Two months have passed since the events of Photo of a Melody, and Camera has decided to introduce his coltfriend to his parents.
Part three of the Camera Flash story arc.
Two months ago, Camera Flash and Melody Light began their relationship. Now it is December, and with Hearth's Warming Eve coming soon, Camera decides he'd introduce Melody to a Flash family Hearth's Warming. What can possibly go wrong, right... right?
"Alright, Class dismissed. I'll see you all again in January." the teacher of the photography class said as the students got up from their seats.
Among them was a brownish-orange earth pony with a lighter brownish-orange mane and tail, had dark freckles, brown eyes, and had a camera for a cutie mark. This was Camera Flash, and he was actually quite relieved to leave the class and begin his break. Sure, he loved photography and the art behind it, but even he could only take so much of the professor's long, boring lectures. Heading out of the main campus building, he was hit by a sudden gust of wind, forcing him to further wrap his navy blue scarf. A thick blanket of snow covered the ground around him, and snow was lightly falling. Even the famous statue of the university's founder was covered with snow, though one could still easily tell what it is. As he admired the winter landscape around him, Camera heard a voice behind him say, "h-hey, Camera."
Turning around, Camera smiled when he saw the owner of the voice: his coltfriend, Melody Light. He was a dark blue unicorn, with emerald green eyes, a navy blue mane and tail, and his cutie mark was a musical note. On this particular day, he wore a matching light blue beanie and scarf to help with the cold weather.
"Hey, Melody, how was class?" Camera asked as he hugged Melody.
"O-oh, it was alright. Honestly, I w-was just loo-looking forward to seeing you today." Melody replied, smiling.
Camera blushed.
"Aww, that's mighty sweet of you to say, Babe." Camera said, nuzzling his coltfriend.
Melody nuzzled back before replying, "ah,w-well, I th-think you look cute when y-you blush."
The two walked to the town, all the while joking and just enjoying each other's company. The town of Ponyville itself was rather energetic with holiday spirit, with Hearth's Warming decorations spruced across the entire community. Noticing that Melody was shivering slightly, Camera asked, "hey, Hon, would you like to stop by Sugarcube Corner and get some hot coco?"
Melody nodded and replied, "yeah, sure, th-that sounds rea-really good."
Camera smiled and gave Melody a quick peck on the lips, causing him to blush brightly.
Finally arriving at the Corner, Camera opened the door for the two of them and walked in. The Corner felt very warm and inviting compared to the bitter cold that raged outside. The whole interior was decorated with wreaths, plastic candy canes and holly, and Hearth's Warming music played in the background.
"Hiya! Happy Hearth's Warming and welcome to Sugarcube Corner!" an excited pink pony exclaimed, grinning.
Even though he had gotten used to her randomness, Camera still got scared whenever Pinkie Pie appeared out of nowhere. So when Pinkie suddenly appeared in front of him, Camera let out a involuntary scream and stepped back a bit.
"Opps. Sorry, my bad, I forgot you get scared easily, Camera." Pinkie said, giggling.
"Hehe, it's quite alright, Pinkie." Camera replied, catching his breath.
"So, h-how's the baby?" Melody asked.
"Oh, the baby's doing really swell, yup yup. I just LOVE playing with him and making cute noises. AHH he's so adorable!" Pinkie replied excitedly.
"Camera? Melody? Is that you?" a voice called.
"Yes, Baker, it's us." Camera replied as a light pink colored unicorn came out of the kitchen area.
"Camera, Melody, it's really good to see you two again. What can I do for ya?" she asked.
"It's good to see you too, Cous. Melody and I decided to come out of the cold and celebrate the beginning of Winter Break with some hot cocoa." Camera replied, nodding to her.
"Oh, you two are starting Winter Break, that's right." Baker said as she began making the hot cocoa.
"Opps! I gotta go, baby's calling me! HOLD ON SWEETIE, MAMA'S COMING!" Pinkie shouted, racing up the stairs with a swoosh!
"Huh. Ya know, I should be surprised, but honestly, I've seen this too many times to ask why and how she's able to do this kind of stuff." Camera said.
Baker chuckled and replied, "yeah, I know how you feel, Cous."
She then asked, "So, Melody, you're still taking those speech therapy classes?"
"Y-yes I am. I feel like I'm im-proving alot." Melody replied, smiling.
"That's good to hear. I can tell you're getting better." Baker said, lifting the two mugs of steaming hot cocoa with her magic.
"Here you go, that'll be 8 bits." she stated as Camera reached for his pouch of coins.
After paying, Camera and Melody sat at one of the tables, sipping their mugs.
"S-so, any plans for Hearth's Warming?" Melody asked.
"Well, I usually spend Hearth's Warming with my family. My dad likes to throw a big Hearth's Warming party where he invites practically everypony to join in." Camera replied, smiling.
"Oh-oh wow, that sounds like alot of fun. Though, my family's pretty similar with that, except there are DJ battles and stuff wh-which is rea-really cool." said Melody, giggling.
Then, suddenly, Camera got an idea, one that only just popped into his head. Seeing the change in his coltfriend's expression, Melody asked, "Camera, ya okay?"
"Would you like to come with me back to Los Pegasus? I'm sure my parents would LOVE to meet you." Camera said excitedly.
Taken aback by the suddenness of the question, Melody was unsure how to respond.
"Camera, I-I don't know. I mean, your parents are some of the most famous ponies in Applewood, and... I'm just an insecure music student." said Melody, his ears drooping.
"Babe, that doesn't matter. I mean, your parents are Equestria's most famous musicians and I felt nervous when I first met them." Camera countered.
He gave his coltfriend a reassuring smile. Seeing that smile brightened Melody and he smiled back, blushing as he did so.
"Aww, you two are just the cutest." said Baker from behind the counter, grinning.
Melody and Camera blushed, with Camera rubbing the back of his neck. Baker giggled before saying, " ah the Projector Family Hearth's Warming party. I haven't been to one in a while."
She sighed as she said so.
"Aww, don't be s-sad, Baker. I'm s-sure you'll go to o-one soon." Melody said reassuringly.
"Thanks, Melody. Honestly, I was thinking about asking the Sandwiches if I could get some time off to go." Baker replied.
...
Film Reel's shop
Film Reel sat at the counter of his shop, sipping hot cocoa and reading the latest issue of The Applewood Gazette , which admittedly, was mostly celebrity gossip with film and TV news sprinkled in. As he read an rather interesting article on famous Equestrian filmmakers, the door chime let out a ring. Looking up, Film saw that Camera Flash had walked through the door.
"Hiya Film, Happy Hearth's Warming." the young photographer said happily.
"Happy Hearth's Warming to you too, Camera. What can I do for ya?" Film replied.
"Well, here's the movie I rented the other night." Camera explained, taking a DVD from his saddlebags.
"Thanks. How was the movie?" Film asked.
"Ehh, it was alright. Melody absolutely loved it though." Camera replied.
Film nodded in approval and as he put the DVD away, Camera couldn't help but notice a Power Ponies action figure sitting at the counter.
"Hey, Film, where'd you get this?" he asked.
"Oh, that little trinket? See, I got this from a buyer who deals in rare collectibles. Though, if I were being honest, I think the only reason I got this was because of a suggestion a writer's friend gave him." Film replied, shrugging.
"Huh? Well, see ya." Camera said, but stopped himself before walking out the door.
"Wait, Film. How do you normally spend your Hearth's Warming?" he asked.
"Well, normally I spend them with Pinkie Pie and her family. Mind if I ask why?" Film replied.
"Well, it's just, I never really seen you with anypony else, and I was just worried you were lonely and stuff." Camera explained sheepshily.
"Oh I'm perfectly fine, though I have considered seeing your dad again. I have not seen him in quite some time and I miss him." Film replied, frowning slightly.
"Well, why don't you come with us? I'm sure Pinkie wouldn't mind, would she?" Camera asked.
Film smiled and said, "yeah, that's probably true. I'll see about it."
"Alright, see ya, bye!" Camera exclaimed before walking through the door.
Turning to his Power Pony figure, Film chuckled and said, "well, Power, I guess we're in a fun story now."
"Thanks for coming! Happy Hearth's Warming!" Baker said as the last customers left the Sugarcube Corner.
She then turned the open side so that it read closed on the outside. Turning around, she was greeted by Pinkie pie.
"Hiya Baker. Ready to close the shop for the night?" the eccentric pink mare asked.
"Heh. Sure am Miss Sandwich." Baker replied.
"Oh, Baker, you know you don't have to be so formal with me, Pinkie will do just fine." Pinkie playfully scolded.
"I know, just a habit of respect." Baker replied, blushing slightly.
Pinkie giggled and said, "well, enough of that. After we close the shop, why don't you sit down and have dinner with us?"
"Oh, thank you but I don't want to intrude." replied Baker.
"Come on, you won't be intruding at all, Baker. Besides, it's Hearth's Warming and at Hearth's Warming, you have to be a giving spirit. Especially to your employees." Pinkie exclaimed, grinning.
Baker, deep in thought, turned to look outside and saw that the snow was falling heavily. She grimaced, knowing that getting home wouldn't be easy in the snow.
Well, I suppose staying here for dinner wouldn't be a bad idea. It's not like I'll be getting home soon, Baker thought.
Dinner consisted of a salad, Prench bread and some kind of jello. After eating for a few minutes in comfortable silence, Baker decided to bring up the party.
"So, um, Mr and Mrs- I mean, Cheese and Pinkie, may I ask you something?" Baker asked.
"Sure, Baker, what's on your mind?" Cheese replied.
"Well, um, I've been thinking: there's a family Hearth's Warming party coming soon and I was wondering if I could get time off to go to it." she said.
Pinkie and Cheese looked at each other, considering the question. Baker felt her heart skip a beat and time seem to slow down around her.
"Well, what do you think, Cheesy?" Pinkie asked.
"Hmm. I suppose we can. I mean, she's earned a little break after all the years of hard work." Cheese pondered.
Baker cleared her throat.
"Um, it's not a real big deal. I mean, I know things here get a little busy around the holidays and..."Baker began.
"No, it's quite alright, Baker. You have been working SUPER HARD these past two years and we were considering hiring some more help anyway." Pinkie said, cutting her off.
"She's right, Baker. Besides, I know some ponies who can help and you of all ponies deserve a break." Cheese added.
Baker smiled before replying, "aww, thank you."
...
Camera and Melody sat in the living room of Camera's house, cuddling each other on the couch while watching a Hearth's Warming movie. The movie was a little dated, having been made in the 2000's, but was a classic in the Modern era. As the two ponies lay there watching, Melody looked up at his coltfriend and smiled. Everytime he looked at Camera, he couldn't help but be heartwarmed by his cute freckles and his orangish-brown eyes. Closing his own, Melody nuzzled Camera's neck, prompting the earth pony to look down at him.
"I love you, C-Camera." Melody said.
"I love you too, Melody." Camera replied, kissing him on the clips.
Melody reciprocated the kiss, enjoying the wonderful bliss he felt. If breathing wasn't a necessity, he was sure he could kiss Camera forever.
Camera ended the kiss and smiled softly. Melody leaned onto Camera's shoulder and sighed happily.
"Ohh, I'mma walking through a winter wonderland, ohhhh.." Film Reel sang joyfully as he trotted to the Sugarcube Corner.
This was a trip he made every morning before opening his shop. Was it the healthiest of breakfasts? No, and the slight protruding of his belly and sides were definitely a negative sign of that. But, while the Corner's breakfasts lacked in nutrition, they more than made up for in how simply amazing they were. Humming to himself, Film opened the door to the Corner and relished in the warmth of the heater. Pinkie Pie was at the counter, wearing a white apron and her mane pulled back.
"Good morning, Film!" the pink mare greeted happily.
Film smiled and replied, "good morning, Pinkie. Happy Hearth's Warming by the way."
"Happy Hearth's Warming to you too, Bud! So, let me guess, your usual?" Pinkie asked.
"Yes, please." he replied.
A few minutes later, Film had seated himself, sipping a mug of mint hot chocolate and having a plate of blueberry waffles, hashbrowns and hay bacon.
"So, Film, how are you spending the holidays this year?" Pinkie asked.
Normally, Film would spend Hearth's Warming with the Sandwiches. He didn't really have a family of his own and it was really hard to refuse Pinkie's offer of spending Hearth's Warming with her family. Taking a sip of his mint hot chocolate, Film then proceeded to reply, "well, Pinkie, I'm considering meeting an old friend in Los Pegasus this year."
"Really? So you're not spending Hearth's Warming with us?" Pinkie asked, her ears droopy and voice sad.
"Don't be sad, Pinkie, it's not like I'd be gone forever. I mean, I love spending Hearth's Warming with you, I really do. But there's a pony in Los Pegasus I haven't seen in years and meeting his son made me want to see him again." Film replied, giving her a reassuring smile.
"Yeah, I understand. You really miss your friend and friendship is like really super duper important." Pinkie said.
"Hmm-hmm. Don't worry, I'll write you a letter once I get there, okay?" Film said.
Pinkie nodded and smiled at him.
"Yeah! But first, a GOODBYE FOR NOW BUT I'LL TOTALLY SEE YOU AGAIN PARTY!!!!" she exclaimed, grabbing her party cannon from seemingly out of nowhere.
...
Melody and Camera stood at the train station, wearing big winter coats and saddlebags full of luggage. Melody had laid his head against Camera's, seeking warmth from the other stallion. Camera smiled and kissed his forehead. Melody blushed and smiled back, finding great joy in his coltfriend's affections.
Camera looked up and to his left, he saw a pony he recognised: Film Reel was walking towards them, saddlebags full as well.
"Huh, looks like he took up the offer." Camera said outloud.
Melody, confused by his statement, looked to see what Camera was talking about and saw the green unicorn stallion. Right off the bat, he noticed that the stallion had a somewhat large belly and his sides protruded just a bit. He also had a slight greying of his mane and had a joyful stride and look. It was like he was happy all the time and nothing could bring him down.
"Film Reel, glad you decided to come." Camera said to the approaching pony.
Film smiled and replied, "yeah, well, it has been a long time since we spoke and I figured I'd catch up with your old man."
He then looked at Melody and asked,"well, hello. You must be Melody Light, correct?"
Melody nodded and smiled shyly.
"Y-you must be Film R-Reel. Camera tol-told me about you." Melody replied.
"Oh, and this Plowy, or was it Powery? Man, this writer can't make up his mind, can he?" Film said, more to himself than anypony else.
Melody gave him a confused look.
"Oh, don't mind him, Melody. Film has always been like that, just like Pinkie." Camera said jokingly.
By then, Film had produced a small Power Ponies action figure and was showing it to Melody when the train pulled up to the station.
"Well, time to go, Guys." Camera said matter-of-factly.
Soon, all three of them were in their seats, getting comfortable.
"Attention everypony: we are departing Ponyville, next stops: Baltimare, Fillydelphia, and finally, Los Pegasus." a male voice said over the intercom.
"Well, goodbye Ponyville, for now." Film said, chuckling.
After five days of travel, the train finally reached Los Pegasus. Tired and weary from the long journey, Camera, Film, and Melody were a little slow at getting up from their seats. After five to ten minutes, the three stallions stood on the Los Pegasus train platform. All around them, Hearth's Warming decorations were hung up and holiday music was playing over an intercom. One thing that was immediately different about Los Pegasus from Ponyville was the lack of snow, as snow clouds were impossible to make in the rather warm climate. Despite the difference, Los Pegasus was still showing alot of holiday spirit.
"Ah, Los Pegasus. I haven't been here in years, and this is the first time you've been here, Plowy." Film said, turning to the Power Ponies figure hanging on his saddlebag.
Nothing was said by the figure.
Camera let out a light chuckle before replying, "yeah, it sure has been a while, Film."
Melody smiled and said, "t-totally. S-so, let's see about getting to Camera's place."
The trio made their way out of the station, with Camera calling for a taxi. After climbing into the wagon, the cab driver asked, "so, where can I take you three this fine Hearth's Warming?"
"Can you take us to 8756 Applewood drive, please?" Camera replied.
The cab driver grunted and nodded before taking off. 30 minutes later, the wagon pulled up to a mansion which most ponies would kill to have.
"That'll 70 bits, please." the cab driver grunted, accepting the small bag Camera gave him.
"Of course. Thanks alot, happy Hearth's Warming." Camera said, smiling.
The driver merely grunted in acknowledgment and rode off. Turning to face the mansion, Melody couldn't help but be awed by it; despite being raised in a similar house himself. The mansion was a rather large piece of real estate, with a white exterior and a brown roof. On the left and right sides of the house, a swimming pool and a tennis court could be seen.
"You're pretty cute when you stare like that, ya know?" Camera asked jokingly as he observed his coltfriend's shocked expression.
Suddenly realizing that he had been caught staring, Melody smiled embarrassingly and blushed. Camera chuckled and gave him a quick peck on the mouth.
Ah, young love. I remember when I had that, Film thought, a sort of sad smile on his muzzle.
Camera was the first to the large wooden doors and knocked. The door opened and Camera's mother stood in the doorway. She smiled widely and said excitedly, " oh Camera, welcome back, happy Hearth's Warming!"
She then gave Camera a big hug and he replied, "heh. It's good to see you again, Mom. Happy Hearth's Warming."
His mother ended the embrace and for the first time, looked at the two other ponies standing with him.
"Oh, is this the fine young stallion you asked about, and, oh? Is that... Film Reel?" she asked.
Film Reel smiled and waved at her. "Good to see you again, Page, Still as lovely as ever I see." he greeted, chuckling.
Page blushed and then turned to Melody. The young unicorn smiled shyly and replied, "w-well hello, Miss Flash. I'm Melody L-Light."
"Yes, Camera told me about you, Melody. I'm glad to finally meet my son's coltfriend, and I'm glad to see he picked himself a good one." she said jokingly.
"MOM!" Camera rebutted, rolling his eyes.
Page giggled and replied, "oh, hush. I'm just saying, Dear."
She led the three of them inside and yelled, "Projector! Photo Memory! We got visitors."
Two new ponies joined them; one was a yellow earth pony with chocolate brown eyes and a trimmed black beard, the other was a small white earth pony filly.
Projector smiled as he saw who was there.
"Camera! Welcome home, my son!" he said, hugging him tightly.
"Hey Dad. How are you doing?" Camera asked.
"Oh, I'm doing good. Royal Society meetings aren't the most exciting things to do to be honest." Projector replied, chuckling.
"Hiya Big Bro! Welcome home!" the small filly said running up to Camera.
He smiled and hugged his little sister.
"Hey Photo. How are you?" Camera asked her.
She smiled and said that it was good. It was then that Projector had shaken hooves with Melody and had finally turned to see who the third pony was. Upon seeing who that was, Projector found himself shocked. Standing before him was Film Reel, a stallion he hadn't seen in years.
"Film, you're here?!" Projector asked.
Film nodded and smiled before replying, "yup. It's been a long time, Old Friend."
"Yeah, it has. Last time I saw you was back in, what, 2017?" Projector said.
Nodding, Film smiled and the two gave each other a hug.
"Aww, I t-think we ju-just reunited a old friendship." Melody said, smiling at the two.
After getting their room set up, Camera and Melody sat in the living room alongside Page; who really wanted to get to know Camera's coltfriend. While this was going on, Projector and Film were in the earth pony's private studio, reliving old memories over a cup of hot chocolate.
"So, how's Ponyville?" Projector asked.
"It's been good. It's quiet, the townponies are really friendly, and I get to run one of the only movie rental stores in town." Film replied.
"I remember you saying something about opening a shop in Ponyville. Is that business venture any good?" Projector asked, sipping his chocolate.
"Oh, quite so, Old Friend." replied Film, grinning.
Projector chuckled at that.
"I hear you're with the Royal Equestrian Society of Directors. Quite an accomplishment." Film stated.
"True, and being the director of the society has its perks, but the meetings are mostly budgets and business stuff." Projector replied, chuckling.
He then turned to Film and asked, "you said my son invited you, right?"
Film nodded.
"Heh, that's my boy. He's a good kid, and his coltfriend doesn't seem that bad either." Projector said chuckling.
Film gave him a sad smile and replied, "yeah, that's true."
"So, Film, have you settled down yet?" Projector asked.
Film sighed and replied, "no, nopony hasn't reached out to me like that in a long time."
Projector nodded and leaned back in his chair. He knew Film had terrible experiences with mares before and that one of them had scared him off from dating ever again. Who that mare was he never did and probably never will find out, but he hated seeing his friend like this.
"Film, I don't think it's good for you to be stuck in the past like this. I mean, I know that mare broke your heart but you shouldn't give up." Projector stated, knowing full well how Film would respond.
"Come on, Proj. I... I just don't think that'll happen to me, especially after.... her." Film replied, just as expected.
Projector didn't even have a reactionary sigh to what he said, having had this conversation with Film on many occasions. Still, that didn't stop him from trying.
"Well, what if I told you I know somepony who might be interested?" Projector asked.
"I'd say you're crazy." Film replied.
"Nah. I lost my sanity years ago, Pal. Still, I ain't joking with you about this mare." stated Projector.
Crap, now I know why Camera doesn't like to get up so early, Melody thought as he observed his coltfriend quietly sip his coffee at the table. To be fair, it's not like the two had never gone out for some morning coffee, but that was always had a somewhat reasonable time and Camera never looked like he was about to fall asleep. "Miss Flash, w-was this something that happened all the time?" Melody asked.
"Yes, it was. Let me tell you, Camera is not a morning pony." she replied, adjusting the glasses.
For the first time that morning, Camera spoke: "Mornings I don't have an issue with, Mom. Its early mornings that I'm not fond of."
"Still counts as not a morning pony Sweetie." Page said, grinning.
"Aunt Page, good morning and Happy Hearth's Warming!" Baker said excitedly as she came into the kitchen.
Her mane was not tied in the usual Oriental bun, but it was hanging down loosely to the nape of her neck. Page smiled and hugged her niece.
"Same to you, Baker. Glad you made it last night." Page said.
Projector, Film, and Photo Memory arrived, saying good morning and such. About an hour later, the group was eating pancakes and hay bacon while discussing the plans for the day.
"Well, today we'll be doing some Hearth's Warming shopping, though it won't be much we're getting." Projector explained.
"So, you've already done the majority of the shopping, Dad?" Camera asked.
"Yeah, pretty much. Later, though, I'm introducing Film to a certain friend." he explained.
Later
The group had made their way to the Los Pegasus mall, the largest shopping center in the whole city. Camera and Melody went with Page, while Photo Memory went Baker, and Projector traveled with Film Reel.
The two old friends found themselves in a jeweler's shop, as Projector was looking for a gift to give his wife.
"Well, hello there, Mr.Flash. Happy Hearth's Warming and how may I help you?" a mare behind the counter asked.
"Happy Hearth's Warming to you too. I'm looking for something to give my wife, something she'd really appreciate." Projector replied.
"Well, what're you looking for?" the mare asked.
As the two exchanged buyer talk, Film looked around the shop, bored out of his mind. Sure, he had no special somepony of his own, and seeing all the stallions and mares searching for things to give to their special somepony didn't help his mood either. Suddenly, he bumped into a mare, causing her to drop her purse.
"Oh, I'm so sorry, Miss, let me get that for you." Film said, embarrassed.
As he proceeded to pick up the purse with his magic, he couldn't help but notice that the purse looked familiar. The mare herself looked familiar too, with a light blue coat, a dark purple mane, bluish-green eyes, and wore a fashionable winter skirt and black shirt. He gave the mare back her purse and again apologised.
The mare giggled and replied, "it's quite alright, dear."
that voice, he thought.
"Hey, do I know you from somewhere? You look familiar?" the mare asked.
Film couldn't believe it, but it was true. Standing right before him was in fact, Starry Night. The mare looked just as shocked and her eyes widened.
"Film Reel?! Now I know where I seen you before." Starry said, blinking.
"Yeah. So, how has life been treating you?" Film asked, still shocked.
"It-it's been good. You've certainly gotten a bit um... bigger." she replied, noticing his weight.
Projector saw what was going on and approached.
"Ah, Starry Night, didn't expect you here." he said.
Film whipped his head around and looked at his friend in shock.
"You know her?!" he asked.
"I sure do. She and I worked many times on screenplays." Projector replied before turning to her.
"Wait, Projector, THIS is your friend you wanted me to meet?" Starry asked, shocked.
"That's right. I thought both of you would get along." he replied.
He then looked at both of them and said, "but I see you two are already familiar with each other."
"That's because she's my ex-fillyfriend, Bud." Film replied.
Now it was Projector's turn to be surprised.
"Film, you and Starry used to-"
"Yes, Projector, we used to date." Starry interrupted, now scowling.
Film scowled as well. "True, and you weren't exactly what I had in mind when Projector said he had a friend I needed to meet." he said.
"On that, we can agree." Starry replied, walking away.
Projector blinked and turned to his best friend.
"I-I didn't know you two-"
"Save it, Projector." Film cut him off.
"Film, I'm-I'm sorry." Projector said, a concerned look on his face.
"Come on, let's just get out of here." Film said, his tone a mixture of angry and sad.
...
Starry Night walked through the mall, feeling angry and tricked. She was actually looking forward to meeting Projector's friend, especially considering how she had no special somepony in her life. However, if Projector thought she was going to date that weird and annoying stallion, he had another thing coming.
...
As Projector and Film Reel made their way out of the store and through the rest of the mall, Projector kept glancing at his best friend. His expression was one of anger and even a bit of sadness. With a look of concern on his muzzle, Projector decided to bring up Starry.
"Film, what happened between you and Starry?" he asked.
At first, Film said nothing, continuing to have the look of being in deep, angry thought. He finally closed his eyes and let out a deep sigh.
"Do you really want to know, Projector?" Film asked.
"Yes, you're my best friend and I want to help anyway I can." Projector replied.
Film looked into his friend's eyes and saw the genuine look of concern and compassion in them. Seeing that made him feel more confident in telling his story.
"Well, it was a long time ago....." he began
Flashback, December 1997
A 25 year old Film Reel looked at himself in the mirror, a grin on his face. Tonight, he was going to go the opening of one of the most anticipated Hearth's Warming movies ever: A Hearth's Warming Tale. Not only was he going to it's premiere, but he was going with one of the most beautiful mares in Equestria: Starry Night. Film sighed happily at the mere thought of her. The two had started dating back in September, and Film couldn't be happier. After brushing his mane a bit and applying some cologne, Film ran excitedly down the stairs. He then grabbed his winter coat and began trotting outside, his hooves almost skipping over the air. 10 minutes later, he arrived at Starry's house and knocked on the door. Almost immediately the door opened and an older stallion clearly Starry's dad appeared. "Hello, Mr. Night, I'm Starry's date for tonight." he said.
Mr. Night smiled and called for his daughter to come to the door. When she appeared, Film was blown away by her appearance: a winter dress shirt and skirt, her mane falling to both her shoulders. "Hey, Film." she said, smiling.
"S-Starry, you look great." Film said, blushing.
Starry giggled and replied, "oh, thank you Dear."
Man did he ever loved the way she said "dear". The two made their way to the theater,where a long line of ponies were waiting. Suddenly, a stallion who Film had never seen before approached them and said, "hey, Babe, glad you could come."
Film stepped in and said, "hey, man, don't call my mare "babe."
The stallion scoffed and replied, "your mare? You gotta be kidding, right? I'm her coltfriend."
Film was about to retort when Starry said, "oh, um, hey Corsair. Guess I forgot about our date."
Film, shocked, asked, "Date? You're dating him?! Are you-?"
"Yes I am, and before you ask, technically, I've been playing both of you."
"Wait, both of us? Babe, what the hay are you talking about?" Corsair asked, his turn to be shocked.
"Corsair, I'm sorry I lied to you, but I already had a coltfriend." she replied.
Both stallions were shocked, confused, and about to be heartbroken. "S-Starry, what is going on?" Film choked.
"Oh you poor, poor stallions. Why would I date either one of you? You're both just weird, disgusting weirdos." she said.
"WHAT?!" both stallions replied, hurt by what she said.
"It's true. Frankly, I just wanted your bits, and was sorely disappointed. What acouple of losers, you two oughta be ashamed of yourselves." Starry said in a condescending tone.
Present day.
"So, that was that. She was tricking the both of us and left us out in the snow, completely heartbroken." Film finished.
Projector just stared in shock, not knowing what to say. He knew his friend had his heartbroken by a mare before, but didn't think it was that bad.
"Film... I-I'm sorry about what happened. I had no idea." he replied.
Film just nodded and sighed sadly. This was going to be a loooooooong day.
"Hey, H-Hon, do you need an-any help with that?" Melody asked Camera, concerned over seeing him carry so many shopping bags.
Sure, earth ponies were typically very strong, but even they have their limits. Camera, for all of his strength, was somewhat struggling to carry the many bags his mother had given him.
"If you want to. Ya sure you can handle it, Babe?" Camera replied.
Melody nodded before replying, "oh yeah, def-definitely. I-I'm worried you'll break your back."
Using his magic, Melody lifted some of the bags in a bright blue aura. Camera was relieved at having some of the weight removed.
"See? Much better, isn't it?" Melody asked, smiling.
"Yeah, yeah it is." replied Camera.
"Aww, you two are just the cutest, I swear." Baker said over her shoulder.
Camera and Melody blushed slightly at this.
"Okay, everypony, I think we can take a break? Who's up for the food court?" Page asked, turning to the ponies behind her.
Camera suddenly felt a rumble and realized that he really was hungry.
"Well, I guess some food would be nice." he said, blushing as his coltfriend giggled.
Camera, Melody, Baker, Page and Photo all took a seat at one of the food court tables. Page and Photo went to order lunch while the others just sat. Camera found himself lazily looking at the window of one of the technology shops.
"What you looking at, Hon?" Melody asked, breaking Camera out of the lazy daze he was in.
Camera looked at him and replied, "oh, that tech shop over there. Figure I'd see what kind of cameras they have."
Melody nodded and laid his head on Camera's shoulder, hugging him in the process.
Baker chuckled at this, and Camera did as well.
"Gosh, I do miss the ole reunions. Shame my.... finance couldn't come..." Baker said sadly.
Nothing the emphasis she put on "finance", Camera asked, "finance? Did something happen between you two?"
Baker rubbed her foreleg nervously, biting her lower lip. "Well, let's just say, he and I had a falling out. I don't really feel like talking about it right now." she replied.
"Well, we're here for you if you want to talk about it." Camera said.
"Yeah, thanks." Baker replied, her ears drooping slightly.
By the afternoon, the groups had reconnected and were now heading back to the mansion. Film Reel had brightened up somewhat, but was still sour over the meeting. Only Projector was truly aware as everypony else was chatting and laughing with each other. The family quickly returned home, making dinner and wrapping presents. Exhausted, everypony went to bed a bit earlier than usual. Film, however, had trouble sleeping. He tossed and turned, his mind unable to escape the image of Starry at the jewelry store. That, and, Projector thought she AND him would get along?! To be fair, it wasn't his fault. Projector had no way of knowing of the past he and Starry shared and apparently they were work-partners. Still, Film hadn't expected to see her in years and had hoped to never see her again.
Maybe I should have stayed in Ponyville and not even bother coming back here, he thought sadly.
No! It wasn't a bad idea to come back. I got to see my friend for the first time in years and share a new experience, no way I could have missed this.
Yeah, but you saw the mare who ruined your life, who scared you off from dating ever again!
On and on throughout the night till Film finally fell asleep.
.....
Camera and Melody lay on the bed together, with Camera draping one of his forelegs over Melody's side. Camera was awake, feeling the rise and fall of his coltfriend's chest as he breathed. As he lay there, he thought about the last two months and how much his life changed. He was dating the best stallion he ever met and loved every single moment of it. Camera smiled at the thought of when he and Melody came together as a couple. Suddenly, he heard a strange noise downstairs, his ears standing up and his eyes wide. Curious as to what the noise was, Camera quietly slipped his foreleg from Melody and climbed out of bed. He then went downstairs, following the sound of the noise to the kitchen. There, he saw his father was getting a drink from the fridge.
Huh, I wonder why he's up, Camera thought.
He walked across the living room and smiled when his father noticed him.
"Hey, Camera. Couldn't sleep?" Projector asked.
Camera shook his head.
"No, I heard a sound and wanted to check it out." he replied.
Projector nodded and rubbed his beard.
"Hey, Dad?"Camera asked.
"Yes, Camera?" replied Projector.
"You okay? I know you normally don't come down here unless something's wrong, so did something happen?" asked Camera.
"I'm okay. It's just... been a really long day." Projector replied.
"Well, that is true." Camera said quietly.
Projector nodded in agreement. He then took a sip of some water, offering Camera some. The younger stallion accepted.
"Hey, Dad?"
"Hmm?"
"I love you."
"I love you too, Son."
The two stallions then hugged each other and finally went to bed.
Starry Night had just arrived at her home in a somewhat nice part of Los Pegasus. Years of working for Mr. Projector and his studio had given her the luxury of being able to purchase a nice house in a nice part of town. and the two-story building was just right for a pony like her. She opened the door and stepped into the house's warm embrace. After putting up the items she got at the mall, Starry made herself a cup of hot cocoa and sat in front of the TV, preparing to enjoy a little time by herself. As she watched a rather boring and poorly made Hearth's Warming movie, she couldn't help but think about her encounter with Film Reel earlier. As much as she respected the opinion of Mr. Projector, this was one thing she simply couldn't wrap her head around. Her, getting along with Film Reel? Ha!she thought to herself.
She already played with him once, and was pretty sure neither one wanted to see each other. Amused, she took her smartphone out, and called her friend, a mare named Aqua Marine. After the first three rings, the sound of the phone being answered was heard and a mare's voice said, "hello"?
She spoke in a Southern drawl.
"Hey, Aqua Marine. It's me, Starry." Starry replied.
"Oh, howdy Starry, you doin' good?" Aqua asked, her tone tired, but still generally joyful.
"Yeah, I've been doing good. What you been up to?"
"Well, the boss has asked me to review some of the big releases this year. Honestly, I reckon the folks who make these Hearth's Warming movies are just looking to make a quick buck."
"Heh, I feel ya, Sister. Anyway, I called you because I had something interesting happen today."
"Oh? What sort of thing?"
"Well, I sorta ran into my ex into the mall."
"Wait, you did what?!"
"Yup. Sure did. I ran into him at one of the jewelry shops today, and Projector was with him."
"That's mighty crazy. So what did ya do?"
"Well, what happened was is that he bumped into me, making me drop my purse. He then picked it up and that was when I realized who he was. It was quite a surprise to the both of us."
Starry took a breath before continuing: "Then, we kinda started talking and that's when Projector came along, explaining how Film was his friend I wanted to meet. Like, really, he thought I'd like that loser? Haha, what a fool."
"Hey, uh, I don't think you oughta talk about him like that. I mean, I don't know what kind of pony he is, but I don't think he's a loser." Aqua countered.
"And what would you know, Aqua? You never even met the guy."
"Well, no, but~"
"Listen, Aqua, Film was just a weird, freaky colt who's become really soft and fat. I only dated him for the money, same with Corsair."
There was silence on the other end for a few seconds before Aqua replied, "you know, Starry? That's pretty shallow of you. I mean, it sounds like y'all still got some things to work out."
"Oh, please, Aqua, that pony's a stupid loser. No way I'm making up to him." Starry replied.
Aqua sighed and said, "alright, whatever, Starry. I still think you oughta apologise and make amends, but I ain't going to be able to pressure you."
Aqua laid back in her desk chair, letting out a loud sigh. In all the years she had known Starry, she had mentioned her love life on only a few rare occasions, and always passively. This was the first time Starry had ever really talked about it with some detail, albeit not the full story. Aqua found herself feeling a mixture of anger and disappointment in her friend, and while she may never have met Film Reel personally, she still felt that what Starry did was wrong. Sighing again, Aqua got up from her desk and headed over to the kitchen to make herself some hot chocolate. As she walked down the hall, she just couldn't get what Starry had said out of her mind. I just can't believe Starry would do something like that, Aqua thought.
Sitting at her desk, cup of hot cocoa resting in front of her, Aqua looked over the list she was given by her boss. Even as she read, her mind kept wandering back to the conversation over the phone. She wasn't sure why, but the idea of her best friend playing with a stallion's feelings shook her in a way that most ponies probably wouldn't feel. Oh sure, most ponies would be shocked, even outraged, but Aqua just felt like crying. It was like she had just found a horrible secret and that secret was eating at her. Rubbing her temples with her hooves, Aqua thought about what to do with this information. Part of her felt like she should stay out of her friend's business, but a different part of her felt like she should reach out to Film and maybe befriend him. After all, she thought, the name Film Reel is actually pretty famous and I bet he'd be great to get along with. Nodding to herself, Aqua decided that she would try to meet up with him. Thankfully, she knew the pony to call to make that happen. Smiling, she reached for her phone and started dialing a number.
"Chestnuts roasting over an open fire.." Melody sang as he helped decorate the Hearth's Warming tree. He, Camera, and Page were decorating the Hearth's Warming tree. Photo was out playing with her friends, and Projector was hanging out with Film Reel for the day. Baker was helping with the decorations as well.
"My, my, your voice is quite amazing, Dear." Page commented.
"Heh. Th-thanks, Miss Flash." Melody replied, a slight blush appearing on his cheeks.
Camera chuckled as he put up one of the ornaments, giving his coltfriend a smile.
"Melody, I know I never asked, but how many genres can you sing?"Baker asked as she lifted one of the ornaments.
"Well, I c-can sing rock, pop, rap, even more traditional styles." Melody explained.
"So, if you wanted to, you could do, say, opera?" Baker asked.
"Um.... well, I've never t-tried opera, but I can give it a try." Melody replied.
"Yeah, well, I know you can do pretty much anything you set your mind to, Babe." Camera said, giving his coltfriend a peck on the cheek.
"Aww, thanks Hon." Melody replied, returning the kiss.
"Aww!" Page called, grinning.
.....
Projector and Film were walking down a street in downtown Los Pegasus, heading for a destination Film was still as of yet unaware of. Projector hadn't exactly explained to him what was going on, only that he wanted to go to a local coffee shop, presumably to just spend time with him. If that was the plan, then Film had no objections, as he had absolutely no desire to meet some mare Projector thought would like him. The two friends stopped in front of a quaint, yet strangely fancy-looking, coffee shop. The shop was just a standard-hole-in-the-wall, with large windows and a neon sign hanging above it. The sign read, The House of Coffee, serving only the best in all of Equestria!
"Well, this looks nice enough." Film said, absent-mindedly.
"Eeyup. This here is probably the best coffee shop I've ever been to, and been coming here ever since I first visited it about five years ago." Projector replied, grinning.
The two friends walked into the shop, and, if Film was to be honest, the interior was certainly very nice. Consisting of brown-painted walls and furniture, tables laid out neatly in the center. Towards the front was the counter, with a display case showing all the baked goods the shop sold. The menu was also posted up on the wall, and showed a wide variety of coffee. Upon seeing some of the prices, Film's jaw dropped slightly. 23 bits for a cup of coffee?!That's outrageous! he thought.
"Yeah, the prices are a little... crazy, but the coffee is really good, believe me." Projector reassured his friend.
Relaxing, but still a bit skeptical, Film looked over his choices, deciding on a peppermint-flavored latte, while Projector got himself a pumpkin-spice latte with extra cream.
"What? I have indulgences too, you know." Projector said after seeing Film give him a seriously? look.
A few minutes, the two stallions seated themselves at one of the tables, sipping their coffees and munching on pastries. Admittedly, this was kinda fun, and the coffee actually tasted decent. But Film felt like there was more to visiting this shop than simply to hang out, a feeling that had only been getting stronger since they got there.
"Projector, there's more to us coming here than simply to hang out, isn't there?" Film asked.
"What do you mean?" asked Projector.
"Well, I just mean that-"
Before Film could finish his sentence, the door to the shop opened and a green pegasus mare stepped in. Film turned around at the sound of the door and his breath stopped at the sight of the mare. She was a turquoise colored , with a peppermint green mane, laced with a purple streak. Her eyes were of a bluish-green tint, and she had freckles. She.... she's the most beautiful mare I have ever seen, Film thought, swallowing.
As soon as Aqua Marine walked in through the front door, she noticed the two stallions seating at one of the center tables, and one of them was staring at her. She smiled upon seeing Projector as the other stallion, who also noticed her.
"Mr. Flash, it's good to see ya." she said as she approached the table.
Projector got up proceeded to shake her hoof.
"Of course. Though, please, don't be so formal. Just call me Projector." he replied.
"Just call me Aqua, then." Aqua said, giggling.
"Film, I'd like you to meet Aqua Marine. She's a bit of an old acquaintance of mine." Projector said.
Film raised an eyebrow before replying, "seriously?"
"Oh yeah, I interviewed him a few times over the years. We kinda know each other now, I reckon." she said, smiling.
Her accent's kinda cute, and the way she giggles is nice as well. thought Film.
Then it hit him: was she the reason why Projector brought him here?
"Well, anyhow, I'm going to grab myself a coffee. Be right back y'all." Aqua said, oblivious to Film's realization.
As soon as she was out of earshot, Film leaned in to Projector and asked, "she's the reason you brought us here, didn't ya?"
"Hmm? Oh, I dunno what you're talking about, Bud." Projector replied, his eyes darting back and forth.
"Projector, don't give me that. You're a terrible liar. You brought us here just so I can meet this mare." Film said in a hushed, but angry whisper.
"Hey, it wasn't technically my idea. Aqua was the one who called and asked for this meeting." Projector replied.
"So, you just decided to go with it?!" Film growled.
"Look, Film, I just think you need-" Projector never finished his sentence before Aqua returned and asked, "um, you guys okay?"
Projector and Film both looked up at her, unsure as to what exactly say.
"Um, yeah, we're okay, right Film?" Projector asked, looking over to Film.
"Yeah. Really good." Film replied.
Aqua, weirded out by all this, simply shrugged and sat down with her coffee.
"So, anyway, I'm Aqua Marine." the mare said, extending her hoof out to Film, who shook it.
"I'm Film Reel." Film replied.
"Projector's told me quite a bit about ya, and I sorta figure why not meet one of Los Pegasus's legendary figures." she said.
Film had a light chuckle at that despite himself. There was a time when every pony from Los Pegasus to Manehatten had heard of Film Reel and the work he did for Applewood. Back in his youth, Film would help up and coming filmmakers take their first steps onto the Applewood scene. In fact, this is how he met Projector all those years ago.
"Guess my contributions haven't been forgotten, huh?" Film asked, sipping his coffee.
"Oh no way. Sure, ya might not have the same popularity as ya once did, but folks still remember ya." she replied, grinning.
"Heh." Film stated.
The three ponies chatted for the next hour or so, discussing everything from life in general to their works and even funny stories. Eventually, the three ponies decided that enough time was spent and it was time to go home.
As Aqua was about to go her way, she said to Film, "well, it was mighty fine meetin' ya."
"Yeah. Same here." Film replied.
"Yup. Hope to see y'all again! Bye!" she said, turning around and walking back home.
Film couldn't help but stare at her as he watched her walk, captivated by her beauty. He couldn't help but feel.... attracted to her,and was unknowingly increasing the size of his smile.
"So... you like her, don't ya?" Projector asked, a smug grin on his face.
"Huh? Oh shut up, I'm still mad at you." Film replied, his expression one of mock anger.
Projector shrugged, but continued to smugly grin as he walked home.
While Projector and Film Reel were hanging out at the coffee shop, Melody would receive an unexpected surprise. After hanging up the lights to the Hearth's Warming tree, Melody and Camera laid next to each other on the couch. The other couches in the living room were occupied by Page, Baker, and the little filly whose name certain ponies keep failing to remember. A Hearth's Warming movie was playing on the 42-inch television screen hanging on the wall. Suddenly, the doorbell rang and Baker was the first to get up and go get the door. When she opened the door, she was surprised to see two ponies, one a stallion and the other a mare, stand at the entrance. The mare wore distinct purple DJ glasses and the other a black short-sleeve with a white tie.
"Hey, we're Melody's parents, is he here?" the stallion asked.
"Mom? Dad? Is-is that you?" Melody asked, coming to the door.
The stallion grinned and said, "Melody!"
Baker blinked, still shocked. She knew Melody was the son of the famous Vinyl Scratch and Neon Lights, actually meeting them was something she never dreamed of.
"Oh, Um, hello Mr and Mrs Light, my name is Baker." Baker said, offering a weak smile.
"Hello, Baker, pleasure to meet you." Neon replied, shaking her hoof, while Vinyl signed the same thing.
By now, Page Turner had come to the door, smiling as she saw the two DJs.
"Well,well, well, Vinyl and Neon Lights, the most famous DJ couple in Equestria. I was wondering when I'd get to meet you two." she said, fixing her glasses.
The two had just finished hugging Melody and Neon had now walked up Page,smiling.
"Same. Honestly, I'm not much of a reader, but you do write some fascinating stuff." Neon replied.
"Oh, you flatter me, Dear. Please, come in and make yourselves at home." Page said, leading them in the home.
...
Projector and Film Reel got out of the taxi and were making their way back to the mansion's entrance. Film had been silent for the most part, save for the occasional playful jabbing between him and Projector. His mind had mostly been on Aqua Marine, and on how much of an impression she made on him. It had been so long since he felt any kind of romantic feelings for another pony that he had forgotten what it felt like. Even so, he still felt quite doubtful. He knew he wasn't in the best shape and most mares wouldn't be interested in middle-aged stallions anyway. Still, he thought, she was quite attractive and seemed to enjoy my company. Maybe... no, no. Get a hold of yourself, she'll never love a stallion like you.
Sighing inwardly, Film felt relief when Projector proceeded to unlock and open the door. He wasn't ready for what happened next, as he witnessed Projector's reaction to some unexpected guests.
Projector gasped and said, "is that the DJ Couple?!"
