Kindness and Loyalty

Chapters

Chapter 2: New Loves
Chapter 3: A Different Kind of Strong
Chapter 4: It's all of our Faults
Chapter 5: How We Fell in Love
Chapter 6: Take These Broken Wings
Chapter 7: Sweet and Scoots
Chapter 8 : First Date Jitters
Chapter 9: Calendar Chaos
Chapter 10: The Best Unexpected Mother
Chapter 1: You Can't Do This On Your Own

Chapter 2: New Loves

As Rainbow Dash flew Scootaloo back to Fluttershy's cabin on her back, the two grew silent on the journey home; though, the silence could actually be considered bliss considering the events concerning both ponies that had just occurred. A cold breeze flew throughout the crisp, nighttime air, indicating that it was the beginning of the snowstorm scheduled for Ponyville. As the breeze tickled Rainbow Dash's nose, she slowly grew concerned for not only for her sister but also for her marefriend who surely would not handle the information detailing Scootaloo's predicament well. ' This kid has endured more hardship than anypony knows, I could barely handle myself enough in front of the squirt, if she cries....' Rainbow thought as despite her best wishes, Fluttershy's threshold was approaching faster than she could ever think.

"Oh good, you're back! I was starting to get wor....." paused Fluttershy as she saw the little ball of filly nestled on Rainbow's surprisingly soft and soothing back, the edges of her wings even able to be used as pillows.

Rainbow turned her head around to see the filly in question had fallen asleep on her backside during the trek home. " Heh. that explains some of the quiet." Rainbow bemused.

" Rainbow, I thought you were taking Scootaloo tomorrow after asking her parents." Fluttershy questioned, her head tilted and her face and voice filled with great concern and pure curiousity.

"Shhh...." Rainbow whispered, " Let's bring her into the spare room for now" as she motioned her head towards the small bare room located upstairs. The room was originally going to be used for a storage room, but the element of kindness was such a surprisingly exceptional organizer, even able to rival with the likes of Twilight, and as such, didn't even need to use the extra room for any of her animal supplies.

As Rainbow and Fluttershy tucked the sleepy Scootaloo on top of a white fluffy cloud Rainbow had salvaged from the cold depths of the storm and covered under a soothing quilt decorated with baby rabbits in a field of grass Fluttershy had owned since she was just a baby, the two grown mares tip-hoofed downstairs into the kitchen where the pegasi sat in the chairs that encompassed the fine wooden kitchen table.

" So, what happened with her parents?" Fluttershy asked unnaturally impatiently, her interest getting the best of her.

As soon as the question was asked, Rainbow now seemed more focused eyeing the clean tiled kitchen floor than facing the concerned motherly look of Fluttershy ( which to Rainbow, was worse than the stare.) Rainbow couldn't look at her marefriend as her face was cast at a worn-out frown that looked like it was aimed at the flooring.

" Rainbow, please tell me. I promise I can take it." Fluttershy begged, only wanting to help everypony, as suggested by her element.

Rainbow opened her mouth, but no words came out. She tried to speak, but all that came out was awkward silence, Fluttershy growing ever more concerned by the second.

" Rainbow. I promise whatever happened, we can work through this together, that's what loved ones do is stand by each other's side no matter what's in our path."

Rainbow slowly crept her eyes towards her beloved pink-maned Pegasus. ' She always knows what to say' Rainbow thought as a small smirk appeared for a brief second before the return of her somber expression.

" Alright. Here it goes..... Scootaloo has no parents."

"What?" Fluttershy breathed before her eyes grew to the size of tennis balls. Somewhere in the back of her head, she prayed that Rainbow was telling a cruel joke. it had to be a joke. No way this sweet filly could be.....

" Please tell me you're kidding." Fluttershy begged.

A flinch on Rainbow Dash's part indicated to Fluttershy that this was indeed reality. Fluttershy suddenly could not take it anymore as she aggressively whispered:

" Why her? Why does it have to be the sweetest filly in the world. What did she do to deserve this?!?!?"

" Please. Fluttershy. This isn't easy for me either. Believe me, I was lucky I didn't COMPLETELY lose it. But the fact is, this is real. Scootaloo needs somewhere to live. She's been sleeping in that rusty clubhouse for years now."

Fluttershy immediately regained her motherly and comforting stance as she said, " Absolutely. She can stay here as long as she likes. No ifs and or buts about it. I'll be there for her 110%!!"

Breaking the tension in the room, Rainbow Dash smirked and snorted as quietly as she could without waking Scootaloo, must to the dismay of Fluttershy.

Fluttershy grew mildly annoyed from her marefriend's laughter and developed an irritated glare on her muzzle. " What's so funny???" she asked slightly bitter.

" You talking about butts" Rainbow stated nonchalantly .

Fluttershy's face turned as red as the apples that grew on Sweet Apple Acres, She was embarrassed and slightly disgusted until she saw Rainbow smile completely ever since she had returned home with the filly. Fluttershy then started to join in the laughter with her beloved daredevil as the two became cheerful on that cold bitter night.

After a while, Rainbow finally spoke, " Fluttershy?"

"Yes?"

" I promise I'll protect both you and Scootaloo, no matter what."

Fluttershy nodded in approval, " I know you will. Let's get some rest, it's been quite an eventful evening," she stated as the two mares retired for the night.

The Next Morning.......

The three ponies were nestled in the warm safety of the cabin as the blizzard that engulfed Ponyville on the outside made it's presence with a blanket of snow that grew by the second.

Scootaloo and Rainbow Dash were too busy eating Fluttershy's famous chocolate chip pancakes as Fluttershy, already finished, began cleaning the dishes. While it was widely known that Rainbow couldn't cook for her life, Fluttershy could be considered a chef if it weren't for the butterfly cutie-marks on her flank.

As Scootaloo was eating bites of chocolate, syrup, and pancake, she suddenly found herself with a question that plagued her ever since Rainbow took her home last night.

" Hey Rainbow?" Scootaloo asked after finishing chewing, " You and Fluttershy live together right?"

"Well, of course. But now you live with us as well." Rainbow boasted before going back to her food.

" Why do you ask?" Fluttershy questioned.

" WHY do you live together?" Scootaloo asked, clearly curious as to the principle of the unusual roomates.

This caught Rainbow's full attention away from her food as both she and Fluttershy exchanged nervous glances at each other, before mentally agreeing on how to explain this complex issue to an intrigued filly.

"Well... " Rainbow stammered, " Fluttershy and I love each other."

" Love each other? I thought only a mare and a stallion can love each other?" Scootaloo responded.

Fluttershy, anticipating the confused Pegasus's sentiment, decided to thoroughly explain as best as she could:

" Well, in most cases you see, that's probably true. But Scootaloo, you're old enough now to know to love is not merely defined by gender. Love is a complex thing to explain but anypony can love each other. Anypony can love, and it's up to that pony to decide who they want to love, they can be with anypony or any creature they want because they want to spend the rest of their lives together. Some stallions love stallions and....."

"..and some mares love mares." Rainbow interrupted, winking to her marefriend with her trademark smirk.

"That's right. Now this may be confusing, so if you have any questions, feel free to ask." Fluttershy spok warmly.

"Well.... Now that you mention it, I do have one..." stammered Scootaloo nervously...

" Shoot Squirt." Rainbow acknowledged as both she and Fluttershy were now sitting, full attention on to the small Pegasus.

" How will I know if I love stallions or mares???" Scootaloo asked.

Both mares looked at each other before smiling back at the filly, " Well, Scootaloo, you may not know until you experience love for yourself. You'll just know when the time arises. " Fluttershy smiled.

" And we want you to know, whichever path you choose, we will always love you and we will support your decision 100%" Rainbow agreed.

"110%" Fluttershy complied.

" Thanks," Scootaloo responded in an enlightened and acknowledged tone. " And I love you both too, no matter what."

The three ponies each rose for a well-earned group hug as even the storm outside seemed to calm from it's energetic state to admire the love that encompassed the three pegasi.

" ....and I love Chocolate Chip Pancakes" Scootaloo proclaimed as the hug slowly ended.

" That makes two of us!" Rainbow gleed as Fluttershy couldn't help but laugh as she went back to finish the remaining dishes.

Author's Note

I know this is only the second chapter, but this is easily the best thing I've written so far. I typed this fast, but I had such good ideas and heartwarming moments for this chapter that I couldn't help but smile as I wrote this. Let me know what you think and remember to stay updated, I'll TRY to get more chapters soon.

-frenettek314

Chapter 3: A Different Kind of Strong

After the past few days with the horrible storm, alongside the fact that the weekend proceeded to follow, it was now time for Scootaloo to return to school. She had so much fun on the extended weekend with her new family, however, that she didn't seem to mind going back to the classroom she used to dread. The three pegasi spent all weekend indoors, whether it be Rainbow Dash and Scootaloo racing around the house, Scootaloo helping Fluttershy with the animals who did not hibernate, or the three of them just playing mono-pony until the moon rose, Scootaloo couldn't remember having that much fun in her entire life.

Rainbow Dash had woken up..... well... Scootaloo helped wake her up....... to deliver Scootaloo to school. Scootaloo was filled with glee as she couldn't wait to tell the details of her fun-filled weekend with Apple Bloom and Sweetie Belle, she was practically skipping to school, much to the amusement of the rainbow-maned Pegasus.

" Alright Scoots. Looks like we're here. I have to clear up the extra clouds and precipitation from this weekend's storm so Fluttershy will be here to pick you up after school." Rainbow spoke in a calm and mannered tone.

" Ok" Scootaloo replied with just a hint of disappointment. She loved Fluttershy as much as Rainbow Dash, Fluttershy was shown to be extremely kind and much more loving and patient than the sometimes brash Rainbow could ever be, but Scootaloo loved to spend occasional time with Rainbow Dash after school flying in the sky and she knew Fluttershy wasn't comfortable with more than hovering a few feet off the ground.

" I promise you we'll get you up there soon. You'll also have fun with Fluttershy though." Rainbow Dash said confidently.

" Alright. You've convinced me." laughed Scootaloo.

" Ok then kid, see you later." Rainbow Dash quickly hugged affectionately before anypony could see.

School turned out more or less the same as usual for Scootaloo. After literally blurting out her excitement of her new family to her friends, the three fillies soon focused their attention to their schoolwork. Cheerilee whom had heard bits and pieces of Scootaloo's conversation displayed a smirk at the corner of her lips as she realized she had never seen Scootaloo so happy before. True, when Cheerilee still lectured about the concepts of basic algebra or the fundamentals of past-tense verbs, she still saw Scootaloo drift off from her book, but she was happy just to know that Scootaloo was now probably day-dreaming of her new family rather than where she was going to sleep tonight.

After the last bell of the day rang, Scootaloo, Apple Bloom, and Sweetie Belle were about to leave the school alongside everypony else, including Cheerilee , when all of a sudden two very familiar fillies approached the cutie mark crusaders in the midst of their conversation.

" I tell you guys. Rainbow Dash and Fluttershy are the two best parents ever." Scootaloo boasted. "I wonder what we'll do tonight."

" I can't believe Rainbow and Fluttershy live together. Does it seem weird at all?" questioned Apple Bloom.

" Nah. They told me that love comes in many different ways and forms. Love is love regardless." replied Scootaloo.

" Sounds to me like those two are just fillyfoolers." came a sharp, demeaning tone as two fillies approached the trio.

" What do you want, Diamond Tiara?" Sweetie Belle asked upon seeing the owner of the previous comment.

" What? It's obvious to me anyone who believes that two mares can love naturally would adopt a flightless runt. You're as stupid and worthless as they are." spoke the overly egotistical Diamond Tiara.

Scootaloo, upon hearing this, immediately turned out with a sharp glare and a scowl foaming out of the mouth to boot. Her eye quivered and her lips trembled until she could scream in defense upon not only herself, but the ones who cared for her insulted, " YOU TAKE THAT BACK BEFORE I KNOW YOUR TEETH OUT WITH THAT TIARA OF YOURS!!!!" she roared, causing Apple Bloom and Sweetie Belle to back up in surprise.

Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon paused for a brief moment before laughing at the flightless Pegasus. " Yeah right. If you try anything, I'll just tell Cheerilee tomorrow and you'll probably be expelled. Now don't talk that way to me again runt or else you'll never fly." Diamond Tiara quipped as she slowly approached the angry Scootaloo.

" How about you stop right there before I have you and your family explain to Princess Celestia herself how you are threatening my daughter and emotionally abusing her." spoke an ominous voice in a firm and relaxed matter.

Everypony in the room looked to the door to find none other than Fluttershy whose eyes spoke if they were ready to kill Diamond Tiara themselves despite the controlled voice with which she just spoke.

" Lay off. Fillyfooler." growled Diamond Tiara, much to everypony's horror as there was a collective gasp, including from Silver Spoon.

"Or... I could gather the five of you to the royal courtroom and have you put on trial with multiple witnesses of emotional abuse, violence, and derogatory terms addressed to certain kinds of ponies. Then you and your family can be chased off from Equestria and you'll be forced to part your friend and the life you know. I suggest you do the rational thing, seeing as you're a smart filly and leave now before I have the whole population curse the name of 'Filthy Rich and his shameless excuse for a family' Keep in mind that I do have squirrels and spiders outside who have witnessed this little charade."

Seeing as no escape from this current situation. Diamond Tiara decided it was time to retreat as she knew the Pink-maned Pegasus was right.

" You got lucky, runt. You can't have your 'parents' around forever." Diamond Tiara muttered as she and Silver Spoon got ready to escape.

" I don't think so, you two." spoke Cheerilee as she came from behind Fluttershy, her tone and stance indicating she was listening behind the door all along. " You two won't see the light of day again if I can't help it."

Flutershy took Cheerilee's arrival as her cue to escort the three now shocked fillies out of the school house.

" I'll see you tomorrow, Cheerilee. Thanks for agreeing on staying behind with me." spoke Fluttershy as a smirk hid on her face as she exited.

The three fillies walked out of the schoolhouse speechless as they failed to comprehend the events that had just occurred.

" Wh.... What just happened?" asked Sweetie Belle with a look of fear in her eyes.

" I knew you three had spoke of Diamond Tiara in the past, so when I came to pick up Scootaloo, I was wondering if I could catch her in the act so on a hunch, I asked Cheerilee privately to sneak behind the school for a few minutes with me. Luckily, our plan worked, but I didn't realize she was that bad. I'm so sorry I or no one else stopped her sooner." Fluttershy spoke with guilt and pain in her voice upon realizing the impact of Diamond's constant torments.

" That... was....so...awesome." spoke Scootaloo with praise and awe. " I never knew you could stop a bully in their tracks."

"Yer a hero." agreed Apple Bloom.

" Girls, I want you to know. I'm no hero. No pony deserves to be treated like that, not even her. I'm as angry as you three were, but then I realized the best way to combat a bully is to remain calm and think on your hooves. I figured somepony as rotten as her needed somepony to kill her off with kindness." explained Fluttershy with a fact-of the matter attitude.

" Kill.. with kindness?" asked Scootaloo.

" I knew if I reasoned and explained that she couldn't get away with it, I could buy enough time for Cheerilee to step in."

The three fillies nodded in awe and agreement. As Scootaloo waved goodbye to Apple Bloom and Sweetie Belle, she and Fluttershy proceeded to head home.

Scootaloo spoke with a nervous inflection in her voice. " Ummm.. Fluttershy?" Scootaloo cautiously asked. " Did you hear Diamond Tiara call you a fillyfooler?"

"Yes I did." spoke Fluttershy with a serious expression on her voice.

" I'm used to Diamond Tiara calling me a flightless runt, but seeing her call you and Rainbow Dash fillyfoolers.... made me furious." Scootaloo admitted.

Fluttershy looked at Scootaloo and displayed a warm and gentle smile. " It's odd. I'm used to ponies judging me for loving another mare, but seeing Diamond Tiara calling you a flightless runt...made me furious." Fluttershy responded.

Upon hearing this, both Scootaloo and Fluttershy started to burst out laughing from their reveals. They were worried about the other so much, they failed to realize the insults targeted towards the each of them.

" Fluttershy, I love you and will protect you no matter what." said Scootaloo.

Fluttershy blushed before chuckling. " Scootaloo, I love you and will always protect you, I promise."

The two mares continued to laugh as they were no longer concerned with the tricks of insults that came from Diamond Tiara. They were just happy to be with each other.

Maybe Scootaloo liked having Fluttershy walk her home from school.

Author's Note

The bullying chapter. Hooray. I tried writing this and create an anti-bullying message while realizing each situation is different. Hopefully I captured a universal message on bullying and the relationship blooming between Scootaloo and Fluttershy is enough to be a good read. Thank you so much and I apologize for any waits.

Frenettek314

Chapter 4: It's all of our Faults

It's been a little over a week since the young filly Scootaloo began living with Rainbow Dash and Fluttershy ( She would accidentally call them FlutterDash every once in a while), and you would imagine things couldn't be happier in that cottage..

Well, you're mostly right..

Everything seemed to be perfect except on a few occasions where Fluttershy or Rainbow would try to ask Scootaloo about her life as a foal, everything from how she survived, to what she ate, to even how could she not grow lonely more often. Whenever any of the two older pegasi brought up her past, Scootaloo would quickly try to stutter and change the subject altogether, much to the dismay of the other two. Rainbow assumed Scootaloo survived through an orphanage all these years but she couldn't be so sure as there didn't seem to be any missing or lost posters hanging around Ponyville, but if Scootaloo didn't feel comfortable talking about it, Rainbow would ( at least try) not to bring it up alongside a more patient and understanding Fluttershy.

One evening, after a delicious array of Daisy Soup and Pineapple Salad made by Fluttershy, the trio decided to relax and sit by the fire. All was quiet at first as their tummies were filled with the heavenly banquet cooked up by the shy pegasus, However, Scootaloo soon broke the silence with a remark on the meal that was cooked.

" Wow, Fluttershy. I can't remember the last time I ate this good. A week ago, I never would've imagined I would be living in a five-star restaurant" Scootaloo playfully chimed in.

At that comment, Fluttershy blushed as she giggled, " I'll remember to bring up the bill", she winked with a smirk.

The three pegasi instantly fell into a quick charade of laughter at the rare quip that came from the Element of Kindness.

Rainbow in the middle of a laugh quickly said, " What did you have to eat before?"

Scootaloo soon stopped laughing however at the remark made by Rainbow and found herself shifting her gaze downwards, refusing to acknowledge the older mares in the face.

Rainbow and Fluttershy soon realized Scootaloo's change in mood and winced at the sight before them, Rainbow, especially, who had earned a quick glare from Fluttershy that suggested she try to cheer the filly up.

"I mean......." Rainbow stammered before Scootaloo spoke up.

"It's cool. Whatever" Scootaloo spoke in a rather bitter-filled tone.

"No. it's not. I'm sorry. I just don't kn....." Rainbow paused as she soon realized.......

I knew this filly for years without realizing she was an orphan. I never asked about her parents or a family or anything.

"No one knows." Scootaloo said as she glanced up at Rainbow with a hint of a tear in her eye. "No one cared enough".

Fluttershy finally decided to chime in before things got more heated as she calmly spoke, "Scootaloo, that's not true. We care for you very much. We wouldn't have been a family if we didn't."

"So if you didn't love me, you would've left me like everypony else?" asked Scootaloo who shot Fluttershy an angry glare, one that Rainbow took offense to.

"Hey, don't talk to Fluttershy that way! We love you and we always will" Rainbow quickly spoke as she felt her energy start to flow back into her.

"But what if you didn't?" Scootaloo spoke rapidly back to shut down the usually cocky pegasus.

Rainbow all the sudden felt words fail her as she realized Scootaloo was right. What if Rainbow or Fluttershy didn't get to know her as well as they did. Would she give this filly a home if she didn't or barely know her? Suddenly Rainbow felt a pang of guilt trap her consciousness as she couldn't provide the hopeful answers Scootaloo had demanded.

Fluttershy saw the look of doubt and could almost tell exactly what Rainbow was thinking, and soon she could feel herself questioning it too.

After a few silent moments, Fluttershy decided to step up to the plate, "We don't know. But all we can say is we do. But I do know that it wasn't just faith that brought us together".

Scootaloo and Rainbow looked at Fluttershy with genuine curiousity, the anger and sadness vanishing instantly.

"What do you mean?" Scootaloo asked as she tilted her head slightly like a curious filly would.

" Do you expect that it was all just a random chance that you took a liking to Rainbow Dash the moment she met you? That you devoted yourself to be her number one fan, and for Rainbow Dash to feel the same way back?" Fluttershy asked.

Scootaloo's eyes grew twice their size with sheer awe. " You mean.. Really?!"

Rainbow Dash blushed before she responded honestly, "Of course, Scoots. I don't know why either but your passion and spirit brought me to admire you right back. I never said it out loud before but I loved you from minute one".

Scootaloo's lips immediately curled into a smile as tears renewed in her eyes. " Really?!"

"Of course" was all Rainbow could whisper as she had the same happy teary-eyed look as Scootaloo.

"You see, no pony, not even Celestia, can explain everything that happens in life. Sometimes, ponies just...know. It's not just pure coincidence that we all became a family, I believe we were meant to be together no matter what" Fluttershy concluded.

"But it still doesn't excuse the fact that I never knew about your...uh..situation before. I should've picked up warning signs that said not everything was okay and I'm sorry." Rainbow replied sincerely to her own number one fan, feeling that pang of guilt re-open inside her gut.

" Rainbow, it's not your fault. I should've told you a long time ago. i should've told somepony a long time ago." Scootaloo slowly reflected.

" No, no. Everypony! it's okay. this is nopony's fault" spoke Fluttershy in her typical motherly tone. "We all make mistakes".

The three shared a quick laugh before Rainbow slowly hesitated. " Ummm... Scoots? Is it ok if I asked... Where have you been all these years?"

Scootaloo spoke with hesitation as well but more out of her discomfort than anything else, "Well, I was in an orphanage until I was about 7 in Manehattan but I never ended up getting picked for adoption. All these other colts and mares came and gone, but I was always left behind. Finally, I decided I had enough and snuck out in the middle of the night. That's when I came to Ponyville a few days later and decided that this town was friendly enough for me to live on my own and stay alive. I slept under old newspaper for a while until the day I met Apple Bloom; that was the day Applejack gave her her old clubhouse for us to use and I've used it as a secret bedroom until you two found out a week ago. As for food, you wouldn't believe the free stuff Pinkie Pie will give you if you get there early enough. She would always ask about my parents, but I would tell her they were busy and she would just accept it. The day I met Rainbow though was incredible," Scootaloo trailed before Rainbow spoke.

"Oh yeah, that was the day you were determined to have your scooter catch up to my Sonic Rainboom" Rainbow acknowledged. "You were the curious filly that wouldn't go away" Rainbow said as she and Scootaloo broke down in laughter upon the memory.

"I wish I told you how cool you were back then" Rainbow spoke to the filly.

"Hey.... umm.... this may be a weird question..." began Scootaloo as she was looking for signs of approval from the two older pegasi.

"Go ahead" Fluttershy persuaded as she had been hearing Scootaloo's story with her full attention, shocked ad amazed on how much this brave filly went through.

" If you two had came to the orphanage in Manehattan, without knowing me, would you two have adopted me?" Scootaloo asked with sincere hope and pleading.

Rainbow and Fluttershy looked at each other upon the reveal of the unexpected question but turned to look back at the filly and nod.

" Absolutely" said Rainbow, confident as ever.

"Of course" said Fluttershy, who strangely held the same confidence Rainbow boasted.

Scootaloo instantly began tearing up as she had heard the answer she had wanted to hear all her foalhood. Somepony wanted her even now, and she couldn't help but burst into tears of gratitude as she leaped into the two pegasi's hooves and buried her chest in between their soft and majestic wings.

Soon the trio realized it was night time and had decided the wave of emotions experienced tonight left them exhausted.

"I'm really sorry I brought your past up" Rainbow skeptically responded, expecting another glare form the graceful Fluttershy.

Scootaloo, however, couldn't help but laugh as she leaned her head upwards from the long-lasting embrace and said confidently, "I can't explain it for certain, but I think it's all of our faults".

Chapter 5: How We Fell in Love

* Note: "Lost Treasure of Griffonstone" in non-canon here.*

It's been a little over a month since the young pegasus named Scootaloo found shelter with the "best adoptive parents ever" in Rainbow Dash and Fluttershy. The paperwork that requested the adoption of said filly was approved just moments ago, found stamped in the mailbox by the pink-maned Fluttershy. After she and Rainbow retold the tale of Scootaloo's woes to the Mayor, unbeknowest to her as well after all this time, the mayor in question was more than cooperative in being a point of reference for the two mares. Now that the adoption papers were all officially approved by the Equestrian Government ( complete with a hoof print and a smiley face stamp by Princess Celestia herself), there was little else to do in the three ponies' minds but celebrate the momentous occasion.

Scootaloo and her new mothers ( The mentioning of that word was strange, but oddly comforting in the young filly's head), were at Sugarcube Corner getting ready to order when Pinkie Pie, the notoriously known party pony and baker, had already whipped up a "Congratulations on your official adoption and we all love you so very much" cake without any mention from anypony. Pinkie just nonchalantly winked and said "I have my ways" before galloping back behind the kitchen, leaving the trio extremely confused.

Nevertheless, the cake was made with utmost case, as suggested by the layers of vanilla sponge cake, hoof dipped in delicious caramel and cream cheese icing, and sprinkled with chocolate chips on top. The three of them ate that cake like they thought it was their last meal, a combination of both savoring the flavor and stuffing it into their mouths before anypony could take it away.

As Rainbow was chomping down on the cake's center (Surprising herself that she wasn't full yet), she remarked without hesitation, "This cake is the sweetest thing I've ever tasted!...... But not as sweet as you Fluttershy" she smirked upon the notice of the shy pegasus in question developing a rosy red blush on her face.

Fluttershy, who was startled by the sudden flirt, quickly regained her composure (yet still red around the face) as she replied, "Dashie..... Not in front of Pinkie"

"Can't hear you, I'm working on my Flutterdash and Scootadopt story" shouted Pinkie Pie from inside the kitchen. "I'm surprised it only has 11 likes, ponies usually eat these kinds of stories up".

Fluttershy and Rainbow quickly exchanged a look of confusion as there were still new sides of Pinkie they were discovering every day.

Scootaloo, however, unphased by Pinkie's fourth wall break, suddenly developed another question that was just dying to be answered on the spot. She quickly gulped her bite of cake before asking, "That's actually a good point Pinkie made. I know why you became a couple, but HOW did it happen?"

The two older mares, focus drawing back to Scootaloo shifted as they were unsure whether their tale of love was meant for a young filly to hear.

"Oh... Well, you know how it goes..." Rainbow nervously sputtered as Scootaloo's curiousity grew with every pause. "I defended Fluttershy from the bullies at Cloudsdale Flight Camp, Won the race, and suddenly, I could do Sonic Rainbooms and Fluttershy began talking to animals.... the usual.... kind of thing", shifted Rainbow as Fluttershy mentally facehoofed herself where as Scootaloo became unsatisfied with the answer.

"Not how you met. How you fell in love" Scootaloo retorted as she thought it was the most obvious statement in the world.

Fluttershy, upon Rainbow failing at answering Scootaloo's question subtly without romance, decided to step up to the plate. "Well, Scootaloo, I don't know if you're ready to hear that story yet. It may be.....complicated to understand".

Scootaloo gave the two a passive, yet stone-clear expression as she calmly said, "I grew up without parents, Thought everyone hated me, and moved to live out on my own at the age of five. I can take a little romance".

Upon the comeback performed by Scootaloo, Rainbow and Fluttershy exchanged a slight nod upon the realization that Scootaloo was quite mature for her age, all things considered.

Rainbow gave a sigh as she began telling the story of an unpredictable romance, "Fair enough......."..

Rainbow's Old Cloud Home - One Year Ago:

Rainbow was doing what other speed demon, cloud kicking, pegasus would do on a saturday morning....... sleeping, when all of a sudden, the cyan-maned pegasus was abruptly awoken from her slumber with an unexpected knock at the door.

"Who would be knocking on my door at 10:30 AM?" questioned Rainbow, unaware by the irony most ponies were awake at this hour.

When Rainbow got to the door, she was surprised to find her best friend, Fluttershy at her doorstep, especially considering Fluttershy always took to the ground or at most, a slight hover above the ground.

"Um.. Hi Rainbow. There's something I need to ask you? May I please come in?" spoke the nervous pegasus.

"Uh, sure. Please, make yourself at home" replied Rainbow, dumbfounded as to what would drive Fluttershy to fly up to her home.

"Well... you see this isn't your sort of thing......." began Fluttershy.

"You want me to brush my teeth?" questioned Rainbow.

"What? No!" exclaimed Fluttershy as she was not expecting that kind of response. (Note to self, by Rainbow a toothbrush for Hearth's Warming, she thought.)

"Well.... It's about this flight school reunion that I received in the mail. I know you probably got invited to, but I really don't want to go alone, So I was wondering if...... maybe...... you'd come with me?"

This took Rainbow for a loop to say the least. While she did receive a similar invitation in the mail, she had no intent on going as she grew to hate most of her classmates, Fluttershy being the obvious rare exception. Rainbow did not want to go and catch up with ponies who had either teased her or her friend, but seeing Fluttershy want to go after all the humiliation she endured.... was something Rainbow had to admire. While Fluttershy was not the strongest (physically and mentally) pony out there, Rainbow honored Fluttershy's ability to never give up and slowly but surely accomplish any goal whether it be to fly, find her talent, or just small little things that proved others wrong. In that moment, Rainbow realized that if the pegasus who got more bullied than her on any given day, could go to that school again and face her demons (metaphorically), she had no choice but to attend as well.

"You really want to go, huh?" Rainbow questioned with her usual smirk on her face, obviously influenced by her friend's subtle willpower.

"Why not? I figured it'd be good to face my fears...again." spoke Fluttershy, a little embarrassed at the realization these events have ocurred more than once.

" Well, then. Looks like you've got yourself a da....... friend. Yeah, friend" Rainbow recovered quite luckily. The fascination with the pink-maned pegasus's philosophy had almost got Rainbow to say that one word she dared never say. "I mean, I'm Rainbow but what would others say?" thought Rainbow as she quickly laughed it off.

"Yeah a da.... friend." Fluttershy gulped, almost slipping her secret out. "It's bad enough I'm already shy.... but if I was......" thought Fluttershy as she laughed in agreement alongside her "friend".

That Evening:

The Cloudsdale Flight School's graduating class of....... about 15 years ago, inhabited the gymnasium. Soft pop music slowly playing in the background, classmates were either sitting down talking to each other at cloudtables surrounded by chairs or were up dancing around next to the buffet and punch station. Fluttershy and Rainbow, however, were the exception to this however, as they both nervously shifted around the place, hoping nopony would try to ruin their evening with crude remarks or rude gestures.

Of course, that couldn't be any further away from the actual case as Rainbow spotted her ex-best friend Gilda the Griffon, noticing her from a mile away with an evil smile on her face.

"Run" Rainbow breathed lightly to Fluttershy's ear as she was well aware of the harm Gilda could impound on others. Gilda once paralyzed a colt for not giving her a nacho, so someone actually having beef with her (pun intended) was never a good thing.

Before Fluttershy could sprint away however, Gilda has caught up to both of them as she gave each of them a death glare that threatened to wipe them off the face of Equestria on the spot.

"Well well well, If it isn't my good old friends, Rainbow Crash and Clutzershy" Gilda spat as she was filled with revenge upon being embarrassed by her former friend in a small Ponyville bakery.

"H...Hey. Gilda. What's new?" Rainbow desperately questioned, as if she hoped Gilda would forget all her anger over her betrayal years ago.

"Nothing much. Came to see a FILLY FOOLER FAIL!" roared Gilda, capturing everybody's attention on the two pegasi who wanted to slip away as quickly as possible.

The music and talking came to a complete stop as ponies began laughing on hearing Rainbow being called the name that she was so afraid of others finding out.

"Wh.. What did you call me?" Rainbow silently questioned with slight fear in her voice and a hint of a tear in her eye as she knew the reputation she had built in Cloudsdale could come crashing down in an instant.

"Everybody knows. You idiot. You can't hide it. The rainbow mane, the cocky attitude, the unwillingness to talk about your personal life. We all know. Might as well die right now if you know what'as good for you." hissed Gilda, who knew she had her prey captured right where she wanted her.

Fluttershy couldn't believe her ears. She had seriously heard Gilda taunt Rainbow and not only that but to want her DEAD?! Rainbow was deeply upset by the griffon's comment and she knew she had to do anything in her power to make it stop. Something snapped inside Fluttershy that night. Maybe it was her own secret that she just discovered Rainbow shared out of humiliation, Maybe it was the hate she had felt for Gilda after all these years of threatening others without the slightest hint of remorse, Maybe it was her heart realizing how often Rainbow defended her from bullies without that same protection back, but Fluttershy exploded in a ball of fire. "Killing with Kindness" was blinded by "Kill".

With one straight hoof to the face, Fluttershy approached Gilda and sent her crashing into a vacant wall, halting the laughter spread by her peers and sending Rainbow's jaw agape as Gilda was laid flat on the ground in a heap of blood.

As Fluttershy slowly crept towards Gilda, she said something that made the world stop moving, the trees stop growing, and Cloudsdale motionless........ "Never say that to my marefriend again."

Rainbow couldn't believe at what she had witnessed. Fluttershy had not only laid a beatdown on Gilda, but also said the 7 words she thought she would never hear herself, let alone Fluttershy say.

"Now we run" whispered Fluttershy as the two quickly galloped away, not knowing what ever happened inside that gymnasium afterwards.

When the two pegasi reached Rainbow's home, Rainbow suddenly started bawling and could not stop. Fluttershy had gone far and beyond defending her in one night more so than she had done all her life. She was grateful, yet unsure of what was to come.

"Did you really mean what you said back there?" Rainbow choked in the midst of happily sobbing.

"What do you think?" questioned Fluttershy, who had suddenly taken the confidence of Rainbow Dash, yet was still shaken up by the incident she had committed.

"Let's find out" spoke Rainbow Dash with a toothy grin as she went in for the kiss that not only bloomed a new relationship, a new side expressed to their other friends, but also a future in which they'd give a loving filly a good home.

And the two snuggled all night.

Back to the Present:

"Wow!" Scootaloo gaped in awe and wonder at the story just told....... "I... I never knew......"

"Yeah" Rainbow commented, that night was the night Fluttershy helped me in more ways than one. "I never thanked you by the way for that night" Rainbow turned to Fluttershy with a look that screamed appreciation.

"I think you've made it up in spades" blushed Fluttershy as the two quickly hugged, much to the heartfelt emotion of Scootaloo and Pinkie Pie.

Scootaloo finally spoke up and said, "I wish I find love like you two did one day."

Rainbow and Fluttershy laughed upon hearing this, much to the confusion of Scootaloo. "You already have" Rainbow commented as she brought Scootaloo into a trio hug that left Pinkie crying in awe even more.

"Seriously, How does this have only 11 likes?" Pinkie whispered, as the four remained like this long into the night at the quiet bakery. That night, more than magic and friendship happened, Love happened, in more ways than one.

Author's Note

I thought this was a really sweet chapter. What can I say? I'm a sucker for heartwarming stories. (Also, Pinkie Pie is NOT me.) Thank you for Reading!

-frenettek314

Chapter 6: Take These Broken Wings

Now unless you were living underneath a rock..... or the Pie family's rock farm, you would know that Rainbow Dash was one of the fastest and most talented pegasi to fly through the equestrian atmosphere.

Everypony who was anypony would also know that a certain orange filly always watched Rainbow Dash's air theatrics in awe. So much so, that it kind of looked like Rainbow Dash had a stalker from a different perspective..

However, Rainbow was completely aware of the young Scootaloo's presence and accepted her enthusiasm with great pride. Who would an athletic pony like Rainbow Dash be without her loyal fanbase after all.

The first time Scootaloo saw Rainbow perform a sonic rainboom captured her gaze with such grace and style that she devoted herself to learn how to fly..... despite the stubbornness of her immature wings.

The bold orange pegasus took time through sleet and snow to try and fly, to be able to lift off the ground for more than a few seconds.... but alas, each and every attempt was met with failure and disappointment. Rainbow, who would only ever abandon her cocky shell for her and Fluttershy would tell Scootaloo that it would all be ok, and that she too would fly one day. But days turned into months and months turned into years. As time grew, Scootaloo would meet Rainbow's encouragement with less devotion and passion and more subtle skepticism. Scootaloo began to give up on that foresaken dream..... she knew her naive belief in flight was coming to a halt.

Currently, at Fluttershy's Cottage:

The trio of cottage-mates were starting their day with a delectable healthy serving of eggs and toast, always cooked to perfection by Fluttershy.

Silence was present throughout the dining room for several minutes until the food had disappeared from each of their plates - each pony's belly filled with a warm taste of satisfaction. As the three began to clean up, Rainbow asked Scootaloo what she had planned on this surprisingly warm winter Saturday.

"Well, the other day I went to take a look at Pipsqueak's bicycle and I soon enough was able to fix it. So now, I'm going to see if there's any possible modifications I can do on my scooter" stated Scootaloo with a pleasant smile and a tone that indicated she was indeed intrigued by the idea.

"That sounds good. I guess those lessons with Twilight have you interested in mechanics huh?" asked Fluttershy who took a break from cleaning the dishes to hear more on Scootaloo's sudden interest.

"Yeah. It's cool what I can do with my own four hooves when I try" stated Scootaloo with a sense of pride and appreciation that was more commonly displayed ever since she began living with the two pegasi respectively.

"Well, I think I know what you can do with your own two wings" spoke Rainbow Dash upon finishing the last clean dish that Fluttershy gave for her to air-dry.

"Oh... well....." began Scootaloo as her heart shrunk, realizing that her sudden interests could jeopardize her and Rainbow's sisterly bond.

"Let's go do some training today, what do you say?" asked Rainbow, seemingly unaware of the quick shift in reaction Scootaloo had developed.

"Sure. Sounds good to me" assured Scootaloo as she did her best at conveying a realistic smile and chirpy voice.

Fluttershy, however noticed the look of dis-interest that transpired on Scootaloo's face for a quick second. She was well aware that something was wrong with the filly inside her cottage while Rainbow Dash was blissfully unaware of these events, probably imagining the idea of a training session inside her head.

"You know, you don't have to fly if you don't want to..." began Fluttershy as she wanted to provide a moment of understanding to the small pegasus.

"ARE YOU KIDDING?! Scootaloo's been wanting to fly ever since she met me. Isn't that right?" boasted Rainbow Dash as the look on her face suggested the very idea of Scootaloo not wanting to fly was absurd.

"Yeah... right." claimed Scootaloo as she quickly regained that forced smile as she saw a look of approval from her beloved idol.

"Come on. I know the perfect spot for gliding" stated the cyan mare as she led the young filly right alongside the edge of the cottage and the Everfree Forest.

"Gliding.... Because I'm SO good at that" mumbled Scootaloo silently enough for neither Rainbow Dash or Fluttershy to hear as the two quickly began their trek.

Two Hours Later.......

Needless to say, Scootaloo never got the hang of gliding in the wind, no matter what attempt at training Rainbow had suggested. However, it was clear to Fluttershy who silently watched from a distance that Scootaloo wasn't as eager at trying as she used to be. She would get up and try again, but she didn't showcase the effort she had before; by the end of the two hour long "glide" fest, Scootaloo practically began to jump off the short cliff and fall without opening up her wings all with a look of boredom and growing impatience. Rainbow however is not good at noticing subtle......well, any details.

"Alright Rainbow. I think I'm done for today. My wings hurt too much for me to continue. If you need me, I'll be in the basement with my scooter" stated Scootaloo as she quickly recovered from the last attempt and began walking away.

"Hold up, Scoots" Rainbow said, blocking the filly's exit with her extended wing. "I want you to try that again".

"Rainbow, I told you I'm done. My body aches." countered Scootaloo who bore a look of frustration at the older pegasus's persistence. Something that told Fluttershy it was time to step in.

"I think she's right, Rainbow. If Scootaloo doesn't want to, we can't force her" agreed Fluttershy who silently prayed this message would reach the stubborn mare.

It did not.

"But, Fluttershy. She's so close. If we do a couple more tries, I think she may have it" argued Rainbow

This was the breaking point for Scootaloo. Not only was she becoming painfully aware at the fact she would never fly, she finally found something that vanquished that dream, only for Rainbow to be more stubborn than ever and fail to realize that she wanted nothing to do with flying anymore. Tears quickly began to form in the corners of her eyes as she began to glare at the mare, who once motivated her but now was acting nothing more than a nuisance who couldn't comprehend her new passion.

Scootaloo was beyond livid.

"ARE YOU KIDDING ME?!?!" yelled Scootaloo, causing Rainbow and Fluttershy to both focus on her with jaws agape.

"ARE YOU BLIND?!?! I WASN'T EVEN CLOSE TO LEVITATING LET ALONE FLYING!"

"Scoots, don't beat yourself up... we'll get there" interrupted a calm speaking Rainbow who instantly began to notice the filly's flustered demeanor.

Scootaloo wanted none of that.

"NO! WE WON'T GET THERE! DO YOU REALIZE HOW LONG I'VE BEEN TRYING TO BE LIKE YOU?! TO FLY LIKE YOU?! I WAS NEVER EVEN CLOSE TO FLYING AND I DON'T WANT TO ANYMORE! YOU REALLY THINK I WANT TO BE CONSTANTLY REMINDED THAT I CAN'T DO SOMETHING YOU DO WITH EASE?!" screamed Scootaloo as she ran away back inside the cottage crying, relief form her outburst finally being released after all these years. Rainbow however sat there in shock with Fluttershy mimicking her.

Finally, Fluttershy spoke up, with a sense of disappointment aimed at Rainbow. "You know, she's been silently expressing disinterest for quite a while".

Rainbow failed to respond to Fluttershy's previous statement and began to slowly walk back after quickly wiping her tears.

"What are you doing?" Fluttershy asked with heavy concern.

"Fixing what I started" said Rainbow matter- of- factly.

Later, in Scootaloo's Room:

From the young filly's bedroom, you could hear muffled crying emitting. The exasperation and sadness in her voice made the sobs slow and drawn-out. Rainbow quickly flinched at the realization of the hurt she had caused for Scootaloo before steely readying herself to enter with a somber expression.

As the door slowly opened, Scootaloo paused in between sobs and sniffling to look up and discover who was entering before casting yet another angry glare.

"I told you I don't want to fly anymore. Leave me alone!" snarled Scootaloo as she proceeded to quickly turn away from the older pegasus.

"Whoever said you had to fly for me to be with a pony?" asked Rainbow Dash in a quip that was very odd in the more serious atmosphere the two ponies were in.

The quip however caused Scootaloo to cease crying and glance up in a look of confusion.

Rainbow took the expression as an order to further explain herself. She quietly trotted over to the bed and sat down on the edge, right next to the curious Scootaloo.

"Scoots. It wouldn't be true for me to say I don't like flying. I love flying. It's my favorite thing to do and I've loved it since I was a foal. I wouldn't trade flying for anything in the world and I think we both know that. But you're not me. You don't have to be me. I knew you looked up to me, but I didn't realize how deep that idea had gone".

Rainbow briefly paused to get a better look at Scootaloo, she was actively paying attention to every word spoken with a look of pure dedication that was never seen before. Rainbow knew this was the Scootaloo she remembered.

"But that doesn't mean you need to act like me, better yet, fly like me. I only trained you so hard because I thought flying was something you WANTED, not something you thought you needed".

Scootaloo finally took the chance to speak, her tears and emotions finally coming to a stop, exchanging more of a sympathetic expression. "I did want to fly at first. But the more and more times I tried, I lost interest. I didn't want to keep going but I always thought you wouldn't want anything to do with me if I said anything".

At this reveal, Rainbow's eyes quickly grew in size to where she went pale in the face. How could she have been so blind to her "sister's" feelings.

"Oh Scoots" she stammered, tears silently escaping again. "I would never do that and I'm sorry if anything I did suggested that. I love you for who Scootaloo is - the smart, kind, dependable, and enthusiastic pony you are- not for the pony who wanted to impersonate me. I will always love you, no matter what dream you pursue, and I will always root for you no matter what you do. I'm sorry I was so stupid" she said before she began choking on her own sobs, analyzing how much her actions had stressed the young filly.

At this, Scootaloo sat back in shock, before gaining a bright smile on her face and the knowledge that Rainbow was being sincere for the loyal pony she was.

Scootaloo quickly hugged Rainbow's soft, warm body and silently whispered, "Thank you".

Before Rainbow had the chance to smile back, she quickly remembered something and ran to her bedroom and back to give Scootaloo a box.

"What is it?" Scootaloo asked curiously.

"A tool box. Every mechanic has got to have one.... or that's what the pony at the store said" responded Rainbow.

At this, Scootaloo, who now knew her days of pretending to be interested in flying were over, quickly snuggled into Rainbow out of appreciation.

Before the two ponies embraced fully once again, Rainbow quickly added, "Next time, just tell me if something is wrong. I promise I'll always love you".

Fluttershy, who was downstairs frantically waiting for Rainbow and/or Scootaloo to come back down, finally decided she was going to investigate what was happening upstairs. However, when she got there, she stopped and smiled at the adorable display of Scootaloo and Rainbow cuddled up next to each other, fast asleep.

No matter which direction Scootaloo headed, she was now confident somepony would always be there for her, lending a wing or maybe just a hoof.

Author's Note

I know I'm probably going to get criticism for the decision made by Scootaloo in this chapter, but the "She finally gets to fly" trope is so cliche by this point, I wanted to subvert that trope and add a layer of depth that I feel relates to any relationship between parent and child or family member. This is the kind of writing I really want to do one day, quality character interactions with heartwarming moments and mature approaches to themes. I hope you're able to sit down (or stand up) and enjoy this chapter too.

Until Next Time

frenettek314

Chapter 7: Sweet and Scoots

It was a warm spring afternoon at the Ponyville Schoolhouse. The young fillies' minds were distracted from their textbooks as they longed to be playing outside on what could be described as a "picturesque" day. However, everypony in the classroom soon recaptured their attention at the present moment as their beloved teacher would make the announcement that would change two fillies' lives forever.

"Children. I have an important announcement. Our classroom will be performing a play for the whole town and everypony will be starring in it".

This announcement by Cheerilee was instantly met with both interest and awe. The fillies loved watching plays and were excited to be performing in one themselves.

"So cool! What will the play be, Miss Cheerilee?" Applebloom asked with intense eagerness.

"Our school will be performing the ageless classic - Romeo and Juliet" responded Cheerilee as she couldn't help but take pride in seeing the young ponies' joy of being cast into a play.

Upon the previous remark, the eyes of young unicorn Sweetie Belle tripled in size as she shrieked in glee, "That's my absolute favorite play!!!!"

Everypony paused from their own excited thoughts to focus on the unicorn's outburst, causing herself to blush out of embarrassment for drawing attention to herself. The young pegasus next to her, Scootaloo , however strangely found her classmate's sudden emotional uproar to be.... adorable.

"Wait..." Scootaloo thought to herself..... "Did I just find my best friend adorable???..... Nah, I'm sure it's just because I'm hungry".

Back in the classroom setting, Cheerilee took the time to grin at the young filly's cheeriness before deciding her next course of action. "I'm glad you think so Sweetie Belle! Because you're going to be our Juliet in the play!"

As if everypony knew what would happen ahead of time, they took the time to put their hooves in their ears as the words slowly bounced off Cheerilee's lips to Sweetie Belle's brain.

"AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!"

The schoolhouse shook and trembled upon the loudest shriek anypony had ever heard.

Needless to say, Sweetie Belle was happy.

"You mean it, Ms. Cheerilee?!"

"Absolutely!" Cheerilee replied. "I was originally going to place Diamond Tiara in that role, but seeing as she's *cough* expelled for her previous behavior.... " (Scootaloo smirked as she remembered that winter day where Fluttershy had caught her in the act) "....that and I can tell you'd be a dedicated actress".

As Sweetie Belle began to fantasize about her future acting career, Cheerilee continued to address the rest of the class. "....However, we don't have enough colts to play the role of Romeo or else the family fight scene will not make any sense. So I was wondering if one of you mares out there would like to fill in".

Cheerilee then managed to steal a quick glance at the orange pegasus who seemed to take great interest at the gleeful Sweetie Belle. It was at that moment that Cheerilee had found her Romeo.

"Scootaloo. I think you would make a great Romeo. Much like him, you're a fearless, young leader and I think you'd enjoy playing him as well".

Scootaloo stopped looking at Sweetie Belle abruptly to realize what had just been said. If she was Romeo and Sweetie was Juliet...... "but Ms. Cheerilee, don't Romeo and Juliet.... you know...kiss"?

Cheerilee paused and took a moment to ensure she kept a straight face as the concerned look and sweat dripping off Scootaloo's forehead was enough of an indicator to prove her right. "Well yes, but if you want, it can just be a quick one on the cheek if you'd rather do that" she assured her student.

"I have to kiss my best friend.... " Scootaloo thought. It wasn't that fact that worried her, more that she was actually looking forward to it!

Later that night at Fluttershy's Cottage:

It was dinnertime at the cottage and Scootaloo had just finished recounting her day to Fluttershy and Rainbow Dash, both whom expressed delight upon hearing their own adopted daughter would be the star in the play.

"...but the problem is I'm playing Romeo and Sweetie Belle's Juliet.....and I...."

"What? You don't want to kiss her?" Rainbow bluntly asked, much to the dismay of Fluttershy who lightly shoved the cyan mare's shoulder in between bites.

Scootaloo began to sputter as she quickly found herself sweating much to her frustration. "NO!!! Well.... I... Uh.... The thing is...... Ugh!!! I don't even know!!"

Fluttershy and Rainbow Dash exchanged each other a knowing glance as they gave each other a confirmation smirk. Fluttershy, having more subtlety and experience on talking to ponies about their feelings decided to take the initiative on this one.

"Well Scootaloo, do you like Sweetie Belle?"

Scootaloo found Fluttershy's questiion rather silly. "Of course I like Sweetie Belle! She's been my best friend ever since I moved to Ponyville".

Fluttershy nodded expectantly. "Ok. But I mean more like 'love' her? Maybe like how I and Rainbow feel about each other?"

Scootaloo's eyes sharpened like steel blades as she found the suggestion ridiculous until she slowly began to doubt her skepticism..... maybe Fluttershy was right.....

"Well..... I... uh.... but... I.... I've never thought of her like that before.... but....her smile... her laughter.... her wonderful personality.." Scootaloo stuttered, not knowing what was happening to her and leaving her beyond confused.

Rainbow Dash proceeded to sit down next to her adopted daughter and clear her throat to give a lecture she knew she'd have to deliver one day.

"Well, Scootaloo, you're growing up".

"What do you mean?" questioned a curious Scootaloo.

"Part of growing up is developing certain...urges and feelings, and I think you may end up being in love with mares much like I do" said Rainbow Dash wisely as she didn't want to confuse her further.

"But won't it be awkward if I fall in love with my best friend? What do I do?" asked Scootaloo as she felt hopeless at that very moment. Would Sweetie Belle even like her back? Would she even want to be friends?

"Scootaloo, part of growing up is figuring this stuff out for yourself. If I was you, I'd go with what my heart is telling me. Take the time to think about it" stated Fluttershy as she knew that Scootaloo would ultimately make the best decision for herself.

Scootaloo nodded in sincerity. While her mind was confused, she trusted Fluttershy and Rainbow Dash well enough to know they would never steer her wrong.

Leading up to the night of the play:

Saying that the week hadn't been stressful for Scootaloo would be an understatement. She still had no idea what she was going to do. Sweetie was a very kind-hearted pony but Scootaloo also didn't want that kindness to go away and lose her first ever friend.

Scootaloo managed to go throughout the whole week of rehearsals without practicing the kissing scene with Sweetie Belle, in fact, things quickly became awkward between the two ponies as Scootaloo refused to look directly look at the unicorn, much to her dismay. Sweetie quickly became annoyed with her pegasus friend narrowly avoiding her at every twist and turn and she was going to find out what was going on no matter what.

The night of the play:

It was an hour before showtime and the curtains were set. Ponies from all over who have received news of the play quickly began filling the seats, so much so that Cheerilee quickly became nervous that there wouldn't be enough room.

Backstage, all the fillies were getting ready for their big debut. Everypony seemed excited for the play to begin exept for three anxious fillies: The Cutie Mark Crusaders!

Sweetie had informed Apple Bloom of Scootaloo's odd behavior. Apple Bloom too found her behavior confusing. Scootaloo wasn't usually this shy or awkward around her friends and she was talking to Apple Bloom just fine. So why would she be avoiding Sweetie Belle?!

Sweetie went up to knock on Scootaloo's dressing room and when there was no response, she took it upon herself and Apple Bloom to invite themselves in.

Scootaloo quickly glanced over to see who barged into her private quarters only for her to quickly pull her head back around upon the discovery of the unicorn she loved. "She looks beautiful in that dress" Scootaloo agreed in her head.

"Oh, hey guys. What's up?" Scootaloo quickly and cautiously asked, hoping that the two would leave shortly. How was she to kiss her best friend, let alone look at her?

"I think you know what's up and I want to know right now" Sweetie replied sternly as she moved forward to get a closer look at Scootaloo.

Scootaloo however wanted none of that and proceeded to avoid eye contact with her crush. If Sweetie knew, what would she think of her? What would Apple Bloom think? What would the world think?

"I have no idea what you're talking about" Scootaloo quickly responded.

"I know you do and I'm sick of you avoiding me! Please just tell me!" Sweetie irked.

Scootaloo finally snapped and realized Sweetie Belle was not going anywhere. She quickly whipped her head around to meet Sweetie's glare despite her nervousness.

"I can't!!"

"And why not?!" Sweetie retorted.

"Because...because.. I'm afraid of what you two might think" Scootaloo admitted.

Sweetie's angry disposition immediately faded as she felt sympathy for the pegasus at that moment. "Scootaloo, no matter what it is, I promise you I'll never be angry. We're best friends for a reason and best friends trust each other. I trust you so you can trust me".

"And that goes double for me" Apple Bloom boasted.

It was at that moment that Scootaloo realized how silly she was acting. Even if she didn't feel the same way, Sweetie would understand and they could always be friends. Scootaloo now knew what she needed to do.

Scootaloo slowly recovered her trademark grin as Apple Bloom and Sweetie Belle were confused over why Scootaloo had recovered so quickly.

"Tell you what" she said. "I'll meet you out there Juliet".

The Final Scene:

Juliet's body was down on the ground, practically begging for that kiss from Romeo to occur. The crowd itself was anxiously waiting for the story's conclusion. All the CMC's friends and family were there with cameras at hand, ready to capture their little actresses.

Scootaloo couldn't believe what she was about to do. Time seemed to stand still as her lips slowly went for what Sweetie thought would be the cheek, but fate had a different outcome for the two fillies, here comes the swing and..

Everything else was history.

If it wasn't for Rarity and Sweetie's surprised gasps, you could hear a pin drop from the cloud.

Sweetie's cheeks flared a vibrant red and Scootaloo felt nervous at first... until she saw Sweetie return the smile and the kiss.

As the curtains closed and the crowd cheered, the two fillies met with Apple Bloom and the others backstage. As Scootaloo walked up to meet Rainbow and Fluttershy, they each shared a warm, knowing smile as they congratulated Scootaloo on revealing the truth (Rarity still gasping)....

"Knew you could do it, Scoots" Rainbow acknowledged. She could not be any more proud of the tiny pegasus at that moment.

Scootaloo instantly blushed but shared that same smile.

"Thanks guys. Thank you for telling me to follow my heart".

Sweetie then proceeded to give Scootaloo a quick side peck. "I've got to thank you too, you know"

As everypony met backstage and gave their condolences, Rarity finally spoke out of her stupor.

"Is there an encore showing, darlings?"

Author's Note

I know this chapter may not be the best but I honestly thought a chapter dedicated to maturity and coming of age through a love story would be easy to relate to.

Thanks for Reading!

-frenettek314

Chapter 8 : First Date Jitters

It seemed like another quiet day in Ponyville, the trees were positively shimmering with sunshine, the birds were chirping a beautiful song as they flew through the open skies, everything seemed perfect.

"I HAVE TO WHAT?!?!?!"

The key word here being SEEMED.

"Scoots, when you're in a relationship with somepony, you have to go out and do stuff together. You can't just say you're in a relationship and be done with it" Rainbow Dash affirmed.

Those words spoken by her idol made Scootaloo's entire body turn pale white upon realization, her hooves shaking wobbly, barely able to keep her up. "Yeah... but... a d-date" Scootaloo stammered, obviously terrified with the situation that had currently made itself present.

Fluttershy displayed a brief look of pity as she could relate to the young filly's dilemma, obviously quite the reserved pegasus, she was used to feelings of anxiety and nervousness.

"Scootaloo, I know how you feel. I remember I was nervous when I first asked Rainbow out and look where we are now" Fluttershy said in hopes of trying to relax the still shivering filly.

Scootaloo did stop shaking, however, to only give a sort of sarcastic glare to the two older ponies in front of her. "You two were humiliated on your first date, and only proceeded to have a 'date' after Fluttershy knocked someone out" she said nonchalantly.

Both older pegasi proceeded to blush upon the blatant fact, and both failed to make eye contact with the young filly.

Finally, Rainbow had enough time to format a somewhat stammered response. "Y-yeah. Well.... uh... don't worry about that. Most first dates don't turn out like ours...." Rainbow hesitated as she rubbed her hoof to the back of her shoulder, Fluttershy still silent with a shade of red on her face.

"But look at how happy we are now. Don't you want that too?" Rainbow finally asked with regained confidence, Fluttershy finally calming down upon agreeing with Rainbow's comeback.

"W...well.... Yeah, I guess I do" Scootaloo resumed her stammering, nervous disposition. "But what if it doesn't?"

Fluttershy finally decided to step up to the plate, seeing the opportunity to provide wisdom to the young filly. "Remember what we said when you were nervous about asking Sweetie out?"

"It's three strikes you're out?" Scootaloo asked, obviously confused.

"What? No. Just do what your heart says. Don't be afraid to take chances. I took a chance with Rainbow" Fluttershy reassured.

Rainbow's face flashed a light red, rubbing her hoof to her shoulder again as she openly admitted, "To be fair, lots of ponies take chances on me" .

"Awwww... Rainbow. We love you" Fluttershy and Scootaloo replied in unison.

"Alright, commence the group hug" demanded Rainbow as the other two pegasi followed orders.

Upon release from the hug, Scootaloo finally asked with a look of slight worry and confusion, "But what do I exactly do on a date?"

"You can invite Sweetie to dinner here. It'll be perfect" assured Fluttershy, Rainbow nodding in agreement.

"Yeah.... yeah! Dinner will be perfect!" Scootaloo approved of the idea. "I'll play it smooth"........

The Next Day......

"Scootaloo, are you trying to ask me something? Because you've been sputtering and twitching for 20 minutes now..." commented Sweetie Belle as she was obviously concerned with the young pegasi's behavior.

"Y....yeah.... well.... you see... dfujbvnfkvndkniencncincjenopnopjnodncn....." Scootaloo shook like a malfunctioning toy.

Meanwhile, Fluttershy, Rainbow and Rarity were unfortunately watching Scootaloo's failed attempts at asking the unicorn out through the schoolyard's fabled green bush - big enough for three apparently.

Rainbow couldn't watch, the display was just 20% too cringe-worthy.

Fluttershy looked like she was ready to throw up, startled posture and wincing included.

Rarity could only facehoof at the two fillies, wondering how things were EVER supposed to work out. Something needed to be done.

"GFJFVMFJGDFMELM uh... FDJBVFKVFVKRFNVMRK.... fgRFJVrkvr nvolfmccofmo294rejrinf" Scootaloo stammered, as Sweetie Belle could only watch with worry and pity. "Do you need a doctor or..... a priest?"

"Yes... yes she probably does" Rainbow whispered, unbeknownst to the fillies.

"Which one?" Rarity asked.

"Yes" Rainbow could only respond to Rarity's question.

Suddenly before Scootaloo could try and desperately fail to ask Sweetie Belle out, a loud scream emerged in the middle of where the two fillies were standing.

"AH, WILL YOU JUST ASK HER OUT ALREADY?!?!?!?!?!?!?"

"Rainbow finally came out of hiding and approached the source of the scream to question her motives. "Pinkie Pie!!!! What are you doing?!"

"What? I'm just trying to move this story along" Pinkie Pie said in defense.

"Story? Wh---" Rainbow paused in frustration. "Never mind... Just... let me handle it from here....."

"You haven't really done a good job so far if it took 20 minutes for you to do so" Pinkie proclaimed.

"GO!" Rainbow yelled.

Meanwhile, Scootaloo blushed upon Pinkie's recap of her situation, causing Sweetie to finally realize what was going on.

"Are... are you asking me out... on a date?" Sweetie asked with a genuine smile and blush on her face.

"Hmmhmm" Scootaloo nodded, unable to say anything else.

"Awwww...." Sweetie's eyes began watering. "That's so sweet".

"How about tomorrow at 6? Sound good?" Rainbow stepped in for Scootaloo, not wanting to see the young filly sputter out of control again.

"It's a date." Sweetie nodded as she walked off to go to the classroom, Scootaloo needing a minute to catch her breath.

"Told you I could play it smooth" spoke Scootaloo in an over-confident charisma.

Meanwhile, Rarity was still behind the bush, head in her hooves as she couldn't stand what just happened. "Well, she's a mini Rainbow Dash" she muttered, Fluttershy silently nodding, Rainbow unaware.

The Next Evening......

"Are you sure I look ok?" Scootaloo nervously asked, sweat drooping from her face. She wore a beautiful little orange dress with purple floral patterns on it, her hair done in a proper bun and curl .

"I already told you 653 times, you're fine.... and trust me, I've counted" Rainbow tiredly assured.

Suddenly the door bell rang.

Scootaloo swiftly opened the door frame, revealing Sweetie in a beautiful white silky dress, her hair with long curls. Rarity was obviously a master fashionista.

"DFHNDGCGBSGSRFEGDFSWFERGVWEVSRFEWFB" Scootaloo sputtered before impulsively slamming the door shut on Sweetie.

"SCOOTALOO! WHAT THE HECK?!?!" Rainbow yelled at complete and utter shock.

"H----help me." Scootaloo whispered, looking at Rainbow for guidance and leadership.

Rainbow heavily sighed. "Don't worry kid. I can help you".

Rainbow decided to open the door this time, Sweetie still there with a look of confusion at what had just transpired.

"Come on in. I'll be happy to show you to your table" Rainbow spieled in a horrifically fake French accent.

Sweetie giggled at the absurdity, obviously curious as to the dinner plan. "Why, of course" Sweetie responded with a fake snooty tone.

Rainbow delivered Sweetie to the kitchen where Scootaloo looked like she wanted to hide under the table.

Rainbow mentally noted, "Huh. Maybe Scoots isn't so 'out there' as I think she is" before pulling the chair out for Sweetie.

"Here read this. Relax." Rainbow whispered, passing a little white sheet of paper to Scootaloo before quickly leaving the room.

With little choice at actual words coming out, Scootaloo decided to just robotically read the writing Rainbow gave her.

"To Buy : Milk, Eggs, Flour......"

Rainbow quickly flew back to the room, snatching the piece of paper that was obviously a shopping list before replacing it with a new one. She quickly exited the room again, with a shade of red on her face.

Before Scootaloo could attempt to read the new note, Sweetie swiftly interrupted with a quick snarky comment that would be more appropriate for the orange pegasus.

"Let me guess. You're extremely nervous that this isn't going to go well" Sweetie blatantly asked. "Me too, actually" Sweetie admitted with a slight blush on her face.

"Wait, you mean, you too?" Scootaloo questioned in surprise, her first actual words towards Sweetie that day.

"Yeah, we're such good friends that I"........

"....didn't want to ruin it" both fillies answered at the same time before laughing.

"I can't believe this, we were both nervous the whole time?" questioned Scootaloo.

"Yeah, it's pretty silly" Sweetie affirmed with laughter.

"But not as silly as you" Scootaloo replied with her quick-witted comeback.

Scootaloo and Sweetie then proceeded to laugh at the sheer coincidence in their situation, their nerves finally released from their little heads.

Soon, however, Fluttershy came out with two plates of Spaghetti; it looked heavenly with oodles of noodles and a savory thin coating of sauce, driving the two fillies' stomachs roaring with hunger.

"Dinner is served" Fluttershy wittingly announced before walking back towards the kitchen with Rainbow so they could get a private peek of the romance.

"Shall we?" Scootaloo asked to the young unicorn.

"Let's" Sweetie agreed as the two fillies began eating and making small private conversation, Scootaloo no longer afraid of any consequences.

From the kitchen, Rainbow and Fluttershy were on their own date as both older pegasi couldn't help but become teary-eyed with glee upon the events that were transpiring.

"She's growing up" Fluttershy chokingly stated, with a huge grin on her face

"Yeah, that's my Scoots" Rainbow proclaimed as the two couples ate and laughed the night away.

Author's Note

I think this may be my new favorite chapter. Writing a nervous Scootaloo and a straight-MARE Rainbow easily brought delight to my eyes. But the ending, was so sweet in my opinion that I feel it's more emotional than funny. What do you think?

Until next time,

frenettek314

Chapter 9: Calendar Chaos

It was a bright and early morning in Ponyville. The glorious sun (raised by Celestia herself) sparked a ray of light that cast through the window right next to Fluttershy and Rainbow Dash's bed. For Fluttershy, this was a perfect wake-up call - inviting her to partake in another fantastic day.

For Rainbow Dash, this was a nuisance that needed to tone down for another five minutes.

However, this would not be another ordinary day for the two pegasi couple as today was a particularly special day, one which Fluttershy woke up with anticipation upon the realization. As she rose up from the warm fleece blankets, the not-so-morning pegasi grumbled in mild annoyance.

"Good morning Rainbow!" Fluttershy exclaimed. "Isn't this the perfect morning for our special day?!"

Upon hearing those last two words, Rainbow shot out of the bed with panic out of the eyes as if she heard an explosion in the distance.

"Special Day?" Rainbow uttered cautiously, desperately trying to remember what could be so special about today.

Fluttershy however only giggled behind her hoof, which Rainbow found irresistibly cute.

"Sure Rainbow, think you can fool me, huh?" she playfully teased as she flew downstairs to prepare breakfast.

"Shoot" Rainbow whispered.

As soon as Fluttershy had begun preparing the buttery fluffy goodness that were her signature pancakes, Scootaloo awoke to the sounds of the succulent sizzling coming from the kitchen while Rainbow soon came downstairs, still cautious as to what she was supposed to be remembering right now.

"Good morning my two favorite pegasi" Fluttershy sung happily as she continued cooking.

This behavior was now noticed by Scootaloo as well as Angel Bunny who came out of his rabbit hole with equal looks of confusion.

"Gosh Fluttershy, what's got you in such a good mood today?" asked Scootaloo.

Fluttershy turned to smile warmly at her, a smile only the element of kindness could pull off.

"Well Scootaloo, today's a very special day of the year for Rainbow and I" she explained.

"You mean the day this story gets updated?" Scootaloo replied in a dry quip.

"Well...yes...that" Fluttershy said in embarrassment, "but it's also an important day for our relationship" she said, recovering quickly from the previous statement.

Rainbow cringed internally. "Think brain, what could today be?"

"Haha... yep. Totally special.." Rainbow answered with fake confidence, hoping it would get past Fluttershy for the time being.

It seemed to work as Fluttershy smiled in glee and returned to cooking. Scootaloo however realized Rainbow's grin faltering and alternated looks between the two pegasi with a mix of confusion and worry.

A few minutes later, the pancakes were finished and Scootaloo licked her lips with the approaching smell reaching her nose. Fluttershy's pancakes were always her favorite and she wouldn't miss them for the world.

Rainbow loved Fluttershy's pancakes as well...until the sight of them made her heart stop ice cold. Rainbow's pancakes were done in the shape of a heart, which Fluttershy squeaked in satisfaction.

"Just for you" Fluttershy cooed cutely, which what normally made Rainbow blush with a smile made her nervously sweat.

"Ah...thanks...cutie pie..." Rainbow responded slowly as if one wrong move could send Equestria into Tartarus.

For a split second however, Scootaloo could see Fluttershy's smile falter into a frown as if she were realizing what was going on with Rainbow. However, that was quickly replaced with a neutral expression as she began eating.

Scootaloo almost couldn't eat her pancakes. Today just wasn't the day for them it seems.

After the rather quiet breakfast, Fluttershy and Rainbow began cleaning up the kitchen and doing the dishes while Scootaloo helped feed Angel and some of the other indoor animals.

Fluttershy decided to initiate conversation, much to Rainbow's expense.

"So, what were you planning for today?" she asked quizzically.

Rainbow however didn't know how to answer, so she began answering truthfully.

"Well, Scoots and I were..." she began before noticing Fluttershy's heart-shattering expression.

"Oh. I thought you'd want to do something with me included as well" Fluttershy answered coldly, holding back tears with a subtly bitter front.

"D..did you want to come along?" Rainbow asked, unsure how to proceed.

"No no." Fluttershy responded quickly. "I just thought you'd want to spend today with your significant other" she finished, her body turned away from Rainbow in a rather upset manner.

"We can always do something tomorrow on our..." Rainbow began, before Fluttershy exploded out of nowhere.

"NO! FORGET IT! SILLY ME THINKING WE'D SPEND OUR ANNIVERSARY TOGETHER! ALL MORNING I SAW YOU TRYING DESPERATELY TO FIGURE OUT WHAT TODAY WAS BUT I IGNORED IT THINKING MAYBE YOU WERE TEASING, TRYING TO SURPRISE ME..."

"Flutters.." Rainbow choked, upset upon realizing why Fluttershy was expecting so much from her. She hated seeing Fluttershy so upset, but the reason behind it was even worse.

"NO!" Fluttershy continued ranting, "I CAN'T BELIEVE YOU'VE FORGOTTEN OUR ANNIVERSARY! OUR FIRST DATE EVER WAS ON THE 25TH BUT I GUESS THAT WAS TOO MUCH FOR YOU TO REMEMBER...!"

Those last few words sparked a feeling in Rainbow, almost no one had ever seen. Not sadness, rage, or even depression, but pure, quiet, subtle distraught.

"Today's the 24th." Rainbow spoke evenly, despite her expression and the tone of her voice showing that she was clearly upset at the pegasus in front of her. This was enough to stop Fluttershy's anger in her place while Scootaloo and Angel watched in awe.

"W...what?" Fluttershy choked.

"Our anniversary's on the 25th. Today's the 24th." Rainbow spoke quietly this time before silently walking upstairs and shutting the door to their room.

The three creatures remaining were shocked at what they saw. Rainbow was usually either in the wrong and would apologize profusely, or enter anger mode where she would fight til' she won. Never before have they seen her act so cold and broken, like she wasn't even there.

Fluttershy developed tears in her eyes as she realized her mistake. Looking at the calendar, she saw indeed it was the 24th. She had made the biggest mistake in their relationship by assuming Rainbow had forgotten when Fluttershy was the one in the wrong.

Fluttershy quickly bolted up to Rainbow's room, leaving Scootaloo and Angel to themselves, still comprehending the fight they just witnessed.

"Where an Applejack Fanfic when you need one?" prayed Scootaloo.

Meanwhile, upstairs, Fluttershy nervously knocked on their bedroom door, hoping Rainbow would let her in to apologize.

"Rainbow... please... can we talk?" she asked, hopeful Rainbow would listen to her plea.

Luckily, for Fluttershy, the door creaked open to reveal a Rainbow Dash with bloodshot eyes and a look that screamed miserable. (Ok, maybe that part wasn't so lucky after all).

Fluttershy internally winced upon the state of the cyan mare as she wanted nothing more than to hug her and make the pain go away.

"Rainbow... I'm.." Fluttershy began.

"I can't believe you thought I had forgotten the best day of my life." Rainbow croaked.

"I know, I.... wait, wh..what?" Fluttershy paused, hearing the last part of Rainbow's statement.

Rainbow opened the door fully and prompted Fluttershy to sit on the bed with her, which Fluttershy gratefully accepted.

"Flutters," Rainbow began, "At first, before going on our first date, I was scared because I wasn't sure how it was going to go. I thought we were going to not be right for each other. I was so nervous, I thought I was going to throw up" Rainbow answered truthfully.

"But then, during our date, everything felt right. I was so happy to see you smiling, laughing, having a good time - it was the best feeling in the world. After that night, I was the happiest I ever was. I thought to myself, it that pony loves me, I have everything I could ever need."

Fluttershy teared up happily upon hearing this. "R-really?"

"Of course" Rainbow nodded in confirmation. "I'll always remember that day, it'll be with me for as long as I live and that's why I was so upset when you had thought I had forgotten."

"Rainbow. I'm so sorry. I can't make excuses for what I did, but I promise I'll never assume the worst from you ever again" Fluttershy answered, practically begging for forgiveness.

Rainbow kissed Fluttershy's cheek. "I'll always love you."

Fluttershy blushed at the kiss, before tackling Rainbow to the bed in a warm and loving hug out of pure happiness and bliss.

"I'll always love you too" Fluttershy confirmed after several minutes of playful snuggles and kisses. "You're going to be an amazing wife someday" Fluttershy whispered as she nuzzled into Rainbow's chest.

Rainbow held back tears with a loving smile before she promptly got up to go get something.

"That reminds me. I was saving this for tomorrow, but I think now's a good time as any" Rainbow stated, holding a small box with Fluttershy's name on it.

Fluttershy, recovering from her brief state of curiosity tried to dismiss Rainbow's insistence. "Rainbow, it's fine. I can wait til tomorrow" but as she said that, Rainbow only pushed the box closer with a quirky and knowing smile, prompting Fluttershy to give in.

"Alright, I'll..." Fluttershy surrendered before opening the box to find a beautiful diamond ring, sparkling and shimmering like a heavenly light, enclosed in a beautiful black box.

As Fluttershy gasped, marveling at the ring's beauty and elegance, Rainbow took the box and kneeled one one hoof with the box held out in her wings.

"Fluttershy. You've made me the happiest mare in this world and I'd never want to be without you. You have shown me something I never thought I could have, a loving mare and a loving family. You have given me the greatest gift of all and it's time I return the favor".

"Fluttershy, will you marry me?"

Fluttershy cried tears of joy for a solid thirty seconds before nodding her head eagerly.

"Yes. I will."

Hugs were aplenty that day as Scootaloo, who curiously peeked from upstairs discovered the engagement after an explanation from Rainbow that their family would be official.

Soon, the trio were cooped up on the nice fluffy mattress as thoughts of their happy future together awaited.

"So, when's the wedding?" Scootaloo asked anxiously.

Fluttershy and Rainbow looked at each other before nodding in unison.

"When this story gets updated in 2021".

So on the day of the 24th, think not of the old settings of the unknown and unseen, but rather a chapter for new beginnings with familiarity. To Rainbow and Fluttershy, this was the greatest day in their lives.

Author's Note

And so, I have finally updated this story after a full year and I think three certain pegasi couldn't be happier to see so.

"No matter how long, no matter how far, we'll always be together"

frenettek314

Chapter 10: The Best Unexpected Mother

Something has gone wrong. We don't seem to have an archived copy of that chapter.

Chapter 1: You Can't Do This On Your Own

Kindness and Loyalty

Written by: frenettek314

It was a glorious winter evening in the town of Ponyville. Most ponies were inside their cozy homes bundled up next to a cozy fire. Two pegasi in a cottage near the Everfree Forest were no exception. Sitting on a fluffy green sofa inside a wooden interior were two ponies who were best friends ever since their childhood days at pegasi flight school in Cloudsdale. The more extroverted Pegasus with the cyan coat and the prismatic mane was none other than the speed demon, Rainbow Dash. Bundled up next to her, was the more reserved and introverted of the two, Fluttershy.

Rainbow Dash and Fluttershy were actually starting to become more than friends. It all started a year or so ago where Rainbow Dash nervously asked Fluttershy for a date; the pink-maned Pegasus was shocked to say the least as she never saw the usually confident mare to be so timid, nevertheless, Fluttershy accepted the request and the two besties turned lovers have been almost inseparable ever since.

Currently, Rainbow Dash and Fluttershy resided in Fluttershy's living room right alongside the fire place and were discussing plans for tomorrow.

"I suppose I've got nothing to do tomorrow considering the big snow storm that's supposed to hit tonight. What about you, Dash?" Fluttershy kindly asked.

"Well...... the squirt has been wanting to do something with me, maybe we could hang out tomorrow." Rainbow Dash replied.

The "squirt" in question was Rainbow Dash's number one fan and "little sister" Scootaloo. Despite her inability to fly, Scootaloo was always optimistic and eager to dive out and explore the world. Rainbow Dash admired her eager attitude and as such was always willing to spend time with the young filly as much as she could.

" Oh that's a lovely idea!" remarked Fluttershy. " Maybe you should let Scootaloo's parents know ahead of time due to the severe snowstorm that's headed for Ponyville tomorrow."

" Yeah! I should let them...." Rainbow Dash then suddenly paused as she thought to herself: 'Wait..... Have I ever met Scootaloo's parents? I never see them at any school events or anything......' Rainbow Dash's smile immediately faltered as she realized of the seeming absence of the young filly's parents. Fluttershy immediately recognized the change in Rainbow Dash's demeanor as she quickly tried to save face.

" I'm.... sure they just work a lot..." Fluttershy said with a hint of skepticism herself in her voice.

Rainbow Dash shrugged off her previous thoughts as her confidence grew back. " Yeah. I'm sure the squirt's still playing with her friends. I'll just walk her home and ask her parents then."

With that said, Rainbow Dash immediately flew out of the cozy cabin and headed for Sweet Apple Acres where Scootaloo and her friends were always seen doing some new crazy activity or whatnot.

Meanwhile at Sweet Apple Acres.......

Scootaloo and her two friends were sitting in the official CMC clubhouse discussing when they would meet next. There was the leader of the group, the confident, young cowpony named Apple Bloom, and the smart and talented unicorn by the name of Sweetie Belle.

All of a sudden, the three young fillies heard a sonic burst of sound and light coming rapidly towards the treehouse, the three instantly recognizing at as the flying of the town weatherpony, Rainbow Dash. Scootaloo was easily the most excited to see Rainbow Dash as she cast a grin the size of a mountain as Rainbow Dash approached the trio.

" Rainbow Dash!!!" the orange Pegasus exclaimed. " What are you doing here?"

" Well, seeing as there is a big snowstorm tomorrow and mostly everypony will be inside, I figured that we could take this opportunity to bond or whatever sappy ponies call it these days."

"That sounds awesome!!!!" the young filly spoke with glee.

"Great and seeing as it's already getting late, I figured I could walk you home to ask your parents for permission."

With that response from the cyan Pegasus, the treehouse came to an alarming silence as Scootaloo's wide-cast smile suddenly turned to a look of fear. Her eyes grew to the size of golf balls and she started stuttering to the notice of everypony else.

"M...my....parents??!" Scootaloo managed to get out with sweat dropping down her face.

Another huge pause came as everypony was curious as to why the young Pegasus hadn't come up with a more expected reply.

"Scoots.... ah you ok?" Apple Bloom asked with great concern to her friend's nervous-like state.

Scootaloo tried to save face as she tried to smile a believable smile, " Uh...yeah. You don't need to walk me home.... My parents will say yes no problem."

" Well, I would still like to ask and meet these ponies." Rainbow Dash quickly replied with a look of confusion, concern, and impatience.

" I'll ask for you. Honest, I'll head straight home."

" Scoots. I'm going to walk home with you. End of story."

The young unicorn attempted at easing the tension in the room. " It's ok, Scootaloo. Rainbow Dash just wants to ask your parents for permission, no big deal." Sweetie Belle spoke in a kind and nurturing tone.

Scootaloo grew angry with the fact that her friends were so persistent with her family life. "I said I'll ask!!!! Leave me alone!!!!!!!"

Rainbow Dash cast the filly stern glare in response to her sudden outburst. " Scoots. I'M TAKING YOU HOME NOW!!! END OF DISC-----"

" I DON'T EVEN HAVE PARENTS!!! I'VE BEEN AN ORPHAN ALL MY LIFE!!!! ARE YOU HAPPY NOW?!?!?!?!? HAPPY TO KNOW NO PONY HAS EVER LOVED ME!!! CAN YOU LEAVE ME ALONE NOW?!?!?!?!?!?!?!?!?!?" Scootaloo interrupted the rainbow-maned Pegasus with a mighty roar before bursting into tears on the clubhouse floor.

The three other ponies, Mare and Fillies alike sat there on their haunches in utter disbelief as to what they have just witnessed. Not a word was spoken for another ten minutes as even the usually confident Rainbow Dash sat there with a look of shock and sympathy in her eyes. Sweetie Belle was the first to speak with uncertainty in her voice, hoping what Scootaloo said wasn't true.

"Scoots.... What do you mean no parents???"

Scootaloo got up off the floor and spoke with tears in her eyes, " I never had parents. I lived in an orphanage until I ran away after becoming friends with you and moved into the clubhouse when we started inhabiting it."

Apple Bloom shook with distraught after hearing this, " You've....been living in this clubhouse.... ever since.... even in the winter??" she asked with incredulous disbelief.

Scootaloo nodded her head in shame. she wasn't proud of it but it's what kept her alive.

To the fillies' surprise. Rainbow Dash spoke in an unusually timid and fearful voice, one that showed she was quite upset which the Pegasus never liked to showcase in public.

"......w---why?? Why did you never tell me?? I could've helped you! You never had to be on your own! I could've...."

" Because I never wanted anyone to know. I figured you all wouldn't want anything to do with me if you found out." Scootaloo interrupted.

Rainbow Dash suddenly stomped her hoof on the clubhouse floor, " DON'T YOU DARE SAY THAT!!! I LOVE YOU AND I ALWAYS WILL!!! NO PONY WOULD EVER ABANDON YOU BECAUSE YOU'RE AN ORPHAN! SO STOP THINKING SUCH IDIOTIC THINGS!!" Rainbow exclaimed.

Scootaloo immediately flinched and Rainbow realized her tone was much louder than what she intended. Rainbow spoke from her emotions and forgot that Scootaloo needed comfort at that particular moment.

" Squirt..er.. Scoot, I want to help you, I promise. I was just angry that you would think I or your friends for that matter would betray you, We love you." Rainbow spoke in a motherly tone.

" We would never. Ah will always be here for ya." Apple Bloom assured

" You could've always lived with me and Rarity. She would've understood." Sweetie Belle agreed.

Rainbow smiled upon hearing the reassuring statements from Scootaloo's friends in an attempt to comfort you. Then Rainbow grew a serious expression as she realized what she needed to do. ' God bless this filly' she thought. ' How can she always be so cheerful and happy?' ' Well, regardless, That's all about to change.'

" Come on Scoots. I'm taking you home before the storm hits."

Scootaloo grew confused and the tears stopped to reply in confusion, " But, Rainbow, I just told you I don't have a family or a home."

Rainbow transformed into her usual self as she replied with a smirk, " Your NEW home. With me and Fluttershy. You'll have two ponies who'll love you very much and you'll never be alone. You can't....you don't have to do this on your own anymore."

Scootaloo immediately cast a smile that was just as big, if not bigger than the one that appeared before Rainbow showed up. " R...Really?"

" Of course. Fluttershy won't mind, I'm sure. Say goodbye to your friends for the night. You can all see each other after the storm is over." answered Rainbow Dash.

Scootaloo replied with a yawn and nodded, " Bye Girls."

As the two fillies watch the sister duo take off back to Fluttershy's cottage, they shared a warm smile as they knew Scootaloo would live much better than she has been.

" Good Night Scoots." both fillies replied in unison.

Author's Note

This is my attempt at a " Scootalove" fanfic. I realize it's nowhere near as good as the other stories out there but I hope this is a satisfying read. This will also be my first story where I post new chapters when I can instead of a one-shot. As always, leave your opinions in the comment section below and thanks for reading.

frenettek314