A Little Cream for a Lotta Coco

Chapter 20: Behind Closed Doors

Sunlight poured onto the newly developed photographs, illuminating the blubbery ponies in all of their glory. Most of the pictures showed the models staring with confidence at the camera, despite being on a cheap couch in a dirty room; they were happy to be there among friends, no doubt, having as much fun as they could in that single moment. The rest of the pictures showed Coco Pommel, who, despite her best efforts, couldn’t hide her fear from Photo Finish. Even with that fear, the sunlight showered the photo, and Coco glowed with beauty.

Finish stared at the pictures for a few precious seconds, watching the sunlight crawling over them with the sun’s rising, imagining it was her body crawling along their bodies. Once it touched her own skin, her mind jolted awake.

I’m late!

She bolted out of her chair and rushed into the shower. The initial blast of cold water made her gasp, and the weariness from the night’s work vanished.

There we go. Good as new.

But to what purpose?

For work, of course. You can’t dwell on last night forever.

I am aware of this.

You still have a career to nurture. You cannot let that get away from you.

I know. And Coco will be there.

And just as plump as ever.

But will she be too bloated? That night at Pies in the Skies was—

She is in the care of professional eaters. She will not overdo it with them there.

You’re absolutely right.

Her mind quieted after that, and she showered, dried, and dressed herself with a tingling anticipation. Coco’s pictures lay on the table, where Finish had ogled her beauty all night. She knew, though, that it wouldn’t compare to seeing her in three dimensions, and within her professionally-clean studio instead of the dirty one.

Breakfast consisted of a few pieces of toast, and after that she gathered up all of the pictures from last night, stuffed them in her satchel, and grabbed her camera and a few extra rolls of film. She had only forty-five minutes to get everything set up for work as she trotted out the door.

The walk to work was mostly uneventful. The morning was cooler than normal, with the sky slightly overcast. As usual for overcast days, civilians and tourists that had stayed the night stayed at home; only the store owners and early-bird workers were moving about. In fact, some of the workers watched with surprise as Photo Finish hurried her way to her studio much later than normal. She ignored them as much as possible as she cantered to work.

As she passed Ginger Street, she saw Ginger Snap serving Coco Pommel in the cafe window. She just barely caught a glimpse of the interaction as she sped along, but that was enough for her to see that Coco had, indeed, grown since last night. Her belly and chest squished against her legs, the tops of her forelegs partially obscured by her bulbous chest. Her rump was really beginning to sag now, just past the point where gravity began misshaping it. Her back had one new roll on it, and a small roll at that, but it was a thick roll nonetheless. Her neck sported a double chin that supported her fat cheeks, which were beaming with delight at the conversation she was having with the barista.

But she didn’t linger to stare for long, or go in and talk to them. Her desire to be near the fatter mare could not overcome her need to get to work on time. The rest of the canter to work had no interruptions, and she entered her studio thirty-seven minutes before it opened for business.

Pins N’ Needles would be there in seven minutes, so Finish hurried to get the pictures in her office, just to avoid any possibility of anypony seeing them. Before she could reach her office, though, there was a knock at her front door.

“Huh?” She whipped around to see Fleur’s photographer, Perfect Pixels, standing at the entrance. Oh no, what does he want?

Probably something to do with one of Fleur’s ideas, like last time.

She trotted over and opened the door. “My friend Pixels—”

“May I come in?”

She blinked. “Er, we will not be open for—”

“Another thirty-six minutes,” he interrupted. “You and I need to have a talk, and it can’t wait.”

Finish harrumphed. “If it is that important—”

“It is.”

“Then come on in.” She moved out of his way and let him step inside. She noticed his satchel, and began to sweat.

Every photographer has a satchel, Photo Finish. You shouldn’t be jumping to conclusions so soon. “Did Fleur not come with you?”

“No. She is asleep at this time.”

“Ah.” Finish scuffed the ground. “So what are you here to talk about?”

“Last night.”

“Last night?”

“Yes,” he continued, pulling his satchel open. “With the Blubber Lovers ensemble.”

She froze. Oh goddesses, he knows!

I-I-I don’t know what to say.

I don’t know what to do!

“So you know what I’m talking about.” He passed her a few photographs. “You were seen last night in front of a building with the models found in the Blubber Lovers magazine, and talking with a photographer.”

She looked at the photographs, and immediately noticed the twigs around the edges. Damn it all, he was hiding in a bush. It undeniably showed her in front of the blubber lovers, talking to Wide Lens. One was zoomed in on her and Wide Lens, and another was zoomed in on Coco Pommel, standing next to Black Forest.

“You can’t deny that you were there.”

She resisted the urge to tremble in front of him. “You are right. I was there.”

“Why?”

Finish thought for a moment. What is he looking for? He certainly doesn’t think I was there for any sort of lewd reason, right? He wouldn’t know that I lust after them, that I have their magazines… wait a minute. Perhaps he’s a blubber lover as well?

“Let me ask you a question first.”

“Okay.”

“How do you know what magazine they come from?”

He scoffed. “Trust me, it’s not by choice. I have had the pleasure of meeting that whale of a mare a few years ago. Nopony could miss that freakshow walking through the streets, blocking normal ponies’ pathways. She had a few copies of that magazine in her bag. It’s no stretch of the imagination to conclude that everypony there, save you, Coco and the other photographer, was either a model for that magazine, or they were being recruited.

“Am I wrong, Photo Finish?”

Finish fought the urge to tremble with the blood boiling in her veins. This pompous ass! How dare he speak about them like that!

Hold your reins, Photo Finish. Remember, he’s from Canterlot. This type of behavior is normal.

No, I must say something.

Don’t. Photo Finish, you can’t ruin your reputation with an outburst against him. Keep your cool.

She took a deep breath. “No, you are right. They were there to set up a photo shoot.”

“And why were you and Coco there?”

“To… they requested our assistance.”

“And you agreed?”

“Obviously.”

Perfect shook his head. “I’m sorry you had to endure that. That must’ve been rough, what with all of that fatty flesh all around you.”

Well, it would’ve actually been soft, you clod.

“Perhaps you should politely tell them you won’t help them anymore.”

Finish took a small, sharp breath. “And why should I do that?”

“Why shouldn’t you?”

She balked.

“How does helping a bunch of gluttons help your career? How does it enrich Canterlot to have these humongous ponies parade around a camera? This kind of behavior can’t be encouraged, after all.”

“Who said I was encouraging it?”

“You are most certainly condoning it.” He shook his head. “I don’t know why, but if other ponies were to find out that you were spending your time around these gluttonous beings, who knows what they would think of you?”

Finish looked down at the ground.

“They’d think you’re losing your mind, of course.” He patted her on the shoulder. “They’d be disgusted by it, and you wouldn’t get any clients that would actually help advance your career. It would end badly for you.”

She sighed. “I understand what you are saying—”

“Excellent!” He walked past her. “It’s something for you to consider. But let me just say this: Fleur de Lys is the most prominent and promising client you’ve ever had, is that right?”

“Y-Yes.”

“If I feel that you’re losing your mind, I’ll tell her it’s not worth it to shoot with you.”

She whipped around. “You can’t make that decision for her!” she shouted.

“Oh, but I can.” He adjusted his satchel so that she’d notice. “As a fellow photographer and a family-friend, she trusts me to know what’s best for her in this regard.”

She scoffed, but the words to respond wouldn’t come out.

“I believe we’re finished,” he said cheerfully. “Adieu, Photo Finish.” He opened the door. “You first, my dear.”

“Thank you,” came the voice of Pins N’ Needles, who walked right past him. “I see you and Photo Finish had some business.”

He left without saying anything.

“Rude.” She walked over to Finish. “I assume everything went well between you two.”

“Excuse me, I need to yell.”

“As you wish.” Pins walked over to her station and began setting everything up.

Finish walked away to her office, her hooves trembling underneath her. Once inside, she threw her satchel at her chair, locked the door behind her, and screamed as loudly as she could.

Damn it all! How did it come to this? He’s won. The paparazzo has won.

This is bad. This is very, very bad.

Her inner monologue repeated the same thing over and over, even as she lost her energy from her screaming, even as she slumped down in her chair, even as she sat there, listening to her employees coming in one after another, chatting with one another, at first getting their pleasantries out of the way, and then wondering where Photo Finish was.

Finally, as it neared five minutes to working time, and her mind continued repeating the same hopeless words, she heard a voice that caught her attention.

“Good morning, Pins!”

“My dear Coco, hello.”

Finish rose from her chair. There’s Coco. She will wonder where I’m at.

Indeed. We can’t hide from her.

You’re right. We must get back to work. If not for our sake, but for hers. And for the sake of our employees.

Perfect Pixels has the advantage for now, but I, Photo Finish, will not be defeated so easily!

She pulled out the Blubber Lovers photos from her satchel and slipped them into a folder. “There. Now I can deliver it to them without a problem.” With a crack of her neck, she kicked the door open.

“I, Photo Finish… have arrived!”

Everypony looked at her, no doubt confused on why she had been in there for so long.

“We are off to a late start,” she said simply. “That is all you need to know. Carry on!”

They all immediately got back to their work, this demand being more in line with her character. Coco and Pins got to work setting up their station, the latter giving her a lingering glance. Finish watched her until the seamstress looked away, and then took a few more seconds to ogle Coco behind her goggles.

Ooh, yes, this is most exquisite. You have certainly grown, my dear. No matter what Perfect Pixels or Fleur de Lys do to me, no matter what resources they have, I will not relinquish you so easily. You have grown on me, Coco, and hopefully I can make that happen literally. With you on top of me, scarfing down all the food you can handle.

Coco looked over and gave her a nervous smile. Finish nodded to her and walked away, speedily setting up everything she needed to, in a flurry of flourishes that only Photo Finish could deftly deliver.

The first few hours went by without any problems. Three relatively undemanding models entered her studio, and every one of her employees were in top form to take care of them. This included Coco, who, despite her weight, could handle her needle and thread just fine, and deliver dresses to the models without wrinkling or stepping on them. The models made light comments about her weight, but it was more for curiosity’s sake than for insult.

Coco, of course, shirked away at the comments. The models all apologized to her and told her that they didn’t mean any harm, but she told them that apologies weren't necessary, and that she herself was sorry. “She must be sensitive about her weight,” they told Finish once Coco was out of earshot.

“Yes, quite,” Finish said, watching Coco out of the corner of her eye. What in Equestria has gotten into her now? She watched as Coco looked over to her, and then immediately looked away. First she was cheerful, and now she’s nervous. This time, it’s not the models’ fault. They obviously meant no harm, and they apologized to her. What more does she want?

I don’t know. Why don’t you ask her?

Coco looked over again, and then immediately looked away. That is a great idea.

“Coco!”

Coco jumped in place, causing her belly to bounce and sway underneath her. “Y-Yes, Photo Finish?”

“Can we speak in the backrooms, please?”

The rest of the employees quieted down; they all knew from experience that a backroom talking to meant that something was seriously wrong. Coco, lacking this experience, was nonetheless anxious. “Y-Yes, Photo Finish. I’m coming.”

Finish made her way to the backrooms, and waited in the hallway as Coco waddled her way over to her. One of the models giggled at the sight, but another one of them jabbed her in the chest to stop her. Finish waited a moment for Coco to catch her breath before taking them both back to the room, specifically the one where they had shared their tiramisu.

Before Finish could speak, Coco stammered an “I’m sorry.”

Finish resisted the urge to sigh. “For what?” she asked in the most pleasant tone she could muster.

“F-For being so awkward, and for making the models uncomfortable.”

“No, Coco, you did not make the models uncomfortable.” She watched as Coco scuffed the ground. “You did not notice, but they were being polite.”

Coco nodded slowly. “O-Okay, Photo Finish. I guess I wasn’t paying attention.”

“Do you have something else on your mind?” Finish asked with a leery smile. “Your dinner from last night, perhaps?”

At the mention of that, Coco clammed up.

“Coco?” Finish raised her chin with her hoof. “I am asking you how your dinner was last night.”

“Oh, i-it was f-fine.”

A cold feeling began forming in Finish’s stomach. “Did something happen?”

“What!?” Coco shook her head rapidly, sending her cheeks and double chin wobbling. “No, of course not! Everypony was so kind, and the food was—” She clammed up.

“The food was what?”

“Oh,” she continued with a blush. “I-It was fine.”

She’s blushing? Does that mean… does that mean that things turned romantic last night? Did she hook up with some other pony? Or is food beginning to become romantic to her? Finish flicked her tail idly. “And what did everypony think of the photo shoot?”

“Most of the ponies enjoyed it.” Coco grew more nervous in front of her. “Fanny… well, she seemed upset about the set.”

“And she’s not the only one,” Finish confessed. “It needs some tender loving care.”

“Y-Yeah.”

“Go on.”

“Oh, Black Forest and Pineapple Prize weren’t in a good mood about how last night went, either. They wouldn’t tell me why.”

Probably wanted her to enjoy her meal with them. “And everypony else?”

“They said it seemed fine.”

She’s telling the truth. “Did anypony have anything to say about me?”

“Well, Dark—” She stopped talking immediately.

Right, Dark doesn’t like me at all. “Was Dark the only one?”

“No, Black Forest thought you were…”

“Thought I was what?”

“...A bit too uptight.”

“Uptight!?”

“But-But Fanny stuck up for you!”

Finish blinked. “She did?”

“Yeah, she said you were a great help last night.”

Finish began pacing. Uptight? What does Black Forest mean by ‘uptight’?

I don’t think Coco would tell us if we went and asked her.

No, she wouldn’t. I’ll have to talk with her myself.

But can you believe it? Fanny Pancake of all ponies having your back.

Yes, I think we’re making progress. With her. But not with Coco. She looked back at Coco, who was getting antsy as she watched Photo Finish walk back and forth. Pacing’s not getting me anywhere.

She stopped. “Well, as long as nopony harmed you, and you enjoyed yourself, I am happy for you.”

“Thanks,” Coco said with barely a whisper.

I know you’re upset, but we must deal with that earlier issue, Coco. “Coco, do you feel that one of the other models talked badly about you?”

“Well, not really. It’s just a little embarrassing.”

“What do you mean, ‘embarrassing?’ You are a big girl, and they were just pointing that out.”

Coco retreated from this last fact. “U-Um… I’m sorry.”

Finish could feel her temper beginning to rise. “For what?”

“I…” Coco looked away.

I can’t tell why she’s upset.

Perhaps it’s something that you said.

No, it can’t be! I have done everything perfectly! I—I—

“Perhaps… it is something that I did?”

Coco’s eyes bugged. “Of course not! You didn’t do anything wrong!”

“I do not believe you,” Finish responded. “Coco, if I have done something untoward to you, then please tell me.”

Coco began forming tears in her eyes. “I-I mean it. You’ve been nothing but kind to me, and I-I’m just a nervous wreck.”

Finish took a second to let them both breathe. This tells me nothing.

No, this tells you that she’s nervous.

But it doesn’t tell me why she’s nervous.

Then you have to pry it out of her. You’ve seen how much she’s been clamming up today. Something is really bothering her.

Finish placed a hoof on Coco’s wither, idly running it through her rolls of fat. “Coco, would you please tell me why you are nervous?”

Coco stared at her for a second, and then deflated with a long exhale.”It was just an embarrassing night.”

“Night?” Finish tilted her head. “You mean last night, yes?”

“Yeah, and I shouldn’t have been embarrassed.” Coco looked down. “I mean, I had fun, and we ate with friends, but… I just don’t have the confidence that you and the other girls do.”

Suddenly, there was a knock at the door, making Coco jump in place. Finish rolled her eyes inwardly and opened the door herself, revealing Glitz and Glamour, her manestylist.

“I’m sorry for interrupting,” she said briskly, “but somepony is here to see you. She is not as large as that other mare was, but she is hefty.”

Finish blinked. “Oh, I see.” Which of the Blubber Lovers is here today, I wonder? It must be Black Forest, here to chastise me some more. She nodded to Glitz. “Thank you. I will be right out.” Once Glitz left, she turned to Coco. “It looks like you and I have some business with the girls from last night.”

Coco blanched. “I see.”

“Coco, did something really happen last night?”

Coco scuffed the ground. “K-Kinda.”

“Then let us take care of it.” Without waiting for a response from Coco, she walked out the door and down the hall. Alright, somepony hurt Coco, and it’s time for me to get to the bottom of this.

“P-Please don’t be mad,” Coco begged as she waddled behind her. “I-It’s not their fault, I—”

But once they rounded the corner, they both stopped. Coco stopped her begging, and Finish felt the anger inside her dissipate. It was not Black Forest Cake at all, but rather French Vanilla standing right at the doorway, trying her best to hide from the workers inside.

What is she doing here? I thought she was afraid of me.

She doesn’t look particularly brave at this moment. I don’t see Dark Chocolate anywhere.

Most peculiar. Perhaps… perhaps what happened between her and Coco is the reason Coco’s upset this morning? If that’s the case, I don’t think she would’ve meant it.

There’s only one way to find out.

She trotted over to her, Coco following behind as fast as she could waddle. “French Vanilla!” she said in the most cheerful tone she could.

French squeaked. “Oh, H-Hello there, Mademoiselle Photo Finish.”

Finish smiled at her. “Come, there is no need to be timid here. What can we do for you?”

“H-Hi, French,” Coco said, her voice no longer full of nervousness.

“Oh, Coco!” French immediately perked up, and pushed past Finish to hug her. “How are you, my friend?”

Coco hugged her back, their bodies squishing against one another. “I’m wonderful. How are you?”

“I’m…” Her cheerfulness vanished. “Oh, I’m sorry, I do not mean to cause a scene in front of your boss.”

Finish shook her head, hoping it would clear her blush. “How was your dinner last night?”

French hesitated before speaking. “It was fine. We all had a good time. I had forgotten how delicious Canterlot food was.”

“You did?” Finish asked, leaning into the question. It doesn’t sound like Coco’s problem is with French.

“Oui,” French continued, oblivious to the lean-in. “And Coco Pommel was wonderful company last night!”

Coco looked away from them both.

“Oh,” French continued, seeing Coco’s shyness. “But you were so embarrassed at how much you ate. I wish you would not be so tense.”

Ooh, so it’s with how she ate. How very interesting. “And how did Coco eat last night?”

It was French’s turn to look away. “I’m sorry, I do not wish to make her more embarrassed.”

“I’m sorry.”

French blinked. “Whatever for?”

Coco looked over at Finish, and then to French. “Actually, can we talk about that in private?”

“Oh, of course.” French looked over at Finish. “Would you mind giving us a moment?”

Finish smiled so widely, her jaws began to ache. “Of course!” You may use one of the back rooms.”

“Come with me.” Coco led the way, and French followed in step. Finish watched their rumps swaying from side to side as they walked past all of the employees, who were doing their best to keep at their work and sneak glances at them at the same time. Her heart beat faster as they disappeared in the hallway.

Then Finish took off after them.

What are you doing?

I am going to hear what’s going on between them.

But they’re having a private conversation.

Coco is upset about something, and they’re not willing to talk about it in front of me. I must know what it is, for Coco’s sake.

For her sake, or for yours?

She peeked around the hallway corner, and waited until the two disappeared into one of the rooms before making her way to the door herself. As quietly as she could, she turned the knob and pushed it open. Now let’s hear what they have to say.

“Coco, please. You have nothing to be sorry for.”

“No, I do. I was so nervous last night.”

“You did come from your first photo shoot. It’s natural to be nervous.”

“But not at a friendly dinner.”

“Oh, you were nervous at the dinner? But you ate like a queen! A most impressive amount.”

Ooh, Goddesses, I should’ve been there!

“I know, and that… well…”

“I don’t understand. Did we make you nervous?”

“No, of course not!”

“It’s okay to say yes. Truth be told, I was nervous as well.”

“You were?”

“Your boss. She’s so intimidating.”

Finish cringed. I already knew this, though it hurts every time I hear it.

“Yeah, she can be a bit scary at times.”

Is that how you truly feel about me, Coco?

It could just be your reputation. She wouldn’t be the first pony to say that you’re scary.

“B-But she really does mean well. She wouldn’t do anything to hurt you or the others.”

“Oh, Coco,” French continued in a weary tone. “You don’t have the experience to say such things.”

Experience? What does she mean by that?

“I have been around fancy ponies like that before, and I have been hurt by them.”

“Oh my goodness, I’m sorry! I had no idea.”

“It’s fine, mez ami. Please forgive me if I am not as comfortable around Photo Finish as you are.”

Coco didn’t respond.

“But we are not talking about me,” French continued, her tone losing its weariness. “Please, what made you nervous last night?”

“I-It really wasn’t you. It was… well, there were so many other ponies watching us last night.”

“Oh, I’m sorry. I should’ve realized sooner. That is such a blunder on my part.”

So that’s it. It wasn’t any of the Blubber Lovers. That’s a relief.

“And who knows who was watching us. If Photo Finish watched me eat like that, she would’ve been so shocked. I might’ve lost my job!”

Finish threw her hoof against her throat, to stop a laugh from escaping. Fired for eating like a pig? Not likely, my dear.

“So Photo Finish is just like everypony else, then.”

“N-No, not at all! I mean…”

“It’s okay. You are in a tough position, my dear Coco. I don’t envy you. But please remember that you have friends on the outside who’ll look after you, no matter what anypony else thinks.”

“I know. I really appreciate all of your company.”

Finish just so happened to peek inside to catch French giving Coco a peck on the cheek. Oh yes, please, give me more. She saw Coco blushing as French pulled away.

“So,” Coco began breathily. “What did you need to talk to Photo Finish about?”

It was French’s turn to grow nervous. “Oh, w-well, it was about last night.”

They didn’t talk for a moment, and Finish felt that it was time to enter the room. She pulled away from the door and knocked on it.

“Yes?” Coco called out. “Coming!”

Finish pushed the door open before Coco could even take a waddling step. “Are you ladies done with your conversation?” She watched from behind Coco as French looked away from her.

“Yeah, I think we’re done,” Coco said. “French?”

“Oui,” she said quietly. “Your timing is… rather impeccable, Photo Finish. Showing up just as we’re finishing,” she said with a dejected tone.

Finish chuckled. “Well, you see—”

“Oh, Photo Finish is very good with timing,” Coco interrupted. “She has a sixth sense for that sort of thing.” She turned to her boss. “You get used to it after a while.”

Finish’s smile widened beyond her control. Thank you for covering for me, Coco. I’m glad you’re getting used to me.

“I’m glad we had a chance to talk, Coco.”

“Me too,” Coco responded, looking over her shoulder. Finish noted how much her cheek squished into the back of her neck. “Um, should I stay for your conversation?”

Finish waited for French to answer first, but she kept quiet. French must really be nervous.

Well, you know why. She isn’t trusting of high-class ponies like myself.

Well, if there was ever a good time to give her a reason to trust me, it’s now. “Do you want that, Miss Vanilla?”

French scuffed the ground. “I… I think I’d rather it just be the two of us.”

“Oh.” Coco turned back to her after a moment’s thought. “Okay. I’ll be outside if you need anything.” She waddled out the door past Photo Finish, and closed it behind her.

“So!” Finish began with the same cheerful tone from earlier. “What may I do for you, my friend?”

French gave her a queer look before looking back at the ground. “I, um, wanted to speak with you about the photo shoot from last night.”

Finish tilted her head. “But should Coco have been sent out for that? After all, she was a part of the shoot as well.”

Finish grimaced. Great, way to make her feel bad, Photo Finish. “Y-you are right, of course. I didn’t want Coco to get the impression that something wrong happened last night. Especially because she thought she messed up.”

“Something wrong?” Finish chanced a step forward, which only caused the model to take a step back. “Did somepony insult you last night?”

French gasped. “Non, nothing of the sort! You were so professional and accommodating, and Coco was so polite.”

“Then… did something happen to Coco that I should know about?”

“Non.”

“Then what—” Don’t rush it, Photo Finish. You see how nervous she is. She quieted herself, waiting for French to continue.

“I… I came to apologize to you.”

Finish’s jaw dropped agape. “Apologize? For what?”

“For how I acted last night.” She scuffed the ground once more. “Dark Chocolate would say I have nothing to apologize for, but I do. That’s why I came here alone. Please don’t be mad.”

This is certainly unexpected, but I should probably let her finish before I say anything. “I am listening.”

French blanched a bit before continuing. “I was so nervous last night with you there, I acted completely unprofessionally. I didn’t talk to you, and I hid myself from you as much as possible.”

Yes, I noticed that.

“Oh. I didn’t think you did.”

She realized that she had said that out loud. “But please, continue.”

French took a deep breath before continuing. “But then at dinner last night, Fanny told me about how you had no problems with us, and admittedly at first I didn’t believe it.”

“Understandable.”

French balked. “E-excuse me?”

“With how skinny the models I photograph are, and with how much Canterlot stresses skinniness, it makes sense that you would think I would have a problem with photographing a pony of your physique.”

French took another step back.

Patience, Photo Finish. “But I stand by my word. I do not have any problems with photographing you, or any of the other blubber lovers.”

French looked away. “I…”

“By the way,” Finish continued. “How was Coco last night?”

French instantly brightened up. “Oh, she was marvellous! Such a cute little mare, so polite and helpful and timid and smart!”

Of course she was timid—wait. “She was good with conversation?”

“Oh, she was so knowledgeable about the world. So many cities, so many cultures she wants to see!”

That’s right. She wants to travel.

French calmed down. “Oh, but she is so timid. I wish she could have some confidence.” She looked back at Finish, and then balked and shrunk away. “I’m sorry. That’s probably not what you want to hear. She knew her business well.”

Finish’s smile was uncontrollable. “I am fine with everything you have told me.”

“You are?”

“Of course! It was a great conversation.”

“I-It was? Are you… Oh, you don’t have to be polite, Photo Finish.”

“No, I am not just being polite. I do not wish for us to be opposed to one another, French Vanilla,” Finish continued. “I wish for us to cooperate. To… to be friends.”

French’s eyes widened. “Friends?”

“Of course! In fact, I would like to show you something.” She reached out for her hoof. “I want you to follow me.”

French stared at the hoof for some time. Then, without taking it, she walked forward and stepped next to Finish. “Okay.”

“Perfect!” Finish whipped around and pulled the door open…

…Causing Coco Pommel to fall to the ground.

“Bwah? Coco?” Finish shook her head to clear her mind of the surprise. “What are you doing?”

“Are you okay?” French reached down to push her up; Finish, snapping to attention, joined in.

“I’m sorry!” Coco stammered as she steadied her legs. “I couldn’t help it, I just had to listen—”

“It’s fine.” Finish patted her on her shoulder. “Are you okay?”

Coco chuckled softly. “Y-yeah, I’m fine.”

Finish rubbed her shoulder some more, admiring the softness of the flesh. As if electrified by the touch, a lightbulb went off in her head, “We are leaving this room, Coco.”

“Oh, sorry.” Coco turned around to walk out…

But Finish moved first, pushing her head against Coco’s rump and slowly walking her out. She heard an “Eep!” from Coco, but ignored it as she continued pushing. Inch by inch, she walked Coco out of the room, admiring how she sunk into Coco’s flesh, how the bottom of her cheeks weighed against her forehead. Emboldened, she moved her head just slightly towards the center of Coco’s rump.

Just a little bit at a time, and eventually I’ll slip in between Coco’s—

“Um, Photo Finish? We’ve cleared the doorway.”

Finish yanked herself away. “Ah yes of course!” She allowed Coco some time to get ahead, watching the tiny indent she had made in her flesh jiggle about. Then she looked back at French, who was staring at her.

Is she trying to figure me out? I suppose there’s no harm in that. She walked ahead, slowly enough that French could keep up, into her studio proper.

“Everypony!” she shouted. She heard French flinch behind her, but pressed on regardless. “Your attention!”

All of the employees stopped setting up for the next model to look over at her.

“How many of you have ever read the Memory Lane series?”

“O-Oh,” French mumbled behind her. “Y-You don’t need to—”

“I have!” Glitz and Glamour squee’d. “They’re really nice.”

“Me too! I have the whole set,” Helter Skelter, her makeup artist, proclaimed. Other ponies around her also said nice things about the book series. “Do you need them, Photo Finish?”

“Nein,” Finish answered with a wave of her hoof. She stepped out of the way to show French to them. “This is the author of the series.”

French quaked in her hooves. “Photo Finish, this is really not necessary!”

"Really? That's amazing!"

French stammered. “Huh?”

“I love your work,” Glitz told her, stomping her hooves for emphasis. “I wish I had brought a copy with me, so I could get your autograph.” Everypony else around her stomped their assent.

French chuckled nervously. “Please, you’re too kind.”

“What brings you here?” Glitz asked.

French began to stammer once more. She’s just nervous about her modelling. Glitz’s question wasn’t at all malicious. Perhaps Coco can explain to them—That’s it!

“She is Coco’s friend, of course,” Finish answered.

“Ph-Photo Finish!”

“Oh, really?” Glitz clapped her hooves together. “Coco, how’d you meet an author like her?”

It was Coco’s turn to stammer. “I, um, we met at a candy shop.”

“How delightful!” Glitz approached French with enthusiasm, and other ponies followed suit. “And what brings you here to Canterlot?”

Finish watched as French’s eyes began to bug, and she stepped back frantically. “B-Business. I just came here to-to-to visit Coco, that’s all.”

“Oh, well, don’t let us interrupt.” Glitz turned around. “Alright, everypony, back to work.” With much reluctance, the crowd dispersed.

Finish approached French with confidence. “See? You are not in any danger here, my dear.”

French chuckled with a nervous air. “Y-Yes, I see. Heh heh.”

“French,” Finish continued, chancing a hoof on her withers. Her big, soft withers. “I only wish for you to feel comfortable here. I know it is hard, but nopony here means you harm.”

French sighed. “I see. Th-Thank you.” She looked over at Coco, who was blushing. "Really, thank you."

Finish felt her smile waver. She is still nervous!

Yes, but you've made progress. Don't try and do too much at one time.

"I am happy to help."

French looked down at the ground. "I think it's time that I leave."

Finish nodded, fighting to keep the smile on her face. "Of course. You must be busy today."

French mumbled inaudibly.

"It was lovely talking to you." She leaned forward and kissed French on the cheek.

…

…

Oh my stars, what have I done!?

What in Tartarus, Photo Finish? I just told you to not to overdo it!

She tastes lightly of French Vanilla.

Celestia above, that's what you're thinking about? What about Dark? What about your reputation? What about Coco?

Finish watched, petrified, waiting for a reaction from French. The fat mare blinked once, then twice, and then leaned forward and reciprocated. She let the feeling wash over her: French's soft lips pushing against her cheek, her cheek just barely brushing against Finish’s snout, her double chin caressing Finish’s own. And once she pulled away, she looked into the fat mare's eyes for some sort of longing.

Okay, that was obviously a completely platonic kiss. One of custom, not one of romance.

You think she's caught on to the intent of your own kiss?

Celestia above, I hope not.

French curtsied to her. "Have a good day."

Finish felt her throat drying inside, so she merely nodded. French began walking, and then stopped suddenly. “Oh, wait, um, there is one more thing!”

“Yes?”

French scratched the back of her head, giving Finish a lopsided smile and a nervous chuckle. “Actually, Wide Lens told me you were developing our photos.”

Finish gasped. “You are right!” She galloped off to grabbed the photos from her office, feeling light as air. “Here you are,” she said, passing the folder to French’s hoof. “They are all done.”

“Merci, mez… Thank you, Photo Finish.” And with that, French took her leave, giving short, pleasant farewells to the employees as she left.

Once she was gone, Finish walked straight to Coco, whose face was red. "How do you suppose I did?"

"Huh?" Coco shook her head clear. "What do you mean?"

"Was that too much? You know French Vanilla far more than I do, so you would know if I went a little overboard at the end."

Coco scratched the back of her neck. "N-No, I think you're fine."

"Excellent!" Finish clapped her hooves together. There's at least this small victory. She began walking away, back to her office.

"Um, Photo Finish?"

She stopped. "Yes? What is it?"

Coco hesitated for a moment, and then began speaking. "That was really nice. You have a natural gift of making magic happen. I… I…"

"It is okay," Photo Finish said. "I think there's a lot of magic in you as well."

Coco blinked. "You do?"

"Yes." Finish approached her. "I just have not seen a lot of it yet."

"...Oh."

"But it will come in time," Finish hastily continued. "And I would like to show you how. Would you like to go on a d--"

Holy smokes, what are you doing? Are you trying to break the world record for fastest loss of a prize?

Finish saw Coco's eyes widen like dinner plates, and caught herself. "Dinner, with me?"

Coco's eyes didn't shrink. "Dinner?"

"Yes, a business dinner."

Coco's expression remained unchanged. "Um… I don't know. I mean, I've had two messy dinners in public already."

"Then we will have it in private."

"What?" Coco cleared her throat. "What?"

"At my place."

Coco stiffened up.

"Or at your place."

She stiffened up even more.

"Or here at the studio, even."

This caused Coco to relax. "Well, if it's here, we can talk about work--"

"No!" Finish pulled Coco in closer. "This is a friendly dinner, ja? I want to get to know you better."

Coco gasped softly. "Well…"

You have officially gone too far.

"I mean…"

You've pushed her too early, and now you're going to pay the price.

"That's fine."

Goodbye, Coco my sweet. I wish I could've held onto you for--wait, what?

"Yes?"

"Mmhmm. I'm not doing anything tonight, so I'm free."

"Oh, perfection!" Finish cooed. "Tonight at seven o'clock, yes?"

"It's a date."

They parted ways after that, and for the rest of the day, Finish focused only on helping out the models in her care. A few times she looked at Coco out of the corner of her eye, but never lingered.

I have taken many risks today, and I must not lose it by gambling too much. I, Photo Finish, must keep my composure until seven tonight. Then, the fun can begin.

Just remember not to overdo it this time.

Yes, of course. Okay, just a little bit of fun.

That's more like it. A little bit at a time, and you'll win Coco over.

Author's Note

I met my two-week goal this time. I am happy about this.