Hearts and Hoovesby Gemini SparkleChaptersChapter 1 - Something WrongChapter 2 - HeartwarmingChapter 3 - Planning One DayChapter 4 - Stitching Things TogetherChapter 5 - Other ComfortsChapter 1 - Something WrongThe sun was shining down on a seemingly normal day in Ponyville. Normal, that is, for the month leading up to Hearts and Hooves Day. The day itself was still weeks away, but signs of it were everywhere. Ponies traveled as couples from place to place or sat together for long periods at a time. All the shops were beginning their promotions and sales for hearts and hooves day. Even Sugar Cube Corner was having a special couples’ discount going on, judging by the sign Pinkie Pie just placed outside. The impending holiday seemed everywhere, and everypony seemed eager for it as usual. Everypony except for the one seen galloping around back and forth through the windows of Carousel Boutique. Rarity was rushing this way and that way through her work area, her keen eyes desperately searching one spot before she darted off to set them on another. The sounds of her hooves clambering over the floor were only matched with her anxious voice repeating “where is it” over and over again. Feeling exasperated, she was about to give up when she finally came upon the blue silk she’d been looking for. She gave a relieved sigh, “There you are! Now I can – Oh, dear.” She pulled the silk out to find that there was hardly any of it left. She gave a hefty groan and let her face slap down against her working table. She stayed there for a few moments, and finally moved at the sound of knocking on the Boutique’s door. She jolted up and gave a rather harsh “What now?!” as she hurried over to answer. She opened the door to find a particular purple and green dragon waiting patiently on the other side. “Oh, it’s you, Spike.” Rarity relaxed again, giving him a half-hearted smile, “I appreciate the visit, but I’m rather busy at the moment.” Spike nodded, “I know. Sweetie Belle told me you were really backed up, so I figured I could come and help.” He looked up at Rarity, and his smile faded to a look of concern, “Though it looks like you need a break more than anything.” Rarity turned her head to look at herself in one of the many mirrors she has, and gave a small gasp. The usually fabulous looking mare was quite disheveled from the workload she’s been keeping up with. Her mane was frizzled and messy, beads of sweat running down her face. A tad bit of make-up had begun to run as well. Rarity beckoned Spike to come inside with a tilt of her head, and rushed up to her bedroom to repair the damage. “I appreciate your concern, Spike, but I’m so busy at the moment that the best I can do is make myself presentable before getting back to it. There’s just so much I have to do still, and who knows what I’ll be getting next.” Spike stayed at the bottom of the stairs, casually talking up to her as he waits for her, “Even twilight admits too much work is bad for you every now and then.” “That’s fine for her, but being behind in her studies doesn’t mean she loses business, Spike.” She returned from upstairs with her mane neatly brushed and the running mascara wiped away. “I must get these orders done. I do admit I could use an extra pair of hooves, though. Or claws, in your case. I was just about to start on this blue dress –” She stopped as she looked down at the small amount of fabric that she had been eager to find, and frowned. Spike followed her line of sight to the blue silk. “Kind of hard to make it if you don’t have all the stuff you need.” He smiled at her. Rarity gave a small huff, “Oh, fine. Go get the gem wagon, Spike. There are a lot of other materials and supplies that I need as well while we’re out and we couldn’t possibly carry it all ourselves.” Spike nodded and grabbed the wagon. Soon they were out in the warmth of the day heading towards the other shops. Spike tried once more to convince Rarity to relax a bit, “You know, going out to get more stuff to work on isn’t much of a break. I know you’re busy, but overworking yourself isn’t going to help.” “And neither is sitting on my rump and doing nothing. I have to get them done as soon as possible.” “But why the sudden rush of business? And why is it such short notice for it all?” “I’ll explain later. We’re here.” Here meant the supply store that Rarity always used for her business. She was such a regular customer that the pony that ran it could find exactly what she wanted before Rarity even finished her order. It took a while longer than usual to gather all the supplies, and by the time they were done the wagon was towering with different colored fabrics, including the blue silk at the top. After paying the hefty price of bits, Rarity and Spike headed off for the Boutique. Figuring he lost the battle about taking a break, Spike decided to at least give Rarity something else to think about. “The hearts and hooves decorations are all coming along nicely, but they seem to be lacking something. I’m surprised that you aren’t helping with them, Rarity. You’d probably add that sparkle they need.” “I’m far too busy to worry about such frivolities, Spike.” Not expecting such a cold response, he tried again. “That’s a shame. I’m sure you’d know a number about making this holiday look perfect. I mean, you are a mare of beauty and passion, so the holiday that surrounds such should be easy for you to-” He suddenly stopped as Rarity turned around, her expression and words like ice to him. “Thank you for your assistance, Spike. This little break was exactly what I needed, but now I must get back to work.” Her horn glowed and her magic snatched the wagon’s handle out of Spike’s grasp. Then she and the wagon of sewing material suddenly rushed into the Boutique and the door slammed shut behind both. Knocked down by the wagon hitting him, Spike slowly stood up. He was rather bewildered by Rarity’s mood, and he cautiously opened the door again. “Um, Rarity…?” “Yes Spike?” She asked sharply, having quickly gone back to work by cutting up the blue silk she was desperate to get. “I…I thought I was going to help you. You know, since you’re so busy.” She stopped and looked over at him for a moment. Her expression was hard to read, but Spike felt there was a bit of animosity behind it. “Thank you, Spike, but these orders are short and easy. I just need to get through them as quick as I can.” Spike entered the shop and closed the door behind him, looking at Rarity more closely than he had earlier. He couldn’t help notice her eyes were a little puffy and tired looking. “Rarity? Are you alright?” “I’m fine, Spike.” She said, not even bothering to look at him. The usual scent of body lotions and perfumes that came from her was absent. Her mane was also becoming untidy rather quick, implying she wasn’t using her usual hair products to keep it in shape. Taking all this into account, Spike’s concern for her grew, “You certainly don’t seem alright.” Rarity gave another huff like the one before, “I told you before, I’m just too busy to be over-conscious about my appearance.” Spike rubbed his dragon chin as he eyed her some more. He moved up to the table and stared at the pony at work. While she refused to look at him, he can’t help but notice one other thing was off. When Rarity usually worked her magic on outfits, so to speak, she had this dazzling glint in her eye. But now, it wasn’t there at all. “No…it’s something else.” “There’s nothing else, Spike. Now please, go…go help Twilight or something.” She muttered, starting to pin the clipped blue fabric together. “Rarity, talk to me.” “Go home, Spike.” “At least look at me.” “Please, Spike, leave me alone.” “You aren’t acting like yourself.” Ignoring the dragon, Rarity moved away from the table and over to her sewing machine. Spike glared at her, his temper starting to rise. “RARITY!” The white mare stopped what she was doing. Unsure of whether it was because he shouted or the fact that he was still there, Spike didn’t know. But he took the silence as an opportunity to try once more. “What…is wrong?” Rarity stood there for a few moments, leaving Spike standing in suspense. Finally she let go of the fabric, “What’s wrong..? You want to know what’s wrong, Spike?” She seemed to be shaking a little as her horn glowed, and she floated a long piece of parchment over to Spike. “This is what’s wrong…” Spike read over the parchment that he was given. It was a list of the orders Rarity had. He eventually looked back up to Rarity, “I…don’t get it.” “You don’t? Well then, let me enlighten you.” She turned around, seemingly content but Spike noticed she was very tense. She pointed to the list, “This…is only the order list that I’m working on today. I got most of those orders almost a week ago.” Her horn glowed more, and she pulled no less than five more parchment pieces over to her, “This one was completely filled out the day after that one. And this was filled shortly after that. And I’m nowhere near to doing out the most recent one, which I probably won’t get into until next week, at best. But, if you would, look at the date they’re all expected to be done by…” Spike noticed that almost all of her body was shaking by now. He nervously looked down, and noticed that they were all asked to be done before Hearts and Hooves day. “Are these all orders for-” He didn’t even get to finish. “OF COURSE THEY ARE!” Rarity cried out, now starting to pace back and forth in front of him. Spike could practically feel the fury of her words as she spoke, “It’s the same thing every year! Everypony’s out there, meeting with their special somepony,” She said the words akin to a schoolfilly mocking something, then continued her pacing, “While I’m trapped in my boutique for almost an entire month, slaving away!” She stopped at the window and glared out of it, giving a rather vicious snort that’s very unlike her, “I make fine art out of my dresses for almost every mare in Ponyville! And I tailor the best suits for stallions ever seen! I bust my rump, working day and night, doing my part to ensure a perfect Hearts and Hooves day to everypony who enters this shop! Everypony…except for me!” Spike was taken aback by that last comment. He looked at her in mild confusion, “You can’t tell me a mare like you never had a single Hearts and Hooves day date…” Rarity turned her head from the window to look back at him. She had a glare that made him instantly regret saying that. “Oh, there have been suitors. Each one as abhorring as the last! I couldn’t tell you how many times I’ve been left sitting there like a lump waiting for them to show up! Or just standing beside them while they show me off like I’m some kind of…some kind of ornament that goes with their outfit! And there are quite a few faces I’ve left my hoof mark on, I can tell you that!” She started approaching Spike, making the scared dragon back up a bit as she drew closer. “They all asked me out, but none of them really meant it! They just wanted to be seen with Rarity: the famous fashion maker! Sometimes they care about Rarity: the Element of Harmony! Or, by far the worst, Rarity: The pony I’ll have in my BEDROOM TONIGHT!” “But did any of them care about me?! Did any of them care about Rarity the Unicorn?! Of course not! Nopony cares about me! I’m nothing more than a phase! A fashion trend!A TEMPORARY INTEREST! THAT’S WHAT’S WRONG!” She seethed at Spike as she had him in a corner. He could see all the pent up rage in her eyes, but they were also swimming with the tears that were begging to come. She was shaking all over, and for a few moments it seemed she was finished. But before Spike could do or say anything, she spoke again. “YOU are no better than the rest of them! Don’t think I haven’t noticed the way you fawn over me! How you gaze until you’re drooling to the floor! You pretend to be nice and sentimental, but we both know differently, and it’s high time we stopped pretending otherwise!” Once again her horn lit up, and Spike found himself lifted off the floor by his tail. He was carried to the window Rarity had been looking out of. “Now, as I’ve told you before, I’m quite busy. So, I ask for the last time, Go Home!” She unceremoniously chucked the dragon out the window and snapped it shut behind her before trotting away from it, leaving the dragon face-first on the ground outside. Author's Note Very first fanfic. Don't be shy with critiquing. Chapter 2 - HeartwarmingSeveral weeks have passed with Rarity stuck inside of the Boutique from sunrise to sunset, perfecting gowns and suits for practically all of Ponyville. Come the eve before Hearts and Hooves day, everypony came to pick them up, without one unsatisfied customer. Now the morning sun rises on Hearts and Hooves day. Its yellow rays sink into Rarity’s bedroom, hitting her eyes and causing her to stir. With a groan, the fashionista slowly climbs out of bed and goes downstairs. Despite it still being a mess, it looked much emptier now that all the outfits that she’s made were removed from the room. She slowly wanders into the kitchen and starts making herself some coffee and her eyes drift towards the windows. She sees several ponies already pairing up with their loved ones and heading out for a day of togetherness. With a heavy sigh, her horn glows and she closes the curtains. She grabs her mug, heads back into her work room, and decides to clean up before spending the day doing nothing. As she started to work, she thinks back to her treatment of the one creature that showed concern for her well being over the past few extremely busy weeks, and she felt regret for rejecting the purple dragon as she did. It was completely unfair of her to take her stress, anger and hatred of this particular day out on him, especially since he clearly just wanted to help. Her thoughts are interrupted, however, when she hears a knock at her door. ‘Probably just a last minute attempt at a date’ she thought with a huff. She went over and opened the door, only for her jaw to drop. Fancy Pants was there, with Hoity Toity and Photo Finish right behind him. The Canterlot stallion looks over Rarity and gives a little smile. “oh my. I’d have thought that the pony we were to order dresses from would look a little more professional when we came to visit.” Rarity looks down at herself. Wearing her fluffy pink robe and slippers to go with her bedhead, she looked like nothing she’d expect of a professional either. She sheepishly smiles at Fancy. “Eh, hehe, I’m sorry, I-I didn’t know I wa-was to be expecting you. Hehe. Um, wh-why don’t you come in and make yourself at home while I, uh, go get dressed…” She suddenly vanished as she went upstairs once more. She slaps on her usual makeup attire and dresses in one of her spare outfits for the ponies downstairs, her mind racing at the idea that all three of them were in her boutique right now. By the time she returns, she finds all three of them looking around her studio. She has to stop and breath a few times before finding the ability to walk all the way downstairs. “An interesting choice of fabric you have here, Rarity. Slightly cheaper, but still very refined looking, and it feels magnificent.” Hoity compliments, examining the rolls she has. “Oh, why thank you, Hoity. I have to keep my mind on finances, but I can’t ignore the call of finer materials.” Rarity looks around, “I don’t mean to offend, but…why are you all here?” Fancy looked a little shocked, “I beg your pardon, but when you said you didn’t know we were coming, I thought you were joking.” He turns to face her with another smile, “See, we were told that you were the sole proprietor of the fine elegant fashion that hits Ponyville this time of year, and told it’d be a good idea to look at what you create.” Rarity stares at him, moving her gaze from the stallion to Hoity and Photo as if expecting one of them to break it to her that it’s a joke. When both of them nodded in agreement, she felt her face split into a wide smile, “Oh, I’d be delighted to show you what I did! Obviously I don’t have the dresses themselves, but I can show you my designs!” The morning passed in a flash. Several hours that would have been spent brooding was instead focused on spending time with ponies Rarity highly regarded and basking in how they showed such appreciation and approval of her work. By the time noon rolled around, her usually depressed attitude for the day was replaced with pure glee, despite knowing she has big orders to fill once more. “Oh thank you so much for coming! You have no idea what it meant to me.” Hoity nods to her, “Not a problem at all, my dear. We look forward to the delivery of your fantastic creations.” As they made to head out Fancy stopped at the door and turned to Rarity. He held out his hoof, an envelope in it, “Oh, this is for you. The one who suggested we come here asked us to deliver it before we left.” Rarity takes the envelope and lets them leave. She finds a card inside and is a little bewildered that the card is blank on the cover. She opens the card and gives a loud gasp: A ponyville spa coupon for their Premium Service. Rarity’s only managed to afford the Special Service, but she’s always wanted to see what the premium involved. Moving the coupon aside, she reads the text within the card. “A day of love for one like you Should be one that’s special and memorable too So after the start to your wondrous day Featuring your hard work put on display A trip to the spa is what’s in store To relax your weary and tired form The coupon’s good now, so don’t be absurd Go enjoy the comfort that you surely deserve” Rarity stares at the card. It wasn’t anything like the pieces of trash she usually sent to the rightful place of the garbage can. Sure rhymes aren’t rare for hearts and hooves day cards, but this one was personally written, has no signature, and was just telling her to enjoy herself rather than asking her to go out with the one writing it. Feeling a bit of admiration for the pony who sent the card, she floated it over to rest on the kitchen table. With the coupon floating in her magic hold beside her, she finally dared to trot out of her house into the sunny day. She makes her way through ponyville without a second thought or care for the couples she passes. The joy of a Hearts and Hooves that’s actually going well for her for once making her immune to her usual unhappiness. She presents her coupon to Lotus, and she’s treated to the best visit to the spa she’s ever had. The weekly usual for her and Fluttershy kept her relaxed and beautiful looking, but the additional and more detailed treatments she gets makes it an experience she won’t forget soon. Aromatherapy, more massage work, a more expensive but even more effective and wonderful-feeling body-wrap. It just got better and better. Finally when she was left in a special hot tub with daisies and extra expensive minerals floating with her, her attention was drawn to Aloe. The pink Spa mare presented her with a small box, making Rarity tilt her head in confusion. “What is this?” “Well, the one that got you the treatment dropped this off and asked us to give you this instead of the usual fruit that comes with the treatment.” Rarity’s brow rises at this and looks at the box again. She notices that it, too, came with a blank card. She takes the card and opens it to read the next rhyme that she’s been given. “It must be nice getting what you earned But an empty stomach shouldn’t be ignored I figured that you could use something to eat And I’m sure that you’ll love this special treat.” Rarity sets the card down and removes the lid of the box. Inside appears to be a bunch of chocolate. Despite her caution that this is rather too generous for her mysterious generous pony, she takes one of the chocolates out and puts it into her mouth to chew on it. Her eyes suddenly go wide and her mouth starts to drool. She gazes down at the box, “H…how?” It’s Aloe’s turn to look confused at Rarity, “How what?” “How did he know my favorite candy? I mean, I absolutely LOVE chocolate covered cherries!” Aloe shrugs, “Seems you got a special somepony looking out for you.” “I guess so! I don’t know who this pony is, but I’m really starting to like him!” Rarity leans back into the spa tub and pops another candy into her mouth. She smiles widely as she chews, and starts to imagine just who this mysterious generous pony is. Rarity leaves the spa feeling more refreshed, rejuvenated and happy than she’s ever been on Hearts and Hooves day. She’s practically skipping as she makes her way back to the Boutique, content with spending the rest of her day with the windows open and the sun shining on her. But as she approached her place, she notices she’s got yet another surprise waiting for her. Right in front of her door is a big white box tied in a purple bow. She gets excited and races forward with a silly little giggle. She finds yet another card there as well, and her eyes dart from the card to the box to decide which to open first. Figuring it’d be rude to open the box, she goes with the card. “There is still so much left for you To ensure you have a proper Hearts and Hooves Now that you’re rested and back in full health It’s time to dress up and show off yourself With all the clothing you bust your rear to make Here’s an outfit of your own to impress those in your wake” Rarity’s eyes bulged at that and looked down at the package. Somepony made a dress for her? She was slightly concerned for how the dress would appear. She stares at the box with uncertainty about opening it and looking inside. Eventually her curiosity wins over her worry, the unicorn popping the box open and pulling the dress out. She slowly opens her eyes to look at it, and yet again she’s blown away by what she’s received. It’s a gorgeous red outfit, a perfect blend between a cocktail dress and a high class evening gown. Royal red with gold lace and trimmings expertly sewed in using an elegant pattern. It apparently came with matching hindleg shoes and foreleg gloves. She couldn’t help but gaze at it for a while, feeling as if it’s a design she herself would make for an extremely important client. She takes in the beautiful piece of clothing, turning it around to observe it from every angle she possibly could. Then she looks down and notices yet another card inside the box. “If you’d rather not wear it, that’s alright I just thought you’d want it for tonight For I’ve made reservations of the personal kind By booking a spot on observation hill outside There I’ll be waiting at half past eight If you are willing and able to join me for a date.” This particular card and message had brought various and conflicting emotions to the white unicorn. She was outraged that all this has led to yet another date proposal. And yet…and yet all that happened had made her interested in accepting the invitation. It sounds like he’s already going to set up, whether she comes or not. She looks down at the dress and back at the card, her mind working as she decides whether she’ll go or not. On one hoof, again, it’s just an invitation. She’s rejected plenty in the past. But on the other, with all that this pony went through for her today, she should at least show her appreciation for it. With that thought in mind, she went inside to get herself ready for her Hearts and Hooves date. Chapter 3 - Planning One DayTwilight enjoys her current book in the peace and quiet of the library. It doesn’t last, however, as she hears the door opening and closing. She walks out of her room and down the stairs to find Spike circling the library floor, his eyes narrowed in concentrated thinking. She gives a little giggle as she walks over to him, “I thought I was the one who did all the pacing around here.” Her smile falters to a look of confusion as she tilts her head, “Wait, I thought you went to help Rarity with her work.” The dragon stops his pacing to look back at the alicorn, “I did. But…something happened. Did you know that Rarity hasn’t had one good Hearts and Hooves Day date? Not one.” Twilight gives a look of unsure disbelief, “Rarity? Not have a date?” Spike shakes his head, “No, she’s had dates, but they were all bad. It’s why we’ve never seen her on one since we’ve been here. She’s given up on them. In fact, she hates Hearts and Hooves Day completely because of them. Well, that and she’s working herself half to death making the Hearts and Hooves Day outfits for everypony in Ponyville.” He sighs, “I wish I could help her somehow.” The dragon resumes his pacing as Twilight watches him with some concern, “Spike, I don’t think you can do much to help her with how bad she’s had it on Hearts and Hooves day. Although…” She smiles, “You could show her what a GOOD Hearts and Hooves Day is like.” Spike stops his pacing again and smiles brightly, “That’s a great idea! But…” His smile vanishes, “How do I do that?” Twilight keeps smiling as she goes over to the library shelves and starts looking, “I know it’s here somewhere…” Spike raises his scaled brow at the unicorn, “Don’t tell me there’s a book here about making a good Hearts and Hooves Day.” Twilight shakes her head, “Oh, no, but there iiiisss….THIS!” She pulls the book out and floats it over to him for the dragon to take. “Just One Day?’ What the heck is this?” He turns it over and starts reading the back, “Peachy Keen can’t stop thinking about Cream, and quickly learns that it’s not just because they are friends. As her feelings develop, Peachy decides to do what she can to show Cream just how much she cares. When Cream seems uninterested, Peachy gets Cream to give her one day to convince Cream of her affections.” He looks at Twilight, then at the book, “I don’t get it. It’s just a dinky romance novel. Why do you even have this?” Twilight’s face goes a little red, “Uh, diversity in the library.” She clears her throat, “But that’s beside the point. The point is that this book is about one pony showing how much she knows about and cares for the other by giving her a perfect day. Perhaps you can get Rarity out of her Hearts and Hooves Day funk by doing something similar.” Spike looks down at the book, rubbing his clawed finger over his chin as he thinks a bit. He gives a loud gasp and a wide smile before he rushes up to the bedroom. Confused, Twilight goes up to follow him and finds him digging under the bed, “Spike, what are you doing?” “Getting out my saved bits. I’m going to need them!” He says, pulling a floorboard out from under the bed and pulling out a decent sized container. He opens it up, revealing the container as filled with bits and gems. “If I’m going to give Rarity the best Hearts and Hooves Day ever, I need all the money I can get.” “But Spike, that’s your life savings! Besides, you know I’d be happy to lend-“ Spike looks at her, “No way, Twilight!” He stands up, box of currency under his arm, “This is something that’ll be from me to Rarity. That’s it. I want as little help as possible.” He then goes over to grab his hiking bag from where he put it, laying it out and starting to fill it with a few things. Twilight looks at him with utter confusion, “Uh, what are you doing? I thought you were going to do something for Rarity, not run away.” Spike rolls his eyes, “I’m not running away, Twilight. I’m going to Canterlot. I think I know exactly what would make Rarity’s Hearts and Hooves Day special, and I need to go there to set things up.” The unicorn puts her hoof to her head, “Spike, I think you might be going a little too far with this.” He stops and looks back at her, slowly setting down the fruit he got into the bag, “You said yourself that the purpose of this is to give them the perfect day, right?” Twilight nods, “Yeah, but-“ He interrupts her again, “But nothing. I’m going to give Rarity the perfect Hearts and Hooves Day, and there’s nothing you can do or say to stop me from doing it all on my own. If you want to help, just let me go.” She watches him as he gets the last of the things he needs into his bag, and then gives a sigh, “How long will you be there?” He starts to think a little, “A few days, maybe a week.” “A WEEK?!” He shrugs, “I got some popular, high class ponies that I need to talk to. I don’t know how hard it’ll be to get to them, let alone to try talking them into doing this.” Twilight sighs and nods, “Fine. But I want a letter from you every day while you’re there so I know you’re alright. And you’re going to stay in the castle suite.” Spike nods and ties the bag up, putting it over his shoulder, “Stay in the castle, write letters. Got it. Now what are we waiting for? I got a Hearts and Hooves Day to plan for Rarity.” He goes to the door and heads out with Twilight right behind him, glancing at the book and shaking her head with a smile as she follows him. She goes with Spike to the station and manages to convince him to at least let her buy the two-way ticket. She wishes him good luck and reminds him to write to her when he gets there. With a final goodbye, she waves at him as he boards the train and takes off for Canterlot. The following week is mostly uneventful for Twilight. Spike’s letters come with the dragon being extremely vague in his work in Canterlot, but at least he’s sending them. And it seems that, whatever he went there to do, he’s succeeding. With the dragon gone Twilight is able to spend the week doing as much binge studying as she wants, with only Owlucious to keep her company. As the week comes to a close, though, the unicorn can’t wait to see her number one assistant again. The day comes and she quietly waits for the time she needs to meet Spike, and she’s surprised when she finds a letter pushed underneath the library door. She tilts her head and opens the door, looking around for where it might have come from. With a shrug she picks up the letter and opens it. There are several things scribbled out on the letter, and for some reason there was a lot of glitter on it as well. She has to squint a little to read the writing. “Twilight Sparkle, Whatever you have planned for this Hearts and Hooves day, [scribbled out] I advise that you do not go through with them. Instead [scribbled out] you shall make plans for meeting with [scribbled out] me that evening. If you agree to this arrangement, leave this letter at the foot of the fountain next to Ponyville Town Hall by noon today for [scribbled . If not, burn this letter and forget you ever saw it. [scribbled out] I sincerely hope you accept. Signed, [scribbled out] Your potential date.” Twilight stares at the letter in a mix of confusion, amusement and a little embarrassment. Seems she had a secret admirer. She looks at the clock and sees she has precisely an hour to decide on this proposal. But she’s also got to meet Spike at the train station at noon as well. She glances at the letter and back at the clock, her mind racing to decide. She paces a little as she tries to think, moving back and forth. She stops as her eyes settle on the Just One Day book, and she glances from it to the letter. A little smile comes across her face as she examines the letter a bit, and suddenly she rushes out the door to get to the fountain in time. Author's Note I apologize if this one seems too dialog heavy, and I realize the pacing is a little off. Tried my best for something that I wrote in a couple of hours. I think I'll take my time with the chapters following this one. Chapter 4 - Stitching Things Together“Here we are. See, you didn’t lose them. They were right were you left them.” Fluttershy smiles to the little squirrel next to her. She keeps digging, revealing the rest of the acorns, “You really do need to keep better track of where you hide these, though. It should not have taken you this long after Winter Wrap Up to find them. I’d hate to think of you starving because you weren’t able to get your food.” The squirrel chitters happily at the butter-yellow Pegasus and dives into his stash, leaving her to giggle, “You’re quite welcome.” She heads back up to her cottage home only to find a certain purple dragon wandering up the road with a backpack on. Not wanting to appear rude by going inside as he approaches, she instead decides to stand there and wait for him. The dragon seems quite unfocused. Or perhaps too focused. She couldn’t tell which as he was looking down and mumbling to himself, talking to himself about something. He’s so preoccupied with whatever he’s doing he doesn’t seem to realize he’s about to bump into her, so she tries to get his attention. “Ahem, um, excuse me, Spike. You might want to stop. Please Spike?” He doesn’t seem to respond and, sure enough, he almost bumps into her. Shy steps aside and watches him go right up to her cottage door and knock a bit. She clears her throat and tries to speak again. “Spike? I’m right behind you. All you have to do is turn around.” Once again he doesn’t seem to react, still muttering. She slowly reaches a hoof over, and very gently pokes his shoulder with it to get his attention, “Spike?” “AHH!” He jumps up, suddenly startled. “AHHH!” She screams back, suddenly flying up into one of the branches of her tree home. The dragon blinks a few times before he looks up, “Oh! Fluttershy, why didn’t you tell me that you were already out here? Can you come down; I need to talk to you about something.” The Pegasus was shaking a little as she clung to the tree branch, looking down at him. She slowly stopped her shaking and let go, fluttering back down to the ground. “I did try to tell you that I was here, but you didn’t listen. You looked like you had a lot on your mind.” He nods, “Yeah, that’s because I do. I just got back from Canterlot and so far everything is coming together perfectly.” “For what, Spike?” Shy asked, tilting her head a little in curiosity. Spike smiles, “I’m planning the perfect Hearts and Hooves Day for Rarity. I already got the first part all planned out, but for the next one, I really need your help.” “My help?” Shy asked, even more confused, “What could you possibly need my help for?” “You know how to sew, right?” Spike asks, getting a nod from the Pegasus, “Well, I was thinking that maybe I could make an extra special outfit for her to surprise her with. But I don’t know anything about sewing. So I was thinking that maybe you could…I don’t know, teach me or something so I could do it.” “Oh don’t be silly Spike; I’m not going to teach you.” Fluttershy says, smiling as the dragon’s ear fins start to droop down, “I’m going to help you ma-.” She suddenly has a clawed hand in front of her face to stop her. “No can do, Fluttershy. I already told Twilight and I’m telling you now. I’m doing as much of this as I can on my own. Just show me how to do it, and I’ll do it.” Shy peeks around the claw in front of her, “Um, no offense, Spike, but sewing isn’t something you just learn. It can take days if not weeks of practice just to get the techniques down right. There’s no way you could learn in time to make a full dress by Hearts and Hooves day.” Spike gives a huff as he pulls his hand back, “Well…fine, you can teach me along the way and let me help as much as possible. At the very least, I’ll be more useful to Rarity when I’m in there to help her from now on.” Shy beams at the dragon, “That’s a wonderful idea. Come inside, I’ll make some tea and we can talk about the dress.” She opens the door to let Spike in. She goes to follow him only to have a blur of blue and rainbow rush up to her door. The trailing wind blows her mane and tail back a bit, making Shy shut her eyes. She opens them to see Rainbow Dash flapping in front of her with a…peculiar look on her face, “Hey Fluttershy! You got some time? I wanna talk to you about something.” “Um, sure, Rainbow. Come right inside. Spike and I were just about to have tea. You’re more than welcome to join us.” Dash looks in the door to see Spike wave at her. She straightens up in the air and rubs the back of her neck a bit, “well, actually…you know what? It’ll have to wait. I just remembered I have…s-something…to do…th-the thing at the…place….” She gives an awkward smile and then rushes off, blasting shy with more air that almost knocks her back from how fast Dash takes off. Confused and a little worried about her friend, Shy walks inside and heads to the kitchen to make tea. “What’s the matter with her?” She hears Spike ask from her living room. She gives a little sigh as she puts the kettle on, “I’ve no idea…I hope she’s alright.” Shy walks back into the living room to Spike giving a shrug, “She’ll be fine. She’s Rainbow Dash. She always comes back alright.” The Pegasus sighs as she sits down next to him, “I sure hope so. She’s been acting really strange lately.” “Strange how?” Spike sits back on the couch as Shy shrugs this time, “I…I don’t know how to explain it. She just…she’s around here all the time. Much more than usual. Every now and then she even asks me if I want help with tending to the animals. She almost never asks to help with stuff unless it’s, you know, really physical or competitive. It’s so weird.” Spike stares at Shy, the dragon wondering how she’s not reading it the way he is. Figuring he shouldn’t get too deep into this, though, he decides to change the subject, “Well, like I said, I think she’ll be just fine. I, however, still need your help.” Shy shakes her head to snap herself out of it and smiles at Spike, “Oh! Of course, the dress. Sorry. So, do you have any ideas?” Spike nods and reaches into the backpack, pulling out a couple of pieces of parchment and laying them down, “While in Canterlot I drew some ideas, even got Hoity Toity to help me with some of them already. I was really hoping to make something that would go with the fire ruby I gave her.” The Pegasus looks over the drawings, having a more focused look on her face. “Oh dear. No way you could have done these with only a week of practice. They’re so complex. Wait…” She pulls one particular dress out, and smiles, “If we simplify it a bit, we could easily make this one. Here…” She goes and grabs something to write with and comes back. She looks between the drawing and the paper as she sketches out a simple yet elegant dress, similar to the one she was talking about. “Here Give it red and gold coloring, it’ll go really well with her white coat and purple mane. She’d love it.” Spike jumps up and hugs her tight, “That’s great! We should get started right away!” He lets go of her and hops off the couch, smiling at her, “What all do I need to get?” Shy rubs her chin and hums as she stares at the pic. She gets another paper and writes a short list before giving it to Spike, “Here. And you’re keeping this a secret, right?” He nods and she smiles, “if anypony asks, tell them I’m trying to improve the chicken coop. they’d believe it.” With that Spike chuckles and rushes out the door. ============================================================================= While Shy and Spike are having their tea together, Rainbow Dash is up on a tree branch by the road, smacking her head against the tree itself. “Stupid. Stupid. Stupid.” She gives a heavy sigh and plops back onto the tree limb, “I should have just asked her then and there. The timing for it doesn’t have to be perfect, after all. Gah, I’m so stupid!” She grumbles a bit more as she lies on the limb, staring up at the sky. Her mind starts to drift and she stays silent for a while. Eventually she’s right back at talking to herself, “With all the insane things I’ve gone up against, how is it that THIS manages to be so difficult for me? I fought a Manticore, a dragon, Discord, even a whole freaking changling army for Celestia’s sake. And yet I can’t ask one mare out on a date?! It’s not like I’m proposing to her, it’s just a date. Gah!” She rubs her hooves over her face and lets them flop to her sides, “I’m pathetic.” “Not really.” Dash practically jumps out of her skin at the sudden voice underneath her, causing her to tumble out of the tree and to the ground with a heavy thud. She groans as her vision comes back to her and she looks up to see Spike standing over her and looking down at her with concern. “Hey, are you alright…?” Rainbow shakes her head and regains her focus, “Uh, yeah, I’m fine…” She slowly sits up and looks at the dragon, “Hey…how-how much of that did you hear?” Spike gives a shrug, “Just that last bit, but I kinda figured it out already.” “You did?! How?!” Spike gives her a funny look then starts counting on his claws, “Let’s see. Increasingly spending more time at her place and with her in general. Offering to help her with her work and other things. Watching her as much as you can without trying to seem creepy. Any of this sound familiar?” He asks, indicating to himself. Dash rubs her foreleg with the other, “It’s that obvious, huh?” “Only because I know you and how much time you’re spending with her. But somehow, Fluttershy is…downright oblivious to it, actually. It’s kind of weird. I mean, you aren’t exactly a master of subtlety.” “Hey! I can be subtle if I want to.” Dash folds her forehooves in front of her chest in a huff, “I just don’t see the point of it. I mean, what’s wrong with being known?” “Oh, nothing, though if you CAN be subtle, I was wondering if you could help me with something.” Dash puts her hooves down and looks at the dragon again, “Sure thing. What do you need help with?” “Well, I don’t know what the weather is supposed to be like for Hearts and Hooves day, but I was wondering if you could maybe clear the skies that night around the stargazing hills. I was thinking of taking Rarity there after our dinner.” Rainbow’s eyes get a bit bigger and she looks at him with a bit of concern, “Woah there, Spike. You actually think Rarity’s gonna go out on a date on Hearts and Hooves day? Do you have any idea how she feels about that day?” “That’s exactly why I’m doing this.” Spike says insistently, “I’m going to show her that she can enjoy Hearts and Hooves day just as much as any other mare, if not more! Besides, the date is only if she wants to. I got other things happening for her that I know she’ll like before then.” She looks at him with suspicion and curiosity, “Okay, Spike, if you say so. I’ll try to keep most clouds clear of that hill for ya, but I’m not making any promises….about that or about Rarity.” Spike grins and stands proudly, “Don’t worry, Rainbow Dash. I know exactly what I’m doing.” He continues to head to Ponyville only to stop and look back, “Oh, and as a personal expert on not saying how you feel, I don’t think you should hold back. Trust me, I wish I didn’t before now.” Rainbow is left contemplating as the dragon wanders off, tapping her chin with a hoof. ============================================================================= Spike wanders back into the cottage, his backpack filled with fabric swatches, spools of thread and other sewing supplies. “Fluttershy, I’m back! I got everything we might need from that store! Stitch even gave me a discount since it’s supposed to be for…Rari…ty…” He stops as he finds Shy sitting on the couch, staring off into space with a bright red blush on her cheeks. Concerned, the dragon rushes over to her and gently shakes the Pegasus, “Fluttershy, are you okay?” The shaking knocks Shy out of her little trance, blinking as she looks down at him, “Oh, hello Spike. I didn’t know you came back already.” “I just came in the front door.” He says back, “Are you okay? What happened.” She shifts a little, “Well…uh…Rainbow Dash came to see me while you were gone.” Spike resists the urge to smile as he nods, “And?” “And…well…she-she told me that…that she wanted to go out with me for Hearts and Hooves Day. I…I had no idea that she felt that way about me. I didn’t know what to say. So when she asked for an answer, all I could think of was to just nod in agreement. That…that’s when she…well…” Spike nods, scooting closer to hear her whisper, “She kissed me…” Spike smiles and hugs her, “Great! I knew she had it in her!” Shy looks at him, “You knew?” The dragon lets go of her and shrugs, “Sort of. I only knew for sure after I talked to her while I was gone. But I told her she should ask you out and she did! Oh, you’re going to have a great time with your special somepony.” “There’s just one problem, Spike.” He stops smiling as she looks at him, “I don’t know if she IS my special somepony.” His jaw drops as he hears that and stares at her. She sighs and looks down, “I’ve never considered mares to be an option for a special somepony. I mean, I-I never thought of them as something I might be…interested in. Oh, not-not that there’s anything wrong with it, I just…I never thought of mares that way.” “Well…are you going to back out of the date then?” Spike asks cautiously. “Oh, goodness no. I’d hate to hurt Rainbow Dash just because I’m not entirely comfortable or used to the idea. I’ll go on the…date…with her, but if she doesn’t convince me, I'm sorry to say that I'd have to tell her that I don’t feel the same way.” Spike gives another shrug, “well, there’s only one way to find out, so I guess it’s good that you aren’t saying no. ANYWAY!” He says loudly enough to make Shy jump, “Different subject. I got the stuff, so let’s get to work.” Shy smiles and nods, glad to have something else to focus on. The thought of hurting Dash because she doesn't feel the same to her was hard to think about. “Good. Lay everything out and we can get started.” Author's Note Like I said I would, I took more time on writing this one than on Chapter three...and yet I feel like it's somehow weaker than the previous one was. Any critique would be helpful. Chapter 5 - Other ComfortsThe next week was nothing but working and learning. Just as Rarity was spending all of her time locked away in her boutique, Spike was spending all of his time in Fluttershy's cottage learning the very trade the white unicorn was working in. Spike insisted on personally doing as much of the dress as possible, making the creation of it much slower than it would have been if Shy was working on it herself. She didn’t mind though. Fluttershy was patient and gentle with how she taught, the perfect teacher for the enthusiastic dragon. Halfway through the next week, however, Fluttershy found herself with a bit of a predicament about her arrangement with Spike. He comes in to find her rubbing her front leg nervously and he looks at her with worry. “Fluttershy? What’s the matter?” “Well, uh, Spike, we’ll have to cut our…you know, our time short today.” She says, looking at him all worried as Spike gets confused, “What? Why?” “Well, today’s my usual spa day with Rarity. When she’s dealing with her Hearts and Hooves Day orders, she only takes one or two of the spa days to try relaxing. She really needs it.” The dragon sighs as he nods, “Yeah, she does. I looked in on her while she was working yesterday and she…she wasn’t herself. The spa would be perfect….for…her…” The dragon trails off as he says that, starting to stare into the distance. The effect gets Fluttershy concerned and she scoots over to him, “Spike…?” He suddenly smacks himself in the head, causing Shy to jump back with a yelp. “I’m so stupid! Why didn’t I think of that before?!” He shouts, suddenly extremely excited. Shy shakes herself of the shock and tilts her head in confusion, “think of what?” “The Spa! Rarity’s always going to the spa! And almost every time she’s talking about it, she’s…she’s telling me that there’s some kind of service that she’s never got to try. Oh, but what was it?” He says, knocking his head a few times to try to remember. Shy thinks a bit too, “Well, we always get the special service when she and I go, and the only option higher than that is the Premium Service. Neither of us could afford it, though.” Spike grins, “But I might be able to! Thank you, Fluttershy, you’re a genius!” He starts running for the door before Shy calls out to him, “Wait, aren’t we going to sew today? I do have some time before I have to meet with Rarity.” Rubbing his chin in thought, he shrugs, “Yeah, probably a good idea. I wouldn’t want Rarity catching me there anyway.” Another hour or so was spent on sewing, though much of it is spent teaching Spike more sewing techniques. Eventually Shy looks at the time and then to Spike, “That’s enough. I need to go so I can be on time. No matter how busy she is, she always keeps to when we’re supposed to meet.” Spike nods, “Okay. I have other things to set up for Hearts and Hooves day anyway, and not just the spa treatment. I’m telling you, Rarity’s going to love it this year.” Fluttershy nods and goes to meet up with Rarity. Spike hangs out at the cottage, putting away the sewing material to give Shy and Rarity a head start. Eventually he grabs his backpack and heads into town and to the Ponyville Spa himself. He wanders in with a soft jingling of the front door, the strong scent of various herbs and remedies hitting his senses. Just stepping into the place helped one’s body relax from the wonderful fumes. He shook his head and approached the front counter, being greeted by one of the spa twins. “Oh, Mister Spike. It’s good to see you again. We can have the extra hot bath ready for you in no time if that’s what you are looking for.” Aloe says with a smile, her blue fur and pink mane thankfully distinguishing her from her sister. Spike shakes his head, “No thanks, I’m here for something else. How much is your premium service?” He asks, wanting to get right to it. “Premium? Oh dear, that one is quite expensive, and it takes such a long time to do. Are you sure you want it?” He shakes his head again, “Oh, no, it’s not for me. I’m getting it…” He peeks around and leans over to Aloe, whispering it to her, “I’m getting it for Rarity on Hearts and Hooves Day.” “Mister Spike! Such a gentlepony!” She says out, only to be shushed by the dragon, “Shhhh! I know she’s here and I don’t want her to know about it.” Aloe giggles and smiles, “ohhh, a surprise. Well, after hearing how horrible her past couple Hearts and Hooves days have been, I’m sure she’ll really appreciate this…and appreciate you for giving it to her.” She gives him a little wink, causing the dragon’s cheeks to turn red. “Heh, yeah, but I also don’t want her to know it’s from me. Can I get, like, a ticket or something for it that doesn’t have my name on it?” The spa pony nods and rummages behind the desk. She pulls out a pink and blue card with the spa’s logo on it, writing something out as she speaks, “This voucher guarantees one Premium Service.” She finishes writing and smiles at him, “And since it’s for Rarity, I can give you her loyalty discount. Ten percent off! That’s still a good forty five bits. Do you have that kind of money?” Spike gets a smirk on his face as he plops down a small bag of bits he got from his backpack, “Right here.” Aloe takes the bag and puts it on a weight, grinning as she sees it matches, “Good.” She tosses the bag under the desk and grabs a sheet of paper as well, offering it and the voucher to Spike, “This is all that we do for the premium, in case you were curious.” Spike takes the paper and starts reading through it. A particular item catches his eye, “You guys serve fruit during the service?” “oh, yeah. Being stuck here for so long could make ponies quite hungry.” The dragon thinks a bit with his claw on his chin, “Could you…substitute the fruit for something? Say, her favorite candy?” Aloe thinks a little this time, “That...would depend on the candy.” “Chocolate covered cherries?” Aloe smiles, “oh, absolutely. You’d just need to get them to us and we’ll serve them instead of the fruit.” Spike quickly thanks the spa pony and carefully puts the service voucher into his backpack. With that taken care of, he heads out the door and heads into Ponyville with yet more surprises to plan for Rarity. ===================================================================================== His first stop was Sugar Cube Corner, where he found the cake couple and Pinkie Pie filling and writing orders. He eventually manages to get Pinkie’s attention, “Woah, you’re busy aren’t you?” The pink pony nods, “Oh yeah, it’s been a doozy here getting all the special somepony sweets and treats done. We’re making all the things that’ll last so we can focus on the ‘make now eat now’ stuffs later.” The dragon thinks a bit, “Huh. That does make sense. Do you have any plans for Hearts and Hooves Day?” Giving a big smile, Pinkie hands another customer a box of treats as she responds, “Oh boy, do I?! I got this big old party planned for all the ponies that don’t have dates! And Mr. and Mrs. Cake are having a night on their own planned, with them having dinner reservations and everything. So I get to spend the whole time looking after the babies!” She giggles, “It’s going to be so fun! I have all kinds of things in store for the ponies showing up!” “Wait, don’t you have a special somepony?” She shrugs a bit as she works on filling another order, “That depends. Since I know everything about everypony in Ponyville, you could say EVERYONE is my special somepony!” She sees the look on the dragon’s face, “Buuuut that’s not what you meant. No, I don’t have a date or anything. And it’s fine. I’m just happy knowing that Mr. and Mrs. Cake will be enjoying their Hearts and Hooves Day instead, and I know I’m not the only one since I got other ponies coming to my party! But enough about me. What about YOU? Do yooouuu have anything going on?” Spike plays with his claws a bit as he nods, “Well, yeah, a lot, actually. See, I have a bunch of stuff planned for Rarity, and then I’m going to tak-“ “RARITY?! Spike, Rarity is the last pony that wants anything to do with Hearts and Hooves day.” Spike sighs as he puts his clawed hand to his face, “Yes, Pinkie, I know-“ “No you don’t! Spike, listen, I tried getting Rarity a date one year and…well…it didn’t work out. Trust me, It’s best just to leave her alone on Hearts and Hooves Day.” “It’s too late for that. I already got things set up, and I can’t back out now! Just tell me if you can make some chocolate covered cherries for her and I’ll be gone.” Spike says, folding his arms in front of his chest. Pinkie blinks at him, “Chocolate covered cherries? Well, we mostly do baked stuff but…if you’re sure…” “Listen Pinkie,” the dragon puts his hand on her shoulder, “I’m going all out to give Rarity a good Hearts and Hooves day, and I know exactly what I’m doing. YOU have to trust ME with this, okay? Can you make them?” Pinkie looks at him before giving a little smile, “Of course I can make them. Just…just make sure you know what you’re doing. She’s had enough bad experiences on Hearts and Hooves Day, okay? Just tell me when you’ll be getting them.” “Actually, can you deliver them to the Ponyville Spa? They’ll know what to do with them.” Pinkie tilts her head at him, “The spa? Why would I send them to the spa if…ohhhhhh…” She giggles and grins, “You ARE going all out with this, aren’t you? One box of chocolate covered cherries to be delivered to the spa by Hearts and Hooves Day. Got it.” She says as she writes it down. Then she looks over to see Spike pulling out some bits, “Uh, what are you doing?” “I’m paying for the Cherries.” Pinkie puts her hoof up, “No. Absolutely not. Knowing Rarity is going to have a good Hearts and Hooves Day for once is all the payment I need. Besides, we technically don’t sell this kind of stuff, so I can’t charge you anyway.” Spike sighs, “Just take it, please.” Pinkie looks at the bits he’s holding out and shrugs, “Okay.” She takes the bits and puts them away, “Anything else, Spike?” Spike shakes his head, “Nope! I have one more thing to set up for Rarity. See you later, Pinkie.” The pink pony waves goodbye to the dragon, letting him leave as she goes back to work herself. Author's Note I had trouble getting Aloe to speak with her accent so I gave up and had her speaking normally. Sorry about that.
Chapter 1 - Something WrongThe sun was shining down on a seemingly normal day in Ponyville. Normal, that is, for the month leading up to Hearts and Hooves Day. The day itself was still weeks away, but signs of it were everywhere. Ponies traveled as couples from place to place or sat together for long periods at a time. All the shops were beginning their promotions and sales for hearts and hooves day. Even Sugar Cube Corner was having a special couples’ discount going on, judging by the sign Pinkie Pie just placed outside. The impending holiday seemed everywhere, and everypony seemed eager for it as usual. Everypony except for the one seen galloping around back and forth through the windows of Carousel Boutique. Rarity was rushing this way and that way through her work area, her keen eyes desperately searching one spot before she darted off to set them on another. The sounds of her hooves clambering over the floor were only matched with her anxious voice repeating “where is it” over and over again. Feeling exasperated, she was about to give up when she finally came upon the blue silk she’d been looking for. She gave a relieved sigh, “There you are! Now I can – Oh, dear.” She pulled the silk out to find that there was hardly any of it left. She gave a hefty groan and let her face slap down against her working table. She stayed there for a few moments, and finally moved at the sound of knocking on the Boutique’s door. She jolted up and gave a rather harsh “What now?!” as she hurried over to answer. She opened the door to find a particular purple and green dragon waiting patiently on the other side. “Oh, it’s you, Spike.” Rarity relaxed again, giving him a half-hearted smile, “I appreciate the visit, but I’m rather busy at the moment.” Spike nodded, “I know. Sweetie Belle told me you were really backed up, so I figured I could come and help.” He looked up at Rarity, and his smile faded to a look of concern, “Though it looks like you need a break more than anything.” Rarity turned her head to look at herself in one of the many mirrors she has, and gave a small gasp. The usually fabulous looking mare was quite disheveled from the workload she’s been keeping up with. Her mane was frizzled and messy, beads of sweat running down her face. A tad bit of make-up had begun to run as well. Rarity beckoned Spike to come inside with a tilt of her head, and rushed up to her bedroom to repair the damage. “I appreciate your concern, Spike, but I’m so busy at the moment that the best I can do is make myself presentable before getting back to it. There’s just so much I have to do still, and who knows what I’ll be getting next.” Spike stayed at the bottom of the stairs, casually talking up to her as he waits for her, “Even twilight admits too much work is bad for you every now and then.” “That’s fine for her, but being behind in her studies doesn’t mean she loses business, Spike.” She returned from upstairs with her mane neatly brushed and the running mascara wiped away. “I must get these orders done. I do admit I could use an extra pair of hooves, though. Or claws, in your case. I was just about to start on this blue dress –” She stopped as she looked down at the small amount of fabric that she had been eager to find, and frowned. Spike followed her line of sight to the blue silk. “Kind of hard to make it if you don’t have all the stuff you need.” He smiled at her. Rarity gave a small huff, “Oh, fine. Go get the gem wagon, Spike. There are a lot of other materials and supplies that I need as well while we’re out and we couldn’t possibly carry it all ourselves.” Spike nodded and grabbed the wagon. Soon they were out in the warmth of the day heading towards the other shops. Spike tried once more to convince Rarity to relax a bit, “You know, going out to get more stuff to work on isn’t much of a break. I know you’re busy, but overworking yourself isn’t going to help.” “And neither is sitting on my rump and doing nothing. I have to get them done as soon as possible.” “But why the sudden rush of business? And why is it such short notice for it all?” “I’ll explain later. We’re here.” Here meant the supply store that Rarity always used for her business. She was such a regular customer that the pony that ran it could find exactly what she wanted before Rarity even finished her order. It took a while longer than usual to gather all the supplies, and by the time they were done the wagon was towering with different colored fabrics, including the blue silk at the top. After paying the hefty price of bits, Rarity and Spike headed off for the Boutique. Figuring he lost the battle about taking a break, Spike decided to at least give Rarity something else to think about. “The hearts and hooves decorations are all coming along nicely, but they seem to be lacking something. I’m surprised that you aren’t helping with them, Rarity. You’d probably add that sparkle they need.” “I’m far too busy to worry about such frivolities, Spike.” Not expecting such a cold response, he tried again. “That’s a shame. I’m sure you’d know a number about making this holiday look perfect. I mean, you are a mare of beauty and passion, so the holiday that surrounds such should be easy for you to-” He suddenly stopped as Rarity turned around, her expression and words like ice to him. “Thank you for your assistance, Spike. This little break was exactly what I needed, but now I must get back to work.” Her horn glowed and her magic snatched the wagon’s handle out of Spike’s grasp. Then she and the wagon of sewing material suddenly rushed into the Boutique and the door slammed shut behind both. Knocked down by the wagon hitting him, Spike slowly stood up. He was rather bewildered by Rarity’s mood, and he cautiously opened the door again. “Um, Rarity…?” “Yes Spike?” She asked sharply, having quickly gone back to work by cutting up the blue silk she was desperate to get. “I…I thought I was going to help you. You know, since you’re so busy.” She stopped and looked over at him for a moment. Her expression was hard to read, but Spike felt there was a bit of animosity behind it. “Thank you, Spike, but these orders are short and easy. I just need to get through them as quick as I can.” Spike entered the shop and closed the door behind him, looking at Rarity more closely than he had earlier. He couldn’t help notice her eyes were a little puffy and tired looking. “Rarity? Are you alright?” “I’m fine, Spike.” She said, not even bothering to look at him. The usual scent of body lotions and perfumes that came from her was absent. Her mane was also becoming untidy rather quick, implying she wasn’t using her usual hair products to keep it in shape. Taking all this into account, Spike’s concern for her grew, “You certainly don’t seem alright.” Rarity gave another huff like the one before, “I told you before, I’m just too busy to be over-conscious about my appearance.” Spike rubbed his dragon chin as he eyed her some more. He moved up to the table and stared at the pony at work. While she refused to look at him, he can’t help but notice one other thing was off. When Rarity usually worked her magic on outfits, so to speak, she had this dazzling glint in her eye. But now, it wasn’t there at all. “No…it’s something else.” “There’s nothing else, Spike. Now please, go…go help Twilight or something.” She muttered, starting to pin the clipped blue fabric together. “Rarity, talk to me.” “Go home, Spike.” “At least look at me.” “Please, Spike, leave me alone.” “You aren’t acting like yourself.” Ignoring the dragon, Rarity moved away from the table and over to her sewing machine. Spike glared at her, his temper starting to rise. “RARITY!” The white mare stopped what she was doing. Unsure of whether it was because he shouted or the fact that he was still there, Spike didn’t know. But he took the silence as an opportunity to try once more. “What…is wrong?” Rarity stood there for a few moments, leaving Spike standing in suspense. Finally she let go of the fabric, “What’s wrong..? You want to know what’s wrong, Spike?” She seemed to be shaking a little as her horn glowed, and she floated a long piece of parchment over to Spike. “This is what’s wrong…” Spike read over the parchment that he was given. It was a list of the orders Rarity had. He eventually looked back up to Rarity, “I…don’t get it.” “You don’t? Well then, let me enlighten you.” She turned around, seemingly content but Spike noticed she was very tense. She pointed to the list, “This…is only the order list that I’m working on today. I got most of those orders almost a week ago.” Her horn glowed more, and she pulled no less than five more parchment pieces over to her, “This one was completely filled out the day after that one. And this was filled shortly after that. And I’m nowhere near to doing out the most recent one, which I probably won’t get into until next week, at best. But, if you would, look at the date they’re all expected to be done by…” Spike noticed that almost all of her body was shaking by now. He nervously looked down, and noticed that they were all asked to be done before Hearts and Hooves day. “Are these all orders for-” He didn’t even get to finish. “OF COURSE THEY ARE!” Rarity cried out, now starting to pace back and forth in front of him. Spike could practically feel the fury of her words as she spoke, “It’s the same thing every year! Everypony’s out there, meeting with their special somepony,” She said the words akin to a schoolfilly mocking something, then continued her pacing, “While I’m trapped in my boutique for almost an entire month, slaving away!” She stopped at the window and glared out of it, giving a rather vicious snort that’s very unlike her, “I make fine art out of my dresses for almost every mare in Ponyville! And I tailor the best suits for stallions ever seen! I bust my rump, working day and night, doing my part to ensure a perfect Hearts and Hooves day to everypony who enters this shop! Everypony…except for me!” Spike was taken aback by that last comment. He looked at her in mild confusion, “You can’t tell me a mare like you never had a single Hearts and Hooves day date…” Rarity turned her head from the window to look back at him. She had a glare that made him instantly regret saying that. “Oh, there have been suitors. Each one as abhorring as the last! I couldn’t tell you how many times I’ve been left sitting there like a lump waiting for them to show up! Or just standing beside them while they show me off like I’m some kind of…some kind of ornament that goes with their outfit! And there are quite a few faces I’ve left my hoof mark on, I can tell you that!” She started approaching Spike, making the scared dragon back up a bit as she drew closer. “They all asked me out, but none of them really meant it! They just wanted to be seen with Rarity: the famous fashion maker! Sometimes they care about Rarity: the Element of Harmony! Or, by far the worst, Rarity: The pony I’ll have in my BEDROOM TONIGHT!” “But did any of them care about me?! Did any of them care about Rarity the Unicorn?! Of course not! Nopony cares about me! I’m nothing more than a phase! A fashion trend!A TEMPORARY INTEREST! THAT’S WHAT’S WRONG!” She seethed at Spike as she had him in a corner. He could see all the pent up rage in her eyes, but they were also swimming with the tears that were begging to come. She was shaking all over, and for a few moments it seemed she was finished. But before Spike could do or say anything, she spoke again. “YOU are no better than the rest of them! Don’t think I haven’t noticed the way you fawn over me! How you gaze until you’re drooling to the floor! You pretend to be nice and sentimental, but we both know differently, and it’s high time we stopped pretending otherwise!” Once again her horn lit up, and Spike found himself lifted off the floor by his tail. He was carried to the window Rarity had been looking out of. “Now, as I’ve told you before, I’m quite busy. So, I ask for the last time, Go Home!” She unceremoniously chucked the dragon out the window and snapped it shut behind her before trotting away from it, leaving the dragon face-first on the ground outside. Author's Note Very first fanfic. Don't be shy with critiquing.
Chapter 2 - HeartwarmingSeveral weeks have passed with Rarity stuck inside of the Boutique from sunrise to sunset, perfecting gowns and suits for practically all of Ponyville. Come the eve before Hearts and Hooves day, everypony came to pick them up, without one unsatisfied customer. Now the morning sun rises on Hearts and Hooves day. Its yellow rays sink into Rarity’s bedroom, hitting her eyes and causing her to stir. With a groan, the fashionista slowly climbs out of bed and goes downstairs. Despite it still being a mess, it looked much emptier now that all the outfits that she’s made were removed from the room. She slowly wanders into the kitchen and starts making herself some coffee and her eyes drift towards the windows. She sees several ponies already pairing up with their loved ones and heading out for a day of togetherness. With a heavy sigh, her horn glows and she closes the curtains. She grabs her mug, heads back into her work room, and decides to clean up before spending the day doing nothing. As she started to work, she thinks back to her treatment of the one creature that showed concern for her well being over the past few extremely busy weeks, and she felt regret for rejecting the purple dragon as she did. It was completely unfair of her to take her stress, anger and hatred of this particular day out on him, especially since he clearly just wanted to help. Her thoughts are interrupted, however, when she hears a knock at her door. ‘Probably just a last minute attempt at a date’ she thought with a huff. She went over and opened the door, only for her jaw to drop. Fancy Pants was there, with Hoity Toity and Photo Finish right behind him. The Canterlot stallion looks over Rarity and gives a little smile. “oh my. I’d have thought that the pony we were to order dresses from would look a little more professional when we came to visit.” Rarity looks down at herself. Wearing her fluffy pink robe and slippers to go with her bedhead, she looked like nothing she’d expect of a professional either. She sheepishly smiles at Fancy. “Eh, hehe, I’m sorry, I-I didn’t know I wa-was to be expecting you. Hehe. Um, wh-why don’t you come in and make yourself at home while I, uh, go get dressed…” She suddenly vanished as she went upstairs once more. She slaps on her usual makeup attire and dresses in one of her spare outfits for the ponies downstairs, her mind racing at the idea that all three of them were in her boutique right now. By the time she returns, she finds all three of them looking around her studio. She has to stop and breath a few times before finding the ability to walk all the way downstairs. “An interesting choice of fabric you have here, Rarity. Slightly cheaper, but still very refined looking, and it feels magnificent.” Hoity compliments, examining the rolls she has. “Oh, why thank you, Hoity. I have to keep my mind on finances, but I can’t ignore the call of finer materials.” Rarity looks around, “I don’t mean to offend, but…why are you all here?” Fancy looked a little shocked, “I beg your pardon, but when you said you didn’t know we were coming, I thought you were joking.” He turns to face her with another smile, “See, we were told that you were the sole proprietor of the fine elegant fashion that hits Ponyville this time of year, and told it’d be a good idea to look at what you create.” Rarity stares at him, moving her gaze from the stallion to Hoity and Photo as if expecting one of them to break it to her that it’s a joke. When both of them nodded in agreement, she felt her face split into a wide smile, “Oh, I’d be delighted to show you what I did! Obviously I don’t have the dresses themselves, but I can show you my designs!” The morning passed in a flash. Several hours that would have been spent brooding was instead focused on spending time with ponies Rarity highly regarded and basking in how they showed such appreciation and approval of her work. By the time noon rolled around, her usually depressed attitude for the day was replaced with pure glee, despite knowing she has big orders to fill once more. “Oh thank you so much for coming! You have no idea what it meant to me.” Hoity nods to her, “Not a problem at all, my dear. We look forward to the delivery of your fantastic creations.” As they made to head out Fancy stopped at the door and turned to Rarity. He held out his hoof, an envelope in it, “Oh, this is for you. The one who suggested we come here asked us to deliver it before we left.” Rarity takes the envelope and lets them leave. She finds a card inside and is a little bewildered that the card is blank on the cover. She opens the card and gives a loud gasp: A ponyville spa coupon for their Premium Service. Rarity’s only managed to afford the Special Service, but she’s always wanted to see what the premium involved. Moving the coupon aside, she reads the text within the card. “A day of love for one like you Should be one that’s special and memorable too So after the start to your wondrous day Featuring your hard work put on display A trip to the spa is what’s in store To relax your weary and tired form The coupon’s good now, so don’t be absurd Go enjoy the comfort that you surely deserve” Rarity stares at the card. It wasn’t anything like the pieces of trash she usually sent to the rightful place of the garbage can. Sure rhymes aren’t rare for hearts and hooves day cards, but this one was personally written, has no signature, and was just telling her to enjoy herself rather than asking her to go out with the one writing it. Feeling a bit of admiration for the pony who sent the card, she floated it over to rest on the kitchen table. With the coupon floating in her magic hold beside her, she finally dared to trot out of her house into the sunny day. She makes her way through ponyville without a second thought or care for the couples she passes. The joy of a Hearts and Hooves that’s actually going well for her for once making her immune to her usual unhappiness. She presents her coupon to Lotus, and she’s treated to the best visit to the spa she’s ever had. The weekly usual for her and Fluttershy kept her relaxed and beautiful looking, but the additional and more detailed treatments she gets makes it an experience she won’t forget soon. Aromatherapy, more massage work, a more expensive but even more effective and wonderful-feeling body-wrap. It just got better and better. Finally when she was left in a special hot tub with daisies and extra expensive minerals floating with her, her attention was drawn to Aloe. The pink Spa mare presented her with a small box, making Rarity tilt her head in confusion. “What is this?” “Well, the one that got you the treatment dropped this off and asked us to give you this instead of the usual fruit that comes with the treatment.” Rarity’s brow rises at this and looks at the box again. She notices that it, too, came with a blank card. She takes the card and opens it to read the next rhyme that she’s been given. “It must be nice getting what you earned But an empty stomach shouldn’t be ignored I figured that you could use something to eat And I’m sure that you’ll love this special treat.” Rarity sets the card down and removes the lid of the box. Inside appears to be a bunch of chocolate. Despite her caution that this is rather too generous for her mysterious generous pony, she takes one of the chocolates out and puts it into her mouth to chew on it. Her eyes suddenly go wide and her mouth starts to drool. She gazes down at the box, “H…how?” It’s Aloe’s turn to look confused at Rarity, “How what?” “How did he know my favorite candy? I mean, I absolutely LOVE chocolate covered cherries!” Aloe shrugs, “Seems you got a special somepony looking out for you.” “I guess so! I don’t know who this pony is, but I’m really starting to like him!” Rarity leans back into the spa tub and pops another candy into her mouth. She smiles widely as she chews, and starts to imagine just who this mysterious generous pony is. Rarity leaves the spa feeling more refreshed, rejuvenated and happy than she’s ever been on Hearts and Hooves day. She’s practically skipping as she makes her way back to the Boutique, content with spending the rest of her day with the windows open and the sun shining on her. But as she approached her place, she notices she’s got yet another surprise waiting for her. Right in front of her door is a big white box tied in a purple bow. She gets excited and races forward with a silly little giggle. She finds yet another card there as well, and her eyes dart from the card to the box to decide which to open first. Figuring it’d be rude to open the box, she goes with the card. “There is still so much left for you To ensure you have a proper Hearts and Hooves Now that you’re rested and back in full health It’s time to dress up and show off yourself With all the clothing you bust your rear to make Here’s an outfit of your own to impress those in your wake” Rarity’s eyes bulged at that and looked down at the package. Somepony made a dress for her? She was slightly concerned for how the dress would appear. She stares at the box with uncertainty about opening it and looking inside. Eventually her curiosity wins over her worry, the unicorn popping the box open and pulling the dress out. She slowly opens her eyes to look at it, and yet again she’s blown away by what she’s received. It’s a gorgeous red outfit, a perfect blend between a cocktail dress and a high class evening gown. Royal red with gold lace and trimmings expertly sewed in using an elegant pattern. It apparently came with matching hindleg shoes and foreleg gloves. She couldn’t help but gaze at it for a while, feeling as if it’s a design she herself would make for an extremely important client. She takes in the beautiful piece of clothing, turning it around to observe it from every angle she possibly could. Then she looks down and notices yet another card inside the box. “If you’d rather not wear it, that’s alright I just thought you’d want it for tonight For I’ve made reservations of the personal kind By booking a spot on observation hill outside There I’ll be waiting at half past eight If you are willing and able to join me for a date.” This particular card and message had brought various and conflicting emotions to the white unicorn. She was outraged that all this has led to yet another date proposal. And yet…and yet all that happened had made her interested in accepting the invitation. It sounds like he’s already going to set up, whether she comes or not. She looks down at the dress and back at the card, her mind working as she decides whether she’ll go or not. On one hoof, again, it’s just an invitation. She’s rejected plenty in the past. But on the other, with all that this pony went through for her today, she should at least show her appreciation for it. With that thought in mind, she went inside to get herself ready for her Hearts and Hooves date.
Chapter 3 - Planning One DayTwilight enjoys her current book in the peace and quiet of the library. It doesn’t last, however, as she hears the door opening and closing. She walks out of her room and down the stairs to find Spike circling the library floor, his eyes narrowed in concentrated thinking. She gives a little giggle as she walks over to him, “I thought I was the one who did all the pacing around here.” Her smile falters to a look of confusion as she tilts her head, “Wait, I thought you went to help Rarity with her work.” The dragon stops his pacing to look back at the alicorn, “I did. But…something happened. Did you know that Rarity hasn’t had one good Hearts and Hooves Day date? Not one.” Twilight gives a look of unsure disbelief, “Rarity? Not have a date?” Spike shakes his head, “No, she’s had dates, but they were all bad. It’s why we’ve never seen her on one since we’ve been here. She’s given up on them. In fact, she hates Hearts and Hooves Day completely because of them. Well, that and she’s working herself half to death making the Hearts and Hooves Day outfits for everypony in Ponyville.” He sighs, “I wish I could help her somehow.” The dragon resumes his pacing as Twilight watches him with some concern, “Spike, I don’t think you can do much to help her with how bad she’s had it on Hearts and Hooves day. Although…” She smiles, “You could show her what a GOOD Hearts and Hooves Day is like.” Spike stops his pacing again and smiles brightly, “That’s a great idea! But…” His smile vanishes, “How do I do that?” Twilight keeps smiling as she goes over to the library shelves and starts looking, “I know it’s here somewhere…” Spike raises his scaled brow at the unicorn, “Don’t tell me there’s a book here about making a good Hearts and Hooves Day.” Twilight shakes her head, “Oh, no, but there iiiisss….THIS!” She pulls the book out and floats it over to him for the dragon to take. “Just One Day?’ What the heck is this?” He turns it over and starts reading the back, “Peachy Keen can’t stop thinking about Cream, and quickly learns that it’s not just because they are friends. As her feelings develop, Peachy decides to do what she can to show Cream just how much she cares. When Cream seems uninterested, Peachy gets Cream to give her one day to convince Cream of her affections.” He looks at Twilight, then at the book, “I don’t get it. It’s just a dinky romance novel. Why do you even have this?” Twilight’s face goes a little red, “Uh, diversity in the library.” She clears her throat, “But that’s beside the point. The point is that this book is about one pony showing how much she knows about and cares for the other by giving her a perfect day. Perhaps you can get Rarity out of her Hearts and Hooves Day funk by doing something similar.” Spike looks down at the book, rubbing his clawed finger over his chin as he thinks a bit. He gives a loud gasp and a wide smile before he rushes up to the bedroom. Confused, Twilight goes up to follow him and finds him digging under the bed, “Spike, what are you doing?” “Getting out my saved bits. I’m going to need them!” He says, pulling a floorboard out from under the bed and pulling out a decent sized container. He opens it up, revealing the container as filled with bits and gems. “If I’m going to give Rarity the best Hearts and Hooves Day ever, I need all the money I can get.” “But Spike, that’s your life savings! Besides, you know I’d be happy to lend-“ Spike looks at her, “No way, Twilight!” He stands up, box of currency under his arm, “This is something that’ll be from me to Rarity. That’s it. I want as little help as possible.” He then goes over to grab his hiking bag from where he put it, laying it out and starting to fill it with a few things. Twilight looks at him with utter confusion, “Uh, what are you doing? I thought you were going to do something for Rarity, not run away.” Spike rolls his eyes, “I’m not running away, Twilight. I’m going to Canterlot. I think I know exactly what would make Rarity’s Hearts and Hooves Day special, and I need to go there to set things up.” The unicorn puts her hoof to her head, “Spike, I think you might be going a little too far with this.” He stops and looks back at her, slowly setting down the fruit he got into the bag, “You said yourself that the purpose of this is to give them the perfect day, right?” Twilight nods, “Yeah, but-“ He interrupts her again, “But nothing. I’m going to give Rarity the perfect Hearts and Hooves Day, and there’s nothing you can do or say to stop me from doing it all on my own. If you want to help, just let me go.” She watches him as he gets the last of the things he needs into his bag, and then gives a sigh, “How long will you be there?” He starts to think a little, “A few days, maybe a week.” “A WEEK?!” He shrugs, “I got some popular, high class ponies that I need to talk to. I don’t know how hard it’ll be to get to them, let alone to try talking them into doing this.” Twilight sighs and nods, “Fine. But I want a letter from you every day while you’re there so I know you’re alright. And you’re going to stay in the castle suite.” Spike nods and ties the bag up, putting it over his shoulder, “Stay in the castle, write letters. Got it. Now what are we waiting for? I got a Hearts and Hooves Day to plan for Rarity.” He goes to the door and heads out with Twilight right behind him, glancing at the book and shaking her head with a smile as she follows him. She goes with Spike to the station and manages to convince him to at least let her buy the two-way ticket. She wishes him good luck and reminds him to write to her when he gets there. With a final goodbye, she waves at him as he boards the train and takes off for Canterlot. The following week is mostly uneventful for Twilight. Spike’s letters come with the dragon being extremely vague in his work in Canterlot, but at least he’s sending them. And it seems that, whatever he went there to do, he’s succeeding. With the dragon gone Twilight is able to spend the week doing as much binge studying as she wants, with only Owlucious to keep her company. As the week comes to a close, though, the unicorn can’t wait to see her number one assistant again. The day comes and she quietly waits for the time she needs to meet Spike, and she’s surprised when she finds a letter pushed underneath the library door. She tilts her head and opens the door, looking around for where it might have come from. With a shrug she picks up the letter and opens it. There are several things scribbled out on the letter, and for some reason there was a lot of glitter on it as well. She has to squint a little to read the writing. “Twilight Sparkle, Whatever you have planned for this Hearts and Hooves day, [scribbled out] I advise that you do not go through with them. Instead [scribbled out] you shall make plans for meeting with [scribbled out] me that evening. If you agree to this arrangement, leave this letter at the foot of the fountain next to Ponyville Town Hall by noon today for [scribbled . If not, burn this letter and forget you ever saw it. [scribbled out] I sincerely hope you accept. Signed, [scribbled out] Your potential date.” Twilight stares at the letter in a mix of confusion, amusement and a little embarrassment. Seems she had a secret admirer. She looks at the clock and sees she has precisely an hour to decide on this proposal. But she’s also got to meet Spike at the train station at noon as well. She glances at the letter and back at the clock, her mind racing to decide. She paces a little as she tries to think, moving back and forth. She stops as her eyes settle on the Just One Day book, and she glances from it to the letter. A little smile comes across her face as she examines the letter a bit, and suddenly she rushes out the door to get to the fountain in time. Author's Note I apologize if this one seems too dialog heavy, and I realize the pacing is a little off. Tried my best for something that I wrote in a couple of hours. I think I'll take my time with the chapters following this one.
Chapter 4 - Stitching Things Together“Here we are. See, you didn’t lose them. They were right were you left them.” Fluttershy smiles to the little squirrel next to her. She keeps digging, revealing the rest of the acorns, “You really do need to keep better track of where you hide these, though. It should not have taken you this long after Winter Wrap Up to find them. I’d hate to think of you starving because you weren’t able to get your food.” The squirrel chitters happily at the butter-yellow Pegasus and dives into his stash, leaving her to giggle, “You’re quite welcome.” She heads back up to her cottage home only to find a certain purple dragon wandering up the road with a backpack on. Not wanting to appear rude by going inside as he approaches, she instead decides to stand there and wait for him. The dragon seems quite unfocused. Or perhaps too focused. She couldn’t tell which as he was looking down and mumbling to himself, talking to himself about something. He’s so preoccupied with whatever he’s doing he doesn’t seem to realize he’s about to bump into her, so she tries to get his attention. “Ahem, um, excuse me, Spike. You might want to stop. Please Spike?” He doesn’t seem to respond and, sure enough, he almost bumps into her. Shy steps aside and watches him go right up to her cottage door and knock a bit. She clears her throat and tries to speak again. “Spike? I’m right behind you. All you have to do is turn around.” Once again he doesn’t seem to react, still muttering. She slowly reaches a hoof over, and very gently pokes his shoulder with it to get his attention, “Spike?” “AHH!” He jumps up, suddenly startled. “AHHH!” She screams back, suddenly flying up into one of the branches of her tree home. The dragon blinks a few times before he looks up, “Oh! Fluttershy, why didn’t you tell me that you were already out here? Can you come down; I need to talk to you about something.” The Pegasus was shaking a little as she clung to the tree branch, looking down at him. She slowly stopped her shaking and let go, fluttering back down to the ground. “I did try to tell you that I was here, but you didn’t listen. You looked like you had a lot on your mind.” He nods, “Yeah, that’s because I do. I just got back from Canterlot and so far everything is coming together perfectly.” “For what, Spike?” Shy asked, tilting her head a little in curiosity. Spike smiles, “I’m planning the perfect Hearts and Hooves Day for Rarity. I already got the first part all planned out, but for the next one, I really need your help.” “My help?” Shy asked, even more confused, “What could you possibly need my help for?” “You know how to sew, right?” Spike asks, getting a nod from the Pegasus, “Well, I was thinking that maybe I could make an extra special outfit for her to surprise her with. But I don’t know anything about sewing. So I was thinking that maybe you could…I don’t know, teach me or something so I could do it.” “Oh don’t be silly Spike; I’m not going to teach you.” Fluttershy says, smiling as the dragon’s ear fins start to droop down, “I’m going to help you ma-.” She suddenly has a clawed hand in front of her face to stop her. “No can do, Fluttershy. I already told Twilight and I’m telling you now. I’m doing as much of this as I can on my own. Just show me how to do it, and I’ll do it.” Shy peeks around the claw in front of her, “Um, no offense, Spike, but sewing isn’t something you just learn. It can take days if not weeks of practice just to get the techniques down right. There’s no way you could learn in time to make a full dress by Hearts and Hooves day.” Spike gives a huff as he pulls his hand back, “Well…fine, you can teach me along the way and let me help as much as possible. At the very least, I’ll be more useful to Rarity when I’m in there to help her from now on.” Shy beams at the dragon, “That’s a wonderful idea. Come inside, I’ll make some tea and we can talk about the dress.” She opens the door to let Spike in. She goes to follow him only to have a blur of blue and rainbow rush up to her door. The trailing wind blows her mane and tail back a bit, making Shy shut her eyes. She opens them to see Rainbow Dash flapping in front of her with a…peculiar look on her face, “Hey Fluttershy! You got some time? I wanna talk to you about something.” “Um, sure, Rainbow. Come right inside. Spike and I were just about to have tea. You’re more than welcome to join us.” Dash looks in the door to see Spike wave at her. She straightens up in the air and rubs the back of her neck a bit, “well, actually…you know what? It’ll have to wait. I just remembered I have…s-something…to do…th-the thing at the…place….” She gives an awkward smile and then rushes off, blasting shy with more air that almost knocks her back from how fast Dash takes off. Confused and a little worried about her friend, Shy walks inside and heads to the kitchen to make tea. “What’s the matter with her?” She hears Spike ask from her living room. She gives a little sigh as she puts the kettle on, “I’ve no idea…I hope she’s alright.” Shy walks back into the living room to Spike giving a shrug, “She’ll be fine. She’s Rainbow Dash. She always comes back alright.” The Pegasus sighs as she sits down next to him, “I sure hope so. She’s been acting really strange lately.” “Strange how?” Spike sits back on the couch as Shy shrugs this time, “I…I don’t know how to explain it. She just…she’s around here all the time. Much more than usual. Every now and then she even asks me if I want help with tending to the animals. She almost never asks to help with stuff unless it’s, you know, really physical or competitive. It’s so weird.” Spike stares at Shy, the dragon wondering how she’s not reading it the way he is. Figuring he shouldn’t get too deep into this, though, he decides to change the subject, “Well, like I said, I think she’ll be just fine. I, however, still need your help.” Shy shakes her head to snap herself out of it and smiles at Spike, “Oh! Of course, the dress. Sorry. So, do you have any ideas?” Spike nods and reaches into the backpack, pulling out a couple of pieces of parchment and laying them down, “While in Canterlot I drew some ideas, even got Hoity Toity to help me with some of them already. I was really hoping to make something that would go with the fire ruby I gave her.” The Pegasus looks over the drawings, having a more focused look on her face. “Oh dear. No way you could have done these with only a week of practice. They’re so complex. Wait…” She pulls one particular dress out, and smiles, “If we simplify it a bit, we could easily make this one. Here…” She goes and grabs something to write with and comes back. She looks between the drawing and the paper as she sketches out a simple yet elegant dress, similar to the one she was talking about. “Here Give it red and gold coloring, it’ll go really well with her white coat and purple mane. She’d love it.” Spike jumps up and hugs her tight, “That’s great! We should get started right away!” He lets go of her and hops off the couch, smiling at her, “What all do I need to get?” Shy rubs her chin and hums as she stares at the pic. She gets another paper and writes a short list before giving it to Spike, “Here. And you’re keeping this a secret, right?” He nods and she smiles, “if anypony asks, tell them I’m trying to improve the chicken coop. they’d believe it.” With that Spike chuckles and rushes out the door. ============================================================================= While Shy and Spike are having their tea together, Rainbow Dash is up on a tree branch by the road, smacking her head against the tree itself. “Stupid. Stupid. Stupid.” She gives a heavy sigh and plops back onto the tree limb, “I should have just asked her then and there. The timing for it doesn’t have to be perfect, after all. Gah, I’m so stupid!” She grumbles a bit more as she lies on the limb, staring up at the sky. Her mind starts to drift and she stays silent for a while. Eventually she’s right back at talking to herself, “With all the insane things I’ve gone up against, how is it that THIS manages to be so difficult for me? I fought a Manticore, a dragon, Discord, even a whole freaking changling army for Celestia’s sake. And yet I can’t ask one mare out on a date?! It’s not like I’m proposing to her, it’s just a date. Gah!” She rubs her hooves over her face and lets them flop to her sides, “I’m pathetic.” “Not really.” Dash practically jumps out of her skin at the sudden voice underneath her, causing her to tumble out of the tree and to the ground with a heavy thud. She groans as her vision comes back to her and she looks up to see Spike standing over her and looking down at her with concern. “Hey, are you alright…?” Rainbow shakes her head and regains her focus, “Uh, yeah, I’m fine…” She slowly sits up and looks at the dragon, “Hey…how-how much of that did you hear?” Spike gives a shrug, “Just that last bit, but I kinda figured it out already.” “You did?! How?!” Spike gives her a funny look then starts counting on his claws, “Let’s see. Increasingly spending more time at her place and with her in general. Offering to help her with her work and other things. Watching her as much as you can without trying to seem creepy. Any of this sound familiar?” He asks, indicating to himself. Dash rubs her foreleg with the other, “It’s that obvious, huh?” “Only because I know you and how much time you’re spending with her. But somehow, Fluttershy is…downright oblivious to it, actually. It’s kind of weird. I mean, you aren’t exactly a master of subtlety.” “Hey! I can be subtle if I want to.” Dash folds her forehooves in front of her chest in a huff, “I just don’t see the point of it. I mean, what’s wrong with being known?” “Oh, nothing, though if you CAN be subtle, I was wondering if you could help me with something.” Dash puts her hooves down and looks at the dragon again, “Sure thing. What do you need help with?” “Well, I don’t know what the weather is supposed to be like for Hearts and Hooves day, but I was wondering if you could maybe clear the skies that night around the stargazing hills. I was thinking of taking Rarity there after our dinner.” Rainbow’s eyes get a bit bigger and she looks at him with a bit of concern, “Woah there, Spike. You actually think Rarity’s gonna go out on a date on Hearts and Hooves day? Do you have any idea how she feels about that day?” “That’s exactly why I’m doing this.” Spike says insistently, “I’m going to show her that she can enjoy Hearts and Hooves day just as much as any other mare, if not more! Besides, the date is only if she wants to. I got other things happening for her that I know she’ll like before then.” She looks at him with suspicion and curiosity, “Okay, Spike, if you say so. I’ll try to keep most clouds clear of that hill for ya, but I’m not making any promises….about that or about Rarity.” Spike grins and stands proudly, “Don’t worry, Rainbow Dash. I know exactly what I’m doing.” He continues to head to Ponyville only to stop and look back, “Oh, and as a personal expert on not saying how you feel, I don’t think you should hold back. Trust me, I wish I didn’t before now.” Rainbow is left contemplating as the dragon wanders off, tapping her chin with a hoof. ============================================================================= Spike wanders back into the cottage, his backpack filled with fabric swatches, spools of thread and other sewing supplies. “Fluttershy, I’m back! I got everything we might need from that store! Stitch even gave me a discount since it’s supposed to be for…Rari…ty…” He stops as he finds Shy sitting on the couch, staring off into space with a bright red blush on her cheeks. Concerned, the dragon rushes over to her and gently shakes the Pegasus, “Fluttershy, are you okay?” The shaking knocks Shy out of her little trance, blinking as she looks down at him, “Oh, hello Spike. I didn’t know you came back already.” “I just came in the front door.” He says back, “Are you okay? What happened.” She shifts a little, “Well…uh…Rainbow Dash came to see me while you were gone.” Spike resists the urge to smile as he nods, “And?” “And…well…she-she told me that…that she wanted to go out with me for Hearts and Hooves Day. I…I had no idea that she felt that way about me. I didn’t know what to say. So when she asked for an answer, all I could think of was to just nod in agreement. That…that’s when she…well…” Spike nods, scooting closer to hear her whisper, “She kissed me…” Spike smiles and hugs her, “Great! I knew she had it in her!” Shy looks at him, “You knew?” The dragon lets go of her and shrugs, “Sort of. I only knew for sure after I talked to her while I was gone. But I told her she should ask you out and she did! Oh, you’re going to have a great time with your special somepony.” “There’s just one problem, Spike.” He stops smiling as she looks at him, “I don’t know if she IS my special somepony.” His jaw drops as he hears that and stares at her. She sighs and looks down, “I’ve never considered mares to be an option for a special somepony. I mean, I-I never thought of them as something I might be…interested in. Oh, not-not that there’s anything wrong with it, I just…I never thought of mares that way.” “Well…are you going to back out of the date then?” Spike asks cautiously. “Oh, goodness no. I’d hate to hurt Rainbow Dash just because I’m not entirely comfortable or used to the idea. I’ll go on the…date…with her, but if she doesn’t convince me, I'm sorry to say that I'd have to tell her that I don’t feel the same way.” Spike gives another shrug, “well, there’s only one way to find out, so I guess it’s good that you aren’t saying no. ANYWAY!” He says loudly enough to make Shy jump, “Different subject. I got the stuff, so let’s get to work.” Shy smiles and nods, glad to have something else to focus on. The thought of hurting Dash because she doesn't feel the same to her was hard to think about. “Good. Lay everything out and we can get started.” Author's Note Like I said I would, I took more time on writing this one than on Chapter three...and yet I feel like it's somehow weaker than the previous one was. Any critique would be helpful.
Chapter 5 - Other ComfortsThe next week was nothing but working and learning. Just as Rarity was spending all of her time locked away in her boutique, Spike was spending all of his time in Fluttershy's cottage learning the very trade the white unicorn was working in. Spike insisted on personally doing as much of the dress as possible, making the creation of it much slower than it would have been if Shy was working on it herself. She didn’t mind though. Fluttershy was patient and gentle with how she taught, the perfect teacher for the enthusiastic dragon. Halfway through the next week, however, Fluttershy found herself with a bit of a predicament about her arrangement with Spike. He comes in to find her rubbing her front leg nervously and he looks at her with worry. “Fluttershy? What’s the matter?” “Well, uh, Spike, we’ll have to cut our…you know, our time short today.” She says, looking at him all worried as Spike gets confused, “What? Why?” “Well, today’s my usual spa day with Rarity. When she’s dealing with her Hearts and Hooves Day orders, she only takes one or two of the spa days to try relaxing. She really needs it.” The dragon sighs as he nods, “Yeah, she does. I looked in on her while she was working yesterday and she…she wasn’t herself. The spa would be perfect….for…her…” The dragon trails off as he says that, starting to stare into the distance. The effect gets Fluttershy concerned and she scoots over to him, “Spike…?” He suddenly smacks himself in the head, causing Shy to jump back with a yelp. “I’m so stupid! Why didn’t I think of that before?!” He shouts, suddenly extremely excited. Shy shakes herself of the shock and tilts her head in confusion, “think of what?” “The Spa! Rarity’s always going to the spa! And almost every time she’s talking about it, she’s…she’s telling me that there’s some kind of service that she’s never got to try. Oh, but what was it?” He says, knocking his head a few times to try to remember. Shy thinks a bit too, “Well, we always get the special service when she and I go, and the only option higher than that is the Premium Service. Neither of us could afford it, though.” Spike grins, “But I might be able to! Thank you, Fluttershy, you’re a genius!” He starts running for the door before Shy calls out to him, “Wait, aren’t we going to sew today? I do have some time before I have to meet with Rarity.” Rubbing his chin in thought, he shrugs, “Yeah, probably a good idea. I wouldn’t want Rarity catching me there anyway.” Another hour or so was spent on sewing, though much of it is spent teaching Spike more sewing techniques. Eventually Shy looks at the time and then to Spike, “That’s enough. I need to go so I can be on time. No matter how busy she is, she always keeps to when we’re supposed to meet.” Spike nods, “Okay. I have other things to set up for Hearts and Hooves day anyway, and not just the spa treatment. I’m telling you, Rarity’s going to love it this year.” Fluttershy nods and goes to meet up with Rarity. Spike hangs out at the cottage, putting away the sewing material to give Shy and Rarity a head start. Eventually he grabs his backpack and heads into town and to the Ponyville Spa himself. He wanders in with a soft jingling of the front door, the strong scent of various herbs and remedies hitting his senses. Just stepping into the place helped one’s body relax from the wonderful fumes. He shook his head and approached the front counter, being greeted by one of the spa twins. “Oh, Mister Spike. It’s good to see you again. We can have the extra hot bath ready for you in no time if that’s what you are looking for.” Aloe says with a smile, her blue fur and pink mane thankfully distinguishing her from her sister. Spike shakes his head, “No thanks, I’m here for something else. How much is your premium service?” He asks, wanting to get right to it. “Premium? Oh dear, that one is quite expensive, and it takes such a long time to do. Are you sure you want it?” He shakes his head again, “Oh, no, it’s not for me. I’m getting it…” He peeks around and leans over to Aloe, whispering it to her, “I’m getting it for Rarity on Hearts and Hooves Day.” “Mister Spike! Such a gentlepony!” She says out, only to be shushed by the dragon, “Shhhh! I know she’s here and I don’t want her to know about it.” Aloe giggles and smiles, “ohhh, a surprise. Well, after hearing how horrible her past couple Hearts and Hooves days have been, I’m sure she’ll really appreciate this…and appreciate you for giving it to her.” She gives him a little wink, causing the dragon’s cheeks to turn red. “Heh, yeah, but I also don’t want her to know it’s from me. Can I get, like, a ticket or something for it that doesn’t have my name on it?” The spa pony nods and rummages behind the desk. She pulls out a pink and blue card with the spa’s logo on it, writing something out as she speaks, “This voucher guarantees one Premium Service.” She finishes writing and smiles at him, “And since it’s for Rarity, I can give you her loyalty discount. Ten percent off! That’s still a good forty five bits. Do you have that kind of money?” Spike gets a smirk on his face as he plops down a small bag of bits he got from his backpack, “Right here.” Aloe takes the bag and puts it on a weight, grinning as she sees it matches, “Good.” She tosses the bag under the desk and grabs a sheet of paper as well, offering it and the voucher to Spike, “This is all that we do for the premium, in case you were curious.” Spike takes the paper and starts reading through it. A particular item catches his eye, “You guys serve fruit during the service?” “oh, yeah. Being stuck here for so long could make ponies quite hungry.” The dragon thinks a bit with his claw on his chin, “Could you…substitute the fruit for something? Say, her favorite candy?” Aloe thinks a little this time, “That...would depend on the candy.” “Chocolate covered cherries?” Aloe smiles, “oh, absolutely. You’d just need to get them to us and we’ll serve them instead of the fruit.” Spike quickly thanks the spa pony and carefully puts the service voucher into his backpack. With that taken care of, he heads out the door and heads into Ponyville with yet more surprises to plan for Rarity. ===================================================================================== His first stop was Sugar Cube Corner, where he found the cake couple and Pinkie Pie filling and writing orders. He eventually manages to get Pinkie’s attention, “Woah, you’re busy aren’t you?” The pink pony nods, “Oh yeah, it’s been a doozy here getting all the special somepony sweets and treats done. We’re making all the things that’ll last so we can focus on the ‘make now eat now’ stuffs later.” The dragon thinks a bit, “Huh. That does make sense. Do you have any plans for Hearts and Hooves Day?” Giving a big smile, Pinkie hands another customer a box of treats as she responds, “Oh boy, do I?! I got this big old party planned for all the ponies that don’t have dates! And Mr. and Mrs. Cake are having a night on their own planned, with them having dinner reservations and everything. So I get to spend the whole time looking after the babies!” She giggles, “It’s going to be so fun! I have all kinds of things in store for the ponies showing up!” “Wait, don’t you have a special somepony?” She shrugs a bit as she works on filling another order, “That depends. Since I know everything about everypony in Ponyville, you could say EVERYONE is my special somepony!” She sees the look on the dragon’s face, “Buuuut that’s not what you meant. No, I don’t have a date or anything. And it’s fine. I’m just happy knowing that Mr. and Mrs. Cake will be enjoying their Hearts and Hooves Day instead, and I know I’m not the only one since I got other ponies coming to my party! But enough about me. What about YOU? Do yooouuu have anything going on?” Spike plays with his claws a bit as he nods, “Well, yeah, a lot, actually. See, I have a bunch of stuff planned for Rarity, and then I’m going to tak-“ “RARITY?! Spike, Rarity is the last pony that wants anything to do with Hearts and Hooves day.” Spike sighs as he puts his clawed hand to his face, “Yes, Pinkie, I know-“ “No you don’t! Spike, listen, I tried getting Rarity a date one year and…well…it didn’t work out. Trust me, It’s best just to leave her alone on Hearts and Hooves Day.” “It’s too late for that. I already got things set up, and I can’t back out now! Just tell me if you can make some chocolate covered cherries for her and I’ll be gone.” Spike says, folding his arms in front of his chest. Pinkie blinks at him, “Chocolate covered cherries? Well, we mostly do baked stuff but…if you’re sure…” “Listen Pinkie,” the dragon puts his hand on her shoulder, “I’m going all out to give Rarity a good Hearts and Hooves day, and I know exactly what I’m doing. YOU have to trust ME with this, okay? Can you make them?” Pinkie looks at him before giving a little smile, “Of course I can make them. Just…just make sure you know what you’re doing. She’s had enough bad experiences on Hearts and Hooves Day, okay? Just tell me when you’ll be getting them.” “Actually, can you deliver them to the Ponyville Spa? They’ll know what to do with them.” Pinkie tilts her head at him, “The spa? Why would I send them to the spa if…ohhhhhh…” She giggles and grins, “You ARE going all out with this, aren’t you? One box of chocolate covered cherries to be delivered to the spa by Hearts and Hooves Day. Got it.” She says as she writes it down. Then she looks over to see Spike pulling out some bits, “Uh, what are you doing?” “I’m paying for the Cherries.” Pinkie puts her hoof up, “No. Absolutely not. Knowing Rarity is going to have a good Hearts and Hooves Day for once is all the payment I need. Besides, we technically don’t sell this kind of stuff, so I can’t charge you anyway.” Spike sighs, “Just take it, please.” Pinkie looks at the bits he’s holding out and shrugs, “Okay.” She takes the bits and puts them away, “Anything else, Spike?” Spike shakes his head, “Nope! I have one more thing to set up for Rarity. See you later, Pinkie.” The pink pony waves goodbye to the dragon, letting him leave as she goes back to work herself. Author's Note I had trouble getting Aloe to speak with her accent so I gave up and had her speaking normally. Sorry about that.
