> Caramel's Flower
>  by Stratocaster
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

> We All Still Love Ya Caramel
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Caramel’s Flower
By Stratocaster

Chapter 1: We All Still Love Ya Caramel

“And that’s pretty much how Lucky got his cutie mark.”

“Oh my goodness, that is just hilarious!”

“Yeah, he hates it when I tell that story…You know, I’m really going to miss you tomorrow, Sassaflash. You being away in Cloudsdale for a whole two weeks will be just torture.”

“Yeah um, about that, Caramel, there’s something I have to tell you.”

“Why the long sigh, babe?”

“Well, it turns out I’ll be staying in Cloudsdale for a bit longer than I expected.”

“So what? Three weeks?”

“No.”

“Four weeks?”

“…Four years.”

“…Five weeks?”

“Oh Caramel, I’m so sorry. It just came up. The Cloudsdale Flight Academy wants me for a full internship. I was too nervous to tell you at first; that’s why I brought you here.”

“Wait a minute. The candles? The cider? The sad Octavia album playing? Oh no, this is it! This is the breakup date isn’t it?”

“Please, don’t say breakup. It’ll just make this more uncomfortable. But there’s no denying it, Caramel. Long distance relationships never work out. Ponies always move on anyway. Oh, I just hate to break this to you, baby.”

“But, we’re doing so well together. Are you sure you can’t stay here in Ponyville?”

“My whole family wants me to take this opportunity; I don’t have much of a choice. I would love nothing more in Equestria than to stay with you, but my hooves are tied. I’m so sorry.”

“So…you’ve really decided, huh.”

“Oh, I told myself I wouldn’t cry. Caramel, you must think I’m awful!”

“Flash, I could never think that way. You’re the most amazing mare I’ve ever known. And I swear, no matter how far apart we go, I just want you to know something. I will still always love you. You have my promise.”

“I’ll always love you too, Caramel. Hold me.”

“I will, Sassaflash…I will.”

[img]file:///C:/Documents%20and%20Settings/Owner/My%20Documents/My%20Pictures/Caramel%20sad.png[/img]

Caramel lazed under one of the many trees in Sweet Apple Acres. Beside him stacked several baskets of the sweet cash crop from which he took one and munched with satisfaction. He had just logged a good four hours of applebucking alongside Big Macintosh and felt he deserved a well needed break. After devouring four or five apples, he began to nod off. But, his relaxation was interrupted by a shrill scold Applejack.
“Caramel! Get up, ya lazy colt!”
Caramel’s eyes shot open and he sprang to his hooves awkwardly.
“What do ya think yer doin’ just lyin’ around?” continued Applejack. “Ya still got a good dozen more acres to harvest.”
“I’ve been applebucking all morning.” Caramel replied. “Can’t I get one moment of peace and quiet?”
“We don’t take too kindly to lazin’ around here, Caramel. We’re all pullin’ our own on the farm, so Ah suggest you should too.”
Caramel lowered his eyelids with a moan of disdain. “Ugh, fine. I’ll get to work right away, milady.” He said sarcastically.
“Hey listen here, buckaroo, ya may not be a blood Apple, but we still treat ya like one. So ya better start workin’ like one!”
With a scoff, Applejack walked off leaving Caramel to imitate a nagging impression of her. Resentfully, he continued to knock the sweet fruit from their trees. He had been working part time at Sweet Apple Acres for quite some time. As Applejack put it, he was not a blood relative of the family. He didn’t have a cowpony accent, preferred green apples over red, and had never even been to Appleloosa. But in a way he almost was part of the family. He worked hard in the fields, learning the applebucking technique from Big Macintosh, who he saw as an older brother figure. However, Caramel tended to be less of a fully competent worker. He was often forgetful when left in charge of seeds and apple bushels, and was also a bit of a klutz. He was even responsible for an incident involving Big Mac’s eyebrows burning off, and another for Granny Smith’s false teeth ending up in the garbage disposal. It’s true, Caramel wasn’t the most reliable pony, but he certainly got the job done…eventually. After two more grueling hours, Caramel finally finished his rounds in the apple fields and returned to the farmhouse. It was a bit after noon and Granny Smith had just baked a fresh batch of apple crumbles. Caramel could smell the alluring aroma of apples and cinnamon from outside the kitchen window. As he approached the house, he spotted Big Mac sitting outside on the front step eating what looked like an apple crumble. A plate full of crumbs lay next to him.
“Hey, how many of those have you eaten?” asked Caramel suspicious.
“Six.” Big Mac answered eyes shut and chewing happily.
“Well save some for me, will you?”
“Nope. Last one.” The draftpony stuffed the treat in his mouth whole with a smug grin.
“You gotta be kidding me! I’ve been out there working my flank off as much as you.”
“Maybe ya shouldn’t have been eatin’ the crop too.”
“Ah whatever, I’m going home.”
Caramel walked off leaving the burly stallion to chuckle to himself on the porch. As he headed toward the open gate, he noticed little Applebloom sitting atop the fence also eating a crumble. The spunky filly saw him and waved.
“Hiya, Caramel!” she called. “How was work?”
“Eh, the usual.” He answered. “I’m pretty tired, so I think I’ll just head home.”
“While yer headin’ out, could you give this to Sweetie Belle, please?” Applebloom gave him an Octavia album. “We’re tryin’ to be recordin’ artists with Scootaloo. Cutie Mark Crusader Records!”
“Huh. Sure thing, Applebloom, I’ll give it to her.” Caramel looked down at the album and sighed heavily.
“What’s wrong, Caramel?” asked Applebloom sweetly. “You look downer than a low hangin’ apple branch.”
“Oh, I’m fine. It’s just that this album kind of reminds me of Sassaflash. It’s hard to believe it’s been two months since I last saw her.”
“Do ya still miss her?”
“Oh yeah, very much. In fact, I don’t think I could even move on. I still think about her sometimes, and I end up just feeling lonely. But you shouldn’t fret too much about me. I’ll be okay.” He looked down at the ground.
“Don’t worry, Caramel,” smiled Applebloom. “We all still love ya.” She then held up something from beside her. “Here, you can have my other crumble. Hope it makes ya feel better.”
Caramel smiled at the darling filly. “Thanks, Applebloom. Make sure you give your brother a smack for me.”
“Oh Ah will. Have a good day, Caramel!”
“You too!”
Caramel took the sweet apple delicacy in his mouth and walked on down the road towards town. As he gulped down the crumble, he reflected back on his tearful parting with his former marefriend, Sassaflash. The breakup was completely unexpected. The two lovers had been closer than any romance novel characters. Caramel loved her for her spontaneous energy, and Sassaflash loved him for his loyalty and compassion. They did everything together; whether it was hitting the town or taking some private time to cuddle. It seemed like they would never grow apart. But Sassaflash’s obligation to take up an internship at the Flight Academy in Cloudsdale made that possible. They bid farewell as she left for Cloudsdale two months ago. It was a tragic goodbye, and Caramel was never the same. His relationship with Sassaflash was well known in Ponyville, so many came to comfort him in his depression. Several mares pined for his affection sympathetically, but he knew better and kept a promise he made to never love another. Luckily, he had his friends to rely on; one of which was Rarity. Caramel lived next to the Carousel Boutique so it was no surprise that he became fast friends with the fashionista. He even once had a crush on her before dating Sassaflash. After the breakup, Rarity, along with Sweetie Belle, was one of the first to help him through his funk. It wasn’t long before Caramel started to feel a bit better thanks to the guidance of his friends. But he would soon find a new level of comfort.

> Colts' Night Out
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Chapter 2: Colts’ Night Out

As Celestia’s sun began to descend from the center of the sky, Caramel strode into town heading toward Carousel Boutique. After the amount of manual labor he was dragged through, he planned on having a quiet, relaxing day without any distractions. But first he had to complete Applebloom’s task and talk to Sweetie Belle; and hopefully even strike up a chat with Rarity. Caramel had helped the eccentric unicorn before when not asked to assist on Sweet Apple Acres. He would sometimes help in stocking supplies and delivering orders straight to customers for Rarity whenever she asked him to; and of course, he could never say no. In fact, Caramel would do any job anypony asked of him, regardless of pay. He was simply that loyal, clumsy though he may have been. When he knocked on the door of the boutique, it was answered by the little white filly who was Rarity’s sister.
“Hi, Caramel,” smiled Sweetie Belle. “What brings you here?”
“Just wanted to stop by to give you something.” He answered as he held out the album. “Applebloom said it was for your Cutie Mark Crusader thing.”
“Oh thanks. Do you want to come in?”
“Sure. Is your sister around?”
“Oh yeah. She’s just in the kitchen talking to a friend of hers from Canterlot. Bor-ing!”
“Really? Maybe I should meet this friend of hers.”
“Eh, she’s just one of those prim and proper rich celebrity ponies. But I guess if you can stand to listen to my sister talk, then by all means.”
“Heh heh, thanks.”
Sweetie Belle scampered off as Caramel walked toward the kitchen in the back. He poked his head in the doorway and saw Rarity pouring a cup of tea on the counter. She turned around and noticed him.
“Caramel, darling, good to see you.” She greeted.
“Hey, Rarity, I hope I’m not interrupting anything.” Caramel said.
“Not at all; I was just catching up with a friend of mine from Canterlot.” Rarity walked over to the kitchen table where another pony was sitting. “Caramel, I’d like you to meet Fleur de Lis.”
Caramel’s eyes widened as he gazed at the pony sitting opposite Rarity. There before him was a tall, slim, unicorn mare with a rose white coat. Her mane and tail were a tinted shade of bubblegum pink, and her glimmering eyes were a pale violet. The cutie mark on her flank was a trio of the flower symbols that shared her name, two purple and one gold. The mare was attractively slender in figure and sat with an air of etiquette and sophistication. She lowered her eyelids, shaded with makeup, and smiled politely at Caramel. The light brown earth stallion began to shake in his knees as the mare named Fleur de Lis spoke.
“Hello there, Caramel,” she said in a proper manner. “It’s a pleasure to meet one of Rarity’s friends.” She extended her hoof daintily in greeting.
Caramel stammered nervously as he stared at the angelic unicorn. “It’s a meet to pleasure you too.” He then reached out his hoof, without taking his eyes off her, and missed repeatedly as he tried to reach for hers.
Fleur de Lis noticed his shaky hoof and grabbed it gently, shaking it.
“Caramel, Fleur de Lis here is a very popular face around Canterlot.” Rarity said, standing beside them. “She’s a supermodel for Unicorn Vogue. In fact, she’s one of the richest ponies in the modeling industry.”
“You don’t say.” Caramel responded still staring at Rarity’s guest.
“Yes, I’m here in Ponyville on a little vacation.” Fleur de Lis said. “I just adore the quaint countryside. Tell me, Mr., uh, Caramel, what do you do?”
“Oh, you know, this and that.” He replied as he rubbed the back of his head. I sometimes help out Rarity here at the shop.”
“Oh? I suppose you are skilled in sewing as well?”
“Uh, yeah, sure.” Caramel lied, drawing a questioning eye from Rarity.
Fleur de Lis then looked up at a clock on the wall. “Oh dear, where does the time go? I’m late for a luncheon with Mayor Mare. I’d hate to leave in such a hurry, Rarity dear.”
“Oh it’s no trouble at all, Fleur,” said Rarity. “I won’t keep you.”
“Thank you for the tea.” Fleur de Lis said to her as she strode out of the kitchen. “It was nice meeting you, Caramel.”
Caramel responded with an unintelligible mumble of gibberish. He was without words as he watched the Canterlot supermodel strut toward the front door. There was something about her that made his every fiber turn numb, whether it was her bright pink mane that flowed elegantly around her head or the prominent horn that rose from beneath it. But Caramel’s head especially swelled when he saw her from behind.
“Sweet mama,” he uttered discretely under his breath. “Fleur de Lis must be Prench for Rockin’ Flank!”
“Did you say something, Caramel?” asked Rarity.
Caramel shook off his gaze and turned to her. “Oh, uh, nothing. I said nothing.”
“Are you feeling alright? You seem like you have a fever.”
“No, no, I’m fine, really.” He turned his head back in the direction of the front door.
“You know, Caramel,” she smiled warmly. “You’ve really perked up ever since Sassaflash left you.”
“Who? Oh yeah, I guess so.” Caramel said still mentally distracted.
“I just want you to know that even if you still feel down, I’ll be here for you; Sweetie Belle, too.”
He returned his attention. “Uh, thanks, Rarity. That means a lot. Um, I’d like to stay and chat but, uh, I think I hear Applejack calling me.”
“She does tend to be quite boisterous. Well, have a good day, Caramel. Glad you could stop by.”
“See ya, Rarity!”
Caramel seemed to exit in a hurry. He began to feel beads of sweat on his forehead, thinking back to his vision of Fleur de Lis. Never before had he become so overwhelmed by a mare’s beauty. He started on his trek toward home, feeling as though he was floating like a pegasus. But his floating was cut short when he ran into a passerby.
“Ouch! Jeez, Caramel, you can’t even walk without being clumsy?”
It was his best male friend, Time Turner. He and Caramel had been old pals since they were school colts. Time Turner seemed to make up for his friend’s awkwardness as he was smoother and better-spoken; he often busted Caramel’s chops when given the chance. Nonetheless, the two managed to keep their friendship alive with frequent outings in Ponyville with other stallions. Of course, Caramel would wind up being the flank of the joke.
“Sorry, Time Turner,” said Caramel. “I, uh, I’ve just been working long hours over in Sweet Apple Acres and I’m a bit drained.”
“Well I hope you’re not too tired to hang out.” Time Turner replied. “Lucky and Noteworthy want to meet us for drinks later tonight. You in?”
Caramel hesitated. He didn’t feel much like drinking cider with his buds as much as he enjoyed it. He was planning on just having a relaxing evening alone. But being a complete yes pony, he couldn’t refuse his friend.
“Sure, sounds great.” His head was already feeling light.
“Cool, same time same place.” Time Turner said. “Are you okay, dude? You look like you just came out of a sauna.”
“Uh, I’m fine.” Caramel glanced quickly to his left and then did a double take. From afar, he saw her; Fleur de Lis walked down an adjacent sidewalk, still in her poised stride. A quirky smile stretched across Caramel’s face as he watched her. Then Time Turner caught where he was staring.
“Hey, is that Fleur de Lis?” he asked. “Wow, that mare’s got it made! She’s like the richest model in Equestria. And just look at that body.”
“Yeah…body.”
“Can you imagine what it would be like to date her? You’d have to be the luckiest stallion alive! …Well, see ya tonight, Caramel.”
“Huh? Oh yeah. See ya later, Turner.” Caramel matched his friend’s brohoof before they went off in separate directions. He tried to focus on not bumping into anypony else, but his mind was still overloaded with dreamy images of Fleur de Lis. He knew he was in for a long night.

The afternoon ended slowly. Caramel had been sitting at home, not even bothering to check his mailbox, alone with his thoughts. He played a record from his favorite band, Led Zebra, as he lay on his couch reflecting on his encounter with Fleur de Lis. The evening dragged on this way minute by minute, until the setting sun told him it was time to hit the town. As Luna’s moon began to manifest in the sky, Caramel headed toward the Ponyville Cider Bar which was run by Mr. Cake. When he arrived at the bar next to Sugarcube Corner, he saw his three friends sitting at a nearby table, Time Turner, Lucky, and Noteworthy who waved him over. The four carried on coltish banter as the night wore on.
“For the last time, that’s not how it happened!” Lucky said, agitated.
“Don’t be ashamed, Lucky,” teased Time Turner. “We all get our cutie marks, one way or another.”
“Even if it does involve your mother.” Noteworthy chuckled.
Lucky grumbled and swilled back his cider.
“Hey Caramel, you okay, bud?” asked Noteworthy. “You hardly said anything since you got here.”
“Uh, I’m just a little out of it, I guess.” Caramel looked down at his glass.
“Don’t tell me you’re still thinking about Sassaflash.” Time Turner said.
“Well…actually-”
“Listen, Caramel,” interrupted Lucky. “It’s time you found yourself somepony new. The thing about mares is that they come and go, and Sassaflash already came and went. For now, let’s just get you a sweet face for tonight.” He then turned to flag down a passing mare and spoke with his speech a bit slurred by the cider. “Hey babe, you feeling…‘lucky’ tonight?”
Twilight Sparkle slapped Lucky clear across the face. “Go soak your head, Lucky.”
“Aw come on, don’t be like that, Twilight.”
Then, Twilight levitated Lucky’s drink with her magic and dumped the cider over his head. “Never mind, I did it for you.” She grinned smugly and walked away.
“Smooth one.” Noteworthy scoffed.
“Come on, Caramel,” continued Time Turner. “You’ve been moping for weeks. Have another cider and cut loose.”
“I don’t really drink as much you guys.” Caramel replied. “I get a little…wobbly after too many ciders. Maybe I should just go home.”
“Nonsense, this is colts’ night out,” said Noteworthy, raising his glass. “Let’s just forget about mares and go wild.”
“Yeah, who needs ‘em?” added Lucky, wiping his face with a napkin.
“Another round on us, Mr. Cake!” called Time Turner who then turned back to Caramel. “Hey, how about a game of darts, huh?”
Caramel thought worriedly about the consequences of throwing darts while under the influence of cider. Then, he suddenly felt an urge to abandon his fatigue and be spontaneous.
“Well, I guess I can stay for a bit longer.”
“Now you’re talking!” bellowed Noteworthy.
The four pals clinked their glasses and swilled back. The next couple hours would be filled with games of pool and darts and clumsy dancing to rock music, all while the cider kept flowing. At one point, Lucky temporarily fell asleep on a table and Time Turner wrote “Marry me, Twilight” across his forehead. Caramel had never drunk as much cider as he had that night, and he became rather tipsy. It wasn’t long before the entourage left the bar in search of other entertainment. They started to stumble over each other with Caramel being the only one with any better judgment left.
“Hey, let’s go see what Big Macintosh is up to.” Time Turner said with a hiccup.
“Yeah, that stallion’s always got something to say.” Noteworthy replied.
“You guys go on ahead,” said Caramel. “I’m gonna get some cash from home first.”
“Whoo! Sweet Apple Acres! Whoohoo!” cheered Lucky still oblivious to the message on his head.
Caramel started down the sidewalk in the opposite direction of his friends. He tried to keep control over his motor skills as he tripped and scuffed his hooves toward his house. Eventually, he was the only pony out and about in the moonlit Ponyville streets. A strange sense of calm loneliness settled in the empty dark town. Then, Caramel heard a scream. He stopped in his wobbly steps as he perked his ears up; the mysterious shriek came from the left around the next corner. Cantering, he continued and peered around the corner to see what the trouble was; he gasped when he saw it.
“Come on, lady, fork it over!”
“You won’t get a bit out of me, you scoundrel!”
To Caramel’s shock, a mare was being mugged by a sleazy earth stallion wearing a ski mask and striped shirt. What was the most stunning was that the mare was Fleur de Lis clutching a saddlebag in her hoof.
“Just give me the purse and you’ll never see me again.” The mugger snarled.
“I will do no such thing!” retorted Fleur de Lis. “I don’t comply with thieves.”
Caramel watched in horror as the mare who had infected his mind was being backed into a wall by the thief. His heartbeat quickened as he sorted through his head what to do.
“Say, you’re not that bad lookin’, sweet cheeks.” The thief smiled dastardly. “Maybe we can work out something else.”
“Get away from me!” yelped Fleur de Lis as she was trapped against the wall. “Help! Somepony help! Thief!”
She cowered in fear as the greasy mugger grabbed her foreleg and swiped the saddlebag from it. But he didn’t yet leave as he stared sinisterly at the poor unicorn. Then, a voice was heard from nearby.
“Hey! The lady said no, punk!”
Both the thief and Fleur de Lis looked in surprise to see a light brown earth stallion standing in the road. Caramel stood staring angrily at the masked criminal. But the standoff did nothing to distract the thief from running off, leaving a distracted Fleur de Lis without her saddlebag.
“You’re not going anywhere!” shouted Caramel as he took off after the robber.
The chase ensued down the road as the two galloped away. But the thief proved to be faster as Caramel became sluggish from the effect of the cider. He could see the saddlebag hanging off the thief’s back and he felt it was just in reach. Switching to running on three legs, Caramel stretched out his front right aiming for the dangling bag. It was merely inches away and he strained with all his might to reach just a little further. But suddenly, he lost control of his hooves and stepped into a pothole.
“Oh no.”
The blunder tripped him up and sent him tumbling forward. He ended up rolling into the still galloping thief and knocked clear into him. The impact sent both ponies crashing to the pavement, tumbling into a disgruntled mess. The two stopped rolling and Caramel slowly raised his head. He felt a ringing pain in his cranium as he looked around to see the damage. To his realization, he saw the thief lying in a daze beside him, with the saddlebag discarded next to him. Then, Caramel heard hoofsteps walking toward him slowly. He turned to see Fleur de Lis approaching him with a stunned expression. Without further hesitation, Caramel struggled to his hooves and stumbled over to the passed out thief, picking up the shaken saddlebag; he held it out to Fleur de Lis with a sheepish smile.
“Uh, here you go, ma’am.” He said with a stutter. “Are you alright? That robber didn’t hurt you, did he?”
Fleur de Lis only stared at him blankly. Then, after a long pause, she quickly wrapped Caramel in a tight hug. The heat swelled to his head as he felt her warm embrace conform around him. Fleur de Lis pulled away and smiled.
“Thank you so much!” she beamed. “I thought I would never be saved. And I have so much money in this bag. If it weren’t for you, I would have lost it all and be harmed by that scoundrel.”
“Well, it was nothing really.” Caramel shrugged with a blush and looked at her with innocent eyes.
She looked back with a similar look. “I absolutely must repay you for your heroism.”
“Oh, uh, that’s alright, I don’t need any money.”
“Well then, might I repay you some other way?” she fluttered her curled eyelashes.
“Uh, what do you mean?” he asked nervously.
“Why don’t we meet for dinner tomorrow? I hear there’s a fair restaurant in town. I think it’s called T.C.I. Fridays. Would that be enough for repayment?”
“You mean…a date?”
“Of course; anything for my hero.” Fleur de Lis looked at Caramel affectionately and wiped a spot of dirt from his cheek.
Caramel didn’t know what to make of it. He was being asked out on a date by a Canterlot supermodel; and on top of that, she called him her hero. He knew what the right response was, but he could not find the right words to say it. Shaking, he rifled through his mind for those right words.
“Yes, definitely, I’d love to.” He stammered.
“Splendid!” smiled Fleur de Lis. “Why don’t we meet tomorrow at seven?”
“Sounds great.”
“You know, I knew there was something about you when I met you at Rarity’s, Mr., uh, oh soot! I’m sorry; I’ve seen to have forgotten your name.”
At that moment, so did he. “I’m, uh, I’m, eh, I’m, duh, I’m…Caramel! Just Caramel.”
“Well then, Just Caramel, I’ll see you tomorrow night.”
“Yeah, uh, see ya.”
Fleur de Lis turned and walked off; but then she stopped and turned her head one last time. She lowered her eyelids and blew Caramel a kiss before continuing on. Just as the feeling was returning to his head, it soon left again, as he watched her stride off. Caramel then turned to return home with a spring in his step. Just like that, he had a dinner date with the most beautiful unicorn he had ever met. That night, he would lie in bed staring up at the ceiling and listen to his Led Zebra album, wondering what the next day would hold.

> Whine and Dine
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Chapter 3: Whine and Dine

Caramel whistled a catchy tune as he searched through his mailbox the next morning. He rifled through the usual; the newspaper, a few junk letters, and a mistakenly subscribed for issue of Mare Monthly. But he paid no concern for the mail as he had better things on his mind. He turned back toward his house when he heard Sweetie Belle call him.
“Morning, Caramel.” She greeted as she cantered up to him. “You’re looking pretty cheery today.”
“I got every reason to be, Sweetie.” Caramel replied. “Because tonight, I’ve got a date.”
“A date?!” she gawked with surprise. “You’re kidding!”
“That’s right. And it’s with a very special mare. But don’t tell your sister, though. I kind of want to tell her myself.”
Sweetie Belle looked from side to side in thought. “Well, okay I guess. Um, I hope you have fun tonight.”
“Thanks, Sweetie. I’ll see you later.” He entered his house.
“Yeah, see you, Caramel.”

Things were looking up for caramel as he trotted through the Ponyville marketplace, the following night, with a bundle of roses in his mouth. The proprietor of the flowers waved to him.
“Good luck tonight, Caramel!” she said.
“Thanks, Rose!” he called back.
As daylight waned in the sky, he headed toward his favorite restaurant where his date was awaiting him. He entered T.C.I. Fridays and scanned for the mare of the hour. And there across the dining area was Fleur de Lis sitting at a booth. Caramel walked over casually and she spotted him.
“Caramel, darling, glad you could make it.” She smiled.
“I wouldn’t miss it for anything.” Caramel said. “Here, I got you these.”
“Flowers?” she looked with glee as she magically levitated the roses over to smell them. “You’re quite the charmer, Caramel.” Fleur de Lis fluttered her eyelashes.
He grinned and sat down across from her. “So, T.C.I.F., huh? I never figured this would be a restaurant of choice for somepony like you. No offense.”
“Well, I just wanted to go where all of Ponyville eats. Do as the locals do, I say.”
“Yeah, when in Roam.”
Soon enough, the waiter arrived at their table.
“Good evening, folk, may I start you off with some drinks?”
“Yes, I’ll have your best tea, please.” Fleur de Lis ordered politely.
“And I’ll have a cider.” Caramel added.
“Certainly. I’ll be right back.” The waiter left the two to look at their menus and chat.
“So Caramel,” started Fleur de Lis. “What else do you do around here, besides working with Rarity?”
“Actually, I usually work over in Sweet Apple Acres. The family lets me help them with the harvesting, or Applebucking as they call it.” He tried his best to sound knowledgeable about the job.
“It’s so interesting how ponies work around here in Ponyville. I just love the quiet, simple, suburban living. It’s much more peaceful than the city life of Canterlot.”
“Well, I bet Canterlot is more exciting. I’ve never been there, in fact.”
“In that case, I might have to give you a tour one day.”
“Good point.” He chuckled.
Then, the waiter returned with their beverages.
“Here you are, folks. Are you two ready to order?”
“Yes. Can I have the tulip daffodil salad, with a side of Prench onion soup?” replied Fleur de Lis.
“Of course. And for you sir?
“Veggie burger, please, with a side of hay fries.” Caramel answered.
“Excellent choices. I’ll have your orders ready soon.”
As the waiter departed again, something caught Caramel’s eye. At a nearby table sat a mysterious pony whose identity was concealed by a trench coat, sunglasses, and a fedora; the stranger held a newspaper to add to the illusion. Caramel could have sworn the mystery pony was staring at him for a second, but he/she simply kept his/her face behind the paper.
“Is something wrong, Caramel?” asked Fleur de Lis.
He turned back after realizing he had been drifting. “Uh, yeah. Everything’s fine. By the way, what’s it like being a model?”
“Oh it’s a real joy for me. You see, when I was a filly, I idolized the beauty of all the classic models from Prance. When I got my cutie mark, which is the symbol of the Prench language, I knew I wanted to become just like those models. So I pursued a career in fashion and basically sorked my way up. I assume you got your cutie mark a similar way.”
Caramel looked down at his flank, at the three blue horseshoes that were his cutie mark. He had always assumed that the mark meant he was meant for work on the farm. But after taking up many other jobs, being a yes pony, he wasn’t entirely sure anymore.
“Uh, something like that.” He replied to her and then changed the subject. “So have you ever been to Prance?”
“Definitely; it is absolutely gorgeous there. The ponies there are so cultural and I simply adore their language. I even picked up on a bit of it.”
“You can speak Prench?” perked up Caramel, who always found the Prench language rather attractive. “That’s pretty cool. What can you say?”
“Hmm, let’s see.” She pondered for a bit before speaking a small bit of the foreign tongue. “Vous allez tres beau yeux, monsieur.”
The flow of the romantic language resonated in his ears. “That was pretty good. What does it mean?”
“You have very beautiful eyes, sir.” Fleur de Lis answered as she lowered her eyelids.
Caramel blushed wondering if she meant what she said in Prench. He had had other mares, including Rarity, compliment his light blue eyes before. Before he could respond, the waiter returned.
“Here we are,” he said. “Let me know if you need anything else. Enjoy your meals.”
“Merci, garcon.” Fleur de Lis replied again in Prench.
Caramel suddenly wanted to hear more of the language from her soft fluent voice. But he then turned his attention to his burger and fries with delight. As he began chomping away at his hearty meal, he then noticed how delicately Fleur de Lis was eating her salad. Feeling awkward, Caramel wiped his mouth with his napkin and tried to regain his best gentlepony persona.
“Mm, this salad is quite divine.” Fleur de Lis said. “And how is your meal?”
“Just as I like it.” He responded as he also drank some of his cider.
“Uh, Caramel, you have a bit of lettuce on your cheek.”
“Oh, uh…”
“I’ll get it.”
She then reached across the table to touch Caramel’s face. Slowly, she rubbed his cheek wiping off the piece of lettuce. Caramel’s face reddened even more.
“Um, thanks.” He said with a crack of his voice.
Fleur de Lis giggled to herself at his quirky charm.
“Uh, excuse me. I’m just going to use the bathroom.” He told her as he got up.
“Alright then.”
Beads of sweat began to condense on Caramel’s forehead as he walked toward the stallion’s room on the far side of the restaurant. He entered and noticed with relief that there was nopony there save for one customer in the stall. He approached the sink and turned on the faucet, wiping the sweat from his flustered face. Looking at his reflection in the mirror, Caramel decided to play around with his dark brown mane, seeing if he could style it into a suave do. He parted it to different sides and practiced his best smooth smile and lines.
“‘Hey Fleur de Lis, what’s shaking?’” he rehearsed hoping the patron in the stall wouldn’t hear. “No, that’s stupid. Hmm. ‘Your horn looks lovely, Fleur de Lis.’ Huh… “Oh baby, baby, please, Fleur baby, I’m dyin’ for you!’ Ugh! Come on, Caramel, get your head in the game; she’s a supermodel for Celestia’s sake.” Caramel then slicked his mane back and smiled a sly smile. “‘If I could rearrange the alphabet, I’d put me and you in front.” …I don’t get that one.”
Suddenly, his rehearsing was interrupted rudely by the door slamming open. Caramel looked in the mirror surprised as Rarity stood there wearing a trench coat.
“YOU!”
“AH! Rarity?!” He spun around with his back to the sink, almost urinating prematurely.
“Caramel, just what do you think you’re doing?!” Rarity demanded angrily.
“What am I doing? This is the stallion’s room!” replied Caramel with fear.
“Don’t point the blame at me. You’re on a date with Fleur de Lis!”
“Wait, Rarity, I can explain!”
Just then, the toilet in the stall flushed and the door opened. Spike poked his head out.
“Dude, you’re dating Fleur de Lis?” he said to Caramel. “Nice! Slap me some!”
“Get out of here!” shouted Caramel.
With that, the little dragon sped out of the restroom without washing his claws.
“Caramel, how could you be seeing another mare?” continued Rarity. “I thought you still had feelings for Sassaflash.”
“Hold on, how did you even know about this?” he asked.
“Sweetie Belle told me you had a date tonight.”
“Sweetie Belle?!”
“That’s right. After she told me, I followed you around all the way here and saw you sit with Fleur de Lis.”
“You’ve been spying on me?!”
“That’s not the point. Caramel, I thought you loved Sassaflash. You even told her that you would no matter what.”
“Look, Rarity, it’s really none of your concern.” Caramel buckled down. “I can’t keep hanging onto Sassaflash forever. It’s just going to bring me down. Besides, who’s to say she hasn’t already moved on, too?”
“How can you say that? I bet she still loves you more than anypony.” Rarity scolded.
“Long distance relationships don’t work, Rarity. Moving on is the right thing to do.”
“But why Fleur de Lis? Do you even know anything about her life?”
“I know enough for her to share with me. And I think you’re just creeped out because I’m dating a friend of yours.”
“You don’t understand, Caramel. Fleur de Lis is-”
“That’s enough, Rarity. I’m finally dating a kind and beautiful mare other than Sassaflash. And for the first time in two months, I’m truly happy again. So just keep your nose out of my love life.”
“But-”
“Now if you’ll excuse me, my lady is waiting for me.” Caramel strode by her imitating her pompous attitude. “Don’t bother trying to talk me out of this date because I won’t hear anything of it. Have a nice night.” He left without another word.
Rarity huffed. She had never been spoken to like that by Caramel and felt rather insulted. She walked up to the sink to wash her face and fix her frazzled mane. As she preened, Noteworthy entered the restroom.
“OCCUPIED!” Rarity yelled at him turning her head with sinister eyes.
Noteworthy yelped in fear and bolted back out leaving her to scowl in the mirror.
Caramel returned to his table with Fleur de Lis, who had just finished her salad and soup.
“Is everything alright?” she asked him. “You were in there for a while.”
“Yeah, it’s fine.” He answered looking at the table. “You know what? I think I’ll just box up the rest of my meal. Why don’t we head out somewhere else?”
“Well, okay. I hope you’re not loosing your appetite.”
“No, it’s just getting kind of hot in here, and I think I need some air.”
“Alright then. I’ll leave some money for the waiter.” She then laid some bits from her saddlebag on the table. “It’s okay; you’ll get the next one.”
He perked his ears up. “Next one?”
“Yes. I figured we could go out to get some ice cream tonight. What do you say?”
Caramel smiled. “Sounds good to me. Shall we?”
He then extended his hoof for her to take. Fleur de Lis smiled and blushed as she wrapped her hoof around his, and they both walked toward the door walking three-legged. Meanwhile, a grudging Rarity sat at her table sulking. She took a sip of tea and squinted spitefully at the couple as they exited.
“You have no idea what you’re getting into, Caramel. You have no idea.”

> A New Flavor
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Chapter 4: A New Flavor

“Wow. Who knew starting a record label would be that hard?” sighed Scootaloo as she rested her cheek on her hoof.
“Don’t worry; we still got a whole itinerary of stuff to try out.” Applebloom replied.
The Cutie Mark Crusaders sat in their clubhouse after recuperating from another failed attempt at finding their special talents. Applebloom and Scootaloo sat at a table while Sweetie Belle only stood at the window hanging her head in grief. Applebloom noticed her gloominess.
“What’s wrong, Sweetie Belle?” she asked. “You’ve been mopin’ for a while now.”
“I feel kind of bad.” Sweetie Belle responded. “This morning, Caramel told me a secret, and I went ahead and blurted it to Rarity. And she really blew her top when I told her. Now, I’m afraid Caramel’s going to hate me for spilling. I feel guilty.”
“Ah, you shouldn’t feel bad, Sweetie Belle,” said Scootaloo. “Caramel’s a real nice pony. I’m sure he’ll understand.”
“Yeah, what was it he didn’t want you tellin’ anyways?” added Applebloom.
“Oh no, I’m not letting my big mouth loose again.”
“Come on, you can tell us.” Scootaloo urged. “We won’t tell a soul, or else we’re not honest Crusaders.”
Sweetie Belle sighed. “Okay, I’ll tell you.” She leaned closer as if there were others present. “Caramel is dating a new mare.”
“A new mare?” copied Applebloom with surprise. “After all that talk about still bein’ in love with Sassaflash? Ah can’t believe he would move on that fast.”
“I say good for him.” Scootaloo smiled. “At least he’s finally pulled himself out of that lonely funk. So who’s the lucky mare anyway?”
“Well, he didn’t tell me. But whoever it is, she must be a real trophy for him to not tell anypony about…except me of course. I have a feeling Rarity is still going to be peeved when I get home tonight. Poor Caramel. She’ll probably have his hide.”
“How come she’s mad at him anyway?” asked Applebloom.
“She thinks that he’s betraying Sassaflash. I guess I can’t blame her, since I was surprised to fine out too. But I’m sure Caramel has every reason to start dating again. I think whoever the lucky mare is, she must be really nice.”
“Well that’s good to hear.” Applebloom replied. “Now what do ya say we get back to business? Here’s what Ah’m thinkin’: Cutie Mark Crusader Ferry Service!”

Caramel and Fleur de Lis stood in line in front of the newly added ice cream stand at Sugarcube Corner. The line had grown a considerable length for the icy confection, but the couple had managed to beat the rush. Fleur de Lis laughed as the line moved up.
“A shamrock? That’s actually how it happened?” she tittered.
“True story.” Caramel replied. “Lucky would probably throw a fit if he heard me busting his chops.”
“You have the funniest stories, Caramel. You must really be the life of the party.”
“Heh heh, I guess.”
They finally got to the front and were greeted by Pinkie Pie running the stand.
“Hiya Caramel!” the pink earth mare waved. “How’ve you been doing lately?”
Caramel smiled at his date and turned back. “A lot better, Pinkie. A whole lot better.”
“Super! By the way, you didn’t happen to see Rarity at all today, have you? I said hello to her, but she just kept walking off all grumpy and dumpy.”
He bit his lip thinking back to the incident in the restaurant bathroom. “Uh, nope, haven’t seen her.”
“Oh well.” Pinkie replied. “At least one of my friends is feeling better. Now what can I get ya?”
“Hmm, I think I’ll have a couple scoops of mint chip.” He answered.
“Yummy! And for you, ma’am?”
Fleur de Lis paused to think, then gave a smirk. “I will have two scoops of vanilla with…caramel swirl.”
Caramel cocked an eyebrow at her, and she simply gave him a flirting wink.
“Hey, what a cowinky-dink,” beamed Pinkie. “That’s Caramel’s name! Two coming up!”
“So…I guess you like caramel then?” Caramel asked Fleur de Lis as Pinkie turned away.
“Truth be told, I’ve never really tried it before.” She looked at him softly.
Caramel smiled and rubbed the back of his head, taking in this moment.
“Here you go!” Pinkie then interrupted the moment by sticking two ice cream cones between their faces. “Mint chip and caramel,…Caramel.”
“Uh, thanks, Pinkie.” Caramel said taking his cone. “Have a good night.”
“I already am!” she waved the two off. “Okay, who’s next?”
From there, Caramel and Fleur de Lis strolled around Ponyville with ice cream in hoof. The next couple hours were spent with more charming conversation and discrete smitten glances. Eventually, Fleur de Lis led her escort to the Stable Inn, a cozy bed and breakfast popular for visitors.
“This is where I’m staying while I’m in Ponyville.” Fleur de Lis said. “It looks like the other guests are turning in, so we can have the living room to ourselves.”
“Sounds nice.” Caramel replied. “You sure you don’t want to stay at a fancier hotel?”
“Like I said, I prefer the quaint country lifestyle. Well, let’s go in.”
They entered the B&B and went in the homey living room where they sat together on a soft couch. The décor of the inn seemed to be just what Fleur de Lis was looking for in country living; the furniture was similar to that owned by everypony’s grandmother and there was even a crackling fireplace in front of the couch. Caramel and Fleur de Lis got closer next to each other and chatted a bit more, with the only light in the first floor coming from the fireplace.
“You know, uh, I wouldn’t mind seeing a copy of you in Unicorn Vogue.” Caramel said.
“Maybe you should come visit me in Canterlot some time. Then you could really watch me at work.”
He smiled. “I’d like that, Fleur de Lis.”
“Actually, you can just call me Fleur. All my good friends do.” A few seconds of silence fell before Fleur de Lis continued. “Caramel, I want to be honest with you. Last night when you saved me from that mugger was one of the bravest things I’ve ever seen anypony do.”
“Well, I wasn’t going to let a pretty thing like you be hassled by that some criminal.”
“I mean really; most ponies would just call the police and some might just walk away and ignore it. But you went out of your way just for me. I’m always socializing with some pretty snobby high class types in Canterlot, so you’re one of the sweetest ponies I’ve ever met.” She gently laid one hoof on his shoulder and another on his knee. “I can’t thank you enough fro what you did last night.”
Caramel blushed as she touched him. Then, his mind suddenly went back to his heated argument with Rarity earlier. Her words about Sassaflash were now hitting him hard and the feeling of Fleur de Lis’s touch reminded him of his dearly departed ex. Caramel frowned and spoke again.
“I think I should be honest too.” He sighed. “Fleur, I just came out of a relationship a couple months ago.”
“Really?” she frowned and took her hooves away. “Oh, I’m not making this awkward for you, am I?”
“No, it’s fine. The thing is, this mare really meant a lot to me. But she had to move away, and we decided a long distance relationship wouldn’t work out. Ever since she left, I’ve just been a complete wreck. Nothing seemed fun to me anymore, and all my friends were really concerned for me. I thought I would never be happy again. But when I met you, all that depression seemed to disappear. You’re beautiful and smart and lively; I don’t even care that you’re a celebrity. I guess what I’m saying is…you made me feel alive again.”
Fleur de Lis looked at him sweetly and touched his chin. But the moment was halted when Caramel glanced at the clock above the fireplace, which read after midnight.
“Oh jeez, is that the time?” he gasped. “I completely lost track. I guess should be heading on home.”
“Are you sure?” asked Fleur de Lis as he got up. “You don’t want to stay longer?”
He walked up to the front door. “It’s okay. I really should get home. Applejack might need me in the morning.”
“You live next to Rarity don’t you? That’s almost on the other side of town from here. And you don’t want to walk through the rain, do you?”
“Rain?”
Caramel opened the door and peeked outside. Sure enough, a torrent of heavy drops pelted the pavement on the slick street. He immediately closed the door and sulked.
“Nice one, Rainbow Dash.” He muttered annoyed.
“I don’t want you to catch a cold out there.” Fleur de Lis said getting up from the couch. “Why don’t you stay here for the night?”
Caramel perked up his ears and turned around. “You mean…with you?”
“Well, who else? I’ll show you to my room.”
“Are you sure?” he asked nervously.
“Of course, I don’t mind. Come on.”
Fleur de Lis then strode toward a flight of stairs leading up. It seemed too good to be true for Caramel. As if it wasn’t enough that he took the most famous model in Canterlot out on a date; now he was about sleep overnight with her. A smile crept across his face as he followed her upstairs. Reaching the second floor, he noticed Fleur de Lis’s swinging flank as she walked down the hall; her tail swayed like a pink curtain in a breeze. A knot seemed to tighten in his throat. A few doors down, she entered a room on the right and Caramel followed suit. He stepped in and looked around the darkened room at more of the cozy interior design; there was a queen sized bed on the far side of the room. Fleur de Lis walked into a conjoining bathroom.
“I’m just going to brush my teeth.” She called. “Make yourself comfortable.”
Without a response, Caramel looked around feeling awkward. He noticed a whicker chair in a corner by the large window, which was the only other article of furniture other than the bed. Slowly, he proceeded over to sit in the chair and wait for his mare. A few minutes of sitting uncomfortably later, he saw her step out of the bathroom. Fleur de Lis chuckled when she saw him.
“Um, I meant the bed.” She said.
Caramel suddenly began to feel hot again. “Oh, uh, okay.”
She then climbed into the bed and lied down on her side in an inviting pose. Lowering her eyelids, she patted the bed surface offering him to sit by her left side. With a quick exhale, Caramel approached the bed and cautiously slid next to her lying down. He rested his head on the pillow and stared up at the ceiling, not sure what to do next. Then, he felt something warm rub across his torso. He looked to his right and saw Fleur de Lis nuzzling against him with her eyes closed and her forelegs wrapped around his chest. She rubbed her face against his shoulder.
“Mm, you feel really warm.” She spoke in almost a whisper. “Do you mind if I snuggle with you?”
Caramel felt a wave of nervous heat as he felt her cool breath brush down his neck. And yet, he felt rather relaxed having her being this close to him. He looked back her and smiled.
“Not at all.”
As she snuggled and moaned another time, Caramel carefully extended his hoof behind her back and held her close. It was then that his eyelids began to feel heavy. Finally, he whispered before dozing off.
“Good night, Fleur.”
“Good night, my hero.” She responded.
They both drifted off to sleep.

…

The sound of a carriage parking was heard outside as the morning light shined through the window in Fleur de Lis’s room. The slender white unicorn fluttered her eyes open and saw that she had happily slept in the same position next to Caramel. Her stallion companion was still asleep; she smiled and sat up on the bed. With a quiet yawn, she stretched her forelegs out readying herself for a new day. As she fluffed her mane, a knock on the door was heard with the voice of one of the bellcolts of the inn from outside.
“Uh, ma’am? Sorry for disturbing ya, but somepony outside asked for your name. He said that you would be awake at this time. Um, he’s waiting for ya by his carriage out front. He said his name is, um, Mr. Fancypants? Uh, just thought I’d let ya know. Have a good day.”
As soon as the bellhop left, Caramel began to stir awake. He opened his eyes and smiled as he saw his date, then sat up with a stretch.
“Ah, morning, beautiful.” He said. “How’d you sleep?”
Fleur de Lis sat there in the bed with a look of shock frozen on her face. After a brief period of silence, she sprang up from the bed and to the window.
“Oh no, oh no, oh no, oh no!” she repeated.
“Fleur? Are you okay?” asked Caramel concerned.
Fleur de Lis stared out the window. Below was a black limo carriage parked out front with a pair of pegasi chauffeurs pulling it. In front of the carriage, a white unicorn stallion with a teal mane stood wearing a dress coat and a monocle. He stood in wait as he stared at a golden pocket watch. Fleur de Lis gasped.
“OH NO!”
“Hey, is that Fancypants?” asked Caramel after getting up and joining her at the window. “That pony is one of the biggest millionaires in Equestria. Is he a friend of yours?”
She looked at him with worried eyes. 
“What’s wrong?”
“Oh Caramel I’m sorry I didn’t tell you earlier.” She said to him frantically. “I was too nervous. I thought you would be mad at me.”
“Just tell me.”
“I didn’t think he’d show up this early. I completely forgot all about him. Oh what am I going to do now?!”
“Fleur de Lis, what’s going on?”
“Fancypants is my fiancée!”
Caramel stood with a blank expression. Then, after standing for a moment, he slowly leaned forward, collapsed to the floor and fainted.

> Affair Fight
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Chapter 5: Affair Fight

Sweetie Belle carefully opened the door to Carousel Boutique and slowly stepped inside. She tried to make as little noise as possible as she tiphoofed through the main room. But she stopped at the shrill sound of her sister.
“Sweetie Belle!” scolded Rarity. “Where the Discord have you been all night?”
Sweetie Belle shrugged. “Oh, uh, I spent the night at Applebloom’s. Applejack said it was okay.”
Rarity stared at her sister for a bit, but then proceeded over to a sewing table. “Oh, whatever. I am much too steamed to worry about anything else.”
“Are you still mad at Caramel?”
“You bet your flank I am.” She began to assemble a sash using her magic at the table. “Confound him for casting aside Sassaflash like that!”
“Look, sis, maybe you shouldn’t be so hard on him. I mean, he’s been really depressed lately. So, maybe this new mare is just what he needs.”
“Oh, so you’re telling me it’s good for him to be involved in an affair?”
“Exactly…wait, what do you mean an affair?”
“Did Caramel even tell you who he’s dating?” asked rarity looking up from her sewing.
“Now that you mention it, he didn’t.”
“He was going out with Fleur de Lis!”
The filly gasped. “The Fleur de Lis?! You mean you’re model friend from Canterlot?”
“Well who else?”
“But why would Caramel want to date a mare who’s engaged?”
“That’s the thing; he doesn’t even know he’s having an affair.”
“So didn’t you tell him?”
“I tried, but he just wouldn’t let me get a word in. It’s like he doesn’t even care about Sassaflash anymore. Well if he won’t listen to reason, then don’t bother hearing anything from me.”
“But Rarity, this is Caramel we’re talking about. He’s our neighbor and he’s help us plenty of times before. He has to know that he’s in danger.”
“Hey, I told him he was making a mistake, but he’s just too stubborn. If Caramel wants to run off with a betrothed mare, then by all means let him.”
“Fine. If you won’t help him, then I will.”
With that, Sweetie Belle exited the boutique and slammed the door shut. Then, she pondered to herself before walking off.
“Hmm, if Caramel won’t listen to Rarity, there’s no way he’ll let me get a word in. Oh this is bad. What am I going to do to get him out of this jam? This looks like a job for the Cutie Mark Crusaders!”
She cantered off into town with a look of purpose on her face.

“Caramel…Caramel, are you alright? …Wake up, Caramel.”
Consciousness came rushing back to Caramel as his eyes shot open. He gazed up at Fleur de Lis who stared at him concerned as he lay on the floor. Instantly, the memory of what had happened before his passing out struck him. Caramel scurried backward away from her.
“You’re engaged?!” he exclaimed.
Fleur de Lis walked over to him. “I hope you’re not too mad.”
“Mad?! I’ve been sleeping with a betrothed mare and I shouldn’t be mad?!”
“I don’t blame you if you are.”
“That’s Fancy-freaking-pants out there! Do you realize what he’ll do to me if he finds out I’ve been with you?!”
Then, Fleur de Lis grabbed Caramel in a tight hug, pressing his face into her warm chest. She stroked his brown mane as she spoke.
“Oh Caramel, darling, I’m so sorry. I was going to tell you at some point, but I just couldn’t bring myself to. I was having the time of my life with you last night.”
“Why did you go out with me if you’re engaged?” he asked, muffled by her bosom.
“Well, I was sort of happy to be marrying Fancypants. But when you saved me from the robber, I was suddenly overcome and I immediately started to feel affection toward you. Fancypants is charming, but he can be such a snob. He never wants to do anything fun with me; always busying himself with his other mogul friends. And he never takes any time to talk with me. He just sees me as some trophy to parade around Canterlot with.”
Caramel became flustered being pressed into her soft embrace. But he snapped out of the comfort and pulled away from her.
“If he’s such a stiff, then why did you agree to marry him in the first place?” he queried.
Fleur de Lis looked down with shame. “It was because of the money. Fancypants is one of the wealthiest shareholders in Equestria; he’s invested in some of the biggest industries in both Canterlot and Manehattan. I knew that if I accepted his marriage proposal, our combined fortunes would be tremendous. But I was a foal for thinking that money meant more than love. And you proved me wrong, Caramel.”
“What do you mean?”
“You risked yourself just to retrieve my saddlebag. When you left that night, I suddenly felt silly holding that bag. I realized then that there’s more to life than just bits; there’s kind and caring ponies like you. In fact, I instantly gave away most of the money in that bag to charity, and saved the rest for our date.”
Caramel darted his eyes in thought. “So…you’re saying that being with me made you want to cheat on Fancypants?”
“I know that seems extreme. And I am so, so, so, so sorry for dragging you into this. You’re the sweetest stallion I’ve ever met, after being with so many of the spoiled rich class. But I guess I guess that makes me a hypocrite. How can you ever forgive me?” She shielded her eyes with a hoof to hide her embarrassment.
Then, Caramel touched her shoulder. “Fleur, I don’t blame you for wanting to change you life. You’re a really nice mare, and I had a blast with you. But I think you should just set things straight with Fancypants; I don’t want him getting suspicious. Besides, I think he’s pretty lucky to have somepony like you.”
Fleur de Lis looked up with tears welling in her eyes, and saw that he was smiling with sympathy at her. With a pause, she smiled as well and hugged him.
“Thank you so much, Caramel.” She said softly. “You’ve turned me around. And you’re right; I should set things straight with Fancypants. I know just what to say to him.”

Outside the inn, Fancypants tapped the ground as he patiently waited for his fiancée. He twiddled his moustache as he stared at his pocket watch and sulked.
“I say, where in Celestia’s name is that mare?” he muttered to himself. “It’s not like her to be running late.”
Just then, he noticed one of the top windows of the inn open. Standing looking out was Fleur de Lis with a seductive look on her face.
“Oh Fancypants!” she called in a pleasant tone.
Fancypants adjusted his monocle and smiled. “Ah, Fleur de Lis my sweet, there you are. Well, come along now, dear; we don’t want to keep the investors at General Magic waiting.”
Fleur de Lis responded by tossing something tiny out the window. Fancypants squinted to see a small metallic trinket fly through the air toward him. As it approached his face, he recognized it as the gold engagement ring he had given her recently. The ring landed around his horn, and he looked up in confusion.
“The wedding is off!” Fleur de Lis shouted with a devious smile and shut the window.
Fancypants kept staring up with a bewildered expression.
“Fleur de Lis?!” he whimpered as the ring sat around his horn.

Caramel stared at her with shock, as she cheerily stepped away from the window.
“What the hay are you doing?!” he blurted.
Fleur de Lis grabbed him in another tight hug.
“I did it, Caramel,” she said. “I called it off with Fancypants. I’m finally free!”
“That’s not what I meant by setting him straight!”
“But now we can be together; just you and me, baby! We’ll run away together so that snob won’t be able to bother us.”
“What?!” Caramel pulled away and became stern. “Now just wait a minute! This doesn’t solve anything. If ponies find you and me together I’ll never hear the end of it. I mean, as far as I’m concerned, you’re still betrothed to Fancypants.”
“No way. I refuse to share my life with any stallion but you. You’re the only one for me now, and I’ll be a wreck without you. Please Caramel, run away with me.”
“Lady, you’ve got to be out of your mind if you think I’m going to-”
Before he could finish, Fleur de Lis wrapped her hooves behind his head and pressed her lips against his. Caramel’s eyes widened and his head started to boil as she held him in a long passionate kiss. Then after several seconds, she parted and looked at him with big pupils in glimmering eyes. It was then that Caramel realized that her desperation and trust in him was real; he hadn’t felt such a wave of compassion since Sassaflash. Something in the back of his distracted mind reminded him that he had honest feelings for Fleur de Lis, despite the present situation. And so, without another moment of staring, Caramel smiled at her.
“Let’s get out of here.” He said.
A broad grin stretched across Fleur de Lis’s face. Immediately, the two bolted out of the room and down the hall. They cantered down the stairs and past the other guests in the lobby before heading toward the back door. Attracting surprised stares from others, they burst out through the door and into the lush backyard. Fearing that Fancypants would be on their tail, Caramel stopped to look back for the estranged mogul. But Fleur de Lis pulled him out of his pause and gestured to the wooden fence that stood in their path. With a nod, Caramel followed her and leaped over the fence. Suddenly, he felt a rush of adrenaline as he galloped onward with his beautiful companion by his side. It was a feeling he hadn’t felt in months and he loved every second of it. After a few more minutes of galloping, the couple stopped amidst a grassy meadow and panted out of breath. Then, Caramel noticed Fleur de Lis starting to laugh, and he couldn’t help at joining in. They both burst out in laughter after seeing that they had ran a good distance away from Ponyville. Caramel even fell to the ground, unable to catch his breath as he guffawed with joy. Fleur de Lis then fell to her knees as well and crouched next to him, laying her hooves on his chest. The two continued chuckling until all their energy had completely drained. At that moment, they stared into each other’s eyes with soft smiles. Then, Fleur de Lis lowered her head and laid a light smooch on his forehead. Caramel responded by wrapping his hooves around her and pulling her close enough for him to kiss her lips. They held close for a bit with their eyes shut before parting again and staring back at each other. Fleur de Lis rubbed his cheek as she spoke.
“Caramel…I love you.”
Caramel saw a tear well up in her eye. “I love you too, Fleur de Lis.”
She rested her head on his chest. “I told you…just call me Fleur.”
Caramel tightened his grip around her and looked up at the bright blue sky. He caught a glimpse of a multicolored streak passing rapidly through the sparse clouds. Somehow, he couldn’t help at feel that he wouldn’t have ended up in the company of Fleur de Lis in that moment, if not for the pegasus that left that rainbow streak.
“I should probably thank her later.” Caramel whispered to himself before laying his head back, rubbing Fleur de Lis’s back.

> Cutie Mark Cupids
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Chapter 6: Cutie Mark Cupids

“Crusaders, assemble!”
Sweetie Belle stood against the back wall of the Cutie Mark Crusaders’ clubhouse as Applebloom and Scootaloo directed their attention to her.
“Why are you callin’ assembly?” glared Applebloom. “Ah’m the leader of this outfit.”
“You? I thought I was the leader this whole time!” added Scootaloo.
The three fillies exchanged glances, wondering who exactly the leader was. Then Sweetie Belle cleared her throat and continued.
“Girls, I’ve just found out who Caramel’s mystery mare is. He’s dating Fleur de Lis!”
Applebloom and Scootaloo gasped and gawked at each other. After a slight pause, they returned their attention.
“Who’s Fleur de Lis?” asked Applebloom.
Sweetie Belle looked at her discerningly. “You know, the Fleur de Lis? She’s the biggest supermodel in Canterlot?”
The yellow farm filly only gave a blank stare.
“Well, she sounds like a real catch.” Scootaloo smiled. “The biggest model in Canterlot, you say? Caramel must be sitting pretty.”
“There’s just one problem.” Sweetie Belle said. “Fleur de Lis is engaged to Fancypants!”
The two listening fillies gasped again dramatically.
“Who’s Fancypants?” asked Scootaloo.
“Oh for the love of- that’s not the point!” Sweetie Belle facehoofed. “Look, what matters now is that our friend is having an affair with somepony’s wife-to-be.”
Applebloom frowned. “But, Caramel wouldn’t do something like that…would he?”
“Not our Caramel.” Sweetie Belle continued. “But I think that Fleur de Lis has got him hypnotized into running off with her. And that’s where he needs our help.”
“How exactly are we going to help him?” asked Scootaloo.
“We need to remind Caramel about his feelings for Sassaflash. It’s the only way to get him out of this mare’s trap. We don’t want our stallion committing adultery.”
“A-what-ery?” replied Applebloom.
“That’s just a word I picked up from Rarity; along with a few other weird words that she only says when she’s really mad…anyway, Caramel needs our help. And I know just how we’re going to do it.”
“Sweetie’s right,” said Applebloom. “We gotta remind him of the good ol’ days with Sassaflash. Ah know he still loves her deep inside.”
“We should probably follow him first.” Scootaloo suggested. “We’re gonna want to know just what he’s up to with that Fleur de Lis.”
“Yeah, we’re going to teach that succubus a lesson.” Sweetie Belle then stood with pride. “Fillies, until further notice, we are now the Cutie Mark Cupids!”
“YAY!”
The three troublemakers scampered out of the clubhouse toward town.
“Hey Sweetie Belle,” said Applebloom. “What’s a succubus?”
“I don’t know,” she answered. “I just heard Rarity muttering that about Fleur de Lis. She also called her a few other things, but I wasn’t sure what they meant.”

That afternoon, Caramel and Fleur de Lis strolled through Ponyville with an air of romance hovering between them; Caramel kept his eyes peeled for Fancypants’s black limo. As the couple walked toward the train station, they struck up conversation.
“I can’t believe we’re really doing this.” Fleur de Lis smiled.
“Please, I’ve eloped with celebrities, dozens of times before.” Caramel joked bringing a giggle from his new lover; then he changed the subject. “So what are you going to do, now that Fancypants is out of the picture?”
“Well, I guess I should find another hotel first. I think I’ll catch a train back to Canterlot, until we meet again.”
“And what happens then?”
She looked at him with sparkling eyes. “We start a new life together. We’ll live somewhere where nopony will bother us about our relationship.”
“Wow, live together, huh?” he replied and paused to think. “That sounds pretty heavy. Don’t get me wrong, Fleur, I really do want to spend my life with you, but I don’t know how I can leave everything I have here in Ponyville.”
“I won’t drag you completely away from your friends, Caramel. We won’t even have to leave forever. We could just go from place to place until things are straightened out. Come on, Caramel, why don’t we visit Prance together? I can just envision it now.”
Caramel sighed as he soaked in her words. “I just don’t know. Fleur, I love you, but this is a pretty big life change.”
“Why don’t I give you some time to mull it over? Talk to your friends; I’m sure they’ll understand.” She gave him a peck on the cheek. “I’ll see you tomorrow, my hero.”
He smiled again. “Take your time, babe.”
Fleur de Lis left him and headed toward the station to catch the express to Canterlot. After standing with a fluttering in his heart, Caramel took this new turn of events into consideration. Leaving Ponyville was something he had never pictured himself doing, especially in an affair. He gave another sigh and walked back into town. After wandering for several minutes, it suddenly occurred to him. None of his friends even knew about his affair with Fleur de Lis except for Rarity. If the fashionista unicorn couldn’t take the news in a positive light, then there seemed to be little hope that the rest of his pals would. Here he was, starting a new life with a mare that he had only known for a day and a half, and now he was obligated to break it to the ponies that he had known for years. Caramel knew he needed sound guidance, and there was one stallion who had just that. After a while, he finally approached a house by the marketplace and knocked on the door. Without wait, Time Turner answered and greeted him.
“Caramel, hey bro. I didn’t see you at all yesterday. I hope all that cider didn’t put you in a coma.”
“Turner, can I come in?” asked Caramel in a serious mood. “There’s something I need to get off my chest.”
A few minutes later, Time Turner poured some lemonade for himself and Caramel and the two friends sat down in the living room. Caramel looked down, as if his night of debauchery with his buds had no effect on him.
“Are you okay, Caramel?” asked Time Turner. “You’re not still depressed, are you?”
“Listen, something happened on the night we partied. I saw this mare being mugged by some creep. I knocked him out and she thanked me by asking me out. And that’s what I was doing yesterday.”
“Get out of here, really? That’s fantastic, bro; you’re getting back in the game! What did you do yesterday?”
“Well, we had a nice dinner and dessert. But then, she invited me into her hotel room, and she let me sleep overnight with her.”
“Oh ho! That’s what I’m talking about. You see? I knew you would snap out of this funk sooner or later.”
“Um, there’s still kind of a catch with what happened.”
“What do you mean?”
“She’s…” he gulped trying to work up the nerve to answer him. “…engaged.”
Time Turner sat there staring for several seconds before speaking again. “So…you’re having an affair, then?”
Caramel nodded in defeat.
Then, Time Turner snorted with laughter. “So what are you so gloomy about?”
“Huh?”
“Dude, she’s engaged! That’s hardly an affair at all. I mean, it’s not like she’s full blown married. Besides, affairs aren’t illegal; they’re just…frowned upon. Does her fiancée know about this?”
“Well, now he does. He stopped by the Stable Inn where we were sleeping the next morning, and that’s when I found out she was betrothed. Then, she completely broke it off with her husband-to-be right then and there. Now, she wants to run away with me and elope. And that’s what brings me to you.”
“Do you want to run away with her?”
“I…I guess. I mean, if I don’t, she’ll be devastated. And I can’t let a mare like her down. She’s everything a stallion could want.”
“Then I say you should do it, Caramel. This is exactly the turnaround you needed after loosing Sassaflash. If that mare makes you happy and you do the same for her, then you shouldn’t let anything else stop you; not even her loser fiancée.”
“Wow, you seem pretty positive about this, Turner.”
“Hey, what are friends for? Just make sure that wherever you go, you stop by Ponyville pretty often. We’ll be here to drink another night.”
“You’re a real pal, Turner. I can’t thank you enough.”
“No problemo. Hey wait, you haven’t told me who this mare is anyway.”
“Oh yeah, sorry. I guess I should’ve mentioned that already. Believe it or not, I’m dating Fleur de Lis.”
“Fleur de Lis? Why does that name sound so familiar? Oh yeah, she’s that big model on all the fashion magazines. Cool, bro, you’re having an affair with Fleur de Lis.” Time Turner paused and considered the words that had just come out of his mouth. Then, his face was overcome with dumbfounded shock. He sprang up and shook Caramel violently. “You’re having an affair with FLEUR DE LIS?!?!?!”
Caramel responded with his voice in tremolo as his head was flung back and forth. “I thought you were cool about this!”
“Caramel! This is not cool! Do you realize what you’ve gotten yourself into?!”
“Stop shaking me!”
Time Turner let go of Caramel leaving him to wobble in dizziness.
“Turner, what’s the big deal?” he said shaking off. “Sure she’s a celebrity, but she’s really sweet and fun.”
“But she’s marrying Fancypants!”
“Am I seriously the only one who didn’t about this?”
“Dude, that stallion has more money than everypony in Ponyville combined. Do you realize what he’ll do now that he knows you’re running off with his fiancée? He’ll sue the tail right off of your behind!”
“Look, I know I’m in trouble, and there’s no escaping it. But Fleur de Lis means too much to me right now. I need to find away to sort this mess out and still make her happy. But I need you to be on my side. Please, don’t let anypony get on my case; especially not Rarity.”
“Caramel, I always knew you were a klutz, but this is a new extreme. If that mare is roping you into this, she must be crazy.”
“But I’m crazier for her. Tuner, you’ve never let me down before. I just need to go to Canterlot and…maybe I can convince her to talk to Fancypants and break it off slowly with him. That’s reasonable right? Maybe he won’t even be that mad. Right?”
Time Turner sighed. “You do whatever you need to, bro. If you think you can get yourself out of this jam, then I’ll let you. Besides, what are friends for?”
“Thanks a lot, Turner. I’m not going to slip up this time. I’ll see you later.”
Caramel brohoofed his friend before quickly exiting the house. Time Turner sat rubbing his temples as he tried to wrap his mind around the situation. He had never thought Caramel would be stuck in a bind such as an affair with a crazed celebrity mare; and he doubted he could keep quiet about it for long. With a sulk, Time Turner got up and walked into the kitchen to pour himself more lemonade. But as he downed another glass, he heard his front door slam open. He quickly turned around to see three fillies entering his house and staring sharply at him. As they approached him, the yellow one with the bow in her mane spoke first.
“Alright, mister,” said Applebloom menacingly. “What’s yer friend up to now?”
Time Turner stared back with confusion. “What are you talking about? Shouldn’t you girls be in school or something?”
“Cut the chitchat, Turner,” scolded Scootaloo. “We followed Caramel to your place and we know he talked to you about his affair with Fleur de Lis.”
“Wait, how did you three know about that?”
Then, Sweetie Belle stuck her little face in his with a glower. “So you do know. Now, where is he off to? What has Caramel got planned with that hypnotizing mare?”
It was then that he realized that these fillies were on to Caramel. He remembered his promise to Caramel and stood firm. “I don’t know what you’re talking about. He hasn’t told me anything. Now I suggest you fillies stop getting in adult business. Why don’t you go play somewhere?”
“Oh, we’re done playing.” Scootaloo hissed.
Before Time Turner could respond, Applebloom tackled him to the floor and stood on his chest. He struggled to get up, but the other two fillies pinned down all four of his legs. Then, Applebloom smiled a dastardly grin as Sweetie Belle gave her a paper bag. She took the bag and out of it pulled a sweet red fruit.
“Apple, sir?” asked Applebloom as she stared at him intently.
Time Turner gulped with a look of fear in his eyes.

> Go To Her (edited)
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Chapter 7: Go To Her

Caramel took a minute to soak in the chaos while he walked on down the street toward home. A game of tennis was playing in his head as he tried to sort out his current situation with Fleur de Lis. He talked to himself discretely, fussing about his options.
“Okay, Fleur de Lis is expecting me to sweep her off her hooves at this point. Which is fine; I don’t see why I shouldn’t. But maybe the fact that Fancypants will have my head might answer that question.” He sighed. “Alright, all I have to do is convince Fleur to let him off slowly, instead of just running off like some fugitive. She’s a sweet gal, she’ll understand. Oh, who am I kidding? She’ll never face Fancypants again; not after that episode. I’m starting to think I should’ve never ended up with that mare. Ugh, this is giving me such a headache. I just need to go home and lie down. This can wait until tomorrow.”
He finally approached his house preparing for another long night of leftovers and Led Zebra songs about female temptation. But before he could enter, an all too familiar voice called to him from next door.
“Caramel!”
Caramel stopped startled and looked to his right. To his disdain, Rarity strode over to him from her boutique. He gulped and prepared to face another onslaught of nosy judgment.
“Rarity? What do you want?” he asked suspicious.
The pearly fashionista approached him with a nervous look. “Can we talk? I feel I need to clear the air about your…situation with Fleur de Lis.”
It was then that Caramel realized that he had been hiding away from Rarity. He knew that he was wrong and she was right.
“Look, Rarity, you don’t have to settle anything. I should have listened to you back at the restaurant. If I had known that your friend was engaged, I never would have gotten myself tangled up in this mess. I’m sorry; you always know what’s best.”
“No, no, Caramel darling, I’m the sorry one. I should’ve just told you after you left. But instead, I was too infuriated to help you and I just sat back as you let yourself be seduced. I was being stubborn as a mule! No offense, Cranky.”
“None taken.” Cranky Doodle Donkey replied as he passed by.
Rarity continued. “Caramel, I realize now how much stress you must be going through right now. I just want you to know that from now on, I am only going to help you through this. You’re my friend and neighbor, and I can’t just be a bystander.”
“Wow, thanks Rarity. You’re taking this better than I expected.”
“Trust me, dear; a lady like moi knows the book of relationship drama. Why, in fact, there was this one occasion with me and Prince Blueblood where…uh, never mind. So, have you told anypony else about your affair?”
“I’ve only told Time Turner so far. He was a bit shaken at first, but he agreed to keep quiet about everything. I wonder how he’s doing right now.”

“Please! Stop! I can’t take anymore!”
“Talk, you miserable son of a draftpony!”
The Cutie Mark Cupids held down Time Turner on the floor, as they interrogated him harshly. The brown stallion writhed in anguish as the fillies tortured him. He sputtered with a full mouth as he struggled to speak.
“No more! No more! I beg of you!”
“I’ll ask you again.” Sweetie Belle snarled. “What is Caramel going to do with Fleur de Lis? Tell us!”
“You’re insane! This is against the Celestia Convention!” cried Time Turner.
“Give it to him again, Applebloom.” Scootaloo said.
With an evil grin, Applebloom stuffed an apple through a food processor, sending the remains through a funnel into Time Turner’s mouth. He agonizingly gulped down the mushy apple innards without any freewill. The little torture masters had been force feeding him applesauce for a good forty-five minutes, and his stomach began to show a great deal of gained weight. Time Turner coughed and sputtered more after swallowing the tang of the mashed bits he had tasted for the entire ordeal.
“Alright, alright, I’ll talk!” he yelled in desperation. “Please, just no more apples! I can’t even move!”
“Spill the beans, Turner.” Scootaloo ordered.
“Caramel is going to convince Fleur de Lis to break it off with Fancypants, so he’ll be able to live with her. He’ll be leaving for Canterlot soon and he really wants to run off with her. That’s all he told me, I swear!”
“I knew it.” Sweetie Belle said. “That temptress has got Caramel under her spell.”
“And after all that mopin’ about Sassaflash.” Applebloom sighed. “He’s completely forgotten about his love for her.”
“Not for long. Come on, Cuties,” reveled Scootaloo. “There’s still work to be done if we’re going to save Caramel from that mare’s trance.”
“Cutie Mark Cupids, move out!” said Sweetie Belle as she cantered out of the house followed by her two comrades.
“Wait, where are you fillies going?” called Time Turner still on the floor.
Applebloom stopped at the doorway and looked back at him menacingly. “Clean yerself up, ya apple hater.” She scampered off.
Time Turner wriggled on the floor, trying to get up on his hooves. But his stuffed gut only allowed him to roll over on his front like a water balloon. Slowly but surely, he made his way crawling up the stairs and down the hall to his bathroom. Upon finally reaching the toilet, Time Turner vomited which a pained wretch. He lied on the bathroom floor and stared upward, wondering if he would ever be able to eat apples again.

Caramel invited Rarity into his house to clear the tension out of their friendship. After putting the tea on, the two sat down to chat for a bit. Then, Caramel turned to the subject at hoof and explained to Rarity about the fiasco at the Stable Inn.
“So you’re telling me she just threw her ring at him and ran off with you?” asked Rarity.
“I know that kind of sounds like some weirdo romantic’s fantasy,” replied Caramel. “But that’s pretty much what happened.”
“I hear you; Fleur is a good friend, but she’s a bit hotheaded. At least it wasn’t your idea to elope with her in the first place.”
“Yeah, but that’s the problem. I’m not sure if I should do it or not. I really love Fleur, but I’m afraid I might be biting off more than I can chew. Maybe she’ll let Fancypants off easy so we can be together. But I seriously doubt I’ll convince her. Time Turner won’t have anything to do with it. So I guess I should come to you for advice. Like I said, you know what’s best.”
“That’s sweet of you to say, Caramel. Normally I would still be mad at you about this. And I would just give you more heat about abandoning your feelings for Sassaflash and what not. But I did some thinking since that little argument. And all this grudging about you has halted my designing. So do you know what I think you should do? I say go for it!”
“Wait, really?” he asked a bit surprised.
“Caramel, it was wrong of me to guilt trip you about this affair. You’ve been absolutely miserable for a good while. So if this makes you happy, I won’t get in your way. Fancypants or no Fancypants, you and Fleur de Lis will be very happy together. You deserve her.”
“Gee, you really think I should? I mean, Fancypants is still-”
“Oh Fancypants is a pushover. I’ll talk to him and do everything in my power to make sure you and Fleur will not be bothered.”
Caramel smiled with a glimmer in his eyes. “Thanks, Rarity. I don’t know where I would be without you.”
“Yes, I’ve heard that a lot.” Rarity tossed aside her purple mane and fluttered her lashes with vanity.
“So, I guess I’ll go to Canterlot and tell her tomorrow?” asked Caramel.
“Au contraire, you shouldn’t have to wait. You should be on your way now to start anew.” She touched his shoulder and smiled. “Go to her, Caramel; she’s waiting for you.”
Caramel only responded with a nod. With that, he bolted out the door and down the street back toward the train station. He hoped to Celestia that Fleur de Lis’s train hadn’t departed yet as he galloped onward. Upon finally reaching the station, he caught sight of somepony sitting on one of the benches outside. Miraculously, Fleur de Lis sat and stared at him with a bright smile. Caramel walked up to her curious.
“Fleur? I thought you were leaving.” He said.
“I changed my mind.” Fleur de Lis replied and got up. “I just can’t stand to be that far away from you, Caramel. Is there something you wanted to tell me?”
Caramel exhaled quickly, building up the nerve to give her his answer. Without a word, he grabbed Fleur de Lis in a lover’s embrace and tilted her backward, as he locked his lips with hers. The rose white unicorn was overcome with surprise as he parted to look in her eyes.
“Fleur, I want to do it.” He told her with newfound courage. “I want to live with you for as long as possible. I don’t even care about your engagement anymore. Fleur, babe, I love you!”
Fleur de Lis’s eyes swelled with tears of joy as she wrapped her hooves behind his head.
“Oh Caramel, I knew you would say yes!”
They locked lips again and held for a bit, before leaving the station together. The sun set as they walked into town.
“You knew I would come back, didn’t you?” Caramel asked her, teasingly. “I guess you know a few tricks then.”
Fleur de Lis grinned seductively. “Why don’t I show you some of them at your place?”
Caramel blushed.

It was pure bliss. Caramel seemed happier than ever when he spent the night with Fleur de Lis. The new couple celebrated their love with a few glasses of cider and curling up by the fire, rekindling the magic of their first night together. Before long, Luna’s night had completely settled, and the time seemed right. Caramel retired to his bedroom with the mare of his dreams; Fleur de Lis giggled as he awkwardly swept a box of mare model pictures into his closet. Without further waiting, the two climbed into bed and snuggled in a warm embrace. A sensation of heat rose as they kissed and rubbed each other softly. After their long sweet moment of cuddling, Caramel and Fleur de Lis eventually fell asleep in each other’s hooves, nuzzling their faces together; both of them would dream of the sensation they had just sparked.

…

The doorbell rang the next morning as Caramel opened his eyes awakening. He found himself staring at the sleeping Fleur de Lis curled up beside him in his bed and smiled, remembering every joyous moment of the night before. Reminding himself of the doorbell, Caramel slowly climbed out of bed, as not to disturb his sleeping partner, and stretched before making his way downstairs to the front door. With a crack of his back and a yawn, he opened the door, not focusing on who the visitor might be. Then, Caramel gawked in surprise when he saw her.
“Um…hi, Caramel.” She said.
“…S- S- S- Sassaflash?!”

> A Flash from The Past
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

AUTHOR'S NOTE: If you haven't read Chapter 7 since I edited it, please do so before proceeding onto this chapter. I apologize for the inconvenience.

Chapter 8: A Flash from The Past

“It’s good to see you again, Caramel.”
Caramel stood dumbfounded in his front doorway. There before him was a teal pegasus mare about his age with a vanilla colored mane and tail and brilliant orange eyes. The cutie mark on her flank depicted twin lightning bolts. She smiled at Caramel meagerly as he responded with bulging eyes and a hanging jaw.
“Um, do you want to say something?” asked Sassaflash.
“Wha- wha- what are you doing here?” Caramel replied with a crack in his voice.
“I just got here from Cloudsdale and I thought I might visit you. I hope you’re not busy with anything.”
Caramel suppressed a gasp as he remembered the supermodel asleep in his bed. The dreaded thought of Fleur de Lis waking up and meeting Sassaflash crept into his mind. He kicked himself to snap back.
“Uh, no! No, no, I’m not busy.” He stammered.
“Oh good. So, do you mind if I come in?”
He gulped. Caramel suspected that Fleur de Lis would awake at any minute. But the former love of his life was smiling right at him, and he remembered how he couldn’t resist that face.
“S-s-sure, come on in.”
“Thanks; there’s actually something I want to tell you. Can we sit down?”
Caramel sat on his couch with his ex beside him. He felt surprisingly happy seeing Sassaflash in her honest beauty. Bittersweet memories of dating her came flooding back, as he stared at her wings which she casually brushed along her sides in waiting; he liked it when she did that. Clearing his mind, Caramel struck up conversation.
“So, what brings you here, Flash?” he asked. “How’s your internship at the Flight Academy going?”
“Well, that’s kind of what I wanted to talk to you about.” Sassaflash rubbed her foreleg nervously. “There’s a reason I came back to Ponyville. I’ll just tell you right away.”
“What is it?”
“Caramel, I turned it down.” She said now with confidence. “I turned down my internship and left Cloudsdale.”
“What?!” exclaimed Caramel. He then hushed himself remembering the sleeping Fleur de Lis upstairs. “But why? I thought it meant a lot to you.”
“That was before I actually got there. Do you even know what an internship at the Flight Academy is? I ended up having to pick up after all the Wonderbolts trainees. They called me ‘equipment manager’. There was no way I was sticking around for that dead end job.”
“So, what are you going to do now, here in Ponyville?”
Sassaflash then touched his knee and looked into his eyes. “Caramel, I want to get back together with you.”
The words took a minute for Caramel to process. “What did you say?” he asked.
She pulled him over in a warm hug. “Oh Caramel, I’m so sorry for ever leaving you. It was wrong of me for thinking that career was more important than what we had. I can’t stand to think of you longing for me all this time. Please Caramel, baby, I missed you. And I still love you.”
Caramel darted his eyes in confusion. He knew deep down that telling her about Fleur de Lis would be the right thing to do. But his feelings for Sassaflash were now cropping up faster than he could handle. It was then that he returned her hug and smiled.
“I missed you too, Flash.” He said softly. “I’m glad to see you again.”
They parted and Sassaflash stared at him with relieved eyes. “So, what do you say?” she asked. “Should we pick up where we left off?”
At that moment, all Caramel wanted was to spend alone time with the pegasus. But his thoughts were interrupted by a slight thud from upstairs. Realizing his worst fears, he thought quickly to make sure Fleur de Lis and Sassaflash never saw each other.
“What was that noise?” asked Sassaflash.
“Oh, that was, uh, that was just a mouse.” He fibbed. “I forgot I had one running around.”
“Aw, I think mice are cute.”
“Listen, uh, why don’t we meet each other again tomorrow? I just want to give you some time to settle in. I just remembered I have to work over in Sweet Apple Acres.”
“Oh of course; I won’t keep you waiting. Why don’t we meet at Sugarcube Corner, like we used to.”
“Uh, yeah, sounds great.” He said, hearing the distant sound of hoofsteps upstairs.
“I’m so happy you agreed, Caramel.” Sassaflash said getting up. “I couldn’t stand to be away from you.”
“Yeah…me neither.”
Sassaflash exited the house just as Fleur de Lis began descending the staircase. She saw Caramel staring at the door.
“Good morning, lover.” Fleur de Lis called. “Is something wrong?”
“Huh? Oh! No, nothing’s wrong.” He stammered after breaking his concentration from Sassaflash’s exit.
“Who was that?” she asked sitting on the arm of the couch.
“Um, that was just, uh, the exterminator. I think I might have mice.”
“Ugh, I hate mice; they’re disgusting. So, what do you want to do now, darling?”
Caramel tried to clear the board. “You know, I actually have to work today. Let’s meet again tomorrow.” He kicked himself secretly for saying that.
“Anything you say.” Fleur de Lis stroked his mane and kissed his cheek. “Now you go and work hard, my big strong stallion.”
“Heh heh, you know it.” He replied nervously and pretended to flex a bicep.
“And I’ll be right here to help you relax after a long day.” She continued seductively.
“Yup, can’t wait.”
Caramel got up and walked toward the door, with sweat pouring down. The flirting mare watched him in wanting until he closed the door behind him. With that, he breathed a moan of disdain and trudged off.

Twelve Hours Earlier

Applebloom, Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo stepped out of the pegasus pulled taxicab onto the fluffy white surface. Sweetie Belle used magic to create a platform for the other two flightless fillies to walk on the clouds. Before setting off, the cabbie called to them.
“You know, I’m still not comfortable with driving three unsupervised foals.” He said.
“Well, I think fifteen extra bits say otherwise.” Scootaloo replied and slid the tip into the driver’s coat pocket.
“Have a good day now.” The cabbie smiled and flew away.
“Wow, Sweetie Belle,” said Applebloom as the three started off into town. “Ah had no idea you could do a spell like that.”
“Twilight showed me.” Sweetie Belle told her. “It’s the only real spell I know, and Rarity has no idea about it. I like to use to scare her outside her bedroom window.”
“Ha, nice!” added Scootaloo. “So where exactly are we headed anyway?”
“I’m not sure.” Sweetie Belle replied. “Caramel never mentioned where she lives.”
“Let’s ask somepony.” Applebloom suggested.
The trio flagged down a passing mailpony.
“Excuse me, sir,” said Sweetie Belle. “Can you tell us where this pony lives?”
The mailpony looked at a photo of a teal mare she held up to him.
“Oh yeah, I know her.” He answered. “She lives at 105 Cirrus Avenue.”
“Thanks, mister!” Applebloom smiled.
“No problem. Now you fillies stay out of trouble.”
“Yeah, yeah, we’ve been told that.” Scootaloo scoffed.
As night settle in, the Crusaders mapped their way around Cloudsdale looking for the correct address. About an hour later, they found a small house close by the Flight Academy. They approached the front door.
“This is it; 105 Cirrus Avenue.” Sweetie Belle said.
“You think she’ll remember us?” asked Applebloom.
“She has to.” Scootaloo replied and rang the doorbell. “We’re all friends of Caramel.”
Before long, Sassaflash answered the door.
“Sweetie Belle?” the mare greeted a bit surprised. “Oh my goodness, it’s so good to see you. And you too, Scootaloo, and…uh…”
“Applebloom?” The little earth pony glowered.
“Oh yeah! You’re Applejack’s…daughter, right?”
“…Yeah, let’s go with that.”
“Wow, it’s been a while. So what brings you three to Cloudsdale?”
“Sassaflash, there’s something we need to tell you.” Sweetie Belle said with a serious look. “It’s about Caramel.”
Sassaflash’s smile wiped off. “Oh, uh, what about him?”
“Ma’am, do you remember what the last thing he told you was?” asked Scootaloo.
“He…said that he would always love me no matter what; and I promised him the same.”
“That’s just it, Sassaflash,” added Applebloom. “Caramel still loves you. But he’s hurtin’ inside. Ever since you left Ponyville, he’s just been a complete wreck. Nothin’ cheers him up anymore.”
“Are you serious?” asked Sassaflash concerned.
“Yeah, he’s really not himself nowadays.” Sweetie Belle replied.
“Oh gosh, I had no idea.”
“And that’s not the worst part.” Scootaloo said. “If he keeps acting so depressed, he’ll start seeing other mares. And they won’t love him like you.”
“What? Oh, my poor Caramel, what have I done? I thought he would be able to pick himself up; I never knew he would be so broken up.”
“That’s why we came to you, Sassaflash.” Applebloom told her. “We think you should go back to him. If you don’t, we don’t know what he might do.”
Sassaflash looked around as she pondered. Then, she straightened her face and spoke. “You’re right, girls. I should have never left him in the first place. I don’t even like my new life here; my job stinks. If Caramel is still longing for me, then I have no choice but to be there for him. Thank you so much, you three. You’ve shown me the error of my ways.”
“We’re happy to help, Flash,” smiled Sweetie Belle. “Oh, but one more thing; don’t mention to him that we came to see you. He might not be too happy that we talked to you without him knowing.”
“Oh, of course, I won’t tell him. Now if you girls will excuse me, I have to go pack my bags for Ponyville!”
With that, Sassaflash ran inside her house closing the door. The Crusaders walked away with their mission accomplished.
“Well fillies, it looks like we did the right thing.” Sweetie Belle said triumphantly.
“Do ya think we should’ve told her about Fleur de Lis?” asked Applebloom.
“No way, then she would get mad at Caramel.” Scootaloo replied.
“We want both of them to be happy once they see each other.” Sweetie Belle added.
“Good point.” Applebloom said. “Boy Ah can’t wait to see the smile on Caramel’s face when his true love has come back to him!”

> More Cider
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Chapter 9: More Cider

Caramel sat hunched over the counter at Mr. Cake’s cider bar with a dower look across his face. Four big empty glasses surrounded him with a fifth almost empty one in his hoof. Around him, the atmosphere in the bar was slow and dreary as he was with only a few other ponies present; it even rained outside. All day long, Caramel had been hiding away from everypony he cared about after the shocking incident at his house. He realized he had just set up to see both his marefriend and his ex marefriend the next day and could not find solace in talking with any of his friends, not even Rarity or Time Turner. The whole day had been spent with aimless wandering through Ponyville and ended with him sitting at the bar sulking over his new complication. He took another swig and spoke to Mr. Cake.
“Another cider, please.” Caramel said with his speech slurred.
Mr. Cake looked at him discerningly while scrubbing a glass. “I think you’ve had enough, pal.”
Suddenly, Caramel reached over the bar and grabbed the bartender by his collar. “I’ll tell you when I’ve had enough! Oh, my head is killing me.” He immediately slumped back down and rubbed his temples.
“Something on your mind, son?” asked Mr. Cake. “I’ve never seen a pony your age drink this much cider.”
“Ugh, mare troubles. I’m sure you understand, right?”
“Well, not really. I’ve been happily married for nearly twenty years.”
“Well, here’s to the luckier of us.” Caramel raised a glass and took a swill only to realize it was empty.
“Come on, kid, what’s getting you down? I’ve seen plenty of heartache around this bar.”
Caramel sighed not wanting to tell what he went over in his head numerous times. “Well, my marefriend wants to live with me. But my ex marefriend wants to get back together with me. And neither of them knows about the other. I’m at a crossroads here! I’m feeling more depressed than when I had neither of these two mares. I mean, what does somepony even do in a situation like this?”
“Wow, it seems like you got yourself in a real bind. But think about this. Which one do you love more?”
“That’s the problem. I love both of them equally. But I don’t know how I’m going to make them both happy without upsetting the other.”
“Well, it’s gonna have to be one or the other. And either way, you’re going to let somepony down.”
“Yeah thanks, that’s a lot of help.” Caramel remarked sarcastically. “But you don’t know what it’s like for me to let somepony down. You wouldn’t understand.”
“Hey, I’m just trying to help anyway I can.”
“Just help by keeping the ciders coming.”

Applejack walked down the street that night with her faithful dog, Winona, trotting by her side. She headed toward the cider bar as only several ponies were out and about in the nighttime. Winona barked twice.
“RUFF! RUFF!”
“That’s right, Winona,” replied Applejack. “If Caramel is nowhere else in town to be seen, then he must be at Mr. Cake’s cider bar. He’s probably celebratin’ over a few ciders with his friends. Ah wouldn’t mind joinin’ him.”
As the farmpony and her furry companion approached the bar, they heard some muffled shouting from inside. Suddenly, the double door of the bar burst open and out was tossed a tan stallion who landed square on his face, with his hind legs dangling upward. Then, Mr. Cake stood at the door way shaking an angry hoof.
“And stay out, you lazy drunk!” he scolded and shut the doors.
A dazed Caramel lay on the cold pavement with birds circling his head. Applejack rushed over to the dizzy stallion and stood beside him. Winona happily licked his face.
“Caramel, you alright?” asked Applejack leaning down to him.
“RUFF! RUFF!” barked Winona as he slowly began to stir.
Caramel lifted his head, shaking off the spunky little collie. He grunted with wooziness as he started to sway from side to side standing up. Applejack helped him to his hooves.
“Lansanks, Caramel, you can barely stand up.” She said. “You and your friends must have been partyin’ mighty hard in there.”
“Ugh, I wasn’t partying, Applejack, I was alone.” He gurgled.
“Alone? But why would you be celebratin’ alone?”
He looked at her quizzically. “Why would I be celebrating at all?”
“What are ya kiddin’? I’m talkin’ about yer new life with Fleur de Lis.”
Caramel perked up slightly as he heard her. “Wait, how did you know about me and Fleur de Lis?”
“Why, Rarity told me of course. She told me that the two of ya were gonna start livin’ together. Normally, Ah would advise against havin’ an affair n’ what not. But Ah’m happy fer ya, Caramel; yer finally movin’ on after Sassaflash.”
“RUFF! RUFF!”
“Yeah, but there’s just one problem, AJ.”
“RUFF! RUFF!”
“What is it, buckaroo?”
“RUFF! RUFF!”
Caramel tried to continue, but he couldn’t hear himself think with Winona’s excessive barking. He groaned and rubbed his aching forehead.
“Hush up, Winona!” ordered Applejack.
The herding dog obeyed and Caramel blurted out.
“Sassaflash is back!”
Applejack gasped and stared at him stunned followed by a long pause. “What now?”
“Sassaflash, she showed up this morning at my house when Fleur de Lis was sleeping over.” Caramel explained still struggling to keep balance. “She told me that she wanted to move back to Ponyville and get back together with me. I kept her from discovering Fleur de Lis and told her I would see her again tomorrow. Then, after she left, Fleur woke up and I told her the same thing!”
“Dear Celestia, Caramel, you didn’t!”
“I’m in a bind, AJ. I’ve got two mares who both want me to stay with them and have no clue about the other. I don’t know what to do. Ugh!” He then lowered his head as he felt a rising pain in his stomach. Immediately, he upchucked on the street.
Applejack looked at the conflicted stallion with pity and laid a hoof on his head. “Oh Caramel, what have you gotten yerself into now?”
Caramel rolled over on his back and stared up at the stars with disdain. “You were always right about me, Applejack. I’m lazy, clumsy, incompetent, nothing but a slacker. And it’s because of that, I’ve gotten myself in this crazy secret love triangle. I bet anypony other than me could handle this.”
“Listen to you; yer beatin’ yerself up again just like when Sassaflash left. Maybe these problems wouldn’t seem so bad if ya didn’t hate yerself so much.”
“You don’t know what it’s like.”
“Caramel, ya may not be the best worker, but that doesn’t mean yer a bad pony. We’re all lucky to have you as a friend. And Ah think you know just what to do. Now you love both Fleur de Lis and Sassaflash, right?”
“Um, yeah?”
“And neither of ‘em know about each other, right?”
“Nope.”
“Well, maybe they should.”
Caramel’s eyes widened. “You mean…I should…introduce them?”
“Well shoot, why not? Ah mean, who’s to say they won’t get along? Ah’m sure once they get to know one another, y’all work somethin’ out to make sure nopony gets disappointed.”
“Huh, I never really thought about that.” He sat up on the sidewalk. “What harm could be done, right?”
“Exactly, you’re a nice pony. Ah guarantee once the three of ya have cleared the air, everything will work out just fine.”
Applejack extended her hoof and helped him back up to his hooves. “Wow, you what, you’re right, AJ. It’s time I stopped being coy about my love life. Tomorrow, Fleur and Flash are going to get to know each other and all this mess will be out of my life. Thanks a lot, Applejack.”
“T’weren’t nothin’. Anything to get ya back to work in at Sweet Apple Acres.”
“Yeah, we’ll see about that.”
“What?”
“Nothing. Now, if you’ll excuse me, I gotta head home to prepare for tomorrow!”
Caramel began to head off triumphantly only to collapse once again on his face. This time, he fell fast asleep as Winona started licking him again.
“Lazy stallion.” Applejack sighed and carried her snoring friend off on her back.

> The Choice
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Chapter 10: The Choice

The next morning, Caramel found himself at his own kitchen table instead of a lonely bar. He stared up intently at the clock high on the wall which ticked away through the late morning. Anticipation clouded his mind as the strong scent of breakfast hung under his nose. Beside him, Fleur de Lis was standing at the stove cooking a dubious meal for her stallion lover. But Caramel was uncertain about her cooking abilities.
“Here you are, my sweet,” cooed Fleur de Lis as she carried a frying pan over to him. “I made you a nice big helping of scrambled eggs, hash browns and orange juice.”
Caramel turned away from the newspaper he had been pretending to read, and looked at the plate on the table. What seemed to be eggs and potatoes were surprisingly blackened masses burnt to a crisp. He blinked curiously as she even seemed to have burned the juice, a feat once thought to have only been conquered by Sweetie Belle.
“Thanks, Fleur.” Caramel said hiding his disdain.
“Anything for you, my stallion caller.”
Fleur de Lis stroked Caramel’s mane and planted a kiss on his cheek. But a sense of uneasiness spread over him.
“What’s wrong, Caramel?” she asked concerned. “Darling, you look so nervous.”
He sighed. “Well, I didn’t tell you before but, I’m expecting somepony to stop by soon.”
“Oh, why didn’t you say so?” she replied happily. “I’d love to meet any friend of yours. I’ll have to put on some tea.” Fleur de Lis walked back to the stove.
Caramel began to speak up and tell her to nix the tea, due to her abuse of his stove. But he hesitated realizing that soon it would not matter. The clock struck ten and he kept his ears open. After a few more minutes, the doorbell finally rang.
“Ooh, I’ll get that.” Fleur de Lis offered.
“Uh no, no, allow me.” Caramel interjected quickly getting out of his chair.
“Such a gentlepony.”
Carmel feigned a smile then headed over to the front door with a nervous gulp. He opened the door and sure enough, his ex was standing outside.
“Hi Caramel,” greeted Sassaflash who gave him a warm hug. “I’m glad you told me the night before to come over.” She then protruded her lips to land a kiss on him; but Caramel interrupted her.
“Uh, Flash, there’s somepony I think you should meet.” He said half-heartedly.
Sassaflash looked puzzled. “Oh, um, okay. Who is it?”
“Who’s at the door, darling?” called Fleur de Lis entering from the kitchen.
Caramel cringed as he heard her voice while Sassaflash perked up. Now both mares were in the same room with him face to face. There was no going back now; it was time for him to get down to business. Caramel breathed deep and began.
“Fleur de Lis, this is Sassaflash.” He said nonchalantly. “She’s…my ex marefriend.”
Fleur de Lis looked surprised. “Oh. This is her?” She then turned to Sassaflash. “Well, uh, it’s nice to meet you.”
“Um…you too.” Sassaflash replied feeling awkward. Then her eyes widened. “Wait, you’re Fleur de Lis? You’re that famous model from Canterlot! Caramel, what is she doing here?”
Caramel put on his best calming smile. “Well, uh, Sassaflash, I didn’t mention this yesterday, but Fleur de Lis just happens to be my-”
“I am his current lover!” Fleur de Lis smiled and grabbed him lovingly. “We’ve only known each other for a few days and already he’s agreed to let me live with him. Isn’t he just the sweetest pony ever?”
“What?!” gasped Sassaflash. “Caramel, you’re seeing another mare?”
“Uh…yeah.” Caramel frowned having realized that this was a bad idea.
“Why didn’t you tell me about this yesterday?” asked Sassaflash.
“Well, I would’ve. But when you said you and I should get back together, I just-”
“Hold on,” interrupted Fleur de Lis. “You were going to get back together with her?”
Caramel frowned having realized that this was a terrible idea.
“And you agreed after you said she could live with you?” glared Sassaflash. “Even after you only just met her?”
“Caramel, how could you reunite with her when you’re already with me?” scolded Fleur de Lis.
Suddenly, both mares were staring him down angrily as sweat ran down his face. Caramel frowned having realized that this was a disastrous idea.
“What about what you said before I left you?” Sassaflash continued. “I thought you still had feelings for me.”
“Well, clearly you misheard.” Fleur de Lis scoffed. “He apparently doesn’t love you enough not to move on.”
“What’s that supposed to mean?” Sassaflash now turned towards her.
“Caramel obviously loves me more. You honestly think he would be a one mare pony?”
“I’ll have you know that Caramel and I were together for years. You’ve only known him for just a few days.”
“Yes, and I’ve managed to give him more love than you could have in years.”
“Ha! I bet you love as well as you fight!”
“I’ll take that as a challenge!”
“Um, ladies?” squeaked Caramel.
It was then that Fleur de Lis lunged and shook Sassaflash by her shoulders, as the both of them began shouting over each other. Sassaflash grabbed the other’s horn and mane in protest and flapped her wings vigorously. Caramel could only stand meekly and watch the ensuing catfight.
“Fleur! Flash! Please, I’m sure we can work something out!” he pleaded over them.
“Pompous!”
“Jealous!”
“Man hog!”
“Filly!”
“Diva!”
“Airhead!”
“Girls, please STOP!”
Just then, the front door swung open slamming against the wall. The two quarreling mares stopped their fit and saw the unexpected visitor. Caramel gawked at the white unicorn millionaire.
“Caramel, you scoundrel!”
Cold silence fell as Fancypants entered the house.
“How dare you run off with my fiancée!” He huffed. “Fleur de Lis is rightly betrothed to me, and you swept her away!”
Sassaflash then sneered at Fleur de Lis. “You’re engaged and you wanted to be with my Caramel?! You hussy!”
“My dear, you have it all wrong.” continued Fancypants. “My sweet flower was stolen this ruffian! He obviously has her wrongly seduced. Well, I am here to earn back her love!”
Caramel looked at the furious mogul skeptically, as Fancypants rolled up his sleeves and curled his hooves into fists.
“Caramel, I challenge you to hooftycuffs!” he demanded. “Go on then, put up your dukes! I’ll give you what for, for running off with my Fleur de Lis! Come on; make your move, you dandy!”
Without a word, Caramel stepped up to Fancypants, turned around and reared up his back legs. In one swift blow, he mule kicked his opponent as if he were an apple tree. Fancypants flew backward at a blinding speed, slammed square into the wall and lay there in a daze.
“Mummy, the butler took my pedal car!” he babbled delirious.
Caramel then turned to see Sassaflash and Fleur de Lis with their jaws hanging open in shock of his knockout.
“What? We all knew how that was going down.” He said.
After a moment of silence, Sassaflash finally sighed and walked toward the door.
“I can’t take this.” She uttered with a look of defeat.
“Flash, where are you going?” asked Caramel calling after her.
The teal pegasus stopped at the open door and turned around. She looked at him with sorrowful orange eyes.
“Caramel, this is all my fault.” She said. “I shouldn’t have done this.”
“What do you mean?”
“When I left you for Cloudsdale, you made a promise to me that you would always love me. I shouldn’t have let you make that promise. I’m not blaming you as much as I am myself. It was wrong of me to let you destroy yourself over me. I can’t be mad at you for moving on; even if it’s with a…betrothed mare. Look, coming back here was a big mistake. I think all I’m doing is stirring up chaos. I’m not going to distract you from carrying on with your life. You deserve to start anew.
“You…you really mean that?”
“I hope you and Fleur de Lis will be very happy together. Any pony will be lucky to have a stallion like you. So long, Caramel; good luck.”
With that, Sassaflash gave him a small hug before exiting the house. Caramel only stood without a word, staring at her walking away. Something wasn’t settling right. Now that he only had one mare to give his love to, he couldn’t help but feel that he got her too easily. Something was drawing his eyes and mind to the gorgeous little pegasus who had just left his abode. As he stood there with unrest, Caramel felt a hoof touch his shoulder.
“Go to her.”
He turned around quickly. Fleur de Lis stood behind him with a soft smile.
“What did you say?” he asked.
“Come now, Caramel, it’s obvious you still have feelings for her.” She told him. “All this time, I was in love you because I was so sick of Fancypants. But what I’ve really been doing is trapping you. You’ve known Sassaflash for so long, and she loves so very much. I shouldn’t drag you away from her just because I want something new in my life. She’ll make you much happier than I can.”
“Fleur, are you sure about this?”
“Absolutely. It’s like she said; any pony will be lucky to have you. And now know what it’s like to be that lucky.”
“But, what are you going to do if I leave you?”
“I’ll just go back to Fancypants. That kick you gave him, which was tremendous by the way, might have knocked his memory loose. He’ll forget I ever dumped him and I’ll have a stallion who will make me…modestly happy. For now, you should go get her before it’s too late.”
Caramel lit up and smiled at the unicorn. Before speaking, he hugged her quickly. “You’ve made me happy for the first time in a long while. I’ll never forget that. Thanks, Fleur de Lis.”
She touched his cheek one last time. “Darling, it’s just Fleur.”
Without further conversation, Caramel dashed out of his house after his true love.
As he galloped out onto the street, he lost sight of Sassaflash and feared that he had already lost her. He looked in all directions but there was no sign of his flying beauty. Then, an idea came to him and he peered up toward the sky. Sure enough, Sassaflash was gliding above the town away from him. Caramel stomped the pavement and sprang off. Desperately, he caught up with the airborne pegasus running directly under her. He called for her attention.
“Sassaflash!” he shouted, ignoring any public looks. “Sassaflash!”
As he sprinted, Sassaflash looked down and caught sight of Caramel. Immediately, she swooped low and landed on the ground in front of him. The two now stood on a hill over looking Ponyville.
“Caramel? What is it?” she asked.
Without an answer Caramel grabbed her by the sides, bent her over backwards, and planted a passionate kiss on her lips. Sassaflash’s eyes widened and her wings flung open from the sudden rush. Caramel held the embrace for many seconds pressing his lips against hers, before finally lifting them. He kept holding her in his forelegs.
“Sassaflash, I love you!” he smiled. “I’m so sorry I ever tried to move on; it was my fault, not yours. I had a moment of weakness and fell in love with the first stranger I met. But I realized it was because you weren’t here with me. And now that you’re back, I’m not going to sabotage myself any longer. You were always there for me, and that’s why I still have feelings for you, babe. Stay with me, Sassaflash, I love you!”
In that warm moment, Sassaflash looked into his eyes and found his words to be completely true. Tears of joy welled up in her eyes and she wrapped her hooves around her love’s brown mane, holding on wanting. Sassaflash pulled him closer to her face.
“Oh Caramel, I love you too!” she smiled. “I promise I’ll never leave you again.”
“Me too.”
Caramel and Sassaflash closed their eyes and locked lips in an even tighter embrace. At last, Caramel found serenity in the closeness of his favorite mare. He was finally truly happy. Unbeknownst to the both of them, three troublesome fillies spied on them from a distance.
“Well girls, our mission is complete.” Sweetie Belle said proudly. “We finally saved Caramel and now he’s back with his true love.”
“You know, this gives me an idea.” Applebloom replied. “Maybe we can get our cutie marks in match makin’!”
“That’s a great idea, Applebloom,” said Scootaloo. “If we can reunite these two, think about who else we can get to fall in love with each other.”
“But who can we make a couple out of?” pondered Applebloom.
“Now that you mention it,” suggested Sweetie Belle. “I think Lucky has been having his eye on Twilight Sparkle.”
“Then, that settles it.” Scootaloo added. “Let’s go get our cutie marks in romance!”
“Cutie Mark Cupids ho!” concluded Applebloom.
The fillies cantered off to cause trouble one more time.

The End