Rushing into Romance

Story and Original Characters by MooMinded/MeanMotorScoote and Yuki
Editing by Peach
Trademark characters and locations are owned by Hasbro.

“With all the Diamond Dogs defeated, I then charged at break neck speed to dungeon and broke through the iron bars, and there she was: my sweet damsel in distress, Rarity!” explained Spike with enthusiasm. He stood in place, telling his slightly altered version of his and Rarity’s encounter with the Diamond Dogs to Sweet Valentina in her chocolate shop, Sweet Heart Sweets. Valentina, who watched him narrate his little tale, laid her cheek on her hoof and swooned, not at the dragon himself, but rather at the about what he went through for his dearest Rarity.

“And she was all, ‘Ah~! Spike! I knew you would save me!’ and I said, ‘Nothing could stop me, milady…’ and she was all, ‘Oh Spike… You are my hero!’ and then she puckered up, leaned in towards my face, and then…” continued Spike. Sweet Valentina was at the edge of her seat, blushing heavily with her eyes widening as he got to the good part. “Well… Let’s just say the last part is a secret!” stated Spike as he winked at her.

“Aaaaawww! But Spike, you cut off before getting to the best part! Phooey!” exclaimed Sweet Valentina as her cheeks puffed up in frustration.

“Sorry, but I gotta get going before Twilight gets back home. She needs me to be back; I was only here to pick up some books you borrowed from her,” said Spike. Valentina nodded and put a small stack of books in his hands. Spike looked at the books, and then looked to Sweet Valentina while lifting a brow. “AHEM?” the young dragon signaled, reminding her that he was to receive more.

“Oh, right!” responded Valentina. “The chocolates in exchange for the story! I almost forgot!” she exclaimed, retrieving two boxes of chocolates. One was a large box of chocolate covered gems for Spike himself, and the other was a small box of fancy specialty gourmet chocolates that he could give to Rarity as a gift. Both containers were given in exchange for telling Sweet Valentina about his romantic adventures with Rarity. Of course, Valentina would never tell anypony else.

After being handed the goods, Spike stumbled around, trying his best to balance the stack of books and boxes of chocolate stacked on each other as he made his way to the door.

“Let me get that for you!” offered Sweet Valentina, trotting to the door and holding it open for Spike to exit.

“Thanks. Next time, I’ll tell you the story about when I saved Rarity from a big dragon invading Ponyville that took her hostage! See ya!” remarked Spike, walking back home balancing the boxes.

“Good bye, Spike!” the chocolatier said cheerfully as the young dragon left the vicinity. She then realized that she, too, had to leave her store. Valentina was soon to get her mane styled at a local salon. She grabbed her purse before saying goodbye to her pet monkey, Coconuts. Closing up shop, she walked through Ponyville for her appointment.

As she trotted, she thought about the story that Spike had told her. Sweet Valentina always loved hearing romantic things from others, whether it were stories about how two lovers met, poetry, love letters, or anything else of the like. Whenever she would visit Pinkie Pie at Sugarcube Corner and Mr. Carrot Cake was present, she would always ask him to tell his story of how he met and fell for his wife, Cup Cake. Valentina never grew tired of hearing that tale. One time, when Pinkie Pie told her the story of Cranky Doodle Donkey, Sweet Valentina met with the old donkey just to hear his tale about his pursuit of his sweetheart, Matilda.

Sweet Valentina thought all love was beautiful, often encouraging others to follow their hearts and not give up on finding romance, no matter what. She would try to help those who were shy to confess their feelings to their crushes and try to help couples who were at odds come back together. Valentina adored Hearts and Hooves Day, always dreamt of visiting Canterlot, and always would rent romance novels in bulk from Twilight’s library.

However, despite all this, Sweet Valentina herself did not have a “very special somepony” to accompany her…. Perhaps it was because she was more interested in the love stories of others. Nevertheless, that didn’t stop her from fantasizing about being in a love story herself: finding her special somepony, whether it were a knight, a prince, or even a commoner. Valentina just was not interested in anypony at the time. She could have been waiting for somepony else to make the first move and sweep her off her hooves.

Meanwhile, at Twinkle Cuts—the barbershop and beauty salon where Sweet Valentina had an appointment—an earth pony by the name of Bob Cut was in the middle of putting the finishing touches on the mane of his current customer. Bob Cut sported a feminine bob cut style of hair for his copper colored mane. Unlike most colts, he had the smaller, more round facial and body structure of a filly, complete with long eye lashes above his hazel eyes. He had cream-colored fur and sported a cutie mark of a pair of scissors and a hairbrush on his flank.

Most hairdressers were unicorns who used their magic to lift and control scissors, but being an earth pony, Bob Cut learned to hold and use a pair of scissors and all other tools of the trade with just his hooves. Despite his talents with hair, he didn’t really know too many other ponies other than his customers. His best friend was his pet praying mantis, Sharp Edge, who was trained to assist in cutting hair using his scythe-like arms. Perhaps the reason why he didn’t get out much was because of his feminine appearance, worried other ponies might find him strange upon learning that he was a colt. He had been teased growing up by both mares and colts alike, making it more difficult for him to socialize. However, there was one pony whom he really did want to get to know….

“Oh this just looks fantastic, Bobby!” praised his current lady client, Big Wig, now sporting a large beehive style mane. Bob Cut sprayed it down to keep it locked in place. Big Wig gazed upon her reflection in the wall mirror, admiring her fresh mane, while Bob held up a hand mirror to show the mare her hair from different angles.

“Oh! Why, thank you, miss!” replied Bob Cut with a smile.

“Y’know, this place may not be as fancy as some of the other places in Ponyville, but I swear there’s more magic in your hooves than there are in some unicorn horns!” the stylish mare continued complimenting, making Bob blush a bit.

“Oh, miss; I’m just another normal earth pony…but thanks anyway,” he noted modestly, then accepting her payment and bidding farewell as she left. Bob Cut looked to his wall clock, already getting a little anxious for his next client. The bell above his door rang upon that awaited pony, Sweet Valentina—just in time!

“Hi Bobby!” she greeted him cheerfully. Valentina sat herself down by a sink.

“Oh! Ms. Valentina! How nice to see you again!” he said, blushing heavily and turning his face away from her. Sharp Edge handed a towel to Bob, not for him to use on Sweet Valentina after her shampooing, but rather to wipe the nervous sweat from his brow. “S-So, the usual, Ms. Valentina?” he asked fretfully, letting the water run over her mane and gathering his assortment of shampoos and conditioners for her mane and tail. Sweet Valentina nodded. Bob Cut began to shrub her soaking mane with his hooves, then shampooing it. With Sweet Valentina’s mane, he was always extra careful, since his crush on her left him a tad more nervous compared to working on other clients.

The bell above the door rang again; entering now was the rich filly, Diamond Tiara. She wasn’t really a frequent customer of Bob’s, usually entering his establishment to get her hair done only as a last resort. Chances were that was the case here. However, Bob Cut didn’t notice her, having been busy focusing on Sweet Valentina lovingly as he washed her mane. Sharp Edge poked Bob Cut, attempting to grasp his attention to point out Tiara’s arrival.

“AHEM!!!” the annoyed filly barked, finally getting Bob Cut to look at her.

“Oh! Hi there, Miss Tiara! I assume the other salons were completely full?” he asked.

“Well, yeah! Could you believe those other salons couldn’t even fit me in? Do they have ANY idea who my father is? They obviously don’t if they’re not giving ME the special treatment that I deserve compared to everypony else!” she went on selfishly and impatiently. Bob sighed.

“Well, I unfortunately have my hooves full with Sweet Valentina right now, but I’m sure Sharp Edge would be more than happy to tend to your mane!” he said, pointing to his pet mantis who was displaying his claws to show he was ready. Tiara immediately displayed a look of disgust.

“WHAT? Let that…disgusting icky little thing touch my mane?” questioned Diamond Tiara before continuing. “I wouldn’t let that gross bug come near me even if it was the last mane-dresser in Ponyville! Why can’t THAT thing work on the other pony and YOU work on MY mane?” she argued. Sharp Edge was insulted, hissing and displaying his claws in a more threatening manner, but Bob Cut put his hoof in front of his pet to block him off.

“I’m sorry, but I’m already preoccupied! You’ll have to sit down and wait your turn if you really want one from me,” he said, resuming work on Sweet Valentina’s mane. Diamond Tiara growled, but then realized whose mane Bob Cut was washing…and she got an idea.

“Well, fine! I bet the salon a few houses down might have some more room by now, anyway… Oh, and by the way…maybe you should tell Ms. Valentina about your…little crush?” Tiara proposed with sneaky smirk. Bob’s eyes widened as he dropped the bottle of shampoo on the floor… Did she really just give that away? How did she even know? Sweet Valentina’s eye’s popped open in a cartoonish fashion underneath the layers of soap and bubbles covering her head, springing up with a big smile at Bob.

“You have a secret crush? OOOOOH~! Who is it? Is it anypony I know? I promise to keep it a secret!” Valentina said as the water dripped down her face and wet mane. Bob Cut sighed and leaned her back down so he could resume washing her mane…. He figured maybe he could stall her.

“Don’t be silly! Well…maybe,” Bob replied, followed by a nervous chuckle. Valentina let out a squeal that almost left his ears ringing.

“REALLY? Go on! Go on!” she urged as her mane was rinsed.

“Well…this pony is a customer I see a lot…” explained Bob.

“Is she pretty?” she asked.

“Well…she’s pretty to me. Very pretty, actually…but I doubt she would like me back,” he continued.

“Aaaaawww, why you say that? You’re a total sweetie; I bet she would!” encouraged Valentina.

“Well her pet certainly doesn't like me!” joked Bob, getting out the scissors and evening out her mane.

“Is it Rarity? …Oh wait, her pet hates everypony…’cept for Fluttershy. Oh~, is it Fluttershy? I know her bunny isn’t so nice either, even if he is adorable!” she continued to question.

“N-No… It’s not any of them… Let’s just say she always smells like candy and leave it at that! S-So how’s your shop?” he asked, trying politely to change the subject.

“Hmmmmmm…. Is it Pinkie Pie? I didn’t know you liked the crazy ones!” interrogated Sweet Valentina.

“Huh? No! Of course not! It’s you!” blurted Bob Cut, then putting his hoof on his mouth upon realizing he let the cat out of the bag. Sharp Edge gave a light face-palm with his claw, as an awkward silence filled the air for a moment. Valentina and Bob stared at each other, blushing heavily. Embarrassed, Bob looked away. Diamond Tiara, who continued to witness the event, snickered in enjoyment at watching Bob Cut squirm.

“M-Me? Oh, Bob Cut! You’re joking! …Right?” probed Valentina, chuckling uneasily afterward. Bob thought he may as well just tell the truth at this point.

“No…I’m not,” he confirmed, smiling apprehensively as he began to sweat from anxiety. The awkward silence resumed for a few more seconds.

“...Oh, wow… That…that…THAT’S SO CUTE!” declared Sweet Valentina before resuming with an array of questions and statements. “How long have you liked me? When did you first realize it? Did you write poetry for me? I had no idea I had an admirer! How romantic! I feel like I’m in a book! I wonder what we should do now…. It’s too early for the first kiss! … I know! We can go on our first date tonight in Ponyville! We’ll have so much fun!” Surprised at her reaction, Bob Cut blinked. Well, maybe he was not that surprised, given her love of romance, but he was still at loss for words, not knowing how to respond exactly.

“Um…. Sure…I guess…. I’ll…meet you tonight when I get off from work? If you don’t have other plans, of course,” he said, albeit with a little uncertainty. Already things were moving much too fast for him. “Of course I’m okay with it! My first date! I can’t believe it!” squealed Valentina.

“You know, you should really go out and make plans…. Make reservations, pick out a dress—you know, make sure to get everything ready! You won’t be able to if you stay here!” emphasized Diamond Tiara, encouraging her to leave.

“You’re right!” noted Valentina. “I have no time to lose! I’ll see you tonight, Bobby!” She darted out of the shop, despite her mane still wet and her mane treatment far from finished.

“Wait! Come Back! We weren’t even…halfway…finished…” called out Bob, not expecting her sudden burst of energy… And he thought Pinkie Pie was exhausting! Just what had he gotten himself into?!

Diamond Tiara hopped up onto the barber chair and grinned smugly towards Bob Cut. “Well, well; looks like you have an opening! Best not let it go to waste, BOB CLUTZ,” she advised, addressing Bob Cut by a nickname he hadn’t been called since he was a foal—a name that brought him so much embarrassment, it caused his eye to twitch upon hearing it.

“How…did you…?” inquired Bob.

“Let’s just say my mom and your mom might have gotten together for some gossip, and I might have heard a few things here and there… Now get to work! Chop, chop! Oh, and I only use Sapphire Shores brand mane care products, so do NOT put any of that cheap stuff in my hair or you’ll be sorry!” she demanded harshly. Bob Cut emitted a saddened sigh and began work, not sure which he should be concerned about more: what else Diamond Tiara knew about him, or what Sweet Valentina had in mind….

Later on it was time for Bob Cut to close his salon for the day and go home. Rather than rest as soon as he returned to his residence, he had to get ready quickly for his sudden date that night. At least he didn’t have to see Diamond Tiara anymore for the rest of the day, so that was encouraging. Bob had Sharp Edge stand on his shoulder as he locked up for the evening. Upon turning around, he was startled to see Sweet Valentina standing right behind him. Bob gasped; stumbling on to his behind. At first he was just surprised, but then he found his mouth hanging open and cheeks bright red with amazement upon seeing his date’s current appearance. She was wearing a beautiful dress inspired by the queen of hearts playing card. It looked like something of royalty with its red fabric, white trimming, and various elaborate black and blue designs, along with golden hearts embedded into it. She also wore matching gold earrings and a crown-like tiara atop her head.

“Hi, Bobby!” greeted Sweet Valentina. “I’m ready! We’re gonna have so much fun! Do you like this dress? I got it from Carousel Boutique! Rarity made it for me herself. Isn’t it beautiful?” she asked. Bob Cut nodded in agreement, swallowing nervously. Sharp Edge pinched Bob Cut on the back to snap him out of his anxiety, making the androgynous pony spring back onto his hooves and stand up nice and straight.

“Wow, Sweet Valentina. I…didn’t expect you so soon! Umm…. I’m sorry, but I’m not ready yet; I still have to go home to drop off Sharp Edge and get ready,” he said.

“That’s okay; I already took care of that! I got the cutest thing for you to wear!” assured Valentina, reaching into a bag and pulling out a lovely blue suit. It seems that she was already prepared.

“Is… that for me?” asked Bob Cut.

“Of course!” confirmed Sweet Valentina. “You didn’t think I’d forget you when I went to the boutique, did you?” She then held the suit over Bob’s head and instantly slipped it on his body in seconds, afterward showing him his reflection in a little mirror. He actually did look quite cute in it. “I also got you a box of chocolate! Now we’re ready!” said Valentina, putting the small container in the suit’s right pocket. Bob Cut was stunned. It had been a long time since anypony got him something so nice. Although he was grateful, he was a little concerned with the outset of the date. Typically, the colt was the one to give such gifts to his mare, but he didn’t have time to prepare or offer her anything.

“Wait! I still have to drop off Sharp Edge,” he reminded.

“Oh, he can come with us! Now, come on—we don’t wanna be late!” urged Valentina, already trotting ahead before Bob could say anything. Bob followed with Sharp Edge on his back.

The two earth ponies trotted to the restaurant together, talking about the night that was to come. It seemed that Sweet Valentina had made reservations at a restaurant featuring music and a dance floor. Bob Cut was a little uneasy with Sweet Valentina’s full coverage of the date. Even though he appreciated it, he felt that he should at least pay the expenses. Then again, it wasn’t like Sweet Valentina to give him that chance. Bob was also nervous attending such a fancy place. A restaurant of that class would be bound to have many other ponies present, and Bob was not a fan of being in crowded areas. Still, he was willing to give it a try for her sake, although he would have preferred something a little more quiet and private.

A short period later, they finally arrived at the restaurant. Before entering, the pony at the door stopped them, pointing to Sharp Edge with his hoof.

“I’m sorry, sir, but pets are not allowed,” he said.

“Aaaaawww, I’m sorry, Sharp Edge. I didn’t know…. Well, maybe you can wait outside for us! I promise we won’t be long!” assured Sweet Valentina, gently lifting him and setting him down on a patch of pretty flowers just outside the restaurant. The disgruntled mantis crossed his claws and looked to Bob, who attempted to apologize to him, too. Before he could finish, Valentina then pulled Bob inside. Sharp Edge just shook his head.

Sweet Valentina and Bob Cut were welcomed and shown to their reserved table. The décor was rather elaborate by Ponyville standards. The interior resembled a fancy ballroom with a stage performance, featuring the orchestral music of Octavia and her group. Normally, such a band performed at Canterlot Castle, but perhaps this place also had connections, given its rather sophisticated atmosphere. The music was soft and soothing, but the melody resonated throughout the restaurant, dance floor, and surrounding tables to set the ambiance.

How could Sweet Valentina afford to have their date here? Reflecting on all of the time and money she invested into making this night special once again weighed down on Bob’s conscience. In his thoughts, he came to the conclusion that he shouldn’t worry about it and instead try to make it up to her in the future. For now, focusing on making sure to have a good time and make Sweet Valentina’s efforts worth it seemed best. Bob really hadn’t been to a locale with so many ponies in a long time. He was nervous to be seen with Valentina, especially since he looked like a mare. Bob felt other ponies would stare, thinking they were a same-gender couple and that Sweet Valentina might be accused of liking other fillies! The moment he sat down, he hid his face behind the menu as his lovely date greeted their waiter.

Looking around, Bob Cut noticed other pony couples, usually a feminine mare with a handsome and masculine stallion. At one table was Goldengrape and Daisy, at another table was Caramel and Wind Whistler, at another was…Lyra and Bonbon? The two mares were sitting face-to-face, blushing and flirting with each other, and they seemed to have no problem being seen together. Bob clearly didn’t get out much, otherwise he would have known that couples of two mares or stallions weren’t uncommon in Ponyville, and they generally were accepted. Even if he and Sweet Valentina were mistaken as two mares on a date, chances were high that nopony would care or think any less of them. Bob sighed in relief, only to be surprised immediately after when his menu was taken from him before he had the chance to look at it.

Sweet Valentina didn’t even bother to look through her menu; already having known what she wanted to order. She ordered pasta garnished with flowers and some fancy colorful fruit drinks for both of them. Bob didn’t even get a chance to look at the menu! How was she even sure that’s what he wanted? Sure; he’d be okay with eating it, but perhaps he would have found something else he favored more. Bob was about to say something, but then he saw her enchanting eyes gazing upon him. Valentina just stared at Bob Cut lovingly, sighing dreamily with hearts in her eyes and fantasizing about their future together. She looked so ravishing that it stopped him in his tracks and prevented him from saying anything. Bob simply couldn’t deny that Valentina looked lovely in her current attire, and her current flirtatious expression was rather charming and cute. He smiled bashfully. A few minutes later, the waiter returned with some fancy drinks. Bob Cut took sipped his drink from a straw, calming down. It wasn’t bad, actually. Perhaps things were going to go smooth for the rest of the night….

“So what are we going to name our little foals?” asked Sweet Valentina. Bob Cut’s eyes popped open as he spat out his drink to the side. He gagged, having nearly choked on it.

“W-what?” he squeaked.

“Oh you know, after we get married of course!” she explained, giggling. Valentina had to be kidding, right? No, Bob could see it in her eyes—she was serious. They hadn’t even eaten dinner yet, and Valentina was already thinking about marriage and children?

“I-Isn’t it a little too early to plan such things?” questioned Bob.

“Why do you say that?” she asked back, tilting her head inquisitively and blinking her long eyelashes.

“Well…. Shouldn’t we kinda…get to know each other first?” he said.

“Oh, silly—there’ll be plenty of time to get to know each other during our honeymoon!” replied Valentina. Bob Cut’s mouth fell open. For a mare who claimed to have a passion for all things romantic, it seemed like she really didn’t know how actual relationships worked. He excused himself for a moment and went to the restroom.

Bob splashed water on his face and stood in front of the mirror, gazing upon his reflection. Normally, in such a position, this is when a colt would give himself pep talk on impressing his date or making sure not to mess up. Instead, as if he were at the looking glass of his mind, Bob reflected on everything. One part of him was telling him to bail—to just run home and not look back. The other part of him, however, cared deeply about Sweet Valentina and knew that such a thing would leave her devastated. Bob Cut noticed a few colts in the lavatory were staring at him…most likely because of his feminine features that made him look like he belonged in the fillies’ room. This was one of biggest reasons he disliked going out and especially detested using public restrooms. He politely asked the colts if they could please not stare at him, and they just looked away nonchalantly whistling, much to Bob’s annoyance.

Bob Cut looked back at the mirror and resumed contemplating. Were all girls like this when it came to boys? No, it couldn’t be…. Sweet Valentina was just a special case, considering that her mind was filled with fantasies that she wanted to see come true. Possibly, like Bob, she also didn’t know how to approach others…. Maybe that was it: his approach! Perhaps, if he tried to talk to her a little more, the situation would become more pleasant. Bob trotted out of the restroom and returned to his table where his date was waiting for him.

“Oh, you’re back! You were there a long time…. I hope you don’t have an upset tummy,” Sweet Valentina said considerately.

“No, no; I’m fine! Really! But I was wondering if you could do me a small favor and just…talk with me,” Bob Cut said in an apprehensive manner.

“Talk? Okay, what do you want to talk about? Maybe the house we’re going to live in together?” she asked naïvely. He resisted his urge to slap his forehead.

“No; I mean talk about us—ourselves! Like…you tell me some little things about you, and I tell you a little bit about me,” Bob clarified.

“Oh! Alright! Let’s see…. Where should I start?” questioned Valentina.

“Well, maybe start with—” Before he could finish, a colt with a violin appeared, playing romantic music next to their table, harmonizing with the music Octavia was playing on stage beautifully. This sudden interruption derailed Bob’s train of thought. He returned his focus on Valentina, trying to remember what he was going to suggest.

“Isn’t it beautiful?” asked Sweet Valentina. “I asked him to play next to our table while you were gone. This will be our song!” she declared, clasping her front hooves together. Bob Cut did find the music rather nice, albeit a little loud. He supposed that they could still talk…that is, until the violinist started singing. His vocals made other pony couples look toward their table, making Bob feel incredibly awkward as he laughed timidly and sunk back into his seat. After the musician finished, he took a bow and everypony gave him a round of applause. After he left, the other guests resumed their dinner and conversation. Bob thought this, finally, was his opportunity to speak.

Before Bob Cut could continue his conversation with Sweet Valentina, their food had arrived and their drinks were refilled. Valentina began eating her pasta, slurping up a noodle and savoring it, making cute cooing sounds as she chewed. She looked so happy and content with her food that he didn't want to interrupt. Bob decided to eat his own pasta. It wasn't bad, but he still would have preferred to have seen what else the menu had to offer. Not long afterward, the two ponies finished their meals. Bob hoped they could pay the bill, leave, and resume talking outside…but then he felt himself getting tugged on by the hoof and being pulled from the table and towards the dance floor by Valentina. It seemed they weren't done here yet! Sweet Valentina faced Bob and batted her eyelashes. He smiled, and thought that maybe this little dance wouldn't hurt…. The music was slow and put Bob in a more relaxed state of mine. They slow-danced, laying their heads on each other’s shoulders, eyes closed and content.

Unfortunately, the soothing music came to an end in less than a minute. Onstage, Octavia and her fellow musicians took a bow, and then left with their instruments. That was rather quick…. Perhaps it was time to leave? Bob noticed some other ponies leave the restaurant while others entered who were dressed much less formal. The dining room lights dimmed, cuing everypony to look toward the stage. Immediately after, a spinning disco ball lowered from the ceiling, reflecting sparkling lights that cycled around the entire locale. A turntable with speakers was wheeled into the area. Suddenly, Vinyl Scratch popped out from behind and blasted loud techno dance music.

In mere seconds, the entire event had transformed from a fancy ballroom dance into a rave party. Just what kind of place was this? Bob Cut could barely hear himself speak! He tried to communicate with Sweet Valentina, but she had difficulty hearing him through the loud music. She kept putting her hoof to her ear, repeating “WHAT?” in response to everything Bob said. He wouldn’t have minded dancing to the relaxing music from before, but this was just too crazy for him! Despite wearing a formal dress, Sweet Valentina had no problem getting into the groove with upbeat dance moves, standing on two hooves and shaking her flank to the rhythm. Bob looked around, noticing many ponies on the dance floor crowding the area. He tried his best to humor Valentina by bobbing his head up and down lightly while standing in place.

Sweet Valentina grabbed Bob Cut with her front hooves, holding him close and dancing with him. He blushed heavily from being so close…. Having no idea how to dance with somepony, Bob let Valentina lead completely. She lifted him off the floor, and then proceeded to rock him side to side with his hind hooves dangling, like a young girl playing with a doll. Valentina spun Bob around, but lost grip of him! He went careening deep into the crowd of dancers where he bumped into a masculine stallion. The stranger wore sunglasses and sported handlebar moustache, flipped brown hairdo, noticeable chest hair, and a flashy, green sequined shirt. He looked down at Bob, raising a brow and smirking a bit, thinking he was a mare. Bob gulped as the large and showy stallion came uncomfortably close…. He shouted out to inform the bold creature that he wasn’t a mare, but with the loud music permeating the locale, his male voice barely could be heard.

Despite Bob’s efforts to discourage him, the stallion didn't cease his advancements. The brute was even about to pull Bob in for a kiss! Bob tried his best to retreat, but he was blocked off by other ponies. The entire situation was getting to him: The loud bass, the crowd of strangers, the bright and obnoxious lights, Sweet Valentina’s lack of communication, his lack of resolve for improving their date was bad enough. Now a big, hairy stallion was about to kiss him? Enough was enough! Bob Cut couldn’t take anymore—he was about to lose it!

Just then, the audacious stallion stopped in his tracks and noticed something was on his stylish coiffure: it was Bob’s praying mantis, Shape Edge! It seemed the loyal pet had snuck inside to check on Bob and arrived just in time to protect his master. Sharp Edge started using his claws to give the flashy Stallion a nasty trim, ruining his suave brown hair. The stallion released Bob and ran wildly, trying desperately to shake the large bug off his head. He started bumping into other ponies, making them topple over and disrupting the party. The dance music came to a complete halt with an abrupt record scratch as Vinyl Scratch lifted her glasses to see what all the commotion was. Standing amongst the crowd of fallen ponies was Bob, who was shrinking back when a spotlight landed upon him. He looked to his left and right as all ponies seemed to be looking his direction.

“Bobby! There you are! Hey, what happened?” asked Sweet Valentina, having just found him again. Bob Cut burst into a cold sweat and began to tremble nervously. He whistled to signal Sharp Edge. The faithful mantis flew onto Bob’s head, and the uneasy pony galloped away as quickly as he could out of the club to escape the scene. Bob stopped right outside the restaurant and panted, relieved to be free from the tense situation. What an awful night this was! Just then, Sweet Valentina stepped outside.

“Bobby? What’s wrong? Why’d you leave?” asked Sweet Valentina, looking very concerned. “I thought we were having fun,” she said. Bob Cut turned to face Valentina, his face scowling and his right eye twitching.

“DO I LOOK LIKE I’M HAPPY TO YOU?!” he yelled, breathing heavily and gritting his teeth afterward. She backed away, pouting, and looking like she was about to cry. Seeing how his reactions were affecting her, Bob tried his best to regain his composure. “I’m sorry Sweet Valentina, but…I haven’t been able to fully enjoy myself tonight,” he confessed.

“But… why?” she began to ask. “Is it the suit? … D-Did you not like the food?” Valentina’s eyes began to water a bit.

“That’s not the problem,” Bob disconfirmed. “The problem is first you do all this without asking me if I’d be okay with it first and without letting me have my say. The entire night, you've barely even let me speak, and you didn't even give me the chance to try to make you happy myself,” he explained with a sigh.

“I…I just thought that, now that we were together, we’d have fun together, no matter what,” expressed Sweet Valentina, trying to keep herself from breaking down.

“It doesn't work that way,” argued Bob Cut. “Although I like you, I don’t know enough about you…. I was hoping tonight we could talk and get acquainted, but maybe I’m to blame as well,” he noted, lowering his head and closing his eyes for a moment before looking at Valentina again. “Maybe I was afraid of speaking up because I was worried I might ruin your enjoyment. And who says we’re together? All I said was that I like you…. We never even came to that agreement,” Bob asserted, shaking his head lightly as he looked down.

“I’m sorry…. I just…wanted to make sure everything went perfectly… I was so sure things were going to work out,” Valentina apologized.

“Based on what? Your books? The stories you hear from every pony else? … Do you know anything about me other than me other than my name and job? Are you willing to spend the rest of your life with somepony you barely know?” asked Bob.

“I just…never went on a date before or even had somepony like me,” admitted Sweet Valentina, finding it more difficult to retain her composure. “I just…didn’t want you to end up not liking me anymore…. That’s why I spent everything I had on tonight!” she explained. Valentina sniffled and a tear ran down her cheek. Now Bob Cut felt really bad. A new dress, a new suit for him, reservations, and the food—all of it made sense. She really did all she could to make their date special. Perhaps he had been too harsh…. After all, Bob didn’t mean to make her cry. Wishing to comfort her, he trotted up to Valentina and put his hoof under her chin, lifting her sad face and looking her in the eyes.

“But Valentina,” Bob Cut began to say, “I do still like you. All I ask is that, from now on, we both take things a little slower and get to know each other better.” He wiped the tear from Valentina’s cheek as she smiled warmly and nodded.

“I understand,” she said, gently nudging her cheek against his hoof. Bob then walked Sweet Valentina back home as he carried Sharp Edge on his back. As they walked, the two talked, finally, about their individual lives: where they were from, their favorite food, their pets, and other such topics. Bob Cut and Sweet Valentina discovered that they had little in common at first, but they were sure they could find a few mutual interests. The two ponies soon arrived at Valentina’s home.

“How…about tomorrow I take you out for ice cream? My treat? Just you and me?” offered Bob Cut. Sweet Valentina smiled cheerfully.

“Sounds like a good plan to me!” she declared. The two gazed at each other’s faces affectionately. Valentina still looked as radiant as ever under the cover of the beautiful night sky, while Bob seemed to sparkle in the moonlight, almost like a prince. The two blushed, noticing how close their muzzles were, growing ever closer…. They were about to kiss! Just before their mouths met, Sharp Edge pinched Bob on the flank, making him yelp in pain. Bob’s pet mantis had grown impatient and wanted to return home. Backing away a bit, Bob scratched the back of his head and grinned sheepishly.

“Sorry about this, Valentina. I…guess I’ll see you tomorrow, right?” he asked, trying to shake off the awkwardness of the situation.

“It’s okay, Bobby! We’ll have fun tomorrow for sure!” assured Valentina.

“Bye for now,” he said, smiling and starting to trot back to his home.

“See you!” she exclaimed as she waved. They were content knowing that they were still friends.

The next day, Spike stopped by Sweet Heart Sweets to tell Sweet Valentina another of his stories of romance and valiance in exchange for free chocolate-covered diamonds. Valentina paid attention and enjoyed listening to it, as usual. Spike was in the middle of highlighting his heroism, but suddenly, for the first time, she interrupted his exaggerated tale….

“Oh, Spike, I was wondering…. You write friendship reports to Princess Celestia for Twilight and the others, right?” asked Valentina.

“Yeah, why?” the young dragon asked back.

“Well… Maybe you can take a letter for me, if that’s okay.” she requested.

“I guess Celestia wouldn't mind. Good thing I always have scroll and a quill ready!” he said, pulling out both items. Spike then wrote as Sweet Valentina spoke.

“Dear Princess Celestia:

Last night, I learned about something a little different than friendship: love. I learned that you shouldn't believe that, just because somepony is the first one you like or who likes you, it means they’ll be your very special somepony, or that they’ll be the only one. It’s important to get to know each other, listen to one another, make sure to work as a team, and really make sure you’ll be happy together. Even if all that doesn't work out, then as long as you care for each other, there’s no reason you two can’t be friends at least. But, I’m sure that, as long as you’re patient and follow your heart, you’ll find your own special somepony soon enough.

Sincerely,
Sweet Valentina

Oh, and P.S. - Enclosed also is a box of chocolates! Hope you like them!”

After Valentina handed Spike a small box of chocolates, he rolled the scroll around it, then set the articles ablaze with his emerald dragon flame, magically transporting them to the princess. “All done!” declared Spike, brushing his claws together. “Ready for the rest of my tale of heroism and romance?” he asked. Valentina cheerfully nodded in response. And so Spike resumed his story, and Sweet Valentina happily continued to listen. Maybe someday, she would find her brave knight to sweep her off her hooves, too….

Author's Note

First off for those accusing me of stealing this fic from Deviantart from the user "MooMinded", I'll have you know we are one in the same (that's simply my alternate screen name) I also did the title art as well.

A story I wrote using my characters and a friend's characters. I apologize for Bob Cut seeming like a clone of Fluttershy (I understand, it's a legit criticism) or Sweet Valentina being a clone of Pinkie Pie (Which I don't agree with but to each their own) but I hope maybe you can look past the similarities and find what makes these characters unique, or at the very least different from them.

Sweet Valentina beings to me and Bob Cut belongs to Yukivaneller

Also, apologies for the sappy morale at the end, this was one of my first fan fics and I wanted to be true to the spirit of the show.