Chapter Five- Overcast

Spike looked into the bathroom mirror, running a claw over his scaled chin. The first signs of a ‘beard’ were making themselves visible, he noted. A few pointed scales jutted out from his jawline all the way down to his chin. Twilight had mentioned that drakes, usually a few years after reaching adolescence, started obtaining these ‘beard scales’. They were, according to many evolutionary theorists, at one point used in courtship displays to show how strong and healthy a drake was when dragonesses picked their brood mates. In modern times, from what little research he continued to do on draconic culture, beard scales were nothing more than a sign of maturity.

“Heh, yeah, brood mates. No thanks...” Spike chuckled as he examined a loose scale under his chin before removing it. He had no interest in rearing up young dragons of his own. As far as he saw it, starting a nest was one of the last priorities on his list of things to do at the moment, let alone the next few decades.

He picked up a tin of Dapper Drake Scale Polish and applied it to his face. He rubbed it into a nice lather, just like the tin instructed.

“Hm...” He gazed at the clock on the wall, noting that it was seven in the evening. Twilight and Applejack would be here soon for dinner. He had baked a nice dish of spinach lasagna with marinara and pesto sauces to choose from, and a large fruit salad (with plenty of apples and oranges for Applejack).

After wiping his scales with a steamy cloth, Spike dried his face off and looked in the mirror, grinning to himself. Not a speck of dirt or mineral deposit.

A series of knocks at the door snapped him out of his episode of self-admiration. He made his way to the entrance of his abode and opened the door. Sure enough, there were his two dinner guests.

Applejack had a picnic basket that was holding, judging from the smell wafting out of it, a caramel apple pie, and Twilight had a hot dish floating in her magic. Spike eyed the food held by Twilight warily. “Did...you cook that?”

Applejack set down her picnic basket and smiled reassuringly at the drake. “Don’t worry none, Sugarcube. I helped Twilight with the eggplant parmesan. She did pretty well after I helped get all the ingredients organized for her.”

Twilight flushed a bit in the cheeks, but gave Applejack a demure smile. “Well...you did most of the work...and made a pie to boot.”

“Now you can’t give me all the credit, Twi. Shoot, if ya hadn’t been so attentive with the cooking I probably wouldn’t have noticed the eggplant was done.” She gave Twi a friendly nuzzle. “Now, let’s get inside and have us some grub.”

Applejack trotted inside, and Spike was about to turn around and join her, but noticed Twilight hanging back. He turned around to see Twilight fidgeting, dragging a hoof across the ground.

“Twilight, you coming?”

“H-huh? Oh, right, heh. Um...” She looked to Applejack, who was busy making her way towards the kitchen counter. “Spike...Applejack and I wanted to talk to you about something after dinner.”

“Alright,” Spike replied, raising an eyebrow. “Is everything alright?”

“Yes...but...well, it’s sort of an important thing we want to discuss. I...” Twilight sighed. “Why didn’t I write note cards for this?”

Spike frowned, clearly confused by his adoptive sister’s behavior. “Twi...what’s up?”

“After dinner, Spike. I promise.”

With that, Twilight made her way inside. Spike wanted to press further, but he knew that Twilight would keep her word. No sense in prying.

Besides, he was rather hungry.

“So, Apple Bloom told me that you and Rainbow had a swell time when you visited Canterlot,” Applejack said, keeping a casual smile on her face as she looked to the drake. Only years of learning how to read Applejack’s subtle facial cues helped Spike realize she was teasing. The slight, upward curve at the right corner of her mouth, the way her eyes widened slightly while her cheeks rose...little things like that. “She said that you even took a stroll through the castle gardens.”

Spike made a mental note to leave Apple Bloom a plate of pear crisp a la mode by her bedroom window the next time he had some free time. It was a well known fact that eight out of ten Apples hated pears, and he knew Apple Bloom was in the majority regarding the dessert and fruit.

“Did she now?” Spike asked. “Yeah, I guess we did take a walk through the gardens. I showed her some of the statues and we talked.”

“That what you kids are callin’ it these days?” Applejack chuckled.

“AJ,” Twilight hissed in a disapproving tone. The earth pony simply waved a hoof dismissively while Spike’s cheeks flared a deep red.

“I-I don’t know what you’re talking about, Applejack.”

Applejack snorted in laughter. “I’m just teasin’ ya, Spike, yeesh.” She adjusted her hat and gave him an apologetic smile.

Spike grumbled as he stabbed at the remains of his eggplant before shoving it into his mouth. “Well, sorry for not finding it amusing.”

“Spike, come on, Applejack wasn’t trying to be mean. Were you, Applejack?”

“No, of course not.” She took off her hat and dusted it a bit. “I guess...shoot, Spike, ya’ll will have to pardon me for sayin’ this, but...I really think you two are cute together.”

Spike coughed suddenly, almost choking on the piece of eggplant that he had nearly choked on.

“Spike!” Twilight was halfway across the table as Spike waved her off, wiping a tear from his eye.

“I-I’m good. Just went down a little too soon.” He looked at Applejack, who had a worried look on her face. “Applejack...can you warn me the next time you say something like that?”

“Heh, erm...sorry...” She scratched her cheek and sighed. “It’s just...well, what with the whole Rarity deal...and how down in the dumps you were ‘bout it...it’s just nice to see you doin’ something and keepin’ yourself busy. That and...well, like I said...it’s nice to see you and Dash together. Just my two bits, mind you, so take it as it is.”

Spike looked to his now empty plate. “She’s...pretty cute, I guess. I mean...” His face heated up as he continued. “I-I mean, I guess she’s...well...”

“Ha, I knew it.” Applejack smirked. “I thought there might be something between you two.”

“Th-there isn’t anything between us! Geesh,” Spike rebuffed, sitting back and looking away.

“Fine, fine, if you say so.” Applejack raised her hooves up in surrender. “Again, just my two bits, hon. Don’t take it too seriously.”

“Well...” Twilight began. “That’s going to make what we have to share more awkward, isn’t it?” She turned to Applejack, who had suddenly gone quiet. “Um...Spike, there’s something Applejack and I wanted to talk to you about...just like I told you before.”

Spike noticed the serious tone Twilight had taken. She was looking everywhere but at him, and he noticed Applejack getting up from her spot and giving Twilight a comforting nuzzle.

“Oh...” Spike uttered quietly.

It all made sense. How hadn’t he seen it before? The more frequent visits by Twilight to Sweet Apple Acres...her improved baking skills...Applejack reading, willingly, about magic spells...

“You’re dating each other,” Spike said slowly.

Both mares looked up, pink in the cheeks.

Twilight coughed into her hoof. “Ahem, well...I guess that saves some explanations.”

“I told ya he would put it together,” Applejack chuckled. “He can be oblivious, but he’s not stupid, Twi.”

“Oh hush...” Twilight pouted. She returned her attention to her hooves while pawing at the floor and smiling nervously. “So...yeah...we’ve been...kind of seeing each other for a few months now.”

The drake frowned, noting Twilight’s withdrawn behavior. “Twilight, is something wrong?

Twilight smiled a little as she looked up at him. “I guess I was expecting something more...vocal from you. You’re not upset at all, are you?” Twilight asked.

“Um...no?”

Twilight relaxed. “I...I guess I was overreacting.”

Again, Applejack chuckled. “Told ya, Sugarcube. Spike was raised by you and Princess Celestia, after all. I doubt somethin’ like mares datin’ each other would make him angry. He’s a smart, open-minded guy.” She looked up at him. “Right?”

Spike shrugged, a smile crossing his lips. “Hey, if you two are happy together, who am I to say otherwise?”

Twilight walked over to Spike and wrapped her forelegs around him as best as she could. “I don’t know why I was so worried.”

“Because you’re Twilight Sparkle,” Spike answered, earning a light smack on the chest from the unicorn.

“We just figured...you know, what with bein’ both friend and family to us that we’d tell you. I think most of the girls already have an idea ‘bout us, though. Especially Dash...” Applejack let out an annoyed snort. “She’s as nosy as mole in a garden, almost as bad as Rarity.”

“She’s not that bad, AJ...” Spike rolled his eyes. “I mean, okay, she can be a bit...pushy...but she doesn’t get into other ponies’ business unless it’s for a good reason.”

“Suit yerself. I still think she’s gonna brag ‘bout how she ‘saw this comin’ from a mile away’ or some hooey when Twi and I tell the girls.”

Twilight’s ears folded back. “Do you think they’ll take it well?”

Applejack walked over to the unicorn and wrapped a hoof around her shoulders. “Of course they will, Twilight. I mean...they’re our friends. The best friends a pony could ask for.”

Twilight nodded while leaning into Applejack a little. “Y-yeah, you’re right...I’m...well, I’m just so nervous, and I’ve never dated before, and-”

“Twilight,” Spike said, turning her around so that she was directly facing him. “Deep breaths. Slow, deep breaths.”

Obeying Spike’s orders, Twilight slowly took in a breath through her nose and exhaled through her mouth. Her shoulders loosened up instantly, and her tail stopped swishing from side to side. She repeated the breath exercise five more times, then opened her eyes and gave Spike a grateful smile. “Thanks, Spike.”

“Well, would ya look at that. One of these days I need to thank Cadance for teaching her that.” Applejack tipped her hat up and smiled at Spike. “Ya’ll wouldn’t happen to have any advice on how to get her to stop fretting ‘bout organizin’ her writing supplies every other day, would ya?”

“Good luck on that one. I never could kick that habit from her.”

“I’m right here, you know,” Twilight mumbled.

Applejack laughed quietly. “Aw shoot, Twi, we’re just givin’ ya a hard time.”

“Yeah, besides, there must be plenty of embarrassing little quirks about Applejack that you could fire right back at her.”

Applejack seemed to pale a bit while Twilight’s eyes lit up. She cast the farmer a devious grin. “Mr. Buckinsey.”

Applejack gasped. “I thought we agreed to never talk ‘bout that?”

“Um...who?”

“Nothin’,” Applejack answered quickly. “Twi’s just spoutin’ nonsense.”

“Oh, come on, Applejack,” Twilight laughed. “I still have Smartypants...well, I had to get it back from Big Macintosh, but even so, I’m not embarrassed by it.”

“No. I ain’t sayin’ anything ‘bout it, and that’s that.”

Twilight and Applejack shared a look with each other. Twilight gave the earth pony a pleading look, though even Spike could see it was fake. After several long seconds passed Applejack let out an annoyed groan as Twilight giggled, leaning against her and giving her a light nuzzle.

“Alright, alright...” Applejack harrumphed. “Mr. Buckinsey is a stuffed cowpony doll that Big Macintosh got me when I was a just a little filly. He said that Mr. Buckinsey would scare away all the ‘monsters and spooks’ and keep me safe. I mean...deep down I knew there weren’t no such thing as monsters...well, discludin’ the Everfree Forest. Anyway...I still have him today, sittin’ on my nightstand.”

“Heh, cute,” Spike chuckled.

The night dragged on slowly for the three, from sharing stories about their days as children to more recent events in town. Spike didn’t even realize how much time had passed until he heard the faint sound of the Ponyville bell tower chime eleven times.

“Aw hayseed, it’s already that late?” Applejack asked aloud as she looked to the clock on Spike’s wall.

“Don’t worry, Applejack; you’re already caught up with this week’s chores, remember?” Twilight said while giving her a light peck on the cheek. “At least that’s what Big Macintosh told us.”

Applejack blinked before smirking. “I suppose you’re right. It’s pretty nice havin’ the most magical unicorn in Ponyville helpin’ with the farm.”

The two giggled while Applejack gave Twilight a playful nibble at the ear. Spike found himself both annoyed and elated. He had secretly feared that Twilight would never get out of her shell enough to date someone. He had little room for talk though, considering he had similar problems with pursuing romance.

Still, watching the two flirting and smiling made him feel lighthearted. He was happy for Twilight. Applejack was a pony he could trust to take care of the bookish unicorn, and it seemed they balanced each other out well.

At least someone is successful with romance...

Spike frowned, both for thinking such thoughts when he should instead be enjoying his time with good friends and because it was a train of thought he had been trying to avoid.

“Spike? Hon, you alright?”

“Huh?” Spike’s eyes darted to the two mares who were giving him a mildly concerned look. “O-oh, heh, sorry about that. Just thinking.”

“A bit for your thoughts, then?” Applejack said with a disarming smile.

“Well...”

“Spike,” Twilight began. “You don’t have to tell us if you don’t want to, but...it can be good to talk things out sometimes. You know that.”

Damn it, if Twilight didn’t use superior logic, then tugging at his emotions usually got what she wanted from Spike.

The drake let out a sigh. “So...I’m taking Dash out to a nice restaurant before that Dance Festival at the new club in Ponyville in little more than a week’s time.”

“That sounds fun,” Twilight replied with a nod. “Which restaurant, if you don’t mind me asking?”

“That one Cavallian place, um...Il Grano D’oro...at least that’s what I think it’s called. It got four stars on the latest review from Equestrian Connoisseur, and I’ve been wanting to go there and try their food for awhile now. Rainbow’s kind of fun to hang out with, and believe it or not, she’s a bit of a food snob.” No sooner had the words left Spike’s mouth than he clapped a claw over his lips. “Crud!” He looked to the two mares pleadingly. “Please promise you won’t tell her I told you that.”

“Really, now?” Applejack inquired with a grin. “Never took her to be much of a cook or baker.”

Spike groaned. “Applejack, please don’t say anything.”

Applejack smiled and nodded. “Don’t worry, Spike, your secret’s safe with me and Twi. Though, I’m curious...how good is she at cookin’?”

“Pretty good, though she says she has to watch the food the whole time otherwise the meal will be ruined,” Spike laughed. “Like, just this past weekend after training she gave me some leftover truffle and veggie parmesan pasta she made the other night. Sadly, she’s not all that good at baking since she can’t keep a constant eye on the food. That’s what she says at least.”

Applejack tipped her hat up, giving the drake an incredulous look. “Truffle and veggie parmesan pasta? Land sakes, I didn’t know she was a gourmet.”

“Well,” Spike began. “It wasn’t A-class like what I do...what, Twilight? You know I’m an amazing cook.” He shook his head, ignoring the frown from Twilight. “Anyway, it was pretty good. The pasta was a little soggy, but still good.”

“Huh, just when you think you know somepony...” Applejack smirked. “I bet you two would do some mighty fine cookin’ together in the kitchen...” Applejack’s face reddened as she noticed the odd look from Spike. “Oh for Celestia’s sake, Spike, I didn’t mean that!”

Spike was looking to the floor, once more flushed with embarrassment. “Well, the way you made it sound...”

Twilight rolled her eyes. “Okay, enough. Spike?”

“Huh?” Spike quirked an eyebrow at the unicorn.

“Be honest here; do you like Rainbow Dash?”

“Well...yeah...she’s my fri-”

“I mean, do you like her, as in a ‘romantic interest’?” Twilight added.

Spike shrunk back and coughed a few times. He gazed at the two mares, who waited patiently for him to speak.

This is Twilight and Applejack, here. Come on, Spike...if you can’t trust these two, especially Twilight, then who can you trust? Heck, one of them hatched you from an egg for goodness sake!

Spike’s wings twitched as he looked at a random spot on his wall, doing his best to ignore Twilight and Applejack’s gaze.

“I...guess so...yeah...I do,” he mumbled.

Twilight’s smile grew a little. “Then why won’t you tell her?”

Spike’s ear frills twitched, folding up against his temples. “I don’t know...I mean, she’s Rainbow Dash, Twilight. The coolest pony to ever fly the skies of Equestria, and the best flight coach I could have ever asked for. She actually took time to research dragons and stuff so she could teach me and understand how my muscles and body work!”

“So...why won’t you tell her?” Twilight repeated.

“I...well, it’s...you wouldn’t understand.”

It was Applejack’s turn to speak. “I understand perfectly.”

Spike looked to the earth pony, giving her a questioning look.

“Spike, you may have lived with Twi your whole life, so you probably are used to her by now. Me, though...” Applejack’s cheeks turned rosy as she looked to Twilight, who in turn pawed at the ground shyly. “I couldn’t stop thinkin’ of how amazingly intelligent she is, and how easy things come to her when she puts her mind to it.”

“Except cooking,” Spike added, earning a glare from Twilight.

“Heh, well I never said she was perfect.” Applejack smirked as she continued. “I felt awfully intimidated about askin’ out a pony who was not only so magical and intelligent, but...I felt like I wasn’t good enough for her at first...”

Twilight gave her marefriend a nuzzle, then spoke. “Imagine her surprise when she found out I felt the same about her...”

Spike rolled his eyes, but said nothing.

“I guess what we’re tryin’ to say, Spike is...well, you know Rainbow Dash, and you know her better than most folk here in Ponyville. I think she’d be stupid to not give you a chance, sugarcube. You might think she’s some untouchable pony who is leagues above you or some hooey like that, but...have ya ever thought that maybe she feels something like that ‘bout you as well?”

“No, not really,” Spike answered, earning a knowing smile from the earth pony.

“Well, there ya go,” Applejack laughed. “I mean, you don’t have to go and ask her right away, but I think you should give it a shot.”

Spike just shrugged his shoulders. “Heh, maybe...”

Before too long, Twilight and Applejack had decided it was time to head out. Sweet Apple Acres was actually closer than the library, so the two made their way towards the Apple family home together.

“Have a good night, Spike!” Twilight called to him as they made their way up the hills leading to the apple orchards.

Spike waved goodbye to them as they vanished over the crest of the hill. Spike stood there for a few long moments, letting the cool spring breeze brush against his scaled body. The crickets chirped merrily while a few spring peepers in the lake sang their nightly chorus. He took in a few breaths, and felt his body relax.

Maybe they’re right... Spike thought to himself. I mean, there is a chance that she might like me back, right?

He could only hope so. Honestly, he didn’t have high expectations on that happening, but there was always the possibility.

“Honestly, if he’s not working on the expansion to that one club’s bathrooms, he’s at his work area in the foothills outside of town.”

Rainbow Dash gave a noncommittal grunt, her eyes closed and her limbs hanging limply from a massage table. Rarity’s voice had long been drowned out by the euphoria that was Lotus’ hooves, and she had no idea what her unicorn friend was talking about.

That was fine with her, though. Fluttershy seemed intent on keeping a conversation going with Rarity, which left Rainbow to indulge in the sweet bliss of deep tissue massage.

“Oh, I know. Spike’s such a hard worker. He stopped by the other day and dropped off some finely ground gravel to help my little bird friends digest their food. He was so busy, he couldn’t even stop for a cup of tea...”

Rainbow cracked open an eye at the mention of her dragon friend. “Huh? What about Spike?”

Fluttershy looked over to Rainbow, smiling a little. “Um...well, we were just talking about how busy he’s been lately. I mean, more busy than he usually is...” She slumped into her mudbath a little, closing her eyes as she relaxed. “Twilight told me he’s been rather...”

“Preoccupied?” Rarity offered.

“Yes, um...preoccupied,” Fluttershy agreed. “He’s acting like he’s got something on his mind, and we were trying to figure out what that might be.”

Rainbow frowned a little. “Spike’s always got something on his mind. He’s got a business to run, and if he’s not thinking about work, he’s thinking about deciphering some old Archaic Equinic poem or helping Twilight with an experiment or project.”

“Well, yes, but...” Rarity tapped her chin in thought. “How do I put this delicately? He’s been...more preoccupied than what is normal for him. I don’t mean to pry, but I fear that he might be trying to keep his mind off something. That something being, well...me...” She sighed deeply. “He hasn’t really spoken to me since our last...talk...and I worry he might be taking things too hard.”

Rainbow shook her head. “Nah, I don’t think that’s the problem, Rarity.”

“You don’t?” Rarity and Fluttershy asked simultaneously.

“Nope. Well, I guess he’s still a little bent out of shape over it, but he’s not losing sleep over it.” Rainbow gave the two a grin. “If anything, he’s probably obsessing over that project of his over at 2 Hot 2 Trot, or he’s got some other big work order coming in from a client. We’ve been hanging out a lot lately, and he seems to be doing alright from what I can tell..”

Rainbow noticed Fluttershy smile as soon as she mentioned her increased time spent with Spike. She fought down a blush, doing her best to ignore her long-time friend for the moment.

“Oh?” Rarity eyebrows rose, her interest piqued. “I remember that you were helping him with his flying skills, but this is the first that I heard about this...” She looked over to Fluttershy, and noticed her smile as well. “Fluttershy, dear, what are you not telling me?” Then, Rarity’s eyes lit up, then she looked to Rainbow Dash, and a small smile began to creep onto her lips. “No...”

Rainbow saw it coming from a mile away, yet she couldn’t do anything to stop it. “Rarity, wait, before you-”

Rarity began squealing and giggling, bouncing in place within the small mud bath. “Oh, Rainbow, darling, I never would have...oh, this is simply wonderful!” She looked to Fluttershy, and poked her gently on the shoulder with a hoof. “You must have known! How long?”

“A-actually, Rarity, I think Rainbow’s the one to ask about that...”

Rainbow looked over her shoulder to Lotus, who was keeping her attention–or at least appearing to–on Rainbow’s lower back.

“Promise this won’t leave the spa?”

“Of course, Miss Dash.” Lotus, much to Rainbow’s surprise, made the gestures of a Pinkie Promise. Deciding not to question how she knew it, Rainbow nodded and turned her attention back to her friends.

“O-okay...um...” Rainbow’s cheeks began to redden as she locked her eyes with her forehooves. “S-so...I kinda...maybe...have a bit of a thing for Spike.”

Rarity let out a quiet gasp, Fluttershy just nodded, and Lotus giggled softly.

“Rainbow, you need to move in on this, quick. A gentledrake like Spike won’t be single for long, especially in a town with such a large amount of mares-”

Rainbow lifted a hoof, and Rarity went silent. “I-I know...but...” She groaned in frustration, unsure how to word her thoughts. “It’s just...what if he doesn’t feel the same? Can you imagine how awkward that’d be?”

Much to Rainbow’s surprise, Fluttershy was the one to speak first.

“Um, Rainbow...not to be rude, but...I think you’re making up excuses...um...sorry...”

Ouch, score one, Fluttershy.

“Well, m-maybe I’m right! Who’s to say that he’s not just being friendly? I mean, friends go out to fancy restaurants, too!” Again, Rarity’s eyes lit up. “...oh pony feathers...”

“Spike’s taken you out to dinner?”

“Y-yeah, it was that one restaurant in Canterlot...it’s called The Cypress, I think. Good food, and then we...well, we sort of just hung out together all day. It was nice.” Rainbow’s wings twitched as she looked away. “And...well...we’re going to go to that club in a few days for that huge party, and...before we go there, we’re going to eat at a Cavallian restaurant. It’s called...um...well, I think he told me yesterday that it means ‘The Golden Grain’ or something...”

“Spike’s taking you to Il Grano D’oro?” Rarity stood up on all fours, almost slipping back into the tub as she did so. “Oh my, that’s...well...”

Rainbow quirked an eyebrow at Rarity. “What?”

“Rainbow...that particular restaurant is one of the top ten finest dining establishments in all of Equestria. The price alone for a dish of pasta with a typical side salad would be enough to take care of my grocery bill for a week, maybe even two.”

“That and they have a reputation for being one of the more, um...romantic restaurants...at least that’s what I’ve read...” Fluttershy added quietly, sinking further into her mudbath. “I-I mean, we could just be reading into it too much, but...maybe not.”

“Seriously? I didn’t know any of that,” Rainbow sighed, slumping back down into the massage table. “Do you think he’s trying to tell me something?”

“From my knowledge, Spike’s a rather direct individual, darling. I think he would tell you right out if he was considering this an official date.” She failed to keep the smirk from appearing on her face as she continued. “Even so...this could lead to future ‘dinners’ if all goes well.”

“Yeah, but...I don’t know...” Rainbow said slowly, tucking her wings close to her sides and looking at her hooves. She mumbled quietly to herself.

Even with her ears turned towards her, Rarity could barely make out what her chromatic friend had spoken. “Hm? Rainbow, I’m afraid I missed that last part.”

“I...” Rainbow shook her head. “...it’s nothing...”

“Um...Rainbow Dash, I hope you aren’t still dwelling on that. We talked about that, remember?”

The gentle, yet firm, tone of Fluttershy’s voice cut through Rainbow’s thoughts. She lifted her head, looked at Fluttershy, then shrunk back. “I...yes, I do.”

Fluttershy’s expression softened, her smile returning. “Good. If you’re still thinking about that...I’m here to talk to you. Just...remember what I said...”

Rarity looked between the two pegasi, then to Lotus, who simply shook her head, just as clueless as to what they were talking about. Unable to resist the urge to sate her curiosity, Rarity cleared her throat. “Is there...something I’m missing here?”

Fluttershy beat Rainbow to the answer. “It’s something we’re taking care of, Rarity.”

“Shy...”

“Rainbow...” Fluttershy replied with an even look.

“No, it...it’s okay, Fluttershy. I think...talking about it might do me some good...”

Fluttershy gave Rainbow Dash a concerned look. “Really? I...I didn’t mean to...”

“I-I know, but, it could help, you know?” Rainbow looked over her shoulder to Lotus. The spa pony only nodded, reaffirming Rainbow’s trust that she wouldn’t repeat whatever was said. Satisfied, Rainbow turned to Rarity. “Rare, you know that Fluttershy and I are from Cloudsdale, right?”

“Yes, I do,” Rarity replied patiently. “You two girls moved here around the same time after you graduated from advanced flight school, correct?”

“Yeah. Well...back when I was younger...let’s just say that I was very...um...” She furrowed her brows, trying to find the right words. “I guess you could say that I wasn’t too concerned about staying in relationships with other ponies that I dated. I...I sort’ve...” She finally just groaned in annoyance. “I slept around...more than most ponies.”

Rarity’s eyebrows rose a little, but she said nothing. Instead, she simply nodded, allowing Rainbow to continue.

“So, yeah, I always tried to be careful about who I got with, but that didn’t stop the rumors from flying.” Her ears flattened against her bright mane. “The real kicker is that I didn’t stop, even after word spread. It was hard to deal with, but...I tried to ignore the all the gossip most of the time. Sometimes...sometimes the words cut deep, though.”

“Oh, Rainbow...” Rarity said softly.

“Pretty pathetic, huh?” Rainbow chuckled dryly. Her expression remained thoughtful, even as she let out a shaky breath. “It’s like a bad novel, heh...” She sniffled a little. “After awhile I started realizing how many ponies I had hurt...I mean, not all of them minded, sure, but...I crushed quite a few mares’ and colts’ spirits. Fluttershy helped me through the tough times.” She cast her long-time friend a grateful smile, which was returned in kind. “Well, I talked to some of my other friends, and now I’m where I am today.” She smiled sadly. “It’s just, now it’s been so long since I’ve been with anypony, and...I’m not sure if I should take this thing with Spike too far.” She shrugged. “I haven’t really dated anyone since...since Cloudsdale.”

Rarity walked out of the mudbath and was by her friend’s side in moments. Rainbow didn’t even protest as Rarity wrapped her in a muddy hug. Right now, she was just thankful for the support.

“Darling, it’s okay,” Rarity said soothingly. “Goodness, I thought this was something to do with a lack of experience with dating.” She winced at her own choice of words, giving Rainbow an apologetic smile. “I...can understand where you’re coming from, but...there’s no reason you can’t start dating again if that’s what you truly want to do.”

A second pair of hooves had wrapped around Rainbow, who was now sitting up. Lotus had discreetly left the room, allowing the trio some privacy. Thankful for the mare’s professionalism, Rainbow decided now was a good time to shed some tears. No sobs, just tears.

“It’s so stupid!” she said, her throat tightening. “I mean, it makes no sense for me to be afraid of dating Spike because of something like...like...worrying if I’ll grow bored and dump him!” She wiped away some tears with a hoof. “It’s Spike, for pony’s sake! How could anyone be bored with an awesome guy like him?”

“There, there...” Fluttershy whispered, allowing Rainbow to lean against her while Rarity rubbed small circles along her back. “I don’t think it’s stupid at all. Maybe a little silly, but it shows how much you do care about Spike. Again, it’s silly, but you obviously don’t want him to be hurt...”

“Fluttershy’s right. Romance does what it wants, and it can be rather intimidating and confusing. Still...if the two involved really care about each other, they can fix things without hurt feelings, even if the relationship doesn’t work out. Believe me, I know firsthoof about that.”

Rainbow looked up to Rarity, seeing the few tears welling up in the unicorn’s eyes.

Of course she knows how that feels...hard to believe she and Spike had that talk not too long ago...it feels like it’s been a lot longer, though...

The minutes passed with Rainbow sitting in the embrace of two good friends, slightly embarrassed but mostly grateful for their support. By the time she had finally calmed down, she was caked in a decent layer of mud, which had begun hardening on her coat.

“Oh dear, look what we did to your beautiful coat,” Rarity sighed heavily. “Well, looks like this calls for a full bath and shampoo for you, Rainbow Dash. I’ll just call over Aloe and Lotus and let them know to add that to the bill.”

“Rarity, it’s alright. I can just go home and-”

“Now, now, don’t worry about the extra bits; it’s on me, darling. Fluttershy, you and Rainbow can decide what kind of bath salts she would like, and then we can let the sisters know.” Rarity turned towards the direction of the spa lobby and called out. “Oh, Aloe? Lotus? Would it be too much trouble to add in a mineral bath for Rainbow Dash?”

“Did she just force me to take a mineral bath?” Rainbow asked Fluttershy as Rarity continued to call for the spa twins..

“She gets a little pushy when it comes to spa stuff. She means well, though.” Fluttershy replied while giving her a gentle nuzzle. “Are you feeling better?”

“Yeah...I guess.” Rainbow looked to the floor, her cheeks reddening a little. “Thanks for...you know...”

“That’s what friends are for,” Fluttershy replied cheerfully. “You know, Rainbow, if you need some help with getting closer to Spike...well, I think I might know the pony to talk to...if you want help, that is...”

Rainbow’s ears twitched, and she turned to face Fluttershy fully. “Really? Who?”

Fluttershy just continued to smile pleasantly.

“You want to get Spike a new book? I suppose you’ve come to the right pony then, huh?”

Rainbow Dash scuffed the wooden floor of Golden Oaks Library with a hoof, doing her best to fight down a blush. “Y-yeah, I mean, he’s been working real hard with training and stuff...I figured I that I owe him something for being such a good sport.”

“I don’t think that’s really necessary, but...I’d never turn away the chance to promote reading within Ponyville...though Spike already does plenty of that,” Twilight giggled.

When Fluttershy had suggested that Rainbow try talking to Twilight about what Spike liked to do for activities, she had initially been against the idea. If Twilight got any suspicion of Rainbow’s interest in Spike...well, the studious unicorn was known for being a bit of a mama bear when it came to the dragon.

“So...yeah, I know he’s been big on those old poems from that one poet...uh...Waxing Crescent, I think?”

Twilight nodded, her smile widening a little. “Yes! I’m not much for poetry myself, but Waxing Crescent just...the way words are crafted by her is just...” She sighed wistfully. “It’s a shame nopony ever learned who Waxing Crescent really was.”

“Well, Spike says that Waxing Crescent might actually be Princess Luna. I mean, it makes sense with how old the poems are...”

“Yes, it does, but there’s no solid proof whether Princess Luna is or isn’t Waxing Crescent. More than enough of her poetry seems to suggest it, but it’s still only poetry. For all we know, Waxing Crescent was a mare who had an interest in Princess Luna, or simply revered her and wrote about her all the time.”

“I guess that’s possible,” Rainbow admitted. “So, is there anything that you have for sale that Spike might like? I have some ideas, but I was wondering if you could help.”

Twilight turned her attention to a large piece of rolled paper on the table beside them. “I usually can’t sell books here. We only rent them, since we only have a single copy of most books, but...” Twilight picked up the paper and unfurled it with her magic. The words ‘Golden Oaks Library’s First Annual Book Sale’ were written in bright green and gold lettering. “In about two weeks I’ll be hosting my first book sale as the Golden Oaks librarian.”

“First? Really?” Rainbow quirked an eyebrow. “I thought you’d have at least held a few by now. You’ve been our town’s librarian for more than five years.”

“Yes,” Twilight agreed. “However, I’ve always had enough room for all the books I order from the Canterlot Book Store to add the library’s collection. At least until about three months ago. Now I’m running out of space, so I figured it might not be a bad idea to give some of the older books here new homes.”

“You sure you can do that? I know how attached you are to these dusty old books.” Rainbow chuckled as Twilight’s face reddened a bit.

“They’re not ‘dusty old books’! They’re well-worn, and each one of them is a treasure to the Equinic language!” Twilight snapped. Rainbow’s laughter grew louder, and Twilight caught herself in the midst of starting up a tirade. Instead, she sighed deeply and shook her head. “Alright, alright...you got me, Rainbow.”

“Sorry, sorry,” Rainbow chuckled while wiping away a tear. “You’re just too easy sometimes.”

“I’m sure it’s a barrel of laughs for everypony,” Twilight said in a curt tone. “Anyway, if you want, I might be able to set aside a book for you to get Spike when I hold the book sale. Any idea what you might like to get him?”

“Uh...well...” Rainbow Dash scratched the back of her neck and gazed at the floor. Her wings twitched a bit as she slowly continued. “I was...kind of wondering if you...had...” She mumbled quietly, her eyes glued to the floor.

“What?” Twilight quirked an eyebrow. “Rainbow, I couldn’t understand a word-”

“I was wondering if you had Forbidden Love on Wyvern Hill in stock!” Rainbow shouted suddenly, her cheeks turning rosy within seconds.

“Forbidden Love on Wyvern Hill? That’s in the adult readers’ section...and...” Twilight’s eyebrows knit together as she gave Rainbow a critical eye. “...why do you want to give Spike that book?”

“I...well, heard from Scootaloo that he likes it! She told me that he-”

Twilight giggled. “So he finally confessed?”

“Huh?”

The unicorn just shook her head while laughing to herself. “Spike’s been trying to deny that he read that novel from cover to cover for almost three years now. I mean, it’s rather childish of him, since I keep track of all the books we loan out to Ponyville residents. Normally, I’d have taken it from him, since it’s just a little too descriptive for a young dragon...but I suppose he was mature enough in my eyes to read it. Personally, I found it to be an enjoyable read, but romance isn’t usually my cup of tea. I’m more of a history reader.”

Rainbow blinked several times. She wasn’t entirely sure if Scootaloo had been telling the truth when she had told Rainbow about Spike’s guilty reading-pleasure.

Turns out the younger pegasus was right.

“Wow...so he actually likes romance?”

“You have no idea,” Twilight replied with a giggle. “He’s just a big teddy bear underneath all those scales. I wouldn’t be surprised if he has a small collection of romance novels stored away in his root cellar...” Her eyes widened a little, and she cast Rainbow a furtive glance. “I...not that’d I’d know or anything...”

Rainbow smirked, however, stashing away the possible information on Spike to tease him with later...if things went as well as she hoped they would.

“So...I guess that novel’s not a good idea if he’s already read it.”

“Oh no, I think it’s a great idea!” Twilight argued. “I...I mean, it’s a little odd to receive a book of that nature from a friend...but I’m sure he’d get a kick out of it after you explain it’s just in good humor.”

“Yeah, that’s true,” Rainbow laughed. “Thanks for the help, Twilight. So...you can...hang onto a copy for me?”

“Yes, Rainbow Dash. Librarian’s honor.” Twilight gave a mock salute.

“Great,” Rainbow’s wings flared out, and she made her way towards the door leading back out to Ponyville. “I’d better get going, then. Lots of stuff to take care of; y’know how it is!”

“Sure do,” Twilight followed Rainbow to the door, opening it for her. “I’ll see you later, Rainbow Dash.”

“Later, Twi!” Rainbow called out as she took to the air.

Twilight’s smile grew. “I’ll be sure to gift wrap the book with a bottle of wine and gems for you!”

The unicorn watched as Rainbow let out what sounded very much like a squeak, and faltered in her ascension into the air. She whipped around, landing in front of Twilight, beet red in the cheeks and looking all the world like a pouting school-filly.

“Y-you didn’t have to shout that out!” Rainbow stammered. “Geesh, Twi, what gives?!”

Twilight just gave her friend a hug and giggled. “I’m just wishing you the best of luck.”

For a moment it looked like Rainbow was going to protest. Instead, she folded her wings a bit and gave a demure smile that Fluttershy would have been proud of. “Really?”

Twilight nodded. “Absolutely.”

“I...” Rainbow stood up straight, puffing her chest out a bit, cheeks still bright red. “Thanks, Twilight..”

Again, Twilight nodded. “Of course. Just don’t dawdle too long with telling him. He’s still single, and a pretty charming dragon.”

Feeling better than she had all day, Rainbow Dash flared out her wings once more. “Later, Twilight!” With that, Rainbow took off into the air once more, bolstered by Twilight’s discreet blessing.

Twilight could only beam at the sight of her friend, and silently hummed to herself. If all went accordingly, she would have a wonderful friendship report to write to Princess Celestia in the near future.

“Hm hm...”

“So...?”

“Hmm.....”

“I really appreciate letting me borrow your tools, by the way. I had a rather easy time getting the ore out of the hillside after a bit of chipping away with the chisel...” Spike smiled at the slate gray stallion with a pepper colored mane. His cutie mark was of a rather simple silver band, quite fitting considering both his family’s heritage and his line of work.

“So...is it really silver?”

“Hm?” The stallion looked up to Spike, pulling up a pair of magnifying glass spectacles strapped around his head. “Oh, yes, it’s definitely silver. I’m just surprised to see the fine diamonds ingrained in the stone as well. It’s odd, and not something I’ve seen before. Then again, Equestrian soil holds some degree of magic within it, just like everything else.” He chuckled while setting down a sample of the silver ore Spike had brought. “Grandpa Iron Wrought always said the day you stop learning is the day you stop living.”

“Diamonds?” Spike eyed the silver ore. “Really? I...I had thought that you only found those deep in the earth. Not sticking out of a hillside.”

“Yes, that’s usually the case, considering how they’re formed in the first place...well...” He sighed. “The hills around Ponyville are old. Some scholars speculate a few million years. It wouldn’t be that surprising for some tectonic activity to uproot deeper earth. In fact, just south of the Equestrian border along the Badlands lies one of the oldest known geological formation known to the civilized...” the stallion paused, then cleared his throat. “Sorry...I get a bit long winded when it comes to geology.”

Spike just waved a claw dismissively and smiled. “Not a problem; I know the feeling. Give me a history book on the Equestrian Renaissance or the Pre-Canterlot days, a nice, quiet place to read it, and you won’t hear a word from me for a week.”

The stallion grinned and shook his head. “Silver Spoon told me you’re a good stone cutter, but she never said you were a historian, too.”

Spike just shrugged his shoulders. “Everyone has a hobby, Mr. Silverside.”

“Indeed,” the stallion agreed with a nod. “Well, regarding this silver ore...I could probably have all of what you’ve brought extracted and separated from the rest of the stone within possibly two to three weeks depending on how busy I am.”

“I can pay whatever you need me to,” Spike said. “Silver Spoon said you were the stallion to seek out for advice, and she seems to know more than I do about this kind of business.”

“That’s my girl,” Silverside laughed. “She’d be a great marketing partner if I was interested in expanding the family business.”

“So, two to three weeks?”

“Mm. I’d have to go through some chemical and magical separation procedures. Properly removing the diamonds without damaging the ore is going to add on some extra work. I have a friend who lives an hour away in Haysburg that I can call over to my place. He specializes in diamond extraction magic, and I know he’d love to see this sample.”

“Well, then I put my silver in your faithful hooves,” Spike said, extending his claw and taking Silverside’s hoof to shake it. “Thanks again, I really appreciate this.”

“Of course, Spike. If you’re interested in any silversmithing as well, I’d be happy to do that. I’ll even give you a discount.”

Spike frowned. “Discount? I...that’s nice of you, but I really-”

“No no, I insist. Sheriff Silverstar is my cousin, and he says you sent them some fine stone to use for the new train station. Consider it a thank you, from him and our family.”

“I...” Spike could see the determined gleam in Silverside’s eyes. He wouldn’t take no for an answer. “Alright, but only because it’d be rude to refuse.”

Silverside winked. “Smart boy. Now, I’m afraid I’ll need to have some time to work here. I need to get started on extracting this silver ore.”

“Yes, sir.”

As Spike made his way out the door, Silverside called out. “Oh, and if you decide to make some jewelry, like a band or something, be sure to get Rainbow Dash’s measurement. I’m guessing her ankles are a size four, but I’ve been wrong before.”

Spike tripped on the front porch of the Silver family’s house. He got up and turned to the stallion, only to see him laugh heartily before shutting the door.

The drake narrowed his eyes as he made his way home. Note to self: Soak the next batch of banana bread I bake for Silver Spoon in hot sauce before giving it to her...

He smirked to himself, picturing Silver Spoon unwittingly devouring a loaf of habanero pepper-laced banana bread, only to realize too late what she had just done as her taste buds began to scream in agony. Yes, that would definitely teach-

“Spike!”

Hearing the sound of his name, Spike looked up, his eyes flooded by a blur of colors. He skittered back as Rainbow Dash came to a sudden halt, flaring her wings out and grinning cockily as she flapped a few inches from his face.

“Haha! Got ya good, didn’t I?”

“Yeesh, I thought you were going to crash right into me!” Spike breathed a sigh of relief. “How’s it going?”

“Preee~eetty gooood...though, I found out that the ice cream parlor down the road is selling their special ‘Mega triple-scoop cones’ for half price, and nopony’s available to go with me.”

“Not even Pinkie Pie?” Spike was genuinely surprised. “You’re kidding, right?”

“Oh, no, she got some earlier...ate it too fast and I’m pretty sure she’s paying for it now. Pumpkin Cake and Mr. Cake have been taking care of her all day,” she laughed. “So...interested in coming with me?”

“Tempting...” Spike hummed in mock-thought. “Though, I was going to take a nice nap in the park...”

Rainbow rolled her eyes. “You can eat your ice cream and take a nap in the park afterwards.” She gave Spike a playful punch in the shoulder. “Besides, I bet Thunderlane twelve bits that you could break the record for fastest time eating a Mega triple-scoop of neapolitan, so I kind of need you to come with.”

“Oh boy...how big are these cones again?”

“Pinkie had two and got sick, at least that’s what Pumpkin Cake told me.”

Spike paled a bit, and memories of a time not too many years ago involving a frazzled Twilight, time travel, and several buckets of strawberry ice cream surfaced to the forefront of his mind.

“...I’m gonna be sick...”

“No, wait to do that after you break the record!”

“Nnnnnghh...”

“That. Was. Awesome!” Rainbow cheered for the umpteenth time as she circled around her dragon friend. “Did you see the look on Thunderlane’s face? I wish I had a camera, haha!”

Spike lay in the shade of a large oak within Ponyville Park, a large stuffed plushie of an ice cream cone in his arms while he wore a cap saying ‘Proud Record Holder of the Freezy Sweet’s Triple Threat Challenge’ on his head. He had not moved from his spot for over a half hour, slipping in and out of conscious thought as his stomach punished him for his foolhardy actions.

“No...more...”

Rainbow flitted down and gave Spike a quick hug. “You beat the record by a whole minute! I mean, one minute and twenty-four seconds? That’s...that’s gotta be some kind of ice cream eating world record, Spike! We should totally see if we can get that entered into the Equestrian Archives and-”

“Rainbow...please...don’t say ice cream right now...”

“Oh...heheh...” Rainbow stepped back from Spike, her cheeks a little rosy from the brief contact she had with him. “Still, that was cool! I knew you could do it.”

“Y-yeah...thanks...” Spike let out a burp, followed by the loud rumbling of his stomach. He moaned in agony. “Why....why did I go through with that...?”

Rainbow gave him a guilty smile. “I...well, I guess I got a little pushy, didn’t I? It’s just...Thunderlane was convinced you couldn’t beat the ice cream record...and I may have talked you up a bit...so...” She chuckled sheepishly. “Yeah...”

“Nnn...thanks?” Spike lifted his head up a bit, the cap on his head falling to the side and covering his left eye. “By the way, aren’t you supposed to be working today?”

“Oh...nah, I’m actually off today. I hung out with Rarity and Fluttershy at the spa earlier.”

“Rarity?” Spike echoed. “How is she?”

Rainbow cringed a bit, fearing she may have stepped into sensitive territory. “She’s cool. I guess she’s been trying to get this one design for a summer dress finished, and I’m apparently the ‘perfect’ model for it.”

“I’m sure she’s right,” Spike grunted, then smiled. “It’s kind of scary how good she is at the whole visionary deal when making clothes. I mean...she made my tuxedo for Shining Armor and Cadance’s wedding in less than a day, and I know she never took my measurements before the big day.”

“Yeah, she’s got some wicked talent,” Rainbow added. “I mean, if it was me, I’d probably grow a horn before making a decent dress, heheh.”

“Well, this is Rarity we’re talking about here. She made a new style of hats in the Crystal Empire out of a few pieces of hay and a drinking straw.”

“Yeah...I’m still not sure how that ever caught on up north so fast. I mean...it was just some hay and a straw...” Rainbow murmured.

“Again, this is Rarity we’re talking about. Anything she touches becomes a fashion statement,” Spike chuckled.

Rainbow couldn’t help but join him in the laughter. “Yeah, but you know what really gets me is Fluttershy’s skills. You weren’t there, but she was the one who made most of Rarity’s dress back when we first went to the Grand Galloping Gala.”

Spike quirked an eyebrow. “Fluttershy? A seamstress?”

“Oh yeah, I mean...it kind of makes sense. She used to stitch up my cuts and stuff when we were younger. I didn’t like going to the hospital, and she was always really careful about things like that.”

“She did?” Spike shuddered. “Needles going through skin. No thanks...” He shook his head while his shoulders quaked. “Gyah...nope, no thanks.”

Watching Spike squirm made Rainbow laugh amusedly. She walked up to him, and tapped his claw. “Yeah, like this one time, I got a nasty scrape up my foreleg. It went from here...” She touched her hoof to his wrist, trailing it up a short distance from where his forearm met his bicep. “...right to about here. Hurt really bad, but I’ve had worse. She gave me some kind of herbs to numb me, and an hour later she had me sewn up.”

“Too much information, Rainbow.”

“Alright, alright, I’m just teasing.”

Spike’s stomach rumbled, a little less than before. He sighed, and sat up onto his haunches. “I better get going. I have a feeling I’m going to be having a restless night tonight.”

Rainbow’s ears pressed against her mane. “I...are you going to be alright?”

Spike smiled. “Yeah, but I’m starting to think that maybe I should have declined the challenge.”

“Why didn’t you, then?” Rainbow asked. “I mean...Thunderlane would have understood...I guess I put a bit of pressure on you, though.”

“No, no, it’s not that,” Spike said quickly. The mare before him cocked her head to the side as he continued. “I...well, I didn’t...want to let you down, I guess.”

“...let me down...?” she echoed.

“Yeah...”

A long silence hung between, and neither could meet each other’s eyes. Spike eventually stood up, clearing his throat and preparing to awkwardly bid Rainbow goodbye.

“You wouldn’t have.”

Spike turned to Rainbow Dash, who was still facing the ground. Her lips had the faintest hint of a smile on them.

“What?”

Rainbow Dash looked up. “You wouldn’t have let me down. I mean...I’d be a little bummed out at not getting to see you break the record...but I wouldn’t be disappointed in you. I mean...you’re too good of a friend to do that to me.”

“O-oh...” Spike scratched his neck and hoped the blush he felt creeping into his cheeks wasn’t too bright. “I...thanks, Rainbow. You’re...a great friend too. Probably one of my best friends, actually.”

It’d be great if you were even more, though...

Spike closed his eyes and turned away, gritting his teeth and forcing his thoughts away from that topic. He could hope for it, but he didn’t want to get his hopes up too high.

“Spike? What’s wrong?”

“Nothing, just...a bellyache...” Spike lied. He offered her a grin, which she returned in kind. “I had a great time, Dash...even if my stomach disagrees.”

“Heh, it’ll be a story to tell Twi and the girls later. Pinkie’s going to be so jealous!”

“Hopefully she won’t mistake my record as a challenge,” Spike laughed. “Pinkie’s competitive streak is almost as scary as yours.”

The two shared a final laugh before parting ways, Rainbow turning to look over her shoulder as Spike made his way home. She sighed a little, smiling and shaking her head.

Soon, I’ll tell him...just not quite yet...

Spike glanced at the calendar on his wall. The day’s date was circled in red marker with a reminder about his restaurant reservation for the evening. He checked the clock next to the calendar, noting that it hadn’t changed since he last glanced at it thirty seconds ago.

Seriously, stop looking at the clock. It’s not going to go any faster.

Grumbling to himself, he walked to his bathroom, and studied himself in the mirror. His polished scales practically glimmered in the white light, making him smile smugly.

“Oh, hey, Rainbow. Huh? Oh, yeah, I just polished my scales. Nope, did them myself. It’s a bit of a chore for me, but I don’t mind it. Oh, thanks, you look...pretty...” Spike frowned at his reflection. “...awesome?” He groaned. “Damn it, no! That’s too...too typical! Come on, think of something better!” He stroked his chin, tongue sticking out of his mouth in thought. “Gorgeous? No...that’s laying it on a little heavy. Hm...” He flipped through his suddenly not-so-extensive mental vocabulary, finding nothing that quite described how he felt about the mare that had been dominating his every waking and sleeping thought for the past few days now.

“Voluptuous? No, that’s just asking for an awkward night. Hm...sporty? Ugh, no! Hm...how about...nah, maybe...beautiful?” He shook his head. “Too ordinary for-”

A knock at his door cut off his thoughts. He looked at the clock. A quarter to six, and not a minute later.

He quickly made his way to the pony-sized side door, opening it to reveal none other than Rainbow Dash. “Hey, Rai-”

Spike’s words caught in his throat as he gazed at the pony standing before him. It was Rainbow Dash, that he couldn’t deny. Though, the mare gracing the entrance of his was not the Rainbow Dash that he was familiar with.

Her mane had been brushed to a healthy shine while a single braid of golden thread held it in a loose ponytail. She wore a skirt of–surprise, surprise–rainbow colored streaks. It wasn’t an elegant, draping one like the kind she had worn at the gala or at Cadance and Shining Armor’s wedding several years ago, but it was still nice on her. In the faint light of the waning afternoon, the sun glinted off her mane at just the right angle. She was...

“...radiant...” Spike uttered quietly.

Rainbow Dash blushed a bit, and looked to the floor. “H-hey, Spike. Um...you ready?”

“Huh? Oh!” Spike laughed. “Yeah, you bet. I’m famished!”

Rainbow Dash rolled her eyes while smirking. “Doubt it. I bet you were snacking all day while thinking about eating out tonight.”

Spike just grinned. “Ma-aybe.”

“Ugh, you’re hopeless,” she laughed.

The two made their way down the road, deciding to take their time instead of flying. The sunlight dancing along the surface of the pond was a wonderful backdrop, framing Rainbow perfectly as Spike looked at her.

“S-so...I like that dress of yours. Is it new?”

Rainbow looked up, her cheeks still rosy. “Yep...it’s that dress I was telling you about. Not sure how, but she was super-intense with dressmaking last night. I mean...well, okay, so maybe Fancypants gave her a couple cups of coffee, but still!”

“Yeesh, I can imagine,” Spike chuckled. “I wonder what got her into such a frenzy, though. Usually she’s pretty good about setting a pace with her work...well, at least since the time she made those dresses for you girls.”

“Um...Rarity, this isn’t really necessary. I mean, it’s just us having dinner before going out to dance-”

“Nonsense!” Rarity said, her eyes flickering like sparks off of newly forged steel. “As Celestia is my witness, I will finish this dress tonight or sell my boutique and give up dressmaking all together!” Her left eye twitched a bit before she returned her attention to the slit in Rainbow’s skirt that ran up her left thigh.

“How...many cups of coffee did you have so far?”

“Only ten, dearie, it’s nothing,” Rarity replied quickly with a wave of her hoof. She pulled down her glasses with a glow from her horn, and began humming. “Honestly, Rainbow, some mares would give their bottom bit to have a frame like yours. I mean, Fluttershy is a wonderful model, no doubt, but you have the attitude and gusto of a true superstar. Oh, you simply must let me take a photo of you before I release this design!”

“Um...I’ll think about it,” Rainbow replied with a nervous grin, watching as Rarity hovered over her left flank. “Rarity...something wrong back there?”

“No, dearie, I’m just trying to picture how to make you look sassy while still being refined.” She let out a little giggle. “We don’t want Spike to worship you all night, after all.” She lifted a large white mug to her lips, only to blink a few times before turning it upside down. “Oh, my...Fancy dear, would you be so kind as to get me more coffee? Extra sugar, if you don’t mind.”

“Ehm...I do believe you’ve had enough toni-”

“Fancypants, I. Am. In. My. Zone! I cannot stop. Rainbow’s night out with Spike needs to be perfect! I have already crafted plans for her wedding dre-”

“What?!”

“Oh, truly you don’t think I’d leave that all-important dress design to somepony else, Rainbow Dash? I’ve got the basic outline done, but it might change if you gain or lose a few pounds. Truthfully, you’d look even more gorgeous with a little more flank...nothing wrong with having a little more to squeeze, right?”

Rainbow’s jaw had gone slack, and Fancypants had started coughing, though Rainbow swore she heard a snicker or two.

“Remind me to never give Rarity coffee at one in the morning...”

“Huh?”

“Nothing,” Rainbow answered with a shake of her head. “I don’t know about you, but I’ve been craving some spinach ravioli in pesto all day.”

Spike’s stomach replied with a loud growl. He cleared his throat and fought down the rising heat to his cheeks. Rainbow Dash chuckled in amusement.

“Looks like your stomach likes the sound of that too, huh?

“Seems that way,” Spike replied with a grin. “I don’t do much cooking with pasta, to be honest.”

“I got a recipe or two,” Rainbow added. “I mean, they’re probably nothing compared to what you can make, but...well, maybe we could cook together some time. Get all the of the gang together, and just cook a huge meal for everypony.”

“That’d be great! I bet you’d knock most of them clear off their horseshoes when they get a sample of your cooking.”

“I’m not that good...” Rainbow looked down, trying her best to fight down a smile.

“We’ll let the girls be the judge of that,” Spike laughed.

Dinner was relatively peaceful for the two. It was a weekend night, so the restaurant was busy with couples young and old filling the tables while waiters scurried from spot to spot, taking orders and checking up on their patrons.

Rainbow Dash and Spike had both ordered stuffed ravioli with pesto sauce, agreeing that they had a sudden craving for it. They ate a leisurely pace, focusing more on each other than the food.

“So yeah, after that incident with Lightning Dust I sort of just decided that maybe I should take it easy on the Wonderbolts thing for awhile.”

“Wow, Dash, that sounds rough. I’m just glad Spitfire had the common sense to see the problem there.” Spike lifted a forkful of spinach and ravioli and frowned. “The pesto sauce is starting to make the rest of the food soggy...”

“Heh, yeah...” Rainbow poked at her own food and sighed. Most of it was gone, but there was enough for leftovers to bring to work next week. “You want to head over to the club?”

Spike simply nodded, and raised a claw to signal to their waiter. Out of the corner of his eye he noticed Rainbow Dash fishing out a small coin purse from her tail.

“It’s on me,” Spike said quickly.

“Like hay it is,” Rainbow laughed. “Come on, you paid for the drinks at the bar before. This is on me.”

“Really, Rainbow, it’s cool, I can pay this.” Spike gave her a smile. “I don’t mind.”

“Well, how about we split the bill?” Rainbow offered, her eyes flickering with that challenging spark she had. “No problem there, right?”

“This isn’t a competition to see who can pay,” Spike sighed, though the smile never left his lips.

“I know,” she replied. “It doesn’t mean I won’t make it one. I still owe you for the drinks.”

“No, you don’t.”

“Yes, I...” Rainbow paused, then leaned back in her chair. “Alright, but...if I let you pay as well, you have to promise to share at least one Sun Buzz with me.”

“At least?” he echoed. “That stuff is a little strong, especially for a pegasus. I’m not sure you’d be able to handle-”

The drake bit his tongue as he saw that ever familiar frown on Rainbow Dash’s face. The kind that was just daring him to call her bluff.

“I...yeah, that’d be great.”

“Cool!” Rainbow beamed, her frown disappearing instantly.

After splitting the bill and taking the remains of their lunch with them in a container, the two made their way towards 2 Hot 2 Trot. The thumping bass was easy to hear over the relative quiet that had settled over Ponyville. Before long, the two had turned down a corner and were facing across the street from the dance club. A small line of ponies stood outside, but Spike was relieved to see they were being let in quickly.

“Oh good, it’s not too crowded...” Spike sighed.

“Afraid you won’t be able to fit?”

“It’d be Pinkie’s birthday party at Sugarcube Corner last year all over again. Minus the polka band.”

Rainbow Dash barked out a laugh. “Yeah, and no Twilight to tip a barrel of sarsaparilla on.”

“I know she says she forgave me, but I still think she holds a little grudge for that accident.”

“Good thing Rarity had that mane treatment stuff at her place.”

They stood at the back of the line, waiting to be let in. Rainbow quirked an eyebrow as she eyed the pegasus stallion at the door. As they neared the front of the line, Rainbow grinned. “Since when have you been bouncing, Snowflake?”

The buff stallion looked towards the two. “Oh, Rainbow Dash. Spike. What’s up?”

“Just making our way to the most awesome party in Ponyville,” she replied.

Snowflake nodded, checking the tickets they presented. He stamped Rainbow and Spike's wrists with a clear ink and grinned. “Vinyl told me to tell you guys to go over to her when you get here. Something about Spike needing to meet somepony.” He shrugged his muscular shoulders. “Some mare who was complaining about the music being too loud the whole time she was here.”

“Sounds like Octavia,” Spike chuckled. “Vinyl told me she can hardly stand this stuff.”

“Yeah! That’s her name. Octavia...she’s from Canterlot, I think.”

“Sweet, we’ll go find her right away,” Rainbow added. “Later, Snowflake.”

As the two wandered inside, they were met with a blast of warm, sweaty air that was all-too common with dance clubs. Spike’s eyes quickly adjusted to the dim lighting, and he could make out the far corner where Vinyl was sitting behind her DJ booth. On one side of the club was the bar where Jamboree and three other mares were taking care of drinks.

“C’mon, follow me!” Rainbow shouted over the music. Spike could barely make out what she was saying, but nodded and followed her, his height allowing him the ability to track her rainbow streaked mane with little difficulty.

Vinyl spotted the two as they neared the DJ booth. She waved, a little too enthusiastically, and gestured for them to come over with a hoof.

“I think somepony started drinking early,” Spike joked, earning a laugh from Rainbow Dash.

“Spike, Dash! You made it!” She jumped out of her seat and bumped hooves with both of them before wrapping them in a hug, or attempting to in Spike’s case. The faint smell of alcohol was on her breath, but she didn’t appear to be too inebriated.

Turning towards a gray coated earth pony mare seated next to the booth, she hollered. “Tavy! Hey, come over here! These are the two I wanted to introduce you to!”

The gray mare looked up from a small thin-necked glass of amber liquid. She rolled her eyes while smiling at Vinyl, then made her way towards the three.

“Spike, Rainbow Dash, this is my marefriend and biggest fan, Octavia.”

“Ah, so you’re Rainbow Dash,” the mare said a low nod. “It’s a pleasure to finally meet you.”

Rainbow quirked an eyebrow. Vinyl laughed loudly and walked up beside the mare. “Sorry, Octavia’s used to a much more formal crowd.”

Octavia sighed. “There’s nothing wrong with being courteous.” She turned back to Rainbow and laughed. “Vinyl has issues with formality, unfortunately.”

“Nah, I just don’t worry about formality,” Vinyl answered with a nuzzle. “I just care about my super-formal marefriend.”

Octavia’s blush was almost visible in the dim, purple lighting coming from the booth. “Vinyl...”

Vinyl stuck out her tongue and licked Octavia’s cheek teasingly, earning a squeal from the prim and proper mare. The earth pony sputtered out a few words, then settled for fuming silently while Vinyl just laughed and nuzzled her affectionately. Octavia mumbled something that Spike and Rainbow couldn’t hear. Vinyl replied by whispering in Octavia’s ear, and the earth pony’s blush deepened further before she smiled and nodded.

“So...” Spike said, clearing his throat. “Er...you’re Octavia? Vinyl’s told me a bit about you.”

Octavia recovered, schooling her expression back to a small smile. “Yes, well, hopefully nothing too embarrassing.”

“Nah, she says you’re a huge fan of classical music, though.”

“Oh, indeed. I’m actually a member of the Canterlot Philharmonic Orchestra.”

“She’s their best cellist.”

“Vinyl, honestly...” Octavia pouted. “Talk me up too much and I’ll look like an amateur the first time they hear me play.”

“Humble, too,” Vinyl added with another nuzzle. “Now, if only she would have an appreciation for jello shots...”

“Ugh,” Octavia wrinkled her nose. “No thank you.” She took a sip of the liquid in her glass, held it in her mouth for several seconds, savoring the flavor, and swallowed. “I’m just relieved that Jamboree had some Tilting Sun bottles stored away.”

Rainbow glanced at the glass and nodded approvingly. “Tilting Sun? That stuff isn’t cheap.”

“No, it isn’t,” Octavia replied with a chuckle as she swirled her glass. “It is, however, a very fine whiskey that is to be enjoyed...not chugged down by the bottle at a time.” She glanced at Vinyl, who avoided her gaze.

“So, Octavia, I was wondering, do you know any good books on the history of music during the Equestrian Renaissance? I’ve been trying to find a good source of material to study on the subject and...”

Rainbow watched as Octavia and Spike began to go into a deep conversation of the evolution of musical style during what, according to the drake, was the most revolutionary period in Equestria’s history of art and science.

A hoof rested on her shoulder, and she turned to see Vinyl nodding towards the bar. “Come on, let the two chat it up for a bit. Octavia doesn’t get to talk about this stuff too often with others outside of work, anyway. Let’s go get a drink for you and Spike.”

Rainbow smiled, thankful that Vinyl had saved her from what would have been an awkward session of listening to two ‘mega-eggheads’ talk about stuff she had little genuine interest in.

“So...you and Spike hit it off yet?”

Rainbow sighed. “No, but I’d like to-” She cut herself off and gave the unicorn a weak glare. “I don’t know what you’re talking about.”

“Oh come on, I can see it even now,” Vinyl teased. “I don’t know why you’re so worked up about it. So you like him; cool. Spike’s a great dude, he’s smart, strong...”

“Okay...okay...am I that easy to read?”

“Nah, I’ve just been working with ponies long enough to notice things like that.” Vinyl waved to Jamboree as they reached the bar. The bartender gave a quick wave before returning to her patrons, clearly busy with the massive crowd attending the first day of the dance festival.

“You want anything in particular?” called out one of the assistant bartenders over the din of music and laughter.

“A Sun Buzz...two of them!”

Vinyl quirked an eyebrow, her cerise eyes full of confusion. “Two of them? Um, Rainbow, I know it’s not my business, but for a mare your size, that might be pushing...” Then it clicked. “Ohhhhh, for you and Spike!” She chuckled sheepishly as Rainbow gave her a flat look. “Heh, sorry.”

Three minutes later and the two mares their drinks. Rainbow carefully held a mug of the citrusy liquor drink under either of her wings while Vinyl carried a bottle of lager in her magic. They returned to see that Spike and Octavia were still busy discussing musical history.”

“...Summer Song didn’t really become popular until after she died. I find it rather peculiar that Ponyville still sings her traditional winter wrap-up piece, even though she did most of her performances along the eastern coastal region of Equestria.”

“So that’s where I’ve heard that song!” Spike snapped his fingers as his eyes lit up. “Yeah, you know, I was wondering that myself when Twilight and I first moved here. I thought I heard the song everypony was singing before...huh...” Spike looked over to Vinyl and Rainbow, smiling as his pegasus friend gave him one of the mugs. “Heh, thanks, Rainbow Dash.”

“Don’t mention it. Just promise not to get too tipsy tonight. I’m not sure I can carry you back to your place.”

“You two are welcome to crash in the back room,” Vinyl offered. “Just hope you don’t mind sharing the space with Jamboree, Octavia, and I. We’ll be needing to get some sleep between shifts.”

“You don’t need to do that, Vinyl.”

“Pshh, it’s nothing, Spike. Just as long as you promise not to snore too loudly, we’ll be fine.”

“I...” Spike sighed deeply.

“We’ll keep it in mind,” Rainbow replied with a grin. “Right now, Spike and I are going to hit the dance floor.”

Spike was about to take a drink from his mug, but paused while casting an uneasy look towards the pegasus. “Um...w-we are?”

“Well, yeah! It’s called a dance festival for a reason, Spike.” Rainbow took a healthy swig of her own drink. “And don’t go and say you can’t dance, because I saw you at Scootaloo’s birthday party and I know you can bust some moves.”

“Y-yeah, but I had a good ten feet of space around myself when I was pulling them off. I’d probably smack somepony clear across the dance floor and into a wall with how crowded it is if I tried any of those moves.”

Rainbow Dash rolled her eyes. “You’re just making excuses. If you ask, I’m sure everypony would give you some space.”

Spike shook his head. “No way, too much of a hassle.”

“If you don’t wish to dance,” Octavia began. “Perhaps you two could do some karaoke, hm?”

Spike frowned while Rainbow’s smile grew. “Yeah! Good idea, Octavia! C’mon, Spike I know just the song!”

Before Spike could protest he was being pulled by Rainbow to the small stage near Vinyl’s booth. Rainbow looked through the list of songs Vinyl had written down, pointing it out to Spike–who vehemently shook his head–and then trotted over to Vinyl to make her request.

“It wasn’t that bad.”

“You made me sing the female parts in the duet...”

“Only because I’m more of a contralto when it comes to singing. It’d be weird for me to sing those parts.”

“Rainbow, Celestia herself said when I was learning music back in Canterlot that I’m a baritone...singing soprano makes even less-”

“Hey, Rainbow Dash!”

The two looked to see a group of mares heading towards them, Rainbow’s co-workers if Spike guessed right.

“Hey girls!” Rainbow greeted. “Oh, um, Spike, these are some of the weather ponies I work with. You already know Flitter and Cloudchaser, right?”

Spike gave a nod to the mares. “Evening, girls.”

The mares giggled and whispered to themselves. Rainbow Dash rolled her eyes and continued. “Anyway, this is Cloud Kicker and Dizzy Twister.”

Cloud Kicker, a gray pegasus with a golden mane, smiled at Spike. “Sooo, Spike, what brings you here?”

Spike wasn’t sure if it was the two drinks he had had so far, but he swore she gave him some serious bedroom eyes. He cleared his throat and put on his best grin. “Oh, just hanging out with Rainbow Dash, enjoying the party...um...how about you?”

“Well-”

Dizzy stepped forward, cutting off Cloud Kicker. “We were just coming to say hello to Dash.”

Cloud Kicker frowned. “I thought-”

“Anyway,” Flitter continued. “Spike, you mind if we steal Rainbow away for a few? We want to catch up. You know...a little ‘girl’ time?”

Rainbow Dash looked like she wanted nothing to do with this ‘girl’ time. “What?”

Cloudchaser walked up beside Rainbow Dash, putting a hoof around her and ushering her towards the bar. “Nice seeing you, Spike.”

Spike watched as Rainbow gave him a pleading look while she disappeared into the crowd with the four mares. “Um...later?” He slumped down to the floor beside a small table, cradling his drink. “What was that all about?”

Meanwhile, Rainbow was struggling not to throw Cloudchaser off of her.

“Alright, hold it!” Rainbow snapped. “What are you four up to?”

Cloud Kicker giggled. “We just want to know what’s going on with you and Spike, that’s all.”

Rainbow huffed. “Not that it’s any of your business, but I’m just hanging out with him. He’s a good friend of mine.”

“We’re just curious, Rainbow. I mean...honestly, everyone at work’s noticed how...uh...how much happier you’ve been as of late,” Flitter added, doing her best to calm the upset mare. “As for Cloud Kicker, she’s a apparently a shameless flirt after a few appletinis.”

Cloud Kicker tossed her mane haughtily. “I have nothing to be ashamed of. It’s not like I was asking him out or anything.” She cast her gaze to Rainbow and smiled. “You, on the other hoof...”

“Oh my gosh, I already said it, we’re just hanging out together–as friends!” She stomped her hoof for emphasis. “Is there any law saying I can’t do that?”

“Rainbow Dash, look, we’re not teasing you or anything like that,” Dizzy Twister began. “We just noticed you two singing karaoke earlier. Oh, by the way...why did you have Spike singing the female vocals?”

“I’m a contralto, I-” Rainbow paused and shook her head. “Wait, that’s besides the point! You girls are cool, okay? That doesn’t mean you can just tear me away from my night out with Spike when I’m...” She noticed the four giving her a knowing smile, and she groaned. “Okay, okay, so maybe I have a little bit of a crush on him...or something...”

“Moving on,” Cloudchaser cut Flitter off with a raised hoof. “We were...I don’t know...wondering if you wanted some tips?”

“Yeah, you know, like...how to let him know you’re interested in him.” Dizzy offered. “I mean, he’s not a stallion, but he’s still a male, so he’s likely going to be oblivious to any of the cues unless you let him know clearly.”

“You mean like just telling him?” Rainbow replied flatly. “Look, I’m fine. I’m not going to rush this, and I’ll...tell him when that time comes.”

The four mares all smiled. “Come on, Rainbow. We’ll grab a cider and talk it over. He might be a dragon, but I’m pretty sure we can still help you out all the same.”

Rainbow Dash, equal parts grateful and flustered, joined them at the bar as Cloudchaser placed an order for the five of them.

Spike continued to sit at the table, cradling the now lukewarm beverage in his claws, which was mostly watered down from the now-melted ice cubes .

Spike looked around him, watching the ponies as they mingled with each other, danced, laughed, and in many cases, made out. He recognized more than a few ponies in various booths of the club, sitting on couches or at the edges of the dance floor, engaging in activities that would normally be reserved for secluded parts of the public park or behind closed doors.

Nothing too intimate, but still...

He sighed deeply, and set down his now empty mug. Looking at a glow-in-the-dark clock on the wall nearest to him revealed it was about half past eleven. He had thought it to be much later in the evening, but...well, if the stories behind his Sun Buzz were true, then alcohol had a tendency to mess with one’s perception of time. Even Princess Celestia’s...

“I really need to ask her if she actually forgot to set the sun after drinking this stuff...”

“So, where’d the girls go off to with Rainbow Dash?”

Spike’s ear frills twitched at the mention of his friend’s name. He strained to pick up on the conversation going on behind him.

“No clue, but I think they just wanted to catch up with her or something. You know how mares can be.”

“Yeah...probably catching up on the latest gossip.”

“Well, I doubt Dash has any interest in that,” replied Thunderlane. “She’s not a fan of small talk and that kind of stuff.”

“Oh, and I’m sure you know this from firsthoof experience, right?” One of the other stallions joked, and Spike could pick up the annoyed groan of Thunderlane amongst the laughter.

“Lay off it, guys.”

“Oh, come on, Thunder, you’ve said it yourself that Rainbow was probably the best marefriend you ever had, right? I mean, she likes sports, loves rock music...”

“Flitter plays for Ponyville’s divisional soccer team. I’d say she’s into sports just as much as any other mare,” Thunderlane countered.

“Well, okay, but Dash is probably the most competitive pony I’ve ever known,” continued the other stallion.

“Yeah...you know, I heard she’s been seeing that one dragon that used to live at the library...uh...what’s his name again? Thorn? Scrape?”

“His name is Spike. What’s your point, Pokey?”

Spike resisted the urge to interrupt their conversation, his curiosity outweighing his annoyance at the moment.

“Poor kid, I hope she doesn’t toss him aside like she did with the others,” commented one of them. “I mean...it’s her life, but I’ve heard about how broken up some of the ponies were when she would start seeing someone else without any-”

Thunderlane snorted. “She’s not like that anymore, Lucky! She hasn’t been with anyone for years now.”

“So you’ve been keeping tabs on her, huh?” laughed Lucky.

“No, she’s an old friend. We have lunch together all the time at work, and we like to keep in touch.” Thunderlane was starting to sound as annoyed as Spike felt. “Honestly, guys, if Flitter or Cloudkicker heard you talking about her like this right now...”

“Hey, chill out, Thunder. We’re just messing with you...though, I’m wondering why she’s going out with that Spike all of the sudden.”

“Isn’t he like...the adopted brother of Twilight Sparkle or something?” chimed in a fourth stallion. “I mean, he used to live there with her until he got that huge house outside of town.”

“Not officially, Caramel. I think she hatched him or something...at least that’s what Rainbow told me once.” Thunderlane laughed as he continued. “Apparently he’s about as old as most of us. Dragons just grow up slower than ponies...well, except for their sudden growth spurts that they go through once in awhile.”

“Huh, well, that’s good. Wouldn’t want Dash to be robbing the cradle now, would-ow, what the hay, Thunder?!”

“Enough with the jokes about Dash, Pokey!” snapped Thunderlane.

Spike’s fists were shaking, yet he maintained his silence.

“Well, I’m just saying...yeesh, you know, I’m pretty sure I’m going to have a lump on my head after that one. Ouch...”

“First off, Rainbow Dash is a good mare. Alright? Second of all, it’s none of our business who she’s with, be it a one time deal, or a long term dating thing,” Thunderlane slammed what sounded like a glass on the table. “I honestly hope it works out for them. She talks about him all the time at work. She’s helping him train with flying and stuff.”

“Didn’t she do the same thing when you two were dating?” asked Lucky.

Spike heard Thunderlane attempting a rebuttal, which sounded mostly like stammering to the young drake. The pegasus stallion let out a snort, and Spike heard a hoof slam onto the table behind him. “Well...y-yeah...but it doesn’t mean that she’s going to dump him later...” Thunderlane didn’t sound so certain. “I mean...they’re friends...”

“You and Rainbow were friends, too,” Pokey added with a sigh. “That Spike is a decent guy; I hate to see how he’d be if Rainbow’s just pulling him along until she grows bored.”

Spike failed to notice the faint wisps of smoke leaving his nostrils.

“Um...guys?”

“Didn’t she once date a mare and colt at the same time back in Cloudsdale at the same time? I think I remember hearing how ugly it got when the other two found out about it.””

“I heard that happened at least twice,” added Pokey. “I mean...I could be wrong, but...”

Thunderlane snorted in annoyance. “So she dated around a lot when she was younger! Big deal! Can either of you say you weren’t like that when you were young.”

“Hey, at least I stayed with my marefriends until we broke up,” Lucky countered. “Who’s to say she isn’t just trying out dragons. I’ve heard a few stories about dragonesses and stallions. No rule saying she can’t have fun with a drake, right?”

Pokey grunted in agreement. “Yeah, let’s just pretend for a moment that there is the possibility of those two actually having a serious relationship. How long will it last? If it does last...well, don’t dragons live to be somewhere between several hundred to a couple thousand years? He’s likely going to outlive Rainbow by eons!”

Spike’s anger began to fade, being replaced with a sinking feeling.

He’s right...

“Guys, I think we should-”

“You don’t even know Rainbow Dash that well, Lucky! She’s had a tough life, but you wouldn’t think so because she never shows it! ” Thunderlane slammed a hoof on the table. “Even if she is looking for a one-night stand with Spike, so what? They’re both adults!”

“Yeah, and one of them is a dragon. How would that even work?”

“Would you shut it, Pokey?” Thunderlane practically shouted.

“Fine, fine...it’s not like it’s affecting you, anyway. I just hate to see that Spike kid getting hurt.”

“He’s only a few years younger than us, Pokey,” Lucky sighed. “For all we know he’s just looking for a quick rut from her and-”

“Guys!”

“What, Caramel?”

Spike was standing up from his table, back still turned to the conversation. He took in a deep breath before letting it out, the faintest embers of green leaving his mouth.

“Oh...horseapples...” Pokey gulped.

Spike turned to the four, his eyes resting on Lucky Clover and Pokey Pierce. “Just be glad I’m not like most dragons...otherwise this would be turning ugly really quick for you guys.” He leveled the two with a glare before turning around, making his way towards the entrance. He could hear Thunderlane calling out to him, but he really didn’t care at the moment.

Right now, he needed some fresh air and to do some thinking.

Rainbow Dash made her way back to the table Spike had been sitting at, only to find it vacant. She frowned, setting down a mug of cider she had brought for him, and looked around for his tall, purple form.

“What’s up, Dash?”

“I can’t find Spike. You girls saw him sit down over here last, right?”

Flitter scanned the area, her own expression drooping to a frown. “Maybe he’s using the restroom?” She looked to the table nearby, and smiled. “Maybe Thunderlane or one of the other boys saw him.”

Rainbow continued to look around, slowly growing more and more worried with each passing moment.

He...he wouldn’t just leave, would he?

No, Spike wouldn’t do that. He would probably at least find her and let her know that he was leaving, whatever reason that would be.

Unless I upset him or something. Then I could see him-

“You said what?!”

Rainbow jumped at the sound of Flitter’s voice. She turned around to see a very peeved Flitter glaring daggers at Lucky Clover and Pokey Pierce, two stallions who were friends with Thunderlane. Caramel, another colt she knew who worked at Sweet Apple Acres during growing season, was sitting aside while shaking his head.

“We didn’t notice him, honest!”

Now, Rainbow knew Flitter to be a rather demure and polite mare, not unlike Fluttershy. Maybe a bit more of a gossip, but she was still an all-around nice pony. So, seeing her giving a death-glare to two ponies while Cloudchaser stood by, ready to hold her back from pouncing on the two colts, was rather disturbing.

“How...how can you two be so...so...?”

“Stupid?” offered Cloud Kicker.

“Yes!” Flitter replied. “I swear, what is wrong with you two? You’re lucky he didn’t do anything to you two! That...” She turned towards Rainbow Dash, worry clearly written on her features now.

“What...what’s wrong?”

“I think these two...,” Flitter looked towards Pokey and Lucky, “...might have said some things that Spike overheard. Things that might have upset him that...relate to you. They say he was heading out of the club just a minute or two ago.”

Rainbow’s stomach flip-flopped. The implications behind those words didn’t settle well with her. She gave the two colts a glare before making her way towards the entrance to the club.

Please don’t let him be upset, please don’t let him be upset...

Rainbow Dash reached the entrance, and immediately spotted Spike sitting beneath a tree near a lamp post. He was slumped over, his wings sagging to his sides while he stared at a particular spot on the ground.

“Spike...?”

The dragon looked up at her, eyes widening a little. He sighed deeply and returned his attention to the ground. “H-hey...Rainbow Dash...”

The pegasus walked up to him, placing a hoof over one of his claws. He flinched a little at the contact, but didn’t pull away.

“I heard about those two idiots...and what they were talking about...”

Spike grunted while nodding. “I might have overreacted...I didn’t mean to say anything threatening to them...”

Rainbow chuckled weakly. “They probably deserved it, though...”

The two remained silent for a long while, neither sure of what to say to the other.

Finally, Spike broke the silence. “Rainbow...can I ask you a question? A...personal question...?”

“Uh...I...”

“You don’t have to if you don’t want to...but...it would probably help me figure a few things out...about...some things that I’ve been thinking about lately.”

Rainbow swallowed hard, but nodded. “O-okay...”

Spike looked into her eyes for a long moment. When he spoke, his voice came out as a strained whisper. “Was it true? What they said about you and when you...still were in Cloudsdale...and all the ponies you dated?”

Rainbow nodded once.

“I...I’m not angry, Rainbow.” His voice remained even and gentle as he continued. “Please don’t think that for a second....I mean, I have no right to be,” he let out a wry chuckle. “It’s your life. Heck, you’re what...four...five years older than me? It’s...” He scratched his neck and gazed at a random spot on the ground, avoiding Rainbow’s gaze. “Sorry, I’m...kind of not in a good place right now.”

“Talk to me, alright?” Rainbow said, looking up to him once more. “I...look, I won’t say I entirely regret those days. They were fun...I just...some ponies got hurt because of me. That was something I’m not proud of. Still, some ponies didn’t mind. I...” She shook her head. “I went through a rough spot for a while...but, like I said...I wouldn’t have changed a thing.”

“So, would you ever start...dating like that again?”

She was caught off guard by the question, and her expression must have shown. “H-huh?”

The drake winced. “S-sorry, I shouldn’t-”

He began to pull away from her, but Rainbow touched his arm, silently telling him to stay. “No, it’s alright...I just wasn’t expecting that...”

“No it’s not. I’m prying into stuff that’s not my business. It’s not right, no matter-”

“Spike. It’s fine.”

Spike’s eyes rested on her hoof again. He didn’t squeeze, but he held it gently within his claw. Something was going on in his mind right now, and Rainbow wanted to help anyway she could.

Spike’s question, though...that was a...a complicated question. She wanted to say ‘no’, but...she wasn’t sure if that was true or not. Rainbow Dash wasn’t the kind of mare that liked being tied down, whether it was in a hospital bed with a broken wing, barred from using her wings in a race, or...other things...

“So...?” Spike dared to ask, his tone hesitant and unsure.

She opened her mouth, hesitant to speak. The words came out, barely above a whisper. Just loud enough for the two to hear.

“I...don’t know.”

Spike exhaled slowly, but he didn’t say anything. He gave her what may have been the most painful smile she had ever seen cross his features. “That’s...understandable..”

“Spike, look...I like you. Like, I really like you.” She scuffed the dirt with a hoof. “I-I...I want to...get to know you better.”

“Rainbow...stop.”

She was leaning towards him, and not even aware of it. She shrunk back, but yet again Spike gave her a gentle squeeze of her hoof. She returned it with one of her own.

“It’s probably for the best that we don’t take this too far, you know? I mean...I’ve still got my own problems to figure out...what with everything that’s happened in the past month or so. I...I really don’t think that...that something between us would work out. I mean...it’s obvious that we’re both...interested...I can see that now...”

Rainbow nodded. “You’re probably the first guy, dragon or pony, that I’ve really wanted to be with in years...”

Spike looked away, his eyes narrowing as he exhaled through his nostrils. “I don’t think it’d be fair of me to date you, Rainbow.”

“W-why not?” Rainbow asked, her voice quaking slightly. She was upset with herself for looking so vulnerable and with Spike for being so...so...gloomy!

Spike nodded. “But, I don’t think what I...” He paused, and groaned in frustration. “It’s...it’s just...Rainbow, I think we should just...stay friends...like we already are.”

Rainbow’s wings sagged. “Huh?”

Spike rubbed the bridge of his snout, but she could see the telltale signs of moisture forming in the corners of his eyes. “It’s just...maybe it’s best we just stay friends...that way neither of us gets hurt.”

Rainbow’s eyes narrowed. “Hurt? Spike, I would never hurt you!”

“I know, and neither would I. Intentionally, at least. Emotions are pretty fragile things, though.”

Rainbow took a step forward. “What are you saying?”

“I’m saying...I’m just saying that I’d rather you be happy. I’d rather have us both be happy, and not looking for anything other than friendship from each other...”

“I...s-so just stay...friends?”

Spike nodded.

“But...what if...what if I want more? Spike, you’re not making any sense! What...what got you thinking this is a good idea all of the sudden?”

Spike shook his head slowly.

“Spike...” Rainbow felt her throat tightening. “Please...”

Spike’s voice cracked a bit as he spoke. “There’s more to it, Rainbow...” He waved a clawed hand over himself. “I’m a dragon...”

Rainbow actually looked angry now, her eyes widening as she stood upright. “What’s that got to do with anything? You think I care about about something like...like whether you’ve got scales, feathers...or...or fur?”

“Rainbow, that’s not my point...” Spike slumped. “I’m still, technically, a young dragon. I mean, I’m an adult, sure...but...a very, very young one. I won’t be considered a true adult for another fifty to sixty years...and...well, dragons live for a long time.”

Rainbow went quiet, her mind quickly catching the implications to his words.

I’m going to outlive you several times over...

Still, she shook her head. “That...that’s fine!”

“Rainbow, it wouldn’t be fair to you, or me.” Spike slowly slipped his claw out of her grip. “If...if we decided to date...I wouldn’t stop you from seeing others, but...” He ran a claw over his face, and wiped his eyes. “...I don’t...I’d feel jealous...and that wouldn’t be right.”

“It can just be us, Spike.”

“Rainbow, I don’t want you to change for my sake, though!” Spike groaned and turned to her. “I shouldn’t have brought this up...I’m sorry, let’s just pretend-”

“No, I’m not going to just pretend that this never happened.” She jabbed him with a hoof. “You’re making up excuses. It’s pissing me off, but...damn it, I still care about you.” She was now on stand on her hind legs, her forehooves pressed against Spike’s chest. The drake looked excited and scared at the same time, and she wasn’t sure if she was proud of herself or ashamed for making him feel that way. “The Spike I know wouldn’t think like this.”

“...that’s because the Spike you used to know was a naive hatchling wearing rose-tinted glasses.” He gently pushed her away so that she could regain her balance. He got to his feet, and stretched his wings. “I’m sorry, Rainbow Dash.”

“D-don’t be, Spike.” Her she lifted off the ground so that she could be eye level with him. “Just...come on, let’s go back to the club. Those guys were jerks, but we don’t have to let them ruin our night...right?”

Spike shook his head. “I should probably head home.”

“Home...?” Rainbow echoed. “But...it’s not even midnight...”

Spike slowly turned away, and began heading down the street.

“S-so...you’re just going to run away?”

Spike paused, turning to look over his shoulder. “I’m not running. I’m just...stopping before I get ahead of myself.”

Rainbow ignored the stinging in her eyes, her wings beginning to move her towards Spike’s retreating form. “What are you so scared of?!”

“I’m scared that I’m going to fall for a pegasus that’s so amazing that I won’t be enough for her; a mare that I’ll spend only a fraction of my life with before she’s gone from my life forever! There, I said it!” Spike snapped, his eyes widening, surprised by his own outburst. It wasn’t a lie, though.

Rainbow Dash was, by and large, the greatest pony Spike knew...next to Twilight, of course, but still...

Rainbow stopped flapping her wings, landing on the ground and staring at him with an unreadable expression.

“There are...tons of much cooler, smarter...and attractive ponies...o-or griffons...or donkeys...minotaurs, or whatever...there’s so many better choices than me,” he continued. He could see her expression changing, her eyebrows slowly knitting together into a weak grimace. He swore that he could see her shaking as he spoke. “There’s so many reasons why it wouldn’t work, Rainbow Dash. I don’t want to anchor you down or keep you from...from...” He struggled to find his voice, eventually sighing in frustration and turning away. “I mean, you’re a shoe-in for the Wonderbolts! I don’t want to take away your time from that!”

Rainbow’s expression was bordering on anger right now, and she let out a snort as she glared.

“It’s just, Rainbow, you’ve got so much going for you and I-”

“Can it, Spike.”

Spike blinked, Rainbow’s cold tone of voice shaking him from his monologue. “Huh?”

“You’re...you’re just digging for excuses.”

Spike’s eyes dropped. He wouldn’t deny that claim...but he wouldn’t admit to it either.

“I don’t know where you got it in your head that I’d look down on you because of...of who I am. You really think I’d think less of you because of fame or my talents?” She kicked up a pebble from the road in anger, watching it skip off into the shadows of the night. “You think I’d just...just grow bored with you and leave you? Like that?”

Spike said nothing.

“Look...it’s apparent that we’ve got some issues here...but...Spike...” He looked up to her this time. Her expression wasn’t one of anger this time. No, it was something worse.

Disappointment.

“You’ve got some thinking to do...major thinking. So do I, I guess.”

Spike nodded. “I’m sorry.”

“Save it...you’ve said it enough...” Her voice was tired, now. “I...really liked you, Spike. Heck, I would have really loved having you as a colt-er...drakefriend...” She narrowed her eyes at him. “You took me out to dinner, and we had that trip to Canterlot. I know you said those were just things as friends...but...were they?”

“Canterlot...? Yes...I...didn’t want to go and eat at some high class restaurant by myself. I had fun with you...but...that was why. As for tonight...” He shrugged. “I...maybe some part of me thought there was something going on between us...neither of us really said anything about it, though, so I didn’t want to assume.”

“You were nervous.” It wasn’t a question.

“Y-yeah.”

“Then...that made two of us.”

Spike glanced at Rainbow Dash. Her cheeks were flushed a bit, but the hurt was as plain as day in her eyes.

Why did I open up my big mouth?

“I should go,” Spike said quietly. “I...didn’t meant for this to happen...”

Rainbow just nodded.

Spike watched Rainbow for a few seconds longer before turning around once more and heading down the road that would lead him towards his house. He tried to ignore the soft sobs that were coming from beneath the tree he and Rainbow had been sitting under, but his ears had decided to be especially sensitive tonight it seemed.

Closing his eyes, he cursed himself for getting upset in the first place. He could have just ignored the colts, or moved to a different table, or told them to shut up, but...no...

“What’s done is done...” He said to himself. “It...it’s probably for the best in the long run.”

While part of him really, really like Rainbow Dash...another part didn’t like the idea of outliving her by a millennium or three, especially if the possibility of them actually becoming a couple had became a reality. He also didn’t like the idea of someone being weighed down by him. She was a free spirit, and had so much potential; Spike, well, he was smart, but...he was hardly anything compared to Rainbow.

Was he fearing the uncertainty of the future? Yes, but it was a probable outcome, and there were plenty of reasons to nip that possible pathway in the bud.

More like excuses... said a treacherous voice in his head. He squashed it and locked it away in a dark part of his mind.

The moon peeked out from the clouds as he passed by the fountain in the central plaza of Ponyville. It had been turned off for the night, but he could see the crystal clear reflection of his face in the standing water on the fountain’s bottom tier. He looked horrible, like he hadn’t slept in days. Dragons, Spike knew, could change form based on feelings like greed or anger. Idly, he wondered if regret and sadness were among those emotions.

She watched as he disappeared into the dark of Ponyville’s streets. A voice in her head was telling her to run after him, tell him that she was sorry and forgive him for what he said. She couldn’t though; her pride had been hurt, and she wasn’t even sure if the effort would be worth it anymore. Too much had been said...new wounds had been made, and old ones had been opened up once more.

So, instead, she just sat there, sobbing quietly while the nighttime breeze blew against her. She shivered while looking up to night sky. It was beautiful tonight, she noted. The moon was as bright as ever, and the stars shined with just the right amount of light. She found herself hating the scenery, wishing it would rain or that the clouds would blot out the sky.

It felt unfair for the night to be so beautiful when she felt this horrible.