Since You Came Along

The night air was particularly nippy, which prompted Cherish Heart to stay closer to Kevin as they walked along the mostly quiet streets of Ponyville. The streetlights were still all aglow now that night had fallen.

“Brrr,” Cherish shivered as she rubbed up closer to Kevin. “Was it this chilly when you made the walk to my place?”

Kevin placed his arm around her and pulled her close as they continued their trek to the sweet shop. “No, it’s considerably colder now. But, I doubt it will get colder than this.”

“That’s good, but, phew, I’m glad I’m not out here alone.” She leaned a little more against him.

He rubbed his hand along her jacket-covered side. “I know. Just stay close and enjoy the same thing I do about Ponyville.”

She looked up at him. “And that is?”

They turned to the next street and Sugar Cube Corner came into view. “That’s why,” he answered, pointing to the shop. “Everything is so close here. I love it.”

Cherish Heart giggled as they made for the shop’s front door. Kevin opened the door and held it for her. She smiled as she trotted past him and into the building’s warm interior. He followed behind, letting the door swing shut, stirring up one last burst of cool air.

Cherish shivered a little as they made their way to the counter. She rang the bell and it let out its chiming cry. From behind the saloon style double doors, they heard a familiar voice ring out, “Be right with you.”

“Is that Pinkie Pie?” Kevin wondered.

“Sounds like it,” Cherish replied. “Hey, here’s a menu.” She pulled it over and opened it. “So what should we get?”

Kevin rested his fingers on the edge of the menu. “Well, I was thinking of some kind of Ice Cream Sundae, but…” He thought of the night air and trembled.

Cherish giggled as she saw him quiver. “Yeah, it’s a little too cold for that.”

“Agreed.”

Cherish flipped the page. “Ooh, what about a piece of cheesecake or maybe…”

“HELLO!” Called Pinkie Pie as she came out from the kitchen. She saw her two customers and squealed. “Oh, Cher-Cher, I didn’t know you’d be here.”

“Hello, Pinkie. How are you?”

She giggled, setting down a carefully packaged cake she brought from the back room. “I’m just terrific, you know like usual.” Pinkie grinned.

“That’s good to hear,” Kevin remarked, greeting her with a smile.

Pinkie gasped excitedly. “Kevy, I didn’t expect to see you tonight? I haven’t seen any of my human friends in a while, how are you?”

“I’m good, Pinkie, and it sounds like you are too.”

“Oh yes I am.” She replied all bubbly and cheerful. “I have two fun customers to take care of. By the way are you two still together? Oh what kind of silly question is that, you wouldn’t be here and standing so close if you weren’t. Well that’s great.”

Cherish continued to smile and nodded, sharing Pinkie’s jubilation. “We certainly are, and quite happily I might add.”

Kevin threw his arm around her. “That’s right.” He grinned.

Pinkie nodded several times, then rested her forelegs on the counter and looked at the menu with them. “So, what can I get ya?”

Cherish Heart turned the page to the last section. “How about some pie?” She turned to Kevin.

“Hmmm.” He studied the menu with her and tried not to drool. “Oh, what about that?”

Cherish smiled. “Are you talking about the Peanut Butter Lover’s pie?”

“Yes! Just read that description, “A savory graham cracker crust with rich peanut butter moose, sprinkled with crumbled peanut butter cups and topped with a mound of thick whipped cream and accented with a drizzle of chocolate and peanut butter sauces.””

“Yummy,” Cherish remarked smacking her lips.

Pinkie Pie giggled. “I take it you want a slice of that, or did you want two?” She shifted her eyes back and forth at them.

“Just one, Pinkie, oh, but could we get two spoons and an ice water with two straws.”

Pinkie nodded thrice. “You betcha. I’ll get that ready, and uh, go sit wherever you like. I’ll bring it over to you.” She trotted over to the pie case, singing to herself, “La, la, la, la, la.”

Kevin snickered under his breath as he and Cherish left the counter. “That Pinkie Pie.”

Cherish giggled. “I know, she’s something else. Did you want to sit anywhere special? Maybe somewhere in the corner, near the window?”

“Yeah, that sounds good. Like right over there?” He pointed as they walked to the seating area.

She followed his finger and nodded. “That will be fine, sweetie.”

The couple sat down at a square table that had four chairs, but rather than sit across from each other, they sat next to each other. Kevin placed his arm around Cherish and she rested her head on his shoulder. “Decided to leave your jacket on too?” He patted her shoulder.

Cherish nodded. “Yeah. It’s warm in here, but I’m still warming up from that night air.”

Kevin chuckled, pulling her closer. “You don’t realize how cold it is till you come in from outside. Oh well, winter isn’t too far off, and fall won’t last forever.”

“No it won’t, which makes me glad I have you.” Cherish patted his chest. “You’re still nice and warm.”

Kevin couldn’t help but blush a little from Cherish’s thoughtful words as they warmed his heart. He rested his head along hers and just ran his hand up and down her side.

“Aww, that’s so sweet,” they heard Pinkie Pie speak as she walked over to their table. “Here you are. One ice water with two straws, and a yummy slice of Peanut Butter Lover’s pie with two spoons.” Pinkie sat the items down in front of them, with a few napkins, then she added, “I also put some extra whip cream on the plate for ya. I know you two would like it and it’s sort of a garnish.” She glanced at the plate curiously.

Kevin looked up and smiled. “This looks great. Thank you, Pinkie.”

“Yes, thank you.” Cherish closed her eyes and shared in the collective happiness.

“No problem, if you two need anything else, I’ll be around. Gotta get those last few late orders ready. Good thing the Cakes extended their evening hours Friday night.” Pinkie chuckled and then skipped back into the kitchen, leaving her two customers to their treat.

Cherish Heart eyed up the dessert, then turned to Kevin. “Doesn’t this look scrumptious?”

Kevin glanced at the pie and then at his sweet heart and nodded. “Yes it does. Here,” he said, sinking his spoon into a small portion of the slice’s point. Kevin raised the spoon to her lips. “Lady’s first.”

She smiled; her cheeks were still a little rosy. “Okay. Ahh.” Cherish opened her mouth, allowing Kevin to give her the first taste of their dessert. She let the morsel roll around her tongue, and then she moved it to the side and started to chew. “Mmm…” She closed her eyes. The pie had a wonderfully silky texture with a bold but sweet peanut butter flavor and the addition of the graham cracker crust gave the dessert a very satisfying crunch. “That is simply delicious. Kevin, you must try some. Here.” Cherish loaded her spoon with some of the pie.

Kevin opened wide and happily let her put the spoon in his mouth as he cleared the bite from it, and like her savored his first taste of the decadent dessert. “Wow, smooth, sweet and a great peanut buttery burst.”

Cherish giggled as she reloaded her spoon. “It looks like we chose our dessert well.”

Kevin cut into the slice with his spoon as they both prepared to feed each other another bite of bliss. “Yes, we sure did.” He chuckled as they each emptied the other’s spoon.

They both swallowed and shared a loving chuckle. Kevin noticed that none of the whipped cream had been touched. So he plunged his spoon into the small white mountain, loading it with some of the fluffy garnish. “Here, we don’t want to miss this.” He smiled offering her the spoon.

Cherish Heart closed her eyes and smiled as she once again opened her mouth, but she stopped herself and gave Kevin a sly smile. She approached the spoon and instead of simple letting it into her mouth, Cherish licked the smooth cream. Her tongue dug into it, its sweetness setting her taste buds ablaze. “Yum.” She mouthed slowly swallowing the rich and heavy topping. “That’s so tasty.”

Kevin stared at her fondly. “I’m sure. By the way, loved the way you did that.”

Her blush deepened. “Well, I thought you’d like that. Oh, why don’t you have some.” Cherish scooped some up with her spoon and presented it to Kevin.

He smiled as he moved toward the spoon, smacking his lips in anticipation. Kevin wasn’t sure if he could pull off sensually eating whip topping the same way she did, but he thought he’d see what he could do. He looked at her half-lidded, then he took a small lick of the whip topping, before going back and taking the entire utensil into his mouth. Pulling back, he left her with an empty spoon, then took a deep breath through his nose as he savored the thick fluffy confection, slowly swallowing it. Kevin turned his head a little, giving her the same loving eyes.

She giggled a little and mimed hitting him with her hoof. “Stop that.”

“What?” He snickered.

“You know.” Cherish shook her head. “My silly Kevin.”

He smiled at her as they continued sharing their dessert. Then after the pie and the lovely mounds of whip topping were gone, they shared the chilled water, sipping from the two straws and just lazily staring into each other’s eyes. To any onlooker, they would seem like a pair of silly teens, but Kevin and Cherish still felt the spark of their love burning brightly and were nearly lost within it.

* * * * * *

After paying for their dessert, Kevin and Cherish Heart said their farewells to Pinkie Pie and trudged back out into the chilly night air, which was now more on the cold side. The couple remained close as they resumed strolling the streets of town.

“Ahhh.” Kevin sighed. “I’m sure glad we skipped the ice cream.”

“Me too,” Cherish replied. “Brrr. It’s still cold out. Besides, we would have missed that yummy pie, and I would have missed that look you gave me when you took that first spoonful of whip cream.”

“Aww, you aren’t going to let me forget that, are you?”

She giggled, and bumped against him. “Of course not. I loved it.”

Kevin patted her side as they both lightly swayed, their steps becoming airy. “So what should we do next?”

“Oh look!” Cherish pointed. “We’re passing Carousel Boutique.” She gasped. “And it looks like it’s still open.”

Kevin rubbed her shoulder as he joined her in looking over at Rarity’s place. “Yeah it is. Did you want to stop in?”

Cherish’s eyes sparkled and her smile tripled in size. “Could we, just to browse?”

He chuckled, giving her a nod. “Of course. I know you love the fashions Rarity makes.”

“I do.”

“Then, let’s go.” They changed their path and made for the boutique, Kevin smiled more as he felt Cherish really lean up against him. It might not have been his first choice of what to do next, but it was so worth it, just to see her eyes light up.

The bell dinged as they entered and Cherish looked around at the shop's lavish setting. The clothing was all out on display, either on mannequins or dangling from hangers on very intricately placed racks. The décor was elegant as always, with purple and dark magenta furnishings and drapery adding to the boutique’s ambience.

“Hmm, I don’t see Rarity anywhere.” Cherish gave a long hard glance.

Kevin took a quick look around. “Well, either she forgot to close up, or maybe she’s just working on something in the back room. You know Rarity. When she works on something and is in “the zone”, she can get carried away.”

Cherish nodded, spying a section of beautiful dresses. “You’re right. Why don’t we just check out these, I’m sure she’ll be out.”

“Of course.” Kevin smiled as he joined Cherish in browsing through the dresses.

“Kevin, look at this one.”

Kevin had to steel himself to keep his jaw from dropping. Cherish found a rack with several very alluring dresses. There was a deep purple dress that had a very flattering slit along the side, accented with sequins and a few shiny gems around the neckline. It was made of a very sheen material and had tastefully done shoulder straps. Another Cherish pointed out was an emerald dress with a rather short skirt, a similar neckline and shoulder set, but didn’t dip down as much in the back and due to the skirt’s length, it had no need of a slit. “Wow, those are really pretty.” He took a deep breath and tilted his head back. “I can imagine you wearing them.”

“You really think so?” Kevin nodded sincerely. Then, they moved on to another rack of outfits, one stood out to Cherish and was actually on one of the mannequins. “Oh my. That’s a really pretty top.”

Kevin gave the shirt a good look. It was made of a lavender cotton, and for all he knew it might have even had just a hint of spandex in it for flexibility. The garment’s overall look was fairly simply, yet somehow, it seemed lavish nonetheless. “I could really see you in that.”

“You do?” She grinned happily closing her eyes.

He patted her shoulder, sliding his fingers on the fabric of her jacket. “Of course I do.”

“Oh my stars. I’m so sorry I’ve kept you.” Rarity came out from the other room. “I was just finishing something off and I thought I heard the bell.” The unicorn trotted over to Cherish Heart. Then, she smiled as she recognized her. “Oh my, Cherish. I didn’t realize it was you. How are you, darling?”

Cherish smiled, walking over to Rarity. “I’m good. And don’t worry. We knew you’d be out eventually, so we were just browsing.”

“That’s great. Wait, we?” Rarity turned and saw Kevin standing faithfully at Cherish Heart’s side. “Oh, Kevin. I didn’t notice you at first, my profoundest apologies, darling.”

He laughed warmly, delighted by her polite manner. “It’s okay, Rarity. Like Cherish said, we were just browsing.”

Rarity nodded. “That’s great. I do have some sales going on at the moment. Did you need anything?”

Kevin held up his hand. “No, I’m good. Cherish just wanted to browse. Isn’t that right, honey?”

She closed her eyes and nodded. “Yep. I just love your fashions, Rarity.”

“Thank you, darling. Oh, I just noticed. Where is Button, isn’t he with you two tonight?”

Cherish shook her head. “Nope. Tonight he’s at a party with Rumble, Pipsqueak and some others.”

“Oh.” Rarity nodded, then she smiled at them and said, “I know all about it. Sweetie Belle was going on and on about that party. I’m guessing she and her friends are hoping to get their cutie marks in board game mastery or something like that.” Rarity waved a hoof vaguely.

“That sounds like them,” Kevin mused.

Rarity smiled then looked to Cherish Heart again. “Now then, is there something you were looking at?”

Cherish turned to the shirt and then back to Rarity. “Yes, I’m sure I’ll regret this. But, how much is this top?” She blinked giving Rarity apprehensive eyes.

“Ah, you have fine taste. That blouse is 45 bits.”

“Oh.” Her face fell. “I’m afraid that’s more than I can afford.”

Rarity saw the brightness in Cherish’s eyes fade, then she smiled walking over to the outfit. “Oh, darling, don’t worry. This is left over from my summer/fall collection. I can offer you a discount. Would 30 bits be more your speed?” The unicorn turned her head, a hopeful look on her face.

Cherish Heart gave it some thought, then she closed her eyes and lightly grimaced. “No. That’s still more than I can justify blowing.”

“Oh, okay then.” Rarity’s ears drooped.

Kevin placed a hand to his chin, rubbing it along his stubble. “She’ll take it.”

Cherish turned and looked at him funny. “But I just said I can’t.”

He smiled. Walking over to her, Kevin placed his arm around her. “Maybe not, but I can. Let me buy it for you. I want to see you in it and to see that smile on your face again.”

The smile quickly respawned on her face. “Really?” He nodded. “Kevin!” She all but squealed, throwing her forelegs around him.

He hugged her back, giving her a loving squeeze. “There’s the smile I was talking about.”

Cherish blushed a little and Rarity giggled as she joined in their happiness. “And how about I sweeten the deal a little more. Kevin, you are one of my more frequent human customers; so I’ll knock another five bits off. Consider it a customer loyalty reward.”

“Thank you, Rarity. You really are true to your reputation as one generous mare.” Kevin’s cheeks puffed up as the smile on his face grew revealing his dimples.

Rarity closed her eyes and waved a dismissing hoof. “Oh come now. It’s no big deal.” Then, she placed her hooves over her mouth. “Darling, why don’t you try it on. Oh and if that’s not the right size. I have it in others.”

Cherish was still all smiles as she removed the top from the mannequin. She glanced at the tag. “Ah, this should be fine.”

“All right. Make your way back to the dressing room.”

“Go on,” Kevin urged, joy gleaming in his eyes, which weren’t nearly as pale a blue.

Cherish nodded. “Okay, I’ll be just a minute.” She trotted off, bubbling almost the same way Pinkie Pie does.

Once Cherish was out of site, Rarity stepped closer to Kevin. “So tell me, Kevin? How have things been for you? Or more to the point, for her?”

Kevin turned to grab some coins from his bit pouch. He counted ones totaling 25 and offered them to Rarity, trying not to shake his head. “They haven’t been so good. Money is becoming really tight for her and Button. And she had her hours at work cut back again.”

Rarity took the bits from Kevin and walked over to her register, placing them inside. “Oh my. I hope they’ll be okay.”

The grim look left Kevin’s face and a joyful smile returned. “I think they will. Cherish and I are growing closer all the time. I already told her I’m more than happy to help them if things get too hectic.”

“Aww, well that’s really sweet of you.” Rarity chuckled walking back over to him. “You know, Cherish was very fortunate to end up with a nice guy like you.”

Kevin looked back toward the dressing room. He took a deep breath and sighed. “All I know is, I’m crazy about her. I’ll do my best not to ever let her down. And Button’s a really good colt. Yeah, he has his quirks, but who doesn’t?”

Rarity nodded. “Very true, and I wish you both the best.”

“Okay, what do you think?” Cherish asked as she stepped out of the dressing room.

Kevin’s mouth dropped. Cherish came walking back over, the shirt beautifully adding to her figure as she tugged her hair, making sure it was draped properly over her shoulders.

“Wow,” Kevin nearly gasped. “That shirt looks great on you.”

She blushed, closing her eyes. “I’m glad you think so.”

“Yeah, I really do.” Kevin walked up to her, lightly caressing her mane. “It really brings out your eyes and your mane.” He chuckled warmly.

Rarity gave a nod of approval. “Yes, that really does suit you. Now, why don’t you come with me? We can get that packed up for your.” The unicorn turned to Kevin. “Oh, while we finish up, why don’t you take a look through my human casual and active wear. I’ve got discounts up to 30% off.” She spoke in a singsong voice.

Kevin shrugged his shoulders. “Sure, why not.” He walked over to the section where Rarity kept a small but varied assortment of human garments, namely those for men.

Meanwhile, as Kevin browsed, Rarity took the shirt from Cherish Heart now that she had removed it. She looked at Cherish Heart. “So, wasn’t that sweet of Kevin to buy this for you?”

Cherish smiled as Rarity folded and placed the item in a fancy thin box. “It sure was. I honestly didn’t expect him to do that.”

Rarity smoothed out the shirt and carefully folded tissue paper over it. “Yes well, you have a really good guy there.”

Cherish blinked, looking at her.

Rarity smiled. “You heard me right. Kevin is a real keeper. I can tell you I know some mares that are sorry they let him go so easily.” She took a long glance over at Kevin, then back to her valued customer and friend.

The rosy glow returned to Cherish’s cheeks as she too indulged in a glance at Kevin and then looked back at Rarity. “I know he is. I love Kevin and he’s been really good to me and Button.”

“Then you know what I mean, um based on what I’ve heard.” Rarity chuckled nervously.

“I do.” Cherish smiled. “Well, I should go get Kevin. He’s been so thoughtful to let me come here, and I doubt this is his favorite place to be.”

Rarity smiled. “Oh, I’m not so sure. It looks to me like he’s done browsing the men’s section, and has taken to some of my finer dresses. He might be doing a little window shopping, don’t you think?” She leaned her head toward Cherish Heart.

“Well. I guess he could be.”

“Hearth’s Warming isn’t too far away.” Rarity giggled, presenting Cherish with her shirt, nicely packaged and tucked in a paper bag with handles. “Here you are, and don’t worry, Kevin already took care of paying me.” She smiled.

“Thank you, Rarity. And for what you said.”

“Of course, Darling.”

Cherish called over waving to Kevin, “Honey, I’m all set. Let’s head out.”

“All right.” He rejoined her and happily took the bag from her as they waved goodbye to Rarity. The unicorn nodded and continued to smile as they exited her shop.