The work day passed as fast as it ever has. My mind was just stuck on what I have just realised. Rainbow and I are now parents, this, this changes everything. I needed to get serious now, for Scootaloo’s sake! I don't want to get hurt, I don't want her to see me get in a fight. I just want it all to be perfect. I also can't forget about Grace, I still need to tell her about this. I hope she won't be mad at me, I truly do want to try and make something with her as well.

I walk out the door of the spa as I once again give my two employers a wave goodbye. I did my work as I always have and was closing in on payday. I still felt like there was so much to do and so little time. I-I need to get home quickly to tell Rainbow the good news! I take off towards our home in a mad dash. Though that sprint didn't last long as it took me a few seconds to register that I was currently airborne.

I fall onto my back, lucky for me it wasn't that hard but it still kinda hurt. I look down to see a curly puff of pink lying on me.

“Uh?”

I am unsure as to what I am looking at until this ball of fluff soon forms into Pinkie Pie. She has a huge smile on her face.

“Anon!” She screams out.

“Uh, hi Pinkie.” I say back to her.

“So what did Celestia say!?” She asks with excitement.

“Excuse me?” I then remember the letters. “Oh yeah, she said that I can pick Scootaloo up tomorrow night.” I inform her.

She seems to shake a little as she launches off of me. “This is great! Now I can throw a party for her!”

I quickly get to my feet in a panic. “Whoa wait a second Pinkie.”

“Is something the matter?” She stops and looks at me confused.

“Well, can we possibly hold off for a couple days on that party? I want her to get settled in, you know?”

Pinkie smiled at me. “Okey Dokey Lokey!” She says. “So what time should it be?”

I think for a few minutes. “How about a week from now?”

“That sounds perfect! I will get everything organized!” She says just before zipping off. I was about to question something until she came zooming back. “I almost forgot, congratulation!” She says taking me into a hug.

“Thanks Pinkie.” I say before she lets go and zooms off once more.

I just shake my head with a smile as I continue on my way home.

I quickly throw the door open in excitement.

“Rainbow!” I call out.

In an instant I am slammed into the ground again with a cyan body on top of me this time.

“You’re back!” Rainbow says with just as much excitement.

I rub my head a little. “What's with you ponies and smashing me into the ground?” I question.

She chuckles a little nervously as she flies off. “Heh, sorry.”

I get up and quickly shut the door as I can't contain my excitement anymore.

Rainbow looks to me with concern. “What did Celestia say?”

I can't help but crack a smile. “She said we can pick her up tomorrow night.”

I then brace myself as Rainbow comes colliding into me. We both hold each other close as she laughs out in joy. “I am going to be a mother?!”

I kiss her just before I pull back with a smile. “Yeah.”

She then looks to me. “Y-you're going to be a father!” I just simply nod. “-WE- are going to be parents!” She screams out.

“That we are.” I say to her never letting go.

I then see her face drop. “Oh no.”

I was concerned by this. “Is something wrong?”

Rainbow then looks towards upstairs. “Is something wrong?!” She then looks back to me. “W-we don't even have her room personalized?! How would she feel welcomed?” Rainbow panics.

“Rainbow, calm down. I think she will be just fine.” I say with a smirk.

“Come one big guy! We gotta decorate her room!” She pleads.

I reach into my pocket and pull out the tips I got from the last few days. “Well, got any ideas?” I say with a grin.

She quickly takes the bits from me. “Of course I got an idea! First we need to go to Canterlot and visit the wonderbolts store! Then, then we can get her the entire Daring Do collection!”

I let her go as she goes off on what to buy Scootaloo. I chuckle loud enough to catch her attention. “This room for Scoots or you?” I say.

She punches my arm lightly. “Very funny.”

“You know you love me.” I say.

She flies up to me and kisses me. “I do.”

I then think a little. “So, Canterlot. Sounds like a plan.” I say bout to go upstairs and get ready.

I was then stopped by a hoof. “Oh, no way buddy. You are going to say here.”

“What?” I question confused.

“You got a date remember!” She then pulls out some bits and tosses them to me. “She will pay but I know you will want to get her something.” She says.

In the excitement I guess I kinda forgot. “A-alright.. Are you going to be back soon?” I ask.

She grins at me. “Trip to Canterlot and back. I think I will get back before anything gets too hot and heavy on your little date.” She says poking fun at me.

“Alright!” I say throwing my hands up. “I doubt Grace would do something so soon.” I say honestly.

“Well, try to have fun and tell her about what happened.” She says with concern. “She needs to know.”

“I will Rainbow.” I say with a nod.

She then flies over to the door. “I gotta get going now if I want to be back in time.” She opens it but just before closing it I hear her say. “Have fun.” With that the door closes as I am left alone.

I look over to a clock and see that I still have some time left before this date even happens. I guess if I am to do this right then I need to dress for the part. I walk out the door and proceed to the one mare I know, that knows a thing or two about apparel. I stood outside of Rarity’s store. The open sign was still showing so I walk threw the door greeted by the ring of a bell.

“Sweetie Belle can you see who that is?!” I hear Rarity call from the upstairs.

I hear some grumbling as the sound of tiny hooves comes to my hearing. Soon the little filly sees me and immediately brighten up.

“Anon!” Sweetie Belle says in her high pitched voice. She runs over and takes my leg into an embrace. I still feel that this is a bit inappropriate but she soon lets me go. “What are you doing here?”

“Just need Rarity to help me with something. Is she busy?” I ask looking upstairs.

“She shouldn't be too busy for you.” She says fluttering her eyes at me.

It seems Rarity’s talks haven't been doing much to deter her.

“Can you get her please?” I ask hoping to speed this up.

She snaps out of her gaze. “O-oh right.” With that she turns away and trots up the stairs.

Seconds later I hear someone else coming down the stairs.

“Oh darling, what brings you around today?” She asks.

I look next to her and see Sweetie Belle giving me dreamy eyes. “Uh, can we take this somewhere private?” I ask casting a quick glance to her sister.

Rarity looks to her side as she lets out a sigh. “Yes, perhaps that would be best.” Rarity leads me to her inspiration room as she closes the door before Sweetie Belle could follow. She lets out a small irritated sigh as she looks at the door. Once she regains her composure does she turn around to face me. “So what is it that brings you here?”

I start to feel that nervousness build into my stomach. “Well, I was looking to buy some fancier clothes.”

“Fancy? For what reason?” She takes a few steps towards me with a raised eyebrow.

“I kinda have a date.” I admit.

Her eyes go wide. “A date!” I give her a nod to confirm. “Well this is marvelous! Who is she? Have we met before?” She asks growing with excitement.

“Yeah you two have met, it was that mare you met yesterday.” I inform her.

“Oh? Have you known her long?” She asks.

“Well we met in Canterlot when we were going to help Twilight, we hit it off really well. Now she wants to try more I guess.” I say feeling butterflies in my stomach just thinking about it all.

“Well then you were right to come to me! No worries now Anon, let lady Rarity do what she does best.” She says walking over to many different lines of color. “You need something bold, not too bright but something that suits you well.” She floats a few colors over to me and quickly withdraws them. “Yes I am thinking a deep blue.” She says holding up a navy blue type color. “Yes, this will do just fine.”

She then turns over to one of her sewing machines as she gets to work. “So tell me about this mare.” Rarity asks while working hard.

“She is a great pony. She is very forward, always telling jokes and has the best stories you have ever heard.” I briefly say.

“So, what has gotten you two so close?” Rarity asks.

“I am not sure really. I guess we just have good chemistry. She makes me happy and I make her happy.” I admit.

“Rainbow knows all about this?”

“Yeah..” I then lose myself in thought. “She oddly didn't feel shocked in the slightest, almost like she knew for some time.” I say thinking about how Rainbow felt.

“Well marked ones are able to feel how their loved ones feel about others clearly. Perhaps she could feel the connection before you yourself knew?” Rarity offers.

“I didn't know it worked like that.”

“Well of course it does!” Rarity states. “It's so romantic to think that two ponies can totally understand each other's feelings.” She says briefly getting stars in her eyes. She quickly shakes it off as she returns to her work.

“I guess.” I say not sure how to continue.

“So..” Rarity pauses. “You seem to be in a great mood.” She looks over at the door as she whispers. “Did that ‘you know what’ go thru?”

I look over to the door and see a shadow casting from underneath. I can only assume that's Sweetie Belle listening in.

“Actually yes, Celestia says that she can come home tomorrow.” I make sure to pick my words right.

“Well congratulations!” Rarity says with excitement.

“Thank you.” I then think of the letter she wrote. “I really can't thank you enough actually. That letter, I wish I could do something to repay you.”

“Oh I didn't say anything that wasn't true Anon. No need to repay me for something that was all your own doing.” She gives me a reassuring smile before putting on some finishing touches. “Ah yes this is exactly what I was going for!”

Rarity pulls the fabric from the sewing machine and seems to produce an entire suit from it. I get up and walk over to her as I examine the suit closer. It was definitely beyond what I was expecting. Then again I was never a fashion guru so what do I know?

“Well try it on darling!” Rarity says with some excitement.

I don't question her as I quickly strip down and dawn my suit. It's funny how when sex isn't possible how comfortable you can strip around another person, just a forethought. The suit fit like a glove and felt amazing against my skin. I bet a suit like this in our world would cost thousands!

“Wow.” Is all I say as I look back to Rarity. “Another masterpiece.” I compliment her.

“Oh darling no need for flattery.” She says with a large blush.

“I am not kidding here this is beyond what I could ever imagine. So what do I owe you?” I ask feeling totally inclined to pay.

“Oh there is no need to pay! I made this for you!” She says trying to push the subject aside. “Think of it as a gift for the excellent news you have received.”

I let out a sigh. “Alright, I will pay you back though. Not sure how but mark my words, I will pay you back” I say with finality.

“So serious.” She says rolling her eyes. She doesn't think I will but it's going to happen. “Well darling when is this date of yours?” She says looking at the clock.

I follow her to the clock as well and notice that the time has flown by! I have been sitting here for two hours?!

“I-I gotta get home quick!” I say feeling some panic setting in. “Thanks again Rarity!” I thank her once more before I storm out the room.

Thankfully Sweetie Belle wasn't there anymore or else she might have been clocked pretty hard by the door. I run out the store and quickly sprint towards my home.

(An hour later.)

I just sat in wait for Grace. I have never been so nervous in my life! I can't help but look at the clock and watch it go by as I wait for her to show up. On my sprint towards home I made sure to pick up some roses, I know it's old school but sometimes old school is still the best. I just think of what to say to her. Should I tell her about Scootaloo early on or later? I can't help but feel that maybe I should tell her after, maybe thats a good move or maybe it's my worst. Guess I won't know till it happens.

My mind is broken from thought as I hear the sound of someone knocking on the door.

“Just a moment.” I say just before taking a few steady breaths and getting up to answer the door.

Once I open the door am I greeted with a sight that truly made my jaw drop. Grace was in a dress! I mean, it was a fancy dress like the many I have seen in Rarity’s shop. It was a deep blood red that fit her form perfectly, showing off her curves. I noticed she was wearing shoes as well, they were a much lighter red. As my eyes travel up higher I take notice of the red lipstick and black eyeliner she is wearing. Her mane and tail looked like they have been groomed for many painstaking hours.

“S-so how do I look?” She says keeping her eyes to the ground.

“Beautiful.” I feel slip past my lips.

She looks up to me with a certain twinkle in her eyes. Once she gives me a once over does she seem to blush even more.

“You don't look too bad yourself.” She says with a smile.

“I-uh.” I then remember the roses. I quickly hand them to her. “Here.”

“th-thank you.” Is all she says as she sticks her snout into the bouquet and takes a large bite. Well.. I wasn't expecting that to be honest. She takes notice of my expression. “Is something the matter?” She asks after swallowing.

I just look at the boquete and quickly turn my gaze to her. “ugh, no. Just a silly misunderstanding.”

Honestly I shouldn't have been too surprised. I have seen some of the ponies eating flowers in their food before. It's just not something I kept in mind when I bought the roses. It's small stuff like this that keeps throwing me off.

“Are you alright?” She asks looking to me with some worry.

“Just a human thing.” That’s pretty much the only way to put it. “So, where are we going?” I ask her after setting the roses on a nearby counter.

“I reserved us some seats at a local restaurant. I hope you don't mind being in public.” She says with a blush.

“Its no problem Grace. Please, lead the way.” I say motioning for her to exit.

Grace and I now stood on the outside of a rather romantic looking establishment. I have to be totally honest, I wasn't even aware Ponyville had upscale places like this. Grace wasted no time to enter as she walked up to the maître d'.

He raised a brow at us both. “How may I help you?” He asks looking to Grace.

“Y-yes I had a reservation under the name Grace?”

The pony looks over his books for a minute before returning his gaze to Grace and I.

“Follow me.” He says, picking up some menus as he shows us to our table. Grace and I both take our seats as we are handed out menus. “A waitress will be with you shortly.” He says before returning to his post.

I look over to see Grace looks very nervous. This isn't like her normal self. Then again she never did seem to like the idea of dating. She has her eyes glued to the table as she twiddles her hooves.

I reach over the table and take her hoof into my hand. “Grace.” She looks up to me. “It’s alright.” I say giving her my best smile.

She takes a few breaths. “Heh. I swear I haven't been this nervous since I first joined the guards.” She takes a few more breaths. “I gotta admit I am not really in my element here Anon.” She looks up to me, still nervous but better than a few minutes ago.

“I know and it's fine.” I let out a chuckle. “I am not really use to the whole dating thing either. Rainbow and I kinda just, well, we just kinda fell together.” Not what many would consider as a normal relationship but I wasn't complaining about it.

She chuckled a little at that as she looks at my hand on her hoof. “Yeah, you two seemed destined to be together. Even when we first met I could see you two had something special.” She looks up to me with a smile. “I am happy that I even get a chance to sit at a table here with you. I know many mares have been wanting something like this, yet, I am the one sitting here.”

As much as I wanted to enjoy this moment, I can't but feel a little bit of information gnawing at the back of my head. The reason the others probably backed off was most likely because of the adoption, but Grace has not yet heard about it. Would she too change her mind? She seems to take notice of my discomfort as her nervousness picks up slightly.

“I.. I have to tell you something Grace. I just want you to listen until I am done.” I say getting a little bit serious.

“W-what is it?” She looks terrified right now.

“I went to see Celestia today for something important. Rainbow and I, well, we decided to adopt that little filly you met a short while ago.” I can she that she has caught her breath. “I know what this means to your culture. I-I didn't know that at the time.” I let out a sigh. “What is happening right now between us.. It has nothing to do with that. This is a date, and, I don't want you to think of it as anything less.” I squeeze her hoof a little harder. “I just thought you deserved to know.”

She seems to relax a little as it all settles in. Soon the shock on her face turns to a large grin.

“How am I not surprised.” She chuckles a little. “I seen how you were looking at that kid. It was obvious.” She shakes her head with that grin still plastered on her face. “You are sometimes too kind for your own good slick.”

That pet name of hers calmed me down considerably. I could see in her eyes that she understood and was more than happy for me.

“May I take your order?” A waitress suddenly appears from nowhere.

We both fumble a little as we quickly look to our menus and quickly order. The waitress was soon gone to leave us to our personal business.

“So, tell me more about your day?” I ask Grace with a smile.

She chuckles. “Alright, but you go after.”

Grace and I walked out of the restaurant with smiles on our face. We had a great time as we talked about various things. I have to say all in all it had to be the best date I have ever been on. Slowly we made our way to my house as we exchanged in some more idle chit chat. She told me about how guarding Ponyville was the easiest job she has ever had. It seems she has no problem with the idea of a good vacation, even if this is still technically a job.

I told her more about Scootaloo and also about how happy Rainbow as about it all. It didn't take long until we stood at the foot of my home.

“You know slick, this was a great date.” She says looking up to me with a smile.

I smile back at her. “I couldn't agree more.”

She shifts a little as she looks around nervously. “I-I should probably get going. G-goodnight.”

I see her swallow hard as she closes her eyes and leans up signaling to me that she wanted to kiss. Well, I wouldn't want to disappoint a lady. I lean down as we both meet in a first kiss. I feel her jump a little as we made contact but soon fell into the groove. We both broke apart, just a simple kiss after a date.

“Goodnight Grace.” I say with a smile.

She looks up to me practically beaming. “See you tomorrow?” She asks with hope.

“Do you even need to ask?” I say with a chuckle.

“Hey you two!” Rainbow lands next to use with saddlebags fulls of something. “So, how you doin?” Rainbow leans close to Grace while waggling her eyebrows at her.

Grace’s face lights up red. “F-fine. I-I should be on my way.”

Grace tries to turn to leave but Rainbow quickly throws a hoof around her. “So, how was my stallion? On his best behavior?”

“Of course I was.” I say with my arms crossed in mock anger.

“Sorry Anon, this is mare talk.” Rainbow then tosses the saddle bag at me. “Bring that inside, I will be in shortly.”

I just let out a sigh. “Sure. Goodnight Grace.”

She just gives a nod as I show myself inside.

{Time: Early morning}
(Perspective: Scootaloo)

I haven't been able to sleep since I got back here. I have been tossing and turning all night to try and find some peace. I roll over onto my side and look to the wall that has become a part of my life. Since I was little this wall has always been there. I roll over again and look deep into the room at the other fillies and colts that inhabit this place. I hate to think of it's name, it is simple a place.

I let out a sigh. I wish I could be at Anon’s home right now. He is so nice to me and he also has Rainbow Dash as a marefriend. Rainbow Dash! The coolest pony in all of Equestria! I would give anything to be friends with her and Anon just came out of nowhere and got her like that! I guess he is pretty cool though. I think of the days that have passed with Anon. Sweetie Belle has been acting kinda weird around him. I wonder if Applebloom has noticed at all? The sun slowly started to rise for another day. I let out another sigh. Time to move on as I always have.

I got out of bed and got ready for School as fast as possible. I would be very early, but that was normal for me. The real reason why I got up so early though is because I am hoping I will bump into Rainbow and Anon. I pack my saddlebag as I take my leave. I detour from my usual walking route towards Anon’s home. Not so close that it would be weird but not so far away that I might miss seeing him.

I didn't need to walk long until I could pick up the chatter of ponies around me. I didn't like it much but many of the ponies would still whisper about Anon while he wasn't listening. Though this was also a sign that he was nearby as well.

“Another early day?” I perk up as I notice Rainbows voice.

I turn around with a smile “Y-yeah!” I berate myself for being so excited. “uh, I mean, yeah. Just thought I would get an early start.”

A new voice suddenly speak up. “Well you can't start the day off without a good meal.” I turn around and see Anon looking at me with a smile. He then looks to Rainbow Dash. “How about we hit up sugarcube corner?”

“Great idea.” Rainbow says with a grin.

I stood my ground unsure if I was invited or not. Though that didn't last long as I notice Anon had stopped and looked over his shoulder.

“What are you waiting for?” He asks looking to me.

I couldn't help but smile as I quickly follow after them. I am following behind them as they lead me to sugarcube corner. Something about them seems off today. It wasn't much but I noticed that they were acting different. Anon kept looking over his shoulder to me with a smile, While Rainbow Dash kept chuckling to herself. Though it didn't last long as we walked thru the door to the establishment. Pinkie didn't waste anytime to show us to a counter where she placed some treats before us. On the house as she said.

I quickly ate my cupcakes happy to have eaten something. I didn't feel too hungry yesterday so I decided not to eat dinner that night. Though now I feel incredibly hungry. I let out a happy sigh. I then see another cupcake being pushed in front of me. I look over to see Anon had done that.

“I don't feel hungry. You have it.”

I can see he is giving me an odd look, I am not sure what it is today but he seems different. Though I am not going to turn down another cupcake for breakfast! It didn't take us all too long to finish until I look over to a clock and notice it was getting close to my time to get to school.

“Well I gotta head out.” I say with a sad sigh. I wonder if they even know how much I like being around them.

“Yeah I have to head to work.” Anon looks to the clock as well.

“I still got some time. I can walk you to school if you want squirt.” Rainbow looks to me for an answer.

“Sure!”

She chuckles a little as she looks back to Anon. “See you later big guy.” They both lean in for a kiss. Which honestly made me want to gag on how sappy they act around each other, but I guess that's how adult ponies act.

“See you later Dashie.” He says with a grin.

ugh, now I really do want to gag. Though luckily we all move on as Rainbow walks me to school.

“So how have you been doing squirt?” Rainbow asks while we walk.

“Alright I guess.” I say not really feeling too good.

“You sure? You seem kinda down in the dumps.”

I let out a sigh. “It was just all that work on Applejack’s farm yesterday.” I answer even though I know that wasn't the truth.

If she knew it was a lie, she wasn't showing it. “Alright.” We continue our walk.

“So what were you and Anon up to last night?” I ask curious on what I may have missed.

I quickly see her face turn up in here. “uh, nothing. Just dinner and stuff.” She looks really nervous. “Some redecorating.” She says while giggling.

I never thought decorating would be fun. I mean even decorating our clubhouse wasn't that great. So why is she giggling about it?

“Sounds boring.” I say honestly.

“You would think that.” She says with a grin. “Trust me, it was rather fun.”

“If you say so.” I look up to see that we had finally made it to the schoolhouse.

“See you later squirt.” Rainbow says with a smile.

I smile back at her. “Yeah..” I then remember my curfew. “Later.”

I walk away towards my friends which I spot easily as they are currently chatting about something.

“What you mean he’s up ta sumthin?” I hear Apple Bloom say as I move closer.

“I swear I heard it!” Sweetie Belle says.

“What are you two talking about?” I ask walking up to them.

“Sweetie Belle here says she hear Rarity and Anon talking about sum mighty secret stuff.” Applebloom says.

“What about?” I ask curiously.

“I don't know, but it sounded really big!” Sweetie Belle says.

“What did you hear?” I ask interested in what it was.

“Well, it was really hard to hear through the door but I caught a couple of words about his home and something about Celestia.” She says not looking too sure.

“Do ya think Celestia found a way to send im back?” Apple Bloom asks.

I felt myself freeze up at that. “H-He did seem really happy today.” I say honestly.

I could see Sweetie Belle tearing up. “What if he leaves us!” She says.

I shake the thoughts away. “No, it can't be that. I mean Rainbow Dash was happy too!”

“Maybe she’s going with him!” Sweetie counters.

Again I felt myself freeze up. Could it be true? Could Anon and Rainbow be leaving?

“T-This is crazy.. It’s, probably something else.” I say trying to convince myself.

“What else could it be!” Sweetie shouts looking more emotional by the second.

“Well, what other reason would he need to see Celestia on such short notice?” Apple Bloom points out.

I couldn't help but feel worse as the evidence seemed to stack up. It all made sense. If he was talking to Celestia about his home then obviously that means he was going back to his world! It explains why he was so happy today! The thoughts die out as the school bell rings. I let out a sad sigh, I guess this is the last time I will see him and Rainbow.

{A few hours later}
(Perspective: Anon)

Today I asked for a day off. Thankfully Aloe and Lotus are awesome mares and let me have it. The reason I asked for the day off was to prepare a feast for Scootaloo’s homecoming. I had already visited all the shops I needed and had purchased our meal. Thankfully I wouldn't need to cook anything, because Rainbow also got her day off as well. I walk into my home and set all the groceries and sweets down.

“Got it all?” Rainbow trots into the room.

“Got it.” I say showing her the goods.

“Alright, so this is what I am thinking. I get this all cooked up and set out. You head over to Applejack’s and see if you can score some cider. Once you get back then we can..” She moves a little closer to me as she rubs against me. “Relax.”

Oh that definitely made me want to hurry back. “Alright. See you soon Dashie.” I say leaning into a kiss.

We broke apart as I made my leave. Thankfully it was early so that means Applejack should be setting up her applestand in town. I spot it immediately as the mare in question slowly starts to display her wares.

“Hey Applejack!” I call to her.

She turns around to me with a smile. “Howdy Anon. What ya need?”

“Rainbow and I are planning a feast for when Scootaloo comes home with us today. So, we were wondering if you had any Apple family cider hidden around.” I say with a smile.

She rubs her chin in thought. “I reckon I might. Thing is, what are ya willing to pay.” She says with a smirk.

I let out a sigh. “What do you want?” I knew bargaining wouldn't work now, seeing as I told her what I needed it for.

She chuckles. “It’s alright Anon, consider the work you did yesterday as payment.” I let out a sigh of relief. “Just head on up to the farm and tell Big mac to pull one out of storage.”

“Thanks Applejack.” I say giving her a hug.

“yeah, yeah. Ur mighty thankful. Now hurry on and get.” She pats my back.

I let her go as I give her one more thanks and head over to sweet apple acres.

I return to the house with a large barrel on my back. I have to admit that I wasn't expecting a barrel full, but I am not complaining. I had more than a few beads of sweat rolling down my head as I carefully knock on the door. What I find surprising is that when the door opened I was face to face with Grace.

“Need any help?” She says snickering at my now wobbling legs, this barrel weighs a lot.

“Th-that would be..” I let out a pant. “Great”

She walks over to my side and somehow shimmies the barrel onto her back. Without any stress she easily carries that barrel into the house.

She stops and looks back to me as I close the door. “Must be nice to have a strong mare that can carry things.” She shows off a little by doing some squats easily.

“Yeah, yeah. You’re big and strong and I am pretty weak.”

She snickers a little. “Well, I didn't say it.” She then carries the barrel over towards the kitchen.

I walk into the kitchen as Rainbow spots Grace, she then looks over to me. “Awesome, this is going to be great! So how much it cost?”

“Nothing. I helped her out on the farm yesterday.” I say as I take a seat to cool off from that long haul. “So what’re you doing here Grace?” I ask with a smile.

“I just thought I would stop by for a quick visit. Rainbow told me you were out and invited me to help cook.” She then looks over to a trash can and I spot some smoke coming out of there. “It didn't really go well.” She says with a nervous chuckle.

“Well, I guess you are the brawn, Rainbow is the cook.” I say with a chuckle.

“What does that make you?” Rainbow calls to me as she pays close attention to whatever was on the stove.

“The alien?” I question.

She looks over to me and gives a quick nod. “Good enough for me.”

“So Rainbow told me that you’re bringing that kid here tonight?” Grace asks.

I give a nod. “Sure are. Today's the day we let her know that she can live with us.” I start to feel my nerves pick up at the thought. “Do you think she will like us?” I ask looking to Grace.

She pats me on the back. “I got no doubts about that Anon, that kid loves you.”

I let out a sigh. “I hope so.” I then look to Grace. “Do you want to join us?” I ask.

She seems taken aback by this. “Really? Wouldn't you want it to be just you and Rainbow?”

“Well, Scoots really liked you too.” I look over to Rainbow. “What do you think?”

She clops down onto all fours as she walks over to the table we were sitting at. “Yeah, I got no problem with you staying.” She says with a smile.

“Well, alright.” Grace says looking a little flustered.

“Maybe tell her another one of those many stories you have.” I say with a grin still remembering the last story she told to Scootaloo.

She calms a little as she thinks. “I think I have a couple more she would like. Like the one time I accidently arrested a wonderbolt.”

Rainbow quickly takes a seat. “Oh man this I gotta hear!”

Grace chuckles. “Sorry, but you’re just going to have to wait.”

She lets out an aggravated sigh. “Fine!” She walks over to the stove again to check on the food.

I look over to a clock. “It's almost time to pick up Scootaloo. Think I should head over there and meet her early?” I ask looking to Rainbow.

“Yeah, go meet her and keep her busy for awhile. I think I need another two hours or so before everything is ready.”

I get out of my seat. “you coming Grace?” I look down to her.

“I think I will stay here and try to help.” She says with a nervous smile.

“Alright then, just don't burn the house down.” I say with a shit eating grin.

“Ha, ha.. Just hurry up.” She says walking over to Rainbow.

“Be back.” I say as I walk towards the door.

I stood outside of the school house with a great deal of excitement. Rainbow and I talked last night on how we planned to play this day out. I would meet with Scootaloo, do some crusading or whatever she wanted. Then we would head back to my place for the feast. I was hoping everything would go according to plan. Soon the bell rang out as the kids came running.

I spot the three crusaders from afar and they look a little down to be honest. They take notice of me and soon start to exchange words with each other. I can't hear then from this distance but it looks like they are arguing over something. I decide to just walk over to them as they quickly exchange a few more hush tones with each other and look back up to me.

“Hey girls. What’re you up to?” I ask.

The all look to each other. “Just trying to think what to do today.” Sweetie Belle says looking on the verge of tears.

“Is everything alright?” I was concerned by this.

I see Apple Bloom elbow Sweetie Belle. “Uh, y-yeah!” She quickly rubs her face a little. “Just a little tired.”

I wasn't buying it. But if they don't want to tell me then they don't have to. All kids should be allowed some secrets.

“Got anything planned? Some crusading or something?” I ask trying to lead them into doing something.

“I-I think I need to help Rarity with another dress now that I think about it.” Sweetie Belle says before walking off, looking very depressed.

“I need to help Big Mac with some harvesting.” Apple Bloom said looking sad but trying to hold a smile.

“Alright.” I say watching the two walk off towards their homes. I look down to Scootaloo. “Do you have anything planned?” I asked knowing she probably doesn't but was hoping she wouldn't make up anything.

She looks up to me with a very sad smile as she shakes her head. “I don't have anything planned.” I have a really bad feeling about the way she is acting.

I think of what we could possibly do. “You know, I don't think you have ever seen where I worked before. Want to see what a spa is like?” I ask.

She just gives me a nod. “Sure.”

I feel worried about why she is acting like this, but I hope that later tonight she will forget about all her problems.

I walk into the door to the spa. Today was one of the days they stay open a little later than usual, lucky me.

“Oh mister Anon. I thought you were going to take the day off for you-” Lotus stops as she sees Scootaloo walk into the building. I told Aloe and Lotus why I needed the day off and they were very understanding.

“Hey Lotus. I thought I would come by and show Scootaloo what my job was like.” I then smile a little. “You know, it's kinda boring to see what I do.” I then set some bits onto the counter. “Aloe, show Scootaloo what it's like to be at a spa.. Full treatment.” I say the last part with a grin.

She smiles at me while Scootaloo just looks confused.

“A-Anon I don't think I should. Isn't it kinda girly?” Scootaloo tries to reason.

“Grace sure liked it when she came here.” I say looking to her.

“Really?” She looks surprised by that.

“Yup, so why not just give it a try?” I ask.

She looks around a little nervously. “Alright.”

Lotus looks to Scootaloo with a smile. “Don't worry, we will treat you well.” With that Lotus leads Scootaloo off into the spa.

Aloe soon comes into the room to greet me. “So you brought her here?”

I gave her a nod. “I need to distract her while Rainbow gets everything ready. What better place than here?” I say with a grin.

“Oh that is so sweet! I will be sure that your daughter’s stay is much enjoyed.”

That daughter part kinda hit me hard but I quickly recover and give her a smile. “Thank you. Just, remember to keep the daughter and dad stuff from her. It's still a surprise.”

“Of course.” She says walking off towards the back to help Lotus out.

I let out a sigh. “What to do, what to do.” I say while twiddling my thumbs.

{an hour later.}

I didn't find anything to do other than stare off at a wall for hours. Kinda sucks not to have the internet anymore. That would definitely be a great time waster, then again I am pretty sure that Twilight would become a recluse if she ever found wikipedia. I hear the soft patter of hooves as I turn my sights to something adorable.

Aloe and Lotus have completely redone Scootaloo’s mane and tail making them more well brushed and styled. Her hooves were clean and her coat was sparkling. I could tell Scootaloo felt a little embarrassed but that would pass in time.

“Ladies, you did great.” I say as I take my stand and look Scootaloo over.

They both giggle as Scootaloo begged me. “Can we go now?”

“Sure, let's go.” I say showing her out.

“See you tomorrow!” Lotus calls to me.

I give them a wave as the door closes shut.

“So how was it?” I asked Scoots.

“It was, weird.” It all she says as she tried to truff her mane again.

“I think you look really pretty.” I say honestly.

She just blushes at that. “Well, I don't like it.” She had finally got her mane to how she always wears it, looking just like Rainbows. “So where are we going?” She looks up to the sky. “I will need to get back before it's too dark.”

I grin a little inside. “Don't worry. We are just going to have some dinner at my place. Then I will show you home before it's too dark.”

“Alright.” Is all she says as we head towards my home.

It didn't take long for use to reach our destination.

“Rainbow!” I call out as I walk thru the door..

“Already back?” She calls from the kitchen.

“Yeah, how's it going in there?” I say taking off my shoes to get comfortable.

“All ready.” She says with a giggle.

I wave Scootaloo to follow. As we enter the kitchen we are greeted by Rainbow and Grace as they put on some finishing touches on the massive feast that has been set out onto the table. I look down to see Scootaloo is happy but then shifts to sadness.

She looks up to me. “What’s the occasion?”

“Something big has happened. I will tell you later, for now, let's eat.” That only seemed to bring her more dread as she takes her place at the table.

We all take our seats and eventually dig in.

Everyone was full and feeling good. Grace had enthralled us all with many stories of her adventures in the guard. Some of them sounded too good to be true but she swore by each and every one she told. Sadly she has work tomorrow so she left shortly after finishing one of her tales. I helped Rainbow clear the table as Scootaloo went into the living room to relax a little.

“I got this.” Rainbow says. “Go check up on the squirt, she seems kinda down in the dumps.”

I gave her a nod as I make my way to the living room. I find Scootaloo sitting on the couch with a thousand yard stare. Something must really be on her mind. I walk over and take my seat next to her.

“Are you feeling alright Scoots?” I ask her as she just looks out the living room window.

She lets out a sigh. “I wish you didn't have to leave.” She says out of the blue.

“Leave? What do you mean?” I ask unsure as to what she was talking about.

“You’re leaving back to the human world!” She starts to shed some tears as she turns away from me.

“What? Who told you something like that?” I was truly confused as to why she thought this.

“Sweetie Belle said she heard you and Rarity talking to Celestia and something about home. What else could it be! Th-the big dinner and why you been acting weird all day.” I couldn't help myself when I started to chuckle a little at her explanation. “It's not funny!”

I put my hand over her shoulder as I pull her to my side. “Scoots, I am not going anywhere.” I say with a smile.

She sniffs the tears back some. “Y-you’re not?”

“Of course not. I am here to stay.” I ruffle her mane some.

“”But, Sweetie Belle..”

I cut her off. “What Sweetie Belle heard wasn't any of her business.” I see Scootaloo’s ears pin back. “What she heard was something between Rainbow, myself and you.”

“Me?” She looks confused.

I look out the window and see the sun had already set some time ago. “Follow me.” I stand up as Scootaloo follows me upstairs. I get to her room and push the door open to show it has been decked out with all sorts of posters and books. She walks into the room amazed. “So what do you think?”

“I-It's awesome.” She then turns back to me. “Why did you decorate this room?”

“Well, it was Rainbow’s idea. How do you like it?”

“It's great.” She paused for a second. “Why do you care what I think?”

I look to my side and see Rainbow has joined us. I lean my head forward towards Scoots hoping she understood. She gives me a single nod as she takes a step forward.

She just smiles at Scootaloo before simply saying. “Welcome home squirt.”

Scootaloo pulls back in confusion as she looks around the room and then back to us. It seems that she can't even find any words to say. So I decide to talk.

“Since I am not a native Equestrian, I had to talk to the princess about adopting you. She told me that I could bring you home today. That is what Sweetie Belle heard.” I say to ease her thoughts. She keeps looking to both of us, then back to the room unsure of the whole things. “This is your room.”

Once I said that doesn't she seem to snap out of it. “My room?” She looks up to use both as we both nod. “I-I don't have to leave?”

“Well, you still need to go to school.” I say with a grin.

“You also still need to play with your friends.” Rainbow says also with a grin.

I walk over to her and take a knee. “But when it's time to come home.” I look to the room. “You come here.”

I see as her eyes fill with tears as she pounces up to me in an embrace. I caught her as I just held her to my chest as I stroke her purple mane. She is quietly sobbing as Rainbow too comes over and wraps Scootaloo and myself into an embrace..

After our little emotional display. It took a few minutes to calm Scoots down, but she was so tired that we set her into her bed and let her sleep. Making sure to switch on the wonderbolts night light before we left. Rainbow and I fall onto our bed totally exhausted and large smiles on our faces. I roll over so I can face Rainbow.

“I think we did good.” I say.

She nods at me as she faces me. “Yeah, I think she really likes it.”

I pull Rainbow to my chest. “And you were worried.” I say grinning at her.

“Yeah, yeah.. I think it was because of the decorations.” She tries to fight.

I chuckle at her. “You know as well as I that she would have acted the same way if that room was barren.” I got a playful punch in the arm from that. I pull Rainbow closer and nuzzle her neck a little before pulling back. “You did great on that room Dashie.”

She was blushing as she leans forward to nuzzle me now. “Thank you.”

I let out a sigh. “Emotional day. I think I am going to sleep good tonight.” I say lying on my back as I slowly close my eyes.

Rainbow snuggles up closer as she lies her head onto my chest. “Yeah, so am I.”

With that we both slowly drifted off into a peaceful slumber.