> Darling and Date
>  by Silk Rose
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

> Chapter 1: Announce and Ask
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Rarity stood with Pinkie in the latter's room, waiting on their friends to show up for the party. The two stood in silence for some time, Pinkie smiling, while Rarity pondered their friend's reaction to their new relationship.

What if they don't approve?

What if they don't want to be friends with us anymore?

What if one of them had a crush on one of us, and we ruin the entire party, and they become miserable and resentful?

Thinking about it made Rarity fidget slightly, she hoped Pinkie hadn't noticed.

Pinkie's gaze told a different story, however.

"Rarity, are you alright?" Pinkie asked, head tilting slightly.

Rarity responded, "Yes, just a little nervous, darling."

Pinkie asked, "Why? It'll be fine; our friends will be nothing but supportive!"

Rarity smiled. "Yes, I know, but it still makes me a little nervous thinking about it."

Pinkie hugged her, and said, "Everything will be fine; they'll all be super supportive and excited for us."

Rarity smiled in the hug, and replied, "You're right, thank you darling."

After the hug was over, their first guests appeared, Fluttershy and Rainbow Dash.

Pinkie greeted the pair with a hug, both returning it, in kind.

After the hug, Rainbow asked, "What's this party for? Anything special?"

Rarity, not knowing what to say, turned to Pinkie, who luckily had an answer.

Pinkie replied, "You'll see when everypony gets here; it's a surprise."

Good job, Pinkie.

Rainbow replied, "Okay, sounds exciting." She turned to Rarity and asked, "Does this surprise involve you or is it a Pinkie thing?"

"It's an us kind of surprise," Rarity said, trying not to give it away.

Before Rainbow could reply, Rarity said, "Nice to see you again."

"Same," Rainbow said.

Rarity turned to Fluttershy, "I'm glad you could make it darling."

"Glad to be here, Rarity," Fluttershy said with a smile.

Moments later, Applejack trotted through the door.

Pinkie hugged Applejack, who hugged back.

After the hug was over, Pinkie said, "Once Twilight gets here, we can get this party started."

Rarity said, "Welcome, Applejack."

Applejack replied, "Thank you kindly. What's the occasion? Or is it a regular Pinkie party?"

Rarity answered, "You'll know soon enough, just waiting on Twilight."

As if on cue, seconds later, Twilight opened Pinkie's door. "Hello everypony."

Pinkie hugged Twilight. "Hi Twilight."

After the hug was over, Pinkie said, "Thank you all for coming, it means a lot to me and Rarity."

"What's going on?" Rainbow asked.

Pinkie stood beside Rarity, about to make their big announcement when she looked over at Rarity.

Rarity felt herself start to become nervous. Come on, Rarity, you can do this.

Pinkie had noticed. Putting her hoof around Rarity, she leaned over, whispering, "Are you okay? We don't have to do this if you don't want to."

Pinkie's embrace calmed her. We can do this, together, Rarity thought.

Rarity whispered back, "I am now; let's do this," as she smiled in Pinkie's comforting embrace.

The two turned to the rest of their friends, who looked confused as to what was going on.

Pinkie explained, "Rarity and I are together; in a relationship," then smiled, happy to share the news.

Immediately, the two ponies were showered in congratulations and cheers, their friends excited for them. Their smiles grew as a group hug formed, both ponies feeling accepted and loved.

After the hug was over, Pinkie let go of Rarity; excitedly exclaiming, "let's get this party started!" as she hopped over to a turntable, pressing the start button; a second later, music started playing.

Pinkie started dancing, a few of her friends deciding to join her. Twilight stayed with Rarity, keeping her company.

"Exciting news, I'm happy for you two," Twilight said.

"Thanks, Twilight, it means a lot to me. Pinkie helped calm my nerves, I was letting my thoughts get away from me, I'm sorry," Rarity replied.

"Happens to us all, don't worry about it" Twilight replied; hugging Rarity.

Rarity returned the hug, smiling.





Pinkie Pie stopped dancing, wanting a break. She walked over to the food table to grab a drink. She poured herself some punch, turning back towards her friends, when she noticed Rainbow had followed her.

Rainbow poured her drink, then turned to Pinkie, saying, "Congratulations, you guys are cool together."

Pinkie replied, "Thanks," then took a drink of her punch.

Pinkie noticed Rainbow's eye dart towards the rest of their friends, then back to her.

Rainbow, in a hushed tone, asked, "Who asked first? Did you both have feelings for each other?"

Pinkie Pie, taking the hint, replied in a hushed tone, "Technically me, but she was about to ask too. And yes."

"How long did you wait before you asked her out?"

"A few weeks, but at the end, it was hard not to just blurt it out and kiss her then and there."

Rainbow muttered under her breath, "Tell me about it…" as her eyes flashed to Fluttershy.

Pinkie, not quite hearing it, asked, "What was that?"

Rainbow quickly replied, "I mean… Uh… I have one last question, have you guys gone on a date yet?"

Pinkie Pie replied, "No, not yet," as gears in her head started turning, "but I'm going to change that soon."

"Okay."

Pinkie Pie, her mind now in full motion thinking about how she was going to plan their first date, asked Rainbow, "Can you help me?"

"Sure, with what?"

"The date, silly."

Rainbow, while looking at Fluttershy, replied, "Okay, but I'm not the best at this sort of stuff."

Pinkie hugged Rainbow. "Thank you."

After the hug, Pinkie looked over at Rarity, seeing those blue eyes staring back.

Rainbow followed her gaze, seeing the pair's locked eyes.

"Pinkie, go ask her to dance," Rainbow said before she went over to the turntable.

"Okay," Pinkie said, starting for Rarity.





Rarity found herself staring at Pinkie from across the room, watching her whisper back and forth with Rainbow Dash.

Wonder what they're talking about?

"Rarity," Twilight tried to get her attention.

Maybe they're planning something?

"Rarity," She tried again.

Pinkie sure is cute when she's being sneaky.

Finally, Rarity noticed Twilight, who poked her with a hoof.

"Sorry darling, I was a little distracted," She answered.

"It's okay, what were you looking at?" Twilight asked.

"Take a guess," Rarity replied with a slight blush.

"Go."

"Beg your pardon," Rarity replied, a little confused.

"Go be with her. If you're distracted by her, you should probably be with her."

"Thanks Twilight," Rarity said before giving her a hug, "you're right."

After the hug, Rarity noticed Pinkie was on her way to her. Deciding to meet her halfway, Rarity walked towards her.

The pair met in the middle of the room, staring at each other before Pinkie spoke.

"Hey."

"Hello."

Catching Rarity off guard, Pinkie asked, "Care for a dance?" as somepony changed the music, playing to a slow song, perfect for a waltz type of dance.

Does Pinkie know how to waltz?

Stopping herself from embarrassing herself by pausing for too long, she answered, "Yes."

The two ponies came together, holding each other close, and started dancing.

As they danced, Rarity couldn't help but smile. Of course, Pinkie knows how to waltz.

Rarity looked around as they danced in circles, looking at the smiling faces of their friends. How could I have ever thought these ponies would be anything but supportive. I have the best friends a pony could ask for.

She held Pinkie closer in the dance, sneaking a peck on her cheek, causing Pinkie to blush a little.

After the song was over, they stopped dancing. Standing in the middle of the room, staring into each other's eyes, Rarity thought, This day can't get any better.

And then it did.

"Rarity, would you want to go on a date with me?" Pinkie asked.

Rarity, not having any qualms about her friends seeing, kissed Pinkie, holding her close.

Pinkie returned the kiss.

Their friends all watched the pair share such an intimate moment.

Out of the corner of her eye, Rarity noticed Rainbow Dash putting her wing around Fluttershy, holding her close as they sat together.

Rarity had no time to think about it, as their kiss ended and her and Pinkie stared into each other's eyes.

"Is that a yes?" Pinkie asked a little bashfully.

Rarity, blushing slightly, replied, "Yes."

Fluttershy cheered for her friends, causing the pair to notice their friends watching, they turned to them and smiled.

Rarity looked at Fluttershy cheering for them, happy to have such a supportive friend. Changing her gaze to Rainbow, she saw Rainbow staring back at her, before looking at Fluttershy in her wing, then tensing up.

Are those two together? Why does Rainbow look so tense all of a sudden?

She didn't have long to ponder, as Rainbow quietly removed her wing from around Fluttershy, who, by Rarity's best guess, hadn't noticed the wing at all.

A few seconds later, Fluttershy stood up and trotted over to the refreshments table and started getting herself a glass of punch.

This made Rarity realize how parched she was, saying, "Excuse me," as she followed Fluttershy and got a drink.

Taking a drink of her punch, Rarity looked at Fluttershy, seeing her hiding behind her mane more than usual, eyes staring at her glass of punch.

"Fluttershy, are you alright?" Rarity asked in a concerned tone.

Fluttershy took her time answering, as she looked up at Rarity, pondering what to say.

"Can we talk in private?" Fluttershy eventually asked.

"Of course, darling, come with me," Rarity said as she led Fluttershy out of Pinkie's room.

What could be wrong? I hope everything is alright.





Pinkie Pie decided to go talk to Twilight after Rarity went to get a drink.

"Hi, Twilight," Pinkie said, as she approached Twilight.

Twilight smiled, and replied, "Hi Pinkie."

"Enjoying the party?" Pinkie asked.

"Most definitely, you two go great together."

"Thank you," Pinkie said, giving Twilight a hug.

As the hug ended, Rainbow Dash walked up to the pair.

Rainbow looks over her shoulder at Fluttershy and Rarity, then spoke to Pinkie. "You should ask our friends for help too, I'm sure they'll all love to help, besides, I'm not that good at that stuff, so you'll need more than just me helping."

Pinkie thought, That's a great idea.

Looking at Twilight, who had a confused expression on her face, Pinkie asked, "Will you help me and Rainbow plan my date with Rarity?"

"Yes, I'm not exactly sure how, but I'll do my best."

"Thank you," Pinkie said, smiling.

Twilight had opened her mouth, about to say something, when she was cut off by the sound of Pinkie's door closing.

The trio looked up to see Rarity and Fluttershy were no longer in the room, only Applejack, who was approaching them.

Applejack asked them, "Do any of you know where they went? I was about to go talk to them when they up and walked out."

Twilight, Rainbow, and Pinkie all shook their heads.

"Oh, Applejack, will you help us plan my date with Rarity?" Pinkie asked.

"Sure, I can probably provide something useful," Applejack answered.

Pinkie hugged applejack, saying, "Thanks."





Rarity led Fluttershy into Pinkie's upstairs bathroom, closing the door behind them.

Rarity looked at Fluttershy with concern, "Is everything alright, dear?"

"Yes, I… I…"

Rarity could see it on her face, she was having trouble saying it. Oh, darling.

Rarity sat in front of Fluttershy, putting her hooves around her, holding her in a comforting embrace, "It's alright darling, I'm here for you; I won't judge you or tell anypony."

This calmed Fluttershy, as she relaxed into the embrace before holding her back.

Speaking at almost a whisper, Fluttershy said, "I… have a… crush on Rainbow Dash…"

"Are you planning on asking her out?"

Fluttershy meekly said, "How? I can't ask her out, I've tried… I just choke and give up…"

"You know what you want; that's the first step. You can work towards your goal, and I can help you."

Fluttershy, in a more hopeful tone, asked, "How can you help?"

"I can help you build courage; you can pretend I'm Rainbow and ask me out."

"You think it will work?"

"It's worth a shot, isn't it, you'll never ask her out if you don't try, besides, maybe she likes you and will ask you out first; that's how it happened to me and Pinkie. I was about to ask her out, when she said she wanted to say something, and asked me out first."

"You really think she might like me already?"

"Didn't I see her wing around you earlier tonight?"

"Well yes, she put her wing around me and I leaned into it, then she tensed up and removed her wing. I don't know what I did wrong, I thought…" Fluttershy trailed off.

"I think she removed her wing because of me. I was looking at her when she tensed up; she's probably just self-conscious about being affectionate in public. You know Rainbow."

"You really think I can ask her out?"

"Yes, I believe in you."

Fluttershy in a determined tone, asked, "When can we practice?"

"How about tomorrow? We shouldn't spend all night in Pinkie's bathroom; they'll probably wonder where we went."

"Sounds good, and Rarity?"

"Yes, darling."

"Thank you," Fluttershy said, holding Rarity a bit tighter.

"You're most welcome," Rarity said, hugging back.





Pinkie looked up when she heard her door open, she saw Rarity followed by Fluttershy returning to her room. The pair split; Rarity walked up to Rainbow and Applejack, while Fluttershy walked to Twilight and Pinkie.

"Welcome back," Pinkie said excitedly to Fluttershy, giving her a hug.

"Thanks Pinkie," Fluttershy said, returning the hug.

"Hey, Fluttershy, can you help me plan my date with Rarity? I already asked everypony else. Well, except Rarity," Pinkie said.

"Oh, um, sure."

"Thank you!"

Twilight was about to say something, when Rarity walked up to the trio.

"Pinkie, I hate to leave so early, but it's getting late, and I need to make dinner for Sweetie Belle," Rarity said.

"That's fine, the party was great!" Pinkie said, then giving Rarity a big hug. "Love you."

Rarity returned the hug. "Love you too." After the hug, Rarity said, "Goodbye Twilight, Fluttershy, I'll see you later."

Fluttershy replied, "Bye Rarity, see you tomorrow."

Twilight replied, "I'll walk with you Rarity, I was about to say that I needed to leave soon anyway."

Rarity said, "Okay, darling."

Twilight said, "Goodbye girls, see you next time."

Pinkie said, "Goodbye," as she hugged Twilight.

Fluttershy hugged Twilight after her previous hug was over and said, "Goodbye Twilight."

Twilight and Rarity walked away from Pinkie and Fluttershy, towards Rainbow and Applejack, exchanging goodbyes and hugs with the two.

Once the pair reached Pinkie's door, Rarity turned back, looking at Pinkie she blew her a kiss before smiling at her.

Pinkie caught the kiss and smiled at Rarity as a slight blush formed on both their faces.

After the exchange was over, Twilight and Rarity walked out of Pinkie's room, closing the door behind them.

Soon after, Applejack and Rainbow walked over to Pinkie and Fluttershy.

"I've got to get goin' too, sugarcube. I've got a few chores around the farm that need doin' before the day's end," Applejack said.

Pinkie hugged Applejack. "It's okay, thanks for coming."

Applejack returned the hug. After the hug, she turned to Fluttershy. "Do you want to walk with me, seeing as your cottage is close to the farm."

"Sure," Fluttershy said before turning to Pinkie. "Goodbye Pinkie, it was a great party."

Pinkie hugged Fluttershy. "Thanks, bye."

Turning to Rainbow, Fluttershy asked, "Are you coming with us? I know we came together…" trailing off at the end.

"Sure, but I'll catch up. I'm going to stay a bit longer and help clean up," Rainbow said.

"Okay," Fluttershy said.

With that, Applejack and Fluttershy trotted to the door. The pair quietly left, Fluttershy turned to look back at Rainbow one last time before closing the door behind her.

After they had left, Pinkie turned to Rainbow. "Thank you for helping clean up," then giving her a hug.

Rainbow returned the hug. "You're welcome, but I also wanted to talk while we clean."

"Sure, what's up?"

Rainbow started cleaning up some streamers, taking a second to respond, "Don't tell anypony, okay?"

"You have my Pinkie promise," Pinkie said as she did the motions.

Rainbow looked at Pinkie, and quietly said, "I… have a crush on… Fluttershy."

Pinkie, overwhelmed with excitement at the news, bounced over to Rainbow and gave her a big hug, exclaiming, "This is so amazing!"

Rainbow, expecting this reaction, laughed a bit. "Slow down there, Pinkie," she said before she returned the hug. "I have more to say."

Pinkie let go of the hug and looked at Rainbow with a smile, awaiting her continuance.

Rainbow continued, "I wanted to ask you more about your relationship with Rarity and how it started, just so that I'm more prepared in case me and Fluttershy start dating."

Pinkie replied, "Okay, ask away," as she started cleaning up.

"How did you work up the courage to ask her? Not that I'm having any trouble with that," Rainbow said, a tinge of nervousness in her voice on the later half.

Pinkie answered, "For a long time, I couldn't do it, I would be hanging out with her and wanting to ask, but just unable to ask. It went on like that for too long, eventually I just said today was the day and did it. After all, it's just a question, the same as any other."

"Okay."

"Besides, I know you can do it, I believe in you Dashie!"

"Thanks, Pinkie."

"Any other questions?"

"Yes, what do I say?" Rainbow asked, a bit bashfully, averting her gaze to hide a blush.

"Just be honest with her, tell her how you feel, maybe she secretly has a crush on you and just hasn't asked because she's you know, shy. I had suspicions Rarity liked me, but no way to confirm them without asking," Pinkie answered as she started cleaning again.

"Wow, that's surprising good advice, thanks Pinkie."

"You're welcome," Pinkie said, picking up the last of the ribbon from the ground.

"What made you want to date Rarity?"

"Well, at first, I didn't realize I liked her, I just wanted to spend more time around her. I started noticing her perfume more, savoring her hugs. Once I realized I had a crush, I noticed more, I was more giddy in her presence, I liked how she is generous and tries to make ponies smile. I really like her sparkle, as a pony from the far distant future might say. And she is super-duper pretty, I could stare at those eyes for hours, so beautiful," Pinkie answered.

"That's awesome, I'm glad you two got together," Rainbow replied.

"Thanks," Pinkie said, smiling as she worked.

"Last question, I swear. You said you thought she liked you before you asked her, what were the signs?" Rainbow asked.

"The way she acted changed, we spent more time together, her smile was more radiant. Our hugs were longer, and tighter. I'd catch her staring, then looking away when I noticed. She even blushed around me a few times. Looking back now, it is all so clear, but at the time I didn't know if they were real or just my imagination wanting them to be real," Pinkie said.

"Thanks, Pinkie, you've helped me a lot and given me a lot to think about."

"You're welcome."

They continued to clean for a bit before Pinkie broke the silence.

"Do you think Fluttershy likes you?"

Rainbow thought for a moment before answering, eventually she said, "I don't know, sometimes I think she does and others I don't. At this party, while you two danced, I was distracted and put my wing around her. At first, she leaned into it, I thought that was a sign, but then I tensed up when Rarity was looking, I probably ruined the moment… then she went real quick to get a drink and left the room with Rarity."

"Maybe you should ask Rarity what they did, they could have been just using the bathroom."

"But why would they go together."

Pinkie thought for a second. "Hmm, perhaps Rarity needed help with something and wanted to ask for help in private."

"I'm going to ask Rarity tomorrow."

"Okie dokie lokie."

After a bit more cleaning, Pinkie asked another question, "What made you realize you liked Fluttershy?"

Rainbow thought for a few seconds, before she said, "I feel a connection with her, I want to always be there for her. I want to protect her. I feel safe around her in a sense of judgement, I know you girls would never judge me, but it's different with her. I feel like I don't always have to be the tough, cool pony all the time with her. I feel like I could let my guard down and she would never hurt me. Also, she's really hot."

"I hope it works out, I love seeing my friends happy."

"Thanks, me too."

Rainbow put away the last of the balloons into Pinkie's cabinet, then turns to Pinkie. "That's almost all the decorations cleaned up, I'm going to head out, so I can catch up with Fluttershy and Applejack before they get home."

"Okay, thanks for the help," Pinkie said as she walked to Rainbow and hugged her.

Returning the hug, Rainbow said, "Goodbye."

Pinkie replied, "Goodbye."

After the hug was over, Rainbow flew out of Pinkies window, eager to see her crush.

Pinkie closed the window behind her. Then finished cleaning up the rest of the party, she yawned as she looked around the room, seeing nothing left to pick up. She thought about starting to plan her date, but decided she would be more prepared after a good night's sleep.

Going to bed early tonight, Pinkie laid down in her bed. She smiled as she fell asleep thinking of all the possibilities for her date, and the idea of her two friends dating.

I hope everything goes well for them, she thought as she drifted off to sleep.





Rarity closed the door to Pinkie's room with a smile and a slight blush on her face. She and Twilight walked down the stairs, trotting out of the store. The pair turned towards Rarity's house.

The pair walked in silence for a moment before Twilight started up a conversation.

"Must be pretty excited about your date?"

"Yes, very much so, knowing Pinkie, it could be anything."

"That's good to hear, I'm sure she will come up with something amazing."

"I wonder if it will be fancy or casual. Do you think I need a new dress for it? What if I accidentally overdress? Oh, so many possibilities."

Twilight took a moment to answer, thinking before she said, "I'm sure she will give you notice of what to wear before the date, she's good at planning."

"Yes, you're right, Twilight. How did you like the party?"

"It was good, it didn't last as long as normal, but what was there was great."

"Thanks, we spent a lot of time talking about the best way to tell the news, I was a bit worried about the reactions like I said earlier, but Pinkie always assured me that it would be fine, and she was right."

"We will never judge you for being who you are, we all love both of you for being yourselves unabashedly."

"Thanks Twilight," Rarity said as they stopped in front of her door, she turned to Twilight and gave her a hug. "I probably sound like a broken record with how much I've thanked you guys."

Twilight returned the hug. "Don't worry about it, we're all here for you and want you to be happy."

Letting go of the hug, Rarity said, "Goodnight," as she smiled at Twilight.

Twilight smiled back and said, "Goodnight." A moment later, Twilight started walking towards her home as Rarity opened the door to her boutique.
> Chapter 2: Practice and Plan
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Fluttershy knocked on Rarity's door again, this time a little louder. Getting no answer, she sighed as she realized she wasn't loud enough. She hung her head for a second, then opened the door and walked inside.

She looked around the main room, unable to locate Rarity. She tried calling out to her, "Rarity, are you in here?"

Her call was answered, when from the kitchen she heard Rarity, who said, "In here, darling."

Fluttershy walked into the kitchen, where Rarity was sitting at the table.

Rarity asked, "Ready to practice?"

Fluttershy said, "Actually Rarity, I wanted to ask you a few questions about relationships, if that's fine?"

Rarity answered, "Yes."

Fluttershy sat down at the table, before she asked, "How do I know if Rainbow likes me back?"

Rarity answered, "The easiest way is to ask, but there are other signs you can look for."

Fluttershy asked, "Like what?"

Rarity replied, "Behavioral changes are probably the biggest tell. Do they walk closer to you? Do they want to spend more time together? Do they stare at you? Are they more shy around you? Are they more intimate with you? There's more, but you most likely get the idea."

Fluttershy asked another question, "Do you think she might like me back?"

Rarity answered, "From what I saw last night and what you said, I think it's possible."

Rarity continued, "When I was pinning for Pinkie, I waited a while before deciding to just ask her. She ended up beating me to it, maybe that will happen to you too."

Fluttershy said, "I'd love that."

Rarity asked, "Any more questions?"

Fluttershy said, "No."

Rarity asked, "Are you ready to start practice?"

Fluttershy answered, "Yes."

"Let's go into the main room, we can sit on the couch for this," Rarity said before she walked into the other room.

Fluttershy followed her and sat on the couch. She looked at Rarity for guidance.

Rarity explained, "Pretend I'm Rainbow Dash and ask me out."

You can do this, Fluttershy thought.

Giving it her best shot, Fluttershy opened her mouth and… mouthed the words with nothing coming out.

Rarity said, "Well, that's a start."

"How do I make the words come out?" Fluttershy asked.

"You've got to make them come out," Rarity said. "Your desire to be with Rainbow must be greater than your fear of rejection."

"How is practicing going to help do that?" Fluttershy asked.

"Hopefully, it's going to lower your fear of rejection, by showing you how it could go," Rarity answered. "We will also practice being rejected."

"What do I do now?" Fluttershy asked.

"Continue to practice, even if it is just mouthing the words," Rarity answered.

Fluttershy tried again, still only mouthing the words.

Come on, Fluttershy, you can do this!

She tried again, same result.

She kept trying again and again, all while Rarity sat there patiently.

Every time she failed, she only wanted to prove she could do it more.

You got this. You must do this if you want the chance to be with her.

She tried again, this time making a sound, not even a full word or part of a word, but a sound.

"That's progress, you're doing great," Rarity said.

This made Fluttershy feel better.

You will ask Rainbow out! she thought.

She tried again.

"R…" she managed to say.

Rarity smiled at Fluttershy. "You can do it!"

Fluttershy tried again. "R…" she said. Same result.

She tried over and over, each time giving herself a little pep talk before each attempt.

You can do this, Fluttershy!

You will overcome this obstacle!

You must be able to do this!

You will do it for her.

Eventually, she managed something resembling a word.

"Rain…" Fluttershy said.

Rarity hugged Fluttershy. "You got this, you're doing great, darling."

Fluttershy returned the hug. "Thank you."

Fluttershy closed her eyes, letting her mind wonder. She thought of the pony she yearned for.

Oh Rainbow, I wish I could just tell you. Hopefully, this practice works.

Rarity had let go of the hug, but Fluttershy only hugged Rainbow tighter. Rarity just sat there for her friend, letting her have a break.

A few moments later, Fluttershy realized she wasn't holding Rainbow Dash. "Oh, sorry Rarity."

"It's nothing, darling," Rarity answered. "I'm always here for you."

"Thanks," Fluttershy replied.

"Do you want to keep practicing?" Rarity asked.

"Yes," Fluttershy answered with a determined look.

Fluttershy continued to practice. "Rainb…"

She would get so far and then just freeze up, taking her a moment before she could try again.

"Rainb…"

Come on, Fluttershy, you can do this!

"Rainbo…"

She kept going until she was able to say her full name.

"Rainbow Dash…"

Rarity congratulated Fluttershy on her progress. "You are doing great, darling."

"Thank you, Rarity," Fluttershy replied. "Your patience and support are really helpful."

Fluttershy leaned back on the couch, lowering her shoulders and letting out a tired breath.

Rarity asked, "Would you like to take a break, darling?"

"Sure," Fluttershy answered. "Overcoming social interactions is hard."

"Yes, it took me quite a while before I was able to just ask her out."

"Do, you really think I can do it, Rarity?" Fluttershy asked in a demure tone.

"I know you can, I believe in you and will do anything I can to help you ask her out!"

"Thank you, Rarity."

After a few seconds of silence, Rarity asked, "What made you realize you liked her more than a friend? If you don't mind sharing, of course."

Fluttershy said after a few seconds, "I feel safest around her. She is always there for me and does things for me even when I know she doesn't want to.

"We have been close friends since childhood, I feel a closeness to her that's hard to explain. When she puts her wing around me, I can barely keep it in, my heart just flutters…

"Don't get me started on her looks, she's so pretty. How does she look so cool and beautiful at the same time? How am I supposed to get her attention? Oh, I want to kiss her so much…"

Fluttershy realized she was rambling, she stopped speaking and turned to Rarity.

"Sounds like you love her," Rarity said.

"I do."

"You need to channel your love into asking her out, use it as your determination to ask her out."

"I'll try, Rarity."

After a moment of silence, Fluttershy asked, "How about you?"

"Beg your pardon?"

"What made you realize you liked Pinkie romantically?"

Rarity answered, "How she can always make me smile. She is always doing her best to make everypony smile. Whenever I'm having a bad day, she is always there for me. Even her just around me makes me feel better.

"Her creativity, if I'm out of ideas for a dress, she tries so hard to help come up with some, sure some of them don't always work, but she gets there in the end.

"She's so pretty, my heart skips a beat just looking at her. Her smile is just so infectious, it's impossible to not smile back at her. Her kisses are like magic, each one makes my head spin and my ears drop.

"I wish we could spend more time together, but we're both very busy mares," Rarity finished.

Fluttershy replied, "You should get your wish when you go on your date."

"Yes, I'm very excited about it, I can't wait to see what Pinkie has planned. I thought about making a new dress to wear on the date, but I don't really know what type of date she's planning," Rarity said.

"The idea of going on a date with Rainbow Dash makes me nervous. I would probably ruin it by being too shy," Fluttershy lamented.

"Oh, don't say that, I bet you two would have a lovely time. I do hope she says yes, I'm positive you two would be great together!" Rarity said.

"You really think so?" Fluttershy asked.

"Absolutely darling," Rarity answered.

"Thanks Rarity, I hope so too," Fluttershy said with a smile.

"Do you want to get back to practicing?" Rarity asked.

Fluttershy answered, "Yes."





Rainbow Dash stepped out of her front door, closing it behind her. She took a few steps to the ledge of her house's landing, before falling off and spreading her wings. She flew towards Sugarcube Corner while grappling with her feelings for Fluttershy.

You've got to ask her out at some point.

But what if she says no? She argued with herself.

Then accept it, go cry to yourself and move on.

I would rather not cry, I want to be with Fluttershy…

The only way you will find out if she likes you back is to ask.

I know…

Why are you putting it off?

I would rather not be vulnerable, I'm supposed to be tough.

Rainbow saw Fluttershy walking into Carousel Boutique below her, but didn't comment on it.

You are tough, but you of all ponies should know that to get the reward, you have to accept the risk, besides, would Fluttershy ever want to hurt you?

No.

Then when are you going to ask her out?

Rainbow thought for a moment before deciding.

After Rarity and Pinkie go on their date, don't want to get in their way of having a good time.

Okay, I'm holding you to it.

But you're me?

Before she could think about it anymore, she spotted her destination and started descending to it. Landing a few steps from the door, she trotted into the establishment. She looked around, not seeing Pinkie anywhere, she trotted up the stairs and knocked on her door.

She waited a few moments with no answer, she knocked again. After another moment with no answer, she asked, "Pinkie, are you in there?" She placed her ear against the door.

Not hearing any response, she opened the door and walked inside. Looking around, she found out why she hadn't got an answer, Pinkie was still in bed.

Rainbow trotted to her bedside and placed her hoof on Pinkie's resting form. "Pinkie?" She gently shook her.

Pinkie didn't wake up, instead whispering in her sleep, "Rarity… I want to kiss… you…"

Rainbow tried again, shaking her a little harder. "Pinkie?"

This time it seemed to work, as Pinkie opened her eyes and started to yawn.

Turning to Rainbow, Pinkie asked. "Hi Dashie, what's up?"

"I came over to help you plan your date, and to eat breakfast if you're willing to make some," Rainbow answered as her stomach growled.

"Sure," Pinkie said with a smile as she got out of bed.

Pinkie started to stretch before trotting to the door. "Let's go downstairs, and I'll make us something delicious."

Rainbow followed her downstairs into the restaurant's kitchen.

"Got any requests?" Pinkie asked.

Rainbow thought for a second before deciding. "Pancakes."

"Okay, coming right up," Pinkie said before she started to get out the bakeware for pancakes.

"Your pancakes are the best, Pinkie."

"Thanks," Pinkie replied before she started humming to herself.

Rainbow sat down at the kitchen table and watched Pinkie work.

Pinkie looked back at Dash. "How many you want?"

"Four."

"You got it," Pinkie said before continuing to hum.

Rainbow stared off into space as she thought about Pinkie's words from last night.

Has Fluttershy's behavior changed lately?

Well, there was last night, I put my wing around her, and she leaned into me.

But then I ruined it by tensing up, that's probably why her and Rarity left the room.

I hope not…

But Fluttershy is at Rarity's right now, doesn't that make Pinkie's theory of Rarity needing help make sense?

You make a good point, me. We'll find out for sure when I ask Rarity today.

Okay.

Rainbow lost her train of thought as Pinkie sat a stack of pancakes in front of her.

Rainbow said, "wow, you make them fast."

"Thank you, these are made from pancake mix, which is a lot faster than homemade."

Pinkie started making her own pancakes.

Rainbow started eating, she finished three of her pancakes by the time Pinkie sat down with her stack, twice as high as Dash's own.

Rainbow finished her last one, then said, "That was good, thank you for the breakfast."

"You're welcome," Pinkie said in between bites of her pancakes.

Rainbow thought about Fluttershy while Pinkie ate.

Fluttershy sure is awesome, I hope she says yes.

Staring at her empty plate, she thought, maybe one day I'll make pancakes for Fluttershy, that'd be cool.

Pinkie would be happy to teach you, you know.

Yea, I'll ask her when she's done eating.

Isn't that a crazy idea, Rainbow Dash making pancakes for her marefriend. That's a future I'd like to see. Love makes you do stuff you never thought you would. I'd be happy to do it for her, though.

As Pinkie finished her pancakes, Rainbow looked up at her and asked, "Hey, Pinkie, do you think you could teach me how to make pancakes sometime? I was thinking it'd be cool if I could make them for Fluttershy."

"Sure," Pinkie said before she got up from the table. She picked up their dishes and placed them in the sink. Sitting back down at the table, she asked, "When do you wanna learn?"

"How about tomorrow morning? So it doesn't get in the way of the planning."

"Okay."

"How are you wanting to plan the date?"

"I can use my party planning skills and all our friends ideas to make the best date we can."

"Okay, do you have any idea what I could contribute?"

"I want you to keep the weather clear for the date."

"I can do that, but I want to do more, if I can."

"Like what?"

"I don't know yet, got any ideas?"

Pinkie thought for a moment before she said, "Maybe you could pull us around on our date in a chariot."

Rainbow thought on this for a moment.

While I think that would be helpful, I don't know if that would be awkward or not.

I don't think I'd fit the part, they'd probably want a fancy chariot, and I'm no fancy pony.

Hmm

"Aha," Rainbow Dash said. "You should ask Twilight for a royal chariot, I think that would suit Rarity far more than a boring old chariot pulled by me."

"Ooh, that's a great idea," Pinkie said. "But what would you do then?"

Hmm, what am I good at?

Oh yea, being awesome!

"I could perform for your date as private entertainment, what do you think?" Rainbow answered.

"That's a wonderful idea," Pinkie said.

"I can practice for it every day until the date, I'm sure I can come up with something awesome by then," Rainbow confidently said.

"Okay, thank you."

"Now, what are you planning on bringing to the date, besides yourself?"

"Rarity," Pinkie answered earnestly.

"No, I mean what is your contribution," Rainbow clarified.

"Oh, I haven't figured that out yet."

"What are some ideas you think you could contribute?"

Pinkie sat there in thought for a bit, before she said, "I'm good at singing and baking sweets. Maybe I could make our dessert."

"That's good."

"But I feel like I want to do more," Pinkie lamented.

Rainbow thought for a moment before she said, "Well, you said you're a good singer, so write her a song to show her your love."

"That's a great idea."

Pinkie got up from the table and hugged Rainbow. "Thank you."

Rainbow hugged back. "You're welcome Pinkie."

After the hug was over, Pinkie asked, "Who should we go talk to next about planning the date?"

Rainbow thought for a moment as the memory of Fluttershy entering Carousel Boutique entered her mind. "Rarity and Fluttershy, they're both at Rarity's, I think."

Pinkie said, "Okie dokie lokie," before she started for the door, Rainbow followed behind her.

After leaving the establishment, Rainbow said, "I need to ask Rarity about why her and Fluttershy left the room last night."

"Okay."

"Is it okay if we separate them? You talk to Fluttershy about the date plan, and I can ask Rarity about last night."

"Sure, but what about asking Rarity about her part of the date?"

"I can ask her if you like."

"Okay, sounds like a plan."

"What day are you planning to have the date?"

Pinkie thought for a few seconds before she said, "The day after tomorrow. Today we plan, tomorrow we get everything ready, and the next day we date."

"Okay."





"Rainbow Dash, w…" Fluttershy managed.

"You're doing great, darling," Rarity exclaimed.

"Rarity, how do I know I won't just lose all my progress once I'm in front of Rainbow Dash?"

"I saw that coming, and I am prepared. After you can fully say it, I am going to barrow a Rainbow Dash costume from Pinkie. I will wear the costume, and we can practice you asking me out while I'm dressed liked Rainbow."

"Oh, my, you thought of everything."

"I do my best."

Fluttershy continued her practicing. "Rainbow Dash, W…"

You will ask her out.

"Rainbow Dash, W…"

You can do this, Fluttershy!

"Rainbow Dash, Wi…"

"You got this!" Rarity said.

"Rainbow Dash, Wi…"

You will overcome your anxiety.

"Rainbow Dash, Wil…"

Fluttershy continued to practice, each time giving herself encouragement.

You can do it!

Rainbow Dash will hear you.

You must be able to ask her out.

She will know how you truly feel.

Fluttershy managed to say, "Rainbow Dash, will you…"

Rarity gave Fluttershy a congratulatory hug. "You are doing great, darling, you've made good progress."

"Thanks Rarity," Fluttershy said, returning the hug.

After the hug was over, Rarity asked, "How do you feel now? Do you have more confidence than when we started?"

"I feel better, I feel like I have hope that I could actually do it eventually."

"That's excellent, darling."

Fluttershy started practicing again, determined to do this.

You got this, Fluttershy!

"Rainbow Dash, will you…"

I will do this!

"Rainbow Dash, will you g…"

You will succeed.

"Rainbow Dash, will you g…"

"You can do it," Rarity said.

"Rainbow Dash, will you go…"

Make progress, Fluttershy.

"Rainbow Dash, will you go…"

Rarity sat there patiently, occasionally giving Fluttershy words of encouragement.

"You will ask her out," Rarity said.

"Rainbow Dash, will you go o…" Fluttershy said.

You're doing great!

"Rainbow Dash, will you go o…"

I believe in me.

"Rainbow Dash, will you go ou…"

I am determined!

"Rainbow Dash, will you go ou…"

My feelings will be known.

"Rainbow Dash, will you go out…"

You are so close, Fluttershy.

"Rainbow Dash, will you go out…"

Two more words and you can take a break.

"Rainbow Dash, will you go out…"

I will do this.

"Rainbow Dash, will you go out w…"

"I know you can do it!" Rarity cheered.

"Rainbow Dash, will you go out wi…" Fluttershy said.

Come on, Fluttershy, you can do it.

"Rainbow Dash, will you go out wi…"

I am able to do this.

"Rainbow Dash, will you go out with…"

I am brave enough to ask her out.

"Rainbow Dash, will you go out with…"

I am determined to ask her out!

"You are doing great!" Rarity said.

"Rainbow Dash, will you go out with me?" Fluttershy asked.

Rarity cheered for her, "You did it, darling, you did it!"

Fluttershy smiled. "I did it!"

Rarity hugged Fluttershy, patting her on the back. "You did amazing."

Fluttershy hugged her back. "Thank you, Rarity, I couldn't have done it without you."

Rarity pulled away from the hug and asked, "Would you like some celebratory pancakes?"

"Yes, is it Pinkie's recipe, I really like her pancakes."

"Yes," Rarity answered. "Let's go to the kitchen," she said before she got up from the couch and went into the kitchen.

Fluttershy followed her into the kitchen and sat down at the table. "Thanks for the pancakes, I need the energy if we're going to do more practicing."

"You are most welcome, darling, you've earned it."

Rarity began making the pancakes while Fluttershy waited patiently. She was about to pour the pancake batter into a pan when she heard a knock at her door.

Rarity sat everything down on the counter and trotted out of the room to see who was at the door, Fluttershy stayed in the kitchen.

Fluttershy waited patiently for Rarity to return. Moments later, Pinkie trotted into the room, not Rarity.

"Hi Fluttershy, how's it going?" Pinkie asked.

"Good, how is your day going?" Fluttershy said.

"Great, I wanted to ask you about helping with my date with Rarity," Pinkie said before looking around the room, noticing the pancake paraphernalia.

"Sure, do you have any suggestions for how I can help?"

"No, but I can tell you what we have planned so far," Pinkie said as she started to make the pancakes.

"I'll take four."

Pinkie talked while making the pancakes, "Okay, I'm going to write Rarity a song, and make our dessert. Rainbow will provide entertainment and clear the weather. We plan to ask Twilight to see if we can use a royal chariot for the date."

Fluttershy thought for a moment, trying to figure out how to help.

A royal chariot sounds fancy, and Rarity did comment on making a new dress, maybe I could help make it with Pinkie.

"Maybe I can help you make a dress to give her for the date, a royal chariot is rather fancy, it would be fitting for you both to wear dresses," Fluttershy suggested.

"That's a great idea, Fluttershy," Pinkie said before making the next pancake.

"Pinkie, I know it's your date, but is it okay if the dress is from me and you? Rarity is helping me a lot and I wanted to do something nice for her."

"Absolutely, it's always nice to share," Pinkie exclaimed happily.

"Thank you."

Pinkie paused the food making to give Fluttershy a big hug. "Thank you."

Fluttershy returned the hug. "You're welcome."

After Pinkie returned to making the pancakes, Rarity and Rainbow Dash entered the room together.

Rainbow goes over to the table and sits in the chair beside Fluttershy. Fluttershy wasn't paying close attention, but she swore Rainbow had scooted her chair a lot closer to her.

Probably just your imagination.

"I could eat one more, Pinkie," Rainbow said to Pinkie, who had turned around and noticed the pair.

"Got it," Pinkie said before setting a plate of four pancakes in front of Fluttershy.

"Thank you, Pinkie," Fluttershy said before starting to eat her pancakes.

"You're welcome," Pinkie said before asking, "How many pancakes would you like, Rarity?"

"Thank you for making them, darling, I'll take four," Rarity said before walking over to Pinkie.

Pinkie turned to Rarity and gave her a hug. Rarity returned the hug, and started whispering to Pinkie. Pinkie whispered back for a second.

After they're done hugging, Rarity surprised Pinkie with a kiss. Pinkie graciously started kissing back as both of them began to blush and Rarity's ears folded back.

Fluttershy looked at Rainbow, curious about her reaction.

Rainbow was looking at them kissing before she looked down at the table, her ears folded back as her face became expressionless. Fluttershy became worried about her.

Fluttershy stopped her eating and leaned over to Rainbow and gave her a hug, whispering, "Are you alright?"

Rainbow hugged back before whispering, "Yes, just a little distracted."

As Fluttershy and Rainbow hugged, Fluttershy could hear Rarity say, "A little birdie told me you wanted a kiss."

Fluttershy closed her eyes and tightened her hold on Rainbow.

Rainbow whispered, "Thank you," as she also tightened her grip.

If only this could last forever…

After the hug was over, both ponies turned to look at Rarity and Pinkie.

Pinkie had returned to making pancakes, while Rarity had taken the seat across from Rainbow.

Fluttershy said, "These pancakes are delicious, Pinkie," before starting to eat again.

Pinkie responded, "It's because they're made with love."

Moments later, Pinkie slid a plate with one pancake on it in front of Rainbow.

Rainbow said, "Thank you," before beginning to eat.

"You're welcome," Pinkie replied before starting to make Rarity's pancakes.

Fluttershy finished her pancakes, getting down from the table, she took her dishes and placed them in the sink before returning to her seat.

Fluttershy asked, "Do you two have a set date for your date?"

Pinkie answered, "I was thinking the day after tomorrow, if that's okay with you, Rarity?"

Rarity answered, "That should work for me, darling."

Fluttershy remarked, "That party was great last night, I'm happy for you girls."

Rarity said, "Thank you, I'm glad it went well."

Pinkie replied, "Me too, I love when my friends are happy."

All four ponies went silent for a moment as Pinkie continued to make pancakes.

Rarity broke the silence when she asked, "So, Rainbow, do you think you could see yourself having a special somepony anytime?"

Everypony turned to look at Rainbow, awaiting her answer. Fluttershy's heart started beating faster.

I hope so…

Rainbow played it cool, simply answering, "Yes."

Rarity followed it up with another question. "Pardon the intrusion, but would you rather be with a mare or a stallion?"

Fluttershy's mouth hung open at Rarity's boldness. I hope she likes mare…

Rainbow, a little perturbed, answered, "If you must know, I like both, but I prefer mares. Now, if you don't mind, I'd like to change the subject."

Rarity apologized, "Sorry darling, I was just curious, I do think you'd look absolutely adorable in a relationship."

Rainbow, having calmed herself, said, "Well, I appreciate the thought, but I can handle my own dating life."

Everypony went quiet again, this time being interrupted by Pinkie. "Pancakes are done."

Pinkie brought over two plates one at a time, setting them in front of Rarity, and herself.

Rarity and Pinkie began to eat.

I should tell them I like mares, it will let her know I'm available, right?

Fluttershy practically whispered, "I like mares too."

Rainbow, who was closest to Fluttershy, turned to her. "Did you say something?"

Fluttershy tried again. "I like mares." This time louder, but still nopony could make it out.

Rarity and Pinkie both noticed she was trying to say something.

Fluttershy sat there, all three pairs of eyes trained on her.

You can do this, Fluttershy, remember your practice.

Fluttershy confidently said, "I like mares." But Rainbow was the only one able to hear it.

"Could you repeat that, I'm not sure if I heard you correctly?" Rainbow said.

Fluttershy took a deep breath, you got this.

Fluttershy achieved her small victory. "I like mares too," she said, speaking at a normal volume.

Rainbow Dash and Pinkie's mouth were agape, both ponies surprised.

Rarity recovered the quickest. "Oh darling, that's wonderful."

Rainbow did her best to not act excited. "That's cool."

Pinkie encouraged her. "I hope you find that special mare soon."

Me too, she thought as she looked at Rainbow.

Rainbow buried her head in her food as she ate. Fluttershy could have sworn she saw her blushing.

Pinkie and Rarity started eating their pancakes again. The room was silent except for the sound of eating.

Fluttershy thought about Rainbow.

I can't tell from her reaction. She's acting weird, but I don't know if it's in a good way or not.

Rainbow finished her pancake, mouth covered in pancake debris. Fluttershy looked at her a giggled.

"Your mouth is a mess," Fluttershy informed her.

Rainbow wiped her mouth. "Thanks."

Fluttershy offered, "Want me to get that for you?" as she gestured towards her plate.

"Sure," Rainbow said.

Fluttershy took Rainbow's plate to the sink and placed it atop hers. Returning to her chair, she sat down and looked over at Pinkie and Rarity, both were still eating, but Pinkie was far closer to finishing.

Fluttershy looked at Rainbow, seeing her staring back. Both ponies just stared at each other for a moment until Fluttershy broke eye contact, averting her gaze to look at Pinkie and Rarity.

Pinkie had finished her food and was getting down from the table and taking her plate to the sink. Fluttershy looked at Rarity, who still had two pancakes left to eat.

Fluttershy heard water running, looking over, she saw Pinkie had started to do the dishes. How nice of her, Fluttershy thought.

Fluttershy turned back to Rainbow, who looked like she had something to say.





Rainbow looked at Fluttershy. Might as well get this started, she thought.

When Fluttershy looked back at her, she said, "Fluttershy, could you come with me for a second, I wanted to talk to you in the other room."

Fluttershy replied, "Sure," with an unsure look on her face.

Getting up from the table, Rainbow trotted into the other room with Fluttershy behind her.

The pair sat down on Rarity's couch, turning to face each other.

Here goes nothing, she thought.

"Would you like to have breakfast at my place in three days?" Rainbow asked.

Fluttershy looked a little confused. "Sure, but why the secrecy?" she asked with genuine curiosity in her voice.

Rainbow sat there in thought for a moment.

Why did you need to go to another room?

Because I'm afraid…

Of what?

Showing emotion in front of my friends.

But Fluttershy is your friend.

I'm trying… Alright…  I'm showing her emotion.

Rainbow sighed. "It's hard to explain… I just wanted to show you how much I care… I don't deal well with emotions, I'm trying, it's just… you'll understand after breakfast."

Fluttershy didn't immediately respond, taking a moment to take in her emotional answer.

Fluttershy said, "Okay, I'm looking forward to it," before she hugged Rainbow.

Rainbow hugged back. "Me too."

After the hug was over, Fluttershy said, "I'm always here for you, I would never judge you for feeling any way you do."

"Thanks, also, could you not tell anyone, for now?"

"Okay."

"Let's go back in there, they are probably done eating by now."

The pair trotted back into the kitchen. Rarity was sitting at the table, while Pinkie was just finishing the last of the dishes.

Rarity greeted the two, "Welcome back."

Fluttershy said, "Thank you."

Rainbow said, "Thanks."

Pinkie looked over at Rainbow. "Are you about ready to leave, I'm almost done here."

"Yes."

Pinkie finished the dishes before going to Rarity, giving her a hug.

Rarity hugged back and said, "Goodbye, darling."

Pinkie replied, "Goodbye."

Fluttershy addressed the two, "Goodbye girls."

"See you later," Rainbow said.

"Bye," Pinkie said.

Pinkie and Rainbow left the room and trotted out of the building.

Rainbow closed the door behind them and started walking next to Pinkie.

Pinkie said, "We need to go back to Sugarcube Corner first, Rarity needs to barrow something from me. Could you fly it back to her once we get there?"

"Sure, what is it?" Rainbow asked.

"A costume."

"Of what?"

"A pegasus, I think she needs it for modeling a dress."

"Okay."

They trotted in silence for a moment before Rainbow asked, "Did you think Fluttershy was acting weird in there?"

"How so?"

"Why would she say she likes mares?"

"She could have just been trying to keep the conversation going, or my theory of her secretly having a crush on you is true."

A moment later, Pinkie continued, "Probably the first one, but you never know."

"Yeah," Rainbow said.

They walked in silence again for a bit before Pinkie said, "Oh, what did Rarity say she wanted for our date?"

"She said all she wants is to spend quality time with you."

"Aw, how sweet. Does the date count as quality time?"

"I would think so, but maybe you should add something to it where you two can be together in private."

"That's a good idea."

"What did Fluttershy say about her helping with the date?"

"She's going to help me make a dress to give Rarity for the date, and she suggested I can wear the dress Rarity gave me when I asked her out."

"Sounds like you two will have a fancy date as long as Twilight can get you a chariot."

"Oh, that gives me a great idea, we can go to a fancy restaurant on the date."

"If you got a private booth, I'd consider that quality time."

"Me too."

I'd consider any time with Fluttershy as quality time.

"Your date is going to be awesome," Rainbow said.

"Yes, I just know Rarity will love it," Pinkie said.

"What about you? I know Rarity would want you to have fun on your date."

"I will love it, we just need to think of more stuff, right?"

"I guess."

"We should probably make a schedule, I was thinking we could watch the sunset at the end. What do you think?"

"Yea, that's a good idea, Twilight might be able to help, she's good at scheduling."

"Sounds like a plan."

"We should probably go to Applejack then Twilight, so we have as much info to give to Twilight as we can."

"Good idea."

"We're here," Rainbow said. "Do you want me to just wait out here?"

"Sure," Pinkie said before she went inside.

While Pinkie was inside, Rainbow tried to think of something to add to the date for Pinkie.

Pinkie is going to sing Rarity a song, so that's one thing she will love, what else?

I know Pinkie loves games, maybe they could play a game together?

But which game is suitable for a date?

Pinkie should probably pick the game, since it is her date, I'll tell her my idea later.

Rainbow's thoughts drifted to Fluttershy.

I'm starting to think she likes me, I feel like she wouldn't announce her interest in mares if she wasn't trying to tip me off.

Fluttershy's very shy, so I bet that took a lot to say.

I sure hope I'm right, that mare is so cute.

I don't know why Rarity asked that kind of question. I'm probably reading way too much into this, but she could have been prying for a reason.

I guess I'll get an answer whether or not she likes me in three days.

Before Rainbow could think of anything else, Pinkie came out of the shop's door holding a box.

"Here you go," Pinkie said, giving the box to Rainbow.

Rainbow took the box. "You start going towards Sweet Apple Acres, I'll catch up after I drop this off."

"Okay, thanks," Pinkie said before trotting away.

Rainbow held the package to her chest and took off, flying over Ponyville.

While she flew, she thought of the package in her hooves.

Why does Rarity need a pegasus costume?

Fluttershy is there, and she's a pegasus, couldn't she model for her?

Even then, I've seen her make dresses for pegasi on her ponnequines.

I'm going to ask her about it when I get there.

Should I open it?

Pinkie didn't say I couldn't open it.

But I would still feel bad if I did, I don't know.

I better not open it, hopefully Rarity will tell me what's up.

Rainbow saw Carousel Boutique coming into view. She slowed down and dropped to the ground in front of the shop.

She knocked on the door a few times and waited.

A few moments later, Rarity answered the door. "Hello darling, is that the package from Pinkie?"

"Yes, what's inside it? Pinkie said it's a pegasus costume," Rainbow replied.

"Yes, that's it," Rarity said.

"What do you need it for?"

"I'm going to use it to model a dress."

"Why? Isn't Fluttershy still here?"

Rarity took a second to answer, "Well yes, but the customer's coat is a different color and I wanted Fluttershy to wear the costume, so I could make sure it matches."

I guess that makes sense.

"Oh, okay."

"Was there anything else?"

"No."

"Goodbye, darling."

"See ya."

Rarity took the package inside with her magic and closed the door.

Rainbow flew up into the sky, heading for Sweet Apple Acres.





Fluttershy was sitting on the couch when Rarity came back from answering the door. Rarity had a package in her magic.

"I'm going to go put this on, when I get back we can start practicing again," Rarity said.

"Okay," Fluttershy said.

Rarity left the room.

Fluttershy sat on the couch and thought about Rainbow's request.

Rainbow said she wanted to show me how much she cares, wouldn't it be wild if she was planning on asking me out.

No, I don't know about that, but maybe I should ask her out after we eat breakfast.

Yea, that's a good idea.

She's going to be so surprised when I ask her out, I hope she says yes.

It makes me really happy knowing she likes mares. I'm glad Rarity asked.

I hope this practice goes well, hopefully I don't lose a bunch of progress from Rarity being dressed as Rainbow.

As if on cue, Rarity trotted into the room, She looked just like Rainbow Dash, except her eyes were still blue.

"Wow," Fluttershy said.

"I knew Pinkie would have what we needed," Rarity Dash said.

"Isn't it hot in there?"

"A little, but I'm alright."

"Okay, if you say so."

"Ready to practice?"

"Yes."

Rarity Dash came over and sat next to Fluttershy on the couch.

"For now I'm not going to say anything, once you get more confident I can try to respond like Rainbow Dash," Rarity Dash said.

"Okay," Fluttershy said.

Fluttershy looked at Rarity Dash, her heart started beating faster. She knew it wasn't really Rainbow, but still, this felt a little more real now.

Time to prove you can do it.

Fluttershy said, "Rainbow…"

That's better than nothing, but you can do this Fluttershy.

"Rainbow…"

I can do this!

"Rainbow D…"

I will not back down.

"Rainbow Da…"

You will ask her out.

"Rainbow Dash…"

She will know how I feel.

"Rainbow Dash, wi…"

I got this.

"Rainbow Dash, will…"

I will not give up.

"Rainbow Dash, will you…"

Rainbow will hear me say it.

"Rainbow Dash, will you g… g…"

I will overcome my shyness.

"Rainbow Dash, will you go…"

I will succeed.

"Rainbow Dash, will you go ou…"

I am going to ask her out.

"Rainbow Dash, will you go out…"

I cannot give up.

"Rainbow Dash, will you go out wi…"

This practicing will not go to waste.

"Rainbow Dash, will you go out with…"

I will surprise her.

"Rainbow Dash, will you go out with m… m…"

I will tell the mare I love how I feel.

"Rainbow Dash, will you go out with me?"

I did it!

"You did it, darling, congratulations!" Rarity Dash said.

"Thank you so much, Rarity! I'm going to ask Rainbow Dash out, and it's because you believed in me," Fluttershy said as her eyes started to water.

Rarity Dash leaned over and gave Fluttershy a big hug. "You did this Fluttershy. You were able to do this all along, you just had to believe in yourself."

Fluttershy returned the hug, closing her eyes as tears streamed down her face.

Rarity Dash held her tight and patted her back. "I'm so proud of you, darling."

They held the hug for a while, Fluttershy's tears slowed to a crawl, then she opened her eyes, seeing the blue coat of Rainbow Dash.

"I love you, Rainbow Dash," Fluttershy said.

"I love you too, darling," Rarity Dash said.

They let go of the hug, pulling back, Fluttershy saw Rarity's eyes. "I'm sorry Rarity, I didn't mean to call you Rainbow Dash."

"It's alright, I mean I am wearing a Rainbow Dash costume after all," Rarity Dash replied. "Besides, I do love you, you're one of my best friends."

"Thanks, love you too," Fluttershy said with a smile.





Rainbow landed next to Pinkie. "Delivered."

"Thanks," Pinkie replied.

"So, earlier when you were inside getting the costume for Rarity, I had an idea for your date."

"Ooh, what is it?"

"You two should play some game together."

"I like that idea, but what about Rarity?"

"I think if she loves you, she will have fun doing it because it's with you, you know."

"I think you're right, but what game?"

"I don't know, I think you should pick it, pick a game you want to do specifically with Rarity."

"Okay."

"We're almost there, be on the lookout for Applejack."

"Gotcha."

The pair made it all the way to the Apple family home without seeing Applejack.

"Must be inside," Rainbow said.

Pinkie knocked on the door and waited, moments later, Applejack answered.

"Howdy y'all," Applejack said.

"We're here to talk about my date with Rarity," Pinkie said.

"Well, come on inside, I was just baking some pies," Applejack said, moving aside for the pair to enter.

Pinkie and Rainbow followed Applejack into her kitchen, sitting down at her kitchen table.

"What can I do you for? How can I help with this here date?" Applejack asked.

"Well, we haven't figured that out yet, we should probably tell you the stuff we have planned, and maybe we can think of something together," Pinkie suggested.

"Okay, what's all in this plan so far?" Applejack asked.

Rainbow answered, "I'm going to do an air show for their entertainment, and keep the weather clear."

Pinkie said, "I'm making the dessert, and I'm going to sing Rarity a song, oh, and I want to play a fun game with Rarity."

Rainbow continued, "Fluttershy is going to help Pinkie make a dress to give to Rarity for their date."

Pinkie continued, "I'm going to wear the dress Rarity gave me when I asked her out. And we're going to a fancy restaurant for dinner."

Rainbow continued, "Rarity said she wants to spend quality time with Pinkie. Also, Pinkie would like to watch the sunset with Rarity on the date."

Pinkie finished, "We're going to ask Twilight to see if we can use a royal chariot for the date, and to see if she can help schedule the date."

"Wow, sounds you two are planning a mighty fine date," Applejack said.

"Yes, I hope she loves it," Pinkie said.

Applejack sat there in thought for a moment, thinking of how she could help, before offering, "I can give you my land, I can find a nice secluded spot for you two that has a great view of the sunset. I can even prepare it with a picnic blanket and such."

"Thank you, Applejack, that's a great idea," Pinkie replied before the gears in her head started to turn.

Moments later, Pinkie asked, "Can we play our game here?"

"Sure, just try not to damage anything," Applejack answered.

Rainbow thought about the date activities.

Dresses, Song, Dinner, Chariot, Game, Sunset, Show, Time, Picnic.

What am I missing from the list?

Dessert.

Hmm, when is dessert?

Rainbow decided to ask. "Pinkie, when were you planning to have dessert? I don't think the restaurant will let you bring in your food."

Pinkie thought for a moment. "Maybe we could eat it later on the date?"

Applejack suggested, "Like before you watch the sunset?"

"That's it, I can bring you the food beforehoof, and you can have it there waiting for us," Pinkie exclaimed.

"Good idea," Rainbow said.

Pinkie said, "I'll be right back, I need to use the bathroom," before walking to the bathroom.

Applejack seized the moment to ask, "When are you going to tell Fluttershy how you feel?"

Rainbow's face froze for a second. How'd she know?

"I know Pinkie didn't tell you, how'd you know?" Rainbow asked.

"It was more obvious than the start of cider season, the way you were fawning over her last night the whole way to her home," Applejack answered.

"Was it really that obvious?" Rainbow asked.

"Yes," Applejack answered in a dry tone.

"Do you think she likes me back?" Rainbow asked as she felt her face turning red.

"I'm surprised you couldn't see from how close you were walking to her, she had a blush to match the one you got right there," Applejack answered.

Rainbow's blush intensified.

"I think she might like you back," Applejack finished.

In a softer voice, Rainbow said, "I sure hope you're right."

"Even if she does like you back, you know how that girl is. You are going to need to make the first move," Applejack said.

"I am, the day after Pinkie and Rarity's date. Me and Fluttershy are having breakfast at my place, after we eat, I will ask her out," Rainbow said.

Pinkie walked back in the room. "I'm back."

"I wish you two the best of luck," Applejack said as she tipped her hat to Rainbow.

"Thanks," Pinkie said with a smile.

Rainbow got up and went over to Applejack, giving her a hug, "Thank you."

After the hug, Applejack said, "Goodbye y'all."

"Bye," Pinkie said before also hugging Applejack.

"Goodbye," Rainbow said with a smile.

With that, the two ponies walked out of Applejack's house.

Rainbow looked up in the sky, noticing how late it had become.

We need to hurry if I am going to have time to practice for the show.

Pinkie turned to Rainbow. "Onward to Twilight," she said, but as she was about to start trotting, Rainbow stopped her.

"Pinkie, you wanna make the trip to Twilight's a little more fun?"

"Absolutely."

"Let's race there, I won't even use my wings."

"Let's do it," Pinkie said with a smile.

They lined up next to each other, Rainbow getting in a running stance while Pinkie just stood there.

"On your marks," Rainbow announced.

"Get set," Rainbow continued.

"Go," Rainbow finished.

With that, they were off, Rainbow dashed off the line, running as fast as she could.





"Are you ready to continue practicing?" Rarity Dash asked.

"Not yet, I wanted to ask you something first," Fluttershy said.

"Okay, what is it, darling?"

"Can I barrow a ponnequin? And could I have some fabrics?"

"Well, of course, are you making a dress?"

"Yes."

"Would you like any help making it?"

"No, you can't help."

"Who is it for?"

"You."

"Me?" Rarity Dash asked in surprise.

"Yes, I want to make you a dress," Fluttershy explained.

"Why?"

"You've practically taken up a whole day to help me out, you are literally dressed like Rainbow Dash. I want to give you something for all you've done today."

Rarity Dash said in a loving tone, "You don't have to do anything for me. I'm your friend and would help you do anything without expecting compensation, darling."

"I know, but this is something I want to do."

Rarity Dash hugged Fluttershy. "Thank you, darling, I can't wait to see it."

Fluttershy hugged back. "Thank you."

After the hug was over, Rarity Dash asked, "When do you need the stuff?"

"Tomorrow morning, if you can."

"Okay, I'll set everything by the door, you can just come by and grab it."

"Okay, now I think I'm ready to start practicing again."

"Okay, this time after you ask me, I will either say yes or no, and you won't know which beforehoof."

"Okay."

You got this. Just pretend she is Rainbow Dash.

Fluttershy asked, "Rainbow Dash, will you go out with me?"

She is Rainbow Dash

"Yes," Rarity Dash said.

Fluttershy's trick worked, as her heart exploded, beating fast, she hugged Rainbow tight. "I love you," she proclaimed.

Rarity Dash held Fluttershy, rubbing her back.

When Rainbow didn't respond, Fluttershy remembered this wasn't real, letting go of the hug.

"I'm sorry," Fluttershy said, looking down at her hooves.

"No, darling, you did great."

"I did?" Fluttershy asked, looking up at Rarity Dash.

"Yes, you reacted like I was Rainbow Dash, it let you experience it, so you can be prepared for when she says yes."

"Thank you, Rarity."

"You're welcome, darling, let's keep going."

"Rainbow Dash, will you go out with me?"

She is Rainbow Dash

"Yes," Rarity Dash answered, again.

Again, Fluttershy's trick worked, but this time she realized much sooner, right after giving Rarity Dash a hug.

Letting go of the hug, Fluttershy asked, "was that right?"

"Yes, darling."

"Are you going to say no?"

"No."

"But, why not?" Fluttershy asked in a confused tone.

"You've achieved your goal, darling."

"What, how so?"

"You have the courage to ask her out."

"But what if she says no?"

"I could have said no, and you still asked me twice. You don't need to practice how to get rejected, you just needed the courage to ask her out. That feeling when I said yes, imagine that but for real, it will feel so much better darling. If she does reject you, that's something you need to handle with Rainbow Dash, you and her are the only ones qualified to deal with your friendship. If you really want to practice being rejected I will, I'm your friend and I will help you however I can, but I don't think you require it, I think you are ready now," Rarity Dash said.

Fluttershy's eyes were watering by the end of her speech. Fluttershy hugged Rarity Dash tightly. "I'm ready."





Rainbow rounded the last corner, galloping at a good pace. No Pinkie Pie in sight, she thought.

She made it halfway to Twilight's door when she spotted her, Pinkie Pie. She was just bouncing at a leisurely pace towards the door, and she was closer, way closer.

How?

Rainbow sped up, galloping as fast as she could, I'm not giving up that easily.

Rainbow was gaining ground at a quick pace, but not quick enough. It was a foregone conclusion.

Pinkie won.

Rainbow skidded to a stop, almost crashing into Twilight's door. Catching her breath, she just stared at Pinkie.

"How did you win? You weren't even running," Rainbow said.

Pinkie just shrugged. "I don't know."

"Well, you won, good job I guess."

"Thanks, you did great, too."

"Let's talk to Twilight," Rainbow said before knocking on Twilight's tree-house door.

Moments later, Twilight answered. "Hello girls."

"Hi, Twilight," Pinkie said.

"Sup," Rainbow said.

"What can I do for you?" Twilight asked.

"We're here to plan Pinkie's date," Rainbow explained.

"Oh, then come on inside," Twilight said while gesturing them inside.

The pair came into her home, following Twilight. Twilight led them into her kitchen. They all sat down at her kitchen table.

"What's the plan? What can I do to help?" Twilight asked.

Pinkie said, "We wanted to ask you to do two things for the date."

"What's the first one?" Twilight asked.

"Can you get us a royal chariot to use for the date?" Pinkie asked.

Twilight thought for a moment. "I think I can, I'm a princess now, so I should be able to use one on a personal request."

"Thank you, Twilight," Pinkie said before getting up to hug Twilight.

Twilight hugged back. "I'll write to Princess Celestia as soon as Spike gets back home."

After the hug was over, Pinkie returned to her seat.

Rainbow asked, "We also wanted to see if you could schedule the date? Pinkie wants to watch the sunset, so we need the timing to be correct."

"Yes, yes, I can do that," Twilight said with a big smile and a glint in her eye.

"Yay," Pinkie said excitedly.

"What locations will you be visiting on the date?" Twilight asked.

Pinkie answered, "Let's see, my house, Rarity's house, Sweet Apple Acres, the fairground field, and a fancy restaurant."

"Which fancy restaurant?" Twilight asked.

"Horse Dēla Hay," Pinkie answered.

"Okay, what are you doing at each place?" Twilight asked.

Pinkie started, "At my place I will be picked up, at Rarity's I will give her a dress as a gift and pick her up for the date."

Rainbow continued, "At the field they will watch my show, at the restaurant they will eat dinner."

Pinkie finished, "At Sweet Apple Acres we will play a game and watch the sunset and eat dessert, and I'm going to sing her a song."

"You two just almost created the schedule yourselves," Twilight said.

"What do you mean?" Pinkie asked.

Twilight explained, "The date starts at your place Pinkie, then to Rarity's. The middle section will be the dinner and a show. The end will all be at Sweet Apple Acres."

"Oh," Pinkie said.

"That is all well and good, but we need the timing set," Rainbow said.

"That's why I said almost," Twilight explained.

"Okay," Rainbow said.

"Pinkie, let me ask you this, do you want to watch the show or eat dinner first?" Twilight asked.

"Dinner, I feel like starting the date with dialogue would be nice," Pinkie said.

"Okay, so the current timeline is this: Pinkie's, Rarity's, dinner, show," Twilight said.

"Yes," Pinkie said.

"And after that, everything happens at Sweet Apple Acres?" Twilight asked.

"Yes," Rainbow answered.

"Is the sunset going to be the last activity?" Twilight asked.

"That sounds good," Pinkie said.

"So, that leaves, dessert, game, and song," Twilight said.

"Yes," Pinkie said.

"I'd suggest this order: game, dessert, song, sunset," Twilight said.

"That's good," Pinkie said, "what's the full order?"

Twilight answered, "the chariot will start here, I will give them the schedule to follow so you don't need to worry about it. Then they will come pick you up, then to Rarity's, then to dinner, entertainment, game, dessert, song, sunset. After the date is over the chariot can take you two home."

"Twilight, what do you think about the chariot leaving after we arrive at Sweet Apple Acres? I think walking her home sounds kinda romantic," Pinkie said.

"That's fine, it is your date," Twilight said.

Rainbow interjected, "Pinkie, you might want to take off your dresses and leave them in the chariot, you two probably don't want to sweat in the dresses; Rarity would most likely freak out if you eat dessert in your dress."

"Good idea," Pinkie said before turning to Twilight. "Is that fine? Can they bring the dresses back to you?"

Twilight answered, "Yes."

Pinkie smiled. "I think that's it, we planned a whole date, girls."

"Yes," Rainbow said. "The best date I've ever planned."

Also, the only…

Hopefully not for long.

Twilight smiled. "I'm glad I could help."

Pinkie got up from the table, grabbing both ponies into a group hug. "Thank you girls, I wouldn't have been able to do this without you."

Twilight hugged the group. "Anytime Pinkie."

Rainbow hugged too. "I'm always there for a friend."

After the hug was over, Pinkie proclaimed, "Now, time to prepare for the best date ever!"

Rainbow turned to Twilight. "Goodbye Twi."

Pinkie also said bye, "Bye Twilight."

"Goodbye girls," Twilight said.

With that, the two ponies left Twilight's abode.

Rainbow turned to Pinkie once they were outside. "Pinkie, I gotta go practice for the flight show, I'll catch up with you later."

"Rainbow, before you go, I wanted to give you a special thank you."

"Oh."

"You stepped up big time for me. I know you're not the first pony most would think of when they think of date planner, but you did a fantastic job, and I really appreciate it."

"Like I said, I'm always there for my friends, besides, I'm glad you asked me. Helping you gave me a lot to think about, with my feelings for Fluttershy and all."

"Are you going to ask her out?"

"Yes, the day after your date, me and Fluttershy are going to have breakfast together. I'm going to ask her out after we eat," Rainbow said, blushing a little.

"That's awesome, I hope she says yes."

"Me too."

"Good luck."

"Thanks," Rainbow said before giving Pinkie one last hug.

Pinkie hugged back with a smile.

"I gotta go now, bye Pinkie," Rainbow said.

"Bye Dashie."

With that, Rainbow took off into the air, heading toward her practice spot.

Time to make the best show you can, for your friends, she thought.
> Chapter 3: Dressmaking and Determination
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Pinkie Pie carefully placed the cake into the over, closing the door. She set the timer, then started cleaning up the kitchen.

I just know Rarity will love this cake, she thought excitedly to herself.

Oh, and I hope she likes the dress.

This date is going to be amazing, she thought.

Rarity gave me a gift to show me how much she cares, now it's time for me to give her the best date ever.

She smiled as she cleaned, excited to continue working on her date for the mare she loved.

Today I need to finish this cake, make Rarity's dress with Fluttershy, and teach Rainbow to make pancakes.

The cake is in the oven, so as long as I don't get distracted we're good.

Fluttershy will be here sometime, hopefully after Rainbow.

Rainbow should be here soon. Since I'm teaching her in the kitchen, I'll be here to hear the timer go off.

After the cake is done and cooled down, I'll add a special design to it.

I have a few ideas for the dress, I should be able to talk to Fluttershy about them.

I'll start Rainbow with a simple pancake mix, after that, we can switch to homemade.

She finished cleaning, looked around the room for anything she missed, not seeing anything, she trotted into the front of the establishment.

She was about to head upstairs to her room when she heard the door open, looking over she saw an exhausted looking Fluttershy, breathing heavy.

Oh, it's Fluttershy.

Fluttershy recovered and said, "Pinkie, I'm here to make the dress, I carried a ponnequin from Rarity's, it's outside. Can you carry it to your room? Those things are surprisingly heavy."

"Sure," Pinkie said as she headed outside, spotting the ponnequin and a large bag with fabric inside.

Pinkie took the bag in her mouth and did her best to carry the ponnequin inside and upstairs to her room.

She's right, this thing is heavy.

Once upstairs, Fluttershy opened Pinkie's bedroom door for her and closed it behind herself once Pinkie had made it inside.

Pinkie sat the ponnequin down in the center of her room, then set the bag of fabric beside it.

Fluttershy looked at Pinkie and said, "I may have told Rarity the dress was for her… but I only told her it was from me, she will be surprised when you give it to her for the date."

"Oh," Pinkie replied. "That's okay."

"I didn't know how else to get the ponnequin and the right fabric colors to match her colors."

Pinkie reassured her. "That was a good idea."

"Thank you."

"Well, let's see what we have to work with," Pinkie said before taking the big bag and dumping the fabric over her bed.

Bolts of fabric flew from the bag, landing on every corner of her bedspread. There were many colors and more than one shade of some colors.

Pinkie pointed to each one as she said its color. "White, blue, pink, purple, light blue, green, light pink."

Pinkie looked inside the bag, finding dozens of differently colored gemstones. "There's more in here," she said as she dumped them in the center of her bed.

"Looks like we have a lot to work with," Fluttershy said.

"We sure do," Pinkie said before looking over the pile of dress ingredients splayed out on her bed. "Rarity made my dress pink, should we make her dress white?" Pinkie asked, picking up the white bolt of fabric.

"That sounds good."

Pinkie brought the bolt of fabric and gave it to Fluttershy.

Fluttershy began by unrolling a few lengths of fabric. "Hold this," she said, giving the end of the fabric to Pinkie.

Pinkie took it between her hooves before Fluttershy got some scissors and cut the fabric at the bolt end.

Fluttershy placed the cut fabric over the ponnequin, centering it on its back.

Pinkie looked at Fluttershy. "How do you make a dress?"

"I don't know, all we can do is think it through. I know we made Rarity's dress for the Gala, but that was already designed, now we have to design and make the dress."

"Yea, did you have any ideas in mind?"

"We should try to use colors that go well with Rarity's appearance, Rarity already did that by picking the colors of the fabric."

"That's good."

"Do you have some safety pins? I need to hold this fabric in place."

"Yes, I'll be right back" Pinkie said before leaving the room.

Going into her upstairs bathroom, she opened a drawer on a cabinet and found them, she took as many as she could carry and returned to Fluttershy.

"Here you go," Pinkie said after she laid them down in front of Fluttershy.

"Thanks," Fluttershy said before she picked one up in her mouth. She pinned it in the fabric, holding the front two sides together at the chest of the ponnequin.

"Do you think we should put gems on it?"

"Maybe, Rarity did include them in the bag."

A few seconds later, Fluttershy asked, "how long do you want the dress to be? Do you want it short or do you want it long?"

"Let's make it long, more regal like, I think."

"Okay, I need you to hold up the skirt, so I can cut it at the right length."

"Okay," Pinkie said as she lifted the skirt in her hooves, spreading it out behind the ponnequin.

Fluttershy carefully went around in a circle, cutting the fabric at the right length. After the cut was over, Pinkie let the fabric hang.

Taking a step back, both mares looked at the newly cut skirt.

Fluttershy said, "I think it looks good, the cut wasn't perfect, but we should be able to fix it."

Pinkie said, "Yea, I think it looks good too."

"Do you have any ideas for the dress?"

Pinkie took a moment to look at the current state of the dress.

We haven't done much so far, what would be good to do next?

I like the flowing skirt, maybe we should bring more attention to it?

Pinkie said, "Let's make the skirt pop somehow."

Fluttershy thought for a second before suggesting, "Like an edge trim?"

"Yea, let's make it purple to match her mane," Pinkie said ecstatically.

"Okay," Fluttershy said before she went and picked up the purple bolt of fabric.

She unwound a single fold from the bolt. "How thick do you want the trim?" Fluttershy asked.

Pinkie imagined the trim on the dress, hmm. She held her hoof up to her imagination and said, "About half my hoof."

"Okay," Fluttershy said as she began to cut the fabric to length.

Fluttershy held the purple strip up to the skirt, aligning it. "Can you hold this?"

Pinkie held it as Fluttershy pinned it with a safety pin.

"Every time I add a pin, move a few inches along, and I'll pin it again," Fluttershy explained.

They worked together slowly getting the purple trim held in place, occasionally stopping to cut more purple fabric.

"There," Fluttershy said as they finished. "Now it's held in place, we can sew it on."

Fluttershy looked at Pinkie. "Do you have a sewing needle and thread?"

Pinkie shook her head before she thought, maybe Rarity sent some.

Going over to the bag Rarity had sent, she looked inside, finding exactly what she needed. A small pouch, pulling it out she opened it, finding several sewing needles and spools of thread.

"Here you go," Pinkie said with a smile, giving the pouch to Fluttershy.

Fluttershy began sewing the purple trim to the skirt, slowly, taking her time.

Pinkie remembered the cake, oh, I should go check on it.

"Do you need me?" Pinkie asked. "I need to go check the cake I have in the oven, its for the date."

Fluttershy answered, "Not right now, you can go."

"Thank you," Pinkie said, gently giving her a hug, trying not to disturb her.

"You're welcome," Fluttershy said with a smile.

With that, Pinkie trotted out of the room, making her way downstairs.

She turned the corner at the bottom of the stairs and sees Rainbow walking towards her.

"Hi Pinkie, I'm here to learn how to make pancakes," Rainbow said.

I guess I can do two things at once.

"Okay, let's go to the kitchen," Pinkie said before leading Rainbow to the kitchen.

Pinkie checked the timer, still a while until the cake is ready.

Pinkie got out a box of pancake mix and a big bowl, and two of everything they needed: frying pan, mixing bowl, various measuring cups, whisk, plate, and spatula.

Pinkie turned to Rainbow. "We are going to start with making pancakes from pancake mix, this will help you learn the basics."

"Okay."

"After we are good with these, we will move onto homemade pancakes."

"Okay, I'm excited to learn."

"I will make pancakes right beside you, so you can watch and ask questions."

"Sounds good."

Pinkie got out a stick of butter from the fridge and two butter knives from a drawer.

Pinkie instructed, "Open the pancake mix and pour a decent amount into that big bowl," as she pointed to the bowl.

Rainbow did as instructed. "Is that good?"

"Yes," Pinkie said. "Now take a one cup measuring cup and put two cups of pancake mix into your mixing bowl."

Rainbow did as she was told before Pinkie also did it.

"Okay, now add one and a half cups of water," Pinkie said.

Rainbow does as instructed. "Now we stir it, right?"

"Yes, good eye," Pinkie said as she added her water.

They both picked up their whisks and started to stir, Rainbow watched Pinkie closely, making sure she was stirring correctly.

After Pinkie stopped stirring, Rainbow stopped too.

Pinkie looked at Rainbow's mixed batter. "Looks good."

"Now what?" Rainbow asked.

"Take your pan, and place it on the stove, and place your plate next to the stove."

Rainbow did so in step with Pinkie.

"Now, we are going to turn the stove on," Pinkie said as she turned on her burner to the four setting.

Rainbow followed suit. "How long do we wait to pour the batter?"

"A few minutes, but before we place in the batter we want to add some butter to the pan, to keep it from sticking," Pinkie explained.

Rainbow looked at the butter. "How much do we add?"

"One tablespoon, it's marked on the side," Pinkie said before cutting off said amount from the stick of butter.

Rainbow copied her.

After waiting until the pans were hot, Pinkie took the wrapping off her butter and placed it in the center of the pan.

The butter in Pinkie's pan started to sizzle as Rainbow unwrapped her butter before putting it in her pan.

Pinkie used her butter knife to spread the butter around the pan, Rainbow following suit.

"Now pour in the batter, the amount you pour in makes them bigger or smaller," Pinkie said before picking up her mixing bowl.

Pinkie waited for Rainbow to be ready to pour, once ready, they poured in the same amount, Rainbow stopping on Pinkie's queue. "That's good."

Pinkie said, "Now, we let them cook, depending on the stove, it can take different amounts of time, for this one we wait ninety seconds for the first half and sixty seconds for the second half."

"Okay."

Pinkie picked up her spatula, Rainbow mimicking her.

About ninety seconds later, Pinkie flipped her pancake. Rainbow watched and then flipped her own, almost dropping it in the process.

"You're doing good," Pinkie said.

"Thanks."

Sixty seconds later, Pinkie picked up her pancake and laid it on her plate, Rainbow doing the same.

"You did it!" Pinkie exclaimed excitedly.

"How'd it turn out?"

Pinkie took a closer look at Rainbow's pancake. "It definitely is a beginner pancake, but a good beginner pancake at that."

"Cool."

"Let's make a few more."

"Sounds good."

With that, they both made three more pancakes, making a total of four each.

Pinkie noticed Rainbow's quality going up somewhat with each one Rainbow made. "You're getting better."

"Awesome."

"Why don't you make four more while I'm gone, I need to go upstairs for a bit."

"Okay," Rainbow said, as she started on the next pancake.

Pinkie checked the timer on the cake and went upstairs to work with Fluttershy.

The timer's still looking good.

Pinkie closed the door and saw Fluttershy sitting in front of the dress. "I'm back."

"Welcome back," Fluttershy said.

"How's the dress going?"

"Good, I finished the trim, now I'm trying to think of what to do next."

Pinkie looked at the dress. It looks good so far, the purple makes it pop.

"Got any ideas so far?" Pinkie asked, looking back at Fluttershy.

"I was thinking maybe we should add some sleeves to the front legs."

"That sounds good."

"How long should they be?"

Pinkie imagined how different length sleeves would look on Rarity.

Short ones would look good, but maybe not as fancy.

Medium ones just don't feel right, not for this dress anyway.

Long ones feel better, maybe better than short?

"Long, but maybe short, what do you think?" Pinkie asked.

Fluttershy thought for a second before she said, "I think either would work, so long it is?"

"Sure."

Fluttershy unrolled another length of the white fabric, cutting two rectangles from it.

"Come hold this," Fluttershy instructed.

Pinkie walked to the ponnequin and held the sleeve on one of the front legs. "This good?"

"Yes," Fluttershy said as she pinned it to the main fabric of the dress.

Fluttershy slowly pinned the sleeve together, going from top to bottom, making sure it had equal circumference all the way down.

"Okay, now I want you to sew it," Fluttershy stated.

"Me?" Pinkie asked.

"Yes, it will mean a lot more to her if you put your love into it, don't you think?"

"You're right, so I'm learning how to sew?"

"Yes."

Looks like Rainbow isn't the only one learning something today.

"We're going to use white thread, so it will be harder to see the seems," Fluttershy explained.

"Okay."

"Take this," Fluttershy said as she gave Pinkie a needle with white thread already on it.

Pinkie took it between her hooves.

Fluttershy explained, "To sew, you need to push the needle through the two layers and back out, over and over, moving a little bit with each puncture."

"How do you hold the fabric, so it doesn't move?"

"Since I'm here, I'll just hold the fabric for you, but if you're by yourself you can hold it with your face, by pushing against it, or sometimes I've bitten the fabric and stuck it straight through."

"Okay," Pinkie said as she moved the needle up to the fabric, she waited for Fluttershy to take the fabric in her hooves, holding it taut, so she could pierce it.

Pinkie applied pressure as she felt the needle puncture both layers.

"Good, now bring it back through, turn the need and apply pressure so you can see where it's coming back out at," Fluttershy said.

Pinkie did as instructed, rotating the needle, so it was flat with the fabric, almost losing grip as she saw the imprint of the needle. She pulled more and pressed down, seeing the need come back through.

"I did it!" Pinkie exclaimed excitedly.

"You're doing great, now just pull it all the way, you want the knot at the end of the thread to be up against the fabric."

Pinkie pulled it tight and placed the needle against the dress again, a tiny bit farther around the circle of where the sleeve met the dress proper. She looked to Fluttershy for approval.

"Yes, there is good," Fluttershy said.

Pinkie punctured the dress again, then rotated the needle before she brought it back through, feeling more confident.

This isn't so hard, especially with Fluttershy helping.

Pinkie moved to the next spot as they talked while working.

"You're getting the hang of this quickly," Fluttershy said proudly.

"Love is a good motivator, and it's fun!"

"It sure is."

"Do you think Rarity is going to like the dress?"

"I think she will."

"What if we make a bad dress?"

"I think we will make a good dress."

"Me too, I'm just worried, I'm trying to make everything be perfect."

"That's good, but I don't think you should worry, I think you're doing a fantastic job."

"Thanks," Pinkie said as she missed, pushing the needle through in the wrong spot. "Sorry…"

"It's okay, just pull it out and continue from where it should be."

"After it's sewed to the dress, are we going to sew the sleeves together?"

"Yes, then we will do the second sleeve."

"Okay," Pinkie said as she got to the end of the circle, and asked, "What do we do at the end?"

"We tie the thread in a knot."

"How?"

"Like this," Fluttershy said as she took the needle, slowly demonstrating. She stuck the needle between the fabric and the thread at the start, looping it through before tying it in a knot. She cut the remaining thread with the scissors.

"Okay."

"You can finish this sleeve, and I'll do the other one, so you can take a break."

"Sounds good," Pinkie said as she moved to get at the sleeve better.

Fluttershy held the fabric while Pinkie sewed.

After this sleeve, I should go check the cake.

Rainbow has probably finished making the rest of those pancakes by now.

"Do you think you could bring up some food after you finish this sleeve?" Fluttershy asked.

"Are you okay with pancakes? I know you ate them yesterday, but I was planning on making some when I went down to check the cake again."

"Oh, that's fine, I love your pancakes."

"Okay."

I wonder if Rainbow's pancakes would be good to give her.

Pinkie got to the end of the sleeve, and attempted to tie the thread herself, taking it slowly she was able to tie it off and Fluttershy cut the thread for her.

"You did a great job," Fluttershy complimented.

"Thanks to you," Pinkie said as she gave Fluttershy a big hug.

Fluttershy hugged back. "You're welcome."

After the hug was over, Pinkie stood up. "I'll be back with those pancakes."

"Okay, thank you."

Pinkie walked out of her room, as she closed the door, she heard the distinct sound of her oven timer going off.

She ran down the stairs to try to remove the cake as soon as possible.

Hopefully, it just started going off and isn't burnt.

Turning the corner at speed, she saw Rainbow holding the cake tray in her mouth. She was running too fast, she tried to stop it in time, but it was too late. She ran into Rainbow, causing the cake to fall to the floor, the pan landing upside down.

"No," Pinkie said in a saddened tone.

Both ponies just sat there in silence before Rainbow spoke up, "I'm sorry…"

"It's not your fault, I was the one running too fast," Pinkie said before she sat down in a sad state.

They sat in silence again for a bit before Pinkie said, "that cake was supposed to show Rarity how much I love her," before tears started falling from her eyes.

Rainbow leaned down and hugged Pinkie, who hugged back.

Rainbow said, "That cake isn't going to do that, you are."

Pinkie said, "What do you mean?"

Rainbow held Pinkie tight. "You're going to show her how much you love her, you already are. Look at how much effort you are putting into this date, even without that cake, Rarity will know. She already knows, and tomorrow will just be more proof."

"She does?"

"Yes, Pinkie," Rainbow said before nuzzling Pinkie. "Yesterday, when I was talking to her alone, she was worried that she didn't know how to show you her love, besides giving you that dress."

"I know she loves me, she even gave me a kiss when you two came into the kitchen."

"I told her to give you that kiss. When I woke you up, you muttered about wanting a kiss from Rarity, so I relayed the information."

"Oh, thank you," Pinkie said, holding Rainbow tighter.

"You're welcome, I asked her to talk to you about it, you two need to love each other in ways the other wants to be loved in."

"That's really good advice," Pinkie said as she smiled. "Didn't expect love advice from you, but it's welcome," Pinkie said sheepishly.

"I've been doing a lot of thinking in the process of dealing with my feelings for Fluttershy, it's been difficult to figure out these new emotions, but I think it's made me more empathetic."

"That's good."

"When I was talking to Rarity yesterday, she was also surprised at my words. I almost told her about my feelings for Fluttershy, but I didn't want to with Fluttershy being in the next room and all."

"You know, Fluttershy is upstairs right now, she's working on the dress we're giving Rarity. And she asked for something to eat."

"What are you suggesting?"

"You should make her some pancakes."

"But what about the cake?"

Pinkie thought for a second.

Homemade pancakes and cake have a similar enough ingredient list, I could make the cake while Rainbow makes the pancakes.

Pinkie answered, "I'll make a new cake while you make homemade pancakes."

"What about my learning? How will I learn if you're making a cake and not pancakes?"

"The ingredients are similar enough that can you still follow along, I'll just tell you the different measurements for pancakes."

"Okay, but we should probably clean up the cake on the floor first."

"Oh, yea," Pinkie said with a small chuckle.

The pair stood up and started cleaning, Pinkie grabbing the pan, placing it in the sink, while Rainbow swept the cake into the trash.

"Thank you," Pinkie said in a sincere tone.

"Thank you too," Rainbow said.

"Bring me all your dishes and mine."

"You got it," Rainbow said enthusiastically before she started to do so.

Pinkie turned on the water, letting it get almost too hot, and started to wash each dish one at a time.

After Rainbow had finished bringing the dishes, she asked, "What kind of cake was it?"

"Vanilla," Pinkie answered.

"How much more complicated is that cake over pancakes?"

"Not much, just a few more ingredients."

"You're sure I'll be able to learn fine, I'm a little nervous, especially if we're giving them to Fluttershy," Rainbow said in a slightly anxious tone.

"I'm sure you will do great, if you'd like, I can taste test one to make sure it's good," Pinkie said reassuringly.

"Okay, thanks," Rainbow said in an eased tone.

"The secret ingredient is love, so just channel your love for Fluttershy into the pancakes and I know they'll be the best!" Pinkie said with a smile.

"I'll try."

"If you're not happy with giving her them today, I can make some more for her, I don't want to do it if you don't want to."

"I'm fine with doing it."

"Do you want to help us finish the dress?"

"Sure."

"Awesome!" Pinkie exclaimed.

"When you give them to her, can you say we made them and not specify me?" Rainbow asked, a tinge of nervousness in her voice.

"Sure."

"I'll tell her I made them later."

"Okay," Pinkie said as she finished the last dish.

Rainbow looked at Pinkie, who had turned toward her. "What now?"

Pinkie said, "Now we bake," before she got out all new bake wear for them to use: cake pan, mixing bowls, whisks, measuring cups, measuring spoons, frying pan, plate, butter knives, and a spatula.

"That's a lot of stuff."

"This is for two cooking jobs, remember," Pinkie explained as she separated the bake wear into two places: one for herself, and one for Rainbow.

Rainbow looked at her smaller assortment of utensils and said, "Now for the ingredients?"

"Correct," Pinkie said as she got all the ingredients out: flour, baking powder, sugar, salt, milk, stick butter, eggs, cornstarch, vanilla extract, almond extract.

"So, you're going to tell me what to do while you do the same for the cake?"

"Yes, kinda, I may do some things differently, but I will make sure I tell you if I need to deviate."

"Okay, what's the first step?"

"Flour," Pinkie said as she moved the flour in between them. "One and a half cups for both of us," she said as she sat the one and one half measuring cups by the flour, before moving one of her mixing bowls close to it.

Rainbow watched as Pinkie scooped out one cup, and used a butter knife to push off the excess back into the container.

Rainbow followed Pinkie's lead, moving her utensils close before putting the right amount of flour into her own mixing bowl.

"Good job, next is baking powder, three and a half teaspoons for you, one and three quarters for me," Pinkie said before pushing the flour back and bringing the baking powder to the front.

Rainbow watched Pinkie use the measuring spoons and followed her example.

"Now you add sugar, I'm going to add the sugar in a different bowl later" Pinkie said, swapping the baking powder with sugar. "One tablespoon."

Rainbow added the sugar. "Okay."

Pinkie encouraged her, "You're doing great," then she said, "Salt next, one fourth a teaspoon for you, one half for me," before swapping the sugar for salt in front of them.

They both added the correct amount to their mixing bowls, before Pinkie said, "That was your last dry ingredient, I still need to add cornstarch, three tablespoons."

Pinkie added the cornstarch before she said, "Now we need to sift the dry ingredients."

They both picked up their whisk, Rainbow following Pinkie's lead as she started to sift the ingredients together.

Once each bowl was sufficiently mixed, Pinkie said, "That's good."

"What's next?"

"Now for the wet ingredients, I'm going to use a second mixing bowl, you are going to make a hole in your dry ingredients and pour into that."

Rainbow used the one cup measuring cup to make an indent before Pinkie brought the milk, eggs, and butter to the front.

Pinkie said, "We will split here, we will do your stuff first, then I'll do mine," Pinkie said.

"Okay."

"We need to melt some butter, cut off three tablespoons of butter from the stick," Pinkie said as she got out a small bowl.

Rainbow cut the butter before unwrapping it and putting it in the bowl.

Pinkie put it in the microwave, checking on it every few seconds, making sure it wasn't burning.

After it was melted, Pinkie took it out. "Pour this into the well you made."

Rainbow did as told. "Now milk and eggs?"

"Yes, one and a quarter cups of milk, and one egg."

Rainbow poured in the butter, then measuring out the milk, she poured it in too. "How do you crack them?"

"Tap the egg really fast against the edge of the bowl, then bring it over to your mix before peeling the two halves of the shell apart."

Rainbow looked a little nervous, picking up the egg.

You got this!

Rainbow flicked the egg against the rim of the mixing bowl, making it crack in two. She quickly brought it to the well and split it apart, bolstering her confidence. "That was easy."

"I knew you could do it! Now whisk it until it's smooth."

Rainbow mixed her batter while Pinkie worked with her own wet ingredients.

Pinkie moved her first mixing bowl, placing a second one in its place. She measured out one cup of sugar, placing it in the empty bowl.

Pinkie grabbed the small bowl Rainbow had used, then unwrapped a whole stick of butter, putting it into the bowl. Pinkie placed the bowl in the microwave and turned it on.

While she waited, she checked on Rainbow.

"How's the mixing going?" Pinkie asked.

"Good, mixing takes time, it seems," Rainbow said.

"Yep, but it'll be worth it when you give her those delicious pancakes."

"I hope she likes them."

"I know she will."

"Thanks."

Pinkie looked at Rainbow's batter, not there yet, but making progress.

"You're doing great," Pinkie complemented.

Rainbow was about to respond when she was cut off by the microwave going off.

Pinkie took the melted butter out of the microwave, pouring it into her second mixing bowl.

Pinkie started beating the sugar and melted butter, then asked, "What were you about to say?"

"Thanks for believing in me, I never would have thought I'd ever be excited about making food, but look at me now," Rainbow said with a smile.

"You're most welcome, I know you can do anything you set your mind to."

Pinkie turned her attention to the ingredients she was beating, looking down, she saw they were now creamy.

She grabbed an egg, cracked it and poured it into the mix. She threw the shell away and started beating the egg into the mix.

After the first egg was mixed in, she cracked and poured in another, beating it too.

"Is this done?" Rainbow asked.

Pinkie looked over at Rainbow's batter, it was now smooth. "Yes, that looks good."

Rainbow stopped mixing and asked, "Now I just do the same as the last pancakes?"

"Yes, but the timing might have been different, do you remember how they looked when you flipped them?"

"There were some bubbles, I think."

"Yes, you want to flip them when the edges are solid and the middle has bubbles."

"Okay, I'll do my best," Rainbow said as she turned the burner on.

"I'll make sure you don't mess up," Pinkie reassured her.

As Rainbow waited for the burner to heat up, she watched Pinkie.

Pinkie poured in her last two ingredients, one teaspoon of vanilla extract and one teaspoon of almond extract, after which she started mixing them in.

As Pinkie mixed, she looked over at the stove, realizing she forgot to turn the oven back on to preheat.

It's probably still hot from the first cake.

"Can you turn the oven to one hundred and seventy-five degrees Fahrenheit," Pinkie asked. "I forgot to turn it back on to preheat."

Rainbow did as asked, figuring out how the stove works. "Done."

"Thanks."

After a couple more minutes of mixing, Pinkie was done. She pulled the first mixing bowl beside the second one. She lifted the first bowl and poured the dry ingredients on top of the wet ingredients.

Pinkie started to mix the ingredients together as Rainbow buttered the pan before pouring in her first pancake.

Pinkie carefully watched her mix and Rainbow's pancake, looking back and forth.

As Rainbow's pancake was about to need flipped, Pinkie was about to say something when Rainbow noticed it too, and flipped the pancake over.

"Good job," Pinkie congratulated.

Rainbow didn't respond, too focused on pancakes.

As Pinkie was done mixing the wet and dry ingredients, Rainbow put her first homemade pancake onto the done plate.

Pinkie poured in three fourths of a cup of milk into her mix, then mixed it for the last time.

Both ponies worked in silence for a bit, Pinkie mixed while Rainbow made pancake after pancake.

By the time Pinkie was done mixing, the oven had dinged, letting her know it had reached the set temperature.

As Rainbow put her fourth pancake on the plate, Pinkie poured her batter into the cake pan.

After the batter had settled into the pan, Pinkie took it in her mouth, lowering the oven door, she set it inside. After she closed the door, Rainbow poured in her fifth pancake.

Pinkie set the timer for thirty-five minutes.

"Cake is in the oven," Pinkie announced. "How's the pancakes going?"

"Good, I think I can make one more after this," Rainbow said.

Pinkie took it upon herself to eat the first pancake Rainbow made, making sure it was good.

Pretty good, definitely made with love.

After finishing it, she complimented Rainbow, "Pancakes taste delicious."

"Thanks, I'm glad to hear," Rainbow said.

As Rainbow continued making her pancakes, Pinkie put all the dishes in the sink, resolving to clean them later.

Pinkie turned back to Rainbow, seeing her flip the last pancake onto its second half.

She's learned quick, I'm proud of her.

Pinkie waited for Rainbow to finish. "I'm proud of you, let's go give Fluttershy those pancakes."

"Thanks," Rainbow said, turning off her burner before placing the pan in the sink.

"You should give them to her."

"Okay," Rainbow said, picking up the plate of five pancakes in her mouth.

Pinkie trotted upstairs and opened the door for Rainbow, who was right behind her.

Rainbow walked into the room and looked around, spotting Fluttershy, she walked to her, setting the pancakes at her hooves. "We made these for you."

"Thank you," Fluttershy said in a surprised tone.

Pinkie walked to the dress, seeing that Fluttershy had indeed finished the other sleeve, looking good.

Fluttershy began to eat the pancakes, while Rainbow turned to Pinkie.

Pinkie asked Rainbow, "What do you think of the dress so far?"

Rainbow took a second to answer, looking at the dress from a few angles. "I think it looks good, how does it compare to the dress you're wearing, Pinkie?"

"Oh, I didn't think to compare them, why?"

"Well, if you're wearing the dress she made you, and she's wearing this dress, shouldn't they go together?"

"Oh, like take inspiration from it?"

"Yeah."

"Hold on a sec, I'll get my dress out," Pinkie said before she went to her closet and rummaged through it, moments later coming back with her dress.

Pinkie held up the dress next to the one they were making for Rarity.

Pinkie's dress was pink with two layers, one going to within an inch of the floor and the second going halfway down the dress. It had light blue stitching about an inch from the bottom of each layer that ran along the dress. Going from one side to the other on her chest was a darker pink ribbon with a light blue bow in the center.

Rainbow looked at the dresses, thinking of ideas to improve the dress.

"I think the trim is too much, you might want to replace it with just a line thing like Rarity did on your dress," Rainbow suggested.

Both Pinkie and Fluttershy looked at the dresses, considering her idea.

"I like that idea," Pinkie said.

Fluttershy nodded in agreement as she ate.

"Got any more ideas?" Pinkie prodded.

"Uh, maybe," Rainbow said as she went to staring down the dresses again.

After a few moments of pondering, Rainbow said, "I think you should give it a v neck, and put a blue line around the neck to match her eyes."

"That sounds good, but why a v neck?" Pinkie asked.

"The blue outline is so it stands out," Rainbow blushed slightly. "The v neck is so the dress doesn't get in the way."

"Of what?" Pinkie asked.

Rainbow sighed. "So you can place your head on her chest and not have the dress get in the way." Rainbow's blush was far more noticeable now.

Pinkie thought about laying her head on Rarity's chest, listening to her heart beat.

I really wanna do that now. Maybe on our date?

Moments later, Fluttershy spoke up, "If we're doing that, perhaps we should cut the sleeves to be short, so they don't get the way of her holding you…" Fluttershy trailed off at the end, face blushing slightly as her eyes darted to Rainbow then back to Pinkie.

"Those are great ideas, let's do them," Pinkie said with a smile.

Pinkie opened the pouch she had given Fluttershy earlier, looking for blue and purple thread for the stitching. Moments later, she pulled out both and set them next to the ponnequin.

Fluttershy finished eating and stood up. "Those pancakes were delicious, thank you."

"You're welcome," Rainbow and Pinkie said in unison, Rainbow with a bashful voice, Pinkie with a smile.

Fluttershy suggested, "Why don't you and Rainbow cut the sleeves short, and I'll remove the trim and add the purple stitch."

"Sounds good," Pinkie said.

Pinkie picked up the scissors. "How short should we make it?"

"Two inches," Rainbow suggested.

"Okay," Pinkie agreed.

Fluttershy went to work while they cut the sleeves.

Pinkie picked up a ruler. "Can you hold this up to the sleeve?"

"Sure," Rainbow said, taking the ruler and holding it as instructed.

Pinkie cut up the sleeve, stopping at the one and a half-inch mark, leaving extra space for errors.

Rainbow moved the ruler to the other sleeve and Pinkie splits it to the same length.

Pinkie rummaged around her room until she found a belt, bringing it back to the ponnequin, she said, "We are going to use this as our cutting edge."

Rainbow and Pinkie carefully wrapped the belt around the sleeve, making sure it was at an even length all the way around.

Pinkie took the scissors and carefully made her way around the leg, cutting the excess fabric on the bottom side of the belt.

Taking the belt off, they inspected the cut.

"That looks good," Rainbow said in surprise.

"Yea," Pinkie agreed.

They repeated the process on the second leg, making sure to get it the same length as the first.

Both sleeves looked good, but there was thread hanging from where it had been cut.

"What do we do about that?" Rainbow asked.

"Uh, I don't know," Pinkie said. "Fluttershy, can you fix this hanging thread?"

Fluttershy stopped her work and came to see what was needed.

Fluttershy looked at the thread and said, "Sure, I should just be able to tie it off after I make sure it's tight."

"Okay," Pinkie said.

Fluttershy fished out a needle from the pouch before she threaded the hanging thread through it.

Fluttershy tied off the thread on each sleeve before going back to removing the trim.

"What should we do now?" Rainbow asked.

"Maybe we can make the v neck?" Pinkie asked.

"Do you have a triangle we can use to make the cut?" Rainbow asked.

Pinkie again rummaged through her room, looking for something triangle shaped with some hardness to it.

She picked up a piece of cardboard as an idea came to her.

Aha!

Pinkie took the cardboard to the ponnequin, she slid the cardboard behind the fabric, positioning it, so it formed a triangle shaped outline.

"Can you hold this?" Pinkie asked.

"Okay," Rainbow said, putting her hoof on the triangle.

Pinkie left Rainbow, looking around her room for a third time.

After a moment, Rainbow asked, "What are you doing?"

Pinkie found her stapler. "Got it."

Pinkie brought the stapler to the dress, and stapled the triangle outline to the cardboard.

Rainbow realized what she had done. "Oh." Then let go of holding it.

Pinkie picked up the scissors, and slowly cut the v neck into the dress, being careful not to over cut.

After she was done, the cardboard and patch of fabric fell to the floor.

Stepping back, Pinkie looked at the v neck.

Looks good, great for cuddling.

Pinkie walked around the back of the dress, Rainbow following.

Pinkie looked at the skirt, seeing the purple stitch going around.

Looks good too, makes it pop but doesn't distract from her beauty.

Fluttershy was almost done with the purple stitch, finishing it she said, "Done."

"It looks great, Fluttershy," Pinkie said.

"Yea, you did awesome," Rainbow commented.

"Thanks," Fluttershy said bashfully.

The trio walked to the front of the dress.

Fluttershy asked, "So, it's just the blue stitching left to do around the neck?"

"Yep," Pinkie said.

"Okay, I'll do it," Fluttershy said.

Fluttershy worked on the stitching as Rainbow and Pinkie watched.

She sure is good at this.

Rainbow leaned over to Pinkie and whispered, "You know, if Fluttershy made me a dress, I'd wear it. I might even be happy wearing it," she quietly chuckled.

Pinkie teased in a whisper back, "Me and Fluttershy might just do that."

Rainbow's face turned to terror before slowly shifting to resigned content. "Go ahead, I'll look good in it."

Pinkie hugged Rainbow, who hugged back.

Pinkie cleaned up her room, putting all the excess fabric and unused gemstones back into the bag. Rainbow helped, cleaning up the floor.

The pair cleaned even messes that weren't from the dressmaking, making the room spotless.

Fluttershy finished the stitch. "All done."

All three ponies looked at the complete dress.

It was a white flowing dress, with a purple stitch going all the way around the skirt about one quarter of an inch from the bottom. The front has sleeves that cover one fourth of her front legs. The neck has a blue stitch going around, with a V-neck in the front.

"I love it," Pinkie said.

"Rarity is going to love it," Fluttershy said.

"You girls did an awesome job," Rainbow said.

Pinkie hugged both ponies at once. "We did a wonderful job, you helped too."

"No problem, anything for a friend," Rainbow said, returning the hug.

"Thanks," Fluttershy said, also returning the hug.

Pinkie hugged them tighter and said, "I love you girls."

"Love you too, Pinkie," Fluttershy said.

"Same," Rainbow said.

Pinkie let go of the hug, giving their spines a break.

"Do you girls want to help me design the frosting for the cake?" Pinkie asked with a big smile.

"Sure," Rainbow said.

"Sounds fun," Fluttershy said.

I have the best friends a pony could ask for.

"Let's go," Pinkie said with a big smile, before leaving the room with her two friends to design a heartfelt diorama on a delightfully delectable desert.
> Chapter 4: Darling and Date
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Rarity opened her door, expecting Pinkie Pie, which she found. What she wasn't expecting, was the dress she had on. Pinkie Pie was wearing the dress Rarity gave her when they got together.

"Hello, darling," Rarity said. "I didn't know we were wearing dresses, or I would have put one on."

Pinkie said, "Can I come in? I have a gift for you."

"Sure," Rarity said before she stepped aside.

Pinkie entered the shop as Rarity noticed a large flat present on Pinkie's back.

Pinkie sat the present on a modeling pedestal. "This is from me and Fluttershy."

Rarity smiled. "Oh, you didn't have to get me anything."

"We didn't have to, but we wanted to."

Rarity slowly opened the present.

I know Fluttershy wanted to make me a dress, but how could they have made it so fast?

She lifted the lid and her suspicions were confirmed, they had made her a dress.

Rarity picked the dress up with her magic and inspected it. "This is spectacular, it matches your dress so well!"

"Rainbow Dash helped too," Pinkie clarified, not actually clarifying anything.

"Thank you so much, I'm going to put it on right now," Rarity said before she went behind her privacy wall and put the dress on.

"You're welcome," Pinkie called out to her.

Rarity trotted back to Pinkie after she had put the dress on.

"You look so pretty!" Pinkie exclaimed.

Rarity blushed and said, "You too, darling."

Pinkie blushed in turn and asked, "You ready to date?"

Rarity giggled. "Yes."

Pinkie led Rarity outside, after which a royal chariot pulled by two royal guards stopped in front of the shop.

Rarity's mouth hung open for a second before she asked, "Is this for us?"

"Yes," Pinkie answered before she gestured for Rarity to enter first.

Rarity smiled as she got in the chariot.

Pinkie has put so much effort into this. I'm impressed.

Pinkie stepped into the chariot and moments later it took off.

As the chariot moved along, Pinkie offered Rarity her hoof to hold.

Rarity took her offer, holding Pinkie's hoof and nuzzled her cheek, causing her to blush.

Rarity said, "This is lovely, darling."

Pinkie replied, "You are lovely."

Rarity held Pinkie's hoof tighter, and nuzzled her again.

Both mares blushed as they enjoyed the moment they were in.

Rarity, against her best wishes to revel in this moment forever, interrupted the silence. "Where are we going first, darling?"

"Dinner," Pinkie answered.

"That's good, I am rather famished. I skipped lunch because I figured you would want to eat on the date."

"I wanted to do dinner first, so we could start the date off with a dialogue. A little birdie told me you had something we should talk about," Pinkie said, winking at Rarity.

"That little birdie sure is a good friend, we should do something nice for her after all this."

"Yes, that's a great idea."

Rarity could practically see the gears turning in Pinkie's head as she smiled, no doubt idea after idea was flying through her mind as to how they could repay their dear friend Rainbow for helping with their relationship.

Rarity hugged Pinkie. "You're too cute, you know that?"

"Aw, thanks," Pinkie said as she returned the hug.

After the hug, both mares sat in silence and smiled, both content to enjoy each other's company.

A short while later, the chariot stopped.

Rarity stepped out of the chariot, followed by Pinkie.

Rarity looked at the building they were in front of, the sign read 'Horse Dēla Hay' in one of those hard to read cursive fonts. The building stood out from the surrounding rest, as it was made of brick, while the others were wood affairs. It had two large double doors leading into it and a nice outside eating area surrounded by a black wrought iron fence.

I think I've heard good things about this place.

Pinkie led Rarity into the establishment, holding the door for her. They trotted up to the greeter's podium.

The greeter was a dark gray unicorn stallion with a jet black mane, he was wearing a deep crimson suit and had dark green eyes. He greeted them, "Hello madams, welcome to Horse Dēla Hay. Do you have a reservation?"

Pinkie spoke up, "Yes, for Miss Rarity and Miss Pinkie."

He gestured for them to follow him. "Right this way."

The greeter led them into the back of the restaurant, into a closed off section through a weighted red curtain. He showed them to their private booth, opening its privacy curtain before the two mares entered in.

The greeter said, "Here are your menus," as he levitated two menus onto the table. "Your waiter will be with you shortly," he said before he left, closing the curtain.

Rarity picked up her menu and started looking around.

She was about to ask Pinkie what she was thinking of getting when the lights dimmed real low. Looking up, she found the culprit, Pinkie, was playing around with the dimmer switch.

Rarity's initial reaction was to chastise her for fooling around, but she stopped herself.

I can't do that to her, not after all she's put into this date.

Rarity decided to play along.

As the lights changed in brightness from Pinkie's touch, Rarity slid down in time with the lights, hiding under the table in the dark and sitting up proper at full brightness.

When Pinkie noticed, she watched Rarity out of the corner of her eye.

Pinkie did it a few more times before a devious grin formed on her lips.

Pinkie turned the lights up and down rapidly and watched as Rarity did her best to match them.

Rarity couldn't keep up, deciding to stay under the table as the lights went to full brightness.

Rarity smiled under the table as she waited for Pinkie's next move.

The lights went out and Rarity could hear movement from Pinkie.

What's she planning?

She found out soon enough as Pinkie wrapped her hooves around her.

Rarity hugged back. "That was… fun."

"Anything is fun when I do it with you," Pinkie replied.

Rarity blushed in the darkness as the two mares enjoyed each other's embrace.

Letting go of the hug, they got back into their seats. Pinkie turned the lights back on as both mares smiled at each other.

Rarity was glad the waiter hadn't shown up when they were under the table, but the thought did make her giggle.

Pinkie tilted her head curiously. "What's got you giggling?"

"I thought about what if the waiter showed up while we were under the table."

Pinkie giggled. "Yea, they might have some questions."

"We should probably pick out our food," Rarity said before she picked up her menu with her magic.

"Good idea," Pinkie said as she looked over her menu.

Rarity took a moment to look over the menu. Nothing looked interesting to her.

I might get what Pinkie is having, I don't know.

"Is anything looking good to you? I'm not seeing anything jump out at me," Rarity said, flipping her menu over.

"I was thinking the tomato soup with grilled cheese sandwich looked good."

That's Pinkie Pie for you, goes to a fancy restaurant and orders a grilled cheese sandwich.

"I think I'll get that too," Rarity said.

"Are you sure? You don't have to get the same thing," Pinkie said in a concerned tone.

"I want to. I bet it will be great here."

"Okay."

They both placed their menus at the end of the table and waited for the waiter.

As they waited, Rarity filled the air. "You know, dēla means deliver, so the name means horse deliver hay."

Both mares shared a small chuckle at the restaurant's name.

Moments later, the waiter showed up, knocking before opening the curtain.

The waiter was a dark red earth pony mare, she had yellow eyes and a black mane. She said, "Hello, my name is Balance Trick and I will be your waiter. Do you know what you will be having this evening?"

Pinkie said, "Yes, I would like a grilled cheese sandwich with tomato soup."

Balance turned to Rarity and asked, "And for you, miss?"

"The same thing as her," Rarity said, gesturing toward Pinkie.

"What would you girls like to drink?" Balance asked.

"I'll have fruit punch," Pinkie said.

"I'll have a cup of coffee, three cream, two sugar, please," Rarity said.

"Okay, I'll have that right out for you," Balance said before leaving, closing the curtain behind her.

Rarity turned to Pinkie. "I guess now is probably a good time to talk about us."

"What's on your mind?"

"How do you want to be loved? I don't know how to show you my love. I have a few guesses, but it would be nice to hear it from the horse's mouth."

Pinkie took a while to respond, eventually she answered, "Physical affection is probably my favorite, hugs, kisses. I'd love to cuddle you." – Pinkie blushed – "I love any contact. After that, I would say, seeing your smile," – Pinkie's blush intensified – "it just makes me happy. And words, I love it when you say 'I love you', or call me pretty, it makes my day."

"That's good to know, thank you."

"What about you, how do you want to be loved?"

Rarity thought about it for a moment before she said, "I think words of affirmation are my favorite, 'I love you', 'I missed you', compliments, anything of the like. Second is physical touch, your hugs are the best, almost as good as your kisses. Might change to number one once we cuddle." – Rarity blushed – "Physical presence is probably next, just being around you makes me happy," Rarity said before she smiled.

"I'll be sure to remember that, cutie."

Rarity blushed harder. "Thanks."

They sat in silence before Pinkie asked, "When was the moment you realized you like me as more than a friend?"

Rarity smiled. "It was a day like any other. I had noticed we were hanging out more than usual, but didn't think anything of it. When it was time for you to leave, you gave me a hug. It was that hug that tipped me off; I remember not wanting to let go. When you left, it hit me. I missed your presence, a lot. I missed the hug."

"That's really sweet, like you." Pinkie blushed.

She's taken to giving compliments well.

"Thanks, how about you? When did you realize?"

Pinkie's blush intensified. "When you told me I was pretty. I was excited to spend another day hanging out with my friend Rarity. Then you told me I was pretty, and my whole world turned upside down. I realized I liked you, but didn't know if you liked me. I spent all day with you, trying to look for signs. When it was time to leave, I gave you a hug. I wanted to stay in that hug forever, but I couldn't. I left, walking slow the entire way home, missing you."

"Pinkie, I think we are talking about the same day!"

"We are?" Pinkie asked in a surprised tone.

"Yes, I remember telling you that you are pretty on the day I realized. When you showed up to hang out, I couldn't help but notice your beauty. I kept thinking that you looked extra pretty that day. I just had to tell you."

"Oh, wow, that's amazing!" Pinkie smiled.

"It sure is," Rarity said, smiling back at Pinkie.

They sat there in silence and smiled at each other.

Moments later, they hear a knock before the curtain opens.

Balance Trick sets down a tray with their food and drinks on it.

Rarity helped, using her magic to place the contents in front of Pinkie and herself.

Balance said, "Thank you."

Rarity said, "You're welcome."

Balance removed the tray, and sat a bill on the edge of the table. "Enjoy the food."

"We will," Pinkie said enthusiastically, before looking down at her food.

Balance closed the curtain, leaving the two mares to eat.

Pinkie began to eat immediately, leaning over the table as to not get anything on her dress.

Rarity started to eat too. She used a napkin levitated under her sandwich to protect her dress.

They both dipped their grilled cheese into their tomato soup before each bite.

This is surprisingly good.

With each bite Rarity took, she counted two that Pinkie had taken.

Pinkie is definitely enjoying it.

They ate their food in silence, occasionally exchanging glances.

Pinkie finished her grilled cheese. "That was delicious." She started eating her soup.

Rarity finished her sandwich. "I concur." She didn't immediately start eating her own soup, instead she watched Pinkie eat for a bit.

It was true when we got together, and it's true now; that mare is cute when she eats.

Pinkie noticed Rarity watching her, and blushed.

Rarity smiled in response to Pinkie's blush, and started to eat her soup.

This is nice.

Pinkie finished her soup, taking the opportunity to watch Rarity eat. It was Rarity's turn to blush.

Pinkie smiled at Rarity, who smiled back.

Rarity finished her soup soon after, then asked, "Are we having desert here?"

Pinkie replied, "No, I made something special for later on."

"Oh, how exciting."

"I'm going to go pay, I'll be right back."

"Okay."

With that, Pinkie left their booth.

The date has gone splendid so far.

I'm excited about what's next, maybe I should ask?

Pinkie is amazing, so whatever it is will be great.

Rarity waited for Pinkie to return, smiling the whole time.

"Having a good time?" Pinkie asked after she opened the curtain.

"Absolutely, darling. I love it, and you," Rarity replied, her voice going serene on the last part.

Pinkie said, "I love you too," before she hugged Rarity.

Rarity returned the hug as her smiled grew wider.

After the hug, the pair trotted out of the restaurant, complimenting and saying farewell to the greeter.

Once outside, they boarded the chariot, which was waiting for them.

The chariot took off with no input from either of them.

Rarity asked, "What's next?"

Pinkie answered, "Entertainment."

"Sounds lovely."

"I'm positive it will be."

Rarity offered her hoof this time, Pinkie taking it in hers.

They sat in silence for the rest of the trip, leaning against each other, holding hooves.

The chariot stopped behind the bleachers at Ponyville's fairground field.

The pair exited the chariot before Rarity said, "Must be some show to be taking place here."

"I bet," Pinkie said before she led Rarity up into the bleachers.

The pair sat in the lowest row, in the middle.

Pinkie tapped her hoof on the metal floor of the bleachers twice.

Rarity didn't think anything of it.

Moments later, she realized what it was for, as Rainbow Dash flew up and hovered in front of them.

Rainbow asked, voice full of bravado and gusto, "Are you ready for a show?"

Pinkie and Rarity cheered. "Yeah!"

Rainbow said, tauntingly, "I can't hear you."

Pinkie and Rarity practically screamed. "YEAH!"

"That's better, let's get the show started."

With that, Rainbow flew to the center of the field.

This is exciting.

She flew from the center to the left side of the field, a decent way off the ground.

She started flying, leaving trails of cloud behind her.

How does she do that?

Rainbow flew fast, making corners and bends with precision and accuracy.

She's spelling something.

Rainbow wrote the letters one by one.

Rarity read the sentence out loud after it was complete.

"Rarity & Pinkie forever!"

How sweet.

Rarity smiled as she watched.

Rainbow waited ten seconds after she finished the writing, hovering in the air at the end of the words.

Rarity couldn't believe what she saw next.

Rainbow flew through the letters in reverse, in the exact path she took to draw them.

As Rainbow flew, the gray cloud trail that made up the letters changed colors as she passed over them.

The exclamation mark turned pink.

The word 'forever' turned purple.

'Pinkie' turned pink.

'&' turned blue.

'Rarity' turned white.

How did she do that? That was amazing!

Rarity stared at the words in the sky.

I certainly hope there are no truer words than these.

Rarity put her leg around Pinkie, holding her as they watched the show.

Pinkie leaned into Rarity, snuggling into her embrace.

Rainbow flew through the center of each letter, making each one dissipate into moisture, that fell to the ground.

After she was done, Rainbow flew out of the fairgrounds. A minute later, she returned, pushing a giant cloud to the left side of the field.

Once in place, Rainbow flew around the giant cloud, sculpting it.

She flew so fast around it, she was just a blur, with each pass the cloud became more recognizable.

It's Pinkie.

Rainbow worked fast, adding details here or there, mane, eyes, nose, mouth.

Rainbow finished the sculpture.

Pinkie and Rarity stared in awe.

That's so cute!

"You look adorable as a cloud," Rarity said playfully.

"So will yours," Pinkie said with a blush.

Aww.

Rainbow flew off again, presumably to get a cloud for a sculpture of Rarity.

Moments later, Rainbow returned, she had another large cloud. She took it to the right side of the field.

Rainbow began sculpting the second cloud.

This show is amazing, Rainbow has outdone herself.

After a few moments, the cloud became recognizable as Rarity.

It's me, like Pinkie said.

Rainbow took longer to sculpt Rarity, adding more detail in the mane.

After Rainbow had finished, Pinkie commented, "See, cute!"

Rarity blushed, squeezing Pinkie slightly as she kissed the top of her head.

Rainbow pushed the Rarity cloud toward the center of the field.

Rainbow flew quickly to the Pinkie cloud, pushing it toward the center too.

What's she doing?

As the two clouds met, Rainbow flew around them. She pushed them together, merging the two clouds into one massive cloud.

Once the clouds had merged, Rainbow flew around the massive cloud, shaping it.

Moments later, Rarity realized what she was making.

It's a giant heart; how cute.

Once the heart had been made, Rainbow flew around it in circles, getting the heart to spin.

Rainbow made the heart spin at a good pace before she backed off.

Rainbow let the heart spin for a while before she went to the bottom of it.

Rainbow pushed up from the bottom, moving the heart upward, spinning with it as she did.

Rainbow stopped pushing, letting the heart shaped cloud drift upward by itself. She then flew quickly to the ground, going under the bleachers.

She's good at keeping me on my hooves. I have no idea what could be next.

Rarity took advantage of Rainbow's absence and nuzzled Pinkie's head.

Pinkie said, "Thanks."

Rarity asked, "What do you think she's doing?"

"I don't know. She didn't tell me what the show would be. She did say the ending would be awesome."

"I can't wait."

Seconds later, Rainbow emerged from under the bleachers, but she looked different.

What did she do to herself?

Rainbow had dyed her mane and tail, they were now a two-tone pink and while.

What?

Rainbow took off from the field, flying fast towards the heart cloud, which had made it far up into the sky.

Rainbow's regularly colored rainbow trail had now changed to pink and while.

That's why she dyed her hair.

Rainbow was speeding up, flying faster and faster.

Is she doing what I think she is?

Rainbow continued to gain speed, a cone formed in front of her.

She is.

Rainbow reached the heart with perfect timing, right as she entered the heart, she did a sonic rainboom.

This rainboom was different, however, it was bands of while and pink, not its usual rainbow hue.

It evaporated the cloud immediately.

"That's amazing!" Rarity said, a giant smile plastered on her face.

"Wow!" Pinkie said.

The rainboom spread out, far and wide, as the two ponies gawked in awe.

By the time they had stopped looking at it, Rainbow was halfway back down to the ground.

They watched as Rainbow descended to them, landing on the bleachers in from of them.

Rainbow smirked. "So, best show you've ever seen or what?"

Pinkie jumped up and hugged Rainbow. "Yes!"

Rarity stood up. "Yes, it was absolutely spectacular!"

Rainbow said, after the hug was over, "I do not disappoint, especially for my friends."

Rarity hugged Rainbow. "Thank you."

Rainbow hugged back. "You're welcome, now go have fun on the rest of your date."

"We will," Pinkie said ecstatically.

"What about your mane and tail?" Rarity asked.

"I'm going to go wash it out, if that fails, I don't know," Rainbow said.

"Good luck, bye darling," Rarity said.

"Goodbye Dashie," Pinkie said.

"Goodbye," Rainbow said before she flew off in a hurry.

Pinkie and Rarity trotted back to the chariot, and got into it.

The chariot took off moments later.

Pinkie wrapped her hoof around Rarity, who leaned into her.

Rarity nuzzled Pinkie and smiled.

This is nice.

Pinkie kissed Rarity on the cheek, causing her to blush.

Rarity reciprocated, kissing Pinkie on the cheek.

Pinkie blushed.

Rarity said, "You're really cute when you blush."

Pinkie said, "You too," before she held Rarity tighter.

Both mares' blushes intensified.

Rarity wrapped her hooves around Pinkie, holding her.

Pinkie said, "Thanks, Pretty."

Rarity replied, "You're welcome, Pink."

Both mares giggled.

They were silent for the rest of the chariot ride, occasionally exchanging nuzzles and blushes.

The chariot stopped at the entrance to Sweet Apple Acres.

They departed the chariot.

"Oh, we need to leave our dresses in the chariot," Pinkie said.

"Okay," Rarity said.

"The guards are going to take the chariot to Twilight's. We can pick up the dresses there later."

"Sounds good."

Both mares took off their dresses, placing them neatly in the chariot.

The chariot took off, leaving the two alone.

"What did we do that for?" Rarity asked.

"For this," Pinkie said before she poked Rarity. "Tag!"

Pinkie ran off into the field of apple tress.

What?

We're playing tag?

We're playing tag!

Rarity started to run after Pinkie.

It is on!

Pinkie evaded Rarity, weaving around trees and taking random corners.

"I'm going to get you," Rarity shouted in a playful tone.

"Catch me if you can!" Pinkie said, taunting her.

Rarity sped up, gaining ground on Pinkie.

Pinkie dodged to the left as Rarity lunged for her.

Almost.

Rarity tried again, this time succeeding. "Tag, you're it!" she said before she heel-turned, running the other way.

Rarity ran as fast as she could, doing her best to evade Pinkie.

I've got to lose her.

Rarity did a U-turn around a tree, trying to catch Pinkie off guard. This, however, failed as Pinkie poked her.

"Tag!" Pinkie said before turning and running off.

Rarity got on her trail, slowly gaining ground.

"I'm coming for you!" Rarity said.

Pinkie sped up, then Rarity.

Rarity jolted forward, trying to poke her a few times. She succeeded on the last poke. "Tag!"

Rarity ran past Pinkie, trying not to get immediately tagged.

Pinkie chased Rarity, following her as she weaved through the trees.

Rarity looked back at Pinkie while running, she stuck her tongue out at her before smiling.

Pinkie smiled back.

She's so cute.

As Rarity turned her head back forward, Pinkie tagged her.

"Tag," Pinkie said as she turned right.

Rarity turned and followed her.

Pinkie ran for a bit, then slowed down to a trot.

Why's she slowing down? Are we done?

Rarity caught up to Pinkie, trotting beside her.

They trotted in silence for a moment before Pinkie asked, "What brings you out here, beautiful?"

Rarity played along. "Oh, me, I'm just on a date with my best friend, the prettiest mare I know. How about you?"

"What a coincidence, I'm also on a date with my best friend, but she's the most beautiful mare I know."

Both mares giggled before they blushed.

They trotted side by side for a while in silence.

Rarity said, "That was fun, exhausting, but fun."

"Yep."

"This date has been one amazing surprise after another, and that's what I love about you. You're like the perfect present, I never know what I'm going to get, but I know I'm going to love it."

Pinkie blushed. "You're the perfect present for me," she said serenely, before she kissed Rarity on the cheek.

Rarity blushed, and nuzzled Pinkie.

They trotted together in silence again for a bit, until they came upon a picnic blanket laid out.

The picnic blanket had an array of silverware arranged on it, and a covered dish in the center.

They sat down on the blanket.

Rarity said, "This is nice."

"I made this specially for our date. Rainbow and Fluttershy helped design the icing and frosting," Pinkie said before she removed the lid on the covered dish, revealing a cake.

The cake was square. The left side was white with Rarity's cutie mark designed on it. The right side was pink with Pinkie's cutie mark designed on it. Along the sides were a line of dots, yellow on Rarity's side, blue on Pinkie's.

"That's so adorable, thank you, darling," Rarity said with a smile.

"You're welcome, you ready to dig in?"

"Absolutely, that game of tag worked up quite the appetite."

Pinkie cut the cake into small squares before setting a piece on two plates, one for each of them.

Rarity took the plate in her magic and began to eat using the provided silverware.

This is a good cake.

Pinkie ate the entire square in one bite.

Somepony is hungry.

Rarity got lost in thought as she ate.

I love her.

I've said it to her before, a few times, but something's different now.

I don't know what's different, I just have this feeling.

I know this is literally our first date, and maybe that has something to do with it.

But, I just want to hold her, and never let go.

I want to make her smile, like she does me.

I want to cuddle on the couch and read cheesy romance novels together.

I want to surprise her with a random party out of nowhere.

I want to do everything with her.

I want to never stop.

"Rarity?" Pinkie said.

Rarity snapped out of her thoughts. "Yes, darling?"

"You've been staring at me for a while, is something up?"

Rarity blushed. "I love you."

Pinkie blushed in turn. "I love you too."

Before Rarity had even realized it, she was slowly leaning towards Pinkie.

Pinkie leaned in, in response.

Both ponies locked eyes as their lips met. Rarity wrapped her hooves around Pinkie, holding her gently.

I could kiss her a million times and still love every one of them.

They held the kiss for a while, savoring the moment.

Rarity broke the kiss, staring into Pinkie's eyes before she hugged her.

"Thank you," Rarity whispered.

"You're welcome," Pinkie replied, holding Rarity tight.

Rarity nuzzled Pinkie before ending the hug.

Pinkie smiled at Rarity before she grabbed her hoof, holding it.

Rarity smiled back.

Pinkie began to sing a poem to her.

"You're the best gift I ever got,
"Stop loving you, I will not,
"Fur so white, eyes so bright,
"Every day with you just feels right.

"Your smile brings joy to my life,
"When I'm with you, there is no strife,
"When we kiss, it feels so great,
"There is nothing about you, I hate.

"Around you, I will always smile,
"For you, I would go every mile,
"You're the most beautiful mare I've seen,
"You make me the happiest I've ever been."

"That was beautiful," Rarity said as tears of joy slowly rolled down her face. She grabbed Pinkie, holding her in an extra tight hug.

Pinkie returned the hug, serenely whispering, "Just like you, darling."

"I don't know what to say. Today has been so amazing," Rarity said, sniffling.

"You don't have to say anything," Pinkie said, tightening her hold on Rarity.

They held the hug for a while after Rarity's tears had stopped.

As they let go of the hug, Rarity noticed the sun setting.

"Are we watching the sunset now? I think it's starting," Rarity said.

"Yes, good eye," Pinkie complimented.

The two ponies sat side by side, one hoof around each other. They leaned against each other, trying to get as close as possible.

"I always knew I was going to love today, but I never expected this; it's like a dream come true," Rarity said tenderly.

Pinkie waited a few seconds then replied, "You're my dream come true, that's why I did all this for you. Because I love you." She emphasized the last part by tightening her hold on Rarity.

Rarity smiled wide, nuzzling Pinkie. "I love you too."

They sat in silence after that and watched as the rays of sunlight thinned out behind the trees and buildings on the horizon.

Beautiful.

After the sun had set, they stayed sat like that for a few minutes. Neither pony wanted to break the embrace.

Pinkie stood up and offered Rarity her hoof, helping her up.

"Thank you," Rarity said.

Pinkie gestured for Rarity to walk with her. They slowly walked back towards town, pressed against each other.

Pinkie broke the silence. "You know, planning this date was a lot of fun, but also a lot of work. Do you think you can plan the next one?"

"Absolutely, darling," Rarity answered.

I guess this amazing date is almost over.

They walked in silence until they got to the entrance of Sweet Apple Acres.

"All our friends helped big time with this date. Twilight helped schedule it and got the royal chariot. Fluttershy helped make the dress. Applejack found that spot and set up the silverware and desert. Rainbow cleared the weather and practiced really hard for that show," Pinkie said.

"That's wonderful, we have the best friends a pony could ask for," Rarity said.

"We sure do."

Rarity waited a bit before commenting, "I don't know how I'm going to make a date as amazing as this, but I'll try, for you."

"Your date could be us cuddling on the couch, and I'd love every second of it."

"I'd love that too, actually."

Both mares giggled as an idea formed in Rarity's mind.

Maybe this night doesn't have to end so soon.

"You're walking me home, right?" Rarity asked.

"Yes, sadly, our date is almost over."

"Okay."

Pinkie started walking slower, postponing the end.

Rarity followed suit.

They stayed silent the rest of the walk as they enjoyed each other's company, and occasionally exchanging nuzzles.

"Here we are," Pinkie said in a somber tone as they stopped in front of Carousel Boutique.

"Yes, the end of our first date. This was the best date ever, I loved every second."

"Me too."

"Now we kiss?" Rarity asked, knowing the answer.

"Yes," Pinkie said, blushing.

They kissed in the cool night air, both ponies pouring as much passion as they could into the kiss.

After the kiss, Pinkie said, "Goodnight, Rarity."

Rarity replied, "Goodnight, Pinkie."

Pinkie was about to turn away when Rarity stopped her.

"Pinkie, so our first date is now over?"

"Yes."

Rarity opened her door with her magic. "Would you like to go on our second date? My couch is free."

Pinkie hugged Rarity with a big smile. "Yes."

Rarity giggled, returning the hug.

After the hug, Rarity led Pinkie into her house, and over to the couch.

They laid on the couch, cuddled together. Rarity levitated a blanket over to them and covered them up.

"This is cozy," Pinkie said before yawning.

"Are you tired?" Rarity asked before yawning herself.

"Maybe."

Rarity giggled. "Goodnight, Pinkie."

Pinkie kissed Rarity on the cheek. "Goodnight, Rarity."

Rarity blushed and kissed Pinkie back on the cheek. "I love you."

"Love you too!"
> Epilogue: Breakfast and Bonding
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Fluttershy stopped pacing in her living room and took a deep breath.

You can do this, Fluttershy.

Fluttershy walked to her door and opened it, resolving that this was it.

Rainbow Dash will know today what is in my heart.

Fluttershy closed the door behind her and started trotting to Rainbow's house.

Fluttershy thought of her crush as she trotted.

Rainbow said she wanted to show me how much she cares. I sure hope it's love.

I certainly know I love her.

Fluttershy decided, I'm going to ask her out after we eat, I hope she's okay with me going first…

Wonder what's for breakfast? Is Rainbow making it?

I bet she'd put in significant effort if she was cooking.

She always goes hard at anything she does.

I hope she says yes.

I can only imagine what a relationship with her would be like, I bet it'd be fun.

All I can do is ask, right?

Rarity is right, I'm ready, yes or no, I can handle it.

Besides, it's a far shot, but maybe Rainbow has feelings for me too?

That sure would surprise her, asking her out right before she was going to ask me out.

Fluttershy giggle to herself, probably not, but I hope she gives me a chance…

Her thoughts changed to how she was going to ask.

I want to ask her out on the couch if I can, like how I was practicing.

I just have to ask, be brave.

If she says no, you need to keep it together, don't cry.

If she says no, you need to talk it out, like Rarity said.

Fluttershy's thoughts ended as she stopped, looking up she saw the cloud home of her crush.

She flew up and stood at the door, giving herself one last pep talk before knocking.

You got this!

Moments later, Rainbow answered the door with a smile. "Hi."

Fluttershy smiled. "Hello, I'm here for breakfast."

"Come on in," Rainbow said as she stood aside.

Fluttershy trotted inside, closing the door behind her before following Rainbow into her dinning room.

Rainbow pulled out a chair for Fluttershy.

Fluttershy sat down. "Thank you."

"You're welcome," Rainbow said. "I'm going to make us breakfast."

"What are we having?"

I hope it's pancakes, the ones I ate at Pinkie's the other day were awesome.

"It's a surprise," Rainbow said with a grin.

"Oh, okay."

"I'll be back when it's done," Rainbow said before disappearing into the kitchen.





Rainbow trotted into the kitchen, the door closing behind her.

Why didn't you just say pancakes, it wasn't a secret.

She shook her head, trying to clear her mind.

Come on Rainbow, don't blow it now, focus.

Rainbow went over to her mixing bowl and starting adding the ingredients one at a time, mentally checking them off after adding them.

Flour, check.

Baking powder, check.

Sugar, check.

Salt, check.

Rainbow picked up her whisk and began to sift the ingredients as her mind wandered to the mare in the other room.

I love her.

It's just, does she love me like that?

I'll know soon.

I hope she does.

Her thoughts drifted to her desires.

I just want to hold her.

To kiss her.

To protect her.

Her train of thought ended when she looked down and saw she was done sifting.

She shook her head again, trying to clear away the intense blush that had formed.

You'll never have the chance to kiss her if you mess this up. Remember, pancakes.

Rainbow pressed a hole into the dry mix, and added the wet ingredients, checking them off in her head, again.

Butter, check.

Milk, check.

Egg, check.

Rainbow picked up her whisk again and mixed the ingredients for the last time.

As she mixed, her thoughts again turned to Fluttershy.

I want to tell her she's the prettiest mare I've ever seen.

…and I want her to say it back to me, she admitted to herself as the idea of Fluttershy calling her pretty brought her blush back in full force.

I'm willing to be vulnerable for her.

She thought about her plan.

We're going to have a lovely breakfast.

We will move to the couch, where I will open my heart up to her.

Hopefully, she says feels the same way.

Then we kiss? she thought as her blush intensified.

That would be so awesome!

She finished mixing the batter, setting it to the side.

She turned the burner on, placing a frying pan on top.

As she waited for it to heat up, she prepared the dinning ware. She got out a serving tray and placed two plates on it, along with a bottle of syrup and two forks and two knives.

Rainbow cut off a piece of butter and placed it in the pan to melt.

She placed a heart shaped metal cookie cutter into the pan, using it as a wall to make heart shaped pancakes.

She's going to love these pancakes, I bet.

Rainbow made eight pancakes, four for Fluttershy, and four for herself. She made sure to give the four best-looking pancakes to Fluttershy.

After turning the burner off, she did a double take to make sure she had everything she needed on the tray.

Pancakes, knives, forks, syrup, hmm.

Milk, I forgot milk.

She poured out two glasses of milk, setting them onto the tray.

Okay, I think that's everything.

Rainbow picked up the tray and headed back into the dinning room.





Rainbow walked out of the kitchen door, holding a tray with their food on it.

She set the tray between their two seats, before she said, "Breakfast is served."

Rainbow cleared the tray, setting the food, drinks, and silverware in front of each of them.

Fluttershy was taken aback by the presentation, Rainbow had put a lot of effort into this.

That's when Fluttershy noticed the pancakes, they were shaped like hearts.

Fluttershy's mind immediately went in two directions.

This means she loves me and wants to date, or I'm reading far too much into this, and she just wanted to show me how much our friendship means to her.

Please be the first one.

Please.

As Fluttershy stared at her heart shaped pancakes, an errant thought entered her mind.

"Rainbow?" Fluttershy asked.

"Yes," Rainbow answered.

Fluttershy averted her gaze. "Could you cut up my pancakes for me, please?"

"Sure," Rainbow said without hesitation.

Fluttershy blushed as Rainbow cut her pancakes for her.

"Thank you," Fluttershy said after Rainbow had finished.

"You're welcome," Rainbow said before she sat down and started cutting her own pancakes into pieces.

Fluttershy poured syrup over the pancakes before she gave it to Rainbow, who did the same.

This is nice.

Fluttershy ate her pancakes slowly, savoring each bite as she watched Rainbow eat.

Rainbow noticed her watching and blushed, but didn't say anything.

Fluttershy blushed in response to Rainbow's own blush and averting her gaze.

She's so cute when she blushes. The thought only making Fluttershy blush more.

Looking back at Rainbow, Fluttershy noticed her smiling and smiled back.

The pair had eaten in silence, occasionally trading glances, smiles, and of course, blushes.

After she finished eating, Fluttershy said, "Thank you, they were delicious."

Rainbow finished moments later and said, "You're welcome, I'm glad you enjoyed them."

Fluttershy asked, "Could we go sit on the couch? There is something I wanted to talk to you about…"

"Sure, I was planning on moving to the couch and talking to you about something there too. I'll let you go first."

The pair got up and trotted to the couch, Rainbow sat down first, while Fluttershy took the opportunity to sit really close to Rainbow.

Both ponies blushed from the proximity to each other.

This is it, Fluttershy.

The pair stared into each other's eyes, sitting in silence for a moment.

You got this!

Fluttershy summoned all her courage and asked, "Rainbow Dash, will you go out with me?"

Rainbow's face froze, taken aback from the question.

Moments later, Fluttershy got her answer as Rainbow's mouth grew a smile the likes of which would rival Pinkie Pie. Rainbow's eyes sparkled in delight as they began to water.

"Yes, yes, yes, yes, and yes," Rainbow answered.

Fluttershy's eyes began to water too as she grabbed Rainbow in a tight hug.

Rainbow hugged her back as she let the floodgates loose, tears of joy flowing onto Fluttershy's back.

Fluttershy, overwhelmed with emotion, said, "I love you," before starting to cry when she felt Rainbow's tears on her back.

Rainbow responded, "I love you too." She held Fluttershy tighter.

Fluttershy held Rainbow tighter in response, as if not doing so would make this reality untrue.

This is real!

THIS IS REAL!

She tried to slow her breathing, but at the same time, never wanted to let go of this embrace, this moment.

Both ponies slowed their tears, and their breath before finally letting go of the loving embrace.

Fluttershy looked Rainbow in the eye, and to confirm, asked, "This is real, right?"

Rainbow enthusiastically nodded before she said, "Yes, absolutely yes."

Both ponies blushed as they just stared into each other's eyes.

Rainbow broke the serene calm that had overtaken the duo, and said, "I was actually about to ask you out, I've kind of had a crush on you for a while now…"

Fluttershy said, "Oh, that's wonderful, I've also had a crush on you for a while now too…"

Both ponies' blushes increased.

Fluttershy admitted, "I was practicing with Rarity the other day. I was asking you out that whole day, pretending she was you. She even dressed up as you at the end."

Rainbow's mouth opened in surprise before slowly turning into another wide smile. "That is possibly the cutest thing I've ever heard."

Fluttershy blush intensified again.

Rainbow apologized, "I'm sorry I didn't ask you out sooner." Her ears dropped apologetically.

Fluttershy smiled. "It's okay, we're together now and that's all that matters."

Rainbow asked, "So, this means like, we're dating?"

Fluttershy giggled. "Yes."

"Awesome," Rainbow said, pumping a hoof in the air.

Fluttershy nuzzled Rainbow, bringing back both of their blushes to full force.

Rainbow asked in a bashful tone, "Can we kiss?"

I've waited so long to kiss you.

Fluttershy didn't answer, instead she leaned into Rainbow, but as they were about to kiss, Rainbow toppled backwards on the couch. Neither pony had paid attention to their balance, causing Fluttershy to fall onto Rainbow.

Both ponies just giggled, reveling in their closeness.

Fluttershy, laying on top of Rainbow, leaned down and kissed Rainbow on the lips.

I love this.

Rainbow wrapped her front hooves around her and kissed back with passion.

I love her.

They held the kiss for a long while, neither pony wanting to be the one who broke their first kiss.

Eventually, they came to an understanding, closing their eyes, they both broke the kiss.

Fluttershy just stared at Rainbow, falling in love all over again.

Rainbow broke the silence. "You know, you are the prettiest mare in all of Equestria."

Fluttershy blushed. "No, I think that title belongs to you, I'll settle for second place," she said before she giggled.

Rainbow blushed back as she smiled again. "How about we call it a tie?"

"Sounds good to me."

Rainbow, who wasn't done making her new marefriend blush, wrapped her wings around her, held her in a comforting embrace. She said in a serene voice, "I love you, Fluttershy."

Fluttershy, who somehow blushed harder, said, "I love you too, Rainbow Dash."

Rainbow initiated their second kiss. Fluttershy reciprocated with passion as both ponies reveled in what would become their most cherished memory in their lives until that point.