“I pronounce you, husband and wife,” Mare Mare said with a smile. She turned to the yellow stallion in a black tuxedo, “You may kiss the bride.”
And so he did, with that one action, the couple officially became Mr. and Mrs. Cake. The audience, made up of both families and friends inside Ponyville’s town hall cheered for them. To the untrained eye, it would seem that everypony there was overjoyed by this union. Everyone had a smile, clapping their hooves or tossing confetti into the air as they kissed. It would seem that everyone there was enthusiastic, all except for one that wasn’t smiling. He only applauded as he felt an icy knife was stabbed into his heart.
The stallion in question was in the very back of the room of this small wedding. A large unicorn from Canterlot clapped his hooves, looking at the just married couple. ‘I’m too late,’ he thought. ‘I’m far too late.’
Ponies came up to both the bride and groom to congratulate them, but Doughnut Joe didn’t feel ready. The moment that he dreaded for had come true right before his eyes. They looked so happy, all because he waited too long to tell the very friend that he’d studied baking with, was now gone.
He couldn’t take it anymore, as the couple was surrounded by their family and friends to wish them a bright future ahead of them, the Unicorn walked out of town hall. He left to catch the first train back to Canterlot, to hide his misery and loss from the very pony that mattered to him the most.
That was years ago. As much it pained him, Doughnut Joe hadn’t seen the Cakes since the wedding. That didn’t mean he was cut off from communicating with them. If anything, between making doughnuts for the rich and reading anything to pass the time, he wrote often to the couple. All he learned about what was going on, with their business in Ponyville, Pinkie Pie, Cup Cake’s pregnancy, the twins, and whatever details about their lives, he read them from their letters. Every so often, he would be invited to come down to Sugar Cube Corner, but after just up and leaving before the after party of their wedding… he made up excuses not to go.
As much as he tried to avoid Ponyville, an order came in that required him to come. As luck would have it, the request was for him to deliver a doughnut cake for a birthday party in that nearby town. And unfortunately, the address was at Sugar Cube Corner.
This was where he found himself, walking through town carrying a pink box on his back towards the gingerbread-like shop. ‘Just stay calm Joe,’ he thought to himself. ‘Just go around the back, drop this off and go before anypony notices ya. The thing is already paid for so you can just leave before they realize you’re there.’
He did find the back door that, to his relief, found that it was unlocked. Pushing it open with his magic, he glanced around to find the kitchen was thankfully empty. He spotted an island in the middle of the bakery where Joe went in, placed the box on it and leaving it was a note for the cakes on top. But before he could leave, however, a pair of double doors was pushed open.
“I’ll make more of those cookies,” Carrot Cake said, “Just keep an eye on the register sweet…” he paused as he spotted who was in the kitchen. The unicorn froze there, wide-eyed as his plan to sneak in and out unnoticed was yanked right underneath his hooves. “Why I’ll be, Doughnut Joe!” the lanky stallion rushed over, embarrassing him in a hug. “Long time no see pal! How’ve you been?”
“Uh…” the doughnut maker froze in place, his cheeks turning pink upon his creamy coat and his eyes darted around. “I was told to deliver this here,” his head tilted towards the box.
Letting go, Mr. Cake glanced over at the pink box. “Oh that’s right, Pinkie’s surprise cake. Thank you so much for bringing it here.”
“Yeah…” he nodded, “You know what, I should probably go-”
“Oh please stay. We haven’t seen you in a long time,” Carrot begged. “I mean, after I whip up those cookies, we should sit down and talk about what’s new and all.”
Doughnut stepped back, “As tempting as that is, I should really be going to catch that train.”
The lanky stallion tilted his head. “But it’s two in the afternoon.”
“Yeah, so?”
“Well, I know that the train doesn’t come until four,” he pointed it out. “Like I said, we haven’t seen you since… well, since the wedding. Besides, you haven’t met Pound or Pumpkin yet, so if you could just stay, we could get you some coffee or-”
“But I should get going,” Joe interrupted; he tried to turn around and head for the door. But before he could do that, he was suddenly blocked by Carrot who closed the door behind him.
Mr. Cake frowned, “Okay, what’s going on?”
The unicorn flinched, “What?” he could feel sweat on his brow.
“Joe, we haven’t seen you in years. We’ve tried dozens of times to invite you down here, and even now when we’ve finally got you to come, you just want to leave? Joe, what’s going on? It’s like you’re outright trying to avoid us.”
“N-No I’m not.”
“Don’t lie to me,” Mr. Cake said sternly. “It’s something that has been bothering the both of us since you disappeared from the wedding. Let’s face it, you’re doing this deliberately.” He took a moment to breathe through his nose before continuing. “Since you’re here, I want to know the truth. So I have to ask… are you angry at us?”
The larger stallion’s eyes widen, “What? No! I-I’m not mad at any of you-”
“So why are you avoiding us?”
“I…” Joe hesitated, looking over his shoulder to the double doors in which the lanky stallion entered.
“You, what?” Mr. Cake interrogated.
“I…” he shook his head, “I can’t tell you.”
“Why?”
“I just… I just can’t okay? Can you let me go now?”
“No,” the baker folded his forelegs. “Something is clearly bothering you and I want to know now.”
“You can’t.”
“Why not?”
“Because-” Joe caught himself, he tried to get out but the yellow stallion kept blocking him. “Let me go!”
“Not until you tell me.”
“It’s too late for that!”
“For what?”
“Let me through!”
Mr. Cake stomped his hoof, “The truth Joe! Now!”
“You can’t handle it!”
“Tell me now!”
“NO!”
“TELL ME!”
The Canterlot Baker looked down in anger, “You really want to know?”
“Yes!”
For a brief moment, the larger stallion looked down with narrow eyes, and then, something unexpected happened. Before Carrot could react, he found the unicorn’s hooves around his head, “Joe, what ar-” whatever he was about to say was suddenly cut off as Joe closed his eyes tight, and kissed him on the lips. Wide-eyed, Mr. Cake stumbled backward till his flank hit the door, in complete and utter shock.
As quickly as the kiss came, Doughnut broke it off, his head hangs down while Carrot’s jaw hung loose. Out of all the possibilities that Mr. Cake had thought about why his friend had been avoiding him and his family, he never imagined that this was the case in those short few seconds. The lanky yellow stallion tried to speak, but he found that he was at loss for words.
“I-I,” Joe looked up with tears overflowing from his eyes. “I’m so sorry,” he pushed him out of the way and bolted out of the door.
Quickly recovering, Carrot called out, “Joe! Joe wait!” he stepped through the back door, but his friend was already gone.
“Honey bun?” Cup Cake peak her head through the double doors. “Sweetie, is something wrong? I heard someone shouting.” Her husband looked at her, giving an expression that concerned her, “Hon, what happened?”
“It’s…” Carrot shook his head for a moment. Clearing his throat, he asked, “Sweetie, I think you need to sit down for this.”
“Why?”
“Trust me on this, you’ll need it.” She did so, “Do you remember Doughnut Joe?”
“You mean he came?”
The yellow stallion nodded, “Oh he did. I’ve caught him in here as he was delivering that,” he waved his hoof to the box. “I’ve tried to talk to him, you know, try to find out why we haven’t seen him in years. Well… he got anxious and tried to leave, but I pushed him to tell me the truth. And… well…”
“What happened?” his wife asked.
Carrot opened his mouth a few times before sighing, “I guess there’s no way to sugarcoat this – he suddenly grabbed my face… and kissed me.”
Cup Cake’s mouth dropped, “What?”
“I know! And before I could say anything, he was starting to cry and hurried out before he said that he was sorry.” The yellow baker put his forehooves to his temple. “Honey bun, what am I going to do? I just found out that a friend of mine that I haven’t seen in years has a crush on me for Celestia-knows-how-long, and he’s probably crying his eyes out somewhere.”
“Dear,” his wife interjected, “please slow down. First off, do you know where he is now?”
“Not really, he just left in a hurry. He’s probably running home to Canter…” his eyes widen. “I think I know where he’s gone to.”
Cup Cake got up and put a hoof on his shoulder, “If I were you, I would go find Joe and gently try to find out what is going on. You go confront him while I’ll hold down the fort.”
“Are you sure?”
With a smile, she kissed him on the cheek, “I can take care of this. You go along; I’ll fetch Pinkie to come down to help me.”
“Thank you, dear,” with that, the lanky stallion headed out the door.
‘Stupid! Stupid! Stupidstupidstupidstupidstupidstupid you stupid thoughtless idiot!’ Joe scolded himself, banging his head against a brick wall. ‘What’s the matter with you! You’ve singlehoofenly ruined everything! What were you thinking Joe? Kissing him! He’s never going to want to have anything to do with you ever again!’
The unicorn paused, in an alleyway that was out of sight from everypony, he turned around to lean his back against the bricks. ‘Why, dear Celestia, that out of anypony that I could have fallen for, it has to be the one stallion that was already married with foals? After that stunt, he probably hates you now more than ever!’ After several minutes of feeling nothing but dread, he has gotten back on his hooves and headed towards the tiny train station. All he wanted to do was to get away from Ponyville as far away as possible.
By the time he arrived, he was taken aback at who else was waiting at the station. There on a bench, Carrot Cake sat there waiting, and before he could sneak off, the baker spotted him. “Joe, wait,” the lanky stallion said. “Wait and… just listen to me for a second, I want to talk with you.”
The Canterlot unicorn stepped back, to which Carrot added, “I’m not angry at you. Really. I just want some answers. Please sit with me, I promise that I won’t be mad.”
Hesitantly, the doughnut maker did. For a while, neither of them knew where or how to begin. Only the rustle of leaves from the gentle wind was the only sound they’ve heard for those eternal few seconds. Joe was thankful that there was nopony around at that moment, but he still dreaded to what Carrot was going to say.
“How long?”
Joe gulped, “Do you really wanna know?”
The baker nodded, “I’m listening, and I promise that I will not judge you until you’re finished.”
He sighed. The stallion hesitated for a good long while before he began. “Do you remember when we were attending that culinary school? When we were taking classes for baking all sorts of things?”
“That long?” Carrot was taken aback.
The larger unicorn shrugged, “It wasn’t right away, you know? Back then, I just saw you as another student in which your table was next to mine. For a while, I didn’t think much of ya… until you started talking to me. It wasn’t all love at first sight or anything like that; I just assumed then that once we were done with taking those classes, you would move on. But then… you wanted to hang around with me more.” Leaning back on the bench, he continued, “Carrot, I never expected you to be the guy to seriously talk about food; or compare what movies we liked; or to help me with homework when I was sick; or for you to be so selfless… or…” he paused, looking over his shoulder he asked, “I’m not making you uncomfortable, am I?”
“Not really,” the yellow pony replied. “So I guess with you it was enviable for you?”
Joe nodded, “I guess so. The longer we hanged out, the more I wanted to be around you. You were genuinely nice… and handsome… and we just got along so well that I thought that maybe, just maybe, you might like me back.”
“But why didn’t you say something?” Carrot inquired.
“Because I wanted to make sure – after all, I didn’t know if you… you know, trot that way or not. I guess I was afraid if I told you that you wouldn’t like me back that way or…”
“Oh,” Carrot nodded. “I see.”
“There’s another reason,” Joe continued, “I didn’t say anything because I didn’t exactly feel comfortable in letting ponies know that I liked… a particular gender over another. Heck, my folks still don’t know. I mean, I was planning on saying something to you eventually… I just didn’t think it would turn out like this. I really was about to, until you met Cup that I decided to wait to tell you. You could say that I was kinda hoping that you two would have broken up beforehoof. It sounds selfish, I know. But I thought that if I told you after you’ve dated her, then maybe I would come out. So I’ve waited… then it was too late.”
Carrot’s ears folded back. With guilt-ridden eyes, he asked, “So do you still feel that way towards me now?”
“I… yes,” the doughnut maker closed his eyes, “Please forgive me Carrot, I know it’s wrong to be wanting somepony that’s as out of reach as you are. I know it’s wrong to still care about a stallion that’s already married, with foals for crying out loud! I really did try to move on… but the thought of you still haunts me of what could have been. It’s really selfish of me to be wanting somepony who already has a family of his own, I don’t want to steal you from what you’ve had… but at the same time, I still feel like I’ve already lost you.”
The lanky baker looked forward at the mountainous region where the city of Canterlot was. Carrot didn’t know what to think, but he did know what he felt. The shock he felt back at his bakery was now replaced with sympathy. His friend was secretly in love with him but never expressed it until now. He felt like he cheated him somehow. “Joe, is there anything I can do?”
“I don’t know if there’s anything you can do. Let’s face it; I’ve pretty much-ruined everything with that kiss, huh?”
“Wha- no. Joe, you didn’t ruin anything. I mean, grant it, I’m very flattered that you see me like that. Is this unexpected? Of course, it is, but I do know that ponies like you can’t help it. I can imagine that this wasn’t easy for you, but it’s okay.”
Joe looked up confused, “Why?”
“Truth be told, now knowing why we haven’t seen in you in years, I want to do something to have us hanging out as we did in the old days. Joe, I don’t want to see you miserable forever. So please, whatever you want from that will allow me to help you feel better, let me know.”
“Well, I…” he shook his head, “No. I can’t.”
“What?”
Doughnut Joe sat there for a while, “You know, I had daydreamed sometimes that I would… asking ya on a date.” He gave a sad laugh, “Guess I’m a bit late for that too, huh? To be fantasizing what it would be like to treat you out as a real coltfriend. Probably go to a fancy restaurant with really good food, or taking a stroll somewhere. Yeah, it’s corny and all, but I kinda wished on showing how much I really care about ya.” When he didn’t hear a reply, he looked over, “Uh, Carrot?”
Joe’s eyes widen a bit when he saw that not only was his old friend deep in thought, but his cheeks had a touch of scarlet on it. Suddenly, the lanky stallion got up from the bench but looked back at him, “I’ll think about it.”
The unicorn blinked, “Over what?”
“About the date,” Carrot replied. “I admit, I’ve never dated a stallion before. But if it helps, then I guess I could talk to Cup about it.”
Joe’s jaw dropped, “But… But you’re married.”
“I know, and that’s why I need to talk to my wife about this. To see what she thinks in all of this. I’m not entirely sold on this either, but… if she agrees then… I guess we’ll see what happens from there.”
Carrot’s friend paused for what seemed like hours before he asked, “Are you sure? I mean, I don’t want to cross any lines or anything.”
“If I know you well enough, then I know you won’t. Joe, if I would have to date anypony again, then I guess I could place my trust in you for doing just that.” The yellow stallion smiled, “After all, it would give us time to catch up on some things.” Then came the train whistle from a distance, “Looks like your ride is almost here.”
“Yeah,” Doughnut Joe stood up. “You’re amazing Carrot, even now with what you know about me, you’re still selfless in giving me this chance.”
“I said I would think about it,” the baker started to head off. “But don’t worry, we’ll send you a letter soon. Until then, have a safe journey, Joe.”
The unicorn smiled, “Thank you so much Carrot.”
“You have been awfully quiet,” his wife said. “What did Joe say?”
By now, both parents just put their children to bed when Carrot’s wife asked him. Closing the door behind them, the husband led his wife to their bedroom. It wasn’t until their door was closed and the windows were covered did he answered Cup, “Honeybun, can I ask you a very serious question?”
“Of course you can,” his blue wife answered as she tried to untie her apron. Carrot lends a hoof with the knot.
“Let me get that for ya,” he said. “Dear, while I already know the answer to this, I think I need to hear it tonight: Do you trust me?”
Cup glanced behind her, “Where did this come from? You know I trust you above anyone, even Celestia herself. But what does this have to do with Joe?”
Her husband helped slip off her apron as he turned around to let her undo his. “Well, I’ve confronted him at the station and thankfully I have gotten the chance to talk to him. As it turns out, Joe has been in love with me, long before we met. It wasn’t until now he told me that he liked me that way was because he wasn’t sure if I would return those feelings to him.” He sighed as he felt his apron loosen. “To top things off, he’s in the closet so to speak. His parents still have no idea that he’s attracted to me, and he’s been going through all these years since we’ve been married in complete heartbreak. I don’t know about you, but when I was listening to his story, it kinda sounds like he’s been depressed that he never really has gotten the chance to show how much he cares about me.”
“That I can understand,” Cup took her and her husband’s aprons to be hung on a coatrack. “But what I don’t get is why you’ve asked me if I trust you. What does that get to do with anything?”
Carrot took in a deep breath, “At the very end, he also told me that he had thought about dating me. And yes, this is what I really want to talk to you about. Do you think that I should? I mean are you even okay with that – since you know that I would never dare do anything behind your back without letting you hear about it.”
“You? Dating Joe?” His wife sat on the bed and patted on the other side for Carrot to sit next to her. “What’s the reason behind it?”
“It’s why I’ve been so quiet for most of the day,” he hopped onto the bed next to her. “If we’re both on board with this, maybe it would give Joe some closer. Sweetie, he’s still in love with me and he told me that he’s tried to move on but he found it to be difficult. Maybe, if I just go out with him this once, perhaps I can help him be a little more open about himself to make him see that he can move on. I don’t know myself if it’ll even work or not, but it’s better than nothing. Now grant it dearly, I have no idea what to expect if this does happen. Sure, Joe is a good guy, but I don’t know what you do on dates in which both partners here are stallions. If it would help Joe, then I could swallow my pride and do it. What about you though? What do you think?”
Mrs. Cake hummed in thought as she slipped under the covers. “It’s a surprising idea, I’ll admit. At the same time, it’s rather sweet of you. I can imagine not every married stallion would have done the same in your horseshoes. This is very noble of you. With that being said, I think that Joe is a good stallion, and I can’t picture him to be the type to be taking advantage of you in any way. He most likely would treat you like a gentlecolt. If you’re serious about this,” she put a hoof on his, “then yes, I would trust you in doing this.”
Mr. Cake kissed her on the nose, “Thank you, dear.” As he too got under the sheets, he added, “Tomorrow, we’ll write to him about when and where he wants to have this dating thing.”
“Besides,” Cup said with a wicked smirk, “If we’re lucky, it might spice things up for our Friday nights.”
Carrot blushed, “Don’t get any ideas honey bun.”
Doughnut Joe went through the mental checklist for what might have been the billionth time. The shop was being looked after by somepony else? Check. Made reservations at that café he really likes. Check. The suit that has been dusted and dried cleaned? Check. Memorized of all the possible shows, movies, plays and every other activity that can be seen at any given time? Check. And double checking to see if the gift that he had specially made for Carrot? Double check.
His ears perked up as he heard the familiar echo of a train whistle. Soon the train was within sight and Joe’s heart was pounding as it got closer. The unicorn could hardly believe that just only a few moments away, the very pony that he daydreamed about was about to come off that train. After the steam engine slowed down to a halt, the doughnut maker waited in anticipation for his date to step onto the platform.
Carrot walked out of his car, wearing a black suit, a white collared shirt, and a red bowtie. His mane was combed back, along with his tail as he stepped off and looked around. ‘Still as handsome as ever,’ Joe thought as he approached him. It didn’t take long for the baker to notice him.
“Evening Joe,” Carrot nodded.
“Hey Carrot…” Joe did the same but trailed off for a moment as to think up what to say next. “You look good.”
“Thanks,” the thin stallion looked down at his suit. “Cup helped me out as you can see; she even helped me with the bowtie. You look nice yourself.” But he too had trailed off with the small talk, leaving the two stallions with an awkward moment of silence.
“You haven’t eaten yet, have ya?” the unicorn finally asked.
The yellow baker shook his head, “Your letter told me not to, said something about taking me to dinner.”
“Okay, good,” Joe sighed. “Yeah, I know a café on Riverway and 14th street that I think you’ll like. They have good sandwiches and… Oh, Celestia, I’m so nervous.”
Carrot laughed in sympathy, “You and me both buddy.”
“Yeah…” the doughnut maker scratched the back of his neck, his ears folded back. “Carrot, are you sure you want to do this? I mean, I don’t want to make you feel uncomfortable around me or-”
“Joe,” he interrupted, “I’ve made my promise to help you and that’s what I’m going to do. My wife not only understands but is fine about this too. If at any moment that I don’t feel calm about something, I’ll say something. I’m willing to go along with whatever you have in mind. Cup said that we should be focusing on having fun.”
“But with another stallion?” Joe raised an eyebrow. “Forgive me Carrot, but I thought you said that you’re straight.”
“Oh, I am. But I think what she meant is that I should have an open mind about all of this and go along with it. Plus, it’s not that you’re some sketchy character that would do something harmful to me; we know you’re not like that. So now for tonight, you got me here, now what do you want to do?”
“Okay…” Joe reached into his pockets, “Is it too early to give you this?” He pulled out the gift out from his suit coat pocket.
Curious, Carrot took ahold of the wrapped gift, “Do you want me to open it now?”
“I don’t see why not.”
The box itself was small enough to fit in one’s pocket; Carrot held it up to his ear and heard something solid moving around. Then he started to rip the shiny yellow paper and removed the lid, “A pocket watch?”
“Look what’s inside.”
So he did, pushing down the crown, the lid of the watch opened up. At first, all Carrot could see was the clock face that exposed the tiny, intricate gears where the second hand silently ticked. But it was what was on the back of the lid of the watch that gave the baker some pause. There was a photo of them, “I know this picture,” he said. “It was back when we were in culinary school.” Indeed, the tiny cropped image held their younger selves in their old white uniforms. They were looking right in the camera, having one foreleg wrapped around the other, they gestured with the other towards an elegant wedding cake.
“I thought it was fitting,” Joe said, rubbing the back of his neck. “And that picture meant a good deal to me because around the time it was taken did I started to realize that I was… well… falling for ya. So anyway, shall we head on getting dinner?”
Carrot looked down at the picture and smiled, “Joe, this is really thoughtful of you. Thank you. And yes, let’s get going.”
One cab ride through the city later, the two stallions arrived at the Café sur le Nuage, a Prench restaurant that had large windows being held together by tall raw iron. Even before Carrot stepped out of the carriage, he could smell sent of bitter coffee and buttery pastries that were being made. They took their seats by the outside tables that were facing the street before a waiter came up to them. After examining the menu, settling on some fancy soups and Joe insisting that he would pay later, the two stallions were left alone.
“So…” the doughnut maker began. “How’s Cup?”
“We’ve been keeping ourselves busy, but we’re fine.”
“And the twins?”
Carrot chuckled, “The dears are a hoofful. But they’re quite the bundles of joy when they’re playing. With taking care of business and the foals, we’ve been working our tails off but we do it because we love them all the same. Besides, Pinkie has helped foalsit when the occasion calls for it.”
“Oh yeah, how’s she anyway? I mean Pinkie Pie.”
“Still as energetic since the day she moved upstairs,” the yellow stallion laughed. “I don’t think there’s ever a dull day whenever she’s around. Planning and throwing parties, pulling a couple of pranks here and there, just trying to make everypony laugh. The mare is a sweetheart to everyone, I think you should really meet her sometime.”
“I kinda did once actually,” Joe replied, now feeling a good deal more relaxed. “Came up on the train while we went to deliver our stuff at that cake competition thing. I had made several doughnut cakes and arranged them to look like a city.”
“You really did that?”
“Yeah…” he nodded before the unicorn changed the subject. “You know Carrot; I’m actually impressed with your wife. I mean, for her to have this much trust in you to go on a date with not only somepony else but a guy no less.”
Carrot chuckled nervously, “Truth be told, Cup is not only okay with this, but I think she might like the idea of me dating you a little more than I anticipated.”
The unicorn raised an eyebrow, “Meaning?”
“That I think she’s hoping that this date would go well enough to have you included in our… experimental Fridays.”
“O-Oh…” Joe blushed. “I see.”
“What about you?” Carrot asked in hopes to change the conversation, “Anything new with the doughnut shop?”
“Ah yeah!” Joe smiled, “I’m testing out new flavors for the dough like adding in fruity extracts. So far, I’ve been experimenting with different combinations of doughnuts that I’m planning on selling next month. That and I’ve hired a new guy for the fryers. A part-time high schooler really, he’s here to get some job experience.”
“And your parents?”
Joe shifted in his seat. “They’re okay I guess. I mean, I haven’t really talked to them in a while.”
“Oh? Why not?”
“Partly because I’m busy with the shop and partly to reduce my chances of finding out that I’m… you know.” The unicorn made circular motions with both of his hooves. “As I’ve said, I’m just not prepared in coming out to them. I love them and all but I don’t want to be disappointed in me.”
“For what? Because you happen to like stallions?”
“And the fact that I’m in love with one that’s already married? Yeah,” Joe nodded.
“Joe, can I ask you a personal question,” Carrot leaned forward. “If you don’t mind of me asking, when are you planning on coming out? I mean, I won’t tell you that you have to, but we know what happens when you keep bottling yourself up. Eventually, something is gonna give.” There was an uncomfortable pause between them, “If you’re not gonna tell them tonight, tomorrow, next week, next month or next year, when?”
The Unicorn looked up at the twilight sky as street lamps began to be turned on. “Until I have some hint from them that it would be ready to let them know. That I can just tell both of them and they could shrug it off as if it’s no big deal. It shouldn’t be, I know, but Equestria isn't exactly prejudiced free. They could disown me for all I know.”
“Do you really think they would?”
“I… I don’t know. And that part really scares me. I tell ya Carrot, my head is chock-full of ‘what if’s’ that it isn’t funny. For all I know, they might as well do that, but I have no way of telling on how to find out without being caught in the crossfire.” He shook his head before turning to his date, “But let’s not talk about that. After dinner, is there anything, in particular, you wanna do here? I’ve got plenty of suggestions.”
“Like?”
Before he could lay out his list, the waiter came back, balancing a tray on his back, “Your soups gentlecolts.”
“Thanks,” after the bowls were placed in front of them and the waiter left them alone again, Joe resumed. “Anyway, I have a couple of things we could do, I know there’s a couple of movies and plays that are going around. But there’s other stuff that’s going around though if you want to do something else. I guess it all depends on what you want to do.”
“Well I don’t really have an opinion, to be honest,” Carrot said as he took a hold of a spoon. “This is your night after all; you’re the one that’s calling all the shots.”
“But I want to do something that you would enjoy.”
“Joe, the point of a date is to do something that both of us would like. Just take a moment and think, what is it that we can do that we would be fun for both of us?”
As they turned their attention towards their bowls of soup, the doughnut maker sat there in thought. He was a native to the city and he knew where every shop, club, restaurant, dance hall, theater, and park was. But being left up to him as to where to go next, for a while he was completely stumped. Where would he take the pony he had a crush on for all these years to? What kind of place where they could go…
“I think I have a pretty good idea,” he said at last.
On 7th Street and Polaris Way, a bright neon green sign glowed seemingly out of place on the Canterlot road. A sign that pointed down to a flight of steps to a place called “Cast Iron Pizza.” The Pizzaria itself wasn’t by any means fancy, nor did it have the best-made pizza. It resided on the cheap side since the décor looked like it hadn’t changed in decades with its white walls, dark wooden chairs and tables, lamps that hung from the ceiling that was made up of pieces of red glass and cold light bulbs, and a chalkboard that had the menu.
But for the two stallions, this pizzeria was special to them not because of the food it had, but for the room that was in the very back. “It’s funny how little things have changed,” Carrot commented as they went through an arched opening into a deep neon blue room. This room was the reason they came because of its collection of arcade games. Lined up against the wall in rows, all waiting for bits were machines that flashed and brightly advertised their pixelated entertainment. In a corner of the room, pinball machines promised of adventure while the row of Skee balls promised a challenge to those that would play.
Joe nodded, “Yeah, I figured that if we’re gonna be on a date, why not go somewhere where it’s nostalgic? I haven’t been here myself for a really long time you know, but I figured that this would be a good start.”
Carrot trot along the rows of games, each button and joystick begged to be played, “I kinda feel like we’re back at that school again. Do you remember how often we’ve hanged out here playing these?”
“And how many bits we’ve spent?” Jo chuckled, “Actually Carrot, there’s another reason why I brought you here. This is the very spot in which I… realized that I had a crush on you.”
“Really?” Carrot blinked. “How so?”
The unicorn headed over to one of the games, a double controller council in which the screen displayed the name “Cave of Shadows.” Joe placed a hoof over the buttons, “If I remember right, it was right here that I realized it. We had graduated for over a month and we’ve gotten a job at that sandwich place making bread that we’ve come here to unwind after hours. Back then, I still considered you a friend when we’ve gone at these things. It was when we were playing this that I realized that I had an… attraction to you.”
The yellow Baker raised an eyebrow, “While we were playing that?”
Joe laughed, “It sounds weird, I know. But we’ve done more than just smash these buttons, it gave us a chance to talk things over while having fun. Do you remember? It was here that I asked you what you would hope your special somepony would have.”
Carrot’s eyes widen at the realization, “Oh yeah! I remember it now, and I think it was after Hearths and Hooves day too.”
“And do you remember what you said? I haven’t. While we were playing through this, you said that the ideal pony to have was someone that you can be glad to come home to after a long, rough day. Someone who was fun to talk to and listens when you needed it, that they can stay loyal to you even when you grow old. A pony that was hardworking while creative. One that would love you because of who you are – well, as you went on, for a moment I thought that you were describing me.”
“So I guess that I might have accidentally lead you on, have I?” Carrot rubbed the back of his neck. “Though come to think of it, that does sound an awfully a lot like you.”
“Yeah…” Joe said awkwardly. “But maybe we should focus on the past here. I brought you here to have some fun, so that’s where we’re gonna do.” He put a hoof in his pocket to draw out a single bit, placing it on the glass of the screen. “So what do ya say Carrot, ready to be beaten at a couple of rounds?”
“Is that a challenge?” the baker smirked. “We may be a bit rusty, but I think I can still win this without a problem.”
The unicorn laughed, “Getting confident, aren’t we?”
“Move over and let me show how it’s done.” Taking his place at the double controller panel, Carrot took the bit and tossed it into the slot of the machine. With a hoof on a joystick and the other ready to press the flat red buttons, he looked over to Joe. “Ready?”
Placing his hooves on the other joystick and a look of determination on his face, he replied, “Let’s do this.”
With a push of a button, the two stallions began their game as their pixelated characters began their quest of slaying monsters, henchponies, and spirits. Through the levels, they jerked their joysticks, smashed buttons and gave orders on what to avoid and when to attack. Not to say that they got every move right, most of the time they did. They would make a mistake here and therein which cost them a life, but they still pressed on until the screen read, “Game Over.”
But even with this, it didn’t stop the two from trying out other games. For over an hour, Carrot and Joe played through the nostalgic games, earning points, cracking jokes and teasing each other whenever the other loses. By the time they had enough, all the awkwardness from the start of the date had melted away to the point where even Carrot was getting comfortable around Joe.
“…. And then Pinkie says, ‘Tapioca, are you crazy!’”
The doughnut maker busted out laughing. They were now taking a walk through the lighted streets of Canterlot after the sun had set and the stars had appeared in the darkening sky above. Lights from the light posts and the windows casts’ soft glow and sharp shadows as the two stallions walked on.
“Your employee is insane!” Joe told him, grinning like a madmare and shaking his head. “Really, remind me again how you guys find her?”
“Simple, she came into town one day asking for a job a couple of years ago when she happened upon our bakery. Pinkie was looking for both a place to work and a place to sleep, and at the time, we had a spare room on the top floor and she was creative when it came to sugar. So we’ve struck a deal with her that we can rent out the room to her if she was able to work for us. To which, she has been there ever since.”
“From what I’ve read about her, I don’t know if I’ll be able to keep my sanity in the first week. What surprises me is that not only do you guys put up with her, but you consider part of the family too.”
“It only takes some patience.”
“Having her use the bakery to throw parties at nearly three or four times a week, is able to pull off the magic that even unicorns can’t explain and throw comments at the walls takes much more than just patience Carrot.”
The Baker laughed it off, but then he looked around as he realized something, “Hey Joe, where are we?”
“We’re close to Starbright Park that’s up ahead. If you don’t mind, I like to take a moment to rest there.” It didn’t take long for the stallions to reach the tiny park that had only grass, a few trees, a couple lampposts and a bench that rested in the middle. The two of them took a seat among the shadows that the trees cast over them, yet they could see the lit street they’ve come from. “So Carrot,” Joe began, “have you been enjoying this date?”
“Surprisingly, I am,” the yellow stallion rubbed the back of his neck. “It’ rather funny that I expected something like this would be different. Only, compared to the dates I’ve been on, it’s not all that different.”
“Really?”
“Yes,” he nodded. “I mean, the only difference I could see is-”
“Me,” Joe interrupted.”
“Well… yes. Though in hindsight, it’s not as weird as I thought it would be. When we went to that arcade and walking down the street just now, I haven’t had that much fun since I dated Cup. So if you’re wondering if this is going well, then I have to say that it is.”
Even in the dim light, Carrot could see Joe was blushing, “It’s not very often I get to do this you know.”
“I remember you telling me that, but I have to say that you’re doing a pretty good job. Sure, it’s simple, but sometimes the best dates are.”
“That’s a relief to hear,” the unicorn sighed. “Hey Carrot, can I ask you a personal question?”
The Baker raised an eyebrow, “How personal is personal?”
“You remember when I came to Ponyville, you confronted me and I… you know.”
“Kissed me?”
He nodded, “There’s something that has been bothering me ever since I did that. So please be honest with me here when I ask this: What was it like for you?”
Carrot blinked, “Huh?”
“I mean when I was… kissing ya. How exactly was it?”
The yellow Earth Pony looked at him for a long moment, “Do you really want me to answer that?”
“Yeah.”
An exasperated sigh escaped his muzzle. “Well… At first, I didn’t exactly know what was going on. One moment you had your hooves on my head and the next you had your lips on mine. My mind was trying to process what was happening.” Carrot looked over to see Joe’s face was guilt-stricken. “But do you want to know something interesting… I uh… I haven’t even told Cup about this…”
An ear perked up on the Doughnut maker’s head, “Yes…?”
He hesitated before admitting, “It wasn’t… bad. If that makes sense. Sure, I was surprised, shocked and a bit disoriented – but I don’t remember being disgusted by it either.”
Joe’s eyes widen, “So wait, are you telling me that you’d… like it?”
“That’s just the thing, I’m not sure about at all yet, I don’t know why. I mean, I’m straight, that I’ve always known. When I kiss Cup, it’s always incredible. But then when you did it… I don’t exactly know how to describe it, but then again it was so quick that I guess I didn’t exactly know how to process it. So why are you bringing this up?”
“Um…” the unicorn next to him pawed at the planks of wood on the bench. “B-Because… that was my first kiss… ever.”
“Wait, really?” Carrot’s eyes widen.
Joe nodded embarrassingly, “Yeah… Something that I dreamed of doing for a really long time, saving that experience for the one pony that I cared above all else.”
The two stallions sat there on the park bench in silence. The yellow Baker already had an idea that he spent in silence debating himself if it was worth doing or not. It was a concept that was so wild, so scandalous, and so completely out of the blue that Carrot hesitated for several minutes before opening his mouth. “Joe,” he began carefully, “Do you… Do you want to… give it, another try?”
This time the Doughnut maker was dumbstruck, “What? Carrot, are you suggesting what I think you’re-”
“Yes,” Carrot cut him off. “If you really want to try again… I won’t stop you.”
Joe’s face took on a strong tint of crimson if anything; he was at loss for words. “Oh my… but won’t it be, you know, uncomfortable for me to…”
“No, I’m the one that’s giving you permission. I’m not sure what this would prove, but I do think that having your first kiss should be something to remember. So… how about a do-over, only this time I know that it’s coming.” He turned slightly to face him, “You can go ahead now.”
The unicorn looked all around him to be sure that not only were they alone, but that nopony was paying any attention to them. “You… You know you don’t have to do this.”
“But do you?”
Gulping, Joe lifts a nervous, shaking hoof that touched Carrot’s cheek. “Okay, I’ll try to make sure I don’t force myself on ya like I did last time.” The Baker nodded and closed his eyes. Doughnut Joe on the other hoof couldn’t exactly believe that this was happening; he could feel his heart picked up at a staccato pace, the blood warming his cheeks as he inched closer. Taking a deep breath through his nostrils and closing his eyes, he kissed Carrot once again.
True to his word, the yellow stallion did not resist him. Now taking his time, Joe felt the warmth upon those lips, only… as much as he lingered, it seemed as if something was missing from this experience. There wasn’t that quality in which that made as remarkable as he had heard others describe their kisses. It felt awkward, out of place even before Joe pulled away.
Carrot opened his eyes, seeing the unicorn’s ears slowly folded backward. “Joe?”
“You know, I think it just hit home to me that this really is gonna be one-sided.”
“Oh…” the baker wiped his mouth with a hoof. “Was I that bad of a kisser?”
“I wouldn’t say no,” Joe blushed. “If anything, at least it was better than the last time only… I could tell that you weren’t really into it as I was.”
“Yeah…” Carrot rubbed the back of his neck. “Doing it again… I’m sorry Joe but it was just, weird. Not bad per se, it was just odd to me.”
A heavy sigh escaped from the unicorn’s mouth. “Ya know, for just a brief moment, I had this hope that…”
The baker put a put a comforting hoof on his friend’s back. “I know. And I’m sorry, but I just don’t exactly feel the same way as you do.” Joe hunched over, putting his hooves over his eyes while Carrot rubbed his back. For several minutes, the unicorn was completely quiet, showing no emotion at all. Eventually, the skinny stallion had to say something. “Joe, please listen to me. I know that this is really hard for you. I know that it’s disheartening to have your biggest worry become a reality. However, don’t think that you’re no longer capable of loving anypony else that may come down the road. If this date has proven anything, it’s that you are a wonderful stallion that anyone would be incredibly lucky to have as their coltfriend. And at the same time, realize that what we have now, our friendship is still intact. Sure, you haven’t gained anything tonight, but don’t think that you’ve lost anything either. While I may not achieve everything that you’ve hoped for, there is still a real chance that you can become happier from here.”
“How do you know?” Joe answered in a low voice.
“Because, at one point in my life, I didn’t think nopony would want a scrawny guy like me to be their coltfriend, much less a husband. Then Cup came along to prove me wrong. I believe that if it can happen to me, so then why not let the same to you?”
After another moment of silence, the doughnut maker raised his head. Smiling at him, he pulled Carrot into a hug, “What did I do to deserve someone like you?”
“Pure luck I guess,” the yellow stallion hugged back. “So, is there anything else you want to do?”
Joe thought it over for a moment, “I think it’s about time for dessert.”
“This is a bit over the top, don’t you think?” Carrot pointed out when he sat down and took a good look at the ice cream parlor they sat down at. Only, the word “parlor” would be completely inaccurate, rather, it was more of an ice cream palace. Not only did the shop had two floors; not only did its interior resembled that of Canterlot Castle with its marble floors, its gold moldings, cast iron railings, and tasteful yet expensive wallpaper; and not only did it had a rather large staff. What stood out was the nearly endless rows of tubs of ice cream of every flavor Carrot could think of. And most flavors he didn’t even know existed.
Across from the table, Joe simply waved it off. “Don’t worry about it. I promise that no matter what you order, I’ll cover it.”
The yellow baker looked over at the board that listed the prices and grimaced, “I don’t know Joe. It’s really expensive.”
“Don’t worry,” the unicorn insisted. “After what you did, you deserve a real treat. Besides, there’s a reason why it boasts of having the best ice cream in town.”
“If you say so…”
Before long, a waiter came up to him. The cocoa brown uniformed stallion with a cream mane came up to them, “Oh, h-hey Joe. Nice to see you back.”
“Hey Butter Brickle,” the unicorn waved. “How’s the new job treating ya?”
“Oh, it’s… there,” Butter looked over to Carrot. However, the Baker noticed something that confused him. When the waiter looked at him, he could have sworn there was a flash of jealousy in his eyes. “Who’s this?”
“I’m a friend of his,” Carrot explained himself. “Joe is just showing me around Canterlot.”
“I… see,” their Earth Pony waiter took out a notepad from his breast pocket. “What can I get for you two gentlecolts?”
“The usual for me,” Joe started. “In a bowl, double scoop. And you?”
Carrot took a moment to look over at the long list of flavors, “Do you happen to have huckleberry?”
“We do,” Butter scribbled it down. “Cup, cone or bowl?”
“Just a cup is fine, and I’ll just have a scoop since I’m not that hungry.”
“Sure thing…” the waiter wrote the request down. Looking up, he asked, “So Joe. How are things with you?”
“Same Ol’, Same Ol’,” the doughnut maker shrugged, “Just doin’ what I can to keep myself busy. Still, I guess it’s good to see you moved on to newer and better things, huh?”
“Um, yeah…” Butter looked away, and it wasn’t until Carrot noticed that there was a slight blush did he raise an eyebrow. “I’ll get your desserts out,” and with that, he turned and trot away.
“You know him?” Carrot inquired.
“He used to work for me a while back,” Joe explained. “Butter Brickle was a pretty good employee too. Always arrives on time, turning out doughnuts at the fryer, and at one point was a warm face to meet at the register. He was such a nice guy too, always offering to help even on break, handled the customers well, and he managed to keep a conversation going for hours. Then one day, out of the blue really, he suddenly quit. I still had no idea why though, it’s not I’ve deducted his pay or anything. In fact, I had considered giving him a promotion at one point.”
“How long ago was this?”
The unicorn thought it over for a moment, “Roughly three or four months ago. Why?”
Carrot leaned back in his seat, “Nothing, but I’m starting to have a hunch though.”
“On what?”
“Did you notice when he came up to us, that he was acting kinda nervous around you? Furthermore, did you also saw how he looked at me? For a moment, I swear that I saw jealousy in him.”
“Jealousy?” Joe gave a puzzled look. “What are ya talkin’ about?”
“Tell me, when he was working for you, did… Butter was it? Yes, it was. Did Butter act any differently around you compared to your other employees?”
The doughnut maker hummed, “Well… He was usually more comfortable talking around me, that’s for sure. The guy looks up to me, but then again, I am the boss after all. Plus, he’s pretty loyal to me, even after he quit at my shop, he still sometimes call me Boss. But I don’t know where you’re going with this.”
“You know Joe,” Carrot began. “I might be wrong here, but it could be something you might consider. I’m starting to think there might be a chance, that this Butter might have a crush on you.”
This took Joe completely by surprise, “W-Wait what?”
“I’m not saying that I’m sure about this, but I also saw a blush when you complimented him. Perhaps, you might consider asking him out sometime.”
“Now hold on Carrot,” the stallion raised his hooves defensively. “You don’t really know that.”
“But neither do you,” the yellow Baker pointed it out. “I just think that once this is over; there might be somepony here that might have an interest in you.”
Before Joe could make a reply, Butter Brickle returned balancing a tray of their ice creams on his back. “Here we go,” he said as he carefully lowered and pushed the tray onto the table. “The huckleberry for you,” the waiter passed it over to Carrot. “And the Mom’s Recipe for you Boss,” he then placed the glass bowl in front of him. Taking the tray onto his back once more, he gave a kind smile towards Joe, “Will there be anything else you need?”
Looking between him and the ice cream, the unicorn replied, “I think we’re good.”
With a nod, he left them once more.
“You never know…” Carrot mused as he started digging into his ice cream.
Joe sighed, “Can we talk about this later?”
The two of them fell silent as they turned their attention towards their ice cream. For the baker, he felt deep down that he hadn’t done enough to help his friend. As if there was something else that he needs to do to help him with his happiness. The only question was how? As he brought the tart dessert by the scoopful, he meditated on the problem before him. Trying to figure out what was the key to bring Doughnut Joe’s freedom. What obstacle was holding him back?
Then he realized it, his parents! It’s the fact his parents don’t know is what was keeping him from being happy. With this realization, Carrot then thought about how to convince Joe to come out to them. Of course, he already knew the reasons why he hadn’t, he was afraid of not knowing how they would react.
“Is something wrong?” Joe snapped the baker from his thoughts.
“Huh? Oh nothing, I was just thinking of something that I don’t think you would like.”
“What?”
“It’s an idea I’m playing around, something that may give you peace of mind.”
The unicorn raised an eyebrow, “Sorry Carrot, but I’m still in the dark here.”
“Before I can get to it, do your parents still live in Canterlot?”
“Well yeah, why?”
Carrot took in a deep breath and exhaled through his nostrils. “Before I say anything, you must promise me to hear me out on this. Because what I’m about to say, you’re defiantly not going to like, but I promise you that there’s a really good reason behind it.” Joe told him to go ahead, “Would it be possible to come out to them, tonight?”
Joe dropped his spoon that clang on the table.
“Hear me out!” the baker spoke hastily. “I know what you’re thinking, and I know how afraid you are at the very mentioning of this idea. But I have said from the very beginning that I want to help you in any way I can. In fact, do you know why I agreed in going on this date with you? It’s because so that it will give you closer and some peace. Grant it, you don’t know if your parents would reject you, but who’s to say that they would accept you? If anything, you don’t have to face this alone. I can, if you want, act as a mediator between you two if something does go wrong.”
“But what good will that do?”
“A lot, I should think. Tell me, Joe, would you like to live a life in which you can date the pony you want without having to worry how your family would think of you? I mean, you’re already a grown, independent stallion. You have financial security and a home you can go back to every night. Even if they disown you, consider that you still have somewhere to go.”
Joe frowned, “Wow, that sounds really cold coming from you. Has it ever occurred to you that maybe I love them to the point to spare them from knowing this about me?”
“But what’s the point of gaining their love and respect if you have to lie of who you are to them? Coming from a parent, I would rather love my children not on the idea of who they might be, but for who they are. It’s the number one rule of raising foals, and I of all ponies should know.”
The unicorn looked down at his melting ice cream, “I… I don’t know.”
“Let’s go over there,” Carrot told him, “I’ll be with you for support – I Pinkie Pie Promise that I’ll be right with you the whole time.”
“You what?”
The yellow stallion paused before chuckling, “It’s just something that my employee has implanted on.”
Even if Carrot was blind, he could easily tell how uneasy Joe was as they approached the house on Mountain Air Ave. The neighborhood itself wasn’t as impressive as the touristy part of the city. If anything in the light of the street lamps, it was simplistic. Most of the houses on that street didn’t stand as high as two stories, and many of them lacked the ordination that much of the capital had. However, the distinct forest green front door that had an oval glass panel was made the unicorn all the more nervous with every step towards it.
“I’m not sure if I can do this Carrot,” Joe freely admitted.
“Yes you can,” the baker put a hoof on his shoulder. “I know this is scary, but that’s what being brave is all about. Doing something that although you are terrified, you keep going despite being afraid.”
“W-What if it all goes wrong?”
“Then I’ll step in and do my best to defend you.”
For a long time, Joe stared at the door before raising a hoof to knock on the painted wood. It only took a minute before they saw a silhouette from behind the glass to come to unlock the door. “Joe?” when the door opened, they now saw clearly an old stallion’s face. The wrinkly royal blue unicorn adjusted his glasses for a moment. “Oh, hello Joe,” he said with a warm smile.
“Hey pop,” the doughnut maker said as his father stepped through and hugged him.
“What are you doing out here for? It’s almost ten.” It was then that the elderly stallion took notice of Carrot, “Who’s this?”
“I’m a friend of his, mister…” the lanky baker began but trailed off. “I’m sorry, I’m afraid I don’t know what your name is.”
“Roast Coffee, sir,” he shook his hoof, “so is there any reason why you’re here? Joe’s not in trouble, is he?”
“Not really. I’ve actually persuaded him into telling you something.”
“Is mom around?” Joe inquired.
“We were listening to the radio; she’s in the living room. Come on in.”
As the two stallions stepped in, they could hear the faint sound of voices and music from an audio drama playing. They followed Roast into a cream-colored living room that had a couch, two armchairs that flanked a radio, a fireplace that was burning, and on the walls in black frames were family photos of them and Joe. Sitting at the radio was a mare with a coat that was the same color as the walls. An elderly mare looked up from her book, her face brighten up as she saw her son, “Joe, what a surprise.”
“Hey ma,” Joe nodded. “I know this is unexpected but…” he looked over to Carrot in which he gave a reassuring smile, “Um… ma, pop, can we talk?”
“Why? What’s wrong?”
“I just have something that I need to tell you,” he turned to his dad, “but I think the both of you really gonna need ta sit down for this one.” While his mother turned off the radio, the other three stallions sat down. Joe and Carrot took the couch while Roast took the other armchair next to his wife. Joe closed his eyes and took in a deep breath, “Just so that I know,” he began. “You two are still proud of me, right?”
His mother did a double-take, “What? Of course, we do. Joe, why would you ask that you know that very well that we’re proud of what you’ve done.”
“Not to mention how much of a hard worker you are,” Joe’s father agreed. “I mean, who would be the manager of a twenty-four-hour doughnut shop? And to keep it going for a good couple of years too, though, at the same time, I have to agree with your ma, why are you bringing this up?”
The doughnut maker shifted uncomfortably in his seat. “Because… I have something to tell you that… I’m not exactly sure how well you’ll take it. Oh, it’s not that I’ve done something bad or anything like that, it’s just…”
Roast leaned forward in his seat, “Joe? Son? What’s wrong?”
“I, um…” he looked over to Carrot who put a comforting hoof on his shoulder.
“It’s okay. Be brave now,” the baker said.
Gulping, Joe looked between his parents. “I… I’m not exactly sure how to put this. But I hope that you’ll still love me…” he shut his eyes tight, taking in a deep breath through his nose. “Ma, pop, I’m not… straight.” The room went completely quiet as if time itself had just been frozen solid. “I’m… gay.”
In the quiet, the stallion felt unprepared, for all he could sense was dread. His eyes were still shut tight; he didn’t want to see their reaction of what came out of his mouth. But in that uneasiness, he waited for someone, anypony to speak for what seemed like a thousand years on that couch.
Finally, someone did, and it was his mother who spoke up, “And?”
Joe’s eyes shot open, now looking at them, he didn’t see rejection or disgust. If anything, the look they had on their faces was as if they were expecting something more. His mother continued, “Is that it?”
At first, Joe was so stunned by the question being asked that he found himself at loss for words. Rough, however, pushed his shocked son by commenting, “So you didn’t do anything illegal, right? The way you’ve been acting, I thought you’ve killed someone or something serious.”
“With all due respect,” Carrot spoke up. “To Joe, this is rather serious to him. If anything, he was scared stiff that you two would be angry at him.”
“Angry?” Joe’s mother said, “Why would we? Truth be told, we’ve suspected that our son had preferred colts since he was fourteen.”
“Fourteen…?” the doughnut maker spoke softly. “You…? What gave it away?”
Both of his parents glanced at each other. “You didn’t give anything away per-say,” his father shrugged. “I mean, we’ve never seen you taken any interest in any marefriends (or anyone for that matter), but we didn’t want to impose in your love life. Sure, we had our theories, but we thought that we just wait until you’re comfortable telling us of your special somepony when the time came to it.” He pointed a hoof to Carrot and asked, “So I’m guessin’ he’s your coltfriend?”
“No,” the baker replied in a deadpanned tone. “I’m his best friend that’s just looking out for him. In fact, I’m the one that’s convinced him to come out to him.”
“So,” Joe began again, “you two are fine with this? I mean, neither of you are disappointed in me?”
“Oh no, Joe,” her mother got up from her chair and trotted over to hug him. “Sweetheart, this doesn’t make you any less of the son we know and love. I mean, you can commit the worst possible crime imaginable but even that won’t stop us from loving you. So finding out that you lean towards stallions? Joe, this is nothing.”
“In other words,” Roast added, “if you’re really trying to disappoint either of us, you’re gonna have to try harder than that.”
“Oh thank Celestia.” Joe sighed in relief, rubbing his eyes with both of his hooves.
“See, what do I tell ya?” Carrot smiled. “You didn’t have anything to worry about.”
“Though, there’s one thing I do want to know,” Roast Coffee asked. “How come you didn’t tell us this before?”
His son’s ears folded back, rubbing a foreleg with his hoof, he answered. “Because, last time I checked, neither of you had talked about ponies like me. It would have been one thing if I heard you say that you didn’t mind gay ponies or that you outright hate them. But to not hear a thing at all…? Do you know what that does to someone like me? Not knowing how you would react if I told you one day that I have a crush on a pony that isn’t a mare. Ma, pop, it’s terrifying to me.”
Joe’s mother gave a guilty look and nuzzled her son. “We’re sorry sweetheart; we didn’t mean to make you worry so much this whole time.”
“At least I don’t have to hide anymore, right?” her son smiled. “As of now, I’m free.”
“Are you sure you don’t want me to get you a room here in Canterlot?” About half an hour later since Joe’s confession, he and Carrot were walking towards the train station. “I mean, it’s already late as it is.”
“Riding half an hour by train isn’t going to tire me out,” Carrot told him.
“C’mon buddy, you’ve really helped me a lot tonight then anypony has. You can stay in a hotel for the night so you won’t be tired out by the time morning comes.”
The banker shook his head, “You don’t have to worry about me. I came to help you and that’s what I did. And besides, as I said, this is probably the most fun I’ve had in a couple of years. Overall, this was a welcomed surprised,” he smiled at the unicorn, “though I do hope that you would do more than just write to us. It would be great to have you come down to visit us now and then.”
“Oh defiantly, though it would be awkward to have your wife asked about me kissing you… again.”
Carrot chuckled, “Remember Joe, she’s far more acceptable to us dating then you give her credit for. But you’re right; my honey bun would like to know the details of tonight. Otherwise, she would force me to sleep on the couch for a couple of weeks.”
This got a laugh out of the doughnut maker. “You know, you really are lucky to have somepony like her. I wish I had a pony like her with that much trust.”
“Oh don’t say that,” the scrawny stallion elbowed him. “If what I saw in that ice cream place indicates anything, I say that there’s always a chance for you.”
“What? With Butter Brickle?”
“Yeah, why not? While I may not have reached your expectations, so what’s to say that a stallion like him wouldn’t? Just remember Joe, when it comes to love, there’s always hope.” By now, the two stallions had walked up to the station, particularly at the ticket booth where a board mare was sitting. “One for the midnight ride to Ponyville please,” he said as he placed a couple bits for exchange for a ticket.
“Carrot, before you go, there’s one last thing I want to say.”
“Yes?”
Joe embraced him, wrapping his hooves around him, “Thank you so much. This is the single kindest thing anypony has ever done, and I’m forever in debt to you for it. I’m incredibly blessed to have a best friend like you Carrot.”
“I know,” the yellow baker nuzzled him. “As I’ve said, this has been fun, and I do hope that this would help you move on.”
Letting go, never dropping his warm smile, Joe replied, “You know what, I think I’ll have nowhere else to go but up.”
“Mail’s here!” Pinkie hopped into the shop with envelopes sticking out of her mane and a small box entangled in her tail. She hopped over to Mrs. Cake who was at the register. “There are a couple of bills and a postcard for you Mrs. C,” she jerked her head towards the counter in which the envelopes that had Cup’s name tumbled onto.
“Thanks, Pinkie,” the blue mare said as she gathered her mail. “What is the rest for?”
“Well there’s a letter that’s for Mr. C and the package is for me. I think it might be the emergency spray in case some interdimensional Bronies that might come to invade Equestria.”
Cup Cake blinked, “The what now?”
“It helps being prepared,” Pinkie added. “Mr. C is still working on that gingerbread isn’t he?” When told that he was, she hopped around the counter and through the swinging doors into the kitchen. Over by the mixers, the yellow baker was measuring some brown sugar, “Mail for you.”
“Oh?” Carrot looked over his shoulder and noticed the envelope that was sticking out of Pinkie’s bubble gum mane. “Thank you,” he plucked it out as his employee exited the kitchen. Looking at the address, he realized that it was another letter from Joe. So after pouring the rest of the other ingredients into the mixers to make the dough, Carrot opened the letter and began reading.
Dear Carrot,
I wanna share some really good news from my side of Equestria. Do you remember on our date that we went to that ice cream place where Butter Brickle served us? The one whom you suggested that I should probably try asking out with? Well, it has taken a while to gather up the courage, but a couple of days ago I was able to do just that. Carrot, you should have seen the look on his face, it was as if I’ve given him the crown itself. He really couldn’t believe his own luck but he accepted it.
Last night, (from the time that I’m writing this) was our first date together. We kept things simple; go to a movie, grabbed some dinner and walked around the city for a bit. I can tell you that while I’m not exactly sure where this is going to go, I do think we might be off to a good start. Butter is a pleasant guy to be around with, and while I may not say that I’m in love with him, I do think that we would still go out to see if anything good would come out of this. And I really do hope that it does.
Just to let you know Carrot, I’m planning on coming to visit you guys by next Saturday and I will be bringing my doughnut cake too. Maybe this time I could be properly be introduced to the twins that I’ve read so much about, and at the same time prepare myself for meeting Pinkie again – as well as to come face Cup for the first time since you two got married.
Once again Carrot, I cannot thank you enough for giving me a chance a couple of weeks ago. And while I may not feel as strongly as I did before towards you, I’m still grateful for our date. It’s opened up to the possibilities and freedoms that were once barred from me. And given that not only do my parents know but they’re encouraging me to go out as well too, as Ma would put it to, “Bring home your coltfriend so we could have an excuse in showing him your foal pictures.” (Okay, that’s not exactly what she really said but she might as well.) But I’m getting off topic, the point is that while I don’t have as big of a crush as I did, at least I can thank you for giving me the opportunity to go out with somepony that has a genuine interest in me.
I couldn’t tell you how relieved I feel now. It’s like a weight that I have been carrying around with me for most of my life has now been lifted so I can breathe and move around easier. Not to mention that I’ve noticed that I’ve been sleeping better at night and my mood is a good deal better, even my employees notice this. I’ve been working with a better attitude and I’m now a bit thrilled for the next date that’s coming up soon. For the first time Carrot, I’m now looking forward towards tomorrow in what it’ll bring.
In the meantime, I’ll be preparing to visit you guys soon, and you can expect that I’ll be bringing something for the twins (as well as Pinkie Pie as a peace offering).
Hope to see you soon,
Your friend,
-Joe.
Carrot smiled when he finished reading the letter. He was glad to see a sign that his best friend was moving on and that he was coming to visit on his own free will. “Hey honey bun,” he called out, “good news, Joe is coming down next Saturday.”
“What was that?” his wife peek her head through the double doors. Her husband repeated what he said before she replied with a smile, “Well it’s about time. I was wondering when we’d get to hear from him. How is he?”
“He’s better now. Going out with him has done some tremendous good.”
“I’m glad to hear it,” Cup smiled. “How long did he say he was staying?”
Carrot looked back at the letter, “It doesn’t say. Could it be for a day or two, why?”
Her eyes lowered as she replied, “You know, if we’re lucky, perhaps we can still invite them to our experimental Fridays.”
The stallion frowned, “I’m willing to open up to many things Cup, but I don’t think that’s one of them. Besides, Joe has a coltfriend now so I don’t think that would be fair to either of them.”
“Oh you’re no fun,” she said as she booped his nose. “In the meantime, let’s get those gingerbread cookies out. “
“Coming right up, dear.” After giving his wife a quick kiss, Carrot folded up the letter back up again and placing it in a pocket of his apron. He returned to his work with the knowledge that he made life better for the doughnut maker in Canterlot.
