A Baker's Loveby uz_mike222ChaptersFirst CupcakeSecond CupcakeThird CupcakeFirst CupcakeFirst Cupcake Love. It's such an odd concept. One minute your minding your own business, the next you find yourself infatuated with a pony you've never even met. Its strange how that happens. Your heart is calm and beating at a normal tempo and then, when that pony crosses your path, its beat rapidly increases until the point its beating so fast you can hear it in your ears. You then begin to sweat and your tongue becomes jumbled. The only thing you can say is just gibberish that even you have no idea about what you're saying. That's if you're lucky to even talk to her. Plus, the only thing you can see is the pony standing in front of you as you don't watch what you're doing. Especially as a chef, its tough since your holding onto a skillet with boiling scrambled eggs with just your teeth. But I wasn't feeling that. I did stop and stare a little bit at a bell's jingle, however. "Hey, uh, Crisp? You there buddy." Sky Dance waved a blue colored hoof in front of my face, leaning forward from his seat. It was just another regular that visits. "What?" I turned my attention back towards Sky, his green eyes dancing, as he sits back onto the stool. "Oh. Right," I put the eggs onto his empty plate with a couple of bacon strips and some toast. Another bell rang out. "What's the matter, Crisp?" Sky asked, turning back around from seeing a couple of mares walk in. He then began shoving food down his gullet. "Never seen a mare before?" He replied in between bites. A smile forming on his face. His lime and white mane bouncing around. Sarcasm is Sky's forte, for some odd reason. It's weird how a musical Pegasus, especially one held as a genius, can be such an idiot. I just glared at him as he snickered. They were both beautiful. Like, super model beautiful. However, I lost interest quickly as they both sat down next to Sky, one on each side. "Hello again ladies," Sky replied smoothly as he put both hooves around them. "Guess its that time again, Crisp. Better get back to my life as a celebrity." He and his to mares stood up. "Yeah, yeah. Go shove a Cello down your throat!" I shouted at him as he left the diner. Schmuck. The day went by slowly, with ponies coming and going at a trickle. It was relaxing work and not having to make a million meals every single second for a million ponies. It's nice to cook a comfortable pace without having to worry about much. Well, until it became night time when I need three sets of extra hooves. Four to cook and eight to run plates. 'Tis the night of eating. For the next three hours, we were packed to the brim with ponies. They were young and were mainly couples. Odd that. This diner isn't usually a spot that couples like to hang out at. Might have to look into it. I asked Caring Wish about it and she had no clue. Neither did Skillet or his sister, Autumn Blend. They were kids themselves, but worked so they weren't to up and up on what was going on with the down low on their class mates. Word. Forget I even said that. Anyway, as the night rolled on, we closed the diner down around nine o'clock and began cleaning up. Once we were done cleaning up, I paid the three ponies their due before they left. Caring Wish, on the other hoof stayed until after I locked the doors, placing the keys in my apron's pocket. "Excuse me, Mr. Crisp. I need to talk to you." She replied, a worried look on her face. "Of course Caring. What is it? " "Well, I was hoping to ask you to terminate my employment?" "You're quitting?" I asked with such a shock. "Yes," She squeaked. "What for?" I tilted my head slightly in confusion, feeling an eyebrow raise "I'm graduating from the University and I'm moving to Las Pegasus to continue my education." "Ah." I nodded with approval. Its always good to put one's education first and foremost. "When do you leave?" "In a weeks time. Its short notice, I know, but I've just been worried about how to tell you." "It's OK Caring. I understand. I'm not even mad. The only problem I'm going to have is finding some pony that is good as you at being a waitress." I replied. "I think I know just the mare. Let me bring her by tomorrow before the rush. To train her some." "Alright. I leave it in your hooves, madame." I told her with a slight bow of my head. "Thank you, Mr. Crisp!" She grabbed my neck, squeezed tightly until I told her to stop since she was chocking me. We parted with waves after that and I walked back home. I wonder what this friend of Caring will be like. Better not dwell on it. I'll find out tomorrow. Tomorrow I watched as Old Stallion Forkie pick up a piece of celery with his forked hoof and began nibbling on it. Well. It wasn't a forked hoof. It was actually a metallic two pronged fork that was attached to his right leg from a metal base. He lost his actual hoof in a construction accident. Tragic how a two ton cement block can crush a hoof. It was around noon when Caring brought herself and her friend in. Comparing the two, Caring Wish was the better looking, with the better mane and better coloring. Plus, she was a Pegasus. I have a thing for Pegasi, oddly enough. Anyway, Caring was a sweet summer green while the friend was like a badly roasted almond and the darkest colored mane almost known to pony kind. Luna had that title. She had sparkles in it. I dare ya to beat sparkling hair that flows without a wind. Ya can't! I need to stop before I get carried away. Anyway, this mare also wore a strange, black beret that hasn't been around since I was her age. or was it Caring's age? Can't remember. Oh well. Her eyes were a dark, brown that seemed light-hearted and full of fun. Seemed like that, anyway. "Welcome to my humble diner!" I greeted with wide open arms."How can I help you two lovely mares out?" "Hey Mr. Crisp." Caring said with a small smile on her face. "This is the friend I've told you about. Her name is Piper." "Pleasure to make your acquaintance, Miss Piper." "Likewise," replying with a slight nod. She pushed black framed glasses up, so they could sit a bit higher on her muzzle. "Well, I guess we better get started then Piper. Don't mind us Mr. Crisp." Caring Wish said as she began to give the tour of the diner and went in depth about what Piper had to do. It was cute seeing Caring move about, showing her friend the ropes. Fortunately for me, I was drafted as a guinea pig, along with my best pal Scramble who came to visit, to help Piper out with taking down orders, remembering faces and other things. We, meaning Scramble and I, had fun with it since we were the rowdiest ones, even though we weren't really customers. However, actually customers began to pour in little by little, which helped Piper get acquainted with taking actual orders. Scramble sat back and watched, giving tips here and there. An hour later, after Autumn Blend and Skillet came in, the rush hit, and it began getting to the point where Piper was helping with orders and taking care of customers. Scramble was in the back helping cook and make plates. That guy was probably the life saver since I noticed we had a line out of the door. I didn't understand why, until Sky came towards the estimated middle of the rush with a bunch of groupies. Even Scramble had the same horrified look on his face as did the rest of us, except Piper who was going gaga over him until she remembered what was happening and continued working. "Yo Crisp! Hey Scrams!" Sky waved as he sat down on his favorite stool. "Hey Sky," We both said, monotonous and our horrified looks still on our faces as we continued to cook. "Why the long faces?" he shouted over the loud roar of the crowded diner. Piper set a drink down in front of him. "You know exactly why!" I shouted at him as I placed a celery salad plate down in the little window and rang the bell. Autumn snatched it with her magic. "Not my fault you make great food Crisp! I wasn't one of Celestia's top cooks." Sky said, and I noticed, out of the corner of my eye, one of Piper's ears perked up, as did Autumn Blend's and Caring Wish's. Wonder what they're going to do since I never told them. I only told Skillet and it was at a party once after having wa~y to many glasses of cider. I knew he wouldn't say a word since's mute. That was an advantage. That mangy, pea-brained.... ARG! "Don't matter! We're already swamped with customers. What is that you guys want?" I asked and had Caring Wish take down orders and Autumn Blend and Piper focus on the other customers. A couple of hours went by and the place was practically deserted. Sky stayed back, though, and began helping clean up. Something about helping a friend out. I don't know. Anyway, cleaning up the place took another hour after we closed and we were out the door. I hate those rushes Sky hurls at us. They're terrible, but the money is always nice. I should start making him pay. Double the normal price, in fact. Once the doors were locked and everyone was outside. Caring and Autumn stood in front of me, blocking my path to home. Scramble teleported away, knowing something was up, saying his fire was on oven. While Sky's stupid excuse was his laundry was being roasted on a spit. I don't know. The only thing I know right now is they're cowards, but they can't really help me anyway. Skillet on the other hoof, he's stuck there and can't leave without his sister. Piper was standing back and waiting for Caring Wish. "So, Mr. Crisp? When were you going to tell us you were one of Celestia's cooks?" Autumn asked, her hazelnut eyes stared daggers into me. "Um...I don't know?" I smiled weakly, my shoulders shrugging. I gulped not knowing what was happening. Skillet was also clueless and just as scared. They both puffed up their chests as the began to suck in air, until Piper piped up. Totally intentional pun. I hate myself. "Does it matter though?" Piper asked. The two mares turning towards her after exhaling. "Yeah it does. He could give us so~ many tips and hints to help us get better at cooking. You should know that to be one of Celestia's Chef's you have to be the top graduate of the Equestrian School of Cooking." Caring answered hotly but cooled down a second later. "Sorry," "You shouldn't be worrying about how to become the best chef, but how to better your cooking skills.You know as well as I do, Caring, that it takes time and practice to to become a better cook, as well as a chef. Let's go home. I'm tired after today." She began walking away, not until after I nodded my thanks. "Ah pony feathers! You're right. Besides, I gotta worry about packing." They turned around and began walking. "She's right. Let's get home, Skillet." Autumn told her brother, who held his mouth closed and nodded. They both left, leaving me to breathe after that little ordeal. I looked at both leaving parties and I noticed Piper looking back towards me, a small smile on her face. She looked back forward as she and Caring turned a corner. Love. It's such an odd concept. One minute your minding your own business, the next you find yourself infatuated with a pony you don't even know. Ah, Pony feathers! The seeds have been scattered onto this game field and I ain't quite ready to bake the cake needed. Plus, I've never even kissed a mare before.... Striking that. Second CupcakeSecond Cupcake I turned towards the sounds of giggling, mumbled words and many sounds that were disjointed and garbled. I moved my head in a circular motion, trying to pinpoint where the sounds were coming from.It seemed they came from everywhere. Mouths were popping in and out in the darkness that surrounds me. I keep moving around, heading in directions I was never sure about. Mouths and words appearing and disappearing inside of all this darkness as I placed one hoof in front of the other. Then, something stopped me. A blinding white light in this darkness of laughter and incomprehensible words pooled down into this darkness, shoving it back without effort. It stopped. Everything stopped. The words were gone and the mouths were just lines of blackness on a deeper field of black, fading into the back ground. I turned towards the light, a black line shown, turned in a downward arc. It parted, mouthing words in a faint whisper, one barely detectable by normal hearing. It grew louder and louder, until I was able to hear it's ambiguous voice. All it said was 'Don't Go.' A deaf-inducing scream waved from the mouth-like lines, forcing me out of this dream state to waking consciousness. I brought myself up to a sitting position when I awoke, panting. I felt my forehead and it was wet. I was sweating. Don't Go. Those were the words that continuously replay in my head, like a broken record. The dream is a distant memory now as I sit here in bed, just looking at my hooves as they sit on my lap. Except for those two words. Don't go. Don't go. DON'T GO! That's all I hear in my head now to the point of me not even being able to hear myself think. Its pushing me to a brink that I don't even know where that brink belongs. Insanity is a great possibility. Do I try to push those words out of my mind and forget them, however? Or do I try to ignore those words and get on with my life? I don't know. I just...don't know. By the time I got out of bed, the sun was coming up. I don't know when I had awoken, but I've been trying to push those words to somewhere I wouldn't be able to hear them. I knew, however, that hearing either of those words would trigger that male/female voice to say it again. And again. And again. Over and over and over until it breaks my frame of mind that'll be the borderline of insanity. But... I'll continue on and try to get through the day. I left my apartment and apparently was a half-hour late for doing my morning prep. So, I opened the diner a half-hour later and will surely close it a half-hour later. The day went by slowly. The regulars came in during their usual times from morning to noon. It was the same old song and dance, and it was relaxing. I guess. It still didn't help that I heard snippets of conversations and the words that stood out. Most were the ones that stuck after my dream. They were either in that combination or it was one or the other. I can't even get away from it. Thankfully, it was the evening rush that helped push the words from sounding in my head, or so I hopped that would happen. Somehow it was completely empty this time. I shouldn't say that. We had few customers here and there, but it was almost empty half of the time. So, Caring, Autumn and Piper took the time to hang out in between customers and cleaning, taking turns. Skillet and I, however, just stood behind the counter, looking bored as we took turns cooking. "Hey Skillet? Can I talk to you about something?" I asked him, looking at him. He nodded. "Thanks. Please keep this between us, please." Another nod. "I had this dream last night and I can't get a grasp on it." He told him about the dream recapping most of it from beginning to end. "I don't know if this is an omen or something random. However, I still hear these words being said in the back of my mind. Waiting to be said by actual lips." I finished, finding myself fixed upon Piper. Weird. I gulped as my heart began to pick up and looked back Skillet. His lips were in a grin and my heart sunk since he knew something was up. I glared at him, to no avail. For a mute pony, this boy is pretty perceptive. I placed a marker and some white cardboard in front of him. He grabbed the marker inside his magic. The marker twisted and turned, forming lines, which formed words. Once finished he lifted it so only I could see it. It read: 1. You're in love. 2. What has you so afraid of those words? A simple question, but the words were powerful. All I could do was shrug, shake my head, and stay quite. I honestly didn't know. Loss? Maybe. But the only thing I know for sure is that this has never happened to me before. Love for another pony, especially one you want to...do things with, is completely different. Like a friend that is more than just a friend. I want to say love like for a wife or a girlfriend but this love is on a completely different scale than that. I think. I don't have experience with it, nor do my other friends, that I know of. I want to talk to Sky, but he's just a play stallion and I doubt he'd even know about dating. I'm jealous, though. "I don't know," I finally replied. He nodded and accepted the answer. A small smile formed on his face like he knew that was the answer all along. Maybe he was right about. Without even me telling him, I didn't want to talk further about it. He was fine with it. At least, for now. The night dragged on slowly. It was tough not having those words pop up every five minutes. I got through it though and locked up as everyone else left. I looked up at the moon shining brightly as the stars made their way across the night sky. At that moment in time, I could finally say that my jimmies remained unrustled nerves have calmed down and could actually relax. In order for me to continue this sensation, I walked over to a small park that a friend of mine liked to use for her stargazing during some nights. She was there, fortunately. Maybe she has some advice. I climbed to the top of the hill, shout out my salutations to Starlight. She's a dark gray mare with light gray and a dark red colored mane. Her eyes were a lovely tiger eye (Coloring of the stone of the same name). She also said her hello as she peered through her telescope, her horn working its magic to write down notes in a notebook she kept by her side. She's an Astronomer. Looking into the stars and the like, while moonlighting as a science-fiction novelist. Go figure. Nice girl though. I asked her if she could help me with something and her answer was a curt nod, moving the telescope away from her eye. I sat down in front of her and recapped the dream. I don't think I said word for word from what I told Skillet, but it was the same story, at least. I then told her about the mare and what I felt, just omitting her name. No need for that right now. Starlight just looked at me, wide eyed and stunned. She knew I could not make something up like this. This is probably the first time she's heard me say the word 'love' that describes my feelings for a pony. It even felt weird for me to even say the words. "That is a lot going on," she mustered to say, eyes still wide. "I know. And even now, in the back of my mind, I still hear those two specific words. I don't like it. I don't like it one bit." I shook my head. Life is going to be tough from now on. "I can't really help you Crisp. I've never really fallen in love. I've swooned for good-looking stallions, but that's just because of their looks, like you guys do with us mares. I've never fully fallen in love with another pony. Besides, it'll get in the way of my studying." "What would you do if the opposite happens?" I asked and her face grew bright. I just looked at her with an eyebrow raised. I knew Starlight since we were both foals. I viewed her as a sister and I always thought she viewed me as a brother, especially since I protected her from bullies and helping her. I might be reading to into the look. She might just be thinking of someone who would be interested in her. "I-I-I don't know. I never thought of it like that." Her eyes grew bright as she gasped. "That gives me an idea!" She shouted and began writing in her notebook. I took that cue to leave.... She's a strange pony. Smart and nice. Still strange, though. I made my way back to my apartment, sitting down in my pile of pillows. Comfy and eloquent, but not good for sleeping. Trust me. I tried. I laid back anyway, looking up at my dark ceiling. It was comfy for the first few minutes, until my back started becoming sore. That, and someone was knocking on my door. I stood up, made my way over and opened the door. Neon Glitter posed in front of my doorway. Her lips were pursed, her showing eye sparkled like a light emerald. Her long mane flowed down from her head, its red and lime-green strips reaching towards the floor. Her red coat shone in the moonlight, as did the small splotches of dark red. Her front left hoof was lifted, positioned so her knee was facing towards her right ,back legs spread wide. I audibly exhaled onto Neon and just from that little breath, she fell forward, landing on her chin, one back leg up while both her front legs were under her, wings unfurled and up. I couldn't help but chuckle. "Sorry Neon, I kinda had to." I helped her up. "I know Crisp," she laughed as I allowed her in. "You back from your tour?" I asked as she sat down. I began making her some Herbal tea. "Only for the week. We're heading up towards Baltimare next. I came to ask you if I could hold a little get together at your diner." I handed her the tea and she said her thanks. "It'll be a couple of days from now, before we have to leave again." "Of course! You know you guys are always welcome over. Well, except for one for right now." I looked away and she just gave me a puzzled look. "Sky's been a real pain lately and I've noticed he's been with some "one times" for a while now." I told her and explained that a one time was a mare you'd only be with once in your life. She nodded in understanding. She was a one time once, until Scramble kicked the teeth out of the guy's mouth. Stallions knew after that if she were t be used as a one time, then they'd have their teeth knocked out. It was pretty funny. "Hopefully he's just going through one of his phases, though. Its better for that than something like him swooning for a mare." "One can hope," Neon said, nodding in understanding and took a sip from her tea cup. A small bit of silence ticked by. During that time, I debated. Should I tell Neon or not? And my greater consciences said I should and so I asked if she could help me. She said OK and I told her the same thing I told Starlight. She just looked at me wide eyed. Is it that much of a surprise? Jeez, what haters. She also didn't know what to tell me, except what I knew already: Take it slow, spend time with her, and have fun. That's common sense or something at least. Right? We both said our goodbyes with hugs after Neon finished her tea. Once I shut and locked the door, I went into my room and fell asleep. Third CupcakeThird Cupcake I awoke to the sound of my door being banged upon. It kept going until I opened the door and saw Starlight, with Sky Dancer looking proud as ever. I yawned and asked what they were up to. They told me they were thinking of taking Neon, since she's back, to the new Bistro called 'Over the Hay.' I could only shrug and say 'why not?' Probably be good to eat somewhere else. I said I'd meet them at Scramble's place after I put up a sign to say my Diner is closed. Some of my regulars are going to be mad at me. Oh well. Its for a friend. They'll understand. Hopefully. Won't they? Anyway, I made my way down to the upper part of the city, towards the castle. It was a hike, but I was the first one at Scramble's door. I knocked on the door as Starlight and Sky Dancer appear. Scramble opened the door, a hoof over his mouth as he tried to cover a yawn. "What are you guys doing here?" "Well, we wanted to ask if you wanted to go out for lunch?" Sky asked him, his wings flapping above us. Scrambled answered with a yawn, then followed with, "That depends on which restaurant we're going to," "Why not that new bistro that opened up a week ago?" Starlight piped up. "I heard it was already given five stars." "You mean "Over the Hay?"" I asked Starlight, "Yeah! That one!" She exclaimed. "Let's go and try the place out!" She began to jump up and down excitedly, which is odd for her since she's usually mellow. "I don't have anything better to do so I might as well join in," Scramble shrugged as he began closing his door. He looked the door, placed the key under his hat and we started walking down the street. We made our to the bistro, and were lucky enough to find an open table, even if it was on the patio. A couple of extra chairs were placed at the table. Scramble and Starlight were confused on why, until Sky exclaimed Neon Glitter and a friend of hers were coming for lunch. "They should be here within a half-hour." Sky finished before taking his seat. As we waited, we began to talk about the past week while Scramble and I shoved appetizers into our mouths. I told him the same thing I always tell him: Catering for parties. Its an extra side business to make money. I hate going to those things, but the money is good. Helps keep the employees paid while maintaining the restaurant. I also relayed that one of my employee's was leaving since she has to continue her training in Las Pegasus and will be replaced by her friend by the end of the week. They told me to tell her good luck and congratulations. Sky changed the subject before an awkward pause set in and asked what new idea Scramble had since he wasn't seen for the past couple of days. "A romance, actually," He replied in his natural, neutral tone. Starlight and I gasped. I did it more sarcastically, but it is still a shock. "So, you're actually writing a romance novel? You, whose famous for writing fantasy novels?" Sky asked skeptically. "Shocking isn't it?" Scramble asked with a smile on his lips. "I just wanted to try something new and thought, 'why not a romance?' Its a territory that I barely explore anyway. Especially in real life. Its surprisingly difficult." "How so?" Starlight asked, genuinely curious about this new event. "The biggest thing for me is interest in the plot and the genre in general. Then it's the finer points of emotions, thought process of the characters, and everything else that goes into a story, but trying to gear more towards a more modern lovey-dovey stuff than into the action and suspense that I usually like." Scramble answered. He continued on until a throat was cleared. We turned our heads to see who it was and saw it was Neon Glitter. I probably forgot to mention that she's a famous Pegasus fashion model here in Canterlot, as well as in Baltimare, her hometown. "Guys, I want you to meet a dear friend of mine, and one of the most famous fashion models in Equestria, Fleur de Lis," Glitter projected softly as Fleur came walking up to the table. "Please kill me now Celestia," Scramble whispered as he covered his head in his front legs. Meesa hatchin' a connection between story and reaction to mare. Poor Scramble. I know that feel. Wait... No I don't.... Anyway. We clapped to show excitement. I faked mine on the grounds of celebrities don't strike me as they did when I was kid. I guess becoming one yourself has that effect. Fleur bowed while thanking us for the applause and asked Glitter to introduce us. "Of course," She replied. "The Pegasus here is Sky Dance. He's a famous classical musical composer and conductor. He's the creator of the score for Written Scroll's famous play: The Mare and the Window." "That was just a side piece I'd been working on. I thought it was terrible." Sky shrugged. What a ham. "It was still a very impressive score, Mr. Dance." Fleur complimented. He just shrugged again. I think he also made the connection with Scramble's act. Glitter pointed to me and listed off my diner and that I was the top chef for both Princesses. Oh great. I'm getting flashbacks of those again. "I might come down and try your food," Fleur complimented sweetly with a small smile. "You probably have if you ever been to any big fashion, theater or party since my diner is the unfortunate one to cater." I sighed, my eyes staring blankly back at Fleur, before turning away. I can see so many chocolate cakes now.... I wish I could turn my scream into words right then. Scramble's turn! "And the pony hiding under his arms is Scramble. He's a famous fiction writer that wrote most of the best selling fantasy novels. His first book is a standardized read in most of the art schools and is still being sold today. What's wrong Scramble?" Glitter asked, showing concern. "I only caught a few hours of sleep for the past few days. I was going to get some sleep today, these three convinced me to come out here." Scramble lifted his head and gestured to Sky, Starlight and I. "Writing a new book, I see? What is it the plot?" Glitter asked while taking a seat finally. Fleur followed suite. I think I caught her glancing towards Sky, who was showing more interest in the waitress at the next table than to Scramble. He deffinetly knows. "I'm attempting to try and write a romance novel. Luckily, I got the first three chapters written down, which are around twenty pages, more or less. Oh, and Fleur and I already meet at Cafe Mesa." "We did?" Fleur asked, pulling away from Sky and looking Scramble, wide eyed at the shock. What a doof. "Yes we did. I distinctly remember you forcing me away from my table. Fighting about it and then you leaving in a huff at the thought of not being heard of by a recluse like me. Even with my friend Glitter here." He glared at her. And hard. "I remember you now. You and your selcouth hat. You were completely rude and very uncivilized." She turned her head away, giving Scramble the cold shoulder. His anger fled him and he just shrugged. A small bit of happiness appearing in his tired eyes. Oh dear. It's worse than I expected. "I've been meaning to ask: What will the plot be of your new book?" Starlight asked, trying to diffuse the situation. I caught a glance of Glitter quietly talking to Fleur and trying to calm her down. "Probably your cliche, run-of-the-mill romance with a detective as a hero and the love interest is a victim. It's not much, but I hope it'll get the job done so I can pay rent and eat for the next six months." "What about the royalties from your other books? Especially your first?" I asked, kind of curious. I already knew the answer but I had to help make Scramble more...humble. "To the schools mainly. Every foal needs an education to help them decide what they want to do in life. Besides, I'd rather live in a one bedroom apartment and eat 'common food' instead of eat at a fancy restaurant every day. Any pony should know how to cook for themselves." "I hear that," I said with a raised hoof. "I'll admit, Celestia offered to let me live in mansion, but I went with an average joe apartment that close to my diner. Besides, I like the smell of food cooking while coming up with new recipes that my regulars might like as they read your books." I chuckled. The waitress the Scramble was hitting on took our orders. I didn't want anything since just eating some of the appetizers were too... how should I say this... cliche? No real pizzazz with the flavors. Scramble just wanted a daffodil sandwich with a glass of water. I brought my own lunch with some fresh chocolate milk. Tasty, tasty milk. Starlight ordered a simple, but luxurious meal since it was her monthly day to pamper herself. Fleur, Glitter and Sky all ordered the most lavish lunches on the menu. We talked and laughed while Fleur and Scramble remained quiet unless conjured to speak. Well, Fleur was happily talking. Scramble on the other hoof, didn't even bat an eyelash at the rest of his since he liked to eat silently, contemplating things like life, his stories, what he'll be doing five minutes from now since his stomach can't really stomach (ba dum tiss) daffodils. I couldn't help but chuckle at my own pun. I hate myself. Fleur asked why he rejected her questions when she tried to ask him something. Glitter answered with, "don't worry about that, Fleur. He's a contemplative eater, and he's been like that since our childhood. So don't take it to heart." Fleur didn't like that, but didn't touch the subject. Scramble shoved the rest of his sandwich down his gullet, gulping down the rest of his water and sighed happily. He placed the money he owed down on the table and stood up. "Thank you for bringing me to lunch, but I'm going home and going to get some sleep. Glitter it was a pleasure to see you again and stop by when your going to leave again." "Will do," She replied happily. "Then I bid you goodbye," He said as he left the bistro. Fleur and also said her goodbye. She said something about picking up a new set of jewelry and left. It's so obvious it hurts. "They're in love," we all said at the same time with a laugh. We each left one after another, with Sky being the last one to leave since he still hitting on our waitress. Starlight and I just rolled our eyes as we left him with that poor mare. The rest of the day passed by relatively quietly. At least for me, anyway. The Diner remained closed for the rest of the day until the next day. After I opened the doors right at the usual time, did I realize that closing the diner down even for a day has horrible side affects. Within the first 10 minutes of opening the diner was completely packed. Unfortunately for me, I was the only one there and I know for sure no one would be coming to my rescue. Sky would be asleep with that waitress. Starlight would probably be at the observatory giving tours or something. Neon would be at her photo shoot while Scramble is more than likely fast asleep since he's writing a new story. Which only left me. Sometimes, I wish we had one more friend in our group.
First CupcakeFirst Cupcake Love. It's such an odd concept. One minute your minding your own business, the next you find yourself infatuated with a pony you've never even met. Its strange how that happens. Your heart is calm and beating at a normal tempo and then, when that pony crosses your path, its beat rapidly increases until the point its beating so fast you can hear it in your ears. You then begin to sweat and your tongue becomes jumbled. The only thing you can say is just gibberish that even you have no idea about what you're saying. That's if you're lucky to even talk to her. Plus, the only thing you can see is the pony standing in front of you as you don't watch what you're doing. Especially as a chef, its tough since your holding onto a skillet with boiling scrambled eggs with just your teeth. But I wasn't feeling that. I did stop and stare a little bit at a bell's jingle, however. "Hey, uh, Crisp? You there buddy." Sky Dance waved a blue colored hoof in front of my face, leaning forward from his seat. It was just another regular that visits. "What?" I turned my attention back towards Sky, his green eyes dancing, as he sits back onto the stool. "Oh. Right," I put the eggs onto his empty plate with a couple of bacon strips and some toast. Another bell rang out. "What's the matter, Crisp?" Sky asked, turning back around from seeing a couple of mares walk in. He then began shoving food down his gullet. "Never seen a mare before?" He replied in between bites. A smile forming on his face. His lime and white mane bouncing around. Sarcasm is Sky's forte, for some odd reason. It's weird how a musical Pegasus, especially one held as a genius, can be such an idiot. I just glared at him as he snickered. They were both beautiful. Like, super model beautiful. However, I lost interest quickly as they both sat down next to Sky, one on each side. "Hello again ladies," Sky replied smoothly as he put both hooves around them. "Guess its that time again, Crisp. Better get back to my life as a celebrity." He and his to mares stood up. "Yeah, yeah. Go shove a Cello down your throat!" I shouted at him as he left the diner. Schmuck. The day went by slowly, with ponies coming and going at a trickle. It was relaxing work and not having to make a million meals every single second for a million ponies. It's nice to cook a comfortable pace without having to worry about much. Well, until it became night time when I need three sets of extra hooves. Four to cook and eight to run plates. 'Tis the night of eating. For the next three hours, we were packed to the brim with ponies. They were young and were mainly couples. Odd that. This diner isn't usually a spot that couples like to hang out at. Might have to look into it. I asked Caring Wish about it and she had no clue. Neither did Skillet or his sister, Autumn Blend. They were kids themselves, but worked so they weren't to up and up on what was going on with the down low on their class mates. Word. Forget I even said that. Anyway, as the night rolled on, we closed the diner down around nine o'clock and began cleaning up. Once we were done cleaning up, I paid the three ponies their due before they left. Caring Wish, on the other hoof stayed until after I locked the doors, placing the keys in my apron's pocket. "Excuse me, Mr. Crisp. I need to talk to you." She replied, a worried look on her face. "Of course Caring. What is it? " "Well, I was hoping to ask you to terminate my employment?" "You're quitting?" I asked with such a shock. "Yes," She squeaked. "What for?" I tilted my head slightly in confusion, feeling an eyebrow raise "I'm graduating from the University and I'm moving to Las Pegasus to continue my education." "Ah." I nodded with approval. Its always good to put one's education first and foremost. "When do you leave?" "In a weeks time. Its short notice, I know, but I've just been worried about how to tell you." "It's OK Caring. I understand. I'm not even mad. The only problem I'm going to have is finding some pony that is good as you at being a waitress." I replied. "I think I know just the mare. Let me bring her by tomorrow before the rush. To train her some." "Alright. I leave it in your hooves, madame." I told her with a slight bow of my head. "Thank you, Mr. Crisp!" She grabbed my neck, squeezed tightly until I told her to stop since she was chocking me. We parted with waves after that and I walked back home. I wonder what this friend of Caring will be like. Better not dwell on it. I'll find out tomorrow. Tomorrow I watched as Old Stallion Forkie pick up a piece of celery with his forked hoof and began nibbling on it. Well. It wasn't a forked hoof. It was actually a metallic two pronged fork that was attached to his right leg from a metal base. He lost his actual hoof in a construction accident. Tragic how a two ton cement block can crush a hoof. It was around noon when Caring brought herself and her friend in. Comparing the two, Caring Wish was the better looking, with the better mane and better coloring. Plus, she was a Pegasus. I have a thing for Pegasi, oddly enough. Anyway, Caring was a sweet summer green while the friend was like a badly roasted almond and the darkest colored mane almost known to pony kind. Luna had that title. She had sparkles in it. I dare ya to beat sparkling hair that flows without a wind. Ya can't! I need to stop before I get carried away. Anyway, this mare also wore a strange, black beret that hasn't been around since I was her age. or was it Caring's age? Can't remember. Oh well. Her eyes were a dark, brown that seemed light-hearted and full of fun. Seemed like that, anyway. "Welcome to my humble diner!" I greeted with wide open arms."How can I help you two lovely mares out?" "Hey Mr. Crisp." Caring said with a small smile on her face. "This is the friend I've told you about. Her name is Piper." "Pleasure to make your acquaintance, Miss Piper." "Likewise," replying with a slight nod. She pushed black framed glasses up, so they could sit a bit higher on her muzzle. "Well, I guess we better get started then Piper. Don't mind us Mr. Crisp." Caring Wish said as she began to give the tour of the diner and went in depth about what Piper had to do. It was cute seeing Caring move about, showing her friend the ropes. Fortunately for me, I was drafted as a guinea pig, along with my best pal Scramble who came to visit, to help Piper out with taking down orders, remembering faces and other things. We, meaning Scramble and I, had fun with it since we were the rowdiest ones, even though we weren't really customers. However, actually customers began to pour in little by little, which helped Piper get acquainted with taking actual orders. Scramble sat back and watched, giving tips here and there. An hour later, after Autumn Blend and Skillet came in, the rush hit, and it began getting to the point where Piper was helping with orders and taking care of customers. Scramble was in the back helping cook and make plates. That guy was probably the life saver since I noticed we had a line out of the door. I didn't understand why, until Sky came towards the estimated middle of the rush with a bunch of groupies. Even Scramble had the same horrified look on his face as did the rest of us, except Piper who was going gaga over him until she remembered what was happening and continued working. "Yo Crisp! Hey Scrams!" Sky waved as he sat down on his favorite stool. "Hey Sky," We both said, monotonous and our horrified looks still on our faces as we continued to cook. "Why the long faces?" he shouted over the loud roar of the crowded diner. Piper set a drink down in front of him. "You know exactly why!" I shouted at him as I placed a celery salad plate down in the little window and rang the bell. Autumn snatched it with her magic. "Not my fault you make great food Crisp! I wasn't one of Celestia's top cooks." Sky said, and I noticed, out of the corner of my eye, one of Piper's ears perked up, as did Autumn Blend's and Caring Wish's. Wonder what they're going to do since I never told them. I only told Skillet and it was at a party once after having wa~y to many glasses of cider. I knew he wouldn't say a word since's mute. That was an advantage. That mangy, pea-brained.... ARG! "Don't matter! We're already swamped with customers. What is that you guys want?" I asked and had Caring Wish take down orders and Autumn Blend and Piper focus on the other customers. A couple of hours went by and the place was practically deserted. Sky stayed back, though, and began helping clean up. Something about helping a friend out. I don't know. Anyway, cleaning up the place took another hour after we closed and we were out the door. I hate those rushes Sky hurls at us. They're terrible, but the money is always nice. I should start making him pay. Double the normal price, in fact. Once the doors were locked and everyone was outside. Caring and Autumn stood in front of me, blocking my path to home. Scramble teleported away, knowing something was up, saying his fire was on oven. While Sky's stupid excuse was his laundry was being roasted on a spit. I don't know. The only thing I know right now is they're cowards, but they can't really help me anyway. Skillet on the other hoof, he's stuck there and can't leave without his sister. Piper was standing back and waiting for Caring Wish. "So, Mr. Crisp? When were you going to tell us you were one of Celestia's cooks?" Autumn asked, her hazelnut eyes stared daggers into me. "Um...I don't know?" I smiled weakly, my shoulders shrugging. I gulped not knowing what was happening. Skillet was also clueless and just as scared. They both puffed up their chests as the began to suck in air, until Piper piped up. Totally intentional pun. I hate myself. "Does it matter though?" Piper asked. The two mares turning towards her after exhaling. "Yeah it does. He could give us so~ many tips and hints to help us get better at cooking. You should know that to be one of Celestia's Chef's you have to be the top graduate of the Equestrian School of Cooking." Caring answered hotly but cooled down a second later. "Sorry," "You shouldn't be worrying about how to become the best chef, but how to better your cooking skills.You know as well as I do, Caring, that it takes time and practice to to become a better cook, as well as a chef. Let's go home. I'm tired after today." She began walking away, not until after I nodded my thanks. "Ah pony feathers! You're right. Besides, I gotta worry about packing." They turned around and began walking. "She's right. Let's get home, Skillet." Autumn told her brother, who held his mouth closed and nodded. They both left, leaving me to breathe after that little ordeal. I looked at both leaving parties and I noticed Piper looking back towards me, a small smile on her face. She looked back forward as she and Caring turned a corner. Love. It's such an odd concept. One minute your minding your own business, the next you find yourself infatuated with a pony you don't even know. Ah, Pony feathers! The seeds have been scattered onto this game field and I ain't quite ready to bake the cake needed. Plus, I've never even kissed a mare before.... Striking that.
Second CupcakeSecond Cupcake I turned towards the sounds of giggling, mumbled words and many sounds that were disjointed and garbled. I moved my head in a circular motion, trying to pinpoint where the sounds were coming from.It seemed they came from everywhere. Mouths were popping in and out in the darkness that surrounds me. I keep moving around, heading in directions I was never sure about. Mouths and words appearing and disappearing inside of all this darkness as I placed one hoof in front of the other. Then, something stopped me. A blinding white light in this darkness of laughter and incomprehensible words pooled down into this darkness, shoving it back without effort. It stopped. Everything stopped. The words were gone and the mouths were just lines of blackness on a deeper field of black, fading into the back ground. I turned towards the light, a black line shown, turned in a downward arc. It parted, mouthing words in a faint whisper, one barely detectable by normal hearing. It grew louder and louder, until I was able to hear it's ambiguous voice. All it said was 'Don't Go.' A deaf-inducing scream waved from the mouth-like lines, forcing me out of this dream state to waking consciousness. I brought myself up to a sitting position when I awoke, panting. I felt my forehead and it was wet. I was sweating. Don't Go. Those were the words that continuously replay in my head, like a broken record. The dream is a distant memory now as I sit here in bed, just looking at my hooves as they sit on my lap. Except for those two words. Don't go. Don't go. DON'T GO! That's all I hear in my head now to the point of me not even being able to hear myself think. Its pushing me to a brink that I don't even know where that brink belongs. Insanity is a great possibility. Do I try to push those words out of my mind and forget them, however? Or do I try to ignore those words and get on with my life? I don't know. I just...don't know. By the time I got out of bed, the sun was coming up. I don't know when I had awoken, but I've been trying to push those words to somewhere I wouldn't be able to hear them. I knew, however, that hearing either of those words would trigger that male/female voice to say it again. And again. And again. Over and over and over until it breaks my frame of mind that'll be the borderline of insanity. But... I'll continue on and try to get through the day. I left my apartment and apparently was a half-hour late for doing my morning prep. So, I opened the diner a half-hour later and will surely close it a half-hour later. The day went by slowly. The regulars came in during their usual times from morning to noon. It was the same old song and dance, and it was relaxing. I guess. It still didn't help that I heard snippets of conversations and the words that stood out. Most were the ones that stuck after my dream. They were either in that combination or it was one or the other. I can't even get away from it. Thankfully, it was the evening rush that helped push the words from sounding in my head, or so I hopped that would happen. Somehow it was completely empty this time. I shouldn't say that. We had few customers here and there, but it was almost empty half of the time. So, Caring, Autumn and Piper took the time to hang out in between customers and cleaning, taking turns. Skillet and I, however, just stood behind the counter, looking bored as we took turns cooking. "Hey Skillet? Can I talk to you about something?" I asked him, looking at him. He nodded. "Thanks. Please keep this between us, please." Another nod. "I had this dream last night and I can't get a grasp on it." He told him about the dream recapping most of it from beginning to end. "I don't know if this is an omen or something random. However, I still hear these words being said in the back of my mind. Waiting to be said by actual lips." I finished, finding myself fixed upon Piper. Weird. I gulped as my heart began to pick up and looked back Skillet. His lips were in a grin and my heart sunk since he knew something was up. I glared at him, to no avail. For a mute pony, this boy is pretty perceptive. I placed a marker and some white cardboard in front of him. He grabbed the marker inside his magic. The marker twisted and turned, forming lines, which formed words. Once finished he lifted it so only I could see it. It read: 1. You're in love. 2. What has you so afraid of those words? A simple question, but the words were powerful. All I could do was shrug, shake my head, and stay quite. I honestly didn't know. Loss? Maybe. But the only thing I know for sure is that this has never happened to me before. Love for another pony, especially one you want to...do things with, is completely different. Like a friend that is more than just a friend. I want to say love like for a wife or a girlfriend but this love is on a completely different scale than that. I think. I don't have experience with it, nor do my other friends, that I know of. I want to talk to Sky, but he's just a play stallion and I doubt he'd even know about dating. I'm jealous, though. "I don't know," I finally replied. He nodded and accepted the answer. A small smile formed on his face like he knew that was the answer all along. Maybe he was right about. Without even me telling him, I didn't want to talk further about it. He was fine with it. At least, for now. The night dragged on slowly. It was tough not having those words pop up every five minutes. I got through it though and locked up as everyone else left. I looked up at the moon shining brightly as the stars made their way across the night sky. At that moment in time, I could finally say that my jimmies remained unrustled nerves have calmed down and could actually relax. In order for me to continue this sensation, I walked over to a small park that a friend of mine liked to use for her stargazing during some nights. She was there, fortunately. Maybe she has some advice. I climbed to the top of the hill, shout out my salutations to Starlight. She's a dark gray mare with light gray and a dark red colored mane. Her eyes were a lovely tiger eye (Coloring of the stone of the same name). She also said her hello as she peered through her telescope, her horn working its magic to write down notes in a notebook she kept by her side. She's an Astronomer. Looking into the stars and the like, while moonlighting as a science-fiction novelist. Go figure. Nice girl though. I asked her if she could help me with something and her answer was a curt nod, moving the telescope away from her eye. I sat down in front of her and recapped the dream. I don't think I said word for word from what I told Skillet, but it was the same story, at least. I then told her about the mare and what I felt, just omitting her name. No need for that right now. Starlight just looked at me, wide eyed and stunned. She knew I could not make something up like this. This is probably the first time she's heard me say the word 'love' that describes my feelings for a pony. It even felt weird for me to even say the words. "That is a lot going on," she mustered to say, eyes still wide. "I know. And even now, in the back of my mind, I still hear those two specific words. I don't like it. I don't like it one bit." I shook my head. Life is going to be tough from now on. "I can't really help you Crisp. I've never really fallen in love. I've swooned for good-looking stallions, but that's just because of their looks, like you guys do with us mares. I've never fully fallen in love with another pony. Besides, it'll get in the way of my studying." "What would you do if the opposite happens?" I asked and her face grew bright. I just looked at her with an eyebrow raised. I knew Starlight since we were both foals. I viewed her as a sister and I always thought she viewed me as a brother, especially since I protected her from bullies and helping her. I might be reading to into the look. She might just be thinking of someone who would be interested in her. "I-I-I don't know. I never thought of it like that." Her eyes grew bright as she gasped. "That gives me an idea!" She shouted and began writing in her notebook. I took that cue to leave.... She's a strange pony. Smart and nice. Still strange, though. I made my way back to my apartment, sitting down in my pile of pillows. Comfy and eloquent, but not good for sleeping. Trust me. I tried. I laid back anyway, looking up at my dark ceiling. It was comfy for the first few minutes, until my back started becoming sore. That, and someone was knocking on my door. I stood up, made my way over and opened the door. Neon Glitter posed in front of my doorway. Her lips were pursed, her showing eye sparkled like a light emerald. Her long mane flowed down from her head, its red and lime-green strips reaching towards the floor. Her red coat shone in the moonlight, as did the small splotches of dark red. Her front left hoof was lifted, positioned so her knee was facing towards her right ,back legs spread wide. I audibly exhaled onto Neon and just from that little breath, she fell forward, landing on her chin, one back leg up while both her front legs were under her, wings unfurled and up. I couldn't help but chuckle. "Sorry Neon, I kinda had to." I helped her up. "I know Crisp," she laughed as I allowed her in. "You back from your tour?" I asked as she sat down. I began making her some Herbal tea. "Only for the week. We're heading up towards Baltimare next. I came to ask you if I could hold a little get together at your diner." I handed her the tea and she said her thanks. "It'll be a couple of days from now, before we have to leave again." "Of course! You know you guys are always welcome over. Well, except for one for right now." I looked away and she just gave me a puzzled look. "Sky's been a real pain lately and I've noticed he's been with some "one times" for a while now." I told her and explained that a one time was a mare you'd only be with once in your life. She nodded in understanding. She was a one time once, until Scramble kicked the teeth out of the guy's mouth. Stallions knew after that if she were t be used as a one time, then they'd have their teeth knocked out. It was pretty funny. "Hopefully he's just going through one of his phases, though. Its better for that than something like him swooning for a mare." "One can hope," Neon said, nodding in understanding and took a sip from her tea cup. A small bit of silence ticked by. During that time, I debated. Should I tell Neon or not? And my greater consciences said I should and so I asked if she could help me. She said OK and I told her the same thing I told Starlight. She just looked at me wide eyed. Is it that much of a surprise? Jeez, what haters. She also didn't know what to tell me, except what I knew already: Take it slow, spend time with her, and have fun. That's common sense or something at least. Right? We both said our goodbyes with hugs after Neon finished her tea. Once I shut and locked the door, I went into my room and fell asleep.
Third CupcakeThird Cupcake I awoke to the sound of my door being banged upon. It kept going until I opened the door and saw Starlight, with Sky Dancer looking proud as ever. I yawned and asked what they were up to. They told me they were thinking of taking Neon, since she's back, to the new Bistro called 'Over the Hay.' I could only shrug and say 'why not?' Probably be good to eat somewhere else. I said I'd meet them at Scramble's place after I put up a sign to say my Diner is closed. Some of my regulars are going to be mad at me. Oh well. Its for a friend. They'll understand. Hopefully. Won't they? Anyway, I made my way down to the upper part of the city, towards the castle. It was a hike, but I was the first one at Scramble's door. I knocked on the door as Starlight and Sky Dancer appear. Scramble opened the door, a hoof over his mouth as he tried to cover a yawn. "What are you guys doing here?" "Well, we wanted to ask if you wanted to go out for lunch?" Sky asked him, his wings flapping above us. Scrambled answered with a yawn, then followed with, "That depends on which restaurant we're going to," "Why not that new bistro that opened up a week ago?" Starlight piped up. "I heard it was already given five stars." "You mean "Over the Hay?"" I asked Starlight, "Yeah! That one!" She exclaimed. "Let's go and try the place out!" She began to jump up and down excitedly, which is odd for her since she's usually mellow. "I don't have anything better to do so I might as well join in," Scramble shrugged as he began closing his door. He looked the door, placed the key under his hat and we started walking down the street. We made our to the bistro, and were lucky enough to find an open table, even if it was on the patio. A couple of extra chairs were placed at the table. Scramble and Starlight were confused on why, until Sky exclaimed Neon Glitter and a friend of hers were coming for lunch. "They should be here within a half-hour." Sky finished before taking his seat. As we waited, we began to talk about the past week while Scramble and I shoved appetizers into our mouths. I told him the same thing I always tell him: Catering for parties. Its an extra side business to make money. I hate going to those things, but the money is good. Helps keep the employees paid while maintaining the restaurant. I also relayed that one of my employee's was leaving since she has to continue her training in Las Pegasus and will be replaced by her friend by the end of the week. They told me to tell her good luck and congratulations. Sky changed the subject before an awkward pause set in and asked what new idea Scramble had since he wasn't seen for the past couple of days. "A romance, actually," He replied in his natural, neutral tone. Starlight and I gasped. I did it more sarcastically, but it is still a shock. "So, you're actually writing a romance novel? You, whose famous for writing fantasy novels?" Sky asked skeptically. "Shocking isn't it?" Scramble asked with a smile on his lips. "I just wanted to try something new and thought, 'why not a romance?' Its a territory that I barely explore anyway. Especially in real life. Its surprisingly difficult." "How so?" Starlight asked, genuinely curious about this new event. "The biggest thing for me is interest in the plot and the genre in general. Then it's the finer points of emotions, thought process of the characters, and everything else that goes into a story, but trying to gear more towards a more modern lovey-dovey stuff than into the action and suspense that I usually like." Scramble answered. He continued on until a throat was cleared. We turned our heads to see who it was and saw it was Neon Glitter. I probably forgot to mention that she's a famous Pegasus fashion model here in Canterlot, as well as in Baltimare, her hometown. "Guys, I want you to meet a dear friend of mine, and one of the most famous fashion models in Equestria, Fleur de Lis," Glitter projected softly as Fleur came walking up to the table. "Please kill me now Celestia," Scramble whispered as he covered his head in his front legs. Meesa hatchin' a connection between story and reaction to mare. Poor Scramble. I know that feel. Wait... No I don't.... Anyway. We clapped to show excitement. I faked mine on the grounds of celebrities don't strike me as they did when I was kid. I guess becoming one yourself has that effect. Fleur bowed while thanking us for the applause and asked Glitter to introduce us. "Of course," She replied. "The Pegasus here is Sky Dance. He's a famous classical musical composer and conductor. He's the creator of the score for Written Scroll's famous play: The Mare and the Window." "That was just a side piece I'd been working on. I thought it was terrible." Sky shrugged. What a ham. "It was still a very impressive score, Mr. Dance." Fleur complimented. He just shrugged again. I think he also made the connection with Scramble's act. Glitter pointed to me and listed off my diner and that I was the top chef for both Princesses. Oh great. I'm getting flashbacks of those again. "I might come down and try your food," Fleur complimented sweetly with a small smile. "You probably have if you ever been to any big fashion, theater or party since my diner is the unfortunate one to cater." I sighed, my eyes staring blankly back at Fleur, before turning away. I can see so many chocolate cakes now.... I wish I could turn my scream into words right then. Scramble's turn! "And the pony hiding under his arms is Scramble. He's a famous fiction writer that wrote most of the best selling fantasy novels. His first book is a standardized read in most of the art schools and is still being sold today. What's wrong Scramble?" Glitter asked, showing concern. "I only caught a few hours of sleep for the past few days. I was going to get some sleep today, these three convinced me to come out here." Scramble lifted his head and gestured to Sky, Starlight and I. "Writing a new book, I see? What is it the plot?" Glitter asked while taking a seat finally. Fleur followed suite. I think I caught her glancing towards Sky, who was showing more interest in the waitress at the next table than to Scramble. He deffinetly knows. "I'm attempting to try and write a romance novel. Luckily, I got the first three chapters written down, which are around twenty pages, more or less. Oh, and Fleur and I already meet at Cafe Mesa." "We did?" Fleur asked, pulling away from Sky and looking Scramble, wide eyed at the shock. What a doof. "Yes we did. I distinctly remember you forcing me away from my table. Fighting about it and then you leaving in a huff at the thought of not being heard of by a recluse like me. Even with my friend Glitter here." He glared at her. And hard. "I remember you now. You and your selcouth hat. You were completely rude and very uncivilized." She turned her head away, giving Scramble the cold shoulder. His anger fled him and he just shrugged. A small bit of happiness appearing in his tired eyes. Oh dear. It's worse than I expected. "I've been meaning to ask: What will the plot be of your new book?" Starlight asked, trying to diffuse the situation. I caught a glance of Glitter quietly talking to Fleur and trying to calm her down. "Probably your cliche, run-of-the-mill romance with a detective as a hero and the love interest is a victim. It's not much, but I hope it'll get the job done so I can pay rent and eat for the next six months." "What about the royalties from your other books? Especially your first?" I asked, kind of curious. I already knew the answer but I had to help make Scramble more...humble. "To the schools mainly. Every foal needs an education to help them decide what they want to do in life. Besides, I'd rather live in a one bedroom apartment and eat 'common food' instead of eat at a fancy restaurant every day. Any pony should know how to cook for themselves." "I hear that," I said with a raised hoof. "I'll admit, Celestia offered to let me live in mansion, but I went with an average joe apartment that close to my diner. Besides, I like the smell of food cooking while coming up with new recipes that my regulars might like as they read your books." I chuckled. The waitress the Scramble was hitting on took our orders. I didn't want anything since just eating some of the appetizers were too... how should I say this... cliche? No real pizzazz with the flavors. Scramble just wanted a daffodil sandwich with a glass of water. I brought my own lunch with some fresh chocolate milk. Tasty, tasty milk. Starlight ordered a simple, but luxurious meal since it was her monthly day to pamper herself. Fleur, Glitter and Sky all ordered the most lavish lunches on the menu. We talked and laughed while Fleur and Scramble remained quiet unless conjured to speak. Well, Fleur was happily talking. Scramble on the other hoof, didn't even bat an eyelash at the rest of his since he liked to eat silently, contemplating things like life, his stories, what he'll be doing five minutes from now since his stomach can't really stomach (ba dum tiss) daffodils. I couldn't help but chuckle at my own pun. I hate myself. Fleur asked why he rejected her questions when she tried to ask him something. Glitter answered with, "don't worry about that, Fleur. He's a contemplative eater, and he's been like that since our childhood. So don't take it to heart." Fleur didn't like that, but didn't touch the subject. Scramble shoved the rest of his sandwich down his gullet, gulping down the rest of his water and sighed happily. He placed the money he owed down on the table and stood up. "Thank you for bringing me to lunch, but I'm going home and going to get some sleep. Glitter it was a pleasure to see you again and stop by when your going to leave again." "Will do," She replied happily. "Then I bid you goodbye," He said as he left the bistro. Fleur and also said her goodbye. She said something about picking up a new set of jewelry and left. It's so obvious it hurts. "They're in love," we all said at the same time with a laugh. We each left one after another, with Sky being the last one to leave since he still hitting on our waitress. Starlight and I just rolled our eyes as we left him with that poor mare. The rest of the day passed by relatively quietly. At least for me, anyway. The Diner remained closed for the rest of the day until the next day. After I opened the doors right at the usual time, did I realize that closing the diner down even for a day has horrible side affects. Within the first 10 minutes of opening the diner was completely packed. Unfortunately for me, I was the only one there and I know for sure no one would be coming to my rescue. Sky would be asleep with that waitress. Starlight would probably be at the observatory giving tours or something. Neon would be at her photo shoot while Scramble is more than likely fast asleep since he's writing a new story. Which only left me. Sometimes, I wish we had one more friend in our group.
