How a Pie Became a Cake

Chapters

For a smile.
First night with my new family!
A rocky relationship.

For a smile.

“La la la la la,” hummed Pinkie Pie leisurely as she skipped through town. It was her first time out on her own. Following the success of her first party with her family and how happy she had made them she had decided to go out into the world and bring joy to others. She knew that was her destiny.

The train ride had been fairly uneventful, but now she was in the bustling town of Ponyville. She could see so many different types of ponies of all different colors and cutie marks. Earth ponies, pegasi, and unicorns were all friends. She loved the place already.

Her tummy rumbling, she decided to get some treats before continuing on her way. She passed by a shop that had a cupcake sign in front of it, and she hopped in anticipation. She loved cupcakes.

When she went inside she saw there was only one other customer in the store. While she was waiting for him to finish she ran around excitedly, taking in all the different cakes and treats. Her mouth began watering as she began imagining their deliciousness. There certainly wasn’t this kind of diversity back at home. It had taken a lot of effort to set up her first party. She had had to send out for it all because there was nothing party worthy at home on the rock farm. She could definitely set up a ton of parties with this kind of variety.

She looked up as the male customer groaned loudly.

“I can’t believe this!” said the stallion, moving up and down on his legs. “There was a hole in my wallet! I don’t have enough money. I'm ten bits short! This is everything my daughter wanted for her birthday and the party is going to start really soon. I don’t have enough time to run back home and get more money. My daughter is going to be so unhappy!”

He looked down curiously at the clang of change on the counter, seeing a young pink-coated filly he had never seen before.

“That's enough, right?” asked Pinkie, counting out ten bits.

The stallion smiled despite the situation. “Well, that’s mighty kind of you, but I couldn’t take your money.”

“Sure you can! I know how absolutely wonderful it feels to throw a party and how happy it makes everyone.” She smiled dreamily as she recalled how joyous it had made her parents and sisters. “I can’t just stand here and let a party get ruined! They’re way too important! I want your daughter to have the best party ever!”

The stallion smiled wider. She was just so cute. “Well, thank you for your help, little filly. What’s your name?”

“I’m Pinkie Pie!” she said excitedly, hopping in joy.

“Thank you very much, Pinkie Pie.” He looked thoughtfully at the ceiling for a moment before looking back down at her, asking, “Would you like to come to her party? It wouldn’t feel right to just take your money without offering you something in return.”

“But you already did give me something in return: a nice, big smile.”

His grin faded for a moment from her unexpected statement. It then returned with a laugh. "So I did. My offer still stands, though."

“I’ve actually got some stuff to do, or else I would have loved to come to the party. Thanks, anyway.”

"That's too bad. I think she would have loved to have met you. Thanks again."

"You're welcome!"

The stallion finished paying for his goods, expressing his gratitude one last time before departing.

“Well, that was just so sweet of you,” said Cup Cake.

“It was the least I could do.”

“So what can I get for you, sweetheart? Actually, hold on.” Walking away for a moment she came back with a small bag. “Here,” she said, placing the bag down. “Have some cookies. They’re on the house.”

Pinkie's head tilted a little. “No, they’re not. They’re on the counter, silly.”

The mare laughed. “I mean, they’re free. No good deed should go unrewarded.”

“Thank you!” Pinkie said happily, digging in. “Mmmm, mmmm!” With each bite she felt joy and yumminess suffusing her being. “Oh, wow! These cookies are simply amazing! You asked me what I wanted before, and now I’d like to say “one of everything,” because it all looks so good. And if it tastes half as good as this, I know it will be.”

Mrs. Cake sighed, looking troubled. “I’m glad you think so.”

Pinkie suddenly stopped moving, a cookie an inch from her mouth. “What’s wrong?”

“This is the last day we’re going to be open.”

“What?” said Pinkie, dropping the cookie. “Why?”

“Business has been too slow. We’re a new store. It doesn’t matter how good the product is if no one comes in to buy it. We have to sell enough to pay off the rent on the property space, and we’re not even close. So we’re going to sell whatever goods we can today, and then sell whatever is left over to whoever wants to buy this space.” Mrs. Cake put her head on her hoof, using the other one to wipe away a few tears. "And to think opening a sweet shop was always my dream." She sniffed as she let out a huge sigh. "I guess that's over now." She carelessly shook her hoof in Pinkie's direction. "But that's not your problem." She wiped her face again. "Look at me," she said to herself, "unloading my issues on a little filly. What's wrong with you?"

Pinkie sputtered incoherently for a few moments, not being able to process what she was hearing. Who could possibly not love a shop like this? There was only one thing to do. She threw the snack bag into her saddlebag, setting it down by the door. This was no time for cookies. There was a big frown that had no place in the world. She was going to turn it upside down, no matter what it took. “Hey!”

“Yes?”

“If your shop could stay in business would that make you happy?”

“Yes, of course. But what does that-”

“Okay, then! In exchange for the cookies I’ll save your shop.”

“What?” asked Mrs. Cake confusedly. "Hey!" she called out after the filly as Pinkie grabbed the bell on the counter and ran outside.

Pinkie climbed a nearby pole, dinging the bell repeatedly. “HEY, EVERYPONY!” she yelled out. A number of ponies glanced up at her, stopping to gaze at the filly. “How could you just keep walking by here? You have to check out Sugarcube Corner, Ponyville’s best sweet shop. Their stuff is so, so good. Check it out now! You won't regret it.”

A few of them ignored her, but the majority of them were swept up in her enthusiasm, deciding to check it out because she was so gung-ho.

Getting down from the flagpole she stood in front of the store, praising its wares and encouraging every passing pony to visit the shop.

Carrot Cake had just finished making a new batch of cakes, and came out to the main floor asking, “Honey? Who is that?”

Cup Cake looked strangely at the pink pony. “I don’t know. This is the first time I’ve seen her. She came in to buy some treats. When I told her we were going to be closing today she suddenly took the bell and started doing that.”

“Why?”

“I… I don’t know why. She helped out a stallion because he didn’t have enough money, so I gave her some free cookies to make up for it. Now she says that she’s going to save our store from shutting down.”

“That’s impossible.”

“We should go have a word with her. She doesn’t need to be doing something like that.”

They didn’t get the chance. They quickly became swarmed with customers, and didn’t have any available chance to take a break and tell her to stop. Over the course of the next hour and a half business had increased exponentially. In just that time they got more customers than they had had since they had opened the shop. Just about every single one had the same thing to say: “Who is that cute little filly outside? I just had to come in because of her.”

As word spread of the energetic and enthusiastic filly giving her all for the shop the line was quickly increasing in size, all of them being drawn to her spunk and personality.

Pinkie saw that business was well-off outside. The line was out the door. They had the clients, now she wanted to check on the products.

Mrs. Cake was feeling out of breath. They could hardly keep up with the mass of customers with only the two of them. There were just too many.

“Hey, can I get three blueberry muffins, five chocolate cupcakes, and a large piece of cheesecake?” asked a mare.

“C-coming right up,” said Mrs. Cake with a huff.

She hadn’t even moved when she suddenly heard a cheery voice say, “Here you go!”

Pinkie Pie held out a bag to the customer, and the mare smiled back at her. “Why, thank you.”

“Is that it?" she asked, her tail wagging like a dog. "Are you sure you don’t need anything else? A-ny-thing?” She used all her charm and her sweetest voice, smiling as wide as she could.

The mare giggled. “Not really, but…oh, how could I say no to that face? I suppose I could add another three muffins, chocolate this time.”

“Coming right up!” With uncanny speed she quickly returned with the products. “Thanks for your help.”

“Help?” asked the confused mare.

“Yep!” said Pinkie, not elaborating.

The mare shrugged, letting it go, paying for the treats. “Here, for being such a great helper.” She left one of the chocolate chip muffins as she exited.

“Yay!” said Pinkie, scarfing it down greedily before saying loudly, “NEXT!”

Mrs. Cake felt like Pinkie had gained complete control of the entire situation. Business was booming, and her sparkling personality continually drew ever more ponies. Each of them usually bought a little something extra at Pinkie’s prodding because she was just so adorable they couldn’t turn her down. The majority of them also gave a little of the treats they bought to her, in return for the happiness she brought them.

Over the next four hours they remained flooded with customers. Pinkie spent most of her time gathering the items the customers wanted, but sometimes went in the back with Mr. Cake to help bake more things to fill demand. The only thing she didn’t do was handle the money.

At the end of it all the Cakes had to shut down the shop because they had literally run out of everything. They had no more supplies to make anything else.

“Thanks for coming, everypony!” said Pinkie Pie, waving energetically to the crowd as they began filing out. "Sorry we're sold out, but I appreciate your help all the same." Even though they were disappointed they just couldn’t suppress their smiles. Throughout it all Pinkie Pie had never lost her spirit. “Hopefully you can come back tomorrow and enjoy some more of these great treats.”

Cup Cake and Carrot Cake just stared off into space for a short period of time, trying to figure out what had just happened. They had been going nonstop for so long they hardly had any time to think about anything. They looked at the near mountain of bits they had gotten from selling so much. They had gotten plenty of orders for birthday parties, regular parties, celebrations, and the like.

“Sooooooooo,” said Pinkie, hopping up and down passionately, boundless joy on her face. “Was that enough? Was it, was it? Can you stay open now? Is your store safe? Did you sell enough?”

Mrs. Cake looked over at the tireless filly that had brought them back from the brink of despair. She was overwhelmed with the help Pinkie had provided. She never would have even imagined this would have been possible this morning. Tears welled up in her eyes, and she put her hooves on her face as she began crying.

For the first time since Pinkie Pie had started her quest she lost her smile. She stopped her hopping. “Oh… it wasn’t enough… is that it?” Now she felt like crying too. “But... but I did my best…,” she said dejectedly. Tears began coming down her eyes. "I'm sorry! I'm so sorry!"

Mrs. Cake walked over to Pinkie, giving her a loving nuzzle. “Pinkie Pie, you silly foal. This is way, way, way more than enough to keep us in business.”

“So... why are you crying?”

“Because our dreams don’t have to end. You saved us. I’m just so happy!”

“Well, if you’re happy then you shouldn’t cry. You should give a cheer and be joyful. Like this: WOOOOHOOOO!” she cried out as she jumped into the air.

Pinkie Pie was jubilant again, and Mrs. Cake couldn’t stop a grin from coming to her face. “Thank you, Pinkie Pie.

“Did you really do all that just because of some free cookies?”

“Of course not,” Pinkie replied. “That would just be silly. I did it because I wanted to see you smile.”

It had been the same sort of response she had given to the stallion. Just like with him her childlike response confused Mrs. Cake. “Um… is that all?”

“What do you mean, “Is that all?” My goal in life is to make as many ponies happy as I can. If it could make someone smile I’ll do anything it takes.”

Pinkie turned around, starting to walk towards the exit. “Well, I gotta go. I’ll see you later.”

Carrot Cake blinked in surprise. She was just too innocent. She didn’t even see what she did as something amazing. She just came in, helped, and was going to leave as if nothing had happened. “Pinkie Pie, won’t you at least stay for dinner?”

Pinkie giggled, shaking her head. “Sorry, but I don’t have time.”

“Are you going home to your family?”

“No. I don’t have any family in Ponyville. This was my first day here, and I already love everypony I met. I left my home on a rock farm to go out and see new things, and I have to hurry before the sun…" She suddenly stopped talking as she opened the door, and saw that it was already dark. "...sets," she finished with a sigh.

“Is something wrong?” asked Mrs. Cake.

Pinkie turned to them with a smile that was too wide to be convincing. She shook her head quickly. “N-not at all. I had meant to spend today looking for a place to sleep but I got caught up in helping you.

“It’s fine. I saw a park on the way here that looked like it had a comfy bench I could spend the night on.”

As Pinkie began walking out the door Mrs. Cake sputtered in disbelief for a moment. “P-P-Pinkie Pie!” she called out. When the filly turned to her she had lost her fake smile. The downtrodden frown on her face was in stark contrast to her attitude throughout the entire day. Tears were brimming in her eyes.

It felt like all the joy had gone out of the mare to see their hero of the day looking so down. “Are you trying to insult us?” she said angrily. “You’re staying here tonight!” She stomped her hoof for emphasis.

“Oh, don’t worry about me. I’ll be okay.”

“Nonsense!” said Carrot Cake. “We could never live with ourselves if we let you sleep out in the cold on a park bench after everything you’ve done for us today.”

“That’s right!” said Cup Cake. “Do you think any of this would have been possible without you? You think all those customers came in here today because of us or our merchandise? They came in because of you! We could use someone with your social skills and personality in our store, especially if you don’t have a place to live here. We have an unused room on the top floor you can stay in as long as you're in Ponyville. You wouldn’t have to pay any rent. We’d just like you to help us out in the shop like you did today, and help serve up plenty of joy and smiles.”

“Are you sure?" Pinkie edged closer to them, a hopeful look on her face. "I don't want to be a burden.”

The pair walked over to her. After looking at each other they both nodded, and Mrs. Cake said, "Pinkie Pie. Do you remember a minute ago when you said that you don’t have any family in Ponyville?”

“Yeah...”

The two of them picked her up, placing their hooves around her lovingly as they wrapped her in a strong hug. “Well…you do now. Welcome to our family, Pinkie Pie!"

Warm tears came down Pinkie’s eyes as she stayed in their embrace. She had given a smile, and just like a proper smile should it came back to her. Now they had given one back to her, and she couldn't stop a smile coming to her own face.

First night with my new family!

Setting Pinkie down the three of them looked at each other blissfully. “A new family,” said Pinkie, her smile so wide it threatened to leave her face. “I have a new family!” Her eyes twinkled with joy. She shook a little, unable to contain it. She jumped into the air, screaming with joy. “WOOOOHOOOO! I’m so happy! I haven’t felt this happy since I threw that party for my parents and my sisters.” She bounced up and down rapidly, a ball of energy once more.

Mr. and Mrs. Cake felt tears coming down their eyes again. Seeing how ecstatic she was at the prospect of living with them and being part of their family was so touching to the pair.

“Come on, Pinkie,” said Mr. Cake. “Why don’t I show you your new room?”

“Okay!” She zoomed up the stairs, nothing more than a blur. After another second she raced back down. “Well, come on, slowpokes.”

The two of them laughed. “Oh, Pinkie Pie,” said Cup Cake. “Do you EVER run out of energy?”

“Only when I’m not happy, and you gave me the best news EVER! I was just hoping to find some place to spend the night. I never imagined I’d get a whole other family.” She threw herself at the two of them, looking up as her eyes shined with a new film of tears.

Mrs. Cake felt a flutter in her heart. Pinkie Pie resonated an air of happiness that was just plain infectious. She understood now how the filly had influenced so many ponies to come in that they sold their whole stock in one day. “So… Pinkie Pie… um… if you’re a part of our family now I guess that kinda… makes you like… a daughter to us. It’s not like I’d expect you to call me mom or anything, but-”

“MOM!” Pinkie ran around the room, doing somersaults and flips. “I have another mom! I thought I was lucky to have ONE! Now I have two! BEST… DAY… EVER EVER EVER EVER!”

Mrs. Cake had difficulty swallowing through the lump in her throat. Just like that Pinkie had called her by such an intimate title. She was feeling overwhelmed again. Her and her husband had wanted to have children eventually when their money situation was better and they had started a successful business. That was taken care of, and this special little filly that had shown up was now their own. “C-come here, Pinkie Pie,” she said, her voice thick with emotion.

“Coming, Mom!” Racing over she jumped at Cup Cake, hugging her neck.

Cup Cake sniffed, holding Pinkie close. “You’re a very special girl. You made my day. Not just because of helping to keep our shop open, but because of who you are. I’m happy to still have Sugarcube Corner, but I’m even happier simply to have you. Any mother would be lucky to have a filly like you. And to think that I get the great privilege of having you in my family.”

Pinkie Pie nuzzled the mare. “Right back at you. You’re a great pony.”

Loosening her grip and wiping her face Cup Cake said, “Well, that’s enough of being a blubbering baby. I want to show you I have a fun side too.” She threw Pinkie Pie on her back. “Hold on tight!” When Pinkie grabbed onto her neck she began running upstairs, Pinkie giggling like mad at the bouncing.

When they got to the top floor she showed Pinkie her new bedroom. “It’s pretty simple. It’s got a bed, a dresser, and a table. Up those stairs is a door that leads to a balcony outside. It’s pretty late right now so you’ll have to make due for tonight, but I promise tomorrow we’ll start making it look homier for you.”

“Sounds great!” She hopped off Mrs. Cake, jumping on the bed. “I’m having fun already! Throw a few balloons and streamers around, and I’ll feel right at home. Tomorrow I’ll send a letter to my family back at the rock farm and let them know I’m okay, and then I can fully enjoy my new home.”

She stopped her jumping as her stomach began rumbling. She gave Mrs. Cake an awkward smile and said, “So… is that dinner offer still available?”

“Of course it is, silly. I’ll go make something right now.” Pinkie followed after the mare as she went downstairs. “You don’t have to come, Pinkie. I’ll let you know when it’s ready.”

“Oh, I’m sure you will, but I don’t want to miss even ONE magic moment with my brand new parents. Gotta really cement that bond.”

The mare felt such joy in her heart. Pinkie was truly a wonder. Feeling like a younger pony she said, “I’ll race you down the stairs.” She started running, but Pinkie only kept pace with her, not trying to win at all.

They reached the bottom at the same time. Pinkie said. “It’s a tie. Oh, well.” She wasn’t that interested in racing. She didn’t want to worry about hurting Cup Cake’s feelings if she lost. Turning to Carrot Cake she said, “It’s supper time… almost.” Her stomach rumbled again.

“Okay, Pinkie,” he responded. “Come on to the kitchen. Let’s go bake some things.”

Even though they had sold out their stock of merchandise with Pinkie’s assistance they still had their own personal supplies, and together the three of them cooked a pizza,

Pinkie ate half of the pie by herself. After she was done eating she finally showed some fatigue, letting out a little yawn.

“Getting tired?” asked Cup Cake with fake shock. “YOU?”

Pinkie Pie giggled. She was starting to feel a little sleepy, but she didn’t want to go to bed just yet. She wanted to play some more with her new family so she’d have lots of good memories to coast to sleep on. “I’m nice and full. Can we do something together before bed?”

Mrs. Cake turned to her husband and whispered in his ear. He got a naughty grin and let out a mischievious giggle. “Oh, no!” said Carrot Cake. “I… feel… something… coming over me. Can’t… hold it back.” He lifted his hoof, looking at it with horror. “Must… tickle.”

“Me… too,” said Cup Cake. “Tickle zombies unite. We must make this filly one of our own.”

As they approached Pinkie Pie let out a squeal, running away. The two of them began chasing after her. “Don’t let her get away!”

Pinkie ran under the table, laughing away as she headed under it to the other side and into the next room. When the two got there she ran around, heading to the sales floor. Around and around they chased her, but she kept one step ahead of them with her youthful energy. “Can’t get me! Can’t get me!” she said in a sing-song voice.

She went around the counter, hearing Mrs. Cake say, “I’m gonna catch you!”

“No way, tickle zombie!” She laughed as she saw Cup Cake behind her. She looked forward and let out a shriek as she saw Carrot Cake on the other side. She tried to skid to a stop but her momentum was too strong. She tried jumping to the side but was too slow.

He grabbed her, setting her down on the floor on her back. He grabbed her hoof. “We’ve got her. Now she shall be one of us. Commence the tickling.”

Mrs. Cake put her hoof on the one Mr. Cake was holding, slowly running a hoof up Pinkie’s leg, making Pinkie shiver and giggle. “Oh, this won’t do at all. Small laughs like that won’t turn her into a tickle zombie. Let’s work together!” she said with a playful laugh.

“Oh, I agree, honeybun.” He let out the same kind of laugh.

The two of them were holding their hooves right above her, devious smiles on their faces. “Will you just give up quietly?”

“NO!” Pinkie said defiantly, but her face didn’t match her tone. She couldn’t suppress her smile.

“Very well, then. Let the tickle torture commence!”

“EEHEEHEHEEE!” Pinkie erupted into hysterical laughter as they began tickling her sensitive belly all over.

After just a few seconds they stopped and Carrot Cake asked, “Do you surrender?”

“NEVER!”

“You little stinker.”

The two of them continued their onslaught, Pinkie’s laughs increasing in intensity. No matter how deep her laughter became or how difficult it was getting to breathe she refused to tell them to stop.

When they stopped again Carrot Cake said, “I don’t get it. She should be a tickle zombie by now.”

“Don’t worry,” responded Cup Cake. “I’ve got an ace in the hole.

“Hey, Pinkie!”

“Ye…ye…yeah?” she responded, panting away as she gulped in large breaths of oxygen, looking on top of the world.

“Do you know what my favorite fruit is?”

Pinkie shook her head, still getting her breathing under control.

“Raspberries!”

“I like raspberries too, but what does that have to do with-EEEEKKKK!” Pinkie’s squealing raised an octave as Mrs. Cake put her mouth on Pinkie’s belly and blew, making little fart sounds. Pinkie kicked and squealed and squirmed, loving the sensation. Finally, she said it. “I-HEEHEE… I give up. HEEHEE! I… gi-give up.”

“SUCCESS!” Mr. and Mrs. Cake said. “Our brand new tickle zombie is now a part of our family.”

Pinkie got up, still letting off little laughs and wheezy breaths. When her breathing was more under control she said, “No. I’m not a tickle zombie. I’m a KISSING ZOMBIE! The only thing that can turn tickle zombies back to normal.”

She threw herself at Mr. Cake, kissing his face all over, wanting to show her new parents how much she cared about them.

Carrot Cake fell to the floor, saying in an overdramatic voice, “Noooo! She’s too much. I can’t stay a zombie anymore.” Then he pretended to pass out.

“No! Honey!” said Cup Cake. “My husband!”

“Your turn!” said Pinkie, hopping over to Mrs. Cake and giving her the same treatment.

“Nooo! I’m done for.” Just like her husband Cup Cake fell to the floor, landing on top of him.

“Mom! Dad! Are you alright now?”

“Whoa!” said Carrot Cake. “I feel so much better now.”

“Me too!” said Cup Cake. “I don’t think we’re completely cured though. We might just become tickle zombies every night, so we’re going to need our kissing zombie to help us get back to normal.”

Pinkie shook in anticipation. She liked that idea.

She raised a hoof to tickle them in return, but then stopped as she let out a giant yawn. All the excitement and exercise had finally worn her out.

“Oh, my. Honey, I think our little zombie needs to go to her grave to sleep.”

Pinkie shook her head. “Nooo! I don’t want to go to bed yet.”

Mrs. Cake dropped the act, saying in a kindly firm voice, “If you’re going to call me mom you’re going to have to listen to my rules. You’re tired, it’s late, and I say it's bedtime.”

For a second Pinkie looked like she was about to argue, but then she nodded, her smile back upon her face. “Okay.” She yawned again. “Will you at least read me a bedtime story?”

Cup Cake turned to her husband. He shrugged. “Well… I don’t have any. We don’t have any children, so we wouldn’t need any kiddy books.”

“Oh…” Pinkie said disappointedly with a frown and a sigh. “Okay. Goodnight, then.” With a slow pace she headed towards the stairs.

Cup Cake felt on the verge of tears. She wondered if it was a motherly feeling she was having, or if it was just about Pinkie Pie herself, but every time she saw Pinkie start getting sad it felt like the whole world became sad with her. Conversely, Pinkie’s joy was like the sun: it spread to everything she touched.

“Pinkie, wait!” She trotted over to the downcast filly. Pinkie looked up at her, and once more Mrs. Cake had that sensation, of wanting to do whatever she could to turn that frown upside-down. “Come with me.” The two of them headed upstairs, and Pinkie followed behind Cup Cake as they went to the mare’s bedroom.

Mrs. Cake began rummaging in the closet, throwing things behind her as she talked to herself. “Now where is it? I know it’s here somewhere. No… not this… not this either.”

Pinkie was curious, but she didn’t have the energy to bother asking.

After a short time Carrot Cake came in too. “What are you looking for?” he asked as he noticed the mess.

“Honey, do you know what I did with that box of my old filly stuff? I could have sworn it was in here.”

“Oh, that. I put it in the basement. I’ll go get it right now.” He left.

Mrs. Cake saw Pinkie Pie standing there with half-lidded eyes. Walking over to the filly she said, “I’m sorry, Pinkie. I know you’re ready to conk out. Just be patient for a little longer.”

Pinkie gave a slight nod, but that was her only response.

A short while later Carrot Cake came back with a cardboard box tucked under one of his legs. “This is what you’re talking about, right?”

“Yes!” Cup Cake said happily. Opening the box she moved some things around and then let out a satisfied exclamation. “Here it is! Come on, Pinkie Pie.”

It took her a few seconds to respond. She shook off her sleepiness. “What?”

“I have a book to read to you.”

That perked her up immediately. “Really? Yay!” She ran over to Mrs. Cake and hugged her. “Best mom ever!”

Cup Cake wiped away some tender tears. “Best DAUGHTER ever! And I mean that from the bottom of my heart.”

Though Pinkie’s eyes were drooping her mouth was rising up as high as it would go. “I love you!” she said as she snuggled against the mare.

“And I love you, too!”

With a little more pep the three of them headed upstairs to Pinkie’s new bedroom.

Cup Cake moved a rocking chair next to the bed, sitting down with Pinkie on her lap. Carrot Cake sat on the edge of the bed by them.

“This is a book my mom used to read to me when I was a filly. It was my favorite. That’s why I took it with me when I moved out. I had almost forgotten about this. It’s a collection of short stories. It’s a little better than one big story because you can read it in small doses. She said it was so I couldn’t use that as an excuse for staying up way past my bed time. I used to do that all the time.” She let out a giggle at the memory, saying in a kiddy voice, “One more page, mom. One more page. Oh, I can’t go to bed yet. The story’s almost over.”

Pinkie Pie and Carrot Cake giggled too. “That’s funny!” Pinkie said.

“I’m gonna read you my favorite story from here. It’s pretty short, but it's where I got my dream from. It’s called “The Land of Candy and Cupcakes.””

“Mmmmmm!” Pinkie replied, licking her lips and rubbing her tummy. “I like it already.”

Cup Cake cleared her throat, and flipped the pages until she got to the start of the story. The cover image was reminiscent of the design of their store. There were houses made out of gingerbread, cakes, and candy.

Carrot Cake listened along with amusement, remembering the kind of stories he used to enjoy too.

The story was simple. It was about two unicorn ponies, a filly and a colt, who were tired of living in their boring home town. One day they found out about a spell that could transport you to a magical world where everything is edible. They had to practice really hard, but eventually they succeeded. The townsfolk were gingerbread men, and they welcomed the two into their town. Giving them all the supplies they needed the two children built their own edible house. They were told not to worry about eating too much, as they could always rebuild it again with new food items.

Just when they thought everything was alright and they had started their new lives the evil Dr. Dentist came to the town, determined to destroy it. Using his unicorn magic he began turning everything healthy. Candy corn became regular corn. Gingerbread houses became apple, orange, and pear houses. The gingerbread townsfolk were no match, and one by one they were also transformed into a healthy food.

Pinkie Pie let out a sleepy groan, nuzzling Mrs. Cakes chest. Her eyes were only open a crack, and she was fighting sleep as hard as she could. She wanted to hear the end of the tale. This was a fascinating story to her. Each page had a picture up top showing what was happening in the story.

The two children, though scared, once more combined their power to defeat him with the sacred treasures of the land: the rainbow candy cane, and the golden cupcake. Once they beat him the two of them turned everyone and everything back to normal.

Mrs. Cake finished up with, “The two children had emerged victorious. Their new home was safe. The gingerbread men erected a statue of their saviors, and the tired heroes returned back to their home to rest. They both fell asleep, chewing on their cotton candy pillows, and they lived happily ever after. The end.”

“That was a nice story,” Pinkie said in a croaky voice, her fatigue obvious.

“Thank you, Pinkie. I gave you what you wanted, now it’s time to get in your bed.”

Pinkie just let out another groan, once more nuzzling the mare. “Nooooo. I wanna stay with you.”

Cup Cake was halfway to lifting the filly up herself, but she stopped. She hadn’t really noticed it before, focused as she was on reading, but she actually really enjoyed the warmth of the filly on her lap. Giving a mental shrug she simply placed her hooves around Pinkie and began rocking back and forth. Feeling a little self-conscious she began singing one of the old lullabies her mother used to sing for her. Looking down she saw Pinkie was smiling again, though her eyes were completely shut, and that was enough to make her continue.

When she was done with her song she heard the sound of snoring.

Carrot Cup looked overjoyed. “She’s cute when she’s awake, but she looks like such an angel when she’s asleep.”

“I agree,” Cup Cake said. “If this is what being a parent feel like I’ll take it.” She kept rocking back and forth, holding the filly close. “Some time in the future, once we see how this works out… I’d like to have our own little foal running about.”

“Yeah.”

For the next half hour Mrs. Cake just rocked with Pinkie, unwilling to be parted from her new daughter. Finally, though, she started to get tired herself. Reluctantly she stopped her rocking. Getting up she put Pinkie Pie in the bed, lifting up the blankets to cover most of her body.

Leaning over, she planted a kiss on Pinkie’s cheek. “Good night, Pinkie Pie, my wonderful new daughter.”

Author's Note

Hope you enjoyed the second part and had lots of Dawws! Thanks, all of you, for reading and rereading. May Pinkie bring smiles to all of you. =D

A rocky relationship.

“Hmm mmm mmm mmm!” Pinkie Pie stood at the counter, gently humming to herself and going up and down on her hooves.

“Pinkie Pie,” said Mrs. Cake. “What are you doing? We’re leaving in a little while, remember? Why didn’t you put the closed sign up?”

“Because I’m waiting for someone special.” The bell rang as the door opened. “There he is! Gooooooood Mooorrrrnnniinnngg, Mr. Waddle!” she said brightly. “And you’re wearing my favorite tie. Red polka-dots really work on you.”

“Aw, shucks, Miss Pinkie,” said the elderly stallion, adjusting his tie with a little blush. “It’s nice to see you too.”

She lifted up a bag. “Eight thirty breakfast. One blueberry, one banana-nut, and one chocolate chip muffin.”

“Oh, you remember my breakfast order even better than I do.”

“That’s right. You can’t be friends with someone if you don’t remember their favorite things.” With a small frown she said hesitantly, “We… are friends, right?”

“Of course! You’re a great friend. Now turn that frown upside down just like you tell me to do.”

Pinkie complied, flashing her best smile. “Have a good day, Mr. Waddle.”

“You too, Miss Pinkie.”

“I AM going to have a good day! Me and my new family are closing up shop early today to go on a picnic. Mrs. Cake says she feels bad that I’m always working during the day, but I don’t see the problem. I just love meeting new people and making them smile. But she says I need to take some time off too to recharge or I’ll burn out.”

“Well, have fun on your trip.” He set a few bits on the table and left.

Mrs. Cake rang him up. She was still hesitant over letting a filly handle the money. Pinkie had the perfect personality to attract customers and keep them coming back, but she was still a little naïve. She could easily see a crafty pony trick Pinkie into giving back the wrong amount. Pinkie was so trusting she wouldn’t doubt it for a second.

Pinkie turned to Cup Cake and said, “Did you see that? We have regulars now! This store is gonna be in business a long time. Your dream isn’t ending any time soon. And even if it tried to end I’d be there to help again.”

Cup Cake gave Pinkie a tender smile. “Thank you, Pinkie Pie. I understand you want to be helpful, but you make me feel guilty by being on the clock so much. You’re still a kid. You should be out playing and having fun. That’s why I want us to go out today. Maybe you can meet some foals your own age to start hanging around with.”

“I’ll do my best. You know I’m great at making friends. I’ll go grab my saddlebag and then we can have the bestest day off ever!” She gave Cup Cake a quick hug and then ran upstairs to grab her stuff. While she was packing she heard her name being called. Heading to the door she said, “Yes? What is it?”

“You have a visitor. Someone wants to see you.”

Pinkie gasped with delight. “I’ll be right down!” She finished putting her stuff in her bag, running down both flights of stairs to the sales floor.

Pinkie walked into the room, seeing the gray earth pony standing there, and her eyes lit up. “MAUD!” she yelled out happily, racing toward her sister. Maud barely had time to react before she was tackled to the ground. They rolled on the floor a few times, and when they stopped Pinkie repeatedly nuzzled her sister. “I’m so happy to see you!”

If it had been anyone else but Pinkie Pie she would have gotten annoyed, but Maud had a soft spot for her sister. Using her hooves she gently pushed her sister away. “Okay, Pinkie. That’s enough.”

“Okie-dokie-lokie!” Pinkie backed up, pulling Maud to her hooves. She nuzzled her sister one more time before saying, “You didn’t tell me you were coming, sis. I would have prepared something special for you.”

Maud reached into the pocket of her green frock and pulled out a small envelope. In her stoic way she said, “You said that you had something important to tell me when I saw you in person. I got up early to finish my work so I could come to Ponyville.”

Pinkie cocked her head. “I didn’t think the trains ran that early.”

Maud blinked and responded, “They don’t. I walked here.”

Pinkie gasped. “You walked? Why didn’t you just take the train?”

“…I missed you,” she responded simply. “I just got your letter yesterday, but I was busy on the farm so I couldn’t make it. I had trouble sleeping last night so I got up at about two o’clock and finished all my work. It was only a four hour walk. It’s not a big deal.”

Pinkie blushed a bit, tears coming to her eyes as she hugged her sister. “Aww, you missed me so bad you just couldn’t wait any longer to see me again, huh?”

Maud returned the hug, but quickly pulled away. She looked her sister up and down, and said, “You look like you’re doing well.”

“Yes, I am!”

Maud turned her gaze over to Mrs. Cake. “Are you the one who’s been housing my sister?”

Mrs. Cake felt a strange sensation from the filly. Though the child’s tone was flat and her body was relaxed her stare was intense. She could see immediately how protective Maud was. It wasn’t that strange. Her sister was living with ponies who, to her, were complete strangers. It was only natural she’d want to know her sister was being taken care of properly.

“This is Mrs. Cake,” said Pinkie, gesturing with her hoof. “Their store was going to shut down, but I helped them make enough sales to keep it in business. They were so grateful to me that her and her husband offered to let me live at their house for as long as I’m in Ponyville. She’s been so kind to me while I’ve been here. She reads me stories at night when I go to sleep, and we play tickle games where she chases me around the house. It’s so awesome!” She let out a little happy squeal, hopping up and down joyously.

Maud’s eyes went to Pinkie, then back to her, and she could see the filly’s eyes had softened considerably. Mrs. Cake walked up to her and said, “I’m Cup Cake, and my husband is Carrot Cake. He’ll be along shortly. It’s nice to meet you.”

“Same here. If Pinkie is happy with you I can accept you too.”

Cup Cake raised an eyebrow. She couldn’t tell if Maud was being genuine with her. She just sounded bored.

Carrot Cake pushed open the swinging doors, saying, “There’s my daughter. Hard to mistake your voice.”

Maud’s eyes opened fully for a second, her mouth hanging open, before the moment passed and her face returned to its usual impassivity. “Daughter?” asked Maud.

“Oh, who’s this?” asked Carrot Cake.

Pinkie said, “This is my big sister Maud. She came all the way out from the rock farm to visit me.” Turning to Maud she said, “I know they’re not really my parents, but when I told them I didn’t have any family here they offered to make me a part of their family. And since they don’t have any kids themselves I thought it was spectacular having two sets of parents. Friends are good, but family is amazing. That’s why you’re my favorite sister!” She hugged Maud again, but this time her sister didn’t return it. Pinkie didn’t fail to note that. When she let go she tried to look her sister in the eyes, but Maud turned away towards the door. “What’s wrong?”

Still with a perfectly even voice she said, “I just came to check up on you. You’re obviously not having any difficulties, so I’m gonna go home.”

As she started to walk away Pinkie felt herself starting to tear up. She knew her sister well enough. Maud tended to walk away when she felt angry so she didn’t blow up. “Maud…” She gulped, her tears starting to run down her face. “You-you aren’t mad at me, are you?” She sniffed a few times, putting her hoof to her face to wipe her tears away.

Maud stopped. After a few seconds she tilted her head in her sister’s direction. She didn’t respond, and for a full minute the two just looked at each other without speaking.

Mrs. Cake looked between the two. Since it seemed that neither of them was going to be the first to start talking she decided to step in. “Maud, I think we all got off on the wrong hoof. I understand you’re a little upset that so much has been going on without your knowledge. You two seem to have been very close before she left, so I can get why it’s hard to imagine there are things Pinkie hasn’t told you.

“You just had a long walk, and you already said you completed your workload for the day. Surely you don’t have to return home right away. We were just about to go on a picnic, just the three of us. Why don’t you come along, and get to know us better? You don’t have to just take Pinkie’s word for it that we’ve been good caretakers of her. You can see with your own eyes and hear with your own ears the way we treat your sister, and make your own decision about how you feel about us.”

Maud blinked, looking up at Mrs. Cake after about ten seconds. “…Sure.”

Pinkie ran over to her, hugging her again. “I’m sorry I didn’t tell you. I wanted it to be a surprise. That was the good news I was planning to tell you all about when you came to visit. I’m sorry if it made you mad.”

Maud once again gave her a quick squeeze before letting go. “Don’t worry about it.”

Mr. Cake grabbed the picnic basket, while Mrs. Cake took the tablecloth and blanket.

Maud and Pinkie walked outside while Cup Cake put the closed sign up and locked the door.

Pinkie bounced with each step, a free spirit basking in the warmth of the sun. After just a few seconds she turned to a yellow pegasus colt and said, “Morning, Rising Flash! How are your flying lessons going?”

“Great!” he replied. “My dad is showing me a stunt today.”

They continued on their way. After a few more seconds she said cheerfully, “Good morning, Mayor Mare! Can’t wait to help cater the get-together you’re having with the delegates of Fillydelphia.”

The mare grinned back at her. “Good morning, Pinkie Pie. It’s nice to see you, too.”

Maud began to ask her a question, but Pinkie said, “Oh! Hold on a second!” She ran off, giving a hard tug to a gray pegasus stuck in a bush. With a rustle of branches the two of them fell backwards onto the ground. Pinkie giggled. “Derpy! You have to be more careful, you silly.”

“I just don’t know what went wrong,” the filly responded. “Thanks for your help, Pinkie!”

“No problem! Happy to help!”

“Hey, Pinkie!” a voice called out. Pinkie turned around to see a yellow earth pony filly wearing glasses. “You have to come to my family’s shop soon. We’re working on a new chocolate recipe, and we need a taste-tester. I couldn’t think of anyone better for the job than you.”

Pinkie’s eyes lit up. “That would be awesome, Bon Bon.”

“And look.” She turned to the side a little. “I even got my cutie mark for helping out.”

“Congratulations!”

“Well, I’ve gotta go. I’m going to see my friend Lyra.”

“Tell her to play me another song some time. She plays the harp so beautifully.”

“I will.” Bon Bon ran off.

Every fifteen seconds or so Pinkie stopped and greeted the passing ponies on their way to Ponyville Park.

When it was finally clear of other ponies Maud asked, “So when are you moving back to the rock farm?”

Pinkie hesitated, then replied, “I’m not.” After a few seconds she turned and saw that Maud wasn’t beside her anymore. Pinkie backed up until they were side-by side again. “What’s wrong?”

Maud blinked, then began walking again without a change in expression. “Oh. I thought you were only visiting. You said that you wanted to go out on your own and visit another town for a little while and then you were coming home. I didn’t know you were planning to stay. Maybe you found someone better to stay with.”

Maud’s tone didn’t change, but Pinkie saw her eyes narrow a fraction as she looked at Mr. and Mrs. Cake. “It’s not like that!” she said quickly. “Cup Cake and Carrot Cake both took me in for helping them, but I’m not choosing them over my other family. I just really, really, REALLY love Ponyville. There are so many ponies here that I love. They’re all so friendly to me. They come to visit the shop and greet me and I can put a smile on all their faces.

“I never knew life could be this great. I never knew how happy I could feel until I moved here. Ponyville is the best place ever!”

Maud looked over at her sister, an impassive expression back on her face. “…I get it.”

Pinkie cocked her head a little. “Are you okay, Maud?”

“Hmm? What do you mean?”

“Are you crying?” Pinkie felt worried. She had never once seen Maud cry. Her sister was the toughest pony she knew. She worked hard every day, never complaining. She looked after her other sisters when their parents were busy. Maud was the oldest of the four of them, and she had never seen her sister falter before.

Maud stopped, lifting her hoof to her face. She hadn’t felt the moisture before but she could see it on her hoof. “I must have got some dust in my eyes. It’s nothing.”

Cup Cake turned to Pinkie and said, “Oh, Pinkie. I forgot something at the house. Would you mind getting it for me?”

“No problem!” she replied. “Whatcha need?”

“I think we need another blanket to sit on. Oh, and a few more treats since we now have an extra pony in our group.”

“Gotcha!” She gave a quick salute, and then raced off towards Sugarcube Corner.

Cup Cake saw Maud looking after her departing sister and said, “We don’t really need anything extra. I just wanted to talk with you for a minute.

“I can see that Pinkie Pie means the world to you. Me and my husband feel that way too, so we can understand your feelings, even if you don’t express them as openly as your sister does. Why don’t you tell her how you really feel? Even if we would miss Pinkie terribly she is your actual family.”

Maud looked up at her for a brief moment, then her eyes returned to Pinkie. She thought of how every pony around seemed to know who her sister was, despite it being only two weeks since her sister left. She thought of the smile on her sister’s face as she chatted with them, and how joyful everyone looked. “Because if I told her she might decide to move back home. That would make her miserable. That’s all. She’s growing up and finding her place in the world. It’s a good thing.” Maud let out an irritated grunt as she wiped her face again. She glared at the ground, her mouth a thin line. It was the most emotion she had shown the whole visit. “So why can’t I feel happy about it?”

Cup Cake felt her heart breaking. Though not a parent herself she’d heard stories of how difficult it was for mother’s to let their babies go. She felt a bit guilty at her relief that Maud didn’t want to push her sister to return home. Setting the blanket and tablecloth on the ground she gave Maud a hug. “I’m sorry,” she said gently. “I know that it hurts to think of your sister moving away from home. If it’s any consolation at all I give you my word that we will always house your sister and treat her like a member of the family. She saved our livelihood, so the least we can do to repay her is to ensure she’s safe, warm, and happy. We’ll always take good care of your sister, the best way we can. I know it’s not as good as having Pinkie come home, but I hope it can at least give you peace of mind that your sister isn’t going to be mistreated in any way while she lives in our home."

Maud looked up at Cup Cake, the annoyance gone. “Thank you.” She pulled out of Cup Cakes grip. “Sorry if I seemed jealous.”

“It’s okay.”

“HHEEEYYY!” screamed a voice in the distance.

As Maud saw Pinkie coming back her stoic demeanor returned. “Don’t tell her. She doesn’t need to know.”

“I won’t,” Cup Cake replied.

“I’m gonna hold you to your promise. I better not ever hear of you abusing my sister.”

“Never in a million years. All the bits in the world can’t replace a smile that precious. Anyone who tries to steal it away from her is scum.”

“…I agree with that.”

Pinkie caught up to them, huffing a little. “I’ve got the stuff you asked for. Are you ready for the best picnic EVER?”

“You bet!” said Carrot Cake.

In the middle of Ponyville Park they set down the blankets near a lake, resting in the shade of a tree. “It’s such a beautiful day out,” said Cup Cake, looking up towards the sky. “Just the right kind of weather for a picnic. The breeze feels nice and the sun isn’t too strong.”

She took out some sandwiches from the picnic basket and asked, “So how old are you, Maud?”

“Fourteen,” she replied, before taking a bite of her sandwich.

“I’m eight!” Pinkie said right after. “I have two other sisters too: Marble Pie and Limestone Pie. They’re both nine. I’m the youngest of my siblings.”

The four of them chatted about their lives. Carrot Cake and Cup Cake told Maud about how they met and their shared dream of opening a sweet shop, then how Pinkie had saved them when they were at the brink of losing the shop for good.

When she finished Mrs. Cake felt that same dread she had felt earlier with Maud. Even though, just like before, there was seemingly no change in her demeanor. “Is something wrong, Maud?”

In a monotone she asked, “So are you just using my sister to get more customers?”

Mrs. Cake gasped. “Perish the thought! We would never, ever do that!”

“That’s right,” said Carrot. “Pinkie Pie is as dear to us as if she were our very own child. She spent the whole day helping us out because we were so sad we were about to lose the shop. Afterward, she seemed to feel as if she hadn’t done anything special at all. Because it was late enough the trains had stopped running and she didn’t have any family in Ponyville she said she was going to go sleep on a park bench. A park bench! We both felt horrible and there was no way we were going to be so ungrateful as to let her do that. Even though we offered her a place to stay for the night she was still hesitant, like she didn’t feel she deserved it.”

“So we both walked over to her and pointed out how much she had helped us. It was only with her help that we prevailed, so to help her get over her reluctance we told her she was a part of our family now, so she’d always have a place to stay in Ponyville. Like I told you before she helped to protect us, so we’re just doing all we can to protect her. Also like I said before we’re having this picnic because she was making us feel guilty. Pinkie is a social butterfly for sure, but she’s still just a kid. We didn’t feel she should be working so much, even if she didn’t consider it work.”

“Okay,” said Maud. “I just wanted to be sure.”

“So what about you and Pinkie? We’ve heard bits and pieces from her, but we hardly know anything about her family.”

Maud gave them a brief overview of life on the rock farm, and it was like talking with a whole new pony. Her voice was still very composed, but she talked a lot more than before. Her eyes almost seemed to sparkle as she talked about her love of rocks.

Mr. and Mrs. Cake listened politely, but they couldn’t help but drone out after a few minutes. Their smiles became strained, expecting her to be finished every few sentences, but she kept going on and on, still in a perfectly emotionless voice. The disconnect between her voice and her passion was a bit disconcerting, but it was clear that she did have some things that got her excited.

Pinkie gently bobbed her head as Maud spoke, listening intently all the while. Neither of them seemed to notice how bored Mr. and Mrs. Cake were getting.

After about fifteen minutes Carrot Cake finally said, “Well, I think you have a very, um, interesting life where you come from. But my legs are starting to fall asleep. What do you say we go walking? After all, we can’t just sit here the whole day. There’s more of Ponyville to see than just the park."

“Sounds like fun!” Pinkie said. “You up for it, Maud?”

“…Sure,” she said, getting up.

As they left the park Pinkie had to stop at a candy store. Taking out a few bits she bought four candy necklaces, placing them on each of their necks.

Just like always Pinkie was an endless ball of energy as they went through town, eating another piece of candy on her necklace every thirty seconds or so.

They stopped at a booth that allowed you to get a prize for knocking over three bottles with a ball. Pinkie eyed a cute stuffed dog. Going into her bag she placed a bit on the table. She was handed three balls. With a happy-go-lucky smile she threw all three balls at once, all of them completely missing the target. She frowned for a second, before going back into her bag and saying, “One more!”

Try as she might she was too excitable to really aim, so the balls always missed the target. Pinkie wasn’t daunted by her failures. She was still having a great time… at least until she reached into her saddle bag and saw she had no bits left to play. “Aww.” Pinkie let out a sad whimper. “But I really wanted the little doggy.”

Maud walked up to the counter, setting a bit down. Picking up the ball she wound up and threw it. It went dead center into the three bottles, broke through the wood at the back of the stand, and still went over five hundred feet before landing. “One stuffed dog, please.”

The pony in charge of the game gave her a bewildered look before quickly grabbing a stuffed dog and handing it to her.

“Here,” said Maud, giving it to Pinkie. “Now smile.”

Pinkie cheered right up as she held the dog close. She nuzzled her sister’s cheek, saying, “Thank you so much, Maud! You’re the best sister ever.”

Maud picked up another one of the balls. “Well, I still have two tries left. Maybe I can get you another one.”

As she began winding up again the pony in charge said, “Whoa, whoa, whoa! It’s fine!” He picked out two more stuffed animals and handed them over, taking the other two balls from Maud before she made any more holes in his stand.

“Thank you,” said Maud. “Now you have three.”

“Yep!” Pinkie said joyfully, hugging them all close. “I got a dog, a cat, and a hamster. They’re all so cute! I love you, Maud!”

“So what do you want to do next?”

For the next few hours they walked around Ponyville, Mr. and Mrs. Cake pointing out various shops and landmarks until the sun was beginning its final descent on the horizon. “Well, Maud,” said Carrot Cake. “It was nice meeting you. Let us buy your ticket home.”

“Okay,” she replied.

“And don’t be a stranger,” said Cup Cake. “Like your sister you’re welcome to visit anytime. I know Pinkie wouldn’t mind sharing the room for a night with you.”

“Thank you.”

The four of them headed to the train station and bought Maud a ticket home. There was still about twenty minutes until the train was due to leave.

To Mrs. Cake Maud seemed irritated. As usual it didn’t manifest in tone of voice or facial expression but in body language. She seemed restless, which was unusual given what Cup Cake had seen of the filly.

Pinkie hugged her sister. “Thanks a lot for coming to visit. I had a lot of fun today. It was nice for my family to meet my other family. Now you know you don’t have to worry about me, right?”

It took a short while for Maud to respond. “You’re my sister. Of course I worry when you’re not around. But… I know I don’t have to worry about Cup Cake and Carrot Cake. I hope you continue to enjoy your time in Ponyville.”

“Hmm…” Pinkie gasped, jumping into the air. “I got it!” She ran off without another word.

“Got what?” asked Cup Cake. Carrot Cake just shrugged.

About fifteen minutes later Pinkie returned, holding a wrapped box. “Here, Maud. This is a gift for you. But you can’t open it right now. You have to wait until later.”

Maud took the box in her hooves, hugging her sister one last time. “I’ll see you later, Pinkie. Stay safe.”

“I will!” She gave her sister a kiss. “Goodbye, Maud!”

“Goodbye.” She got on the train as the whistle’s began to blow.

She waved a final goodbye to her sister as the train began to take off.

When Pinkie was no longer in sight she let out a small sigh. She went into her saddlebag and pulled out a notebook and quill. It was the book of her poems about rocks. Taking the quill in her mouth she began to write.

“My favorite rock.”

Rocks come in all shapes and sizes.

Some are big. Some are small.

They come in all sorts of colors as well.

I love every type of rock, but I love one rock most of all.

My favorite rock I’ve always kept at my side.

She lived in my heart day after day.

Now my rock has rolled away from me.

A rock is a rock until it crumbles away.

Sometimes it grows. Sometimes it shrinks.

And sometimes a rock becomes something else entirely.

My rock grew too big to stay nearby.

She can no longer fit in my pocket.

I can no longer keep my rock to myself.

Because she turned from a rock into a rainbow.

Bringing joy to all those who see her.

My rock has rolled away, never to return home.

Because I love my rock I must let her roll.

I want my rock to be happy.

And the place where she’s happiest is somewhere far away from me.

Even though I love my rock I won’t tell her to roll back home.

I have to live without my rock.

I have to let my rock continue to grow on its own.

Even though it hurts to see you growing up without me.

I’ll miss your sunshine over my cloudy skies.

The one that brings light over the horizon

Goodbye, my rock. My favorite rock. The one I love the most.

This time Maud felt them: the tears brimming in her eyes. She set down her notepad, letting out a small sigh as she wiped her eyes. She turned her head towards the package that Pinkie gave her. Looking at the tag attached to the box she read the scribbled words on it. “To Maud. Open this when you’re in need of a smile. With tons of love, Pinkie Pie.”

Maud stared at the box for a short time before pulling at the edge of the bow on the box. When it came loose she pulled off the top, revealing a card on top of some tissue paper. Picking up the card she opened it and began reading. “I’m sorry you have to go, but I didn’t want you to leave without something to remember me by, so I got you a pet. Don’t worry. He’s real easy to take care of. His name is Boulder.”

Maud’s eyebrow went up a fraction of an inch, and then she pulled away the tissue paper to reveal a small rock that had been shined to a near mirror finish. With a tender hoof she picked up the rock. To anyone else it was just a common rock, no different than one would find lying on the side of the road. To Maud, it was a precious gift from her dear sister.

She couldn’t help it. She smiled. A warm, tender smile. She looked down at her frock, and saw to her delight that Boulder fit perfectly inside. She pushed the rock against her, feeling her heart thumping with joy.

Picking up her notebook again she continued writing a few more lines.

Now more than ever my rock captures my soul.

Like the best rocks do she didn’t just leave.

She didn’t just forget those she rolled away from.

She leaves a piece of herself behind for us to remember.

Forever beside my heart.

She patted Boulder a few more times, feeling content. She began to think of more ways the two of them could stay connected even though they were apart.

Looking down she saw the candy necklace still around her neck. She thought of the special rocks she had discovered back home, and she began to get an idea…