course, he gave Rarity roses when he picked her up, but roses were a necessity on Valentine’s Day. Especially for Rarity. 

“Indeed, Pinkie. That was very generous of you,” stated Rarity. “I’m sure all of us here could’ve chipped in and helped rent this building tonight.”

Pinkie grinned again and hugged both Clyde and Rarity tightly. “Nah! I love you guys so it’s my pleasure!” After Pinkie’s bear hug was over, she left to go and talk to the rest of the girls who were sitting down on the chairs and seats waiting. They gave Clyde a wave as he turned to lean on the counter. 

“You can go talk to your friends if you want,” said Clyde. “I’ll be fine waiting here.”

“Are you sure?” asked Rarity concernly. 

“Yep. I know how much you are dying to tell them all about the city.” Clyde gave her a smile as she hugged him and quickly ran to reunite with her best friends. Clyde looked over his shoulder at them and saw them all laugh and hug Rarity when she arrived. He turned to look back outside the front doors and wondered why girls were much different than boys when friends see each other again after a certain duration of time. Girls would hug each other and laugh while boys would nod at each other, do a handshake, or not even care.

“Look who it is!” exclaimed a voice as the front door opened. Tyrone walked through the doors of the building and lowered his shades. “My dawg, C, is back from the city that never sleeps!” He walked up to Clyde and the two of them exchanged a “bro shake”. 

“How’ve you been, T? Ready for the game on Monday?”

Tyrone laughed. “Damn straight, dawg. Tomorrow I’m going to ball at the indoor courts if you want to ball with me.”

“Yeah, I’ll go. Haven’t dribbled a ball in over a week.” Clyde looked at the doors again to see First Light and her brother, Rivet, walk inside. Rivet quickly went to use the restroom while his sister ran up to Tyrone.

“Are you ready to bowl, bae?” asked First Light to Tyrone while giggling. “I’m a pretty good bowler.”

“You know it, girl. Let’s go get ready I’ll help you find a nice ball.” First Light hopped happily towards the shoe counter with Tyrone close behind. He quickly stopped a few feet away from Clyde and looked at him. “Yo dawg, I wanted to let you know that when I was watching the Kneighs game, I saw you on TV.”

“Really? We really didn’t have good seats either. For them being so bad this season, the prices should be way lower.” Clyde gave a laugh. The Manehatten Kneighs weren’t his favorite team in the professional league, but since Rarity and him were a few blocks away from the Garden, the team’s official name of the arena, he just had to see a live professional game of basketball. The team was Tyrone’s favorite, however.

“Tell me about,” replied Tyrone with disappointment. “Anyway, the only reason I saw you was because Rarity and you were shown on the Kiss Cam.”

Clyde blushed and rubbed his head. “T-They showed that on TV?”

“Damn straight, dawg. You and her were really going at it.” Tyrone laughed and slapped his best friend on the back. “I didn’t know your lips were that amazing.”

Clyde felt his cheeks begin to burn, but he tried his best to joke around with the topic. “It’s probably more her than me. She likes to instigate me to kiss her all the time.”

“Not that I could tell. Both of you were really into it and you were the one to not pull away first. I didn’t know you had it in you, C. I never would have guessed my main dawg was the greatest kisser in Canterlot.” Tyrone burst into laughs again, making Clyde feel embarrassed. 

“Don’t you have to go help First Light?” asked Clyde angrily.

“You right! I’ll talk to you later, dawg. Peace!” Tyrone quickly ran towards the shoe counter. He picked up the first pair he saw, threw them to the floor, hopped into them, and quickly ran towards the section where Clyde and the other boys would sit near. It was right beside Rarity and her friend’s section so all of them could easily talk to each other. 

Soon, Rivet walked into the lobby of the building from his trip to the restroom and stopped to chat with Clyde. “Hey, how was Manehattan?”

Rivet was one of Clyde’s newest friends, but he was a good friend alongside Swift. Clyde realized both of them were in his English class last year and after a few weeks, he began talking to them more and more.

“You know, chaotic,” stated Clyde. “I’ve never seen so many people in one place before.”

“That’s a huge city for you.” Rivet looked out to the bowling lanes and saw First Light picking up multiple bowling balls trying to find that special one. “I saw you on TV the other day.”

Clyde instantly blushed again. “I thought you didn’t watch basketball games on TV?”

“Eh,” said Rivet with a shrug, “nothing else was on.” Clyde shook his head and turned his attention to the clock on the wall.

“Are you dudes ready to bowl?”

“YEAH!!!”

Clyde instantly looked towards the door and saw Thunderlane and Bulk Biceps walk into the building, sporting shades and leather jackets. The air around all of them was filled with a sudden “coolness”. Thunderlane looked behind him and scratched his head. “I swear Swift was right behind me.” 

“He probably forgot his pair of shades to match your entrance,” joked Rivet. 

“Probably. But he won’t ever be as “cool” as me,” said Thunderlane with a smile. Clyde swore he saw a sparkle in his shiny teeth. Thunderlane looked at Clyde and smirked. “Are you done being on the Kiss Cam now?”

“Did everyone just happen to watch that game?” asked Clyde angered and embarrassed. “They aren’t even good, but everyone decided to just randomly watch the game the day I so happen to be in Manehattan to see them?”

“Hey man,” laughed Thunderlane, “we are just messing with you. Ease up.”

Clyde sighed and shook his head. “I swear if someone mentions it again..”

The door to the outside world quickly opened up and the last of the guys Clyde invited entered the room. Upon seeing Clyde, Swift Justice pointed at him as if he hadn’t seen him in a long time and wanted to tell him something. “Clyde! Hey man, I saw you on TV the other day!”

The group around him began laughing uncontrollably as Clyde turned around without a word and sat down on the farthest side of the room. He leaned back in the chair and stared at the ceiling, giving a long sigh.

“This was totally not what I wanted to be known for on my first time on TV.”





~	~	~





When everyone was suited up and had a ball, the owner of the bowling alley turned off the lights, and soon, the lanes, pins, and even the balls, glowed brightly amongst the dark. The radio kicked on over the speakers above them and the place instantly filled with a calm mood. 

The group split the two lanes they had to set up two games going on at the same time. One lane was for Clyde and his squad of brothers, while the other was for Rarity, her friends, and First Light. Sunset Shimmer sat at the terminal between the lanes to make sure scores and names were showing correctly, as she didn’t want to play. To make it interesting, they decided to have which ever team scored the most points after three rounds combined won. Sunset had a coin toss to see which team would go first. The girls won the toss, but deferred to the boys for first turn.

“Who wants to go first for you guys?” asked Sunset.

Clyde looked around and noticed no one raised their hand. As he was about to raise his own, Tyrone jumped up. “Shit. I’ll lead us off.” He strolled to the ball rack and practiced a few releases as Thunderlane and Swift stomped on the ground to amp him up. Clyde chuckled to himself and shook his head.

“Come one, bae! I believe in you!” yelled First Light.

“Hey! He’s the enemy!” retorted Rainbow Dash, “you can’t root for him!”

“Oh yeah!” First Light coughed and tried to look fierce by making her face look angry. “Don’t score, bae!” 

Tyrone laughed. “Sorry, girl. I gotta send a message.” He looked over at the girls and smirked. Quickly, Tyrone began walking forward and with a quick movement, released the ball and turned to face his team. He had his arms raised in the air and when he finally heard the ball crash into the pins, the boys cheered and he nodded at them. “Boom.”

“Ooh. A strike to lead off the game,” stated Sunset as she watched the screen overhead flash the large ‘X’. “I’m guessing you are up first, Rainbow?”

“Of course I am! I have to counter!” Rainbow Dash smirked and ran up to the rack. She didn’t take as long as Tyrone, but with her quick toss, the glowing green ball sailed down the dark lane and obliterated the bright pins in its way. She raised her hand in similar fashion to Tyrone’s gesture and high-fived Applejack on the way to sit down.

“Tie game!” cheered Sunset alongside the girls. 

Tyrone shook his head and motioned for the team to huddle in. “Alright, dawgs. We gotta get our heads in this game. RD can probably carry them back if she gets another strike.”

“What’s the plan, T?” asked Thunderlane. 

“Simple. Get strikes. One of them is bound to miss.” 

Thunderlane nodded. “Sounds good.” He got up from the bench and walked towards the ball rack. Thunderlane looked back at his team and pointed to them. He took a deep breath and walked down the lane, releasing the ball at the pivotal point. The ball rolled down the lane for a few feet before spinning straight into the gutter. The girls began cheering again at the miss.

“Damn it, Thunderlane!” yelled Tyrone, “what did I just say!” 

“Yeah...” snorted Bulk.

“I’m sorry, guys...” replied Thunderlane with his head lowered. He grabbed another ball and rolled it down the lane, hoping it would make his team forgive him. The ball rolled near the gutter and grazed the far right pin, barely knocking it down. He walked over to his seat and sighed. “Is that good enough.”

“For that lousy job, I guess,” said Tyrone without looking at him.

“Way to go, Thunderlane,” said Swift shaking his head, “even I can’t mess up that badly.” Thunderlane covered his face in his hands while Fluttershy nervously stepped up to the lane. 

“Oh man,” whispered Tyrone, “maybe they feel bad for us so they sent her out there early. We still might have a chance even after Thunderlane’s bad possession.” 

Fluttershy nervously picked up the ball and looked back at her friends. “I-I don’t think I can do this...” she said weakly.

“Of course you can, Fluttershy!” encouraged Rarity with a wave. “Just roll it nice and slowly. We won’t be mad at you if you can’t get a single pin.” Rainbow Dash moved her body to object, but decided to keep her mouth shut. 

“Okay!” nodded Fluttershy. She walked up to the line and placed the heavy bowling on the floor. With a gentle push, she quickly hopped up and covered her eyes. Everybody in the room watched the ball slowly roll down the lane in anticipation while Fluttershy kept her hands over her face. After two minutes passed, the bowling ball bounced off the first pin and in a strange domino-effect, all the pins fell down. Upon the sound of the pins falling, Fluttershy uncovered her face and smiled. “Did I win?”

“That was awesome!” yelled Rainbow Dash. “I didn’t know Fluttershy would be our ace!” Rainbow Dash quickly led Fluttershy back to the cheering team and smirked towards the boys. 	

None of them paid attention to her as all of their faces were in complete shock. “I think we are doomed,” said Tyrone with a sigh. “Bulk, my dawg, do you think you can get us back into the game?”

Bulk nodded at him. “Yeah.” He stood up and the seats shook as his massive frame walked towards the bowling rack. He picked up his ball and with a grunt, he launched the ball down the lane as if he was throwing a baseball. The ball crashed into the pins so loudly, it sounded like a bomb dropped. 

“Way to go, dawg!” exclaimed Tyrone as he clapped. 

“How was that even possible?” asked Rivet amazed. Clyde looked at him and shrugged. Bulk kept his head up as he walked back to his seat proudly. 

Tyrone gave him a high-five and smirked. He leaned in closer to the boys to whisper to them. “There’s no way they can keep up their strikes.They will run out of firepower soon.” Tyrone looked at who they had left. “My guess is that Clyde’s girl is the one who fails.”

“Hey!” yelled Clyde. “I hope she gets a strike now just because you said that.”

Tyrone frowned. “Come on, C. You know I’m messing around, dawg.”

“Whatever.” 

Clyde huffed and looked over to the girls’ lane. He watched Applejack rise from her seat, grab a ball, and roll it down the lane for an easy strike. She patted her hands and took her seat. As the Clyde’s team grew even more nervous and silent, Clyde quickly glanced up at the scoreboard. Three strikes to their two and a pin was something he would have never guessed. At the rate the game was going, Rainbow Dash could easily put the game away with her second roll. He looked back to his team to see Rivet stand up and accept the challenge. He grabbed the nearest ball on the rack and looked out to the end of the lane. With a nod towards the pins, Rivet began his attack.

The ball hit eight of the ten pins and left two standing. Unfortunately, the two pins that remained standing were the infamous seventh and tenth. 

“Good luck with that one,” called over Rainbow Dash with a laugh. 

Rivet ignored her and rubbed his chin. The 7-10 split was one of the hardest shots to hit in bowling, but Clyde could tell he knew he could do it. Rivet shifted slightly to the left and began his second roll. The ball rolled along the gutter line before hitting the very right of the far right pin, causing it to spin and clip the far left pin. Tyrone and Swift cheered as Rivet looked over at Rainbow Dash with a grin. “Easy.” Clyde watched Rainbow Dash shake her head with a small smile. 

“That spare was good, dawg,” complimented Tyrone, “but we still are down because of Thunderlane. We need good rolls from Swift and C if we are to get back in this game.” Clyde and Swift nodded. Swift was more into the pep-talk than Clyde as Clyde saw Rarity finally walk up to the bowling rack. She looked over at him with a smile before frowning at the balls on the rack.

“Just pick one, Rares,” ordered Rainbow Dash. “Let’s go. I want to bowl again.”

“Yeah,” agreed Applejack with a single nod. “You don’t need to have a fancy-lookin’ ball for bowling.”

“If you want to bowl so badly, why don’t you just go again?” asked Rarity.

“Because I’m waiting for the other members of my team to bowl!”

Rarity stuck her head in the air at the sudden tone of voice from Rainbow. She picked up a bowling ball, or at least attempted to, as she struggled to carry it over to the line. Without putting her fingers into the designated holes, she dropped the ball and it instantly rolled into the gutter. 

“I told you!” cheered Tyrone. Clyde shot him a look, but he and the others were celebrating their chance to make a comeback. 

“Rarity, what was that!” yelled Rainbow Dash in confusion. “Fluttershy even rolled the ball better than that, and she barely pushed it!”

Rarity frowned and looked at the rack. “It’s not my fault these balls are too heavy for me to lift and roll properly. I need help since I don’t want my fingers to get stuck in the ball.” She lifted her hand and smiled. “My fingers are delicate as I just painted my nails a few hours ago.”

Rainbow Dash gritted her teeth and sighed. “Fine. Applejack, get–”

“No, no. I want Clyde to help me.” Rarity looked over at him and smiled again at him. “Oh, Clyde, darling? Can you help me roll this ball down the lane so I can sit back down?” 

“That’s not even legal! He’s on the other team!”

“Rainbow, this is a simple game. I hardly see the foul.” Rarity shook her head. “What do you say, Sunset?” 

Sunset shrugged. “We are doing this for fun after all. I have no problem with it, but his team might.”

“Damn right we have a problem,” began Tyrone standing up, “you can’t just take our dawg like that!” Tyrone looked straight at Clyde and pointed at him. “You better not help them, C! You can’t abandon the team!”

Clyde frowned, mostly because he was stuck in the middle of something, but also because everyone around him were getting so into this game of bowling. He sighed and stood up, walking towards Rarity. She replied with a happy grin.

“You’re a traitor, C!” yelled Tyrone. “A traitor!”

Clyde looked back at him. “It’s just one roll...” Tyrone ignored him.

As he reached Rarity, she gave him a smile. “I knew you would pick me, darling.”

Clyde quietly laughed and kept his voice down. “I’d rather have him mad at me than you. I would have gotten flooded with sad emoticons all night.” 

“You are correct,” she giggled softly. She handed him the bowling ball and lowered her eyes. “I hope you don’t let me down and actually try to score.” 

Clyde grinned with a nod and let her walk away. As he stared at the pins, the thought of sabotage came into his mind. He could easily just throw the ball into the gutter and walk away, but he knew Rarity would be upset with him if he did. Seeing how Tyrone’s personality made it easy for him to forgive someone, Clyde ultimately agreed to roll for points for the girls’ team. He tried to line up the roll, like Tyrone and Rainbow did, to improve the chances of getting the most pins. He released the ball after a few steps and watched it take down nine of the ten pins.

“Yeah! Thanks, Clyde!” cheered Rainbow. “I’ll take the nine pins any day.”

“Thank you, darling!” called Rarity.

Clyde smiled at them and nodded before heading back to his team. As he approached, Tyrone stood up and stared straight at Sunset. “Judge. After a slight majority vote, we are issuing a request for a mid-game trade.”

“Are you joking me? You’re trading me away?” Clyde looked at each of his teammates. Tyrone, Thunderlane, and Bulk were ignoring his eye contact, while Rivet and Swift both shook their heads and shrugged at the vote.

Sunset looked at Rainbow Dash. “Do you agree to trade for Clyde?”

Rainbow Dash huddled in her team to discuss a possible trade. Clyde could tell Rarity certainly wanted him on her team as he saw her nod to every one of Rainbow’s comments. Clyde looked back at Tyrone and the boys to see they were also in deep conversation. 

While this whole situation was pointless to him, Clyde did find some thrill of being the cause of excitement in the game. Since Sunset was on the computer terminal, she exchanged a laugh with him as they waited for the final announcement. 

“Who would you want in return?” asked Rainbow Dash to Tyrone.

Tyrone looked at the guys and crossed his arms. “First Light.”

First Light perked up as she heard her name. “Me?!”

“Yeah, bae. Clyde for First Light.”

“Take the deal, Rainbow!” stated Rarity excitedly. 

“Ah agree.” Applejack gave a single nod.

Rainbow Dash smirked. “Deal.”

First Light jumped up in joy as she quickly raced over to Tyrone. She sat down in the seat beside Rivet and rapidly moved about waiting for her turn to impress her bae. Clyde walked by his new teammates, giving Rainbow and Applejack high-fives, before being pulled onto the bench to sit beside Rarity. “Welcome to the winning side, darling,” cooed Rarity.

Rainbow Dash looked over at Tyrone’s team and rolled her eyes. “Yeah, forget those losers. We are glad you could join us.”

Clyde chuckled. ”Don’t worry, RD. I’ll show them what they’re missing and why it was a mistake to trade me.”

“That’s the perfect attitude for this team.” Rainbow Dash looked over at Sunset and nodded. “We’re ready to resume the game.”

Sunset adjusted the screen overhead to display the new teams. The scores didn’t change as First Light and Clyde both didn’t roll yet anyway. She looked over at Clyde’s old team and took a sip of water. “Time for you guys to send your next person up.”

Tyrone looked between Swift and First Light, the last two bowlers left for the first round. Swift was waving his hand frantically to go, but Tyrone ignored him and let First Light go instead. “You’re the clutch guy, dawg,” said Tyrone to Swift.

“You have enough faith in me to clutch?” asked Swift in disbelief.

“Uh...” Tyrone gulped and rubbed his head. Instead of directly answering Swift, Tyrone patted him on the back and laughed. “You’ll do fine.”

The attention soon turned to First Light as she skipped up to the rack of balls and picked the bright neon pink one. “This is going to look so cool!” she exclaimed in joy as she rolled the ball towards the pins. The bright pink sphere seemed to teleport down the lane at a breakneck pace before knocking down the whole right side of the pins, leaving six of them still standing. She frowned and stomped her foot. “Darn it!”

“Don’t give up, bae! You still have another roll to get the rest of them!” spoke Tyrone, trying to cheer her up. First Light seemed to instantly cheer up at the sound of his voice as her next roll was able to knock down a few more pins. Her final score for the round was eight.

“That will help us,” whispered Rainbow to Applejack before leaning back in her chair. “Pinkie. You’re up.” After a few moments, she looked around and blinked. “Where’s Pinkie?”

“Right here!” shouted Pinkie Pie as she hopped over the low wall behind the computer screen and ran up to the lane. 

“Where were you? Did you ever know we received Clyde in a trade?”

“Cool! I was just drinking some coffee behind that wall to get myself amped up!” Her large smile brightened the room a little. 

“Even more amped?” asked Applejack, “Ah’m not sure if we could handle that...”

“Nonsense!” snorted Pinkie with a slight giggle, “you can never be “too amped”! Being amped and excited is super fun!” Clyde wondered if Pinkie was able to launch into space with seeing the amount of times she was moving up and down. 

“That’s great, now can you please just go already?” Rainbow Dash crossed her arms.

“Sure thing!” Pinkie grabbed a ball from the rack and tossed it down the lane. Like herself, the ball bounced multiple times and landed right in the middle of the pins, causing them all to fall down. Clyde wasn’t surprised how that even happened seeing how Pinkie was the one who just rolled.

“Only Pinkie would be able to get a bowling ball to bounce down a lane...” said Thunderlane with a sigh. Tyrone punched him in the shoulder to get him to shut up.

“She’s so amazing...” said Swift in a daze. 

“Get in there, dawg. It’s your turn.”

“Right!” Swift hopped off his seat and marched confidently to the ball rack. Pinkie was still in her lane waiting for her ball to return to her. Swift became nervous as she almost touched him as she went for her ball. “H-Hey, Pinkie.”

“Hiya, Swift! You can use this ball if you want!” She carefully reached out her arms to let him take the bowling ball she just used. 

“R-Really?”

“Yep! It worked for me so maybe it’ll work for you, too!” 

Swift accepted the ball and smiled sheepishly. “Thanks! I owe you one!”

Pinkie giggled. “You can take me on a date to repay me!”

Swift twitched his eye and gasped. “A date!? Really!?!” He nearly dropped the ball on his feet in excitement.

Pinkie frowned and put a finger to her mouth. “Hmm, maybe not a date date, but good luck anyway!” She laughed and walked back to an empty seat near Fluttershy.

“Oh...” said Swift sadly. He sighed and lowered his head to sulk and looked at the pins. With a nonchalant and apathetic toss, he released the ball and slowly sulked back to his chair. As he sat down, the ball hit the pins, knocking all of them down, and a cheer emitted from Tyrone and the others. 

“Damn, dawg! Way to go! I told you that you had potential to be the clutch bowler on the team.”

“I guess...” responded Swift, still bummed about the false hope Pinkie gave him, even though he knew she gave many false hopes all the time. He gave a long sigh.

Clyde felt bad for Swift, but he tried helping him many times in the past year. Swift was just unlucky and he couldn’t do anything about it to help him become lucky. Clyde looked at the score and saw his new team was winning still and was slowly pulling away. He got up and walked up to the ball rack to bowl finally for himself.

“Good luck, my love!” called Rarity with a smile on her face. She quickly blew him a kiss.

Clyde returned her smile and looked at the pins down the lane. Since he knocked down nine of them with only one ball the first time, he knew he could get all ten. With one last mental nod, he rolled the ball. When he saw all the pins fall down on the first try, he smirked and looked directly at Tyrone, eventually taunting him with the chest pound and stomp Tyrone does whenever he makes a clutch shot in a basketball game. 

Tyrone laughed and shook his head. “Aight, C. I see you.”

Clyde high-fived Rainbow and Applejack on his way to his seat and earned a kiss from Rarity on his strike. His team was at least two strikes ahead after the first round, so if they managed to closely replicate what they did, they would win no problem. 






~	~	~





Eventually, the game ended after Swift’s turn during the third round. He needed a strike to keep his team alive and Clyde had to get zero pins on his turn, but with Pinkie asking Swift to help her eat nachos, he didn’t care about bowling anymore. 

It was close to midnight now and everyone was either sitting with someone or talking to a group. Pinkie had the building until two in the morning, so they decided to take a break from bowling after that intense game. Clyde and Rarity were sitting in the small food area sharing a milkshake.

“While it wasn’t the most romantic Valentine’s Day, I still enjoyed it tremendously.” Rarity set the milkshake down on the small table and gently pushed it towards Clyde. 

“I did too.” He picked up the glass and sipped. Vanilla was always his favorite and because he felt slightly tired still from Manehattan, it tasted excellent. “I guess I was better than I thought at bowling.”

Rarity giggled. “Because I helped you.”

“Maybe. Maybe I was just gifted at bowling.” Clyde chuckled and soon stopped when he saw Rarity look at him seriously. “Yeah... maybe I did just get good rolls only because you were cheering me on.”

“As your number one fan, it is my duty to support you in all activities and help you get better!” Rarity lovingly smiled at him and grabbed his hand. “Even though you might not think, I’ll always be there for you, Clyde.”

“I know you will, and the same goes for me. I have no clue about fashion-related topics, but I know you’ll design awesome clothing and accessories anyway. Just because you’re perfect to me.” Clyde smiled when he saw Rarity notice what he called her. She grabbed his hand tighter.

“The time we spent at Manehattan made me realize how wonderful that city is for fashion designers like me. Don’t get me wrong, I love Canterlot, but I really would love to live there and fulfill my dream of becoming a famous designer, but I don’t know....” Clyde saw concern growing in her eyes. He rubbed his thumb over her hand.

“Don’t worry about me, Rarity. I would hate to be the cause for you to not follow your dream. I’m not even sure what mine is yet. You would be much better in Manehattan with someone who could support you financially.” He looked away from her.

“Don’t say that! Please...” said Rarity with tears forming in her eyes. “I want you to be there with me, not someone else! We’ll find you something to do there, but please, Clyde, I don’t care how we get there. All I know is I would be distraught if I didn’t have you with me and I know I can say the same for you.” She wiped her eyes and tried to bring a smile to her face. “I just want there to be an ‘us’ in the future.”

Clyde stared at her bright blue eyes. They would always be in his mind the most beautiful sight in the world. He found it hard to smile at the situation, but he managed to do it because of her eyes. He stood up and looked down at her. “Instead of talking about the future, let’s just focus on the present.”

Rarity nodded and got up from the chair. She quickly hugged him tightly as if she never wanted to let go of him. Clyde placed his head on top of hers and looked out across the floor to the others. Most of them were laughing about or eating. Clyde never wanted this depressing conversation to happen on Valentine’s Day, but he knew it would come eventually. High School was almost over for everyone and everyone had to think about the next step. Rarity began sniffiling and Clyde hugged her tighter, wishing in his mind everything would fall into place.
> Wings, Basketball, and Intimacy [March Madness]
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

	Clyde pulled out his bracket and looked around the restaurant, trying to look at all of the basketball games that were going on at once. It was a Thursday, the official start of chaotic tournament where more than just two teams played. Since there were so many TVs, he had a hard time focusing on just one game, but that was the fun of March Madness after all. Clyde gave his bracket another quick glance and leaned back into the chair with a smirk. “I’m so glad I skipped school today.”

Seeing how he only had two classes, the minimum an athlete had to take to remain on their respective sport at Canterlot High, Clyde saw no point of attending school. The national “March Madness” annual collegiate basketball tournament always began around noon on the Thursday after Selection Sunday, the day where the lucky 68 teams were ranked and seeded to play, which usually happened on the third Sunday of the month, so he thought what better way to spend the early part of the "Madness" watching games at his favorite sports bar restaurant. 

Clyde never had a favorite college team, but he always wanted to watch the games anyway because of the thrill of attempting to make the perfect bracket. Whoever had the perfect bracket would be rewarded one billion dollars. Of course, since there are so many unpredictable events that could happen, it was impossible. Instead, people would bet amongst friends to see who had the best bracket after the champion was crowned. Clyde and the rest of the basketball team, including Coach Iron Will, all had a bet going on for one hundred dollars, so he had to keep his eyes focused on all the outcomes. 

Soon, his line of sight with one of the games was broken as Rarity walked in front of a TV and sat down in the seat across from him at the table. “Clyde, did you know they have TVs even in the bathroom?” she asked amazed. “Unfortunately they only had these basketball games on.”

“Yeah,” laughed Clyde, “they even have TVs above the urinals in the men’s bathroom. That’s dedication right there.” Rarity shook her head before giving a small laugh. Clyde originally had plans to watch the games with Tyrone, but after an unplanned dentist appointment, Tyrone had to cancel. Rarity didn’t want Clyde to be alone at the restaurant so she decided to skip her afternoon wellness class, which she rarely went to anyways, to sit with him. 

“Did the waitress come by yet?” she asked.

“Not yet.” Clyde looked around. The restaurant wasn’t exactly busy, but he figured whoever their waitress was saw them walk in together and wanted to wait for Rarity to return before serving them. 

After a few moments, a girl a few years older than them with bright red hair walked up to the table and smiled at them. She looked at Clyde and her smile instantly doubled in size and her maroon eyes filled with joy. “Hey, Clyde! I haven’t seen you in a while! How’ve you been? I miss seeing you and your friend.”

Clyde rubbed his head. “Well you know, the basketball season was tough this year, plus the playoffs were happening so I wasn’t able to eat here a lot lately. We got two games left before the championship, so Coach has us practicing almost every night. Since the tourney is going on right now, I figured I would watch some games today at my favorite place to eat.” He gave the waitress a smile.

“That’s what we like to hear!” said the girl happily. She glanced over at Rarity and smiled. “So, this is your girlfriend, the one you talked about before.” Rarity gave a single nod and shot a glance at Clyde.

“Yeah. My favorite girl in the world.” Clyde smiled at Rarity, who kept her serious gaze on him. Clyde was confused on her attitude, but soon the waitress spoke up again.

“So, what would you two like to drink?”

“A glass of water will be fine,” said Clyde.

Rarity looked up from her menu. “Water, please.”

“Gotcha. I’ll be back!” The girl walked away from them as Clyde looked at Rarity.

Rarity ignored his gaze for a few seconds before looking directly into his eyes. Clyde, nervous of her serious gaze, coughed and quickly tried to figure out what he did wrong. After finally figuring it out, Clyde gave a long sigh. “Here we go...”

“Who’s she?” asked Rarity slightly angered with her arms crossed. For the first time since he had known her, Clyde finally saw Rarity become a thing he thought he would never see.

“Jealous, huh?” teased Clyde with a smile.

“Don’t test me, Clyde.” Clyde flinched at those words, knowing with that tone in her voice. He also didn’t want to see her become extremely mad at him for the first time either. 

“She’s just a waitress here. I think her name is Velvet Dove.” Clyde could tell Rarity wanted the truth at that very moment. “Don’t be angry, I only know her because she usually is our waitress when T and me come here to eat. That’s all.”

“That better be all.”

Clyde sighed. “I swear it is.”

“Do you promise?” 

“Yes. A million times. I promise.”

Rarity smiled. “Good. I believe you then.”

“You didn’t before?” asked Clyde shocked.

“Of course I believed you, darling. I just wanted to see your reaction.” Rarity giggled as Clyde sighed loudly again. “Clyde, I know you by heart now. You and I both know that I will always have faith in you. If we lasted this long, then we must love each other very much.” She gave a comforting wink.

“I do love you very much. More than basketball and music combined,” said Clyde lovingly with a grin.

"I also love you more than basketball and music," replied Rarity with a playful laugh. “I would even say more than all of my fashion creations I have made thus far, which is quite a lot, mind you.”

Clyde smiled with her and took some quick glances at the TVs. Most of the teams he picked to win were winning, but since none of the games were at halftime yet, he decided to not pay attention to the games yet. He saw their waitress walk over to them, carrying their glasses of water.

"Sorry for the wait," said Velvet Dove placing the glasses on the table. "I had to help carry out some food." She took out her small notepad and looked at Clyde and Rarity. "Anyway, you two ready to order?"

Clyde looked at Rarity, who replied with a nod. "Yeah. We're good."

"You want what you always get? Boneless honey barbecue?" asked Velvet Dove already writing down the order.

Clyde laughed. "Of course I do."

Velvet smiled and looked at Rarity. "And for you, miss?"

"I would like to try your pretzels. You can just bring them out with Clyde's food."

"Awesome. Thank you guys, we'll get them out shortly." Velvet took the menus and walked away.

To pass the time, Clyde picked a game to watch on the various TVs while Rarity played some trivia game on her phone. She was playing Rainbow Dash so she asked Clyde for help with most of the questions to make sure she beat her. Clyde was especially good at the sport questions while Rarity aced the entertainment ones. Clyde was enjoying the trivia game so much that he didn’t take notice of how time was flying by, and soon, Velvet Dove returned to their table with food.

“Here you are,” she smiled, handing Clyde the large bowl of wings. Clyde instantly felt a sudden surge of happiness within him as he looked at the pile of wings. Just the aroma of them made his mouth water. “And your pretzels.” Velvet looked over the two again. “Anything else I can do for you two?”

“I think we are good, thank you,” replied Rarity politely. She looked over at Clyde and shook her head as he was still mesmerized by the wings before him. 

“Let me know if you need anything then! Enjoy!” Velvet walked away and Rarity took a sip of water and looked at her pretzels.

“Clyde?”

“Hmm?” he asked without taking his eyes off his meal. 

“Do you want a part of these pretzels before you dig into your mountain of chicken wings? I’m not that hungry and they gave me three of them.” 

Clyde looked at the pretzels and shrugged. “Sure.” He tore off a small section of one of the three pretzels and dipped it in the queso dip that came with it. The dip was somewhat spicy, a bit more than his honey barbecue sauce for his wings, but he liked it. “That dip is great.”

“Is it really hot?” asked Rarity.

“It has some kick to it, but it’s not too terrible. It’s more spicy than my wings’ sauce for comparison.”

“Oh. I never ate here before so I wouldn’t know.”

Clyde gasped. “You never ate here before?!”

“I’m a girl, Clyde,” stated Rarity bluntly, “I have no interest in these types of restaurants. I much prefer the fancy or fine dining-esque restaurants.”

“Yeah, and the expensive ones, too...” whispered Clyde to himself.

“Pardon?”

“N-Nothing.”

Rarity smiled. “Anyway, I do know my father and his buddies hang out at this place time to time to watch important games. He just never asked me to go because it’s mostly a sports bar.”

“Ah. Well, you should at least try one of these.” Clyde picked up a wing with his fork and held it near her plate. Rarity hesitated on taking it, but after looking at Clyde, she slowly gulped and picked it up with her hand, almost nearly dropping it as soon as she touched it because of the sauce on dripping down on her fingers. She took a small bite out of it and spat the rest of it on her plate, her hand twitching as she looked at the sauce covering her lovely fingernails that she just had a pedicure on a few days prior. Clyde saw around her mouth was some barbecue sauce as well and he really wanted to help her clean it off with his own mouth by kissing her, just because it would have been two of his favorite things combined.

“So?” asked Clyde playfully, trying not to laugh. “Are you a fan yet?”

Rarity ignored him for a moment and, using her clean hand, picked up her glass of water and as elegantly as possible, drank some water, before quickly using her napkin and the condensation from the glass to remove all the barbecue sauce from her fingers and mouth. She shook her head and angrily frowned. 

"Clyde, how can you possibly enjoy these...  these buffalo wings?'  They're simply impossible to eat without getting your fingers all sticky, and your hands and face absolutely filthy!  Can someone get me a fork, a knife, and another napkin before I scream?" 

“Oh, come on,” laughed Clyde finding amusement from watching her panic. “They aren’t even that hot or messy! Having all that sauce on buffalo wings are what makes them so addicting!”

"Buffalo don't even have wings!  How can you support such a grotesque misunderstanding of basic knowledge?" she snapped back. She looked at the half-eaten wing with anger and hatred.

“You can always get plain wings, although you’ll be missing out if you did that.” Clyde saw Rarity was unmoved by his suggestion so he laughed again and started digging into his pile. He handed her his napkin, as he always used a fork, so she could at least try to stay clean. Rarity refused to finish the wing Clyde gave her, so she slowly ate her pretzels while watching Clyde eat the many wings he ordered. Every few minutes while he took a quick breather to take a drink, he saw Rarity glance at the wing on her plate and shake her head in disgust. He snickered before continuing to eat away at the pile.





~ ~ ~





"Call me later, darling?"

Clyde and Rarity were now sitting in his car at his usual parking spot in front of Rarity's small shop entrance. Normally, Clyde planned to watch another set of games before leaving the restaurant, but since his "perfect" bracket already was busted after the very first game, he didn't want to watch anymore at the restaurant. Clyde gave her a smile. "Ten o'clock sharp. Like always."

"I'll be sure to pick up!" Rarity gently grabbed his face and gave him a loving kiss, but soon stopped and moved her head away from him. She licked her lips and giggled. "Your lips taste like honey barbecue."

Clyde smirked. "What did I say? It's the best flavor of wing sauce."

"I never disagreed with you. I just didn't like the 'buffalo' wing that was attached to it. It does taste wonderful though..." Rarity kissed him a few more times in small pecks before opening the passenger side door and walking into her home, giving one last smile and wave to him before she disappeared behind the front door.

Clyde pulled out his phone to check the scores of the current games on. At first he decided to go home to watch them, but the sudden thought of balling at the park came into his mind. Since the weather was fairly warm and the chilling harshness of the winter was far behind him, he plugged in his phone with the auxiliary cord so he could listen to the songs on his phone and quickly sped off towards the park's courts.

When he finally reached the park, Clyde hopped out of the car excitedly and grabbed his basketball from the trunk. He pulled out his earbuds from his pocket, plugged them into his phone, and bounced the ball as he walked up to the empty court and stared at the hoop. 

Normally the park was always buzzing with activity, but since school was still in session, it was a ghost town. Clyde found a strange and familiar sense of comfort being the only one at the court, as he could shoot the ball and listen to music in peace like he did growing up after his parents' deaths. 

He decided to take shots from behind the arc for a few minutes before doing anything else. With every miss he would jog with the ball to the other side of the court and back to try again from the same spot. If he made it, he would simply take a floater or layup, something simple to reward his effort at hitting a long range shot. Eventually, Clyde's shot hit the rim and bounced towards the chain-link fence. He slowly walked over to the ball and stopped when he noticed a car pulling up beside his. The car looked familiar to him for some reason but he couldn't remember. The car's door swung open after it shut off and crawling out of the driver's side was a man some years older than Clyde he guessed. 

The man, decked out in sleeveless black shirt and matching shorts, looked at Clyde's car and then to him. He adjusted the black beanie on his head as he did with his dark shades before walking through the court's fence gate and up to Clyde. Clyde took out his earbuds and put them away in his jeans. 

"Hey," greeted Clyde, giving the new baller a quick look. He was taller than him and extremely muscled. Clyde also noticed the man's five o'clock shadow and was instantly impressed since he himself was a fan of the stubble-esque beards because Rarity liked them. "We can share my ball if you want. I see you don't have one."

The man looked at Clyde before smiling. "I would hope so since I was the one who bought it." Clyde froze in place hearing the man's voice and instantly began shaking with a strange sense of disbelief and nervousness in his gut. The man smiled again before taking off his sunglasses. Clyde instantly felt tears in his eyes forming as his prediction was right and saw that the man in front of him shared the same dark eyes as their mother.

"S-Shale?" Clyde's voice was broken as he couldn't believe who he was talking to. Before he could say another word, his brother wrapped his arms around him and gave him a hug. Clyde couldn't think straight as all sorts of emotions were rushing at him in his mind. 

"I missed you, Clyde. I'm glad to see you are still hanging in there." Clyde could tell his brother's voice was shaky as well, which he found odd because he couldn't remember the last time his older brother showed much emotion except after the that tragic night long ago. However, Clyde knew the reason for his emotions this time. Other than the short phone call before Christmas a year ago, the two hadn't seen each other since early summer of that same year. 

Soon, the two ended their hug and grinned at each other. Clyde slapped his brother's hand and laughed. 

"I see you've been working out,” stated Clyde impressed. His brother’s arms and legs were at least twice as thick as they were before he left for the Guard. Clyde knew the military trained their men ruthlessly, but he never imagined how fast the results would be seen.  

Shale flexed his bicep and shrugged. "It's not that impressive compared to some of the members on my squad. But compared to you, I look like a bodybuilder." He gave a laugh.

Clyde shook his head. "I'm not that thin. I got stronger since you've seen me last." Clyde was telling the truth as Iron Will had the basketball team lift weights occasionally. Not only did he want them faster, he wanted them to be tough so they could fight for rebounds and to back people down in the post. Clyde didn't mind lifting weights as Rarity did like the results tremendously. "So, how were you about to visit? You told me you probably wouldn't see me until next year or the one after that."

"I got done with my training early," replied Shale, "and I'm on the reserve list in case I'm needed. Basically, I'm here with you until late summer unless I get called for emergency reasons. Now I can watch you play ball for the school and even graduate."

"Really!? That's awesome!" said Clyde excitedly. "Good timing too since we got two games left until the title if we can get there." Clyde bounced the ball to his brother and looked at the hoop. "I guess you saw I wasn't home so you went to another option to where I would be?"

"Actually, I haven't been to the house yet," said Shale looking at the cars in the parking lot. "I went to pick up that rented car after my buddy dropped me off, and since I was close to the park, I decided to stop by to check it out." He looked over at Clyde with a smirk. "Glad to see you are skipping school and not getting that education."

"Hey, now wait a minute! You can't call me out like that! I only have two classes!"

Shale laughed. "I'm kidding. I know what day it is." He dribbled the ball around his body and smiled. "So, let's see how much better you have gotten."

"You're on," said Clyde with a competitive smirk. 

Shale walked over to the fence and placed his sunglasses on the ground. He also removed his black beanie. Shale had thick black hair like Clyde, however, since being part of the Guard, his hair was mostly buzzed off except for the top section of his head which was spiked up partially. He looked so much older and more mature to Clyde now that he barely recognized him, but Clyde knew his brother wanted to join the Guard because of that. All he wanted to do was protect his little brother.

The two walked over to the hoop and stared at each other. Before Clyde could suggest to do free throws for the ball, Shale gave a smile. "You can go first."

Clyde with the consent, nodded and quickly burst to his brother's right, driving towards the basket. He nearly had a perfect angle to the rim for the easy layup, but Shale bumped him in the arm, causing him to fumble it and allow his brother to take it. "Foul?" asked Clyde angrily with his arms over his head.

"Maybe in a real game," laughed Shale, "but this is street ball. We grew up playing with no fouls. Clyde can't play tough anymore since he's all professional now, huh?" He dribbled to the arc, planted his feet, and took a jump shot. Clyde sighed as he watched his brother's shot swish perfectly through the net without hitting the rim. He jogged by Clyde, giving him a chuckle, and picked up the ball. 

As soon as Shale threw Clyde the ball, Clyde began his attack again towards the rim again. He couldn't get by due to the good defense from his brother so he backed off him and dribbled the ball close to the ground. Clyde wanted his brother to reach in to try and poke the ball out, like most players did during a real game, so he could rush right by him. However, Shale was much more intelligent and refused to even try doing that. Clyde saw his brother give him a smirk so he dribbled between his legs for a few seconds before quickly stepping back and nailing a three. One of Clyde's proudest accomplishments of this year's season compared to the last was his better shooting percentage, including the three pointer in which he struggled with last year.

"Not bad," said Shale with a shrug. "Your handles improved."

Clyde smirked. "Well of course they did. That's my main approach to getting an open shot or layup." He picked up the ball and threw it to his brother, quickly getting close to him to prevent an easy basket. Shale turned around to post up Clyde, pushing towards the basket with his strength. Clyde never excelled in post defense due to his size, but he tried his hardest to stop him with his forearm. After a few more dribbles, Shale did a small fadeaway shot. The two of them watched the ball bank off the backboard, right into the net.

"You gotta get stronger if you want to stop the post, Clyde. Look how abusive that was," said Shale shaking his head.

"Well, since I defend people close to my size, I really don't have to," responded Clyde in his own defense. "Point guards don't really post up in high school ball."

"I guess that's true." Shale picked up the ball and bounced it to Clyde. He looked up at the rim and then to Clyde. "Did you ever learn to dunk yet?"

Clyde dribbled the ball behind his back and looked at the rim. When the ball returned to his right hand, he charged forward. Upon arriving near the foul shot line, Clyde stop his dribbling to put both hands on the ball. He took his two steps and jumped as high as he could with the ball over his head. He began falling back towards the ground before he was above the rim, but he could reach it. He quickly placed the ball into the hoop and hung on the rim for a few seconds before letting go and landing firmly on the blacktop. "I haven't dunked in a real game yet, but I can graze the rim," said Clyde with a frown. "Maybe one day I can get higher."

Shale walked over to him and placed his arm around his brother. "And then, maybe one day I can call you 'Clyde the Glide.'" 

Clyde instantly found humor in that sentence and laughed. "I wish I could dunk, and even ball, like him. He was awesome." The two brothers stared at the hoop for a few minutes in silence, letting only the wind be the source of sound around them.

It was weird to him how this same park was so important to him throughout his time living in Canterlot. Clyde's first time here was after meeting Tyrone and his other old friends after that detention session on the Saturday after the first week of school. While he didn't get to hang out with them as much as he did anymore, he still considered them friends to him. Shortly after the first month of school, Clyde and Tyrone practiced at this court to make the school's team. This was also where Clyde finally gave into his feelings for Rarity and told Tyrone about what to do. And now, to add to the list, this same park reunited him with his brother. Clyde shook his head and smiled.

"What are you smiling about?" asked Shale noticing the small smile on his brother's face.

"It's nothing. You wanna go home now and watch the rest of the games today?"

"Sounds good. Plus, I have to clean up the mess you made in the house since I've been away." Shale flashed a sly grin.

"You'll be surprised how undamaged the house is then. I know how to take care of a house." 

"You are a maid now?" teased Shale, "I never knew you cleaned houses in your spare time."

Clyde rolled his eyes. "Yep. That's exactly what I do."

Shale laughed. “I’ll stop the typical older sibling teasing for now. Let’s just go home.” Clyde nodded and the two of them walked to the only two cars in the vacant parking lot after Shale picked up his beanie and shades. As Shale walked by Clyde’s car, he brushed his hand over it roof and whistled. “I missed you too, girl. I’m glad Clyde hasn’t wrecked you yet.”

Clyde shook his head and sighed. “I’m not a bad driver.”

“I know, but Midnight here was my girl. I was sad to let her go, but I had to leave for training and you needed a car.” Shale rubbed his palm over a dirty spot on the black car’s paint and smiled. “I’ll take you for a spin later, girl.” Shale looked at Clyde who was giving him another head shake.

“I’ve never seen someone that excited to see a car again.”

“It was my first car. Everyone has a special attachment to their first ride.” Shale raised his eyebrows. “Are you saying you aren’t a fan of Midnight?”

“What? Of course I love Midnight, too! She’s been good to me since you gave her to me last summer.” Clyde slyly smirked as Rarity came into his mind. “Plus, I’ve had some good memories involving Midnight myself.”

Shale proudly nodded. “Good. Midnight is a great car.” He opened the door of his rented four-door car and called over to Clyde. “I’ll see you at home.”

Clyde nodded and entered his brother's beloved car, Midnight. After plugging in his phone to listen to his playlist instead of the radio, Clyde packed out of the parking space and drove home. As he was driving, he couldn’t help but feel weird to think that someone was actually waiting for him to get home. He always would get home to an empty house, but this time his brother would be waiting there as if nothing tragic happened to them. 

Clyde pulled into the driveway beside Shale’s rented car upon getting to their house. Shale was already inside, so Clyde quickly pulled the key out of Midnight’s ignition and walked into the house. 

As he looked around, he saw Shale leaning against the kitchen cabinets munching on a bag of chips. Shale gave a small wave before grabbing a handful of chips and throwing them in his mouth. Clyde smiled and quickly ran upstairs. He went into his room and found comfortable clothes to get into before heading straight to the shower.

A few minutes and a refreshing shower later, Clyde sat at the end of his bed while looking through his phone. A little after Clyde was out of the shower, Shale decided to get one also, probably for the same reason of washing all the dried-up sweat and grime off of them.

As Clyde sat in his room, he felt strange hearing the shower running. Normally he was the only who took a shower here, and sometimes Rarity when she stayed over, but since Clyde knew she wasn't here and he was sitting on his bed, hearing the shower running completely freaked him out since he never thought his brother would see him again this soon.

The sound of the shower abruptly stopped after a few minutes and the quietness of the house Clyde was accustomed to was present once again. Clyde moved his head around to rid the tension in his neck and as he decided stand up to walk downstairs, he heard the bathroom door open up and footsteps walk through the hallway. Shale looked into his room and frowned.

"Hey, Clyde. Can I ask why there is some makeup and female shampoo and conditioner in the bathroom?"

Clyde laughed. "It's not mine. Rarity keeps some of her extra 'beauty supplies' here."

"Rarity?" asked Shale confused. He looked past Clyde and gazed upon the two frames above his bed. "Oh, that same girl you were telling me about on the phone that night?" 

Clyde nodded. "That's the one."

Shale gave him a smile and walked into his room to look at the two collages Rarity made for them for Christmas and after their Manehattan trip. Clyde was used to looking at them for a quick smile in the morning, but he tried to look over at his brother to see his reaction. Shale remained relatively unmoved, but Clyde did see a few smiles show up.

"I'm impressed, Clyde. Not only did you find a girlfriend somehow, you also managed to find one who is rather attractive and probably out of your league."

Clyde frowned. "Thanks for not believing in me..."

Shale shook his head. "What I meant is that you never talked to anyone before I left. You stayed in your room all the time listening to music and avoiding contact with people unless you had to. I'm just surprised is all." He looked back at the collages and scanned the pictures again with a serious gaze. "So, did you sleep with her yet?" 

Clyde blinked, not truly understanding the question at first. "Well, yeah. I told you she keeps shampoo and makeup here in case she stays over after we fall asleep on the couch or bed."

Shale kept his eyes on the various pictures. "No. Did you sleep with her yet?" he repeated with extra emphasis.

Clyde felt his face warm up and he scratched his head to act casual like he didn't know what his brother was talking about. "I-I don't have to answer that. W-What makes you say that I have?"

Shale looked over at him with his serious gaze, making Clyde feel even more uncomfortable. "I'm not asking for the details. I just don't want you to break the girl's heart."

"W-What?"

Shale closed his eyes. "Most of the guys I roomed with during training would always talk about their adventures with girls during high school. Almost all of them only dated and pretended to love them just to sleep with them to act all cool to their friends and to see how many times they could get laid as if it was a simple contest." Shale opened his eyes to look at the pictures one last time and then quickly shot his gaze to Clyde. "There isn't a single picture on that wall where at least one of you isn't smiling. I can tell she loves you very much and I haven't even met her in person yet."

Clyde nodded at his brother and looked at the pictures on the wall himself. His brother was right about the pictures all having at least one smile on them, something Clyde didn't notice but at the same time not surprised about knowing Rarity's personality. "Trust me. I don't want to ever break her heart either. She means too much to me."

"Good," replied his brother giving him a pat on the back. "I have my faith in you, Clyde."

Clyde smiled. "Thanks. That means a lot coming from the guy who I looked up to all my life, especially after our parents' death."

Shale rubbed his head and laughed. "I'm not a hero, but I did promise to take care of you." Shale patted Clyde's back again and looked at the Manehattan collage. "So you two went to Manehattan?"

"Yeah. I took her there for Fashion Week, which she is into that topic tremendously, as a Christmas and I guess Valentine's present."

"So this is where all that money goes to..."

Clyde slyly smirked. "You said before you left to only spent the money on necessities. Rarity makes me happy and I couldn't imagine what I would be like if I didn't meet her last year. Other than food and groceries, all the money spent so far was probably relating to her in someway." Clyde looked at the heart-shaped collage and a large smile appeared on his face. "It's because no matter how life treats you, there's at least one person who loves you enough for you to keep striving through it. She's my muse." 

Shale nodded with a smirk. "You have changed after all and it's for the better. I'm proud of you." The two shared a smile before a stomach gurgle erupted from Shale. He laughed and turned towards the door. "I guess I'm still hungry so time for me to eat some more of those delicious chips."

"Those chips are really good," replied Clyde in agreement. Shale started to walk out of his room but Clyde stopped him. "Hey, would you like to meet Rarity and her family in a few minutes? I'm sure they are home, but I'll give her a call real quick to see."

Shale smiled. "Sure. I'll be downstairs in the kitchen with those chips in the meantime." He left the room and charged down the stairs.

Clyde looked back at his two collages and pulled out his phone. While the conversation with his brother turned rather personal, Clyde knew his brother only wanted him to be smart about certain decisions. Clyde knew Rarity wasn't just an "object" to him. She was a combination of a best friend and a soulmate. She was also the only person who knew his heart and mind as well as he did. Clyde quickly clicked on Rarity's contact name under the favorites section, which truthfully, only she was part of, and put the phone to his ear. After a few rings, Rarity's blissful voice soothed Clyde's ear.

"Hello, my love! I see you couldn't wait until ten to call me." She gave a lovely giggle.

"You know I love the sound of your alluring voice," said Clyde smoothly, however, in his mind he hated how cheesy that sounded. 

"Why thank you, darling." Rarity paused briefly. "Say Clyde, this might be rather awkward to ask on the phone, but did I leave my bra in the back of your car?"

Clyde blushed. "W-What do you mean?"

"Well, I'm in my room right now and I can't seem to find that laced lavender bra that I had on when we... how do I put it? Fooled around in the back of your car a few nights ago. I really love it because, as you know, it matches my- Wait! I found it! It was under pillow!"

Clyde sighed in relief away from the phone. He knew if Shale found a bra in the back of the car, let alone in the back of Midnight, he wouldn't ever let it down to him. "So, everything is good then?"

"Yep! You'll see for yourself in a few nights! Maybe..." She playfully giggled again. Clyde frowned but eventually smiled. "Anyway, darling. Did you want something?"

"I wanted to see if you and your family was home. I have someone for you to meet."

"Of course I'm home. You know I rarely drive since you like to chauffeur me around all the time. My parents should be getting home soon and Sweetie Belle is... I think she is somewhere with her friends I assume or on her way home from school."

"Perfect. I'll be over soon then."

Rarity gasped. "Clyde, did you buy me a puppy?!"

"Wait, what?"

"You did didn't you?"

"No! You know Opal would start hating me if I did that," laughed Clyde.

"I suppose you're right. Anyway! I'll see you soon then!" Rarity kissed him through the phone, by sound, like she normally did before hanging up.

Clyde put his phone in his pocket and shook his head while laughing. "I love that girl so much."

Clyde made his way downstairs and looked at his brother who was now eating a sandwich. "You ready?" he asked during his breath of air. 

Clyde nodded. "She's home so whenever you want to leave."

Shale smacked his hands together and jogged over to the keys. "Let's bounce. I'm driving Midnight."

"Fine with me."

Shale grabbed the keys and excitedly ran out the door. Clyde checked to make sure everything was off before locking up the house. He walked over to the car he was so used to driving and opened the passenger seat. It felt weird to not be in the driver's seat, but he also enjoyed the feeling of actually sitting there and just chilling as well. Shale soon sat in the driver's seat and rubbed his palms around the steering wheel. "It's been so long..."

"Don't get too excited," joked Clyde.

Shale ignored him and turned the key in the ignition, smiling largely at the roar of the engine. He grabbed his shades and looked at Clyde. "Hey, it has been so long since I drove Midnight here it was..."–Shale put on his sunglasses–"...driving me crazy."

Clyde smacked his head. "Damn, dude. That was awful." 

"Ease up, Clyde. I was waiting all that time to say that." He gave a laugh and put the car in reverse and pulled out the driveway. Clyde turned on the radio, but Shale turned the volume down after a few seconds. "So, on the way here, tell me how you met this girl."

Clyde looked out the window. "Well. I guess it all started the week after I sat in that Saturday morning detention after the first week of school."
> Más o Menos un Día Normal [Cinco de Mayo]
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

	The loud whistle went off and Clyde looked at Coach Iron Will and his teammates as they quickly huddled around near their bench. He was faintly panting, as was the others except the bench squad, and they all awaited Iron Will’s plan in silence. He stopped scribbling down the plan on the small whiteboard and looked up, before completely throwing the whiteboard away.

“Take the best shot!” he ordered. The team looked at each other confused at the rather simple play.

“Really? That’s the plan?” questioned Tyrone. “Not even where to go or who to screen?”

"Yeah, Coach. That seems a little wack," agreed Thunderlane. 

Bulk Biceps gave a final nod to end the conversation.

Iron Will snorted. “Iron Will has watched all of you grow as a team in the past two years.” He looked up at the large scoreboard above the court. “We only need a basket to win with ten seconds left. You’ve played enough games together to know what to do.” 

The whistle blew again to signal the end of the final timeout in the game for Canterlot High and Clyde and the rest of the starters walked back to their usual positions on the court for inbounding the ball. Clyde stopped near the midcourt line and looked around the arena.

Seeing how it was the State Championship game, both teams played in a neutral court that belonged to either a professional or college level team. Manehattan was almost exactly the same distance from Canterlot High and their opponents, Griffondale High, making it a perfect neutral court. Clyde already sat in the stands to watch a Kneighs game with Rarity back in February during their week-long visit, but playing on the same court, with all the fans watching in the plethora of seats was something completely unworldly to him. He tried finding his brother and Rarity in the stands, but there were too many people to focus on in the situation. Soon, the opposing point guard stood next to him and blocked him from seeing Tyrone, the inbounder. 

Clyde snapped back into reality and focused on the game instead of the fans. After the referee bounced the ball to Tyrone and blew his whistle, the fans of both Canterlot and Griffiondale shouted in nervousness and confidence, respectively. Tyrone quickly threw the ball to Thunderlane who just came off a screen from Bulk. Clyde and Tyrone ran towards the hoop as Thunderlane quickly sprinted to the far side of the court. He stopped and passed it to an open Tyrone, but as he caught the ball, two defenders ran over to him and tried to get him to turn the ball over. Clyde quickly looked at the clock above the basket and saw that there was only five seconds left, and with no one else open, he did a small spin around his defender and ran to get open. Tyrone instantly saw Clyde run and launched the ball over his head to him. Clyde caught the ball without stopping and quickly jumped to shoot, drifting away from the basket and seeing a hand almost cover his face. 

He was at the apex of the jump with one second remaining, but time and space seemed to be completely frozen. All Clyde could hear was his heart beat in a constant rhythm and all he could see was the side of the backboard and orange rim that jutted outwards as he somehow remained floating in air at that split second. Clyde focused on the rim and released the ball as time rushed back into place and he landed on one foot and jogged backwards. The buzzer went off and the ball perfectly swished through the net. 

An eruption of cheers emitted from Canterlot High’s fan section as players, and even students from the crowd, ran to tackle Clyde. Tyrone was the first to get to him and he nearly knocked him down himself, but with the extra force of Bulk Biceps, a mosh pit soon formed around him on the court and Clyde couldn’t move. He knew hitting the game-winner would cause a riot, but he never imagined it being this crazy.

After a few minutes, the riot slowed down and Tyrone helped Clyde up off the court and patted his back. He gave him a smirk and walked away to celebrate with others. 

After more students gave him smiles and nods as they walked by, Clyde was soon ambushed and hugged tightly by Rarity for a quick moment before she smiled at him. She held his face in her hands and gave him a kiss before letting her wondrous blue eyes seep into his.

"You did it!" she cheered and hugged him again. "My favorite player in the whole world won our school a championship!"

Clyde shrugged before grinning. "All I hit was one shot. The team gave me a chance to shine, but I'm not a hero."

"But you are a hero, darling! You're my hero!" She brushed a hand on his chin and kept her seductive smile on him. "Isn't that all that matters anyway?"

Clyde gave a warm smile and kissed her forehead, wrapping his arms around her. Because he was just subbed into the game a few seconds before that timeout, he wasn't sweaty at all so Rarity didn't try playfully running away from him. Rarity cooed at him in bliss because of the loving hug and Clyde felt euphoria instantly hit him. Not only was he the guy who won the championship for his school with the buzzer beater, he was also the guy who had the prettiest and greatest girlfriend a guy could ask for. Nothing could ruin this moment for him as he felt like he was a king.

"Good game, Clyde!" yelled Shale who walked up to them. "Let me tell you, that crowd was crazy to traverse through, but you should probably wake up now. You might be late for school."

Clyde blinked. "Huh?"





~ ~ ~





"Clyde! Wake your ass up! It's time for school!"

Clyde jolted awake and was immediately terrified as the lights of his room flashed on and off repeatedly. He quickly looked at the light switch and saw the silhouette of a figure standing in his doorway. Clyde rubbed his eyes to fully wake them, trying his hardest to focus on the figure. After his eyes began to take in light, there he saw that Shale was the cause of his preemptive awakening.

"Get up, Clyde," repeated his brother. "I'm about to take my early morning jog around Canterlot and I want to make sure you don't sleep in."

Clyde yawned and looked at his phone. Once he saw the time, he looked up at Shale in bewilderment and anger. "It's five in the morning?! I don't need to be up for another two hours!!" 

Shale chuckled. "Waking up early can be good for you if you rest early the night before. Maybe you shouldn't talk to your girlfriend all night long on that webcam program."

"She needed help with her final history project," said Clyde defensively. "Normally we don't chat that long into the night, but like I said, she needed help with research." Clyde frowned and yawned. "You woke me from a cool dream."

"Oh? What happened."

"I was back at the Championship game and I was the one who hit the game-winner, not Tyrone." Clyde felt saddened to experience a dream like that, but the feeling of making the big shot to win the game was something he always wanted to do. Of course he was happy the school won anyway, but he felt like he didn't do anything that game.

"Yeah, but remember, he wouldn't have made that shot if you didn't steal that ball and passed to him. You had a great game with all your assists. Sure you had a rough game with shooting the ball, but you helped your team nearly score every point they put up by passing to the open person." Shale gave a comforting smile and turned to leave. "I'll see you later. Have a good day at school, you only got a few more weeks after all." Shale walked out of Clyde's room and ran down the stairs. Clyde heard the front door of the house briefly open and close before quietness filled his room.

Clyde laid in his bed staring at the ceiling. Shale left the lights off in his room, and since the sun wouldn't be over the horizon for another hour or so, he laid in darkness. Clyde tried falling back asleep, but couldn't. He gave a sigh after a few minutes went by and picked up his phone. After nearly blinding himself from the illuminated screen, he scrolled through his sports feeds and yawned. 

An hour and some videos later, the sun's shine cracked through the gaps of his window blinds and light slowly flooded his room. He decided to finally get up and shower to start the day.

Once his shower was done, he dressed into his normal clothes and ran downstairs to eat a bowl of cereal. As he ate, he texted Rarity saying he would pick up and drive her and Sweetie Belle to school since he was up early. Rarity quickly responded back to him with a smiley face emoticon and an emoticon that was winking and blowing a kiss.

As Clyde exited his house, the cool and refreshing early morning breeze of May hit him gently. He always loved the month of May, and not because it was the last month of school. The weather was always nice when it didn't rain and everyone was just in a better mood overall because summer was only a few weeks away. Clyde got into his car and sped off towards Rarity's home.

Upon arriving at the small shop's entrance, Clyde was surprised to see both Rarity and Sweetie Belle already outside waiting for him. He leaned over to open the passenger door and pulled the seat forward so Sweetie Belle could sit in the back. Sweetie Belle quickly got in the car while Rarity elegantly walked over to it, as if she had time to spare, and sat in the passenger seat. 

Rarity leaned over the center console and gave Clyde a warming good morning kiss. “Thank you for picking us up, darling.”

“She isn’t even at school yet and already she kisses him...,” stated Sweetie Belle apathetically from the backseat. 

Rarity ignored her and gave a small yawn. “Oh my. Maybe I shouldn’t have procrastinated that history assignment after all.”

“Did you finish it?” asked Clyde.

“Yep! Finished it at around two in the morning.” She gave her purple backpack a small pat then looked at Clyde. “I’m extremely sorry if I caused you to stay up a little longer last night. You must be simply exhausted.”

Clyde shrugged. “Truth be told, I’m running on less hours of sleep than you because of my brother, but I don’t mind. As long as you finished your assignment, I’ll be happy.” He flashed her a smile. 

"This is why I'm super lucky to have such a wonderful boyfriend as you." She brushed her hand along his face while showing her sultry smile. "I feel like I'm spoiled."

"It's because you deserve to be."

Sweetie Belle groaned and looked out the car window. "Maybe I should just walk to school today. We'll be here all day at this rate with all this lovey-dovey talk..."

Clyde and Rarity looked at each other and gave one last smile before Clyde decided to drive the car to end Sweetie Belle's discomfort. She didn't normally oppose them being all "cute" with each other, but since school was about to start, Clyde assumed she just wanted to get there to talk to her friends, and possibly just get out of the car in general before they decided to get even more passionate with each other. 

A fairly short drive later, Clyde pulled into the student parking lot behind the school and turned the car off. Rarity got out of the car to move her seat forward. A few seconds later, Sweetie Belle quickly thanked him for the drive and said goodbye before dashing out of the car and into the school. 

"She's quite eager for school," noted Clyde as he got out and locked his car. 

"Maybe she has a secret boyfriend she doesn't want me to know about," joked Rarity with a smile. "She doesn't really stay home as much during the weekends recently, so it's plausible she meets him somewhere each week." 

"Anyway, shall we head inside?"

Rarity nodded and strapped her backpack over her shoulder and walked up to Clyde. 

As the two walked the path towards the back entrance of the school, Clyde could tell every student was in better spirits due to the fair weather. He exchanged some nods and smiles with his fellow peers as he walked by and towards the steps, but he soon felt a hand clasp his.

"Clyde, darling, can I ask you something?"

Clyde turned to look at Rarity. "What's wrong?"

"Nothing's wrong. It's just I noticed something rather interesting."

"Oh?"

Rarity tightened her grip on his hand. "Well, I noticed you don't ever hold my hand while we are at school. You do it sometimes when we are walking through town or the mall, but you haven't held my hand in school since... honestly, I can't even remember how long ago."

Clyde stopped walking to look at her and then to their hands that were locked together. He gave a frown and looked at her eyes. "I never really thought about it."

"Do you not love me anymore?" asked Rarity disheartened. Clyde knew she was playing around, but he always hated hearing her angelic voice show sadness.

"I think it's impossible for me to stop loving you at this point," said Clyde. He earned a smile from Rarity and he looked at their hands again. "I guess because I always thought holding hands in school was for new couples to do to signal they are now officially off the market. Since we've been together for so long and are always seen walking and sitting near each other, and because you are one of the most popular girls at school that has won the school dance crown three times in a row now, and even repeated as Spring Fling Princess a few weeks ago even, everyone knows that both of us are always going to be associated with each other."

"Always?" asked Rarity in a playful tone with raised eyebrows.

"I sure hope so."

Rarity giggled. "As do I." She looked away briefly before tugging him to continue walking. "Can we hold hands anyway at school? I still find it adorable and it's like we are still young and madly in love."

"But we are still young and madly in love," stated Clyde with a grin.

"Indeed we are," purred Rarity in a whisper, stopping in her tracks and holding his face with her free hand. Her face was only an inch or two away from his and he could feel her gentle breaths of air. "And I'll show you exactly how much I love you after school is done and we are alone by–"

"¡Hola, Rarity y Clyde! ¿Cómo están?"

Rarity instantly jumped back from Clyde. He looked to his left to see the always-smiling Pinkie Pie watching them and wearing a pink poncho. Atop her head was a pink sombrero that went well with her choice of attire.

"Good morning, Pinkie," said Rarity politely with a hand on her chest. "You nearly scared me."

"Lo siento, Rarity. ¡Yo estoy mucho contento porque hoy es Cinco de Mayo!" She gasped. "¡Feliz Cinco de Mayo, mis amigos! ¡Hoy es un día especial y me olvidé de decirles amigos!"

Clyde and Rarity looked at each other extremely confused. Clyde pulled out his phone to translate what she said, but stopped when he saw the date on his lock screen. "Oh, it's May 5th. That's right. I guess you'll be speaking the language for the whole day?"

"¡Sí!" nodded Pinkie. "'¡Estoy teniendo una fiesta después de la escuela en la cafetería! ¡Espero verle allí! ¡Hasta luego!" Pinkie flashed one last grin and ran into the school. 

"Well, I can't say I didn't see that coming," stated Clyde scratching his head.

"It is Pinkie after all," agreed Rarity.

The two of them laughed before they finally walked into the school, holding hands because Rarity wanted them to.





~ ~ ~





After the final school bell rang, students fled the classrooms. Instead of rushing to the parking lot or outside, the students made their way to the cafeteria for Pinkie's small "fiesta". Clyde was happy that since he had almost no fuel from the few hours of sleep he had, the day seemed to fly by.

Like any normal Cinco de Mayo gathering, there were many types of festive and colorful decorations that were hung all over the cafeteria and tables of food that related to the holiday. Quesadillas, nachos, and tacos were the main attraction while chimichangas and fried ice cream were the favorites on the dessert table. After Clyde finished eating his fried ice cream and found a bottle of water, he made his way over to Rarity and her group of friends because no one from his "squad" was present. He sat down at a nearby table and pulled out his phone to read the sports feed while listening to their always-amusing conversation. 

"This food is delicious, Pinkie," said Sunset sweetly. "Did you help with the food?"

"¡Sí! ¡Mi tía me ayudó a cocinar toda esta comida!” explained Pinkie excitedly and with a huge smile. “¿Les gusta la comida?” she asked and looked at each of her friends. They looked at Sunset who seemed to be the only one who could fluently understand Pinkie. After Sunset gave a nod, the others replied with one of their own. “Bueno. ¡Voy a ir a visitar a los otros estudiantes para ver si les gusta la fiesta también! ¡Adiós!” She quickly waved and ran away to the crowd of people. 

“Well, at least that’s over with,” stated Rainbow Dash after she saw Pinkie surprise a group of students who were talking to each other. “I never bothered to take that class so I didn’t understand anything she just said.”

“You really should take some lessons on it in the future,” retorted Sunset. “Who knows when it can come in handy.”

Rainbow Dash pulled out her phone. “Nah.”

“Suit yourself,” grumbled Sunset shaking her head.

“Well, folks,” began Applejack, “hate to make it short, but Ah promised Apple Bloom Ah would finish her chores from last night.”

“Why did you do that?” questioned Rainbow Dash.

Applejack smirked. “So Ah can enjoy the family gatherin’ this weekend while she is busy doing my chores. No Apple can miss the first meeting of the summer!”

“I’m impressed AJ, that’s pretty evil of you,” laughed Rainbow.

“Pfft. It ain’t my fault she didn’t look at the calendar. She should know by now when our family meetings are.” She laughed, tipped her hat, and gave a wave before leaving the room. 

“Yeah, I should probably go, too. Soccer practice is in an hour.” Rainbow Dash gave a ‘cool’ thumbs up as she walked away from them with her back towards the group and out of the room. Rarity turned to the two girls still remaining in the group.

"So, Fluttershy and Sunset. What are you girls doing today in this lovely weather?" asked Rarity curiously.

"I'm not sure," replied Sunset with a frown. "Fluttershy talked about going to the mall or something to look around and possibly get our nails done, but we haven't talked about it since this morning."

Fluttershy smiled. "I'll be willing to go if you still want to, Sunset. I think it would be fun."

"Ooh! That's sounds lovely!" gushed Rarity. "I don't want to sound rude, but could I join you girls? I really could go with a pedicure or something."

"Of course!" said Fluttershy in her quiet-toned joy. 

"We'd love to have you join us, Rarity." Sunset soon frowned again. "However, you will have to drive because Fluttershy and I walked to school together today."

"I'm afraid I didn't drive either. Clyde took Sweetie Belle and me to school today..." The girls simultaneously frowned until Rarity looked at them and smiled. Soon, Fluttershy and Sunset smiled as they figured it out. All three girls slowly turned their heads towards Clyde.

It took a few moments, but after a weird feeling of people looking at him and the fact that the group stopped talking, Clyde looked away from his phone and saw the three girls looking at him. "Did I miss something?"





~ ~ ~





"Thank you for driving us to the mall today, darling."

It was now a few hours before nightfall as Clyde sat in his car with Rarity in front of her home. The two just got back from dropping off both Fluttershy and Sunset after spending nearly two hours at the mall. Clyde refused to walk with them through the mall and instead went around the mall by himself, looking through the various stores' windows to see if anything intrigued him. He eventually caught up with the three girls as they left a clothing store and together they walked out of the mall and he drove them back to their homes.

"Well, I didn't want to leave you or your friends at school without a ride, so I really had no choice," laughed Clyde.

Rarity smiled. "I still thank you for taking us." She opened up the passenger door and stepped outside. "My mother made fresh cookies last night before she left for her business trip. Do you want to come in to have some? I know you like my mother’s food."

Clyde nodded and turned off the car. "Your mom's food is always delicious." 

Rarity laughed and unlocked the shop's door. Opal was sitting on the counter giving a small meow as she walked by her. Clyde stopped to rub Opal's head, and letting her rub her face on his hand, before heading into the kitchen.

There was a plate of cookies on the kitchen table  that was covered with a plastic wrap to keep them fresh. Rarity took two of the chocolate-chip cookies and handed one to Clyde before she nibbled elegantly on hers. Clyde could tell by just looking at the cookie it was going to be amazing. It was perfectly round and even though it was made a day before, it was still soft. He bit into the cookie and felt the chocolate melt in his mouth.

"These should be illegal," said Clyde after clearing his mouth of food. "How are these so good?"

Rarity giggled. "Mother is an excellent cook after all. She has recipes for nearly everything. She said she would teach Sweetie Belle and me all her recipes eventually."

"Rarity cooking?" asked Clyde playfully, "now that would be a rarity."

"I can cook!" retorted Rarity with a smile, "it's just you always wanted to take me somewhere to eat and you don't really like the food I know how to make."

Clyde shook his head. "No, you are the one who wants to eat someplace because you don't have to pay for it."

Rarity giggled again. "Touché."

"But I'll eat anything you make, just because you worked hard on making it."

Rarity looked at the kitchen table. "How about we have one of those nice, romantic dinners here on Saturday where I shall cook and serve the food then?"

"That sounds wonderful," stated Clyde with a loving smile. "I bet you'll go all out with decor as well?"

"What? Me?" asked Rarity acting surprised. "Why would I ever do something like that, darling?" She flashed a sly smile before giggling. She instantly walked over to him and gave him an intimate hug. Clyde responded by wrapping his arms around her lower waist. "Are you still tired?" she asked while looking up into his eyes.

"Not really."

"Good."

Clyde knew that tone. "Why?"

"Oh, no reason..."

"I don't believe you."

Rarity gave a cheery laugh. "I was wondering since no one should be home for a few hours..." She coughed and leaned closer to his ear so she could whisper. "In honor of Cinco de Mayo... Qu'est-ce que tu dis nous allons à mon salle pour le fin de jour?" She backed her head away from him a few inches so she could kiss him softly.

"That's not even the same language," replied Clyde with a smile, "and I'm not exactly sure what you said, but it sounded seductive and extremely sexy."

Rarity lowered her eyes and winked at him. "That's all that matters." She leaned closer to his ear again so she could whisper the sentence again, this time in the language Clyde could understand in.

"I'd enjoy that," he replied with a smirk.

"We both will," she purred seductively. 

Clyde didn't get to reply as Rarity kissed him again for a few seconds longer and grabbed his hand. She led him out of the kitchen and up the stairs to her room.

> Mom [Mother's Day]
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

	Clyde listened to the gentle rain as he stared out the window. The rain patted the glass window and zigzagged down it in many crooked paths. The sun hadn't shone through the sky all morning and Clyde was beginning to think it wouldn't at all. The TV was on, but he didn't know what was on or who was talking. He kept his eyes fixed on the growing puddle of water that was forming on the road.

"What's wrong, Clyde?" asked his brother Shale as he entered the living room. 

Clyde shrugged. "Lots of things lately," he said nonchalantly.

Shale looked at him and frowned. With a sigh he sat on the chair opposite of the couch and looked at the steady rainfall. "It's about Mom, isn't it?"

Clyde kept his gaze on the rain before he gave a slow nod. 

"I miss her, too..."

Clyde turned to face him. "It just sucks. Today's the day to really celebrate your mother and embrace all of the love and care she gave you while raising you, and thank her and tell her she's the greatest and most beautiful mother you could ever ask for, but we don't have the luxury of even saying it to her face." He wiped his eyes before they got too watery and he looked at the ground. "It's not fair. Mom and Dad didn't have to go that soon."

Shale dropped his head to the ground as well. "I know how you feel," he said with a voice full of sorrow, "but we can still celebrate Mother's Day. You know she's watching us right now." 

Clyde looked up and saw his brother's smile. He knew Shale was right. He gave him a nod and slightly smiled. "What do you want to do to celebrate?"

"How about we reminisce on family memories?" suggested Shale, "it might be sad, but we could at least show her we will always love her."

Clyde nodded. "I'm in." 

"Fantastic." Shale looked up at the ceiling for a moment. Clyde could tell by his facial expression that he was trying to think hard of one certain memory. Shale was older than Clyde by seven years, and he knew Shale probably could remember a lot more memories with their parents than he ever could. "I'll start off by saying, I'm sorry for picking on Clyde over here when we were little, Mom.” He gave a smirk and looked over at Clyde. “You know I love you Clyde, as you are my only sibling and my little brother, but I was jealous you were getting more attention than me since you were a baby."

"Really?" asked Clyde surprised. "You were jealous? I never pictured you as that type."

Shale laughed. "I grew out of it eventually, but until we had that one fight where I shoved you down on the driveway and you cried all night because I scraped up your knee, I hated how you were getting more attention than me. I was the first son, so I thought I deserved all the gifts and love. Not you. I felt ignored at times."

Clyde shook his head before chuckling. "That sounds like Rarity when she was younger. She told me she acted almost exactly like that to Sweetie Belle."

Shale laughed. "Yeah, but I know you forgive me now, but I'm sorry for being that asshole brother to you. When I hurt you, I really felt bad and I remember Mom coming to talk to me as Dad was cleaning up the cut on your knee." Shale leaned back in his chair and smiled. Clyde noticed his brother's eyes were growing with tears and he was feeling emotional just hearing about family tales. "She told me she wasn't upset at me for hurting you, which I feared she would be. I don't think I ever saw Mom get mad at any of us to be honest from what I remember. Anyway, she wanted me to pretend I was the baby and you were me."

Clyde scratched his head. "Why? Did she want you to imagine if you were the one to get cut up instead?"

Shale nodded. "I told her of course I didn’t want to get hurt. That's when she smiled at me and told me no one likes being hurt, so I shouldn't try and hurt anyone. She even said how she would do anything to protect Dad and the two of us, just so we wouldn't get hurt as we were the most special people in the world to her." Clyde saw a tear roll down his brother's cheek and he looked away before a tear fell from his own eyes. "Those words really stuck with me through the years as I promised I would protect her, Dad, and you, if possible. Since it's just the two of us now Clyde, I won't let her down and I will protect you and help protect this country, too." Shale laughed away some tears before giving his brother a nod.

Clyde rubbed his arm against his eyes and nodded at his brother. He knew this day was always emotional every year since their parents' death, but by finally being able to talk it out with his brother, Clyde felt a sense of closure and joy. Nothing would ever bring back his parents, but he could always remember them through pictures, memories, and speech.

"What about you, Clyde?" 

"Huh?" said Clyde as he blinked back to reality.

Shale shook his head slowly with a smirk. "Do you have any personal moments with Mom? I never told you or Dad about that conversation we had that night I just talked about."

"Oh, yeah, I do." Clyde adjusted himself on the couch and rested his hands behind his head. "She noticed I was sad one day after coming home from school and she asked me what was wrong. I–"

"What was the problem?" interrupted Shale, "were you bullied? Why didn't you tell me!"

"I wasn't bullied!" spoke Clyde loudly and annoyed at being interrupted. "Let me tell my story! I let you tell yours." 

Shale laughed and rubbed his head. "Sorry. My guardian instinct kicked in."

"It's fine," replied Clyde with a laugh. He coughed to clear his throat even though his throat was perfectly fine. "Anyway, I was six years old at time time just to give you a better picture. After a week of school went by, none of the kids in my class wanted to hang out with me during lunch or when we played outside. I was always that loner kid in class with none of my classmates talking to me." Clyde's vision was getting cloudy and he kept his stare at the ceiling.

"Oh man... I never knew this. Why didn't they like you?"

"I don't know. I never knew. I guess because I wasn't playing sports, didn't have the cool new games, or had the 'cooties' disease that was super popular that year. I tried really hard to make friends, but my classmates just didn't care. I spent pretty much everyday at school working by myself, which made me learn rather quickly compared to other kids, but I still wanted a friend. Naturally, Mom always knew when I was upset, so she stopped me at the front door and made me tell her what was wrong."

Shale smiled. "Sounds like her alright."

"I told her I was sad that I was going to be a loner all my life," continued Clyde, "and that I would never have friends. She instantly told me that was a 'bunch of boloney' and I will find my true friends eventually. Just because some students didn't talk to me didn't me all of them in the school would. She finished saying that true friends would always show up and help you in any situation."

"You did make a friend too, didn't you?" questioned Shale with a grin.

Clyde beamed a huge smile. "Yup! A few days after that conversation, I met Mosaic. We were playing a kickball game outside and we both ran into each other after trying to catch a fly ball that was coming down. I do miss that guy though, he was my first friend..."

"Didn't he move away in the fifth grade?"

"Yeah," said Clyde sadly. "We did everything together; from playing in the woods behind his house to playing those racing games on that cubular game console." Clyde gave a sigh. "I was so upset all day long after he moved away. I thought being alone was always going to be my thing in life, but Mom talked to me again saying to never, ever think that. She told me every single night that I would never be alone. She, Dad, you, and everyone else who was important to me would always be with me somehow. I believed her, I truly did, but after Mom and Dad left us unexpectedly and then you left me to join the Guard, I soon found my way back to the normal pit of loneliness and emptiness from before. Sure I had some new friends like Tyrone, but I couldn't help but think like that again."

Shale frowned and looked at the ground. "I'm sorry, Clyde... I never realized how much being alone means to you. I never should have done that to you..."

Clyde frowned sadly with him, but still, he soon found himself smiling. "Even though I was depressed and alone in this empty house by myself, hope still managed to save me. One girl changed my life for the better. She cleansed all the thoughts of being alone from ever taking over my body again."

Shale quickly looked up at him and smiled. "Rarity, huh?"

Clyde's smile grew as he heard her name. "Rarity will always be important to me in ways no one except me or her could ever know. I know I joke about fate was the reason we met, but I honestly believe Mom guided me to her. When Rarity came over that one Christmas Eve and told me nearly the same mantra Mom would always tell me about how I would never be alone again, I knew Rarity was an angel sent my way. I never even told Rarity about that struggle in my life until after we began dating, but I couldn't ever ask for a better girlfriend, let alone, the greatest friend I've ever had." Clyde sat up from the couch and stood tall. He closed his eyes and smiled. "Mom, I know you can hear me and I just wanted to say I will always love you and I hope I never disappoint you. I wish I could fall into your many hugs you would give us when we both were younger, but sadly that’s not the case. I'll be sure to make you and Dad proud and remember all of the things you both taught me as I grew up.”

Shale gave a huge grin and stood up. “Don’t worry, Mom. I’ll be sure to keep our little Clyde safe for you. I love and miss you, too. Happy Mother’s Day.”

Clyde and Shale looked at each other and smiled. They didn’t smile only because they felt better and proud to be brothers with a loving mother. They smiled for their Mom because they knew she loved seeing them happy and their large smiles that would brighten her day no matter what was happening. 

After a few seconds, Shale looked over Clyde’s shoulder and pointed out the window. “I guess there’s no reason for rain today after all.”

Clyde spun around and saw for himself that the rain was no more and the cloudy sky from before was a bright blue. The sun was at a certain angle in the sky that it shone directly into Clyde’s face. He lifted his arm to shield the sun and laughed. “I bet she cleared the sky up for us. She always loved sunny days.”

Shale nodded. “Good. Let’s go to the park then. We aren’t wasting this perfect day.” He took a few steps towards the door and stopped. “Hey, Mom. I’m sorry, but I have to beat up Clyde today... in a game of basketball.” Shale looked behind him and smirked at his younger brother.

“Yeah, right,” laughed Clyde. “Bring it on.” 
	
	
	





> The End of an Era
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

	“Where are you headed off to now?” asked Shale looking away from the TV to see Clyde about to leave the house. “You just got your diploma not even two hours ago, and you’re already ready to celebrate?” He gave a chuckle.

“Coach wanted the team to have one last meeting before we all went our separate ways,” said Clyde looking out the door. “He told us countless times that this team was his most favorite. It’s probably because we won a title for the school and he got paid extra for it.”

Shale nodded contently. “Probably.” There was a long silence between the brothers. “Did you ask her parents yet or tell her what you’re doing?”

Clyde shook his head. 

“I see...” Shale got off the couch and walked over to him. He placed his arm around his younger brother and sighed. “I still think you’re crazy, but I know you know what you’re doing. I have faith in you, Clyde. I always will.”

Clyde gave a weak smile and nodded. “Thanks. This decision had me up for countless nights for the past few weeks ever since she told me she was leaving Canterlot for at least one year to pursue a designer internship at Manehattan. I knew she was struggling with the decision and she wanted to see what I thought about it first before telling anyone else or changing her mind to not go. I can’t let her abandon her dream.”

“What about your dream then, Clyde?”

The question stunned Clyde for a few moments as he didn’t expect that response. Clyde frowned and pulled out his phone to look at his lock screen. He hadn’t changed it since they began dating, but it was a picture of Rarity and him smiling with the sides of theirs heads touching from the New Year’s party where they had first kissed. The picture was taken only a few minutes before they kissed, so Clyde kept it as his lock screen after he dropped her off at her home. He let the phone’s screen fade to black before he dug it back into his pocket. “I just want her to be happy.”

Shale soon smiled with saddened eyes. “This is exactly why I think you’re crazy, but I understand.”

“You do?” asked Clyde surprised.

“I not only had to be your older brother when our parents died, I had to also take care of you like a father and mother would to their child. I know I left you alone here for a year, but I only wanted you to be safe and happy, as any parent or family member would want for their loved ones. “ Shale gave him an encouraging pat on the back. “I know many tears might be shed in this, but I trust what you’re doing. I got your back and I know both Mom and Dad are watching your back, too.”

Clyde wiped his now teary eyes and gave his brother a nod. “Thanks, Shale.” 

“Anytime,” replied Shale warmingly. “Have fun at your last basketball meeting for high school.”

Clyde smiled and ran out the door and to his car. After plugging in his phone, Clyde gave his brother a wave before backing Midnight out of the driveway as he drove towards the school one more time.

Iron Will gave a speech during the graduation ceremony that he wanted as many of the members of the basketball team to visit the gymnasium around one o’clock for some last words and food. Clyde never really bonded with Iron Will as much as Tyrone did, if anyone could even call their bickering between each other ‘bonding’. Clyde did what he was asked to do and never complained just because he wanted only to ball. He did have to thank Coach Iron Will with all of his help with basketball, as he did improve in the two years he was on the team. 

Upon arriving at the school, Clyde pulled into the normal parking spot he always had managed to nab in the mornings and shut off the car. He took his phone with him and hurried out of the car and down the pavement towards the back doors of Canterlot High which were near the gymnasium. As he opened the doors, he saw standing in the doorway was one of his greatest friends he met after joining the CHS family. 

“There he is! My boy, C!” Tyrone ran up to him and gave him a brotherly-love-yet-manly hug. “I can’t believe we are out of this place, dawg. It was like yesterday we sat in that detention with the other boys!”

“Yeah, ain’t that the truth.” Clyde scratched his head. “T, I’m really sorry I never really hung out with you guys since meeting Rarity and leaving that group chat. I know it was sort of a ‘douche’ move of me, but lots of things were on my mind during that time, and yet, that’s still no excuse since I could have easily joined your cool parties all year long.” 

“Nah, C. We're good. The boys know the hardships you went through for the past two years and your quest for love, and while they were pissed at you for ditching them for a girl, they learned to accept it.”

Clyde smiled. “I know we hung out a lot, but I haven’t balled with Sticky or Rivs for almost two years now. I’d like to see everyone again soon.”

“You’re in luck, my dawg. Our boy Wahlburn is throwing a party in a few days. He's in charge of the weed." Tyrone laughed. “Nah, I'm joking. I'm real proud that he stopped doing that stuff. Ride with me and we can surprise all of them so you can finally apologize to all of them at once.”

Clyde grinned. He couldn't wait to rekindle his friendship he once had with the first friends he had at Canterlot High. He had a fair amount of friends now, but none of them could compare to the ones he met that Saturday morning. From Sticky and Rivs, the near identical brothers in which their favorite basketball teams hated each other to Poncho the always nervous and sketchy dude who helped him, in an unplanned way, have lunch with Rarity to signal the beginning of their relationship. 

The two of them then walked into the gymnasium together. Most of the team was standing around chatting up a storm or near the small table with a few boxes of pizza. They saw Thunderlane sitting on one of the fold-up chairs eating a slice of pizza. He gave the two a wave and motioned them over to him. 

“What’s going on, dudes?” asked Thunderlane while chewing a mouthful of pizza. 

“Nothing really, except watching you be a savage,” snickered Tyrone. “Learn to chew your food, my boy.” 

Thunderlane gulped. “Sorry, bad habit.” He gave a laugh and looked behind him. “Man, can you believe Coach ordered pizza for us? What a swell guy.”

“That’s not what you called him a few weeks ago,” said Tyrone with a smug look. “You called him a ‘fat bastard’ if I recall.”

“Hey! It was the heat of the moment,” replied Thunderlane defensively. “I was pissed off I didn’t get to close the game out because I turned the ball over too many times.”

“You gotta be smart with the ball, dawg. I tried telling ya...”

“Yeah, yeah.” Thunderlane rolled his eyes. “I’m surprised RD isn’t here.”

“She probably isn’t coming,” spoke Clyde. “She and her friends have their graduation party later and they decided to celebrate it together with all of their families and friends invited.”

“Ah. I guess you’re going to go to it?”

“Why wouldn’t I? Rarity invited me almost instantly as soon as they thought about the idea.”

Thunderlane laughed. “You’re lucky you found a girl like that. In truth, I always thought Rarity was extremely hot. I should of went after her before you came in town.”

Clyde glared at him. “You better stay away from her now since you said that.” Tyrone burst into a loud and uncontrollable laugh while Thunderlane moved back in shock.

“Damn, Thunderlane. You made Clyde pissed. That’s something you don’t see every day.” Tyrone wiped a tear away from his eye.

“Chill, Clyde. I won’t steal your girl from you.” Clyde could tell in his voice that Thunderlane was being serious so he calmed down. “You’ve been with her for so long I don’t think anyone would dare try and break you two up now.”

Clyde looked at him and nodded, accepting the withdrawal from his advances. Most of the time, he knew guys would tease him about trying to take Rarity away from him. It always ended up with the guy apologizing or saying they were joking because everyone knew Clyde had people that would help said foolish boy forget what he had said. One of those people was indeed Pinkie Pie and her party cannon. 

Soon, Bulk and other members came over to them and sat down. Coach Iron Will was nowhere to be seen, but the team seemed to not even care. This was probably their last time they would all be together again anyway, as most of the members just graduated. 

A loud bang erupted from the locker room door and everyone looked to the far side of the gym. Iron Will, decked out in his normal hoodie and sweatpants, waddled over to them and stared at each one before chuckling.

"Iron Will sees you all enjoy the pizza!"

"We sure do, Coach," mumbled Thunderlane while stuffing his face with another slice. 

Iron Will shook his head. "Iron Will is no longer your coach. You don't have to call me that."

"Yeah, but you still are the coach we had to win that trophy," spoke Tyrone. "You will always be our coach."

Iron Will looked at him seriously and then to everyone one else. Each member gave him a nod and confident smile. Iron Will emitted a sniffle and wiped a hand over his eyes. "I am honored to be remembered this much."

"Of course! Just because you hated a lot of us, we still had a blast!" Tyrone stood up. "I never hated you, Coach. I just like messing with you." He stuck out his thumb.

"I never hated you either, old man!" Thunderlane stood up this time.

Iron Will looked at the two and laughed. "You were punks, but I never hated any of you! Iron Will could never hate his favorite team!" He paused and looked at the newly hung banner in the gymnasium depicting the championship and year. "Last year was a learning point for all of us. I could easily tell by the time you all stepped on the court this year, all of you had changed both in skills and personality. Plus, I could see all of the fire in your eyes." He gave a sigh and a rare smile formed his lips. "I'll miss all of you."

The room fell silent for a few moments until Tyrone shrugged. "Fuck it. Group hug?" He outstretched his arms.

Iron Will angrily looked at him. "Who do you think Iron Will is?! A pushover?!"

"Nah, dawg. Everyone can use a group hug. I don't care if that's soft." 

Iron Will shook his head before looking around. "No one tell anyone," he whispered.

"We are all brothers here. This is our final family farewell moment." The others stood up and nodded in agreement.

Iron Will laughed. "Alright, let's make it quick." Iron Will and the team stood next to each other and hugged. Clyde thought the whole situation was awkward, but he knew he probably wouldn't see lots of these guys for a long time. After a few seconds, everyone stepped away from each other and shared a laugh. 

Iron Will's gathering eventually died down after thirty minutes went by. Bulk was the first guy to leave, and soon, more and more people left. Clyde was one of the last ones to stay, along with Tyrone. However, Tyrone's stay didn't last long as he received a text message from his girlfriend First Light who wanted to give him his graduation present.

Clyde was now the last one left in the gymnasium, along with Iron Will. Iron Will was busy by the table trying to clean everything up. Clyde looked at the fold-up chairs and began returning them to their unfolded position and moving them against the bleachers.

"There he is helping again," laughed Iron Will. "You don't have to help me. You've been the unsung hero the whole season."

Clyde shrugged. "I don't mind."

Iron Will shook his head with a smile. He waited for Clyde to finish moving all the chairs before speaking up again. "Do you still plan on playing? I know you didn't earn any scholarships like that punk or Miss Dash did, but you have a remarkable skill for passing."

Clyde frowned. "Getting a scholarship for a school would have been awesome, but I don't really want to do anymore schoolwork right now." Clyde looked at the championship banner in the gymnasium. Seeing his name along with the rest of the team's forever hanging above the court to be immortalized was a sincere feeling. "I do want to keep playing, but I don't think I would be good enough for the professionals yet."

"You don't have to play in the professionals yet. Many players go through the development league first if then don't go to college."

Clyde was silent for a moment. "Or play overseas, too."

"Is that what you're doing?" asked Iron Will curiously. 

Clyde looked away from him and looked down at the court. "It's not my ideal plan, but they pay the players way more than the development league. I said it myself, I need to take care of her and make sure she's happy. I just hopes she understands..."

Iron Will smiled. "I always admired your personality, Clyde. You always cared more about the team and other people more than anything else. While you had some pretty good offensive games, you seemed to only care about how everyone else did and made sure to help them get better the next game if they had an off-night. I loved seeing you talk to a bench player during a timeout or during the half trying to get them motivated." 

Clyde smiled this time. "I feel like that's my fate on the basketball court. Showing altruism because people helped me when I joined this school. Especially a certain girl who showed her generosity and took a chance with me without any reason. She was my first true friend and soon became my everything."

Iron Will nodded at him. "I respect that. Iron Will might act all tough and intimidating, however, he can also be a swell guy who loves romantic stories!" He walked over to him and gently slapped Clyde's back. "I think you would be interested in knowing that I roomed with some certain people in college. One of them is now a scout for the professional league, while the other is an assistant coach for a team overseas. If you really want to play more basketball, I can help you get on that team and eventually get notified by scouts."

"That... would be awesome." Clyde knew it would be amazing to play for the Kneighs as they played in the same city Rarity always fancied. However, it would still be a long time before that point and he might not even get noticed by that team or maybe not even any team. He had to try, though. 

"I know they start training camp in early June, so that's not really a lot of time to decide if this is what you truly want, but I'll let you know soon after I call him in a few minutes."

Clyde nodded and flashed a large smile. "Thanks, Coach. Thanks for everything. I'll miss you and your outbursts." 

"Iron Will only outbursts when he is angry at bad calls or plays!!" He gave a laugh and gave Clyde a thumbs up. "I'll miss all of you guys, too. I'm a nice guy when I can be."

Clyde gave a nod and wave before walking out of the gymnasium. As he walked down the hallway of Canterlot High once more, he couldn’t help feel a little sad and happy at the same time. Graduating was truly a bittersweet moment in a person's life. From all the memories within the halls, classrooms, gym, and locker room, Clyde was going to miss them. In the future, he wanted to somehow give back to this school, but as for right now, he had something on his mind instead.

After walking the length of the barren parking lot except for the few cars that belonged to some teachers that were cleaning out their classrooms already, Clyde climbed into his car and soon headed off towards Rarity’s house. Her party, and technically all of her friends’ party also, was still a few hours away. However, knowing Rarity, she would probably be just getting ready for it so he decided it was the perfect time to go to her house. As he parked alongside the curb in front of the shop entrance for the thousandth or so time by now, he noticed Iron Will texted him a message. After reading it, he looked out the window and stared at the streetlamp that was not lit due to the time of day. 

There was no going back now.

Clyde crawled out of the car, locked it, and entered the shop. Opal, who was laying on the counter in her normal spot, perked her head up and flicked her tail at him as he walked by before resting her head back onto the wooden counter. Clyde pulled the curtains away from the doorway and entered the kitchen to see Rarity’s parents talking to each other. They abruptly stopped their conversation and looked at him.

“Hey, Clyde,” greeted Magnum with a nod. “How’s it feel being a true adult now?” He casually chuckled. “Go ahead and sit down if you want. We were talking about how fast time flew by. It seems like yesterday we brought Rarity into the world and here we are now.”

Pearl intercepted him on his walk to the table and before he could sit down, she gave him a hug. She let go of him and smiled before pulling out one of the kitchen table chairs. “You’re very early, dear. The party isn’t for another two hours. Rarity is in the shower upstairs getting ready.”

Clyde smiled at the mention of her name. He couldn’t help but smile anytime he heard her name. It was such a beautiful name that only he could understand the joy it brought him when he saw or heard it. Clyde looked at each of them before taking a deep breath. “I knew she would be getting ready, so that’s why I came over earlier than expected."

"Oh? Did you want to chat?" asked Magnum after sharing a glance at his wife.

Clyde looked at Rarity's parents with a serious gaze. "I wanted to ask you guys something.”



	*	*	*	*	*


The warm water felt so soothing as it rained down on her skin. It was so soothing that Rarity lost track of time and stayed in the shower a few minutes longer than her already long usual time of thirty or more minutes. After she washed her body, and conditioned and shampooed her long, violet hair, Rarity turned the water off and stepped out of the tub to dry off. Since she didn't bring clothes in the bathroom with her, she wrapped a towel around her body and looked at herself in the mirror.

The first task was for her to return her violet hair to the normal curly and primmed version. It wasn't so much difficult for her to do after so many times. What really bothered her was how long it took for her hair to dry. Even with her hair dryer on maximum heat, it still took a few moments. After what seemed like an eternity, her hair was dried and she began curling the ends. She put her tri-diamonded hair clip into her hair, and after guiding her hands through her hair to fluff it out, she gave a smile. 

Next on the official "Rarity's Daily Beauty Guide" was makeup. Makeup was a typical asset for most girls, but Rarity always wore it to enchant her sapphire eyes. She gently applied her light blue eye shadow, her personal favorite color as it went with her love for diamonds, and finally her mascara to make her eyelashes more attractive and darker. She rarely wore lipstick, and never really enjoyed it anyway, so she finished up working on her eyes before looking at herself in the mirror again and smiling at her work. 

Her work in the bathroom was finished, so Rarity quickly rushed out of the bathroom and dashed into her room. Her room was the closest room to the bathroom compared to her sister or parents due to her arguments to her family on why a young lady like her needed to use the bathroom mirror all the time. She quickly put on a stylish matching set of undergarments and laid out her outfit for the day.

It was a simple outfit. It was a short, flowing dress that had blouse-type features, like her normal shirt she wore everyday. The pale blue color of it matched her normal shirt's color. The dress was both sleeveless and backless, which was a good thing her bra was as well, so her back was uncovered for the warm air to hit it. While the dress would be considered "too inappropriate" for formal settings due to her whole back showing, it was perfect for a small party. She then quickly put in her diamond-studded earrings and strapped the necklace Clyde gave her for Christmas around her neck. The final addition to the outfit was adding a small belt to surround her waist, to not only keep the dress in place, but to add that extra flair it needed. Plus, it accented her feminine figure which was always important to impress Clyde. She put on her socks and purple boots and gave one last look at herself in her mirror above her dresser. 

"Perfect." She nodded proudly and pranced out of her room and down the steps. As she reached the shop level, her eyes made contact with a certain car in front of the door along the street. She felt her heart skip a beat and she made her way to the kitchen. "Can you believe he's already... Clyde? What in heavens are you doing here already?"

Both her parents and Clyde looked at her and she felt an awkward silence in the room. Looking at their gazes, it felt like she walked into a serious conversation and interrupted them. Clyde soon gave a smile and stood up. He walked over to her and hugged her snugly. "You look beautiful like always."

Rarity returned his smile and looked at him. "Thank you, darling. Didn't you have that team meeting with Iron Will?"

"I did, but it ended early so I came over here."

"We were talking about his favorite high school memories since you were getting ready," spoke Magnum with a sly smile. "Of course he said playing basketball and meeting new friends was some of them."

Pearl looked over at her and gave an amiable giggle. "But out of everything, he was telling us about how you made high school worth going to do he could see you again." 

Rarity looked up at Clyde and giggled. "You sure made my time at high school amazing as well." She snuggled her head into his chest more and let the warmth of their hug soothe her soul and mind. "Are you ready to see our slideshow at the party? I made sure my section had pictures of us together."

Clyde gave a warming chuckle. "I can't wait to see it. I knew how much time you and your friends spent on that slideshow." He hugged her tightly for a moment and broke out of the hug. "I'm going home for an hour to spend time with Shale before he leaves again for the year to go back to training in a few days. I hope you don't mind."

"I don't mind," replied Rarity with a smile. "I'll just go to the party with my parents then." She grabbed his hand and gave him a small peck on the lips. "I'll see you soon, my love."

Clyde smiled and waved to her and her parents before leaving the kitchen and out of the shop's door. After hearing his car pull away, Rarity dreamily sighed and looked at her parents who remained relatively silent since she walked into the kitchen.

"Are you ready to leave?" asked Magnum, "your friends are probably getting there by now." 

"Yes, we can leave, but what's wrong?" Rarity noticed her father was acting strange. Normally he joked around whenever Clyde and her hugged or kissed each other in front of him. 

"Hm? I'm just hungry is all," laughed Magnum. "You know me." He got up from the table and walked past her. "I need to use the restroom before we leave."

Rarity watched him leave the room confused on what was going on as Pearl walked over to her and put her hands on Rarity's shoulders. "Don't mind him. He's been having a headache off and on today. I told him to take medicine, but you know how stubborn he gets." Pearl shrugged and walked away from her to the door. "Dear, we'll be waiting in the car!" she shouted.

Rarity heard her father's mumbled reply from upstairs and quickly followed her mother to the car. After climbing into the back of the SUV, Rarity checked her phone to see her friends had already arrived and was waiting for her to get there so they could set up the slideshow they all created. She sent them a text saying she was on her way and looked through her social media account until her father got in the car and drove them to the party. 

Momentarily, Magnum finally walked out of the house and got in the car. After giving his wife and daughter and smile he drove off towards the party. Normally Sweetie Belle would be in the backseat with Rarity, but since she stayed over at Applejack's the prior night to hang out with Apple Bloom, Applejack decided to bring her with them instead of having Rarity's family drive across town to pick her up.

Soon, the car arrived at its destination: the Sweet Shoppe. Rarity quickly rushed into the building to find her friends. The Sweet Shoppe itself was rather small and it belonged to Pinkie's uncle and aunt. The shop itself specialized in treats and drinks. While there were many cushioned booths and chairs in the shop, it was hardly enough room to throw a party. However, the Sweet Shoppe's back room was large and empty, perfect for throwing parties and was the official party location in the city of Canterlot. 

As Rarity walked into the room, she saw Pinkie had already decorated it. Tables and chairs were lined up in perfect harmony as the usually blank white walls had banners that read "Congrats on the Graduation!" across them. Many of her friends' family and friends were helping the Cakes set up food and desserts. She gave a nod at Pinkie's nearly done job and smiled when she saw her best friends huddled around a laptop near the back of the room.

"Sorry I'm late, girls!" apologized Rarity as she ran up to them. She took out a small flash drive from her boots, since her dress had no pockets, and looked at Sunset who was staring at the computer screen intensely. "Is everything working correctly?"

"Yeah... We just need your part and that should be it," stated Sunset. Rarity nodded and handed her the flash drive.

"Wait 'till you guys see my section," said Rainbow Dash proudly, "I made a montage of all my cool achievements in sports." She gave a chuckle.

"That's surprisin'," uttered Applejack with a roll of the eyes. "Mine ain't anything fancy. It's mostly pictures through the years Granny saved in her album."

"Same as me, AJ!" shouted Pinkie in joy. "I had a lot of pictures to use! But I also had a party to set up, so I spent like two minutes on it!" 

"So, your section is only two minutes?" asked Rainbow Dash with raised eyebrows. "Man, mine's like twenty minutes long."

Sunset kept her eyes focused on the screen, moving around blocks of video data and reorganizing the timeline. "No, Pinkie's is about... ten. Somehow." The girls looked at each other confused as Pinkie gave a cheesy grin.

Rainbow blinked. "Ooooookay. How about you, Fluttershy?" 

Fluttershy jumped at the mention of her name. "Hmm? Sorry, I was just thinking about something." She looked at the laptop and smiled. "All my pictures involve me growing up and my time with animals."

Rainbow nodded. "That's cool. I don't even have to ask what Rarity's about. It's probably many pictures of herself, some clothes or fashion, and probably Clyde." She looked over at her. "Am I close?"

"Mostly," replied Rarity with a smile.

Rainbow nodded again. "That's cool." she repeated. "What about you Sunset?" The other girls looked at Sunset as well. They were all intrigued to see what she spent time working on.

Sunset remained quiet for a few moments. "You'll see. Mine's at the end since I put all of your mini-movies in alphabetical order." After a few more clicks, Sunset gave a smile and looked above them. "Everything is set up. We just need to turn on that projector when it's time." The girls gave nods and smiles and stepped away from the computer to celebrate the special day with the guests.

Rarity spent the next few hours talking to her family and her friends' family by thanking them for coming and for the wishes and eating food. Truthfully, she was extremely sad that in a few months time she would be in Manehattan far away from them, but each of them were going to be split apart to pursue their dreams. As she stood by the dessert table, getting ready to eat another slice of cake, a pair of arms wrapped around her from behind. 

"I thought you didn't like eating a lot of dessert?"

Rarity smiled at the voice and turned around to look straight in Clyde's eyes. "Glad you came, darling. We are about to start our movie soon."

"Sorry I was late," apologized Clyde with sad eyes, "Shale wanted to take me to that wing place for my graduation gift and so we could talk."

"That's quite all right, Clyde. What did you guys talk about? Did you tell him you're spending a year with me in Manehattan?"

Clyde ignored her eyes for a split moment. Rarity knew something was wrong just because he looked away from her. "Rarity, I need to tell you something. I–"

"Hey, everybody!!!"

Clyde stopped talking and the two of them looked to see Pinkie Pie standing on a table with her hands around her mouth to amplify her voice. 

"Pinkie, could you please get off the table?" asked her aunt, Mrs. Cake, politely. 

Pinkie sheepishly smiled. "Sorry, Auntie Cake." She hopped down and ran up to the laptop. "We wanted to tell everybody that it's time for our slideshow we all made!"

Sunset ran up to the computer. After the overhead projector came on and projected the computer's screen on the only blank wall in the room. Sunset enlarged the projection and clicked a button on the laptop, quickly running back to her seat. Soon, a small preview popped up and everyone hushed down and found a seat.

"Tell me later, okay, darling?" asked Rarity as she pulled Clyde to an empty pair of seats with her. Clyde frowned, but gave a nod. Rarity could tell something was troubling him, and she wanted to speak to him to figure out what it was, but she also wanted him to see her section of the slide show movie because he was in it, hopefully cheering him up.

For almost an hour, the room was silent as the people within it watched and listened to the movie the girls made for graduation. To lead things off, Applejack was the main girl on focus. People watched intensely as Applejack grew up in the pictures with her little sister, big brother, and granny, eventually culminating to just a few hours ago in a photo of when she held her diploma. At the end, a small screen read that she was going to keep working the farm with her big brother Big McIntosh instead of going to college since Granny Smith was growing old. Granny Smith did work as a cafeteria lady now, but she hadn't spent nearly anytime doing laborious tasks on the farm in years. Her section soon ended and Sunset paused the video so people could clap, and for her relatives, wipe away tears at the memories and joy of her growing up. Applejack stood up and tipped her hat to them and smiled. 

After everyone was ready to move to the next girl, Sunset pressed a button on the computer and soon Fluttershy’s section began playing. Fluttershy’s main goal after high school was to become a veterinarian. All of her pictures, even the ones where she was a small girl, was her with some sort of animal. Since she turned sixteen, Fluttershy spent most of her free time at the animal shelter in the city and was well liked by the workers there–which wasn't really an oddity because it was Fluttershy after all. After her clip was done, like Applejack's, Fluttershy timidly stood up and waved at the applauding room.

Next up was Pinkie. Her choice of music was rather upbeat compared to Applejack's and Fluttershy's. Since the music was so rapid and thumping, Pinkie's pictures were only on the screen for one second each so she could keep a rhythm throughout it. Pinkie also used a lot of colors and many of the people looked away to prevent themselves from having a seizure. Pinkie ended her crazy photo album by stating she would also stay in town like Applejack to help her uncle and aunt run the Sweet Shoppe and eventually take over the business once they couldn't run it anymore. Pinkie also put she wanted to be the only source of partying in Canterlot. Once her pictures were over, she bowed to the applause and grinned, her teeth shining brightly with pride.

Loud rock music suddenly echoed through the room and a Rainbow Dash jumped up excitedly. Her video and pictures had lots of dramatic editing techniques, like pictures almost jumping out of the screen and pictures zooming from the right or left. After all her pictures were shown, her various montages began. Rarity stopped watching her video after the soccer and basketball montages, as she worriedly looked over at Clyde. His head was focused on the floor tiles and he was ignoring the montages, too. He may have even ignored the other sections before Rainbow Dash, but Rarity didn't know. She only knew Clyde's eyes were tearful and he was sad about something.

She heard a familiar song come on and she looked up at the screen. She must've faded out all other thoughts as her section was now playing and Rainbow Dash was sitting down. Rarity quickly put her hand under Clyde's chin and lifted it up so he could see it. Clyde looked over at her surprised, but gave her a smile and looked forward.

Rarity split her video section into two parts: childhood and high school. She was quite proud of the quality of her video. Both sections had about the same about of pictures, but the high school one was even more special because half of those included Clyde since he became important to her after two years in high school. Rarity saw Clyde's smile grow with each picture he saw of them. However, his eyes were still sad and Rarity didn't understand why. Her video eventually ended with a picture and caption of the fashion studio she was going to intern at in Manehattan starting once July came. Once the screen faded out, Rarity stood up and waved to her family and friends. She then sat down and hugged Clyde's arm, hoping he would be happier.

Rarity leaned her head against Clyde's arm and wondered what Sunset's section would be. She was instantly surprised as, instead of a plethora of Sunset pictures, various pictures of the girls as a group were shown, starting from the Freshman Fair to their group photo from a few hours ago with their diplomas. Sunset became more common in the pictures towards the end, mostly because it wasn't until their Junior Fall Formal where Twilight helped them turn her into a nice girl again. As the pictures traveled along the timeline, Rarity could only feel tears slowly stream down her face. Her friends made her the girl she was today, and without their support, she may have not been able to have a steady customer base for her clothing. She hugged Clyde's arm tighter and smiled. Both Clyde and her friends were important to her and she never wanted to lose them. She was disheartened she had to leave her friends for Manehattan, but since Clyde was going to be with her until she returned home, she knew he would help make her mind preoccupied to not think about them and feel sad again.

When the movie finally ended, all of the girls' friends and families clapped with tears in their eyes. Rarity looked over at each one of her friends as they all shared a smile with each other. They simultaneously stood up and ran towards each other for a group hug. The people in the room gave one last smile at them before returning to whatever they were doing before the movie, whether it be eating or chatting.

"Sunset, I simply loved how you made a group collection at the end," said Rarity with a smile. "Although, I feel sad you don't have your own section like we all did. I know you want to go to school to be a teacher, but it would've been lovely to see all the pictures you had taken so far since living in this world."

Sunset grinned. "I don't have many pictures of myself, actually I might only have one of two, so I decided to just make the ending all of you because you all have been friends for a long time."

"And hopefully stay friends for a long time."

"Ah wouldn't worry about that, Rarity." Applejack gave a nod. 

"AJ's right. We've been through so much!" Rainbow Dash grinned. "Even Princess Twilight would be proud of our bond!"

"Yeah! She is all about friendship after all! We are the bestest of friends!" shouted Pinkie in joy.

"Indeed!" chirped Fluttershy.

Rarity smiled and hugged them all again. "I'll miss you all so much." Once the girls ended the hug, they all walked away to go talk to the party visitors. Rarity noticed Clyde was still sitting in the same position in the chair since she had left. Troubled, she walked up to him and put her hands on his cheeks. "Clyde, what's the matter?" she asked him nervously.

Clyde looked up at her. "I need to tell you something, but it would be better if we did it someplace private."

"Why? What's wrong?" 

Clyde shook his head. "Please. Not here. Not in front of all these people."

Rarity looked around the room. The party was officially over since the movie ended and people were beginning to leave. Since she had already talked to the ones she invited, Rarity knew she could leave. "Okay. Let me tell my parents I'm leaving."

Clyde nodded, but Rarity saw his eyes were scared. "Wait out front and I'll pick you up in the car." He gave her a snug hug before walking out of the room, ignoring all the people who tried talking to him as he past. Rarity frowned and walked over to her parents.

"Ah, Rarity. Are you ready to go home yet? I saw Clyde just left," said Pearl.

"No, I'm leaving so Clyde and I can talk about something. He said it was important."

Pearl's face instantly froze and she nervously looked over at Magnum. His face showed the same expression. Pearl looked at Rarity and frowned. "Stay strong, dear."

"Pardon?"

Pearl shook her head and smiled at her, trying to comfort not Rarity, but herself. Rarity looked over at her father who looked down at the table. Now feeling an unexplained feeling of dread overcome her, Rarity walked away from the table and towards the door. She saw her friends watch her from the corners of her eyes but she could only think about what Clyde wanted to tell her. It had to be something awful if even he was upset about it. Clyde only showed tears around her, joyful and sad ones. 

Rarity soon found herself in the Sweet Shoppe's main lobby. She briskly walked past the counter and out of the store. She looked to her left and right down the street and didn't see Clyde's car anywhere. She took out her phone from her boot to text him, but stopped when she saw his car turn into the road. He pulled along the curb and opened the door for her. She climbed in and looked at him. 

"Please tell me soon, Clyde. You're making me feel sick worrying about you."

Clyde gave her a nod and drove off. Rarity wanted to ask him where he was going, but she knew he wouldn't listen. The radio was off and Rarity nervously looked over at him. The radio was always on, usually low volume, but still loud enough to faintly hear songs when they traveled in the car together. After going down a few blocks, Clyde turned into a small parking lot behind some stores and restaurants and put the car in park in a stall. He gave a long sigh.

"I honestly don't know why I chose to park here," he laughed but Rarity knew it was fake. "I guess I can't think straight right now and it's the best I could do."

"Why? Whatever is the matter, darling?" Rarity adjusted herself in the leather seat and leaned closer to him. "Did something happen to Shale? Are you sick? Are bounty hunters after you? Please tell me so I can help you." She grabbed his hand trying to comfort him.

"No, it's none of that. It's about you and me."

Rarity's heart dropped. "I-I don't understand." Clyde looked straight at her, causing her to feel paralyzed. She didn't know what to do, say, or think, but something was wrong. He tried giving a smile, but stopped and looked out the car's windshield. 

"I wanted to tell you that I'm not joining you in Manehattan."

"W-What?" asked Rarity in shock. "I thought we talked about it a few months ago... You promised you would!"

"I had a change of heart."

The way he said it bothered Rarity. He acted like he didn't care about suddenly leaving her in the big city alone. "Why would you lie about wanting to go with me then!" 

Clyde shook his head. "I didn't lie. I did want to go with you because I knew how much you wanted me to help support your choice for living there for a year. That's the problem." He looked at her cautiously. "I feel like I would be a distraction to you in Manehattan so I decided to go against your wishes for once."

"Clyde, I still don't understand what you're saying–"

"I'm not sure how to say this, but we have to go our separate ways–"

Rarity's heart crashed straight into the deep hole of despair and tears began to form as she heard those words. Her mind completely broke down and she tuned out Clyde's next few words. Never in her whole life did she think her darling Clyde would be the one to break her heart. She gently and nervously touched the diamond pendant from the necklace he gave her for Christmas."Y-Y-You're breaking up with me?" she stuttered in disbelief to cut him off.

Clyde's eyes widened and he quickly shot down that tearful response. "What? No, no." He leaned over and tried to hug her, but she pushed him away. "Listen, Rarity, please don't think that. I–"

"I gave you my heart, Clyde! I even helped fixed yours, or so I thought... Maybe you are just like all the other boys and only cared about one thing. I loved you more than anything in the world, and this is how I'm repaid! I should of known that there was no such thing as a fairy tale ending..." Rarity's voice was a mix of sorrow, anger, shock, and despair and her mind was spinning out of control. Tears were now rushing down her face at a pace of a waterfall and all she wanted to do was get as far away from everyone in the world as soon as possible and cry forever. She opened the car door and got out of it, quickly turning to run away.

"Rarity, stop!" called Clyde from behind her. Rarity heard the car door open and she began running away from him before he had time to get out of the car. She wiped her face as she ran, but since she was continuingly bawling, her attempts to wipe her tears away was in vain. She almost reached the end of one of the parking lots before a hand grabbed her arm and tried to catch her. "Rarity–"

"Let go of me!" she cried, turning around to face Clyde. "I never want to see your face again!" She quickly struck his face with her hand and broke free from his grasp. It took a moment to realize what she had done, but when she saw Clyde hold his hand to his cheek, she felt more sadness overcome her and she dropped to the ground. Her hand and body was trembling uncontrollably and she bawled some more, feeling scared and alone. "C-Clyde... I'm so sorry! I-I didn't mean to! I-I can't think, I can't..."

Clyde dropped to the ground to look at her and he suddenly pulled her into a hug. He put his head atop hers and let her cry. "I deserved that," he said softly, "but listen to me, Rarity. You don't understand how much I worried at night thinking of how you would react for the past few weeks, but you have to trust me." Rarity looked up at him with her tearful eyes to see Clyde with the same. "If you love me like I love you, then please... just trust me."

Rarity lowered her wailing into a steady cry and looked up at him. She saw his eyes were just as hurt as hers. Rarity knew Clyde as well as herself and deep down inside, she knew she had to trust him. She loved him too much and she knew he felt the same. They shared so many special memories together and wanted to continue doing so. Rarity slowly nodded and rubbed her hand along his cheek, specifically the spot she struck. "I'm so sorry, Clyde..."

"Don't apologize. I shouldn't have worded it that way." Clyde gave her a teary smile. "I really did want to go with you to the city. I know it means so much to you to design there and have someone you love be with you to support and encourage you everyday, but I have to do something for myself for once."

"What's that?" asked Rarity weakly. Her voice and mind was still recovering from her collapse. 

Clyde gave a long sigh and Rarity felt him hug her tighter. "I decided that I'm going to play basketball overseas for a year. I leave the first week of June, which unfortunately is next week."

Rarity's eye widened and she felt sadness in her eyes once more. "N-Next week? We had so many plans to do in June because I leave early July..."

"I know, but since I'm leaving now, unless we do them within the next few days, I won't be able to go with you." Clyde frowned. "Like I was trying to say, all year I watched our friends plan for their future and set dreams to accomplish, but I never found mine. Coach told me today that he had sources for teams overseas. I need to see if this is mine as they can get me into the professional league here. Plus, they pay more overseas compared to the development league in this country." Clyde looked up at the sky and rested his head on hers. "I knew you probably would have been sad, so I tried wording it differently and that didn't turn out so well, did it?" He gave a laugh and looked down into Rarity's now almost-wet-instead-of flooded-eyes. "I hope you forgive me and can understand. I never wanted to hurt you. You know that."

Rarity smiled. She didn't smile just to comfort him, she smiled because she was correct to think Clyde wanted to be with her. While they would be apart from each other for a long time, she knew she still had someone to keep her happy. "While I'm still recovering from a complete overreaction meltdown and extremely sad I won't see you for a long time, I respect your mature decision. Since I've met you, you had always helped me and let me get anything I wanted because you love me and care more about me being happy than you being happy. It's only fair that I finally reciprocate your passion and show you how much I love you. You deserve to follow your dream like anyone else and I shouldn't be the one to stop you. I just hope we can still keep in touch."

Clyde rubbed her back. "I'll find time to talk to you, even if I'm a few hours ahead of this time zone. The contract should only be for one season so I'll be home sometime next summer. I'd reckon the middle of July."

"Fabulous." By this point, her crying stopped and she wiped her ruined makeup off her face. After she was done, Rarity nuzzled her head into him and Clyde responded by hugging her tighter. She realized while being completely smothered by his warm body in their hug that they were literally sitting in the middle of an empty parking lot. She was glad no cars from the roads could see them as they drove by because they were behind buildings, but she found the whole setting amusing. She looked up at him and kissed his cheek. "I feel so terrible for hitting you, Clyde. I lost control of my emotions and took it out on you for no reason..."

Clyde rubbed his cheek and chuckled. "Don't worry about it. I'm sorry I made you upset and I know you didn't mean it." He helped her off the pavement and led her back to his car. "Would you like to spend the rest of the day together or should I just drop you off at your home?"

"Of course I want to spend time together since we are on a short countdown, but could we hang out at my house? I'm simply exhausted from all that running and crying."

Clyde smiled and gave her a nod. "Sure thing, Miss Rarity." He helped her into the passenger seat before running around the car to get in his seat.

Both of them remained silent on the drive back, but Clyde had the radio on for them to listen to on the way to her house. Rarity, however, stared out the window the whole time. Her year at Manehattan was surely going to be harder for her now to focus on without the daily support from Clyde, but she knew he had faith in her to do an excellent job by herself. She had to make him proud to show him that she could achieve her dream mostly by herself. However, she wasn't thinking about that for long as only one thought remained in her mind.

Clyde and her only had one week together before he left for a year so she had to think of ways to make that last week absolutely fabulous for them both before they couldn't see each other in person for a long time. 
> "Oh, Manehattan, what you do to me..."
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

	Rarity walked outside of the fashion studio and was instantly struck by the crisp winter air of a Friday evening in December. She shivered and threw her scarf around her neck and zipped up her gray jacket that covered her white long-sleeved shirt. After checking her phone of any messages or missed calls, she put her phone in her purple boots since her black leggings had no pockets and walked down the busy streets of Manehattan towards her apartment. 

Living in Manehattan was truly a breathtaking experience for her. While the city was huge, the sheer size of it didn’t seem to bother her as she took the same route to Hoity Toity’s and Prim Hemline’s fashion studio where she interned at every weekday since arriving in July. During the early part of her arrival to the city, Rarity would shop or walk around the city on her free days during the weekends. However, as winter approached and more and more designs were needed for her to gain reputation from the famous fashion critics, Rarity spent her time locked away in her apartment while working on her designs. While it was stressful and lonely at times living by herself for so many months, she kept her mind focused on her dream because she didn’t want to let down a certain boy.

After walking a few blocks, Rarity walked into one of the many coffee shops in the city. This shop in particular was along the way to her apartment, so she stopped in nearly every evening to get an iced caramel macchiato. The workers mostly knew her as a regular customer now, and because of her loyalty to that certain coffee shop, the workers gave her a free drink on Fridays. After receiving her free drink, Rarity thanked them, gave a wave, and continued down the crowded streets. 

By the time she reached the apartment building, the sun had set and the city’s tall buildings were shrouded in darkness except for the lights coming through the hundreds of windows. Rarity quickly ran inside and headed up the stairwell. She climbed three floors and entered another door to a narrow hallway, stopping at the fifteenth door on the left side. She pulled out her apartment key from her boot and unlocked the door. 

Rarity closed the door and pulled off her scarf and gray jacket, throwing them on the small chair by the door. She sat down on the couch and gave a long sigh. “I think sleeping all weekend long would be justifiable. I’m simply exhausted...” She looked around the apartment and sipped on her drink.

The apartment was rather small, but Rarity didn’t mind since it was only her living in it. It had the typical bedroom, kitchen, living room, and bathroom like all apartments and houses had, but she also had an extra room in which she used for her design making. The window in the room had a gorgeous view of the large park that was dead in the middle of the bustling city. Being three floors up, she couldn’t see the whole park, but it was a nice change of scenery compared to streets filled with cars and people. As her eyes found her bedroom door down the small hallway, she noticed the door was slightly cracked and a faint light was shining through. 

“I could have sworn I turned the lamp off when I left today...” Rarity set her drink down on the table beside the couch and slowly got up. She pulled out her phone from her boot and turned out the flashlight. Any large city was home of criminals and she nervously gulped as she thought about a robber being in her room, waiting for her to enter so he could attack her. She shook her head and slowly advanced towards her bedroom door. As she approached the door, she gave one last gulp and quickly opened it and flicked on the bedroom lights. “Criminal! Get out of my–”

“SURPRISE!” 

Rarity screamed as five colorful girls jumped in front of her from the other side of her bed causing her to drop her phone. She was so in shock that she felt tears in her eyes grow and a sudden happiness overcame her as she realized who they were. "Girls!" She said joyfully as she ran and hugged her longtime friends. After a moment, they all ended the hug and smiled.

"Howdy, Rarity! How've ya been?" Applejack said with a grin.

"Yeah! We haven't seen you in like forever!" complained Rainbow Dash. 

"Well, it wasn't forever," giggled Rarity, "but five months sure is a long time." Rarity gave each of them a smile and squinted her eyes. "Wait a minute, how did you girls get in here? Only I have the key."

Four of the girls looked at Pinkie. "Oh! I have a lock picking kit!" said Pinkie laughing. 

Rarity blinked. "And why exactly do you have one of those?"

"I dunno," Pinkie replied with a shrug. "Some dude was selling it in a dark alley in Canterlot a few years ago, so I decided to buy it."

The girls blankly stared at her before turning their attention on Rarity. "Well, next time let me know when you come into the city so I don't get scared," sighed Rarity.

"We just wanted to surprise you," spoke Fluttershy softly. "I hope you don't mind..."

"She's right." Sunset walked over and placed an arm around Rarity's shoulders. "Since winter break is here for everyone, we figured we could go visit you for the weekend, unless of course you're busy."

"Busy for you girls?" stated Rarity shocked. "Heavens no! I'll always find time for you! Granted, I was going to catch up on sleep since I've been so busy as of late, but I'd love to catch up and find something we can all do!"

The five other girls grinned. 

"However," said Rarity sadly, "could we catch up tomorrow morning? As I said, I really am exhausted and could fall asleep in a heartbeat."

"Yeah, that's cool," said Rainbow already headed out of the doorway. "We'll hang around in the living room."

"I'm truly sorry girls, but please, make yourself at home. There should be be enough food if you want and pillows and blankets. I also have my darling's video game console I bought him for Christmas last year for that TV show and movie app since he didn't want to take it with him."

"Don't sweat it, Rares," spoke Applejack. "We are tired too after that road trip. Never will Ah ever let Pinkie drive again..." She gave a laugh and her and Sunset walked out of the room.

"Come on! We totally had a good time on the way here! That guy totally wanted to race me!" shouted Pinkie as she chased after them.

Rarity gave a smile before frowning, completely unaware that Fluttershy was still in the room. Once she made eye contact with her, Rarity nervously looked away and tried to fake a smile.

"Is everything okay, Rarity?" asked Fluttershy concernedly.

"Don't worry about it, dear. I'm fine. I'm just tired is all."

Fluttershy frowned, but gave a simple nod. "If something's wrong, please don't hesitate to ask for help. I'd hate for you to be troubled and also be lonely living by yourself in this city."

Rarity gave her a real smile this time. While she rarely talked to people outside of their clique, Fluttershy always was the one who knew how to help someone. "I appreciate your offer for help, Fluttershy, but I really am tired. I'll talk to you girls in the morning."

"Goodnight, Rarity," said Fluttershy with a smile. "I hope you sleep well." She walked out of the room and Rarity found herself standing in her room alone like she was used to. She walked over to her bed and picked up her nightgown and pajama pants that she kept neatly folded to sleep in before giving a sigh.

"I hope so too..."





~ ~ ~





A loud crack of thunder erupted from the dark sky and the room was flashed by the bright light. The girl in the bed nervously looked outside the window at the raging storm and eventually to the boy beside her. The boy awoke simultaneously with another flash of lightning and sat up from the bed. The girl tried giving him a hug to comfort him, but she was stopped by the dark glare from the boy's teal eyes. The boy got out of the bed and walked towards the door. The girl began crying as she reached out to call for him, but he ignored her plea and left the room, slamming the door in harmony with the deafening sound of thunder.





~ ~ ~





Rarity jolted awake and quickly sat up in her bed. She stared out her window at the midnight city as her heart was beating rapidly and she felt extremely hot. She felt tears grow in her eyes and she began softly crying to avoid waking up her friends in the other room. 

"Stop crying," she whispered to herself sadly and with anger. She rubbed her eyes and tried to think of happy thoughts. Her method of trying to cheer herself up was short lived as she began thinking of happy thoughts that involved her friends and especially him. "If he knew how much you were crying at night being alone, he would do the same. You can't let him down or make him worry. You promised."

Rarity crashed down into her pillow and turned her body to look outside the window. She held her extra pillow closely to her as she tried calming herself down. 

Her almost-daily nightmares only started a few weeks ago. She was fine whenever she first moved into her apartment, but as months went by, she began feeling extremely lonely and sad. Mostly because each time she talked to him on the webcam or phone, she wanted him to be physically there with her more and more. She knew what the problem was, but she couldn't do anything about it. He was overseas for a year and she promised she would stay strong to pursue her passion for fashion. All she wanted was to hear someone special praise and encourage her each and everyday. Just like the days in high school. She wanted her "prince" back to love and care for her.

Rarity continued looking out the window and tried counting all the cars speeding down the streets below. She gave up after a few minutes and turned to lay on her back. It didn't take long for the ceiling to turn into a dark void, and soon she fell into a deep state of much-needed and peaceful sleep.





~ ~ ~





"Man, you look terrible," commented Rainbow Dash as Rarity walked towards the small kitchen table the next morning. Rainbow was sitting at the table munching on a stack of pancakes. Pinkie was rummaging through the small refrigerator while Applejack, Sunset, and Fluttershy were sitting on the couch nearby watching TV. The girls all looked at Rarity before returning their attention back to the TV.

Rarity sat down and apathetically stared at Rainbow. "Thank you for your compliment..." Rarity knew she looked like a mess, but in her defense, she just woke up. From looking in the mirror on her dresser as she walked out of the room, she knew her normally styled hair was frizzy and unkempt and her eyes had a tint of pinkness to them due to her crying and lack of sleep from waking up in fear. "I'm getting a shower after I eat."

Rainbow nodded. "I'd recommend one." She dug back into her tower of pancakes.

"Sorry I used your cooking materials, Rarity!" apologized Pinkie happily. "We wanted something to eat so I made us pancakes!"

"That's fine, Pinkie. I rarely cook anyway. I simply don't have time most days."

"I even saved you some!"

Rarity looked over at the counter and gave a smile. After grabbing a plate she sat back down. "I appreciate it, Pinkie. How long were you all up?"

"Since about eight in the morning ," replied Rainbow Dash with a mouth full of pancakes.

Rarity looked at her phone to see it was already past noon. "I'm truly sorry for sleeping in so long. It's just I've been working on this elegant leather and lace ensemble for the upcoming showcase all week and I haven't had much sleep." She wasn't completely lying as the fashion studio she interned at for the year was having a showcase before Christmas came. However, most of her lack of sleep for the past few weeks was her missing someone close to her heart. "You should've woken me up."

"And listen to your whinin' for getting up early?" interrupted Applejack from the couch in the living room. "No thank ya." The girls gave a nod.

"I don't think I would have had enough energy to whine." Rarity looked down at her pancakes and decided to finally eat. She needed all the energy she could get.

After eating, Rarity went to go take a shower, apply her makeup, style her hair, and finally get dressed. It took almost an hour, but her arduous task was eventually completed and she walked into her living room to finally talk to her friends.

"So, what's our plans today?" asked Sunset. "I've never been in Manehattan, so I'm not sure what we could do."

"I'll think of something, but since you are all here, how have you girls been?" Rarity looked at each of them. "Is school or work still going well?"

"Eeyup. The farm is still going strong since Big Mac and I are taking care of it." Applejack nodded proudly.

"I've been helping the Cakes start a delivery service!" shouted Pinkie, "our small Sweet Shoppe is expanding... sweetly!" She gave a snort and a laugh.

"And school for us is doing awesome!" said Rainbow excitedly. "Like we said last night, since winter break is like a month long, we wanted to come see you! But to answer your question, the Wonderbolts Academy is radical. I'm so honored and proud I got accepted into one of the most prestigious schools in the country!"

"My classes have all been basic required topics," said Fluttershy sadly. "My veterinarian classes won't start for another year or two."

"That's like how my school is, Fluttershy," replied Sunset. "Although, since I'm trying to be a teacher, I have to take lots of basic subjects."

"A teacher?" asked Rarity curiously. "I think that is a lovely choice for you!" 

Sunset gave a smile. "I liked teaching new students about Canterlot High last year, so I figured teaching was a good occupation for me. I haven't decided what grades I want to teach, but I still have a year to figure out." Rarity gave her a comforting smile.

"Since you are awake now, how is the fashion thing going?" questioned Applejack. "Did ya meet any new friends?"

Rarity frowned and shrugged. "There's one girl whose station is beside mine. Her name is Coco and we help each other when we need assistance, but the rest of the people that I compete against don't really talk to each other. They are all serious about winning."

"Winning?" questioned Rainbow Dash intrigued. "There's a contest?"

Rarity nodded. "In June, Hoity Toity and Prim Hemline will announce the person with the best designs and they will either receive a chance to stay in this city longer for and permanently work in the fashion studio with other famous designers or win a showcase for the spring and fall Fashion Week! That showcase is special because it's yours for a lifetime!"

"Man, no wonder they are all serious," stated Rainbow. 

"That's probably why Rarity was tired as well," spoke Sunset. "I bet you really want to win."

"Of course I want to win," said Rarity competitively. "I spent a lot of money on this apartment and time designing back home for a chance like this. I can't let this wonderful opportunity slip by."

The girls smiled at her tremendous will to win and Rarity felt her mind completely calm compared to her thoughts at night. However, it was short lived as Applejack spoke up.

"So, have you heard from him lately?" she asked, not wanting to say his name in case Rarity got upset.

Rarity felt those same saddening thoughts of loneliness enter her mind. "Unfortunately, not lately. He's been busy with traveling since the teams are all over the country. Plus, when he finally gets time to talk in the hotel room, I'm still at the fashion studio so I can't talk." Rarity gave a long sigh and she frowned. "I do check his team's progress on the Internet with what little free time I have occasionally. He's doing rather well over there, but I miss him so much though... Especially since it gets cold and I have no one to cuddle with in this lonely apartment."

The girls frowned with her. Rainbow Dash crossed her arms and jokingly grinned. "I bet you really miss kissing him and the other intimate stuff you two did in private. There's millions of dudes in this city, so I'm sure someone would sleep with you for a night if you really missed that feeling."

Rarity and the rest of the girls' mouths dropped and they all stared at Rainbow. Applejack, Sunset, Pinkie, and Fluttershy nervously looked at each other completely shocked at what Rainbow Dash just said. They slowly looked over at Rarity.

Rarity had the same expression as the other girls at first, but after a few seconds, her mouth closed, her eyebrows slanted downward, and she stood up. "How dare you, Rainbow Dash! Why would you ever imply something like that?! I am not some whore!" The girls in the room looked up at her, seeing hateful tears in her eyes.

Rainbow Dash blinked as she never expected a reaction like that. "Rares, I was just joking-"

"Do you think everything in a relationship is about the physical side?! Do you not understand the other half?!" Rarity's face showed anger, but her tears cried sadness.

The girls nervously looked over at a Rainbow Dash. Even Rainbow herself was now nervous and scared. "I was just–"

"You couldn't possibly understand the situation! How would you feel if the one person you love more than anything else in the world is on the other side of it and you can rarely talk to him because of conflicting schedules?! I worry about him each and every day, hoping he doesn't get hurt or worse, and here you are, my so called friend, calling me degrading names and suggesting I do something intimate with a complete stranger!" Rarity's tears flooded down her face and she crashed down on her couch and bawled with her hands covering her face.

The girls were silent as they didn't know what to do. Applejack crossed her arms and angrily looked at Rainbow Dash. "Way to go, RD. You just had to go that far..."

Rainbow Dash ignored Applejack and got up from her chair and walked over to the bawling Rarity. She sat down beside her and hugged her. "Rarity. I'm sorry. I was just trying to joke around, but you're right. I don't know the situation you have been in since coming to this city. There was no reason for me joking around since I have no idea what your mind is currently feeling. We do know you're a strong-willed girl, however, and you shouldn't be this upset all the time."

Rarity moved her hands away from face and looked at Rainbow's teary smile. "I-I know I shouldn't, but I've been so stressed lately. Every day that goes by I seem to think more and more about him, so I try to work late on my designs to clear my mind, but that just ends up making it worse by not sleeping."

Applejack walked up to the couch and sat down on the other side of Rarity to hug her. "Ah think you just need to have a day or two in complete relaxation. It works for Big Mac and me after long days on the farm."

"Yeah!" shouted Pinkie who ran up to them. "And what perfect timing we came to see you!" She joined the group hug.

"It would be our pleasure to help you, Rarity." Fluttershy sat down beside Rainbow and added to the large group hug.

Sunset looked over at them and smiled and shrugged. She also joined in on the hug. 

Rarity felt a smile grow on her face and her tears were drying up as she felt completely smothered by the love from her best friends. Her friends were right in saying worrying about him was causing her unneeded stress, but she couldn't help keep thinking and wondering how he was doing. However, she also knew a few days with the girls should clear her head. "You girls are truly the best." 

After a few moments, the girls ended their hug and Fluttershy looked at Rarity. "Do you feel better now?"

"I do," nodded Rarity with a smile. "Although, I must please ask you girls to refrain from talking about him, even though it hurts to say that, if I am to clear my head."

"Sure can do," replied Rainbow with a thumbs up.

"Yup! No more boy talk!" said Pinkie excitedly. Suddenly, her phone vibrated on the small table and she picked it up and beamed a large smile. "Swifty texted me!"

"Wait, what?" asked the girls.

Pinkie looked at them and rubbed her head, giving a sheepish grin. "I guess I forgot to tell you girls that I sort of have a boyfriend. Heh..."

"What?!"

"Pinkie, what the hell!" shouted Rainbow Dash. "You couldn't mention this to us, your best friends?"

"Ah agree." Applejack nodded.

"Yeah, forget the 'no more boy talk' rule. Tell us what happened, Pinkie." Sunset slyly grinned. "I love gossip."

Rarity tapped her finger to her mouth. "So, is this "Swifty" of yours the same Swift that has had a crush on you for so many years, but you always seemed to ignore him?"

Pinkie sighed. "Yeah..."

"Well, how did this relationship start then?"

Pinkie looked around the room at the curious eyes before her. She gave a smile. "It all started when most of you had already left for school back in August. Swift came into the Sweet Shoppe to pick up Scootaloo who was having a milkshake with Apple Bloom and Sweetie Belle then he saw me at the counter and walked up to it."

"So he just flatly asked you out?" asked Rainbow Dash, "that's boring."

"Right! That would have been boring!" shouted Pinkie. 

"Then what happened?!" asked Fluttershy excitedly. The girls looked at her in shock as she nervously laughed and her face got red. "Sorry..."

Pinkie giggled. "Anyway, Swift and I talked a bit. I asked him what he was going to do since we were out of high school. He told me he was headed to law school and I thought that was super cool!"

"Is this love story getting anywhere soon?" inquired Rainbow Dash with a yawn.

"Quiet, Rainbow!" retorted Rarity. "Each person has their own love story to tell. Let Pinkie keep talking." Rarity looked at Pinkie and gave her a smile.

"Thanks, Rarity!" Pinkie coughed into her sleeve to clear her throat. "Before he left, Swift told me he wanted to get something off his chest that he had wanted to tell me for a long time since he would be out of town for a few months until Christmas. He told me he always had a crush on me and even though I seemed oblivious, he always kept his crush because he knew one day he would figure out the perfect way of asking me out because he fell in love with my bubbly personality and he knew it made him feel happy inside hearing me laugh."

"That's adorable!" gushed Rarity. "How did you respond?"

"I felt so sad I ignored him for so many years so I wanted to make it up to him. I told him I would go on as many dates with him for as many years he had a crush on me and I ignored it. Turns out we went on six dates in one week! But long story short, he asked me out on the last date saying the time we spent together was one of his best memories ever." Pinkie have her normal large grin. "So yeah! He's such a sweet guy and I really hate myself for ignoring him for so long!"

"I'm happy for you, Pinkie." Rarity flashed her a smile.

"Yeah, but you could have told us." Rainbow laughed. 

"I'm sorry," apologized Pinkie. "I was just too excited on the thought of having someone text you daily saying 'Have a good day!' or 'Morning, beautiful!' Pinkie quickly frowned as she looked at Rarity. "Oh no! I'm sorry, Rarity!"

"It's fine," sighed Rarity with a teary smile. "That feeling of reading those messages is the best when you first wake up. It instantly brightened my morning. Especially Monday mornings."

The other girls felt for the saddened, purple-haired girl, but they knew she could never relinquish thinking about her boyfriend. To break the melancholy aura in the room, Sunset got up from the couch and stretched. "So, what are we going to do today?"

"We could go visit the famous Central Park a few blocks away," suggested Fluttershy. "I bet it looks really amazing in the winter season, too."

"That sounds like a good idea to me." Applejack looked over to Rarity. "What do you say, Rares?"

"I think a relaxing walk through the park would be lovely. After that, we could visit this nice restaurant near there and maybe head to that famous wax museum near Broadway street."

"Wax museum?" asked Pinkie confused, "we get to see lots of bees make all these types of wax?"

"No, Pinkie. It's a museum of wax statues of celebrities and athletes people can take pictures with," explained Rarity. "Some of them look rather realistic. I always wanted to go, but we never got to it when I was here last winter for Fashion Week, and I never wanted to walk that far into the city by myself.

"Sounds awesome. Let's go!" Rainbow Dash put on her jacket and rushed out of the main door of her apartment. After a few seconds, the girls heard the faint sound of footsteps charging down the stairwell.

"She's mighty eager," laughed Applejack. "Ah'll go wait with her outside." She quickly exited the small apartment.

Rarity looked around the room and noticed a feeling of forgetting something overcome her. "My phone! I must have left it in my room!"

"We'll just wait outside, okay?" stated Sunset. Rarity gave them a nod and ran to her bedroom while Sunset, Pinkie, and Fluttershy left the apartment. 

Upon reaching her bed, Rarity looked around and couldn't see a sign of her phone anywhere. She looked under the bed, under the pillows, and under the sheets, but the phone was nowhere to be found. She gave a grunt and looked at her dresser. She instantly smiled to see the phone right on the edge of the dresser.

As she walked over to pick up the phone, she stopped to look at the heart-shaped collage on her wall. Looking at all of the pictures on the collage made her heart feel a mix of happiness and sadness. She placed her hand on the frame and closed her eyes, giving a smile at all of the thoughts she had while taking the pictures and organizing them for the two collages. 

Her phone soon vibrated on the dresser and she looked down to see a new message from a Rainbow Dash. Thinking it was her yelling at her for taking so long to come outside, she opened it up surprised to see her message was something completely different.

"Hey! Look outside your door and hurry up! Some delivery guy dropped something off for you, but hurry up since it's cold outside!" read Rarity aloud. "What does that suppose to mean?" Rarity quickly made her way to the living room and put on her boots, the gray jacket, and a scarf before heading out the door. As she went to close it, her eyes landed on a giant stuffed bear that was colored white with a rose in one paw and a card in its other.

Rarity looked around the hallway. She walked up to the bear and her mouth dropped when she saw her name on the front of the card in the bear's paw. 

"Is this really for me?" she asked excitedly. She quickly smiled and dragged the giant stuffed bear into her apartment. She reached for the card that was tied around the bear's paw. After untying the string, Rarity opened up the card and began reading.




Rarity,

Merry early Christmas! All of your other presents should be at your house for when you get home to visit your family for your annual Christmas dinner. I remember you telling me a few weeks ago that you wanted to snuggle with me, so I got you this bear until I see you again. Sorry I haven't been able to talk to you as much as I would have liked, but the team travels so much and I'm always busy with practice or games. Plus, it doesn't help I'm six hours ahead of you and you are still at the studio when I get to my room. Anyway, I hope you enjoy your presents and I plan to buy you something else from over here that I will give you in person in July. I miss you so much and I can't wait to see you again and love you more than everything else in the world combined.

-C

P.S. - I didn't realize how romantic signing a letter with just the first initial is! I remember you did it for that tux for our first Spring Fling together and I always wanted to do it. 

P.P.S. - Tell your friends and family I said "Hello" and "Happy Holidays!"



Rarity closed the card and cried tears of happiness. She hugged the giant bear and smiled, pretending it was him. The bear was very soft and she knew she could easily fall asleep at nights now if she just imagined if the bear was her lover instead. She felt so content that she didn't want to stop hugging it, but she suddenly heard her phone vibrate on the small table beside the couch.

"Oops! I forgot about the girls!" Rarity grabbed her phone and rushed out of the apartment, locking it up before rushing down the stairwell and out the main doors of the building to the lively city streets of Manehattan. Her friends all stared at her with smiles. 

"So, was the giant teddy bear from him?" asked Rainbow with a smirk.

"It was," replied Rarity with a large smile and her eyes sparkling with joy. "I think I'll be okay living here until July now, but right now, I need to spend time and relax with my lovely best friends."

The girls cheered and all of them made their way down the streets of the city toward the famous park a few blocks away. 

Even though she promised she wouldn't think about him, while walking, Rarity couldn't wait until Christmas and more importantly July. July was always a good month for her in her life, as it was her birthday month and usually the yearly family beach trip that aligned with her birthday in the last week of the month, but now she was getting her true love back. All she had to do was continue her diligent work for her designs and the day of their reunion would soon come and be ever so magical.
> Under a Starry Sky
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

	Rarity stepped out of the SUV and gave a smile at the familiar building in front of her as the sun was beginning its decline in the early July sky. She was finally home.

After being stuck in the passenger seat of her family's car from a long drive from Manehattan, Rarity gave a stretch and walked towards the back of the car. She popped open the trunk and reached for her many suitcases and bags.

"I'll carry your stuff in," said Magnum, "you can go rest some more if you want and get familiarized with home again. Plus, your mother is inside dying to see you."

Rarity grinned. "Thank you, father!" She hugged him and kissed his cheek before running into their home. 

She ran by the shop section of the store, which hadn't been touched in over a year other than the normal dust cleaning, and entered the kitchen. The sound of her boots hitting the kitchen floor caused a woman to turn around. Her face was lit up with tremendous joy.

"Rarity, my beautiful daughter is home!" stated Pearl with excitement. She ran up to her and hugged her tightly.

"I missed you too," said Rarity softly. She felt tears in her eyes and could hear her mother sniffling. "Leaving you all again after Christmas was harder than leaving the first time."

Pearl leaned back and smiled. She held onto Rarity's arms for a moment and hugged her again. "We are just happy you are home safe. I know you probably got annoyed at your father and I for calling you every week, but it's a parent thing."

"I didn't mind," said Rarity with a smile, "I loved hearing your voices. Is Sweetie Belle home?"

"I'm afraid not. She went to that new horror movie her with friends. She wanted me to tell you she's sorry she couldn't be here, but the tickets for the movie was hard to come by and they had them for weeks."

Rarity frowned but gave an understanding nod. "That's fine. I'm not going anywhere anytime soon, so tomorrow will be perfectly fine for us to reunite!"

The sound of the shop door opening and a loud thud was soon heard and Rarity and Pearl peeked into the room. Magnum stood above all of Rarity's luggage that was piled up in the middle of the room. 

"I hope nothing delicate was in those bags," said Magnum worryingly.

Rarity walked up to the mountain of bags and grabbed the top bag. Out of all of them, it was the smallest one. "I made sure Clyde's console was protected when I packed it in, but I mostly have clothes in these bags except for this one." She moved the other bags aside and opened the largest bag on the the bottom. After giving a smile, she pulled out the giant white colored stuffed bear from the giant duffel bag. "Sorry about that, Melo. I shouldn't have suffocated you in there." She quickly hugged him.

"Is this the stuffed bear Clyde gave you for Christmas?" asked Pearl.

Rarity nodded. "I named him Marshmelo, or Melo for short, since he is pure white and perfectly soft." She gave a loving giggle. "He helped me through the cold winter."

"Speaking of Clyde, did he tell you when he's coming home?" 

Rarity looked at her mother and sadly frowned. "No, he never said which day..." Her frown quickly evaporated and a smile formed. "However, he did say July was the month he would be home, so I just have to keep waiting!" Her eyes sparkled in anticipation.

Pearl looked over at Magnum and the two of them grinned. Magnum walked over to the luggage mountain and looked down at a bag. "Would you like help carrying this upstairs to your room, too?"

"If you want to, but I can carry it up in trips. It's not a difficult climb to my room." Rarity gave a smile.

"Alright, we'll leave you to it. Opal is probably sleeping in your room anyway."

"Opal!" exclaimed Rarity, "I can't believe I forgot to visit Opal!" She turned towards the stairs and charged up them. At the top of the stairs, she slightly turned left to open the door and enter her room. She gushed when she saw her lovely cat sleeping on her neat and made bed that probably wasn't touched since Christmas. "Hello, Opal! Mommy is home!"

Opal opened one of her eyes and flicked her tail before returning to sleep. Rarity ignored her "lazy" attitude and sat down beside her, petting her head on the spot only Clyde and her knew Opal liked. Opal purred as she kept her eyes closed. 

"Clyde is coming home soon, too, Opal." Opal opened both her eyes and suddenly rubbed her head into Rarity's leg. She looked up at her and gave a small meow. "I know we both can't wait for him to come back." Rarity smiled and looked around her room. 

Everything was the same at first glance from the last she was in it, but there was a blank space on her wall beside one of the collages she made for Clyde and her. Remembering where it was, she quickly ran downstairs to pick up the smallest bag of luggage. She carried it upstairs and opened it up.

She dug out the console and gently placed it on one of her shelves. The bottom of the duffel bag had a particular frame that she carefully took it out. After looking at it and noting that no repairs were needed, Rarity smiled and put it on her wall beside the other one.

For the next half hour, Rarity unpacked her bags and put all of her clothing back into the appropriate dresser. It took longer than she would have liked, but it felt amazing to her seeing empty luggage bags and knowing that all her clothes were safely stored in her room. She gave a sigh of relief and crashed down on her bed.

"I missed this bed so much," she cooed. Her eyes eventually drifted away from the ceiling and onto the wall with the collages. Sad thoughts of being lonely began to creep into her mind and she quickly got up and ran out of her room. While she wasn't completely depressed like her time in Manehattan early on in her year internship, she still missed him even though she was home and he was coming soon. She thought it would be best just to walk around to ease her mind.

"What's wrong?" asked Pearl when Rarity reached the shop floor. Both Magnum and her was looking at their saddened daughter.

"Nothing is wrong, I just want to walk around the city for some fresh Canterlot air," said Rarity looking out the main door. 

"Don't get into trouble," commented Magnum with a chuckle. "I know you're old enough so we don't have to watch out for you, but it's getting late."

"Just promise us that you won't be too late, dear," said Pearl. "You're probably still tired and we don't want to go searching all over the town for you in the morning in case you fall asleep somewhere."

Rarity laughed. "I'll be home in an hour or so. Don't worry!" She gave them a smile and headed out the door.

Canterlot always looked pretty at the time of sunset. Unlit buildings, trees, and people were completely in shadow unless a glow from the streetlights came into contact with them. She looked down at her boots and was surprised that she could see all the detail on the sidewalks and streets. Canterlot and Manehattan were two complete different worlds, but for some reason, Rarity enjoyed the simple life of Canterlot more. There was no chaos in the streets with traffic jams or hordes of people walking and shoving others.

After a few blocks, Rarity pulled out her phone and opened up her text messages. Clyde never replied from a few hours ago when she was still in the car on her way back to Canterlot. Seeing how it would be early morning instead of the break of dusk for him, she assumed he was sleeping. She got out of his conversation to open up the group chat with her friends.

She quickly typed to see if any of them were home. Within a few minutes, Rarity frowned to see all of them were either busy or simply not in town. Applejack was at one of the few Apple family meetings that wasn't at Sweet Apple Acres, Pinkie was at some anime convention with her "Swifty", Fluttershy was working the night shift at the animal rescue, Rainbow Dash was at some professional soccer game a few hours away, and Sunset was at one of her summer classes for school. 

Discouraged, Rarity sighed and stopped her walk that was to no particular destination. She looked around and noticed she was standing in front of the Sweet Shoppe. It was the middle of summer so the shop itself stayed open longer compared to the winter months. Rarity gave a smile and walked inside.

There were a few customers inside sitting at the small tables or booths sharing milkshakes or laughing. All of them were likely younger than Sweetie Belle, so Rarity didn't know any of them. She walked up to the counter and looked up at the menu. She didn't really know why she was looking at the menu as her and her friends sat in this shop many times during their friendship. 

"Well, look who it is!" cheered a feminine voice. Rarity looked down and saw Mrs. Cake walking up from behind the counter. "Pinkie didn't tell me you came home already!"

"I just got back not even an hour ago," replied Rarity. "How've you and Mr. Cake been?"

"Oh, you know, same old I suppose. Our shop is still running so we can't complain." Mrs. Cake laughed. "I'm glad to see you survive the big city. Pinkie told us you were having troubles early in December, but we didn't know exactly how to help you."

"I'm fine now, but thank you for your concern. I really have to thank Pinkie and the others. They helped me greatly."

"Wonderful! Give me a moment, I want to give you something!" Mrs. Cake quickly turned around and pulled out a cup. Rarity tried watching her, but with Mrs. Cake's back to her, she couldn't exactly see. After a minute, Mrs. Cake turned back around and handed Rarity a caramel macchiato, her favorite drink. "Have a treat on me! Welcome back!"

Rarity flashed a large smile. "Thank you, Mrs. Cake!"

"No problem! It's the least I can do for one of my Pinkie's friends! I know she isn't home, but remember, we love seeing you girls hang out here!"

"I'll be sure to visit soon along with the others! We simply love it here." Rarity sipped on the drink and closed her eyes in pleasure. While it was the same drink she got in Manehattan, the Sweet Shoppe's was more tasty in her opinion. The Cakes' drinks always tasted better because they cared about both their customers' satisfactions and their products with delicacy, something a mass coffee store couldn't replicate. "Anyway, I probably should be going. I still want to walk around while the sky is a mix of pretty colors. Thanks again!"

Mrs. Cake gave her a wave. "My pleasure. Enjoy your homecoming night! I'm glad to see you again and are safe at home!"

Rarity smiled before leaving the shop. She sipped on her drink and looked at the sky. It was a mix of blues and purples now, but it was a great sight to see. It was extremely hard to see the sky in its natural colors with all the lights from the buildings in the city. She thought of something else to do before she continued her lovely walk. After a brief moment of looking at the sky, she decided to visit the park. By the time she would reach it, she knew the stars would be easily seen in the sky. She sipped on her drink and began the trek. 

It was near the halfway point of the journey to the park where Rarity walked by the restaurant Clyde and her had their first official date. She gave a smile at the whole thought of that night. 

At first, she thought it would be a simple movie date in which two friends would go together. Clyde was the only option as all of her friends were busy with other plans that night and she really did want to see the new movie at the time. However, after eating at the restaurant and watching the movie, which really reminded her of the growing relationship with Clyde due to the similarities, she began feeling much different towards him. He was truly different compared to the other boys, but for some reason, she felt peaceful whenever he was around. He wasn't really popular at the time nor was he exactly rich, but Rarity didn't care about those things with him. She loved his caring and compassionate side that not many boys showed her when they were trying to impress her, even though Clyde never tried to woo her. Of course, she knew about his many blushes whenever she was around him, but because she kept teasing him about, he began to act more calm. While most boys in high school wanted to act tough or cool, Clyde stayed true to himself and avoided the spotlight. He even treated her as if she was the only girl in the world to him, which was true since he had no sisters and his mother was unfortunately not around anymore. Even after knowing him for nearly three years now, Clyde still was the same person she fell in love with; a loving boy who only wanted his "princess" to be loved and happy. 

After a few more minutes of walking, Rarity found herself at the park. She threw away her empty cup in the trash bin and walked down the stone-bricked path towards the heart of the park. She glanced at the basketball courts that was a nearby the entrance she took and was surprised to see someone shooting around, even in the darkness of the night. The park and its paths were lit up by streetlights and the giant fountain in the middle, but the courts were always dark because it was supposed to be closed at dusk. Apparently for that person, they didn't care.

Rarity tried to see who it was, but since she was so far away and the person was just a silhouette, she had no idea who it could have been. The person didn't know she was even there until Rarity accidentally stepped on a branch from one of the trees that grew along the path. The person turned towards the source and Rarity adjusted her pace towards the fountain, hoping the person didn't see her or even knew her to bother her. She just wanted time alone on a beautiful night.

Within a minute, Rarity eventually found herself at the heart of the park. The large fountain's central spout illuminated the stone-bricked pathways leading to the basketball and tennis courts, the small pond that housed ducks and fish, the soccer and baseball fields, and finally the park stage that bands played on during concerts. The smaller spouts and their lights helped brighten the area as well. Rarity sat down on the fountain's edge across from the pond and looked up at the now blackened sky. 

The stars were fully out now and shone brightly down on the surface of the pond, along with the beautiful moon. Rarity saw a few people walk on the bridge above the pond as she pulled out her phone to capture the lovely scenery. After taking a quick picture, she turned her body around to look at the fountain.

After taking a picture of the bright fountain and its many spouts, Rarity leaned down and dipped her hand in the pool of water. She flinched as the cool water rushed up her hand. The fountain wasn't extremely deep, but since the base of it spanned a large area, there was a few feet of water to support all of the spouts. A normal tradition for visitors of the park was to throw spare pennies in the fountain to make a wish. She didn't bring any money with her, so Rarity looked on the ground and luckily found a penny near her foot. She didn't want to take away any pennies from the fountain as she would feel guilty of breaking someone's wish. Rarity closed her eyes and gave a smile before flicking the bronze coin into the fountain. She felt a small drop of water splash up at her face and she quickly turned back around to look up at the sky.

Rarity tried looking for constellations, but the activity was short-lived as she couldn't exactly remember any. Clyde would've helped her since she knew he was into stargazing, but since he wasn't there to help, she had to pretend she knew them. She gave a content sigh and closed her eyes, feeling only a small breeze flow through her hair.

The wind felt amazing as it seemed to flow through her entire body and the sound of the fountain behind her completely enclosed her from every outside source. She felt a total state of calmness and one with nature, something that was impossible to accomplish while living in a bustling city. It felt great for her to find her mind acting calm especially after her minor depression in the winter of feeling alone. She would've stayed sitting on the fountain's edge in absolute harmony longer if a voice hadn't suddenly spoke to her.

"Hey there, beautiful. Mind if I join you?"

Rarity's eyes shot open as she knew that voice as well as any of her friends or family members. Her eyes first saw dark sweatpants and a black shirt, and as her eyes came into contact with a pair of teal ones, Rarity felt her eyes flood with tears of happiness and joy before she quickly launched off of the fountain's edge and ran over to hug the boy in front of her. "Clyde!" she cried.

Clyde never replied, but Rarity felt him accept the hug by hugging her tighter and pulling her closer to him. Rarity wrapped her arms around his neck as Clyde held onto her around her hips. She leaned her head near his for a few moments before moving it away from his to look at him directly with eye contact. The two smiled away at each other. It was so long since she had smiled that happily, but Rarity felt the stars somehow twinkle brighter above her at the reunion of two lovers. She could smile all night.

"How are you, Rarity?" asked Clyde awkwardly. He was still smiling and Rarity could tell he was just as excited to see her as she was to see him. 

Rarity touched his forehead with hers. "Absolutely divine, especially since you are here." 

"That's good to hear." Clyde slightly adjusted his grip on her hips and smirked. "It's been so long since the last I've seen you in person that I'm actually feeling nervous."

"Nervous about what, darling?" giggled Rarity. "Being around your girlfriend?"

"An amazingly beautiful girlfriend."

Rarity smiled at the comment and snuggled her head into his shoulder. Her body, mind, and heart was filled with so much emotion, she didn't know what to do. She only knew she was in his arms and she didn't want to leave them. "I've missed you so much, Clyde. I never realized how much being this close to you would make me feel this happy again. I never want to be that far away from you ever again. This feeling of completeness is truly wonderful." 

Clyde rested his chin atop her head and hugged her even tighter. It still wasn't a complete bear hug, so Rarity wasn't in pain, but if she did feel anything, she wouldn't have cared. "I agree." He looked around the park for a brief scan and then returned his eyes to her. "Would you like to sit down instead of just standing here all night?" he asked with a laugh.

Rarity smiled. "It doesn't matter to me in the slightest, but I think sitting would be easier for us to look at each other and talk."

Clyde nodded and grinned before moving his hands completely away from her hips. He gently wrapped his arms and clasped them together around her "delightful and cute derrière" as Rarity called it, and he lifted her straight off the ground so that her feet hovered a fair amount of inches from the ground. Rarity giggled as she towered over him by a few inches. She looked down at him with a smile and rested both her hands under his jaw before wrapping her arms around his neck as he walked over to the fountain carefully, looking up at her and trying not to trip on the way there. Once he reached the fountain, Clyde gently lowered her and placed her on the fountain's edge and sat down next to her. Rarity grabbed his hand and smiled in bliss as she looked into his eyes.

The two of them didn't speak for a few seconds as looking at each other was more important for them. Like her own image, Rarity noticed Clyde didn't really have a major change in appearance since last June. He may have gained a few more pounds in muscle for playing on the team, but it was hardly noticeable and it didn't concern her. While she did enjoy having the feeling of someone strong protecting her, she knew Clyde would protect her no matter how muscled he was, like he had since she has known him. His face was shaved, but she could see his stubble was busy growing in, which she adored. 

"How was the flight home?" asked Rarity breaking the silence between them. "Did you just arrive in town?"

Clyde shook his head. "My flight arrived in Baltimare early this morning. Coach, I mean, Iron Will, picked me up from the airport and he drove me back here around noon. I know you were texting me in the morning, but my phone died and I forgot my charger on the plane."

Rarity nodded and knew now the reason for no texts from him on her way home. "Noon? That's the same time I left Manehattan!" Rarity looked at him with a puzzled expression. "But you say Coach Iron Will picked you up?"

Clyde chuckled and smiled. "Yeah. Other than you, the person I talked to the most overseas was Iron Will. We talked about basketball and whatnot and discussed how T was playing stellar for his college team. Speaking if T, I can't believe he got drafted to a professional team in the first round. I'm proud of him." Clyde shook his head with a grin. "But back to me, I told Iron Will when I was coming back and he said he would pick me up so I could surprise you."

"Coach was always such a swell guy," stated Rarity sweetly. "I'm glad he always had us girls not have to play the sports in gym class if we didn't want to. All those boys were savages in gym class and I'm extremely pleased to know you always wanted to walk the track with me and Applejack instead."

Clyde laughed and nodded. "Anyway, after getting home and unpacking, I waited until this evening to visit you at your house, but when I walked over, your parents told me you left not even five minutes ago. I decided to come visit the courts again and wait another hour and there you came by." 

"I guess it was our fate to meet here again tonight," stated Rarity playfully with a flirty wink. 

"Maybe," replied Clyde. He looked up at the sky and smiled. "Although, I'm not sure if fate has anything to do with us anymore. Fate lost its connection to us over love in the past few years."

Rarity laughed and rested her head on Clyde's shoulder. It did seem weird and fateful that the two of them reunited at a unplanned location, but she knew he was right about love being more important to them. If two people loved each other, they would always find their way back to each other eventually, no matter the situation.

"So, how are your friends and sister doing? Your parents said Sweetie Belle wasn't home so I didn't get to see her."

Rarity kept her head on his shoulder and looked out towards the moonlit pond. "They are all doing well. My friends aren't home tonight as they all have plans, as does Sweetie Belle. I still can hardly believe my little sister is a senior this year! I feel so old..."

Clyde laughed. "I mean, you are turning 20 in a few weeks..."

"Clyde!" gasped Rarity, sitting up, "this is no time for making fun of me at getting older! I might be six months older than you, but you will be 20 eventually, too!" She gave him a playful smile before laughing with him.

"Nothing's wrong with turning 20. That just means I'll have to buy you 20 things on that day." He smirked and turned his face back to serious and nonchalant. "I'm not joking either. I'll do it."

"You certainly don't have to buy me that many things," said Rarity with a large smile. "Having you home and you joining me and my family at our annual beach trip again during my birthday week is all I want this year." 

"Alright then... I offered," he said sadly with a shrug. Rarity giggled and hugged him at his torso.

"But thank you for having that much dedication to me," she cooed.

Clyde hugged her back and the two of them remained silent again for a few moments, just enjoying the embrace since so many days had passed without one. Rarity strangely had trouble thinking of something to say. She always loved how Clyde would listen and try to care at her problems or town gossip when they were in high school and when they talked over the phone or web, but maybe because she was so excited to see him again, she had no interest in talking.

"How did that contest go?" asked Clyde after a minute of silence went by. "I know you have been working on your entry for the past few months, but did you win? You never told me yet."

"Honestly, I didn't tell anyone yet." Rarity sat upright and looked down at the stone bricks around the fountain. "I wanted to make an announcement in a few days around my family and friends as it is something that is important to me."

"Ah, I see." 

Rarity smiled and looked over at him. "Although, I'll tell you tonight at this very moment if you want to know since you are the one person that I can trust without a single doubt. Just don't tell anyone yet." She gave a wink.

"If it makes you feel better, I can wait along with the others," said Clyde politely with a loving smile. 

Rarity shook her head. "That's no fun. I don't mind telling you early. I want to tell you early. I want to hear your thoughts."

"Alright," replied Clyde with a nod. "I'll keep this between us for a few days."

Rarity gave a grin and cleared her throat. "As you know, darling, my time at Manehattan was mostly preparing me for this special contest. I worked super hard on a fashionable clothing line to present to Hoity Toity and Prim Hemline. After weeks of planning, designing, and crafting, I finally finished a line that was classy and stylish." Rarity paused. "Do you remember that picture of that one dress I sent you a week or two ago?"

Clyde scratched his head. "Uhh... Was it that one that looked like an off-shoulder leather-trimmed torso piece, but with a lace skirt or something?"

"It was! That was one of dresses in my showcase for the contest. I also had others, but I focused solely on incorporating the stylish look of leather with the elegant look of lace. Both of them combined are truly fabulous if someone can pull it off."

"But knowing you, I'm sure you pulled it off," said Clyde sweetly.

Rarity smiled at compliment like she always would do. "Actually... I tied for first."

"Tied?" questioned Clyde confused, "they let an important contest end in a draw?"

"Both Hoity Toity and Prim Hemline never saw a tie before, and they were just as confused as you." Rarity placed her hands on the inside ledge of the fountain's edge she sat on and leaned back. "Both myself and the other girl who won, Suri, tied so that meant we both should've won the prize of staying at the Manehattan studio permanently and the Fashion Week showcase."

Clyde frowned. "You didn't win the prize?"

Rarity shook her head. "Suri did, but I declined the whole offer. I only wanted the Fashion Week showcases."

"Why?" 

Rarity give a smile and looked at him. "I know it would be incredible to keep learning from some of fashion's best designers and critics, but I don't want them to design clothes for me. I want to do it myself like I had all my life. That's how I got there in the first place." Rarity looked up at the stars and flashed a big grin as she saw some stars twinkle back at her. "The best part about fashion is that it's a way to show people your heart. No matter what I design in the past, the present, or the future, people can look at anything I made and know I spent my time and heart working on it and that's what is most important to me. Doing something that makes you happy is all a person needs to do to have a wonderful life." Rarity glanced at him and grabbed his hand again.

Clyde looked over at her and nodded. He also looked up at the sky for a moment, watching the stars carefully. A short chuckle soon came out of his mouth. "Look how much you've grown up. You gave up the luxurious city life you always craved to stay true to your heart. I'm happy you were so strong during your time there."

Rarity gave a fake smile at first. She wanted to tell him the early struggles she had to go through, but decided not to. "I'm not entirely giving up Manehattan, as I do have to go there twice a year for both Fashion Weeks," said Rarity with a coquettish smile this time. "Those showcases are important to really promote my small business I created from the ground up! Hopefully I will have you joining me this time." She squeezed his hand, but quickly frowned at the realization of something. "Unless... You won't be in town that week..."

Clyde looked away at her and raised an eyebrow. "What are you talking about?"

"Father told me on the way home that he was keeping up with basketball news for the past few months and even watched some of your games through streams. He told me the Kneighs' interest in a true point guard was growing as the season went on and your name managed to be on the list because of your season overseas. He told me the Kneighs had no draft picks so they were trying to find potential players from all over."

Clyde looked at her and gave a laugh. "That's really interesting, but I haven't paid much attention to the media or player reports all year. That's too much outside noise for me. I just wanted to play."

"So, you aren't going to play for Manehattan?"

Clyde was silent and looked at the ground. "I decided a few weeks ago that I'm not going to play for any team. I'm done playing professional basketball."

Rarity gasped. "But Clyde, isn't that your dream? You're giving up that easily?"

"It was my dream at one point, or so I thought." Clyde adjusted himself on the fountain's edge and gave Rarity a warm smile. "Don't get me wrong, I did enjoy playing all year. It was amazing to play at a higher level and meet new people while learning a whole new culture, but those road trips really burned me out. At times, we were on the road for twenty hours a day. Some nights I would get in the hotel room and instantly crash, just to wake up the next morning getting ready to practice all day or play. It was almost like an endless cycle and was really exhausting."

"I see..." said Rarity with a frown. She knew at times whenever she did have the opportunity to talk to him over the phone or web during her Manehattan stay that he sounded extremely tired. She always told him to just go to sleep instead of staying up to talk to her, but Clyde would refuse saying he needed to hear her voice. She could only imagine the constant fatigue he must have went through.

"I won't ever forget my time over there, but I needed to see if playing basketball at the time was my true passion in life." 

"I'm sorry, darling," said Rarity sadly. She squeezed his hand and Clyde responded with a smile.

"I did learn how to speak some of the language, however." He grinned.

"Oh? Like what?"

Clyde looked up to the sky for a few moments to ponder and think of what to say. It wasn't long until he looked back at Rarity and gave her a sly smile. "Je t'aimerai toujours."

Rarity giggled and she snuggled her head back on his shoulder and gave a content sigh. While she was extremely happy about her Clyde being back, she couldn't help but feel sad his dream of playing basketball didn't work out as well as hers did. "Clyde, do not worry. I will help you find your new dream."

Clyde chuckled and smirked. "I appreciate it, but I have already found it."

Rarity instantly sat up confused. "But you said–"

"I did say playing basketball didn't work out and I have no interest in playing, but I'm not shutting it out completely." Clyde laughed. "It's one of the only things I'm good at."

Rarity continued looking confused. "I don't understand..."

"I said before that I kept in touch with Iron Will. On the way back to Canterlot from the airport, I told him all the things I just told you about my time playing overseas, so he asked me a question."

"And what was it?"

Clyde shook his head. "I doubt you'll ever guess it."

"I probably won't unless you tell me."

"I mean, I probably wouldn't even guess it if I was you."

Rarity felt her eye twitch and she felt slightly annoyed. Of course, she wasn't going to yell at him, but all she wanted to know was a simple question. "Clyde," she said in a threatening tone, "just tell me."

Clyde gave her a laugh. "Alright. Anyway, he asked me how much interest I would have on being an assistant coach for Canterlot High, eventually becoming the head coach after he finally retires."

Rarity blinked. "A coach? You were correct. I would have never imagined you being a coach, but somehow, I believe you would be a good one."

"You do?" asked Clyde surprised.

"Of course! I know how much you enjoy playing basketball, and you always were good at getting your teammates going during the games. Even Rainbow Dash told me that one night." Rarity smiled at him. "She said you were the best floor general she played with, whatever that means."

"I'm not that good, but Iron Will said the same thing," said Clyde modestly and embarrassed. "I like seeing people play good and it was my job to make the team play as one. However, Iron Will also wants me to help him with football as well."

"Football? You never even played. I can see basketball, but football?"

Clyde gave her a look. "You didn't want me to."

Rarity sheepish grinned. "I was just trying to keep you safe from injury, Clyde. I didn't want you to get hurt, even though any sport is prone to injury. I was just being extra cautious." She pouted at him.

"Yeah, I know," said Clyde soothingly with a smile at the return of his favorite pout, "I'm not mad you didn't let me play, but I would only be a guy who helps Iron Will with practice drills and come up with defensive zones or plays with Coach Rider. It would keep be busy until the basketball season comes up. Plus, I can't complain I'm getting paid for all of this, even though I'm on the assistant salary for now."

"So, would you be at school all day then? You could always spy on Sweetie Belle for me and make sure she isn't skipping class or making out with a boy." Rarity elegantly laughed.

Clyde laughed with her. "I'm not sure yet, I haven't actually accepted the offer, but I probably will call him up tomorrow." Clyde moved forward on the edge and stretched his back. "My guess would be I would sit in the small office in the locker room or maybe the office in the weight room and chill out all day. I'm not a gym teacher, so I think I could manage to find something to do. Maybe Iron Will will even let me work on plays from home until the after school meetings or practice."

"That would be lovely!" exclaimed Rarity while beaming a huge smile. "You can always spend days with me at my shop, well, home in case you don't have to attend a meeting or practice that day." 

Clyde slyly gave her an agreeing smirk. "I planned on doing that anyway."

Rarity squeezed his hand with hers and stared into his eyes. This was truly one of the best nights of her life as she returned home for good, Clyde reunited with her, and she learned Clyde would be in Canterlot with her and join her for her two yearly Manehattan trips. She lost count of how many times Clyde and her smiled on this night, but it felt so magical to be able to smile this much again. She let go of his hand to scoot closer to him, hugging at his torso again and leaning her forehead against the side of his face and shoulder. "Tonight has been so amazing, my darling. I'm so happy we were both able to follow our dreams of being a designer, and now a new coach for the high school, even after being apart for a year. To make it even more special, and we both are living back in the town we fell in love in." Rarity dreamily sighed in bliss.

Clyde looked down at his shoulder with a loving smile before a laugh escaped him. Confused, Rarity tilted her head to look slightly up to see him. "What's so funny, Clyde?" She had no idea what he was laughing about. She worried if she said something wrong or a bug was crawling through her hair.

"My dream isn't being a new coach." He stopped laughing to keep the conversation serious. 

"Huh? You just said-"

"My dream isn't anything to do with basketball," he said with a smile, "being this new assistant is just my occupation."

"Then you still didn't find it?" asked Rarity with a frown.

Clyde shook his head and smiled brightly. "My dream involves you."

"What?"

Clyde instantly used his hands to launch himself off of the fountain's edge to stand up. He turned around and looked down at Rarity. With a quick motion, he grabbed her two hands with his and gave her a smile. Once eye contact was made, Rarity found herself blushing.

Ever since forming a romantic relationship with him, blushing became uncommon for them as years went by and the two of them became extremely comfortable with one another. Both of them only seemed to blush whenever an embarrassing moment occurred, a nervous moment occurred, or before, during, or after an intimate moment. Rarity didn't quite understand why she felt nervous looking at him, but she knew there was nothing to worry about as Clyde was literally standing just a few inches from her. 

"Rarity?"

"What is it, my love?"

Clyde's smile grew. "I figured out my dream a year ago and it has nothing to do with basketball or music. What really drove me everyday while I was overseas was constantly thinking of you, even though I felt extremely lonely and worried at times knowing you were living in a giant city by yourself working hard."

"You too?!" gasped Rarity. Clyde acted confused as Rarity looked away for a moment. She really wanted to keep that moment hidden from him, but if Clyde himself had the same troubles, there was no point. Plus, she never hid anything from him before so she decided not to start now. "Clyde, around winter I felt the same way about you. I worried every night about you since I couldn't see or talk to you most nights. I guess I just wanted you to be beside me again so I could sleep better without a worry in the world." Rarity gave a teary smile. "I prayed every night since I couldn't sleep that you wouldn't get hurt or play badly that you would've gotten cut from the team."

"As I prayed that you would be successful in your fashion designs," stated Clyde with his eyes closed. "Being so far away from you really made my choice of playing overseas much harder, but I had to do it. I did it because I love you so much that the only way to show it was to go overseas for a year. I know it was hard for both of us not seeing each other in person for over thirteen months, but at the same time, I feel our relationship grew stronger. We as people grew stronger, too. We never really had any struggles or tests during our time together, but if we managed to survive this long without seeing each other, I'm sure we can do anything now." Clyde chuckled.

Rarity smiled at him and gave a confident nod. Clyde opened his eyes and looked down into hers. Rarity instantly felt the contact of two hearts and souls connect with each other. Clyde gently squeezed her hands with his and smiled brightly and proudly.

"I told you, my brother, and your parents so many times how much you mean to me, but I just want to tell you again that you are the most beautiful angel I've ever met, and I'm super lucky to not only be best friends with her, but also be loved by her." Clyde's smile continued to grow and Rarity felt herself even mimic it. "Before I met you, I never knew what it was like to be able to look at someone and smile for no reason. The one thing I missed everyday while overseas was seeing you, that beautiful smile, and those alluring eyes of yours that always could cheer me up. You will always be my motivation and I never want to be that far away from you again as my mind is filled with an incredible sense of euphoria when you are near me that I refuse to let go."

"I simply can't imagine being far away from you again either, Clyde. You, too, bring me a sense of happiness, protection, and love that helps me get through any hard time in my life. Hearing your voice while I was in Manehattan after I got back to my apartment from a long and tough day always made my night." Rarity felt her eyes fill with tears, but she didn't want to cry in front of him now. She looked down at her hands that were held in his for a brief moment before giving him a warm smile. "Clyde. You made my life a living fairy tale that I had always dreamed about and thought was only possible in movies. I love you more than the stars love the clear nights."

Clyde smirked as he gave a slight chuckle. "I promise I will continue being the prince you always wanted in your life."

"You are the best prince I could ever ask for," said Rarity with a flirty wink. "Please don't change. You don't need to impress me anymore nor do you have to. The same boy I fell in love with nearly three years ago is still the same boy who stands in front of me now. Although, now, that boy is now a man with his eyes set on keeping his girlfriend happy. I cannot detest that, and I shall make sure I treat him with the same amount of love as he treats me with his."

"Seeing you happy is all I need to see for me to be happy."

"And you are doing a wonderful job, darling."

Clyde laughed before looking up at the sky. He kept his smile before looking at Rarity. She could see a slight glimmer in his eyes that she never saw before. "Do you remember what I wrote in that note attached to that stuffed bear I sent you for Christmas?"

Rarity sat there for a few moments thinking before the sudden thought of the note came to her at once. "Why, yes. You told me to stay strong and that my other presents were sent to my house for when I returned."

"And that I also had another gift–"

"–that you wanted to give me in person." Rarity looked at him with a sly smirk as she cut him off.

Clyde nodded before giving a laugh. Without saying anything, Clyde gently released his grip on her hands and used his right hand to reach into the pockets of his sweatpants. Rarity watched him carefully and as she saw Clyde pull out a certain object from his pocket, she quickly placed her hand over her mouth and she felt tears grow in her eyes again. In one fluent motion, Clyde gave her a loving smile as he dropped on his knee and reached out his arms to present the small black box she always saw in romantic movies. As he opened the box, Rarity felt a gentle stream of happy tears slowly flow down her cheeks as she looked at the diamond ring in front of her.

The ring itself was absolutely gorgeous. It was a 18 karat white gold band that had numerous smaller diamond studs and diamond-trimmed details that wrapped around and up the band, eventually meeting at the central and main diamond of the ring. The diamond itself was princess cut, Rarity’s dream style of a ring. She didn’t know if Clyde had the diamond cut like that just to be cute, or that he secretly knew her favorite style even though she never told him, but at this very special moment, she could care less. The diamond shone brightly with the help from the lights from the fountain behind her. She finally looked away from the dazzling ring before her and looked up to Clyde's eyes. His teary smile made her cry more tears of happiness. Her body was completely paralyzed and the only commands she could give her body was to cry and look around.

“Rarity,” spoke Clyde with a shaken voice full of pent-up emotion. “I could be here all night retelling you how much I love you, but I feel like I could just tell you everyday from now on instead. You made my life amazing whenever you entered it and I can’t wait to make more memories in the future with my one true love. Rarity, will you marry me?”

Rarity still was frozen due to the power of emotions coming at her at once. Without any hesitation, and while still crying happily, she gave a nod and flashed him the smile he loved talking about. “Y-Yes! Of course!” she rejoiced.

Her body instantly moved on her own as she lunged forward, wrapped her arms around his neck, and hugged him as tightly as possible. Clyde put his head on her shoulder and returned the hug. Rarity sniffled in complete bliss and knew this night was the most magical and wonderful night in her life. Clyde moved away from her after a few moments and smiled at her. "May I have your hand for a second?" he asked politely.

Rarity nodded and lifted her left hand. She held it in air close to him as she watched in joy, a large grin on her face to depict her current mood. Clyde gently took the engagement ring out of the small box and gently moved it around her left hand's ring finger. With a loving smile, he got off of the ground and sat down beside her on the fountain's edge. 

Rarity was still admiring the diamond around her finger and didn't say anything to him. By looking at the ring, Rarity began to think about all the symbolism it brought. Just one ring could show how much Clyde and her felt complete whenever they were near each other and how now they were officially committed to one another for eternity. To top it off, the diamond was the most romantic of gems and it showed that their love was as clear as a diamond. She knew by just looking at it, the ring costed a few thousands. Clyde always would be generous around her, so she wasn't completely surprised with the luxurious ring, but she couldn't help feel a little worried about the price. 

"What's wrong?" asked Clyde concerned.

Rarity looked at him. "Hmm? Nothing at all! I just never expected a ring this gorgeous! I hope you didn't spent too much of your money from overseas on just this ring..."

Clyde shrugged with a grin. "I still have plenty of money left for us until school starts up again, so don't fret. Since the team paid for my hotel rooms, transportation, and food, I just saved up money. I didn't have anything to buy from overseas, so I decided to use it for you. I worried if you wouldn't think the ring would be good enough..."

"Good enough!" gasped Rarity, "Clyde, darling, it's perfect! I wouldn't ask for anything else!" Rarity gave him another hug. 

"I'm surprised you didn't take a picture and send it to your social media accounts," joked Clyde.

"Don't worry. I will tomorrow," laughed Rarity outstretching her hand so the lights from the fountain behind them hit the diamond. "I might take one real quick to my friends and my parents soon, though."

"Go ahead," said Clyde with a sly smile. "Although, you won't need to send a picture to your parents at this very moment. They already saw it."

Rarity looked at him with a confused look. "They did?" She instantly gave a gasp. "Did you show them when you went over earlier?!"

"I did," said Clyde with a nod. "Although, I asked them if I could marry you way earlier." Clyde leaned back on the fountain's edge to stretch his back again. "The day of graduation is when I asked them. While you were getting ready for the party, I was telling them how I was going to play overseas for a year to get enough money to propose to you and have money left over so I could take care of you whenever I returned. I'm so glad they approved of the decision, even though the decision might have made you cry when I first told you."

"Really?" asked Rarity in disbelief. "I can't believe they held that conversation away from me for over a year." Rarity smiled as she thought of her parents. They always wanted her to be happy, as for Sweetie Belle too, but Clyde showed them through the past few years that she would be the happiest girl in the world when he was with her. "How did they react at first?" she curiously asked.

Clyde gave a laugh. "Your dad was pretty calm. He shook my hand and told me he had faith in me to take care of you and he had no argument against me. Your mother wanted me to make a promise first, though."

"A promise?" wondered Rarity.

"She said I could marry you only if I promised her that I would keep you close by, and not in another country or city, so she could see her grandchildren anytime she wanted in the future." Clyde gave another laugh.

Rarity rolled her eyes and gave a sigh. "Mother would only care about that..." Rarity soon gave a giggle and looked up at the stars. "Other than both Fashion Weeks in Manehattan or other vacation or trips we plan to go to, I plan to stay in Canterlot."

"That's what I told her," agreed Clyde. "Canterlot is a special place to us and I wasn't planning on taking you far away from your family. I know how much you guys are close."

Rarity looked over at him with a small smile. "Soon you will officially be part of my family." Rarity looked at the ground and quickly back to Clyde. She hesitated, but eventually spoke again. "I know my parents couldn't ever replace yours, but they do care about you, Clyde."

Clyde gave her a teary smile. "I know." Clyde grabbed her hand with his as a Rarity gave him a bigger smile. After a short amount of time, Clyde looked down at her other hand that bore her new ring. "So, is it picture time yet?"

"You know I love taking pictures of us, Clyde. I'll take one of the ring and then the both of us." Rarity smirked as she leaned down and took her phone out of her boot. She saw her friends were chatting with each other in the group chat so she knew it was a perfect time for her to surprise them with a picture or two. 

First, she held out her hand and moved it around to find a good location for where the lights from the fountain shone on the ring. She zoomed in on the ring to capture more detail and quickly snapped the picture. After making sure the picture was clear enough, she quickly shoved her head close to Clyde's and moves her phone away from her. 

"Oh no, not a selfie," grumbled Clyde. 

Rarity kept her eyes fixed on her phone's screen. She could see Clyde was shaking his head. "Darling, please smile. I know you aren't a fan of pictures, but it's only one. Besides, I haven't seen you in so long, so we are way behind in our picture quota for our next collage."

Clyde gave a long sigh and cracked a smile. "Tonight is a special night, so I'm fine with it," said Clyde sweetly. He adjusted his head by leaning it against the side of Rarity's. They both fidgeted around as Rarity moved her phone in various angles. She eventually decided the best picture was for her to lift her hand up to show the ring as she pretended she was kissing his cheek. Clyde sat there with a large smile as he was ordered to. After viewing it and agreeing it was perfect, Rarity sent both pictures in her group chat with a smiley face emoticon and a heart. 

"I wonder who will reply first," questioned Rarity as she looked down at her phone. Clyde wasn't able to answer her as they both saw five messages suddenly pop up on the screen nearly simultaneously. 

"Awesome! About time! Congrats!" read Rainbow Dash's text.

"Aww, how sweet! Congratulations, Rarity! I love the ring! I'm happy for the both of you!" read Sunset's.

"Congrats, Rares! I'm happy for ya both," read Applejack's.

"Yay! You two and that ring look so perfect!" read Fluttershy's.

"Woohoo! Congrats, you guys! Do you know what this means?! I have so many parties to plan, especially the bachelorette party!!! :D Also, tell Clyde hello and welcome home!" read the last message from Pinkie.

Rarity found a tremendous joy of reading their messages. All of them supported and cared about her efforts of trying to find her true prince in life, and because of Pinkie's balloon pop fundraiser after the junior year Fall Formal, she managed to somehow match up with Clyde. They also helped her get back on her feet for that year's Spring Fling and even her Manehattan struggles. She quickly wrote back a small thank you text and telling them she would meet up with them tomorrow afternoon so she could talk. She did, after all, just return to Canterlot earlier in the day like Clyde, so she hadn't seen them in months.

"I won't post anything until the morning," said Rarity to Clyde as she put her phone back into her boot. "Tonight my attention rests only on you, not the amount of likes we get."

"I'm sure I'll get notified of all the messages whenever you do," laughed Clyde. 

Rarity smiled at him and the two of them found each other staring into each other's eyes once more. A sudden thought occurred to Rarity after she looked away from Clyde's eyes and briefly took focus on his mouth. She was about to say something before he spoke up.

"You know... We haven't kissed yet tonight. Even after all that has happened so far. I'm really surprised about that, especially since I know you love kissing me."

Rarity coquettishly giggled. "I was about to say something about that. Normally I would have kissed you multiple times already, but since you surprised me, I must have been too busy thinking about you and looking at you and I didn't want to act extremely needy." Rarity batted her eyelashes at him and grinned. "We have plenty of time to kiss now, however. You are mine."

"And I wouldn't want it any other way," simpered Clyde. He scooted closer to her and held her by her waist. 

Rarity giggled as she leaned forward, her nose and mouth only an inch or two from his. They exchanged a loving gaze and smile before Rarity closed her eyes in anticipation and finally felt contact with Clyde's mouth once again. 

Unlike the very first kiss they shared, Rarity kissed at Clyde's mouth with a completely faster pace. She had no interest in a gentle kiss. She only wanted to keep attacking his mouth with hers with love and playful force. She missed him so much, and it had been so long since she kissed him that Rarity felt her face burning with passion. She wrapped her arms around his back and used her hands to clamp down on him, her nails almost attempting to dig through his shirt to touch skin. Rarity felt Clyde's grip around her waist tighten so she decided to make the pace of her kissing even faster. As she kissed the love of her life for the first time in over a year, she could tell that lust was overcoming love for the both of them.

"I-I missed you so much," panted Rarity as she withdrew from his mouth for a few seconds before she began the second round. She felt a smile grow on his lips with hers and before she knew it, Clyde gently pushed her body down onto the fountain's edge. He carefully moved on top of her as she laid on her back. With a fluent motion, Clyde adjusted his hands and placed them on her hips as Rarity moved her hands under his shoulders so she could grip them. Everything was a blur as both of them continued their fast paced kissing as they laid on the edge of the fountain in the middle of the park.

It was a good five minutes of making out before Clyde broke the kiss and hovered his head above hers to stare straight into her eyes. He kissed her mouth, and then her chin, before he kissed Rarity up and down her neck. While she loved neck kisses, she couldn't help but feel embarrassed.

"Clyde," she moaned softly with a slight giggle, "not here." 

"Nobody is here. It's been just us for the past hour," retorted Clyde. He kissed her neck again in various spots until Rarity squirmed from under him and tried to sit up. As much as she wanted to have him keep the teasing kisses, she didn't want lust to completely take over her body in a public park, even if they were alone. Clyde quickly helped her sit up and gave her a playful smirk. He gave her one last peck on the lips before stroking her cheek with his hand. "I could kiss you all night. You are amazing."

"As are you, darling," purred Rarity. She rubbed her neck and instantly giggled. "I know no one is here, but I much prefer neck kisses during our more intimate moments."

"Of course. I just wanted to get you in the mood." Clyde gave her a playful smirk.

"Oh, Clyde... What will I do with you?" she sarcastically asked before dropping him a flirty wink. 

Clyde shrugged. "I'm not sure, but you'll have to figure something out since you're stuck with me forever now."

Rarity gave a light-hearted chuckle and kept a smile on him. "I know a year went by and I imagine you feel as sex-deprived as I do, but tonight I just want to cuddle with you and fall asleep in your arms instead of cuddling with a stuffed bear."

"I understand," replied Clyde, "you know I wouldn't force you to do anything you don't want to. You get the last word on conversations and plans, not me." Clyde gave a nod. 

Rarity grabbed his shirt and pulled him closer to her before she planted a kiss on his mouth. She lowered her eyes as she stared at him and grinned. "Don't get me wrong, darling, I am in the mood, but just not tonight. However, while we are on topic, I have some new outfits to show you too that I bought and made in Manehattan..."

Clyde blushed ferociously. "You bought and made?"

"What else was I going to do in my free time? I wanted to make outfits to especially please you. Some are more revealing than others, but I'm sure you don't mind..." She winked and kissed his burning cheek. 

"I sure did fall in love with the right girl," rejoiced Clyde with a grin. 

"Yes, you did..." 

Rarity gently placed her hands on his jaw, and soon, the two were kissing each other again. This time was more slowly, but Rarity knew pure love was the motive for it. Never in her life had she felt this happy before. Never in her life had she felt this in love before either. 

She knew people could still fall in love with each other even after dating or getting married with one another, but everyday both Clyde and her would fall even more in love, and she never wanted to escape the feeling. The two of them were far from perfect people, but when together, they felt they could accomplish anything with their undying love.

After they separated from each other, Rarity rested her head on Clyde's shoulder and the two of them looked at the stars together. She asked Clyde for help in finding certain constellations. He took her hand and pointed with it to one constellation in particular, Aquila. Rarity remembered Clyde telling her years ago that Aquila was always his favorite constellation due to the story of one of Aquila's stars, Altair, and the star Vega, that shone brightly in the nearby constellation Lyra, in Eastern cultures. He told her the two stars represented lovers that crossed a bridge to meet each other, the bridge being the whole galaxy, on a certain day. Like the stars themselves, Rarity smiled as she realized Clyde and her could relate to the love story.

After a few minutes of stargazing, Clyde looked over at Rarity. "So, would you like me to walk you home now? It's getting late and your parents are probably waiting for you to get home."

Rarity nodded with a smile. "We can leave momentarily." 

Clyde got off of the fountain and stretched before turning around and holding out his hand. Rarity looked at him and kept her peaceful smile.

"Clyde, I can't move."

"What? What do you mean?" asked Clyde extremely confused. 

"My body is feeling so much happiness that I don't want to leave this park. This park has made me so happy tonight. It brought my wonderful boyfriend, or shall I say new fiancé, home to me." Rarity felt gentle tears roll down her cheek. "I just want to hold onto you all night."

Clyde looked at the pond across from them before nodding and smiling. He turned his back to Rarity and crouched down in front of her. He gently moved her arms and wrapped them around his neck. After both arms were secured, he slowly stood up and lifted up her legs. He looked over his shoulder and gave her a smirk. "How about this? I haven't carried you on my back in a long time."

Rarity tightened her grip on him and nodded. She snuggled her head close to his and smiled. "Perfect."

On cue, Clyde looked ahead and began the trek out of the park and back towards Rarity's home.

Rarity tried her best to keep her gaze forward on the way home, but every now and again she would find herself glancing down at her new ring around her finger. It was unreal to her that just an hour or so ago she ventured out to find a peace of mind. Now she was engaged to her best friend and the love of her life. While being engaged brought lots of celebration from friends and family, Rarity knew this was just one chapter to her life. The best part about it, however, was from now on, it was their life. 

Rarity gently kissed Clyde's cheek, earning her a quick smile from him before she closed her eyes in bliss.

She couldn't wait to see what the future has in store for them as their love could conquer anything. 
> A Tale of Two "Rarities"
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

	"Agent Pie, this is Agent Dash. The target has been located. I repeat, the target has been located. Over."

"Hmm...? Clyde?"

Rarity tried to focus on the voice near her head. At first she thought it was Clyde, but after she realized it wasn't due to the fact it wasn't a male voice and the fact he was still beside her in bed and holding unto her, she began to break out of her sleepy daze. 

Rarity gave a quiet yawn as her eyes came across Rainbow Dash. Soon, her whole field of vision began to become more clear. "R-Rainbow Dash? Whatever are you doing in my bedroom this early?"

Rainbow Dash gave her a scowl. "Early? It's past noon! I'm here because I was chosen to find you since you bailed on us at breakfast to keep sleeping with your man. Seeing Clyde's car out front easily told me where you were so I came in and your mom said you two were still sleeping." Rainbow Dash looked past her at the sleeping Clyde and frowned. "I really hope you two aren't naked or anything..."

Rarity gasped and she squirmed her arm out of the comfy prison that comprised of her blankets and Clyde and reached for her phone on the bedside table. She shrieked as she saw the time and the multitude of missed phone calls and messages from her friends.

"Oh no!" Rarity quickly sat up in her bed, breaking her free from her warm prison and scrolled through her phone. Rainbow Dash sighed in relief as the covers and blankets ripped away from each other and showed both Rarity and Clyde were clothed in their shirts and leggings or lounger pants, respectively. Rarity looked up at Rainbow Dash with an apologetic frown. "We must have overslept due to all that happened last night! It also didn't help I just returned from Manehattan and Clyde is probably simply exhausted due to jet lag! And I'm the one who wanted to meet up this morning and look what I do! I don't even show up! I am simply the worst possible–"

"Calm down, Rares," warned Rainbow through some laughs, "you might wake him up." 

Rarity stopped her apology and looked over at Clyde. She gave a bright smile. "No, he might be able to sleep all day today."

Rainbow shook her head with a smile of her own. "Anyway, I'm here to tell you to not worry about anything seeing how you both reunited last night. We decided to just meet at the Sweet Shoppe whenever you were ready."

"Really? You girls really are the best!" said Rarity happily.

Rainbow smirked and pointed to herself. "I know I am," she chuckled. “Nah, we as a whole group are pretty cool though. We'll be waiting for you so don't take too long!" 

Rarity nodded. "I promise I won't. I'll see you girls soon." 

Rainbow Dash gave her a thumbs up and began to walk out of her room. She stopped halfway out the door and turned back around. Confused, Rarity was going to ask what was wrong but was abruptly hugged by her. "Welcome back, Rares. I can speak for the others too that we missed you a lot."

Rarity felt the rush of emotions coming at her again. She thought all of them were gone after crying so much in happiness last night. Rarity accepted the hug and sniffled, trying to prevent tears from dropping onto Rainbow's jacket. "I missed you and the girls, too,” she said softly.

Rainbow Dash withdrew from her and gave her another teary smile before she slapped her hand on Clyde's covered leg. "Nice to see you too, Clyde. Glad you could say hi to your old teammate."

Rarity rubbed her hand along his unmoving face. "Clyde, darling. It's rude to ignore guests, but I guess I can let it slide." 

Clyde remained unresponsive except for the gentle sounds of breathing as he continued to lay there covered in the bed. Rarity and Rainbow Dash exchanged another laugh before Rainbow left to join the others at the Sweet Shoppe. 

Rarity stayed sitting up in her bed as she looked through her phone. She checked to see how well her social media engagement announcement was doing ever since she posted it before she went to bed. It already had close to a hundred comments from friends, family members, and even some of her peers from Manehattan congratulating them and wishing the two of them nothing but the best for the future. She couldn't help but smile as she glanced down at the diamond around her finger and read the comments. As she leaned her body to the side of her bed to put her phone on the nightstand beside Clyde's phone, she felt a hand clasp over her left one.

"Good morning, beautiful," said Clyde sleepily and groggily before putting her hand to his mouth and gave it a quick kiss.

Rarity looked down at him and gave a loving smile. "Hello, darling. I see you finally decided to wake up," she teased. She gently hovered her mouth above his and returned the kiss. 

"It's been so long since I slept like that," he replied with a content grin. "I'd say it was–"

"–about a year ago or so?" interrupted Rarity. 

Clyde nodded. "Yeah." He finally pushed the covers and blankets off of him so he could sit up in her bed. Rarity instantly hugged his side and sighed in bliss.

"I know exactly what you mean, Clyde," said Rarity nudging her head into his torso. "Falling asleep beside you felt like absolute heaven compared to my nights alone in Manehattan." 

"You don't have to worry about that anymore," comforted Clyde. "I won't be that far away for that long again."

"Not even if you were dared to for billions of dollars?" joked Rarity.

Clyde blinked. "Well, I mean..." he replied hesitantly.

"Clyde!"

"Only if it was billions. That is a whole lot of money..."

"Clyde!"

"I'm kidding!"

After a gaze filled with playful love, the two of them shared another morning, in this case afternoon, kiss before Rarity crawled out of bed and stretched. As much as she wanted to just lay in bed with her fiancé and just kiss him all day, she knew the girls would be upset if she ditched them again. 

"It's already past noon? Didn't you have to be up a few hours ago?" asked Clyde as he looked at his phone. "Also, I have a hundred notifications by the way."

Rarity giggled. "I just had to tag you, darling. Even if you don't get on frequently, it's still nice to make the announcement as authentic as possible. After all, that site does have a relationship status and it looks super adorable seeing the little ring icon by your name when I look at your page. You'll see one on mine as well." Rarity walked to her dresser and stroked her chin. "What should I wear, Clyde?"

"For what?"

Rarity looked at him strangely and remembered he was still asleep when Rainbow Dash came into the room. "Oh! You were correct by the way. I was supposed to be somewhere a few hours ago, but since we were peacefully sleeping instead, the girls decided to just meet at the Sweet Shoppe. You missed Rainbow Dash come into my room and wake me up. She even tried waking you up."

"Really?" asked Clyde while he was scratching his head. "I guess I really was in a deep sleep. I'm normally not like that."

"I know you aren't," said Rarity with a sultry gaze. "I know I easily woke you up a few times before by just–"

Clyde's face reddened quickly. "L-Let's not go there."

"Very well," she replied with a sly smile. She looked back at her dresser and the suitcases that she hadn't unpacked yet and put her hands on her hips. "Anyway, I need to find something to wear."

"Anything you wear will still make you look beautiful," chimed in Clyde.

"Thank you, darling. Although, the problem I am currently dealing with is which outfit to wear. I have so many options!" she said worryingly with a pout.

Clyde shook his head and rolled out of her bed. He walked over to her and closed the dresser. "Just wear what you normally wear. It's your friends, not some celebrity gathering. They just want to see you again."

"You're absolutely right, Clyde. You are simply the best." She hugged him tightly and kissed him quickly on the mouth. "I bet I could just wear my comfy bed clothes around town and it wouldn't matter in the slightest," she said with a giggle.

"I'm not saying that exactly," said Clyde amusingly. "But like I said, I'll always support whatever my ‘Boo’ wears." Clyde cracked a grin.

"Boo? I haven't heard that in years," stated Rarity. "I thought that was just a high school nickname."

"It was, but you'll always be my ‘Boo’," laughed Clyde as he kissed her head.

Rarity rolled her eyes and responded with a hug. "Wherever did that name come from anyway?"

"It was ironically after we saw that Trotsburg movie, but I'm not even the one who gave you that name. It was Rivet in my English class after he joked about–"

A sudden ringing phone from the nightstand cut him off and Rarity quickly rushed to answer it.

"Rainbow Dash! Yes, I know. I’m sorry! I know, I know. I'm getting ready now and I promise I'll be there as soon as possible. See you and the others soon. Bye."

"I guess you are wanted by a group of angry girls?" wondered Clyde.

Rarity shook her head. "They aren't angry exactly, but I really do need to get ready." Rarity walked by him to the doorway and she looked back at him. "What are you plans for this afternoon? You can tag along if you want. I'm sure the girls won't mind."

"That's alright. I would feel out of place being the only guy there, plus I think Tyrone is still in town somewhere. I want to congratulate him for being selected to play for the Mavs." Clyde stretched and rubbed his stomach. "First I'm going to get something to eat before anything, though."

Rarity nodded with a smile. "You can eat whatever is in the kitchen. My parents or Sweetie Belle might be home but they don't mind." She walked up to him and gripped his arms as she stood on the tip of her toes to kiss him gently. "I'll see you later, darling. Have fun today."

Clyde smiled. "Knowing T, fun will be found somehow. Enjoy the day with the girls." The two of them shared one last hug before Rarity rushed to the bathroom to take a shower. 

As if she was still in high school, Rarity had no trouble recreating her once normal and daily routine of getting ready for the day. Even though she spent all but one week for the past year in Manehattan, Rarity's shampoo, conditioner, body wash, and makeup were all in their original places as if she had never left. She quickly, yet thoroughly, showered and ran to her room to get dressed into the normal attire she wore that composed of a pale blue shirt and lavender skirt. Her makeup took less than a minute as it never changed and soon she found herself rushing down the stairs into the shop lobby of her home.

As she reached to base of the stairs, Rarity saw Opal laying on the counter licking her paw. Rarity remembered seeing Opal lay near Clyde and her when they went to bed, but once Rainbow Dash opened the bedroom door, she came to the conclusion that Opal must have fled the room to eat or perch on the counter which was a favorite hobby of hers. Rarity walked over and gave the pudgy white cat a few rubs behind her ears and head before she walked over to the front door. 

She looked behind her to the kitchen seeing her father and Clyde sitting at the dinner table and eating a sandwich while talking about some topic, most likely sports. Rarity always felt left out when it came to sports talk, but she was becoming more aware at what teams and players Clyde followed as the years went by. If anyone ever asked her if she had a favorite team, she would always go with one of Clyde's. Sports obviously weren't the most enjoyable topic for her to talk about, but she knew Clyde, her father, and Rainbow liked them so she couldn't hate them.

After a brief text to the girls in saying she was on her way, Rarity gave Clyde and her father a wave, picked up her keys and purse wallet from the wall hook near the door, and made her way outside into the hot Canterlot summer sun. 

She walked past Clyde's sports car and around the building to the back garage where her family kept their cars. Sweetie Belle was currently in the process of obtaining her license, which Rarity couldn't even fathom seeing her little sister driving, so she didn't have a car yet. Rarity's car, a simple white convertible, was stored in the garage due to her choice of not using it in Manehattan. Taxis were a plenty in the bustling city and most of the time she would walk to the studio if the weather was nice or bearable.

Rarity climbed into the car, started the engine, flipped on the radio to a pop station, and checked to see if all the lights were operational and fine before backing out and driving towards the Sweet Shoppe. Due to her meeting Clyde, Rarity drove her car less and less as time went by. Although she loved being chauffeured around by her love, she did miss the thrill of driving occasionally. Eventually, Clyde would opt out of driving whenever she wanted to drive them somewhere for a change.

Within a few minutes, Rarity reached the parking lot near the Sweet Shoppe and parked near her friends' cars. She quickly shut the car off and rushed into the store.

"Rarity!" exclaimed a group of girls as Rarity walked through the doors of the shop. They quickly got up and ran over to her, pulling her into a tight group hug that she couldn't escape from. 

"Girls! Don't crush me!" gasped Rarity

The four of them immediately stepped away from her looked at each other sheepishly grinning.

"Sorry, Rares," stated Applejack as she adjusted her hat, "you know how we all get sometimes."

"Yeah! It's like we haven't seen you since... December!" yelled Pinkie Pie.

"It's because we haven't, Pinkie." Rainbow Dash rolled her eyes and chuckled.

"Then I still go by my comment!"

"We didn't hurt you with our hug, did we?" asked Fluttershy cautiously.

"Of course not!" said Rarity with her stunning smile. "A hug like that showed me you girls must have really missed me!"

"Thank goodness," breathed Fluttershy quietly.

"We all were gone throughout the year as well, but you were really far away compared to me, Fluttershy, and Sunset when we were at school. We were all relatively close enough for us to drive back to Canterlot which was less than an hour or two away." Rainbow Dash looked around. "Where is Sunset anyway?"

"Right here," chimed in the fifth and final girl of the group. Sunset Shimmer walked over to Rarity, hugged her, and handed her a cup with a smile. "I got you your favorite drink."

"Another one! How could I ever resist?" laughed Rarity as she accepted the caramel macchiato, the same drink Mrs. Cake gifted her the prior night. "Thank you, Sunset."

"No problem," insisted Sunset. "But how about we sit down so we all can talk and not stand at the doorway?" 

Rarity and the other girls turned around and saw a line of angry customers waiting for them to move so they could enter the shop. The girls giggled and made their way to the booth in the corner of the café. 

For the next hour or so, Rarity and her friends talked about all that had happened to them in the past year. Applejack told them about a bat problem at the farm one week and because of it, she had to close her farm for a few days until the bat problem was fixed. Instead of killing them, Applejack isolated off a section of the orchard for the bats. 

Pinkie spent most of the year around the Canterlot area doing party services or helping the Sweet Shoppe. Whenever she wasn't in the area, it was when she drove up to her "Swifty's" college to hang out with him and join in on the college party life.

Rainbow, Fluttershy, and Sunset meanwhile were all busy with their schooling. Rainbow Dash was a prominent player on the Wonderbolt Academy's soccer and basketball teams. She raved how awesome college and college parties were after any of their various sports teams won, which was rather frequent.

Fluttershy and Sunset lived the complete opposite life of Rainbow during their first year of college. They worked hard in class to make sure they could be the best veterinarian and teacher they could be, respectively. 

Whenever the girls were all done telling each other stories, the girls looked towards Rarity. She hadn't talked to them yet about her decision to stay in Canterlot, that decision was only known to Clyde and her parents whom she told once the two of them returned from the park. As much as she wanted to tell them everything involving her and Clyde, she hesitated to begin as she tried to think of interesting ways to make her stories sound as interesting as Rainbow or Applejack. 

"So, how was the post-Christmas adventure in Manehattan, Rarity?" asked Sunset.

"Stop lying, Sunset," teased Rainbow with a smirk. "You only care about what happened between her and Clyde last night."

"Yeah!" snorted Pinkie with laughter. "I know you love those romance novels Rarity always reads!"

"T-that's not true!" responded Sunset slightly embarrassed. "Of course I would love to know all the details about that, but I also want to know about the fashion show before that!" Rainbow and the girls giggled and Rarity waved her hand. 

"Don't worry, Sunset, dear. I'll tell all of you everything that led up to last night. It's no trouble at all, honestly." Rarity gently coughed into her palm. "To begin, after the somewhat lonely holidays, my work began again at once! I felt much better and more confident in myself after Clyde's letter came. I refused to let him down so I diligently worked on my dresses with the time, love, and couture all my past dresses received like nothing was wrong. After a few months, we were assigned our final project." Rarity took out her phone and found a picture of the leather and lace ensemble. She placed the phone on the table to show the girls. "This is what I chose to do. Leather and lace are interesting enough that if you mix them, I figured I could design something completely breathtaking!" 

"Gee, Rares," said Applejack with a whistle. "Y'all know Ah never would wear anythin’ with lace, but that's a mighty fine lookin' dress."

"I agree, Applejack," spoke Sunset. "This looks gorgeous."

"Thank you, girls." Rarity smiled. "While the leather and lace are only on the basic material, it does help enhance it. I wanted to step away from gems for this to show Hoity Toity and Prim Hemline how much I improved in designing."

"So, did you have the best collection?" wondered Rainbow Dash. "If you didn't that's wack."

Rarity was silent for a brief moment. "Yes and no."

"Huh?!" exclaimed the others extremely confused.

"What the hell does that mean?!" demanded Rainbow.

"Oh! Maybe she had the worst collection but at the same time she had the best collection so they made an award to congratulate her, kinda like a participation trophy that only she got!!" Pinkie flashed a toothy smile.

"Pinkie... No." Applejack face palmed.

Rarity shook her head with a giggle. "Like I said, I didn't have the best collection. I tied for the best."

"Huh?!" exclaimed the girls again.

"A tie!" shouted Rainbow. "No one likes ties!"

"For once, I agree with Rainbow's competitive side," stated Sunset. "Don't you think a tie would be avoided in something this important?"

"The judges couldn't believe it either. However, it didn't matter as I still was awarded the full prize. Although, I didn't accept the full prize after some thought."

"Huh?!" 

Rarity looked out the window and smiled. "The decision I came to was it would be best if I stayed in Canterlot to manage my business and only travel to Manehattan for the two Fashion Weeks so I could showcase my collections and unique standalone dresses. I grew up in this city, I met my friends and my love in this city, and I became what I am because of this city. What I'm telling you girls now is what I said to Clyde last night as well. I do love Manehattan, but I love Canterlot more."

"That's awesome to hear!" said Rainbow happily. 

"Indeed!" chirped Fluttershy. 

"Now we can hang out like old times!" shouted Pinkie as she raised her milkshake. "Woohoo! A toast to friendship!"

The girls complied and Rarity took a sip of her drink. "About last night, however..." she said after a few moments, unable to stop herself from smiling. The girls hushed and looked at her with intense eyes.

"Go on," said Sunset edging her on.

"Words cannot replicate what I experienced in the park last night, but it was absolutely divine. The atmosphere. The love. The passion. The everything. Everything was simply perfect." Rarity stuck out her hand and looked at the diamond on her new and beautiful ring. 

Sunset lifted Rarity's hand to her eyes. "Oh, wow. It's even more amazing in person," she gushed.

"Isn't it?"

"Ah can honestly say you found that prince you always dreamed about, Rarity. It's funny how Ah joked about that during gym class one day and a few minutes later, Clyde came crashin’ into ya." Applejack looked at Rarity's ring and whistled again. "That rock must have cost a whole lot."

"Clyde never told me how much it was, but he said I deserved nothing but the best," replied Rarity happily. "I feel like I'm spoiled because of him."

"He just loves you that much," answered Rainbow with a nod. "Trust me. That guy would always stare at his arm sleeve you got him for Christmas before games and would touch the diamonds whenever he needed help getting into a groove. You mean a lot to him and I'm not surprised at all how quick he proposed. What I am surprised about is how you two aren't on that "Relationship Goals" account yet." Rainbow laughed.

Rarity found humor in that. "Maybe one day, but I'm not too worried about it. I'm just happy to be back and that Clyde is back to help coach the high school team."

"So, do you have a date for the wedding yet?" asked Pinkie excitedly. "I need to know to start planning for all your parties!"

"Heavens no! There are so many things to do before that! We have pictures to take, finding the location, sending reservations, the making of my dress, assigning who is who during the event." Rarity stopped and looked at each of the girls. A smile quickly formed on her lips. "Which by the way, I would simply love if you girls could be my bridesmaids. You are my best of friends after all. Of course, the choice is yours. I simply would hate to force you if you girls didn't have interest in the matter."

The girls looked around before all of them lit up in joy. 

"Ah can speak for all of us, but we would be honored, Rarity," stated Applejack proudly.

"Really? It would mean the world to me."

"You betcha." Rainbow nodded.

"You can count on us, Rarity! We'll be the bestest bridesmaids ever!" agreed Pinkie.

"I would love to be in your wedding, Rarity," said Fluttershy quietly but with a booming smile. 

"We wouldn't want to ruin your special day," chimed in Sunset. 

"You girls really are the best," sobbed Rarity in bliss. The girls all scooted around the booth and did another group hug. It wasn't as tightening as the first one, but it was filled with love from the group of girls that stuck by her through everything. After the group departed, Rarity looked at them and frowned. "I hope none of you get disappointed, but I am choosing Sweetie Belle as the maid of honor because I can't pick one of you from all of you. It wouldn't be fair."

"That's understandable. No hard feelings," said Rainbow. The others agreed with a single nod.

Rarity and the girls eventually ended all talk about the wedding and went back to some silly stories from college parties as told by Rainbow and Pinkie. Rarity listened to them but soon began to ignore them as she found herself thinking about a missing friend. 

"Have you girls talked to Twilight lately?" she asked suddenly.

The girls stopped talking and looked at her intently. "Twilight? She's been busy for months ever since she went to that highly ranked science school she always wanted to go to,” said Rainbow Dash.

"Not her. I know she's been busy. I guess I should have spoke correctly. I meant Princess Twilight."

"We still talk to each other through that book, but it has been a few weeks," said Sunset. "Why do you ask about her?"

Rarity frowned. "Well, I would feel rude if I never properly invite her to the wedding. She is after all still our friend. Even if she can't attend, I still want to ask her."

"I think that's a good idea!" rejoiced Sunset, "it's been so long since many of us seen her that maybe she will decide to come visit!"

"Yeah!" cheered the rest of the girls. 

The girls' little reunion soon finished up and Rarity found herself standing in the parking lot, waving good bye to many of her friends who had activities to do. She felt disheartened not being about to spend the whole day with all of them like they always had, but that was years ago and all of them now had busier lives. Rarity was just about to get into her car before a hand touched her shoulder.

"Would you like me to grab the book?" asked Sunset to Rarity. "I can go grab it quick from my apartment. I don't have anything to do today."

"If you don't mind," said Rarity politely. "I know I don't have a date yet for the big event, but this will give her enough time to decide whether or not she would like to come."

"Alright," nodded Sunset with a smile. "Then meet me at the school statue after we leave here."
 




~ * ~





It was a bright and sunny day in Ponyville. The Pegasus ponies just wrapped up their daily task of moving the clouds to let the sun shine through the town after a full day of rain. Prancing through the Ponyville streets was a silvery-white unicorn whose goal was to reach the "castle" on the far side of town. Upon entering the majestic tree-castle, the unicorn quickly made her way through the halls and stopped at the throne room.

"Oh, Twilight~!" sang the unicorn. "I have come to help decorate the library!" She reached into her saddlebag and took out a bolt of lavender fabric. "I decided that lavender would be a fabulous choice for the drapes. It matches your coat and since you love the library and spend some free time in there, there was no better option!"

"Thanks, Rarity," replied Twilight Sparkle with a smile. "You really didn't have to worry about this today, though. It's such a nice day out."

Rarity waved her hoof. "Darling, please. I haven't had any creative sparks yet for my dresses this week, so why not help your plain and boring library instead? Besides, you know I am always willing to help you and the girls."

"Alright then. I'll let you to it. I would love to help you, but Celestia has been making me write all these reports lately and I just haven't had time," said Twilight weakly.

"It is not a problem! I'll have it done in no time!" Rarity smiled and elegantly walked out of the throne room and down the hallways of the tree-castle. She walked by a few sets of doors before a small dragon poked his head out of a door. "Hello, Spike."

"Hi, Rarity!" rejoiced the baby dragon. "What are you doing here?"

"I'm here to refurbish the library. After I'm done with it, it shall not be a forgetting place. It will look... marvelous!" Rarity giggled.

"Do you need any help? You know I don't mind helping you out," said Spike in awe of her presence. 

"No, not today, dear. I’m afraid this won't take long."

"Oh," said Spike sadly. "I guess I'll just go back to bed then since you never seem to need my help anymore..."

Rarity frowned. "Please don't be like that, Spike. It's just as of late, I never really needed your help or the girls'." She patted his head and smiled. "You and the girls will always be special friends to me, you know that."

Spike nodded in sadness and the two shared a friendly hug before Rarity continued towards the library. Once inside, she removed her saddlebags and let the contents roll out onto the table. She quickly levitated up some fabric and began her task.

A few minutes later, as she was hanging up one of the drapes and some elegant looking banner, a humming noise was beginning to start.

"What in heavens is that?" wondered Rarity as she looked around the library. The noise was definitely coming from inside the library but she had no idea where it was. She scanned the rooms and bookshelves before her eyes stopped on a particular book that was glowing and somewhat vibrating. 

Rarity pulled it out of the shelf and held it up to her face. She rubbed her hoof on Celestia's sun that graced the cover of the brown book. "Wait!" she gasped, "I remember this book!" Rarity quickly ran out of the library with the book floating behind her. She ran through the hallways and back to the central throne room.

"Phew," sighed Twilight in relief. "I finally finished these reports and now I can relax and–"

"TWILIGHT!"

"AH!!" Twilight fell from her chair and she rubbed her head in pain. She looked up and saw Rarity towering over her. "Rarity! Why did you do that?"

"Oops! I'm sorry, Twilight!" Rarity helped her up and gave her a pat on her head, forelegs, and coat to rid the dust. "Anyway, I was in the library and this book started glowing! I think Sunset is trying to tell you something!" Rarity floated the book in front of her so Twilight could see.

Twilight's eyes widened. "I haven't heard from her in so long! She told me she had school to focus on, and since my reports had me busy, we sort of stopped writing to each other. I wonder what she wrote?"

"Well, go ahead and read it!" insisted Rarity, leaning forward on all of her legs in anticipation.

"You're right," stated Twilight with a nod. Twilight quickly flipped through the pages with her magic and stopped at a certain page. Rarity watched her facial expression as Twilight read. Twilight's smile soon turned into a look of shock and her jaw dropped. 

"What happened?" wondered Rarity. "Do you have to go back to fight some ruffians with music?"

Twilight shook her head slowly and even slower, looked at Rarity. "No, it was basically an invitation to a wedding."

"A wedding?! How exciting!" Rarity's eyes lit up. "Weddings are always so magical! I just love seeing and hearing how two ponies, or humans in this case, fell in love! Ooh~! Who is the lucky girl? Do I know her? If only I knew how to make human wedding dresses. I would simply love making it for her."

Twilight chuckled. "Oh, you know her alright..."

"Then spill it!"

Twilight looked at Rarity and gave a half-hearted laugh. "I-It's you."

This time Rarity's jaw dropped in shock. "M-me? I am getting... married?" Rarity slowly took a few steps backward and sat down. "D-do I know him?"

Twilight frowned. "To be honest with you, I can't remember his name. I saw him briefly during the Battle of the Bands epidemic, but he was subjected to the Sirens daze and your human-self and him were fighting. She managed to break him out of it, though." Twilight rubbed her head. "I wish I could remember his name..."

Rarity stood up and gave a light laugh. "It's alright if you don't remember his name. I probably wouldn't even know him anyway." She turned to return to the library to ponder. If her human-self was getting married, then would she be getting married soon, too? After all, she was seeing...

Rarity took a few steps towards the hallway leading to the library while still thinking in her head before Twilight shouted back at her. "Wait! I think I remember... was it... no. Clyde! That's it!"

Rarity instantly froze in place. "D-did you say... C-Clyde?" Her voice was shaking.

"Yeah, that's it." Twilight looked over at her friend. "What's wrong, Rarity? Do you know him?"

"D-Does he have black hair?"

"Hmm... I think so."

Rarity dropped to the floor again with her mouth wide open. "Maybe he is the one after all..." she said quietly.

"Rarity?"

Rarity turned her head and looked at Twilight, her face a gentle red and her eyes in shock. 

"So you do know him?"

Rarity slowly nodded.

Twilight looked at Rarity for a few moments before she closed her eyes and nodded. "So, that's why you haven't been around lately."

"I was going to introduce you and the girls to him at the Gala in a few weeks!" cried Rarity. "He is such a sweet gentlepony and he treats me like I always wanted a stallion to treat me. Please don't be mad! I didn't say anything to you or the girls because I didn't want to harm our friendship since I was the only one with a special somepony!"

"Why would I be mad? I'm glad you found someone and I'm sure the others are happy too!" Twilight walked over to her and hugged her. "If you both love each other, that's all that matters, right?" Twilight looked at the book on the table and nodded. "Now I understand why you are freaking out."

"He really must be the one," said Rarity with a smile. 

"Well, if your human counterpart is getting married, then maybe you're right." Twilight looked over at her to see Rarity looking at the ground. "Promise me you're not thinking of doing something crazy."

Rarity ignored her.

“Rarity? Hello? Did you hear what I said?”

"I have to go meet her."

"E-excuse me?"

"Rarity, Twilight. I have to go meet her. I have to go meet my human-self."

"Are you crazy?!" exclaimed Twilight.

Rarity smiled. "No, Twilight. I am not crazy. I am in love. I want to go talk to her to see what feelings she gets when her Clyde is around. If they are the same as mine, then he is indeed the one." Rarity stood up and Twilight could see a different sparkle in her eyes. It wasn't just determination, it was something else. It was something more than that.

Twilight sighed and looked at Rarity again. "Alright."

"So you mean you will allow me?"

"If you really want to, I'll activate the mirror and ask Sunset if Rarity in her world will want to see you. I'm not going to let you go in there without the other Rarity knowing." Twilight gave her a hug and smiled.

"Thank you, Twilight," responded Rarity in bliss. She hugged her back. "Could you do one last favor for me first?" 

"Sure. What's that?"

"Could you please teach me how to act human?"





* ~ *




> The (Love) Tales of Two "Rarities"
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

	The sun was setting on the horizon as Rarity and Sunset Shimmer were sitting at the Canterlot High steps facing the old statue in the courtyard. Sunset closed the book she was writing in and looked over at Rarity.

"Are you nervous?"

"Nervous about what exactly? Meeting my 'long lost identical twin sister?'" answered Rarity with a smile. "I'm not nervous. I just hope I can help her."

"I'm sure you will," comforted Sunset. 

Suddenly, the base of the statue began to glow and, without warning, a girl stumbled out of it and fell to the ground. She had troubles standing up, but after some wobbles and balancing drills, the girl stood almost perfectly straight and gave her outfit a few pats.

Rarity got off of the steps and slowly walked towards the girl. As she got closer, the girl's details became to get more clear and soon, Rarity found herself standing in front of herself. The only noticeable difference between them was their clothing. Rarity's skirt was a light purple while Rarity from Equestria's was pure white. Another difference was Rarity's diamond hair clip was the other girl's bracelet.

The two girls looked at each other head-to-toe in amazement. Rarity thought she was looking in a mirror as the girl in front of her was physically identical to her in every way. If it wasn't for the different colored skirt and the fact she had a ring on her left hand, she knew other people might easily get confused.

"My, I look simply gorgeous as a human!" rejoiced Rarity from Equestria. 

"Please, you're far too kind," replied Rarity with a wave of the hand. "I bet I look majestic as a pony, too."

"No, it's true! Your hair is so voluminous and perfect, your clothes are stylish, and your figure is so feminine that boys probably go crazy over." Rarity from Equestria grinned. "You are stunning and beautiful!"

"No, Rarity. We are stunning and beautiful." Both Raritys gave a playful and full of pride giggle and hugged each other tightly as if they were the best of friends or long lost sisters.

"I always wanted to meet you!" cooed Rarity from Equestria. "Twilight told me so many stories of you when she came here to help. She told me how you designed all the dresses for the dances!"

Rarity placed a hand on her chest. "Not just that, but I also made clothes for our band and the Friendship Games a few years ago. I love being the group's fashion advisor." Rarity looked at Rarity from Equestria and looked back at Sunset. "How about we go sit down instead of standing here?"

"Of course. Lead the way." 

Rarity nodded and took a few steps before hearing a girly shriek and thud. Rarity sheepishly grinned before she quickly helped the other Rarity up and held her arm to guide her towards the steps. After about ten or so slow steps, Rarity from Equestria got the basic concept of walking on only two legs. The Raritys sat down on the first set of steps and looked up at Sunset.

"Rarity, I'm not sure if you know Sunset Shimmer."

"Hi," greeted Sunset politely with a wave.

"I know her," replied Rarity from Equestria. "Twilight explained what happened before and after the events of the first Fall Formal when she came to this world the first time."

"Yeah... I'm sorry about all of that," apologized Sunset as she rubbed her arm. 

"Not a problem, darling. I'm just happy you are a good friend to my human-self." Rarity from Equestria gave a warm smile.

Sunset nodded with a smile of her own before she closed the book and stood up. "Twilight wanted me to watch over you two just so crazy things don't happen, but I'm sure you want to talk privately. I'll just sit by the statue."

"No, that's alright, Sunset. You certainly don't have to leave," beckoned Rarity.

"It's not a problem." Sunset hopped down the stairs and walked over to the statue. She leaned her back against the side of it and sat down, waving at the two before returning to the book. The Raritys gave a wave before they turned their attention on each other.

"So..." began Rarity awkwardly, "what can I help you with? Twilight never told Sunset and me."

Rarity from Equestria grinned and quickly looked around and patted her body all over. "Oh no! Please tell me it came with me!"

"Pardon?"

After some failed attempts, Rarity from Equestria finally reached into her boot and happily gasped as she touched something. Within a flash, she pulled out a rectangular shaped object and showed it to Rarity. 

Rarity looked at the photograph and gasped at what she saw. There in the picture, as if they were taking a selfie, if anyone could even call it that, were two ponies smiling away. More specifically, the one on the right was gray with a black mane, the teal eyes being a noticeable feature that Rarity quickly realized matched Clyde's. On the left side of the picture and having her head close and squished against his was a pristine-looking unicorn, her violet, curly mane covering one of her sapphire eyes. Rarity quickly looked up in shock.

"Do you understand now?" asked Rarity from Equestria gingerly. "Twilight told me you and your Clyde was getting married and since I have been dating my Clyde for a month or two now, I decided to come visit you and talk about him."

Rarity smiled and flashed her ring. "You are correct."

"How beautiful!" gushed Rarity from Equestria as she held up Rarity's hand to her eyes. "Human rings are so much smaller than ours, but nonetheless, they are so pretty!"

Rarity smiled at her compliment and looked down at the picture again. "A unicorn?" said Rarity in awe. "I look so adorable! As does Clyde! He looks like he could easily protect you."

Rarity from Equestria blushed. "He is really strong, and someone who is excellent to cuddle with." She giggled. "His strength is what makes him an earth pony after all. I needed someone who I could feel safe around. I'm sure Clyde here does the same."

"He does. I never once felt in danger when I knew he was with me." Rarity gave her pony-now-turned-human-self a smile and placed the photo on her lap. "So, did you want to know how we fell in love? Unfortunately Clyde is with some friends right now so hopefully my side of the story will be enough for you."

Rarity from Equestria beamed in anticipation. "That would be lovely! And now that you mention it, my Clyde is also with some of his friends today. It's the whole reason why I went to Twilight's." Rarity from Equestria laughed before becoming almost stoic. "However, there is something else besides how you met that I want to know if it's not a problem..."

"And what is that?"

Rarity from Equestria gave a big smile. "I want to know how you feel when he is around you or in your mind."

Rarity blinked to decipher the question before grinning and closing her eyes. "I'm sure you'll get that answer after we exchange stories. I would also love to know how my adorable unicorn-self met my even more adorable pony version of my future husband." 

"Since Clyde and I haven't been together as long as you and and your Clyde, would you mind going first?" asked Rarity from Equestria quietly and embarrassed.

"Of course!" Rarity elegantly coughed into her palm and leaned back into the steps to look at the now nearly orange sky. "It started near the time Twilight first came to this world. I first met Clyde when he nearly tackled me in the stands during gym class trying to save me from a basketball."

"He met you by running into you!?" asked Rarity surprised and suddenly with a curious gaze.

Rarity smiled. "Indeed. At the moment I did not think he would be the love of my life either. It wasn't until a few weeks went by and Pinkie organized some fundraiser for the school. To get boys to participate, she hid my name and the rest of the girls' into balloons and whoever popped that specific ballon, that girl would have to spend the day with them."

"So, Clyde managed to pop the balloon that had your name, hmm?"

"Actually... no."

"No?!"

"Clyde popped the balloon that had Pinkie's name. One of his friends managed to get mine. As they were walking down the hallway a few minutes later, the two ran into one of our teachers and they accidentally switched winners. Which by now, I'm glad they got switched." Rarity cleared her throat and let the gentle breeze flow through her hair before continuing. "So, soon, we began texting each other, you know, the thing we do with these?" Rarity pulled out her phone.

Rarity from Equestria nodded. "Twilight told me about them, yes. Those devices would be extremely lovely to have, but we have to manage with the slower mail system."

Rarity laughed. "We still use mail in this world, but almost everyone now uses phones. Anyway, a few weeks later, Clyde was telling me how nervous he was about trying out for the school basketball team. To try to cheer him up, I asked him if he wanted to to see a movie with me. I made him even more nervous after saying that." Rarity giggled.

"My Clyde was nervous about our first date as well," replied Rarity from Equestria with a small smile. "It was rather adorable seeing someone who acted all tough finally show some affection."

"So, after dinner and the movie, I began to think of all that had happened between the two of us. I knew Clyde liked me and I was beginning to feel the same about him. There was something about him that made me feel comfortable and I was beginning to like the feeling."

"That warm, fuzzy feeling?" spoke Rarity from Equestria before blushing again. "I know it might sound cliché, but it's what I felt, too."

Rarity sighed in bliss and put her hand on her heart. "Yes. That feeling of love being born is incredible."

"Did you two become a couple then soon after your date?"

"No," said Rarity with a gentle shake of the head. "We began talking to each other more and more and I was waiting for him to ask me if I wanted to be his girlfriend, which I would have happily accepted at the time, but it wasn't until Christmas until anything happened." Rarity frowned. "Clyde went into a depression spell for nearly the whole month."

"Oh no! What happened?!" 

"His brother was deployed to another country, and since Clyde didn't have his parents, he feared he was meant to be alone forever."

Rarity from Equestria was silent for a few moments. Rarity could see something troubled her. "His parents aren't in this world either..." She said sadly.

Rarity looked at the ground and sighed. "Unfortunately, no. They are not."

"Clyde told me about his brother and his parents. His brother is actually living in Canterlot with him, but his parents passed away when he was young."

"At least he still has his brother," said Rarity in relief, "and more importantly, at least he has you."

Rarity from Equestria looked at her strangely. "Huh?"

Rarity's smile began to appear. "I went over to his house to break him out of his depression. I cried in front of him telling him how much people cared about him. I told him how much I cared about him. Once he saw me cry, he broke out of his daze and comforted me as his heart never wanted to see me upset or in pain. On New Year's Eve, we shared our first kiss, well, several first kisses, and we finally became a couple." Rarity could tell she was smiling fully. Every single time she told people about those two nights, smiling was the only thing she could do.

Rarity from Equestria had tears of happiness in her eyes and she began to rub them away. "I can only imagine that feeling. I would have done the same if my Clyde acted like that."

"Eventually, our last year of high school flew by and Clyde and I spent the following year away from each other to live our dreams. I managed to design clothes in Manehattan while Clyde played basketball overseas to hopefully be able to play in this country once he returned."

"Manehattan!?" asked Rarity from Equestria curiously and full of excitement. "I also went there to design clothes for a while. I love that city! So much to do and explore!"

"Yes, the city is divine, but being there alone had its problems." Rarity adjusted herself on the steps and leaned her head forward and placed her elbows on her knees. She gave a long sigh that Rarity from Equestria noticed. "Like Clyde during the holidays the year I met him, I too began to get depressed. Even though I occasionally was able to talk to him, it wasn't the same as him physically beside me." Rarity felt a tear splash down on her skirt. "I was scared I would never see him again since he was so far away..."

Rarity from Equestria was silent as she watched her human-self break down and gently cry. She scooted her body to her side and gave her a quick hug. Rarity looked at her and after seeing a teary smile, she found herself instantly feeling better. 

"Did he surprise you and visited you?"

Rarity shook her head. "He sent me a hand-written letter. It was even sent with a single rose. He told me to stay strong. So that's what I did. I did it because I loved him and I wanted to see him again."

"So, then what happened?" 

Rarity looked at her and she saw a sparkle of anticipation in her pony-now-turned-human-self's eyes. "Well, last night, we both reunited in this town's park. It was the first time we saw each other in person in over a year and it was simply magical."

The sparkles in her eyes grew. "How magical?!"

Rarity giggled. "It seemed like such a blur, but it was filled with so much passion and romance. It was easily the best night of my life." Rarity took a glance at her ring and flashed a smile that twinkled. "I wish I could explain but it's something that is impossible to tell others word-for-word." Rarity slyly smirked and looked over at the other Rarity. "I'm sure you will experience that moment eventually."

Rarity from Equestria blushed and she nervously rubbed her fingers together. "I sure hope so... I always dreamed of having a wedding with the stallion of my dreams. The whole reason I'm here is because I think Clyde might be the one..."

Rarity gave her a grin and waved her on. "Enough about me, I think it's your turn to tell me how you two ponies met!"

"Ours will be so lackluster compared to yours!" exclaimed Rarity from Equestria nervously. "We have only been together for a few months compared to years!"

"That's quite alright. I'm sure it's still special to you. Everyone has their own unique love story." Rarity winked.

Rarity from Equestria smiled and she gave a nod. "Very well then. We first met when I was moving some boxes into my newly founded boutique in Canterlot. I had a few stacks of boxes, containing many fabrics I had a surplus of in my Ponyville boutique, and I was trying to lift them into the store with my magic. My magic couldn't quite handle all the heavy boxes and while trying to move around to stop them from falling, I accidentally ran into Clyde who was at the time walking by to explore some of Canterlot's finest shops."

"I see we already share a similarity," giggled Rarity. 

"One of my boxes landed on him, and nervous that I hurt him, I quickly helped him off the ground and led him inside my boutique. He constantly told me he was fine and unscathed, but I tied an extra piece of fabric around his back as a bandage just in case." Rarity from Equestria giggled this time. "That look in his eye when he saw the bright pink bandage on him was quite comical, but even still, he told me he was sorry for running into me and he even carried all the boxes of fabric inside, even though I was the one who ran into him!"

"That sounds like Clyde, all right." Rarity smiled. 

Rarity from Equestria blushed. "Normally I would always flirt or seduce stallions with my charm to get them to help me with something or get something, but Clyde helped without me asking or even trying to flirt with him, and even still when I ran into him. I did catch him staring at me a few times as he was helping, but he said he didn't mind helping and before he left after all the boxes were safety inside, I stopped him."

"You asked him out on a date, didn't you?"

"I did," replied Rarity from Equestria with a smile. "It was the least I could do. I said I just wanted to grab a quick lunch or dinner with him to thank him for all the help and apologize for the bandage. I could tell he was extremely nervous about it, but also excited."

Rarity nodded. It was crazy how similar her story with Clyde and the other Rarity's story was matching, but she also knew Clyde was her soulmate. The pony Rarity and Clyde had to be connected if she and her Clyde was. 

"We went to a small restaurant in Canterlot and talked for a few hours. We told each other a few things about each other, like our family and what we were doing. Clyde told me he was in Canterlot to reunite with his older brother and join the Guard with him. He also took interest in my fashion hobby and told me all the dresses he saw in the boutique were as beautiful as their creator." Rarity from Equestria flashed her biggest smile of the evening.

"And then he got embarrassed and you told him that was normal and you thought his blushes were adorable?" Rarity looked at her with raised eyebrows.

"Why, yes. How did you ever guess that?" said Rarity from Equestria astonished. 

"Oh, I'm just good at these sort of things."

"I see. Your Clyde must have told you the same thing," giggled Rarity from Equestria. "But anyway, he walked me back to my shop and we stared at each other awkwardly for a few moments when we arrived. I wanted to ask him if he wanted to hang out again someday, but he abruptly left without saying anything other than bye." Rarity from Equestria frowned. "I was really upset. I honestly thought he didn't ever want to see me again."

"What happened? Was he nervous that he was falling for you?"

"No, it was something a little more romantic than that," answered Rarity with a small smile. "A few days after not hearing from him or seeing him, on my way to a shop in Canterlot, I saw Clyde walking down the street. I found courage to talk to him so I walked in front of him and stared in his eyes saying I wanted to talk to him. I wanted to tell him I was sorry for whatever I did to make him not want to see me again."

"How did he respond?"

Rarity from Equestria didn't say anything for a few seconds. Rarity looked over at her to see if she was okay, but she saw her face was lit up in joy about something. "Clyde pulled me aside away from other ponies so we could talk. He told me he never hated me. He really liked me and he was afraid."

Rarity nodded and put her hand on her chin. "Ah, yes. A typical boy answer."

"He was afraid to get really close to me because he knew he was a part of the Guard," clarified Rarity from Equestria. "He knew how dangerous the job could be if a threat invaded or attacked Canterlot and he didn't want to see my heart break if we became something and something happened to him. Canterlot wasn't exactly in danger at the time, but no one ever knows. It could happen at anytime. In the end, he just wanted me to be happy at all times without the risk of a heartbreak." 

"Aww... What did you say back?" asked Rarity in suspense. While her first memories with her Clyde were similar to pony Rarity's, she was pleased and intrigued to see how different they were as well. She always believed that every person, and even pony in this case, had a unique way of finding love and it was always a thrill of hearing about it.

"I simply told him that he made me happy." Rarity saw tears stream down her other-self's eyes and she even began to feel her eyes begin to tear up as well. "Clyde was taken back by that comment but I told him I enjoyed our dinner together tremendously and I wanted to ask him if he wanted to do it again sometime but he left before I could. He apologized and told me he would love to, but again, he repeated what he said to me. I said I didn't care as I wanted to spend more time with him. Eventually he caved in because he finally realized I would be distraught if he just stopped talking to me."

"How adorable!"

"So, within a few weeks and after a few more dates, we finally kissed under a starlit night after a festival we went too. The picture I handed you was from that night." Rarity from Equestria looked up at the now bright starry sky. "He makes me feel so happy and I know he constantly thinks about me and making sure I am safe from harm, and I know I can count on him."

Rarity looked up at the sky with her. She closed her eyes and took a deep breath. With a smile she opened her eyes and looked at her other-self. "So, to answer your question from before... Do you really want to know how I feel when Clyde is around in one simple word?"

Rarity from Equestria broke out of her daze. "I would love to know."

"Complete." Rarity stood up and kept her eyes vexed on the stars. "Whenever Clyde is around, I feel like my heart, soul, and mind are finally complete. I love him so much that when he wasn't around, I felt like a part of all of those were missing. Love is about finding that one person that makes you happy and feeling completeness is one of the best ways to do so. It's like an eternal bliss that nothing can stop." Rarity looked down at the other Rarity. "If you truly love him, tell him everyday. He tells me everyday and I do the same. Make sure he knows you will always be there for him and support him in everything he does as he will reciprocate them."

Rarity from Equestria stared at Rarity as if it was the first time they met. She slowly stood up and Rarity saw the flood of happy tears rain down her cheeks. "That is exactly what I feel, too... I love my friends and family back in Equestria very much, but the feeling I get around him is so much different. It's so empowering that I can't even fully describe it to anyone else if that makes any sense. He makes my heart and mind so warm and peaceful as if I'm in a lovely dream."

"It's only going to get stronger as time goes on," stated Rarity happily. "I seem to fall more in love with Clyde each passing second, minute, day, and year. I couldn't imagine what it feels like without him at this point."

"I don't want to imagine life without him either..."

Rarity smiled. "Then it seems our Clydes are indeed our soulmates." Rarity beckoned the other Rarity over and the two hugged tightly. Rarity heard some sniffles, but she herself wasn't as emotional as her pony-human-self. She was glad she was able to help her out in her love dilemma with her fiancé's pony form, though. She loved helping others, but she never imagined in all of her life she would ever give herself love advice about her own lover. It was a strange situation for any normal person, but she knew she wasn't a normal person. She was Rarity after all.

"Thank you, Rarity," spoke Rarity from Equestria, tears still in her eyes and her voice somewhat still emotional. "You told me what I wanted to hear."

"Not a problem." Rarity hugged her pony-now-human-self tighter. "I'm just happy I could help you. I know what you are going through and I know how much a girl's heart in love deals with." Rarity withdrew from her other and the two shared a smile. Rarity looked at her sternly. "Just promise me you won't do anything rash when you see your Clyde again. You know he gets nervous about certain things. I don't want you to go around and suggesting to him you are ready to get married. If you two continue your loving and growing relationship, you will get to that stage."

"I promise I won't do that! Things like that shouldn't be rushed!" Rarity from Equestria gave a confident nod. "Trust me, Rarity. I'm not even thinking about that yet. I just want to keep spending time with him and like you said, eventually get to that point, but in the future."

Rarity smiled. "Perfect. Then I wish you the best."

Rarity from Equestria mimicked the smile. "As do I." 

A moment went by as the two were silent. Rarity wasn't sure what to do now since she had helped her pony-self, but she figured she could find something to do. She didn't want to say goodbye to her quite yet. Rarity quickly pulled out her phone and opened up the pictures app.

"I'll show you some pictures since you showed me yours!" Rarity held her phone between herself and the other Rarity and opened up the picture of her and Clyde from just the prior night at the park. Rarity from Equestria blushed as soon as she saw it.

"Oh my. Clyde is extremely handsome as a human..." 

Rarity looked over at her. "You might be dating pony Clyde, but this is my world and human Clyde belongs to me. I will not allow anything unless I am involved." She winked but turned serious again.

"I know!" giggled Rarity from Equestria, her face still a pink tint. "I only jest!"

"That's what I thought." Rarity dropped her serious façade and giggled with her before continuing her photo adventure on her phone. 

Rarity from Equestria looked on in awe as Rarity explained what each photo meant and some extra details about it. Most of the pictures she had on her phone composed of her year at Manehattan, some clothing designs and actual clothes, her friends and family, some random trips and vacations, and of course Clyde. Rarity had an incredible sense of nostalgia going through some older photos, but she did think it was neat how her life transpired through the years. 

Rarity could tell Rarity from Equestria also enjoyed the time viewing the photos. Whenever a photo had her friends, and especially her parents and Sweetie Belle, Rarity from Equestria stopped her so she could examine how they all looked and wore. She was also fascinated with the pictures during the high school years as ponies didn't exactly have anything like that in Equestria and Rarity's various clothing creations that she made over the years. 

An hour blurred by and all the photos were beginning to repeat. "Well, unfortunately that's all I have for tonight," said Rarity disappointed. She put her phone back into her boot and looked over at her other-self. "Hopefully you can forgive me for such a small amount."

"A small amount?" answered Rarity from Equestria shocked, "that was hundreds of fabulous pictures! That is more than plenty!"

"Good," said Rarity with a smile. She looked down at her lap and gave the picture of pony Clyde and herself and handed it to the other Rarity. "Thank you for showing me this. Here you are."

Rarity from Equestria blinked and suddenly frowned. "You don't want it? I thought you might have liked it..."

"Oh! I didn't—"

"Keep it," stated Rarity from Equestria with a smile. "I brought it to give it to you so you could show your Clyde and maybe have it to remember me. Clyde and I have many pictures of us back in Equestria so we won't be missing this one."

"I'll always remember talking to you. You don't have to worry about that." Rarity smiled and looked at the picture. She pulled out her purse wallet and dug through it. After a quick moment of digging through her makeups and change, she opened up the flap behind her license and took out a small photo of her and Clyde when they were in Manehattan for the first time. "We have a myriad of pictures as well, so please, take this back with you." Rarity handed the picture over.

Rarity from Equestria looked it over and gave another one of her many smiles from the night. "You two are simply perfect. Thank you." 

Rarity winked. "Not a problem. Anything to help you out."

The girls sat there for a few more minutes until they saw Sunset begin her walk towards them. She gave a look at the Raritys and rubbed her back.

"How are you two doing? I can't sit against that statue anymore, it's hurting my back."

"I think we just finished up," said Rarity from Equestria who quickly frowned. "I guess it's time for me to return back to Equestria since the moon has risen well over the city now." She stood up and looked at Sunset and then Rarity. "This world is rather interesting to say the least, but it was lovely to meet you both, especially you, Rarity." Tears were in her eyes.

Rarity grabbed her pony-turned-human's wrist. "You don't have to leave yet."

"Yeah, I didn't come here to tell you to go back," said Sunset. "I just wanted to stand up. You can stay as long as you want. I'll let Twilight know."

"Really?! Clyde told me he probably wouldn't be home tonight and I was having such a grand time here!" Rarity from Equestria's eyes were lit up before she coughed in embarrassment. "I'm terribly sorry. I should have asked if you wanted me to stay longer. I probably ruined your nights."

Rarity stood up and laughed. "Nothing to be embarrassed about. I would love to keep spending time with you since you are so eager. Oh! I know what we can do! I'll show you my shop!"

"That sounds delightful! I would enjoy that tremendously. I want to examine human clothes in detail to see how different they are created compared to pony clothing."

Rarity nodded and smirked. "Also, if you wait long enough, you might even meet Clyde."

Rarity from Equestria grinned. "Even better!"

The two Raritys giggled like they were gossiping during a school lunch as Sunset shook her head, unable to see the love and excitement the two girls had for one boy.


*	 *	 *	*	*


It was close to ten in the evening by the time Clyde pulled up to Rarity's shop in his regular parking spot. He noticed Sunset was outside the building leaning on the wall as she looked at her motorcycle that was parked in front of Clyde's car. 

"Hey, Sunset," greeted Clyde. "Is Rarity home yet?"

"You could say that..." Sunset looked at him and tried to hide a chuckle, but failed.

"What's wrong?" Clyde looked in the window to see the darkened room. "Are the lights supposed to be off?"

Sunset kept her eyes on her motorcycle. "I think she rushed into the house to use the bathroom without turning on the lights. We just got here. I'm about to head home for the night."

Clyde scratched his head. "Oh. Well, I hope you have a good night then." Clyde gave her a wave and entered the shop. 

As Clyde walked inside, Sunset quickly pulled out her phone and opened up the camera and video app."And now we wait..." she laughed.

Clyde meanwhile flicked on the lights of the shop and looked around. Nothing was out of place from what he could tell and he slowly walked towards the kitchen. He knew something was going on since Sunset was nonchalantly waiting outside, but he didn't know what. He almost reached the kitchen before a girl walked out of the shop floor's changing room. 

"There you are," said Clyde happily. He gave Rarity a look and rubbed his chin. "A white skirt? That's new. I like it though." He walked over to her and grabbed her hands as he lovingly smiled at her.

Rarity looked up at him and her face blazed red. "I-I was just trying to see how it looked! D-do you really like it?"

"You know I like anything you wear. I even like it when you don't wear anything." Clyde chuckled at his rare attempt at humor and he noticed Rarity was blushing harder. He placed the back of his hand on her forehead and then lifted up her chin. "What's wrong? You seem extremely nervous about something."

"W-what! No! It's just I'm super happy to see you!" Rarity nervously laughed as she looked into his eyes. She gripped his arms but quickly gasped and returned her arms to her sides. "I-I'm sorry!"

Clyde looked at her strangely. Rarity loved gripping his arms. "Okay..." 

"Clyde, I'm sorry," apologized the white-skirted Rarity, her face still a bright pink. "I just never expected to see you tonight." She gave a smile.

"I thought I told you I was only spending the afternoon with my friends. Spending time with you again after not seeing you for a year is what I truly care about." 

"Oh, Clyde..." Rarity's eyes began to tear up. "You are so romantic..."

Clyde gave her a loving smile as he gently put his hands on her face. They stared at each other with smiles before Clyde slowly leaned his head forward to kiss her. He was a mere few inches from her mouth before he heard her reply.

"Clyde! How dare you try to kiss me and not me!"

Clyde opened his eyes and looked at Rarity. She smiled before departing away from him and stepping aside. Behind her, Clyde's mouth dropped as he saw another girl that looked exactly like the Rarity he was accustomed to. This Rarity had her hands on her hips and she glared at Clyde before giggling. 

"Oh, thank heavens," stated Rarity from Equestria with a breath of relief. "I was getting so nervous that I might have kissed him. I hope you wouldn't have been extremely angry."

Rarity shrugged. "I would have been somewhat angry, but at least if he kissed another girl in front of me, it would have been another me." Rarity walked up to him and stood beside her white-skirted self. The two of them smiled at Clyde as he continued to take glances at the two of them.

Other than the minor different colored skirt , the diamond hair clip and bracelet, and the engagement ring, the two Raritys looked identical. They were the same height. They had the same stunning smile. They even had the same enchanting eyes. Clyde was simply amazed and confused on how he was this blessed seeing, not one, but two angels in front of him.

"I... Um... How..." stuttered Clyde.

"What's wrong, darling?" asked Rarity with a giggle. "You can't handle two of me?"

"I don't blame him," spoke Rarity from Equestria. "Just imagine the drama."

"Oh, I know! Nothing would ever get done! We would gossip all the time instead of making designs!"

"I... How?..." repeated Clyde.

"Clyde, this is my pony-self from Equestria! You know, that place I talked about before where Princess Twilight is from?" Rarity saw Clyde's blank and confused expression. "It's alright, darling. I can understand your confusion, but luckily you have us to help you tonight!" The two Raritys looked at each other before nodding and giggling as they quickly rushed forward and hugged at his sides. They both snuggled into his torso.

Clyde looked at the two Raritys around his torso, one for each side, before he looked outside to the streets. He saw Sunset wave with her phone out before she was seen laughing. Clyde looked back at the two Raritys. Even though he was super confused, he gave a small smile.

Nothing was wrong with two Raritys for the night.
> In Memoriam
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

	"I found them."

Clyde dropped the small storage tub on the table in his living room and he took a seat beside Rarity on his couch. With a single move, Clyde gently lifted up the lid and placed it on the ground. He looked inside and slowly inhaled and exhaled. 

"Are you sure you will be okay?" asked Rarity concerned. "I know it's a sensitive topic for you which is why I never asked you before, but Sunset gave me the idea of using some old photos for our wedding."

"Don't worry. Even if I do get sad, it'll be fun to see all these. I haven't looked through here in years." He looked over at her and gave a smile.

Due to the visit from Equestria's Rarity about a week ago, Rarity herself wanted to look through some more photos from the past, and with Sunset's suggestion, it was a perfect reason to do so. She and Clyde had already went through many of her childhood albums her parents kept around. However, now it was time for them to look through Clyde's. 

Clyde reached into the tub and pulled out one of the albums. As he opened it up, a photo fell out and landed on his foot. He reached down and picked it up. He gave it a quick look and smiled.

The man and the woman in the photo looked to be about the same age as he and Rarity. The woman's long and thick auburn hair shined brightly in the sunshine as she happily looked at the man to her side through her choppy-styled bangs with her dark brown irises that Shale inherited. Her skin was a light tan which helped compliment her eyes and hair color. The man on the other hand looked more like Clyde. In fact, he was almost identical to him except for his style of hair, his lighter skin, and his slightly different colored green irises. The man held his guitar over his head proudly as if he just nailed the greatest guitar solo in the world.

"Your mother was simply beautiful," gushed Rarity. "Her hair is a perfect mix of neat and unkempt! How did she ever manage to do that?"

"I'm not sure," laughed Clyde. 

"Your father on the other hand... I see this is where the rocker phase was strong." Rarity giggled.

"Yeah... Dad was in a band for a long time before I was born. After Shale was born, he decided to stop to spend time with Mom and him." Clyde looked at the album on the table and flipped through it. "This is my parents' album. I guess Shale looked through it again before he left a few months ago."

"Do you mind if we look as well?" asked Rarity. "I would love to see for myself how your parents fell in love. After all, they are responsible for bringing you into my life." Rarity playfully giggled and snuggled her head into his arm.

"I don't mind," replied Clyde with a smirk.

Clyde quickly went through his parents' childhood photos, telling Rarity how his father was born in a military base in the western part of the country while his mother was born near a harbor city northeast part of the country. Both of their families eventually moved to what became Clyde's small hometown to find work. All the pictures of his parents' childhood Clyde looked through showed his parents and his grandparents and uncles and aunts smiling away or doing something silly. Most of the photos were from beach trips, amusement parks, birthdays, holidays, and other random pictures taken on random occasions. When Clyde reached the high school era for his parents, he began speaking much more because he remembered them talking about it a lot to him.

"My, look at their clothes," stated Rarity looking over Clyde's mother's outfit for the first day of school during her sophomore year. "I can't believe our parents all wore that."

Clyde shook his head. "It was thirty or so years ago."

"I know. I'm not saying the clothes are hideous. I love seeing how fashion evolved through the years. It's just I personally would never wear that." Rarity moved a page or two and stopped on a picture of Clyde's mother in a cheerleading outfit. "So, I assume your father played sports?"

"He did, but it wasn't basketball or football."

"Really?"

Clyde nodded. "Baseball was his sport. I played when I was little, and Shale and him both played in the backyard with me sometimes, but i grew out of it. It didn't interest me enough."

"That's too bad..." stated Rarity sadly, "baseball uniforms are extremely sexy, much more than a basketball uniform ever could be. Although, I do love how a basketball jersey showcases your muscled shoulders and arms..." Clyde gave her a curious look and Rarity quietly coughed in her hand and gave him an innocent smile. "They don't have cheerleaders for baseball, though," she said to talk about his parents again and change the subject.

"I know. My parents didn't actually start dating until after high school."

"Really?!" said Rarity astonished. "Why was that? Did they at least know about each other?"

"Yeah, they shared a few classes with each other. Dad was always attracted to Mom, but she had a boyfriend and he didn't want to start anything so he kept quiet. She and that guy dated pretty much for five years before they broke up." Clyde frowned and pulled out a small list that was hidden behind one of his mother's pictures from her senior year. The list contained student's names that won certain awards that were voted by their peers. "She and him even got 'Class Couple' and they still broke up the next year. Dad, however, got one for best musician." Clyde showed her some pictures of his Dad in his school band outfit when he was a freshman and then his straight rocker gear during his senior year with some other guys. 

"So, that explains the guitar in your house and why music is important to you," said Rarity with a smile. "You inherited his love for music just like how you inherited your mother's pure heart and kindness that you told me about."

Clyde smiled at her and proudly nodded. "I wish he was still around to teach me how to play the guitar like he could. I remember watching him play at the house when I was little. He would go to the basement and jam out with his electric guitar that was plugged into the amplifier as the basement was where he kept his old band stuff and he would still play his guitar as a hobby. Everyone in the house could hear him, but seeing him in action was so cool. It was so thrilling."

"I bet." Rarity smiled and looked back at some of his mother's pictures. "What happened between your mother and her old flame?" questioned Rarity curiously. "I'm intrigued to see how your father came into the picture."

"Well, from what I was told, it was about a year after high school for my parents when they met again," began Clyde. "Dad's band was pretty established by this point and they played at some local places every Saturday night. One night while they were playing, Dad saw Mom in the crowd. After the band stopped playing for the night, he went over to talk to her as he really hadn't seen her since high school and he wanted to catch up with some classmates."

"Was he aware that your mother was single?"

"Not at the time, no. She did tell him that eventually and he saw she was still sad to say that. She really did love that guy, but after he broke her heart by cheating on her, she didn't really trust any boy anymore."

Rarity nodded and she crossed her arms. "I wouldn't trust any boy either if you ever did that to me."

"You know I would never do that!" explained Clyde with worry.

Rarity grabbed his hands and smiled. "Calm down, darling. I know you wouldn't. I'm just saying a girl's heart is very fragile and if the one person they love the most ever broke it, they would feel that pain for a long time."

Clyde nodded in relief. "Which is what happened to my mother's. Luckily, Dad was able to cheer her up by inviting her to all his remaining gigs for the month and the two began forming a relationship over time shortly after that. He would always play love songs on his guitar for her and they would always just spend time together doing whatever they could find just to be together."

"Aw, how sweet..." Rarity quickly looked at Clyde and pouted. "Now that you mention it, you never serenaded me with a love song on the guitar yet..."

"Because I'm not that good," replied Clyde lowering his head. "I wanted to play perfectly for you, but I never managed to do it. I would always mess up on chords and certain parts..."
 
"You don't have to play perfectly for me, Clyde. It's the thought that counts, but at least I know why there was a delay."

"I'm sorry."

Rarity ignored the apology and kissed him to comfort him. They both gave a loving grin at each other before they looked back at the photo album. Rarity picked up the first picture of Clyde's parents that fell out of the album before they started and hummed. "When was this taken?"

Clyde scratched his head. "I'm not sure. Most of these don't have dates on them, but they look to be about our age or slightly older by a year. This was definitely before they got engaged, even though they weren't engaged long. They dated for four years before their wedding."

Rarity gave him another one of her curious gazes. "Why was their engagement so short-lived?" 

"My mother was pregnant with Shale and since she didn't want to show in her wedding dress, they got married a month after the engagement." Clyde flipped some pages until he found some of his parents' wedding photos. "Mom's family was rather religious about that type of stuff so she tried hiding the fact she was pregnant from them until after the wedding."

Rarity looked over some of the photos of Clyde's mother in her wedding dress. "Oh, wow. If you hadn't said anything, I wouldn't even have known she was pregnant. Her figure still looks the same." Clyde noticed Rarity kept quiet after her comment as she scanned the various photos.

"What's wrong, Rarity?"

"I can't help to think about our wedding day whenever it comes." Rarity looked up at him and smiled. "It's still a surreal feeling. Seeing both our parents' wedding photos makes me excited to experience ours and for when we get to look back at it someday."

Clyde held her hand and comforted her with a quick grin. "I know what you mean. I'm excited to see how it turns out too, but at least I know for certain that you will be the most stunning and beautiful girl there. You always will be."

"Thank you, darling," she cooed, wrapping her arms around him and hugging him snugly. 

Clyde's parents' photo album abruptly stopped after the wedding photos. Clyde gently closed the album and pulled out the second one. 

"This album was for Shale and me." Clyde opened the album and quickly zoomed through Shale's pictures. He didn't mean no harm to his brother, but he knew his pictures were the whole reason why the two of them were even looking through these albums. About halfway through the album, a baby boy began to appear more and more beside the now older Shale. Rarity stopped at a picture of the baby who was dressed up in a small suit and who was being lovingly hugged by both of Clyde's parents in their formal attire.

"Oooooh~! Look how adorable you looked in your little suit!" gushed Rarity. She pinched Clyde's cheek and playfully giggled. "And now look how strong and big you are!"

"Quit it," said Clyde embarrassed and moving away from her. He rubbed his cheek and shook his head.

"You know I'm teasing you, Clyde." Rarity smirked and returned her eyes back to the photo. "Were you in a wedding as a baby?"

"Yep. My uncle and aunt's. I was told I was pretty calm as a baby so I guess I was invited to the wedding, too." Clyde laughed. "Although a few years later, that all changed..."

"What do you mean?" asked Rarity looking at pictures of Clyde when he was in the toddler years. 

"I was calm as a baby, but I was super energetic as I got older." 

Clyde flipped through the photo album and showed her several photos of him that he found interesting when he was about five or six. The first photo was from Halloween night and he was dressed up in a bounty hunter costume with two fake laser pistols pointed at the camera. The next photo was of him and Shale on a trampoline playfully wrestling and fighting each other with fake swords. On the next page was a photo of Clyde's first "note to a parent" about his bad behavior in school for getting into a fight with someone at recess. Finally, the last few photos they looked at pictured Clyde in his baseball uniform with his hat on backwards and him raising the bat to the sky and playing basketball with Shale.

"My, weren't you quite the hellion?" asked Rarity with a giggle. "You got into a fight with someone in school? Whatever was the reason?"

Clyde looked at her and he crossed his arms to act tough. "Some kid took the bag of chips my Mom packed for me in lunch. I didn't eat them yet so I brought them out to recess."

Rarity looked at him and sighed. "You couldn't have simply asked him for them back? Or told a teacher?"

"No, he needed to learn the hard way why taking food from me was a mistake." Clyde burst into a laugh. 

Rarity shook her head this time before giving him a smile. After flipping through some photos of Clyde in his primary and elementary school years, she noticed a repeating person in almost every photo from school. "Who was this boy beside you? Was he a friend from school?"

"Mosaic. I met him in first grade and was friends with him for a long time until he moved during the summer after fourth grade." Clyde sadly looked down. "He was an awesome friend to me. We played video games together, played on the same baseball teams, and even somehow managed to be in the same class each year." Clyde took a deep breath. "I always hated fifth grade. That was the worst year of my life. That's where everything changed and I became more of an introvert. I lost my best friend and parents within a few weeks of each other..."

Rarity looked at him quietly and looked through the last few pages of the album. The last picture in it was of Clyde's family giving the photographer a giant group of smiles and laughter to end a perfect summer vacation at the beach. She carefully looked at his parents and frowned. "This is the last photo of them?" she asked quietly. 

Clyde gave a single nod. "They died in October of that year. I was in fifth grade. I only knew them for ten years of my life and a third of that was me being too young to understand anything..." 

Rarity quickly hugged him and put her head on his shoulder. She sat there hugging him without a single word for a good amount of time before she slowly moved away from him to wipe some stray tears from his eyes.

Clyde remained silent as Rarity went back to look through the albums. He wanted to keep staring intently at the wall across the room, but he couldn't help but glance down at the photos, seeing glimpses of past family vacations, reunions, and parties his parents, Shale, and him went to, as Rarity flipped through the pages. 

Rarity would occasionally look back at him and ask him if she could take a certain photo of him for future use for the wedding reception in which he would allow her, but his mind was clouded by the thoughts of his hazy memories of his family. He quickly tried thinking of other things to preoccupy his mind, like basketball or his friends, but a certain thought came to his mind and he instantly smiled. 

"Hey, what are you doing tomorrow?" he spoke suddenly.

Rarity looked at him. "Well, nothing that I know of. I figured we would find something to do whenever we woke up tomorrow."

Clyde looked out the window. "I want to take you on a road trip tomorrow. I want you to see something."

"A road trip? But I didn't pack for that!" exclaimed Rarity. 

"Just wear what you are wearing. The place is about three hours away and we will be back in Canterlot before dusk tomorrow if we leave early in the morning." Clyde gave her a playful smirk. "But seeing it's you... We probably won't get to leave until noon."

Rarity looked away and crossed her arms. "I can awake early if I want to. It's just sleeping in feels so good. If I'm not up, then just wake me up. I'll get over it."

Clyde laughed. "I'll hold you to that."

Within the next hour, Clyde and Rarity finished up collecting enough photos of him to match all the photos they had of Rarity when she was younger from the night before. They felt content enough to make something special with the photos so Clyde put away the photo albums and the two of them headed to his bedroom to sleep for the night.





~ ~ ~





Unlike what Rarity had said, Clyde had to carry her out of his bed since she refused to wake up and get ready to leave town at seven in the morning. She was angry with him for waking her up, but after Clyde repeated what she had told him the night before, she instantly calmed down. The two of them took quick showers, got dressed, and ate a quick breakfast before heading to Clyde's car. As Clyde was driving towards the highway, he noticed Rarity had already fell asleep again in the passenger seat, snuggled up in a blanket. He turned the radio on so he could slightly hear it and began the drive to visit his old hometown once more. 

Clyde expected the highway was going to be busy with other drivers on their normal weekday commute at this time in the morning, but luckily for him, it was tolerable. It was the middle of July after all and many people were most likely on their week of vacation, lessening the number of cars on the road. About thirty minutes into the journey, Clyde felt relieved to be able to feel the freedom of driving again. His year overseas felt like a monotonous routine as he only traveled by team bus or a plane. He very rarely found time to explore the various cities and countries he stayed in. Driving gave him that feeling of freedom and he knew by the end of the road trip he would feel even better. Because of the music and his sleeping fiancée in the passenger seat, the three hour drive went smoothly.

Rarity slept peacefully most of the ride, but she soon woke up, or at least half-woke up, from her nap when the two of them were ten minutes away from the destination, and after some gentle nudges from Clyde. 

"Hmm..." 

"We are almost here." Clyde smiled at her.

"Spectacular..." slurred Rarity who made no attempt to look up or even open her eyes.

Clyde gave a long sigh. He drove right by the town sign welcoming all visitors and he shrugged. "I guess sleep is more important than me."

"Don't act like that."

Clyde laughed and kept his eyes on the road. The roads were completely barren compared to the highway due to the low population of the town. The town itself wasn't a home to many large companies, so most residents commuted to the nearby cities for work. It was almost midday now and most people were either out of town for work or they were currently relaxing on vacation. 

Clyde continued down the nearly empty roads until he found the flower shop near the town's square. After parking in one of the town's parking lots, Clyde shut the car off and looked towards the flower shop. He tried getting Rarity to enter the shop with him, but she was busy trying to wake herself up so he went in alone knowing it wouldn't take long. In five short minutes, Clyde left the shop holding a vase that contained pink carnations and daisies.

As he walked back to his car, he saw Rarity was already outside of it and sitting on the hood waiting for him. "Flowers? For me?" she asked happily.

Clyde looked at the vase of flowers and frowned. "Unfortunately, no. They are for someone else today." 

"Oh..." Rarity pouted and looked at the ground sadly until Clyde pulled out a single rose from his back pocket. She smiled as she accepted the flower. "You're so sweet."

Clyde smirked and he pulled out his car keys. "I was going to wake you up by waving the rose in front of you to surprise you with it, but you already waiting on me made it seem more romantic." Rarity giggled as Clyde beeped the electronic lock to open the car doors. He held the vase with one arm as he held out his hand for Rarity in a mannerly way.

Rarity took his hand and gently hopped of the car hood and the two of them got back into the car. Normally he would have walked around, but Clyde wanted to visit two people first. Rarity held the case for him and Clyde pulled out of the parking lot and drove down the central street of the town.

"This was your hometown, wasn't it?" asked Rarity a few minutes later. The two of them had already reached the outskirts of the town and was now reaching Clyde's main destination for the day.

"How'd you guess?"

"Well, you wouldn't take me on a three hour or so car ride just to buy flowers in a random town when there was a flower shop in Canterlot a block away from my house." Rarity looked over at him and winked. 

"I guess that does makes sense," laughed Clyde. "Anyway, welcome to the small rural town of Verona. It's nothing like Canterlot, but this is where I lived until Shale and I moved there the summer before I met you."

Rarity blinked. "Verona? Isn't that the name—"

"Yes. Our town was, indeed, named after the same town from that famous play from overseas. I'm not sure why, but I'm guessing this place was founded around the same time."

Rarity nodded. "I loved that play. It was so romantic, even if the ending was sad..."

"Nothing like that happened here, it's just we have the same town name as that city."

"That's good to know," replied Rarity.

Within minutes, Clyde reached a small parking lot and gate where he parked in an open stall and turned the car off. There were several cars parked, but Clyde knew the people were already inside the small rural cemetery. After getting out of the car again, Clyde and Rarity made their way into the cemetery.

Clyde held the vase of flowers as he carefully walked down trails, trying not to trip over anything. Rarity followed closely, but she remained quiet as she looked around. 

The cemetery itself was small in size to match the small town. Rows of graves sprawled out across the site and many trails branched off to different and looping paths leading back to the main gate. Beside many graves were flowers, wreaths, or other small memorable gifts to loved ones that had passed away. Rarity wanted to say something, but she abruptly ran into the back of Clyde who was standing still.

"What's the matter, darling?" she asked before stepping to the side. As she looked down at what he was looking at that made him stop so suddenly, she gasped. There are the two ornate gravestones, Rarity read clear as day, were Clyde's parents' names.

Clyde stared at the gravestones in deep thought. He was looking so intently that he was unaware Rarity even ran into him. Clyde gently leaned down to set the vase of pink carnations and daisies near his mother's grave and he sat down, his arms reaching around his knees, in front of them. 

"Hey, Mom. Dad. It's been awhile, huh?" spoke Clyde softly, his face somber. "I know I didn't visit last year, but lots of things were going on in my head at the time and I left on short notice. I'm finally home, though. I'm sure Shale told you guys what I was doing when he came by himself last summer since I wasn't here. To make it up to you, I brought someone with me this time, someone who I talked about two years ago the last time I was here." Clyde looked behind him to Rarity. He instantly smiled as he made eye contact with her.

Rarity was still silent as she walked up to him. She kneel down in front of the gravestones and sat down on her heels with her hands in her lap. "Hello. I've always wanted to meet you two..."

Clyde looked back at the gravestones. "Mom. Dad. This is Rarity. I'm sure you both knew what she looked like, though, seeing how she is an angel after all to me." Clyde saw Rarity give a smile at the comment. 

Clyde coughed into his hand and tried to clear his throat. No matter what year he visited, he always had difficulty talking in the cemetery. He always felt choked up seeing the gravestones. "Anyway, the reason I didn't see you guys last year is because I thought playing professional basketball was my dream in life. Basketball was one of my escapes in reality, but after playing it overseas for a year, I realized how hard that was. I realized I would never be about to play it year after year because of how in love I was with this girl beside me."

Clyde's face brightened. "I wanted to bring Rarity here today because I wanted to tell you both how much she means to me. She not only healed my heart from loneliness but she also made me understand the concept of love. Love isn't about appearance, even if Rarity is absolutely beautiful to me anyway and always. Love isn't about personality, even if Rarity's personality manages to cheer me up effortlessly. Love is about being truly happy and Rarity makes me feel that. Every time I look at her, I feel happy. By just being with her, I feel like I could do anything because I know I have her support. I love her so much that I just had to marry her. All my effort, fatigue, and tears spent overseas was worth it because I managed to propose to my best friend." Clyde looked at Rarity and wiped his eyes. His tears were a mix of sorrow from not being about to see in parents in person and joy and happiness by letting out his heart to Rarity, which he did countless times before anyway.

Rarity kept her smile the whole time during Clyde's speech. She leaned her head on his shoulder as Clyde hugged her tightly. "Your son Clyde makes me feel the same way and I love him so much that I honestly don't know what I would do without him at this point. He changed my life for the better and I feel the most happiest when he is around."

Rarity felt tears of happiness and sorrow run down her cheeks now. Although she never knew Clyde's parents, she understood the grief and sorrow he was currently feeling. "I saw pictures of all of you together... You two always looked at Shale and Clyde with so much love that it made me think of the times that my mother and father would look at me or my sister. I always hate seeing Clyde sad or upset. Family was a sensitive topic for him and every time someone or some friends mentioned family vacations or reunions, I saw Clyde turn his head with a troubled expression. I could tell he was hurt. When he hurts, so do I and as his best friend, his girlfriend, his fiancée, and his future wife, I promise you both with all of my heart that I will love, cherish, and take care of your son with the same love you showed him as he grew up." Rarity gently kissed Clyde's cheek and rubbed away his tears. She shared a loving gaze with his eyes and she snuggled her head on his shoulder. "We are both our happiest when we are together and I want to make sure Clyde feel that and love everyday for the rest of our lives."

Clyde nodded with a grin then took a deep breath and closed his eyes. "I know most people my age grew up around their parents all their life, but I want you both to know I miss you everyday and always think of you guys. You probably wanted me to just continue living without grieving for you when I was only ten, but I couldn't ever forget the two people I respected the most. Most people don't know what it was like for me growing up. All I would do was listen to music and pretend in my head that everything was a bad dream and I would wake up and see you both in the morning. That moment never came and I finally realized that."

Clyde opened his eyes. "If I could see you both in person one more time... that would be amazing. It would mean so much to me. We would talk for hours about random topics and just laugh away. Maybe we can reunite one day, but I have to still make you guys proud. I promise I'll love Rarity as much as you loved Mom, Dad. Shale already told me how much I reminded him of you in the way I act and the way I treat Rarity. For you Mom, I hope you enjoy your flowers. I remember how much you loved daisies and I'll make sure to protect Rarity's heart and always keep her first in my head like I already always do." Clyde stood up and put his hands on both the gravestones. He gave a teary smile. "Goodbye, Mom, Dad. I'll see you guys next year. I love you both and I always will."

Rarity walked up to him and put her hands on top of his. "I'll be sure to love and take care of your son as I promised. Goodbye..."

Clyde gave his parents' gravestones one last look before Rarity put her arm around his and they slowly walked out of the cemetery and back to his car. The two of them were completely silent during the short trek back to give the spirits at rest their peace. Once inside the car, Rarity looked over at Clyde.

"Are you doing okay?"

"I always feel this way when Shale and I come visit," said Clyde sullenly. "It's just... talking to them makes me feel happy. I know they are always with me anyways, but just talking to them like that shows them how much I love them."

Rarity nodded and grabbed his hand. "Thanks for taking me here to support you. I know it was hard for you to talk, but you did good, darling. I'm proud of you and so are they."

"My mind is always a mess when I come here, but I push myself to talk to them." Clyde smiled. "They wouldn't want me to still cry over them. It would break their heart seeing their son hurt. I'm glad you were able to talk to them, too."

"I just wanted to reiterate how much we love and support each other and how the future for us involves each other. Besides, we both know they will be at our wedding in spirit." Rarity smiled.

"You're right," replied Clyde with a smile of his own. "Enough sad talk. My parents would yell at me for still being mopey. Would you like to see my old house and my old school before we head back to Canterlot?"

"I would love to."

Clyde nodded and started the car. As he pulled away from the cemetery, he looked in the rear-view mirror and watched it fade slowly in the distance into a blur. 

Clyde knew he wasn't completely saying goodbye to his parents as they were always with him in spirit and because he inherited their defining traits that made him who he was. Even if he missed them everyday and wished they could still be alive, he knew they would always love him and he would always love them. Once the cemetery was completely gone, Clyde looked forward to the bright and sunny sky. 

Because that's what his parents would want him to do.
> The Fab and the Five
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

	Summer was winding down as the blazing hot days were beginning to cool down. Many of the kids of Canterlot were getting ready for school to start once again. Even new and old college students were thinking about starting a new year hoping exciting events were waiting for them. Clyde knew summer vacation was quickly ending for some of his friends, so he wanted to hang out with a few great ones before they all left town again for a few months.

    	“You going to the basketball courts today?” asked Rarity as he walked down the stairs of her home. Rarity was sitting in her shop looking through magazines as she sipped her glass of tea. 

Clyde looked down at his attire of a plain black shirt and dark blue gym shorts. “Hard to tell, right?” he joked with a small laugh.

Rarity gave him a smile and closed her magazine. “I'll go along with you. It's a fairly nice day out.”

“Fine with me. You don't have any custom orders or designs to work on?”

“Nope. I am free today!” Rarity walked over to him and gave him a loving hug. “Besides, I haven't seen you play with my own eyes and not through a poor quality foreign livestream in a year.”

Clyde hugged her back. “Then I would love having you enjoy the weather and watching. I think RD is coming, too.”

“Perfect. I'm ready when you are.” With a nod, Clyde and Rarity left her home and headed towards the park. Clyde was pretty excited on seeing some old friends. He didn't know what to expect, but he did know for certain it would be fun. 

Clyde pulled into the small parking lot beside the basketball courts and he and Rarity got out of the car. No one was there at the moment so Clyde got his basketball out of the trunk of the car as Rarity walked over to the small bleachers. She pulled out her phone and gave him a wave before she began texting, taking pictures and selfies, and checking her social media accounts.

Clyde shot around alone for a few minutes, having fun hearing Rarity’s various encouraging and teasing comments from the bleachers whenever he missed or made a shot. Hearing her voice made him feel good all the time, but because he was used to not hearing her or Wondercolt fans while overseas, it brought him back to his high school days. As Clyde ran to get his missed shot, he saw the first car pull into the parking lot stall beside him.

“My boy, C!” yelled Tyrone as he quickly hopped out of his car and ran to the courts with his basketball in hand. Tyrone gave Clyde a pat on the back and smirked. “What's up, man? I see you brought your personal cheerleader.”

“She wanted to come along and watch,” said Clyde as they looked over at Rarity. Rarity gave Tyrone a wave before she went back to her phone. 

“I promise I won't beat you that bad in front of your fiancée.” Tyrone laughed, but quickly turned serious. “I'm real happy for you, C. You know that? Like, when we first met and when we first came to this very park and courts, you wouldn't stop talking about her. Now look at you two. After a year and a half of being high school lovers and a year of being an ocean away from each other, you two are happily engaged... That makes me happy, dawg.” Tyrone wiped his eyes to rid the small tears.

“Thanks, T,” replied Clyde with a smile. “Thanks for being my first friend here in this town and thanks for supporting me and helping me with everything. It means a lot to me.”

“No problem, C. It’s what friends do.” Clyde and Tyrone bumped fists and they looked at the basketball hoop in front of them. “So, you two have a date for the wedding yet? I need to know so I can check if I can make it.”

Clyde shook his head. “Not yet. We’ve been slowly working on all the details and dates everyday, but it's a lot of work. I'll be sure to tell you early, though.”

Tyrone smirked. “Damn right, dawg. I have to make sure your bachelor party is going to be hype.” He laughed loudly once again.

“Oh, damn... I'm pretty nervous now from that remark.” Clyde laughed with him. “Enough about me. Are you excited to be on the Mavs? You finally reached the pro leagues like you dreamed of.”

“Yeah, it's pretty crazy. I never thought I would be drafted in the first round. I just have to play my best like I did for Canterlot and my college team.”

Clyde patted him on the back. “You’ll be fine, T. You are a great player.”

“As are you. I watched lots of your games. You could easily play in the pros, too, man.”

“Ehh, that's okay,” said Clyde. “I'd rather focus on making an impact for the future generations.”

Tyrone looked at him and nodded. “I can respect that. So, when do you think the others will show up?”

“I'm not sure. Maybe–”

On cue, a thundering engine revved through the parking lot as a man on a motorcycle parked away from Clyde's and Tyrone's cars. He took off his helmet and waved. 

“About time, Thunderlane,” said Tyrone disgusted. 

“Sorry, I was just working on some cars and shit.” Thunderlane looked at Clyde and bumped his fist with Clyde’s. “Hey, man. Haven't seen you in a long time. How’s it going? Congratulations on the engagement by the way, even if I'm almost two months late.”

“Thanks, Thunderlane. I've been great ever since I returned home.”

“That's good to hear. Sorry if I'm dirty. I was in the garage all day.” Thunderlane looked down at his oil-stained jeans, boots, and shirt.

“So, are you a mechanic now?” asked Clyde.

Thunderlane shrugged. “More or less. It's more of a hobby than anything.”

“YEAH!!!” 

The three guys turned their heads and saw a massive truck swerve into the parking lot. An even bigger man jumped out and flexed before yelling again. “THE OLD CREW!!!”

Thunderlane shook his head and chuckled. “Hey, Bulk,” he greeted with a wave, “glad you could come.”

Bulk ran up to then, while stomping the ground with his massive steps, and he slapped Thunderlane on the back. Thunderlane flinched as Bulk’s palm returned to his side. “And miss out on playing some street ball with my old team?! HELL NO!!!”

“I see your loud as ever, big man,” complained Tyrone rubbing his ear.

“Now all we are missing is Rainbow,” said Clyde.

“What are you talking about? I'm right here.” 

The guys looked in amazement as Rainbow stood at the center of the court, giving them a competitive smirk.

“When the hell did you show up?” wondered Tyrone. “We were standing here the whole time!”

Rainbow rolled her eyes and chuckled. “I walked here and I came in from the other side of the park. While you were all standing and talking, I walked up to the bleachers to talk to Rarity before I walked around the fence and came to this spot.”

“Oh...” replied the guys with nods.

“Anyway, I'm not here to talk. I'm here to beat all of you!” Rainbow Dash gave them each a stare before moving to the next in line. “We can all speak with one another through this sport, after all. This simple sport made us become a team, and more importantly, friends. So, what other way to reunite than playing a game? I can't think of any.”

“Damn, Dash. That was pretty deep,” stated Tyrone. “I'm impressed.”

Rainbow laughed. “Thanks, but like I said, let's get this reunion started already. Don't get me wrong, seeing you guys and myself on one court again is pretty awesome. However, I think we all know the real reason why we came here today.”

“Same,” agreed Thunderlane.

“YEAH!” shouted Bulk.

“I'm fine with that,” said Clyde, “but how are we going to play? Are we doing two-on-two with a substitute for one team?”

“Hmmm.” Rainbow rubbed her chin. “That is a problem... We only have five people. I guess we could–wait! I know just who could play with us to make it a fair game...” 

“Who’s that?”

Rainbow smirked. “Who else but your own fiancée!” Rainbow quickly pointed at Rarity who was watching them from the bleachers.

Clyde blinked. “Wait, are you serious?” 

“Am I in trouble?” called Rarity from the bleachers. “Why in heavens are you pointing at me? Is there something on my hair?!”

“Get over here for a second!” yelled back Rainbow. 

Clyde could tell Rarity was extremely confused as she wandered over to them. He knew she would almost instantly refuse to play, but he had a few ideas if they absolutely needed her. Plus, he figured he could guard her so he could help her out even if she was on the other team. She eventually reached them and stood near Clyde, waiting for Rainbow to tell her why she had to escape from the safety of the bleachers. 

“We need you to play with us,” said Rainbow quickly. 

“Pardon?”

“Basketball, Rarity. We need an extra person and you are the only one here.”

Rarity was silent for a moment as she blinked to comprehend Rainbow’s request. She took a deep breath and soon began laughing. “You have got to be kidding me.”

“We really aren't,” chimed in Tyrone. “We know you aren't one for playing, but maybe since Clyde is here you will reconsider.”

Rarity gave Clyde a look before turning her gaze at Rainbow. “You should have known you wouldn't have had enough players before you came out here.”

“None of us were thinking,” pleaded Rainbow. “Once someone invites you to play at the park, you don't ask questions. You just go!”

“I'm not interested. You can easily just play with five.” Rarity stuck her nose up and crossed her arms.

Rainbow sighed and nudged Clyde. “Do something.”
     
“If she doesn't want to play then I'm not forcing her to,” said Clyde. Rarity gave him a smile as the others rolled their eyes.

“You sly son of a bitch,” laughed Tyrone. “You always make those smooth comments.”

Rainbow pinched the bridge of her nose. “It's not like we are going to play all day, Rarity. If you only play a game or two, that's fine with us. Then you can go back and keep taking your selfies and whatever else you do with your phone.”
     
“Just one or two?”

“YEAH!!!”

“Without the yelling please?”

Bulk dropped his head. “Sorry...”

Rainbow Dash nodded. “One or two. Games go to 21. We’ll have you go against Clyde the whole time. I know he’ll take it easy.”
 
Rarity looked at the court and frowned. “I suppose I can play one or two, but nothing more!”

Rainbow smiled. “Deal.”

“Are you sure you want to play?” asked Clyde. “What about your clothes? I have an extra set of shorts and a shirt you can wear. They will be big on you, but I'm sure they will be more comfortable to play in compared to your current outfit. Plus, your running shoes are still in there from our walk around the city last week.”

“I can tell all of you want to play and I would simply hate to prevent you,” said Rarity with a smile. “And thank you, darling. I'll change into them. There is absolutely no way I'm going to play in a skirt.”

“Awesome! Looks like we have a game!” cheered Rainbow. “We’ll shoot around until you are ready!” She quickly grabbed her basketball and ran towards the hoop as Tyrone, Thunderlane, and Bulk chased after her. 

“There aren't any, you know, closed bathrooms around are there?” asked Rarity while looking around. “I refuse to even step a single foot in that filthy thing.” She pointed to the portable toilet across the parking lot and shuttered in fear. 

Clyde shook his head. “I'm afraid not. All the restrooms here are with the main part of the park near the fountain and concert stage.”

“Well, give me your car keys then. I'll change in your car.”

“I'll keep watch.”

Rarity lowered her eyes with a smile. “Of course you can take a peek.”

“I meant in case anybody else was trying to take a peek at my lady,” responded Clyde with a smirk. 

“Of course. Although you can still take a peek anyway...” She dropped a wink and gracefully walked to his car. 

About a minute later, Clyde was leaning against his car as he talked to Rarity through a half-open window of the back door seat. His windows were somewhat tinted already, so he knew Rarity had no problem changing into some of his spare clothes in his car. He still couldn't believe Rarity would ever want to play the sport he adored since he was a young boy. He never once asked her to play, but he also knew how much time and care she took each morning with making her look elegant and pretty, and how much she hated gym class, which was a clear sign to him that she wasn't interested in playing.

“Don't worry about playing,” comforted Clyde. “I’ll just pass the ball today.”

“I appreciate the concern, but then you wouldn't have as much fun. I'll be okay,” said Rarity. She held her now removed shirt in her hands and giggled. “I never thought I would be half-naked in the back of your car before playing basketball today.”

Clyde turned around to look at her. “You don't seem to complain when you are fully naked in the back of the car.” He gave a smile before ducking from a flying purple boot that was thrown at the window. Rarity giggled again.

“The motive is a lot different,” cooed Rarity. “Obviously I would enjoy that a lot more. There's something about making out, having sex, or even both simultaneously, in the tightly compacted backseat of a sports car that really gets me...” She quickly flung her skirt at the window and it hit Clyde in the face before falling to the seat. She giggled, seductively this time, again.

    	“HURRY UP!” yelled Rainbow Dash from the courts. 

    	Rarity sighed and quickly put on Clyde’s extra pair of shorts and one of his shirts. “She always has to rush things. All we were doing was having some fun, suggestive talk.”

“We have plenty of time for that,” said Clyde. “Although, how about after this we go somewhere to eat tonight? You can pick where since you had to play basketball.”

“Really?” she asked, her eyes sparkling in excitement. 

“Of course. It's a promise.” Clyde gave her a loving smile. 

    	Rarity nodded and quickly jumped out of the car in excitement. “See you on the court, darling,” she said softly before grazing past him. Clyde laughed to himself before following her. 

Once everyone was ready to go and play, the six of them stood in a circle around the center court line. Clyde looked over at Rarity who didn't have a nervous or uncaring expression on her face, something that really surprised him.

“Alright, boys,” began Rainbow Dash.

    	“Excuse me?”

“And Rarity.”

“Much better.”

Rainbow rolled her eyes and took the basketball from Tyrone’s hands. “Instead of picking teams, I figured we would just go against a logical opponent. I'll guard Tyrone.”

“Awww, shit. You ready to get embarrassed out here, RD?” teased Tyrone with his competitive attitude.

Rainbow responded with a smirk of her own. “Bring it. You might be a pro player now, but I never back down.”

Thunderlane looked at Bulk and cracked his knuckles. “Looks like it's you and me, big man.”

“Yeah...” snorted Bulk, clearly eager to go against his old frontcourt teammate.

“So, which team am I on then?” asked Rarity. 

“You can be on mine and Bulk’s,” said Rainbow. “You don't have to do much on offense if you don't want to. Bulk and I can carry.”

Rarity frowned. “Why do you keep thinking I can't help the team?! I'm sure I can help somehow!”

“Well, you’re Rarity, Rares. I know you never cared for sports.”

“That doesn't mean I can't play!” Rarity crossed her arms with a determined look.

“Whatever. I'll let you have the ball if you want to take over then.”

“I-I didn't mean I wanted to be the only one doing something...”

Rainbow groaned. “We’ll figure it out. Let's just play! Tyrone’s team can have the ball first, and we’re doing full court too.”

Everyone got in their position as Clyde stood in front of the hoop. Thunderlane stood beside him as Tyrone had the ball out on the baseline. Rarity, Bulk, and Rainbow were waiting at the end of the other court. Tyrone spun the ball in his hands as he bounced it on the court a few times.

“Ready, dawgs? Just like old times,” said Tyrone with a smile.

“Let's do this,” stated Thunderlane with an approving nod.

“I'm ready. Let's go.” Clyde nodded at Tyrone and he bounced the ball to him, quickly jogging past him alongside Thunderlane. Clyde turned around and began his slow walk, dribbling the ball after a few steps to advance the ball.

Once Clyde saw Rarity in front of him, he smiled remembering how silly she looked in his oversized basketball clothes. She wasn't in the proper defensive stance to guard him, but seeing her attempt to play for the sake of some old classmates was something he loved seeing. 

Clyde stood at the peak of the three point line as Rarity played off of him a few steps. In the corner of his eye he saw Thunderlane running up to his left to set a screen for him, but he quickly waved him away with his hand. Rarity was clearly confused on what Clyde signaled so she looked to the right behind her, taking a half-step backwards for a better angle. Clyde quickly took the open jump shot upon her error and watched the ball swish through the net without even hitting the rim.

“Damn, C. I see your perimeter shot got better,” praised Tyrone as they jogged back for defense. 

“Spent two years on it ever since junior year. It was something I wasn't happy with.”

“That hard work paid off. Nice going, Clyde.” Thunderlane gave him a high five as he jogged to the spot under the rim.

Clyde smiled. “Thanks.”

Rainbow had the ball as her team moved up the court and she quickly attacked Tyrone to she if he could defend her well. Tyrone kept his cool and waited for the right moment to jump ahead of her to make her stop. Not trying to travel with the ball, Rainbow looked for her teammates. Rarity was standing at an open shot, but Rainbow skillfully passed it to a Bulk who took an easy post hook shot over Thunderlane.

“I was open!” yelled Rarity in frustration.

“Sorry, Rares, but you have to give the ball to the big guy if he has position.”

Rarity angrily sighed and made her way to the other side of the court.

Thunderlane apologized for the lack of defense as he inbounded the ball. Clyde gave it to Tyrone to let him do work as he went over to Rarity.

“Are you having fun?” asked Clyde.

“Maybe if someone would give me a chance...” replied Rarity sadly. “I don't just want to stand here. I want to help the team.”

“You sound a lot like me,” laughed Clyde. 

Rarity nodded. “Of course I do. You're my basketball role model, darling.” The two of them shared a loving smile as they watched Tyrone try to cross Rainbow up. 

Even for her size compared to the boys she faced during high school, Rainbow was an adept defender. She rarely would fall for the other players’ dribbles and moves. As she continued her stance at guarding Tyrone, Tyrone quickly did a step back move and shot the ball. It bounced straight in the air off the rim before it fell down into the hoop.

“Phew,” said Tyrone wiping his head. 

“You got so lucky!” snarled Rainbow. “I mean come on! A lucky as hell bounce?!”

“You gotta be lucky sometimes, RD.” Tyrone laughed as he jogged backwards. 

Rainbow advanced the ball up the court again as Bulk ran to the paint. Rarity slowly walked up to the three point line with her arms crossed. 

“I don't even know why I’m here. I told you you could play with just two people on a team.”

Rainbow shook her head and motioned to Bulk with her free hand. Clyde knew that play as they ran it almost every game. A screen would be set, and the three point shooter would be open. Sometimes, the defenders thought about the shooter and left the big man open after the screen. It was a simple option play which usually meant someone was going to be open. Clyde quickly saw Bulk stand to Tyrone's side as Rainbow ran to that same side. Clyde moved to defend Rainbow, which she instantly saw coming. “Rarity!” she yelled as she made a quick pass behind her back.

Rarity quickly uncrossed her arms and caught the ball after a slight fumble due to the surprising pass. Clyde could have easily ran up to her to defend, but he wanted to see what she would do with it. With a deep breath, Rarity looked up at the hoop and took a jump shot position, her form, her stance, and her release was a perfect replica of someone else's shot he knew. It was his very own. 

The ball glided in the air as everyone watched in awe. The ball hit the back of the rim and rolled around in the bucket, eventually falling through the net. Everyone looked at Rarity in amazement as she held her hand up with her wrist flicked as she smiled brightly. 

“I told you!” she beamed in excitement.

“That was... awesome,” said Rainbow stunned.

“Damn, C. Your girl is a baller, too?” questioned Tyrone. “Now I'm even super prouder of you, dawg.”

“No one believed me!” began Rarity with a victorious grin. “I spent two years of high school and one year of watching Clyde play overseas through streams. It's obvious why I spent time going to or watching his games, but every time he had the ball, I would watch him closely, seeing how he dribbled it, shot it, and passed it. While I am not even going to think about attempting dribble moves or slick passes, I figured I could at least shoot the ball using his jump shot tactics.” Rarity dusted off her hands and giggled. “I guess I just got lucky.”

“Lucky? That was a near perfect release,” complimented Clyde lovingly. Rarity winked at him before grinning as Clyde chuckled. For Rarity’s first basketball jump shot ever, he was very proud of her.

“Now, shall we continue?” she asked before flipping her hair as she walked back down the court. Rainbow ran up to her and the two of them laughed as if they were gossiping. Clyde looked at the other guys as they stared at him with jealous and angry eyes. Clyde shrugged and grinned, knowing how wonderful it truly was having a girl like Rarity.





~ ~ ~





The game continued in a half-serious and half-competitive pace. Tyrone and Rainbow constantly went after each other on offense and defense, trying to do anything they could to easily score. The same could have been said for both Thunderlane and Bulk, as they fought each other down in the post. Clyde played like he normally would if someone other than Rarity was guarding him because of a switch or screen. If she was, he would pass the ball to someone else.

Clyde could have played better and more aggressively like he had played overseas, but he was solely focused on letting Rarity have fun. Rainbow allowed her to get the ball more after Rarity’s stunning shot. She became the team’s spot up shooter as she was scared to dribble the ball. While she only made one or two of the dozen attempts, and missed every moving shot attempt, Clyde was happy to see she never got discouraged or upset after missing. 

Instead of playing just one or two games, Rarity decided to keep playing until they all were finished for the day. Fatigue eventually became more clear during the fourth game for her, so Clyde voted to sit out to rest, too, so the game would be a fair two-on-two. After seven intense games, everyone was tired and began to leave, saying goodbyes and thanking each other for the fun.

“I never would have thought my amazing and sexy fiancée was a baller, too!” said Clyde as he and Rarity walked to his car after everyone had left the park. He wrapped his arm around her and pulled her closer to him.

Rarity chuckled. “I’m sorry to inform you that I was only a ‘baller’ for today. While it was interesting to experience your hobby, I can safely say I'm not cut out for it. I'd rather stick with my fashion passion. I'm a sticky and sweaty mess, and my makeup probably looks awful!” She touched her face and flinched at the dried sweat lines of makeup on her cheeks and under her eyes.

“It doesn't look that bad,” soothed Clyde as he pushed some of her frizzled hair out of her face. “I'm just glad you had a good time.”

Rarity smiled and snuggled against him. “Now, I think we should get out of these sweaty clothes and both get showers before our romantic dinner date tonight.”

“You thought of a place?”

“Does that lovely and enchanting one about an hour away sound good?”

Clyde sighed, knowing which restaurant she was talking about. It was one of the only fancy restaurants around Canterlot that had a plentiful variety of food, all equally expensive. The restaurant, however, was a perfect place for a romantic dinner with all of the decor and low lighting. “I promised so I'll take you there.”

“Perfect!” Rarity smiled as she ran to the passenger seat. 

Clyde went to open the car doors and he glanced at the backseat of the car, seeing Rarity’s clothes and boots. “Don't forget your clothes back there when I drop you off in a few minutes.”

Rarity looked at the backseat and shrugged. “I'll just get them tonight. After all, I figure we will both have to put on our outfits again back there tonight anyway.”

Clyde suddenly looked at her. “You mean...”

Rarity playfully winked as she got in the passenger seat. Clyde looked at the court one last time before happily getting into the car. 
> Christmas in the City [Christmas Eve II]
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

	Rarity quickly hopped out of the car and spun around in excitement as she watched the gentle snowflakes fall down through the city as the snow began to slowly cover her winter jacket and stick to her hair. “Oh Manehattan~! What–”

“Do you have to sing this every time you get here?” teased Clyde as he opened his car’s trunk. 

Rarity giggled. “I'm sorry, darling, but you know how much this city means to me, plus, we are here during the holidays and while it is snowing! It's so exciting!”

Clyde nodded. “I'm excited too. Maybe not enough to sing about it, but I'm sure we will have a great week here.”

For the holidays this year, both Clyde and Rarity decided to spend the week at Manehattan. As much as they loved the simple feast with Rarity’s parents and sister, Rarity wanted something more special for their first Christmas as an engaged couple. The holidays and memories they brought through the last three years were always special to them, one of them including the first kiss they shared on New Year’s at midnight. Rarity knew Manehattan at this time of year was a romantic and breathtaking place to visit with all the bright lights, especially if it snowed, so she thought the city would be a perfect retreat for them to spend a special time of year.

Clyde zipped up his coat and pulled out his luggage and one of Rarity’s, the heaviest one with all of the clothes she brought, as Rarity helped carry a smaller handbag, full of makeup and cosmetics, and a large, sealed bag. Clyde locked up his car and shoved the keys into his coat’s side pocket then headed straight for the hotel’s lobby.

The luxurious hotel lobby was live with activity as everyone was probably avoiding the cold temperature or snow. Since Rarity lived in the city for a year, she knew which hotels were good and which were not and she reserved a room in the highest quality hotel that was near the fashion studio she worked in. Rarity elegantly made her way to the front desk as Clyde stood behind her, luggage covering his face. 

“Hello,” greeted Rarity, “we would like to check in please. The room should be under ‘Rarity Belle’.”

The receptionist nodded and looked down at her papers and then to the computer screen. “Ah, yes... Ms. Belle. Room for two. The suite, correct?”

Rarity smiled. “Of course. I simply must sleep in the most elegant of all rooms.”

The receptionist typed some information in with the computer’s keyboard and handed Rarity two hotel card keys. Rarity promptly paid off the rest of the reservation and happily took the cards.

“Happy holidays and enjoy your stay!” said the receptionist.

“Thank you! Happy holidays to you as well!” replied Rarity as her and Clyde made their way to the elevator. A young bellhop man offered to take Clyde’s luggage and the bags Rarity had on the way there, but Clyde politely declined. The luggage wasn't all that heavy and he had no problem carrying it to their short trip to the room. Soon, the elevator opened and the two stepped inside, and after a brief ride to the room’s floor and a walk down the clean and festively decorated hallways, Rarity slid the card key into the lock and opened up the door to their hotel room. 

The first thing Clyde noticed was the view of the whole northern part of the city from the large window. The hotel room was a good twenty floors above ground level, so even the giant Central Park that was currently blanketed in the pure whiteness of the snow was seen behind the massive skyscrapers. Clyde stood by the window and just slowly watched snow cover the city. It was truly a majestic sight to behold.

“Beautiful, isn't it?” asked Rarity. “Just wait until the evening. The whole city will be lit up.”

Clyde nodded. “No wonder why you loved the city life.”

“While I wasn't exactly here for the holidays since I left a week early and came back a week after New Year’s, this city is a breathtaking experience.” Rarity sighed. “That was, until I learned how lonely the city can be too.”

Clyde set the luggage down and hugged her. “You won't have to worry about that. I'm here and I always will be.”

“I know,” she said softly before kissing him. “I'm so happy we are both here for a week at such a special time. I hope everything is just perfect.”

“If not, at least we’ll both be together.”

Rarity giggled. “Of course. That's all that matters.” The two of them looked at the view from the window once more before deciding to get the luggage into the bedroom and walk around the suite. As Clyde took the luggage into the bedroom, Rarity went over to the kitchen area and started to make hot chocolate with the suite’s kitchen equipment as an easy way to warm up from the winter weather.

Once the hot chocolate was done, Rarity quickly grabbed the large bag that she carried into the hotel along with the luggage and sat down on the couch, gently sipping the cup of hot chocolate. 

“Shall we get started?” she asked, reaching into the large bag and pulling out various wrapped presents.

“You want to open them now?” replied Clyde. 

“Why not? It is Christmas Eve after all, and we are going out to eat tonight. I figure this is the best way to spend time until then.”

Clyde nodded and walked to the couch with a cup of hot chocolate in his hand. Ever since the first Christmas Eve they spent together, both of them decided they would always exchange gifts on Christmas Eve as a way to remember how much the day and holidays in general meant to them. Unfortunately, that tradition was broken last year due to Clyde being overseas, but nothing was stopping them now to continue it.

Rarity happily handed him some large square presents. Clyde picked them up and figured out rather quickly that they were picture frames. He unwrapped all three of the presents and smiled.

Like his gifts from two years before, Rarity made various collages with an assortment of pictures. The first collage was of him playing for his overseas team, the second was of Rarity and her year at the fashion studio in Manehattan, and the last was from the night he proposed to her and events leading up to December. 

“I know they aren't much, but I like seeing a timeline of everything special that happens,” said Rarity. “I didn't make any last year since I didn't see you at all, so I made two for our occupations and then our lovely reunion.”

“I love them, don't worry about it.” Clyde gave her a smile before looking at each of the separate colleges in closer inspection. Seeing his old team reminded him of all the fun and painful memories of playing overseas, so he didn't spent much time reminiscing about it. As much as he loved playing basketball, being far away from his friends and Rarity for so long was something that really got to him. Clyde did, however, spend more time looking over Rarity’s collage of her fashion studio internship and all of the pictures her and him took since they became an engaged couple. 

Meanwhile, Rarity grabbed another present and read the gift tag. “For me?!” she said in fake surprisement. “Clyde, you didn't have to...”

“You do this with every gift I give you,” laughed Clyde. 

Rarity giggled and gently tore open the present. After the wrapping paper was off, she quickly worked on opening the cardboard box. Once she opened it, she gasped, pulling out an all-black designer leather handbag with gold trimming.

“It's so perfect! This is exactly what I needed! No longer will I have to carry my belongings in my boot!” 

 Clyde nodded. “I figured this was the right one by just the cost. I'll never understand the economy, but I know lots of girls absolutely go crazy trying to get these. I had to order this two months ago before the holiday shopping sales to make sure you got it.”

“Thank you, darling.” Rarity gave him a loving smile.

Clyde responded with a smile of his own. “Anything for you.” The exchange of gifts went on until the bag that was once filled with presents was finally empty and wrapping paper was all over the hotel suite’s floor. Both of them were extremely happy with their big or small gifts to one another.

A present Clyde really enjoyed was tickets to the Slam Dunk contest during All-Star Weekend that was going to be in Manehattan during Fashion Week in February. Since Clyde already had the approval from Iron Will for taking that week off to support Rarity, Rarity thought tickets to the event would be a good idea as Tyrone would even be there since he played in the league. 

As for Rarity, her designer handbag was one of her favorite gifts as it was made by one of her favorite designers. Clyde also gave her a diamond-studded necklace that went perfectly along with her heart pendant he gave her as a present from Christmas two years ago. 

It was close to six in the evening when Clyde and Rarity cleaned up all the trash from the gifts. Most restaurants were open until eight in the city, but they decided to get ready now in case of long lines to wait. Clyde hopped in the shower first and soon dressed into nicer clothes, comprising of a sweater and fresh jeans. As he waited for Rarity to get ready, he decided to flip on the TV in the room to pass the time. The channel was already set to the local news.

“Merry Christmas... Eve!” began the news anchor jovially. “We hope all of the citizens and tourists in our wonderful city of Manehattan enjoys the holidays! And now... we shift to the weather!” The camera shifted to the large city map, which was just a green screen, with pictures of snow in various locations. A middle-aged man was looking over to the news anchor.

“Thanks, Scoop!” he replied before looking directly at the camera. “As many of you know, snow has already fallen in the city and it is expected to slowly accumulate more and more as the night gets older.” The weatherman pointed to the map and drew circles around the various locations as he explained the snow and projected totals. “For caution, I don't recommend anyone staying out tonight for too long in case of an unexpected and harsh snowstorm or blizzard. Once tomorrow morning arrives, Christmas Day will be a beautiful and sunny day! Happy holidays folks!”

Clyde turned off the TV and looked out the window. The snow didn't seem like it was snowing heavier than before, but like the weatherman said, unexpected weather occurred very frequently. 

“Do I look fabulous enough, Clyde?”

Clyde turned his head as Rarity walked out of the bathroom. Her hair was curly, her makeup was flawless, and her attire of a loose red sweater along with black leggings and heeled boots, made Clyde instantly smile.

“You look fabulous and sexy.”

“I didn't expect that answer,” she said with a smile as she wrapped a black scarf around her neck. “This is just a simple outfit.”

“It doesn't matter if it's simple or not. You look amazing as usual.”

“I think you just want another present from me with that compliment,” cooed Rarity as she walked over to him and brushed her hand on his stubble that was growing in on his face.

Clyde shrugged, but smoothly smiled at her. “Having you is all I need. You will always be the best thing in my life.” 

Rarity giggled and slowly kissed him. “I feel the same way about you.” She lovingly stared into his eyes for a few moments before looking out the window, seeing the city begin to light up to combat the darkness the riding moon brought behind clouds. “Are you ready to go? It looks like it's snowing more.”

Clyde nodded. “The weatherman said there is a chance for a snowstorm, so I think we should leave soon. Luckily our restaurant we had in mind is only a few blocks so we can walk there.”

“Of course. Lead the way, darling,” said Rarity with a smile. The two of them put on their winter coats and headed out the door. A trip through the hallway, the elevator, and the lobby later, both of them soon stood on the snowy streets of Manehattan.

The normal bustling city was completely different due to it being Christmas Eve and most likely the weather. The streets still had citizens walking them, but the number of them was greatly reduced and was noticeable. The roads were slushy and wet and were only going to get worse as the night went on. Rarity held snugly onto Clyde’s arm and the two walked the six blocks to arrive at the restaurant.

The two of them managed to get a table quickly in a completely empty section as most of the restaurant was empty too. Clyde didn't mind having no other customers need them. It made the dinner feel like a private dinner date Rarity and him had at her house occasionally throughout the years.

After their waiter came and politely asked what they wanted to drink, the rest of the night during the dinner blurred by. Clyde and Rarity talked about their friends and how everyone was doing as Rarity checked through their pictures and timelines on her social media apps. Eventually, their meal was brought out and the talking was paused to focus on the food. Clyde seemed to devour his steak as he was done a good ten minutes before Rarity finished her shrimp and scallops. Clyde had to eventually help her eat the last of the shrimp since she didn't want to waste it. Once both of them felt bloated and warm with the food they consumed, Clyde and Rarity swiftly paid for the meal and began to walk out of the restaurant. At the door, they saw the host looking outside nervously. 

“I don't recommend going out there,” said the host, “it's a complete blizzard.”

“Really?” questioned Clyde. He walked up to the window and took a quick look outside. The streets and roads were now completely dead and covered in the white powder. It was almost impossible to even see down one block due to the rapid speed of the falling snow, even with the streetlights and lights from the buildings. 

The host sighed. “I figured this is why we aren't having a lot of customers tonight. I never expected the snowstorm to come this quickly.”

“What do we do, Clyde?” asked Rarity. “Should we wait it out?”

“It's only going to get worse,” began the host, “you both are more than welcome to stay, but this is the gentle version of the storm. An hour or two later, we might completely be snowed in.”

Clyde shifted uneasily. “Our hotel is about a ten minute walk. I'm not going to risk it if you don't want–”

A loud surging crackle erupted the restaurant as the lights completely shut off. The few people and workers in the restaurant nervously looked around in the dark room. 

“The power on this street is completely wiped!” yelled a chef from the kitchen.

“What about that kitchen two blocks down?” asked another one. 

“That soup kitchen? I'm sure they will be open. They have lots of backup generators, but I'm sure they are packed with people tonight, especially since it's Christmas Eve during a snowstorm.”

“We should get everyone here to there then!”

“I agree! But let's hurry! We must keep our customers safe!”

The chefs and workers immediately all ran out of the kitchen and walked to each table, apologizing for the power outage and handing them a discount and coupon for their meal tonight and even for the next one. All the customers began to fill the lobby as Clyde and Rarity sat down at a cushioned bench. 

“I guess we won't be back in the hotel tonight,” said Clyde worriedly.

Rarity smiled at him. “I'm fine with that. As long as we aren't separated during this, I just care that we will be safe for the night.” 

A burly chef with many pins and stars in his hat, a sign to Clyde that told him the head chef was talking to them, quickly walked up to them. “I'm sorry for tonight,” he apologized.

“It's quite alright. Our meal was delicious!” comforted Rarity. 

“That's what we love to hear, but I still want you both to take this coupon. It's our treat since the power went out and the snow cancelled your plans.” The chef handed them two small coupon slips. “I'm sure you heard that we will be moving to the local soup kitchen.”

“Yeah, I think that's a good place to stay away from the snow,” said Clyde. 

“Once everyone is ready, we’ll all move out. Our big nomadic group will hopefully help us all stay warm.” The burly head chef joyfully laughed and walked away. 

As he left, Rarity reached into her new handbag that Clyde bought her and handed Clyde a scarf and two beanies. She zipped up her coat and put on the white beanie. “I have to stay warm, don't I?” she giggled.

Clyde smiled as he wrapped the scarf around his neck, zipped up his coat, and put his black beanie on his head. “I normally don't wear this much winter clothing, but I have to agree with you. It looks like a total snowy warzone out there.” Clyde looked outside and saw and heard the gust of wind blow more snow into the streets. Snow was something he loved as a kid, but now that he was older, he finally realized why all the adults hated it as it made traveling impossible and more difficult.

“Alright, folks!” said the host who was now covered in a coat and snow pants. He held a flashlight in one hand and shined it on the customers. “The power outage is something we never expected, so that's why the chefs decided it would only be fair to give coupons for a good discount. Anyway, we need to move out now as the storm is getting worse. We should be able to reach the soup kitchen in just a few minutes, so bundle up and we will walk together! Are we good? Now, bring it on snow!” 

He opened the door and everyone instantly shivered at the cold gust of wind that blew into the restaurant. The restaurant staff and customers quickly rushed out of the restaurant and followed the host as he slowly made his way down the snowy, empty streets. Clyde and Rarity managed to be in the middle of the pack, which helped tremendously shield the snow and cold air. Rarity held close to Clyde while she buried her head into his coat. Clyde kept his head looking at his feet since he didn't want any cold air blowing into his face.

The two block trek to the soup kitchen would've taken a few minutes on a normal day in Manehattan, even with crowded streets. However, due to the heavy snow that was increasing in pace by the minute, the walk took almost ten minutes. Clyde finally began feeling the cold burn his face, but he didn't dare speak or try to move as he wanted to shield Rarity and the people behind him from the air. As he slowly moved his head, he saw a flashlight shine through the storm from the distance.

“W-We made it...” said the host clearly shivering from the cold. “Everyone... G-Get inside!”

The chefs, the host, the customers, and both Clyde and Rarity quickly ran through the doors as a small child closed the doors behind them. Clyde looked down and saw he was the one who beckoned them with a flashlight.

“Aha!” laughed the burly head chef as he took of his ski mask that helped protect him from the snow. “Good job, everyone! I'm sure the snow ruined everyone’s plans tonight, but I'm glad we made it to safety! Now, if you excuse my staff and me, we shall help prepare food for all the stragglers and people in need for shelter tonight!” The staff cheered and quickly ran towards the already busy kitchen cafeteria area.

Clyde looked around the large room while the group of customers went to either the cafeteria or the large open room. Many people were resting at or trying to warm up by drinking hot chocolate or coffee. The others were eating or waiting for soup and bread in the cafeteria. The kitchen workers were understaffed until the restaurant chefs and workers arrived. The line began moving quicker, but there still was a lot of people in the line and it was still going to grow. Clyde turned to Rarity who knelt down beside the small child.

“What in heavens are you doing out in the cold!?” she asked fixing up the boy’s zipper on his coat and adjusting the small beanie on his head. 

“N-No one wanted to help flag down others in case they needed shelter...” he said while shivering. “I don't mind not eating tonight, I-I just wanted to help. It's Christmas after all...”

Rarity looked up at Clyde with a certain look in her eyes. Clyde didn't have to say a single word as he knew what she was thinking. He nodded with a smile. “I'll take over for you. Go get some food and rest up.”

“R-Really?” replied the boy in shock. “You mean it?”

“He does,” repeated Rarity for Clyde’s sake. “You can trust him without a single doubt." She cheered the boy up with her alluring smile. "In the meantime, how about I help you get some hot chocolate and then you can show me where I can help out around here for the night and even find your parents? I bet there are extremely worried about you.”

The boy smiled and handed Clyde the flashlight. “I can do that. Thank you, ma’am.”

Rarity waved her hand. “Oh, please. Call me ‘Miss’ since I still am one for a few more months. Besides, I'm not old enough to be called ‘ma’am’ yet.” She took his hand and went with the boy to stand in line, giving a wink and blowing a kiss at Clyde for good luck. 

Clyde looked back at the door to outside and nodded in determination. He put up the hood of his coat as he opened the doors to the ravaged winter storm.

For almost three hours, Clyde battled the winter’s bitter harshness. He was surprised on how many people were stuck in the snowstorm and how other large groups of people that were stuck in restaurants or stores migrated to the local shelter. As he helped kids, elderly, and people around his age, a good majority of them thanked him for his troubles and even wished him happy holidays. Each smile he saw made Clyde motivated to continue standing out in the cold weather. Eventually, however, the number of people outside began to slow down and even a flashlight was unable to see through the falling snow. 

“Hey, why don’t you rest up?” asked a voice from behind him as Clyde felt a hand on his shoulder. It was a man that was probably closer to Shale’s age who just came out of the shelter. Clyde couldn't tell what he looked like as he was bundled up in so much clothing, all he could see his nose and mouth. The man pulled down his mask to talk better. “You’ve been out here for a long time. We don’t want to see anyone get frostbite or anything worse.”

“T-Thanks,” stutterd Clyde. He handed him the flashlight.

“No problem, man. It’s the least I can do. Get warmed up and Merry Christmas. It’s almost midnight.” The man patted Clyde on the back and covered his mouth with his mask again. 

Clyde gave a happy nod and walked back inside, instantly hearing a radio playing Christmas songs. The sudden difference of the warm weather in the shelter made Clyde feel sharp burns on his face. He walked over to the large room and slumped down against a wall, quickly taking off his coat and hat that were covered in snow. Soon, a giant blanket fell on him and he looked up to see Rarity standing above him with two cups of hot chocolate. 

“You’re back!” she beamed as she sat down beside him and hugged him tightly. 

“You feel so warm...” said Clyde content, “keep hugging me.”

Rarity smiled. “With pleasure, darling.” She carefully set the two cups down and leaned her head on his shoulder. After a few minutes, she spoke up. “Feeling better?”

Clyde took a deep breath and grinned. “Yes, I am. I’m glad I’m in the warm now.”

“Along with your number one snuggle buddy,” she giggled.

“Indeed.” Clyde looked across the building to the kitchen area. There wasn’t a single person in line now and everyone either ate or was currently eating. “So, did you manage to help out around here while I was outside?”

Rarity nodded. “Yes! I volunteered to bring blankets, pillows, and hot chocolate or coffee to people! I even helped with serving people some bread for a while. Everyone here is so nice and thankful, I loved helping out. It really brought out the Christmas spirit here tonight. I’m sure a lot of us here simply never imagined we would all be stuck here for the night, but the whole building was filled with Christmas joy. In a weird situation, it’s like we became a large family.”

Clyde smiled. “That’s good to hear. Other than the cold, I enjoyed helping out, too. I’m sure you had a much more easier task than I did.”

“I’m sorry to leave you out there, darling. I was going to come check up on you, but there are so many people here and I wanted to make sure everyone was happy and had a blanket and pillow,” she replied sadly with a frown. 

“Don’t be sad,” said Clyde trying to cheer her up. “You know me. Some crazy and sudden snowstorm won’t stop me. I’m really proud of both of us for helping a lot of people tonight. It wasn’t the perfect Christmas Eve I ever considered, but helping out others is what Christmas is meant to be.”

Rarity nodded and flashed her dazzling smile. “You’re right, Clyde. That’s exactly what I felt tonight too.” She tossed the blanket on them and handed him a cup of hot chocolate as she snuggled into him. “Leaning against a wall trying to sleep tonight will be rather difficult, but I’m sure we can manage. At least I’m super warm!”

Clyde kissed her forehead and adjusted his body so both of them wouldn’t feel as uncomfortable on the wall. He took a sip and smiled as he looked around the room. Their first Christmas at Manehattan took an unexpected turn, but to them, it wasn’t terrible at all. “Merry Christmas, Rarity.”

Rarity slowly looked up at him and lovingly smiled. “Merry Christmas, Clyde. I love you.”

Clyde felt her hug him tighter and she placed her head back onto his shoulder. The two of them never said another word to each other that night as they both happily and effortlessly fell asleep to the joy of Christmas.

> The Rapping Rari-T [Random Prompt #1]
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

	One abnormally normal day in Canterlot, Clyde decided to go to Rarity’s house to see what she was doing for the day. He wished she was hopefully doing nothing so he could surprise her with an invitation for a lunch date for just the two of them.

He arrived at her home and walked into the small store entrance door just like he always would. However, he didn't see her anywhere which he automatically knew was strange as she always would be in her shop at this time during the day working on projects or designs. He walked over to the steps and faintly heard music upstairs.

“I guess she's in her room,” assumed Clyde, “unless that's Sweetie Belle jamming out and trying to improve her already stellar vocals.”

Clyde walked upstairs and turned the corner to the hallway and walked towards Rarity's slightly opened door. The music was coming from Rarity's room and as he got closer, the calm music he heard before instantly changed into a much more upbeat tune filled with rhythm. Suddenly, all the instruments came together to make the music go faster and faster and Clyde saw Rarity walk in front of her mirror with one of his baseball hats on backwards and a large gold pendant around her neck. He gently opened the door, but Rarity, completely ignoring him in the moment of the song, began to sing, or in this case rap, out the song:

"Yeah...
First name's Rari', 
I'm so very
Fly, oh my,
it's a lil' bit scary
Boys wanna marry, 
looking at my derri-Ere, 
you can stare but if you touch it I'ma bury
I’m...
Pretty as a picture, 
sweeter than a swisher
You mad cause I'm cuter than the girl that's with ya
I don't gotta talk about it,
baby you can see it
But if you want, 
I'll be happy to repeat it–"

As she looked up in her mirror, she saw Clyde's reflection and instantly turned around.

“C-C-Clyde!” stuttered Rarity with her face burning red, “w-what are you doing there?!"

Clyde stood there in amazement and complete shock. “Did you just... rap? That part of the song is mostly sung, but you rapped it...”

Rarity blushed and looked away. “Maybe...” she said softly.

“Huh?”

Rarity looked at him. “Yes! I did!” She rubbed her arm and frowned. “I-I've always enjoyed rap songs. It's fun to try to rap along and try to do it faster each time...”

Clyde blinked. “You actually like that genre of music? I would have never guessed that.”

“No one probably would! I never wanted to say anything because people might make fun of me if they knew the elegant Rarity was actually a secret rapper fan who goes by the fake stage name of ‘Rari-T.’” She frowned. “I'm so embarrassed... You probably saw how stupid I looked.”

“What? Why would I think that?” asked Clyde. “I thought you were great!”

Rarity smiled at him, but still looked saddened. “You're just saying that...”

Clyde walked up to her and put his hands on her shoulders. “As long as you enjoy something, why should it matter what others think?” He looked at the oversized hat on her and laughed. “I don't know though, I feel like Rapper Rari-T would be fun to hang out with for an hour.”

“Thanks, darling,” she giggled. After a quick kiss, Rarity turned back to the mirror as Clyde stood to the side. “Let me see if I can freestyle!”

She turned on some music and began to think of words to say, as she began bobbing her head in the beat of the song.

"Yeah. Uh. Time to drop some bars,
but first, give me a lil' moment so I can head out to Mars–"

Rarity quickly glanced at Clyde and began stuttering. She coughed and tried again, but kept repeating herself. Soon, she gave up and in a defeated anger flopped onto her bed.

“I can't do it...” she sighed in defeat.

“I can't freestyle either,” encouraged Clyde. “It's hard to do. Although, you had a good start.”

“But I was so good at it last week! I guess when I see you I get nervous...” Rarity looked at the ceiling for a few seconds before speaking again. “Would you mind if I record myself and send it to you instead?”

Clyde sat down beside her on the bed. “I'd love to hear it if you want me to. Maybe then I'll give it a shot and then we can make a song together. I guess we need to figure out a name for our gig, though.”

Rarity laughed. “We can worry about the gig name later. That song, however, would be my favorite song forever.” She sat up and hugged him. “I should've told you my rap love secret. I knew you probably didn't care, but I always felt embarrassed... But to change the topic, why did you stop over? I thought you were going to the park today so I thought I could practice my raps.”

Clyde shrugged. “I wanted to see if you would like to go out to eat somewhere instead. It's a nice day out so maybe we can find an outside table somewhere.”

Rarity grinned. “Deal! Let me change into somethin' more suitable than this bling gear, yo.” She smiled and got off her bed and found an outfit everyone was used to seeing with her: a simple skirt and loose shirt.

Clyde shook his head as he watched her change with a smile. “I'm so happy I fell in love with her.”

> The Night Before
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

	Time, as if Chronos himself was working overtime, flew by as seconds, minutes, hours, days, weeks, and even over a dozen of months went by. The booming city of Manehattan raged on without any chance of stopping as Clyde sat in his hotel room overlooking the lit up city through the glass window leaving him alone and just thinking to himself. 

Tomorrow was finally the big day. A day in which he would forever remember as it was the day he finally married the love of his life. 

Normally, at his age of 21, people would still be in college studying or partying as many of the students and friends he graduated high school with were currently in that position. However, for him, none of those interested him. He had a decent coaching job for the Canterlot High basketball team along with Iron Will and his best friend from school. The money was not even close to what he made by playing basketball in an overseas professional league, but he never was one who thought money was everything. What mattered to him was one girl and making sure she was happy, and tomorrow, he would finally be able to make her the happiest girl in the world.

A brief knock on his hotel door caused him to break his daze on the city. “It's open,” called Clyde without turning his head.

“There's my boy!” exclaimed a very happy and excited young man holding a few cans of beer. He walked over to Clyde and offered one.

“No thanks, T,” laughed Clyde while shaking his head. “I don't even want to touch alcohol after what happened at the bachelor party last week.”

Tyrone smirked. “You have to admit, that party was insane.”

“If you think puking all night until passing out was fun, maybe. We legitimately were worried about you. Compared to the girls’ party for Rarity, they didn't go that hard, at least, that's what Pinkie said. I'm not allowed to know what happened, but Rarity promised she didn't do anything I would hate.”

Tyrone crossed his arms. “Yeah, but I had my reasons to drink that much, you know it.”

“Whatever, T. Just please don't drink that much tomorrow night at the reception.” Clyde gave him a pleading look.

“I got you, man. I promise. It’s Rarity’s and your night.” Tyrone patted him on the back and sat down on the couch across from Clyde. He put the beer cans down on the small table and leaned into the couch. “Man... I can't believe my high school brother is getting married... Like, this time tomorrow, you two will be probably getting back to this room and, you know, making love to officiate the marriage, even though you two were already pretty active and experts in the whole sex thing.” Tyrone laughed. “You’ve come a long way, C.”

Clyde chuckled. “Yeah, it's crazy. It seems like yesterday that I returned to Canterlot and proposed to Rarity at the park.”

Tyrone leaned forward in the couch. “So, are you nervous?”

“Nervous about marrying Rarity, the girl who understands me now more than myself probably?” Clyde looked to the city and smiled. “Of course not. She's been my number one supporter ever since we had that one movie date before I went to try out for the basketball team. I can't wait to marry her.”

Tyrone grinned. “Tomorrow is going to be great.”

Clyde nodded and looked out to the city once more. “To be honest, there is one thing I'm nervous about...”

“Oh?”

“I shouldn't think this way, but I'm nervous that in the future, I won't be able to support her anymore, or what if I die and she's left alone? I don't want to break her heart like that.” Clyde frowned. “What if I can't make her laugh or smile?”

Tyrone gave Clyde a blank look before sighing. “You know, C... I can understand what you are trying to say, but have you ever looked at pictures or videos of you and her?”

“All the time, yeah.”

“Then stop worrying! Everyone can see how much she loves you by just looking at you two together! As long as you both are together, it's like the world is at peace. I know you will love her forever, no matter what happens, and I can guarantee she will feel the same way.

Clyde looked at the floor briefly before giving Tyrone a large grin. “You're absolutely right.”

“The future is a scary thing because no one knows exactly what it holds,” said Tyrone as he rubbed his scarred-up and injury riddled leg. “If I would've known about my leg... I wouldn't have tried to save that ball. All I wanted to do was play basketball and become a big star, now I’m just a high school coach because the doctors said the possibility of playing at the professional level again was slim.” Tyrone looked out the window and sighed. 

“I'm sorry, T,” apologized Clyde. “I didn't mean to bring up that day again...”

Tyrone gave him a cheeky grin. “Nah, man. It's all good. I take it as as sign that maybe I wasn't meant to play in the league. Whether I'm a player or a coach like you are now, as long as I'm doing something that makes me and others happy, that's fine with me. Maybe I can get back into finishing my mixtape from college.”

“You can certainly give it a try,” laughed Clyde. 

The two remained silent as they looked out to the bustling city. Clyde always felt crazily calm when around Tyrone as if he was his own brother. Seeing how he was the first friend he made when he moved to Canterlot, it made perfect sense.

Tyrone shifted forward slightly to see various cars flooding the streets. It was nearly impossible to make out the exact models and colors of the cars from their current height and due to the blackness of the night, but he watched them anyway. “So, you haven't seen Rarity all day?”

“Nope,” answered Clyde. “We made a silly promise not to.”

“Heh, really?”

“Yeah, after the recital a few days ago, we promised not to see each other until we stood in front of everyone else. The next time I'll see her is her walking down the aisle with her beautiful dress that I can't wait to finally see.” Clyde gave a chuckle and smiled brightly. “I know it might be weird, but we thought it would be special.”

“Nah, C. That's a pretty cool idea.”

“You think?”

Tyrone nodded. “Yeah, man. I can understand why you both want that. Tomorrow’s going to be filled with so much emotion anyway, so you might as well do this before you two are linked together forever.” 

Clyde smirked. “You act like that will be a bad thing... being with Rarity forever sounds like heaven.” Clyde laughed.

Tyrone looked over at him and laughed with him. “You haven't changed at all. Anyway, what's the plan for you two after the wedding?”

“...You already talked about that.”

Tyrone laughed again. “No, C. I meant after that too.”

Clyde scratched his head. “Well, to be honest... We’re not sure yet.”

“You mean you don't have a honeymoon planned?” asked Tyrone curiously. 

“Oh, no. We have plans. It's just, we have so many places to visit. Instead of taking a small trip to one location, we might just travel around for a month or two while we are young. Our basketball season is over and Rarity wants to take a nice break from designing since she’s been working hard all year so far. Plus, I still have some basketball money left over even after the engagement ring and wedding, and Rarity has money from her fashion store she’s been running since she was a young girl, and plus, we decided we would wait a few years before kids.”

Tyrone nodded and smiled. “Damn, C. That's pretty awesome. Seems like you both will have a great time no matter what happens.”

Clyde nodded and smiled. “And don't worry. She’ll more than likely post status updates and pictures of everything we do and see on her various social media accounts.”

“Sounds awesome, man. I'm glad I never was one for social media,” laughed Tyrone. “It seems like every girl is addicted to that shit anymore.”

“Yeah, and celebrities and athletes too.”

Tyrone shrugged. “I guess. I remember my teammates would always be on their phones during halftime, seeing if people were talking about their stats or play. It kinda got annoying to be honest. Like, where is the fun in basketball anymore?”

Clyde laughed. “Which is exactly why I agree with your ban on cell phones during practice and games.”

“Damn right,” agreed Tyrone. “We have to teach our young ballers while they are young. If you want to play for our team, you have to keep the phone out of the locker room. It's that simple.” He reached down and took a can of beer, popping it open and taking a long sip.

Clyde gave the beer can a look. “You’re lucky Shale isn't here. That's his favorite brand.”

“I have plenty here for him. Where is he anyway?”

“He won't get into the city until tomorrow morning,” said Clyde while looking out the window. “He had something to do for the Guard for a few weeks, tomorrow is his one day off before heading back.”

“Ah. I'll be sure to save him one,” responded Tyrone looking at the cans. “...Are you sure you don't want one?”

“I'm sure.”

“Come on, C. Just one! I promise.” Tyrone smirked and handed him a can and gently shook it in front of him.

Clyde sighed and reluctantly took it. “Fine.” Clyde popped the can open and took a swig. Beer wasn't exactly his favorite form of alcohol, as liquor and wine had more flavor and taste for him, but depending on the event or situation, he usually had a beer or two to celebrate with others. Unlike Tyrone, however, Clyde could handle the alcohol. “Mmm... Not bad.”

“Haha, I knew I could get you to enjoy one beer with your best friend!” laughed Tyrone. He raised his can high into the air near Clyde’s. “This one is to you, C. I wish you the best of luck for all of your future endeavors and I just know you and Rarity will have one hell of a life. I’m happy for you Clyde.”

Clyde bashed his can at Tyrone’s and laughed briefly before smiling. “Thank you.” Clyde and Tyrone then quickly gulped down the beer as if it were a silly race. Tyrone quickly drank another one as Clyde got up from the couch and walked around the hotel room. From the view of his hotel room, he could faintly see the darkened outline of the massive cathedral that stood between many buildings where he would be tomorrow. He gave a smile and noticed Tyrone was looking at him, holding his now half-empty case of beer. 

“Well, C,” began Tyrone, “I think it’s time for me to leave you alone for the night so you can get ready for tomorrow. Good luck with everything, but I know you both will be fine. Oh, and I’ll give Shale a beer tomorrow so don’t worry about that either.” Tyrone flashed a large grin.

“Thanks for stopping by,” said Clyde sincerely. “It was nice to spend a moment with one of my closest friends. You were there for me since I arrived in Canterlot, and I’ll always be thankful for that.”

Tyrone wiped his eyes. “Aww, come on C... You know I’m a bro. I’d do anything for you and my bros.” He reached over and have Clyde and brotherly hug followed by some strong pats on the back that guys usually did while they hugged other guys. 

After their moment was over, Tyrone gave one last wave and smile before heading out of the hotel room. Clyde shook his head and smiled before heading over to his phone that was charging on the counter. Clyde opened it and glanced at social media to see if any of his friends were talking about the big day tomorrow. Sure enough, Rarity’s latest post that was made a few hours ago had dozens of comments. Instead of reading them now, he decided to wait until later before he went to bed in case of anymore comments came in. 

Soon, Clyde logged off of the apps as he opened his text messages. He quickly sent a small message to Rarity, “I’ll probably be heading to bed soon, so the next you’ll hear from me is tomorrow in front of everyone.”

He waited a few minutes, and like he predicted, a reply from Rarity came. He opened it and smiled, as the only thing she sent in return were a few heart icons. Clyde put his phone back on the charger as he walked back to the window for a few moments, giving the nearly invisible cathedral another long glance.

He didn’t feel nervous at all, most likely the reason being because he wasn’t actually dressed up or there yet. He knew whatever emotions he would feel the next day would be all worth it to see Rarity all dressed up and the happiest she has ever been. 

Since the first time he had met her, Clyde made sure he did all he could to make her happy, and for tomorrow, he was focused on making her the happiest and most important girl in the world. 
> Amor Meus Aeternus
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------


*        *        *        *        *


"I told you, my brother, and your parents so many times how much you mean to me, but I just want to tell you again that you are the most beautiful angel I've ever met, and I'm super lucky to not only be best friends with her, but also be loved by her." Clyde's smile continued to grow and Rarity felt herself even mimic it. "Before I met you, I never knew what it was like to be able to look at someone and smile for no reason. The one thing I missed everyday while overseas was seeing you, that beautiful smile, and those alluring eyes of yours that always could cheer me up. You will always be my motivation and I never want to be that far away from you again as my mind is filled with an incredible sense of euphoria when you are near me that I refuse to let go."


"I simply can't imagine being far away from you again either, Clyde. You, too, bring me a sense of happiness, protection, and love that helps me get through any hard time in my life. Hearing your voice while I was in Manehattan after I got back to my apartment from a long and tough day always made my night." Rarity felt her eyes fill with tears, but she didn't want to cry in front of him now. She looked down at her hands that were held in his for a brief moment before giving him a warm smile. "Clyde. You made my life a living fairy tale that I had always dreamed about and thought was only possible in movies. I love you more than the stars love the clear nights."


Clyde smirked as he gave a slight chuckle. "I promise I will continue being the prince you always wanted in your life."


"You are the best prince I could ever ask for," said Rarity with a flirty wink. "Please don't change. You don't need to impress me anymore nor do you have to. The same boy I fell in love with nearly three years ago is still the same boy who stands in front of me now. Although, now, that boy is now a man with his eyes set on keeping his girlfriend happy. I cannot detest that, and I shall make sure I treat him with the same amount of love as he treats me with his."


"Seeing you happy is all I need to see for me to be happy."


"And you are doing a wonderful job, darling."


Clyde laughed before looking up at the sky. He kept his smile before looking at Rarity. She could see a slight glimmer in his eyes that she never saw before. "Do you remember what I wrote in that note attached to that stuffed bear I sent you for Christmas?"


Rarity sat there for a few moments thinking before the sudden thought of the note came to her at once. "Why, yes. You told me to stay strong and that my other presents were sent to my house for when I returned."


"And that I also had another gift–"


"–that you wanted to give me in person." Rarity looked at him with a sly smirk as she cut him off.


Clyde nodded before giving a laugh. Without saying anything, Clyde gently released his grip on her hands and used his right hand to reach into the pockets of his sweatpants. Rarity watched him carefully and as she saw Clyde pull out a certain object from his pocket, she quickly placed her hand over her mouth and she felt tears grow in her eyes again. In one fluent motion, Clyde gave her a loving smile as he dropped on his knee and reached out his arms to present the small black box she always saw in romantic movies. As he opened the box, Rarity felt a gentle stream of happy tears slowly flow down her cheeks as she looked at the diamond ring in front of her.


The ring itself was absolutely gorgeous. It was a 18 karat white gold band that had numerous smaller diamond studs and diamond-trimmed details that wrapped around and up the band, eventually meeting at the central and main diamond of the ring. The diamond itself was princess cut, Rarity’s dream style of a ring. She didn’t know if Clyde had the diamond cut like that just to be cute, or that he secretly knew her favorite style even though she never told him, but at this very special moment, she could care less. The diamond shone brightly with the help from the lights from the fountain behind her. She finally looked away from the dazzling ring before her and looked up to Clyde's eyes. His teary smile made her cry more tears of happiness. Her body was completely paralyzed and the only commands she could give her body was to cry and look around.


“Rarity,” spoke Clyde with a shaken voice full of pent-up emotion. “I could be here all night retelling you how much I love you, but I feel like I could just tell you everyday from now on instead. You made my life amazing whenever you entered it and I can’t wait to make more memories in the future with my one true love. Rarity, will you marry me?”


Rarity still was frozen due to the power of emotions coming at her at once. Without any hesitation, and while still crying happily, she gave a nod and flashed him the smile he loved talking about. “Y-Yes! Of course!” she rejoiced.


*        *        *        *        *


The beautiful, cloudless, and sunny April day of the wedding eventually came as Rarity sat in a back room of the cathedral along with all of her bridesmaids. She sat in a chair as her mother was busy fixing up her and her friends’ makeup and hair. Rarity’s dress wasn’t on yet as she was still wearing some cozy shirt and fleece lounge pants that she wore for bed the night prior.

“Man, this dress actually looks pretty good on me,” stated Rainbow Dash as she walked around and looked down at her feet. All of the bridesmaids were wearing a long and mostly simple sleeveless light blue dress that had the occasional sparkle or two of a jewel throughout them, an obvious sign that Rarity customly made each one.

“I agree,” said Twilight looking at the mirror. “For once, I think not wearing my thick glasses is a good choice!”

Rainbow Dash looked at every girl and laughed. “Even with all of us wearing the same dress, we totally look hot!”

“I think these dresses are wonderful!” cheered Fluttershy from the other side of the room. “I’m just so happy for today!”

“And whatever you are feeling, Fluttershy, I bet Rarity is feeling a million times more happy thoughts, right?” asked Sunset with a smirk.

Rarity smiled. “Indeed! I can’t believe today is finally here! I dreamed for this day with a kind and sincere man for a very long time!”

“Ah think you deserve this moment, Rares,” said Applejack with a confident nod. “You’ve been one of the nicest girls Ah know.”

“Yeah!” cheered Sweetie Belle. She gave Rarity a hug. “The greatest sister in the world deserves a nice wedding and man!”

“Thank you dear sister,” replied Rarity with a smile. She looked at Sweetie Belle and the five other girls that have been the best friends possible. She teared up and wiped her eyes. “I'm emotional already... I'm glad all of you could help me today. You all are so beautiful.”

“Of course we would help you Rarity!” said Sunset with a large smile. “All of us are friends, and family, after all.” The five other girls proudly smiled and nodded. Suddenly, the door burst open and a pink blur rushed into their group.

“I'm so sorry for being late!” apologized Pinkie holding two trays of caramel macchiatos. “The line was taking forever! I told them there was a girl about to be married with some inpatient bridesmaids so I was able to cut to the front of the line!” She laughed. She had her light blue dress on, and even upon the assumption that she ran to and from the small coffee shop a few blocks down the street, Pinkie’s hair was about as perfect as it could be for the day.

“We told you to go earlier!” exclaimed Applejack shaking her head, “ya never listen to us.”

“Yeah, but look how many drinks I was able to get!” Pinkie held up the two trays, each tray holding five drinks. “I figured Rarity would want two, and I even got Mrs. Pearl one!”

Pearl took the drink and gave Pinkie a smile. “Thank you Pinkie. I always wanted to try one as I wondered why my daughter loves these so much.”

“Indeed,” laughed Rarity. She took a drink and put the cup on the counter, glancing at her phone and seeing the time. The ceremony was only two hours away and she began to feel emotional inside. As much as she couldn't wait to see her lovely soon-to-be husband, her heart began to flutter.

Pinkie handed the girls a drink each and they all gave one big laugh before heading back to their small station to continue getting ready for the wedding. After a few minutes of prepping Rarity’s hair, Pearl glanced down at her daughter. “Well... I think it's about time for you to get in your dress.”

The girls cooed in excitement as Sweetie Belle ran over to the closet and rolled out a cart that held her wedding dress in a large dress bag. Rarity walked over to it and teared up with a smile. She gently unzipped the bag and slowly and carefully pulled out the dress, making sure to remove it from the bag without any troubles. She turned to the others who had large smiles before giving one of her own.

Rarity kept her eyes on the dress that she made herself as if she had never seen it before. Now with the dress in her hands, Rarity could feel the atmosphere of the wedding in full effect. She took a deep breath to calm herself before getting too nervous and smiled brightly.

“Well, girls. It's time for me to get married.”

    
 -------------------


The start of the ceremony was only a few minutes away as Clyde sat with his groomsmen in the small room of the cathedral that was near the center altar. All were dressed in black tuxedos with a white dress shirt and light blue bow ties. Many of them were talking to him about the day or how excited they were for him and how much it meant to them to be able to support their good friend during his wedding. 

Tyrone was sitting with Thunderlane, Bulk, and one of Clyde’s newest basketball friends, Smooth Sailing. Smooth was Clyde’s best friend overseas as they played on the same team. Since returning home, Clyde and him kept in touch and Smooth even came to visit time from time and play some basketball with Clyde, Tyrone, and the old high school squad and even becoming great friends with Tyrone and the others. 

“Feeling nervous yet?” asked Swift Justice who came up to him. 

“Not yet,” said Clyde, wearing a tux of his own but with a simple black bow tie instead. He gave a slight chuckle. He adjusted the small white flower near his collar and grinned. “It's just pretty crazy how it’s only a few minutes away before the wedding starts.”

Another young man walked up to them. “Indeed,” spoke Rivet with a nod, “but you deserve this moment, Clyde. Rarity too.”

Swift looked at him before looking at Clyde. “Mmhmm! I'm sure all of us are super grateful for being part of your special day too! So, we will always be here to support you!”

Clyde smiled. “You two are some of my closest friends that aren't on a basketball team. Of course I invited you to be groomsmen for me.”

“Hey, I was on the basketball team too!” exclaimed Swift.

“Yeah, but you weren't that good,” joked Rivet with a laugh.

Clyde laughed with him. “It's okay, Swift. I know you were on the team. It's just we never really hung out much until you and Pinkie got together. I'm actually pretty happy that you two did end up together. Rarity and I quite enjoy going on those double dates with you guys all the time.”

Swift rubbed his head and blushed. “Pinkie is such an awesome girl...”

“She really is,” agreed Rivet, “and it's finally good to see you and her super happy together too. At least we don't have to hear about you crushing on her from afar anymore. That's way past us.”

Swift smiled and nodded. “Yup! I can now just spend time with her and be the best boyfriend possible for her!”

“That's a good attitude,” said Clyde with a grin. “Good luck to you Swift. I'm sure your wedding will be soon.” 

Swift nervously gulped. “I-I-I don't know about that...”

“Yeah, maybe not. After all it took him so long just to get with Pinkie,” said Rivet playfully with a chuckle.

Clyde and the two shared a few more minutes of conversation before Shale came into the room. Swift and Rivet patted Clyde on the shoulder before walking towards the other groomsmen so Clyde and his brother could talk.

“So...” began Shale with a smile, “only a few more minutes. You nervous yet? I would give you advice but I'm still a bachelor myself.”

Clyde shook his head. “I'm not nervous at all. If anything, I'm nervous that I might screw up and can't speak due to my emotions.”

Shale handed up a small handkerchief. “Hide that in your tux’s sleeve near your wrist. Just in case. Anyway, the guests are all being seated right now if you couldn't hear the faint music.”
  
“Thanks Shale,” said Clyde with a smile as Shale gave him a brotherly hug. Clyde looked at the clock on the wall and saw it was almost one in the afternoon, the start of the ceremony. Now that Shale had mentioned it, Clyde could hear the faint sound of footsteps, the shuffling to find seats, and the greeting music. He stood up and gave one last stretch before stuffing the small handkerchief into his tux sleeve. “I just wish Mom and Dad could be here...”

Shale walked up to him and put a hand on his shoulder. “Don't worry. They are here.” Clyde looked up at him and smiled slightly. “Anyway. It's time little brother. I'm proud to see how much you’ve grown over the last few years. I know you and Rarity’s future is bright.” 

Clyde’s smile grew as he gave a nod and headed off to the door with his brother and other friends. One by one they tunneled out and headed to their spot near the altar on the right side if walking down the aisle. Clyde stood closest to the center, beside the officiant, with Shale behind him while all his other groomsmen stood to Shale’s left in a row. The officiant was a middle-aged man who Clyde could tell during the recital that he loved helping out couples in love with their marriage ceremonies. Clyde could feel all of the guests were looking at him which caused him to feel somewhat uneasy since he never was one to yearn for the spotlight. 

Clyde looked around the wedding decorated cathedral to hopefully make the guests look away from him briefly or to look at the wedding program they received while walking into the cathedral. At every pew against the aisle side were a set of highly decorated vases with matching flowers in them. Down the aisle, a small trail of white rose petals were on the floor since the wedding didn't have a flower girl. 

Clyde looked at his guests, mostly his family and other friends he had from his childhood and high school or some of the guys from overseas, in the right pews, his left since he was facing them, and gave a warm smile. Many of his distant aunts, uncles, and cousins smiled back at him causing him to nervously look away. The first row on his side of the cathedral had both sets of grandparents that he talked to during the morning, but there was still a noticeable space in the pew since his parents weren't able to attend in person. 

Clyde then glanced over at Rarity’s side and glanced at all of her guests. Her mother and both of sets of her grandparents were already seated. Pearl managed to make eye contact with Clyde and gave him a teary smile. Clyde returned it and looked down the aisle with his hands clasped in front of him waiting for Rarity.

Soon, some new and soft piano music began once more and Sunset came out from the front of the cathedral and slowly walked down the aisle with her small bouquet of flowers. She kept a smile on her face as the guests watched her walk. Sunset gave Clyde a bigger smile as she passed him to stand in her spot on the far side of Rarity’s section. As Clyde turned his head back to the aisle, he saw Twilight begin to walk down.

Eventually, all of Rarity’s friends made their way down the aisle one by one until lastly it was Sweetie Belle’s turn. As the Maid of Honor, Clyde knew she was the last of the wedding party to get into her spot before Rarity herself came down the aisle. Sweetie Belle carried a larger bouquet and gave Clyde the biggest of smiles as she passed him and stood close to the altar. Sweetie Belle and the girls looked at the groomsmen with happy grins before they turned their attention to the front of the cathedral.

The entirety of the cathedral was silent for a few moments awaiting the bride. Soon, the pianist began to play “Canon in D” while a violin began to play in equal harmony along with the sound of the piano. All of the guests stood up and turned towards the aisle as Clyde looked to the front of the cathedral, seeing Rarity and her father who proudly stood beside his eldest daughter arm-in-arm. 

As Rarity and her father slowly began their walk towards the altar, Clyde finally felt the emotions start to hit him. It wasn’t until she was about halfway down the aisle that he could look at her dress in closer detail. Her face was covered by her veil, but she was smiling brightly at him, that with paired with the music, Clyde began to tear up. In her hands was a large bouquet of flowers that matched the colors of the bridesmaids flowers and her hair was extra curly and braided slightly so the flower and small silver tiara that went around her head kept perfectly still. As for Rarity’s dress, Clyde loved every part of it. It was a mermaid-style dress with a sweetheart neckline that clung snugly to her feminine figure that she took pride in. The necklace she wore was Clyde’s diamond heart pendant Christmas gift he gave her during their senior year. Around her waist was her silvery and jeweled sash that was made in her normal way of giving clothes some extra flair. The dress had and extra long tail of it that draped against the aisle floor just like any princess like Rarity would want. Clyde smiled brightly as he wiped his eyes with the handkerchief hidden in his sleeve. He couldn’t keep his eyes off of her as he stepped down from the altar and met her and her father. 

Magnum shook Clyde’s hand firmly with a smile and approving nod before turning to his daughter. He gently lifted Rarity’s veil and kissed her cheek before making his way to his seat in the front pew. Clyde and Rarity exchanged a loving and teary smile as Clyde held out his arm for her. She wrapped both her arms around his as he used his free hand to place it on her arm. The guests of the wedding returned to their seats as the wedding party gleefully looked on giving all of their support to both Clyde and Rarity. Together, Clyde and Rarity walked up the steps to the altar as they stood facing each other with the biggest, happiest, and teariest of all smiles they’ve shared.

The officiant stepped forward and raised his hands. “Dearly beloved! We are gathered here today to celebrate the unification and marriage between Ms. Rarity Belle and Mr. Clyde...”

        While the officiant talked to the guests about the ceremony and what today brought both Clyde and Rarity for the future as part of the Invocation. The two were seated somewhat behind the altar to the side of it during this time giving Clyde and Rarity a private moment for the ceremony continued. Clyde gave Rarity a large smile. “You look so beautiful,” he said quietly to her.

        Rarity grinned with happy tears in her eyes. “Thank you, darling. I’m so happy today is finally here... You are a dream come true.” The two of them helped each other wipe away the tears before holding hands. Eventually, Clyde and Rarity returned to their spot in front of the altar and officiant once every introduction and reading was finished with as they stared into each other’s eyes, daring not to look away in the beauty and magic of the moment. 

        “Now, we shift our attention back to the bride and groom,” stated the officiant as he looked at the guests and then to Rarity and Clyde. “At this time, I ask you Clyde, do you take Ms. Rarity to be your lawfully wedded wife, to have and to hold, in sickness and in health, in good times and woe, for richer or poorer, keeping yourself solely unto her for as long as you both shall live?”

        Clyde smiled and nodded, looking directly into Rarity’s bright sapphire eyes. “I absolutely do.” The guests gave a heartfelt ‘aw’ and cheers as Rarity giggled while keeping her smile. 

        The officiant nodded happily as he looked to Rarity. “Ms. Rarity, do you take Clyde here to be your lawfully wedded husband, to have and to hold, in sickness and in health, in good times and woe, for richer or poorer, keeping yourself solely unto him for as long as you both shall live?”

        “I do, absolutely I do.” Rarity gave Clyde a playful smile due to her slight remix of his first response as they shared another teary moment. 

        The officiant smiled and nodded again. “As we soon will begin the exchanging of rings, I believe both the groom and bride have vows they would like to share during this moment.” Clyde and Rarity looked at each other with teary smiles still as Shale walked up to the officiant, handing him the two wedding bands. Shale patted Clyde on the shoulder and gave Rarity a smile before swiftly returning to his spot. Both of the wedding bands were gold with the names of their partner for life engraved in the inside of the ring.The officiant handed Clyde Rarity’s engraved wedding band with his name in it as he tightly held Rarity’s hands.
        
Clyde gazed into Rarity’s teary eyes that were filled with so much happiness and love. He always promised her that he would strive to make her the happiest girl in the world and with today, he could see that she couldn’t be anymore happier. Clyde took a deep breath and with a large grin, he spoke to her directly.

“Rarity... The sun smiles on us today, our wedding day, and how can it not, for our love is stronger than forever and our hearts beat together as one. I promise to be a true and faithful partner from this day forward, in all life’s circumstances, as we face them together. In the joys and sorrows, the good times and bad, in sickness or in health, I will always be there for you, to comfort you, love you, honor and cherish you, now and forevermore...” Clyde felt some tears roll down his cheek as tried wiping his eyes. 

“Rarity, as I have always told you, you are the only exception. I had always sworn to myself that I was content with loneliness, because none of it was ever worth the risk. When my parents died and Shale left for the Guard, I felt like my destiny was meant for me to be alone... Maybe I was was meant to just be forgotten after my high school friends moved on with their lives, but you... you changed my entire life. You were the anchor I needed when I needed it most. You helped me trust and gave me a reason to trust. You have walked with me through some of my darkest days and never left my side. You helped me to be the strong, independent person that I am. You showed me friendship, compassion, and my absolute favorite, you showed me how to love people for the who they are...

        “Rarity... our miracle lies in the path we have chosen together. I enter this marriage with you knowing that the true power of love is not to avoid changes, but to navigate them successfully. Let us commit to the miracle of making each day work together. I commit to you my love, my devotion, and my loyalty. I vow to continue to work on myself for the good of our marriage; I vow to always see our problems through to the end and in doing so fighting for us. Because you my darling, are the only exception. I love you with all of my heart.”

Rarity sniffled and fought back the tears as best as she could so she wouldn’t end up just sobbing and crying right there. Clyde could hear the guests were silent and many sniffles were heard. Clyde wiped his eyes and, with a smile, lifted her left hand, sliding the wedding band on her left hand’s ring finger. He then carefully moved her engagement ring that she put on her right hand’s ring finger before the ceremony and put it over the wedding band, signifying all phases of their love were now made complete.

“I, Clyde, give to you, Rarity, this ring, as a symbol of my commitment to love, honor, and respect you. With this ring, I thee wed.”

Rarity glanced down at her wedding band and engagement ring that were tightly locked together as if it was the magic of love keeping them connected forever. She smiled brightly and looked up at Clyde who still had tears in his eyes and rolling down his cheeks. She carefully rubbed them away and held his hands with his wedding band in her palm. Rarity calmed her crying down before she began speaking, her voice somewhat shaken due to the emotions.

“Clyde... I take you to be my husband, secure in the knowledge that you will be my constant friend, my faithful partner in life, and my one true love. On this special day, I affirm to you in the presence of all of our family and friends my sacred promise to stay by your side as your faithful wife, in sickness and in health, in joy and in sorrow, as well as through the good times and the bad. I further promise to love you without reservation, comfort you in times of distress, encourage you to achieve your goals, laugh with you and cry with you, grow with you in mind and spirit, always be open and honest with you, and cherish you for as long as we both shall live.

“A few years ago, I could never have imagined I would be in this place. A place where I look into the eyes of my best friend and pledge to you my love. You are the sweetest, most loving, caring and kind person I have ever known, and I have no doubt that you make me a better woman. 

“Clyde... you believe in me and have shown me how to love with unconditional acceptance and every day you reaffirm that you are my soul mate. Together we are an unbreakable pair, bound by our love. I'm not sure that a lifetime is long enough for me to return all that you have given me but I promise to spend my days by your side. To inspire you, laugh with you, cherish you, confirm you, share your dreams and grow with you. Clyde, my darling, I believe in what we are and I will always love you with every beat of my heart...”

Rarity began crying heavily again, but she kept her posture and her smile. She carefully placed the wedding band with her name on the inside of it on Clyde’s left ring finger and smiled deeply at him.

“I, Rarity, give to you, Clyde, this ring, as a symbol of my commitment to love, honor, and respect you. With this ring, I thee wed.”

The two of them stood there smiling, paralyzed by incredible love as they held each other’s hands and kept their eyes locked on one another. The officiant smiled and raised his hands, speaking out towards the cathedral.

“By the power vested in me, I now pronounce you forevermore as husband and wife!” He looked at Clyde and Rarity and smiled brightly again. “As the final seal of your love, you may now kiss the bride.”

Clyde grinned as he pulled Rarity closer to him. Rarity giggled as she smiled back at him. Clyde gently wrapped his arms around her back as Rarity held onto his face. All day long a smile was plastered on their faces and at this time, it continued to not show any falter. Without any hesitation, Clyde leaned in and kissed his wife.

They brought their mouths together into the most beautiful kiss the world could know. It was beautiful, because it was shared by two who truly loved each other. Their love was a bond made strong by struggle and effort, and would remain so evermore. Her lips felt like velvet on his, and even with his eyes closed, Clyde could tell Rarity was blushing madly by the heat given off by her face. He brought a hand up her back to her shoulder, holding her close to him with a loving but firm hold. For the first time in years, Clyde felt as if all of his troubles were melting away, and he was sharing the perfect moment with the most beautiful girl in the world. He never wanted it to end as could be content like this forever. He continued his kiss even while she began to leave. After some loving giggles, Rarity wrapped her arms around her lover and sighed dreamily.


“I love you, Clyde. I will always love you. I swear with my heart.” 

“I love you too, Rarity.”

Once the kiss was over, Clyde and Rarity held their hands and grinned happily. The officiant turned them towards the guests in the cathedral and held his hands high. “Ladies and gentlemen, Mr. and Mrs. Clyde and Rarity! May you both live a blessed and happy life together!”

The guests promptly stood and applauded while some, like Rarity’s mother cried happily. Clyde gently leaned down and picked Rarity up in a bridal-style carry. She wrapped her arms around his neck and laughed blissfully. Together, as a newly married couple, Clyde carried her down the aisle as they smiled at the guests and made their way out of the cathedral and into the limousine outside that would take them to their next event for the day, the wedding and bridal party pictures.

After Clyde and Rarity made their way out of the cathedral. Shale offered his arm to Sweetie Belle as they walked out of the cathedral together which started the train of all the groomsmen leading the bridesmaids down the aisle one by one. After all of the bridal party had left, the guests began to filter outside and talked about the wedding before heading to the reception area in the hotel Clyde and Rarity stayed at last night.

For the hour until the reception, the guests had gathered in the large decorated lobby-esque room before the banquet room of the hotel for small hand foods and a place to mingle. Rarity’s parents were the ones mostly in charge for the reception so while Clyde, Rarity, and the entire bridal party were busy with the official wedding photos, they treated the guests before the reception began. 

The lobby before the banquet room had a whole assortment of small appetizer foods like mini sandwiches or shrimp to hold over the guests before the main meal. The men mostly stood near the bar as one of the hotel employees took care of the drinks. The women chatted amongst each other as they nibbled on food and looked at the various collages Rarity made for her and Clyde for Christmas gifts or whenever another special occasion came around. These frames were hung around the room to give everyone a chance to see how much Clyde and Rarity had grown over the years and how far their love took them. Many guests dropped off their congratulatory wedding cards at a small box near the entrance of the room as they filtered into the lobby and waited for the reception to start. 

Eventually, the guests were led into the banquet room as they took their assigned seats, separated as either Clyde’s or Rarity’s guests. Depending on what table and which side the guests were assigned to, various pictures of either Clyde or Rarity were used as a way to help the guests find their seats. Each table had a decorated centerpiece with a candle and suitable tableware for the meal. The center of the large banquet room was a wooden floor to serve as the dance floor. As the guests mingled in the seats for a few moments, the DJ of the night introduced the first pair of the bridal party and played fitting music.

One pair at a time, the guests cheered as the bridesmaid and groomsman happily walked into the room together and made their way to the long table at the middle of the room. The groomsmen helped the bridesmaid into her seat before he would walk to the other end of the table to sit down. Every pair that sat down inched closer to the middle of the table. After Shale led Sweetie Belle to the table, the guests cheered loudly as Clyde and Rarity walked into the room, holding their hands high above them and smiling away. Both of them were still in their tuxedo and dress, respectively, as were the rest of the bridal party. Instead of heading towards the table, Clyde led Rarity to the center of the dance floor as he held her hand with one of his and wrapped his other arm around her lower waist. The guests cheered and clapped as the DJ turned on a slow song and spoke into his mic.

“As we welcome and celebrate with the newlyweds tonight, the bride and groom want to personally thank everyone for making their special day even more special. So, they want to kick off the reception with the special dances and some light dancing that everyone can join in on before dinner is served!”

The lights of the banquet room dimmed and the slow romantic song from their first dance from high school filled the room. Rarity gave Clyde a loving smile before she held her head against his chest. Clyde held her closer to him with his arm around her back as his other hand held hers. They soon began to dance ever so slowly in a circle in perfect rhythm to the music as their hearts beat simultaneously in perfect harmony.

After a few minutes into their first dance, Rarity leaned away Clyde’s chest briefly to kiss him on the lips, drawing in the cheers from the guests. They smiled at each other as Rarity wrapped her arms around Clyde’s neck. He held her hips and they both continued slowly dancing in a small circle and gazing into each other's eyes.

Their special song ended a minute later as Rarity’s father came up to them and another slow song came on. Clyde gently took Rarity’s hand and placed it in her father’s as he gave them a smile and walked off to the side. Rarity hugged Magnum tightly with happy tears as she danced with her father. 

Clyde stood near Rarity’s mother and kept his smile as he watched Rarity and Magnum’s special moment.

“I know I never was blessed to meet your parents, but I can't help but think they are smiling away at you today, dear,” whispered Pearl. “I'm glad to know my son-in-law is as charming and sincere as you, Clyde. You’ve made Rarity the happiest girl in the world since she has met you.” She kissed his cheek and hugged him. 

Clyde turned to her and nodded with tears. “Thank you...”

Pearl smiled. “Anytime, dear. Magnum and I will always love and respect you.”

Magnum and Rarity was finishing up their dance as they laughed and smiled. Clyde gave Pearl his hand to join the dance as she happily accepted it. Clyde led Pearl to the center of the dance floor as he danced with her beside Rarity and Magnum. All four of them happily shared a smile at the moment and day. 

The song ended after a few minutes and the DJ played a new one. This song was more upbeat than the prior two and had a less romantic feel to it. Clyde and Rarity became dance partners once more as Rarity’s parents happily danced together. After a few spins, twirls, and dips, Clyde and Rarity laughed together before they separated from each other as Shale and Sweetie Belle came up to the dance floor. Clyde offered his hand to Sweetie Belle, as the groom would to the maid of honor, while Shale politely took Rarity’s hand and spun her around before dancing with her in a more upbeat dance than intimate and slow one. Clyde did the same for Sweetie Belle as she smiled brightly and laughed along with him.

Clyde and Rarity danced with their new sibling-in-law and the maid of honor and best man, respectively, for a few minutes before the entire bridal party came to the dance floor. Each bridesmaid was able to dance with Clyde for a few moments before switching out with another, as the same happened for Rarity and the groomsmen. 

After everyone had a chance to dance with the bride and groom, the bridesmaids found a groomsmen and the DJ turned the music on louder as the guests were able to finally join in on the massive dance crowd. For almost a good hour, the entire reception had fun dancing around with Clyde and Rarity. 

Once the first wave of dancing died out, everyone took their seats as dinner was beginning to be served. While everyone was receiving their salad or soup, someone on Clyde’s side of the room began gently hitting his spoon against an empty wineglass. Soon, the entire room began doing it as they looked at Clyde and Rarity. The two of the smiled before giving each other a kiss, causing the guests to cheer.

The room returned to their plates and began eating, mingling with the people around them. Compared to the dancing a few minutes ago, the room had become rather calm and peaceful, mostly due to the food that was being brought out to them. The main meal of the dinner consisted of portions of chicken, steak, and some seafood that would please everyone. As the helpers poured each guest some champagne while many of them were still eating their main meal or finishing up, Shale stood up from his seat and gently tapped his glass. The DJ nodded as he passed by and handed him a microphone.

He walked out to the dance floor and looked at everyone and spoke into the mic. “Since almost everyone is finishing up or still eating, I’d like to say some words to the bride and groom...” Shale turned around and looked at Clyde and Rarity with a large smile. He shifted slightly to the right so he could see the newlyweds and the guests, mostly the ones from Rarity’s side. 

“Rarity, Clyde, I first and foremost want to congratulate the both of you on your wedding day. To all of you that don’t know me personally, I am Clyde’s older brother, Shale, who also was blessed to become the best man for my little brother’s wedding day. While I’m not one for speeches, as this might be the first one I’ve ever had to write since school, I am honored to be able to stand here and toast Clyde and his beautiful bride Rarity.

“Clyde, I’ve known you since you were a little baby. I was so happy our parents brought you home for the hospital that one night that I pushed your crib into my room so we could have a ‘Brother’s Only’ sleepover...” Shale chuckled as he saw Clyde laugh and smile. Some of the guests even broke in a laugh. 

“Anyway, Clyde, while you grew up, as did I. You helped me understand how to love and take care of other people, like Mom and Dad always showed us. I always remember helping you when you were sad after school or you fell down and tore up your knee. I remember bringing you along to the park so you could play some basketball with my friends, and together we were unstoppable, even if they let you score all the time since you were seven years younger than me. We shared so many memories together that I would never want to ask for anyone else as my brother. 

“When our parents died, and I did everything I could to try to make you happy. We lived with our uncle and I took many jobs while finishing up high school so I could earn enough money to protect you and take care of you, as you were my best friend. You’ve impacted my life so much that it was only fair I gave everything back to you.” Shale wiped a tear from his eye.

“But luckily, we were able to move to Canterlot and I got into the Guard. While it hurt me to leave you living alone, I knew you were a strong person and I knew you would find some friends you could hang out with while I was gone. Luckily my assumption was right, as not only did you meet your basketball team and that baller Tyrone–” said Shale looking at Tyrone with a grin as Tyrone patted his chest and pointed at Shale in respect, “–but you also found a friend in Rarity.”

“When I first arrived back home and I saw Clyde’s bedroom wall was decorated in many collages of Rarity and him, I could tell right there by looking at the photos they had something special. Clyde, of course, would always bring her name up during our phone calls before I got home, but still, as all of you who sit here now could see earlier today, Clyde and Rarity love each other very much and I can’t be any happier.

“Rarity, you’re a beautiful and wonderful girl, and I know you deserve an amazing husband like my little brother. Clyde, I know you will treat the love of your life with even more love that I thought wasn’t possible, but always remember, I will be there for you, the both of you. Our parents are proud of you, Clyde. Ladies and gentlemen, finally, let’s give this amazing couple the toast they deserve and bless their new lives as a married couple. Raise your glasses in honor of my brother and best friend and his gorgeous wife. To Clyde and Rarity.” Shale raised his wineglass as did the guests and took a small sip. While the rooms was filled with applause, Clyde was busy trying not to cry as he raised his glass and thanked his brother from afar. Shale walked up to him and hugged him tightly, patting his back.

“I love you, Clyde,” said Shale holding back tears, “so does Mom and Dad...”

“Thank you...” replied Clyde softly with a teary smile.

Shale smiled and released his brother from his hug and moved to Rarity. He hugged her gently and kissed her cheek. “Please, take care of my brother. Thank you for all you have done for him.”

Rarity smiled with tears in her eyes. “Do not worry. Clyde is the most important person to me. I will always cherish him.” 

Shale nodded and grinned as he let go of her and made his way back to his seat beside Clyde. Clyde had calmed down and gave his older brother a sincere smile. While the crowd finished up their first round of applause for Shale’s toast, Sweetie Belle walked up to the DJ and took a mic as she made her way to the center of the dance floor. Rarity looked at her with curious and happy eyes. 

Sweetie Belle took a deep breath and grinned. “While I’m not sure if I can top Shale’s speech, I wanted to say some quick and brief words to my lovely sister, Rarity, the gorgeous bride, and her new and charming husband, Clyde, that I happily can say is a wonderful brother-in-law.”

“Rarity has always been my role model, which is what most younger siblings say to their older one unless they are currently bickering, but I mean it. Rarity has always cared and supported me every single day. She helped me meet some friends, she helped me with school, she helped me laugh, and everything else. Rarity lives by her name and can make anyone happy with her bubbly and generous personality. 

“I remember when Rarity was showing slight interest in Clyde... She would always turn away or ignore me whenever I brought it up. It was weird at first seeing my older sister completely lovestruck, but at the same time, I couldn’t be anymore happier for her. When I did meet Clyde, I could tell by they way she looked at him, and the way he would always smile at her that there was something more than an early high school romance...

“Throughout the years, I’ve been lucky enough to be able to spend time with Clyde whenever he came over to our house to visit Rarity or whenever he ate dinner with us. Clyde has always been so nice to me, and even helped some of my friends and I win a school dodgeball tournament along with the basketball team. He’s always been that older brother figure to me. I just want to personally thank Clyde for treating my sister like a princess and being an amiable guy. I can speak for my parents here as well, as we are extremely happy to welcome him to our family.

“And Rarity... as your little sister and maid of honor, I want to say again how much of a beautiful person you are and how much you deserved this special day. You will always be my role model and better yet, my sister. I know you and Clyde will have a lustrous future.” Sweetie Belle held her wineglass up and smiled. “I’m not exactly legally old enough to drink this, but I can still toast the happy couple! To Clyde and Rarity!” The guests applauded again and drank a small sip as Sweetie Belle gave Rarity and Clyde a loving hug. Rarity had to wipe her eyes again due to Sweetie Belle’s small speech directed towards her. 

Sweetie Belle’s speech marked the end of the two toasts towards Clyde and Rarity as everyone went back to finishing their meal if they had already not. The DJ spoke into the mic saying the second round of dancing would start up again soon, as well as some famous wedding reception activities, but before that all started, Rarity’s parents wanted to show off a small slideshow of Rarity and Clyde growing up into the adults they were. Clyde and Rarity already saw many of the pictures as they both were there when they searched for old photos together for the both of them. As he watched, Clyde remembered the day him and Rarity looked at old photos of him at his house before he took her to his hometown. Clyde frowned at some old pictures of him with his parents, but a comforting hand on his shoulder and smile from Rarity made him cheer up. 

Once the emotional and feel-good slideshow was over, the DJ called for Rarity to head to the center of the dance floor for the bouquet toss. Rarity quickly grabbed her bouquet from the wedding and headed to her spot while all of the bridesmaids and any other single lady at the reception gathered near the back of the room, get ready to pounce. Rarity turned away from them as she held her bouquet in front of her. She smiled at Clyde and tossed it backwards. The bouquet sailed through the air until it was ultimately caught by both Sunset and Pinkie simultaneously. After they fought for it for a few moments, Pinkie laughed and decided to let Sunset have it. Clyde glanced over at Swift for a brief moment to see him sigh in relief. 

The second round of dancing then officially began as all of the guests were welcomed to the floor. Many people took this opportunity to talk to Clyde and Rarity finally as the two of them walked around to visit everyone who came and dance. The reception’s final round of dancing lasted until the wedding cake was cut and served with some ice cream. Clyde and Rarity helped serve the cake after they had the first bites of it. Someone gently banged against their wineglass again as Clyde and Rarity happily kissed each other in front of the entire reception one last time.

The reception ended about an hour after the cake was served and many of the guests and bridal party stood outside of the reception hall on the pathway leading to a limousine, holding sparklers high above them to make a tunnel of bright light. Clyde and Rarity, holding their hands high ran through the sparkler tunnel as everyone cheered and wished them a happy and bright future. The two entered a limousine and it took off to the busy streets of Manehattan, everyone still waving and cheering for the newlyweds.





        After roaming the streets to nowhere in particular for about an hour, Clyde carried Rarity into their hotel room in the bridal-style she was carried out of the cathedral while she laughed. Once inside, hopped down and dragged him to their bed and kissed him multiple times. “Looks like it’s just us for a few months now...” She hugged him tightly and hummed peacefully.

        Clyde grinned and sat beside her on the bed. “Tomorrow starts our long honeymoon around the world. Was today everything you had ever hoped for?”

        “It was better than I hoped for,” said Rarity with a smile. “The weather was simply gorgeous, the cathedral was divine, the reception was amazing, the guests seemed to enjoy themselves, and of course, I married my handsome best friend.” She looked at her wedding band and engagement ring that was locked together on her left ring finger. She placed them on Clyde’s wedding band and she smiled. “What a perfect day...”

        “Technically the day isn’t over yet,” said Clyde looking at the alarm clock on the nightstand. 

        Rarity lowered her eyes and grinned. “You are correct, darling.” She began taking off his tuxedo as she kissed him. “We can’t really complete our wedding day without having fun... after all, there’s a reason why I didn’t want to do a garter toss. I wanted you to take it off in private, you charming man, you.” She giggled. 

        Clyde laughed and nodded. “Indeed...”

        Rarity leaned against him while kissing at his mouth until she knocked him backward onto the bed. They kept their pace for a few minutes before Clyde sat his body up so he could turn her and put her on the bed. 

        “Ooooh, Clyde! I see you don’t even want to wait!” teased Rarity with a giggle. “Before you lovingly ravage me like always, I do suggest you take off my dress before you tear it or something, my love.”

        Clyde helped her up off the bed gently and they smiled at each other while gazing into each other’s eyes. While this wasn’t exactly anywhere close to the first time Clyde and Rarity had sex, it was still a special moment for both of them as it was their first time as newlyweds and to consummate the marriage. Clyde moved his hands along her waist and hips before moving towards her back, enjoying the feel of her skin tight dress. After their kissing stopped for a brief moment, Clyde began to remove her wedding dress as she began taking off his dress shirt. Rarity quickly shielded his eyes once her dress was off as she led him to the bathroom only to close the door to not allow him inside.

        “I have to get ready, darling! I won’t be long as I know you are super eager to make passionate and romantic love to your fabulous wife!” Rarity giggled from the other side of the bathroom door. Clyde was standing in just his dress pants as his tuxedo top and dress shirt were on the floor near her dress at the end of the bed. He shook his head with a smile and dimmed the lights of the hotel suite room, closing the blinds of the large window that showed off the city skyline below. 

Rarity wasted little time in the bathroom of their suite room, as in just a few minutes, she came out of the room wearing a custom made lace lingerie set that Clyde hadn't seen before. The nearly transparent white corset hugged her figure nicely that matched her thong and stockings. Around her left leg was her garter. 

Clyde looked at her in a daze as she swiftly walked up to him and kissed his mouth, running a lone finger down his bare chest seductively. She looked up at him with her bright blue eyes and gave him a smile. “I love you, Clyde. I'm so happy that I married my Prince Charming at long last...” 

Clyde smiled back at her. “And I'm extremely happy that my beautiful angel is my wife.” He placed his left hand, his hand that held his wedding band on his ring finger, and gently held her cheek, giving her a slight kiss before Rarity wrapped him into an intimate hug. “Together, I'm positive our future will be dazzling.”

“Indeed, but enough talking, darling,” said Rarity coquettishly with a seductive smile, “We have plenty of time now to say we love each other. For now... I want you so badly~”

“Anything for you...” Clyde gave her a grin as the two kissed each other again before Rarity pulled him down and they gently landed on the bed. 

As Clyde kissed his wife at the end of their wedding day, he thought of all the memories he had made together with her and all of the possible memories they would have in the future. While he always considered fate the reason for them becoming a couple, he knew he managed to show everyone that he truly loved Rarity and would forever so. Rarity was his everything and no one would ever change that. 

And by the rings on their fingers, engraved with the names of their lover within the ring, the love between Clyde and Rarity would be eternal at long last. 

> 20 Years Later [Epilogue/Finale]
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

“Jade, hurry up! You've been in there for an hour already!”

An elegant voice filled with charm rang out from behind the door. “Just wait a few more minutes! I'm putting on my makeup!”

The sixteen year old boy, who looked nearly identical to his father with his lightish gray skin and black hair, stood outside of the bathroom door and sighed as he leaned against the wall on the other side of the hallway. While he retained his father’s male bloodline in appearance, the one detail that made him different from his grandfather, uncle, and father were the blue sapphire eyes his mother had that he also shared.

“It's the first day of school and she already has to try and get the phone numbers of every boy in school so she can send them certain pictures...”

The bathroom door instantly burst open as the girl, dressed in only a towel around her body, ran up to him and gently hit him. Her normally styled black hair was still wet, as well as her white, ivory skin from her shower, and her bright green eyes were surrounded with various forms of makeup such as eyeshadow and eyeliner. 

“How dare you accuse me of such atrocious acts, Altair!”

The boy laughed. “You're right, Jade. I apologize. You probably wait until at least the second day of school to start sending nudes.” He laughed again.

Jade glared at him again ready to smack him but stopped when she saw another girl walk past them in the hallway as she headed downstairs. Unlike Jade, she was already dressed and ready to start the day just like Altair, who just wanted to use the bathroom one last time before going downstairs.

Once she reached the kitchen downstairs, the second girl, who wore a simple loose shirt with a jacket and compression shorts that had pockets, made herself a bowl of cereal and sat beside the man already eating at the table. He was dressed in a casual polo with sweatpants that bore the emblem of Canterlot High.

“Good morning, Seryn,” said Clyde with a smile. “I see you are up early. You excited to start high school today?”

“Morning, Dad,” replied Seryn with a smile of her own. “I hope today is pretty easy. I heard the high school can get confusing for freshmen at first.”

Like Jade, Seryn had white, ivory skin. However, unlike her sister, Seryn had the deep brown eyes Clyde’s mother and brother had, as well as having a royal purple highlight scattered throughout her brown hair to look somewhat different from her siblings since they all shared black hair except for her. Her hair was in a ponytail as it normally was. 

“I wouldn't worry too much,” said Clyde looking at the newspaper and eating a spoonful of cereal. “They normally have upperclassmen tour you around if you need it, plus, Jade and Altair can help you around if you run into them. And if that fails too, you can always come find me near the gym.”

Seryn smiled. “Thanks Dad. Did Mom leave already?”

“Unfortunately, yes. She didn't want to leave so early, but at least she only has to be in Manehattan for one day. She’ll be home late tonight. She did leave a note for you though.”

“She did?!” Seryn looked over at the counter and saw a note placed neatly to the side. She went over to it, picked it up, and gave it a read.




I'm sorry for leaving so early without wishing you good luck on for your first day of high school! I know you will do fine, dear! Jade and Altair will help you if you ever need it, and if they don't, you let me know so I can talk to them personally for not helping their dear little sister.

You’ll always be my little baby Seryn, but I know you’ll make Clyde and I proud! Tell your siblings and your handsome father I miss them already too!

<3 <3 <3 I love you all lots! <3 <3 <3

:)





Seryn put the note down and smiled. “Mom never changes, huh?”

“Nope, and that's why I love her.” Clyde laughed. “So, is Jade and Altair done bickering yet?”

“You heard them?”

Clyde nodded. “Everyone can hear them. Even Mittens.”

Seryn giggled as Jade walked into the kitchen, her hair fully curled and with her dressy outfit, composed of a simple skirt with a belt and loose shirt that was rather low cut to show some cleavage, as well as some jewelry. She smiled brightly at them. “Good morning. Sorry for the loudness earlier father. You know how Altair picks on me.”

Clyde chuckled. “It's because he loves you. He does it for fun, but you know too that he’ll protect his older sister.”

“I sure hope so, but luckily for him I have charm and seduction to protect me. I doubt any bully or thug would want to ruin this pretty face.” She giggled. Jade turned to Seryn and gave her a brief hug. “Ready for high school dear little sister? Your outfit could use a little work, however.”

“I think so. I just hope my classes are pretty easy,” said Seryn. “And for your information, I don't really think it's necessary to overdress for school. I'll dress up for events or dances, but not a regular day.”

“Fair enough, but anyway, freshman year is super easy! I'm thankful I'm finally in my senior year though!” said Jade with a smile. “Since most of my classes are pretty much done, I can just have a good time!”

“Heh, my senior year was only two classes during the spring,” said Clyde. “It was pretty great.”

A soft meow was heard as a small black kitten rubbed its head against Jade’s boot. She looked down and instantly smiled in joy. “Mittens, my lovely kitten!!! How are you handsome?” She picked him up and held him close to her face. “You are so adorable!”

Mittens stared at her before rubbing his face against hers as Jade laughed. 

“I'm surprised we actually got a cat,” said Seryn. “I thought Mom was really depressed about losing her Opal many years ago.”

Clyde nodded. “Oh, she was. It was a few years after we got married and she was early in her pregnancy with Jade.” Clyde looked at Mittens. “Opal was always a good cat, but it got really sick really fast and we had to put her down since there was nothing we could do. Rarity couldn't handle that so I had to take Opal into the room myself while she stayed in the car... That was a pretty sad day for the both of us. It wasn't until Jade kept talking about us having a pet that she began to accept the fact Opal, even if she was gone, would always be with us and it's okay to get another one.”

Seryn frowned. “So that's why it took so long for us to get one...”

“I know Mittens and Opal would have been the best of friends, isn't that right?” Jade giggled as Mittens licked her face and meowed.

“Morning, Dad,” said Altair as he walked into the kitchen behind everyone. He quickly grabbed a pack of small donuts from the counter and began eating them.

Clyde smiled. “Good morning. Hopefully you're excited for practice today.”

“Hell yeah. I'm ready to begin the new football season Friday night.” Altair smirked. “Football and basketball is what I live for. As the quarterback and point guard of CHS, I have to make Mom’s father and my own father proud. Although... It does kinda make it hard to focus when you help coach football and are the head coach for basketball, Dad...” 

Clyde laughed. “Nothing like some pressure to help make you focus. It might be difficult at first, but it’s hard to make me not proud at any of you.”

“Ooh, I can't wait for basketball to start too,” said Seryn. “Hopefully I can make the girls’ varsity team this year, even if I'm a freshmen.”

“You’ll make it, Seryn,” responded Altair with a confident smile. “You’ve improved your game a lot in the last few years.”

“I agree,” said Clyde. “If you keep practicing with me or Altair, you’ll have nothing to worry about.” Clyde looked at his phone and then to his teenage kids. “You all ready to go?”

“Yup!” said Seryn as she put on her backpack.

“Of course. Time to start my junior year,” said Altair as he strapped his backpack on one of his shoulders. 

Jade was still playing with Mittens before she carefully set him down before he ran into the next room. “Hmm? Oh yes. I'm ready to leave.”

Clyde nodded as he and the kids walked out of the house and headed to the car. Clyde locked up the house before getting into the driver seat. Once the kids were ready, he drove off towards the school. After the short drive through Canterlot, they reached the school grounds and Clyde parked into his normal spot as Seryn looked at Altair and Jade.

“Can one of you give me a quick rundown of where to go?”

Altair took her class schedule and gave it a quick read. “Hmm... Seems to me you have geometry first period. Try not to fall asleep.”

“I don't really mind math class,” said Seryn with a grin. “I'm pretty good at it.”

“I'm not bad at it either, but still, math in the early morning? No thanks.” Altair laughed and got out of the car. “Ready to head to astronomy class Jade? I hear it's pretty easy and we do a lot of group projects. You can team up with me if you want. I love astronomy.”

“Very well! You can do the actual project and I will present the information!” replied Jade happily.

Altair nodded. “Sounds good. I'm not one for speaking in front of the class.”

“I wonder who you got that from,” said Clyde with a smirk. “Anyway, I'll see you guys later. Have a good first day and good luck on your first day of high school Seryn!”

Seryn hugged him. “Thanks Dad.”

Clyde smiled and hugged Jade and gave Altair a pat on the back as he headed into the school.

“See ya after lunch Dad!” called out Altair.

“Bye! We love you!” chimed Jade as she waved. 

Seryn looked at her schedule and tried remembering the classes and room numbers. After Geometry, her first class of the day, she was to head to Art, and English after that. Once those three were done, she had a free period before going to History which led to the lunch period. After lunch came Gym which ended the day. While she had no problem remembering the order of her classes, she still had no idea where to go.

“So, you want me to help guide you to that math class of yours little sister?” asked Jade with a smile.

Seryn nodded. “I'd really appreciate it. Thanks Jade.”

“Of course!”

Altair adjusted his backpack as he gave them a wave. “I'll see you in Astronomy Jade. I'm heading to my home room.”

“Alrighty! Bye! Be sure to tell your friends I said hello just to tease them!”

Seryn gave her brother a nod. “See you later Altair!” 

Altair grinned. “That's right! Other than lunch, we have Gym together! We can play basketball together and dominate.”

“I believe I have Gym as well,” stated Jade, “but I doubt I'll even do it. I can't be bothered getting dirty or sweaty during school.”

Altair shook his head and laughed. “Whatever. Good luck and have fun today Seryn.” He smiled and headed into the school.

“Now, ready to head inside too?” asked Jade.

Seryn nodded and looked to the school. “Yeah, let's go!”

Jade led her inside and walked through the already busy morning hallways. Seryn looked around as they walked to help her remember where to go and to mostly know a basic layout of the school. Seryn also noticed many of the boys that walked by them stopped and stared at Jade who gave them smiles and winks back. As the two sisters took a corner on the first floor, three boys standing by the lockers stopped them.

“Hey, Seryn, Jade!”

“Hello.”

“How's it going?”

Seryn looked at the boys for a moment but soon realized who they were. She smiled brightly. “Hey, Jingle! Hey, Jangle! Hey Kringle!”

“Good morning,” greeted Jade with a smile. She looked at Seryn and then to her phone. “I should really be getting to home room since it's on the next floor. Your math class is down this hallway, a few doors to the right.” She hugged her and waved to the three boys. “Take care of yourselves! Bye!”

“Thanks for the help Jade!” said Seryn happily as she waved until Jade disappeared into the crowd of students.

“Oh, that's right. It's your first day, huh Seryn?” asked Kringle.

“Yep! Sure is!” Seryn pulled out her schedule. “Geometry. Hopefully it's not too bad. My dad said it’s pretty easy.”

“I have that too!” exclaimed Jingle. “We can go find a seat together!”

“After home room, you mean,” stated Kringle.

“Yeah, Jingle. We should get going or we will be late,” said Jangle with a yawn. “Maybe I can catch a quick nap during that before classes.”

Jingle looked at his phone for the time. “Oh, that's right! Home room is about to start! See you guys there, and I'll see you in Geometry Seryn!” He gave a chuckle and quickly ran off down the hallway.

Kringle shook his head with a sigh. “He's always so full of energy.”

Jangle chuckled. “Someone has to. See you later Seryn.”

“Bye guys! Maybe we can sit together at lunch?” asked Seryn.

“Yeah, totally. We can do that.” Jangle yawned again and headed down the hallway with Kringle. 

Seryn gave a chuckle at seeing her good friends before looking at her schedule and went to her home room. Other than attendance, nothing exciting happened for her so once the first bell rang, she quickly made her way back to the hallway where her Geometry class was at. She walked into the room and saw Jingle already sitting at a desk with some empty seats near him.

“Pick your seat,” said Jingle with a laugh as he outstretched his arms to show off the desks.

Seryn smiled as she took a seat to his left. As she sat down, a girl to Seryn’s left looked at her and quickly flashed a big smile.

“Hello! Nice to meet you!”

“Hi!” greeted Seryn. “Is this your first day of high school too?”

“Yep!” said the girl happily, “my name is Sunday!”

“Heya Sunday!” said Jingle with a wave. “I'm Jingle and this is one of the coolest girls I know, Seryn.”

Seryn scratched her head. “I’m not that cool.”

Jingle gasped. “Nonsense! You’re a great basketball player! You and your brother always can beat my brothers and I! Plus, you're so chill, so of course you're cool!”

Sunday giggled. “Nice to meet you Seryn! I tried basketball once... It didn't go so well...”

“Oh? How so?” questioned Seryn.

“Everytime I throw the ball, it bounces off the rim and hits me in the face! I think my dad’s luck with sports rubbed off on me.” Sunday laughed.

“That sounds terrible!” replied Seryn in shock.

“It's all good! At least I don't get super hurt, so I don't mind if balls slap against my face!” Sunday gave an innocent smile.

“Uh... I don't think you want to say that like that,” stated Jingle.

“Huh? Why not?”

Jingle shook his head and coughed. “N-Nevermind.”

“Oooookay...” Sunday looked back to Seryn. “So, do you think this math class will be fun?”

“It shouldn't be too hard,” said Seryn, “I'm sure my parents or siblings can help me out if I get stuck on topics.”

Sunday smiled brightly. “Same! My mom will totally help me out! I can even ask to see if she can help you guys out too!” She gave a giggle. 

“Good deal!” cheered Jingle before his eyes darted to the door and watched as a woman, wearing a professional looking outfit with a skirt, walked into the room and looked at the class. Her red and yellow hair was tied neatly in a hair tie as she put her hands on her hips.

“Good morning! Welcome to Geometry! I am Mrs. Shimmer and I am super proud to be able to have class with all of you this semster! Before we do any introductions, let me take attendance first so I won't forget.” She quickly read down the list of students. After the first few names were called, she eventually got to latter half of the class.

“Seryn Belle?” 

Seryn raised her hand. “Hello.”

Sunset smiled at her. “Hello there! It's wonderful to see you again, Seryn.”

Seryn smiled as Sunset looked back down at the attendance list.

Next is, Shooting Star?” She looked around as did the class as no one raised their hand. “Shooting Star? Strange... Normally no one ever misses the first day of class...” 

“Or maybe they got lost!” gasped Jingle. “This is a large school after all!”

The students began chattering about as Sunset looked at the next name and she gave a chuckle.

“Moving on, next, we have Sunday–”





-     -     -     -    -





As Seryn was busy with Geometry, Jade and Altair were sitting beside each other in astronomy class. Altair was looking through the class textbook as Jade was texting on her phone.

“Miss Belle, you know we have a rule against texting in class,” stated the teacher from across the room. He looked at her with nonchalant eyes. 

“Oops! Sorry Mr. Comet Tail!” Jade put her phone away and put her hands together on the desk to look innocent.

Comet Tail sighed. “At least put your phone away until we actually start getting into the course. I know phones these days are much faster than school equipment, so unless we need to do research, please leave the phones out of sight.”

“Will do!”

Comet Tail nodded and began writing down course objectives on the whiteboard. Altair read over them and began thinking how easy this class was going to be until he saw many of the projects in class were for a group of four.

“Hey, Jade... Do you want to work together on assignments?” He whispered to her. 

Jade smiled. “Of course dear brother! I figured that's what siblings are for!”

Altair rolled his eyes and looked around. “Sweet. We still need two others though...”

Jade looked around and smiled. “Oh, that shouldn't be a problem.” She leaned over her desk to poke the two boys in front of them in the back. As they turned around, she smiled at them and lowered her eyes. “Hello. Do you two fine young men mind helping my brother and I with future projects?” She batted her eyelashes.

“Uh... Sure,” said one boy who looked confused.

“I-I don't mind helping you out...” replied the other clearly nervous.

“Wonderful!” Jade sat back into her seat and smiled at them as Altair looked at the two boys with a small wave as they gave him a chuckle or wave back.

“Alright, so like I have written here,” bellowed Comet Tail, “many of your grades in this class will focus on group projects after we finish a chapter in the book. If you all do your work, it should be an easy grade. You can have the same groups all semester, or switch it up some weeks, it matters not to me. So, for the rest of today, I'll let you all talk to each other and all that jazz.” He sat in his chair and sipped coffee.

Altair looked at the two boys. “Alright! So, you guys up for forming a team? I'm Altair by the way. This is my sister Jade.”

Jade waved. “It's a pleasure to meet you both.”

“I'm Blaze,” stated the first boy, “and sure, we can work together. I didn't really have anyone to work with in here other than Nova here.”

“Nova?” asked Altair.

“I'm Nova,” spoke the second boy. “Nice to meet you both.”

“With a name like Nova, I bet you will breeze through this class!” said Altair with a laugh.

Nova chuckled. “Same can be said for you. Your name is a star, which is weird since my younger sister's name is Star.”

Altair nodded. “Yeah, my dad has a whole explanation of why my name is what it is. I like it though. It has uniqueness.”

“Something our mother strives to have in all of her designs after all,” said Jade.

“Oh, so your mother is Rarity? The famous fashion designer?” questioned Blaze. 

“Indeed! I am her successor and plan to follow her footsteps!” Jade grinned. “Fashion has been in my life since I was born. Years and years of watching my mother in action has shown me a love for it like she has!”

“That's pretty cool. I'm not sure if I want to follow my dad’s footsteps,” said Blaze. “I love what he does, but I’m not sure yet...”

“There's no need to rush any rash decisions,” comforted Jade, “you are still young and have plenty of time to figure something out.” She gave a warming smile.

“Yeah... You're right.” Blaze gave her a smile back. “I can tell why you're a popular girl around here now. You're very nice.”

“A-And pretty,” stuttered Nova quietly with a faint blush.

Jade giggled and waved her hand. “Oh, please. I'm nothing special. But you have heard about me before?”

Blaze nodded. “Yeah, some boys in my home room were talking about you, and even some boys in the hallways. I didn't know who they were referring to at first, but now I know.”

“I never imagined I was  that popular!” exclaimed Jade with a slight giggle.

Altair rolled his eyes as he thought to himself. “That's complete bullshit and she knows it. She strives to be the Queen here all the time...”

“S-So, can we talk about the projects then before the class ends?” interrupted Nova nervously hoping to change the topic.

“Oh, sure.” Blaze took out a notepad. “So, I was thinking we–”

“Don't worry boys, for I have the best idea!” Jade took the notepad and Blaze’s pen as she wrote a few things down. After a few sketches, she put the notepad down so Altair, Blaze, and Nova to see. The three of them were associated to research, planning, and writing while Jade was associated to presentation.

“You're joking, right?” questioned Altair. “You want us to do all the work while you just present it? That's hardly fair!”

“Nonsense!” objected Jade. “I’ll take extra time to make a very neat and elegant presentation! I can talk to people for hours, and I'm sure all of you don't want to bother talking about the topic after doing the more boring research and writing work.”

“I mean, I don't really mind that,” said Nova defending her. “Research comes pretty easy to me since I know my mom can help with that.”

Blaze nodded in agreement. “Yeah, that's fine with me, too.”

Jade gave them a smile and looked back to her brother. “So... Altair! Majority of us have agreed!”

“Fine. Whatever.” Altair leaned back in his chair. 

“Excellent!” Jade took the pen again and began writing down more notes on Blaze’s notepad. “Now... We need a group name!”

Altair shook his head and chuckled.





~ ~ ~ ~ ~





It was the last class before lunch already as Seryn and Sunday headed to their next class. Seryn found out that she and Sunday shared many classes together which was rather nice since she had at least one person she knew to help her with the class and actually finding it.

“You ready for Biology?” asked Seryn as they walked through the busy hallways.

“Yup! Sounds like a fun time! Hopefully we learn about–”

Sunday bumped into a person as they both fell to the floor. Seryn quickly rushed over and helped the other girl up.

“A-Are you okay?” asked Seryn worryingly. 

“I'm sorry!” apologized Sunday. 

“I-I’m f-fine...” replied the girl softly. Her hoodie covered most of her face as she frantically grabbed the books and notes she dropped. 

Seryn helped her out as she grabbed a textbook. “Here. I'll help you.”

“T-Thanks...”

Seryn and Sunday helped the girl up and even picked up the books and notepads for her. As they handed them to her, the girl showed a slight smile before nervously looking away.

Sunday flashed a large grin. “Here you are... Uh...I'm sorry, but I don't know your name.”

“I...s Q.....” the girl spoke quietly that made it completely impossible to understand her. 

“Huh? What was that?”

“I-Iris Q-Quiver...” 

“Oooooh!” said Sunday. “Nice to meet you Iris!”

Seryn nodded. “Same! Are you a freshman too, Iris?”

Iris nodded without saying a word. 

“Well, if that's everything... We should get going Seryn! Biology is about to start!” Sunday ran past them into the classroom down the hallway.

“Well, I guess have a good rest of your day Iris,” said Seryn with a smile. She took a few steps before the soft voice of Iris spoke back.

“I-I have B-Biology too... C-Can I s-sit with you too?”

“Of course you can!” stated Seryn happily. “Let's go!” 

Iris gave a small smile before following Seryn into the classroom. They found Sunday already sitting at a lab desk near another girl who was already deeply involved with her textbook. Seryn sat across from her before the girl looked up. 

“Hello.”

“Hi,” greeted Seryn. “You don't mind if we all sit here do you?” Seryn looked back to see Sunday was busy trying to look at Iris’s earbuds that were hidden in her hoodie’s hood.

The girl shook her head. “Not at all. I'm Rhoda by the way.”

“Hello Rhoda! I'm Sunday!” cheered Sunday while holding Iris’ earbuds victoriously. 

Iris snatched her earbuds back before hiding them back into her hood. She gave Sunday a mean look before she turned to Rhoda. “H-Hi... I-I’m Iris...”

Seryn waved. “Seryn. It's nice to meet you, Rhoda.”

Rhoda gave them a smile before looking back to her book. “Hopefully we can all enjoy this class together. To be honest, this was the main class I was looking towards this year. I plan on taking all the Biology classes here.”

“Oh? You do seem really interested in that book,” pointed out Seryn. 

Rhoda nodded. “I've been reading it all morning. Even in the car when my dad dropped off my little brother for his first day of middle school.”

“Oh, wow,” commented Seryn. “Does your family associate with Biology or other science careers then?”

“My mom does, but I've always enjoyed medical science and the sorts,” stated Rhoda flipping a page without looking up. “Helping my mom with animals always helped, but medical science expands a lot and there's many things to learn, see, and do.”

“Cool. It seems like you found a future career then!” said Seryn with a smile. “Does your little brother want to be involved with that too?”

Rhoda stopped reading for a moment. “Hmm... I'm not sure what Aster wants to do. Truth is, he's still way too young to even think about that, so he still has plenty of years to think about the future. It's his time to just enjoy life and make some friends.”

“Yeah, I guess you're right. Even I don't know what to do yet.” Seryn looked at the lab table.

“Don't worry too much about it,” said Rhoda, “just take life as one day at a time.”

“Yeah! Like me!” shouted Sunday with a smile. She had Iris’ earbuds in her ears. Iris looked at her with distaste before gently punching Sunday in the shoulder and ripping the earbuds out of her ears.

“Stop taking my stuff!” shouted Iris, causing everyone to look at her. She immediately saw everyone staring before she hid in her hoodie and zipped it up to close her face.

“Ow...” said Sunday rubbing her shoulder. “I'm sorry, geez.”

Seryn looked at Rhoda and whispered. “I'm sorry for her. She’s kinda crazy sometimes.”

Rhoda chuckled. “It's fine. I think Biology will be interesting with her around.”

Seryn laughed and gave a nod. 

Eventually, the famous and awaited lunch period came as students rushed to the already buzzing cafeteria. Instead of waiting in the long line for food, Seryn found a table with Sunday to sit at to wait for the line to dwindle down. 

“Is this table fine?” asked Seryn.

“Yeah, it sure is!” Sunday flopped down in a chair and threw her backpack on the table. 

“Sunday? There you are!” 

Sunday and Seryn looked around to see Blaze running up to the table. 

“Blaze! Hey!” said Sunday. “How was your day, bro?”

Seryn blinked. “Bro?” 

Blaze sat down at the table and nodded. “Yes, I'm Blaze, Sunday’s older brother. Is this your new friend, Sunday?”

“Yup! This is Seryn!”

Blaze smiled. “Nice to meet you Seryn.”

“Same!” Seryn returned the smile as another boy she didn't know sat down beside Blaze.

“I hope you don't mind if I sit here either.”

Blaze shook his head. “Not at all, Nova. Sunday, Seryn, do you mind?”

Sunday looked at them. “Nope!” 

“I don't mind,” said Seryn as she looked at the lunch line. “The line is getting shorter, I think I'm going to go ahead in get in line.”

“Blaze and I can keep the table,” stated Nova. 

Seryn got up. “Awesome! Let's go Sunday!” 

“Right!”

For the next few minutes, Seryn and Sunday waited in line together for their food. As they returned to the lunch table, they could see more people were already sitting down.

“Hey girls!” shouted Jingle happily. “Me and my brothers are here!”

“Hey,” mumbled Jangle as he was chewing on a double bacon cheeseburger.

“Hello,” replied Kringle after taking a gulp of milk. “I didn't know you knew Blaze and Nova, Seryn, but seeing how your friends with Blaze’s sister, it makes sense.”

“Yeah! Sunday shares a lot of classes with me which is great!”

Sunday nodded. “You betcha!”

“Is Jade or Altair coming Seryn? I haven't seen them at lunch yet.” Kringle looked around.

“Jade and Altair?” questioned Nova. He looked at Seryn and after a few seconds smiled. “Ah! You must be their little sister! You look similar to Jade after all.”

Seryn nodded with a grin. “I am indeed the youngest child. You know my older sister and brother?”

“We share Astronomy together,” said Blaze.

“And they are our other partners in our group for projects,” added Nova. “Altair is nice and cool while Jade is... well, she's something else.” Nova blushed slightly.

“Who are you getting all flustered about?” Another young girl stood at the end of the table with her hands on her hips looking straight at Nova.

Nova looked away. “N-No one Star! Leave me alone!”

The girl stuck her tongue out. “Make me!”

“Star?! Wait!” Sunday stood up. “Are you the same Star from Geometry class who didn't show up today?!”

“You better believe it.” The girl chuckled before grinning and putting her foot on the lunch table and making a heroic pose. “My name is Shooting Star! Making people's dreams come true like it's nobody's business... but just call me Star for short.”

Nova sighed. “My little sister everyone...”

“Can it, Nova!” Star sat down at the table as she looked around. “Sorry about him being no fun, but anyway, I was in fact supposed be in Geometry first period but that's way too early for me. I can't do math super early!”

“Oh, that's a shame,” said Jingle, “our class is pretty easy and seems chill.”

“Yeah! Jingle, Seryn, and I are all in it! We had a lot of fun today just playing games to know each other!” Sunday flashed a large smile.

“Hmm. Maybe I'll give it a shot.” Star shrugged.

“Woohoo!” Sunday hugged her tightly as Star laughed.

“Alright, easy!”

“Now Seryn, you, and me can make the ‘Stellar Girls Geometry Group’, right Seryn?” Sunday chuckled as she scratched her head. “I'm still working on the name though.”

Seryn laughed. “Sounds good, Sunday! Nice to meet you Star! Do you have any hobbies or anything?”

“Nice to meet you, and yes! I love sports, karate, and kendo.”

“Oh, cool! I play basketball so maybe we can play against each other!”

Star dropped a competitive smirk. “Bring it. I'll take on any challenge with full gusto!”

“Heh. Seryn is pretty good though,” defended Jingle. “I'd like to see this. I think today at gym would be a good time to do it.”

Seryn nodded and looked at Star. “Yeah! let's do this at gym class. I'd love to have a rival.”

As the girls looked at each other with competitive and friendly determination, Jade walked by and looked at everyone. “Oh my, Seryn! Look at all of your friends already! Hello everyone.” She sat beside Seryn and opened up her small salad box.

“Hey Jade,” said Kringle with a wave. Jingle and Jangle were too busy eating to reply back.

“Hi,” said Nova quietly before Star elbowed him in the side. “Oof. H-Hi Jade.”

“Hello. Altair isn't here?” asked Blaze.

“I'm right here!” Altair quickly ran up to the table as he quickly ate something and took a deep breath. “Phew. I was so hungry.” He looked at Jingle, Jangle, and Kringle before grinning. “What's up guys? You guys ready to ball at the park again?”

“Altair! You know it!” they all said simultaneously as they high-fived him. 

Seryn turned to everyone. “In case you didn't know, this is my sister and brother, Jade and Altair. I think most of you already know, but I know Sunday hasn't seen them.” She turned to Sunday to see she was in a complete daze.

“He's so dreamy...” 

“Sunday?” Seryn peeked over to see Sunday’s eyes were locked on Altair. Altair was too busy talking to Jingle, Jangle, and Kringle to notice, but Seryn and the others could see clear as day Sunday was completely love struck by Altair’s appearance. “Oh great... Someone snap her out of it before she tackles him.”

Sunday slightly cooed. “Ooh... I'd love to do that~”

Seryn gasped. “Quick!”

Star quickly and lightly punched Sunday in the stomach causing her to cough and snap out of her daze. “Better?”

“Y-You...” Sunday stuttered as she coughed.

“Meh. It's whatever.” Star laughed. 

“I’ll take Sunday to the snack bar!” said Seryn getting up and dragging her away with her. As they were earshot away from the table, Seryn looked at Sunday. “You like my brother?!”

Sunday smiled and nodded. “He's so hot! Do you think he’ll like me back?!”

“I don't know!? Don't ask me!” Seryn shook her head. “You’re lucky he was talking to the triplets or else he might've been freaked out you were staring at him.”

Sunday slyly smiled. “That's okay. I’ll be freaky if he likes that~”

“Stop talking like that!”

“S-Sorry!” Sunday giggled as she looked back at the cafeteria. She was going to look at Altair again but she saw both Iris and Rhoda at different spots of the cafeteria. “Ooh! Idea! Let's go see Iris and Rhoda from Biology want to sit with us! Our table can be huge!” She quickly ran off.

Seryn chuckled for a moment. “She's crazy, but you gotta love her for that.” She quickly ran off after her.





After lunch and gym class, school had ended and everyone cheered as the first day of school ended. Normally, the day was meant for students to meet their teachers, classmates, and to get ready to learn for the semester starting the following day, so everyone made no hesitation to leave school at all to prepare for the next day.

Altair wasn't able to leave school at the closing bell as he had football practice along with the team which always ran after school ended. Eventually, after hours of tough practice and a few breaks from the nearly retired Iron Will, many of the team’s favorite Coach “T”, and his father, Altair leaned back in Clyde’s car on the way home as he sighed.

“Tough day, bud?” asked Clyde with a chuckle.

Altair shrugged. “Only because it was super hot out. I can't wait to get a shower and change into clean clothes for the night.”

Clyde smiled. “I feel you. I remember the basketball practices from overseas was like military training compared to Iron Will’s. They definitely helped though.”

“Old Iron Will’s last year is this year, Dad. Are you sad about that?”

“I've always had a good relationship with him,” said Clyde with a frown. “Of course it’ll be sad to see him go, but he helped me a lot when I was your age and even out of high school. I just hope I can keep his legacy going by making sure our teams are still great when he's gone.”

“Heh, but you have Coach T with you, too. That’s two of the players on the school’s greatest team in history! We’ll be dominate!” Altair raised his fist and grinned.

Clyde laughed. “Yeah.” He looked at the time in the car’s dashboard to see it was after seven. “Hmm, your mother should be home soon. I hope her day was wonderful. I haven't heard from her since lunch.”

Altair rubbed his stomach. “Yeah, and I'm starving too...”

Clyde pulled into the driveway after a few minutes and pulled up beside a purely white SUV since the garage was already filled with two cars. Clyde smiled and quickly got out of the car as Altair fetched his backpack from the back seat. As Clyde reached the front door, it quickly opened as Rarity jumped out and hugged him.

“Hello, darling! Glad to see my handsome boys are home in time for dinner!”

Clyde hugged her tightly and kissed her on the lips. “I’m glad to see my beautiful lady too. How was Manehattan? Anything happen at that emergency meeting?”

Rarity flashed a large smile. “Oh! It was incredible! I have big news to share! The meeting was for me to find out that my stores are opening up on the west coast! My sales are at an all time high this year and people want a chain of shops in the west since many of my stores are around the Manehattan area and eastern cities!”

“That's incredible, Rarity!” exclaimed Clyde happily as he smiled at her. “I'm so proud of you. You've been hard at your fashion even before I met you. You've come a long way and now all that success is showing.”

Rarity giggled and hugged and kissed him. “All because of your support. I'd have never reached this point without the support of my loving husband and wonderful children. Which is lovely, since I’m definitely taking all of you with me to Hollywood when my shop opens there! I will attend the grand opening, but I'm still staying perfectly fine here in Canterlot with my beautiful family!” She turned to Altair and waved a hand at her nose. “Although... Altair, dear, please get a shower. You stink.”

Altair chuckled. “That was the plan, Mom. Welcome home. I'm glad you had a nice trip.” He walked past them and headed to his room.

Rarity smiled then turned back to Clyde. “Anyway, darling, Jade and I nearly have dinner ready! Because of my wonderful news, we decided to treat you and Altair with our family’s favorite homemade pizza to the long day of practice!”

Clyde smirked and lovingly held Rarity by her hips. “Wonderful. I sure am lucky, huh?”

“Indeed you are,” she purred back with lowered seductive eyes. “Just wait until tonight since the news today really made me excited~”

Clyde kissed her for a few seconds as he smiled. “I love you so much.”

Rarity smirked and playfully ran her hand past his cheek. “I know you do.” She turned and went inside to the kitchen.

Clyde entered the house and put his car keys on the first of the five small hooks by the door along with the others. They were all filled now with car keys except for the last hook since Seryn wasn't old enough to drive yet. Clyde headed to the kitchen to see Jade and Rarity decorating the pizza together by the stove. On the counter near them was Mittens wearing a small chef’s hat licking his paw.

“Hello, father!” greeted Jade joyfully. “Doesn't Chef Mittens look like the cutest kitten ever?” She giggled.

Clyde laughed. “Hello, Jade, and I do enjoy his little hat. Where's Seryn at?”

Rarity checked the oven timer. “Oh, she's playing some game on the computer with some new friends from school today and the triplets.”

“Ah, I see. I'm glad she found some new friends today. She was a little worried earlier.” 

Clyde walked over to the girls and put his hands on their shoulders as he peeked over them to see the pizza with cheese, pepperoni, ham, bacon, peppers, and mushrooms. Some sections were lighter with ingredients than others as many of them only liked certain ingredients on their pizza. Clyde himself was the only one who would eat the pizza no matter what was on it.

“Doesn’t it look absolutely tasty?” asked Jade.

“Indeed.” Rarity smiled. “I think we did an excellent job, dear.”

Clyde grinned. “Looks good ladies.”

Jade finished up the decorating before putting the pizza in the oven. As she and Rarity soon began cleaning up their preparation mess, Seryn walked in and sniffed.

“Alright! Family pizza!” Seryn looked to see Clyde and she laughed. “Oh, sorry Dad. I guess the pizza was calling to me more than me noticing you.”

“That's alright,” said Clyde with a laugh. “I heard you had a pretty good day at school?”

Seryn nodded with a grin. “Yep! Met some pretty nice and cool people! I was just playing with them on my computer before we all got mad at one guy using cheap tactics and got off in rage.”

“Oh, I heard you yelling earlier, young lady,” said Rarity crossing her arms. “Young ladies should not be saying harsh profanities like that.”

Seryn flinched. “I-I’m sorry, Mom!”

Clyde laughed before helping Jade with putting away the pizza materials. Seryn quickly helped set the table as Jade would check the oven, giving Clyde and Rarity some time to relax a bit at the kitchen table. Eventually, the pizza was done and Altair walked into the kitchen with a simple shirt and gym shorts on shaking his head to dry his wet hair from the shower.

“Just in time,” he said with a smirk. 

“Which means you are cleaning up the table and doing the dishes,” replied Jade.

“What? Why?!”

“Because Seryn helped set the table while I helped cook.”

“Seems pretty fair to me,” stated Seryn. “Sorry, Altair.”

Altair sighed. “Fine. Whatever. I don't mind. I'm just starving.” He quickly grabbed a plate and snatched a huge slice of pizza.

“You're such a vulture,” said Jade with a shake of her head. 

“He really is,” said Seryn with a laugh. She turned to see Altair already half done with his pizza slice.

Rarity looked to Clyde and they shared a laugh before they went to get some pizza to soon enjoy the wonderful and loving  family dinner together. 

“Family dinners,” said Clyde with a laugh and huge smile, “I wouldn't trade this for anything.”

“Indeed,” said Rarity lovingly as she hugged him.

As the family enjoyed their dinner together, they talked about random things and future plans for the coming days and weeks like any family would do. 

One thing was for certain though that would forever be true. They all had tremendous joy and love for being part of such a fabulous family.
> A Very Clarity Christmas [Christmas Eve III/Bonus Epilogue]
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

“I don’t see them yet,” called out Seryn from the foyer into the kitchen as she was looking out the window by the front door of the house. The youngest child of the family, at the age of 15, wore a plain black shoulderless sweater top with a maroon pleated skirt with leggings underneath. Her left boot tapped the wooden floor as she kept a lookout for her uncle, aunt, and cousin.

It was the most wonderful time of the year. Christmas Eve had finally arrived once more and everyone was ready to celebrate with loved ones. As with many other family traditions, Shale and his family would come visit his little brother to celebrate the holiday season. It was a night for all of them to enjoy dinner, presents, and fun together as a united family. Christmas Eve became the unified night of presents being opened, as Christmas Day was a time to just wind down and relax with family at Rarity’s parents home, and with the kids reaching or now at adulthood, waking up to presents left by Santa Claus on Christmas morning was just a childhood myth to them.

The blanket of snow from the prior day’s brief winter storm covered the grass as the lights from outside decorations lit up the street to make it easy for Seryn to see any cars coming. She watched patiently with a smile.

“They’ll be here shortly!” replied Rarity from the kitchen. “You don’t think they would miss our annual gathering, Hmm?” She has on a maroon blouse with black leggings and heeled boots, supplemented by various golden jewelry such as her necklaces, rings, and bracelets.

“Mother is right, dear sister,” said Jade, the eldest child of Clyde and Rarity as she smiled and fixed up her black hair which was styled up more than usual due to the holiday. Jade wore a simple black and thin long sleeved sweater with a low cut neckline with leggings and heeled boots. “As far as I can remember in my 18 years of living, Uncle Shale is always here! Even if he’s slightly late on occasion.”

“Yeah, you’re right.” Seryn smiled and brushed a strand of her dark brown and purple highlighted hair from her brown eyes and continued watch.

“Jade, dear, check the oven for me. We don’t want the cookies to burn.” Rarity laughed as she walked out of the kitchen for a moment.

Jade nodded. “Of course, Mother!”

Rarity headed to the staircase as she looked up it and shouted in a semi-sweet voice. “Clyde! Altair! What in heavens are you both doing?! We have guests coming!”

A rush of footsteps sounded across the upstairs as the 17 year old Altair rushed down the steps in a black sweater jacket with blue jeans. “Sorry Mom. I had to find my belt.” He chuckled.

“It’s fine, dear.” Rarity smiled as she looked at his outfit. “My dear son certainly can dress handsomely when he wants to!”

“That’s because I just like wearing casual stuff to go to the park or school.” Altair laughed. “Dressing up isn’t exactly my priority.”

“Well said. Dressing up isn’t mine either.” Soon, Clyde came down the stairs wearing a gray closed jacket with jeans as he gave Rarity a kiss. “Sorry. I had to go through your closet section just to find my jacket.”

Rarity fanned her face with a flirty smile and giggled from the kiss. “Hehe... It’s quite fine, my darling. You look as suave and handsome as always.”

Clyde smiled as he held her by the hip and walked into the kitchen with her. Jade was just taking the cookies out of the oven as Clyde, Rarity, and Altair entered.

“These cookies smell absolutely perfect!” said Jade with a confident smile from her baking.

Altair sniffed and tried to take one before he flinched back. “Guess I have to wait to try one. They are too warm still.”

Jade rolled her eyes. “You just saw me take them out of the oven, Altair. How could you seriously think they were safe to eat?!”

“When I see food I don’t ask questions,” replied Altair.

“Sounds like me when I see honey barbecue wings,” said Clyde with a laugh.

“They are here!!!” yelled Seryn from the foyer excitedly as headlights briefly shined through the window.

The rest of the family quickly moved to the foyer to join Seryn as they awaited Shale to come into the house. Within a few moments, they saw three figures walk up to the door giving a gentle knock. Seryn opened the door and smiled but was instantly hugged and nearly tackled to the ground by a girl a year older than her.

“Cousin!!! Merry Christmas!” The girl pulled away and smiled brightly as she blew some of her magenta, light blue, and brown tri-colored unkempt bangs out of her face. Her brown eyes like Seryn’s showed immense joy.

“Melody! Hey!” greeted Seryn with a chuckle.

Winter Melody, or as everyone just called her Melody, was the only child of Shale. Being a year under Altair and older than Seryn, Melody was a big fan of spending time with her family. Due to her mother, Melody was very gifted at singing and playing the piano, as she did it for fun with her band and her mom and aunts with the fixed mindset to make anyone that listened more happy. Melody was one of, if not, the most, quintessential definitions of a cheery and positive girl. She took off her black coat to show off a long white blouse with leggings and boots as she kept her bright smile.

Shale soon walked wearing his winter coat and holding steady a tower of presents as he smiled. “Merry Christmas everyone.”

“Hello, Uncle!” greeted Jade with her blissful smile.

“Hey!” said Altair with a wave and smile.

Clyde helped his brother with the presents as he chuckled. “You always go big for Christmas presents, Shale.”

“I’ll definitely say!” Rarity giggled and gave Shale a friendly hug. “Good to see you, Shale.”

Shale smiled. “Likewise! It’s always fun to spend time with my brother, sister-in-law, and nieces and nephew!” Shale, with Clyde’s and Altair’s help, walked into the living room to set the presents around the decorated Christmas tree.

“Momma is coming too! She must have dropped her phone as she got out of the car!” joked Melody with a laugh.

“I did no such thing!” responded a voice from the doorway as Sonata Dusk, her long hair elegantly down instead of a in ponytail, stood there with her hands on her hips and looked at Melody with a stern look.

“Eep! Sorry Mom!” apologized Melody.

Sonata’s serious facade broke as she soon giggled and hugged her. “I’m only teasing!”

Seryn joined in on the hug. “Aunt Sonata!”

“Hi Seryn!” said Sonata with a big smile and scanned the room and looked at everyone else. “Merry Christmas Rarity and Jade!”

Rarity gave Sonata a hug and patted her black coat. “Sonata dear, I simply love this coat! Is it from overseas?”

“Sure is! I bought it when my hubby and I went to travel a few years back!” Sonata giggled.

Shale and Sonata’s relationship started the night of Clyde’s wedding as they both managed to meet at the reception hall’s bar. After a slightly tipsy one night stand, both of them began to talk more and more without any sexual banter constantly and eventually became a loving couple within a few years of dating. Melody was born before the official wedding of the two, but they treated her as an early marriage gift and blessing for their family. While Shale was more laid back, Sonata complimented him with her bubbly outgoingness.

“My, it’s absolutely exquisite!” said Rarity clasping her hands.”

“Indeed! The tweed fabric is quite divine,” said Jade with a quick examination glance. “Very fine detail!”

Sonata giggled and gave Jade a hug. “Little Rarity sure is acting more and more like her each day!”

“Of course! Mother is letting me help her company so I can take over whenever she retires!” said Jade with a smile. “Fashion is forever for me, and since I’m no longer in high school due to my graduation earlier this year, my mind is focused on fashion and romance!”

“Well said, my dear daughter.” Rarity grinned as Jade and her laughed together.

“Fashion might be your passion, Aunt Rarity and cousin Jade, but our passion is music!” exclaimed Melody.

“Oh yes! Melody is quite an excellent singer! And piano player too!” Sonata smiled in pride of her daughter. “She hopefully will win the school talent show with her angelic voice!”

“Oh, is that so?” said Jade giving a quick look at Seryn who was shyly looking down upon hearing the conversation turn to music. “Seryn here is also into music when she isn’t playing basketball.”

Seryn looked up with a nervous blush. “J-Jade! It’s supposed to be a secret! I’m just an amateur!”

“Oh! I’m terribly sorry, dear little sister!” apologized Jade.

“It’s okay, Seryn!” comforted Rarity. “But I do wonder, what were you keeping secret if your loving mother may ask?”

Seryn rubbed her arm. “Well... I’ve been trying to learn the violin. I like fast paced music, so I wanted to add violin remixes to them. I found someone on the internet playing the violin like that, and since no one I know of does it, I thought I could try.”

Melody gasped. “That sounds... awesome!!”

“And adding vocals or piano would make it even more magical!” added Sonata.

“Indeed! Seryn, that sounds wonderful!” Rarity hugged her to comfort her. “Maybe you and Melody could even start a little band together!

Melody instantly found joy in that idea as she bounced excitedly for a moment. “Heck to the yeah!! Let’s do it!”

“I-I’m not that good yet! I’m still learning!” Seryn rubbed the back of her head. “I mean... I’d love to make a band with Melody but I need to get good first.”

“I’m sure you’ll get it!” said Rarity with a comforting smile. “Music takes time, right Sonata?”

Sonata nodded. “Yup! But the more you practice, the better you’ll get!”

Seryn hugged both women. “Thanks Mom... thanks aunt Sonata. I’ll try my best. I just want to try something different. While I do like basketball, I like music too.”

Rarity and Sonata hugged her back as Melody joined in too just for fun. Jade, however, saw another pair of headlights pull into the driveway soon as she walked to the door and looked outside.

“Oh! Is that...”

“Hmm? Who is it, Jade?” asked Rarity curiously. “I didn’t think anyone else was coming tonight.”

Within a few minutes, and a knock of the door later, Sweetie Belle wearing a red and green dress walked in with a big smile. “Hello! The favorite aunt is here!” She looked at Sonata and laughed. “No offense Sonata.”

Sonata shrugged with a smile. “None taken, but I’m still a pretty great aunt too!”

Rarity ran over and hugged her little sister. “Sweetie Belle?! I thought you, our parents, and little Symph weren’t coming over until tomorrow!”

A teenage boy, who was the same age as Melody, with silver messy hair with a slight streak of pink and purple in it walked into the foyer as he carried presents. His outfit was a simple long-sleeved shirt with jeans. “Nope. My mom wanted to surprise you and Uncle Clyde tonight!” He looked at Jade and Seryn with his pale blue eyes and grinned. “Hey cousins.”

“Hello, Symph,” greeted Jade. “You seem to have grown slightly taller since I last saw you a few weeks ago.”

“Maybe, but maybe you are just getting shorter.” Symph laughed as Seryn and Melody did as well.

Jade crossed her arms. “Hmph.”

Diamond Symphony, or also more commonly known as Symph from an early nickname his mother gave him when he was younger, was Sweetie Belle’s only child. As a single mother, Sweetie Belle spoiled her son as much as she could since she was her pride and joy. Losing much contact with his father growing up, Symph grew into a young man who respected his mother deeply and tried to help her in anyway he could with chores, tasks, or anything she needed.

“Hey cousin of my cousins!” said Melody with her usual bright smile. “Wait... does that mean we’re cousins too?”

“I’m not entirely sure myself, Mels. But good to see you again!” Symph put down the presents and gave her a hug. “I think technically we’re cousins or cousins first or twice removed, or something along those lines. I’m not really trying to get into a debate tonight though.” He chuckled.

“Forget about the official terms! Family is family!” interjected Seryn.

Jade clapped in agreement. “Agreed!”

Altair walked in from the living room. “Hey, I heard talki–Symph! And Aunt Sweetie Belle! When did you get here?”

“What’s up, Altair?” said Symph with a nod of acknowledgement.

“We just arrived!” said Sweetie Belle with a smile. “But we aren’t alone.”

An elderly couple walked in as they looked around and smiled. The man’s gray mustache was his defining feature while the women holding onto his arm’s purple faded hair was hers. “Merry Christmas!” said Magnum cheerfully.

“There’s my beautiful Rarity and the rest of my grandchildren!” said Pearl with a big and warming smile.

Jade, Altair, and Seryn instantly walked over to them and hugged their grandparents as Rarity gasped. “Mother and father too?! My! This is such a delightful surprise! The entire family is here now!”

Upon hearing the commotion from the foyer, Clyde and Shale walked in. Pearl beckoned Clyde over as she kissed his cheek and hugged him along with his kids. “Merry Christmas, Clyde!”

Clyde chuckled. “Merry Christmas. We’re glad you came to surprise us with a visit tonight. My brother and his wife and daughter are here too.”

“A Christmas family gathering at its finest!” said Jade happily.

Magnum patted Clyde’s back and shook his hand with a teary smile. “A true special moment for us all. I’m happy I can see our family grow into this.” He waved at Shale and shook his hand too. “You included Shale!”

Shale laughed. “I’ll definitely accept those terms!”

Rarity came over to help her parents take off their coats and bags as she helped guide them into the kitchen. “Come, come everyone! Dinner is fresh and we shouldn’t keep it waiting! Jade and I made plenty!”

“As long as Altair and Symph don’t eat everything first!” laughed Sweetie Belle as she headed into the kitchen.

“Mom! Why do you have to call me out like that?!” cried out Symph.

Altair patted his back with a chuckle. “It’s cool. I came to accept my sisters from calling me out with eating. You just have to roll with it.”

Symph sighed as Melody and Seryn laughed and patted his back too to comfort him. Soon, everyone gathered into the kitchen and dining room for a Christmas gathering feast.

Christmas dinner consisted of the usual turkey with the rest of the holidays works: stuffing, mashed potatoes, gravy, cranberry sauce, carrots and peas, and finally fresh cookies. Instead of a quiet and serious toned dinner as if no one ate for weeks, dinner lasted over an hour as everyone ate slowly so they could randomly converse about everything and anything. There was a certain magical charm in the room, one that was mainly due to the happiness that Christmas brought. After everyone was content with eating and half of the cookies were gone due to Symph and Melody, the teenagers, and young adult as Jade called herself now since she was 18, decided to hang out in the living room together while the adults stayed in the kitchen.

“You have the new 2K game, Altair?” asked Symph as he and Altair sat on the couch in front of the TV.

Altair chuckled. “I’m slightly offended. As if I didn’t have it. It’s the only game I play.”

“True,” said Symph with a laugh, “but you really should get more games.”

“I keep telling him!” Seryn sat on the arm of the couch. “There’s plenty of cool games out!”

“Why would I need any other game besides 2K?” questioned Altair. “Besides, I’m not really into video games a lot. I only have this for when I’m relaxing from practice or a game. It’s Seryn’s console anyway.”

“Guess that’s true,” replied Symph with a nod. “No biggie. Let’s just play 2K.”

Altair tossed him a controller as the two started the basketball game up.

Across the living room, Jade was sitting in a recliner looking over her nails as Melody looked around as her eyes stumbled upon a penguin plushie wearing an army helmet sitting between the Christmas tree and the TV.

“Ooooh! What’s this?!” Melody picked the plushie up and giggled. “It’s cute!”

“Hey!” said Seryn quickly as she went over and took the penguin back. “You need to be careful with Peppers!”

Melody blinked. “Peppers? But that’s a penguin, cousin!”

Seryn shook her head. “I know that. This is Private Peppers!” Seryn patted the army helmet atop the plushie’s head. “Since he’s a military penguin, he has a rank. But yeah! This is my buddy! Jingle got him for me for Christmas.” Seryn smiled warmly.

“Oooh! Gotcha!” said Melody with a smile. “It must be nice to have a boyfriend you get gifts from!”

Seryn blushed slightly. “He’s just a good friend I’ve known since I was in preschool! We aren’t dating!”

“Keep telling yourself that, dear little sister,” said Jade as she kept focusing on her nails with a roll of her eyes.

“Jade! Keep out of the conversation!” exclaimed Seryn.

Melody giggled. “Doesn’t Jade have a boyfriend?”

“I most certainly do!” Jade grinned and hopped off from the chair and took out her phone as she began going through a collection of photos from her Instagram with her and her boyfriend. “Nova and I have quite a nice, steady relationship! He is a true gentleman!”

“I’ll say!” Melody whistled happily at some pictures, mostly at the ones with him shirtless at the beach, as she was not focusing on Jade in them at all.

“Melody. If you try anything, I will personally come after you, cousins or not.” Jade looked at her with a stern face in defense of her boyfriend.

“Eep!!!” Melody flinched back. “Sorry Jade! I promise!”

Jade giggled and hugged her. “I know you’ll keep it.”

“Yep!” said Melody with her famous bright smile, “I never go against my cousins! Ever!!”

“At least we have one cousin who doesn’t try to ruin our days,” stated Jade as she glanced at Symph as she remembered the day he purposely sabotaged the shower in her house to make the water freezing cold instead of warm.

Seryn put Peppers on her head as she looked around. “Hmm... I wonder where Mittens is. I haven’t seen him since Melody arrived.”

“Mittens?! Oh my gosh!! Where is that cutie?!!” asked Melody excitedly.

Jade smiled and turned around to face the doorway leading to the foyer. “Oh Mittens, my love!! Momma wants to see you!”

Within a few seconds, a small black cat walked into the room and rubbed his head on Jade’s foot as he purred. Jade picked him up and kissed his head a dozen times.

“Jade is a cat whisper,” joked Seryn.

“It’s only Mittens,” replied Jade, “my dearest little man here knows my voice because he loves me very so!”

Melody looked at Mittens with a big smile and petted him gently. Mittens flinched at the sudden touch, but looked at Melody and meowed quietly.

“Mittens isn’t much into greeting others, but if you give him some love, he’ll happily begin to warm up to you!!” Jade looked at Melody. “Care to hold him?”

Melody nodded a few times. “Yes! I’ll be extra careful!!”

Jade handed Mittens to Melody with a warming smile as Mittens looked around nervously.

“I ain’t gonna hurt you, Mittens! I promise!” Melody rubbed Mittens’ head, at the base of his ears causing a purr from the small cat. Melody giggled and showered him with loving kisses.

Meanwhile, Altair and Symph were deadlocked in their 2K game while trying to ignore all the talk from the girls to focus on the game.

“I still can’t believe you picked the Warriors, Symph,” stated Altair as he was busy making lineup adjustments during a called timeout. “Like come on dude. Pick an actual competitive team. Don’t be that guy and pick the stacked team.”

Symph Just chuckled. “You know me. If it works the best, I’m using it.”

Altair shook his head. “I’ll beat you with the Mavericks. I’m not scared of being the completely underperforming team.”

“Ha! Bring it!” Symph smirked and got ready to continue the game.

Before the game could resume from the timeout, Altair got a text message as Symph glanced at Altair’s phone fast enough to see the name “Sunday” with dozens of heart emojis beside it.

“...Please tell me you didn’t do that, Altair.”

“Do what?”

Symph pointed at Altair’s phone. “Putting all those hearts beside her name! That’s a girl thing dude. I’m taking away your man card.”

Altair laughed. “Chill. Sunday did that when I wasn’t looking. I don’t want to change it so I keep it like that.”

“Suuuuuure.”

“You don’t have to believe me or not,” said Altair with a shrug, “but I’m just stating my facts. I bet you’d let your girlfriend do the same thing.”

Symph rubbed his chin. “Maybe, but I don’t have time for girls. Too much money could be spent only to breakup with them.”

“Way to stay positive.” Altair shook his head. “That’s why you need to find the right girl. Then you don’t have to worry about that happening.”

“Hmm... I guess you’re right. Tell you what, I’ll worry about that after New Year’s.” Symph looked at the TV. “Right now, I’m focused on blowing you out by 30 points on your own game.”

Altair chuckled. “We’ll see about that.”





~~~





Eventually the entire family reunited in the living room to play a yearly game of boys versus girls Christmas charades. Even with being outnumbered, the boys managed to keep the game close with Symph’s impressive knowledge of Christmas pop culture, but Sonata and Melody perfectly answered every clue involving Christmas songs to steal the game away. Once the game was finished and the boys recovered from the loss, Pearl and Rarity carried in some hot chocolate for everyone to get ready for the main event of the evening.

Everyone gathered around and sat on the couch or stood in front of the bright tree to open presents from each other which lasted a good majority of the evening. Every single person had at least half a dozen of presents to open, whether it was from father to son, aunt to niece, or grandparent to grandchild. The constant pile of ripped wrapping paper and bows grew so much, Clyde had to get multiple trash bags to clean everything up.

Eventually the gifts were all opened and while Clyde and Rarity were trying to tie up a large trash bag filled with wrappings and bows, Jade looked at Altair and Seryn as the three siblings nodded at each other in unison. With a hurry, Jade left the living room to run upstairs while Shale and his family sat by each other.

“Woooooah!” said Melody with a smile as she had on her new magenta external sound canceling headphones from Shale and Sonata. “I can’t hear anything but the music!!!”

“Those were super expensive for a pair of headphones,” said Shale with a laugh, “they better be excellent quality.”

“What?!” asked Melody loudly, clearly not being able to hear him.

Shale laughed and looked at Sonata. “But your mother picked that color for you.”

Sonata nodded with a smile. “I sure did! They go so well with Melody’s hair, don’t they?”

Melody only looked at them and blinked. “What?!?! I can’t hear you!!!”

Shale and Sonata only laughed together as they hugged Melody.

On the other side of the room, Symph was looking at the cruise ship tickets Magnum and Pearl got for him, Sweetie Belle, and Rarity and Clyde and their kids.

“A family cruise to the Caribbean! This is going to be awesome!!” Symph hugged his grandparents.

Pearl smiled. “Of course! Since the grandkids are older now, we figured it’s the best time to go!”

“Indeed, especially since Pearl and I are getting older too so every moment with our family is cherished.” Magnum wiped away a happy tear from his eyes. “I’m proud of all of you.”

Sweetie Belle wiped away her own tears. “Aww... Not you’re making me emotional Dad... usually Rarity is the super emotional one of the family.”

Rarity’s ear flinched as she heard her sister from across the room. “Sweetie Belle! I heard that!”

“Love you too, Rarity!” Sweetie Belle laughed.

“But this Caribbean trip is gonna be awesome,” said Symph confidently, “maybe I can find a nice Carribean babe.”

“Ugh,” said Sweetie Belle with a groan, “please do not make me worry about you during a family vacation.”

“Don’t be like that Mom!” stated Symph with a laugh.

“I’m certainly not helping since I already have a girlfriend,” stated Altair as he walked by on his way back from the kitchen after getting a cookie.

“Fine, Seryn will help out then.”

“Don’t bring me into your quest!” exclaimed Seryn.

Symph laughed before giving her a light pat on the shoulder. “I’m kidding, Seryn.”

Seryn shook her head before sighing. “It’s all good. I’m just ready for Jade to get down here already.”

“Where is Jade anyway?” asked Rarity as she looked around.

Altair smiled. “She’s getting the last present of the night for you and Dad.”

Clyde and Rarity looked at each other for a moment, slightly confused and also worried.

After a brief sound of someone coming down the stairs, Jade walked into the living room with a wrapped box. “Mother. Father. This is the super secret present! It’s from Altair, Seryn, and I!”

Everyone other than the three kids looked at wrapped box. Shale looked at Sweetie Belle who shrugged as she didn’t know what it was either. The box itself wasn’t very big nor was it very wide. Not knowing what to expect, Clyde took the present and shook it gently for a moment.

“Darling, just open it,” ordered Rarity with a polite tone.

“Right.” Clyde chuckled and unwrapped the paper to find a regular and plain cardboard box. He looked up at Jade with a confused look but she only smiled at him. Altair and Seryn looked at each other and chuckled. Clyde slowly popped open the box and found a thick scrapbook with a single word in large text: “Family”.

“My siblings and I worked hard on that for the both of you,” said Jade with a proud smile, “it was something we wanted to showcase while everyone was gathered here, especially with the surprise visit from our grandparents, aunt, and cousin!”

“Oh dear, what a simply wonderful idea!” stated Rarity with a smile. “I can’t wait to look inside of it!”

“Everyone in this room is in this book?” asked Clyde.

Altair nodded. “And more. We basically made pages for everyone, and their hobbies and favorite things, relationships, and pictures from them being a baby to now”

“More?” Clyde looked at the scrapbook before opening of it to see a table of contents with everyone’s name and even a family tree as a cover page to the left of the table. The table was divided into two sections appropriately labeled as “Clyde” and “Rarity” before they merged into its own section which included Jade, Altair, and Seryn. As Clyde flipped the page, he instantly saw the pages about his kids other grandparents, more importantly, his own parents.

“We had to start the scrapbook with the grandparents we never met...” said Seryn with a smile. “Grandpa Castor and Grandma Aurora are still with us though, even if they aren’t physically here.”

Clyde looked at all the pictures and pages of his parents’ sections with a teary smile. It was over 30 years since his parents’ deaths and everyday he thought about them. He knew from old pictures, memories, and stories from Shale that his kids did show signs of his own parents as well as himself. After all, Seryn and Melody both shared the same brown eyes and brown roots in their hair Clyde’s mother had. Altair took after Clyde’s appearance who took after his father. Jade shared more qualities with Rarity’s family than Clyde’s, but her kindness and generosity was something both Rarity and Clyde’s mother had.

After a few more minutes of checking out the pages, Clyde looked up and smiled happily. “This... is incredible and I’m only just on my parents’ pages. You even have pictures of my dad and Uncle Pollux and even go into details about me and my brother towards the end of the pages.” He flipped through the rest of the book giving each person’s pages a long glance. From Shale to Seryn, each person in the room had their own unique page with different designs and color schemes in the family scrapbook. After Seryn, however, was a good many empty pages of blankness.

“I designed the layouts myself, father!” said Jade happily. “I even added a little table at the end of each person’s page or pages that show who they are directly related to and what page to find them on! This scrapbook is an index and memory of all of us!”

“Jade, darling, you definitely outdid yourself,” replied Rarity with an amazed smile.

“Jade had Seryn and I gather the photos and other things for everyone,” said Altair. “We went through piles of old photos from the trunk downstairs.”

Seryn nodded. “Yep! While we helped, Jade spent the most time on it though! We’re just glad you both like it!”

“This is definitely something I’ll always look at whenever I feel upset about anything...” Clyde looked at his kids. “This might be one of the best Christmas gifts I have ever received.”

Jade smiled. “It was our pleasure, father.”

Altair nodded with a grin. “Of course, Dad.”

Seryn smirked. “The best Dad deserves the best gift!”

“Ooooh!” Rarity gently pushes herself and Clyde into the kids with a family hug as she sniffles with happy tears. “You four are certainly my favorites in the world!!”

Clyde hugged his wife and kids tightly with a big smile before pulling away and looking at them. “I love you all so much.”

“We know!” said Jade, Altair, and Seryn simultaneously.

Rarity kept hugging them but looked over at the scrapbook and saw the blank pages. “So, are the blank pages for the future, Jade?”

“Indeed! Since we’re getting into adulthood, that means we’ll be having our own families to raise soon!” Jade gave a giggle which caused Clyde and Rarity to instantly look at each other before looking at Jade.

“Jade...” said Rarity worriedly, “are you...”

“W-What?! No! I promise!”

Rarity just crossed her arms and gave her a stern look. “Do not lie to your dear mother, Jade.”

“I-I’m not lying!! I swear I’m not having a baby yet!” Jade’s face got red in embarrassment since her entire family was listening in on her conversation with her mother.

“Good...” said Rarity with a sigh of relief, “I’m not ready for my kids to have sex yet.”

Jade just blinked before giggling slightly. “It might be too late for that...”

Rarity’s eyes widened. “Jade!!!!!”

Altair and Seryn laughed while Clyde shook his head already feeling nervous at the thought of being a grandfather already.

Shale walked up and patted his back and chuckled. “We sure have a great family, don’t we little brother?”

“I certainly can’t complain,” said Clyde with a smile as he looked at everyone.

“I definitely need to look at this scrapbook myself before I leave tonight.” Shale smiled and turned to his page. “I especially love the pictures of your kids and Melody being together. She definitely loves being with her cousins.” He looked around the room to see Melody and Seryn both talking about music together while laughing.

“I can tell.” Clyde smiled. “Even Sweetie Belle’s son feels the same way.”

Jade, after being scolded by Rarity for a brief moment, soon had her phone before looking at everyone and calling for attention. “Everyone! Let’s end this wonderful Christmas Eve night with a family selfie and photo!”

Melody gasped as she sat by Seryn with Altair and Symph nearby. “Deal!!! We could use it as a Christmas Card!!”

“But Christmas is tomorrow, Melody...” said Seryn.

“We can use it for next years!!” Melody smiled brightly as Seryn just chuckled.

“Way to be positive, Mels.”

“A selfie, really Jade?” asked Symph.

“You know her and her selfies.” Altair chuckled. “Don’t you follow her on Instagram or Snapchat? She only has like a million followers.”

Symph’s jaw dropped. “A million?! That’s like... celebrity status!”

Seryn nodded. “I mean, it’s because our mom brought Jade into her fashion modeling spotlight since she was a baby, and since our mom is a pretty popular fashion designer, Jade being a young heiress with her looks is popular with the boys.”

“That... makes sense actually,” said Symph slightly impressed by Jade’s follower total.

Jade brought out a long plastic stick before putting her phone on the end of it. “There! Now we can get everyone!!” She reaches it out and giggled while trying to wave Sweetie Belle, Magnum, and Pearl forward. “Come Aunt Sweetie Belle, grandfather, and grandmother!”

“What is that stick for?” asked Magnum. “I’ve never seen something like that.” He and Pearl sat in the middle of the couch comfortably as the others gathered around them.

“It’s pretty ridiculous, isn’t it?” questioned Altair as he sat on the floor in front of the couch beside Symph and in front of Magnum. It’s just a stick to help take large group pictures.”

“Dearest little brother!” called Jade, “since you’re taller than I, could you please hold the selfie stick to find the best angle?”

Altair sighed. “Fine.” He took the handle and tried to position it to get everyone.

As Altair adjusted the angle, everyone got into their spots. The center of the focus was Magnum and Pearl on the couch with Rarity sitting to the left of them and Sweetie Belle sitting to the right. Clyde stood behind Rarity with Shale and Sonata nearby while Jade, Altair, Melody, Symph, and Seryn sat on the floor at the base of the couch. Everyone got their smiles ready for the camera.

“Alright... on three everyone!” said Jade happily.

“One...” said Shale, Sonata, and Melody.

“Two...” said Sweetie Belle, Symph, Magnum, and Pearl.

“Three!” said Clyde, Rarity, Jade, Altair, and Seryn with a cheer.

The entire room soon joined together to finish off the countdown.

“Merry Christmas!”

The entire family instantly smiled for the camera and Altair clicked the handle as Jade’s phone captured the family Christmas Eve selfie, a picture that would instantly be added to the family scrapbook and be cherished by them all forever.

Because in the spirit of Christmas, a family is a gift that will always be forever.