Is Love Worth It?

Chapters

The Confession...
The Constellation...
The Crown...
The Dance...
The Discovery...
The Drive...
The Shift...
The Serendipity...
The Surprises...
The Disturbance...
The Sister...
The Stasis...
The Sentiment...
The Transfer...

The Confession...

Twilight Sparkle, the new princess in Equestria, is talented in many ways. She is excellent in magic, hence being the Element of Magic. She's very smart, having the highest grades in all her classes. She is also very experienced in the art of friendship, becoming friends with many and all she comes across.

However, there is one thing specifically that she isn't good at. And as she sits in the library, holding her number one assistant tightly as he cries harshly into her coat, she can't help but wonder one thing..

Why didn't I do anything sooner?

"Alright Twilight! I'm off! Wish me luck!"

Spike, Twilight's favorite and only number one assistant waves at her as he gets ready to head out the door.

Twilight looks up from her book and smiles at him. "I'll see you later Spike, and good luck. Remember we have our monthly constellation tonight. Try not to forget."

Spike rolls his eyes. "I won't Twi. See ya."

Spike closes the door and takes a deep breath. "Alright Spike, it's finally time."

Spike has been in love with one mare, and only one ever since he has came to the town Ponyville. Her name? Rarity.

"You can do this Spike." Spike says to himself. "You've been trying to win her affections for the longest and now it's finally time to confess."

Spike looks at the items in his claw. "I got the flowers and her favorite truffles with caramel. This should help me win her over."

He takes another deep breath before he takes his first step towards his destination, Carousel Boutique.

As he walks through the town, a few ponies see him and wave.

"Heya Spike!" A mare known as Lyra says as she waves at him.

"Hi Lyra!" Spike waves back.

"Howdy Spike." A burly stallion by the name of Big Macintosh says behind his apple stand.

"Hey Big Mac! Today is the big day!" Spike says as he walks by him.

"Good luck then." Big Mac says with a smile.

"Thanks!" Spike exclaims as he walks with more stride in his step, not noticing the change of expression on the stallion's face as he passes.

Spike makes it shortly after to the boutique and pauses at the door.

"Alright, this is it." Spike says nervously, but slaps his cheeks to get rid of the nervousness.

After another deep breath, he opens the door to the store, the bell ringing signifying his arrival.

However, surprisingly, Spike isn't greeted by the mare of his dreams.

"Rarity?" Spike says aloud as he takes a few steps deeper into the store.

He gets no reply. As he takes one more step however, he hears giggling.

Spike knows immediately who that is. It's the same mare he is looking for. It seeems she is in the dressing rooms. He smiles and heads toward that room, hiding the gifts behind his back. As he turns the corner to the room, he speaks up.

"Hey Rarity! I just came by to...."

Spike freezes on the spot; his eyes grow wide and they become glued to the scene before him, for it is something that hurts him more than anything at this moment.

Rarity, the mare he's so enamored with, is locked in a deep kiss. However, the thing that makes it worse is who she's kissing. Never in his young life did he expect this.

"F-Fluttershy?" Spike chokes out.

Rarity and Fluttershy are kissing deeply before Fluttershy pulls away hearing her name and gasps loudly as she sees him.

"Sp-Spike?" She says surprised to see him and blushes hard knowing he saw what just happened.

Rarity takes notice of him as well and gasps. "Oh dear..."

Spike can't move. He's frozen still, his mind racing. In front of him are two mares who both happen to be close friends, but just a second ago, were kissing like they were lovers.

No one says anything for a moment. No one has anything in mind to say.

Finally, Rarity speaks up. "S-Spike, hello darling. I'm sorry you had to see that, but...well..."

"You...and Fluttershy are...dating?" Spike manages to say.

Rarity frowns and looks down. "Yes, we are Spike."

Hearing that devastates him. His heart feels like it is on fire.

"H-How long?" He chokes out.

Fluttershy speaks up. "It happened after we disbanded the Ponytones...we became even closer and well... I fell for her." She admits.

"And after the whole trenderhoof incident, I was in an emotional state and Fluttershy was there for me. I realized that she was always there and my feelings developed from there... I'm sorry Spike that I didn't tell you..." Rarity says sadly.

Spike looks down. Tears were threatening to flow, but he holds them back as best he can. He looks up and puts on the best smile he can muster, which is obviously forced.

"I-It's okay. I'm happy for you guys. Really."

Fluttershy is crushed to see him like that. She rushes over and pulls him into a hug, tears tugging at her eyes as well.

"I'm so so sorry Spike! I knew how you felt and I really tried my best not to! But I couldn't help it."

Spike doesn't respond for a moment.

"Spike?" Rarity says quietly.

Fluttershy pulls away and looks down. After she does, Spike speaks up.

"Just answer me one thing, Rarity...did I ever have a chance?"

Rarity looks down. "I'm sorry Spike...It's just that you're...well, a dragon and I'm a pony."

Spike takes a deep breath. "So, thats how it is huh? I guess it was just stupid of me to think otherwise..."

Spike then turns around, letting the two get a glimpse of something he has in a claw before he proceeds out of the room and towards the exit. As he reaches it, he notices a trash can by the door and drops the items in claw inside before walking out the door, the bell ringing above now something he hates and hopes never to hear again.

The Constellation...

Spike feels like he is taking the walk of shame as he heads back home to the Library. He notices a few ponies look at him in pity, which confuses him slightly, however it's overshadowed by the intense pain he feels from being rejected by the one mare he ever really loved.

As he walks by the marketplace, a voice calls out to him.

"Uh, Spike?"

Spike looks up slightly and sees Big Mac looking at him with a frown.

"How are ya little buddy?"

Spike sighs. "Could be better..."

"Didn't work out?" Big Mac asks.

"Eenope." Spike replies sadly.

"Heads up Spike."

Spike looks and sees a golden delicious coming his way. He catches it and looks at it.

"Figured ya might want one.."

Spike smiles slightly. "Thanks, Big Mac."

"No problem."

Spike then proceeds to walk home once more enjoying the apple along the way. Once he sees his home he pauses at the door. He notices the sun setting and realizes that it's close to the time Twilight would be getting ready for the Constellation.

He sighs, knowing that Twilight would be waiting for him. Just like the last few days, he opens the door and the first words she says is...

"Welcome back Spike! Did you finally confess?"

Spike looks and sees Twilight with the equipment already packed and ready to go. She is smiling happily at him, which suddenly makes all the pain come back full force.

"Y-Yeah, I did." Spike says sadly.

Twilight is surprised to hear this and Spike knows why. For the past two weeks, Spike has been trying to confess and every time he comes home, too shy or afraid to admit his feelings to the mare. To hear that he finally did it, naturally she is surprised. However, that surprise turns to worry when she notices that he isn't happy at all.

"...how did it-"

"I'd rather not talk about it right now." Spike interrupts, but speaks up again. "Sorry for cutting you off."

Twilight merely walks over to him and pulls him into a hug. "It's alright." She pulls away and looks at his saddened expression. "Do you want to skip the constellations and go to bed?"

Spike takes a moment before he looks at Twilight. She smiles slightly at him, whick makes him smile slightly before he speaks up. "Nah, I think I still wanna go do that."

Twilight's smile grows as she levitates the gear and Spike on her back. "Alright then. Ready to go?"

"Ready as I'll ever be I guess." He shrugs with a frown.

Twilight sighs quietly at that and the duo heads out to their pre-arranged spot for stargazing. As they walk, Spike decides to ask something.

"Hey Twilight?"

Twilight looks back at him as they leave the rural area of town. "Yes Spike?"

"Do you think a pony and dragon could ever be together?"

Twilight stops immediately at that. She looks at him in surprise. "Why do you think... Rarity didn't say that, did she?"

Spike looks down. "Yeah. She said it would never work out. You don't think that too, do you?"

Twilight lifts his face to look at her. "Of course not Spike. I think it could definitely happen. Rarity is just one mare. She's just missing out on an awesome drake as a coltfriend. Well in your case, drakefriend."

Spike smiles slightly. "Thanks Twilight."

Twilight smiles and continues walking. "Anything for my number one assistant."

As they get to the hill, Twilight uses her magic and sets up the spot in a matter of seconds. They sit on the blanket and look up at the sky. It's already dark and the stars show much brighter today because of the full moon.

Spike admires the darkened sky for a moment. He takes notice of Twilight as she sets up the telescope. After she finishes, she waves Spike over to join her and they look at a few constellations.

As Spike looks through the telescope, he sees quite a few star patterns like puppis, Ursa Major and a few others.

"They are just as amazing every time I see them..." Spike says quietly, however, Twilight hears and nods in agreement.

"You always did love the stars." She comments.

An hour passes as they continue watching the stars. At this time, Spike decides he's calm enough.

"I never had a chance, you know."

Twilight turns from the telescope and looks at him in confusion.

"What do you mean?"

"With Rarity. Even if I wasn't a dragon. She already had her eyes on somepony else." Spike says dejectedly.

Twilight grows concerned. "What exactly happened Spike, if you don't mind telling me that is."

Spike takes a deep breath. "I found Rarity...kissing Fluttershy."

"What?!" Twilight almost yells.

Spike looks and sees the dumbfounded look on her face. Seeing it makes him chuckle slightly. "Yeah, I was surprised too. Hurt mostly, but the surprise was there."

"But she...and Fluttershy...mares." Twilight mumbles in shock.

"To be honest, I am a little mad about the whole thing, being beaten by a shy mare like Fluttershy is kinda humiliating when I think about it." He says with a shrug.

"I never knew Rarity or Fluttershy...well, swung that way." Twilight points out, still utterly surprised.

"You and me both Twi." Spike says as he leans back and gazes at the stars.

Twilight joins him and they both relax on the hill, enjoying the stars once more.

"Ya know, even if I can't be with a mare, at least I know I can still enjoy moments like this with my best friend." Spike says with a small smile.

"Aww, Spike." Twilight says as she nuzzles him happily. "You know I'll always be here no matter what."

Twilight then notices a shooting star. "Spike look!"

He notices it as well. "Guess we get a free wish huh?"

They both close their eyes as they think of their wish.

I hope to find the right mare that will appreciate me as much as Twilight.

I hope Spike will find somepony to make him happy and love him as much as I do.

The duo opens their eyes simultaneously and look at each other with a smile. Spike suddenly yawns, feeling a wave of exhaustion hit him.

"Alright sleepy-head. Time to head back." Twilight says as her magic is already packing things up. After she says that, a yawn escapes her muzzle.

Spike chuckles. "Speak for yourself."

As the equipment is finally packed up, Spike hops on Twilight's back and they head home. It isn't long before the drake falls asleep, snuggled comfortably on her back. Twilight smiles at this.

"Don't worry Spike, you'll find your special somepony soon.."

Twilight trots home, ready to head to bed along with her assistant.

The Crown...

Spike wakes up the next morning feeling well rested. He still feels the familiar sting in his heart from the incident yesterday, however he isn't going to let it ruin his daily routine. As so, he removes his covers and hops out of bed, heading to the bathroom to get ready for the day.

After brushing his teeth and cleaning up, he sets to work on breakfast, making himself a nice meal, along with Twilight. As he does so, he also unlocks the library part of the castle and changes the sign from 'closed' to 'open'.

"Good Morning Spike."

Spike turns to see Twilight rubbing her eyes sleepily as she stands at a nearby hallway. He chuckles at her disheveled look.

"Good Morning Twilight."

"Something smells good." She says as she sniffs the air.

Spike smiles. "It will be ready shortly. In the meantime you might wanna wash up. I would hate to have a customer come for a book and see their newest princess looking like that."

Twilight notices her look and blushes in embarrassment. "Oh gosh, you're right! Be back in a bit!" She says as she rushes out the door.

Spike chuckles and shakes his head. He always found her antics to be rather adorable.

He then goes and finishes the breakfast and sets it at the table. Once done, his best friend walks through the door looking much more presentable.

She smiles at the assortment. "Looks good Spike. Thank you."

Spike sits down along with Twilight and smiles. "No problem. Let's dig in."

The duo finish their breakfast quickly, Twilight much faster than Spike.

"So Spike, can you do me a favor and go to the store in town for more quills? We are running a little short and I need quite a bit for my work."

Spike nods. "Sure. I'll go do that after I clean up here."

"Thank you, my number one assistant." Twilight says with a smile.

Spike quickly finishes the dishes and heads out to fulfill Twilight's request.

"Might as well get some more parchment also. She tends to run out of both at the same time." Spike says aloud as he enters a store called Quills and Sofas.

Luckily the store didn't only sell those two items; just that those two were the most purchased in the store.

Spike then comes out with enough that he knows will last Twilight at least a week, which is a lot. So much so, that Spike can barely see where he's going.

Unfortunately, this ends up having him bump into someone, knocking them down.

Spike steadies himself as to not fall with all his cargo. "Sorry! I couldn't see you there."

"Watch where you are going!" The mare yells with a bit of annoyance.

Spike takes notice of who it is he collided with. A filly is sitting on her rump in front of him. He pauses as she seems familiar but he can't remember where. Even so, that isn't the reason he freezes in slight awe.

The filly is wearing a white dress with a strip of purple lined down the side, as well as outlined with small diamonds. She also has light purple hoof heels that match well with her mane and dress. Spike stares stunned, only one word comes to mind for her.

"Beautiful..." Spike says absentmindedly out loud.

"Well, at least you have decent taste." The filly says to him.

Spike blushes hard in embarrassment realizing that he said that aloud. "S-Sorry. I didn't mean to run into you."

"Just make sure it doesn't happen again." She says and merely trots off.

Spike watches her leave for a moment, still stunned by her beauty. He then notices something gleam in the corner of his sight and looks down.

It seems to be a small crown adorned with little diamonds. It seems to fit perfectly with the filly he just saw. Without thinking, he drops his load, picks up the crown and walks towards the filly.

"E-Excuse me. I think you dropped this." Spike says as he catches up to her.

The mare turns and sees the item in his claws. "My Tiara! Gimme!"

She quickly takes the crown and places it gently atop her head. Seeing her with the small accessory makes her even more beautiful in his eyes.

"Thank you dragon. Maybe you aren't just a klutz."

Spike blushes and rubs his scales. "Y-Yeah, sorry again."

"Hey, aren't you the dragon assistant to princess Twilight?" The filly asks.

Spike perks up. "Yeah! My names Spike."

"Spike huh? Funny name. My name is Diamond Tiara." The filly finally introduces.

"That's a nice name." Spike comments.

"I know." She says simply, but then gets closer. "So Spike, my school is having a dance tonight. Do you want to be my date for it?"

Spike is caught off guard with the question. He honestly can't believe what he just heard. "Y-You want me to be your date?"

She shrugs "Sure. I'll just cancel my last date and you can take his place. After all, he isn't an assistant to a princess and a dragon like you are."

Spike hesitates for a moment. Just yesterday he found out that two of his close friends are dating, one of them being the love of his life. Now, a filly has asked him to be her date for a school dance.

Maybe it's best if I move on. And she is really pretty...

"So? Are you gonna answer?" Diamond says with slight impatience.

Spike blinks, then realizes he didn't give her an answer. "O-Of course-" Spike cuts himself off and straightens up. He then bows slightly.

"I would be delighted to be your date for the dance Diamond Tiara."

"Hmm, polite. That's good. Well the dance is at 8:00 tonight. My daddy will get me there himself so you can just meet me there." She says as she turns to leave. "Oh, and don't forget to look nice. I don't want a messy dragon as my date."

Spike nods at her. "Of course."

She smiles at him and leaves, and Spike merely watches until she turns a corner out of sight.

Spike smiles wide. "I can't believe it! I got a date to a dance!" He cheers slightly and does a small jump in excitement. "I gotta tell Twilight!"

Suddenly Spike remembers something. "Oh crud my load!"

He runs and picks up his cargo and rushes home, excited about his plans tonight and the idea of where it could go.

The Dance...

Spike bursts through the door of the castle with a smile on his face, dropping the materials as he enters. "Twilight! Twilight! You won't believe what just happened!"

Twilight walks out of her study and sees Spike beaming. "Welcome back. I see you got the quills and some extra parchment. Good thinking. I realized I was running short on that too." She says as she levitates the material to her study.

"No problem Twi, but there's something I gotta tell you!" Spike says excitedly.

Twilight raises a brow in curiosity. "Oh? What is it Spike?"

Spike smirks. "Guess who got a date with a pretty filly to a dance?"

Twilight is surprised. "You mean the dance at the school tonight?"

"The exact one."

Twilight heard about the dance from some ponies that visited earlier. "Wow Spike! That's great! How did you get one?" Twilight asks curiously.

Spike rubs his neck sheepishly. "Well, I kinda bumped into her after getting the materials. After that she asked me to be her date."

Twilight smiles. "Well I'm happy for you Spike. Who knows? She might even turn out to be your future marefriend."

Spike blushes. "Well first I have to impress her. She was beautiful when I saw her."

Twilight giggled. "It shouldn't be that hard. By the way, who is this lucky mare?"

Spike perks up. "Oh! Yeah, her name is Diamond Tiara."

Twilight puts a hoof to her chin at the familiar name. "Diamond Tiara? Why does that name sound familiar?"

Spike shrugs. "I thought the same thing. But a pretty filly like her I would remember if I ever did meet her."

Twilight merely shrugs. "So, when is the dance?"

"At 8. I gotta find something nice to wear to impress her, but I don't really have anything after the whole Tirek incident..." Spike grew quiet realizing something.

Twilight notices Spike's demeanor drops suddenly and realizes instantly exactly why. There is really only one place where the dragon can get a new outfit made in town so quickly and on short notice.

She walks over to him and pulls him close. "Not ready to see her just yet huh?"

Spike merely shakes his head sadly.

Twilight has an idea and speaks up.

"Hey, why don't you go clean yourself up and I'll go get an outfit for you."

Spike looks up at her. "You'll do that for me?"

Twilight smiles and nuzzles him. "Of course silly. I need a break from my work anyway."

Spike smiles and hugs her gently. "Thanks Twi."

"Anything for my favorite dragon. Now hurry up. The dance is in a few hours."

Spike nods and heads out the room to get ready for the dance. Meanwhile, Twilight focuses before suddenly there is a flash and she is out of the castle.

Twilight appears right in front of the Carousel Boutique, surprising a few passerbys with her presence.

"Hello Princess Twilight!" Carrot Top says as she passes by.

"Hi Carrot Top." Twilight greets sheepishly, still not completely accustomed to being called 'princess'.

At that she strolls inside the boutique, the bell above the door signaling her arrival.

"Hello and welcome to-" Rarity starts until she sees who's at the door. Her eyes grow wide. "Twilight! Hello darling. I wasn't expecting you to come. Is there anything you need?"

"Actually, I just came here for an outfit." Twilight says simply.

Rarity smiles at that. "Oh really? Well come and let's see what we can find for our princess, shall we?" She turns and leads Twilight to another room. "If I may ask, what's the occasion? A royal meeting perhaps?"

Twilight shakes her head. "Oh no, it's not for me. It's for Spike."

Twilight notices Rarity hesitate before speaking. "O-Oh, it's for Spike is it? Well actually I did make a few outfits for him knowing that he doesn't have any after...well, you know."

Twilight nods. "I appreciate it Rarity."

"Think nothing of it darling. So, again, what's the occasion?"

Twilight decides to reveal his plans for the day. "Well Spike got a date for the school dance that is going on tonight and-"

"WHAT?!" Rarity says loudly as she spins around on the spot, surprising Twilight.

"Uh, yeah. Why are you so surprised?" Twilight asks in confusion.

Rarity blushes slightly in embarrassment at her outburst and shakes it off quickly. "Well, he moved on rather quickly..." She mumbles.

Twilight frowns at hearing that. "Well I think that's a good thing. Especially since you're currently in a relationship with one of our best friends and neither of you bothered to tell me." Twilight says with blatant annoyance.

Rarity flinches and her ears flatten on her head. "Sorry darling. It's just that we didn't know how you all would react to such news seeing as we're both...mares and all."

Twilight sighs. "Well, I'll admit that I was very surprised when Spike told me, but after thinking about it, the fact that you two were mares didn't really matter. All that matters is if you two love each other, then that should triumph over all other reasons."

Rarity smiles wide at hearing that. "R-Really? Oh Twilight! You don't know how happy I am to hear you say that!" She says as she rushes over to pull Twilight into a hug. However, she is stopped by a purple hoof.

"But, I'm still very angry with you Rarity." Twilight says with a slightly angry look.

Rarity recoils at that. "W-Why? For not telling you sooner?"

Twilight grows more annoyed at that response. "No. For what you said to Spike."

Rarity frowns. "That we couldn't be together?"

Twilight snaps at her ignorance. "No! That you said a pony and dragon can't be together! Why in the world would you say that?"

Rarity is stunned. "W-Well, it's true. A dragon and a pony shouldn't be together. It's not right."

"Neither is two mares!" Twilight shouts, making Rarity fall on her flank.

"It shouldn't matter if he is a dragon! He loved you more than all the gems in the world Rarity! He would have done anything to be with you! And you say some stupid thing like that when your relationship is considered out of the ordinary too? What were you thinking?!"

Rarity merely sits there, unresponsive. She knows Twilight is right. Even though she loves another, putting down one type of relationship even though she knows hers is different as well is really stupid.

Twilight lifts a hoof to her barrel and takes a deep breath. She releases and immediately calms down. "Sorry, I shouldn't have yelled like that."

"No, no. I deserved every bit of it. You are absolutely right Twilight." Rarity says before getting up slowly and walking to a dress rack nearby. She pulls out a very nice black suit with green cuffs embroidered with emeralds and a red rose in the chest pocket. She levitates it to Twilight.

"This is one of the outfits I was planning to give him. I was going to save it for the next gala, but there is no need anymore." She says sadly as Twilight accepts it in her magic.

"Thank you Rarity." Twilight says genuinely.

"No thanks necessary....and Twilight?"

Twilight looks and is surprised as she sees Rarity's eyes full of tears.

"Please tell Spike I'm so sorry."

Before Twilight can respond, Rarity turns and quickly darts up the stairs towards her room.

Twilight sighs. "Well, that could have gone differently...but it needed to be done." She looks at the suit for a moment.

"Well, first things first. I got to get this to Spike for his dance."

She turns towards the door and places a hoof on it. She pauses as she notices some wilted flowers and candy in a trashcan nearby.

"I hope this turns out better for you Spike..." She says before opening the door and exiting, the bell signaling her departure.

The Discovery...

"So, Twi? How do I look?"

Twilight looks up from her work and sees Spike as he stands near a doorway. He has the outfit that she had gotten from Rarity on as well as a fedora cap with a red feather. She smiles at him.

"You look very nice Spike. The hat matches it nicely, although I think it would be best if you went without it."

Spike takes the hat off and looks at it. "Hmm, I guess you're right. Maybe next time." He surmises before hanging it on a hat rack nearby.

"So, Spike are you excited about the dance?" Twilight asks the sharply dressed dragon.

Spike nods. "Very...but..."

Twilight notices him frown and look down at his outfit and sighs slightly.

"What's on your mind Spike?" Twilight says concerned, having a small idea.

Spike looks at her. "What if...what if I mess this up? I mean just yesterday I was trying to be with the mare that I thought was the only mare for me...and now I am going to my first school dance with somepony else..."

She walks over to him with a small frown. "You have to move on Spike. Don't think about Rarity anymore and try to enjoy yourself."

Spike nods. "You're right. I just have to forget about her."

Twilight nuzzles him with a smile. "There you go."

He enjoys the affection for a moment before he notices the time says 7:30.

"Well, Time for me to head out. wish me luck Twilight!" Spike says happily as he walks towards the exit.

"I wish you all the luck in Equestria Spike. Make sure not to stay out too late."

Spike smirks. "No guarantees." And with that he exits the castle and heads towards the school for the dance.

Spike makes it there rather quickly, excited and a little nervous as this was his first dance. He also doesn’t want to be late to greet his date. As he gets close, he notices quite a few fillies and colts walking hoof and hoof into the building. The music can also be heard from outside.

Spike stands by the entrance and waits patiently for his date to arrive. As he waits, he hears somepony call his name.

"Spike?"

He turns and sees three rather gorgeous mares in dresses. Apple Bloom, whom is wearing a red flowing dress that shines brightly while having her signature bow in her hair; Sweetie Belle, whom is wearing a light green dress with diamonds encrusted around the edges and flower circlet in her mane; and Scootaloo, whom is wearing a dark purple dress with a pearl necklace and her hair done up to have a curl that rests above her right eye.

Spike stares at them in awe as they come close.

"Hey Spike! Didn't know you were coming to the dance." Scootaloo says as they come up to him.

Spike, however, is still in awe. "Wow, you three look amazing."

The three mares blush at his compliment. "Heh, thanks Spike. You look great too." Sweetie Belle comments.

Spike smiles at that. "Thanks. So where are your dates?"

Scootaloo rolls her eyes as she speaks up. "Well, my coltfriend isn't here yet. I knew he was gonna be late."

Spike shakes his head. "That guy is never on time for anything."

"I know right!" Scootaloo whines with irritation.

"What about you two?" Spike says as he looks at the other two mares.

Sweetie Belle blushes. "Well..."

Before she can finish, Apple Bloom places a hoof around her. "We are each other dates."

Spike's eyebrows raise at that statement. "Does that mean you two are dating?"

"Eeyup!" Apple Bloom says happily.

Spike is surprised. He never knew the two like each other. "How long?"

"Two days ago." Sweetie Belle admits bashfully.

Spike merely nods at that. Then he hears hooves from behind.

"Scoots!"

He turns and sees Scootaloo's coltfriend rushing over.

"About time you got here Rumble! You never make it on time." Scootaloo says annoyed.

"Well I'm here though aren't I? That should count for something." He says as he puts a hoof around his marefriend. He notices Spike and smiles.

"Sup Spike. Nice fit. Didn't know you were coming to the school dance."

Spike shrugs. "Well it was kinda short notice."

"There you are!"

Spike turns and sees his date walking over, along with another mare. This mare has a sleek black dress on that fits her rather elegantly and perfectly. She also has a bead necklace that matches the frames on her glasses and the dress hat she's wearing. The hat also has diamonds encrusted on it as it sits atop her rather long flowing mane.

Spike has to admit, the two mares look stunning, his date even more so.

The mares take notice of the ponies with Spike and frown.

"H-Hey Diamond." Spike says with a small blush as they come over.

The mares and colt are surprised at Spike's reaction to seeing them.

"Hello Spike. I want to introduce you to my best friend, Silver Spoon." She gives him a smile and wave. "We will both be your dates for the dance." Diamond says simply.

"Wait, they are your dates?!" Scootaloo says loudly and incredulously.

Spike is surprised as well. He thought he was lucky just having Diamond, and now this new mare is his date as well! "That makes two!" He smiles, thinking his luck has gotten better ever since he has moved on.

"O-Okay." Spike manages to say after the initial surprise. He then straightens up and ushers towards the entrance.

"Shall we go in ladies?"

Silver Spoon giggles slightly as Diamond speaks up. "Yes, let's. Later blank flanks and company." They then head inside, Spike a little confused at what she said but shrugs it off, happy that he has two dates for the dance.

This might turn out better than I thought.

Meanwhile, the three mares and colt stare after them in surprise.

"Well, is Spike a playa or what?" Rumble says cheekily, earning him a punch in the leg by his marefriend.

"Shut up."

The Drive...

As Spike walks in the school, he instantly notices that all eyes are on him. More specifically, him and the dates that sandwich him.

"Is that Spike? The princess' assistant?" Spike looks and sees a colt he remembers being called Featherweight speaking.

"Whoa, he managed to get two mares for the dance? How lucky." Snails says next to him.

"And it's with Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon? How'd he manage to do that?" Snips adds after with a frown.

A few other whispers of awe and praise are heard as he proceeds further into the dance room and he blushes slightly at all the attention. He spots a seat and leads his dates to it.

He then pulls a seat out at the table for Diamond. She climbs in and he pushes the chair in.

"What about my chair?" Silver says.

Spike quickly walks over and pulls her chair out as well. "Here ya go."

She climbs onto it as well and gets comfortable before he slides her in as well.

"Thank you Spike." She says with a nod towards him.

Spike then hops up in a third seat and situates himself before smiling awkwardly at his dates.

Uh, what am I supposed to do now? Spike ponders, having no idea as this is his first school dance.

"Ahem!" Diamond clears her throat, getting Spike's attention.

"Yes, Diamond?" Spike snaps to attention.

"Aren't you going to get us some snacks?" Diamond says impatiently.

"Oh! Right! Be right back!" Spike then hops down and rushes to the snack table.

When he gets there, he notices quite the assortment of treats and three kinds of punch in different bowls. He gets to work and starts to make three plates of snacks.

"Hey Spike!"

Spike turns and sees three colts walking over to him.

"Sup guys. Featherweight, right? We never met."

The colt nods, a camera dangling over his white suit with a black tie.

"Hey Spike, how'd ya get so lucky and get a date to the dance with two fillies?" Snips says wearing a dark green suit with a spotted orange tie.

"Yeah, and with Diamond and Silver too!" Snails says with a frown. He is wearing a light blue suit with a striped green tie and a green fedora.

Seeing him with the hat makes Spike glad he didn't wear his as he speaks up and shrugs. "I'm just as surprised as you guys. I came here thinking I was going to have one date with Diamond, but then it turns out to be two when I get here."

"You are so lucky..." Snails grumbles.

"Don't you three have dates too?" Spike asks as he looks at them.

Featherweight nods. "Yeah. My date is in the fillies room right now."

The other two look down with a frown. "Well we did..." Snips starts.

"But they changed their minds. So we just decided to come as buds." Snails finishes.

Spike frowns at that. I hope their dates aren't who I think they are...

"Spike!"

Spike is greeted by a surprised looking Scootaloo as she comes over.

"Hey Scoots." Spike waves at her.

She frowns at him. "Since when did you start talking to those two?" She points toward his dates.

Spike rubs his neck sheepishly. "Well, today actually. I ran into Diamond earlier today, literally, and she asked me to be her date. And you know about Silver. You were there after all."

Scootaloo merely frowns at that. "Whatever. I wouldn't get too close with them if I were you." She says as she starts to make two plates of snacks.

Spike looks at her. "Why do you say that? And where is Rumble? Shouldn't he be with you?"

Scootaloo grunts. "Ugh, don't even mention his name right now. He immediately went to 'hang out' with his colt friends when we got inside." She says with quite a bit of irritation.

Spike frowns. "I don't know what you see in that guy..."

Scootaloo balances the two plates between her small wings as she turns and sighs. "Sometimes...I don't either..."

Spike watches her leave for a moment with a frown. He then turns and grabs his plates, deciding to head back to his dates. "Later guys." He says to the three colts before heading back to the table.

He notices the two mares are chatting. Diamond has a hoof that is resting on Silver's as she speaks, however when they notice him, she pulls away quickly.

Spike raises a brow but shrugs it off as he gets close and puts their plates down. "Here ya go ladies. Didn't know what you liked so I got one of each."

"Oooh cupcakes." Silver says as she digs in happily.

Spike sits down and digs in as well. He only got a few treats for himself and finishes them rather quickly. As he finishes, he overhears a song come on that he enjoys and decides to dance. He notices his dates seem to be finished as well. He hops up and extends a claw to both of them.

"Would you two ladies like to dance?" He asks a little nervously.

Diamond nods. "Good idea Spike."

"I'm not that great at dancing." Silver says shyly.

Spike smiles. "It's okay. Just have fun."

She giggles slightly as she grabs his claw and Diamond does the same as he leads them to the dance floor. He notices a few others already dancing. He sees Scootaloo dancing happily, along with Apple Bloom and Sweetie Belle. He smiles at that but frowns when he sees Rumble off to the side with three other colts laughing and talking.

He ignores them and turns to his dates. He taps a claw and nods his head to the music getting into it. He notices Diamond swaying to the music as well.

"I love this song!" Diamond says happily as she grooves to the beat. "Are you gonna dance? Or is that all you got dragon?" She looks at him challengingly.

Spike smirks. "Oh you haven't seen anything yet!"

Spike then put his hands to the floor and twists his body before he spins on his back and does a pose when he stops. The two mares stare at him in surprise before he hops up and dances some more. He spins on his claws before stopping and doing the splits. He stands up again before starting to glide backwards, his claws moving smoothly like he is walking.

The mares and a few others stare in awe. "That dragon can dance..." Silver says in surprise.

Spike then hops over and pulls Silver to him. "Let's dance Silver! Move that flank!"

She blushes slightly before grooving to the beat as well. She seems to be enjoying herself as she let loose and dances more. Diamond dances as well and they both bump flanks as they dance as Spike glides across the floor again having fun. All the while, Spike having one great thought on his mind.

Best dance ever.

The Shift...

Spike is still dancing away as another song he enjoys comes on after the first one.

"Awesome!" Spike says happily before he dances even harder.

By this time he attracts a small amount of ponies to cheer for him.

"Go Spike, go!" Sweetie Belle cheers loudly as he twirls on the ground again.

"Ah never knew Spike could dance this good." Apple Bloom comments, impressed.

"He's a pretty talented dragon. He is the princess' assistant after all." Scootaloo says as she smiles at seeing him do a flip.

Spike meanwhile is having the time of his life. However, that comes to an end when song ends and moves on to the next one. He decides to sit this song out and turns toward his dates. They were on the side giggling at each other. He walks to them and smiles.

"What did ya think of that?" Spike says with a bit of pride at the two.

Diamond merely waves a hoof. "It was alright." She says dismissively.

Spike shrinks at that slightly. "Oh."

"Hey Spike? Can you get me and Diamond some drinks?" Silver asks with a smile as she looks at him.

Spike smiles as well and nods. "Sure. Be right back." He says before he turns and walks to the punch table.

However, as he walks away from them, he pauses as he notices a few ponies in a small circle. He moves between them and sees a commotion at the table.

"Ugh! I can't believe you!" Scootaloo yells angrily at her rather irritated looking coltfriend.

"What's your problem? I was just hanging with the guys for a while. No need to flip out." Rumble says with irritation.

Spike sees Apple Bloom grab Scootaloo as she seems to want to strangle the life out of him after saying that. "Are you serious? This was supposed to be OUR date! Not yours and the guys!" She nearly screams at him.

"It's not that big of a deal. I'm here now aren't I?" He says indignantly. Spike even has the urge to hit him at that comment.

"What?! I will not be second to your friends! You can go hang out with them all you want cause WE ARE THROUGH!" She yells the last part before storming off and out the door. Apple Bloom and Sweetie Belle glare at the colt before following after.

Spike walks up to him with a quite a bit of annoyance as he speaks to another colt. "Jeez, she can be so overdramatic sometimes..."

Spike taps his shoulder. He turns and sees a rather angry dragon glaring at him.

"Hey Spike. What's-"

He didn't get to finish before he is punched right in the face by the dragon.

"Ow! Dude what in the world did you hit me for?" He says as he holds his face in pain.

"That's for hurting one of my friends and being an idiot!" Spike says with a glare. "You're lucky I don't burn you to a crisp." He adds, a plume of green fire escaping his maw.

Rumble panics and runs away from the fire breathing dragon before getting burned.

Spike sighs at that. "I hope she's okay." He says before he decides to get the punch for his dates. He gets to the table and grabs three cups. He makes one quickly and drinks it before tossing it in the trash a few feet away.

"Two points." He says with a smile before he makes two more. He grabs one in each claw and turns to leave...only to collide with a unicorn filly, knocking one of the drinks out of his claws.

"Oops! My bad!" She says before she continues past him to the little fillies room down the way.

Spike sighs at that. He grabs a few napkins and starts to clean up the mess. Some of the liquid trailed under the table so he moved the table tarp out the way and went under to clean it, making sure not to spill the one in his other claw.

"Where is that dragon? He was supposed to be getting us drinks!"

Spike pauses in surprise at that. Then he starts to clean it quickly so he could get back to the mares and apologize.

"Diamond calm down. He probably had to use the bathroom or something."

"Well he should have done that after he got our drinks. Lazy dragon."

Spike frowns at that. I'm not lazy, I just got distracted by the argument that happened. He thought as he finishes cleaning the spill. He turns to head out from under the table.

"Don't you think that's a little much?"

"No. Pretending to have an interest in the dragon is a little much."

Spike froze, his eyes growing wide.

"I mean, do we really have to go through this every time we want to do something? Why not just admit that we're dating already."

Spike feeks his blood running cold. He can't believe what he is hearing.

"We've been through this already Diamond. You know how my parents are. She still thinks I came here with Snails. Eww."

"Well, at least those two would have waited on us hoof and hoof, unlike that dragon."

"I don't know, Spike's not-" CRUNCH

Spike accidentally crushed the plastic cup in his claws, spilling the drink.

"What was that?"

"I don't know. Oh, eww! There's juice on the floor!"

Spike slowly walks out from under the table, surprising them.

"S-Spike? What were you doing under the table?" Diamond says as Silver's eyes grew wide.

"Oh no. D-Did you hear all that." Silver says in horror.

Spike merely nods his head once while looking down. His eyes were heavy with tears, but he forces them back as he looks at them.

"Now I know why Scootaloo said what she said about you two..." He says before turning to leave.

"What did she say? And where are you going? We are still on our date!" Diamond calls after him.

Spike pauses at the door, one claw on the handle. "I wouldn't continue this date for all the gems in Equestria." Spike says simply before opening the door and walking out into the chilly night air, not even close to as cold as his heart.

The Serendipity...

Spike closes the door rather harshly as he exits the school. He is sad that he is hurt yet again, but is more mad about the fact that he was being used.

"I can't believe I didn't notice. Them holding hooves, the looks they gave each other...it all made sense." Spike says angrily as he stomps off. He then stops and sighs.

"Is there anypony out there that won't treat me like a freaking tool?" He says quietly.

"Welcome to the club."

Spike looks up and sees Scootaloo sitting at the curb outside the school. He walks up to her and sits down by her.

"How ya holding up Scoots?"

Scootaloo shrugs. "Meh, been better. How about you? What's got you so down?"

Spike sighs and rests his head on his claws. "You were right when you said I shouldn't stay around those two..."

Scootaloo raises a brow at that. "They make fun of you or something?"

"They basically used me as cover-up for them two secretly dating." Spike replies animatedly.

Scootaloo eyes grew wide. "What? They are dating? How did I not see that coming?"

"Probably cause you aren't that good at detecting hints of romance." Spike replies without thought.

"Hey!" Scootaloo says and shoves him playfully. "I so am good with noticing that."

Spike chuckles. "Not from what Sweetie Belle told me. She says you're as dense as a rock sometimes."

Scootaloo frowns. "She's one to talk. She was so focused on somepony else to know that Apple Bloom had a crush on her for months, before Bloom had to spell it out for her."

Spike looks at her. "Really? Who was she focused on?"

Scootaloo shrugs again. "Beats me. She wouldn't say. But, I did find out from one of her fits when I visited that the colt she liked had a crush on her sister. Can you believe that? That must suck."

Spike's eyes grow wide at that. She couldn't mean...no, it can't be...can it?

"Uh Spike?" Scootaloo says as she pokes the rather surprised looking dragon. "You Alright? You seem like you seen a ghost or something."

Spike shakes his head quickly to forego the thoughts, at least for the moment. "Y-Yeah! That must suck. But she has Bloom now right?"

Scootaloo sighs at that and looks down. "Yeah, too bad I don't have anypony anymore."

Spike frowns at that and lifts Scootaloo muzzle up so she can look at him. "Hey, that guy was a complete jerk. He doesn't deserve an awesome filly like you. You're way cooler than him and you shouldn't settle for a selfish colt like him. I'm sure there will be someone much cooler that will treat you better than that guy." He says with a smile.

Scootaloo smiles back at him and stands up, wings flared. "You're right! I shouldn't settle for a guy that puts his friends before his marefriend. I'm gonna be as cool as Rainbow Dash someday. I can't settle for second best."

Spike nods. "Between you and me, right now, you're cooler than Rainbow." Dash hasn't even had a coltfriend yet, so you're actually beating her in that. Spike thinks with a smile.

Scootaloo blushes slightly but turns before Spike can notice. "Heh, thanks Spike. You're pretty cool yourself. Say, ya wanna ditch this place? I feel like riding my scooter right now but it's at the clubhouse."

Spike nods enthusiastically. "Sure! Anywhere to get away from this place. I kinda wanna see how you are on your scooter too since I haven't seen you on it in a while."

The two walk away from the school. "Well, it was broken for a while, but I finally fixed it!"

Spike raises a brow? "How did you break it?"

Scootaloo frowns and Spike sees her shiver slightly. "Don't ask. I still feel like I have tree sap in my ear..."

Spike laughs, completely forgetting the dance turned bad and enjoying a night out with a friend.

Spike treks all the way to Sweet Apple Acres with Scootaloo, chatting away at random things they could think about, between, how Apple Bloom confessed to Sweetie Belle, to how Scootaloo fixed her scooter.

"Whoa, your dad is a mechanic? And he's the one that made it for you?" Spike says in astonishment.

Scootaloo nods proudly. "Yep! He's the best mechanic in Ponyville and he made it for me for my fifth birthday. I've treasured it ever since. Me and that scooter has been through so much together."

Spike smiles at her. "By how ya talk about it, it seems like it should be your special somepony."

Scootaloo chuckles slightly and looks up. "If only it were possible. Like it could turn into a colt or something."

Spike chuckles at that. "Heh, like that'll ever happen. But maybe it could be your special talent?"

Scootaloo frowns. "If that was the case I would have been had my cutie mark.."

Spike nods at that in agreement. He notices that they made it to the farm and after passing through some bushes, he sees the treehouse. "Well, we're here."

Scootaloo smiles and rushes ahead. "Wait right here! I got an idea!" She says before she runs up the ramp and goes inside.

Spike merely waits at the bottom of the ramp patiently. However, he doesn't wait long before the he hears something.

"Aww yeah!"

Suddenly, Scootaloo bursts through the door on her scooter over the railing and onto the ground. He also notices that there is a wagon trailing behind it before she rides over and stops by him with a smirk.

"Hop in and be ready for the ride of your life Spike!" She says to him excitedly.

Spike smiles before he hops in the wagon. "Is this safe?" Spike says as he notices there are no safety belts or straps.

"No, but that's half the fun! Now hold on, this ride might get a little rough." She says before she straps goggles over her eyes.

Spike frowns at what she said last. Hold on to what? He thought as he looks around. The only thing he can think of holding onto was her. He hesitates, but then carefully wraps his claws around the sides of her barrel, surprising her and making her turn to look at him.

"You said hold on." Spike says matter-of-factly.

Scootaloo merely turns back around, hiding her slight blush from him. "Good enough. Alright! Let's get this show on the road!" She says before flapping her wings wildly and pushing of quickly, Spike smiling as they leave the treehouse and away from the farm.

Author's Note

Sorry. A little late.

Next chapter: The Surprises...

The Surprises...

Spike and Scootaloo stop in front of the library/castle laughing joyously. They took a trip around the whole town on the wagon and scooter. Scootaloo even went on a few improvised jumps, which frightened Spike slightly at first, thinking he would fly off, but soon came to enjoy them just as much as her.

Spike lets go of Scootaloo and hops out the wagon with a large smile. "Now that was awesome. I didn't know you were that good on the scooter." He says as he looks at her.

Scootaloo smirks as she hops off her scooter as well and slides the goggles up her face. "Pfft. I'm even better than that when I'm by myself. I was holding back cause I had cargo."

"Well, maybe next time I can just watch you as you go all out sometime." Spike offers with a sincere smile.

Scootaloo blushes slightly and turns away. "S-Sure, if ya want. Maybe tomorrow at the park?"

Spike nods. "Sounds like a plan. See ya tomorrow Scoots."

He then turns and begins to walk away.

"Hey, Spike?"

"Yea-" Spike starts to say before he feels something soft press on his cheek. He looks to see Scootaloo as she pulls away.

"Thanks, for hanging out with me and stuff." She says before she puts on her goggles, hops on the scooter, and speeds off before he could utter a word.

Spike stands there for a moment as he rubs his cheek lightly. He smiles. "Well, today wasn't a complete bust."

He then turns and heads towards the castle. He notices there are a few lights on and knows that Twilight is probably up waiting for him. He opens the doors and speaks up.

"Twi! I'm home." He says as he closes the door behind him.

"Spike? Can you come into the library? There's somepony here to see you."

Spike grows curious at that. Huh? I wonder who it is. Spike thought as he walked over towards the library, however, he pauses in surprise as he sees a familiar filly with glasses sitting on the couch.

"Um...hi." Silver Spoon says sheepishly as she waves at him.

Spike's happy attitude vanishes as he sees one of the mares that made his night go bad in the first place. He glares at her. "What are you doing here?" He says angrily.

Silver hesitates and looks over to the princess. "Can I speak to him in private princess?" She asks with nervousness present.

Twilight looks at her assistant, whom merely nods after a moment. "Alright. I'll be in our room if you need me Spike." She says before she walks past him and out the door.

Once she leaves, Spike folds his claws across his chest. "Well?"

Silver sighs and looks down. "I wanted to apologize for what we did back there. It wasn't right of us to use you like we did and I'm sorry for that."

Spike's frown lessens at that but he was still mad. "Well, at least you had the sense to apologize for it. What about Diamond? Why isn't she here?"

Silver paws the ground slightly. "W-Well, she isn't as sorry as I am, so I decided to apologize for her.."

Spike rolls his eyes. "Whatever."

Silver walks up to him. "For what it's worth, I did have a good time with you, honest. You're a nice guy and that's what made me feel even worse about it."

Spike sighs and lets his arms hang. "I did sorta have a good time too at first... It just sucks that in the end I was being used again.."

"Im really sorry." Silver repeats sadly.

Spike waves a claw at her. "It's fine, I forgive you."

Silver smiles at that. She then walks forward and nuzzles him, catching him by surprise. "Thanks for the fun night Spike."

Spike merely looks at her as she trots past him and out the door. Once he hears the castle doors close, He sighs once more before he speaks up.

"You can come out now Twi. I know you were listening."

As expected, Twilight comes back in with a sheepish smile. "Sorry, I was just so curious."

Spike chuckles. "Heh, I know. I'm guessing you want to know the whole story?"

Twilight nods once. "If you want to tell it. From what I heard, it doesn't seem too pleasant to recall."

Spike nods and begins to tell her how his day was: about him finding out he had two dates, the dance, and finding out what they did. To say Twilight was annoyed about it would be an understatement.

"I can't believe they did that to you! I have half a mind to go tell off that filly and her friend right now." Twilight says angrily.

Spike sighs. "No need to do that. It's fine Twilight. Although I don't plan to hang out with them anytime soon."

Twilight nods in understanding. "Completely reasonable." Twilight pauses as she realizes something. "Wait, well then where were you this whole time since you left? You must have been doing something to make it here after her."

Spike smiles at that. "Well, after I left, I saw Scootaloo outside and we hung out for a bit."

"Wait, Scootaloo? Why was she outside?"

Spike merely proceeds to tell her about the incident between Scootaloo and her ex-coltfriend as they walked to their room.

"So, we then decided to ditch the dance and hang out for a bit. We went to her treehouse, and she got her scooter. After that we rode around town for a bit."

Twilight smiles. "Sounds fun."

Spike nods happily. "It was. You should have seen how talented she was. I'm going to see her go all out tomorrow at the park, that is, if it's okay with you. Don't want to cancel any plans we have that I'm not remembering."

Twilight rolls her eyes playfully. "Well, we did plan to go on a picnic with Applejack, but you don't have to go."

Spike's eyes grew wide. "That's tomorrow? I totally forgot! I can cancel if you want!" Spike says hurriedly.

Twilight waves a hoof at him. "It's fine Spike. It was mostly so I can talk to Applejack since we haven't had time to see each other in a while. Go have fun with Scootaloo."

Spike pauses. "Are you sure? I can always reschedule it for some other time."

Twilight nuzzles him gently. "I'm sure Spike. Now are you ready for bed? I don't know about you, but I'm exhausted from waiting up on you to come home all night." She says as she walks ahead and into their room.

"You waited up for me? You didn't have to you know?" Spike says as he walks in as well and sees her climb into bed.

"I know, but seeing how you've been lately, I was rather anxious to hear how everything went, plus a little worried since it was your first school dance." Twilight replies as she gets comfortable.

Spike scoffs but smiles after. He walks toward his own bed and climbs in. "Always the worrywart. But, thanks for listening Twi."

"You're welcome Spike. Now get some sleep. Don't want to oversleep and miss your date."

Spike rolls his eyes at that but doesn't reply as he settles in his bed and let's out a deep sigh.

"Night Twilight."

"Good night Spike."

The Disturbance...

Celestia's sun rays flash over Spike's face and he wakes with a smile on his face, ready to head out for his plans for the day. He lets out a wide toothy yawn and stretches his arms before hopping out of his bed.

"First, breakfast, and then my chores." Spike says to no one in particular as he heads to the restroom and freshens up.

Once done, he heads towards the kitchen to get breakfast started, whistling a tune as he cooked. The smell of his rather appetizing meal even traveling as far as the library, surprising a few early bird book lovers.

While Spike was close to finishing, he hears a loud yawn near the entrance and smiles.

"Good morning Twi." He says as he flips a pancake in the air.

"Good, *yawn* morning Spike." Twilight says behind him.

"Sounds like you slept good." Spike says as he places the pancake on a plate with two others.

"'Well', not 'good', Spike." Twilight corrects.

Spike rolls his eyes at that. "Yeah, yeah. Hope you enjoy." He says as he places the plate in front of Twilight.

She smiles. "I know I will, thank you."

Spike merely nods as he walks to his seat. As he does, Twilight speaks up. "So, are you excited for your date?"

Spike sits in his seat and gives her a level glare. "It's not a date, Twi. We're just friends and she is only showing me some of her moves."

Twilight shrugs. "Girls don't give kisses to boys unless they are attracted to them. So, why did she kiss you then?" She says with a smirk.

Spike blushes slightly at the memory, but keeps his glare. "She was just thanking me for being there for her. And it wasn't like it was on the lips."

Twilight raises a brow and grins. "You wish it was though." She says teasingly.

Spike grunts, his blush only rising. "Whatever!" He says before he stuffs a pancake in his mouth, Twilight merely giggling in response.

The duo residents walk out the front door of the castle, a picnic basket floating behind and landing on Twilight's back. Spike turns to her and nods.

"Welp, I'm off. Tell Applejack I said howdy." Spike says with a grin and a chuckle.

Twilight giggles slightly as well. "I'll be sure to relay that to her. I'll see you later Spike. Have fun with your date."

Spike rolls his eyes and then turns and heads towards the park. As he walks, his mind starts to drift to what Twilight implied.

There's no way that this is a date. I see Scoots as an awesome friend. Plus Scootaloo doesn't like me like that. She already has...

Spike pauses at that. Well, she's not really with that dunce Rumble anymore. And she was acting a little different than usual...maybe...

Spike keeps thinking of the possibility as he walks in the park. He soon realizes this and decides to instead look for Scootaloo. However, he stops in slight surprise once he finds her.

"Why are you even here? I don't want to see you!"

"I'm really sorry Scoots. I didn't know you were serious. Please forgive me."

Spike merely stands there, slightly hidden from sight as he watches Scootaloo and Rumble have another argument.

Scootaloo rolls her eyes. "Oh, please. You knew I was serious. And I still am."

"Please forgive me Scoots. I promise I will never treat you second to anypony ever again. Shoot, if you want me to stop talking to the guys, I'll stop." Rumble pleaded.

Spike rolls his eyes at that. Oh so now he apologizes. He should have done that in the first place, instead of waiting a whole day. I hope she doesn't forgive him. Spike pauses at that last thought.

Why did I think that? Spike wonders before he hears Scootaloo.

"How do I know you're telling the truth? And not going to ditch me again when your guys want to hang out?"

Spike's thoughts went blank as he listens again, a small hint of worry in his features.

"I swear on my Wonderbolt collection that I would choose you over those guys anyday. I really am sorry."

"Don't forgive him Scoots...he's not worth risking it." Spike mumbles.

"You must really mean it if you swear on that..." Scootaloo says quietly as she looks away.

Rumble walks up to her and nuzzles her. "I really do Scootaloo. So, can we continue dating again?"

Spike holds his breath as he waits for her answer, which turns out to be what he wasn't hoping for.

"Sure, I guess.."

Spike's demeanor drops as he sees Rumble smile brightly and hug her. Spike sighs and turns away sadly.

Turns out it wasn't a date after all...

"Spike? Hey Spike!"

Spike pauses in surprise at his name being called. He was hoping to get away before they saw him.

Scootaloo walks up behind him with a smile. "Hey Spike! Almost thought you wouldn't make it. So, you ready to see me pull of some awesome stunts?"

Spike didn't turn around as he spoke up. "S-Sorry Scoots. I can't today. I promised to go with Twilight to a picnic with Applejack. I just came to tell you that."

Scootaloo frowns at that. "Oh. Well, maybe another time then?"

"Yeah...another time."

Scootaloo starts to walk towards him, but before she got close, he rushes ahead and away from the park.

As he left, Rumble walks up to Scootaloo. "He took off in a hurry. Wonder why he was crying though."

Scootaloo looks at him in confusion? "He was?"

Rumble nods. "Yeah, I saw it before he left."

Scootaloo looks back towards Spike as he finally rounds a corner and disappears from sight.

Spike keeps running with his head down. A few tears fell from his eyes and he wipes them as fast as they fall.

Why? Why do I feel like this? We were just friends! He thought before he slows down to a slow walk.

As he turns another corner, he bumps into somepony and Spike falls to the ground.

"Oops! My bad! Are you alright?"

Spike shakes his head and looks up to see a unicorn filly. She looks rather familiar to him.

The mares eyes grew wide as she looked at Spike. "Did I hurt you? I'm sorry!"

Spike gets up slowly and dusts himself off. "No, I'm fine."

"Then why are you crying mister dragon?"

Spike realizes that there were still a few traces of tears on his face. He wipes them away quickly. "Just had something in my eyes. I'm fine now."

"If ya say so. Hey, I remember you! I ran into you at the school dance yesterday!" The mare said.

Spike realizes finally where he met this filly. She made him drop one of his drinks.

"We gotta stop running into each other hehe."

Spike rubs his scales and chuckles dryly. "Yeah...well, I gotta go. See ya."

"Bye mister dragon!" She says as he walks past her.

He pauses and looks at her. She was still smiling at him. "It's Spike. My name is Spike."

"Oh! Okay! My name's Dinky! Anyways see ya Spike!" She says before she turns and walks away humming a tune.

Spike watches as she leaves for a moment. He scratches his spines.

"What a weird mare."

The Sister...

Spike continues on towards the farm to see Applejack and Twilight.

“Might as well go see what they are up to.” Spike says, but what happened earlier is still on his mind.

Why did I start crying? I don't have feelings for Scootaloo like that. But seeing her get back with Rumble hurt for some reason…

Spike continues to ponder the reason as he passes the barn towards the fields.

Maybe it's just because I didn't want her to get hurt by him? That makes sense… After all he did basically ignore her at the dance.

“Spike?”

Spike pauses at his name being called and turns to notice that he walked past Applejack and Twilight sitting on a picnic blanket.

I got here faster than I thought. Spike thought as he smiles at the two mares. “Hey girls.”

“Howdy Sugarcube. Glad ya could make it. But I was under the impression ya had a date with another filly.” Applejack says as she looks at Twilight whom was starting to flush slightly.

Twilight coughs loudly at that. “Ahem! I was kinda thinking the same. So why aren't you with your friend Scootaloo?”

Spike frowns for a split second before waving a claw. “Oh, she had something else she had to do so we decided another time. Plus I promised that I would hang with you guys anyways.” He replies as he sits down on the blanket beside Twilight.

He notices Twilight looking at him in slight worry but ignores it for now. However, Applejack speaks up on his reply.

“Now Spike, we’ve been friends for a while now right?”

Spike looks at her and smiles. “Of course!”

“And, ya do remember what my element is, don't ya?” She asks with a small grin.

"Well, of course! It's…” Spike pauses at that. “Oh.”

Applejack lays a hoof comfortably on his shoulder. “So, why don't ya tell us why ya'll here and not with yer friend.”

Spike sighs and looks down. “Well, she kinda got back with her ex coltfriend and I might have saw the whole thing.”

Twilight’s eyes grow wide at that. “What? Really?”

Spike nods. “Yeah. She forgave the guy even though he basically ignored her.”

“And Ah’m guessin’ ya not too keen on that decision, Spike.” Applejack says with a frown.

Spike merely shakes his head. But then he looks at them and smiles.

“But enough about that! You girls were having a picnic right? I can see you haven't started yet.” He says as he sets up the rest of the picnic.

Twilight was about to inquire more from Spike but she notices Applejack holding a hoof and shake her head slightly. She decides not to ask more for now.

“We haven't actually. It seems that there will be two others that will be joining us shortly.”

Spike looks at her with confusion. “Really? Who?”

“Well, here they are now. Howdy girls!” Applejack says as she waves down the two additions to the picnic.

Spike turns and is slightly surprised as he see two mares that are actually the friends of the mare he just left from.

“Hi Twilight! Hiya Spike. Didn't know ya was gonna be here too.” Apple Bloom says as she walks up.

“I had some free time so I decided to join you guys.” Spike says as he smiles at them. “Hey Sweetie Belle.”

Sweetie Belle smiles wide at him. “Hey Spike! I'm kinda surprised you're here.”

Spike raises a brow at her. “Why is that?”

“Well, Scootaloo told me she was planning to hang out with you today.”

Spike frowns at that. But then brushes it off. “Nah, she had other plans with Rumble I guess.”

Apple Bloom eyes grew wide. “She got back with that guy?”

Spike nods and Apple Bloom merely rolls her eyes and grunts in annoyance.

“Guess she didn't really learn her lesson.” Sweetie Belle says while rubbing her forehead with a hoof.

“Well, now that everypony is here, shall we get this picnic started?” Twilight says, changing the subject and pulling snacks out of the basket with her magic.

They all nod and sit around the snacks, happily starting to eat the treats that The girls made.

“I see you're getting better Twi. These sandwiches are really good.” Spike says before taking another bite.

Twilight smiles proudly. “Thank you. I can safely say that I have mastered making sandwiches. Now to work on everything else.”

Spike glances at her.”One step at a time, Twi. And as for these fritters Applejack, just as good as always.” He says as he bites into another.

Applejack smiles. “Thank ya kindly Spike, but Ah didn't make these this time.”

“Oh.” Spike looks to her sister. “Apple Bloom?”

“Nope. Ah only supervised.” Apple Bloom replies with a grin as she looks at her companion.

Spike followed her gaze and grows slightly surprised. “Sweetie Belle? You made these?”

There was a small tint of red on her muzzle as she nods. “Yeah. Apple Bloom taught me and after practicing…alot, I made these.”

Spike smiles at that. ”Well these are amazing. I honestly thought Applejack made them.”

The blush on her face deepens and she rubs a forehoof on the other. “T-Thanks Spike.”

Spike found her actions to be rather cute and caught himself watching her for a moment before he turned away quickly.

What was that about? Spike thought for a moment, but dismissed it quickly and continued eating.

“So, Spike. What was up with you and Diamond Tiara? I never knew you two dated.” Sweetie Belle says, making Spike stop immediately and frown.

“Me and Diamond Tiara are not dating. I'm still wondering if I should even be her friend.”

All of the mares frown at that. “Did something happen?” Sweetie Belle asks lightly.

Spike grabs a fritter as he speaks. “Basically, she used me so her and her fillyfriend Silver Spoon could go on their own date. Guess they were hiding it or something.”

“Ah knew it!” Apple Bloom says suddenly with a large grin.

Spike looks at her in confusion. “You did?”

“Nope, but Ah had a feeling them two had a thing going. They are never away from each other.”

“That's true.” Sweetie Belle agreed.

Spike shrugs . “I wouldn't know.”

“Well ya should. She did visit you two in the library when we were having Twilight Time.” Apple Bloom pointed out.

At that the two pause and remember who she is. “Oh! I completely forgot! She was the eccentric one that always asked what I do.” Twilight says remembering her.

Spike shakes his head. “I can't believe I forgot about her.”

“Well, at least we know somepony who can forget Diamond. Ah’ve been tryin’ for years.” Apple Bloom says with annoyance.

“At least she doesn't bother us as much as before.” Sweetie Belle says positively.

Apple Bloom smirked. “Yeah, and if she does, we just got the perfect ammo for her.”

Spike notices Applejack roll her eyes at that, making him chuckle slightly.

They all finish up their snacks shortly after. Apple Bloom speaks up afterwards with a satisfied grin.

“Well that was a nice meal. Ah have to go get something at the barn real quick. Be right back.” She then hops up and trots away, confusing the group.

Soon after, Applejack got into a discussion with Twilight about selling apples at her next Princess meeting, but Spike isn't really listening.

I wonder if what Scootaloo said earlier about Sweetie Belle is true… Well this might be my only time to find out. Spike thought before he speaks up. “Hey Sweetie Belle?”

Sweetie Belle seems to be lost in thought for a moment before she snaps out of it and looks at Spike with a smile. “Yes Spike?”

Spike makes sure that Applejack and Twilight are far away enough and too engrossed in what they are talking about before he continues. “I heard something from Scootaloo yesterday, and I kinda wanna see if it was true.”

Sweetie Belle grows curious with that info. “And what's that?”

“Did you like somepony before you dated Apple Bloom?”

At that, Sweetie Belle’s eyes grow wide and she takes a step back in surprise. “W-What?”

Spike nods at that. “From that I assume it's a yes.”

Sweetie Belle looks both ways before sighing and nodding slowly.

So it was true. Then maybe…

“She also told me that the one you liked also liked your sister.”

Sweetie Belle’s eyes nearly bugs out of her head at that and she blushes furiously. “Y-you know?”

“I wasn't sure at first, but now I am.” Spike says and frowns slightly. “But, why me?”

It takes a moment before Sweetie Belle is calm enough to reply. “Uh...well, because I kinda think you are a very cool dragon. And helpful. And you always were around Rarity and I got annoyed at how she kept leading on such a nice guy.”

Spike blushes hard at that and looks away “O-Oh. Thanks, I guess. Kinda wish I knew about that earlier honestly.”

Sweetie Belle ears perk up and she looks at him. “Why is that?”

Spike rubs his scales nervously. “Well, to be honest, It would have been great to know that somepony actually liked me. Too bad it's after you found your special somepony.”

Sweetie Belle frowns in annoyance at that. “You mean to tell me that you would have gave us a chance if I merely let you know how I felt?”

Spike smiles. “Well, while it would be a little weird to go after my long time crush’s sister, I would still want to give it a try.”

Sweetie Belle groans loudly. “You've gotta be kidding me!”

Spike chuckles at her reaction. He looks over and pauses as he notices two pairs of eyes are watching him. “Oh, Hey girls. You make a decision on if you will sell the apples at the next meeting?”

“We agreed that discussion could wait after what we just heard.” Twilight said with slight surprise.

“Well aren't y’all in crazy situation.” Applejack says as she shakes her head.

Sweetie Belle became red in embarrassment, while Spike turns away, red faced as well. “There isn't anything to worry about. Sweetie Belle has her special somepony. Right Sweetie Belle?”

“Uh, yeah. Yeah! I do now.” Sweetie Belle says with a small smile.

Spike nods and turns away. “See? Nothing to worry about.”

Twilight and Applejack look at each other before looking back at him. “If ya say so Sugarcube.”

Spike looks back to Sweetie Belle, whom smiles. However, the smile wasn't exactly genuine.

But what if I still wanted you? Sweetie Belle thought as she watches him clean up the picnic area.

None of them notice that a specific mare is nearby behind a tree, hearing the whole conversation.

“So that's who she liked huh?” Apple Bloom says as she sits down behind the tree with a frown.

“Never thought we both liked the same dragon before…”

The Stasis...

"Hey Guys! Ah'm back!"

Spike and the mares at the packed up picnic turn and see Apple Bloom as she walks over. She has a bag tied around her neck and everyone assumes that is what she must have left so abruptly for.

"Where did ya go? And what's in that bag?" Applejack says as she walks up to her.

Apple Bloom frowns before dodging and walking past her. "Geez sis, I'm not a kid anymore." She says before walking up to Sweetie Belle. "Hey Sweets, I got ya something."

Sweetie Belle perks up at that. "Really? What is it?"

Apple Bloom smiles before taking the bag off and giving it to her. "It's a little something since we're...ya know, together and all."

"Aww, ain't that cute." Applejack says with a large grin or her face. Twilight elbows her in the side for that remark. "Ow, what was that for?"

"Ruining the mood." Twilight says simply. She notices that Spike is staring intently at them as Sweetie Belle is opening her gift. However, her attention is pulled when she gasps loudly.

Sweetie Belle looks in surprise as she pulls out the gift. Its a small silver hoof ring with a musical note surrounded by two bells engraved on it. The others stare at it in slight awe.

"Is that a promise ring?" Applejack says staring intently at it.

Apple Bloom nods. "Sure is. And it's my promise that I'll always care for Sweetie Belle no matter what."

Sweetie Belle smiles wide and turns to nuzzle her special somepony. "Wow, Thank you! And I promise to care for you no matter what too."

The others smile warmly at them as they watch the tender moment. Apple Bloom moves away and smiles before she speaks up.

"So, ya liked Spike, huh?"

As soon as those words leave her lips, it feels as if time stops. Everypony and dragon freeze in shock. Spike's eyes grow wide before he looks toward a red faced Sweetie Belle utterly shocked at her question.

"Y-you h-heard?"

Apple Bloom merely rolls her eyes. "Ah'm sure mah big bro heard it in the fields fer how loud ya yelled it."

"It was preetty loud." Twilight chimes in earning her a small glare from the unicorn before she sighs.

"Yeah, I-Its true. Please don't be mad at me."

Apple Bloom merely looks at her before chuckling. "It's fine. To be honest, Ah had a crush on em too."

And just like earlier, everyone is in shock at her words. However, Spike speaks up. "W-What?!"

Apple Bloom waves at him. "Oh, calm down Spike. Ah was over that childish crush a long time ago." With that, Applejack and Twilight instantly calm down. Spike does as well, but frowns slightly at her words.

She didn't have to call it childish.. he thinks inwardly as he looks away. He notices Sweetie Belle is still surprised however and she speaks up about it.

"You did? When?"

Apple Bloom blushes. "Well, it was just a small one after he destroyed that crystal that was gonna flatten us at the Equestria games. Ah thought he looked cool." Spike slightly blushes at that. "But Ah got over that silly crush fast. Just like you, right?" She said to Sweetie Belle with a smile.

Sweetie Belle for a brief second looked to Spike, before replying, "o-of course! Yeah, I got over that crush ages ago."

Apple Bloom nods. "Yeah, besides Granny Smith would prolly have me hanging with the sheets if Ah brung a dragon home. No offense, Spike."

"Apple Bloom!" Applejack snaps, surprising her.

"What?"

"N-No it's fine." Spike says looking down. Twilight starts to worry at his demeanor.

Apple Bloom smiles. "See? Spike is cool. Plus he already knew us two wouldn't work anyways, us being different and all."

"APPLE BLOOM!" Applejack yells.

"What?!" Apple Bloom says in annoyance, wondering why she is being yelled at.

"Spike?"

Apple Bloom and Sweetie Belle hear Twilight and look to Spike and see his head down. What surprises them though, is that there are tears falling down.

Apple Bloom frowns in worry. "Spike? A-Are you alright? Ya know Ah was just kiddin, right?"

"But you meant it..." Spike says shaking. The tears won't stop flowing from his eyes and he feels like he is in pain. Her words hurt more than he realizes and what's worse is that it's not the first time..

I'm sorry Spike...It's just that you're...well, a dragon and I'm a pony.

Something snaps.

Spike turns around and runs. This surprises them and Twilight gets up quickly. "Spike!"

Before anypony could move, Twilight is up and running after him. Applejack watches as they slowly disappear before glaring angrily at her little sister.

"See what ya did! You done made the little guy run off!" She shouts at her stunned sister.

"But...I didn't do anything!" Apple Bloom defends.

"You did Apple Bloom. You hurt his feelings with what you said." Sweetie Belle says, slightly annoyed as well.

"All I said is that it's weird for me to date a dragon. Doesn't everypony think that?" Apple Bloom says in confusion.

"It doesn't mean ya have to say it like ya did! Now ya better apologize first thing next time ya see him." Applejack says staring down her younger sister.

"Ugh, fine." Apple Bloom groans. She looks to see Sweetie Belle frowning at her. "What?"

"Nothing." She says as she sighs. She looks towards the direction of town. "I hope Twilight can cheer him up."

"Ah think she might be the only one who can right now." Applejack says, worried about him as well.

Author's Note

Finally back... to an extent. Sorry for the long wait. Life hasn't been too friendly. But, I haven't forgotten this story! More chapters will ensue! :twilightsmile:

The Sentiment...

“Spike?”

Twilight opens the large crystal door to the castle and enters slowly as she waits for her assistant to respond. As expected, she receives no reply as she walks further into the main hall. She does however, hear sniffling coming from the main library. She walks inside and sees Spike sitting on the couch with his head buried in between his knees.

She frowns before she speaks up. “Spike? Are you okay.”

Spike says nothing and Twilight walks closer to him. As she lifts her hoof, however, he speaks.

“I guess I should have given up after Rarity…”

Twilight doesn't expect that response and speaks up about it.

“What do you mean Spike?”

At this, Spike buries his head deeper as he speaks, “I thought that in order to get over Rarity, I could find somepony else and they could replace this feeling I have...but I was stupid to think that…”

Twilight tries to comfort him. “That's not true Spike-”

“It is true!” Spike yells suddenly while looking at her, tears streaking down his cheeks. Seeing his saddened expression surprises her and she stays silent as he continues, “I was just being stupid thinking that I could just move on to another pony! I never had a chance with any pony in the first place! I should have accepted that back when I had that dream weeks ago!” He pauses, and looks down. “A dragon can't be with a pony, I know. It's just…it hurts too much to know I can never love the ones I was raised to love in the first place…”

Twilight’s ears fold back at hearing that. She didn't believe that at all herself, and was surprised so many thought that way as well. However, all that matters now is that her friend is in pain right now so she lifts a hoof and pulls her dragon friend close. Spike doesn't resist at all and accepts it as she pulls him into a small hug.

"Spike, I don't want you to believe that. It's not true at all." Twilight starts.

"But it is-" Spike starts, but is cut off by Twilight's hoof.

"Let me finish." She says and he merely nods. "What Rarity and Apple Bloom said may be true in their opinions, but it's definitely not the law Spike. I'm not an expert at love, but I'm sure it's similar to friendship in where you can become close to someone no matter who they are. Whether Pony, Griffon, or Dragon, all are free to love who they want. It's just up to you to find the one who truly loves you for who you are inside Spike."

Spike calms greatly at her words. He wipes his face and speaks. "I'm pretty sure ponies are not that into the insides of a dragon, Twilight."

Twilight smiles. "That may be true, but if they got to know yours, they would realize how big a heart you have."

Spike smiles as well before hugging her a bit tighter. "Thanks Twilight. You're always there for me."

Twilight nuzzles his fins as she speaks. "Only returning the favor."

The two merely stay that way for a while, enjoying each other's embrace...one starting to realize something very important while in the others embrace...

I might not need the others to love me...maybe I have all the love I really need now...with Twilight.

Spike pulls away and stands up from the couch rather quickly, surprising Twilight slightly. He turns to her with a smile.

"Well enough about all that. What else do you have planned today Twi?"

It takes her a moment, but she soon replies thinking it would be best for a change in subject. "Well, I do have a project to finish from Celestia that will be due in a few days, but it might have to wait since we did leave all our picnic supplies back at Applejack's farm."

Spike frowns at that. "Sorry about that Twilight. I didn't mean to-"

"Think nothing of it Spike. I'll just head back and get the supplies." She says before walking towards the door.

"Wait! I'll get it!" Spike says running ahead of her.

Twilight pauses and looks at him in concern. "Are you sure, Spike? After all that just happened?"

Spike nods and looks down. "I think it will be best if I go. I realize after what you said that it might just be how they are. Doesn't mean I should be mad at them for it. We can still be great friends."

Twilight smiles warmly at him. "Spoken like a true friendship assistant. I'm glad to hear that Spike."

Spike smiles proudly before turning and opening the door. "I'll get all the supplies and you finish on your project for Mo- err, Celestia."

Twilight gives him a knowing look at his mistake. Spike sighs. "I know, only call Celestia "Mom" at the castle to prevent an uproar. I still don't see why though."

"It's to ensure nopony will think of you as royalty. At least not until you become a full fledged dragon." Twilight says in a tone that implies she has said this many times before.

"And I still think that's one of the reasons I didn't have a chance with Rarity." Spike says jokingly, which makes her shake her head at him with a small smile. "Well, I'll be back later Twi."

"Oh and can you ask Applejack to give you the "order" as well? She will know what you mean when you get there."

"Anything for you Twilight! Be back soon!" Spike says with a smile back at her before turning and heading back towards Sweet Apple Acres.

As he walks, he turns to his thoughts about his best friend. I should give Twilight something for always being there for me. Maybe a book she doesn't have would work...although what book does she not have that she would like? Finding one might be a little tough..

"Hiya Spike!"

Spike jumps slightly at his name being called. He turns to his right to see a familiar gray unicorn standing by him with a smile. "Whoa. Where did you come from?"

She giggles at his surprised reaction. "I've been here for a while. You were too super focused on the dirt, that's why! Did ya find anything interesting?"

Spike pauses. "Uh, no. I wasn't looking for anything. I was just thinking. Your name was Dinky, right?"

Dinky nods rapidly. "Yep! That's my name! Don't wear it out!" She said with a smile.

Spike can't help but smile. "Why are you so happy Dinky?"

She seems to get even happier after he asks that. "Oh, you can tell? I'm excited because I won a trip for two to Six Hooves Magic Park! And it's in four days! I can't wait to go!

Spike grows surprised. "Wow, really? That's awesome! I've never been there but I heard it's super fun!"

Dinky nods rapidly. "Me too! Me and my Mom are planning to go, but she might not be able to since she may have work that day."

Spike notices her frown slightly at that. He pats her on the side. "Hey, sometimes work gets in the way, but it doesn't mean you can't go with her another time."

Dinky looks at him and nods. "Yeah, you're right. If she can't come this time, I'm sure I'll win another trip and take her next time!"

Spike nods. "Well, I have to go now. I have a few things I have to take care of for Twilight."

Dinky salutes. "Right! I'll leave you to your royal duties then Spike! See ya!"

Spike smiles and watches as she gallops away giggling slightly. He then turns and resumes his trek towards the farm. As he does, he thinks of an idea.

Maybe I can Invite Twilight to an amusement park. She might like that...

The Transfer...

After a small amount of walking, coupled with thoughts about his best friend, Spike soon reaches the gates to Sweet Apple Acres. As he stands in front of the gates, a small pang of sorrow hits him as he remembers what happened earlier today. He takes a deep breath, calming his nerves before walking towards the barn. He gets to the door and knocks twice.

"Ah'll get It!" Spike hears the younger Apple say on the other side of the door, making him hesitate a little. However, he straightens up before the door starts to open.

Apple Bloom opens the door, sees Spike, and freezes on the spot. "S-Spike?"

Spike smiles and waves awkwardly. "H-Hey Apple Bloom."

"Uh, h-hi." She says hesitantly, looking everywhere but at the drake.

For a moment, the two remain quiet. Luckily, another Apple comes to the door soon after.

"Who is it Apple Bl- Oh, howdy Spike. Ah'm guessing ya came back for the picnic supplies." Applejack says, breaking the rather awkward moment.

Spike nods quickly at that. "Y-Yeah! I came to pick them up since we left so quickly.."

Applejack waves a hoof dismissively. "Say no more partner. Ah have it all ready to go inside. Come on in." She says before moving aside to let him in. Apple Bloom does the same, but with her head down.

Spike walks in and notices the supplies neatly folded and stacked; ready to be returned home. "Thanks Applejack. I'll just grab this stuff and get out of your mane."

As he grabs the supplies, he walks back towards the door but doesn't get to leave before Applejack speaks up again.

"Now hold on there Sugarcube."

Spike pauses and turns to her. "Yeah, Applejack?"

Spike notices Applejack tap her sister, making her jump. She looks at Applejack, then sighs and looks at him.

"Listen Spike, Ah didn't mean any harm with what Ah said earlier..." Apple Bloom starts.

"It's okay Apple Bloom. I forgave you already." Spike interrupts, surprising her.

"Really?" She says as she looks at him stunned.

Spike nods with a smile. "Yeah. Honestly, I shouldn't have been that mad in the first place. After all, you can't help how you feel right?"

Apple Bloom pauses, but soon smiles and nods. "Yeah, you're right. Thanks for understanding Spike. So, friends?"

Spike places the supplies down and holds out a claw into a fist. "Always."

Apple Bloom then proceeds to hoof bump him in response. "Great. Ah'm glad that's over with. Yer a cool dragon Spike."

Spike smiles. "Thanks! Well I have to head out now. Twilight may need my help with her project. I'll see you guys later!"

"Take care Sugarcube." Applejack says with a smile.

"See ya Spike!" Apple Bloom says while she waves at him as he leaves with the supplies.

Soon, Spike is out of Sweet Apple Acres and heading through town towards the castle. As he is walking, someone calls his name.

"Hey Spike!"

Spike turns and sees Silver Spoon walking over from a park. He also notices Diamond Tiara with her as well, making him frown slightly.

"Oh, hi Silver Spoon." Spike says to her, however doesn't say anything to Diamond.

Diamond frowns at that. "What, no "hi" for me?"

Spike looks up in mock thought before replying, "Nah."

Diamond huffs at that. "Why you- And here I am trying to apologize."

Spike lays his supplies down and crosses his arms. "Well, considering you used me to hide the fact you two are dating, I'm surprised I haven't ignored you altogether."

Diamond merely stares at him angrily. "Well, no offense, but that's the only reason a pony would ever be fine with dating a fire breathing dragon in the first place."

Hearing that stings, but makes Spike angry as well. However, Silver Spoon speaks up before him.

"Actually, from how you are acting right now Diamond, I'd rather date him than you." She says to Diamond with an annoyed frown.

Hearing that surprises them both, Spike growing a small blush at that. "W-What? Are you serious?" Diamond asks stunned.

Silver Spoon nods. "Dead serious. We came up to him for you to apologize and instead you insult him again Diamond. At least Spike is a kind and forgiving dragon."

Diamond frowns at that and storms off angrily. Spike speaks up on it. "Wow, thanks Silver Spoon."

She smiles at him. "You're welcome Spike. Sorry about Diamond. I called you over so she can apologize. But I guess that even apologizing is hard for her."

Spike looks at the angry mare as she stomps away. "I wonder what made you decide to date her."

Silver Spoon looks at her as well. "She's not always like this...well, not with me anyways. I've known her for so long and we've always watched each other's back. But now I'm starting to realize how she acts with others. I'm trying to get her to change, but it's not going so well."

Spike looks at Silver Spoon and notices a loving, but concerned look about her. He sighs. "I'll talk to her."

And with that, he heads toward a bench that she sat on. When she notices him coming over, she turns her nose up and away from him. For a split second, Spike wants to just turn around and forget it, but remembering what Silver Spoon said earlier makes him keep going.

As he gets to the bench, he sits on it next to her.

She speaks up. "What do YOU want? I thought you weren't going to talk to me."

Spike decides to ignore her harsh tone. "Listen, I apologize for what I said. I should have said hi to you as well."

At hearing that, Diamond calms down, but still doesn't look at him. "You should have...and for what it's worth, I apologize for my actions."

Spike smiles slightly. "Apology accepted."

For a moment, neither says anything to the other. Spike decides to speak up.

"Ya know, you're pretty lucky."

At that, Diamond turns to look at him. "And why is that?"

Spike looks towards the other mare a distance away taking a look at his picnic supplies. "Because you have somepony that really cares about you."

Diamond looks at her as well. Soon, she speaks. "Yeah, sometimes I think that too."

Spike looks at Diamond and sees a small smile on her face. It's the first time he has actually seen her smile genuinely. "Huh, you're actually pretty cute when you smile for real."

Diamond blushes and looks at him indignantly. "Don't try to flirt with me mister! I'm already taken!" She says before she jumps off the bench and starts to walk away. However, she stops and looks back.

"But...thanks for the compliment. Maybe I was wrong about you Spike."

And with that, she walks away towards Silver Spoon. Spike smiles and gets up as well. He notices the two chatting for a moment before Diamond kisses her on the cheek, surprising him. He decides to stop watching them and grabs the picnic supplies before heading back to the castle. Although, he does go to his thoughts as he walks home.

I wonder if Twilight looks at me like Silver Spoon looks at Diamond...