That Way

Chapters

Chapter One
Chapter Two
Chapter Three
Chapter Four
Chapter Five
Chapter Six
Chapter Eight
Chapter Nine
Chapter Ten
Chapter Eleven (Read Authors note)
Chapter Seven

Chapter One

Derpy was living the life she wanted to live. Some would disagree, but with her fiance, and her nice home, everything was alright. Well, Derpy had to admit to herself that it could be a little better. Jet, her future husband, was not as happy and energetic as he used to be. Her house was, okay, but it could be bigger. Last but not least, she wished she had a little more money. But Derpy always found ways to be happy. If it was her muffin from Sugarcube, that started her out at the Post office early in the morning, or her bath at night, after finishing her long day. Sometimes she found it to be ponies in her life too. Applebloom, and gang would always find it funny when she did flips in the air. All her mail would rain out of her bag, and land on the little fillies heads. It made them smile, and it made her smile too, so it was okay, even when the customers would complain about their dirty mail. Most of her customers were happy, and have big smiles on their faces when they got letter from relatives really far away, or something about being accepted into a school, or even sometimes they would have money in them. They were magical things she delivered that made ponies smile, and she loved smiles, and that is why she enjoyed her job. Most of the time though, Derpy delivered bills, it was still fun to do though. Working for the local post office was not always so easy. Derpy's eyes made it hard to fly straight, it made things complicated when she had to deliver a letter far away. It was long hours too, she almost could not stay awake when she came home late. After filling out her accident reports, and a ton of paperwork, she was happy to come home. Jet was not so happy to see her though. The unicorn would ask why she was so late, and Derpy was forced to tell him about the accidents she had that day. He would usually be mad at her, yell at her, and maybe call her a few names, but she loved him. Jet is why she came home every night, because they would have a big fancy wedding, they would kiss, and everyone would think Derpy was really beautiful in her dress. Jet did not like the idea, but he said she loved her all the time.

Today was a usual start to her work. It was a crisp fall morning. News buzzed around town of the soon coming winter, and how the pegasi promised a lot of snow. It was already coming early this year. This was her favorite weather, when she could dress in her winter clothes. Today Derpy threw on a scarf before leaving, to enjoy the September air. She stopped and got her fresh breakfast muffin, for free, at Sugarcube Corner. Pinkie Pie was working, and she always gave her free muffins, since Derpy always brought her packages with clothes for Gummy. With a farewell, she would be on her way. It was a little different today though. This was her first day back to work after a week vacation. Her boss, Narley, told her to take a vacation after a incident, and that she needed to stay low. She did drop a lot of cargo on her good friend Twilight Sparkle, and after all the money the company had to pay, he said that it was necessary. Narley was actually a very nice pony. He was a tall, and skinny pegasus, the race of most workers there. He would always take the fall for Derpy, and let her off easy. Her big boss though, which Narley always complained about, would sometimes figure out about her accidents. Again, he would take the fall, and she would be let off. This time though, Narley said it was really close, and to stop by his office later at the post office. He was always working, and always busy. He used to be a young, happy pony, but when he started working here, he lost his charm. He was a surfer, and had trophies from all the contests he was in all over his office. Narley's name was also a cool name for surfing, but everyone calls him Ryan now, and he hates it when Derpy calls him that. She does it anyway.

After eating her breakfast while flying, she flew the rest of the way to the post office. She would pick up her papers, organize her mail, check in, and be on her route. The ponies there ignored her though, especially Rose, who was with Derpy during the Twilight accident. She decided that maybe when she dropped off Twilight's mail, she would say sorry in her free time. She did not know though, she may need the free time today. Derpy was not feeling good at all, and did not get up well this morning or for the past week vacation.

"Hey, Ditzy" One of the stallions said, his tone was low. He was tired like everyone else in the breakroom, all waiting to get their routes. Good thing for Derpy, nobody could bully her now, because they were all exhausted.

"H-hello" She replied

"So... where have you been?" It was Atlas, he was a newer worker. Young and had a letter and compass as a cutie mark. His father was her big boss.

"I had a week off"

"Oh, a vacation? I guess they gave you some time off" He looked at her, she did not look so well. "Hey, are you okay?"

"yeah... It was a vacation I guess. I am alright, I think I'm just a little sick. I had a big dinner last night"

"Okay... Just be careful" Atlas worried about her often. She looked after her as well, with Narley.

"Well, thank you" Ditzy picked up her mail bag. Atlas looked at a clipboard, and then handed her the route.

"Shh, I will get you out of here quickly. Don't tell anyone I gave you your route first" Derpy blushed.

"T-thank you"

The post office was really big. It never failed to amaze her. It was a big building, with 3 parts. One for mail and the workers area, one for the offices, and one was for the customers. Derpy walked over to the garage, and it opened when she stomped her hoof on the wood beams. Immediately, she closed her eyes while the cold air blew in her face, and under her wings she opened. It was set high up, with a platform for the pegasi to fly out of, and bring cloud carts in to. Derpy flapped her wings, feeling very tired, and sick. Her delivery's were all the way across town. Not exactly what she wanted to do now, but whatever the job required was what she would do. Derpy liked ponies on the other side of Ponyville, it was where Twilight lived, also Lyra and Bon-bon were there too. The CMC also seemed to be up to there shenanigans there, since the school was located nearby too. Derpy had not been there lately, due to her vacation. The last time she was there, she crushed Twilight on a sky delivery. The air caught under her, and brought her up into the air. The pegasus looked back at her co-workers, who one by one started to do the same. The sun was rising, and Ponyville was waking up, it was a beautiful thing.

The first delivery she had was to a older woman, the mail she gave her was obviously just bills. She had many deliveries to make, before her break. It was at 12, after she met the required letters she had to deliver, Derpy would go to the deli and get a fresh daisy sandwich. Today however, she would go to Twilight's and apologize. Her stomach still hurt badly, her dinner was not that big honestly. It started to worry her, as she got dizzy while in the air. Derpy shook it off, it was probably her eyes playing tricks on her. After a good amount deliveries, to multiple homes that she knew, it was around 10. It would get boring sometimes, and lonely. She would think of Jet, the wedding, her break, her friends, and sometimes she would just count the ponies walking by to pass the time. Derpy was not so fast, she took her time, but the other ponies would make fun of her for it. Calling her dumb, stupid, and slow, but honestly she was just simple. She was not dumb, she just did not let some things bother her. Ditzy found that good, that she did not let things pull her down. She did her job with a smile. It showed when at 11, she saw her favorite fillies playing in the grass by Rarity's place. A big smile came across her face, when she flapped her wings, and landed near them.

"Hi Ditzy Doo" Sweetie Belle said, stopping a soccer ball Applebloom kicked to her.

"Hello Ditzy" Was what Scootaloo said, walking over to her.

"Howdy!" Chirped Applebloom

"Hello guys! How are you?" Derpy responded to the three. She definitely liked them, she got along well with the many school aged foals around her town. "Playing soccer?"

"We are doing well. We are playing soccer, we are actually playing a lot of sports. Scootaloo said that Rainbow Dash was really good at a lot of sports, and that a lot of ponies have sport Cutie Marks" Sweetie Belle's squeaky voice replied with a smile. It was funny seeing her sweaty and her white coat stained. Her sister was such a pretty pony, she would probably be mad at her for getting that way.

"Yeah! How cool would a soccer ball cutie mark be, or a football, or a golf club!"

"Well Applebloom, that is a lot of sports and a lot of work. I am just doing it because Rainbow Dash does it" Derpy loved the way all their voices squeaked. She missed the days when she was adorable.

"I know Rainbow dash!" Derpy said a little too excited. The girls smiled.

"We know you know Rainbow Dash" Applebloom giggled. She went off with Sweetie Belle to begin kicking the ball back and fourth again. The grass was nice and damp in front of Rarities house, it had the smell of fall sports. Derpy smiled, watching the two, Scootaloo found a way into Derpy's stretched mailbag.

"Hey, what are you doing in there?" She giggled

"I'm just getting comfy" Scootaloo said, laying down in the crinkly mail. "Can I talk to you?"

"Sure!" Derpy said with a smile "J-just, don't go in there, my mail will get dirty" She had trouble saying no sometimes, but Scootaloo hopped out, fluttering her wings.

"You are a really good flier, you fly all around Ponyville and deliver the mail" Scootaloo said, pulling her wing down. It tickled a bit, but she accepted it.

"Yes, I don't know if I'm a good flier though, I can't fly very fast"

"Yes..." Scootaloo said, with her feet in the little bit of mud on the ground, and wings extended. "But Rainbow Dash said that some ponies are fast, but others have a lot of endurance" Scootaloo compared her little wings, to her one long one.

"Endurance?" Derpy was confused by the word.

"Uh- it means you can go for a really long time without getting tired. The other day she said she had to work on it. Rainbow can go REALLY fast, but gets tired quickly too. So after thinking about some ponies who can fly for a really long time, I thought of you!" The little filly answered, letting her fold her feathers back up.

"Why thank you, I never had anyone say I was a good flier before"

"Well I think you are!"

"I'm happy you do. Other ponies... well they can-" Derpy began to say. Scootaloo cut her off, knowing what she was about to say.

"I know you don't like to talk about it.... but even though your eyes are not so straight, you still fly really good. I know some mean ponies can say that you are not good, but it is not true. The bullies at school say I am stupid because I can't fly" Scootaloo said, her mood going south.

"Oh, cheer up. You will learn soon enough. We all fly eventually. My mom told me, that the most beautiful flowers, bloom the latest. So even though you can't fly now, maybe you will be able to fly really, really good in the future. Maybe I can help you"

"Will you?" She said, putting her head back up "That would be awesome! Can you teach me now?"

"Oh... well Scootaloo, I'm working right now. I have mail to deliver! Maybe tomorrow on my break" Derpy said with a smile "Besides, it is kinda hard. Flying does not come so quick. It all comes from your-"

"Heart... I have heard that before" She said rolling her eyes "Aww please? Rainbow Dash is always busy too, maybe on your break today?" Scootaloo said, giving her puppy eyes.

"I would say yes, but I am not feeling so good. I also have to see Twilight" Derpy replied, patting her head.

"You are not feeling so good? Uh-oh. Maybe you should see a doctor. I heard there is a pony flu going around, and I don't want you to catch it. Most of Ponyville depends on you!" Scootaloo smiled.

"Aww, thank you, nopony has ever said that before" Derpy blushed a little. Scootaloo hugged her leg, and it made her gently grin. "I think I am fine Scoots, I am a strong mare, it is just a belly ache. Not a flu."

"No problem, get well soon" Scootaloo mumbled, with her arms around her leg and head squished up against it. She let go, and before she left, they kicked the ball back and fourth with the other two fillies. When she did leave, they all sweetly gave her a good-bye, and Derpy did as well. Meeting the CMC daily was often a good push to get her working again, and lift her spirits. They were very sweet girls with a lot to say.

It was around 11:30 when Derpy finally finished talking to the girls. This was the time of day where Ponyville really started to get moving. It was when the customers began to walk over to the market and begin shopping, and the school foals would start going to school. The nice thing about Applebloom, Scootaloo, and Sweetie Belle, is that they only had a hour of school on weekdays. Applebloom was even more lucky, she did not have to go on Tuesdays and Thursdays, so that she could have extra time to work on the farm. Today was a Wednesday, and a perfectly good work day. The mail ponies were up in the sky, ponies down at the market were hollering deals, and a lot of earth ponies were up on the farm working. This is the time of day where you would see a lot of busy mothers, and mares. All the stallions were working the stands, or out on the fields. Derpy got in more deliveries, and sadly her stomach got more and more upset as she went on. She stayed strong, it was only a little. Nothing that could stop her from working. She did decide that she would use her break to talk to Twilight. She would shave sometime off her afternoon break, and work really fast so that she could not only apologize, but ask her why she was so sick. The more Derpy thought about it, she did not really feel good for the last couple of days. Maybe Scootaloo was right, and she was getting the pony flu. It would hold her back so much if she did, she already had a vacation. One of her deliveries was to the school, and a few more bill runs, back fourth in her little area on the other side of the town. Getting tired easily as she went on, she thought about some things to get her mind off of it.

After her last few deliveries, which she did very quickly, Derpy was exhausted. Scootaloo did say she had endurance, but definitely not today. Even with the boost Scootaloo gave her with the compliments, she just could not push through the wall she hit. Her wings began to slow down, and her heart began to slow as well. What was going on? It was pure exhaustion. Maybe it was that she was not getting enough sleep lately. It was 12, and Derpy was relieved that it finally was. Thank Celestia her long break was here. Twilight always seemed to treat her nicely when she came over to, with a nice cup of coffee. Derpy knew almost everyone in Ponyville, but Twilight and her friends were definitely ponies she found herself talking to a lot. The 6 get around, and are pretty popular due to their status with the princess. Twilight was good to get with when she had a medical problem, or a question, Rarity would always dress her nice when she needed to be, Fluttershy was good to relax with, Pinkie Pie gave her muffins, Rainbow Dash was a pegasus she would see all the time in Cloudsdale, and Applejack would always supply her with fresh apples. On top of all this, she found herself delivering letters to them often. So when Derpy landed on Twilight's doorstep, it was not a surprise to get a friendly smile, and greeting.

"Hello Ditzy!" Twilight said, shaking her hoof

"Hi Twilight, It's my break... I just stopped by because I wanted to talk" Derpy noticed how fast she healed.

"Well, come in. We can have a nice cup of coffee. Spike brought in a really nice brew this morning from the market. I ordered it special"

"Special? Is it your birthday?" She turned her head, walking in and wiping the little bit of mud from Rarity's grass.

"No..." Twilight giggled "It is my anniversary of being Celestia's student. She sent me a letter reminding me, and I decided to treat myself to something a little more expensive today. I wanted to share with someone, how about you sit down and have a cup" Derpy was happy that Twilight did not seem to be mad at her.

"O-oh, no thank you. Not if it is expensive"

"Please Ditzy, It is no problem at all, I want you to. It matters how much time you have though, if that is the case, I will not hold you up" She pulled out a chair with her magic, Derpy sat down.

"I have a long break" She lounged back, Twilight poured the bag of ground coffee beans into a cup with a film. It had a little hole on the bottom, that the coffee dripped out of. She put it over a pot, and it started to drip. Twilight sat down.

"So, what did you want to talk about? I have a lot of time too, I decided not to read any books today." She looked around "I don't know if I can do it" She said with a giggle. Derpy took her mailbag off, and wrapped it around the chair.

"Well... Twilight. I just wanted to apologize about what happened last week. It was a accident, and I am really sorry. I don't exactly know what went wrong, and I just hope you know I feel very bad. I hope there are no hard feelings-" Derpy put her head down, until she was stopped by the purple unicorn.

"Ditzy! Don't feel so bad. I have magic, and I fixed myself quickly. There is no need to be so upset over it. Is that why you came over? You are a very friendly mare, I can't hold a grudge. Besides, I was focused on something I should not have been focused on, it is 100% fine." Twilight reached over and patted her back.

"Well, it is just that I have been having some problems lately. Work has been hard, and Jet has been... well depressed, and I have not been getting a lot of sleep"

"Oh Ditzy, it is okay" She stopped herself from questioning what Jet's problem was. Twilight already knew that Jet was a general dick. She met him in her studies in Canterlot. Someone that used Derpy. Twilight knew that although Derpy had her handicap, she was naturally beautiful, and cute. Jet could easily take advantage. "You should give yourself a break"

"Well, Twilight I did! I had a week vacation right after our problem, and I still did not get a lot of sleep. I have not been feeling very well in the mornings lately, and Jet is not helping."

"Well, do you think you are sick?" Twilight said, getting up and pulling out two coffee cups.

"There is a flu going around, but my belly just hurts" Derpy said, looking over at what she was doing.

"Hmm, well I'm no doctor, but I can help you. Go through the list, see if you have anything I know of. It probably is just a bug." She began pouring the hot coffee out into the two mugs. The steam came off of them, it smelled strong and delicious. She went over to her fridge and pulled out some creamer and sugar. They were put on the table, and Twilight slid her cup over to her. Derpy began to prepare her coffee, it was too hot to drink.

"O-okay Twilight, my coffee has to cool down, so we can do that."

"Alrighty... Now I may have to feel around your abdomen a bit, you will be okay with this right?"

"Of coarse Twilight, just be gentle... okay?" Twilight nodded, as Derpy bit her hoof. She did not really like being examined by doctors. But who did.

"Of coarse, you can trust me" She pulled her up, and they walked over to the middle of the library floor.

Derpy stood their, a little sick and dizzy, while Twilight went upstairs and washed her hooves. She came back down and skimmed through a book, looking up some possible problems. The amount of books she had was unbelievable, and Twilight probably knew everything if the rumors were true. Spike said that Twilight must of read every book in there twice, and that she was always shipping and trading with Celestia's library. In that case, she was probably a genius, and everyone knew it. A lot of people Derpy knew came to Twilight when they were in trouble. She ran all of Winter Wrap-Up! She is a leader, and leads many events around the town, and is the voice of wisdom. Twilight however did not want to brag. She was good at magic, and smart, but it did not make her better then anypony. That is why she did not exactly want to tell Derpy that Jet was abusing her, and that a lot of her problems would be solved if she left him. It would sound like she knew a lot about relationships, but she really didn't. But, Twilight knew, that Derpy was easily convinced. Her bosses told her that she was really upset when she was not, and Jet tells her she is worthless, and she is not. People took advantage of a beautiful, unique, and friendly mare like that, and it made Twilight upset that ponies would actually do that. Derpy moved around a little, nervous. Twilight locked the door and came by her side.

"Now... im going to ask you some questions okay?" She felt her stomach for knots. Derpy shook a little bit, as her hooves moved around her stomach. It was a little awkward.

"Yes" Derpy answered, a little nervous. Twilight stopped and did not feel anything.

"How has your diet been for the last week, I know you were on a vacation." Twilight levitated a book over to her. It was "The Big Book Of Pony Problems" and it could figure out what was wrong with a pony by answering a series of questions. Twilight turned to stomach pains.

"Well, I would eat a muffin every morning, packed with things that are good for you, I would have a daisy sandwich for lunch, but on Thursday I had a hay burger, and for dinner it changed every night, but it was actually the same stuff I have been eating honestly" Twilight turned the page, Derpy looked down.

"How long has this been going on, a week right?"

"Yes... about a week, and it has been getting worse through the days. It gets better at night though" Derpy sighed, another flip of the page by Twilight.

"Umm" Twilight got a little nervous to ask this one, but she still asked it and smiled awkwardly "Uhhh, have your- bowels been functioning... correctly? Where has the pain been really..."

"Y-yes. It has been in my stomach, almost like i'm sea sick" Derpy blushed a bit.

"Have you.... hmm.... Do you have any history of having this before"

"No..." She let out a deep breathe getting bored.

"Is anyone in your home sick?" Twilight focused harder on the book.

"Nope"

"It is probably a simple bug Derpy" Twilight sighed, shutting the book.

"Well... This is not normal! Something is wrong, I can tell..."

"Stress maybe?" Twilight thought about it, Derpy was not someone who would put up an act being sick. She is a pony that would not say anything if she was sick. One time she had a head cold, and was sniffling so badly, and looked so sick, but somehow she was still doing the mail. If she was whining over a stomach bug, it would not be her, something was up, and Twilight could not pin point it.

"Please Twilight" She asked.

"Well.... uhh" Twilight looked around, and she levitated the pages through the book. Maybe she would just ask her some BS questions to make her feel better. But honestly Twilight had no idea, she looked through some more questions in the book. "Im going to ask you a few more questions"

"Go ahead" Derpy said rolling her eyes.

"Normal urination?"

"Y-yes...."

"Are you taking medications?"

"No"

"Are you allergic to anything?"

"No"

"Uhh... have... you eaten anything not supposed to be eaten"

"No Twilight"

"Uhh" She began to get nervous, she didn't know. It was probably nothing. Twilight still had some more embarrassing questions, but she was thinking of just skipping them because she wanted her coffee.

"When was your last period..." Derpy opened her mouth and Twilight put the book down "I don't know Ditzy, you have to see the doctor. You aren't someone who complains, so there must be something wrong, but I-" Derpy scratched her chin. Twilight turned her head. "What?"

"Uhh... the last question" Derpy said with her head down.

"Yeah, I know. I'm sorry I asked you about that stuff. I know it was probably another pointless 'no', it is just-" Twilight sighed when Derpy cut her off.

"N-no... my period... It was due a week ago" Twilight really did not want to talk about this topic. She was getting somewhere, but she was definitely not the type of mare that knew about problems... back there. Twilight did the right thing and flipped the pages. Probably worth a shot, but she would probably get more no's. Derpy was not the best patient.

"Have you had any problems... with that kind of stuff. Do you miss it often, is it heavy, light" She asked, seeing her blush. She felt bad asking these questions.

"No, my b-body does it right on time.....it usually is m-medium" She was nervous, and scared.

"Uhh..." Twilight rubbed her face "When was the last time you have seen the doctor"

"Last month" She said, looking around.

"Any...." Twilight paused "Any... sexual relations with anypony" Derpy froze up, and she put her head down, brushing her hoof against the floor "D-Derpy... you can tell me... I promise I won't tell anyone... we are getting somewhere"

"Jet and.... I have... umm... we"

"Have you?"

"2 w-weeks ago was my.... uh... first time... ever" Derpy did not look happy. Apparently what they did was not very pleasant for her. Twilight Knowing Jet from Canterlot, he probably hurt her.

"Derpy...." Twilight knew where this was going. It shocked her that it could be possible. Poor, poor mare.

"Y-yes Twilight" The grey pegasus responded, with her head so low Twilight thought it would hit the floor. She bit her lip. Derpy sniffled, and she felt bad that it could possibly come to this. Maybe a few more questions, but it was probably true.

"Did... you use protection?" Twilight chewed on her pen she was levitating.

"N..... no"

"Ditzy, do you understand what can happen when you don't use protection..."

"N-no... I was really scared though, and he was kind of rough, is it possible that he...h-he hurt something back there? I-I don't do that stuff Twilight... I-I promise, I was a virgin... and one night, he was a little drunk... and he... touch-" Derpy began crying, she was very emotional thinking about these things. Derpy was indeed simple, and hated getting into these complications. She did not want to ever do this, but again she had problems saying no. Jet hurt her... and Twilight knew she would pay the price. She was a little shocked that she did not notice.

"Derpy... when you Don't use protection...."

"Yes" Derpy's tear filled eyes looked up at Twilight

"You... you get pregnant. You have a foal... it is possible that can happen" Her eyes widened.

"W-wait..... am I?" Derpy said. She was really emotional now, she had no idea how to feel. If she should feel mad, or upset, or happy, but all sorts of thoughts she did not want to think about filled her head. A foal? A child? Another one of her running around on its little hooves? A foal that would depend on her, and that she would have to feed and bathe, but worst of all with Jet? She was not ready to go this far with Jet! She barely understood what having a baby is. What is it like, the pain, birth, and how ponies look at you. Derpy saw Mrs. Cake when she was pregnant with her twins, her stomach was so big. Mrs. Cake was a large mare too! She was young, and her body was fragile, how would it hold a foal?

"Well.... yes, there is a good chance that you are pregnant Derpy...." Derpy looked around distressed, Twilight walked over to her. She broke the news to the poor mare, of the many complications she would suffer. She knew all about the magic of friendship, but she had no idea how love worked. The changling queen got extremely powerful from it. But this was not even the magic of love, or even friendship, it was... parenthood, and a entire dark side that Twilight never studied. She would have her mare things, but she never, ever, thought about having a child. How in the world would this innocent mare deal with it.

"Twi-twi-tw-t-t" Derpy pulled Twilight close to her and began crying on her shoulder. She never felt this bad in her life, but she gently patted her back. Twilight would write about this to Celestia, and she will help her get through this. She may even convince her to get rid of Jet. Derpy was a simple, and innocent mare that Twilight would not watch suffer through this, and she knew that she would use her friendship to help her. Derpy was going to be a mother now, and join the cycle of creating new life. It was sad that Jet had to take her innocence away from her, but Twilight was going to help her. Help her get through one of the biggest mysteries of life.

"Lets have that coffee... We will talk about it. It's okay Ditzy Doo. You will get through this, I promise" Twilight turned the sobbing mare, and lead her back over to the table.

Chapter Two

Being gently guided back to the table by Twilight, Derpy's flank sat back in the chair. She put her head in her hooves as she would sniffle every few seconds. She noticed how emotional she was. She never cried! But now Derpy had a surge of emotion she could not stop as she sat in Twilight's wicker chair by the table. Twilight could not do anything but sit back in her own chair, and wait for Derpy to get a hold of herself. What would having a child even be like? Everyone would look at her funny, and more ponies would make fun of her. Then she would have to take care of a foal. Jet would probably be really mad, and yell at her for not being more careful. Derpy had no idea what to do, where would she go when she needed to learn how to change a diaper? Or feed him or her? Her mother lived far away, and wanted nothing to do with her, and she did not have any siblings. Twilight only knew so much, there are probably books, but she would need another mother to help her. There was way too many questions she had, and she was really nervous, and scared. At the same time she was a little excited. It would be nice to have a little foal to be running around. Derpy did like to think she was good with children. Would it be a filly or a colt? Or a unicorn or pegasus? Twilight could probably also help her with that. So there were some good things, but it was a good idea to take it day by day. Derpy would probably keep it to herself, until it was obvious and would continue work. The extra weight would probably make flying a lot harder. She wondered if it would make her customers think differently of her. What would the CMC think? Especially Scootaloo, they probably would not want to talk to her anymore. She did not know if school fillies even understood it. Derpy sure did not.

The only experience Derpy had with foals, young newborns, was one time when she was little when she looked over a neighbors. Her neighbor had to quickly run to the market, and she watched her 5 month old colt. He slept most of the time, and when he woke up, she rocked him back to sleep. That was about it, and that was when she was 11. Derpy's childhood was not so bad, she grew up with most of the older ponies around Ponyville. Rarity was in her grade school class, along with Applejack and some other common ponies like Lyra. Derpy actually was not bullied that bad in grade school. She had a few that would make fun of her, but she was often defended by Cherilee. She was extremely nice, and after she graduated, she would usually come and help the teacher with the new class. The best thing about her is that she was cool. All the fillies and colts would look up to her, she always would wear the newest and cutest styles. Derpy was her favorite. She would help her when she was hurt, tell her stories, help her in class, and stop any bullies. She was almost like a sister, they did not talk much now though. Her mother, was not so loving like Cheerilee. Derpy would do as she pleased, and her mother ignored her. She reminded her a lot of Jet. Derpy's mom just sat around all day, usually drinking, and calling Derpy names. Her father was away in Canterlot as a royal guard, and would send letters back and fourth for her all the time. He loved her a lot, although her mom said she was stupid. That is what made her want to be a mailmare! Her father died when she became one though, he had a heart attack. After this, Derpy's mother became worse, and moved away. Derpy stayed in Ponyville, paying for the house she left behind with her mail money. That was where she lived today. It was somewhere that Derpy did not want her daughter or son to grow up in. The house was beat up and dirty, and brought back bad memories of when her mother would beat her. She would never, ever hurt her foal though. She finally put her head up and sighed, and decided to talk to Twilight who gave a awkward, but gentle grin.

"Cheer up... It won't be that bad" Twilight did not have any knowledge on how bad it actually was. It was a good idea not to make her more upset by telling her how bad it could potentially be.

"T-thanks Twilight..." Derpy took a sip of her cold coffee. Twilight's was still warm.

"You can stop by any time you want okay? Do you understand how everything works?" Derpy shook her head. "You will be pregnant for nine months. Your... lower area will grow as the foal grows. At 5 months they will be able to tell if it is a boy or a girl, and at 3 months they will know the race."

"They?" She was still a little shakey.

"Yes.... You can stop by, but I don't know that much about what you are going through. You will have to see the doctor for those things" Derpy's eyes widened "It is okay, they know much more then me, and you are in much safer hooves"

"I- Don't know. Who will teach me all the things I need to know? I.... Don't have a lot of friends" Twilight sighed.

"No... Ditzy you have plenty of friends. I can give you a couple of books, but please stop by all you want. I am sure you can be with my friends and I. We will let you be number 7 for awhile" Twilight smiled. Derpy was friendly, why not? Rainbow Dash may complain.

"Really Twilight? Thank you very much... I am just going through tough times. I don't really want to tell Jet" Twilight got angry hearing his name.

"Uhh... You can tell him, but if he hurts you I want to know" Twilight said patting her back, still pissed about him. "Take care of yourself. You have somepony depending on you now. Stress is not good for your baby, so don't be so upset about it" Derpy forgot about that. Everything she does will effect her child now. She had a lot of responsibility now.

"But... Twilight, how are you sure I'm pregnant?" Twilight bit her hoof.

"Well, all the signs say you are. I am usually right" She pulled out a small, long box. "Here, take this"

"What is it?" She said, looking at the strange pink box.

"It is a pregnancy test. Next time you have to.... pee... you go on this, and it will tell you if you are or not. There will be two pink lines if you are, and one if you are not" Derpy looked a little disgusted by how it worked, but she nodded.

"Thank you Twilight, I will stop by tomorrow. I kinda have a lot of questions.... and you may not know everything, but you know a lot more then most ponies. I will tell Jet tonight, but... I don't want to be a show off... so I am not going to really tell anyone other then him. Thanks for being a good friend, I don't know what I would do without you" She finished her coffee, and wrapped her scarf around herself. Last she slung her mailbag around her shoulder, and looked at Twilight. Her face showed she recently cried, and she looked down, very depressed. Twilight sighed, wishing this did not have to happen to such a nice mare.

"Good luck Ditzy, I will see you tomorrow. Get well soon okay? I am sure you will be alright." She lead Derpy to the door. She sniffled, and was cold. Her stomach still hurt. Twilight did not exactly explain why that was. She gave her a good-bye and hug. She flapped her wings and flew off.

It was hard to get back on track. It was 1:30 and she knew she was really behind. Derpy would have to really rush herself, and now she was sick and depressed. She was so scared, about telling Jet. What if he thought she was cheating on him? Or if he hit her? Derpy was sure the last thing he wanted to deal with was a pregnant wife. She got a few deliveries, and was very behind. Many of her customers questioned what was wrong, but she said she was okay. The mare did not want to make her customers upset, because of the problems she was going through. Derpy had to stay strong, for her foal. But for some reason, she still prayed that it was a false alarm, and that she could go back to normal. Things were already hard, she did not need a child to support. Good things came to good ponies though, and Derpy at least thought she was a good pony, so Celestia would be with her and push her through this. Her problems with Jet would hopefully end as well. She questioned him now, after what Twilight said about him hurting her. He did not fit the father image. Her scarf blew behind her, as she flapped her wings and looked for her next location. She landed and slipped the letters in the mailbox in front of a house, before taking off again quickly. She was in a rush, and now was scared she was going to get in even more trouble for not delivering all her letters. The faster she went, the more tired Derpy got, and the sicker as well. She was also worried about the test she had to take, and wanted to get a drink at a fountain. Her next stop was Rainbow Dash's house, which was really far away. She even thought about skipping it, which definitely was not her. They did look important though, they had the official Wonderbolt logos on them, and did not look like normal bills. She decided to begin flying to the cloud fort which was her house.

When she got to the doorstep, there was a mat under her that said "Welcome". Her house truly was beautiful, and was unique being in the sky, compared to the other houses on the ground. She opened her mailbox, and painted on it was her name in bright colors. Derpy smiled a bit at it, Rainbow had such a big ego. She was home, Derpy noticed the light on in her room. Derpy tried to stay quiet, not wanting to really talk since she had to move. But, Rainbow flew down, and smiled at her.

"Hey! What's up?" She said, Derpy turned her head trying not to get noticed.

"Umm... nothing, I'm fine.. thanks"

"Oh, something has to be up. You are being quieter then Fluttershy" She rolled her eyes "Come on, what's up. I am sure I can help. I am pretty awesome" It made Derpy smile again.

"Well... no not really"

"How has Jet been, and everything else? I see you are still doing the mail" Rainbow Dash looked at her bag as she hid the pregnancy test deeper into her mail.

"Uhh, everything is good... he is good too" Rainbow Dash turned her head. Derpy was always talkative, why was she so quiet? She was hiding something in her bag.

"Ditzy, something is wrong, I know it. You are not a very good liar. C'mon, I can help anypony. I am, like, really smart. I am one of the smartest pegasi in Ponyville. I can solve any problem" She said with a smile and her head up.

"No- I am fine really"

"Okay...." Rainbow Dash looked around for a minute, she had a evil grin on her face. Derpy did not notice, she just moved some cloud substance around with her front hoof. Rainbow was right, this was not the same fun loving Derpy she knew. When she was not looking, she snatched her sack.

"No! Stop please! That is my stuff, what are you doing?" Rainbow Dash chuckled.

"Oh please. You can't be hiding anything that bad. I will give you one more chance to tell me" Tears started to run down Ditzy's face. Rainbow looked at her and turned her head. She felt bad for her little stunt, she felt like a bully now. She could get cocky, but she was not a bully. Rainbow Dash paused. It was not expected for her to get this reaction.

"P-please" Derpy said a final time. Nobody ever made her cry, ever. Probably because she would never allow herself to cry. Rainbow decided to give the bag back to the pegasus. Derpy calmed down a bit, she was not mad when Rainbow frowned.

"I'm.... sorry Derpy. Something must be really wrong. I just made it worse... that was kind of mean, are you alright?"

"I am okay Rainbow... It is okay. I would be curious too" She wiped the tears from her eyes.

"You can tell me. I don't ever betray a friend. You are a friend, and I am just wondering what is wrong. You are never this unhappy. You are probably the happiest pegasus in Equestria! Is it bullies, I can get them! Where are they! Dashie will take care of you"

"No...." Derpy said smiling a bit "It is more personal... Twilight knows, I guess I can tell you"

"Okay... well lay it on me" Rainbow said with a smile. It was probably Jet being abusive. But other then that, what problems would Derpy Hooves have? What she said was true, Ditzy was the happiest pegasus in Equestria, always smiling and telling jokes. Having her like this was making Rainbow depressed.

"I don't know..."

"If you don't tell anyone, nobody can help you. Now come on, are you going to have smarty pants Twilight help you, or good ol' street smart Rainbow Dash. She always goes by the book! I will tell you a honest opinion." This annoyed Derpy. Rainbow obviously had no idea how to solve her problem. She did not want to make her think that she did not trust her though.

"I'm pregnant" Her jaw dropped.

"uhh... oh... well, umm. I- I- don't.... I didn't expect that." Rainbow smiled awkwardly. She could not really calculate that. Derpy? Pregnant? Chances are with Jet, her abusive, dick fiance that Rainbow Dash hated. She was the one out of all ponies she knew, that would end up with a child. Thinking about it further, she would not even believe her being pregnant after their marriage. She was not a pony who would be held up by a foal. Derpy was meant to be free. She stood their with a upset look, and Rainbow Dash sighed.

"so..."

"I- I don't really know what to tell you. Other then that you need to stay strong for your child.... but what were you hiding in your bag?" She looked at her.

"Well... Twilight checked me out, and said that there was a good chance I was. But to make sure, she gave me a pregnancy... test thing"

"Oh... who is the father?" Rainbow Dash knew it was probably Jet. Derpy did not come off as a pony who would be into anything sexual.

"J-Jet.... Well, I think... he is the only one... you know" It was terrible that this was done to her, and Rainbow Dash let out a little growl. Derpy didn't notice. "I have to go. But Twi said we would be hanging out a lot more, so I am sure we will see each other soon..."

"Alright. That sounds great. Remember, if you ever want to get a fly in, or if you just want to stop by, I am always here. I am happy you will be spending time with our little group, it was very nice of Twilight to offer it to you, and I am very excited to see what kind of mother you are. I think you are a good pony, and you will be a amazing mother. But just remember if you have a pegasus, I am the one to come to" Rainbow Dash said, putting her head up and closing her eyes with a smile. Her wings opened, and the sun shined down on her like she was some type of god. Her ego was so big it was funny, and it made Derpy giggle. She did it on purpose, and her plan worked to get her to smile. "But... Ditzy"

"Yes...." She said, her smile slowly fading.

"If Jet touches you, or yells at you, or hurts you in anyway, I want you to know. Jet... is uh... a good stallion, but sometimes he can be mean about things. Don't let him make you feel bad, HE is the one that did this to you. We will make sure he treats you right... you know what I mean"

"I... I understand. Jet has not been himself lately, he has been kinda mean. I will tell you if he does anything. Maybe another day I can tell you more about that.... but I really have to get back to work" She tightened her scarf. Rainbow gave a wave as the pegasus flew off.

By the way things were going, Derpy's tired body would not catch a break this afternoon. Work ended at 6:30 and it was 5. One more hour, before she could go home, take some medicine, and relax. Her stomach was someone better, but going home came with another thing. Having to tell Jet about what happened today, which made her stomach churn even more thinking about it. How her work was turning out, having still a ton of letters to deliver that she probably would not make it, she would also have to admit to Jet that she slacked off with the CMC, Twilight, and Rainbow. What a bad time too, Narley wanted to talk to her when she got back as well, Derpy forgot about that. The day was slowing down. Ponies were going inside to eat dinner and enjoy their families. She could see it as her time dwindled, until she was into overtime. She worked all the way until the sun set. She would fly by, in the twilight, her shadow in the light shining out the windows of the houses as she stood at the mailbox. It was cold, and when she looked through the windows, mares and stallions chatted with their children, all laughing. Derpy just could not get over how cold she was. The way this day was, the way things turned out, and how her life was going right now, it really brought a lot of emotions. It made her feel kinda out of place, as she was the only pony in the street. Some walking couples would come by, and give a polite wave, but Derpy ignored them as she was lost in thought about her own relationship. Twilight and Rainbow both mentioned Jet hurting her, and as much as she did not want to believe it, he was abusing her. It made her angry, made her want to do something, but Derpy was not a angry pony, who would probably stay trapped. Now with a child, she would have to care for, with a stallion she hated. Well, he was able to be loved, but after he had his accidents, he was intolerable. He used to be the cutest stallion, who was strong, funny, and had a personality. He did show off sometimes with his magic, and Derpy understood why he was upset. But why was she the target? He would never understand her pain now. She would love her child more then anything, and she wanted him or her to have a dad. That was another thing she never had, her dad was there, but never around. Derpy wanted a family, like what she saw in the windows of the dark and cold streets she was on. Right now she was only a shadowy figure, standing outside in the bitter cold September air. Working overtime, to pay for her lazy fiance, her home, herself, and soon her child. It was not fair that after sacrificing so much, she would go home and somehow be yelled at and hit. Derpy wanted to stand up, she wanted to revolt against the unfair actions... but when she ran the idea through her head, it was shot down. It would never happen, She did not know she was letting herself be used. She just wanted everyone to be happy, and until she understood that letting others step on you is not a way to do that, she would be stuck here for awhile. Ponies never understood that Derpy had thoughts, and feeling. Usually very logical ones. Just because her eyes were not straight, and she was clumsy, did not mean she didn't have feelings, and most of all thoughts on what was really happening to her. That's why ponies looked after her often, because Derpy just wanted everyone to be happy, and to do that, she did not share her opinion. She let people step on her, and that was not a good way to be.

Finally, the long day of depression, sea sickness, and nervousness was over. Derpy at least got her mail done, she was not filling out any reports tonight, and having Narley be mad at her. It was pretty late, and when she flew up to the post office, absolutely exhausted, the garage was open, but every other light was off. With a few more flaps of her wings, her hoof hit the wood and slid against the landing platform of the garage. She went to look who was nice enough to wait for her arrival, she stumbled a bit as her stomach grumbled, punishing her for overworking herself. Her ears felt like they were going to fall off with her wings. Her neck was tight from having it so low today. Narley looked at Derpy out on the runway, in the cold.

"Ditzy... what happened?" Derpy stumbled a bit.

"Oh... I uh... went overtime. You don't have to pay me... I didn't get my load done today. I was- s-slacking" Derpy covered her mouth.

"Of coarse I have to pay you. Look at yourself, are you sick?" Narley sighed "Don't do that, overwork yourself.... what's wrong anyway?" He noticed how broken she looked, and he crooked his head to the side. Seeing Derpy this way was not usual for him. She seemed to be depressed, and like everyone else, she knew that this mare was always happy. He went to walk over to her, and she threw her hoof up, stopping him. He thought it was pretty rude, until she turned and threw up off the edge. She collapsed and groaned.

"Oh my Celestia. Derpy? What is wrong with you?" Narley picked her up and noticed how cold she was. "Ditzy... why? You should have just filled out a report. This is horrible, you are so cold"

"I'm sick of- everypony watching after me. I am sick of always messing up, and I thought that this time I would... make you proud. I was already in hot water... Please don't fire me"

"I could never fire you. You're the sweetest mare here, we all make mistakes. You are sick, and cold though, you could have been really hurt" Narley rubbed her ears, they were stiff. "Let's get you inside"

Derpy was pulled into the break room, and put on the couch there with a blanket. She noticed she had to go now, and before she talked to Narley, she decided to go over to the bathroom and do her test now. Narley waited patiently, while she took out the little box and headed in. The idea was still gross, but once it was over, two lines did show. It was really no surprise. Ditzy threw the tester away, and went over to the couch and laid back down. She was handed a cup of some hot cocoa and Narly sat on the chair across from it. Derpy sighed, and Narley began to talk.

"Look... I wanted to call you into my office to talk to you. I never yell at you Derpy, and you never deserve to be yelled at, so don't say that.. I understand you need this job, and honestly, I understand what happened with Twilight. I just wanted to tell you, that I will always be here for you. Here to protect you, because I like you, and I know you enjoy this job. Everyone actually enjoys the job you do, and Ditzy, you really make our customers happy. I would never fire you because you slipped, I get that you are a little clumsy. But... just look at yourself. Something is wrong, and you won't tell me. Even this morning you did not look so good. Are you sick? Do you need more time off-"

"No! I don't need more time off! Please-"

"Ditzy? You still get paid, you like the job that much?"

"N-no... I mean yes! I love this job, but... I just don't like home" Narley sighed.

"What is going on at home that you don't want to be there. You live with your fiance right? Is everything okay with him Derpy"

"No... they aren't" Derpy looked down at her cup, she took another sip. It warmed up her chilled body.

"Is that why you were upset this morning? Did something happen last night?"

"No... I wasn't upset about that this morning. Jet has just been... depressed, but we did not have any major problems lately. Just yelling... It does not effect work though. I know you are just my boss" Derpy looked up at jet, her eyes showed that there was something horribly wrong, and Narley could tell.

"Stop thinking of me as your boss for right now. I am not helping you as a boss, I'm helping you as a friend. You are happy, everyday, without fail. A lot of the workers make fun of you here, and you still have a smile on your face. The old Derpy would never say there was something wrong. You telling me something is wrong right now, means something must be REALLY wrong. I can help you, a lot, not like other ponies with just words of wisdom. I can do things like give you time off, or pay you better, or find some way to keep you out of the house. Just anything to give me that old, happy mare back. Now please, you have been depressed today, and I noticed you were the couple of time I saw you in the steet on your vacation. Can you go into more detail on what is going on at home?"

"... Uhh..." Derpy had to think about this for a moment. She was afraid to explain everything, so she just decided to straight out tell him. "I.... I am pregnant, with Jet"

The room went a little quiet, other then the hum of the machines in the room. Derpy sipped her drink, and waited. Narley tried to think it over. He did not know much about their relationship, other then the word on the street was that Jet was abusive. He thought about what to say, and if he should force her to take off until the baby was born, and he would secretly continue to pay her. Derpy being pregnant was not something he expected, like most of the other ponies. It would be a shock if it was anyone her age. The difference about her though, is that she was such a sweet little mare that always wanted to be happy, and it was the same reason it shocked everyone else around town. Narley sat, and finally responded. He made himself clear, because he was the first pony that knew what he was talking about.

"That should not be upsetting to you"

"W-what?"

"That is a beautiful thing, I asked you for a problem... that is not a problem"

"W-well what about Jet, my job, and everypony will make fun of me"

"Ditzy, people will not make fun of you. They will be happy for you. I think you are being too negative. I know strong mares, you just have to push through it, for your foal. It may be hard, yes, but being depressed about it won't help. It isn't good for him or her. It may toy with your emotions, but Derpy, the world is filled with a lot of nice ponies, as well as mean ones. Everyone in town loves you, we will all support you. Jet may be a problem, but it is up to you to decide if you should stay with him" Narley took her cup that was empty and put it on the table. He smiled to show he was not being aggressive.

"Leave him? I would never... he loves me. I want it to have a father too, I never had that" Derpy moved around on the couch.

"It is worse to have a abusive father, then to not have one at all. I told you that it is your choice, but now you have to think for both of you. You may also have to redefine love in your head. Now, it is late, and I want you to go home. We can talk tomorrow, but after 5 months, I want you to have a break from here. I want you to be a good mother, and I am sure you will, to do that you will have to be happy. Don't let the world pull you down" Narley stood up and pulled Derpy up as well. He put his coat around her, and patted her back. She decided not to argue about the break. She was too tired, and now she had to deal with Jet. Narley offered to fly her home, but she said no. Derpy walked out the garage, and flew home alone.

After a long fly home, Derpy arrived in front of her beaten home. It was a older model, and needed some love, but it still was sturdy. It was one of the few older homes left, that was made by materials that costed a fortune in today's bits. She took some deep breaths in and out, ready to face Jet for coming home so late, and tell him about what was going on with her body. Her stomach filled with butterflies, which made the sickness worse, and she started breathing heavily. Extremely nervous about what was probably coming. She looked back and fourth at the dark empty street before walking in. She gently shut the door behind her, and the house was pretty dark, other then the family room at the end of the hall. It shined light out of it, and the shadow of Jet sitting in his chair. He hurt his leg, and cracked his horn in Canterlot while in a factory. He helped build balloons and other flying transportation there. One day the body of a Airship lost its anchor, and the massive body flew forward and whacked him right on the horn, causing him to fall back off a platform and break his leg. It was pretty tragic. He was a handsome stallion still though, with a light blue coat, brown mane, and airship cutie mark. His voice was deep now, and he was usually angry. After his accident, he was angry at the world. Derpy walked in. There was a two empty cans of beer by his chair. This was bad.

"Where were you." He said, in a tone that showed anger.

"I worked overtime-"

"You NEVER work overtime. Likely story, try again. Try something with less bullshit" Derpy frowned.

"I.. slacked off in work. I promise, I was really working overtime" He threw his arms down and got up from the chair. Derpy cringed when he slammed the recliner down and limped over to her, with a red face. He was more angry then he should have been, but the alcohol did that to him sometimes.

"YOU DON'T SLACK OFF AND MAKE A FOOL OUT OF YOURSELF. You support this house, yourself, and now me, you don't have TIME to slack off. What were you doing Ditzy Doo, huh?!"

"I-I-I said hi to some ponies... and I went over Twilight's and Rainbow Dash stopped me on my route" A swift slap went to her face. It made her emotions spill over again and cry.

"You went over Twilight Sparkle's house when you were supposed to be working" He growled.

"N-no... it was on my break... it took longer because.."

"You don't need a break! Damn it! You work your little flank off, and you don't stop. You understand that?! Or I will cancel the entire damn wedding and leave you in the dirt! Why did it take you longer? Why! Were you having tea and laughing while money went down the drain?!" Derpy felt herself lower as he got in her face, she sniffled.

"I was sick... she helped me." More tears ran down her face, and onto the floor of the kitchen.

"So... you could not just get passed it, so that you weren't wasting time, getting closer and closer to getting fired"

"I was actually sick though... and... and... I uh"

"SPIT IT OUT. NOW. Stop with the short talk!" He got more in her face, his eyes beamed, and beer was on his breath.

"I'm pregnant! I am pregnant! Please... don't hurt me! I am sorry.... so.. sorry" Derpy fell onto the floor, and began to cry into her hooves. He backed off. Jet's face was red, with anger, but at the same time it looked confused.

Chapter Three

5 Months Later~

It was another morning where Derpy woke up very groggy. She tossed and turned, groaning. She did not want to go to work today, she would rather just sleep in. To everyone's surprise, Ditzy Doo was her usual happy self again though. Other then getting past the morning sickness, cravings, hunger, and other symptoms of pregnancy, Derpy was smiling once again. She would do her job, give her friendly greetings and smiles. As of lately, nobody had made fun of her. Most of her friends around Ponyville congratulated her, and Pinkie Pie even talked about throwing a shower. She hung out with Twilight a lot now, and they would talk about a lot of things. Now that she was pretty far in, Derpy forgot about all the things that could go wrong. Now she only thought about the advantages of having a child. The night she told Jet, he actually took awhile to accept it. He denied that it was his child, and got angry. The next morning, it struck him that it was his, and lately, he had been quiet around Derpy, and out of the house a lot. He said something about looking for work, and that made her very happy. Jet still would not mention anything about the foal though, and he was just gone a lot now. Derpy doubted that he was actually looking for a job, for all she cared, he could be at bars. All that she knew, is that now that he was out of the house, maybe he could get himself together. Narley said to redefine love, and she did. Derpy still loved Jet, but she wanted him to change, or she herself would call the wedding off. Now that he was not around the house, he could not abuse her. The only time she saw him, was at night when he would lay in bed with her.

Today was the second week into her 5th month of pregnancy. She noticed Jet was gone again, and she rolled her eyes and chuckled. Derpy walked into the bathroom, and stretched. She flapped her wings a couple of times, spreading out her feathers, and twisted her neck around. When she looked in the mirror, she saw her eyes, and they made her giggle. When she turned, her stomach was hanging out under her. Somehow Derpy's small frame was carrying a foal well. She had some pain in her back, but it went away after awhile. Today was special, because it was her last day of work, before Narley gave her a long break. He even agreed to continue paying her, to support the family she was starting. For the last week, Derpy was delivering her mail to the houses closest to the mail station. Everyone in the office accepted that, now that she was carrying the extra weight. The disadvantage was that Derpy never got to see the CMC anymore, only the few friends she knew on the west side of town. When she flew over to Twilight's on her break, they were either in school, or at their tree fort. Derpy said she would help Scootaloo learn to fly, it was probably too late.

The last 5 months were definitely good for her. Not only did she learn a lot about what her body was going through from Twilight, but she also got closer to her little group. They would have picnics, go to the spa, go around town and help with any of the many mishaps that would happen, and they would swim in the lake. Derpy loved to go around on the weekends and see what they needed done. One time she helped Applejack make Zap apple pie, and she helped Pinkie make cupcakes. Derpy also would go on fly's with Rainbow Dash, and afterwards she would help Fluttershy with her animals. Then sometimes, Rarity even let her try on some dresses and be a model. The foal had been growing though, and she visited the doctor. She was not able to wear the clothes she used to anymore with her growing belly. It was a very healthy, unicorn filly. She was going to tell them today, all of Twilight's group were going on a picnic. It was okay, Derpy had to admit that they would talk about the foal more then they talked about her. When they were all together, they would gossip about if it would be a filly or a colt, the race, and a name. They also liked to talk about what mane and coat colors she would have, and if she would have her mothers or fathers eyes. She found it fun, especially when she could chow down on some of the delicious things they brought. It felt like Derpy was always extremely hungry now, it was one of the side effects.

It was a usual start today. Derpy got her muffin from Sugarcube, for free, and flew to the post office. She was going to end early today, so she could hang out with Twilight and friends. The first person she saw was Narley, her co-workers must have gotten out earlier then usual. There were usually still at least some ponies this late into the morning.

"So, is it a filly or a colt?" Narley let her leave early the day before as well, to go to the doctor.

"Oh, it's a filly! Like me.... well I am a mare... but" She chuckled "You know what I mean"

"Well, congrats. I kept my promise, and you will be aloud to end early today, and leave. As well as pay, just remember I'm doing this for you, you owe me big time."

"Okay, thank you a lot Narley" Derpy said, hugging him.

"Well, will she be flying for us some day?"

"Aww... no, she is a unicorn... It is alright, I wanted a pegasus to train too, but a little unicorn is fine" He sighed.

"That is awesome, you are coming along well, I knew you would. Well, I gave you your favorite route. I gave you a couple of deliveries on the east side. Not many, since it is a far fly, so when you are done, you can go with your friends. I will do your paperwork" Derpy blushed.

"Narley.... you shouldn't have. Thank you a lot" Narley smiled softly, and Derpy came in for another tight hug, which made his own cheeks turn red.

"Go along, the faster you get them done, the faster you can get out of here!"

"Thanks, I will get right to it" Her route was handed to her. She was going to see her CMC pals again, and all the ponies on the other side of town she had not seen in awhile. Lyra, Bon-Bon, Carrot, June, and many others she missed. Hopefully they did not think anything of her since she was expecting, but what Derpy did not know is that most the town knew. Pinkie Pie does not do a very good job keeping her mouth shut.

Flying was getting harder and harder. The doctor did said it would be a good idea to stop flying at 6 months, so she would have to take off from work anyway. Her endurance still stayed up, like Scootaloo said, but she was even slower now. Derpy thought she would be able to pass down her skill to her child, but it looks like she took Jet's genes. As for being a filly, she got lucky. Of coarse she would not mind a colt, but it was nice having a filly because she, herself would be able to bond with her more.

Narley was right, she definitely got lucky today, and had nearly no mail to deliver. After stopping by a few houses, she finally saw Lyra. After a hello, and a hoof shake, she congratulated her, and she continued. A couple of other ponies stopped her, and they would talk, but Derpy really wanted to see the Cutie Mark Crusaders. She wanted to talk to Scootaloo, and see how all of them reacted. Would they be interested? Either way, she promised Scootaloo a flight lesson. It was the end of January, and the pegasi did as promised, with a lot of snow. Derpy came out today with a scarf, a heavy jacket (That went over her bloated stomach) and a hat, making sure to keep herself warm. The ground was covered with snow, and every pony was wearing their winter gear. Since the pegasi started the winter late this year though, after promising to start it early, they would have to keep it going for longer. This wasn't a problem for her, but a lot of ponies would get sick of the cold weather quickly. After a few big storms, it became more of a problem then anything. By the looks of things, the snow looked freshly fallen and untouched today. This was a common site in the morning, but by noon, most of the school foals would get out and hop around in it. School was cancelled a lot, and today was no difference. It looked like it snowed hard the night before, and Derpy could tell because groups of stallions were plowing the streets. It was around 10:30, the time the 3 filies she loved came out. Someday she hoped her own daughter would be as sweet as them. She flapped her wings, hovering down slowly to see if they were near the big tree in Rarity's yard. It was covered in snow, with its branches bare. She did not see them, only their little hoof marks in the snow. They were around somewhere, the tracks looked new, and did not seem to trail off anywhere. Scootaloo came up behind the tree.

"Hey Scootaloo!" She said with a big smile.

"Hi Ditzy" She replied, not very loud. She brushed her hoof against the surface of the snow. She was in a coat, hat and scarf, that were a little girly for her. Sweetie Belle and Applebloom came around as well, both with snow balls. They dropped them and walked past Scootaloo to Derpy.

"Hi Ditzy Doo!"

"Howdy Ditzy!"

"Hey girls. I havent seen you in so long.. What have you been up to"

"Well, nothin' just tryin' to get our cutie marks... as usual" Derpy giggled.

"As professional snow ball fighters?"

"No.. well, not right now. We are just playing, but that sounds like a good idea, right guys?" Sweetie Belle said looking at Applebloom next to her, and Scootaloo behind them being quiet. It made Derpy nervous, was she mad? Hopefully she heard the gossip around town, and why Derpy was busy.

"I don't think there is a such thing. We are always trying to get our cutie marks! I'm thinkin' we need a break. It's hard work. Applejack said that we can take as much time as we need, and not to be concerned about it all the darn time" Applebloom squeaked, with a small grin. She picked up a snowball "Want to play with us? Or do you have mail?"

"Well... I have a little mail, I have a lot of time though. I just don't think I have much energy" The mare rolled her eyes. Scootaloo came closer, she was still being oddly quiet.

"Ditzy, Rarity said not to say anything... but.." Derpy kinda knew where this was going. She nodded, she would not be offended by her asking.

"I heard you were having a foal?"

"Well duh Sweetie Belle... Look at her stomach" Derpy's face turned a little red at Applebloom's comment.

"Y-yes... I am"

"Oh, okay. Well, does it hurt?" Sweetie Belle turned her head.

"Is it a filly or a colt!" Applebloom blurted out. Scootaloo finally came all the way up.

"Guys... I am sure she does not want to talk about it" Scootaloo sighed. She was frowning, and didn't look happy. Derpy was starting to think it was over the flying thing. She felt bad.

"Oh no, I like talking about it. It's fine, it is a filly, and she is a unicorn... holding her isn't that bad" Derpy turned her head and smiled at Scootaloo. She walked over and patted her on the back.

"Yes! A unicorn! Maybe I can teach her magic!"

"Aww, Applejack said that it may be a partner to go buckin' with"

"Well at least she is a filly Applebloom"

"You're right! We can make her a Cutie Mark Crusader!"

"Won't we be kinda old?" Sweetie Belle squeaked, moving her head.

"Well somepony has to take over when we leave" The two smiled, and Derpy look down at Scootaloo as Applebloom and Sweetie Belle moved behind her. She gave a light smile, and patted her back again. She did not seem very interested in what Applebloom and Sweetie Belle were talking about.

"Hey... what's wrong? I haven't seen you in awhile, is something bothering you?" Scootaloo sighed.

"Well... yes a little. I just haven't seen you in so long. I have missed you... and I know Sweetie Belle already knew, and Applebloom too, but I didn't. Are you okay?" Derpy giggled.

"Never been better Scootaloo. I am fine, don't worry about me. I did not think you cared so much. You really missed me?"

"Of coarse, other then Rainbow Dash, I kind of look up to you. Rainbow can... well, kind of show off. But you are really friendly, and have always talked to me a lot. You have even let me stay over when I did not want to sleep at the orphanage, well, until Jet came. I am just worried, that now that you are going to get married, and have a foal, that you won't spend time with me anymore.... I know you can't do tricks like Rainbow... but you just are a lot like me" Derpy's face lit up, and her cheeks became redder. She was touched, and never thought she had a follower.

"You are like me? Oh... I don't know, I am just clumsy. You are graceful like Rainbow, you don't want to be like me..."

"No Ditzy, you are special! Don't say that. You are different, and I like that. I am kinda different, because I am a orphan, and I can't fly, where most fillies and colts my age can. We are similar, and it is nice to be myself around you, where I want to act all cool around my other idol. Around you I can be myself, and you will listen" Derpy always liked Scootaloo, she was sweet, and kind. Derpy did not notice she liked her so much.

"Scootaloo, you are so sweet... I would never do that. I am always doing the mail, so we can see each other more often. I am a little different... yes, but I don't let that hold me back from the being best I can be. I learned from a lot of different things, that being special, or weird, or different, is good. I mean, do you think ponies thought Star Swirl was normal?" Derpy smiled.

"No.... He was really weird" Scootaloo chuckled.

"Exactly! He was one of the smartest ponies that ever lived! Twilight is a little weird too, but we still love her. Having a foal isn't a bad thing, it will be nice don't you think? I heard their coats are snugly, and they are really cute. When she is born, you can come by all the time! I will deal with Jet... don't you worry" It came to Derpy that Scootaloo was a orphan. She lived in a very nice home, but Derpy always wondered when she would be adopted.

"Thanks Ditzy... Just don't tell Rainbow"

"I won't... I am sorry I could not get those flying lessons in"

"No, it is fine. Actually, Rainbow is helping me with that now. I would not make you stay out here in the cold" Derpy looked down at her bag. She wanted to get it done, so she could go over to Twilight's

"Alright, well I am going to go. You will be around, I just have a few deliveries today, then Twilight, her friends, and I are going on a picnic" Derpy hugged her.

"Okay, thanks. Congrats by the way, I hope some day I can meet her" Derpy began flapping her wings, and hovering.

"Oh, I am sure you will" She smiled.

"Aww, leaving so soon... bye Ditzy"

"See you later!" Applebloom and Sweetie said, as Derpy began to fly off again.

It was a easy day. She actually got all of her deliveries done by 12, just in time. She was really lucky, because they were all on the same street. She moved house to house, and even got to see Cheerilee. They waved, and said Hi. She was a little surprised that she was pregnant, but they talked still. Afterwards, she flew around a bit, and thought about things. Like a name. She loved names that were related to others in the family. Derpy's name was not Derpy, of coarse, that was just a nickname. She got it when she was younger, and never really understood what it meant, but everyone in town called her both. Her real name was Ditzyon Doodle, after her rich french ancestors, but when her parents moved to Equestria hundreds of years ago, her last name became shortened to "Doo". Ditzyon was a famous ancestor of hers who was known for something Derpy did not usually remember. But that was shortened to Ditzy as well, and her father always told her Ditzyon was a silly name, and that his own mother told him to name her that. Derpy definitely liked her nickname the best, it sounded happier. Ditzy just felt like a clumsy name, and she knew she was clumsy, but she did not need a name to make it worse. So, Derpy wanted something with a D, and something simple. Jet was probably not going to care anyhow, so when she got more time, maybe she would ask Twilight for a book or something. The foal was growing up so fast, she felt bigger everyday. Now she was kicking, and moving around in there. Derpy only felt it once, but the doctor said it would be much more common. She was excited to tell Twilight what the doctor said. Twilight sounded like she was interested, being that this was something she never saw before. Everyone else seemed to mention it too much, now anyway, it was not something that Derpy would now always want to talk about. She was still a social mare, and she hoped that she was hanging out with Twilight for more then just the baby. She flew home and put her bag away, flying out again to Twilight's. When she arrived, all her friends were waiting outside and talking. They held blankets, and baskets for the picnic. They also wore winter clothes. Derpy wondered how they were going to pull out a picnic in the snow. Most of them greeted her when she landed.

"Hiya Ditzy! Did you enjoy the muffin I gave you this morning? It was freee~! Even better, it is a new recipe."

"Yes! They were very good!" Derpy shook Pinkie's hoof. "I need to get more... oh my Celestia they were awesome.. I love muffins"

"Hello Ditzy, how is everything? You went to the doctor as planned right?" Derpy turned to Twilight and shook her hoof

"Eeeyup"

"Now ur soundin' a lot like my brother. What'd the doctor say?" Derpy greeted Applejack.

"It is healthy... everything is coming along well. I will tell you guys everything when we get to our little spot"

"Well.... foals are like... well kinda, like animals. They need a lot of love, and cuddling, just like the baby bunnies at my home. They are so cute when they are little" Derpy chuckled a bit and rolled her eyes at Fluttershy.

"I don't think it is that easy" Rainbow Dash patted her on the back.

"How has Jet been?" Rarity stopped her, by pushing her a bit.

"Rainbow Dash! That is personal mare business! How could you say that out loud in front of her" Rarity said, coming closer to her ear. "You can tell me. I know a lot about stallions, I can help you" Derpy shrugged her off.

"Uhh.. he has not been around lately. I don't really want to talk about the baby or Jet right now... it should not be the center of... well, attention right now"

"Well of coarse it sh-" Twilight put her hoof in front of Rarities mouth.

"We understand Ditzy. We have a nice spot picked for the picnic"

"And I made fresh muffins! Just for you! Because it is ALWAYS your special day now!" Pinkie said a little over excited, it was usual for her.

"It is right by the farm, lets get goin' girls. My fresh apple pie is going to get hard" Applejack started leading Twilight and her friends down the road. Derpy followed along.

It was the usual with Twilight's friends. Derpy did not exactly like it, but she was usually shut out when they were in a group. However, when she mentioned anything about the foal, they would all start poking her. She did not like that about it, and it is why she kept it hidden for a good amount of time. When it was just Derpy and one of them, it was a little better. Pinkie Pie usually just rambled on as they baked, while Fluttershy surprisingly did too, but in a quiet manner. Rainbow Dash would talk all about herself, and would even do tricks when they were on a fly. Rainbow would often ask Derpy about personal things, in a attempt to help her. Rarity talked all about gossip, and how she said that, and he did that, and this said this. Applejack talked mostly about work, and she would sometimes complain about her friends to her. Honest Applejack sometimes found herself talking behind others backs. Last but not least was Twilight, she was the best. They would drink coffee, and Twilight would talk about Celestia, then Derpy would talk about her job. It was back and fourth, but the others seemed more one sided. You would think Fluttershy would be the same, but once you got to know her, she could really ramble on. Derpy only had to mention that once though, and then she would probably stop.

The spot Applejack picked was nice. It was on the edge of the hill her farm was on, and you could see all of Ponyville. Derpy could point out her house, and the post office from here. The area was nice and plowed, and the weather was a little cloudy, but not so bitter in her winter gear. They laid down the blankets over the glazed grass, pulled out the baskets, and began to feast. She was really hungry as usual, and started to chow down on the muffins Pinkie brought. Good thing for her, the last picnic nobody ate them, so she could shovel down as much as she could. Derpy found herself making a pig of herself, but the other 6 talked and rambled on, gossiping. Derpy kept to herself, until she wanted to speak up. Applejack talked about the farm, and Rarity talked about her new clothing line. It was typical, and was usual for every picnic. Derpy slipped into the conversations. When they started to quiet down, she began to talk.

"So... I thought you guys would want to know the race and gender of the foal"

"I am sure it is a pegasus filly, one that I can teach to break records someday." Derpy chuckled.

"Go on...." The other 5 said in unison.

"It will be a filly, and it will be a unicorn" There were a couple happy reactions, and a few sad one, they all made her giggle a little. She did have pros and cons to a few of the options, but Derpy was just happy she was having a little one at all.

"I thought you got the race after 2 months? Didn't the doctor tell you when you went then?" Twilight said.

"Oh... well, I kinda did not go. It is okay though, because the doctor mentioned that she is very, very healthy" Twilight sighed.

"Alright... don't skip appointments like that all the time, though. It is really important that a professional always keeps an eye on you, so nothing goes wrong. Other then that, I am excited. You will have to let us foalsit her every once in awhile..."

"OH OH! I am a awesome sitter! Let me do it! I am so good with foals, and I LOVE playing with them. Come on! You have to trust me! Please!" Derpy backed up when Pinkie got in her face. She began laughing, but Twilight still pulled Pinkie back.

"Of coarse you can. I will make sure you all do... Now let's talk about something else..." It was a lot more of the same talk about dresses, farms, books, animals, air tricks, and whatever Pinkie could think up. Derpy smiled, and put herself in the conversation, as the sun came out on them. Derpy still found it kind of odd that they were having a picnic in the snow. No bugs was good, and Applejack had the area plowed. It would be nice to have a snowball fight. She felt her stomach move around, it felt weird, but she knew it was just her little one stretching. When they were all finished, they continued talking. Derpy moved a blanket away from the group, and decided to take a nap. She was stuffed from all the muffins she had.

Chapter Four

Derpy slept soundly. She dreamed about some weird things, but it was a nice break for her exhausted body. She felt movement again, and she slowly started to woke up. It was the foal, apparently she was awake. Derpy yawned, it was a nice picnic, and a good meal. It had to be around 3:00 when she looked at a watch she had in her coat pocket. She really did not have much to do today. Usually she would always come home late, but today she had all the time in the world. Maybe she would hang out with Twilight at her house? As she opened her eyes, she felt very cold. The others were having a snowball fight. Derpy would not join in, since she probably did not have the energy to anyway. When she looked around, the sky was cloud and dark. It seemed a snow storm was threatening to come. Rainbow Dash and Applejack, who were both throwing snowballs by a fort they made stopped. They were the first to notice that it may be a good time to pack up. It was peaceful weather, it made everyone go in, and made the streets quiet. Derpy found herself taking naps all the time in this cloudy, and dark weather.

She had to thank Narley for giving her this great oppurtunity. Although the weather was dark, it was some of her favorite. The mail ponies also had not been messing with her lately. One stallion, named Butch, would always press her buttons and mess with her. Even he stopped messing with Derpy once she became pregnant and got the easier jobs. Another thing she had to thank Narley for, was getting the news across, without causing her much trouble. The town gossip was a little annoying. She did not like Sweetie Belle asking her about it, of all ponies. What was so special about it anyway? It was special for Derpy, but when the Cake twins were born, there was not too much gossip. Hopefully it would stay that way when she returned. That was, of coarse, if she could find a foal sitter of some sort. She was sure her friends would help out.

Applejack began rolling up the blankets, while Pinkie and Fluttershy threw any rash in the baskets. They were leaving already? Although she fell asleep, she still wanted to do something. Derpy pretended to be asleep, and Twilight threw a cover over her while the others talked. When they finished, they sat back and enjoyed the site of new falling snow. Rainbow Dash and Fluttershy flew around in it, while Twilight put on her saddle bag. Rarity came over and looked down at Derpy.

"She must be exhausted. Poor mare..." Rarity sighed. Derpy stayed quiet, tucking her head under the blanket thrown over her.

"It looks like she is getting a nap now, not for much longer!" Pinkie said, hopping around as usual.

"I am sure she is... Ditzy has been going through a lot. I am happy for her, but this kind of happened at a inopportune time for her" Twilight turned as Rarity came next to her.

"Oh, I can't wait Twilight. She is going to be the best mother, and she is going to be so happy. I bet it is going to be the cutest filly ever. I mean, Ditzy is extremely beautiful, she just doesn't know it."

"Well, I'd be happy to take care of her when she needs to work. You said I was good with foals... right Rarity?" Fluttershy said quietly. Rarity nodded

"But Twilight..."

"Yes Rarity?" Derpy smiled a bit, she was happy they were talking about her. Although it was only the foal stuff.

"It is not a problem. I feel bad for asking... but you know a little more then I do. Is the foal going to have her crossed eyes? I mean, is it genes? I know it is not in Jet's genes" Twilight sighed. She was not offended by it, being she wanted to hear the answer herself.

"Probably not. It is not genes, it is a birth defect. Probably from the mother doing things she shouldn't have. I have been watching Derpy though, and we both know she does not drink or smoke, so she is fine" Rarity smiled and nodded. Derpy let out a breath in relief as she cuddled more in the blanket. She was nice and warm, and unzipped her jacket so that her lump could hang out.

They went around and picked up a few more things. Trash and such. The rest of them rambled on. Derpy just day dreamed about getting a bath when she got home, and laying in her own bed. Somehow, whilst thinking of beds, she totally forgot about the room for the upcoming foal. She had a empty one, but she still needed all the essentials. A crib, changing table, dresser, mirror, toys, and a nice painting job. Derpy also needed things to take cake of her, like bottles, toys, carriers, strollers, pacifiers, mobiles, a large supply of diapers, powder, and a ton of other things. When did Derpy get all these things? Maybe it was too early, she would have to ask Twilight. She went back in the middle with the group.

"Alright y'all we are about done now" Applejack said, putting her basket and blanket down." Rarity had her hoof on her chin.

"Alright, well I will get her up. Did any of us decide what we are going to do when she is born? We are going to have to help her and all, if Jet is not going to be around"

"Well, we have a lot of time. We should really let her handle herself. I mean, I will help her, but Ditzy should be fine on her own. Remember that we are being her friends... we aren't allowing her to be around only for that reason" Twilight sighed, Rainbow flew down and landed.

"Well, I will be mighty proud to help her too" Applejack said with a smile.

"In all honesty, I think the one who did it to her should be the one helping her. Not out with other mares while she is suffering" She growled. Twilight gasped with Fluttershy.

"Rainbow! Shush! You don't want to wake her up!" Rainbow pushed Rarity aside.

"No, I'm not. I think we should tell her, I don't want Jet to get away with this..."

"Rainbow what are you even talking about? We having a super nice conversation" Pinkie looked at Rainbow, her tone was not as happy as it usually was.

"Fluttershy, Rarity and I saw Jet walking with another mare. We wanted to tell her, but Twilight did not want us to. I don't understand why. How can he be so damn selfish! He is going to have a filly, and he is ignoring the mare he is going to have her with! I just want what is best for her, she is one of the friendliest mares in the town, who would never hurt any-" Twilight cut her off, angry.

"Stop right there! It is none of your business Dash! This is not the right time, and you are talking really loud too. If you want to protect that mare, you will stay out of her business and let things play out. We don't know Jet as much as she does, we will let her decide. We are not going to take drastic measures by telling her, or involving ourselves. We will make it worse" Rarity looked over at Twilight. Derpy looked over, her ears perked up at what she was hearing. After she was about to fall asleep, her ears rang with the news Rainbow brought in.

"So... we are just going to watch him cheat on her? Twilight, I don't think going by the book will work on this one. Ditzy is not the type of mare who could figure it out for herself"

"Well, I am thinkin' we should be tellin' her. Be honest with her, y'all know. I think not telling Ditzy would be hurting her more then anything. Knowin' Jet, he probably find a way to blame it on her, and make her feel bad" Derpy was in shock by what she was hearing. She could on lie on her blanket as tears began running down her face.

"Well... I know I may not have a opinion... but I would just like to say I agree with Applejack. We may be hurting her more by not telling her... I also have heard he has been doing more then just walking with her" Twilight stared at Fluttershy.

"Fluttershy.... what did you hear?"

"I'm sorry... nevermind..."

"Spit it out!" Rainbow yelled.

"Rose said she saw them at dinner, and at the bar! She is a new pony in town, a very pretty one.... they-" All of them stared at her. "They.. uh.. kissed"

"That is the last straw! We are telling her Twilight! Stop being a pussy!" Rainbow pushed passed her and walked over to Derpy.

"Don't you dare use that language Dashie! We are your friends! We come first! With how loud you are, I would not be surprised if she already heard all this. Why did everything go down hill so fast..." Pinkie looked angry, this was not her. The tension was rising, and Derpy could only gently cry. Wondering how Jet could betray her, but she was mostly confused and scared. She wiped her face on the blanket as the 6 stared at each other angry.

"P-Pussy?!" Twilight pulled her by the tail away from Derpy, and Rainbow yelped. "It isnt your choice!"

"If we don't tell her, who will Twilight? I'm siding with Rainbow" Rarity stared at Twilight.

"Don't fight, today was a nice day... I just am tired of only talking about the foal because everything else she has going on is linked to Jet. I think if we tell her, not only will she have a better relationship with us, but have a better life too. He is really mean and abusive" Fluttershy said while backing up from Rainbow who had a pissed face on.

"Fluttershy, do you want us to be responsible for that foal not having a father? Or having Ditzy depressed for weeks and weeks, on top of being pregnant? Stress is the last thing she needs right now" Twilight looked away as Rainbow, as she swore under her breath, walking away from the situation.

"Twilight, we may be saving her less stress in the future if we tell her now"

"Listen to yourself Rarity! You really want to mess with that choice, of if that little filly has a father, and a well mother? We should let things play out, and not toy with her relationship" Rainbow began hovering, a couple feet away.

"I'm going home... Lets go Fluttershy" Fluttershy began hovering as well. She did not really have a choice.

"S-sorry guys... please don't be mad at each other" The two began hovering.

"I just don't want anymore pain for Ditzy! I don't think not telling her will help either, just give it more time to get worse! Don't you think having a abusive father is worse then not having one at all?" Rarity blurted out. Pinkie was in the background with Applejack, picking up a blanket. "We could possibly help her so much if we told her, and we can cause so many more problems if we don't. I will take that risk. I am sorry Twilight, but you are the last one I would listen to on advice on this" Twilight sighed, it was kind of true, but the way Rarity put it was kind of wrong. It made her put her head down, a little hurt by it.

"I think y'all should stop... We are creating tension between ourselves... I think we should just stop for a minute and think this over" Applejack announced. Rainbow Dash and Fluttershy landed, and the six of them stood their dead silent. They were all thinking up their cases. Derpy's crying got worse, she tried to keep herself quiet under the cover. She did not understand why Jet did this to her. How could he say he loved her? How did Derpy ever see anything in this stallion? She sobbed under the cover, and was not doing a good job of not being noticed. She felt the movement in her stomach again, Twilight did say that stress was hard on the baby. Derpy was experiencing a ton of it.

Snow continued falling, Derpy straightened her jacket over her self. She continued sniffling and sobbing as the six stared at the ground, or up at the snow flakes for 10 minutes. She cried harder, the more she thought about it. Twilight was right in the way that she did not want to know this was happening. It was going to make everything a lot harder now. Derpy knew she would probably go home tonight, and throw all of his stuff into the street. He was the first pony that she actually wanted to do bad to. It was not her attitude to hate, but she definitely was right now. With one final sniffle, Rainbow turned her head and looked at the lump under the cover, which was Derpy.

"Derpy?" She said. Rainbow walked over as she continued crying. She took the blanket off of her head, to see she was crying, and looked mortified.

"Good job... Just... Another perfect idea Rainbow. I'm going home...." Twilight rolled her eyes, and walked away from the group with her basket. The other 5 looked down at her.

"W-what's wrong?" Pinkie Pie questioned. Derpy took a little to respond.

"I heard everything"

"You know what Dash, since y'all were the one being so loud, I will leave this to you" Applejack turned away.

"I... think we should of told her... but after thinking about it Twilight was right. I knew this would be how she reacted. I will see you later Rainbow... if you don't mind, I'm going to go home. I am not mad... I am just cold" Fluttershy said, lieing. She flew off and Pinkie did not say a word, as she trotted off as well. It was only Rainbow Dash and Rarity.

"I... I am sorry Ditzy" Rainbow put her head down.

"Nopony wanted this to happen darling. We are here for you though... and your little one" Derpy sniffled again.

"T-thanks guys. It is not your f-f-fault..."

There was nothing much all of them could say. If Derpy did hear everything, which she did, there was not much explaining to do. Derpy calmed down, and told them to go. They stood around, trying to make it better, until she yelled for them to leave in anger. It was a mistake to tell her. Now she was yet again, miserable. Not smiling, or saying hello, or clumsy as usual, she walked through the cold streets, depressed, as the snow fell. Jet was going to pay. Derpy's hard earned money was being wasted so that he could take some pretty new mare to dinner. When she got home, she cried hard, as she slammed the door. Running into the old beaten house and shoving every single item of his into bags. While sobbing, she tossed them out the door with force. She took her wedding band out the door with the couple of things he had. Derpy finally wrote a note. She folded it up, and put it on top of his briefcase in the little pile set up on the side of her yard. She slammed the door and locked it, somehow the doorknob broke off. Derpy was thrown back, on her flank, as she curled up in a ball and began to feel sorry for herself. It happened so fast, that her life was turned upside down, and her filly was stuck without a father.

It was a bright spring day when she met him. Jet stood out, he was a great looking, young, stallion and he knew it. Derpy was doing a large shipment to Canterlot with other workers to the factory he worked in. At the time Jet was a manager, and when she handed him the clipboard, their eyes met. They were blue, and sparkled, making Derpy fall for him easily. Jet always treated Derpy well, and there relationship started when they saw each other again at a coffee shop in Canterlot. The problem with Jet that she knew from day one, is that he was not very nice to other ponies. He always impressed her, but was a dick to all his co-workers and everyone else. He also abused Derpy by trying to do things she did not want to do, and making her his slave. When the accident happened, that dick attitude and anger was taken out on the only mare that he still knew. He moved in with her, and Derpy did not really have a choice. This gave him more chances to torture her. The night finally came.

He was drunk, and tipsy. Derpy was laying on the bed, and he came up and kissed her longer then she would have liked. Jet's mane was messed up, and his breath smelled horrible. He laid next to her, came closer, and then began touching her back side. Touching her, making her shiver, and know what was coming. It was something she did not want to remember, but it went into chaos from there. That was the night, the night her daughters fate was locked. He was extremely rough, mean, and cruel, to Derpy, a simple, innocent, and friendly mare. That was taken away from her now, and she was paying the price by holding his daughter. He was cheating on her? Is that what he planned to do? Leave? Derpy would figure it out eventually, he had this planned out. It was horrible, selfish, and evil to ditch a expecting mare like that. That is why she laid on the floor now, in the puddle of her tears, because the stallion was able to take advantage of a nice mare. One that never wanted to cause any harm. The bright face she used to know.

After laying on the floor, she noticed somehow she fell asleep. Now it was six, and more time was wasted. Derpy moaned, getting up from the floor as her flank throbbed. She went over to the window and noticed Jet was standing there. Perfect timing. He stood with his brown mane blowing in the wind, and light blue coat sticky. He was drunk, and probably was confused as Derpy saw him reading the letter she wrote to him. It was quiet, and the house was dark. The sun set early this year, and all she could do is stare as he stood in the twilight. He went through his stuff, until he began walking to the door. Derpy locked it, and she smiled a bit when she noticed she won the battle, but not the war. He had a key. The door opened, and she ran to it as fast as possible. In stumbled Jet as he fell on her.

"W-wha- is the... stuff.. outside? Was is it doin out there? Like... is dis a joke? It is gunna get wet from the rain... you crazyy... beautiful thing" Derpy cringed as he kissed her, until she threw him off of her. He went to touch her.

"NO. STAY AWAY!" She pushed him away again.

"Awwww, something wrong... please, just for a little... you know I love you darlingg" He was drunk, and it was getting her sick. She pushed him out the door. Derpy had enough.

"You don't love me Jet. That is why you are leaving, before I call the guards. You will never return" He stumbled around.

"Wha-wh-what are you talking about... you dumb bitch. Was do you mean.... huh?" With a slam of the door, he stumbled back and fell into the snow. She locked the door. It was probably not over, since he would return sober in the morning. Derpy picked up his key on the floor. It took a couple of knocks, and some drunk babbling, but he eventually walked away. It was over, and she got lucky that he was drunk. The mare laid on the floor in front of the door, breathing in and out. She looked down at her stomach again. It was not too big yet, only a large bump.

"Well... there goes daddy... it is okay sweetheart. I will love you more then any mommy and daddy combined. You are my only love now" Derpy giggled, despite her situation. Now she was basically talking to herself.

Chapter Five

It was noted in Derpy's head that it was not a good idea to sleep on the floor in her condition. Letting out a moan, and stretching out her back legs, she noticed how bad her sleep was. Not only did she wake up a lot in the middle of the night, but now her neck was sore. After Jet had left, Derpy could only sit by the window and wait for him to come back. When she was doing that, she must have laid down and fallen asleep. His stuff was gone now. Good-Bye. Derpy was happy it was finally over, and that her life could be the way she wanted to be. It did break her heart a little that he was gone, but it was for the better. Derpy got up and opened her wings, flapping them, making them crack a few times as she opened and shut them. She twisted her neck around, and it cracked as well. Now she was fatigue, what else could possibly go wrong? Jet probably moved in with that new mare, and now she was alone again, pregnant, and hurt. The first thing she went to do, was clean up the house. Sweeping, wiping counters, and picking up things. Now it had to be prepared for the filly, and only the filly. It was not his castle anymore. Derpy went upstairs and shut all the drawers she pulled open, that used to hold Jet's things. It was a good time to check out the empty room while she was up there. The house had 3 bedrooms, a guest room, the master bedroom, and the open room, which she hadn't been in forever. It was dusty, and had a few boxes with decorations they had not put out this year. The nice thing about it, is that it had a lot of light. Derpy could put up blinds, so that she could sleep in the bright afternoons sunshine that would come into that room. Things came through her head that she needed furniture wise, a rocking chair, changing table, dresser, and crib. The room made Derpy sneeze, it was so dusty. It had a ton of boxes, but from what she could see, there was a pretty big closet on the back right wall. It probably needed a paint job. A good stallion to ask for help on this was Narley, today was his day off.

This weekend was all to her, and she totally forgot about it. No more Jet to take control either, making her shop and things, instead of relaxing. She only had 4 more months though, until her time would be taken all up again, so she was going to enjoy every minute she could. Narley's house was on the other side of town, but Derpy could use the fly. Something to do to get herself out, and do something useful. He said he would help her if she needed it? He had to move the boxes out, paint, then they would order the furniture and he would help her move it in. If he wanted pay, Narley was her boss, and could take it out of her paycheck. Derpy knew he was not like that though.

It was another cold day, and the clouds filled the sky. They were dark, the pegasi were really trying to shove in enough snow for the season. Derpy put on her heavy duty coat, which now was tight against her stomach, and put on a hat to keep her ears warm. When she finished brushing her teeth, cleaning up, and stretching, she headed out the door. The cold air blew in her face. It was probably cold enough to make her wings falls off! She shivered, but decided to continue anyway. Her first stop would be to Sugarcube Corner, to get a muffin. Though, she wondered if the fighting between Twilight and her friends was still going on. Jet caused quite a disruption between them. Derpy saw traits she had never noticed before in the six of them. Pinkie Pie actually had a serious opinion, and was angry about it! Hopefully, she was mad at Rainbow, and not her. She did not know what she would do without her breakfast every morning. Muffins were her favorite treat ever since she was a foal. Derpy continued flying, looking down bellow. The streets were plowed, yet again, but it did not snow the night before. It was going to snow around now, by what the pegasus ponies were setting up. Derpy did not see many ponies on the street, probably because it was so cold. She landed at Sugarcube Corner, right in front on the porch. Derpy trotted in, the door had a bell that rang when she entered.

"Good Morning Ditzy" Mrs. Cake said, walking into the kitchen. Pinkie usually worked the counter at this time a day while they dealt with the twins.

"Hiya Mrs. Cake" She replied, tripping over a beam sticking out. It always got her, but she got her balance again. Pinkie looked over.

"Hi Ditzy! Good morning to you, and your little filly! I am sure you came for one of Auntie Pinkie's delicious muffins... Well I have something better~!" Pinkie was being herself, that was good. She hopped over to the display case as Derpy walked up and looked down.

"So what did you want to show me? All these delicious cakes?"

"No silly, you came for a muffin. That and you can't he sugary cake for breakfast.... Mrs. Cake at least tells me that... We got these news ones in from Manehatten. The Cakes have relatives there that own a bakery, they sometimes send over the BEST muffins your taste buds will ever taste! I saved the last one just for YOU!" She grinned.

"Y-you did!? Oh you're the best" Pinkie slid open the display table, she stared down at the single muffin on the plate as she brought it out.

"No hard feelings about yesterday... I am going to leave you alone about that. Dashie should not have said anything, it is not your fault. What'd you do anyway? You seem pretty happy! I like that!"

"Oh, it is fine... I uh... kicked him out. I think that was pretty right" Derpy bit her lip. Pinkie sighed.

"It was a little drastic, and fast, but we all kinda thought it should be done... I am really sorry, I am. Just know I will always give you free muffins" She rubbed her head. "Just don't tell Mr. or Mrs. Cake"

"Thanks as usual" She drooled while looking down at the muffin she had on the plate "Muffin please..." Pinkie giggled.

"Hold your horses! Don't shove it down! Savor it, we never get these" Derpy took it and sat at a table, it was a large muffin. Probably the biggest she had every seen. It was cut in half, and she eat the two pieces fast. They were so good, that they made her taste buds tingle. Pinkie, who was watching her eat, did say that it was not a good idea to shovel it down. Derpy did anyway, and the crumbs were around her mouth as evidence. She was stuffed, she laid back in her chair.

"Delicious huh! I ate 3 the other day... that is something you can't tell the cakes either... Anyway! They are Dinky brand, Mr. Cake's sister owns a HUGE bakery in the city. They are famous for those giant muffins they make. I hope you are feeling nice and full! I sure was..." Pinkie smiled.

"Yeah, maybe a little too full... I already almost always have morning sickness"

"Well, you are here pretty late today... Are you planning to do anything? It is your weekend, with no more Jet. You can hang out with me if you want! We will pull pranks on Dashie! Or we can invite everyone to Gummy's super duper early birthday party... maybe we can-" She began rambling, Derpy tried to listen to everyone of her ideas, but she went way too fast.

"Well.... I was going to get someone at work to help me with setting up the little one's room" Pinkie sat down in the chair next to her.

"Really! Who is it? I never met any of your work friends"

"Well, his name is Narley Wave... You probably would know him as Ryan" Derpy rolled her eyes "I think his real name is cool.. I don't know why he doesn't like it"

"Oh... Ryan... what a boring name for such a cool surfin' dude" She sighed.

"Yeah, but he is strong enough to move some boxes out for me. Also to do some painting, he told me to ask him if I needed anything. I am sure he is not busy, since it is his day off."

"Does he have a wife or children or anything" Pinkie asked.

"Nope" Derpy replied.

"Well! I hope you liked that muffin! Dinky brand is the best isn't it? I will tell Mrs. Cake to try and get some more, somehow. I better let you go get that stallion" She got up and shook her hoof.

"Hmm, Dinky brand huh...." It rang a little bell in her head, but she turned away. "See you later Pinkie Pie, I am sure we will being see each other more often"

"Yep! I will see you later Ditzy Doo. Good luck with your little one, and Narley. Sorry about Jet..." Derpy nodded gave Pinkie a hug, and went on her way.

She was on a quest. Well, what Derpy liked to think of as a quest, to make sure that this filly would have the best of the best. Jet was not here now, so she had to be double the mother, and be totally prepared. One of her tasks was to have a clean, fresh painted room that was not filled with boxes, cobwebs, and stale air. Her next was to get other essentials, in the feeding department. Maybe a height chair, or a pillow for when she was feeding off of Derpy. Which... was something that kinda grossed her out, but it lead into her next task. The next objective on her quest before she was born, is to learn some things. Like how to change a diaper, how to feed, and how to burp. Maybe even how to cook, because Derpy usually made the house fill up with smoke every time she did. Other then a couple other objectives involving getting items, the last two things were to get through birth, and come up with a name. Her wings flapped as she soared through the sky up in high altitude. Her destination was close. Narley was the next best stallion to help her. His house was on a street that she did not know, but had some deliveries on recently. Her hooves slid across the ice as she landed, Derpy did not expect it. She crashed right into his trash cans.

"Uhh" Derpy looked up to see who it was, of coarse it was Narley. A grey, tall and skinny pegasus with some facial hair, and long hair. He did look like a surfer when he was not dressed for work.

"Hi..."

"You are one unlucky mare aren't you?" He chuckles, and helped her up. Narley looked down at her stomach, noticing how big it was getting.

"I- I'm just a little clumsy. I came by because I needed your help... you said I could stop by if I needed it right?" Derpy said, putting her head down.

"Of coarse. I have nothing better to do, and I couldn't just leave you alone to do things without a stallion around. I heard about what happened. I am terribly sorry"

"W-who told you?"

"Rainbow Dash works with the weather team. They come by all the time to pick up and send messages about the weather to Cloudsdale. I knew she was your friend, and we started talking. I saw Jet with another mare, and I asked her about it, and... well you know the rest. That was this morning, when I ran into the office to get some things" Narley sighed. He felt bad for bringing it up.

"I guess I would have told you anyway.. it is okay. I am happy it is over... but I really don't want to talk about it. I could really use your help" Derpy straightened her jacket.

"Of coarse, I definitely understand. I don't have any plans, I am actually happy you are here. Something to do with a good friend" She blushed.

"Aww... thanks. I just needed help setting up a room for the foal. I have a room in my house I wanted to clear. It is filled with boxes, and other materials. You can take money out of my paycheck if you want, but I just wanted to ask if you wanted to start a project of turning that room into a foals room... Oh, and what are you doing out here anyway?" Narley chuckled.

"Ditzy.. I could never charge you. I would be glad to help you free of charge. I will personally buy you very nice furniture for her.... and I just decided to take a walk, I'm a little crammed in that house. I want to start a project" She took her hoof, and lead her away from the trashcans. After looking over her body to make sure she was alright, he began walking along side her. "Lets just walk there, no need to fly. Take our time, and get some things off our minds"

"Okay, Narley..."

"Don't call me that... I am not Narley anymore, I'm Ryan" Derpy found this as a good opportunity to start a conversation.

"Why? You never exactly told me the story..."

"I just.... Narley was my surfer name. I don't surf anymore, I have responsibilities" He sighed as they began walking. Derpy scanned his sad reaction he was trying to hide.

"Well surfing is your talent. Narley is your real name, why Ryan?" She giggled "You don't have that much to do..."

"That life I lived, was not the life I wanted to live. It was when I thought that life was too short to listen to rules, care about my health, or other ponies feelings. It was a selfish life all based around 'You only live one', doing crazy, and dangerous things on the west coast with my mates. I did not want to live that life anymore, I decided to settle down in Ponyville" Derpy looked at him.

"Well, why? I know you must have loved surfing, you have so many shiny trophies... You just quit? Something happened" Narley nodded, he looked down at the ground, expressing he really did not want to, but was going to tell her anyway.

"A mare I liked for a very long time died in the water. She got a nice wave and it took her into the rocks. We never had a chance together... I don't want to talk about it Ditzy, it is bad memories. It was my rebellious attitude that got her killed, deciding to surf on a beach not meant for it" She patted him on the back, his words were sad.

"I am really sorry that happened to you..."

"It is fine Ditzy" After that, there was a awkward silence. Derpy never knew that he went through something like that. She knew what it was like to love someone, and knew in a way what it was like to lose them. But this was tragic, tragic enough to end Narley's favorite thing in the world. It could be recovered from, but she had no idea what kind of stallion he was, or what the mare who died was like. It was something she regretted asking. Derpy lead the way to her house, she almost walked past the beaten thing.

"Well... here it is... it's nothing much"

Narley came in behind her, as she turned on the lights and lit a candle. It was clean, well, in Derpy's standards. He did not look impressed. Narley looked more stressed, and depressed then anything, but it was a usual cowl he wore when he worked. It probably because he was both of these things during any form of work. He was doing this instead of being out in the open waves of Californeighah. He looked at some of her pictures on a end table by the couch. Most of them were when she was little, of the very few happy moments with her father. The other was a picture of her when she must have been a newborn, sucking on a pacifier. Her cute little self stared at the camera with her crossed eyes. Derpy didn't really notice she was the cutest foal ever. Hopefully her child would turn out that way, without the birth defect she had. After moving on from the pictures, which had a lot of empty spots of the ones she threw away with Jet in them, Derpy decided to go to the bathroom, Narley looked out the windows and such. She did not mind him looking around, although she was confused why her house wound interest him. Derpy was not a good house cleaner, and did not have a lot of money. Narley was the opposite. He noticed a guitar on the other side of the room. It was a regular one that Jet bought as a gift for Derpy. Although, she barely could play it, it was still a nice one that was a gift in the start of her relationship with him. She walked out of the hall and watched Narey begin to fiddle with it.

"You know how to play?" She tilted her head, interested.

"Yes.. actually" he replied. He began to strum it a few times, before stopping and turning the knobs again. Derpy was not a music person, she did not want to request any songs. It looked like he was going to do something. Maybe to boost his spirit that seemed to go south after him mentioning the mysterious mare he loved. Narley had to be good though. "I can play something, hold on"

"I want to hear you... I could never play the darn thing"

"It was a thing, back in those days. Everyone could play guitar. I knew a lot of songs, I may be a little rusty though. I am sure I can pick it back up. I am sure Jet didn't play either. They always fall for the pretty boys, If I were a mare, I would fall for the ones with pretty voices. A singer is a artist, and they paint pictures using words in melody"

"Jet did not play. I am not going to lie, I never was really into music. Can you play a song before you come help me? Please? Play something you are feeling right now, and something that is simple" Derpy smiled.

"Well Ditzy, it isnt that easy. It comes from the heart. Maybe you should go warm yourself up while I think of something.

"No, I will wait" She did, until he quickly came up with something.

"Alright... I have one" Narley slid a pick out of his winter coat pocket. Why was that in there? She stared as he adjusted himself a bit on the bricks in front of Derpy's fireplace ledge. He breathed in and out, before his hooves moved against the strings, and stroked with the pick. Her ears perked up at the sound of the first strums of the guitar, it was beautiful, and gave her the chills. It was gentle, a little sad, but sweet melody.

"And I'd give up forever to touch you....

'Cause I know that you feel me somehow

You're the closest to heaven that I'll ever be....

And I don't wanna go home right now"

He stopped, Derpy shook her head. It was beautiful, and made her sink into the song, indulging on the beautiful strum of the guitar. Maybe it was because she never really heard good music before. Derpy was never into it, but the way it made her feel, she wished she was.

"P-please... don't stop" He shrugged, as he started to strum again. Derpy had to know this song.

"And all I can taste is this moment

And all I can breathe is your life

When sooner or later it's over

I just don't wanna miss you tonight

And I don't want the world to see me

'Cause I don't think that they'd understand

When everything's made to be broken

I just want you to know who I am"

He strummed the guitar a few times, before ending the first chorus.

"And you can't fight the tears that ain't coming

Or the moment of truth in your lies

When everything feels like the movies

Yeah, you bleed just to know you're alive"

He repeated the chorus again, before cutting it off and sighing. Derpy clapped her hooves together, amazed. It was awesome, and it gave her the chills when he sang it. Narley knew it was something he sang from his heart. He smiled for once, and looked over at Derpy. She looked back over at him. They stared in each others eyes, for a few seconds. A awkward meet between her amber, and his blue, sparkling eyes, that lasted for a few more seconds before he slammed down the guitar and got up quickly. Breaking the little moment they were having, and making Derpy forget all about it when he quickly changed the conversation.

"Hey! We better get that room done... Better now then never right? Come on, lets go.... uh, I am going... for sure. You should come with me" He trotted quickly to the stares, Derpy sighed at his outburst.

"Y-y-yeah.... okay..." She felt the foal moving around it again, and it took her attention off of him. It followed with a stomach growl. It was ignored that her body was not being nourished, therefore nor was her fillies. They both headed upstairs, Narley's depressed attitude returned. Derpy lead him to the room. He looked around at the decorations, and dusty atmosphere. The air was very stale, and cobs webs were everywhere. Some holes laid in the wall from objects being thrown into the room lazily. Nothing some hard work could not fix. Narley sighed.

"Alright, we will need to clear these box-" Her stomach growled louder. It did come to Derpy that she had not eaten dinner the night before. That muffin probably wasn't enough. Narley noticed. "Anyway... I will clear these boxes, I want you to first eat lunch. I will put them on the front lawn?"

"I have a large closet downstairs. Put the red and blue boxes in there. The rest of it is random things we don't need." Narley picked up a few large boxes.

"Well, let's get to work"

Chapter Six

Satisfying hunger was something Twilight said that Derpy had to stay on top of, now, and when her foal was born. If she did not eat, the baby wouldn't eat. Everything depended on what she did, and her every action, that would make the outcome of how healthy the filly would be when she was born. Right now, her little one was healthy, and she wanted to keep it that way. Derpy found it hard to eat as she watched Narley take boxes in and out. She chatted with him about some things, but not she did not want to leave him. After their stare down, she found it hard to leave her side. Her stomach growled, and her baby kicked lightly. The muffin was not enough, and her cravings could not break the wall that was Derpy making goo goo eyes with Narley. Why did she even bother? It wouldn't work, she was a idiot! Narley only covered for her flank, they could never have a relationship. It would be awkward, and it was something that would probably make him look bad. Dating the derp eyed, single mother. The last thing he wanted was a daughter to deal with, and Derpy understood that. She would have to admire from a distance, and maybe when she didn't have her pregnancy toying with her emotions, she would try to date him. The problem was though, is that would it be the same thing as Jet? This time around, Derpy thought that she would be helping Narley more then she would be helping herself. He was such a depressed pony, even as he walked by, she could see in his eyes that he wanted to be free. He was a bird, a very intelligent, funny, and creative one, trapped in a cage. That cage was his past, and what happened with that mare. Derpy knew what it was like to lose ponies, but she never experienced death. How tragic it must have been to lose that. She knew that was Narley though, he let ponies step on him, and he would blame it on himself when it wasn't even him. Yes, maybe he was a bit selfish, but it sure is a lot better then not caring about yourself at all, and being depressed. That was definitely not the way to live.

Even when he was a new pony in town, Derpy remembered. Pinkie Pie threw a party, of coarse, and he was very quiet. He probably had seen enough parties in his days, the last thing he wanted to do after escaping Califneighah was party. So, that turned more into a excuse to throw a party. Derpy had been to every single one of those parties, and that had to be one of the dullest. He joined the post office shortly after, and somehow became a manager rather quickly. Hard work probably, it was something he was good at. For some reason or another, he was wise. It made Narley a good manager, knowing what was usually wrong, and made the right decisions instead of the easiest ones. Derpy knew that he was the best manager she had by far. Now he was helping her set up this room for her little filly. She couldn't wait, and Derpy knew that this little unicorn would probably be the cutest thing in Equestria. Narley finished up the couple of large boxes he had. There was dust on his wings and it made Derpy giggle as he noticed and started flapping them. throwing the particles up in the air. Her stomach growled, her baby kicked again, and she waited for Narley to respond ignoring both of those things. Derpy looked into the room, and saw the sunlight shine in, already imagining what a perfect room it would be. She browsed through, checking out the closet and rug. It was dirty, stained, and ugly.

"I really appreciate the help. Are you sure you want to buy the furniture? I think that a new rug would be a good idea too. I am sorry, you really can take the money you need. I don't want to be rude or anything, I just needed the hooves, I was going to take care of that stuff" Derpy sighed, turning around and looking at him

"Ditzy, it is on me and you won't change that honey. I have a good amount of money in my accounts, since I don't have to support anyone. Well, now I do, and I want you to have this for your baby. If you really feel bad, think of it as I am doing it for the foal, and not you. Well, I am doing it for you, but it is- I think you know what I mean" Narley said smiling.

"Okay.... I don't really know what to get though"

"That is something else I can help with. I am thinking a lighter color furniture would be nice for such a bright bedroom. But we have to paint it first, and I was thinking a light shade of pink for a filly. Then we can paint the closets different bright colors, and make it a nice happy room, but still something she can have when she is older. That, and install blinds, that is one of the cons of having a bright foal room. She may not sleep" Narley looked out the window "Nice view"

"I have that under control. I am sure we can just get nice blinds, and put the crib somewhere where the sun is not always shining. It is better I think, if it is going to be a happy room, it has to have sunlight" Derpy said.

"Well, we just have to be careful. We need to go around the house and prepare it for a foal. Nothing she can choke on, no open sockets, nothing she can get into. I think we have some time before we really have to get to that though" Narley gave a pat on her back, as he began inspecting the room.

"A-are you sure you want to pay? That is really generous" She bit her as he looked at the floor boards.

"No Ditzy, it is fine. Not only do I know ponies, but I can get free shipping on everything" With a reassuring smile, he went back to looking at the room, now looking up at the ceiling. It made Derpy sigh, he was not going to let up. It was a awkward situation, at least he knew she felt bad.

It did not take long for Derpy to get a little bored watching him. He looked in the closet, at the rug, and the floor. Deciding what had to be done. For the most part, his responses seemed good. By the way he was looking at things, it seemed like he wouldn't have much to do. Derpy did not have the slightest clue what was good and what was not about the room, and Narley didn't say much until the end if it would be a easy or hard room to set up. He first looked at the ceiling, which just had cobwebs on its white finish. Then at the floorboards, that were also white. Last he checked the walls for cracks or problems. Derpy did not think there were any, all she knew is that its dull grey color had to go. Narley hugged her before he walked out of the room. His warms arms made her blush, afterwards her stomach growled.

"I don't think it will be a hard fix Ditzy. No major problems that I can see, we just need to clean up a lot. Mostly dusting, then our painting. I am going to go now, and stop by the store to get what I need. You stay here, and Celestia please get something to eat. Remember what I said about having to care for two pretty girls now" Her face immediately turned red.

"Oh stop it, you... Thanks for the help, when will you be back?"

"Probably in the afternoon, around 3. I will stop by the hardware store, and maybe begin researching some furniture. I think that I am going to have it a pink room, with light blue floor boards. Then what I will do with the closet, is make it light blue as well, but have the blocks in the middle of it pink... I think it will be nice" Derpy really not have that much of a artistic eye. She trusted Narley.

"Sure, that sounds good... I guess you will bring a cart?" She replied.

"Yeah, with some painting tools and such. If everything turns out really good, I should be ready to paint by 6, then I can get a nice start. I am doing this because remember I have work, so this project may take awhile. This head start will be good" Derpy nodded.

"Okay Narl- Ryan... Thanks again for the help" He looked at her with a small smile on his face.

"Ditzy, I here by declare that you can call me Narley. You are aloud to call me it as much as you want" Derpy giggled, her stomach growled, and this time it brought pain with it. She grunted a little.

"Okay... Narley" Derpy giggled "I will see you later"

"Alright, bye... Please get something to eat while I'm gone" Narley trotted down the stairs, talking to himself about the project. He opened the door and flew out. She watched him fly up into the cloudy sky. Derpy still felt bad, somehow.

The first thing to deal with was the empty stomach of hers. There was not many options, and she did not want to go out. There were a few things, like soup she could cook on the stove, or a hayburger. Derpy would probably somehow mess up the soup, and a hayburger would make her sick, and she would probably also mess that up. There was peanut butter, so a peanut butter sandwich was not a bad idea. Her mother would make them all the time, probably because she was too lazy to make anything else. All Derpy knew is that is was fast and simple. She pulled the peanut butter out of the closet, and a knife. As a extra, she toasted the bread, which was a bad idea. The two pieces of toast were slid in the toaster, and Derpy thought it would be a good idea to go to the bathroom. Of coarse, she somehow figured out some way to burn the toast so bad, that the fire alarms went off.

When she came back, her initial reaction was to panic and run in circles, while sprinklers went off and sprayed the oven. It was a old mechanism that was in the house since she was little, for oven fires. It would not help her, since this was burnt toast she was dealing with. Derpy got the idea what was going on, and unplugged the toaster. Immediately, the fire alarm fell off, but now her kitchen floor was soaked. Great, now Derpy had a large mess to clean up, but her happy attitude made her crack up. How she freaked out, and all the chaos, just over burnt toast. The toast popped up when she fiddled with it, and it was the darkest black it could be. With a sigh, Derpy ignored it, and slathered peanut butter on it. The mare was so hungry, that she ate it without complaint. The question though was why she was so hungry, she did have a giant muffin. It was probably just her pregnancy playing with her again.

"Your mommy is a dummy, and you aren't helping" She giggled. A couple minutes after munching on her burnt sandwich, she heard a knock on the door. Who could it have possibly been? Nobody really ever knocked, unless Narley was already back. In that case, she didn't mind the mess, but just in case it was somebody else, Derpy quickly took a towel and somewhat wiped off the water on her floor and oven. It was probably nothing more then a prank pulled by some colts, or a delivery, but then again, it could be Twilight. Derpy trotted to the door and quickly opened it. It was Rainbow and Rarity.

It was a surprise to see them. She was, sort of mad at them for telling her all about Jet, but she got over it. Rainbow did always just want to protect her and be loyal, but Rarity just always wanted to gossip, but still comes out generous in the end. They smiled awkwardly, and Derpy thought it was odd that the two of them were together. Rarity was more of a popular mare, while Rainbow was the rough, tough, and dirty one. Seeing them together without the rest of the group was odd. Derpy may have even came to the conclusion that they did not like each other. She was obviously wrong, but it brought the two of them together even more when they both fought together for Derpy. Trying to help her, and that was why they were there.

"Hello Ditzy"

"Good Afternoon Ditzy" The two of them said, their heads kinda low with awkward smiles.

"Well hiya you two... is s-something wrong?" She thought for a moment, noticing the smell of burnt toast, and smoke coming out her door. Derpy didn't know that Rainbow and Rarity did not care, or probably notice. "Oh, the burning is just me... I burnt some toast...."

"Oh... wow, you must have really burnt it, well that is not really what we are here for..." Rarity took over, stepping in front of awkward Rainbow.

"We just want to apologize about the whole Jet thing darling. It really was not supposed to turn out that way, we just wanted what was best for you sweetheart. Please don't hold any grudges or anything, Rainbow Dash and I just over stepped our boundaries a little, and we should have been more careful. It was just a odd situation. We didn't know if we should have told you or not, because we were not sure if it would hurt you or help you" At the end of the unicorns words, she stepped back, by Rainbow Dashes side, waiting for a response. "Twilight told us all about it..." Derpy let out a deep breath, she was going to try make it better.

"It's fine... I am happy it is over, and now my daughter can live a happy life. I have had a lot of ponies say I would be a great mother, and I believe them. The last thing I want my little one to have to do, is suffer through what I had to... Jet is happy with his new mare, it is good it turned out that way. Nobody had to tell anyone, or had to wait, it was just finished. I am happy you guys are concerned though, you are real friends" They smiled, relief washed over their faces. Derpy sighed "But somepony mentioned something about having to hide things around me. That you only talked about the foal to avoid being awkward? That kind of confused me... a little" Rainbow Dash stepped up to the plate this time.

"We did not want to trigger anything that would make us start talking about Jet. That, and we can all agree... that maybe a lot of, not so happy things are going on around you. We talked about her, because it was a happy topic, and we wanted to avoid you being upset. I am sure egg head Twilight said that stress is bad for your little one"

"Again, that was to protect you Ditzy" Derpy smiled, she looked at the two of them. She came in close and brought them in for a hug.

"Thank you.... A friend is helping me set up the foal room, so I am going to go now. I was eating lunch" The both of them nodded.

"Okay, see you later Ditzy... Good luck"

"Bye..." And like that... they left.

So Derpy decided to go back to her very burnt lunch. The taste was not so bad, but it was the pure hunger she was feeling that made her finish the sandwich in seconds. It boosted her mood that Rainbow and Rarity were concerned about her situation. Derpy definitely loved having her friends, although they made a mistake she forgave them for. Rarity just gossiped, and like her friend, she could be a loud mouth. It would have happened sooner or later. With a final bite of her sandwich, she tried to find something to do. The song Narley sang was stuck in her head now, as she waited for him to return. Derpy actually wanted him to come back, she never seemed to want to hang out with him so much. As her mother would say, she was getting "papillon coeur" or "Butterfly Hearted" in a fancy language she knew. But the feelings faded, when she looked at herself. Derpy was a cross eyed, not very smart, not very good looking, and pregnant mare. Narley probably did not feel the same. No chance. Ditzy was always known for a positive attitude, even when in the worst situations. So what did she do? She laid down on the couch, and day dreamed about ways to get with the handsome stallion. Eventually her thoughts drifted back to her baby.

Giving birth sounded like the scariest thing ever. It found a way into her head as she curled up on her mothers old couch, after thinking about Narley, and other things happening in her life. Rarity did say her life was not so happy, but Derpy was happy, so how couldn't it be a happy life right now? Now, she loved her baby, she was just nervous about how she would meet her. A lot of things would happen to her back side. Honestly, as disgusting as it was, how would a foal even fit through there? Derpy immediately shook her head, thinking about all the rumors she head about being in labor. The pain, and such. It was one of those "Sunshine comes after rain" things. She would have to go through the painful process of having her daughter, but in the end, the sunshine would come. That sunshine being her little foal, a little unicorn filly that Derpy promised to spoil, and love to death. It was something she created, something beautiful for once, and successfully made it through. Being a mother, and doing it alone, was sure to have ponies impressed. Derpy could just feel that her foal would be something special given to her. Maybe even something to fix her problems.

It was a topic, that made her gently fall asleep on the couch, thinking about it in her sleep. She totally forgot that Narley would return. It was six, when he came in the sunset of a beautiful winter night. A little late, but it was okay, since the mare was sleeping soundly inside. His cart was filled with rollers, paints, stand up lights, cleaners, dusters, tools, and trash bags. He even had somethings to fix any dents, bumps, or holes in the wall. He pulled it up nice and close, and started bringing things inside. Narley knew Derpy wouldn't mind, so he opened the door quietly, and came in. The door was already cracked. The pegasus balanced his tools in his hooves. A smile went on his face, as he noticed she was sleeping.

"You are the sweetest mare..." Narley whispered, trotting up the stairs. His materials dropped with a loud thud, accidentally, in the room. He winced, hoping he didn't wake her up. It was a good idea to make sure she knew he was here. Narley trotted right back down stairs, standing by Derpy. "Wake up sweetheart" He gently whispered, pulling her wing. It was a good way to wake up a pegasus, without pain.

"H-h-huh?" Derpy's wing opened up and slapped him in the face. He chuckled, as she stretched a little more, noticing what she had done. "N-Narley! Sorry! I was- just-"

"It was obviously a accident... You can go right back to sleep. I just wanted to make sure you know I am here. Did you eat?"

"I did..."

"Is everything checking out? No problems right?"

"Everything is great... Rainbow Dash came by with Rarity" Narley sighed, he knew that they were the ones that caused her the troubles with Jet.

"How did that turn out" He patted her back, replying.

"O-okay... I don't know... the entire Jet thing was a bit fast. How it ended so quickly. I just don't know how to feel. It is all mixed up to. Rainbow Dash said she heard from Twilight about the breakup, so how did you figure out?" Narley accepted the question.

"It was late in the morning Ditzy... She probably stopped by Twilight's before she went"

"Alright I guess..."

"Do you need some light shined on it... Do you want me to tell you what I think" Derpy knew Narley never proved her wrong before.

"Yes" She immediately spit out. He hesitated, picking the right words to say.

"You are a extremely nice mare. One of the sweetest I ever had. Don't doubt yourself, Ditzy, that was a really brave move. Sometimes we all think you aren't smart... but you really are. It is just confidence, and you gathered it to kick him out. Jet abused and used you. I told you this before. Jet is not even in your league, he is in a much lower league. I met a lot of handsome wonder colts like him, that in the end do that."

"Thank you Narley, I don't know what I would do without you"

"Your welcome... Now that room is awaiting. That little filly is the only thing that matters now"

"Agreed" Derpy nodded, with a grin. She trotted upstairs while Narley went back to get more materials.

Chapter Eight

There was not much to pack. What else did she really need other then her toothbrush? Maybe Narley thought she had stuff she wanted to bring? On second though, Derpy did think it may be a good idea to throw her own pillow in a bag, and maybe her comb. There really was not many things she had to bring, but she did notice that some mares did need a thousand things in the morning just to style their manes. All she did however, was brush it a few times so it didn't puff up like Pinkie's. Before any of this was done, Derpy thought it may have been a good idea to take a long nap. Narley did say he would go home and take a nap himself. Then she would head over to Twilight's, and maybe ask her to a late lunch. It was around 1, so a two hour rest would probably set her to go around 3, and arrive at Narley's by 5. This would be perfect, because it would be around supper. This seemed like a plan, but she was missing the fact that somehow she would probably mess it up. If it was sleeping a extra hour, or chatting too long with Twilight. It all worked out nice well in the end, because when she arrived, not only would it be around dinner time, but the nice lunch she will have with Twilight, will probably help her avoid making a pig of herself at Derpy's so called "Date".

The mare did seem to have a lot of feelings and emotions for her night with Narley. What if she messed it up some way with her horrible manners? Was it even going to be a fancy dinner? Any time Derpy was invited to a house for dinner, it never seemed to be fancy. The homes she was invited to, either had foals, or they were close family friends. Narley was not only pretty wealthy, but living alone and the big kitchen, probably made it more possible that it would be more then a get together. Derpy was not sure if she should get ready, and maybe tidy herself up more then she was lately. Her mane was pretty messy, and her coat could be a little softer. It was something she was not staying on top of, sleeping so much, and being occupied with her pregnancy. It was forgotten that Derpy was a pregnant mare, Narley would not put pressure on her to get all fancy for a simple dinner. It was not exactly even a date at first, but Narley did notice that two ponies, a mare and a stallion, eating a nice dinner together, and having feelings for eachother. could turn out to be a date. Why not? Narley's thoughts were just to make Derpy happy, and he did have some feelings for her. It was orginally plan to use his fancy kitchen, and indulge himself on a fancy dinner. The pegasus thought other wise, this was more of a night to impress him, to show Narley that she was more then that "cross-eyes girl", Sometimes she felt like people thought she didn't have feelings because of her problems, but Narley was not a stallion who thought that, and Derpy did not realize that. Narley found her to be the sweetest and friendliest mare he had ever met. Derpy laid down on the couch, it was still messed up from previous days she slept on it, and still smelled musty from when her mother got it at a garage sale. She grabbed a large comforter and put her head down. Before she was about to put her comforter over herself, she looked down at her rounded stomach, and smiled a little.

"Good-night sweet heart" Derpy giggled, before laying her head down, and falling into a deep sleep.

Long naps were something pregnancy brought upon Derpy. Of coarse, she did end up sleeping an extra hour, and when she was asleep, she snored. It was a lot of things brought upon her, but the excitement of having a child in a day or less. made her ignore the side effects. So her usual routine started, get her groggy self up and stretch before she rushed to get to wherever she was going. In this case, she really just wanted to drop Owlowiscious off to Twilight, lunch would probably have to be skipped. Maybe they could chat, but Derpy did not want to get to Narley's any later then five. She looked at the owl, and before she said anything, he immediately hovered beside her, landing and letting out a "Who". She told him they were going back to Twilight's, and he seemed to understand as he flew out the window. Twilight did mention him returning at her command. Derpy made sure her mane wasn't a mess, and she ran out the door, beginning to fly. She was quickly stopped, exhausted by her extra weight. Instead, she had to walk, and Derpy hated that.

Running didn't work either. It just made ponies look at her, and made her overly exhausted and sweaty. Derpy sighed, as she walked through the spring streets of Ponyville. It was late in the afternoon, and all the fillies and colts were doing their thing. Too bad she would not past the CMC on her route to Twilight's. Along the roads, flowers bloomed, and the air smelled fresh. The birds chirped, the sun stayed high in the sky, and everyone in town seemed to be happy. The temperature was perfect, other then the few strong winds that would blow. Derpy was surprised her doctor did not want her adventuring out too much. The trees had new leaves, and new life was everywhere. A couple of mother strolled past with their foals, and Derpy looked. They gave a little smile when she did, it was painfully obvious that she would be one of them soon. Fluttershy could not stop talking about all the new animals they had, and how many new offspring her chickens, bunnies, birds, many other animals had, and she even said the bears had a new cub. It was nice to have a little one this time of year. The park was packed, ponies got fresh drinks out of the fountain, while teenage colts played football in the grass. Elders sat on benches and fed ducks, as they quacked. But one thing that was noticeable as she walked past the park to Twilight's, was all the couples. Many young couples, holding hooves, or close together. Some laid out towels, and had little picnics. Others were older couples, some very old, sweet ones too, sitting on the bench. It made her fell like she was missing out, and she sighed. Derpy continued walking, until she heard a voice.

"Hello" A shy voice said, ringing through her ears. It was nothing familiar.

"H-hi" Derpy turned around. It was a mare, with a blonde mane, and lighter blonde coat. Her cutie mark was a clipboard. She had a stroller, with a foal Derpy couldn't exactly see.

"I'm Anna... I was just wondering if you're... well..."

"Pregnant? I am" She giggled "It is pretty obvious, you could of asked, I wouldn't have been offended" Anna had to be young, in her teens still. Maybe 19 or 20. She still seemed to be a bright, young mother.

"Well... I just thought it would be awkward for it to be the first thing I ask" She cleared her throat "I just wanted to say hi. I have seen you around town. I'm kind of new here, and wanted to get to know more ponies, especially mothers. A lot have been kinda rude though, ignoring me and such"

"Well, I'm Ditzy Doo, but you can call me Derpy, it is a nickname. Welcome to Ponyville!" Derpy shook her hoof.

"Well, nice to meet you. This is my son Sunny, or Sunshine, both work" Anna pulled the visor up on the stroller. This was her first interaction with a mother, and it was kind of awkward. It was a pegasus colt, and he did not look very old. Sunshine was still pretty cute though.

"Well, he is adorable. He looks just like you. Mine is a filly, a unicorn..."

"No name?"

"Not yet, I want it to be perfect."

"Oh, well it is simple. I picked Sunshine, because he is my sunshine. He is my light, you know? I picked something I liked, and it worked well. It really is your choice, but you don't look like you have much more time" She chuckled. "Who is her father, and is she your first?"

"Yes, she is my first. Her father... well... he- uh.. left"

"Oh no, that's horrible. It is alright, I don't need a stallion either, he left me too" Derpy's ears went up.

"Really? It looks like we have something in common" Anna sighed.

"It seems... I just noticed, you, a pretty mare, holding a child, with no stallion in sight. I saw you looking around, you seemed a little lonely. You caught my attention and I wanted to say hi" Anna gripped the handle of her stroller.

"P-pretty? Thank you" She smiled a little. "What do you work as? I'm a mail mare" Derpy really tried to make friends. Not many ponies went straight up and talked to her. The more friends, the better, and a future playmate is good for her filly. She did remind her that she still had to come up with a name.

"I will see you a lot then, I am a doctor actually. I work with little ones, his age" She rubbed her sons head, he looked tired.

"Wow, then you are really experianced. What happen to his dad?" Anna looked down.

"He... well he got sick. He was good stallion"

"I am so sorry"

"No... no... he didn't die. He didn't like me anymore, and that makes him sick enough" Anna began cracking up. Derpy didn't really find it funny, but then again, she didn't get it. It was not really something to joke around about, but it was alright. She took it well. Derpy chuckled awkwardly "I'm just joking. He left me too, and a week later, I found out I was going to have Sunshine. He was way gone by then. I never really liked him anyway"

"Same here, he left at my 5 month mark, I kicked him out because he was with another mare. I never really enjoyed him either" The mares looked at each other for a second. They gave a little smile, both understanding the same pain, the same feelings. Derpy liked that knowing, and she knew this could be a good friendship.

"Well it was nice meeting you. I'm walking him everyday if you want to talk again"

"It was nice meeting you too Anna, I hope we can get together again" Derpy smiled at Sunshine, who sucked on a pacifier, trying to dose off, but the bright sun stopped him. "I will see you later too, little guy"

"When are you due?"

"A couple of days" She blushed a little.

"Oh wow, just be careful okay? It may not be a good idea to be out so much. You should also make sure you are ready for when the foal comes... You don't want to be alone at your house."

"I am staying at a friends. But it was nice talking to you... I gotta go" She started to stroll away.

"Me too... poor little guy wants to sleep. Bye Ditzy"

"Bye" Depry began walking the 100 yards left to Twilight's house, as Anna walked away. It was nice to have another mare interested in her.

It was a new group she was joining, the mother's clan. Now she would be one of the usual young mothers pushing a child around in a stroller. What she did not want this to do, was turn her into a jerk. Many mothers could be really pushy, and angry at the market. Just because you have a little one, doesn't make you more privileged over any other ponies. They could be the worst type of ponies sometimes, how they would bicker, and gossip over nice mothers like Anna, simply because they don't like her. It sounded like that was the case, but Derpy was lucky. She did not know many other mothers, and most ponies around Ponyville respected her because she did the mail. She had tons of friends to defend her, and Derpy knew that abuse from them was not going to be a problem. Anna was a easy target because she was new, and very young.

Anna was another pony to mention the name though. Derpy was sure Twilight would lecture her when she got to her door. Somehow it was 4 already, it was probably a combination of really slow walking, and her long nap. Derpy walked up to Twilight's door, and gave it a knock. Immediately, she heard the foot steps inside, and the door open. Spike smiled, looking at her.

"Hi Spike"

"Hello Ditzy"

"Is Twilight home?" Derpy grinned, Spike did not seem so happy.

"Yes... but she is reading her boring books" Spike sighed. "The owl came back, if that is what you are wondering... I was just dusting books, I will ask Twilight if you can come in" He shut the door, pretty hard in her face. She chuckles a little, it always seemed like poor Spike was busy tending to Twilight's needs. A couple minutes later, after trotting being heard from inside, and some banging, Twilight stuck her head out the door.

"Hi Ditzy.... I was just reading. The library was a bit dirty, so I tidied up a bit before you came in" Twilight said, with a sheepish look on her face.

"Well you don't have to impress me. I was patient"

"I wanted you to come in. I wanted to talk to you a little. Your big day is coming soon, so I thought I could give you the run down" The last thing Derpy wanted to hear was another lecture from Twilight. The whole thing was scaring her, and she was going to try and not worry about it, until it happens. Once it was over, it would be the happiest day in her life anyway.

"Umm... I think I understand everything Twilight, I just came to drop off your friend"

"Oh... well okay. He is here... can I ask why you are returning him?" She felt a little bad.

"Well... I am just going to stay over Narley's for the next couple of days. He is going to watch over me, because I am kinda lonely lately." Twilight nodded.

"Okay Ditzy... do you need anything before you leave?" Derpy's mood swings were hitting her. The happy feeling that she had slowly moved south as her stomach growled, loud enough for Twilight to here.

"Are you hungry?" She remarked, turning her head. The pegasus seemed quiet, and was looking left and right a lot. Twilight was curious by how she was acting.

"Y-yeah..."

"Well.... do you want something to eat?" Twilight looked up at the sky, some very dark storm clouds were moving in. Derpy shivered a little as the wind blew. She couldn't leave a mare in her condition out here, even with how confused she seemed. Was it possible she was having contractions? Or maybe a odd pain related to labor coming soon? "Are you alright? You seem a little quiet..." She watched her stare into space. Derpy shook her head.

"No... it is just my head messing with me. I am a little tired, and very hungry. I am sorry, may I come in? I wanted to go to lunch with you, but Narley and I are going to have a big dinner. It is pretty late too. I took a long nap"

"I understand. I think you should atleast get something to eat before you go. Maybe wait out this storm too.

"Okay... Thank you Twilight" Derpy walked inside, as the large clouds began to start releasing their contents. It did make her remember that the pegasi forgot to make it rain this week, so were making up with a large storm.

Twilight must have not expected her. Books were everywhere, plates were out, and nothing was really clean. It made sense, seeing that there was a closed sign on the door. This must have been what she did on her off time, caught up on her studies. Derpy trotted behind her, as she slowly sat down in a seat. Twilight asked her a few questions, before going off and cleaning more with Spike. Derpy did not tell her she still didn't come with a name for her, soon coming, little one. But, coming up with a name last second was not uncommon. Some mares came up with the name right after labor, using the first thing that popped into their head. After going through labor, the first thing she would want was a fresh muffin, and her fillies name was not going to be "Muffin" so that may not work. Maybe Narley could help her with it? Derpy would be with him from anywhere to one day, to a week before her foal was born. It could be a blessing, or a curse, staying with him. Derpy knew he was going to be with the best stallion ever, but she would be trapped in the house still with him. Anyone can get on your nerves after staying with them for hour after hour. What happens if she accidentally offends him with one of her violent mood swings? A great thing to have in her situation, was someone to help her with her kid. Narley was the perfect candidate, and not only was he sweet, but he was very helpful and smart. That was the type of stallion she needed around to help with her unicorn. The problem was, that she wanted more then a friendship, but more like a relationship. Derpy saw something in him, and he was honestly the closest stallion to her, other then Jet was.

After cleaning up, Twilight still seemed to be busy with other things. A salad was slid in front of her, and Twilight poured on a average amount of dressing, before trotting off and continuing with her chores. Consisting of picking up a lot of things, Derpy felt lonely as she really did not say anything, other then asking of her pre-made salad was okay and how she would be done in a minute. Thirty minutes later, she gave her a book to look through, as she still somehow managed to find work to do while she sat, uncomfortable, as she slowly ate the salad. Twilight eventually finished, but when she did, it was time for her to go. She sat in a chair, letting out a deep breath.

"So wrote a letter to Celestia, organized my plans for tomorrow, reorganized the Fiction section of the library, did some spring cleaning, and made some lists of materials I need to order. All finished, and I am sorry it took so long. You probably want to talk? I am sure you want to talk. Lets talk!" The unicorn said, with a nervous grin, as her eye twitched. It freaked Derpy out.

"Are you-"

"No! I'm not! I am so busy, and now I am 30 minutes off with my dinner with the girls! I told them I would be there by 6, but then you showed up. I didn't want to make you sit out in the rain, so I made a salad, then I cleaned, then EVERYTHING got off schedule. Then the pegasi have to make it rain! Why can't we just have nice weather! Why today? Maybe tomorrow, when everything is not packed into this one day! I lied too, I only wrote three quarters of Celestia's letter on my study! I still have to finish a book she gave me on Star Swirl the Beardeds theories on quantum physics. Why do I even have to know that stuff-" Twilight rambled on, Derpy had no idea what she was saying.

"TWILIGHT!" The pegasus yelled, immediately she quieted down. "I... uh.. am going to go. I need to be at Narley's for dinner. Thank you for the salad... and good luck I guess."

"Okay Ditzy... just- Okay, fine. I need time to cool down, I am just really weird about things not going to plan. The rain has stopped, it is a good time. I am sorry... again" She chuckled. Twilight facehoofed sitting in her chair trying to organize herself. Everyone it town knew that if one hair came out of place for her, things went down hill, fast.

"It is okay Twilight, I didn't want to be a bother. I will see you later okay? I will make sure you know if anything happens with the baby"

"Okay... You weren't a bother. Bye Ditzy... you can grab a umbrella if you needed" The mare tried to say something else, but her friend walked the other direction. Annoyed and confused. Derpy sighed, going out the door. A clearing was in the clouds, it was time to head to Narley's

Chapter Nine

Narley's house was on the other side of town. Derpy's weight was really starting to make her exhausted now. She practically felt like she was dragging herself on the dirt paths of Ponyville. By the time she got to his house, it would probably be midnight. Now Derpy really just wanted it to happen already. For this time to finally be over, and she can just move on. It had been 9 months, of being of stuck in the mud. Yes, it was beautiful, and she will always remember it, but she wanted to get to the climax of her daughter. Would she be like her at all? Everything was prepared, and another week couldn't go by, Derpy was going to explode. Between being grounded, being trapped in the house, and the side effects, the pregnancy was really toying with her. At the baby shower, a lot of ponies told her how big of a responsibility it was though. Expecting was just pain, and some weakness, actually caring for the foal was different in many ways. It was not those things anymore, more patience, tolerance, and love. This would take a lot of time and care for the little foal, that would have the outcome of her being exhausted a lot. Twilight mentioned her waking up multiple times during the night! Lately, she could not live without 10 hours of sleep, how was she going to deal with less? Ditzy didn't have a history for being light sleeper either, usually she would take awhile to fall asleep, then once she was asleep, the pegasus wouldn't wake up. Hopefully her so called "Motherly instincts" would kick in, but her high pitch crying would probably be enough to wake her up.

Narley lived on the rich side of town. The side where Filthy Rich lived, and many other large, business icons lived. Ponyville was a large town, and was not so far from the bigger capitol. That is why it was not uncommon for a celebrities to roll in, and make offers with Rarity. So he lived in a very nice home, that was large, and had many expensive things in it. How in the world did a free living stallion, like him, get so much money? It was obviously more then just working as a manager at the post office. It was no wonder he offered to take on the expenses of her little ones room. It made Derpy suspicious, he had to have something else he was hiding, other then the dangerous stunt he pulled. Narley did seem a little quiet and mysterious, and did do a good job covering his tracks. Derpy liked him anyhow, and really did not want to bother with it. She was just curious, after all. After her kid was born, she may be spending a lot more time together with him. Time alone, to talk, and finally work out a relationship that works. Hopefully her dinner would help with that.

Spring was a strange season. It was almost as strange as the sensations she was going through. It was filled with new life, but there were so many questions. Where sometimes, it would be warm, and delightful, where other times, it would be cold and bitter. Sometimes spring brought singing robins back, and beautiful flowers, but with that, it brought stinging hornets. While Derpy trotted down the street, watching it become more filled, as rush hour came about, she thought all about it. Rush hour brought more ponies for her to watch. Especially her kind, mothers, who quickly ran or flew home with their uniforms on to get to their offspring at home. Derpy was saddened to know that eventually she would have to leave her baby to go to work. But it was not so bad right? Maybe she would be happy to know that her mommy was a mail mare, or an important figure around the town... kinda.

Every pony was easy to read. They were almost like books to Derpy. Since she was "Special" and apparently not so smart as them all, simply scanning them, she liked to think about what there stories were. It was almost like a game, or a hobby, because most of the time she was right. To her right, passed a older mare, with her mane tied back in a bun. Her head had a red mark, probably from a mane net. The older mare, seemed run down, hungry, and sad, but this was on the outside. Reading every little detail was the trick, and their was one Derpy could point out that made a difference. Something about the look in her eyes, and face, made her seem more happy. The unicorn was awaiting something, and it was probably something like a child, or maybe a older husband at home. It showed, through her eyes, and small smile, that she had hope. Anna was somebody she even read. A rushed mother, and one that is unique, and different, then the gossiping mares that put her down. The movements, and Ana's way she looked back and fourth, scanning everything, made her look like she was always thinking a step ahead. She was a pony that was very clever, and quick on her hooves. The question that Derpy always wanted answered, and it almost bothered her, is what image she was painting? Ana seemed to have looked and her, and noticed a lot about her. That she was alone, pregnant, and even a bit depressed. The first thing that would be noticeable, was her belly. Of coarse, the large, rounded, weight it was, showed that Derpy would soon be a mom. Her eyes were next, how they pointed in different directions. They could mean anything to a passer. It could mean she was stupid, clumsy, and easy to pick on. What most of them missed, is that her eyes really mean't she was misunderstood, and that they were not any of those things, just a problem.

Before she knew it, Derpy found herself on Narley's front porch. Being lost in thought, it was no surprise she was already here. It did take her a long time, but it was a good thing, making her right on time. As planned, her hunger bothered her, as her stomach growled. A growing pain where the baby was also started to kick in, and with it, the little filly moved around. She had been moving around a lot today, probably because she was restless. The doctor said that happened if she was under a lot of stress, or moving around a lot. So Derpy rang the doorbell, to the large house that was Narley's. A fancy doormat sat under her, saying "Welcome" on it. The large dark colored door was almost frightening, which was probably its purpose. Her stallion opened the door, looking down at the poor cold pegasus. He sighed, but smiled afterwards, putting his warm, comforting arm around the mare. It made her grin a little too, and she cuddled up against him, making his face warm up. He hugged her.

"What is up with you and cold weather? I find myself constantly warming you up, and I think you have no problem with it do you?" He said, letting her go gently.

"No... no I don't" She giggled

"Well... welcome. It really isn't much in here as it is out there. I just have some things laying around. Go ahead and... well, take a look around with me" Narley replied, slowing moving over to the large hallway that lead out in front of him. Derpy followed along, looking at all his things on the wall. There were records of classic bands, surfboards, and pictures of him when he used to surf. Everything was along the beautiful hallway, with multiple lights and plants, all lined up on the dark hardwood floor. This was not "nothing much", it was everything. So she looked with awe. Narley chuckled.

"Kinda cool... I guess. I just like the kitchen the most. I honestly don't know how a guy like me picked up cooking, but I have something nice on the menu." She still looked around in awe. They were now in a large family room, with a ton of bookshelves, and sky lights, that let the golden afternoon sunlight in. Everything was perfectly clean, and the rug was a perfect, white. Not a single stain. Derpy looked around for a couple seconds, before responding to Narley.

"O-oh... W-well of coarse... I'm just liking how you keep everything so clean. My house must feel like nothing compared to how beautiful yours is"

"Oh please Ditzy, I don't use anything, and it is why it is so clean" A guitar sat on the other side of the room. It was untouched, like everything else, and on a perfect angle next to a recliner. "I do have a lot of free time..."

"I will help you cook... if I don't burn anything"

"Don't be so hard on yourself. I will help you, and I can make you the best chef in Equestria. Want to get started? I was planning to make something simple. A simple casserole with homemade crust, and gravy. Sounds good huh? It will be really healthy too, I am sure you will love it" Derpy sighed.

"Well alright. I am very hungry, I am hoping I don't make a pig out of myself" They both walked into the kitchen.

"So am I, it is fine. It is only me, you don't have to impress" Narley pulled out some carrots, and celery from a large fridge. Swiftly pulling a knife out of a holder, he sharpened it a few times with another tool, before putting it down by a cutting board by her. "Mind cutting some veggies for me? Just take it nice and slow, and you will be fine." As long as it was not cooking anything, Derpy was fine with it.

"Okay" She nodded, cutting everything slowly with her hooves.

The kitchen was no surprise, beautiful. Everything was custom, and every tool was the best of the best. The counter tops were a fancy granite, and the oven was one of the newest on the market. Narley even had a apron he put on, that made him look kinda cute. Derpy found herself looking back at him. He was rolling dough on the other side of her, on a part of the counter that was lowered. He was not lying when he said that they were making it all homemade. While she cut the carrots, broccoli, tomatoes, and potatoes, Derpy easily got tired, and more clumsy as it went on. Narley still rolled, gracefully, before setting the dough down on the bottom of a large pan. It was some type of pot pie, with a lot of vegetables, and hopefully some thick gravy. It made her mouth water, and Derpy couldn't help slipping a couple pieces of carrot into her mouth. It was so good, the carrots were perfect.

It did not take long for the both of them to finish up. She went slow, and by the time she was done, Narley had already gotten the gravy on the stove, and had the crust ready. The first step was to steam the vegatables, which was done quickly in a fancy kitchen appliance he had, then they were thrown into the crust, and into the oven. When it was all done, you poured the gravy over the bread and vegetables, put a little salt, and it was delicious. Anything sounded good right now, and she found her mouth watering waiting for it to cook. While they waited, there some short talk, before Derpy was shown to a amazing guest room. It had everything, including a extremely comfortable bed. After a little bit more walking around in shock upstairs, Derpy found herself back in the kitchen as Narley started to set the table.

"Isn't this the dining room? Don't you want to eat in the kitchen?"

"Well... this is a nice night for the both of us isn't it? It is a simple meal, but I thought that it may be nice to use the dining room. That is what the are for, but if you want to eat in the kitchen that is fine" Narley said as he stopped what he was doing. He set up his chair at the head of the smaller table, while she was on the other side. In the middle was some nice candles, and flowers.

"You are right. This is fine Narley" Derpy smiled.

"Okay, well I made some mashed potatoes before hand, so I'm just going to heat that up, and bring everything out. You can come along and help, but I think you should get off your hooves, and sit down. I will tend to your needs, and then we can have dinner. Sound good?"

"If it is okay with you, yes" She did feel a little tired, and did have cramps for some reason or another.

Derpy waited ten minutes before Narley came back out. It was okay, she was stuck staring at the hardwood designs on the flooring, and the large lights on the ceiling. Even in here was a couple of pictures with things in them. One light shined on a couple of news articles in the corner. Derpy couldn't see them, and they looked interesting, but her cramps really started to bother her. She was hoping she could still eat. Narley trotted in and out, starting to set the food out. After a few bangs of pots and pans in the kitchen, it did not take long before he was out again. It was time to eat.

"Alright, everything is ready, grab what you want first... I will wait" She scooped up some potatoes, and a small piece of the pot pie. She poured the gravy over the two, and handed everything to Narley. He got around the same portion, and they started to bother eat. Derpy felt odd, trying to act as polite as possible. She was using fine china, and didn't know what utensils to use. It didn't seem like a super fancy meal, so she just used what was closest to her. After the first bite, her taste buds tingled. It was delicious, warm, and moist inside her mouth. Warming up her cold body. It still seemed pretty quiet as she enjoyed it.

The dinner continued, and a grandfather clock ticked in the hallway. She ate her meal, and enjoyed it greatly. The only problem was that the two of them did not interact very much through out the date. Narley looked up at Derpy, and she looked up as well. Their eyes would meet, before going back down at the plates. She just wanted him to say something. Derpy had no idea what to say, and did not want to look like a idiot. Anything as simple as "How about this weather we are having" or something. It felt like there was a wall between them as the dinner went on, was it possible that they were not suppose to talk so much during a date? She even got a second helping, though her cramps hit her harder afterwards. It got worse, now every time she looked up, he looked away. It was a awkward, and a silent dinner, other then the clanging of her fork on her plate. Eventually she spoke up.

"What's wrong-" Derpy began to say, but Narley stopped her. She felt a little offended but stopped to hear what he had to say. It was something.

"It is just... you're such a sweet mare... such a sweet one, and I-" He put his head down. She got a little confused by his reaction. Was there something wrong?

"What do you mean Narley?"

"Just... This night and all. It was supposed to be a nice one, but I just wanted to let something out. It has been making me feel guilty all night, and I don't want you to be hurt by it..." He sighed, putting his fork down. Was he finally going to answer her questions? About the money, or his past? Derpy leaned forward, why would this information her hurt? Maybe it would make her think differently of him? Whatever it was, she knew that she would still like him

"Please... I don't want you to feel awkward or guilty. It is a little too late now, but whatever it is, I am sure I won't be effected" Another sharp cramp hit her, and it made her moan. The baby gave a nice kick with it, and Derpy tried to keep herself together, not wanting to worry him. Narley did not seem to notice and continued.

"Well... I know this was supposed to be a date, but I honestly like the way you were. I don't like making eye contact, and having butterflies in my stomach every time you look at me. I mean... I like it, but it just is not right. This all is not right.. really. I am just not your stallion, and I really think that we should just be friends. It has not been that long since Jet left... and... I don't- You don't want to be with me" Derpy calculated a little bit of what she had heard. She was not offended, but a little saddened by the fact that all along Narley was not interested. It made her feel like all her thoughts were a waste, and it probably was the fact that she was not good enough. But the emotions were not set in stone, since he spit it out so quickly, and at the worst time.

"I... understand Narley..." Her head fell down, and so did her confidence and mood. Another feeling hit her in the stomach, and it was much more then a cramp. Derpy knew something was coming, and she thought it may be a good time to get up. "I am going to go to the bathroom" The pegasus got up quickly, trying to rush herself to the bathroom, but Narley stepped in front of her.

"I am sorry, please don't go. I just- I am a buck up... please, I don't want to see you upset" She did feel a little emotional about it, but she was focused on something else. "Maybe I shouldn't have said anything"

"It is not that... it is something else. Please- J-j-"

"Please Ditzy"

"But-" With that, came another cramp. Derpy wondered if they were actually cramps at this point, but the foal gave one more sharp kick. Almost like a balloon popped inside her, the pegasus yelped as she felt a puddle form around her in the carpet. Narley's eyes widened, as he watched her stand there scared. The pain got worse.

"Ditzy?"

"What's happening Narley?" She said a little shaky.

"Your water broke... we need to get you to the hospital. Now." She looked down at the floor, her face red with embarrassment.

"What does that mean? I am sorry about your carpet... I just had cramps, and then it happened. I don't know what went wrong but please-" Narley covered her mouth.

"Shh, I need you to quickly come to me to my cart. The foal is coming, right now, and we need to get you ready to go to the hospital. That is the only concern right now, and my carpet is fine. I just need you to breathe, and stay strong, okay Ditzy?" She felt confused, scared, and nervous. The foal was coming... now?! It was finally happening, and the excitement showed for a few seconds, until she was scooted along by Narley, out into the hall way. More cramps hit her, much harder, and more painful. She almost fell back, but he caught her, putting his hoof around her.

"Come on Ditzy... you are going to be a mommy"

Chapter Ten

Narley threw her hoof over his back. Derpy found herself not being able to walk well, as pain started to swell up in her stomach, and she moaned every time she got a cramp, or the foal moved. She was led outside, and now it was dark. The streets empty, and lanterns shining. He led himself, in the twilight, and hooked himself up to the cart. Derpy stared at him for a moment, as his coat glistened and mane laid gently down his neck. Narley turned his head as she stared, but it was quickly disrupted when another sharp pain hit her. He sighed, unhooking himself, and giving her a boost into the cart, before going back and hooking himself up again. She just stared, trying to slowly process what would happen to her in the next hour. It was scary, sad, exciting, and stressful all at the same time. More pain rushed to her lower stomach, and she just thought to herself, that it would be over soon, and her filly would be in her arms. Derpy took Twilight's advice on staying calm, and breathed in and out, as Narley pulled the cart out and started quickly trotting to the hospital. It was not so far, but Derpy's stomach filled with butterflies as another sharp cramp hit her.

"What happened? What does breaking my water mean?"

"Your filly is in a water sack to protect her in your stomach. When your water breaks, its means that the sack broke, and now your baby has to come out. Did you feel anything before hand?" Narley looked back at her.

"Well... I did have cramps. That is why I was going to the bathroom" He chuckled, his trotting turning into running "I still have them"

"Those aren't cramps, those are contractions. Those happen when your body is preparing to give birth. I just need you to breathe in and out, and wait until we get to the hospital. The doctors are really nice there, and I will inform Twilight, but right now, you could only have 10 minutes until the baby comes. I am sure you will be fine" Smiling, he continued trotting.

"Is it going to hurt Narley?" Her eyes watered a bit, frightened by the whole thing.

"I don't want to lie to you. It will hurt... but once it is over, just think about how much that little filly is going to love her room we made for her. Just breathe, and think of nice things. Maybe a name would be a good thing to think about right now.. Don't think about the pain" Tears began rolling down her face. Her body began to betray her, as emotions flooded over and she started to lightly cry. She did not exactly know why, maybe it was the fact that she was worried if she was actually would make it. Other then strong contractions, she didn't know that she was not very close to that stage though. Every bump they went over, she felt like it was coming closer. "Happy thoughts Ditzy... calm down... please"

"I'm sorry... please just hurry. Its hurts now Narley..." The hospital was in sight, and he quickly pulled the cart into the front. He unstrapped himself, very quickly, and helped her out of the back. Walking was even worse, as she still sniffled, and whimpered. She was lead through the front doors, where a doctor came to meet them. The hospital lobby was pretty large, but was empty, other then the nurses sitting at the main desk. For one reason or another, Ponyville did not seem to have many medical problems. Other then a broken hoof here and there, and this of coarse. He gave a smile, and he seemed like a older stallion who knew what he was doing. The unicorn could already read that it was a mare going into labor, and he ran the protocol through his head.

"Welcome to Ponyville Hospital, what seems to be the problem?" He said, acting like he didn't know when he obviously did. Derpy was not at the stage where she had to be rushed into a room yet, but was coming close to it. It aggravated Narley a little.

"She is having contractions... and her water broke" He slowly slid on a pair of glasses, making it feel like he was taking his time.

"May I know her name?" He asked, looking at a clipboard he pulled off the main desk.

"Mrs. Ditzy Doo. Spelled, D-I-T-Z-Y and last name; D-O-O"

"Okay Miss. Doo. Are you the father?" Narley quickly shook his head, as his wings popped open.

"N-no... no no.. I am a friend" The doctor nodded, uncaring. A nurse came with a wheel chair, and Derpy sat down in it. Narley nodded, comforting her. He then turned to walk out. "I'm going to get Twilight... You stay here. Doctor, do you have any idea how much time she has?"

"No idea" He replied, going behind the wheel chair and pushing it towards the other end of the room. "Could be 15 minutes, and it could be 2 hours. If the foal is in the correct birthing position, and her water broke, it will at most be a hour. From what I can see, Ditzy looks like she checks out. Is this your first child Miss. Doo?"

"Yes..." She replied sheepishly.

"Well, congrats. We will get you in the labor ward in a minute. You can have some friends in family in there, but when the time come, everyone has to leave. Unless this stallion here wants to stay for that part, and comfort you through it." Narley's ears shot up, and he quickly shook his head. Derpy was okay with this, but couldn't smile due to the pain she was going through. He looked confused.

"Well n-n-no... I don't really... know her, well, like that. I think we would both be more comfortable if I stay in the nursery" Derpy nodded.

"Agreed"

"Okay then Miss. Ditzy, lets get you in that labor room, and prepped. You are going to be a mother soon, and we will show you all the proper ways to take care of your little one. We will see if you have any allergies, and if everything works, we can give you some pain medications to deal with those awful contractions"

==================================================================

The room she was in was made to comfort her. To comfort her, from knowing that she would soon have to stuff a watermelon through a pinhole. Many emotions could come from this, but the most common was anger. Rage would swell up, because of the pain, and mares would bark at their husbands ""You did this to me". Others were excitement, and extreme joy, some were even sad. But Derpy laid in her bed, and she was fearful as anything. She found herself shivering, because of how cold the place was. The room was a bright yellow color, and had a radio on the table, with a glass of water. A curtain separated her from the other bed, that was empty for the time being. The entire hospital felt a little empty. It was around 9, so it was not so late. Derpy had never been in a hospital before, but was it possible that most of the patients were sleeping? Apparently there were not any other mares giving birth, other then her. A nurse would come by every once in awhile and make sure she was alright, and that the needle in her arm was secure. So she was cold, shivering, scared, and depressed. Narley stayed loyal and got Twilight, and she brought Rainbow Dash and Rarity. They probably were the closest in the group. Rarity gave her a couple of balloons, and a plush bear that she hugged for dear life under her covers. Rainbow tried to comfort her, and so did Twilight, but instead she just scared her more. Derpy was not talkative, and when Narley returned, he breathed out, feeling bad. She had forgotten about what he had said, probably because she had other things on mind.

About 30 minutes later, the pain peaked, and she tossed and turned, trying to get comfortable. Now she was sure it was coming soon. Narley rubbed her back, while the other 3 talked to her.

"Have you thought of a name yet?" Rarity questioned.

"No... It will come to me"

"Well if you ever want me to foalsit I can. I learned well from my books, and whenever you need to go to work, I can make sure she is in good hooves. I'm sure Fluttershy would be a good choice too. I can help you a lot on all the things you need to know, I am sure you will get it quickly. It comes naturally" Twilight said, smiling awkwardly. Derpy tried to toss and turn to get comfortable.

"I-I guess" She quickly replied as another contraction rolled through.

"I can also watch her, and I will give you a little more time off if you need it. I want you and her to have the best mother and daughter relationship. You may also want to sort out a foalsitter. Other then that, are you excited?" He grinned, trying to cheer her up.

"N-no... I'm scared Narley"

"You will be fine... Don't be, try to stay positive" Derpy tried to smile, but the pain stopped her. The doctor came in, and noticed the look on her face, and the pain she was going through. The pills only made her feel drowsy, and really did not help. The doctor checked her I.V. and looked at the time.

"I am going to have to ask everypony to leave the room. I think it is about time Ditzy, and it looks like the foal is perfectly ready. I am sure you're scared, but it will be over before you know it. All it is, is concentration. We will help you threw the whole thing, and when it is over, it looks like you will have a healthy unicorn filly." The doctor lead the four of them out.

"Good luck Ditzy" Rainbow Dash said, before walking out.

"It will be alright..."

"We will be waiting in the nursery" The three of them walked out. Narley stood by her.

"I thought you were going to go in the nursery?" She remarked and sighed, as another pain hit her, making her even more scared then she already was. He smiled, to comfort her, and it didn't work. The doctor tapped his hoof impatiently.

"You are a strong mare, I wish you luck Ditzy. I will be helping you a lot more when the foal comes around. I am sure she will be just as beautiful as you are, and just as kind too. I am sorry about what happened at dinner, and I want you to put that behind us. I lied. I do have feelings for you Ditzy Doo, and I want us to be more then friends, I was just scared. We can talk about it later, but I think there is a foal to be born." Derpy looked up at him, from the bed she was laying on. He came down and kissed her, making it last a few seconds, and those seconds made her heart skip a beat. Narley pulled away, as a bright light shined down on the both of them. "I will be in the nursery, I will see you soon" His mane glistened in the light, and his eyes sparkled, as he began to leave. She was speechless, as she watched him walk away. All the pain was forgotten for a few short seconds.

The doctor threw on a mask, and gloves. He let out a deep breath, before getting the mare into position. The pain was horrible now, and she felt a odd sensation of the weight she had been carrying, moving to her lower regions, giving her the will to want to push. It was embarrassing having the doctors seeing her like this, but it was the least of her worries. She just wanted her daughter out. The overhead light was bright, and made the doctors and nurses look like tall, shadowy figures. The pain got worse, and the doctor stepped out in front of her. The stress hit Derpy, and the emotions of the moment. The mares eyes shut as she began to shiver. Extremely scared for what was to come.

"Now... you just need to push and breathe Miss. Doo. It will be over before you know it."

So it began. Derpy followed the feelings that her body wanted to do. Breathing heavily, and growling at the pure pain she was experiencing. It felt like the medicine wasn't even helping, and so many thoughts and emotions ran into her head. Hundreds, that made Derpy think about the future, and what Narley said. How she was starting a new life, and meeting her own flesh and blood. Yes, she was Jet's too, and that also ran through her head. How she didn't have a stallion, and how the little thing would react. As she pushed, her vision blurred and the doctors voices became muffled. Derpy someehow began sobbing threw the entire thing. The commands to push, and nurses saying she was almost there, all began to sound like echos. The pain spiked, and she had to stop, then start again as she cried loudly. Derpy felt like it was almost over, but the closer she got, the worse her symptoms were. The mares ears rang, and her vision became foggy. Everything was going in circles, and all she could do is think of images of the foal she would soon have. The pain quickly stopped. It randomly ended, and her breathing began to slow as sudden relief flushed over her.

"Mrs. Doo?" The doctor said, over the wailing of the newborn. Derpy's eyes rolled back in her head, and she fell back. Everything went dark, and all the sounds dissipated.

Chapter Eleven (Read Authors note)

Derpy's eyes slowly opened, and she quickly noticed the bright lights were gone. She looked around, wondering what had happened, and more important, where her filly was. Her stomach still was stretched out, but looked a lot flatter then it was, noticing it under the covers. The radio was playing some peaceful music, and the room was very quiet besides that. Other then a nurse on the other side of the room, it also seemed to be pretty empty. Derpy noticed the very small plastic crib on the other side of the room, without a filly in it. It had a name tag, but it was empty. She totally forgot about a name, but she still knew that it would come to her when the time was right. She sighed, and moved around a little, feeling a pain in her lower area. The mare wondered what happened. Derpy pushed, and did what the doctor said, why did she pass out? At least, she thought she passed out, and was wondering if she was dead right now. Other then this nurse, Narley was nowhere to be found, or Twilight. Hopefully her questions would be answered soon, by this nurse. Derpy's throat was dry, and she was nervous. All she wanted was her filly in her arms, and wondered if she was okay. That was more important then Derpy's own health. The nurse was wiping down the small crib with cleaning wipes. It was finally over, the doctor was right, it was over before she knew it. Derpy successfully got through pregnancy, at least she thought. She reached over and grabbed a glass of water, noticing the I.V. still in her arm. The nurse quickly turned around. She was probably about the same age as Derpy, and she smiled at her movement.

"Thank Celestia you are awake, and you are okay. You all had us worried for a second Miss. Doo" The nurse commented, throwing the wipe away and walking over.

"Is my daughter alright?"

"Well of coarse! She is in the nursery now. I think she wants to meet you, she had been whimpering a lot. Do you have a name you want to give her?" The nurse replied.

"She... she is okay? I think I do have a name for her..." Derpy started brain storming. She giggled at the fact that earlier she thought she would name her "Muffin" because it was something on her mind. A good Dinky muffin did sound good, her stomach was growling. Everyone said it had to be something she liked. Well... she liked mail, muffins, bubbles, and Narley. Bubble's wasn't a good name, and it would be weird to call her Narley. There was nothing really related to mail she could think of. So muffins... then it hit her. It didn't have to be muffins, but it could have something to do with them.

"Dinky Doo"

"That... is actually a very sweet name. I like it a lot, Ditzy and her daughter Dinky... I will tell the doctor. Very good choice." Derpy smiled, it was perfect. Dinky, her little muffin, and daughter. She couldn't help to think about how pretty she probably was. How smart she would be, and how much Derpy would love her. The nurse took a permanent marker and wrote it on the little tag on the crib. "And how do you feel? Are you alright.

"I guess I am" She was anxious to meet Dinky.

"Very good. Both of you seem very healthy. You did a very good job caring for yourself. Dinky seems to have all the right nutrients, and has grown well"

"When will I get to see her? Is she cute? Is she smart? Is she good?" Derpy scooted up on the bed, excited to hear all about the little filly.

"Well it a little early to tell Miss. Doo, I see you're excited. I have to say, she is a very, very cute little filly. One of the cutest I have ever had, and she is very good. Other then a little whimpering, she got all her shots and didn't cause any problems. You can see her now, your friends seem to be enjoying watching her in the nursery. We may have to wait a little until you can go home... due to what happened." Derpy turned her head.

"What happened?" She questioned.

"You... kinda went out cold after you gave birth. You came close to going into cardiac arrest, or having your heart stop. It was very odd, but you seemed to have recovered. It was probably a result of birth complications. But on a good note, we did get Dinky her needles, and check-up, then we cleaned, diapered, and swaddled her. She is very healthy Miss. Doo" The nurse sighed, putting the marker down, and checking a machine next to her.

"My heart stopped? I almost-"

"No no... Not really. You came close, and even if you did, we could have revived you very quickly. I guess you could say you are lucky... but it is over now" Her voice had worry in it. Derpy let out a sigh in relief. It was a close call. Imagine if her daughter ended up not having a mother. "I will get Dinky now, the doctor will be in soon to instruct you on care methods. So you can't take her home yet, because we are keeping a close eye on you and your daughter, to make sure that incident wasn't a problem." The news didn't sound that bad. It was just to make sure she was alright. Right now it didn't sound so bad, but sitting in a hospital bed did get old quickly. "Would you like me to get your friends as well?"

"They are still here? This late at night?" The nurse chuckled.

"Well of coarse, they are your friends aren't they? They stayed around all night, asking if you were alright. Right now they are looking at your filly through the nursery window" Derpy looked around, as she lowered the radio down.

"I guess, but can I have a couple minutes alone with the baby before you send them in? Maybe 5 minutes?"

"Yes Miss. Doo. I will get little Dinky now. I am sure she is excited to meet her mother. Does she have a father here?"

"No... he is has left..."

"I will get her now" The nurse quickly turned and walked through the door.

Would she have her eyes? Or her golden mane, and grey coat? Would she be just as curious, and always happy as she was? Derpy was so excited, and had so many questions. She moved around, and couldn't stay still because she was so anxious. She was going to meet her little Dinky, that she had held for 9 months. 9 months, 3 months away from a whole year, that she had been waiting to meet the little unicorn. Only if Jet had felt the same way, but that was on the back of her mind. Derpy was going to take Dinky home, love her, play with her, and care for her everyday. She would be the happiest filly in all of Equestria, and would look up to her as a good example, and her hero. She wouldn't even ask about daddy, because of how awesome mommy was. She had brought new life, and she was exuberant to meet it.

Dinky was indeed swaddled. In a very light grey blanket. Her head was covered by it, and all Derpy could see was a small horn sticking out. The nurse cradled Dinky in her arms, coming by the bed, as she stared. The nurse gave a warm smile, as she moved the bed so Derpy could sit up. The little filly lightly whined, and she held her arms out, waiting for the small bundle to be laid in her hooves.

"Are you ready to meet mommy little filly?" The nurse looked down at Derpy "Here she is, all squeaky clean, and excited to meet mom"

"Thank you very much. What is your name?" Derpy said, with a large smile.

"Oh, I am Nurse Wells. Thank you for asking... I better let you to get to know eachother. I am just going to go into the other room, then I will get your friends" At long last, the little filly was gently put into her arms.

It was no surprise that she had been sleeping. The long way she had come, she probably was exhausted. She was so tiny, in her blanket, and the nurse was right, she was the cutest thing that Derpy had ever seen. Her horn was so tiny and precious, and her relaxed, calm face was adorable. The same blonde mane she had, stuck out the top of the blanket, but it was a brighter shade of gold. Her coat represented hers as well, but was a lighter with a hint of blue, which was Jet's trait, along with the horn. Even when she opened her eyes, the slightest bit, Derpy noticed the color of them were the same as hers, and straight. The most beautiful filly was now in her hooves. It was a moment she had waited for, for so long.

It had been 9 months. 5 of those months working, and being abused by Jet. 3 of them spending time with Narley, which she now cared for a lot and wanted to see again, and wanted DInky to meet as well. All 9 of those months, of pain, and suffering, came out to be worth it. Pregnancy was not so bad, it was beautiful knowing what she was doing. It was almost magical in a way. Now it was over, finally, and now it made her feel almost sad that it was. But not sad enough that she wanted it again any time soon. Beautiful little Dinky, who would someday grow up to be the smartest mare in Equestria, was finally her. Someone that Derpy could watch grow, learn in school, find her talent, get a job, get married, and someday even have children of her own. Her entire future laid in front of her, Derpy slipped a pacifier into her mouth, and she began sucking peacefully. Enjoying her mothers body warmth.

"Congratulations Derpy, you did it. You are happy, healthy, and have a very sweet filly in your arms. Did you name her yet?" Twilight questioned, chuckling a little.

"Oh come on, you had to have come up with something. Something like 'Little Flank Kicker' or something of that sort" Rainbow Dash commented, rolling her eyes.

"Oh please Rainbow, the name has to have meaning. Your's has meaning, mine has meaning, but not too much meaning. I mean, 'Little Flank Kicker' is not only rude, but is too broad. Something that has flow" Rarity commented. Narley finally strolled in behind the three mares.

"Honestly, I think it is the mothers choice guys. Ditzy is a pretty smart mare here, and I am sure she came up, or will come up with a great name for her daughter. That little unicorn though... the cutest thing I have ever seen" Derpy blushed.

"Her name is Dinky, Dinky Doo"

"That is beautiful! Dinky and Ditzy! I like the double D there" Rarity happily remaked.

"Ha ha... That is from the muffin brand Pinkie sells I bet. It is perfect! I told you to give it meaning, and I guess you did" Twilight giggled.

"Good job Ditzy, I guess, I still like 'Little Flank Kicker'"

The three of them sat in the room for another 30 minutes. All grabbing chairs, and talking about the little filly, that slept soundly in her arms. Happy as could be. The doctor came in, and gave her the 101 on foal care, and offered showing how to feed her later. It was something that still scared her, and she thought about just using formula. Twilght told her not to, and that her milk is much better then the processed stuff, and would form a bond between them. Any mare could do the common things to love a foal, but only the mother could truly feed her. Still, it was something Derpy was not excited to have to do.

The radio played, and it had to be 3 in the morning. Her four friends slowly began to droop in their chairs, all with dark circles under their eyes. The last thing Derpy was, was tired, due to all the action. The nurse brought her up some food, and Dinky was set in her little crib while she ate, afterwards she was quickly returned to her mothers arms. It got to a point where it was dead silent, other then the music playing on the radio. She was so excited about taking Dinky home, and letting her sleep on her own little crib. Derpy still had to think about the other things though. Such as feeding, diaper changes, and spitting up. With all the love she felt for her, it would be no problem. It was her motherly duty after all. Derpy eventually got bored, and curious, as Twilight and gang dosed off. Narley was still struggling to stay awake, smiling every time she had looked over. Derpy looked down at Dinky, and began un-swaddling her. Narley looked up.

"W-what are you doing Ditzy?" He asked.

"Oh, just... nothing. Nothing bad, just looking at the rest of my little girl" As she unwrapped the small blanket, her frail body shivered, and she whined behind the pacifier. The hospital air was pretty cold. "Shh, Dinky... mommy knows what she is doing" Narley put his head down, too tired to care. She wasn't doing anything that bad.

"Careful Ditzy, she is very fragile, remember, she will get cold" Twilight said, putting her head up. She seemed to have been keeping a eye out. Derpy continued to unwrap her, as her little front hooves stuck out. Dinky cringed at the feeling of the cold air, curling up more into her mother. She opened her eyes a little, wondering what was going on. When she was finished, Derpy lifted her up into the air, under her arms. The little filly shivered, and shook a lot, keeping her hooves close together. Her eyes were slightly open, and she looked nervous. Her small, golden tail, that came out the back of her very small diaper, hung down with her legs. Dinky yawned, spitting the pacifier out, and beginning to whimper louder. Derpy felt bad, quickly comforting her, until eventually, she broke out crying. A very high pitch, quiet, and sad sob that made her feel worse. Derpy had to learn that even the smallest things could aggravate her.

"No no Dinky. I am sorry..." Derpy said, trying to put the pacifier in her mouth.

"Curiosity killed the cat" Rainbow Dash said yawning.

"No offence Ditzy, but don't do that again. She has to stay warm. That, and holding her like that gives no support to her neck, and that can be dangerous. You will have plenty of times to interact with more of her in the future" Narley rolled his eyes. Twilight laid her head back down.

"I saw no harm in it, but I guess Twilight is right" Rarity still snored, and Nurse Wells quickly responded to the call.

"What seems to be that matter little filly?" She smiled, coming by the side of the bed, as Derpy look up with sorrow in her eyes. Wells noticed and sighed "Oh it is alright. I saw what you did, and most mothers do that. It is not a problem, other then her hooves get cold, and she gets mad. I needed to change her anyway..." The nurse picked her up, quickly changing her, and levitating her back to Ditzy, nicely swaddled in her grey blanket again. Derpy rocked her in her arms. Wells looked over at her "I just talked to the doctor, you will be out of here by tomorrow at noon"

"Well that stinks..." Rainbow said, with another yawn.

"No it doesn't Rainbow... It is fine, you can take a nap. It will be over quickly, and while you wait, ponies can come see you and her. Close friends and such"

"I am sure Fluttershy, Applejack, and Pinkie Pie want to meet Dinky as well"

"Yeah, there we go Rarity" Twilight said, smiling to cheer her up. Derpy was fine with it, how bad could it be to have the nurse care for the baby for a few more hours? Wasn't that better on her part? Of coarse, Derpy did want Dinky to see her home, and see her room they worked so hard on. But the hospital was usually always right, so complaining or being negative was a bad idea. Derpy put the green, hospital pacifier back in her mouth.

"I don't mind staying here. Dinky seems to be happy, and she is well cared for. I want everypony to meet her too..."

"Is there anypony you were thinking of Ditzy? I can get them if you want" Narley trotted over to the side of the hospital bed, ready to move on the mares command.

"Umm... Well, I wanted the Scootaloo, Applebloom, and, Sweetie Belle to meet Dinky. You think they would be interested?" Twilight nodded.

"Oh of coarse. I know Applebloom and gang, and I am sure they will love to see her. They are three fillies, they love that kinda stuff"

"Yuck, I don't like that mushy stuff. I am just going to be her favorite aunt"

"Come on Rainbow Dash, you will probably have a foal of your own someday" Rarity chuckled.

"Yeah... and it is going to be the fastest pegasus in Equestria, just like its mother" Rarity sighed, rolling her head back over to Derpy.

"I am sure Sweetie Belle will be interested"

Chapter Seven

About 3 Months Later~

Month 9, a couple of weeks in, and her due date was going to be in 3 days. It was a long run, for the cross-eyed pegasus. She went through abuse, economic struggles, and the many ponies that had always bullied her. Now Derpy was 9 months pregnant, and was going to have her filly any day now. Who knew? Who knew that the little, slow, grey pegasus she was, would get through having a child. Not just having a child, but doing it without a stallion, and without being pampered. Derpy worked, she went through 5 months at the post office, then in the last 3 months, Narley found it a good time to get her finances together. So Derpy had been working on paperwork, and other boring financial stuff last minute. She couldn't forget about herself either, and her condition. Now, it was hard, it was tiring to fly at all, walking was hard, bending over was too, trotting, pulling carts, and even laying down, were all a challenge. Derpy's stomach was at its largest point, and it made her back hurt horribly. Her little unicorn was healthy though, and her mother felt her kicking, moving, and growing, everyday. It made her sad that it was over, but pregnancy was a beautiful thing she got to experience. Derpy continued the cycle with new life, like mares all around Equestria, or even the world, did every day. That is why she believed mares were a very important part of life. It made her proud to be who she was. Derpy had been grounded for days now, and was trapped in the house everyday. It was spring now, the birds sang, and leaves returned on the trees, but she was stuck inside. The doctor told her it was too chilly outside for her and the foal, and that allergies were around this part of year. Twilight even agreed, making her stay at home, and bringing her whatever groceries she needed. Narley said that being a mare, having her first child, that it would be bad to mess up anything now. After all, what Derpy was carrying was extremely fragile, and could easily be hurt. They were all right in that way, but the way things were going this late into her pregnancy, her happy attitude didn't help. Now depression, anger, and even rage took over sometimes, but other times relieved, exuberant, calming and patient moods came back. It could change in a matter of minutes, and her group of friends would often remind her when she was having mood swings. The whole hunger thing got worse to, she was always starving, and always wanted something new. The night before last she was craving a lot of ice cream. Scootaloo was sweet enough to buy her a tub, and she ate the entire thing. Other foods were chocolate, soda, and pickles, which was a really odd group of foods she ate all the time now. It was cravings, something that came with having a foal, and boy was it horrible. Derpy was always a skinny mare, how was she going to lose all the weight from this?

So it was hard, but Derpy had to remind herself about why her body was doing this. She was pregnant, of coarse, but the outcome was a child to care for. Twilight gave her the entire run down on everything she had to do once her little one was born:

"When she is born Ditzy, you are going to have a lot of work to do. Doctors will show you how to feed her, change her, burp her, clean her, and doing everything you will need to know. Everything on her will be sensitive, and she will get sick very easily. So keeping her and yourself in the house for a good two weeks is a good idea. I would like you to bring her over my house, but if you are going to travel, you need to use that stroller I got you at Pinkie's shower. It will protect her eyes, and skin. She will also need check-ups with her grade of doctor, and any vaccines she didn't get at the hospital, she will be given. I am sure you will be fine, but if you ever need anything, I am always here. Just remember a clean, fed, burped, and changed foal, is a happy playful one. It all depends on her personality. But Ditzy, don't forget about yourself... you will need a lot of rest to produce for her. I will be happy to watch her, you may not get much at night, because there is a good chance she will wake up and cry multiple times in the middle of it."

Derpy hated it when she went on and on, but it was very informative. The part that worried her was not even the foal, but herself. She would be exhausted, and without Jet, it was going to be a thousand times harder. Nobody she could hope would get up so she wouldn't have to. It was all her now, and like everyone informed her, she was going to be a good mother. Her room was going to be finished today, and her mother was totally prepared from all the gifts she received from her friends during her shower. Many friends showed up for that, including all her friends from the mail office, from town, and her main 6 friends. Even Applebloom, Scootaloo, and Sweetie Belle showed up, and they were all sweet enough to gather enough bits to buy body carrier together. Applebloom made a very beautiful mobile that was made of smooth, polished wood, Sweetie Belle sang a lullaby (That was more a really loud song), and Scootaloo gave Derpy her old Scooter as separate gifts. It was kind of small, and she said she wanted it to be used by her someday. It was really a great party that made it much easier on her with the supplies situation.

This morning was like no other. A lot of fatigue, and morning sickness. Derpy walked slowly into the bathroom, brushed her teeth, combed her coat, and then her mane. After a long yawn, she walked back into her room, made her bed, and began her morning by walking downstairs. Pinkie was nice enough to order more of those muffins, and that was her gift at the shower. Derpy now had a supply of 6 of the large muffins, all individually wrapped in plastic, with a big "DINKY MUFFIN BRAND: Manehatten, Dominic's Bakery, on 8th" sticker on them. They came in chocolate chip, blueberry, and banana. Chocolate chip was her favorite, the sugar did help her run a little better. Narley was going to come any minute, and she totally forgot. It was already 11 and Derpy noticed she slept in again today. So her large muffin was unwrapped, and eaten quickly, so that she could could greet her friend. Today was the final piece of the bedroom, which was the crib. He did a excellent job, although it took him so long due to work. Narley ordered the crib, and was going to assemble it today. No problems at all, and he paid for the entire thing, did the whole thing, and did it without question. Derpy still felt that she should repay him somehow. He did seem happy, and not so depressed when he did help, so he probably wanted to do it and was having fun. That is what Narley said in the beginning of the entire project. The totally expected knock on the door came, and Derpy went over and opened up.

"Morning Ditzy" His cart was backed up, with the large box in it.

"Hi Narley... how are you going to get that box in...? I guess it is the crib"

"Yup, I have a hand truck, I'm good. I am sure I can also carry it upstairs" They gave each other a hug, as Narley pulled it out of his cart, and wheeled it inside. Derpy followed along, feeling a little sick still. The muffin did not sit so well, but it definitely solved any cravings she was having. The both of them went upstairs and Derpy looked in the room. It was beautiful, and now that the crib was here, it was going to be complete. It still had the fresh smell of paint, and had its light oak colored dresser, and changing table inside. The crib was the center piece, where it would go in between the large space in between two windows on the back wall. They were two windows that showed a great view of the front yard. Narley even planted flowers in the bed outside them. She smiled, it was a very sweet and simple room she would know her filly would love. "I just wanted to ask you Ditzy... have you come up with a name?"

"Y-yes" Derpy said, kind of nervous.

"Ditzy...."

"No.... I don't know yet, it has to come to me. I can't think of anything I like, and I want it to be perfect" She sighed.

"Find somepony you admire, or names you have always liked. Just think about it, you have a lot of time on your hooves. and it is really important you have a name. The doctors and nurses need a name to put on their paperwork. Just tell me some later, and I will help you" He said, opening the large box with a box knife. He then pulled out the materials.

"I guess... I will find something"

"That foal is coming any day now, it could come in the next hour. Be prepared, and just know that when you go into labor, I will be there." Narley walked out "I am going to get me tools..."

"Thanks Narley, lets just hope she comes on time, I didn't have a surprise so far, and I sure don't want one now" She followed him out. "I'm scared..."

"Oh come on Ditzy" He replied walking down the stairs "You are a very brave mare... I am sure you will be fine. They give you medicine, and they are very calming. Then it will be all over, and you will be a proud mother"

"What if she is.... special"

"What? You mean unique, and extremely friendly like you are? That is what makes you special, not your eyes. I thought Twilight already explained to you that it was a birth defect and not genes. Honestly, I don't think that it is anything else but crossed eyes... Be positive, please... you are being negative, and that is not who you are" Narley rolled his eyes, trotting out to his cart.

"Thank you" The pegasus said, walking back over to the table.

Cleaning her table, and dusting other things, Derpy hummed as she left Narley to work and she did her house chores. Nothing much, since bending over hurt, and she got tired quickly. It was probably a good time to think of a name, but she was too distracted. Instead she took care of her small kitchen. Although it did smell like burnt toast, she kept it clean, since someday she would have to be cooking in it every night. Sometimes when she worked, she found herself talking to herself, but mostly to her filly. When she was positive, she would mention all the things they would do together, how much they would love each other, how beautiful her room was, and her feelings about some things. Too bad she wouldn't get a response for a good 3 years, but it was still comforting. Someone that would absolutely, always understand her, and would give her hugs when she was sad. At least that is what Derpy wanted her to do. For now, the only time the foal would interact, was the few times she would move around or kick. She continued cleaning the kitchen, but this time just humming. Being quiet and looking for something to do.

Narley did provide comfort, but Derpy did fear giving birth. What would happen if she woke up in the middle of the night, and her water broke? She would be all alone, and have nobody to help her. Twilight had to have thought about this, who would take her to the hospital? There was no chance she would do it without the small amount of help the pain killers given. Derpy would probably go out cold from the pain it was suppose to have. Narley was right in the way when he said she had to stay positive. How much she wished for the moment to come, when she looked into her daughters eyes for the first time, straight, or crossed, it didn't matter. Derpy would love that filly more then anything.

Her work in the kitchen ended, as another knock on the door came. Narley was upstairs banging around, so who could it be? They probably noticed all the things that were outside. Derpy trotted to the door, picking up some laundry on the way, and throwing it in a basket at the bottom of the stairs. The door opened and it was Twilight, but with her owl on her shoulder.

"Hello Ditzy. I just came by, I wanted to talk to you about something quickly"

"Okay... why did you bring your pet?" Derpy rubbed his head, he let out a little "Who"

"I'm going to tell you" She said as she came inside. Twilight shut the door. "Now before I do, let me just ask you, have you been feeling okay? No contractions or anything right?" Twilight looked over at her as she petted her friends head.

"I don't think so... everything is normal really. I was kinda sick this morning though"

"Okay good... well it has come to my concern, that the foal is coming really soon. We have been worried, that since we aren't around, and neither is Jet, that when the time comes, you won't have anyone to help you" Derpy cut her off.

"Yeah! That is what I was thinking earlier!"

"Yes... So I thought it would be a good idea that you kept my friend here for the next week. This way, he can help you when the time comes. He will follow you around, maybe even help clean up, but if you collapse, or he can tell something is wrong, he will fly straight back to the library, really fast, and tell me" The idea of this happening made her a bit frightened, leaning back a little.

"That sounds good... I think" She moaned.

"Well good... is there anything else you want to talk about? Or do you want to hang out?"

"Narley is upstairs putting in the crib" Twilight's ears perked up

"Oh, it is finally here? I love that room, it is finally finished. Maybe I can check it out later, but before I go do you have any questions?" She smiled as Derpy thought of a question.

"How do I feed her Twilight?" Twilight's ears went right back down. She bit her hoof trying to think of how to explain it. Although she thought she already knew, she probably was confused.

"Heh... not- hmm, well, it is a bit of a... well, awkward topic Ditzy. She kinda just..." Twilight sighed. "It has to do with your mare parts, and it something I really don't want to explain. The doctor will show you, and I am sure you will understand. Just notice that hundreds of mares have done this before, many that are not as smart as you. It will be easy, I promise" She threw out quickly, to avoid a conversation about it.

"Okay... I guess that is it. I know mostly everything from our last visit... but one more thing" Twilight nodded.

"Yes Ditzy?"

"Will you come visit me in the hospital... the only one who will be there is Narley, and it is kinda boring to sit in there. I know Rainbow Dash broke her wing and was stuck in there forever. You said yourself that my foal will be taken away from me a few times to get shots and such. It will be nice to have a few familiar faces to have around, and for the little one to meet some very nice friends" Derpy looked at her, hoping she would say yes.

"Of coarse! Why wouldn't we? I was going to actually ask you that eventually. We will all come, I just thought that our group can be kinda loud, and you know... I did not want to disrupt anything. We will definitely come, and wait to meet her" She smiled.

"Well thank you... you are a great friend. All of you are... for getting me all that nice stuff last week"

"Just make sure you use that stroller. I know the CMC got you a carrier, but you cannot use that for a newborn. You will also have to use it for bringing her home. It has a very nice visor to keep the sunlight out, but allow her a lot of room and air."

"Do you have anything to recommend on the crib?" Twilight nodded again.

"Don't put anything in it. Mattress, sheets, and that is it. Anything else is dangerous" Derpy sighed, all the stuff she had wouldn't work now. But listening to Twilight was important, and she did not want to hurt her daughter.

"I understand. I will see you later Twilight, thanks for stopping by"

"Bye Ditzy..." She said, her owl swooped off and landed by Ditzy "Take care of him, he doesn't need much. He finds his own food, but usually quickly while you are sleeping. He is your best friend now" He looked up at her "Who who" and Twilight walked out, and Ditzy shut the door.

It did not take long to get bored again. Her owl flew and sat at the counter. Derpy rolled her eyes and chuckled at him. He would "Who" every once in awhile, but other then that, he just sat still, as his eyes stared into space. Derpy wonder how this owl could possibly be qualified for the job Twilight gave him, but she didn't mind. She trotted upstairs, and looked into the foal room to see how Narley was doing. He said he wouldn't take long, and he was right. The light colored crib was already assembled, and only need its mattress, sheets, and mobile. The project was over, and Derpy was glad, as she watched her stallion step back and look at his hard work. The scent of new furniture, and paint was in the room. It also had that faint smell of a fresh diaper and powder, since both of those things were on the changing table on the other side of the room. He still did not notice she was there, and she admired with him. They both made this room together, and they both did a good job. Although it was mostly Narley who did the work. Derpy just helped him pick out things. The closet was filled with dresses that would not fit her for a couple of months, and with warm clothes, stuffed animals and small blankets to give to her at night. Although Twilight said not to, Derpy did plan to give the stuffed animals and things in her crib when she was older. That was sure not to be a problem then. But Twilight knew her stuff so she listened...

"How do you like it" Narley did not even need to turn around to notice Derpy was there. but his head still turned, waiting for a response. It was her opinion that mattered.

"I can't thank you anymore Narley. I love it, and I am sure she will too"

"I am going to go now.... I am exhausted. Any questions or anything?" He replied.

"No, not really. Twilight stopped by, and she dropped off her owl. That way when it happens, the owl will inform Twilight and she can quickly come over."

"Wow, that is cool. I guess because Jet isn't around. I don't know if you should trust a owl though. Maybe you can just come over my house. You can sleep there for the next couple of nights, so you aren't lonely. Also, when that time does come, my home is closer to the hospital, and I can pull you in my cart" Derpy's head went up.

"Really? That sounds awesome"

"Yeah" He smiled "You can pack your stuff, and I you can come over whenever. I would love the company, and I can cook you some nice things. I always had cooking as a hobby, and I have a really nice kitchen for it. I may have to make you a nice dinner we can have together" Derpy blushed. It was almost like....

"So... it's kinda like a date?" Her face became redder. Narley's lit up a little too.

"Hmm... I didn't think of it that way, but it sure can be. I would be delighted" Narley said. The way his tone was, he knew it was a date to start with. They both looked at each other, and both their faces became red. It was awkward for two friends to do this, but they both did have feelings. Derpy knew he would treat her right.

"Well then its set... I guess we can have the owl around to make Twilight happy... but I don't think that was planned out very well" He rolled his eyes.

"Twilight is really smart, but I would rather do this. I have to tell her though, or he will fly to her house, tell Twilight to come here, when I am actually over at your house"

"Well... you can do that. I am going to go home and take a nap. Just pack, and I will meet you there whenever." Derpy knew she should wait before randomly arriving 15 minutes into his nap.

"Then its a date.... I will see you there"

"I will too... See you later Ditzy" Narley gathered his tools and trotted off, as Derpy blushed.