She Struck a Chord With Me
A rhythmic set of footfalls filled the lone Canterlot High School hallway with noise. Flash’s strained eyes were narrowed and his jaw was clenched. His head started to ache a little and he brought a free hand up to massage it.
He was on his way to the gymnasium, guitar clenched in his hand, just wanting to get away from everyone and everything. He just needed some time alone with his music.
He opened the gymnasium doors and made his way to the stage. He brought his attention to the platform and something caught his eye.
Right there, in the dead center of the stage, was a beautiful, shiny, black grand piano with its lid open. The instrument was all by itself, alone.
“What’s that doing here?” Flash whispered. He thought back to the previous day. He does recall the school’s choir having a concert and the piano was brought out for them. “Hmm…”
He gingerly placed his guitar case down, got up on stage and approached the instrument, letting his fingers glide against the lustrous surface. “Beautiful.”
He went to the front of the piano and sat down on the bench, eyes glazing over the polished black and white keys. “Heh, it’s been awhile. I wonder if…” He placed his fingers on the keys of the instrument and looked up. “How’d it go?” He played the familiar chord progression, but a couple of his fingers hit the wrong keys, making him grimace at the sound. “Ulgh, that’s not it,” he said in disgust. He gave it another go.
Many attempts later, Flash was able to recall how the first few measures of the tune have gone. “Dada daa da da daa da,” he sang as he played. His mouth curled into a small grin. His head rocked and shook to the soft melody, the music making him feel blissful and contempt. He was about to hit the low note until a voice cut off his playing.
“Flash?” a tomboyish voice called from the gym’s entrance, surprising and startling him. He slammed the keys and sprung from his seat, only to see Rainbow Dash at the entrance, staring wide-eyed back at him.
“Rainbow?” Flash asked. “What are you doing here?”
“I should be asking you that,” she said, walking toward the stage. “I didn’t know you played the piano.”
“I’m not the best at it. I just play a little from time to time.”
Rainbow nodded to that and traced her finger on the side of the instrument. “Was that Desperado?”
“You know Desperado?”
“You kidding?” Rainbow Dash looked to Flash with a smirk as she folded her arms. “It’s a classic.”
“I didn’t think you liked the Eagles. You come off as a Rolling Stones or Aerosmith type person.”
“Though I do like those guys, you just can’t beat the Eagles.” She let out a humorous huff. “I mean, Life in the Fast Lane, Witchy Woman-”
“Busy Being Fabulous,” Flash interjected, making Rainbow chuckle.
“Rarity likes that one,” Rainbow pointed out, making Flash chuckle this time. “So, whatcha’ doing here?”
“Just here for some alone time. The day’s kind of been rough on me.”
“Dang…” Rainbow said with a frown. “Something you want to talk about?”
His eyes dropped to the ground. “I’d...rather not talk about it. Kind of want to keep it personal.”
“That’s fine pal. If you don’t feel like talking about it, you don’t have to.” She moved closer to Flash and noticed his hands were still on the keys. Seeing his hands there, Dash got an idea.
“Hey,” she started off, “you mind playing that from the beginning?”
“Um...sure.” Flash moved his hands back to the starting position. He pressed the keys, beautifully playing the first measure.
“You know the whole thing?” Rainbow asked.
“I think so...” He bit his lip, trying to recall the piece. “Give me a sec…” He tried to recall the tune and the more he thought about it, the more of the song came back to his memory. “Yeah, I think I got it now.”
“Alright, go for it.”
Flash nodded and he started the tune from the top, bringing it to life. A second or two after he played the low note, Rainbow Dash started to sing.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HJRf80F8m7E
The music captivated Flash and he felt every note being played as his fingers danced on and around the keys. The bit of joy he was feeling earlier was returning at a stronger force.
During pauses of the song Flash would look up from the keys and take quick glances at Rainbow Dash. Something about her seemed different. It was almost if she had this glow or aura that he never saw before. It’s different. A good different.
For the duration of the piece, Flash felt great. He could feel the stress and frustration of the day melt away from his body. And it’s all thanks to Rainbow Dash.
“You better let somebody love you, before it’s too, late,” Rainbow Dash sung.
The final notes of the song brought it to a conclusion. Flash looked over to Rainbow, staring into her eyes, feeling a drop in his chest. Rainbow had a grin on her face and Flash was just amazed. “Rainbow, that was...just…”
“Awesome,” she said, using her signature word to finish Flash’s sentence.
Flash chuckled at her remark and nodded. “Yeah,” he said with a grin. “That was fun, I needed that after today. Thanks.”
“Sure thing bu-” The girl is cut off by a sudden outburst of a guitar solo. Looking at her back pocket, she pulled out her phone and saw that she was getting a call. “Oh, hang on.” Rainbow pressed her thumb to the screen and brought the phone to her ear. “Hey Cloudkicker...yeah...I know...okay. I’ll be there in a few. I’m getting my gym bag now...Alright, later.” Rainbow ended the call and looked back at a curious Flash. “I’m late for practice. I left my gym bag in the locker room and I originally came here to get it.”
“Best not be late then.”
Nodding, Rainbow Dash jogged to the edge of the stage and jumped off, successfully sticking the landing with ease and grace. She went to the door that lead to the girls locker room, disappearing from Flash’s sight.
“Hm,” he let out, grinning with a now pleasant feeling in his chest.
After getting his homework done for the day, Flash laid in his bed, arms behind his head and earbuds in his ears. About an hour ago he started to feel crummy again and he figured playing some music could help him out.
His mind had been at war with itself for the past month or so. Ever since Camp Everfree and getting to know this world’s Twilight, he’s been feeling...odd. It is Twilight, but not the Twilight he knew. Flash’s ex, Sunset Shimmer, told him he should just get over her, and she isn't wrong. The Twilight that Flash knew is a pony princess from another world. She doesn't have time on her hands - hooves maybe? - for him. But, still, he feels there’s a void in his life without her.
Then there’s Sunset. The two dated for a while, but they broke up some time before the Fall Formal. Flash is back on speaking terms with her, as friends, and he is okay with that. However, he wasn’t interested in dating her again.
And there’s this world’s Twilight. Again, it’s not the one he knew. And, what’s worse, is that she’s interested in another guy. It’s like seeing the Twilight he knew go after someone else. It’s sort of like jealousy, but it isn’t. The best way to describe how Flash was feeling was that it’s a mix of confliction and confusion.
He groaned as he turned in bed, frustration overtaking his head. There have been a couple times where these difficult feelings would go away, but he’s mostly been feeling like this since Camp Everfree.
Sometimes, to help subside these emotions, he would just think back on some good, positive memories, or play some music. He even thought about his time earlier today with Rainbow Dash. She lifted his spirits well to get him out of this rut.
Funnily enough, the very moment he started thinking about Dash, the next song to play is the one the two were performing in the gym.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3-bwXhts8Zg
“Talk about timing,” Flash deadpanned. He was just about to skip the song, but decided against it. Besides, it helps enhance the memory of him and Rainbow.
Flash was still impressed with Rainbow Dash from earlier. Everything about her, for just a few moments, felt different. Something about her, in that time on the stage, just felt right. Everything about her in those moments were amazing. Beautiful even.
“Am I crushing on her?” he asked himself. He took a moment to think about Rainbow Dash. Sure she is considered a friend to him and the two do have a couple common interests, but he never really thought about her.
What the two shared today was something different for Flash. He never did that kind of thing with Twilight or Sunset. But that feeling of being with Rainbow felt similar to when he first met Twilight and when he dated Sunset Shimmer. It was a warm, pleasant and a somewhat fuzzy feeling to him.
“Oh boy…”
As Flash put the last book in his locker, he rubbed his jaded eyes with his thumb and index finger. He was up all night, thinking some things over. And after all that thinking, he believes his theory has been confirmed.
“You okay there Flash?” a voice asked him. Flash turned his head left and saw Sunset Shimmer, looking concerned. “You looked like you were about to pass out last period.”
“I’m not sure Sunset,” he answered. “I kind of had a rough time sleeping last night.”
“Something on your mind?”
Flash wasn't sure if he wanted to tell her what's going on. Sure, he trusts her as a friend, but he isn’t too sure if he’s comfortable talk about his feelings. But, what if she could help him?
“Well...I guess something’s has kind of been bothering me recently…”
“Yes?” she pressed.
“Well, what can you tell me about Rainbow Dash?”
“Um, well…” She raised her finger to her chin. “She’s dependable, loyal, great athlete, performer and friend...why do you want to know?”
Flash’s cheeks flushed a light shade of pink as he scratched the back of his neck. “Um, well...I...uh…”
This was answer enough to Sunset. The stuttering, the blushing, all of the signs were there.
“Shut. Up. You like Rainbow?” she asked, smiling and bringing her fists to her chin.
“Shhhh.” Flash fanned his hands downward. “Don’t make a scene.”
“Oh, sorry,” she whispered. “But, how and when did this happen?”
“So, I was in the gym yesterday. The piano was on the stage, and I figured since no one was using it, I could play it a little.”
“Since when can you play piano?” Sunset inquired, raising an eyebrow.
“Eh, I play a little. Nothing really to boast about. But anyway, I was playing the intro to Desperado-”
“The Eagles one, right?”
“The Eagles one.” Flash said with a nod. “Then Rainbow came in and she asked me to play the full song for her. I did and she started to sing it. And in that moment, it was like Rainbow transformed into this other person that I’ve never seen before.”
“So after just playing that little diddy, you kind of just fell for her? Sounds like a cheesy Hallmark movie.”
“It kind of does, but it’s the truth. What do you think?”
Sunset gave Flash a smile and wrapped an arm around his shoulder. “Flash, let me share a quote I heard to give you some inspiration: ‘If you like this girl, go get her. What are you waiting for?’”
“Hm,” Flash mused. “Gonna have to use that.”
“No better time than the present, look.” Sunset pointed down the hallway and Flash’s eyes followed her finger. In the middle of the hallway, he saw Rainbow Dash putting her books in her locker. “Go get ‘em tiger.”
With determination gleaming in his eyes, and taking in a deep breath, he walked to Rainbow Dash, confidence present in his stride. “Hey Rainbow,” Flash said, approaching the athlete.
Dash turned her head and smiled, seeing who it was that approached her. “Sup Flash? How've you been’?”
“Not gonna lie, a little better than yesterday.”
“That’s good to hear. So, what’s up?”
“Well…” Flash suddenly felt something drop to the pit of his stomach.
Nervousness was suddenly building up. Come on Flash. You’ve asked out Sunset and Twilight before, you can definitely do it here.
“I was wondering if…” He paused for a moment, feeling nervousness about to win. But he knew he can win this battle. He took a quick breath and said: “You feel like hanging out Friday?”
Rainbow did a double take and her eyes went a little wide. “What?”
“I mean, you wanna go get something to eat on Friday? A movie maybe? Jam session?” Smooth.
“Oh, well, um...hang on a sec.” Rainbow Dash pulled out her phone and flicked her finger across the screen a couple times, probably looking over her schedule. “Hmm...well, Friday looks okay. I do have tennis practice until four, but after that, I should be open.”
Sounds like it’s a yes!
Rainbow looked back up at him. “You know, I’ve been wanting to go to that new diner downtown.”
“I do like me a good diner,” Flash admitted.
“Been hearing some good things about it. That sound good?”
“Sounds perfect! Pick you up at…” Flash was unsure what would be a good time, so he left it open ended for Rainbow.
“Six would be best. I would need to shower and get ready.”
“Alright. So, see you then?” Flash wanted to make sure he tightens any loose ends here.
Rainbow chuckled out in a fit of laughter and her cheeks flushed a light pink color. “Yeah, it’s um...it's a date!”
Score! “Okay Rainbow, I will see you Friday.“ Flash turned around and went back to his locker, trying to play it cool. He snuck one last glance at Rainbow Dash, whose cheeks were flushing a little redder and it looked like she was texting someone at breakneck speed.
Flash returned to his locker and saw Sunset Shimmer is still there, waiting for him. Her arms were folded and a smile was on her face.
“Well?” she asked.
All Flash did was shoot a sly grin as he gave her a thumbs up.
“Atta boy Flashy.” She pat him on the shoulder with a sense of pride. “So, details?”
“I asked her, she said yes, she suggested a place, I agreed, she called it date,” Flash summed up.
“There ya go! All you got to do now is go on the actual date.”
With Friday finally here, the students of CHS were free to do what they please for the next two days. For Flash, he’s taking one last look in the bathroom mirror, making sure his hair is neat. The place he’s going for the date is very casual, but still, he should make himself look presentable. Flash made sure everything looked nice: face clear of blemishes, clean shave, hair combed, and his teeth were brushed and flossed thoroughly.
“Heading out Flash?” a female voice asked.
Flash turned his head to see his mother standing under the bathroom door frame, clad in blue scrubs. “Yep.” he answered as he brought his attention back to the mirror, running his hands through his hair once more. “You working tonight?”
“Triple shift tonight, Flash. First one in a long while. I won’t be home until two in the afternoon.”
“Yikes mom!”
“Hey, on the bright side, I’m getting double-overtime and I’ll be able to have the rest of the weekend, and Monday, off. After that, regular shifts.”
“Well, that’s good at least.”
“But tell me: where are you going tonight?” Flash’s mother teasingly asked, changing the subject.
“Got a date.”
“Ohh?” she mused. “Is it with that Twilight girl you’ve kept talking about?”
“Nope,” he simply responded.
“Is it Sunset?”
“Nope,” he responded again. “It’s Rainbow Dash.”
Now Flash’s mother is both surprised and amused. “Really? What got you into her?”
Flash grinned. “I was feeling crummy the other day and she kind of...turned me around for a bit. I saw a different Dash that day and I kind of fell for her there.
Flash’s mother can’t help but chuckle a little as well. “That’s how I met your father.”
“Really? That’s cool, mom. I hope everything works out, tonight.”
“Well Flash, whatever happens, I hope for the best.” She held Flash’s head in her hands and planted a kiss on his forehead. “One more thing.”
“Hm?”
“Make sure you use protection.”
“MOM!”
“Dad, you left me with a mad woman,” Flash mumbled up to the evening sky as he walked to Rainbow’s apartment building. Sure, he could just drive, but the diner and Rainbow’s apartment are within walking distance. Why bother burning fossil fuel?
The walk to the apartment was roughly ten minutes, and from there and the diner was an additional five or six. He utilized these few minutes to think and go over what to do. He counted on his fingers, and even muttered: what he should say, what to discuss, him needing to be a gentleman and so on. He’s been on countless dates before, but he engages in this ritual every time just to make sure he doesn't start things out by sounding like an idiot.
Flash arrived at the building, gazing at the tall structure. “If I remember correctly, her apartment is 10 - F.” Heading up to the proper floor, via the elevator, only took only a minute. After walking the short distance down the hallway, looking at each apartment door, he found it. “Alright, let’s get this started.”
He brought his knuckles to the door and gave it a few knocks. After hearing some footfalls on the other side, the door opened, revealing Rainbow Dash.
“Hey Flash!” she said.
“Hey Rainbow. Ready to go?”
“You know it.” Closing the door behind her, she looked at Flash with a smile and slight gleam in her eye.
He took a moment and studied the girl in front of him. She looked just a tad different. She’s dressed up in her normal clothes, but her hair and eyes are a bit different. Her hair looks like it’s been well groomed and her eyelashes look a bit refined.
“So, we walking or driving?” Rainbow asked, interrupting Flash’s thought.
“Oh! Walking. I figured since the diner isn’t far, we could just get there on foot.”
“I’m cool with that. Lead the way.”
Leaving the apartment building was relatively quiet between the two. By the time they got to the streets, Flash decided to break the ice. “So, how did you hear about this place?”
“Twilight told me,” Rainbow Dash answered. “She was on a date with Timber and they went to this joint. She told me the fries are awesome.”
“I do like my french fries.”
“Who doesn’t?”
“Morons,” Flash responded, making Dash scoff in humor.
“Heh, wouldn’t doubt that.”
The rest of the walk was mostly silent until the two arrived at the eatery. The diner, on the outside, looked very typical. Simple beige paint, windows covered with blinds and a red and blue neon sign at the front that read: ‘Stamo’s Diner’.
“I wonder if the actor ate here?” Flash wondered aloud, making Rainbow Dash chuckle a little.
“That’d be cool,” she responded.
Flash is the first to get to the door. He opened it, but stepped to the side. “Ladies first.”
“Aww, why thank you,” Rainbow said. She stepped in and Flash followed behind her.
The decor of the place is quite a contrast to outside. The outside made the establishment look simple, but inside is a different story.
The tiles on the floor were a black and white checker pattern with the walls being a light brown wood. The booths and tables were made with the same wood the walls are made with, but the seating are of a red cushion material. On the walls, paintings of city landscapes and buildings were hung. Overhead, there are some speakers playing some music.
“Seems like a decent place,” Flash admitted.
“Mmhmm,” Rainbow Dash agreed.
“Hello, welcome to Stamo’s,” a greeter, who's a young woman, said. “How many?”
“Two,” Flash responded.
The greeter nodded and pulled out two menus from the side of the podium. “Follow me, please.”
Flash and Rainbow do so and the greeter lead them to a booth with a view of the road. She placed the menus down and the two slid into their seats, opposite of each other.
“You’re waiter will be out in a few moments,” the greeter said, before heading back to her position.
“Thank you,” the teens chorused. As the greeter walked away, the two opened up their menus to see what this establishment has to offer.
“A lot of choices,” Flash said at first glance.
“I know,” Rainbow said in amazement. “Most diners I go to don’t have this much to choose from.”
After a few moments of silence, a male waiter approached the table.
“Hello guys, I’m Lightning Strike and I’ll be your server for the evening,” he pleasantly said. “Can I start you two off with something to drink?” The teens looked at each other and Flash gestured to Rainbow, insisting her to go first.
“I’ll just have a water,” she requested.
Lightning jot that down in his notepad and then looked to Flash.
“I’ll have an iced tea please,” he requested.
“What flavor would you like?” the waiter asked.
“You got more than one flavor?” Flash looked back at the menu and tried to find the drink section.
“Yes, we got regular iced tea, strawberry flavored and pomegranate flavored.” To the boy, that last one sounded pretty tempting.
“I’ll take pomegranate, please. Sweetened.” The waiter nodded and writes that down.
“Alright, I’ll be back out shortly with your drinks.” The waiter walked away to the back of the restaurant to fulfill the teen’s orders. In the meantime, the two keep scoping out the menu, trying to figure out what they want.
“So many choices,” Flash mused. “What do you think you’re gonna get?”
“Hmm,” Dash let out, “I’m not too sure. That barbecue chicken panini looks tempting. But there’s also a spicy chicken sandwich that looks good. And that tomato soup with grilled cheese looks very promising as well. Dang...too many choices. Anything catching your interest, Flash?”
“I did have my eye on that spicy chicken sandwich as well, but that bacon burger looks good too.” He looked back and forward between those two options, carefully considering what those two food items have to offer. After pondering it over for awhile, Flash made up his mind. “Know what, I’m going to go with the spicy chicken sandwich.”
“I think I’m going to get that too,” Rainbow Dash said. “It’s screaming to me ‘Eat me Rainbow! I’m too spicy and delicious to pass up.’”
Flash laughed at her mock high pitch voice.
“You thought it was funny?” she asked.
“Just the way you delivered the line, it was gold.”
Rainbow Dash gave Flash a smirk, taking pride in his comment. She went back at the menu, Flash doing the same, but a few seconds later, the waiter came back with their drinks.
“Alrighty, water for you,” he said, placing the glass of water in front of Rainbow Dash. “And pomegranate iced tea for you.” Lightning Strike did the same for Flash’s drink. “You guys ready to order, or do you need some more time?”
“I think we’re ready,” Rainbow answered, Flash then nodding in agreement.
“Alright.” The waiter opened his notepad and pressed the button on the pen. “What would you guys like?”
“Spicy chicken sandwich for me,” Rainbow answered.
“And one for me too,” Flash said.
“It comes with fries and another side,” Lightning Strike added. “What would you guys like? We got green beans, coleslaw and celery sticks.”
“Celery for me,” Rainbow said.
“I’ll take the coleslaw please,” Flash requested.
Lightning was quick to write down their orders and nodded. “Okay, you’re food will be out here in a short while. I’ll take those menus off you hands.” The teens hand him the menus and thank him as he walked away.
“He’s nice, I like him,” Flash said. Rainbow nodded in agreement. The two fall into silence for a few moments as they slightly slump into their seats. Rainbow Dash sipped at her water, that being the only thing filling up the quiet between them.
Feeling things are getting a bit awkward, Flash broke the tension. “So Rainbow, how you and the band doing lately?”
“Mm,” she hummed through her straw. She finished her sip and set the glass down. “Great! Been working on some more material lately,” Rainbow counted on her finger, “got a gig for Canterlot Day, working on getting a gig at the fair that’s coming to town a few months from now…”
“You’re playing on Canterlot Day?” Flash asked, surprised.
“Yeah!”
“Same! My band is also performing. We’re a little later in the afternoon.”
“I think my band is before you guys, now that I think about it.”
“Awesome! Two great groups back to back.”
Rainbow let out a small laugh. “Heh, it’s like: The Rolling Stones perform, and then the Beatles performed after.”
“Or,” Flash said, “The Eagles, then Journey.”
“Jimi Hendrix, then James Brown”
“Prince, then Michael Jackson,”
“Ohh,” Rainbow said, impressed with his suggestion. “Childish Gambino, than Chance the Rapper.”
“Ohh, a good one with a genre change,” Flash admitted. “Or, Blink - 182, then Green Day.”
“...I like the way you think, Flash.”
Flash let out a quick chuckle. “But anyway, our bands are playing and that is great.”
“I think you mean: our awesome bands. Canterlot deserves nothing but the finest music.”
“I’ll drink to that.” Saying this, Flash raised his glass. Seeing what he is doing, Rainbow brought her glass to his, making a light, clicking sound. The both of them then took a sip of their drinks. After a quick moment of silence, Rainbow decided to ask a question.
“So Flash, has there been anything new with you?”
He shrugged his shoulders. “Aside from the gig coming up, not much. Still been working on music, school work, all the usual jazz. Just the typical Flash Sentry stuff.”
“Nothing too interesting has happened to anyone since Everfree now that I think about it.”
“You know we keep saying that, but whenever someone says it, something happens. After the Fall Formal, we said, things were pretty clam. Next thing we know: brainwashing sirens. After the Battle of the Bands, we said things have settled down, then there was the whole mess with the Friendship Games. Then we all think we’d have a relaxing time at Camp Everfree, and we all know what happened there.”
“I see your point...we really need to stop jinxing ourselves with this whole magic business,” Rainbow replied with a nod.
Flash let out a light but humored scoff. “No kidding.”
A small moment of silence pass between them. But, the idea of magic came across Flash’s mind, making him feel that it would be an interesting topic of discussion.
“Have you guys ever figured out that whole magic thing? With the wings and ears and powers and all that stuff? Why that happens?”
Rainbow shook her head at this and gave a quick shoulder shrug. “Not really. We haven’t been able to figure it out.”
“Any theories at least?”
Rainbow looked up to the ceiling, trying to remember if anyone had said or suggested anything. Nothing came to her mind, so her response was: “I don’t think so.”
“You’d think someone would figure it out by now,” Flash said, slouching in his seat a little.
“Yeah, no kidding.”
A silence fell upon them again for a few seconds, both running out of things to say. That is until they catch the tune of a new song over the diner’s speakers.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_dK2tDK9grQ
Both their eyes snap wide and the two look at each other. “Oh my gosh! I love this song!” the two unintentionally chorused. “You do too?” they chorused again. “Knock it off. Stop it. AH!”
Flash chuckled and spoke up. “Yeah, this song is great! Nice little groove to it.”
“I agree, totally,” Rainbow said, nodding in agreement.
For a little while, the two bop their heads to the beat while mumbling the lyrics to each other. Rainbow stopped herself for a second to see a young couple on one side of the restaurant get out their seats and start to dance.
“Yo Flash,” the girl said. Flash gave her his attention and she twitched her head, telling him to turn around. He did so and he saw the couple dancing as well.
It both humored him and brought him delight that the two were having fun in public, not caring about judgement from others. Just out of the corner of his eye, he saw another couple get out of their seats and started to dance to the song as well. Except it’s an older couple.
“Look at that,” Flash said. Rainbow looked where Flash was glancing at and saw the older couple dancing as well.
“Huh,” Rainbow let out. Just then, a few more people got out of their chairs and started to groove to the song too. Even a couple of the waiters started to join in on the fun.
“Well, this is interesting,” Flash said with a smirk, finding this all amusing. With all these people cutting a rug in the restaurant, an idea crossed his mind: Why not join them?
Flash got out of his seat and walked up to Rainbow, holding a hand out to her. “Wanna dance?” he asked.
Rainbow was a little surprised by his request. She looked at Flash’s hand, then to him. Hand to him. Hand to him. Grinning and seeing no reason not to, she placed her own hand on his, giving him a nod.
Flash lifted her up and put one hand on her waist. Rainbow had one hand on his shoulder while her other hand is clasped with Flash’s other hand.
The two move their feet to the rhythm of the song, and sometimes, the two would twirl each other around a little for some extra fun, still singing the song to each other all the while.
The diner was in a full dance mode. Almost everyone was up and having fun to the song, letting the music captivate them. As the two teens dance, having the time of their lives, they passed by their waiter, who was dancing with one of his colleagues.
“I’ve worked in quite a few restaurants before,” he said, “but I don’t think this has ever happened.”
Rainbow and Flash share a little chuckle to that.
“By the way, you food will be ready in just a few more moments.”
“Awesome!” the two chorused. The two look at each other and share another quick laugh, both being humored at the fact they keep shadowing each other.
Throughout the song, the two would make eye contact for short periods of time, both feeling the joy and electricity of the moment. Just the two of them, enjoying each other. There were, at times, the feeling that there was no one else was in the restaurant dancing. It was just them. To the teens, that was an amazing feeling.
The song concluded and the restaurant went up in applause, everyone enjoying the fun they have shared. The dancing duo returned to their seats, laughing all the way. When they take their seats, Rainbow was the first to speak up.
“Okay, I won’t lie, that was a lot of fun.”
“Glad you enjoyed yourself Rainbow,” Flash said. “I had fun myself.” The two share a light chuckle until the waiter came to them with plates in his hands.
“Alrighty,” he said. “Spicy chicken sandwich, coleslaw on the side, for you.” He placed that plate in front of Flash. “And Spicy chicken sandwich, side of celery, for you.” And Lighting placed Rainbow’s food in front of her. “Can I get you guys anything else while I’m here?”
Flash looked to Rainbow, seeing if she wanted anything. But she just shakes her head. “We should be okay,” he answered.
“Alright guys, enjoy your food.” The waiter walked away and the two looked down at their plates.
The sandwich’s buns had a glossy look to it while the chicken looked both crispy and well prepared along with a very light, reddish-brown, coating to it. Next to the sandwiches were very delicious looking, and light yellow colored, french fries, which appear to be salted. Next to the fries were their respected sides that they ordered.
Just looking at their meals, the teens mouths watered in anticipation. Their taste buds lusted for the food in front of them.
“These look good,” Flash said.
“Alright, I’m going in. My belly is rumbling and it needs a spicy chicken sandwich,” Rainbow said. In one fluid and quick motion, she took hold of the sandwich and took a massive bite. Chewing the sandwich, she took in as much flavor as possible, letting it roll across her taste buds.
After just a few chews, her eyes went wide and a huge grin spread across her face. “Oh. My. Gosh. This is awesome!”
“That good?” Flash took hold of his sandwich and took a bite himself. Taking in the flavor and giving it a few chews, his reaction was very similar to Rainbow’s. “Wow…That is pretty good.”
“Isn’t it?” Rainbow then took another bite of her sandwich, satisfaction written all on her face. “I don’t think I had a sandwich this good in a while.”
“No disagreement here.” Before he took another bite, Flash popped a small french fry into his mouth. Just like the sandwich, the fried potato stick delighted his tongue. “Mmm, that’s sensational,” he said as he popped another fry into his mouth. He then followed that with another bite of the sandwich. But this bite was a bit different.
Heat and spiciness surged through his entire mouth and tongue, and it was a heavy hit. The heat was causing him to form sweat on his brow and forehead along with him heavily breathing. Flash looked at Rainbow and he saw that she was sharing a similar reaction, but she’s fanning her mouth. At the same time, the two go for their respected drinks and they took a huge swig.
They slammed their glasses down on the table and the two looked at each other, both sharing a surprised look. “Okay,” Rainbow started off, exhaling heavily, “that was pretty damn hot.”
“No joke,” Flash agreeingly said, then he let out a quick cough. “The first bite was okay, then BAM! Hits you with heat.”
“Maybe it takes a bit for it to kick in.”
Rainbow went for her glass again, ready to take another sip, but she lost her grip and her water spilt onto the table, Flash’s shirt and pants were caught in the onslaught of damage.
“Oh, shoot, I’m sorry,” Rainbow said, bursting out of her seat. Very quickly, and almost urgently, Rainbow Dash grabbed her napkin and moved to Flash, crouching in front of him and lightly dabbing the water out of his shirt. “Dang it!”
“It’s alright,” he said chuckling a little. He grabbed his own napkin and started cleaning himself up too. “Crap happens.” Flash went to work on his pants while Rainbow tries to dry up his shirt. To Rainbow’s surprise, the water seeped in pretty deep and she could feel Flash’s stomach area. To her, it felt somewhat toned, giving her the impression Flash took fair care of his body.
“Hmm,” she let out, impressed. “Decent build there Flash.”
Flash chuckled once more. “Not bad, eh?” he said with a smirk.
“Could be better.” She moved her hand up his shirt a little, getting more of a feel of him. “But still, not too bad.” She started to drag the napkin up and down a little, enjoying Flash’s build. But in turn, Flash was starting to feel awkward. She kept at this for a few more seconds until Flash cleared his throat.
“Uhh, Rainbow,” he said, feeling just a tad uncomfortable. Rainbow snapped out of her trance and realized she got a little carried away.
“Oh, sorry about that,” she said. She looked the the ground and scratched the back of her neck. Just barely, Flash saw a light shade of pink flush onto her checks.
“It’s alright, don't worry.” He dabbed and rubbed his pants a couple more times. “I think we got most the water out. I’ll head to the bathroom real quick just to be thorough. Be right back.” He got up from his seat and went to the restroom, leaving Rainbow Dash by herself.
She returned to her seat and folded her arms as she slumped back, feeling a bit embarrassed. “Well that’s perfect,” she whispered sarcastically. “I spill my drink, then I feel the guy up. Wow...” She brought her elbows to the table, arms still folded, and looked down at her food. “Still though, not a bad build.” She can’t help but smirk a little. “And that awkward face he made was kind of cute…” Rainbow’s smirk then morphed into a smile. “Hmm….”
Flash continued to rub the paper towel on the wet spots of his clothes. They’re pretty much dry by now. “Thank goodness it was just water,” he uttered. He crumbled up the paper towel and successfully tossed it into the trash, shouting “Steph Curry!” while doing so. He went to the hand dryer and turned it on. He raised a leg and put it under the hot blowing air.
“You’re doing good Flash,” he said to himself. “Lets keep it up.” He took another moment or so to completely dry off. When that point had reached, he went back to the table, seeing Rainbow Dash chewing at one of her celery sticks.
“All dried up?” she asked, noticing Flash coming back.
“Yep,” Flash said, sitting down.
“Once again, sorry about that.” Rainbow’s face looked very apologetic, but Flash just smiled.
“No need to worry. Came out easy.”
“Well, that’s good.” Flash picked up his sandwich and continues from where he left off. Rainbow doing the same.
The two reached the dessert portion of their meal. They decided to split a chocolate lava cake. And so far, to them, the cake was delightful.
As the two of them pick away at the last bits of the cake, they exchange some jokes and humorous stories.
“Okay, okay,” Flash said, regaining his composure from a hearty laugh. “Here’s a good one.”
“Alright, lay it on me,” Rainbow said.
“What do you call twenty five lawyers, up to their necks in cement?”
Rainbow Dash raised an eyebrow to this, but then looks like she’s trying to recall something. “I feel like I heard this one before.” She rubbed her chin, deep in thought, trying to remember the punchline.
“You should,” Flash said. He took a sip of his iced tea as Rainbow pondered for an answer. After a few moments, she can’t come up with anything.
“Okay, I don’t know. What?”
Flash leaned in a little and in a simple voice, he said: “Not enough cement.”
“Pffffff hahaha, I-I-I-” She’s trying to speak, but she can’t stop laughing. Slowly, Rainbow regained her composure and tried to speak once more. “I think I do remember that. Better Call Saul, right?”
“That’s it!”
“Nice. You caught up on season three?”
Flash scoffed at that. “I’m only halfway through season two. I do need to catch up.”
“You know, I’m not finished with season two either.” Rainbow said. “If you’d like, when we’re done here, we can binge the rest of the season at my place.” Here, Flash was a little uncertain about that. Going back to Rainbow’s place does sound nice, but it’s a little too inviting.
“Uhh, I don’t know Rainbow.”
“Flash, it’s just us two, finishing our date at my apartment.”
Flash raised a brow to that but Rainbow continued to talk.
“Okay, that came out wrong, let me rephrase. Just us two, watching a show at my place. Nothing more.”
After thinking it over, Flash gave Rainbow a smile. “You know what? That sounds good. Let’s do it.” Flash grabbed his glass and held it in the air. “To Jimmy McGill.”
Rainbow Dash smirked and raised her glass to his. “To Slippin’ Jimmy.” They clink their glasses together and finish the drinks in one big gulp.
“You guys all done?” Lightning Strike asked, approaching the two.
“Yes sir, we are,” Flash answered. “Can I have the check please?”
“Sure, let me get this plate out of your way and I’ll get you your check.” The waiter removed the plate from the table and went off to get the two their check.
In that time, Flash pulled out his wallet, ready to pay. As he did this, Rainbow was doing the same and he took notice.
“What are you doing?” he asked.
“Getting my wallet out to pay,” Dash answered.
“Oh no no no. I got this.”
“Come on Flash. You took me out and I had a great time. I got this.”
“Oh let me be the gentleman here.”
Rainbow stroked her chin for a second or two. Then, an idea came to mind. “Okay, how about this: you pay for the meal and drinks, I got dessert and tip? And next time, we switch it.”
“Alright,” he answered, “sounds go-” Flash stopped himself mid sentence to realize what Rainbow just said. “Next time?”
Rainbow Dash chuckled a little and her cheeks flushed pink once more. “Yeah. I had a great time, and I would like to do this again with you.”
Flash can’t help but smile. She wants to go out again! “Uh, yeah sure. Maybe we can figure something out for another date in between episodes of Saul or something?”
“Sounds good to me.”
The two make it back to Rainbow’s apartment, laughing all the way, enjoying each other’s company. Who would have thought just a walk home with someone could be so pleasant?
Rainbow opened the door and the two enter her abode. To Flash’s surprise, it wasn’t as he expected it. He thought the apartment would be littered with sports and music memorabilia and look sloopy, but it’s actually very simple. A couple posters or pictures of her sports heroes were hung up here and there, leather couch in front of the TV, coffee table in front of the sofa, small kitchen with table and some chairs, the necessities really. And the place seemed to be very well kept and organized.
“Not a bad place here Rainbow,” Flash said.
“Thank you,” Rainbow responded as she made her way to the kitchen and opened her fridge. “Why don’t you get Netflix started up. I’m gonna get some snacks.”
“Alright, gotcha.” He grabbed the remote and opened the program up to the desired show.
“Okay, I got mild salsa and queso,” Rainbow said, returning from the kitchen and placing the items on the coffee table.
“Nice.”
“Remote please?” Rainbow held out her hand and Flash placed the device in her palm. The two take a seat on the couch and her finger pressed the right scroll button to find and pull up the program the two are going to watch. “What episode did you leave off on?”
“The last episode I saw, Mike hands back some money to Nacho and his face got beaten to a pulp.”
“That’s where I left off too! Okay, so we’re starting the next one. Ready?”
“Bring me Slippin’ Jimmy!” Flash proclaimed, like he was a knight. Rainbow let out a small laugh to his antic and pressed play.
For the next eighty four minutes, the two are too enticed with what’s going on screen, they have barely uttered a word to each other. The only thing that would come out of their mouths were just: “Pause it, I need to use the bathroom,” or to coo “Mmm” when they put the right amount of dipping sauce on a chip. But all the while, the two enjoyed each other’s company.
By this point, another episode had concluded. They’re just two episodes away from finishing the season. Flash let out a hearty yawn, then Rainbow Dash yawned as well. It was starting to get late and Flash’s eyelids started to feel a tad heavy.
“Whoo wee,” Flash let out. “I’m getting tired. Maybe I should head home.”
“Oh come on,” Rainbow Dash protested. “We’re just two episodes away from finishing off the season. We can make it.” Rainbow’s face looked like she was pleading. Flash can tell she wants him to stay and finish up the season. And to top it off, she even used the puppy eye trick. And it worked.
“Alright,” Flash said, smirking, not being able to resist the adorable face she made. “We’ll power through the rest.”
“Awesome!” Rainbow did a joyful fist pump and played the next episode. Flash did his best to stay awake for the episode, but the want to go to sleep started to overwhelm him. His eyelids and head were getting heavier and heavier with every passing second.
Before he knew it, his head arched back and everything went black.
Very slowly, Flash opened his eyes, them feeling wrinkly and heavy. He brought his hand to his eyes and rubbed them. His vision cleared up and he slowly realized he’s not home in his own room. Taking in his surroundings, he saw he was still on the couch in Rainbow’s apartment. He must have fallen asleep last night. It appears that he passed out in the position he was sitting in.
He moved his neck a little, but felt a slight pain in the back of it. He lightly groaned at the slight crick in that spot. He tried to rub the area where it hurt to ease the pain, but it didn't do much.
He scanned the apartment once more to see if Rainbow was around. Not seeing her anywhere, he tried to get up, but his lap was weighed down.
He looked down to see, none other, than Rainbow Dash, resting her head on his lap. Her eyes were gently closed and her mouth was just slightly open as she let out some very light snores. Flash can’t help but daww at the sight before him. It’s admittedly cute.
Flash’s hand slowly gravitated to her rainbow hair and he lightly stroked it. This caused Rainbow Dash to smile in her sleep. Both of her arms moved to Flash’s and she wrapped both of hers around his. Now Flash can’t help but smile. It’s too adorable.
He continued to stroke Rainbow’s hair for a few minutes until she woke up. Her eyes slowly open, smile still on her face.
“Morning sunshine,” Flash pleasantly said. One of Rainbow’s eyes fully opened and she smiled at the sight before her.
“Hey,” she softly said. “We fall asleep here?”
Before Flash answered, he looked up at the screen, seeing that there was one more episode to finish in the season. He then looked back down to Rainbow Dash.
“Yep. Did you make it far in the episode?”
Rainbow shook her head. “I didn’t even get a minute past the opening theme. Thought I could stay awake. You?”
Flash let out a soft yawn before he answered. “About the same time.”
“Mmm,” she let out while nodding her head. “Well, you sleep okay?”
“Eh.” He did a teeter totter motion with his hand. “I slept alright. Neck hurts a bit. What about you?”
Rainbow can’t help but grin a little. “Slept like a baby. You’ve got some comfy thighs there, Flashy.”
Flash snorted to this. He couldn't recall if anyone has ever called his thighs ‘cozy.’ “So, I think some breakfast is in order? You want some?” Dash asked.
Before Flash could open his mouth, his belly violently rumbled.
Rainbow giggled at his stomach’s timing. “Guess that’s a yes.” She got off of Flash's lap and made her way to the kitchen. “Eggs sound good?”
“Uh, sure. Toast too?”
“You got it! Jelly?”
“Please?”
“Sure thing.”
Flash stayed in his seat for a while, listening to Rainbow Dash open and close the fridge a few times then her beating, presumably, the eggs, in a bowl. He then heard the sizzle noise of the eggs being put onto a hot pan along with the button pressing on a toaster. It shouldn’t be much longer until the food is ready. So, he rose off the couch and went to the kitchen, seeing Rainbow having her back to him, cooking over a stove.
A smirk spread across his face as he approached her. He got right behind Rainbow and wrapped his arms around her waist and rested his chin on her shoulder. Rainbow stopped cooking and looked at Flash.
“Are you trying to be cute or annoying? ‘Cause either way, it’s distracting me from cooking.” Her words say one thing, but her tone suggests that she found this funny and playful.
Flash took the initiative to tease her a bit. “Oh, so I’m cute?”
Rainbow just rolled her eyes. “You’re ridiculous.”
“You’re avoiding the question.”
“Eggs are almost done and I’m gonna have to lift the pan. If you don’t want to get burned, I suggest letting go.” Almost immediately, Flash let go of Dash and he took a seat at the table. As he sat down, Rainbow scraped the scrambled eggs onto plates that have already been placed on the counter. The toast then popped out of the toaster, the pieces having a very light brown color.
Rainbow picked up the two pieces of toast, one in each hand, and placed them on their respective plates. She then picked those up and brought it to the table. One plate in front of where she will sit and one in front of Flash.
“I’m gonna grab some glasses and silverware. Whatcha' drinking?”
Flash thought about this for a second and then gave Rainbow an answer. “Orange juice, please.”
Rainbow nodded and went to the fridge to get his drink.
As she did this, Flash looked at the food in anticipation. He’d dive in now, his stomach is begging him to, but Rainbow still needs to get him some silverware. And if he were to just eat with his hands, that would be uncivil.
Rainbow came back with Flash’s drink in one hand and couple forks in the other. “Here you go,” she said, placing his orange juice in front of him and handing him a fork. “No jelly, actually. Forgot I ran out of it the other day.”
“Oh well,” Flash says as he dug his fork into the eggs. “Not a big deal.” He brought a forkful of the eggs to his mouth and chewed it up, savoring the flavor. “Mmm. Sublime job here, Dash.” He then reached for his orange juice and took a sip to wash it down.
“Thanks Flash.” Rainbow started to eat too. The teens stay in silence for a few moments until Dash decided to speak up. “So Flash, you doing anything today?” As she asked this, Flash was in the middle of chewing.
He held up a finger then swallowed. “I should be free. What’s up?”
“Well, maybe, when we’re done eating, we can finish up Better Call Saul and go out and do something. You know, a second date?”
“Did you have anything in mind?”
“I was hoping you did. I suggested the diner, now you suggest something.”
Flash gave her a smirk. He looked up in thought, trying to think of what to do. Many possibilities came to mind, but he figured he could spitball this one. “How about mini golf?”
Rainbow Dash’s face slightly twinged at the idea. “Not too big on mini golf. But, I do enjoy going on the driving range.”
“Driving range, eh?” He thought about that idea for a little bit. That does sound like a good idea actually. The two of them, just swinging at golf balls aimlessly and joking about each other's swings does sound very pleasant. He looked back to Rainbow to answer. “Alright, I’m game. Maybe afterwards, Sugar Cube Corner for lunch?”
“Sounds good. You buy for driving range, I’ll buy lunch.”
“Deal.” Flash extended his hand and Rainbow grabbed and shook it, sealing the deal.
The two finish their breakfast in quiet, just happy being in each other's company. By the time it came to the clean up, Rainbow Dash said she can take care of it, but Flash insisted on helping out. As she filled the sink up with soap and water, her head shot up. “We need music,” she said. She walked off to another part of her apartment and quickly returned with a small speaker, about the size of a golf ball.
She connected her phone via bluetooth and started to play some tunes. It’s an energetic and pop-like song and it had a beat good enough for Flash to groove. For a few minutes, the songs on shuffle were putting the two in an energetic and dancy mood, grooving as they cleaned the dishes.
As Flash put the last item away in the cupboards, a new song came on. A slower one.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WpyfrixXBqU
“You really like Ed Sheeran, don’t you?” Flash commented.
She just grinned and gave him a shrug.
In a second, Flash came up with an idea. He held out his hand to her and asked: “Wanna dance?”
Rainbow Dash looked down at his hand, then looked into those blue eyes of his, grin plastered on her face. “I’d like that,” she said. She took hold of his hand and they started to slow dance, just rocking back and forward.
Flash's hands lay gently on Dash’s waist while she had her arms wrapped around his neck.
As they rock, the two enjoy the peace and tenderness they are sharing with the song serenading them. Rainbow moved her head into Flash’s chest, making him blush.
“This is nice,” Rainbow said, voice sounding a bit muffled. Flash would be lying if he disagreed. He’s really enjoying this moment. It felt good. It felt...right.
Rainbow moved her head away from Flash’s chest, and looked at him with a smile. He returned the smile, gazing deep into her deep pink eyes. They just stare into each other’s irises for what seems like forever. Just those two, locked into each other's gazes, as if nothing else existed but them.
In one smooth motion, Flash slid his hand from Rainbow’s waist up to her check, cupping it. He used his thumb to caress her, making her blush.
“Mmm,” she moaned. She looked down at the floor for a moment, feeling just a little embarrassed, but loving the gesture all the same. Flash found this all too adorable. He flashed a toothy grin, chuckled a little and placed his forehead on hers, noses touching too.
“You know, you’re really cute,” Flash complimented.
Rainbow’s blush deepened and she can’t help but smile at him. “R-really?” she asked, almost sounding like she doesn’t believe him. Yet, she felt some sort of satisfaction and giddiness with that comment. She feels that she should respond, but doesn’t know what to say. “You...I…” She looked directly into his eyes once more, almost entranced in his gaze. “Thank you. You’re cute yourself.”
“Didn’t you establish that earlier?”
“I did, didn’t I?”
Flash smirked a little and just continued to gaze into those cute, no, beautiful pink eyes of hers. Something in her eyes was telling him to lean in. And he wanted to. Very slowly, with his eyes closed, he started to move his head towards Rainbow Dash.
Rainbow, feeling the warmth of his breath bouncing off her face, knew what was about to transpire. Her heart began to race, telling her it was now or never. She moved in and shut her eyes, trying to control the stiffness of her body as she felt his lips get ever closer.
And, in a tender and smooth motion, their lips connect, sending them to a state of euphoria. To the two, they feel some sort of electricity running through each other. It made their spines tingle, butterflies flutter in their stomachs, some sort of bliss and ecstasy surged through them. It was amazing.
The two kiss for what feels like hours, just in a state of joy. By the time they needed air, their lips separate. They re-open their eyes and gaze into each other, breathing heavily and not saying anything for a while.
“Woah…” Flash said, breaking the momentary silence.
“Woah…” Rainbow mirrored. “That was-”
“Amazing?”
“I was gonna say awesome. But amazing works too.”
Flash gave her another smirk and placed his forehead on hers once more. “So, I guess we’re official now?”
Rainbow looked to him and gave him a ‘not so fast’ look. She removed herself from Flash and grabbed her phone. She tapped on the screen with her thumbs a few times and the first thing to happen was the song stopped playing. After that, Rainbow tapped on her phone several more times for several more seconds. After the final tap, she put her phone away and looked to Flash with a smirk on her face.
“Okay, now it’s official.”
“What’d you-” he stopped himself mid sentence because he felt something in his pocket. His phone vibrated. He pulled the device out and saw a Facebook notification on his phone. “Didn’t I turn off notifications for this?” He quickly disregarded his own question and opened the app. The first thing he noticed was a red circle at the bottom of his screen. He pressed it, and saw a notification that said: ‘Rainbow Dash is in a relationship with Flash Sentry.’
He can’t help but crackle a little. He looked up at her, and the two exchanged smiles. “Come here you,” Flash said. He opened his arms and tightly embraced Rainbow, chuckling in a state of joy. Rainbow is giggling herself and enjoyed the embrace of her new boyfriend.
Flash kept his arms around Rainbow for quite some time, but she didn’t mind one bit. She was enjoying this kind of affection. But, good things must come to an end and Flash let go of Rainbow, and she didn’t seem all that glad about it. To at least consulate, Flash held the top of Rainbow’s head and planted a kiss on her forehead. She did appreciate that.
“So, wanna finish Saul?” Flash asked. “Then hit up the driving range?”
“You know it.” Rainbow head over to the couch and plopped down on it. She pointed at the empty spot next to her, inviting Flash to sit down. He accepted the invitation and sat down next to her. Rainbow grabbed the remote and clicked on the episode they were supposed to watch last night.
Flash’s eyes moved down to the coffee table and saw that the chips and dip were still out. Feeling his stomach grumble, he reached into the bag and grabbed some.
Flash tapped on Rainbow’s shoulder to get her attention. He held up a chip in front of her. “You want one?”
Rainbow smiled and accepted it.
The two dip their chips into the the queso sauce simultaneously. They take them out and Flash held his chip up again. “Cheers,” he said. Rainbow touched her chip with his and the two chew on their treat, both letting out a satisfied “Mmm.”
The two reclined in their seats as the episode they were going to start last night played from the beginning. Dash, wanting to get a bit more cozy, adjusted herself some. She laid her head on Flash’s lap once more and put her hand under it, making herself comfortable.
Flash brought one arm up to the top of the sofa and rest it there. He moved his other hand to Rainbow’s hair once more and stroked the area behind her ear, making her moan in delight.
As they watched the show, the two just enjoy each other's company with a loving and tender aurora in the air. The newfound love and appreciativeness the two share was strong and, for Flash, he felt he would, and will, have a great relationship with the girl resting on his lap.
She truly struck a chord with him.
