Heaven's Perennialby Bro DashChaptersA new violistThe dateA secretA new violistOctavia walked through the door with her head down. Another night, passed without so much as a hair out of place. In fact... Grabbing the bow tie which hung to her, she pulled it off, the silk zipping lightly. As she sat at the bar, she set it down next to her nad laid her chin on her crossed arms. She set her bass down next to her and replaced her head, relaxing. "Hey, Octavia, the same old same old?" "...Yeah...", Octavia replied to the blue bar mare. As the unicorn quickly filled the glass with seven different drinks, she turned to Octavia, shakign the contents in the air. "Still feeling a bit down?" "Yeah. Not a single violist like me, in this entire city..." "Oh, there are plenty of violinists, harpists, and cello players." "But none like me. I play all. My favorite being the double bass, the biggest and heaviest soul instrument of the four string name." "Oh.", the bar mare poured the mixture into a glass. Octavia took it, forkign over the few bits for it, and set it in front of her, watching as it stopped swashing and sat still, only to vibrate from teh center. Something heavy forcing it to. It sounded like one of the players trying to extend a string off a cello too low. The horrible thrum was enough for Octavia to turn and yell at the horrible player. Quickly turning her head, she stared at the scene of the many violists playing smooth jazz int eh corner, and her eyes widened. It wasn't as she thought. Not one bit. A light mint green coated stallion, sleek and fine against the double bass he was playing. His hooves creamy mint, and what interested her more is that he was plucking the bass now, his bow having broken, nearby. "Who is that?", Octavia asked. "Oh, him? He's Harp Chord. Fellow asked to play here tonight. Though, I see he's not so good with a bow as he is with his hooves." "You don't say...A bit jazzy for my taste but...He looks interesting." "Well, don't sit there. Talk to him, or if you are too shy like that yellow mare to the left, you could finish your drink and leave." Octavia turned around and saw Fluttershy, the mare which was aforementioned, but her face mostly red from a hard blush. She as staring at a glass of water, silent. "I think I'll meet him.", Octavia decided, getting up. Bringing her drink to teh table closest to the stallion, Octavia felt the vibrations even more as he pulled each string, letting the bass beat instead of thrum. It wasn't but a few seconds later when the song ended. "Wow.", Octavia began, "I have never heard anyone pluck on a double bass. Maybe one of those new electric basses, but not an old fashioned double bass." The mint stallion turne his head to Octavia and looked back to his instrument, readying to play again. The saxophone started playing at a low note, ranging to a high one that brough up a quick tempo beat. "...Not very many people know how to do it right.", he finally responded. "Well, you sure can do it. How did you learn?" "...I play very many stringed instruments." "Oh? Really? I do too." "The cello, the guitar, the harp, the violin, the piano, and the double bass." "I thought the piano and harp were not violas." "They aren't, but they are stringed instruments." "So, that's it?" He missed a note and stopped momentarily, swearing under his breath as he resumed. "...No, a few more." "I play a few too." "Well, do you know jazz?" "I have played it before." "Wanna try at it?" "Sure, I've got my own double bass." "Well then join when you want." Octavia smiled and got up, grabbing her bass. Taking out the heavy instrument, she took the bow and stepped on stage next to Harp. The music was simple, but Octavia could see a better tune to add to the smooth jazz. Silently playing her own version of the counter melody, she fit in like a missing note. "Wow, that's actually pretty good. Where are you reading that from?", Harp asked. "I'm...making it up...as I go...", she said, moving her hoof up and down the stock. "Not very many ponies can do that either." "What? Like you and plucking?" "Yeah.", Harp smiled. "My name is Octavia." "I'm Harp." "I know, Martha told me." "Well, I didn't know." "No need to apologize. A fitting name to your beautiful coat, I might add." "Hmm. Never really thought of it that way." "How do you keep it clean all the time? Dirt and grime must where it down." "What do you mean?" "I've...never seen you here, or in Canterlot before, for that matter." "Oh, I'm just new here. Came from...Well, Fillydelphia." "Oh?", Octavia stopped, allowing the lead to play his solo. "Yes. Born and raised.", Harp answered her unspoken question. "REally? You look nothing of it." Harp smiled again, returnign to his part of the music as the song came to it's finale, and end. "Well, I was different." Harp picked up the broken bow and tossed it into the nearby trash can, setting his bass against the wall. "Well, the night is still young, you wish to pass by a fancy restaurant with me?", Octavia offered. "Mmm...I'd like that, yeah. Something good to end the day with. I'll pay for us both, so you don't have to waste anythign on a stranger." "Really? Feels like we're already acquainted." "So, where do you have in mind?" "I was Thinking of Croissant's bakery. They make some delicious french bread and know how to make a wonderful salad." "Sounds wonderful." "Indeed, it does." "I'll pack my bass and we can go." "Alright then." Octavia stepped down off the stage with ehr bass, replacing it in it's own case, where she had left it, then put it over her back once more. Harp was already walking to the door, causing a bit of excitement from Octavia. She hurried over and stopped near the stallion. "I don't really know where to go, though.", Harp confessed. "Oh, it's not far, in fact, it's just across the road." "Really? You mean that closed building?" Octavia looked through the glass doors and saw the black windows of teh bakery across the street, then looked at the watch ont eh wall nearby. "Aw, they closed already. I forgot to watch the clock. I'm sorry I got your hopes up." "Oh, it's no big deal. I'll still walk you home if you wish." "Oh...well, I'd like that." Harp opened the door, "Mares first." "Oh, such a gentlecolt!", Octavia walked out. The two stopped just on teh side of the street and looked up at the full moon. The streets were all deserted, empty, and dark, the shops liniing the road all closed. "It's beautiful tonight.", Octavia said. "It is..." "You seem upset.", Octavia looked towards Harp. "It's nothing really. It's jsut that...I really don't think that this will even last long." "What do you mean?" "I'm not sure about you, but I've been looking for someone to settle down with. I've been travelign for almost two months now, looking for the perfect spot to...just live." "Well, I am almost the same. I'm as lonely, if not, more, than you are." "But I'm not desperate.", he looked at Octavia with a serious glare. "Neither am I, but we don't have to jump straight into anything. I'd love to see us closer, but that will be a while. How abotu you give me your number and we can schedule a date for this weekend?" "Sure. I'd like that.", Harp smield warmly. The dateOctavia hurried back and forth, moving everything into it's spot, where each instrument would fit, then hurriedly turned from teh set, and made her way into teh living room. Her apartment was small, meant for one pony. But it was perfect. No other pony could hear through teh thick walls, and she had a decent room, in a decent complex. She was out of sight of where most of her fans would look, but somepony occasionally shows up, askign for something from her. This time, as she opened the door, she was met with a surprise. Instead of another annoying fan, she found Harp. He was groomed and wore a leaf green bow tie. Octavia was as equally prepared. She even wore her violet bow tie, which sat on a black collar with a golden vinyl lacing from teh center, out. "Harp, uhm, I didn't expect it to be you..." "Oh, I'm sorry then, did I come too early?" "No, you're on time, just, I didn't tell you where I lived." "Oh, yeah. This red mare told me. I was walking with her for about five minutes, all the way from where I lived. I told her I saw you running into the bakery at the Realms and Peech intersection as we came into the sight of it." "Oh, well...thank you. But it's still a little unexpected. So, I take it you're ready?" "Yeap. So, shall we go now?" "Indeed.", Octavia stepped out, closing the door. After they walked out of the complex, Octavia stopped to scan the area quickly before continuing. "Why so suspiscious?", Harp asked. "Well, it's a bit embarrassing to say, but I have a stalker. I've been trying to find him, but I can't. I suspect he's a well trained unicorn." "Ah, magic expert. I've had a stalker once. But she stopped after I told her I did not love her." "Hmm. Easy for you to say. I still have yet to even see my own stalker." "Have you told the police?" "Can't, yet. I don't even know who it is. They need at least something." "How do you know you have a stalker, anyway, if you ahven't seen him?" "Again, he's a well trained unicorn, he told me telepathically. I literally wet myself that day, but luckily, I was home. I locked all the doors, shut all the windows, turned off all teh lights, and called Scratch. She stayed with me all night." "Scratch? You mean that white unicorn that hosts those wild raves?" "Yes." "Have you been to one?" "Yes, a few, actually. She tells me when she finds some new classical cover techno songs. They sound lovely, but still have that wonderful jolt that Techno gives you." "Wow, I've never heard anypony say something like that." "Well, I may be the first." "You said that the restaurant was at Peech and Cove?" "Yes." "We're here.", Harp stopped jus tin fron of the building. "Oh, I didn't notice..." "Well, as you said, it wasn't far from your apartment." "It wasn't...but...It was a walk too short." "Well, conversation does that. So, stalker?", Harp opened the door. "More like one of my bigger fans that is too shy to approach me. He scares me but it's been going on long enough to where I just dismiss it easily. When I foudn out, I didn't leave my apartment for a week." "Wow. So, since it's a fan, you aren't that scared anymore?" "Oh, he still gives me the creeps, I jsut can't stay inside an apartment forever. So I force myself out." "Well, we need to get a table." "Oh, right." Octavia approached the host mare and she looked up from teh podium. "Hello, welcome to the Salad Caesar." "Ah, yes. I made a reservation for two yesterday." "Name?" "Octavia." "Yes, here you are. Follow me, please." The host mare levitated the clipboard from it's place and walked through the restaurant, leading Octavia and Harp to a table which was in the more quiet area of the place. As they sat down, the host mare held out a pen, ready to write. "What would you like to drink this evening?", she asked. "I'll have a glass of Four-Seven-Four brand wine." "And you sir?" "I'll have the same." "Good. would you like to order now? Or decide after I return with your beverages?" "I'd like to wait, you, Harp?" "I'll wait." "Fine then. I'll be back with your beverages in a moment.", the host mare smiled, leaving. "This is really fancy.", Harp pointed out. "Oh, yes, the Salad Caesar has been here for ages, and not once lets up on it's posture. They work hard, but for a good reason. Not very many ponies that come here are much different from the upper class. Only proper mares and gentlecolts. It's a wonderful dating spot, too." "You don't say." "Oh, yes. Indeed. I actually met Scratch here, but, I'm not one for toher mares." "Is she?" "Oh, no. We met here, both stood up by our own dates. Weg ot to talking and soon, we were friends. Good friends, to be exact." "Hmm. That explains a few things. So, what kind of music do you prefer?" The host mare returned with the beverages and placed them each next to the two. "Now, do you want to make your order?" "Oh, sorry, just give us another minute.", Octavia apologized. "Oh, alright then. I'll be back in a minute to take your order then." Teh host mare left again. Octavia picked up the menu and looked through the few pages, trying to find a specific dish, and found it. Harp, on the other hand, chose the dish displayed on the cover. "Ah, they still server the Old Caesar's Salad. The old owner of this place made it herself, seasoned it with spices and served it with tomatoes on the side. I used to come here alone just to taste it. But..." "But what?" "The recipe has changed, it's a little more bland, and they jsut pour the diced tomatoes on top." "So, it's no longer the oriinal recipe." "Well, it's b it less tasteful, but the same." "Well, I'm just goign to have what's onthe front, ratatouille." "Oh? It seems like a middle class dish, but is made like an upper class dish, wonderful." "Really? I've never had it." "Well, here is your opportunity, and here comes the host mare.", Octavia pointed out. The host mare smiled to the two and held the clipboard up, ready to write. "Should I take the order now?" "Yes, please. The Old Caesar's salad for my mare, and an order of ratatouille for me." "Is that all? No side dish?" "No, thank you.", Harp responded. "Alright then, you're food will be here momentarily.", the host mare left. "So, what was I saying? Before she came in teh second time." "You were asking about what kind of music I prefer. I like what is straight from the heart, the soul, and shares a sense of one's soul with another." "Wow, I never thought of it that way. I prefer something which could fit a story, like a hero, or just, it feels like it gives one power to play it." "Oh, so you play for the feel?" "Yes." The waiter arrived with two plates, one steaming, the other not, and set them down for each. "Your meals, sir, madame.", the stallion bowed, trotting off without as much as a thank you from the two. "I'll leave him a good tip.", Harp declared. "No, let me. You're paying for the entire thing." "Oh, fine. You can pay. Though, I really should. It just makes me feel like I'm being cheep." "Well, I do have a considerable amount of bits, and you said that you were new here, traveled alot." "You're right, I don't have a lot of money, but I make enough." "Well, still, thank you, and I will be unwilling to be refused for paying the tip to teh waiter. He was a bit impressive. Did you notice the plate he had ballanced on his head?" "It was a big plate.", Harp took a bite of his ratatouille, "Hard to miss." Octavia simply got a mouthfull of the salad and tomatoes which covered the top, leaving her nose covered in a red thin sauce. Dabbing her snout dry, she smiled. "It's even better than last time. Maybe if they would put teh tomatoes on teh side, now." After they both finished their dinner, the waiter came by and dropped teh pad ontot eh table for them. "How much did you plan to give him?", Octavia asked, opening her coin purse. "About twenty bits." "Good, cause I was thinking thirty five." "I wouldn't have been abel to pay that much without skipping a bill...", Harp confessed. "Uhm, I never foudn out where you lived." "I live in a small apartment complex on teh edge of Canterlot." "Oh. That explains it. They are expensive there. The one I ahve was less to stay in for a month than a day in one of those money farms." "Wow, I guess I made a poor choice." Harp stood and Octavia did too. "Shall we?", Harp asked. Octavia nodded and he lead her out of the restaurant, stopping outside. "Well, while it was short, I ahve to say, it was sort of fun." "Why not spend a bit more time together?" "Well...I don't have much money but..." "No, I mean, wec ould play together. Just you and I." "Oh? Where? My apartment? Or yours?" "I get too mny complaints. They eve said that if they heard anotehr note from any instrument, they would throw me out." "Then why don't you come to my apartment, and we could play there." "I like that idea." "It seems like you are just trying to..." "Oh, no. I am telling teh truth. You could ask my land lord." "Oh." "Yeah. So, shall we?" "Sure." Walking back home together, the short trot was silent. As they entered the apartment, Octavia sighed, looking at the small living space. "What?" "Nothing. LEt's play. I'll get my cello, you can play my bass." "I can play your bass? Sounds lovely...." Octavia smiled and opened up the storage closet, removing the smaller shaped instrument. Readying the bow, she waited till Harp had the bass ready. He didn't have the bow held properly, and in fact had the tip of his hoof on the area which was nearly coated in wax. Octavia began playing, starting soft, then beginning a strong note pursuit. As she got to a full melody part, Harp joined in, playing a pluck tune that harmonized with octavia's. She could hear him more, though not by loudness, by the feel. He was playing from the feel. Something he was good at, so far. Harp could do the same. Just as she explained, she prefered music fromt eh coul. And she was right. Harp could feel the power in her streaks, each note, each change in pitch, each flurry. She was in sync with teh vibrations as much as her soul was made from music. Harp stopped playing and closed his eyes, listening to her as she played continuously on her own. then as she stopped at a rest, he felt her press her lips to his. It was like they were mentally connected at that moment. He could feel her heartbeat, she could feel his. Wha the thought, she heard, what she thought, he heard. Their hearts both fluttered like butterflies, both in love. He was perfect o her, and she, perfect to him. The mare he wants to settle with. The stallion she had been searching for. It was like a dream come true... A secretHarp was enjoying the kiss as much as Octavia, both their tongues twisting around the other's. Deeper than he could think... He pushed away, separating teh two of them, looking down. "Wh-what's wrong, Harp?" "Nothing, I have to go..." He hurried to the door and as he opened it she stopped him. "Wait...What are you doing? Did I do something wrong?" "No...I did." He closed the door behind him and Octavia sat where she was, unable to figure out if she should weep for such a loss, or follow him. She was mroe confused than she ever could have been. He spoke without even looking at her. Not even bothering to look up. Octavia hurried to the door, throwing it open as she hurried outside, to find harp not even a few feet away, standing motionless. "Oh...I thought you would be long gone..." "No need to be..." "Harp, just...Just come inside, please." "You're desperate." "No! No. You are perfect. You are the first stallion that has made my heart feel at ease, to take away the slowly numbing pain of being alone..." "You've dated before." "Yes, but none fit what I wanted. None, but you." "I play your favorite instrument, big deal. I just...I can't..." "Harp, please just come inside with me...please?" Harp slowly turned and face Octavia. He saw two things. He was hiding something. Luckily she didn't notice yet, but he ahd a decision now. A decision. He could tell her...he could not.He wanted this, to be with somepony whom he loved... Harp walked forward and Octavia hugged him. "Thank you.", she smiled. They both walked back into her apartment and she closed the door, sighing heavily. "You almost walked out on me.", she said without looking at him. Harp sat on the couch. "I...almost did. I don't know what I was thinking..." Octavia sat next to and nuzzled into his side. "I'm glad you didn't. I wouldn't be able to play, I wouldn't be able to make music. Not for a long time." "Is that what heartbreak is like?" "Yeah. I once met a stallion a while back, almost like you. But, he was bigger, and I was naive. I loved him for his body more than his personality, and regretted it soon after. He walked out on me for some darker coated mare with a curvier flank. After that, I sat out in the rain till it ended, went home. I trashed my studio, wept. Didn't...Couldn't play for a whole two weeks." "Why do you say you could not?" "I put my heart and soul into every note, playing is like showing others my own mind and body. If I'm sad, and can't think straight, can't feel like myself at all, then why even try playing when I know it won't sound good at all..." "As far as I know, there are two types of music. Real music, what you and I played earlier, straight from the soul, no sheet music, no lines to follow. and then there is fake music. Mostly recorded for otehrs to play. It's like playing as if it were just making patterns of noise. No care for it, no love for the feel of the skill to play it." Octavia sighed and moved back, laying down on the comfortable cushions, giving a small sigh. "Harp, why did you just...walk out?" "It's...personal. I love you, I really do, but..." Octavia lifted her head, looking up at Harp. "Then show me you love me." She kissed him again, sharing her mouth with him as he did with her. Harp parted and laid down, nuzzling Octavia's neck, brushing his muzzle against her shoulder as he took in her scent. Not the heavy perfume, but what was beneath it. A hard working mare. Octavia shuddered, smiling from the treatment she was getting. She could feel his hot breath over her neck and back as he nuzzled her close. He moved behind her, laying on top as he nearly sank into her, putting his head just next to hers. He licked her muzzle, the dragged his tongue over the back of her neck. All which excited Octavia. Letting out a small huff, Octavia laid her head down, accepting whatever he did to her. Harp put a hoof on each side of her, picking himself up as he move farther back, replacing himself to where she could feel something hard just between he rand him. Stricken with several thoughts, Octavia wondered, feared, and even wanted...Thoguh one thought was dominant. She wanted him. Thoguh she did not know if he wanted her, separated as they were, she knew what the answer would soon be. She raised her flank,allowing him better access to he rnether regions, and was rewarded as he positioned himself with his hips against hers, rubbing her folds with his colthood. Each throb, every bump, she felt it all. The heat, the velvetty touch...the excitement was almost too much. He grinded against her, having done so for nearly a few minutes. Though, now the slick feeling of Octavia's fluids coated part of his erection. Moving his hips back, Harp prodded her entrance, testing her reaction, and was rewarded with a silent moan. With a smile, Harp thrust in, forcing every inch he could of his cock as deep as her folds would allow, and still a few inches remained. Octavia let out a long moan, tightening her love tunnel in response. He stretched her more than she should be, slight pain resulting. But she didn't mind. She wanted it now. As Octavia's hind legs slowly bent, lowering her rear, Harp adjusted himself accordingly, laying across her back once more. They savored the moment as much as they could, laying together just as Octavia had be penetrated. She could feel his breeathing, slowly rising and falling, his breath, hot and relaxed. Harp pulled from ehr folds and she winced, letting out another moan as he thrust back in, slowly. He continued to pull out, push in, both slowly and pulled out as long as he could. He kept that rhythm, slow and intimate. They both began to heat up. Octavia, especially. Her body was like an oven compared to Harp, who was nearly sweating. With each long, drawn out thrust, octavia exhaled, holding her breath for several thrusts, like letting out a blast of air. "Y...you're...aaah...Nice and...Ugh...gentle...", Octavia moaned. Harp panted slowly, taking a deep breath, "I...Don't see why not...You're delicate, like a..." Drawing out completely, he thrust in once, hard, slamming into her cervix and she wailed from both pleasure and pain, climaxing. "Sorry..." "Deli...cate?", she said between pants." "Like a magnolia flower." Harp grabbed onto her shoulders, pulling her back on top of him as he laid back. He pulled from ehr folds and thrust in slwoly once more. "Ah! I'm stil...sensitive..." "...I know...", he said nonchalantly. Pulling from ehr again, he felt her squirm on top of him, her love tunnel still very sensitive, as she had said. As he thrust in again, pre began to ooze from his cock, slickening her walls, making it easier to glide in and out as he continud the rhythm. After several long thrusts, his own climax began nearing. Making his thrusts mroe forceful, he rocked teh mare on top of him, slamming into her cervix, threatening to tear the delicate barrier. As his gentle thrusts became harder, quicker, he pulled out one last time, thrusting in, burying every inch of his cock, slamming into OCtavia's cervix once more. She let out a long moan as they both climaxed, her tunnel convulsing, milking his cock for every last bit of cum that filled her womb. It was warm, straight from teh stallion she was with. The one she loved, who she wanted to love. Putting a hoof over her belly, she felt full, more so than she ever had. It made her even more happy to feel that and the colthood of her stallion, still buried deep within her depths. "That was...the best I've ever had...", Octavia huffed. Harp was silent. Still nuzzling into her side, but silent. Harp pulled from Octavia, separating the two and causing Octavia to shudder. Octavia rolled over, and laid her head on Harp's chest. "Don't ever leave me..." Harp was silent as before. "Harp?" "I heard you." "But why didn't you say anything?" "..." "Please, tell me something..." "I'm just...happy...Unsure of what to do next, but happy." "Sleep." "That does sound great, directly after something so exhausting..." "Hot sex does that...", Octavia closed her eyes. She focused on his heart beat, a very low and very strong thrum. Slow. Loud. It was mesmerizing. Then it began to get louder, louder, uncomfortable to feel as it engulfed her body, her entire being thrumming with it. Then she could feel another...faint, small, but just as strong, just as powerful. It was coming from her. Not her chest. Lower. Feeling her belly, she felt it rise and fall quicly, a heavy beat,but it didn't hurt. Her stomach moved visibly, like her cehst with her heart beat. She began to fear it, think of it as darkness. The free floating world she was in, care free, was flooded with fear, she dropped, beginning to fall, endlessly. Panicking she let out a cry and awoke, panting heavily. "Octavia?", Harp's soft tone caugth ehr attention. "It's...Just a dream...", Octavia confessed. Harp put a foreleg around her, holding her. "I'l still be here. No matter if it's a dream, nightmare, hell becoming real. I'll stay with you as long as I'm still bucking." Octavia smiled, digging her snout into his chest, feeling the soft fur. she stretched and gasped, noticing the mess that covered her inner thighs and the couch cushions. Wet, sticky, and it was very musky. "I need a shower, you too. Then I need ot wash this couch..." Harp chuckled. "I'm serious. We really made a big mess...." "Well, I'll help clean. Both you adn the couch." I'll go start the shower." Harp smiled to Octavia, and she rose, stretching. She felt slightly sickly and moaned, getting off the couchwith Harp in tow. Opening the bathroom door, she fiddled with teh light switch, turning on the single lightbulb, an approached the shower, twisting the knobs. The water cascaded down, turnign from cold, to hot in seconds. Harp approaced Octavia, wrapping his forelegs around her as she stood up to adjust the shower head. "You know it, don't you?", Harp asked. "What?" "You had a dream you were listening to my heart beat. Then you heard it again from yourself." "How do you know?" "I watched you, from my own dream. I saw the beating as it thrummed from you, deep inside of you, in the perfect spot..." "You mean..." "I think it's true. If you make love, you can tell if you are..." "So...I'm..." "Yes." "So, you won't run off? You won't leave me?" "Why are you scared? I said that as long as I'm bucking, I'd be with you till the end." Octavia smiled. "Now, let's take a shower, we both smell like sex, and that's not a good scent when near others." "I know." Harp let go and dropped down onto all fours, walking into the cascading stream after Octavia. The shower was quick, especially when Harp was helping Octavia get the dried cum out of her coat. Cum is hell to get out of your fur. Once done, they both stepped out, quickly drying off with the towels Octavia had in her bathroom, then found themselves staring at the couch. "So it was enough to cover nearly the entire cushion.", Octavia declared. "Well, it was hot, I'll give you that." "Yes. I'll ge the bleach, these carpets have survived worse." Harp perked up in curiosity. "Define worse." "Don't ask. I don't really know, considering the fact that these apartments used to be owned by a party stallion." Returnign with the bottle of bleach, Octavia put a wet towel over the cap and tipped it. The clean stench of chlorine filled the air, not very strong, but still gave off an odor. Putting it over the cushion, Octavia flipped it and put it face down back on the couch.
A new violistOctavia walked through the door with her head down. Another night, passed without so much as a hair out of place. In fact... Grabbing the bow tie which hung to her, she pulled it off, the silk zipping lightly. As she sat at the bar, she set it down next to her nad laid her chin on her crossed arms. She set her bass down next to her and replaced her head, relaxing. "Hey, Octavia, the same old same old?" "...Yeah...", Octavia replied to the blue bar mare. As the unicorn quickly filled the glass with seven different drinks, she turned to Octavia, shakign the contents in the air. "Still feeling a bit down?" "Yeah. Not a single violist like me, in this entire city..." "Oh, there are plenty of violinists, harpists, and cello players." "But none like me. I play all. My favorite being the double bass, the biggest and heaviest soul instrument of the four string name." "Oh.", the bar mare poured the mixture into a glass. Octavia took it, forkign over the few bits for it, and set it in front of her, watching as it stopped swashing and sat still, only to vibrate from teh center. Something heavy forcing it to. It sounded like one of the players trying to extend a string off a cello too low. The horrible thrum was enough for Octavia to turn and yell at the horrible player. Quickly turning her head, she stared at the scene of the many violists playing smooth jazz int eh corner, and her eyes widened. It wasn't as she thought. Not one bit. A light mint green coated stallion, sleek and fine against the double bass he was playing. His hooves creamy mint, and what interested her more is that he was plucking the bass now, his bow having broken, nearby. "Who is that?", Octavia asked. "Oh, him? He's Harp Chord. Fellow asked to play here tonight. Though, I see he's not so good with a bow as he is with his hooves." "You don't say...A bit jazzy for my taste but...He looks interesting." "Well, don't sit there. Talk to him, or if you are too shy like that yellow mare to the left, you could finish your drink and leave." Octavia turned around and saw Fluttershy, the mare which was aforementioned, but her face mostly red from a hard blush. She as staring at a glass of water, silent. "I think I'll meet him.", Octavia decided, getting up. Bringing her drink to teh table closest to the stallion, Octavia felt the vibrations even more as he pulled each string, letting the bass beat instead of thrum. It wasn't but a few seconds later when the song ended. "Wow.", Octavia began, "I have never heard anyone pluck on a double bass. Maybe one of those new electric basses, but not an old fashioned double bass." The mint stallion turne his head to Octavia and looked back to his instrument, readying to play again. The saxophone started playing at a low note, ranging to a high one that brough up a quick tempo beat. "...Not very many people know how to do it right.", he finally responded. "Well, you sure can do it. How did you learn?" "...I play very many stringed instruments." "Oh? Really? I do too." "The cello, the guitar, the harp, the violin, the piano, and the double bass." "I thought the piano and harp were not violas." "They aren't, but they are stringed instruments." "So, that's it?" He missed a note and stopped momentarily, swearing under his breath as he resumed. "...No, a few more." "I play a few too." "Well, do you know jazz?" "I have played it before." "Wanna try at it?" "Sure, I've got my own double bass." "Well then join when you want." Octavia smiled and got up, grabbing her bass. Taking out the heavy instrument, she took the bow and stepped on stage next to Harp. The music was simple, but Octavia could see a better tune to add to the smooth jazz. Silently playing her own version of the counter melody, she fit in like a missing note. "Wow, that's actually pretty good. Where are you reading that from?", Harp asked. "I'm...making it up...as I go...", she said, moving her hoof up and down the stock. "Not very many ponies can do that either." "What? Like you and plucking?" "Yeah.", Harp smiled. "My name is Octavia." "I'm Harp." "I know, Martha told me." "Well, I didn't know." "No need to apologize. A fitting name to your beautiful coat, I might add." "Hmm. Never really thought of it that way." "How do you keep it clean all the time? Dirt and grime must where it down." "What do you mean?" "I've...never seen you here, or in Canterlot before, for that matter." "Oh, I'm just new here. Came from...Well, Fillydelphia." "Oh?", Octavia stopped, allowing the lead to play his solo. "Yes. Born and raised.", Harp answered her unspoken question. "REally? You look nothing of it." Harp smiled again, returnign to his part of the music as the song came to it's finale, and end. "Well, I was different." Harp picked up the broken bow and tossed it into the nearby trash can, setting his bass against the wall. "Well, the night is still young, you wish to pass by a fancy restaurant with me?", Octavia offered. "Mmm...I'd like that, yeah. Something good to end the day with. I'll pay for us both, so you don't have to waste anythign on a stranger." "Really? Feels like we're already acquainted." "So, where do you have in mind?" "I was Thinking of Croissant's bakery. They make some delicious french bread and know how to make a wonderful salad." "Sounds wonderful." "Indeed, it does." "I'll pack my bass and we can go." "Alright then." Octavia stepped down off the stage with ehr bass, replacing it in it's own case, where she had left it, then put it over her back once more. Harp was already walking to the door, causing a bit of excitement from Octavia. She hurried over and stopped near the stallion. "I don't really know where to go, though.", Harp confessed. "Oh, it's not far, in fact, it's just across the road." "Really? You mean that closed building?" Octavia looked through the glass doors and saw the black windows of teh bakery across the street, then looked at the watch ont eh wall nearby. "Aw, they closed already. I forgot to watch the clock. I'm sorry I got your hopes up." "Oh, it's no big deal. I'll still walk you home if you wish." "Oh...well, I'd like that." Harp opened the door, "Mares first." "Oh, such a gentlecolt!", Octavia walked out. The two stopped just on teh side of the street and looked up at the full moon. The streets were all deserted, empty, and dark, the shops liniing the road all closed. "It's beautiful tonight.", Octavia said. "It is..." "You seem upset.", Octavia looked towards Harp. "It's nothing really. It's jsut that...I really don't think that this will even last long." "What do you mean?" "I'm not sure about you, but I've been looking for someone to settle down with. I've been travelign for almost two months now, looking for the perfect spot to...just live." "Well, I am almost the same. I'm as lonely, if not, more, than you are." "But I'm not desperate.", he looked at Octavia with a serious glare. "Neither am I, but we don't have to jump straight into anything. I'd love to see us closer, but that will be a while. How abotu you give me your number and we can schedule a date for this weekend?" "Sure. I'd like that.", Harp smield warmly.
The dateOctavia hurried back and forth, moving everything into it's spot, where each instrument would fit, then hurriedly turned from teh set, and made her way into teh living room. Her apartment was small, meant for one pony. But it was perfect. No other pony could hear through teh thick walls, and she had a decent room, in a decent complex. She was out of sight of where most of her fans would look, but somepony occasionally shows up, askign for something from her. This time, as she opened the door, she was met with a surprise. Instead of another annoying fan, she found Harp. He was groomed and wore a leaf green bow tie. Octavia was as equally prepared. She even wore her violet bow tie, which sat on a black collar with a golden vinyl lacing from teh center, out. "Harp, uhm, I didn't expect it to be you..." "Oh, I'm sorry then, did I come too early?" "No, you're on time, just, I didn't tell you where I lived." "Oh, yeah. This red mare told me. I was walking with her for about five minutes, all the way from where I lived. I told her I saw you running into the bakery at the Realms and Peech intersection as we came into the sight of it." "Oh, well...thank you. But it's still a little unexpected. So, I take it you're ready?" "Yeap. So, shall we go now?" "Indeed.", Octavia stepped out, closing the door. After they walked out of the complex, Octavia stopped to scan the area quickly before continuing. "Why so suspiscious?", Harp asked. "Well, it's a bit embarrassing to say, but I have a stalker. I've been trying to find him, but I can't. I suspect he's a well trained unicorn." "Ah, magic expert. I've had a stalker once. But she stopped after I told her I did not love her." "Hmm. Easy for you to say. I still have yet to even see my own stalker." "Have you told the police?" "Can't, yet. I don't even know who it is. They need at least something." "How do you know you have a stalker, anyway, if you ahven't seen him?" "Again, he's a well trained unicorn, he told me telepathically. I literally wet myself that day, but luckily, I was home. I locked all the doors, shut all the windows, turned off all teh lights, and called Scratch. She stayed with me all night." "Scratch? You mean that white unicorn that hosts those wild raves?" "Yes." "Have you been to one?" "Yes, a few, actually. She tells me when she finds some new classical cover techno songs. They sound lovely, but still have that wonderful jolt that Techno gives you." "Wow, I've never heard anypony say something like that." "Well, I may be the first." "You said that the restaurant was at Peech and Cove?" "Yes." "We're here.", Harp stopped jus tin fron of the building. "Oh, I didn't notice..." "Well, as you said, it wasn't far from your apartment." "It wasn't...but...It was a walk too short." "Well, conversation does that. So, stalker?", Harp opened the door. "More like one of my bigger fans that is too shy to approach me. He scares me but it's been going on long enough to where I just dismiss it easily. When I foudn out, I didn't leave my apartment for a week." "Wow. So, since it's a fan, you aren't that scared anymore?" "Oh, he still gives me the creeps, I jsut can't stay inside an apartment forever. So I force myself out." "Well, we need to get a table." "Oh, right." Octavia approached the host mare and she looked up from teh podium. "Hello, welcome to the Salad Caesar." "Ah, yes. I made a reservation for two yesterday." "Name?" "Octavia." "Yes, here you are. Follow me, please." The host mare levitated the clipboard from it's place and walked through the restaurant, leading Octavia and Harp to a table which was in the more quiet area of the place. As they sat down, the host mare held out a pen, ready to write. "What would you like to drink this evening?", she asked. "I'll have a glass of Four-Seven-Four brand wine." "And you sir?" "I'll have the same." "Good. would you like to order now? Or decide after I return with your beverages?" "I'd like to wait, you, Harp?" "I'll wait." "Fine then. I'll be back with your beverages in a moment.", the host mare smiled, leaving. "This is really fancy.", Harp pointed out. "Oh, yes, the Salad Caesar has been here for ages, and not once lets up on it's posture. They work hard, but for a good reason. Not very many ponies that come here are much different from the upper class. Only proper mares and gentlecolts. It's a wonderful dating spot, too." "You don't say." "Oh, yes. Indeed. I actually met Scratch here, but, I'm not one for toher mares." "Is she?" "Oh, no. We met here, both stood up by our own dates. Weg ot to talking and soon, we were friends. Good friends, to be exact." "Hmm. That explains a few things. So, what kind of music do you prefer?" The host mare returned with the beverages and placed them each next to the two. "Now, do you want to make your order?" "Oh, sorry, just give us another minute.", Octavia apologized. "Oh, alright then. I'll be back in a minute to take your order then." Teh host mare left again. Octavia picked up the menu and looked through the few pages, trying to find a specific dish, and found it. Harp, on the other hand, chose the dish displayed on the cover. "Ah, they still server the Old Caesar's Salad. The old owner of this place made it herself, seasoned it with spices and served it with tomatoes on the side. I used to come here alone just to taste it. But..." "But what?" "The recipe has changed, it's a little more bland, and they jsut pour the diced tomatoes on top." "So, it's no longer the oriinal recipe." "Well, it's b it less tasteful, but the same." "Well, I'm just goign to have what's onthe front, ratatouille." "Oh? It seems like a middle class dish, but is made like an upper class dish, wonderful." "Really? I've never had it." "Well, here is your opportunity, and here comes the host mare.", Octavia pointed out. The host mare smiled to the two and held the clipboard up, ready to write. "Should I take the order now?" "Yes, please. The Old Caesar's salad for my mare, and an order of ratatouille for me." "Is that all? No side dish?" "No, thank you.", Harp responded. "Alright then, you're food will be here momentarily.", the host mare left. "So, what was I saying? Before she came in teh second time." "You were asking about what kind of music I prefer. I like what is straight from the heart, the soul, and shares a sense of one's soul with another." "Wow, I never thought of it that way. I prefer something which could fit a story, like a hero, or just, it feels like it gives one power to play it." "Oh, so you play for the feel?" "Yes." The waiter arrived with two plates, one steaming, the other not, and set them down for each. "Your meals, sir, madame.", the stallion bowed, trotting off without as much as a thank you from the two. "I'll leave him a good tip.", Harp declared. "No, let me. You're paying for the entire thing." "Oh, fine. You can pay. Though, I really should. It just makes me feel like I'm being cheep." "Well, I do have a considerable amount of bits, and you said that you were new here, traveled alot." "You're right, I don't have a lot of money, but I make enough." "Well, still, thank you, and I will be unwilling to be refused for paying the tip to teh waiter. He was a bit impressive. Did you notice the plate he had ballanced on his head?" "It was a big plate.", Harp took a bite of his ratatouille, "Hard to miss." Octavia simply got a mouthfull of the salad and tomatoes which covered the top, leaving her nose covered in a red thin sauce. Dabbing her snout dry, she smiled. "It's even better than last time. Maybe if they would put teh tomatoes on teh side, now." After they both finished their dinner, the waiter came by and dropped teh pad ontot eh table for them. "How much did you plan to give him?", Octavia asked, opening her coin purse. "About twenty bits." "Good, cause I was thinking thirty five." "I wouldn't have been abel to pay that much without skipping a bill...", Harp confessed. "Uhm, I never foudn out where you lived." "I live in a small apartment complex on teh edge of Canterlot." "Oh. That explains it. They are expensive there. The one I ahve was less to stay in for a month than a day in one of those money farms." "Wow, I guess I made a poor choice." Harp stood and Octavia did too. "Shall we?", Harp asked. Octavia nodded and he lead her out of the restaurant, stopping outside. "Well, while it was short, I ahve to say, it was sort of fun." "Why not spend a bit more time together?" "Well...I don't have much money but..." "No, I mean, wec ould play together. Just you and I." "Oh? Where? My apartment? Or yours?" "I get too mny complaints. They eve said that if they heard anotehr note from any instrument, they would throw me out." "Then why don't you come to my apartment, and we could play there." "I like that idea." "It seems like you are just trying to..." "Oh, no. I am telling teh truth. You could ask my land lord." "Oh." "Yeah. So, shall we?" "Sure." Walking back home together, the short trot was silent. As they entered the apartment, Octavia sighed, looking at the small living space. "What?" "Nothing. LEt's play. I'll get my cello, you can play my bass." "I can play your bass? Sounds lovely...." Octavia smiled and opened up the storage closet, removing the smaller shaped instrument. Readying the bow, she waited till Harp had the bass ready. He didn't have the bow held properly, and in fact had the tip of his hoof on the area which was nearly coated in wax. Octavia began playing, starting soft, then beginning a strong note pursuit. As she got to a full melody part, Harp joined in, playing a pluck tune that harmonized with octavia's. She could hear him more, though not by loudness, by the feel. He was playing from the feel. Something he was good at, so far. Harp could do the same. Just as she explained, she prefered music fromt eh coul. And she was right. Harp could feel the power in her streaks, each note, each change in pitch, each flurry. She was in sync with teh vibrations as much as her soul was made from music. Harp stopped playing and closed his eyes, listening to her as she played continuously on her own. then as she stopped at a rest, he felt her press her lips to his. It was like they were mentally connected at that moment. He could feel her heartbeat, she could feel his. Wha the thought, she heard, what she thought, he heard. Their hearts both fluttered like butterflies, both in love. He was perfect o her, and she, perfect to him. The mare he wants to settle with. The stallion she had been searching for. It was like a dream come true...
A secretHarp was enjoying the kiss as much as Octavia, both their tongues twisting around the other's. Deeper than he could think... He pushed away, separating teh two of them, looking down. "Wh-what's wrong, Harp?" "Nothing, I have to go..." He hurried to the door and as he opened it she stopped him. "Wait...What are you doing? Did I do something wrong?" "No...I did." He closed the door behind him and Octavia sat where she was, unable to figure out if she should weep for such a loss, or follow him. She was mroe confused than she ever could have been. He spoke without even looking at her. Not even bothering to look up. Octavia hurried to the door, throwing it open as she hurried outside, to find harp not even a few feet away, standing motionless. "Oh...I thought you would be long gone..." "No need to be..." "Harp, just...Just come inside, please." "You're desperate." "No! No. You are perfect. You are the first stallion that has made my heart feel at ease, to take away the slowly numbing pain of being alone..." "You've dated before." "Yes, but none fit what I wanted. None, but you." "I play your favorite instrument, big deal. I just...I can't..." "Harp, please just come inside with me...please?" Harp slowly turned and face Octavia. He saw two things. He was hiding something. Luckily she didn't notice yet, but he ahd a decision now. A decision. He could tell her...he could not.He wanted this, to be with somepony whom he loved... Harp walked forward and Octavia hugged him. "Thank you.", she smiled. They both walked back into her apartment and she closed the door, sighing heavily. "You almost walked out on me.", she said without looking at him. Harp sat on the couch. "I...almost did. I don't know what I was thinking..." Octavia sat next to and nuzzled into his side. "I'm glad you didn't. I wouldn't be able to play, I wouldn't be able to make music. Not for a long time." "Is that what heartbreak is like?" "Yeah. I once met a stallion a while back, almost like you. But, he was bigger, and I was naive. I loved him for his body more than his personality, and regretted it soon after. He walked out on me for some darker coated mare with a curvier flank. After that, I sat out in the rain till it ended, went home. I trashed my studio, wept. Didn't...Couldn't play for a whole two weeks." "Why do you say you could not?" "I put my heart and soul into every note, playing is like showing others my own mind and body. If I'm sad, and can't think straight, can't feel like myself at all, then why even try playing when I know it won't sound good at all..." "As far as I know, there are two types of music. Real music, what you and I played earlier, straight from the soul, no sheet music, no lines to follow. and then there is fake music. Mostly recorded for otehrs to play. It's like playing as if it were just making patterns of noise. No care for it, no love for the feel of the skill to play it." Octavia sighed and moved back, laying down on the comfortable cushions, giving a small sigh. "Harp, why did you just...walk out?" "It's...personal. I love you, I really do, but..." Octavia lifted her head, looking up at Harp. "Then show me you love me." She kissed him again, sharing her mouth with him as he did with her. Harp parted and laid down, nuzzling Octavia's neck, brushing his muzzle against her shoulder as he took in her scent. Not the heavy perfume, but what was beneath it. A hard working mare. Octavia shuddered, smiling from the treatment she was getting. She could feel his hot breath over her neck and back as he nuzzled her close. He moved behind her, laying on top as he nearly sank into her, putting his head just next to hers. He licked her muzzle, the dragged his tongue over the back of her neck. All which excited Octavia. Letting out a small huff, Octavia laid her head down, accepting whatever he did to her. Harp put a hoof on each side of her, picking himself up as he move farther back, replacing himself to where she could feel something hard just between he rand him. Stricken with several thoughts, Octavia wondered, feared, and even wanted...Thoguh one thought was dominant. She wanted him. Thoguh she did not know if he wanted her, separated as they were, she knew what the answer would soon be. She raised her flank,allowing him better access to he rnether regions, and was rewarded as he positioned himself with his hips against hers, rubbing her folds with his colthood. Each throb, every bump, she felt it all. The heat, the velvetty touch...the excitement was almost too much. He grinded against her, having done so for nearly a few minutes. Though, now the slick feeling of Octavia's fluids coated part of his erection. Moving his hips back, Harp prodded her entrance, testing her reaction, and was rewarded with a silent moan. With a smile, Harp thrust in, forcing every inch he could of his cock as deep as her folds would allow, and still a few inches remained. Octavia let out a long moan, tightening her love tunnel in response. He stretched her more than she should be, slight pain resulting. But she didn't mind. She wanted it now. As Octavia's hind legs slowly bent, lowering her rear, Harp adjusted himself accordingly, laying across her back once more. They savored the moment as much as they could, laying together just as Octavia had be penetrated. She could feel his breeathing, slowly rising and falling, his breath, hot and relaxed. Harp pulled from ehr folds and she winced, letting out another moan as he thrust back in, slowly. He continued to pull out, push in, both slowly and pulled out as long as he could. He kept that rhythm, slow and intimate. They both began to heat up. Octavia, especially. Her body was like an oven compared to Harp, who was nearly sweating. With each long, drawn out thrust, octavia exhaled, holding her breath for several thrusts, like letting out a blast of air. "Y...you're...aaah...Nice and...Ugh...gentle...", Octavia moaned. Harp panted slowly, taking a deep breath, "I...Don't see why not...You're delicate, like a..." Drawing out completely, he thrust in once, hard, slamming into her cervix and she wailed from both pleasure and pain, climaxing. "Sorry..." "Deli...cate?", she said between pants." "Like a magnolia flower." Harp grabbed onto her shoulders, pulling her back on top of him as he laid back. He pulled from ehr folds and thrust in slwoly once more. "Ah! I'm stil...sensitive..." "...I know...", he said nonchalantly. Pulling from ehr again, he felt her squirm on top of him, her love tunnel still very sensitive, as she had said. As he thrust in again, pre began to ooze from his cock, slickening her walls, making it easier to glide in and out as he continud the rhythm. After several long thrusts, his own climax began nearing. Making his thrusts mroe forceful, he rocked teh mare on top of him, slamming into her cervix, threatening to tear the delicate barrier. As his gentle thrusts became harder, quicker, he pulled out one last time, thrusting in, burying every inch of his cock, slamming into OCtavia's cervix once more. She let out a long moan as they both climaxed, her tunnel convulsing, milking his cock for every last bit of cum that filled her womb. It was warm, straight from teh stallion she was with. The one she loved, who she wanted to love. Putting a hoof over her belly, she felt full, more so than she ever had. It made her even more happy to feel that and the colthood of her stallion, still buried deep within her depths. "That was...the best I've ever had...", Octavia huffed. Harp was silent. Still nuzzling into her side, but silent. Harp pulled from Octavia, separating the two and causing Octavia to shudder. Octavia rolled over, and laid her head on Harp's chest. "Don't ever leave me..." Harp was silent as before. "Harp?" "I heard you." "But why didn't you say anything?" "..." "Please, tell me something..." "I'm just...happy...Unsure of what to do next, but happy." "Sleep." "That does sound great, directly after something so exhausting..." "Hot sex does that...", Octavia closed her eyes. She focused on his heart beat, a very low and very strong thrum. Slow. Loud. It was mesmerizing. Then it began to get louder, louder, uncomfortable to feel as it engulfed her body, her entire being thrumming with it. Then she could feel another...faint, small, but just as strong, just as powerful. It was coming from her. Not her chest. Lower. Feeling her belly, she felt it rise and fall quicly, a heavy beat,but it didn't hurt. Her stomach moved visibly, like her cehst with her heart beat. She began to fear it, think of it as darkness. The free floating world she was in, care free, was flooded with fear, she dropped, beginning to fall, endlessly. Panicking she let out a cry and awoke, panting heavily. "Octavia?", Harp's soft tone caugth ehr attention. "It's...Just a dream...", Octavia confessed. Harp put a foreleg around her, holding her. "I'l still be here. No matter if it's a dream, nightmare, hell becoming real. I'll stay with you as long as I'm still bucking." Octavia smiled, digging her snout into his chest, feeling the soft fur. she stretched and gasped, noticing the mess that covered her inner thighs and the couch cushions. Wet, sticky, and it was very musky. "I need a shower, you too. Then I need ot wash this couch..." Harp chuckled. "I'm serious. We really made a big mess...." "Well, I'll help clean. Both you adn the couch." I'll go start the shower." Harp smiled to Octavia, and she rose, stretching. She felt slightly sickly and moaned, getting off the couchwith Harp in tow. Opening the bathroom door, she fiddled with teh light switch, turning on the single lightbulb, an approached the shower, twisting the knobs. The water cascaded down, turnign from cold, to hot in seconds. Harp approaced Octavia, wrapping his forelegs around her as she stood up to adjust the shower head. "You know it, don't you?", Harp asked. "What?" "You had a dream you were listening to my heart beat. Then you heard it again from yourself." "How do you know?" "I watched you, from my own dream. I saw the beating as it thrummed from you, deep inside of you, in the perfect spot..." "You mean..." "I think it's true. If you make love, you can tell if you are..." "So...I'm..." "Yes." "So, you won't run off? You won't leave me?" "Why are you scared? I said that as long as I'm bucking, I'd be with you till the end." Octavia smiled. "Now, let's take a shower, we both smell like sex, and that's not a good scent when near others." "I know." Harp let go and dropped down onto all fours, walking into the cascading stream after Octavia. The shower was quick, especially when Harp was helping Octavia get the dried cum out of her coat. Cum is hell to get out of your fur. Once done, they both stepped out, quickly drying off with the towels Octavia had in her bathroom, then found themselves staring at the couch. "So it was enough to cover nearly the entire cushion.", Octavia declared. "Well, it was hot, I'll give you that." "Yes. I'll ge the bleach, these carpets have survived worse." Harp perked up in curiosity. "Define worse." "Don't ask. I don't really know, considering the fact that these apartments used to be owned by a party stallion." Returnign with the bottle of bleach, Octavia put a wet towel over the cap and tipped it. The clean stench of chlorine filled the air, not very strong, but still gave off an odor. Putting it over the cushion, Octavia flipped it and put it face down back on the couch.
