A Week in the Life of Shattered Heartby PuzzlingInsanityChaptersTuesdayWednesdayFridaySaturdaySundayMondayThursdayTuesdayThe next day, Fluttershy takes care of the animals and lets me help. A small bird flies up to me and tweets inquisitively. “What did it just say?” “Twitter was asking about your bandage,” Fluttershy replies, shooting the bird an angry look. I blush in slight embarrassment. “Um… I don’t want to talk about it.” As I prepare a warm herbal bath for the bear in the corner, that white rabbit from yesterday taps my cutie mark. “Angel! It’s not polite to poke somepony,” scolds the yellow pegasus, “especially back there!” “It’s fine,” I reply, “Angel didn’t hurt me.” The rabbit hops off, then returns with a carrot. “Y-you want me to feed you?” Fluttershy looks at Angel and says, “Do you want her to give you a carrot?” The rabbit shakes ‘no’ and pushes it into my hooves. “I’ve never seen him give away his food to anypony,” the yellow mare comments. Angel looks up apologetically at me. He smiles and hugs my unbandaged hoof. “He said he’s sorry for poking your flank.” “Apology accepted,” I smile, stroking the bunny between the ears. I get back to preparing the bath as the brown bear approaches me, smelling my mane. The bear sniffs my mane for about five minutes before backing off. “He must smell something in your mane.” “It’s just the shampoo I use,” I shrug, “it has a blend of cherry, apple, and orange extracts in it.” The bear lumbers into the tub as Fluttershy trots over to help me. We scrub his coat with a homemade shampoo. “He likes when I use this shampoo on his fur. It keeps the coat a beautiful chocolate brown without any harsh chemicals.” I nod. My mane is slightly damp from the bear splashing around. “He’s like an overgrown foal.” We dry the bear off and let him play around outside. As I close the door, I look at Fluttershy. She smiles as a soft blush graces her yellow cheeks and muzzle. Her deep, cyan eyes glimmer before she hides behind her cherry-blossom-pink mane. I walk over and laugh softly, pushing her mane out of her eyes and kissing her. As I pull away, I ask, “Would you please take me to the boutique?” “Well, can’t you fly?” I reply, “No… my wings can only open and close.” A hot wash of embarrassment turns my face bright red. She wraps one wing around me to console me. The yellow mare coos, “I’m sorry… I didn’t know.” “It’s fine. At least you didn’t make fun of me about it.” She smiles and allows me to climb onto her back. “Hold on tight… but not too tight,” she says. I grin as my marefriend trots outside and tentatively flaps her wings. For once, I feel… safe. I wrap my forehooves around her neck, tightly enough to hold on, but not enough to choke her. “Here we go,” Fluttershy smiles, taking off and flying a seemingly short distance to Carousel Boutique. I climb off and walk inside. The air conditioning is nice against my coat. “Welcome to Carousel Boutique,” an alabaster unicorn with a deep purple mane and teal eyeshadow coos, “what can I help you with today, dear?” Fluttershy walks in and waves. “Hello, Rarity. This is my marefriend, Shattered Heart.” “M-marefriend! Congratulations, you two,” Rarity squeals. “I just want to get something nice,” I say softly. “You simply must allow me to make you two gorgeous dresses for the Grand Galloping Gala tonight,” she smiles, her long lashes fluttering as she blinks. “Um, okay…” Next thing I know, I’m being dragged into a room. Rarity takes careful measurements and shows me several fabrics. “I… I like this one,” I smile, feeling the soft fabric. “Satin is an excellent choice,” the unicorn replies, “and I think a tulle trim would be divine!” She looks me over carefully and muses, “I believe blue would flatter your features and build, darling.” It seems like only minutes before an azure satin dress is draped over me. The white tulle graces the bottom of the skirt. I smile. “You… look… fabulous!” “Thank you.” Soon, Fluttershy appears in a gorgeous, spring green gown with a baby pink butterfly detail. We have our gowns on before she insists on doing our makeup. I blush as she sweeps azure eyeshadow across my eyelids and glitter on my cheeks. Fluttershy simply smiles as she receives a dusting of soft green glitter onto her eyelids. “Free of charge, dears,” Rarity coos, “now let us get you some hoofwear and jewelry.” I choose a pair of azure booties with diamonds on the straps. Fluttershy selects some spring green slipper shoes. Rarity clasps a diamond necklace around my neck before gracing Fluttershy’s with a string of pink pearls. She holds up a mirror, and I gasp. I… I look gorgeous… I look like a million bits! Fluttershy and I smile as Rarity gallops off to prepare herself for the gala. I turn to Fluttershy and smile. “It looks great on you.” I blush. “Th-thank you.” Rarity reappears in a gorgeous white gown. She has sparkling white shoes and a diamond necklace on. “Are we ready, ladies?” Fluttershy and I nod ‘yes.’ We head out to the Grand Galloping Gala before a blur of pink zooms by us and into the building. “What was that?” I ask. “That,” Rarity replies, “was Pinkie Pie. She’s Ponyville’s baker and party pony.” We step in and see so many mares and stallions. Three little fillies run up to us and wave hello. A pale yellow Earth pony with orange eyes and a red mane, a white unicorn with green eyes and a pink and purple mane, and an orange pegasus with purple eyes and a purple mane smile. I smile. The Earth filly pipes up in a Southern accent, “Hello! I’m Applebloom!” She sports an apple red dress. “I’m Rarity’s sister, Sweetie Belle,” the unicorn smiles. Her dress almost matches Rarity’s, save for a lavender lace trim. “Hey,” the tomboyish pegasus says, “I’m Scootaloo.” Her dress is a bright yellow. It reminds me of a canary. “Hello… my name is Shattered Heart,” I smile, “nice to meet you.” Applebloom notices my bandage. “What happened?” “I don’t want to talk about it.” “Dagnabbit, Applebloom!” a Southern voice shouts, “Are you botherin’ ponies again?” I look up and see an orange earth pony with green eyes and a blonde mane approaching. Her freckles are considerably paler than the rest of her body. “Sorry ‘bout that, Ma’am,” she apologizes, “sometimes Applebloom forgets her manners.” “I-it’s fine,” I tell the country mare, “she was just curious.” “I’m Applejack,” she smiles, shaking my bandaged hoof, “Applebloom’s big sister.” “I’m Shattered Heart. Nice to meet you, Applejack.” Applejack takes me to the mares’ room. “What’s with the bandaged hoof, sugarcube?” she asks me, concern in her eyes. I bite my lip. “You can tell me. I won’t tell a soul.” “Well… I… cut myself yesterday,” I sigh, “I’m not known for being happy.” “That’s terrible! You know dang well you have potential,” Applejack replies, “happy or not, y’all got a destiny. You just have to find it.” “Fluttershy found me outside her cottage and took me in. I woke up on a couch, surrounded by animals… and she’s… my marefriend.” “She’s your marefriend?” she asks. “Yes.” “Hoo-wee! I didn’t know Fluttershy had it in her to ask anypony out… but don’t tell her I said that.” “I won’t.” “You gotta go before we head back out?” “Yes… I’ll be a few minutes. Go ahead if you want; I’ll find a table when I get out.” “Alrighty, sugar cube,” Applejack smiles, “take all the time you need.” Applejack approaches her little sister with a stern expression as I come back out. “Applebloom, that was very rude to bother that nice mare like that,” she scolds, “especially about injuries.” “I didn’t know.” I trot over and look at them. “Go on,” Applejack says, “apologize.” “I’m sorry for botherin’ you.” “Apology accepted,” I smile, “I was a filly once, too.” Applejack scoots her little sister off before guiding me to a table occupied by Rarity, Fluttershy, Pinkie Pie, a blue pegasus with rose-colored eyes and a rainbow mane, and a purple alicorn with bluish eyes and a midnight blue mane with a purple streak and a pink streak. “This is Rainbow Dash,” Applejack smiles, gesturing toward the pegasus. “Nice to meetcha,” she smiles. “And this is Twilight Sparkle.” The purple unicorn smiles. “Hello. It’s a pleasure meeting you.” I smile. “I’m Shattered Heart.” I sit down as a red Earth stallion with blue eyes and a white mane asks if we’d like a drink. “Some Chardonneigh for me, please,” Rarity replies. “Hard apple cider,” Applejack smiles. “Um, just some water, please,” Fluttershy whispers. “Coffee with half-and-half and sugar, please,” Twilight says. “I’ll take a Buckweiser,” Rainbow Dash blurts. “I want a HUUUGE hot chocolate with LOTS of whipped cream and marshmallows and chocolate!” Pinkie squeals. “I’d like a Bloody Marey,” I muse. The stallion nods and retreats to the bar. “I reckon you’ll forget whatever happens next,” Applejack says to me, “Bloody Mareys are purdy strong.” “I can handle my cocktails.” The stallion returns with our drinks. He smiles, “If you ladies need anything else, holler for Star Spangler.” We all thank Star Spangler as he heads back to clean the bar. I look over at Pinkie’s drink… and my jaw drops. What she has in front of her is a massive mug of hot chocolate. It almost overflows with whipped cream. Large marshmallows stick out of the white mountain, and chocolate coats the tip of the whipped cream mountain. I take a sip of my Bloody Marey, looking around at the other mares. Twilight stirs a small cup of half-and-half into her coffee. Applejack takes a swig of her cider, hollering for Star Spangler to bring her 50 more ciders. Rarity cringes, then delicately sips her Chardonneigh. Fluttershy sips her glass of water. Rainbow Dash pops the top of the Buckweiser bottle. And Pinkie… Pinkie unhinges her jaw, unfurls her tongue, and scoops the cream up like a bulldozer, swallowing it with no effort. “Wow,” I mutter, nursing my cocktail. “Twilight,” a tipsy Applejack asks, “are you… hic… alright, sugarcube?” Twilight looks up from her coffee. “What? Oh, I’m fine, Applejack. Why?” “Y’all look down in the dumps.” “I’m just thinking about the new foal.” A record scratches as a romantic slow-dance begins to play. Fluttershy blushes as I take her hoof. I smile as we stand on our hind hooves and embrace. I lead her as we spin around and around to the music. She smiles and gazes into my brown eyes, and I look into her big cyan eyes. “Dawwwww, ain’t they cute together?” Applejack slurs, 51 empty cider mugs around her. “I love you, Fluttershy.” “I love you, too, Shattered,” Fluttershy smiles, placing a kiss on my muzzle. As the music fades out, we hug tightly and trot back to the table. We’re met with a standing ovation from everypony in attendance. “That was so graceful,” Rarity coos, “I never knew you could dance, Fluttershy.” “Neither did I.” I blush as I sip my second Bloody Marey. Applebloom runs up with her two friends and acknowledges our dance. “That was great!” Scootaloo smiles, “Yeah, that was awesome.” Sweetie Belle looks at me and blurts out, “CAN YOU TEACH ME TO DANCE LIKE THAT?!” I wince. “Sure… as long as you don’t bust my eardrums.” Hours later, the gala ends. Four drunken mares, including myself, stagger toward the door. Fluttershy picks me up and puts me on her back. “I really don’t think you should try walking yet,” she giggles, “you had a lot to drink.” “I… hic… only had 20 Bloody Mareys, ossifer…” She flies back to the cottage and opens the door. “Come on, Shattered. Let’s get you a nice relaxing bath, okay?” I nod. She’s perfect, I say to myself, just… perfect. I smile. After the bath, she tucks me in. “Sweet dreams,” Fluttershy whispers, kissing me on the head before getting into bed on the other side. WednesdayEarly Wednesday morning, I wake up. Celestia’s work is glorious as always. I climb out of bed and the smell of apples hits my nostrils. “Howdy, sugarcube!” “A-Applejack?” “I invited her over,” Fluttershy smiles, “apple fritters are almost ready.” “And apple pancakes and apple juice,” Applejack smiles, “y’all are in for a treat from Sweet Apple Acres!” “Oh… th-thank you, Applejack,” I smile, taking my place at the table, “what a pleasant surprise.” “A meal with friends brightens up anyone’s day, sugarcube,” the farmer says, “and Pinkie Pie sent a gift with me.” She puts a brightly colored box with a ribbon on it… and air holes? I read the tag. “To: Shattered Heart. From: Pinkie Pie! P.S., Pumpkin Cake drew a smiley face for you! J” A smiley face is scribbled in purple crayon, almost like a small foal had drawn it. “Well, open it,” Applejack smiles, putting a plate of apple fritters, a stack of apple pancakes, and a tall glass of apple juice on the table in front of me. I reluctantly open the box. Inside, amidst pink, blue, and yellow tissue paper, is a small toothless alligator holding something in its mouth. I smile as the alligator crawls out and spits out a plush toy. It’s… it’s a stuffed pony doll. And it looks like… me? She got a doll that looks like… me, of all ponies? I almost tear up. The doll is light gray with two big, brown buttons for eyes and brown yarn on its head and rear. It has two fabric wings stitched into its back. And on either side… a small, red, broken heart has been stitched. “She even… she even got my cutie mark right…” “Oh, no, she didn’t make it,” Applejack said, “She had Rarity hoof-stitch a little doll o’ you. Why she put Gummy in with the doll is beyond me. He’s not really a good travel companion for a stuffed animal.” The alligator seems to smile for a moment before crawling out the door back to his owner. The orange mare closes the door and puts down more apple-based food for herself and Fluttershy. “Dig in,” Applejack smiles. As we eat, a question pops up in my head. I swallow a bite of apple pancake and clear my throat. “I saw a big red pony on the way to the boutique. Who is that?” “That’s my big brother,” the country pony answers, “Big Macintosh. He don’t talk much, but he’s a big ol’ teddy bear when ya meet him.” “And the green pony?” “Granny Smith. She’s the matriarch o’ the Apple clan… but between us three, she’s a bit off her rocker.” We all have a good laugh. Before long, dishes are in the sink as Applejack gets ready to leave. “Thank you for the nice treat,” I smile. “No problem,” Applejack says, “and y’all can drop by anytime.” She waves before exiting the cottage. “Here, let me get the dishes,” I offer. “Oh… that’s okay… I’ll take care of it.” “Okay,” I smile, “I’ll go make the bed.” I trot upstairs to the bedroom, fluffing the pillows. Fluttershy calls out, “Shattered?” “Yeah?” “When you’re done, could you please feed the animals?” “Sure thing,” I call back, folding the top of the blanket over. I tuck my doll into bed, kiss its head, and head downstairs toward the menagerie of hungry pets. It takes a while, but all the critters are fed and happy. Fluttershy dries her hooves on a towel nearby. “Thank you so much.” I kiss her tenderly. “You’re welcome.” We head out to enjoy the sunlight. It’s a beautiful day. “A sunny day is common here in Ponyville,” Fluttershy comments, “but Cloudsdale is in charge of the weather in Equestria.” “With the other pegasi?” Fluttershy nods ‘yes’. I softly hum a tune I remember. My mother sang it to me when I was a foal. “That’s a very beautiful song,” Fluttershy smiles. “My mother sang it to me when I was small.” She smiles more. “I remember it well. It’s all I have left of my family. Every time I sing that song I see a white alicorn mare with brown eyes and a pink mane… I see my mother.” “Your mother was an alicorn?” “Yes.” She notices a single tear running down my cheek. “Are you alright?” “I… just miss my family.” “I know.” I wipe my eyes and smile. “They’re in a better place now.” Later, we stop at the bakery. Pinkie Pie bounces over to the counter. “Hi there! Welcome to Sugarcube Corner! Can I get you something?” “Just a red velvet cupcake.” “Okey-dokey-lokie!” She bounces back into a room. It seems like only seconds before she hands me a red velvet cupcake with bright red frosting and a cherry on top. “Looks good,” I smile and pop it into my mouth. The treat sends me to a state of bliss for a brief moment… and then I snap back to reality. “Wow…” I leave a few bits on the table and leave with Fluttershy. The rest of the day goes by almost too fast. FridayFriday morning, we wake up. I look into her eyes, and she looks into mine. “I was told that the school is holding a presentation today… about diversity… Miss Cheerilee remembers you and would like you to present your story. It might help you find closure.” “Buck it. I’ll do it.” I arrive at the schoolhouse. Miss Cheerilee claps her hooves. She asks her students, “Can anypony tell me what diversity is?” “Two line raps?” All the colts laugh. “No, Snips. Diversity is having different kinds of ponies working, playing, and living together in one community. I have a very special guest. Please give her your respect and attention. One of my former students, Shattered Heart.” I walk in, my wings tucked in, as colts and fillies look at me. Miss Cheerilee gives me a nod, and I begin. I clear my throat and smile weakly. “Hello… my name is Shattered Heart. I see this classroom is very diverse… so many Earth ponies, unicorns, and pegasi in one room. I’m different from most pegasi… I have a condition known as Ground syndrome… my wings can fold and unfold… but I can’t fly. Ponies made fun of me. Sometimes I wonder if there are other flightless pegasi in Equestria. I also have a marefriend. See, everypony is different. Diversity is basically what makes you… you.” Miss Cheerilee smiles as soon as she realizes I’m done. “Any questions?” A pink filly with a white and purple mane gets out of her seat and approaches me. She sneers, “What kind of pegasus can’t even fly?! Are you a retard like that Derpy Hooves?” I gallop out of the schoolhouse in tears. Finding a swing set, I sit down and cry softly. Miss Cheerilee turns to the filly with anger in her eyes. “Diamond Tiara!” “What?” “You know exactly what! That was the most callous act I’ve seen from a foal in years! She’s opened up to you and the other students, and you think it’s acceptable to ridicule somepony because they’re different from you! Shattered Heart can’t help being born unable to fly! I don’t care who your father is; this is the final straw. Diamond Tiara, I’m going to have to expel you.” Diamond Tiara’s smug look vanishes. She turns to a gray filly with a light gray mane and glasses. “Help me out, Silver Spoon!” “Even I thought that was really rude of you,” Silver Spoon replies, “and honestly, you’re finally getting what you deserve.” Scootaloo pipes up, “I can’t fly either! Does that make me a retard?!” “Of all the bad apples, you’re the worst,” Applebloom growls. “Why do have to be such a BITCH to everyone, you heartless excuse of a filly?!” a black unicorn colt with a white mane and gray eyes shouts. The snobby little filly is showered in hateful comments, boos, and hisses from everypony except Miss Cheerilee, who just looks at her sternly. She closes her eyes and walks out of the schoolhouse. The students and Miss Cheerilee walk outside and approach the swing I’m sitting on. “Are you alright, dear?” “It happened again, Miss Cheerilee… but you finally did something.” A pang of guilt hits the teacher like a freight train. “I’m sorry if you feel I wasn’t doing anything before. I want you to know that I really was concerned for your well-being. I just confronted them when you weren’t around.” I wipe my muzzle on my unbandaged hoof. “S-so you didn’t take their side?” “My goal as a teacher is to help you learn, not take sides in a dispute.” The other foals try to cheer me up, but their efforts are in vain… until a purple unicorn filly comes up to me, sniffling. Her eyes are red and swollen, and she doesn’t look too happy. “What’s wrong, Dinky?” Applebloom asks. “Diamond Tiara made fun of my mommy!” Dinky blurts through her tears. I pick her up and let her rest her head on my shoulder. Gently I push my back hooves up and begin swinging slowly. I rub her back and sing that familiar tune. “Don’t you cry, dear little filly… tomorrow will be here soon… dry your eyes, dear little filly… look at the stars and the moon… wipe your tears, dear little filly… tomorrow’s another day… I promise, dear little filly… melius cras fore.” Dinky stops crying and hugs me. She looks at me and smiles a little. Seeing her smile… it makes me… happy. I smile and wave goodbye before heading back to the cottage. I open the door and step inside. “You look like you’ve been crying.” “I have.” “You poor mare,” Fluttershy coos, embracing me and wrapping me up in her wings. I smile. That night, we enjoy a romantic comedy before bed. Author's Note Dear Little Filly is a lullaby I wrote during a deeply depressive episode. SaturdayWe wake up the next morning. Saturday. Oh, boy. “Time to watch all these episodes of Neighs of our Lives, right?” “I’ll get some popcorn.” Soon Flutters and I are cuddling on the couch, sharing popcorn, and watching soap operas. “Oh my! Did Nicolt really just--” “She did.” Soon our DVR is free of our stories. I look over and smile. “How about a horror movie?” I ask. “Um… I don’t know…” “It’s okay. I’ll be here. It’s just an image on the screen. It won’t hurt you.” Fluttershy nods and cuddles up to me. We choose The Trottingham Chainsaw Massacre. Surprisingly, she doesn’t utter a sound throughout the whole movie. She just cuddles under my wing. “It wasn’t so bad, was it?” I ask as the movie ends. “Actually… I was still a bit scared.” I kiss her cheek. “I have to ask… why did you get all those piercings?” Fluttershy asks. “I got my nostril pierced and my eyebrow pierced to show my individuality. My ear piercings… did ‘em myself ‘cuz I can.” “They’re all very nice,” she smiles, blushing. “Thanks, Flutters.” We turn off the TV and go to bed. SundaySunday morning, we rub muzzles and make the bed. “I can’t believe I’ve been so… happy… for a whole week!” “Is it your first week with friends?” “Y-yeah,” I reply, “I haven’t felt this loved since before my family died.” “You’re in for a real surprise,” Fluttershy coos. I smile and head downstairs. She follows and escorts me to the bakery. We barely get in the door when Pinkie Pie tickles my nose with a party horn. I sneeze. “Gesundheit!” “Thanks,” I smile, “what’s with the party?” “It’s your ‘First-Week-of-Having-Friends-in-Ponyville’ party!” I smile even more, noticing the red velvet cake with red frosting. It’s decorated with a rim of cherries. And then I see the bowl of blood-red punch. I ask, “How did you know my favorite color?” “I just guessed,” Pinkie shrugs. She shows me a crate. “Oh, my…” A caw can be heard. I open the crate… and a raven perches himself onto my hoof. “That’s a pretty big raven,” Rainbow muses. “I’m gonna call him… Edgar,” I smile, kissing him on the head. “Why Edgar?” “After my favorite author, Edgar Allan Poeny.” We cheer. The festivities begin in a blast of music. It goes on and on for hours… and I love it. This has been my first week of true happiness… I hope I have more like this week. Happiness is a product of friendship… and friendship is magic. Author's Note Happy endings! MondayIt’s a seemingly uneventful Monday in October. I cry softly on the outskirts of Everfree Forest. My gray muzzle is soaked with tears. As my chestnut mane sways in the cool autumn breeze, my wings stay tucked as I sit beneath a tall tree. “This is it,” I murmur to nopony in particular. I reminisce. My whole life has been a tragedy in the making. When I was a filly, I lost my whole family to an unknown illness. They coughed up their viscera as I watched from the window… and cried. After I lost them, it didn’t get any better. I ran away from Fillydelphia. Not being able to find a home, I had to live on the streets. I was ruthlessly bullied by the other foals because I couldn’t fly (I still can’t). Miss Cheerilee did nothing. As I return to the present, I sob beneath that tree for what seems like an eternity. I look over and see a white rabbit as I slide a small piece of silver over my wrist. Everything goes dark… I wake up in a cottage. My wrist is bandaged up, and I spot a yellow pegasus with cyan eyes and a pink mane. “Oh, thank goodness you’re okay,” she sighs, “you shouldn’t do this to yourself.” “Wh-who are you?” “My name is Fluttershy,” she says, placing her hoof in mine. “I’m Shattered Heart.” “Why did you cut yourself?” “Why shouldn’t I?” I retort. “You poor thing,” she says, placing a soft kiss on my forehead and drying my tears, “you need help. Do you feel dizzy?” “A little.” “I’ll get you something to eat,” Fluttershy smiles, trotting to the kitchen. It seems like only minutes before a plate of hay-and-daisy salad and a small teacup is on a table in front of me. “Tea?” “I guess so.” “Would you like some green tea?” “Whatever.” She pours the green tea into my cup and helps me sit down on the couch. “So, where are you from?” “Fillydelphia.” “Ah,” she says, “I’ve heard it’s scary there.” “It can be.” “You seem like a very nice pony, Shattered Heart,” Fluttershy blushes, her wings spreading. I feel something in my heart… it feels warm and fuzzy… is it… happiness? “I know you’ve got your own troubles,” she continues, “but… would you be interested in… being my, um, special somepony?” My wings open. I look over and nod ‘yes.’ She smiles, embracing me. I hear a cute noise… a soft squee. I plant a lighthearted kiss on her muzzle. I tuck my wings in and whisper, “Thank you.” She wraps one wing around me and smiles even more. I bury my head in her light pink mane and close my eyes… and I smile my first smile. ThursdayThursday. Fluttershy seems… jumpy… skittish… “Is everything okay?” Fluttershy screams. She turns around and blushes. “Oh… it’s only you… no. Tonight is Nightmare Night!” “Don’t be scared. If it makes you feel safer, I’ll go with you to get candy. You’re never too old for Nightmare Night.” “I-I suppose so.” “I got some costumes yesterday while you went to check on the animals,” I smile. Hours later, I convince her to put on her costume and grab a tote. She steps out in a dark teal leotard, leggings of the same color, an antenna headband with dark teal balls on the ends, and pink cardboard butterfly wings on her natural wings. She looks in a mirror and squees. I put on my costume and grab a tote. Fluttershy looks at me and her eyes bulge. I step out wearing a jet black Mareticia Addams dress, fishnets on my back hooves, black shoes, a jet black wig, and black eye and lip makeup. What completes the costume is a pair of large gray balls in the front of my dress. “Do you like it?” “I love it,” Fluttershy smiles, flapping her wings. We head out. Stallions and colts stare at me before being scooted along by angry mares. As we reach our first stop, my eyes meet those of a small, pale pink colt. “Hello.” The colt is dressed like a member of the Royal Guard. His mane is blue and his eyes are purple. “Hi… um, are you an overgrown filly?” “You’re never too old for Nightmare Night,” I tell him, “stallion, mare, or foal.” “Okay. Thanks, lady!” “Skyler, where are your manners?” Twilight appears in a wizard costume. “Sorry about that, Shattered Heart.” “Is this the mare you told me about, Aunt Twilight?” “Yes,” she sighs in exasperation, “this is the mare who danced with my friend at the gala.” “Oh. I’m sorry, Miss. My name is Skyler Shield. I’m Twilight’s nephew.” “Shattered Heart.” I shake his hoof. We get our candy and go to the next hot spot, which just so happens to be Sweet Apple Acres. “Oh, I’d love a caramel apple right now,” I muse. As we get to the barn, Big Macintosh appears wearing… a dress? And makeup? “My dear, I do declare, your costume is more revealin’ than a newspaper gossip column!” I blush and say, “Nightmare Night, what a fright, give me something sweet to bite.” “Y’all have a pretty voice. Here’s a nice, big caramel-coated apple on a stick. Take care!” “Thanks.” Fluttershy turns to me and whispers, “Thank you for coming with me. I feel much safer.” She kisses my cheek. Later, we get back to the cottage and binge on candy. I go upstairs and instantly crash upon impact with the pillow.
TuesdayThe next day, Fluttershy takes care of the animals and lets me help. A small bird flies up to me and tweets inquisitively. “What did it just say?” “Twitter was asking about your bandage,” Fluttershy replies, shooting the bird an angry look. I blush in slight embarrassment. “Um… I don’t want to talk about it.” As I prepare a warm herbal bath for the bear in the corner, that white rabbit from yesterday taps my cutie mark. “Angel! It’s not polite to poke somepony,” scolds the yellow pegasus, “especially back there!” “It’s fine,” I reply, “Angel didn’t hurt me.” The rabbit hops off, then returns with a carrot. “Y-you want me to feed you?” Fluttershy looks at Angel and says, “Do you want her to give you a carrot?” The rabbit shakes ‘no’ and pushes it into my hooves. “I’ve never seen him give away his food to anypony,” the yellow mare comments. Angel looks up apologetically at me. He smiles and hugs my unbandaged hoof. “He said he’s sorry for poking your flank.” “Apology accepted,” I smile, stroking the bunny between the ears. I get back to preparing the bath as the brown bear approaches me, smelling my mane. The bear sniffs my mane for about five minutes before backing off. “He must smell something in your mane.” “It’s just the shampoo I use,” I shrug, “it has a blend of cherry, apple, and orange extracts in it.” The bear lumbers into the tub as Fluttershy trots over to help me. We scrub his coat with a homemade shampoo. “He likes when I use this shampoo on his fur. It keeps the coat a beautiful chocolate brown without any harsh chemicals.” I nod. My mane is slightly damp from the bear splashing around. “He’s like an overgrown foal.” We dry the bear off and let him play around outside. As I close the door, I look at Fluttershy. She smiles as a soft blush graces her yellow cheeks and muzzle. Her deep, cyan eyes glimmer before she hides behind her cherry-blossom-pink mane. I walk over and laugh softly, pushing her mane out of her eyes and kissing her. As I pull away, I ask, “Would you please take me to the boutique?” “Well, can’t you fly?” I reply, “No… my wings can only open and close.” A hot wash of embarrassment turns my face bright red. She wraps one wing around me to console me. The yellow mare coos, “I’m sorry… I didn’t know.” “It’s fine. At least you didn’t make fun of me about it.” She smiles and allows me to climb onto her back. “Hold on tight… but not too tight,” she says. I grin as my marefriend trots outside and tentatively flaps her wings. For once, I feel… safe. I wrap my forehooves around her neck, tightly enough to hold on, but not enough to choke her. “Here we go,” Fluttershy smiles, taking off and flying a seemingly short distance to Carousel Boutique. I climb off and walk inside. The air conditioning is nice against my coat. “Welcome to Carousel Boutique,” an alabaster unicorn with a deep purple mane and teal eyeshadow coos, “what can I help you with today, dear?” Fluttershy walks in and waves. “Hello, Rarity. This is my marefriend, Shattered Heart.” “M-marefriend! Congratulations, you two,” Rarity squeals. “I just want to get something nice,” I say softly. “You simply must allow me to make you two gorgeous dresses for the Grand Galloping Gala tonight,” she smiles, her long lashes fluttering as she blinks. “Um, okay…” Next thing I know, I’m being dragged into a room. Rarity takes careful measurements and shows me several fabrics. “I… I like this one,” I smile, feeling the soft fabric. “Satin is an excellent choice,” the unicorn replies, “and I think a tulle trim would be divine!” She looks me over carefully and muses, “I believe blue would flatter your features and build, darling.” It seems like only minutes before an azure satin dress is draped over me. The white tulle graces the bottom of the skirt. I smile. “You… look… fabulous!” “Thank you.” Soon, Fluttershy appears in a gorgeous, spring green gown with a baby pink butterfly detail. We have our gowns on before she insists on doing our makeup. I blush as she sweeps azure eyeshadow across my eyelids and glitter on my cheeks. Fluttershy simply smiles as she receives a dusting of soft green glitter onto her eyelids. “Free of charge, dears,” Rarity coos, “now let us get you some hoofwear and jewelry.” I choose a pair of azure booties with diamonds on the straps. Fluttershy selects some spring green slipper shoes. Rarity clasps a diamond necklace around my neck before gracing Fluttershy’s with a string of pink pearls. She holds up a mirror, and I gasp. I… I look gorgeous… I look like a million bits! Fluttershy and I smile as Rarity gallops off to prepare herself for the gala. I turn to Fluttershy and smile. “It looks great on you.” I blush. “Th-thank you.” Rarity reappears in a gorgeous white gown. She has sparkling white shoes and a diamond necklace on. “Are we ready, ladies?” Fluttershy and I nod ‘yes.’ We head out to the Grand Galloping Gala before a blur of pink zooms by us and into the building. “What was that?” I ask. “That,” Rarity replies, “was Pinkie Pie. She’s Ponyville’s baker and party pony.” We step in and see so many mares and stallions. Three little fillies run up to us and wave hello. A pale yellow Earth pony with orange eyes and a red mane, a white unicorn with green eyes and a pink and purple mane, and an orange pegasus with purple eyes and a purple mane smile. I smile. The Earth filly pipes up in a Southern accent, “Hello! I’m Applebloom!” She sports an apple red dress. “I’m Rarity’s sister, Sweetie Belle,” the unicorn smiles. Her dress almost matches Rarity’s, save for a lavender lace trim. “Hey,” the tomboyish pegasus says, “I’m Scootaloo.” Her dress is a bright yellow. It reminds me of a canary. “Hello… my name is Shattered Heart,” I smile, “nice to meet you.” Applebloom notices my bandage. “What happened?” “I don’t want to talk about it.” “Dagnabbit, Applebloom!” a Southern voice shouts, “Are you botherin’ ponies again?” I look up and see an orange earth pony with green eyes and a blonde mane approaching. Her freckles are considerably paler than the rest of her body. “Sorry ‘bout that, Ma’am,” she apologizes, “sometimes Applebloom forgets her manners.” “I-it’s fine,” I tell the country mare, “she was just curious.” “I’m Applejack,” she smiles, shaking my bandaged hoof, “Applebloom’s big sister.” “I’m Shattered Heart. Nice to meet you, Applejack.” Applejack takes me to the mares’ room. “What’s with the bandaged hoof, sugarcube?” she asks me, concern in her eyes. I bite my lip. “You can tell me. I won’t tell a soul.” “Well… I… cut myself yesterday,” I sigh, “I’m not known for being happy.” “That’s terrible! You know dang well you have potential,” Applejack replies, “happy or not, y’all got a destiny. You just have to find it.” “Fluttershy found me outside her cottage and took me in. I woke up on a couch, surrounded by animals… and she’s… my marefriend.” “She’s your marefriend?” she asks. “Yes.” “Hoo-wee! I didn’t know Fluttershy had it in her to ask anypony out… but don’t tell her I said that.” “I won’t.” “You gotta go before we head back out?” “Yes… I’ll be a few minutes. Go ahead if you want; I’ll find a table when I get out.” “Alrighty, sugar cube,” Applejack smiles, “take all the time you need.” Applejack approaches her little sister with a stern expression as I come back out. “Applebloom, that was very rude to bother that nice mare like that,” she scolds, “especially about injuries.” “I didn’t know.” I trot over and look at them. “Go on,” Applejack says, “apologize.” “I’m sorry for botherin’ you.” “Apology accepted,” I smile, “I was a filly once, too.” Applejack scoots her little sister off before guiding me to a table occupied by Rarity, Fluttershy, Pinkie Pie, a blue pegasus with rose-colored eyes and a rainbow mane, and a purple alicorn with bluish eyes and a midnight blue mane with a purple streak and a pink streak. “This is Rainbow Dash,” Applejack smiles, gesturing toward the pegasus. “Nice to meetcha,” she smiles. “And this is Twilight Sparkle.” The purple unicorn smiles. “Hello. It’s a pleasure meeting you.” I smile. “I’m Shattered Heart.” I sit down as a red Earth stallion with blue eyes and a white mane asks if we’d like a drink. “Some Chardonneigh for me, please,” Rarity replies. “Hard apple cider,” Applejack smiles. “Um, just some water, please,” Fluttershy whispers. “Coffee with half-and-half and sugar, please,” Twilight says. “I’ll take a Buckweiser,” Rainbow Dash blurts. “I want a HUUUGE hot chocolate with LOTS of whipped cream and marshmallows and chocolate!” Pinkie squeals. “I’d like a Bloody Marey,” I muse. The stallion nods and retreats to the bar. “I reckon you’ll forget whatever happens next,” Applejack says to me, “Bloody Mareys are purdy strong.” “I can handle my cocktails.” The stallion returns with our drinks. He smiles, “If you ladies need anything else, holler for Star Spangler.” We all thank Star Spangler as he heads back to clean the bar. I look over at Pinkie’s drink… and my jaw drops. What she has in front of her is a massive mug of hot chocolate. It almost overflows with whipped cream. Large marshmallows stick out of the white mountain, and chocolate coats the tip of the whipped cream mountain. I take a sip of my Bloody Marey, looking around at the other mares. Twilight stirs a small cup of half-and-half into her coffee. Applejack takes a swig of her cider, hollering for Star Spangler to bring her 50 more ciders. Rarity cringes, then delicately sips her Chardonneigh. Fluttershy sips her glass of water. Rainbow Dash pops the top of the Buckweiser bottle. And Pinkie… Pinkie unhinges her jaw, unfurls her tongue, and scoops the cream up like a bulldozer, swallowing it with no effort. “Wow,” I mutter, nursing my cocktail. “Twilight,” a tipsy Applejack asks, “are you… hic… alright, sugarcube?” Twilight looks up from her coffee. “What? Oh, I’m fine, Applejack. Why?” “Y’all look down in the dumps.” “I’m just thinking about the new foal.” A record scratches as a romantic slow-dance begins to play. Fluttershy blushes as I take her hoof. I smile as we stand on our hind hooves and embrace. I lead her as we spin around and around to the music. She smiles and gazes into my brown eyes, and I look into her big cyan eyes. “Dawwwww, ain’t they cute together?” Applejack slurs, 51 empty cider mugs around her. “I love you, Fluttershy.” “I love you, too, Shattered,” Fluttershy smiles, placing a kiss on my muzzle. As the music fades out, we hug tightly and trot back to the table. We’re met with a standing ovation from everypony in attendance. “That was so graceful,” Rarity coos, “I never knew you could dance, Fluttershy.” “Neither did I.” I blush as I sip my second Bloody Marey. Applebloom runs up with her two friends and acknowledges our dance. “That was great!” Scootaloo smiles, “Yeah, that was awesome.” Sweetie Belle looks at me and blurts out, “CAN YOU TEACH ME TO DANCE LIKE THAT?!” I wince. “Sure… as long as you don’t bust my eardrums.” Hours later, the gala ends. Four drunken mares, including myself, stagger toward the door. Fluttershy picks me up and puts me on her back. “I really don’t think you should try walking yet,” she giggles, “you had a lot to drink.” “I… hic… only had 20 Bloody Mareys, ossifer…” She flies back to the cottage and opens the door. “Come on, Shattered. Let’s get you a nice relaxing bath, okay?” I nod. She’s perfect, I say to myself, just… perfect. I smile. After the bath, she tucks me in. “Sweet dreams,” Fluttershy whispers, kissing me on the head before getting into bed on the other side.
WednesdayEarly Wednesday morning, I wake up. Celestia’s work is glorious as always. I climb out of bed and the smell of apples hits my nostrils. “Howdy, sugarcube!” “A-Applejack?” “I invited her over,” Fluttershy smiles, “apple fritters are almost ready.” “And apple pancakes and apple juice,” Applejack smiles, “y’all are in for a treat from Sweet Apple Acres!” “Oh… th-thank you, Applejack,” I smile, taking my place at the table, “what a pleasant surprise.” “A meal with friends brightens up anyone’s day, sugarcube,” the farmer says, “and Pinkie Pie sent a gift with me.” She puts a brightly colored box with a ribbon on it… and air holes? I read the tag. “To: Shattered Heart. From: Pinkie Pie! P.S., Pumpkin Cake drew a smiley face for you! J” A smiley face is scribbled in purple crayon, almost like a small foal had drawn it. “Well, open it,” Applejack smiles, putting a plate of apple fritters, a stack of apple pancakes, and a tall glass of apple juice on the table in front of me. I reluctantly open the box. Inside, amidst pink, blue, and yellow tissue paper, is a small toothless alligator holding something in its mouth. I smile as the alligator crawls out and spits out a plush toy. It’s… it’s a stuffed pony doll. And it looks like… me? She got a doll that looks like… me, of all ponies? I almost tear up. The doll is light gray with two big, brown buttons for eyes and brown yarn on its head and rear. It has two fabric wings stitched into its back. And on either side… a small, red, broken heart has been stitched. “She even… she even got my cutie mark right…” “Oh, no, she didn’t make it,” Applejack said, “She had Rarity hoof-stitch a little doll o’ you. Why she put Gummy in with the doll is beyond me. He’s not really a good travel companion for a stuffed animal.” The alligator seems to smile for a moment before crawling out the door back to his owner. The orange mare closes the door and puts down more apple-based food for herself and Fluttershy. “Dig in,” Applejack smiles. As we eat, a question pops up in my head. I swallow a bite of apple pancake and clear my throat. “I saw a big red pony on the way to the boutique. Who is that?” “That’s my big brother,” the country pony answers, “Big Macintosh. He don’t talk much, but he’s a big ol’ teddy bear when ya meet him.” “And the green pony?” “Granny Smith. She’s the matriarch o’ the Apple clan… but between us three, she’s a bit off her rocker.” We all have a good laugh. Before long, dishes are in the sink as Applejack gets ready to leave. “Thank you for the nice treat,” I smile. “No problem,” Applejack says, “and y’all can drop by anytime.” She waves before exiting the cottage. “Here, let me get the dishes,” I offer. “Oh… that’s okay… I’ll take care of it.” “Okay,” I smile, “I’ll go make the bed.” I trot upstairs to the bedroom, fluffing the pillows. Fluttershy calls out, “Shattered?” “Yeah?” “When you’re done, could you please feed the animals?” “Sure thing,” I call back, folding the top of the blanket over. I tuck my doll into bed, kiss its head, and head downstairs toward the menagerie of hungry pets. It takes a while, but all the critters are fed and happy. Fluttershy dries her hooves on a towel nearby. “Thank you so much.” I kiss her tenderly. “You’re welcome.” We head out to enjoy the sunlight. It’s a beautiful day. “A sunny day is common here in Ponyville,” Fluttershy comments, “but Cloudsdale is in charge of the weather in Equestria.” “With the other pegasi?” Fluttershy nods ‘yes’. I softly hum a tune I remember. My mother sang it to me when I was a foal. “That’s a very beautiful song,” Fluttershy smiles. “My mother sang it to me when I was small.” She smiles more. “I remember it well. It’s all I have left of my family. Every time I sing that song I see a white alicorn mare with brown eyes and a pink mane… I see my mother.” “Your mother was an alicorn?” “Yes.” She notices a single tear running down my cheek. “Are you alright?” “I… just miss my family.” “I know.” I wipe my eyes and smile. “They’re in a better place now.” Later, we stop at the bakery. Pinkie Pie bounces over to the counter. “Hi there! Welcome to Sugarcube Corner! Can I get you something?” “Just a red velvet cupcake.” “Okey-dokey-lokie!” She bounces back into a room. It seems like only seconds before she hands me a red velvet cupcake with bright red frosting and a cherry on top. “Looks good,” I smile and pop it into my mouth. The treat sends me to a state of bliss for a brief moment… and then I snap back to reality. “Wow…” I leave a few bits on the table and leave with Fluttershy. The rest of the day goes by almost too fast.
FridayFriday morning, we wake up. I look into her eyes, and she looks into mine. “I was told that the school is holding a presentation today… about diversity… Miss Cheerilee remembers you and would like you to present your story. It might help you find closure.” “Buck it. I’ll do it.” I arrive at the schoolhouse. Miss Cheerilee claps her hooves. She asks her students, “Can anypony tell me what diversity is?” “Two line raps?” All the colts laugh. “No, Snips. Diversity is having different kinds of ponies working, playing, and living together in one community. I have a very special guest. Please give her your respect and attention. One of my former students, Shattered Heart.” I walk in, my wings tucked in, as colts and fillies look at me. Miss Cheerilee gives me a nod, and I begin. I clear my throat and smile weakly. “Hello… my name is Shattered Heart. I see this classroom is very diverse… so many Earth ponies, unicorns, and pegasi in one room. I’m different from most pegasi… I have a condition known as Ground syndrome… my wings can fold and unfold… but I can’t fly. Ponies made fun of me. Sometimes I wonder if there are other flightless pegasi in Equestria. I also have a marefriend. See, everypony is different. Diversity is basically what makes you… you.” Miss Cheerilee smiles as soon as she realizes I’m done. “Any questions?” A pink filly with a white and purple mane gets out of her seat and approaches me. She sneers, “What kind of pegasus can’t even fly?! Are you a retard like that Derpy Hooves?” I gallop out of the schoolhouse in tears. Finding a swing set, I sit down and cry softly. Miss Cheerilee turns to the filly with anger in her eyes. “Diamond Tiara!” “What?” “You know exactly what! That was the most callous act I’ve seen from a foal in years! She’s opened up to you and the other students, and you think it’s acceptable to ridicule somepony because they’re different from you! Shattered Heart can’t help being born unable to fly! I don’t care who your father is; this is the final straw. Diamond Tiara, I’m going to have to expel you.” Diamond Tiara’s smug look vanishes. She turns to a gray filly with a light gray mane and glasses. “Help me out, Silver Spoon!” “Even I thought that was really rude of you,” Silver Spoon replies, “and honestly, you’re finally getting what you deserve.” Scootaloo pipes up, “I can’t fly either! Does that make me a retard?!” “Of all the bad apples, you’re the worst,” Applebloom growls. “Why do have to be such a BITCH to everyone, you heartless excuse of a filly?!” a black unicorn colt with a white mane and gray eyes shouts. The snobby little filly is showered in hateful comments, boos, and hisses from everypony except Miss Cheerilee, who just looks at her sternly. She closes her eyes and walks out of the schoolhouse. The students and Miss Cheerilee walk outside and approach the swing I’m sitting on. “Are you alright, dear?” “It happened again, Miss Cheerilee… but you finally did something.” A pang of guilt hits the teacher like a freight train. “I’m sorry if you feel I wasn’t doing anything before. I want you to know that I really was concerned for your well-being. I just confronted them when you weren’t around.” I wipe my muzzle on my unbandaged hoof. “S-so you didn’t take their side?” “My goal as a teacher is to help you learn, not take sides in a dispute.” The other foals try to cheer me up, but their efforts are in vain… until a purple unicorn filly comes up to me, sniffling. Her eyes are red and swollen, and she doesn’t look too happy. “What’s wrong, Dinky?” Applebloom asks. “Diamond Tiara made fun of my mommy!” Dinky blurts through her tears. I pick her up and let her rest her head on my shoulder. Gently I push my back hooves up and begin swinging slowly. I rub her back and sing that familiar tune. “Don’t you cry, dear little filly… tomorrow will be here soon… dry your eyes, dear little filly… look at the stars and the moon… wipe your tears, dear little filly… tomorrow’s another day… I promise, dear little filly… melius cras fore.” Dinky stops crying and hugs me. She looks at me and smiles a little. Seeing her smile… it makes me… happy. I smile and wave goodbye before heading back to the cottage. I open the door and step inside. “You look like you’ve been crying.” “I have.” “You poor mare,” Fluttershy coos, embracing me and wrapping me up in her wings. I smile. That night, we enjoy a romantic comedy before bed. Author's Note Dear Little Filly is a lullaby I wrote during a deeply depressive episode.
SaturdayWe wake up the next morning. Saturday. Oh, boy. “Time to watch all these episodes of Neighs of our Lives, right?” “I’ll get some popcorn.” Soon Flutters and I are cuddling on the couch, sharing popcorn, and watching soap operas. “Oh my! Did Nicolt really just--” “She did.” Soon our DVR is free of our stories. I look over and smile. “How about a horror movie?” I ask. “Um… I don’t know…” “It’s okay. I’ll be here. It’s just an image on the screen. It won’t hurt you.” Fluttershy nods and cuddles up to me. We choose The Trottingham Chainsaw Massacre. Surprisingly, she doesn’t utter a sound throughout the whole movie. She just cuddles under my wing. “It wasn’t so bad, was it?” I ask as the movie ends. “Actually… I was still a bit scared.” I kiss her cheek. “I have to ask… why did you get all those piercings?” Fluttershy asks. “I got my nostril pierced and my eyebrow pierced to show my individuality. My ear piercings… did ‘em myself ‘cuz I can.” “They’re all very nice,” she smiles, blushing. “Thanks, Flutters.” We turn off the TV and go to bed.
SundaySunday morning, we rub muzzles and make the bed. “I can’t believe I’ve been so… happy… for a whole week!” “Is it your first week with friends?” “Y-yeah,” I reply, “I haven’t felt this loved since before my family died.” “You’re in for a real surprise,” Fluttershy coos. I smile and head downstairs. She follows and escorts me to the bakery. We barely get in the door when Pinkie Pie tickles my nose with a party horn. I sneeze. “Gesundheit!” “Thanks,” I smile, “what’s with the party?” “It’s your ‘First-Week-of-Having-Friends-in-Ponyville’ party!” I smile even more, noticing the red velvet cake with red frosting. It’s decorated with a rim of cherries. And then I see the bowl of blood-red punch. I ask, “How did you know my favorite color?” “I just guessed,” Pinkie shrugs. She shows me a crate. “Oh, my…” A caw can be heard. I open the crate… and a raven perches himself onto my hoof. “That’s a pretty big raven,” Rainbow muses. “I’m gonna call him… Edgar,” I smile, kissing him on the head. “Why Edgar?” “After my favorite author, Edgar Allan Poeny.” We cheer. The festivities begin in a blast of music. It goes on and on for hours… and I love it. This has been my first week of true happiness… I hope I have more like this week. Happiness is a product of friendship… and friendship is magic. Author's Note Happy endings!
MondayIt’s a seemingly uneventful Monday in October. I cry softly on the outskirts of Everfree Forest. My gray muzzle is soaked with tears. As my chestnut mane sways in the cool autumn breeze, my wings stay tucked as I sit beneath a tall tree. “This is it,” I murmur to nopony in particular. I reminisce. My whole life has been a tragedy in the making. When I was a filly, I lost my whole family to an unknown illness. They coughed up their viscera as I watched from the window… and cried. After I lost them, it didn’t get any better. I ran away from Fillydelphia. Not being able to find a home, I had to live on the streets. I was ruthlessly bullied by the other foals because I couldn’t fly (I still can’t). Miss Cheerilee did nothing. As I return to the present, I sob beneath that tree for what seems like an eternity. I look over and see a white rabbit as I slide a small piece of silver over my wrist. Everything goes dark… I wake up in a cottage. My wrist is bandaged up, and I spot a yellow pegasus with cyan eyes and a pink mane. “Oh, thank goodness you’re okay,” she sighs, “you shouldn’t do this to yourself.” “Wh-who are you?” “My name is Fluttershy,” she says, placing her hoof in mine. “I’m Shattered Heart.” “Why did you cut yourself?” “Why shouldn’t I?” I retort. “You poor thing,” she says, placing a soft kiss on my forehead and drying my tears, “you need help. Do you feel dizzy?” “A little.” “I’ll get you something to eat,” Fluttershy smiles, trotting to the kitchen. It seems like only minutes before a plate of hay-and-daisy salad and a small teacup is on a table in front of me. “Tea?” “I guess so.” “Would you like some green tea?” “Whatever.” She pours the green tea into my cup and helps me sit down on the couch. “So, where are you from?” “Fillydelphia.” “Ah,” she says, “I’ve heard it’s scary there.” “It can be.” “You seem like a very nice pony, Shattered Heart,” Fluttershy blushes, her wings spreading. I feel something in my heart… it feels warm and fuzzy… is it… happiness? “I know you’ve got your own troubles,” she continues, “but… would you be interested in… being my, um, special somepony?” My wings open. I look over and nod ‘yes.’ She smiles, embracing me. I hear a cute noise… a soft squee. I plant a lighthearted kiss on her muzzle. I tuck my wings in and whisper, “Thank you.” She wraps one wing around me and smiles even more. I bury my head in her light pink mane and close my eyes… and I smile my first smile.
ThursdayThursday. Fluttershy seems… jumpy… skittish… “Is everything okay?” Fluttershy screams. She turns around and blushes. “Oh… it’s only you… no. Tonight is Nightmare Night!” “Don’t be scared. If it makes you feel safer, I’ll go with you to get candy. You’re never too old for Nightmare Night.” “I-I suppose so.” “I got some costumes yesterday while you went to check on the animals,” I smile. Hours later, I convince her to put on her costume and grab a tote. She steps out in a dark teal leotard, leggings of the same color, an antenna headband with dark teal balls on the ends, and pink cardboard butterfly wings on her natural wings. She looks in a mirror and squees. I put on my costume and grab a tote. Fluttershy looks at me and her eyes bulge. I step out wearing a jet black Mareticia Addams dress, fishnets on my back hooves, black shoes, a jet black wig, and black eye and lip makeup. What completes the costume is a pair of large gray balls in the front of my dress. “Do you like it?” “I love it,” Fluttershy smiles, flapping her wings. We head out. Stallions and colts stare at me before being scooted along by angry mares. As we reach our first stop, my eyes meet those of a small, pale pink colt. “Hello.” The colt is dressed like a member of the Royal Guard. His mane is blue and his eyes are purple. “Hi… um, are you an overgrown filly?” “You’re never too old for Nightmare Night,” I tell him, “stallion, mare, or foal.” “Okay. Thanks, lady!” “Skyler, where are your manners?” Twilight appears in a wizard costume. “Sorry about that, Shattered Heart.” “Is this the mare you told me about, Aunt Twilight?” “Yes,” she sighs in exasperation, “this is the mare who danced with my friend at the gala.” “Oh. I’m sorry, Miss. My name is Skyler Shield. I’m Twilight’s nephew.” “Shattered Heart.” I shake his hoof. We get our candy and go to the next hot spot, which just so happens to be Sweet Apple Acres. “Oh, I’d love a caramel apple right now,” I muse. As we get to the barn, Big Macintosh appears wearing… a dress? And makeup? “My dear, I do declare, your costume is more revealin’ than a newspaper gossip column!” I blush and say, “Nightmare Night, what a fright, give me something sweet to bite.” “Y’all have a pretty voice. Here’s a nice, big caramel-coated apple on a stick. Take care!” “Thanks.” Fluttershy turns to me and whispers, “Thank you for coming with me. I feel much safer.” She kisses my cheek. Later, we get back to the cottage and binge on candy. I go upstairs and instantly crash upon impact with the pillow.
