Hey everybody! Before we start, next week is exams, so I'll be studying like crazy. If I can make time to write, I will, but I can't promise anything. That's next week though, so no need to worry just yet. I got my first PM requesting me to write a story for them, and I also got my second PM asking to use my OC (Coppermane) in their story. It's such an honor that people love my OC so much. Again, like I've said before, completely unexpected. These people are Starshine89, with their story The Vigilante of Canterlot High, and Webbowriter, with their crossover story Power Rangers Equestrian Force. These two of some of my most loyal readers, so go show them some love. And to you two, thanks for your support. I'm getting such positive feedback on FFN in general. For instance, this story has just his 2000+ views! At this rate, this story will surpass Sweet & Delicate in both view count and review count. Once again, thank you all. Just a side note, if anyone draws fan-art, maybe PM me? I can't draw to save my life, and I was thinking I could have end pictures for each chapter. Just a thought. Now, without further ado, let's get this show on the road! Thank you to my reviewers of the last chapter: bluecatcinema, Fluttershy 2059123, Webbowriter (PM), Elizabeth Fire Ice Heart, MMM, Starshine89, and D.N.S Akina. I don't own any of the MLP FiM characters, but I DO own Coppermane, and, as Fluttershy 2059123 was kind enough to remind me, I also own the plot. Enjoy!

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Loveliest of Trees

Ch.11: Storm Front

Fluttershy found herself in the cherry blossom grove that Coppermane had taken her before. The night sky was completely unblocked, filled with stars as well the belt of the galaxy, made of nebulae and space dust of all colors. A breathtaking view. As if she wasn't feeling good enough already…Coppermane was here, cuddling with her, holding her in his arms…

Fluttershy absolutely loved it when he held her from behind like this. She felt so safe in his arms. He felt so much stronger than he looked. She loved how affectionate he was. Laying his head on her shoulder, lightly squeezing her with his arms, holding her hand and interlacing his fingers with her. He was so loving. How did Fluttershy get so lucky?

Fluttershy looked up at the sky, getting lost in its celestial beauty. "The sky looks gorgeous," she said, giving Coppermane's hand a squeeze.

"Yeah, it does," Coppermane said. He gave Fluttershy a squeeze, "Almost as pretty as you."

Fluttershy gasped quietly and looked up at Coppermane. Did she hear him correctly?

"Coppermane…wh-what did you say?" she asked, not believing what she just heard.

Coppermane gave her another squeeze, offering a heart-warming smile, "You heard me. The sky is almost as pretty as you."

Fluttershy's eyes went wide. He did say that. She thought she was going to melt. She looked up at the breathtaking night sky. No…there was no way…

"Oh…Coppermane…y-you're just saying that," she said in total disbelief.

Coppermane reached up to caress her face, making her shudder in pleasure. "I'm not. I really mean it." He used his hand to cup her face, and looked deep into her eyes. He spoke in a tender voice, "You're so beautiful, Fluttershy. The most beautiful thing in the world."

Fluttershy thought she was going to faint. Did he really think about her like that? The most beautiful…in the world?

"Coppermane…" Fluttershy said, smiling deliriously, at a complete loss for words. Coppermane smiled, and gently caressed her again, making her melt, and slowly leaned in to kiss her…

---

Time: 9:30 AM, Saturday, Pinkie Pie's House, Days Until Formal: 7

Fluttershy woke up, and it took a moment for her to collect her thoughts. It was weird because she was waiting for Coppermane to…kiss her. Oh…it was only a dream. She sat up with her back against the bed, and started to tear up a little. She wasn't being held by Coppermane. He didn't think she was the most beautiful girl in the world. It was just her imagination. Darn. At least the cherry blossom grove was real. And at least Coppermane was still hers. She heard some voices coming from downstairs, and looked around the room to see that all the girls, except for Rarity, were already gone. She also heard a guy's voice, meaning one or both of the boys were awake as well.

Fluttershy looked over at Rarity, and saw her yawn, indicating that she was now awake. She stretched her arms and legs, letting out content moans before opening her eyes. Rarity smiled when she saw Fluttershy awake.

"Good morning, Fluttershy," Rarity said in a groggy voice.

"Good morning, Rarity," Fluttershy said, yawning herself, "Sleep well?"

"Mmmhmm," Rarity said. She looked around the room, and was surprised to see nobody else. "Are we the last ones to wake up?"

Fluttershy giggled, "I guess so."

"I suppose we should go downstairs and rendezvous," Rarity said.

Fluttershy nodded, "I guess we should."

Rarity stood up, stretching a little more before starting for the door. As she walked, she saw something on the ground next to Fluttershy. It looked like…as sheet of paper?

"Fluttershy, do you know what that is?" Rarity asked, pointing at the sheet of paper.

Fluttershy looked, and reached for it, curious as to what it was. She turned it over, and what she saw warmed her heart. It was a cute pencil sketch of a rose, and she looked down below to see what a certain someone had written.

Fluttershy, I'll always be there for you, no matter what. Thank you for everything you've given me.
-Your Coppermane

Fluttershy couldn't help but giggle. Coppermane was the cutest thing. This was just adorable.

Rarity looked over Fluttershy's shoulder to see what was on the paper, and couldn't help but smile. "Oh, that is so cute! You have the sweetest boyfriend ever, Fluttershy."

Fluttershy giggled. She simply had to agree with Rarity. After looking at the picture for a couple more minutes, the girls walked downstairs together, with Fluttershy holding the drawing in her hand.

---

Fluttershy and Rarity walked downstairs and saw everyone sitting and standing around the island counter eating breakfast, courtesy of Pinkie Pie.

"Look who decided to wake up," Rainbow Dash said with a smirk.

"Morning, you two!" Twilight said.

"Morning," Rarity and Fluttershy said.

"Help yourself, girls!" Pinkie Pie said, making some scrambled eggs, "There's plenty to go around!"

"Oh, thank you so much, Pinkie Pie," Rarity said.

Rarity sat at the island counter with everyone else, and started to dig into the fruit. Fluttershy looked around and noticed that Flash Sentry was here…but her boyfriend wasn't.

"Where's Coppermane?" Fluttershy asked.

"He's probably still asleep," Applejack said. She could vividly remember her heart to heart with Coppermane last night, and she also recalled him saying that he was going to stay up later to work on his "Fluttershy List". Applejack wouldn't be surprised at all if he was still asleep, because they talked for probably a good hour or so, and who knows when he turned in for the night?

"Yeah, he's still asleep," Flash Sentry said, getting some toast out of the toaster.

"Why don't you go up and get him?" Sunset suggested, "We should make sure that the birthday boy gets some breakfast."

"Yeah. If he waits any longer, it'll all be gone," Rainbow Dash said, drinking some cider.

Fluttershy giggled, and set Coppermane's drawing on the island counter before heading upstairs to wake him up. As she walked upstairs, she heard some of the girls asking about the drawing, and heard some Aww's from them, making her smile.

---

Fluttershy walked into the guest bedroom, and in front of the bed, she found her boyfriend, sleeping peacefully. She almost felt bad that she was about to wake him up. He looked so cute when he was asleep. She walked over and sat down next to him. She was about to nudge him with her hand…but decided to wait a moment. He looked so peaceful. Fluttershy could give him a few more minutes. The rest of the gang could wait for a little while longer. Right now, Fluttershy just wanted to watch Coppermane sleep. She couldn't help but smile as she did so. She knew how much he worries about everything, and she remembered how uneasy he seemed yesterday afternoon before the party. It was such a relief to see him so at peace, as if all of his worries were gone for this moment. She scooted closer to him, watching the slow rise and fall of his chest, perfectly synced with his quiet breathing.

Fluttershy sighed in adoration at her slumbering boyfriend. He looked so adorable. She reached her hand out, and started brushing his soft hair. The lighting in the room was such that you could see his hair's beautiful red highlights. He had such beautiful, silky hair, and so uniquely colored. Fluttershy has yet to meet anyone else with Coppermane's hair color. As Fluttershy brushed his hair, Coppermane suddenly stirred, making her jump a little. She pulled back, hoping that she didn't wake him up. Thankfully, he was still very much asleep. He mumbled something unintelligible before relaxing once again, this time, with a smile on his face.

Fluttershy giggled watching him stir. There was just something about him sleeping that was so unbelievably cute. She went back to brushing his hair, smiling at him in adoration.

I wonder what he's dreaming about…

---

Coppermane found himself back in the cherry blossom grove. The unblocked night sky was shining in all of its astral beauty, the stars and colorful nebulae illuminating the grove, making everything almost glow. From some indiscernible location, there was music playing. Slow music, giving him a feeling of tranquility and serenity. Coppermane didn't know where the music was coming from, but it didn't matter. Among the melodious ambiance of the cherry blossom grove, he was sharing a slow dance with none other than Fluttershy, his beautiful girlfriend.

Coppermane held her close with his hands on her waist, lightly moving his feet to the soft beat of the music, gazing into her deep, teal eyes. Fluttershy had her arms around his neck, perfectly matching every single one of his moves, looking back at him with a heart-melting smile. Slow dancing was something that Coppermane always wanted to do, but was never able to until now.

As if this moment couldn't be any better, Fluttershy looked absolutely breathtaking. She was wearing a thin, sleeveless white gown, going down to her knees, gracing her delicate figure. She wore teal bead earrings, a teal butterfly in her hair, and the cherry blossom necklace that he gave her. All her jewelry helped to bring out her already dazzling eyes, shining even brighter than the unblocked stars in the sky. Her hair was slightly more curled than usual, cascading so perfectly down her body, and her soft, velvety skin seemed to glow in the starlight. Fluttershy was beautiful anyways, but right now, she was a goddess.

"Fluttershy, how did I get so lucky?" Coppermane asked, reaching up to caress her face.

Fluttershy smiled, "I…I don't know," she said bashfully, "I guess you just did all the right things."

Coppermane blushed, "I mean…I just tried to be a halfway decent guy, y'know?"

Fluttershy leaned her head on his chest as they continued to dance, "And you did a wonderful job," she said sweetly.

Coppermane smiled and gave her a kiss on the forehead. "I don't deserve you."

Fluttershy smiled, and relaxed in his arms. The two of them danced for a while, until suddenly, Coppermane heard a voice coming from the heavens. It was distorted by echoes, but he could just make it out.

"Coppermane. Coppermane. Wake up. Wake up."

---

"Coppermane. Wake up," a familiar voice said, nudging Coppermane.

"Mmmm…" Coppermane groaned, slowly but surely waking up. Oh…it was just a dream. Darn. He rubbed the sleep out of his face, trying to open his tired eyes. He stretched his arms and legs out, groaning loudly as he did so. As he reached his arm out, his hand touched something next to him. It felt like…a knee? He looked over through his half-asleep eyes, and saw…

"Fluttershy?" he said groggily.

"Good morning, sleepyhead," Fluttershy said, smiling at him.

"Oh, hey," Coppermane said. He tried stretching one more time, groaning loudly again, making Fluttershy giggle. He was a little upset that the slow dance in the cherry blossom grove was only a dream, but knowing that Fluttershy was next to him made him feel better.

"Sleep well?" Fluttershy asked.

Coppermane let out a mighty yawn. "Yeah…yeah I did."

Fluttershy smiled, "I'm glad," she said, brushing his hair, making Coppermane sigh in bliss. "Pinkie Pie made breakfast. You should come down and join us."

Coppermane sighed, "Mmmm…can't we just stay here, and you just keep brushing my hair?" he said groggily, yet blissfully, loving how Fluttershy's delicate fingers felt in his hair.

Fluttershy giggled, "I'd love to, but everyone else is already up."

"Oh, I'm the last one?" Coppermane asked, waking up a little more.

"Yep!" Fluttershy said.

"Ugh…I guess I should get up then…" Coppermane said, slowly sitting up. He stretched a little more, and heard Fluttershy giggling. "What's so funny?"

"It's your hair. It's a little weird," she said.

Coppermane just chuckled. He knew exactly what she was talking about. "Yeah, I get really bad bed-head. It'll be like this until I shower."

Fluttershy giggled. It reminded her of his hair on their second date, only this was slightly crazier. She didn't mind though. He looked cute, but then again, he always does! She stood up and offered her hand to him. He gladly accepted, and Fluttershy slowly pulled him up. He stumbled around a little bit, but quickly regained his footing.

"Oh, and…thanks for the drawing," Fluttershy said. That comment made Coppermane wake up.

"Oh…y-you liked it?" Coppermane said, blushing, rubbing his neck, "I mean…I can't draw to save my life."

Fluttershy giggled, "It was very cute."

"Well, you're welcome then," he said bashfully, "Alright, I need to wash my face real quick, but I'll be right down, okay?"

Fluttershy smiled, "Okay." She gave her boyfriend a quick peck before adjourning back downstairs.

Coppermane watched in admiration as she walked away. He could remember how she looked in his dream so vividly. He could still picture her in that gorgeous white gown. Even so, she was still absolutely beautiful, and nothing would change that. He proceeded to the bathroom to wash his face and brush his teeth before heading downstairs to join the others.

---

Time: 10:00 AM, Saturday, Pinkie Pie's House

"Hey, look who decided to join us!" Rainbow Dash said.

"Morning, Coppermane!" everyone else said, sitting or standing around the island counter.

"Morning, everyone," Coppermane said, still a little groggy.

"Sleep well?" Sunset asked. Copper yawned and nodded, and looked at the counter to see a wide assortment of food. He took in the aroma of the room, making his mouth water.

"Pinkie Pie made us a lovely breakfast," Rarity said.

"Help yourself!" Pinkie Pie said, gesturing for him to come to the counter, "I can always make more!"

Fluttershy pat the seat beside her, gesturing for Coppermane to sit. Coppermane smiled, and was about to walk over and join her until he felt something nuzzling his ankle. It felt…fuzzy? He looked down to see a little white bunny rabbit rubbing its face on his leg.

"Aww, who's this little guy?" Coppermane said, looking down at the bunny with a smile.

Fluttershy giggled, "His name is Angel."

"Is he yours, Pinkie Pie?" Coppermane asked.

Pinkie Pie giggled, "Nope! He's Fluttershy's. She brings him over sometimes."

"He gets so lonely when I'm away from home for too long," Fluttershy explained.

Coppermane kneeled down to Angel's level. His first instinct was to let Angel approach him, instead of vice versa. He slowly let out his hand, and Angel carefully approached him. He stood there for a moment, but then nuzzled Coppermane's hand, making him smile.

"Aww, aren't you just the cutest thing," Coppermane said, smiling at the little white bunny. He always had a soft spot for small animals.

"I think he likes you," Fluttershy said, giggling.

"I guess so," Coppermane said, continuing to pet Angel, "He's so cute!"

Fluttershy was so happy, watching her boyfriend interact with Angel. He was so gentle and affectionate with her pet bunny rabbit. And he likes animals! Major plus for Fluttershy!

Coppermane eventually got up after a couple minutes of petting Angel. He washed his hands and joined everybody else at the counter to eat. He immediately went for the bacon, and used fried eggs and an english muffin to make a sandwich.

"This is really good, Pinkie. Thank you so much," Coppermane said, digging into his food.

"No problem, birthday boy!" Pinkie Pie said. "Did you have fun, yesterday?"

Coppermane was eating when she asked that. "Mmmhmm!" he said. He swallowed his food before speaking again, "So much fun. Thanks again, all of you."

"Oh, the pleasure was ours, dear," Rarity said.

"We had fun too!" Sunset said. The rest of the gang nodded in agreement.

Coppermane smiled. "Are parties like…your thing or something, Pinkie?" he asked. The gang immediately laughed.

"Honey, you ain't seen nothin' yet," Applejack said.

"I'm planning the final details for the formal in my head as we speak!" Pinkie Pie said with her signature grin.

"Hmm…well alright then!" Coppermane said. It was kind of a stupid question in retrospect. After all, she was head of the CHS party committee.

The group sat and ate together, talking and laughing with each other. Once again, Coppermane was having so much fun with his friends. And wow…could Pinkie Pie cook or what? And apparently, Fluttershy had shown everyone the drawing Coppermane made for her, and they all made comments about it, making him blush profusely. After they ate, they helped with the dishes and hung out together for a couple more hours, playing more Rock Band, and just hanging around and talking. Fluttershy even let Coppermane hold Angel for a majority of the time, and Copper loved it. Fluttershy absolutely loved watching Coppermane hold Angel, being so affectionate and loving with him.

"You can hold him any time you want," Fluttershy told him, petting Angel in Coppermane's arms, "Holding a bunny always makes me happy!"

Coppermane chuckled, and smiled at his girlfriend. "Thank you. I might have to take you up on that," he said with a smile. Angel nuzzled his chin, making him smile, "Aww, he's so cute!"

Fluttershy giggled. Seeing Coppermane smile as he held Angel, and watching Angel nuzzle his chin…it was so cute; Fluttershy could barely stand it! Coppermane and Fluttershy played with him for a majority of the time they spent at Pinkie Pie's. Angel even came up next to Coppermane when he played Rock Band, nuzzling his leg.

After a while, it was time for the group to part ways. This included Fluttershy and Coppermane splitting up, but only for the time being. Fluttershy and Rarity had their weekly spa visit together. Plus, she needed some time to recuperate. The spa treatment would help with that, but she also wanted to go home and relax for a bit. Coppermane could use this too (minus the spa treatment of course), so he was fine with it.

They stood outside Pinkie Pie's house to say goodbye to each other…for now.

"So…I'll pick you up around…eight?" Coppermane said.

"Mmmhmm," Fluttershy said, moving closer to her boyfriend and putting her arms around his neck. "I can't wait."

Coppermane smiled, putting his hands on her waist, "See you later then."

"Goodbye, Coppermane," Fluttershy said before lifting her head to give Coppermane a kiss.

And with that, Fluttershy walked with Rarity off to the spa, and Coppermane walked to his car to drive back to his house.

"What are you two doing later?" Rarity asked as she and Fluttershy walked.

Fluttershy smile, "Oh, we're going to hang out at his house again. We'll probably watch a movie or something. I'm just looking forward to spending time with him."

Rarity giggled. "Oh, I forgot to ask. Has he asked you to the formal yet?"

Fluttershy's eyes widened. She hadn't even thought about that. She was under the assumption that she would go with her friends like she did last year, but this year, she might have a date! However…

"Um…no. No…he hasn't," Fluttershy said, sounding a little melancholy.

Rarity was a little surprised to hear this. She thought Coppermane would want to get right on that, but apparently not. Though…Coppermane was pretty shy.

"Well, maybe he's preparing something?" Rarity said teasingly.

Fluttershy's face lit up. "Maybe…" she said with hope in her eyes. "Has…has anyone asked you yet?"

Rarity gasped as her face lit up, "Oh my gosh! I forgot to tell you all! Someone did ask me!"

Fluttershy's face lit up even more. "Really? Who?" she asked.

Rarity let out a little squeal. "Vladimir Blueblood!"

Fluttershy gasped, "Oh, Rarity! That's amazing! Congratulations!" she said, giving Rarity a hug. Fluttershy knew that Rarity has had a crush on Blueblood for a while now, and to hear that he asked her to the formal made Fluttershy ecstatic for her friend.

"Thank you, Fluttershy!" Rarity said, letting out another girly squeal, "Oh my gosh I couldn't believe it!"

And with that, the two of them continued to the spa with Rarity gushing about Blueblood the whole way.

---

Time: 9:30 PM, Saturday, Coppermane's House

Fluttershy and Coppermane were back in his room, just hanging out and spending time with each other. This room had a lot of sentimental value for the couple. This was where they had their first date. This is also where Coppermane revealed the details of his past, shedding some light on why Coppermane was so emotionally scarred. This is where they shared their very first kiss, the memory of which made Fluttershy and Coppermane smile whenever it came to mind. And most of all, this was where their relationship began.

Right now, Fluttershy and Coppermane were sitting in front of the television, just as they were on their second date; Coppermane sitting on his makeshift seat of pillows, while holding Fluttershy in his arms. Only difference this time around was that there was a severe thunderstorm happening outside, flashes of lightning and booms of thunder happening about once every three seconds. It had been storming rather hard since about five o'clock, and it wasn't supposed to stop until tomorrow. On top of that, the entire area was under a tornado watch. Fluttershy would normally be a little scared, but being held by her boyfriend made her feel so much safer. Coppermane actually liked thunderstorms. There was something about it that was strangely relaxing to him, so long as it didn't become too severe.

They were watching a movie, when all of a sudden, there was a big flash of lightning, an earth-shaking wave of thunder, followed by the power going out. Coppermane and Fluttershy nearly jumped out of their skin. Coppermane reflexively tightened his grip on Fluttershy, and vice versa. Now, there was just silence and darkness, the only sounds coming from the pelting of the rain and occasional thunder.

Coppermane relaxed his grip on Fluttershy, as did she.

"Well…that's just great…" Coppermane said, obviously not thrilled. He reached right next to him for his phone and turned its flashlight on so they could see.

"Well…now what?" Fluttershy asked.

"Uh…I don't know," Coppermane said, "I do have some candles downstairs. Wanna come with?"

Fluttershy looked at him, a little confused, "Um…can't you bring the candles up here?" she asked curiously.

"I don't like having candles up here. There's too many flammable things in the room. I mean…if you want to stay up here…"

"Oh, no it's fine. I was just curious," Fluttershy said with a smile. Coppermane smiled too, and gave her a little peck on the cheek before getting up. He offered his hand to her, which she gladly accepted, and the two of them walked downstairs together.

Fluttershy sat on the couch in the living room while Coppermane sifted through his drawers with his phone flashlight, trying to find his lighter. He eventually uncovered it, and brought three medium-sized candles over to the living room. He placed them on the coffee table, and only lit one, trying to save the other two for later in case he needed them. He turned his phone flashlight off and set it on the coffee table.

"Alright, there we go," Coppermane said, making Fluttershy smile. He sat down on the couch, and Fluttershy snuggled up closer to him, laying her head on his shoulder. Coppermane smiled, and thought he would try something bold. He brought his legs up on the couch, and folded them criss-cross style. Then he pat his lap, gesturing for Fluttershy to sit there. She blushed majorly, and gave him a smile as she hopped into her boyfriend's lap. She leaned her head on his shoulder, and felt Coppermane embrace her, making her let out a blissful sigh. Coppermane gave her a kiss on the forehead, making her giggle. She lifted her head to meet his lips with hers. They gently parted, and Fluttershy relaxed in her boyfriend's arms, enjoying his warmth.

Coppermane sighed, "Um…sorry about the power going out…" he said apologetically.

Fluttershy lifted her head and smiled, "Oh, it's not your fault, Coppermane. This is nice…" she said, blushing.

Coppermane blushed himself. "Yeah…yeah it is," he said, giving his beautiful girlfriend a light squeeze.

Fluttershy smiled and gave her boyfriend a peck. "So…what do you want to do now?"

Coppermane looked down. "Well…lemme think," he said. He pondered for a moment, and thought of something that might sound a little weird…but he figured Fluttershy wouldn't mind. Hopefully.

"Well, can I ask you something?" Coppermane asked.

"Of course," Fluttershy said, listening intently.

"Is…um…is there something you've always wanted to do, but couldn't because you were single?" Coppermane asked, blushing majorly.

Fluttershy's eyes went wide, and she blushed herself. She hadn't even thought about that. She had just been going with the flow this whole time. She had always seen couples in school, and has seen fictional couples in movies and TV shows. She always wondered what it would be like to do some of those things with a special someone. And now…she had a boyfriend. She could try some of those things. What could they do? She pondered for a moment, and smiled when she eventually thought of something she's always wanted to do.

"Well…there is…one thing…" Fluttershy said timidly.

"Oh? What's that?" Coppermane asked curiously.

Fluttershy blushed profusely, "Um…I…I've always wondered what it would be like to slow dance." Coppermane's eyes went wide, and it made Fluttershy think she said something wrong. "I mean…if you don't want to…"

"No no, it's not that," Coppermane said quickly. "It's actually…um…it's funny you should say that because…I…I had this dream last night…"

Fluttershy smiled, "Oh? What did you dream about?" she asked, snuggling up closer to Coppermane as he proceeded to tell her about the dream he had last night. He described how it was just him and her in the cherry blossom grove, dancing to music coming from nowhere. And about how beautiful she looked. The more and more Coppermane went into detail, the more flattered Fluttershy became. Did he really think about her like that?

"Wow…that…that's so sweet, Coppermane," Fluttershy said, smiling. Coppermane blushed majorly, making Fluttershy giggle. He was so cute when he blushed. "Well…do…do you have any way to play music?"

Coppermane's eyes widened, and he broke into a big smile. He reached for his phone on the coffee table. Fluttershy reluctantly got out of his lap so he could better reach. He pulled up his music, and scrolled through his playlists…and found something perfect. He had secretly made a so-called "Slow Dance" playlist, consisting of a bunch of slow songs…just in case. He had made it just so he could fantasize, but now he could actually put it to use. He started the playlist, put it on loop, and turned the volume up to maximum. He could feel his heartbeat rising. He's never slow danced with anyone before, and he was worried about messing up, as he always is.

He put his phone down on the coffee table, and looked at Fluttershy, who was smiling and blushing majorly. Fluttershy's never slow danced either, and her stomach was filling with butterflies.

Coppermane walked over to her, and said something he's always wanted to say to a girl.

"Fluttershy…m-may I have this dance?" Coppermane asked, holding his hand out to his girlfriend, blushing profusely.

Fluttershy giggled at the gesture. He was so cute!

"I'd be delighted," Fluttershy said with a big smile, reaching up and taking her boyfriend's hand. He gently helped her up, and led her to the open area in front of the coffee table. He lifted his hands and put them on Fluttershy's delicate waist. She reciprocated by putting her arms around his neck. And then, Coppermane and Fluttershy shared their first dance together as a couple. Both of them were nervous, so they took it slow, slightly moving their feet to the beat at the start, but as time went on, started to feel more comfortable with moving more. It was a magical moment between the two in nothing but the candlelight, and the occasional flashes from the storm outside, but even that didn't faze them, because in that moment, the only thing that mattered to the couple was each other. They danced in silence, savoring this intimate moment, entranced by each other's eyes.

Coppermane couldn't believe it. He was dancing with Fluttershy! She looked so beautiful. Her dazzling teal eyes were so close to his, and Coppermane found himself getting lost in them. The candlelight shined so softly on her delicate body, making her practically glow.

Suddenly, he had a thought that made him chuckle involuntarily, making Fluttershy look at him quizzically.

"What?" she asked.

Coppermane gave her a warm smile and a squeeze. "Oh, it's just…how did I get so lucky?"

Fluttershy blushed. "Wh-What do you mean?"

"I mean…I can remember a couple weeks ago, the day we first met, when…I wasn't able to sleep because…I couldn't stop thinking about you," Coppermane said, giving Fluttershy a warm smile.

Fluttershy's eyes went wide. Was she just hearing things? Could it be that he was doing the exact same thing she was doing the night after they first met? He was thinking about her too?

"R-Really?" Fluttershy asked with hope in her eyes.

Coppermane nodded. "I was telling myself that there was no way that I would ever have a chance with a girl like you. I told myself that you were way out of my league, and that it was a pointless endeavor. I honestly thought you had a boyfriend already. I told myself that there's no way a girl that pretty isn't already in a relationship. But lo and behold, a week later, we were on our very first date together."

Fluttershy had a huge smile on her face, flattered beyond belief. He's been thinking about her since their very first encounter. Just like how she was thinking about him. She actually started to tear up. She remembered so vividly thinking that there was no chance she'd ever be with him. She remembered thinking that maybe he was just a very timid guy who was generally nice. But over the course of the following week, she saw just how amazing Coppermane really is. She has yet to meet any other guy as sweet as him. And more than anything, Fluttershy had so much respect for him, considering just how dark his past is, and how much he had to go through. There was just no other guy like him. And to know that he thought about her like that? It warmed her heart unlike anything else could.

She laid her head on Coppermane's chest as they continued to dance. "You're not the only lucky one," Fluttershy said softly, letting the blissful tears fall.

Coppermane's heart nearly melted when she said that. He looked down in adoration at Fluttershy resting her head on his chest. She looked so cute. Coppermane squeezed her warm, delicate body tighter in his arms, holding her close. Close enough that he could feel her heartbeat. He sighed in bliss, taking in the sweet scent of her hair, savoring this wonderful moment.

Fluttershy was so happy. Normally, a severe thunderstorm outside would scare her, but being held in Coppermane's arms made her forget all about that, and she felt safe. Coppermane was just so wonderful…in every way. He was loving, affectionate, sweet, and kind. Whenever she was with him, she felt special. He treated her like a princess, a queen even, and…

"I love you," Fluttershy whispered softly to herself.

"Hmm? Did you say something?" Coppermane said. She had whispered something unintelligible.

Fluttershy blushed profusely. "Um…n-nothing…" she said, smiling nervously at him. Those three words had just slipped out of her mouth, almost involuntarily.

Coppermane looked into her eyes, and gave her a big smile.

Fluttershy looked at him quizzically. "What?" she asked.

Coppermane sighed with an adoring look in his eyes. "You're so pretty…"

Fluttershy's eyes went wide, and her face went bright red, breaking into a smile. "You…you really think so?"

Coppermane lifted his hand up to brush the hair out of her eyes, making her shudder in pleasure. She loved it when he caressed her face. He used his hand to cup her face, and gave her a heart-melting smile.

"The most beautiful girl in the world," he said with nothing but adoration, the candlelight dancing in his eyes.

Fluttershy's heart melted. Was she just hearing things? It was just like her dream…only this wasn't a dream. He really said that. He genuinely thought about her like that. She felt her eyes welling up from total happiness.

"Coppermane…" Fluttershy said, smiling deliriously. She felt her eyes close as he leaned forward to give her a tender kiss. She would've melted onto the ground from total ecstasy if Coppermane weren't holding her. His lips were so soft and warm. There was no better feeling in the world. Tears of joy ran down her face. She felt so beautiful and loved. Words could not describe how happy she was right now. He gently pulled away, and the couple continued to dance together with Fluttershy resting her head on Coppermane's chest, enjoying his warmth of being in his arms.

After a few songs, the couple released each other, still holding hands. Coppermane reached over to turn the volume down on his phone before leading Fluttershy back over to the couch. He put a pillow up against the armrest, then laid down on the couch, resting his head on said pillow. He held his arms out, gesturing for Fluttershy to cuddle with him, to which she gladly obliged.

Fluttershy laid next to her boyfriend, resting on his chest, such that her head was right below his. She felt Coppermane embrace her, making her entire body relax in bliss.

"Fluttershy, that was amazing," Coppermane said.

"Yeah, it was," Fluttershy said, "Thank you so much."

Coppermane kissed his beautiful girlfriend on the forehead. "Anytime, Fluttershy," he said as he started to brush her soft, silky hair. The couple laid together, cuddling in total bliss, enjoying each other's warmth and company.

Fluttershy had never felt more at peace. She felt so safe in Coppermane's arms. His phone was still quietly playing slow, relaxing music. Fluttershy felt her eyelids growing heavier. She tried to stay awake, but it was becoming increasingly difficult. Feeling the gentle rise and fall of Coppermane's chest, feeling him gently brush her hair, the warmth of his body, being held in his arms, and the candlelight shining so softly…it gave her an amazing feeling of tranquility. She snuggled up more with Coppermane, and she felt him kiss her forehead, making her melt once more. She felt herself starting to drift off further and further, and eventually accepted it.

Coppermane…I love you…so much…

And with that thought, Fluttershy allowed herself to drift off to sleep, feeling safe and sound in her boyfriend's arms.

Coppermane could stay here and cuddle with Fluttershy for all eternity if he could. She looked so cute lying on his chest. Her hair smelled so sweet, like roses. He continued to brush her hair, until he heard her quietly…snoring? He brushed her hair aside to see that Fluttershy had indeed dozed off in his arms. Coppermane couldn't help but feel flattered that she felt safe enough with him to fall asleep. He had been ready to take her home as soon as the rain let up…but maybe she didn't have to go back. She looked so peaceful…and so adorable. He couldn't just wake her up, could he? This night had been so magical…why should it have to end? Besides, Coppermane had been feeling a little drowsy since they laid on the couch together. The soft candlelight, Fluttershy's warmth, feeling the steady rise and fall of her body, and the pitter-patter of the rain outside gave Coppermane an amazing feeling of serenity. He looked at his beautiful, slumbering girlfriend and continued to brush her hair. She looked so cute.

"Sweet dreams, Fluttershy," he whispered. He smiled at her, and a tear ran down his face. "I…I love you," he whispered even softer before giving her another kiss on the forehead. He continued to brush her silky hair, until eventually, Coppermane drifted off to sleep too, holding his delicate, beautiful girlfriend in his arms.

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And that's chapter 11! Hope you all liked it! Now, the next chapter's going to be a while, I can promise you right now. Final exams are coming up, and I already want to kill myself. On the bright side, next week is finals week, and then…first semester is done! I cannot f***ing wait. So anyways, thank you all for all your support, and patience with this story. I know the chapters are not nearly as frequent as they were in Sweet & Delicate…y'know…daily updates? I can't even imagine doing that now. Speaking of Sweet & Delicate, I'm thinking of going back to that story and rewriting some of the chapters. I read them now, and I cringe a little bit, and slap myself in the face for some of the grammatical errors I made. I'm stingy about that kind of stuff. But that'll be a project for a later time. Right now, my focus is on my exams. One more thing, if you haven't noticed already, I've recently started thanking my reviewers. Is this going to be a regular thing? Yes. If you leave a review on the latest chapter, I will thank you in the author's notes of the next one. Just a little way of thanking you all for your support! Now, if you'll excuse me, I have a holiday choir concert to sing in! All reviews are greatly appreciated, so don't forget to leave one letting me know what you think and…until next time…peace!

To see a picture of my OC, there's a link on my profile.