‘No way, no how. I am -not- going to let this happen!’ I think to myself as I run through the streets of ponyville. ‘I mean can't I just get one second of peace?!’ I turn another corner looking for my prize. ‘I don't care if she tried to rape me, Rarity was the only pony I could talk to about this! I mean her sister kissed me! I need to get her to help me before this turns into something I really don't want!’

I turn another corner as ponies duck out of my way. I look up to see that all too familiar sight in front of me. How it fills me with dread and hope all at the same time. I can't help but allow my mind to wander to what happened only a few minutes ago. ‘I thought she understood but as soon as I let my guard down she kissed me!’ After that the only thing to come to mind was finding help from someone!

While I took off I heard the kids call for me but I wasn't going to stop for anyone. While running I tried to think of everyone I knew and who could possibly help. Rainbow Dash definitely wasn't my first choice, she would probably smack the kid around. Applejack was out, she might try to use this against me, I mean I hope she wouldn't but I was too panicked at the time to think. Twilight would have asked for Celestia’s help, I didn't even want to think about that one.

Fluttershy was a possibility, she probably would try to talk to Sweetie Belle but it would fall on deaf ears. Pinkie wasn't an option either, I can imagine her most likely throwing a party because it was Sweetie Belle’s first kiss and also my going away party! It all came down to the one pony that I knew had the authority over Sweetie Belle and was hopefully generous enough to not report me.

That was my train of thought at least, now that I am running full speed towards her home I am having seconds thoughts, but dammit she is my only hope here. I didn't even care to knock as I barge through the door. I find Rarity was behind the cash register. She was startled when the door came flying open with a loud bang.

“Oh my!” She put a hoof to her chest as she takes a good look at me. “Anon?” I was drawing in deep breaths from my mad dash to her home. “Darling you look like you were just chased by a manticore!”

I steady my breaths the best I could. “If only.. That were true.” I say through labored breaths.

“What in Equestria would make you wish for that?” She looks to me concerned.

“I gotta talk to you about something Rarity. This is important.” I stabilize my breath a little more.

She can see the dead seriousness in my eyes. “Come this way darling.” She walks off towards some room.

I follow her and find she has entered into a kitchen. There she is making what I can't only assume is tea from the aroma. She places two hot cups onto the table along with some glass jars filled with what I can only assume is sugar and honey. She takes her seat and motions for me to join her. I take my seat as I finally get a good breathing rhythm going.

“What has you all in a huff darling?” She looks concerned still.

I take a couple more deep breaths as I try to find the right words to explain what just happened. “Alright, um. Promise me you won't get mad first?”

She arches an eyebrow. “Alright, I promise.”

“I found out very recently that Sweetie Belle has a crush on me.”

She lets out a small giggle. “Oh is that it darling? Oh my, the way you were acting made me think you had killed somepony.”

“Uh, that's not the bad part Rarity.” I informer her. Now she turns her attention completely onto me. “Well, I went to the schoolhouse to see the kids and I guess Sweetie saw that I was marked.” I take a few more breaths. “She ran away looking rather upset but I brushed it off as a simple crush, something she would get over.”

Rarity nods at me as she takes a sip from her tea.

I continue. “I took Scootaloo and Applebloom to the park because they were kinda putting on some weight from all the sweets they been eating.” I hear Rarity chuckle a little at that. “Anyways, while I was relaxing I open my eyes to find Sweetie is laying right on top of me.” I see Rarity’s ears perk up at this. “She finally admitted she liked me more then she should. I tried to let her down easy, tell her to look at other colts and the like.”

I gulp audible as I look to the cup of tea, seeing my own reflection within it, relieving the next event like a nightmare. “I thought she understood what I was saying, but when I was about to thank her... She, She kissed me.”

That's when I hear the sound of glass clinking together. I look up to see a rather shocked look on Rarity’s face as her teacup lies on its side and the contents of her drink spill over the table..

“S-she kissed you?!” She looks totally baffled by this.

I take her hoof into my hand to try and calm her. I plead as her gaze locks to mine. “Rarity, please. You gotta help me with this. I-I will not even entertain any ideas of a relationship with your sister. I need someone that means something to her, to tell her that this cannot go on.”

She looks to me with sympathy. “I understand Anon and I thank you for telling me this.” She lets out a sigh. “I noticed my sister's infatuation with you as well. I thought it was cute but now she has went as far as to ignore what you were telling her?! That simply cannot do!”

Does she even realise that she pretty much did the same thing a few days ago? If anything she did a lot more then Sweetie Belle did. It was almost like she could read my mind as she looks to my raised eyebrow. She turns from me with a blush while withdrawing her hoof.

“Oh my, I forgot to apologies for that unfortunate situation.” She then looks to me with some sadness. “I am truly sorry you had to experience my...” She says something but covers it up by coughing.

“Your what?” I ask.

“M-My..” This time she mumbles so I can't hear her.

“Rarity.” I deadpanned

“Darling it's a very personal thing! I am sorry if it's not something I can just simply blurt out!” She see’s the serious look on my face. “Alright then.” She lets out a huff as she collects herself. “You seemed to have come to us in a bad time Anon. You see, last week was my.. It was my dry heat.”

I scratch my head. “What’s a dry heat?”

I see her turn a few shades of red as she looks to her tea. “I-It's like estrus but it happens at random.”

“Estrus?” I am really confused now.

The look of shock on her face would have made me laugh if we weren't so serious. “Please darling don't make me explain this to you!”

“Well, alright.. I just don't know what you mean is all.”

She lets out a whining type moan as she wiggles about. “F-Fine.. I will tell you.” She takes a sip of her tea avoiding eye contact with me, seems she doesn't even realise that there is nothing in the cup. “Estrus is when a mare is ready to have foals.” I nod my head. “This means she goes into a heat of sorts, it makes her very sensitive to touch and mares commonly get an.. Overactive sex drive.”

“So, it's kinda like when dogs go into heat?” I ask unsure.

The face she made was as if I slapped her mother in front of her. She then hangs her head in defeat. “Y-yes, its kinda like that.”

“So what's a dry heat?” I ask wanting to fully understand.

“W-well. If a mare doesn't have any contact with a stallion during their cycle. T-they will have what are called ‘dry heats’ These have somewhat the same effect as an estrus cycle, sometimes they are easily managed and sometimes they are just as unbearable. It’s just the need to mate, we couldn't get pregnant during a dry heat.”

“So can other mares get dry heats?” I ask.

She shakes her head. “No, it has to be a mare that has had, well, physical activities with a stallion before. It can't happen to..” She gulps a little. “Virgin ponies.”

“So, that time you tried to-”

She cuts me off. “It was not my intention, it’s just the dry heat sometimes can change ponies.” She then looks to me with teary eyes. “I am truly sorry that you had to see that side of me Anon.”

I give a few choice nods. “So, that whole week?”

“Y-yes.”

“So, how do you feel about me?”

That seems to grab her attention as she gives me a serious look. “I like you Anon, but as a friend.” She says with finality and confidence.

I let out a breath I wasn't even aware I was holding. “So you don't like like me?” I say with a grin.

“No Anon, I like you just as a friend.” She then chuckles a little nervously. “Though I will admit you are rather handsome, so..Just uh, stay away if I am not acting myself.”

“Can do!” I say with a smile. Maybe things were looking up for me? Then I remember why I came here, I guess this is a bittersweet day. “Sorry to get off topic like that. What about this whole Sweetie belle thing?”

Her face turned serious again. “Yes, this is something that cannot go on. If you would Anon, I wish for you to stay here till my sister returns home. If I have this talk with her I want you to be there to confirm how you feel about all this.”

“Thank you Rarity for helping me.”

She smiles at me. “I think you have enough problems already Anon. Lets just call this a gift for all the times I put unneeded stress on that list.”

I wasn't going to turn down this generosity. I really hope this all goes down well, I would really hate to cause anymore problems.

(15 minutes later)

I have been watching Rarity make some cloths and also did a little modeling for her. She had a sudden idea to expand her lines of fashion to minotaurs and it so happens that I had the same basic structure as them. I definitely didn't fight her seeing as she was going to help me with my very big problem soon. So I stay quiet and allowed her to place cloth after cloth onto me as many different styles take form. Though soon the sound of a door was heard opening with the bell ringing shortly after.

“Rarity I’m home!” Calls Sweetie Belle from down stairs.

Rarity finishes writing down something as she looks to me. I give her a nod as she opens the door to her workspace.

“Sweetie Belle, can you come here?!” Rarity calls in a motherly tone.

I hear a sigh as the sound of hooves come up the stairs. Before the door even opens I hear Sweetie talking.

“I swear I didn't take any more of your golden fabric.”

Rarity whips her head around to the fabric as she unravels it. There in the center are two large missing rectangles, they were rather sloppily cut too. Rarity’s mouth just hand open as she looks to the devastation. If it wasn't the time to be serious I would have been laughing now, but I still felt uneasy about the talk we were about to have. Sweetie walks into the room and spots me right away.

“Anon!” She perks up running over to me and taking my leg into an embrace. “The others thought something bad happened when you ran away.” She then looks to her sister then back to me as she whispers. “It wasn't the kiss was it?”

“There is no need to whisper Sweetie Belle, Anon told me everything.” Rarity announces aloud.

Sweetie Belle looks to me then to Rarity in panic. “I-I-I” She just stutters, failing to find words.

“Sweetie what is it that Anon told you?” Rarity questions.

“He told me I was beautiful!” Sweetie finds the courage to speak.

Rarity looks to me with a raised brow. I let out a sigh. “I told her she was young and beautiful and had her whole life to pretty much think of other things than me.”

“You hear that Sweetie? Anon said more than you’re beautiful.” Rarity saying trying to drive the words home.

“B-but I like him.” Sweetie Belle says with the quiver of her lower lip.

“That's all fine but you cannot expect Anon to date you?”

“Why not!”

“You are too young Sweetie Belle, Anon would get in a lot of trouble.” Rarity states matter of factly.

“W-well..” Her previous courage was melting away slowly.

“Listen to what he is saying.” Rarity says as she looks to me.

I give a nod as they both look to me. I take a knee. “Sweetie Belle, you are a great friend but I just can't see you in such a way. I love you as a friend but Rainbow Dash and I are marked, you should know what that means.”

“Why? Why can't we be together?” She pleads with me.

I smile at her. “I know now I may seem like the only guy in the world, but with time there will be others.” Only then do I realise how such a statement from me in this world seems kinda stupid. I mean I am the only guy here, but I was hoping she understood the basic idea I was going for.

“B-but...” She looks like she is about to burst into tears, that was until something seemed to give her confidence. “I-I am going to get my cutie mark!” She looks into my eyes with fire. “When I do, I’ll be back.” With that said she stomps out of the room and slams the door shut with her magic.

“Well, hmm.” I say scratching my head.

I look over my shoulder to see Rarity is just as confused.

“Well, it seems she is a stubborn one.” Rarity lets out a sigh. “I will keep talking to her on your behalf Anon.”

“Thank you.”

“At Least you won't have to worry for awhile. Those three have been trying to get their cutie marks for months.”

“What does she mean by ‘she will be back’?”

Rarity looks away from me. “Its frowned upon, but once a filly gets her cutie mark, they are technically considered adults then.”

“So she was saying-?”

Rarity cuts me short. “Unfortunately yes, Anon. Like I said, I will try to talk to her more.”

“Thank a lot Rarity, I can't really thank you enough for all the help.” I say honestly.

“Darling it's nothing I assure you. If anyone should be thankful it should be me! I mean after everything the girls and I have put you through and you are still so nice and forgiving.” She says looking to her destroyed golden fabric as she lets out a sigh of defeat and throws it to a lone corner. “The girls have really been putting you through some stress, I am surprised you are still as nice as the day we met!”

I scratch the back of my head. “Yeah, well I mean besides all that they are really nice ponies. I can't find myself just being cruel to them. From the start they have been so accepting of me, even though I am an alien.” I walk over to a window that is overlooking the small town. “I really hate being the nice guy but I can't help it, when I look at them I just think of how much they accept me, even to the point of seeing a possible future with me.” I let out a sigh.

“But you must keep in mind that we are all mares Anon, we can handle being let down from time to time, its just how life works.” Rarity says honestly.

“I know, I know. I guess I just have a problem of putting myself in other's shoes.” I say turning back to find Rarity is standing right infront of me with a small smile.

She take me into an embrace as she speaks in a soothing tone. “It's alright darling, I am sure in the end everything will work out. If you ever need any help don't hesitate to ask me.”

I return the hug as well. “Thank again Rarity.” Soon we broke apart and Rarity returned to her sewing machine. I look over to a clock and see that I only have a few minutes left till the hour mark. I guess it's as good as anytime to set back home. “I gotta go Rarity, besides the whole Sweetie Belle thing, I really enjoyed talking with you.”

“I feel the same way darling, we should do this more.” She says not turning her attention from the machine.

“Maybe we should. See you later Rarity.” I say taking my leave.

“Ta-ta!” She calls out in a singsong voice.

I am now standing outside of Rarity’s home as I just look to the sky. Seems things are finally looking up on my end. I am rather happy to know that all that funny business with Rarity was just her dry heat. It also felt nice to just chat with her about business and stuff, I guess that feeling is understandable when the idea of being rapped no longer applies. I hope this sense of normality can be the same with the others.

“Hey Anon!” I hear someone calling to me as I snap myself from though.

I look off in the distance and spot Applebloom and Scootaloo coming towards me. I wave at them as they trot up before me.

“Why did you leave in such a hurry?” Scootaloo asks.

“Long story, a story I will not share.” I respond.

“Why not?!” Scootaloo presses.

“Long story.” I say passively.

She lets out an aggravated sigh. “Well what do you two want to do now?” Scootaloo asks reluctantly.

“Well ah gotta head back to the farm, Applejack might be worried.” Applebloom says. “See you two later.” With that said she runs off towards sweet apple acres.

Scootaloo then looks to me. “So what do you want to do?”

I shrug. “Rainbow is doing something special for me. I am running a bit late actually.” I say remembering I was probably now a few minutes behind the hour deadline.

“Oh.” Is all Scootaloo says as she looks to the ground.

I smile at her. “You wanna tag along and see my new house? I bet Rainbow wouldn't mind.”

She looks up to me with stars in her eyes. “Really!?”

I give a nod. “Really, but first I need to meet Pinkie Pie.” I take a knee as I whisper to her. “You see, Rainbow and Fluttershy bought me that house as a gift. So I have Pinkie getting me a gift for the both of them. This is a secret between us, understand?” She nods her head vigorously. “Great, follow me.” I say as I walk off towards where I last met Pinkie.

Soon I find Pinkie exactly where we last met. Though there is something different about her, seems she is wearing a saddle bag of some kind. It was pink just like her coat and also had little locks on it that were shaped and even colored exactly like her cutie mark. I wonder if that's normal or custom? Once Pinkie spots me she comes zooming over.

“There you are!” She says with her usual excitement, but oddly enough I could tell that it had a little more feeling behind it. “I know Rainbow and Fluttershy will love these gifts!” She stick her head into her saddlebag and produces two colored envelopes, one was yellow and the other cyan. “Yellow is for Fluttershy, blue is for Rainbow.” She says as if that wasn't obvious.

I put the envelopes into my pocket as I take a knee and pull Pinkie into an embrace. “Thanks a lot Pinkie.”

“No problem Anon, what are friends for?” She says the last part with some sadness.

I am no longer blind to the fact that these ponies like me. I can tell that Pinkie is genuine to see her friend happy with me but she also can't help the fact that she too is interested. She is probably the only pony I have met that is willing to put her own feelings aside so that I can be more comfortable. I really appreciate that she is willing to go thru such a thing on my behalf but we will need to clear this up later.

We break from the embrace, though Pinkie felt reluctant to do so. I look down on her as she looks up to me with a forced smile. Though it looks real I can for some reason tell that it's not.

“Hey Pinkie. If you aren't busy, would you like to come see my house? It just wouldn't feel right if you weren't there.” I say with a smile.

“Are you sure?” She looks to me with puppy dog eyes.

“Positive.” I respond.

“Alright.” She says as we walk off.

I turn around briefly to wave Scootaloo to follow as well.

The three of us now stood before my home.

“Wow” Scootaloo and Pinkie mimic as they look to the house.

After some time of being in awe Scootaloo asks. “Rainbow bought this?”

“Rainbow -and- Fluttershy.” I correct her.

“Anon this house is amazing.” Pinkie says.

“You haven't seen the inside yet.” I say with some pride.

I turn the handle as the door slowly creaked open.

I have always wanted to say this. “Lucy I’m home!” My voice echoes through the house.

“Anon is that you?” I hear Rainbow call from the kitchen. I can hear the sound of clip clops as she comes towards the front door. “Who is lu-” She stops in her tracks once she spots Pinkie and Scootaloo. “Oh.” Is all she says as she looks to me.

Her expression was neutral but her emotions were all over the place. I could feel that she was really not happy to see Pinkie but she was glad to see Scootaloo. I just look into her eyes as we let our emotions do the talking.

She finally relents. “Fine!” She looks to Pinkie. “Anon will show you around, I still need to finish some cooking.”

Pinkie wasn't blind to what just happened as she lowers herself to the ground. “Um, Is it alright if I help Rainbow?” She asks.

Rainbow looks to me. “Its up to you Dashie, I will just show Scootaloo around.” I say.

“Go straight ahead.” Rainbow says to Pinkie with an annoyed tone as she points towards the kitchen.

Pinkie hangs her head low as she walks off.

I take a knee next to Rainbow as I whisper. “Rainbow, Pinkie is a good friend. Please don't act like that to her.” I say.

“I don't mean to! I just can't help it sometimes.” She says honestly.

I give her a kiss on the cheek. “Please try Dashie.”

She returns the kiss on my cheek. “Alright.”

With that said she takes her leave after Pinkie towards the kitchen. I turn around to find Scootaloo with a rather uncomfortable expression.

“You ok Scoots?” I ask.

“uh, yeah.” She says like her mind was somewhere else.

I wave her to follow. “Let me show you around the place.”

It didn't take too long to show her the place and she was beyond impressed. Finally we were about to walk into the kitchen. I turn the corner to see Pinkie and Rainbow hard at work as they place a stack of plates and some pots of food onto the counter.

Rainbow look over her shoulder to me. “Just on time you two. Everything should be ready.”

I look around and notice someone was missing. “Where did Fluttershy go?”

“She was worried about the animals, Angel is still a bunny after all, he can't take care of the bigger ones.” Rainbow responds.

“Alright.” I say as I walk over to the table.

I take my seat as I wait for my meal. I look behind me and find Scoots is just standing there as if she was lost in space. I snap my fingers to grab her attention. She shakes her head a few time as I pat the seat next to me. She quickly looks around like a lost cat before taking her seat. I wonder what has her mind so taken right now?

Before I could question any further Pinkie was placing a plate in front of me. I look in awe as I see some kind of salisbury type steak. I pick up the fork next to me and give it a test cut with the blunt end. It definitely was tender, I don't even think I will need a knife to eat this! I hear the sound of everyone taking their seats as I look up to find the table is covered with various plates of many different goods.

I couldn't help but smile as I look to the others. Rainbow was on the opposite end of myself, while Scootaloo was to my right and Pinkie to my left. I chuckle a little to myself.

“What's so funny big guy?” Rainbow asks turning everyone's attention to me.

I wave it off. “Its nothing, just a funny thought that came to mind.”

“Care to share?” She asks.

I set my utensils down as I look to them all once more. “Well, I just find it funny is all. It just looks like we are a family or something.”

Everyone now takes a look around at the situation as they seem to finally grasp what I was talking about.

“I guess it kinda does.” Pinkie says with a small smile creeping onto her lips.

“Well, let's not let the food get cold.” Rainbow says dismissively.

We all give a nod as we then turn our attention to the meal before us.

It didn't take too long till we were all completely full from the gross amounts of food we consumed. Now I have never seen Pinkie eat before, but I swear that there is a strong possibility that she could be bottomless. I mean she just kept eating and though she did get fat, as soon as I turned away and look back she would be back to normal size. It still makes me feel weird to see that happen.

“I am not sure about you guys, but I can't eat another bite.” I say with a heavy sigh.

“I think I am gunna be sick.” Pinkie says with a green face.

“Bathroom is down the hall.” Rainbow says.

Pinkie gets up and quickly trots off.

“That was great! Thanks a lot Rainbow.” Scootaloo says with a large grin.

“No problem squirt.” Rainbow then gets up and leans her head for us to follow. “Lets relax in the living room.” She says with a smile.

Slowly we hobble our way to the living room. I fall onto the couch in a heap as I just suffer from all of the delicious food I had consumed. I probably should have stopped, but what is life if you can't go a little overboard once in awhile? Rainbow takes her seat next to me as she leans against me. Scootaloo takes her seat at the opposite end of the couch.

Rainbow lets out a sigh of content as she gets comfortable. “So what did you do when you left big guy? I felt your emotions go wild, had me worried.” She says in a worried tone.

“Long story Dashie. I will tell you later.” I say as I stroke her mane.

While keeping her head rested on my shoulder Rainbow looks over to Scootaloo. “What you think about Anon’s place?”

“Its great! I have never seen a house this big before. Well, from the inside that is.” She says with some embarrassment.

“Well that's good, it cost Fluttershy and I a pretty bit to get this place.” Though it was still rather early I could tell from her voice that Rainbow was getting tired.

I look over to a clock and see that it's about 6pm or so. I guess eating large amounts of food can make anyone tired.

“Yeah, its really great.” Scootaloo says with a more distant tone.

I then pick up the sound of hooves coming towards us. Not too long does Pinkie show herself in as she plops right onto the couch located across from us.

“I don't think I should have eaten that last cupcake.” Pinkie says rubbing her belly.

“Well I was really surprised you even managed the first eighty.” I say with genuine shock.

“Well, I could have eaten more if I didn't try the food.” She says with a smile.

“Pinkie isn't it not healthy for ponies to eat so many sweets?” I then cast a brief glance over at Scootaloo. “I mean you seem to be the only pony I know that doesn't gain weight.” I say honestly.

“Years of practice Anon.” Pinkie says with a playful wink.

With that said we all just fall into a comfortable silence as we bask in the post glow of our gluttony.

I immediately jump up in shock. I look around to find that I am still on the couch, Rainbow is still leaning against me and even scootaloo and Pinkie are here. I gaze over at a clock and find its 10pm. ‘Did we fall asleep?’ I ask myself still in a drowsy daze. I slowly get up, making sure to be extra gentle when setting Rainbow down.

I look to the three ponies as they sleep peacefully. ‘Damn I can't wake them up. I guess there is no harm in them spending the night.’ I think as I scope out the situation. I first look to Rainbow, she was the most tired, so I will move her first. I slide my hands under her frame as I gently lift her. She doesn't even seem to notice as I bring her up the stairs and into our master bedroom.

I gently lay her on the bed and return to the living room once more. I now take Pinkie into my grasp and oddly find she is almost as light as a feather. I was too tired to even care as I slowly take her to one of the guest rooms. I gently lie her down just before I throw a sheet over her.

“Thank you Anon.” I hear her mumble as she falls back to sleep.

I just smile as I gently close the door and then return to the last pony. I lift Scootaloo up next and bring her to the other spare room. There I place her down and cover her just as I did Pinkie. With that all done I slowly close the door and return to my room. I fall onto the bed totally exhausted of this day. I feel the world lift from me as Rainbow presses her back against my chest.

“What's going on?” She asks in a sleepy state.

“I put Scootaloo and Pinkie into the spare rooms for the night, they were both tired.” I say just as sleepy.

“Tell me about it.” She replied almost totally asleep, but she perks up a little. “So what happened to you earlier?” She asks trying to keep herself conscious.

“I don't think you would even believe the hour I had Dashie.” I say kissing the back of her head.

“Come on, give me a try.” She says giggling a little from my actions.

“Well, I guess Sweetie Belle likes me alot.” I say a little disturbed.

“Why do you say that?” Rainbow asks.

“Well she kissed me, so that's one reason.”

Rainbow quickly rolls over as she looks me in the eyes. “You’re serious?” She says in a deadly tone.

“Don't get mad Rainbow. I went over and had a long talk with Rarity about it.” I say.

“Rarity!?” She says raising her voice some but she was too tired to get much volume.

“Don't worry. I guess she was in something called a heat dry?” I say not exactly remembering what the name was.

Rainbow lets out a sigh of relief. “That's good to know. I thought it might have been that, it's the reason I wanted to talk to her alone. So seeing as you are in a good mood I can assume her “dry heat” passed?” Rainbow asks and corrects me at the same time..

“Yes it did. She also says she just wants to be friends.” I say with some joy.

Rainbow buries her face into my chest. “That's great news big guy.”

I give a nod. “So she helped me with the Sweetie Belle thing.” I then let out a sigh. “Temporarily at least.” I say that last part so Rainbow couldn't hear me.

“What was that?” Rainbow asks.

“Nothing.” I respond.

“Alright.” She says reluctantly.

“Let's get some sleep.” I say with a smile.

“Don't have to tell me twice.” She says giving me a peck on the lips just before rolling over so she could press her back to my chest once again.

“Good night big guy.” Rainbow says in a loving tone.

“Good night Dashie.” I reply in kind.

I know I haven't been asleep that long since I can now hear the sound of tiny hooves softly walking towards my side of the bed. I still had Rainbow in my hold as I turn my head slowly to my side of the bed. It was rather late so I couldn't see much with only the moon to light my room.

“Are you awake Anon?” Though it was a whisper I could tell it was Scootaloo.

“Hmm? uh, yeah.” I whisper back. “Something wrong?”

“Well, I just.. It's dark and all, i'm not scared or anything, but..” She stops talking. So I guess she is afraid of the dark, I think that's normal for all kids. “Would it be alright if I slept with you?” She says at a volume that would make Fluttershy sound like she is yelling all the time.

I ran this situation into my head. What would it all really mean? She is a great kid and is just scared of the dark, I can't really leave her alone but then again we aren't really related. Wouldn't that be inappropriate? I look down to Rainbow as if she could answer but she was out like a light and snoring a storm.

I bit my lip a little. “Uh, sure. Hop right on up.” I say making a space between Rainbow and I.

She didn't hesitate as she quickly jumps up on the bed and snuggles up against Rainbow.

“Thanks.” She says laying her head onto the bed.

“Don't mention it. Lets just get some sleep.” I say with a smile.

Though it was hard to see with just the silver glow of the moonlight I think I see some tears in her eyes. She just buries her face into the bed as she moves around a little more to get comfortable. I guess this is alright. I was still tired as I close my eyes and allow myself to be taken by the night's embrace.

[br]
(Time: Unknown)
[Perspective: Rainbow Dash]

Seems I am back in that dream world Anon was talking about, but what is different is that I am not in a expanse of total darkness. All I could see was an endless field of grass. I just look around not really sure of what to do.

“Loyalty.” A voice comes echoing through my mind.

“Luna.” I reply knowing who it was.

“No princess?” She asks.

“No.” I say bluntly.

“Seems Anon has taught you well.” The voice echoes through.

“Since our mark I understand him a lot more.” I say honestly.

There was some silence that came over my world. With a blinding flash the princess of the night herself was standing before me.

“I am no stranger to these trials of love Rainbow. I know you and I have much to discuss.” Luna says in a royal tone.

“Why are you interested in Anon?” I ask.

“He is like me, alone in the world and so different. Yet he tries his hardest to be accepted and liked by all around him.”

“Even so, do you really think a princess like yourself could afford to be with Anon? What about your status? What would the ponies think?”

“These things are trivial to me Loyalty. I have no status and the ponies around me still treat me as a monster in the night. I care not what they think, I care for what I feel.” She replied in a strong tone.

“Are you willing to take Anon even if he doesn't want you?” I say with some venom.

“Do not get me wrong. I very much wish to be with Anon, but I would never think to force him to love me if he chooses not too.” She then locks eyes with me. “His choice, not yours.”

“Even so, I am the lead mare now. His problems are mine as well.”

“Do not confuse responsibilities with choices, Loyalty. They may be your problems, but it is overall Anon’s choice.”

I left out a huff of air. “Fine by me, but it won't stop me from giving Anon my honest opinion.” I state.

“I would never ask for anything less.” she replies. Luna then looks to the sky briefly. “Seems our time is up. The sun shall rise in a few minutes.” She walks off into the distance, only stopping briefly. “We can talk more later.” With that said she spread her wings and took to the sky.

I slowly open my eyes to find that I was still in bed and Anon still has his arms around me. I smile at how lucky of a mare I am. I may not have acted it around my friends but I loved the thought of being treated like a mare and Anon definitely knew how to show it. Though now that I think about it, something feels odd? I slowly move around to feel a lump between Anon and I. I wonder what that could be?

I slowly roll over and find Anon was oddly further away from what I last remember. I look down and spot a tuft of purple sticking out from under the covers. I slowly lift it up and spot Scootaloo pressed firmly against my body. I can't help but feel my heart warm by this site. On her face I can see a small smile gracing her lips. When I look at her she makes me think about myself and how my childhood was.

My mother, well, I never knew my mother. My dad told me that she was some important pony that was very busy all the time. What he didn't know is that I knew he was lying, I knew she had passed away while giving birth to me. My dad, he was a great father. He always told me that I could do anything, be anypony. When I told him I wanted to be a wonderbolt, that day he went out and bought us tickets so we could watch them first hoof.

After that day he told me that if I was to be a great flier one day then I would need to know the basics. That's when he enrolled me into flight school. Thats where I met Fluttershy and did my first ever sonic rainboom. I feel a couple tears fall from my eyes. When I decided to leave the school he didn't scold me, he didn't put me down, he just told me that some stars shine brighter than the rest and that I would need my own sky.

It was because of him that I became who I am, it was because of him that I got the chance to meet Anon. I really should pay him a visit sometime, see how he is doing. Maybe he would like to meet Anon? I shake those thoughts from my mind as I let out a sigh. I just look to Anon and Scootaloo. I wonder why she is here? I decide not to question it as I slowly rise from bed. I think a nice breakfast would serve these two well.

I walk out of the room and oddly find a sweet scent in the air. Was someone cooking already? I walk down the stairs and make my way to the kitchen. Once I round the corner I see Pinkie Pie flipping some pancakes. She takes notice of my presents as she stops what she is doing to face me.

“Oh hey Dash.” She moves around nervously. “I thought it would be nice to make you all breakfast. Seeing as Anon was nice enough to let me spend the night.” she says with a nervous smile.

Now Pinkie and I have had an interesting friendship. When I first came to control the weather for Ponyville I wasn't too sure of myself. I was use to living in cloudsdale my whole life until I took this job. It was my first time ever meeting an earth pony and though she was very strange, I kinda liked that about her. Pinkie is one of those ponies that's hard to get mad at, because even when she messes something up, you can almost guarantee that she was doing it to make someone else happy.

Because of this I understand why Anon can't be angry with her, I can even feel that he finds Pinkie to be the nicest thing he has ever encountered. It makes me wonder what Anon’s world is like based on how he see’s our world, it honestly must not be a fun place. I shake the thoughts away as I return to my topic. As much as I like Pinkie I need to be sure of what she is after.

“Hey Pinkie?” I say trying to grab her attention.

“Yes?”

“Do you really like Anon, as more than a friend?” I ask trying to be delicate.

“Y-Yes.” She hesitates.

“Then why are you trying to act like a friend?” I continue.

“I-I care enough to not pressure him. I know he is new to our culture and that his luck with some of our friends has been anything but a pleasant experience.” She then looks to me with a gaze that was a solid as steel. “I know I may act dumb or that I don't understand, but I do. I will remain a friend if that's what Anon needs, I will be there for him if he wants more. I-I am willing to make him happy, no matter what.” She turns away quickly as she flips one of the pancakes so it doesn't burn. “Isn't that what love is Rainbow? To give the ones you love what they deserve?”

I was shocked by this. I don't think I have ever seen Pinkie act like this. I was confused now, is she really choosing to be unhappy to make Anon happy?

“Pinkie...” I wasn't sure what to say about this.

“I know, it's just how it is. I can hope for more but that's for Anon to decide.” She lets out a sigh. “No matter what it is, I hope he is happy in the end.”

It pained me to hear the hurt in her voice, seeing as she is usually so cheery. I guess Anon understands these situations better than I do. He can't just simply shune her feelings, because that would be too painful. Yet he can't turn from his own feelings as well, in the end, somepony will get hurt.

I let out a sigh. “Pinkie, you know you’re my friend.” She gives a nod. “I can't tell you how much I appreciate you giving Anon space. I-I hope everything works out.” I say unsure of how to continue.

She chuckles sadly a little. “I hope so too Rainbow.”

(Time: Early morning)
[Perspective: Anon]

My dreams were anything but adventurous. In fact this was one of those times where you just don't remember. My consciousness slowly returns to me as I feel Rainbow still in my arms. Seems she is a little further away from me then I last remember. I gently pull her over to my chest again as I become surprised at how light she is. Slowly I began to take notice something is off. She is really small and thinner than I remember.

The cogs in my mind start to turn as I slowly open my eyes to investigate. I quickly find that I am actually not holding Rainbow but am holding Scootaloo. She rolls over and has now pressed her face to my chest. I freeze up at this closeness. I thank god that I was too tired to disrobe last night. She starts to fidget a little as I loosen my grasp on her.

I was hoping to get away before she awoke but as her eyes flutter open I knew it was all too late. She sniffs a little and smacks her lips as her mind tries to fully awaken. Once her eyes make contact with mine she soon remembers where she is.

“H-Hey.” She says nervously as she tries to move away in a nonchalant manner.

I let her go from my grasp as I sit up. “Morning.” I say with a good amount of awkwardness.

“Um.” she looks around the room. “I-uh.”

“Dont worry.” I say scratching the back of my head. “It was no trouble.”

“T-Thanks.” She says again.

I look over to a clock and find that it's still early. “Maybe you should take a shower real quick.” I catch the scent of breakfast in the air. “After we get some breakfast I can walk you to school.” I say with a smile.

She seems to perk up at this a little. “Um, alright.”

With that said she hops off the bed and towards my shower. I get out of bed and walk out of the room, I let out a yawn as I enter the kitchen. There I spot Rainbow and Pinkie working together to make breakfast, but what I find great is that these two are smiling at each other and I can feel Rainbow isn't faking either.

“Morning ladies.” I say taking my seat.

Rainbow turns around. “Morning big guy. Where’s the squirt?” she asks.

“I told her to take a shower, then after breakfast we can walk her to school.” I say with a smile.

“Thats so sweet.” Pinkie says.

“Its nothing, she is a good kid.” I say honestly.

“That sounds like a plan to me.” Rainbow says as she takes a seat next to me. “Remember you have work today, So do I.” She then give me a kiss on the lips. “But you will see me here when you get back home.” She says with a smile.

“Well I can get use to that idea.” I say kissing her back.

She gets up from her seat and returns to help Pinkie cook. I kinda just sit around and watch these two as time flies by. Maybe five or so minutes later I see Scootaloo coming out of the into the kitchen looking sparkling clean.

Pinkie takes her seat as Rainbow brings up all our plates.

“Eat up.” Rainbow declares, taking her seat as she gets ready to eat her pancakes.

Lucky for us breakfast wasn't as heavy as our previous dinner. I ate quickly so I could take a shower. Didn't take too long and the water was still hot for me. I have no idea what they use to heat the water but it was great! After getting dressed and hiding my gifts on the top shelf of the closet. I made my way downstairs to find that everyone had now finished eating.

“You ready for school?” I ask Scootaloo.

“Sure!” She says with excitement.

I look over to Rainbow and Pinkie. “You two ready?”

“Yup.” They both reply at the same time.

“Alright, let's head out.”

As we walked Pinkie had broken from our group as she needed to return to sugarcube corner. It didn't take too long till we were before the schoolhouse and from the looks of it just on time.

I take a knee as I ruffle her mane. “Have a great day.”

She looks away quickly. “T-Thanks.” She looks up to Rainbow who just smiles at her and nods her head towards the school.

Scootaloo now turned around and took off looking for her friends. Rainbow and I just stand there for a few minutes just before we head back to ponyville.

“So.” Rainbow says breaking the silence.

“What is it?” She sounds a little distant.

“Well, it's just looking at Scootaloo has really made me think about my family.” She lets out a sigh. “I haven't seen my dad in a awhile. I hope he is doing alright?”

Rainbow and I haven't yet talked of her family. So I wasn't sure what to say. “I am sure he is fine.” I say trying to make her feel better.

“Yeah, I bet he is.” She says with a small smile as we walk threw the market now.

“Rainbow.” I grab her attention. “Maybe we could visit cloudsdale sometime?”

“Really, you would do that?” She asks.

“For you Rainbow, I would.” I say with a smile.

Rainbow looks up at the sky briefly. “I gotta head over to work now big guy. We will talk more about this at home.” She says that last part in a sweet tone.

“Yeah, see you at home Dashie.” I say with a grin on my face.

With a blush on her face Rainbow takes off into the sky. I am left now to my own devices. So I guess it's as good of a time as any to go to the spa.

The rest of that particular day wasn't filled with much to talk about. I went in, gave ponies massages and help around the spa. As a special treat for being such a flake on my two great mare employers. I decided to take them out to a rather nice restaurant for lunch, told them that is was on me. What was really a surprise is that these two could really put it down, maybe not like Pinkie but they definitely made me lose a good amount of bits.

I got a rather decent amount of tips, nothing too big like Rarity or the Mayor gave me. You know, just like three bitcoins here and there. I honestly didn't mind, seeing as I had no real use for this money anyways. So the day was rather average and the clock had just struck on 3, which means it was time to pack up.

“Enjoy your day Anon, bright and early tomorrow!” Aloe says with some cheer.

“Try not to get into the hospital again!” Lotus adds.

I give a bow. “Thank you two again for being such great ponies. I promise I will try not to end up too hurt.” I say with a smile.

They both giggle at me as they return to the spa to do some final locking up. I just smile as I look to the sky. The sun was out but a mass of dark clouds were heading my way. If I had to guess it was probably going to rain at some point today. Then again the clouds do look far away, maybe they won't even get here? I just sit and think to myself and fail to notice the smell of apples slowly taking my senses.

“A-Anon.” A voice calls in a low tone.

I look down to find Applejack standing next to me. “Yeah?” I say in a neutral tone.

“C-Can we talk?” She asks.

“Talk about what?”

“About us.” She says still in a timid manner.

“Sure.” I decide to give her a chance.

She looks around nervously. “Can we do this in a more private area?”

I just shrug as I gesture for her to lead. She just looks around nervously as she takes me towards sweet apple acres. Seems a bit far but I continue to follow here. Soon we came to that all too familiar red barn. I have seen this place a great many times during the short amount of work I did, feels like it was so long ago. She opens the door and walks inside. I follow suit and once I was in the center of the barn the door is closed shut.

“So you wanted to talk?” I say not turning around.

“Y-yes.” She replied. “I want the truth Anon. No matter how painful it is, I want you to be truthful to me and I will do the same. Agreed?” I give a nod and wait for her to continue. “I been thinkin about us for the longest time. Though it's hard to accept I can't help how I feel.” She takes a few steps towards me. “I love you anon, I can't help that.”

She lets out a sigh before continuing. “Before when I let you touch my cutie mark, I didn't really think nothing of it. You asked and I let you, even though I knew what it meant to us ponies.” She hangs her head low. “I am sorry for breaking that trust you had. I am not sorry for how I feel though.” She says looking to me.

I still didn't turn my gaze to her just yet. I let out a sad sigh. “I guess the first thing I should say is that I am sorry for what I am about to say.” I hear her breath catch as she stays silent. “I love you Applejack, but not in the same way. That time we spent on the farm together was fun and really made me feel like I had a family. That's how it felt to me, we were just brother and sister having fun on the farm.”

I shake my head a little as I turn to face her. “I love you like a sister, Applejack. When I was told about what you let me do, it made me feel so wrong.” I clench my fist a little. “But that's no longer what this is about. The fact is Applejack, I can't love you anymore than I would family.”

I look down and find that she has her hat over her face, she is trembling slightly as I spot tears falling to the floor below.

“I-I understand.” She says trying to keep her cool.

I walk past her. “I am sorry, Applejack.” With that said I walk out the barn and close the door behind me.

I look up and spot Applejack’s brother looking right at me. He doesn't seem angry or happy. I walk past him but spot briefly. “Take care of her.” He doesn't respond as he simply nods and heads over to the barn.

I let out a sigh of defeat. I really want to get home now. Just try to relax. I start to walk towards ponyville but suddenly find that the world is so much darker than before. I look up to see the dark clouds are now hanging over me. Did they really move that fast? It seemed to be too little too late as they suddenly started to pour rain on me. I let out another sigh as I just continue my slow walk. I mean I am already soaked, wouldn't really matter to run home..

It took some time but I was finally in ponyville, the market venders were already packed up and gone by the time I got there. It seems that all of the streets of ponyville are empty. Just my luck it seems. I chuckle to myself as I walk towards my home. That was until I catch the sound of something behind me, a splashing of sorts.

“Wow, talk about a bad time to make a second date.” I knew that voice anywhere as I quickly turn around and spot my second favorite mare. “How's it going slick?”