Stressful Nightsby silvermoon15000ChaptersPrologueChapter 1: SurpriseChapter 2: Rekindling Old FriendshipsChapter 3: More TimeChapter 5: When the Heart FallsChapter 6: A Day of Happiness.Chapter 7: Of Haunting Pasts and Bright FuturesChapter 8: Hard to Forget.Chapter 4: Something Worth RememberingPrologueRarity trotted along one of the many roads in Ponyville, a professional smile on her face, she was heading to Fluttershy's cottage, but needed to make a stop on the way, "Mom, we don't need to bother him," Rarity rolled her eyes and looked back at her son who was behind her, "Hush darling, I'm only going to have a chat with him before we go," she silenced him, "Mom, we really don't-" she glared at him, "Midnight Onyx, are you questioning your mother," she asked sternly, Her son sighed, "No," he looked down in shame, She faced the road once more, only to realize how close they were to their stop, and made a quick turn onto a small narrow path. She couldn't help but feel a little disgusted, the grass was tall, almost up to her flank, making the path to the door much more narrow. The house itself looked fine, its walls a nice white, the roof intact, but she wasn't here to discuss home management. She stepped up the small steps and looked back at her son who looked nervous and embarrassed at the same time. The dark blue colt was almost completely red, which contrasted well with his long, orange mane. She held back a laugh, "It's just Buttonmash dear, not your crush," she stated trying to calm him down, She rolled her eyes and faced the door, she couldn't say she wasn't nervous herself, she hadn't seen the colt since Sweetiebelle left on her tour, which was three years ago, since then Rarity had been too busy to go see anypony, she even missed Button's big reveal for his new game two years ago. Taking a deep breath she raised a hoof to knock when the door opened to reveal a stallion, Buttonmash. He wasn't looking at her though, instead he was looking at a computer that sat on a moving cart. It only took seconds for a stench to reach her nose, making her gag and scrunch up her muzzle, "Sweet Celestia, what is that horrendous smell," she cried out waving a hoof, "Sorry," Button mumbled under his breath, still staring blankly into the screen. After stepping back she got a good look at the younger stallion, his eyes were bloodshot and had bags from no sleep, his mane was a mess, and the stench was coming from him. His fur and face were pale, his posture was terrible, "Button...is...is that you-" Rarity lifted a hoof worryingly, and placed it on his shoulder, she didn't like doing it, but after changing diapers, it didn't phase her as much, "-you look sick dear...are...are you alright," he mumbled something under his breath, "I'm fine Rarity," he gave her a weak smile and shrugged her hoof off, "You don't look-" "It would be nice to chat right now, but I have some things I gotta do and I'm already behind schedule so if you will excuse me I gotta go," he said quickly, pushing his cart past her and Onyx and running down the road. "I tried to tell you mom, he is too busy to play and even too busy to talk," Onyx sighed and turned away, Rarity followed behind him silently as they made their way to Fluttershy's. __________________________ "I just don't understand, Button has always had time to play with the foals, he used to come with us for tea too," Rarity complained before sipping her tea. Rarity and Fluttershy were sitting on the pegasus's couch, their kids playing videogames upstairs. "Well...that was years ago, but umm you aren't wrong, Autumnleaf came to me the other day crying because Button wouldn't come to help finish her birdhouse, but after what has happened I understand why," Fluttershy exclaimed. "What happened," Rarity asked, Fluttershy perked her ears and lowered her glass, "The company he works for gave him a deadline, they apparently told him that he has until the end of this year to finish the game or he's out of the job," Rarity stood, "What..." "Yep, he has been working ever since, doesn't have time for anypony, not even Applebloom and Scootaloo could get him out of his house, he snapped at them saying he was too busy to do anything...poor thing, he doesn't have any time to be free and be with anypony, even his own mother," she sighed and finished her tea, "There isn't much we can do about it but wait until the deadline, I just hope he gets it done and takes a break, nopony should have to work that hard," she finished. Rarity looked at her and then grinned, "I think I know one pony who can get him out of his house," Fluttershy gave her a stern look, "I know what you're thinking Rarity, are you sure that's a good idea," "Darling, we have to help him or he could be this way forever, and we don't want that, do we," Fluttershy sighed in response, "No...but-" "Good, well I must go if I want to get a hold of her...ONYX TIME TO GO," she called out, "But...but-" the door closed ending the conversation. _____________________________ "can I speak to Sweetiebelle," Rarity asked over the phone, "What do you mean she's busy, my sister is never too busy to speak with me, put her on the phone, please," Rarity said, frustrated with the mare on the other side. "I will teleport to Manehattan right now if you do not put her on the phone...NOW," Rarity yelled into the phone, "Thank you," her smile returned, ()()()()()()()()()()()() Manehattan A white mare is taking off a show dress, her long, pink and purple mane straightened, except the bottom which curled naturally, she sighed in relief as she kicked the heels off, "Much better," she said falling on to the couch, "Sweetiebelle, your sister is on the phone," a mare called from the other room, "On my way," she replied rolling onto the floor and trotting into the next room, "Thank you Vanillabliss," she took the phone with her magic and raised it to her ear, "Hi sis, what's up," she answered happily, "Come home, in the middle of my tour...Rarity I told-" she fell silent, "I know I have been on tour for awhile but I just can't walk away," she walked back into the opposite room, "Fine, I will put things on hold and be there tomorrow morning, I swear Rarity, if you try to get me to stay for good I'm gonna hurt you," she said sternly, "Love ya too...bye," she hung up and dropped the phone, "Bliss, how long until my next concert," she asked her manager, "Three weeks," the mare replied, "That should be long enough then, schedule my flight to Ponyville for tomorrow and pack your bags, I'm going home," Author's Note Hey look at that another Sweetiemash story, this one will not be on hiatus like the other one this one along with Everfree Files will continue. Umm also this is my first attempt at a 3rd person story. I hope you enjoyed the prologue and will speak again when I release chapter 1. This is Silvermoon signing off...PEACE OUT! Chapter 1: SurpriseKNOCK KNOCK KNOCK "Huh...what," Buttonmash lifted his head up, his fur pushed into his face from sleeping on his keyboard, "C...COMING!" He called out as the knocking continued. He jumped out of his chair and stepped over a half eaten hayburger and a book on romance before slipping on a bottle of ketchup and hitting his head on the wall. He groaned and opened the door that led to his living room and quickly but clumsily made it to the front door, "Hello?" He asked as he opened the door and rubbed his head with the other hoof. Rarity, a hoof on her nose, sat there with a smile, "Good Morning," she said in a sing song tune. He looked at his hoof for blood before placing it on the ground, "Morning," he replied with a weak smile, a yawn followed afterwards, "You really should get some sleep, Button, but that's beside the point-" she said as Button shrugged, "-you must get cleaned up and quickly," she added, "Why," was all Button could manage, "Because my sister is coming home for a few weeks to spend some vacation time before heading to Saddle Arabia for her next concert," she said, trying to maintain her cool, "S...Sweetiebelle is coming home," his eyes widened as Rarity nodded, "Isn't it wonderful," she said excitingly, but to her dismay Button remained silent, his expression changed from surprised to that of sadness, "Good for her," he replied. Button and Sweetiebelle hadn't been on good terms when she left, because of an argument between the two that ended up with him not even saying goodbye when she left. He doubted she wanted to see him now and plus he was too busy to get involved with her again or regain any kind of crush on her. Rarity on the other hoof looked confused, "I thought you would have been happy to hear-" "You thought wrong," he said quietly, Rarity didn't take the hint, "But-" "Just go Rarity," he closed the door, not giving her another chance to speak. Button sighed and let go of the knob, trotted back to his office, this time avoiding the ketchup, and sat back down in his chair. He relaxed his head against the headrest and stared at the wallpaper of computer, it was a photo of him and Sweetiebelle on the day of their graduation, the last photo they had ever taken together. He remembered that day, it was the day he chickened out of asking her out on a date, he would then try again on the day she left where he didn't get to ask her because she was too excited to leave Ponyville. He leaned forward and placed a hoof on the mouse, his mind in debate, did he turn off the computer and get cleaned up, or did he continue on the game. He had a similar debate like this every day and would always choose work over whatever option he had, but the consequences were worse for the new option. On one hoof, he could make up with Sweetiebelle and maybe respark some other friendships with the consequence of losing time to work. On the other hoof, he could continue working, but he would never get another chance like the one he had now. His cursor stayed in the center of the screen, moving back and forth between the power off icon and the game file. ()()()()()()()()()()()()()()()()()()()()()()() The train whistle blew, hinting that it was about to arrive at its next stop, Ponyville. Sweetiebelle, a smile on her face, signed a little filly's scrap book before passing the quill back to her manager, "Isn't it great," Vanillabliss said excitedly, taking the quill back with her light orange magic, "What?" Sweetiebelle asked, confused "I have been everywhere in Equestria except Ponyville, this is a whole new place for me," the mare said hopping up and down in her seat, "You've never been to Ponyville?" The mare nodded, "haven't had the time, you may be my first real celebrity, but I had been on the hunt for one when we met in Trottingham, so yes this is first trip to Ponyville," it was a rather lame excuse to Sweetie, but she shrugged it off. "I hope you enjoy it then," Sweetiebelle said. She looked at her friend, her fur was a light vanilla color, as her name implied, and her mane was a swirl of orange and white that reminded Sweetie of Mrs Cake's mane, but longer. Sweetie felt the train start to slow down as the whistle blew once more and the conductor's voice boom through the speakers above, "Attention to all ponies, we have reached our next stop, please remain seated until we stop and if this is your stop, gather your belongings and please leave your cabin in an orderly fashion, thank you," Sweetiebelle and Vanillabliss smiled at each other, "Ready to be attacked by all of your fans here," Bliss said, "I think my friends and family will be the ones attacking me this time," Sweetie replied with a smirk. The train stopped, letting out some steam as the cabin doors opened. Sweetiebelle and Vanillabliss grabbed their luggage, which was only three to four bags, the crew had stayed in Manehattan so there wouldn't be any issues, plus it was vacation time being used, so they had no reason to attend, nonetheless Sweetie and Bliss stepped off of the train and set their bags down to check everything, "I think we're set," Bliss grinned, "Looks like it, I guess we-" "Sweetiebelle?" A voice questioned from in front of them, Sweetiebelle looked up to see a bright orange, pegasus mare, her long, magenta mane spiked up at the top while the bottom straightened out, a cast covering her left forehoof, "Scootaloo?" Sweetiebelle said tearing up, "In the flesh," the mare replied with a smirk. Sweetiebelle trotted up to her slowly, "You look so different, and you lost your raspy...news," she said with wide eyes, "What am I the big bad timber wolf give your friend a hoofbump," Scootaloo said, holding up her good hoof. Sweetiebelle held up her hoof and collided it with Scootaloo's, "It's been awhile," Sweetiebelle exclaimed, "Too long of awhile," Scootaloo said, "Yeah...sorry," Sweetie said as Vanillabliss coughed, "Oh, this is my manger and friend, Vanillabliss," she said as Bliss held up a hoof, Scootaloo took her hoof and shook it, "Sweet, mind if I call ya V.B." Scootaloo asked dropping her hoof. Bliss shrugged, "Nope, kinda has a nice ring to it," she said happily, "Good because I would have called you it anyway," Scootaloo replied with a chuckle, Sweetiebelle shook her head, "Anyways come on I'll walk ya to Rarity's," the orange mare finished and turned away, nodding her head to follow. "Is she one of the Cutie Mark Crusaders you tell me about," Vanillabliss whispered as they started to trot after Scootaloo. Sweetiebelle nodded, "Yep, minus the cast, speaking of which, what happened to your leg," Scootaloo looked back, "Stunt gone wrong, should heal up in no time," she replied "Oh ok, is Applebloom around," "Yeah, she may be busy though, she has been trying to get a family a new home here, but they're strict on what they want, which is impossible," Scootaloo explained as they started to pass through a rather busy market. Vanillabliss kept tensing up, "Why isn't anypony trying to surround us, you'd expect a lot of fans to swarm us by now," she questioned. "Everypony here knows me, they may be fans, but they have proof that they know me in some way, so its going to be peaceful here," Sweetiebelle said, waving at a few ponies who waved back. "In other words, relax and enjoy your time here V.B." Scootaloo added with a wink. Vanillabliss took a deep breath and smiled relaxing her body a bit more, "There ya go," Sweetiebelle commented as they continued to her sister's home and boutique. The rest of the way was talkative with Sweetiebelle asking about everypony, the last pony being Buttonmash, which stopped Scootaloo in her tracks, "Buttonmash? Ummm...he's, different," Scootaloo stammered, "Like a good difference," Sweetiebelle asked, "Well...he's working on a new game," she chuckled nervously, "Uhuh," Vanillabliss butted in, "That doesn't sound promising Scootaloo," Sweetiebelle acknowledged. "Look it doesn't matter, lets just get to Rarity's," Scootaloo said sternly. Sweetiebelle sighed but followed as Scootaloo kept moving. It wasn't long until they approached the boutique, Scootaloo's walk was turning into a limp and her body tensed every time she stepped forward, but before Sweetie could ask if she was ok they were at the door, "This is your stop," Scootaloo announced before knocking. "COME IN!" A muffled voice called out on the other side. Scootaloo opened the door and stepped inside, Sweetiebelle and Vanillabliss followed into the dark building. Sweetiebelle opened her mouth to say something, but the lights turning on and a lot of ponies appearing out of nowhere yelling "SURPRISE," as loud as they could cut her off and made her jump. "Welcome home Sweetiebelle," Rarity said with outstretched hooves. Sweetiebelle, with half terrified half happy tears, hugged her sister, "Good to be home," she replied, "But, Celestia sis you didn't have to throw a party," she whispered, "Oh why not, everypony was anxious to see you, plus it gave Twilight's daughter a chance to practice a cloaking spell," she said happily. Sweetiebelle looked around, almost everypony was there, minus the few that moved and a certain brown stallion, everypony was there. As the party started, ponies fanned out, talking in groups or eating. Sweetiebelle decided to go to her group of friends first, which consisted of Scootaloo and Applebloom. Applebloom, was in a red dress which matched her mane that was put into a professional ponytail while a smaller pink bow held together what was loose, "You made it," she greeted the mare loudly, giving her a hug, "Glad Ah could, jus' finished up fer the day, the family Ah was helpin was extremely picky an' Ah ran outta houses ta show, so Ah gave 'em today and tamarraw ta decide on a home," she replied, returning the hug. Sweetiebelle took note on how her accent had hardened over the years. She was only able to speak to them for a minute before her sister told her she had more ponies to talk to and that she could hang out with them later. She trotted up to her sister who was talking to her friends and their husbands, "You obviously remember these ponies," Rarity said. Sweetiebelle smirked and pointed at Rainbow Dash, "Yeah, that's Fluttershy," she moved her hoof to Applejack, "That's Pinkie pie," she then moved it to Twilight, "That's Applejack," her hoof moved to Fluttershy, "That's Rainbow Dash," she finally pointed at Pinkie Pie, "And that's Twilight," she laughed as Rarity rolled her eyes. She heard a cough behind her and looked at Vanillabliss, "I'm getting there," she replied and used her magic to make her voice sound louder, "Attention everypony, although it was nice to see you all I have somepony you should all meet-" she looked at her friend, "-this is my manager and friend, Vanillabliss, I would appreciate it if you would all get to know her, otherwise carry on," she stopped the spell, "There...you happy," Vanillabliss blushed on response. Sweetiebelle sighed and continued to talk to her sister and her friends. ()()()()()()()()()()()()()()()()()()()()()()()() Buttonmash huffed and puffed as he ran, something he hadn't done in awhile, he was late, but hopefully not too late. He was hoping he could catch Sweetiebelle before she left, the party had ended about thirty minutes ago, something he had found out from Pinkie when he was getting ready to head to Rarity's to at least say something. He had lost track of time and wasn't too happy about it, he was going to try to kill two birds with one stone, something he shouldn't have tried in the first place. Finally, he made it to the boutique, his heart racing from both exhausten and anxiety, what if she didn't want to see him again, what if she was mad because he missed the party, there were so many cons that he couldn't point out the pros. As he approached the door he took a deep breath, and tried to calm down some. Rarity was pushing one of her poniquins back into place when the door opened and the bell sounded, "Sorry we're..." She looked up and froze when she saw a panting Buttonmash, "Button darling are you alright," she asked as she studied him. He looked and smelled cleaner, the bags under his eyes were less noticeable and his mane wasn't as thrown about, which meant he had tried to clean up a little at least, "Am...I...too late?" he asked in between each pant. She sighed and nodded, feeling bad for him. He muttered something that she couldn't make out and stamped the ground, hard, "No reason to be upset, dear, she should be back soon, until then how about you help me finish putting everything back where it goes," she said, placing a scarf around the plastic figure. He sighed and obeyed, putting poniquins back where they went while Rarity placed the right clothing on them. She took this time to ask some questions that had some needed answers, "So...how is the game coming along," she asked placing a hat on another poniquin. "Its going alright," he answered quickly. "Uhuh..." She thought for a moment and decided to ask about something she needed to know about, "What was the argument about," Button froze, "Argument?" He questioned, "Don't play foolish with me Buttonmash, I speak to my sister and your mother," she pointed a hoof at him, "It's...It's none of your concern Rarity...it's in the past," he replied, "Yes, because slamming a door in my face the moment I mention her obviously means it's in the past," she retorted. He opened his muzzle to argue but decided against it, letting him think for a second before replying, "I just don't-" he was cut off by the sound of the bell, "I'm home Rari-" Sweetiebelle's voice called out before stopping, "Buttonmash?" She asked, trying to get a look at him. He tensed and turned to face his ex-crush, "Hi...Sweetiebelle," Author's Note And that's a wrap for Chapter 1, sorry that it took me awhile, been busy. I have no idea when Chapter 2 will be out, but hopefully, maybe, soon, I don't really know. Anyways I just want to say thank you for the feedback, I appreciate it, really I do. I am trying to edit and work on my skill more, but it takes time. Otherwise I hope you enjoyed this chapter and hope you will stick around for the next one, I promise this story gets better. Anyways...this is Silvermoon signing off...PEACE OUT! Chapter 2: Rekindling Old FriendshipsAuthor's Note WARNING there is a scene in here that may be considered suggestive... Otherwise enjoy the chapter. Chapter 2: Rekindling Old Friendships Sweetiebelle looked at her sister and then at the stallion in front of her, her eyes wide in shock, "What...what are you doing here," she asked, regaining her composure. "Helping your sister-" he turned and continued his previous task, "-is that a problem?" He said with a smile, She shook her head, "Not at all...um...Rarity, can I talk to you for a moment..." She looked at her smiling sister who nodded and followed her into the kitchen. Sweetie glared at her, "Did you come up with this," she asked, "Come up with what, Button being here, oh no darling, he missed the party and decided to help, so no I didn't plan anything," Rarity replied, "Hey Rarity...I have to get back to work...I will try to stop by tomorrow to see Onyx, alright?" Button called out from the other room, "Ok dear, have a good day and maybe get some rest," she called back, "I'll try," he finished before the sound of the bell signified he had left the building. "I better not find out you planned this sis," Sweetiebelle said, "I promise," Rarity lied. ()()()()()()()()()()()()()()()()()()()()() Button let out a sigh of relief, "At least I was able to see Sweetiebelle," he told himself as he walked away from the boutique. He shook his head, "Snap out of it Button, you have better things to do than to fall for her again," he said sternly before sighing and looking up. He waved at a passing pony when his ears caught the sound of galloping behind him, "BUTTON!" He jumped for he wasn't expecting a voice to yell his name. He turned to see a panting Sweetiebelle, "I...haven't...run like...that in...forever," she told herself and looked up at the confused stallion. "You okay Belle," Button called her by her nickname because Sweetie had always sounded awkward to him, "I'm fine," she said, regaining her composure. Button raised an eyebrow, "Ya sure, you look like you ran a marathon," she glared at him, "And you look like you fell on the ground and turned dirt brown," he opened his mouth to respond, but without hesitation Sweetiebelle used her magic to trip him. "Hmph, maybe next time don't insult me," she smiled evilly and stepped past him. He grunted as he pushed himself off the ground and rubbed his chin, "Right..." Button followed after her, "So what's up, you kind of just left your sister to finish cleaning up," Sweetiebelle shrugged, "She told me to go on and catch up with you," he snickered, "You're a horrible liar you know that," he said with a smirk, "Somepony spent some time with Applejack," she replied. Button snorted, "She isn't the only one, ever since you left I have spent time with everypony we knew, helping when ever I could, and being there when needed, I mean I've even gotten to know Diamond Tiara more," he looked down for a second, "Things have changed since you left...I'm sorry though, for how we left things, you weren't the only one that hated me after our argument, Applebloom and Scootaloo stopped talking to me completely," his ears drooped. That kind of explains Scoot's weird behavior when I asked about him. Sweetiebelle thought, "Speaking of them, Scootaloo says you're different, and with the expressions she gave me, it sounded bad, but you seem fine, unless you're hiding something." Buttonmash looked at her, "There is nothing to hide, I have changed for the better, not the worst, now I need to get ho-" he was cut off by a yelling mare, "SWEETIEBELLE!" Vanillabliss called from far away waving two hooves hoping her friend would see her, "Home..." Buttonmash restated, "Oh um ok...well it was nice catching up with you, maybe I will see you tomorrow," Sweetiebelle said with a smile. "Maybe," he said, before walking away. Sweetiebelle stared at him as he left, concern filled her heart. She needed to talk to her two friends and find out what was up. In the mean time she would talk to Vanillabliss and find out what needed to be done. Vanillabliss was still bouncing happily as Sweetiebelle trotted up to her, "Are you...okay," Sweetiebelle asked, raising a hoof and poking her friend. Vanillabliss stopped bouncing but kept her smile, "Youweretalkingtoa...a COLT!" She screamed making Sweetiebelle cringe and anypony close by stare at them. She laughed nervously and covered Vanillabliss' mouth with a hoof, "He's just a past friend, calm down, seriously, I don't need a scene," Sweetiebelle said slowly taking her hoof off her friend's face. Vanillabliss still looked excited, "That doesn't matter, he is also one of the coolest ponies around, Buttonmash, expert video game designer," Sweetiebelle raised an eyebrow, "He's made one game, and I didn't know you even played-" "He didn't just make one game, it won several awards and was even game of the year, it was a beautiful game, and the love story was fantastic, whoever he is with must be a lucky mare, because only a stallion whose been in love and has a special somepony can make a game like that!" Sweetiebelle rolled her eyes at her fanfillying friend, "It's a game Bliss, a game, there is nothing special about it, now come on, I need to go see Scootaloo," she turned and started making her way to her friend's, Vanillabliss bouncing a long beside her. _________________________ When the two mares arrived at Scootaloo's, the sun was starting to set, casting a shadow over her bright yellow and blue home. Her brown door still looked new and the welcome mat was barely covered in muck. Sweetiebelle lifted a hoof and knocked three times; it took a few minutes but the sound of something shuffling inside could be heard and the door opened. Scootaloo still in her cast stood in the doorway, the bags under her eyes revealed that she had been sleeping," "Hey guys," her voice was raspy, "What brings you here," "Umm I was coming to talk to you, but you seem..." "Sick...yeah I've been having trouble but I'm not sick, just tired, Rumble being out of town has kind of kept me up," Sweetiebelle raised an eyebrow, "Rumble? Are you saying you two-" "Are together, yes we are, in fact before he left town to go to his race he did this," she pushed her mane away from neck and revealed a chain with a ring on it, "HE PROPOSED! How long have you two been together," Vanillabliss chimed, "Two years...took him long enough though," Scootaloo replied, "I didn't realize you were one for romance Scootaloo," Sweetiebelle said, "Yeah, well I've changed a lot, and with my career on hold right now, romance seems to be the right medicine, sorta." Her friend replied, pushing her magenta mane back, "Umm...you want to come in?" She finished opening the door wider and stepping aside. The two mares nodded and stepped inside, and soon it hit Sweetiebelle that with Rumble being a racer and Scootaloo being a stuntspony, they made a lot of bits. The house was much larger on the inside, the ceiling was a good twelve feet high, the living room was extremely large, a black horseshoe shaped couch and a large television sat across from each other, a black tinted glass coffee table sat in the middle of the horseshoe. The walls were painted a bright orange and a walkway led to the kitchen. There was a spiral staircase that led to a second floor. A blanket and a few pillows were draped over the couch like a make shift bed. Vanillabliss was the first to speak, "Have you been sleeping on the couch," she asked pointing a hoof at the display. "Kinda have to, I'm not supposed to be straining my leg, I should be able to get to my bed in two or three weeks, the couch is comfortable though," Scootaloo replied. Sweetiebelle looked around for a moment, "Umm...not to be rude, but where's your bathroom," she asked turning a little red, "Straight towards the kitchen first door on your right," Scootaloo nodded her head towards the walkway. Sweetiebelle quickly made her way to the bathroom and shut the door behind her. She sighed and looked in the mirror, "Okay, calm down, this is Scootaloo, but different, she is getting married soon and is a very wealthy pony...this is definitely not the Scootaloo I remember," she turned on the sink and splashed cold water on her face, and immediately felt better. She sighed and looked into the mirror where something caught her eye, a small white stick was sticking out of the trash can. She turned around and without hesitating used her magic to lift the device out of the metal can. Her eyes widened at the sight of the failed pregnancy test, Are they trying...already, before they get married...or is Scootaloo cheating on Rumble, oh please don't be cheating. Sweetiebelle thought to herself before placing the test back in the trash can and leaving the bathroom, "Celestia, Sweetiebelle, what took you so long," Scootaloo said with a tired smile. "Nothing, just took my time," she replied, "Uhuh...so what's up," Scootaloo plopped down on to her couch and situated herself. Sweetiebelle sat down on her left, while Vanillabliss was on the right. Sweetiebelle looked at her friend and answered her previous question, "Nothing much, but I was able to see Buttonmash," Scootaloo looked at her, "You did huh, did he have his cart with him," she asked annoyed. "No he-" "-wait, what cart?" Sweetiebelle asked, "Ya know, the one with the computer on it, he takes it out with him when he is going somewhere so he can keep working," she described it, that same tone in her voice. "No, actually he showed up late to the party and was helping my sister when I got back," "He finally left his work home huh, that doesn't surprise me considering you're back in town," Scootaloo smirked. Sweetiebelle turned a slight red, "I'm pretty sure its a coincidence Scoots and it is my first day back so he probably wanted to say hi," Sweetiebelle said convincingly. "Sure, Belle, sure, what ever you say," Scootaloo said sarcastically. "Anyways, I am here to ask about him, he said that he's changed, a lot, but I don't understand, he told me he has helped everypony and has learned a lot of things, I was hoping you could elaborate a bit more on what he meant," Scootaloo sighed, "That was right after you left, he was helpful and was even one of the reasons Rumble and I got together, he gave him some confidence, I guess, but after finishing his first game and signing a contract for his next game, he slowly drifted away and became more engrossed in his job, he stopped playing with the foals, stopped helping everyone, and finally after he stopped sleeping and caring he snapped at me and Applebloom...we didn't blame him at the time but he got worse, and just stopped talking to everypony...only caring about that game, that stupid game," she sighed and looked down, "Is that why you are so uncomfortable when we talk about him?" Sweetiebelle asked. "Well...its more of I just don't want to talk about him, I can't really consider him a friend anymore and when he snapped it showed a new side of him, one that I hoped I would never see, one that I don't even want you to see," "I understand that, now I'm seeing the big picture," Sweetiebelle said, making the other two ponies perk their ears. "I should've known, come on Bliss, we have somewhere to be," all three stood, "Leaving already?" Scootaloo questioned. "I'll be back tomorrow, but I need to speak to my sister, it was nice seeing you again," Sweetiebelle replied hurrying towards the door. "Yeah nice seeing you again," Vanillabliss called out as the door closed behind them. __________________________ "Where are we going?" Vanillabliss asked but to no avail the mare in front of her didn't answer. Sweetiebelle had been lied to...again, but this time she wasn't going to let it slide like the last time. Rarity when I get there you better be prepared or else tonight isn't going to be fun, she thought to herself as the boutique came into view. She threw the door open with her magic and went inside her sister was humming to herself and knitting a piece of clothing, "Hello darling, you seem to be in a hurry," she said, not looking away from her work. "You lied to me...AGAIN," Sweetiebelle replied angrily as Bliss entered the building. "What ever do you mean dear sister," Rarity questioned innocently, finally turning and facing her sister, an eyebrow raised. "You know what I mean, don't you dare act innocent," Sweetiebelle growled. "Okay...say, I do know what you mean, hypothetically, what did I lie about exactly," Rarity said, acting as if she didn't know what her sister was talking about. "About trying to get me and Buttonmash together," Sweetiebelle said. Rarity closed her eyes and sighed, "I didn't lie to you about anything, yes I invited you here to try to help Buttonmash with his...predicament, I never intended for you two to fall head over hooves for each other, but good to know that you think of him that way," Rarity implied making her sister turn red with embarrassment. "That's not what I meant," Sweetiebelle retorted her face not changing color. "Your face says otherwise dear, anyways he isn't the only reason I had you come, I really wanted you to come see Onyx and I as well as see your old friends, you know, your tours are rather long and probably stressful, so I decided you needed a break, good to see you agree with me," Rarity added to her confession, "Speaking of which, I'm going out to get some things tomorrow, would you like to accompany me, we can stop by your favorite ice cream shop," she said with a smile, changing the subject. Sweetiebelle sighed and looked at her sister, the red disappearing, "I have some-" "Nope, no working, you need to enjoy yourself, I will handle the tasks at hand tomorrow, you go and spend time with your friends and family," Vanillabliss interrupted. "Are you-" "Sure? Yep, you need the relaxation anyways," Vanillabliss said with a grin. "Um...okay I guess I am free tomorrow, so sure sis, I'll join you," Sweetiebelle answered. "Wonderful!" Rarity squealed in delight. Sweetiebelle laughed nervously, "Yay," Chapter 3: More TimeSomething has gone wrong. We don't seem to have an archived copy of that chapter.Chapter 5: When the Heart Falls"I don't know what happened, I heard her arguing with dad about coming and getting me, and then she fell and...and I'm sorry...this...this is all my fault..." Onyx cried out his apology. Twilight looked at him with her own tears. "It is not your fault, you saved your mother and did the right thing," she told him wrapping a wing around him. Buttonmash looked at Sweetiebelle who was doing her best to stay strong. She was sobbing quietly with Applebloom and Scootaloo trying to comfort her. Vanillabliss was off to the side not really knowing what to do, but she was teary eyed, Sweetiebelle was her friend after all. Rainbow Dash, Fluttershy, Applejack, and Pinkie Pie were all sitting in chairs talking and trying not to be nervous about the situation. Pinkie Pie wasn't doing so good though, she looked rather ill, her mane deflated and she looked pale. Buttonmash was going to try and talk to Sweetiebelle, but from the look that Applebloom was giving him, he decided against it. Instead he decided to help with Onyx, knowing that the colt always looked up to him, he could maybe take his mind off things. "Hey Twilight, how's Onyx doing," he asked the mare who smiled and faced him. "He keeps blaming himself, I don't really know how to handle this, I didn't fully raise Dawn, and she never had to deal with death so this isn't my thing for once. I would ask Pinkie, but she looks worse than him." Button smiled lightly, he didn't like this either, Rarity was always around to talk to him when no pony else would, she was like a sister to him. "Let me try, I think I know what to do," Twilight nodded and stepped to the side. Button sighed and moved past her to the small colt who was shaking uncontrollably. "Hey bud, how are you doing?" Button asked trying to start a conversation with the colt. Onyx didn't respond, instead he hugged Button's foreleg, crying into his fur. Button sighed and slowly rubbed the colt's mane, calming the kid as best he could. "Hey do you want to go and play ball outside, it'll take your mind off of things." Onyx looked at him and nodded. The two then started to walk to the door of the room before being stopped by Applebloom. "What do ya think you're doing?" She whispered before smiling at Onyx. Button glared at her and shook her hoof off of his foreleg. "Trying to help, now back off before you scare him..." he said before taking Onyx through the doors. "We are going to talk about this later." Applebloom told him as he left before returning to Sweetiebelle. Button rubbed his foreleg with his hoof. "She has quite a grip." He told himself and Onyx who had stopped crying. "What did she want?" He asked. "Just wanted to know where we were going." "Oh." Button pushed open another door before stepping into the elevator and hitting the button for the first floor. He looked at Onyx and smiled. "I'm sure she'll be ok...Rarity is a very strong pony, she will bounce back." He told the colt reassuringly, "For now let's just focus on the ball, don't want to knock you out with my Killing Throw." Onyx laughed at him. "As if, your Killing Throw is nothing compared to my Swooping Curveball." Buttonmash had successfully changed the kid's mood, hoping it would stay this way. He gripped a ball from the small toy chest in his hoof and they took it outside. "I don't think the staff will mind if we borrow this." He said, spinning the ball on his hoof. Onyx ran to the other side of the yard and waited for the ball. "You ready?" Button asked, prepping the ball in his hoof. "Bring it!" Onyx said, prepping himself. ................................................... The doctor came out of the room and looked around the lobby at the group of ponies. "Is there a relative that I can speak to in the room?" He asked, adjusting his glasses. Sweetiebelle stepped forward, "That would be me, her sister, our parents are still on their way." The doctor observed Sweetiebelle quickly. "Very well, come with me for a moment." He told her as politely as possible. She knew why he had this sort of behavior, you were not allowed to give any sort of emotion in the medical field as to not mislead the family. That wasn't important though, her sister on the other hoof was. "Your sister has suffered from a heart attack, now she is in stable condition and will recover, but this is a very strange case for us." The doctor said. Although Sweetiebelle was relieved that her sister would live, the strangeness of the case interested her. "Why is it strange?" She asked. The doctor wiped his glasses on his shirt with his magic and then placed them back on his muzzle. "Well your sister is in perfect health, for one, for two, from what your nephew has said, she gets in a lot of arguments with his father, so her heart should be some what used to the stress, although I am not ruling it out. There is one factor that does however that changes things, how much alcohol does she consume on a daily basis?" Sweetiebelle was taken aback by this question. She had never seen or even heard of her sister drinking. "Well, I have never seen her drink anything with alcohol in it, unless it is the basic cider samples from Sweet Apple Acres, but even then she was careful...why, what are you saying?" She became very defensive of Rarity especially of such an accusation. "Well because of her health being almost perfect, we decided to take some blood samples, and what came back was an alcohol level that exceeded that of how much a pony should have. Has there been anything other than her ex-husband that has hurt her or caused some sort of stress on her?" Sweetiebelle stepped back slightly and sat down, all of her memories with her sister running through her, trying to find any other hint of alcohol use. "Not that I can think of, she's always been a nice and caring pony, not even her job or child has caused her some form of stress..." she told the doctor who stayed silent for a moment. "Hmmm, there was some slight swelling in her heart, could be she is still heartbroken, as a heart swelling like that could cause Heartbreak Syndrome, combined with the alcohol levels, this could be the reasoning behind her sudden heart attack over a conflict through the phone." He said revealing more about the situation. "I advise that when she wakes up you get some information out of her so we can decide on what medication she may or may not need. This is of the upmost importance for this hospital as we haven't dealt with a case like this in quite a long time. Otherwise she should have a quick recovery, but if you can't get anything out of her, find the alcohol and get rid of it...it could be that the alcohol is also hurting her." Sweetiebelle nodded and went back to the lobby and told everypony the situation, including the alcohol. Everyone was happy to hear she would be ok, but Sweetiebelle could tell they were quite upset about the alcohol abuse. Something was up, and she was going to get to the bottom of it. ............................................................ When Buttonmash had gotten the news, he relayed most of it to Onyx, leaving out the alcohol part of it. Onyx was overjoyed about it all, his mother was going to be okay, he wouldn't have to live with his father. Button couldn't help but smile at the bouncing colt who now waited in the lobby for his mother to wake up. When she did wake up, Buttonmash had to hold him so that Sweetiebelle could explain everything to her along with the doctor. Rarity herself was quite astonished with the whole thing. "I did not realize I was consuming that much...I am terribly sorry for everypony that had to worry about me, I'm fine now, other than the bruise on my head." Sweetiebelle glared at her sister. "You are not fine, you could have died, Rarity, Onyx would be with his father who he despises." She told her, tears in her eyes. Rarity smiled and held open her hooves for a hug. "Now now, we know that would have never happened...plus after all of this, I am quite afraid of touching anything that has alcohol in it. I...I only picked up that habit, after he left me alone..." she said, her voice cracking slightly, tears forming in her eyes. "And...and afterwards, I couldn't stop the relaxing feeling felt rather amazing, and the taste of the liquid was really good and satisfying. It just felt so...right." she sobbed as Sweetiebelle took hold of her sister and hugged her. The two cried for a long time before the doctor interrupted then with a cough. "Now, Rarity as your doctor I really do not recommend alcohol. From what you have said, it almost sounds like you were very close to becoming an addict to the substance...if you do continue with it, the rehabilitation process is not only expensive, but it will physically and mentally hurt you. Which can lead to you hurting others, so I do not recommend it any further from this visit onward." Rarity wiped the snot off her muzzle with a tissue. "I completely understand, now if you don't mind me asking, when can I leave and get back to my field of work." She asked. "Since stress was another factor, I am going to let you leave today to go back home, but you will be on bed rest for at least two weeks. We can not have this happening again, do you understand?" The doctor told her sternly, a bit of concern could be heard in his tone. Rarity nodded once more and slowly stepped out of bed, holding on to the pole that held her IV bags. "Now that this is all over with, where is my Onyx?" She asked her sister. Sweetiebelle smiled. "He is in the lobby being held by Button, we didn't want him knowing about the whole alcohol situation." She told her as she helped her to the door. "You do know I can walk just fine, right darling, I'm just bringing this with me until my nurses come back to take these needles out of me." She told her sister who let go quickly. "Sorry, just trying to be caring," she laughed in embarrassment. Rarity gave her a thankful smile before opening the door and stepping out. Onyx squealed in delight and broke free from Button's grip. He hugged Rarity tightly who hugged him in return. Soon after everypony was hugging her, including Buttonmash who she thanked for helping with Onyx after Pinkie told her about his actions. Meanwhile, Applebloom and Button glared at each other, one still mad about the past, the other, frustrated with her anger. Sweetiebelle took quick notice of this and remembered Scootaloo's discomfort towards Button. Button was quick to leave the hospital, telling Rarity goodbye and wishing her a swift recovery before leaving. Sweetiebelle wanted to follow after him, but she decided against it. She had more important things to attend to. After everypony had gotten their words out to Rarity, Sweetiebelle and Onyx walked her home. "Don't forget you are not allowed to lift a hoof to work." Sweetie told her sister sternly as they walked. "You have nothing to worry about, dear sister, I believe I can obey a doctor." Onyx looked at Rarity, unconvinced. "Don't worry Aunt Belle, I think I can make sure she isn't working." He said. His mother glared at him, but Sweetiebelle stopped. "What did you just call me?" She asked, Belle was a name that Buttonmash used for her, the Crusaders used it too, but more so Button. "Aunt Belle? Well you are my aunt, and plus Button is right, it comes out better when you say it." He answered. Sweetiebelle looked at her nephew, who was smiling. "Oh really? And what else did you and Button talk about while you two were out there?" Sweetiebelle figured she could get some information about of Onyx. "Why should it matter to you, it's not like you like him anyways. Plus he did say it could ruin your reputation as a big celebrity." She blushed. so he does like me, even after everything. Sweetiebelle thought, unknowingly twirling her mane with her hoof. "Sweetiebelle are you alright? You're a little red in the face." Sweetiebelle jumped at her sister's voice. She thought about an excuse as quickly as she could. "Uh, um...I am still a little upset about the hospital." Rarity looked at her with almost the exact same expression that Onyx had given to her. he is definitely your son. Sweetiebelle joked in her head. "You don't have to lie to me, Sweetiebelle, if you like Buttonmash you really shouldn't hide it," Rarity told her, "And we both know that you are not the best with secrets, especially with your body language." Rarity pointed out the hoof in her mane. Sweetiebelle put her hoof back down and sighed. "You're one to talk," Rarity glared at her. "but you are right...I have found myself attracted to him." Onyx's smile broke into a large grin. "You like Buttonmash!" He yelled loudly. Sweetiebelle covered his mouth. The moon was in the sky, and ponies were sleeping. "Will you keep it down? I don't need anypony else knowing. Button is right about my reputation though. I'd lose money and fans, both of which I cannot afford to lose. I'm a young star, these things are not supposed to happen until I am older." She sighed in sadness. The three of them soon made it to the boutique and went inside. Rarity didn't need Onyx to hear what she was about to tell Sweetiebelle. Love was love, but Onyx was not old enough to understand it. The Hearts and Hooves Day incident from all those years ago came to her mind and her brain shuttered. It wasn't long until she ushered Onyx to bed, constantly telling him that she would be fine. She eventually Pinkie Promised him that she wouldn't work so now, she was really stuck. She came back down the stairs as Sweetiebelle tried to escape into the kitchen. "Hold it right there Sweetiebelle, we are going to have a chat about this reputation of yours." Sweetiebelle stopped and came back in the room, Vanillabliss tailing behind her. She had already went back to the house earlier and was eager to hear about the conversation. "Now miss Bliss, what ever is said can not be spoken of if Sweetiebelle does not want anything said, understood?" Vanillabliss nodded. "Yes ma'am. Just because I'm her manager doesn't mean I'm not her friend, I can hold any secret you throw at me." She told her with a salute. Rarity nodded and sat at the table offering two of the other seats to her sister and her friend. The two sat down and waited for Rarity to speak. "Now this...reputation of yours, how important is it to you?" She asked Sweetiebelle who looked at the table. "Well considering the fact that she is still rising amongst the ranks of stardom, I would say it is pretty important." Vanillabliss answered for Sweetiebelle with a smile. "You really remind me of myself sometimes, you know that Sweetiebelle?" Rarity told her. Rarity went back to her younger years, she could remember her times of doing whatever she could for fame. From helping Fancy Pants with a tuxedo, to opening up several boutiques, it all came back to her sophistication and reputation. That was until she met her special somepony and had her son Midnight Onyx. Her whole life changed after that, but she always put her family before her reputation. She hoped Sweetiebelle would have taken up on that too, but now she could tell her sister hadn't. "What do you mean?" Sweetiebelle asked in confusion. "You care more about your reputation than any of your relationships, although I do believe I did okay thanks to friendship. You, on the other hoof, decided to leave as soon as possible, which I personally believe that was what caused your conflict with Buttonmash." "That was not what our argument was about, it was never about me leaving!" Sweetiebelle slammed her hoof on the table. She was trying to forget about it, all of it. "Do you even remember what caused it, hm," Rarity responded, controlling herself. She didn't need to end up at the hospital again. "Did you or did you not quote one of his sentences...especially about what would happen to the crusaders...and what about all of your friends. I remember every detail about that explanation, because my sister's pain was more important than a piece of cloth." Rarity told her, reminding Sweetiebelle of everything. .............................................................. "Oh, hey Belle, what's up?" It had been a few years ago, Sweetiebelle was about to leave on her tour. The last ponies she needed to tell bye to was Buttonmash, and her sister and nephew. "Um...do you mind if I come in?" Button shook his head. "Mom is still out running errands, but I'm sure she won't mind." He said letting her enter his home. They had a small conversation, talking about their day and how Button's game was coming along. For him today was the day he was going to ask her out on a date, but he didn't prepare for her big reveal. "I'm going on a starter tour, and a big one at that!" She told him excitedly, hoping for him to be excited as well. He wasn't, instead he looked at the couch and then at his computer desk across the room, hiding his sadness. "Oh...um...that...that's great Belle." He said, his voice had gotten quiet. He already knew the consequences of being famous, he never wanted to be some big time celebrity. Everypony would be watching every move, looking for drama. This also meant he could never be with Sweetiebelle as her reputation would be on the line. "What? Is something wrong?" She asked, reaching out to him. He shook his head and tried his best to smile, failing miserably. "Are...you not happy for me? I thought you would have been just as excited to see me go big, following my dream." He dropped the act and sighed. "I...I am happy for you, but what about everypony here?" He asked. "What are you talking about?" He felt his face turn red with slight anger, it seemed like she jumped into it without a second guess. "Your sister? Your nephew? The Crusaders? What do you mean what am I talking about...you're just leaving all of us behind!" His voice started to raise, but he didn't care anymore, he never liked celebrities as every single one of them was snooty and acted like their friends were never important. He knew some didn't act like that, but from Sweetiebelle's expression, she had already forgotten them. "The girls already understand this, they told me to follow my dream...I...I am not leaving them behind!" She yelled back. The argument had begun. "I'm not just talking about the girls here! You were scheduled to help several young colts and fillies get their cutiemark or even help them find their purpose! You are quite literally leaving The Cutiemark Crusaders for some fame and glory!" Button reminded her. "You don't realize that I already knew what was going to happen, I'm doing this to get my life started! Applebloom has already started her business! Scootaloo is doing her best to help out Rumble! And you! You are working on your very own game! Where is my life supposed to begin?" "I don't know! But I do know one thing...you always let popularity get to your head! Do you not remember homecoming, it took me and the Crusaders everything in our power to get you that crown! Even getting you to date the star buck ball player to get you there! It was only when he cheated on you and then you yelling at Diamond Tiara for taking me to the dance that you realized it wasn't important!" He continued to throw out more examples. Tears were now falling off of Sweetiebelle's cheeks as he continued to yell more and more about her mistakes. "And then even now when I am about to ask you on a date...you decide that this tour is more important than everypony, including your family..." his voice died down and his anger slowly left his face. This was her chance to fight back. "I...will...always have family and friends to think about and keep me from going that far...if you would have listened to me you would understand that! But then again you have never listened to me! You have no idea what it is like to have a talent that can only be used in certain areas at certain times! Your life...and your reputation do not matter to other ponies! You sit here and berate me...yell at me...and yet you still didn't have the nerve to fight back against Diamond Tiara's coltfriend! You still never tried to go to a dance! And you still think that I would want to date a pony like you! An introvert, who cares only for himself and the few friends he has! Who thinks I should stay here so I could date him and throw my talent in the trash! I have always cared for anypony and everypony and yet I try to do something that benefits myself and I'm the bad guy! I don't think so, just like I do not think you and I could ever work as a couple!" And with that she ran out of the house and to the boutique, in tears. Buttonmash had said some of the most regrettable things that he had ever said, and those things would be the reason he became who he was today. A pony so focused on his career he could never say anything to hurt somepony, a time where he could cut himself away from the world. Unfortunately, that wouldn't happen yet. He made up for everything he said, helping everypony out and doing everything he could to wipe those words away, that is until his new project started and everything rushed back to Buttonmash. He would work profusely, with every single word he had said, echoing in his head like a broken record. ................................................................ Sweetiebelle felt tears stream down her face as everything came back to her. How could Buttonmash still like her after all of that. How could she still like him after all of the things he said. In truth she did like him, even after all of that, she still wanted to be with him. Every time he was around, she was light headed, and even seeing who he had become helped. His fatherly acts towards Onyx, his helpfulness to other ponies. His laugh, his smile, his focus of everything and everypony around him. It all made her feel happy inside in a way she had never felt before. "Darling? It's ok to be this way...even when I and Onyx's father were together, we fought, even mom and dad fight sometimes. Arguments can strengthen or hurt a relationship, but it all comes from the heart. Princess Cadence told me that once. She told me things about love that only I could dream of." Rarity advised. "Love is a difficult thing to understand, but there is one thing that everypony knows about it...if you and your partner truly love each other...then love will always prevail, even when times get rough." Vanillabliss added. She had been in several relationships, and understood what love could be. She had just never truly experienced it herself. Sweetiebelle looked at her friend and sister, a newfound smile on her face. "Thank you, for helping me understand what I need to do." She said. "Which is what, exactly?" Vanillabliss asked. "I'm going to tell Buttonmash how I feel, and hope he feels that way too!" She said, standing up from the table. "Wait, wait, if you are going to do this, then you must know something." Rarity stopped her. Sweetiebelle raised an eyebrow in confusion. "Buttonmash has been away from his game for some time now, and as Vanillabliss has told me, you were at his place earlier today. So I am sure you have seen him in some sort of trouble." Sweetiebelle remembered his lack of sleep. "Are you talking about his sleeping problem?" She said. "Oh, it more than a sleeping problem, he completely drops his social life to that of his computer. He almost never leaves unless he needs groceries, and when he does he brings a cart with that computer on it. The stories you have heard about him being helpful are true, but have you spoken to Scootaloo and Applebloom about his problem yet?" Rarity questioned. Sweetiebelle shook her head, but remembered the stand off that Buttonmash and Applebloom had. "Well Scootaloo did mention some of his problems I guess, but she was uncomfortable." "You should speak to Applebloom then about his problem. Unfortunately I believe it is going to take all three of you to get the Button you love back." .............................................................. "He ain't worth it Sweetiebelle, trust me, you deserve better." Applebloom told Sweetiebelle who had just finished explaining the situation to her. "Deserve better, Where did the Applebloom I know go?" Sweetiebelle asked, remembering how hard Applebloom tried to get Sweetiebelle to go on a date with Buttonmash. "Ah'm still me, but Buttonmash has changed and Scootaloo and Ah already tried to help 'im once, and we got insulted for it." Applebloom said, trying to keep her composure as she fixed her tie. "Well being insulted never stopped you before." Sweetiebelle told her. Applebloom sighed and faced her friend. "He was a friend, that's the difference, nothin' hurts more than a friend sayin' those things," Applebloom moved past Sweetiebelle and towards a table with a suitcase on it. "Not only that, he couldn't make it to Granny's funeral or even Big Mac's weddin'." She opened the suitcase with a angry snort and started checking the papers in it. Sweetiebelle let her read the papers and looked around the room. Applebloom's house was actually rather small almost a one story variant of Buttonmash's with the bedroom being in a hallway and a dining room. The walls were a royal purple with a white trim and most of the furniture looked like it was built by the Apple Family. There were some pictures of Applebloom with several other ponies, including some with what Sweetiebelle could guess were clients at their new homes. "I didn't make it either." Sweetiebelle defended Button as she picked up a picture of her and Applebloom in their school gala dresses. "Yeah well," Applebloom signed and closed the case. "You weren't in town an' he was." She said as she put some straps on the case. "Well if he was working than I don't see the problem with that, everypony has to make living and-" "Ya don't think Ah know that!" Applebloom interrupted, facing Sweetiebelle. "Ah could care less if he had showed up, but not only that, even afterwards he never showed any form of concern for me. Even before then with the wedding, he didn't even send a card to Big Macintosh and Sugarbelle, he didn't even congratulate them Sweetiebelle. Big Mac helped Button out a lot when it came to learning how to care for a yard, an' he repaid him by not showing up. Needless to say that Big Mac was hurt, he may be over it now, but the thought is still there." Sweetiebelle took a step back as Applebloom took a step forward. "So give me one good reason Ah should help him be happy. One reason that could completely change everything Ah just told you." Sweetiebelle looked at Applebloom. "For me, and the Cutiemark Crusaders, it would be like all three of us working together again, helping ponies and-" "It's not that easy...maybe the old me would have said yes the CMC and the ol' days, but not after everything he put me through, Ah'm sorry, but he just ain't worth it," Applebloom cut Sweetiebelle off and put the suitcase over her neck and shoulders. "So you're saying I'm not worth your time either." Applebloom looked at her. "Ah didn't say that." Sweetiebelle looked down. "You don't have to, you are about to go to work, that speaks volumes about how hypocritical you are." "What're you sayin'?" Applebloom arched a brow. "Nothing, just go sell that house," Sweetiebelle left the room. "And good luck." She finished before leaving Applebloom's house. ......................................................... Applebloom sighed as Sweetiebelle left her home. "She just doesn't get it." She told herself as she picked up a picture of her, her friends and Buttonmash in their graduation gowns. Applebloom missed those days and even now she wished she could forgive Buttonmash but she couldn't. Big Mac may have forgiven, for Celestia's sake Granny had probably forgiven him, but Applebloom couldn't. Now her friend, who she had pressured to at least try going on a date with him, was smitten. She hated love, not for the fact of being with somepony, but all of the drama, she couldn't get by it. Even when she held a crying Scootaloo because of what a doctor said about her body not being able to hold a child. She couldn't help but think about how Rumble would react and dump her when he could. But it all came full circle for her, Applebloom hated love. ............................................................. "Sure, I can help." Scootaloo told Sweetiebelle as she sat down. "Really?" Sweetiebelle questioned. She had just asked for her help and she just agreed without a second thought. "Yeah, I mean I owe him. If it wasn't for him, Rumble and I wouldn't be together." Scootaloo explained her reasoning. "Yeah if Button hadn't told me to toughen up, well we wouldn't be here." A voice called from the kitchen. Sweetiebelle jumped at his voice. "When did he get back?" She asked. "Yesterday, he decided to take a break to help take care of me." Sweetiebelle smiled. "Well how nice of him." "Yes well let's hope we can do something about Button. Did you get Applebloom on board?" Sweetiebelle sighed and shook her head. "No, I don't know what her problem is with him. I understand that he snapped and yelled at you two, but she can't seem to get over it." Sweetiebelle sighed and sat back on the couch frustrated. Scootaloo looked at Sweetiebelle as Rumble came out of the kitchen with some hay burgers on a tray. "Lunch is up." He said, setting the tray down and sitting next to Scootaloo. Scootaloo smiled and kissed his cheek. "Thanks love." She turned back to Sweetiebelle. "Buttonmash said some crazy things, but even now it amazes me that she is still upset. His worst insult towards her was calling her out on not having anypony to call her own, and then, well he insulted me about my problems. He apologized to me pretty quickly and I'm sure he has apologized to her by now, but in some ways I think she is jealous that she doesn't have special somepony. She has never tried to date anypony, remember we practically had to force her to go to the Winter Gala with Featherweight." Scootaloo explained. "Yeah, wait whatever happened to that colt who she helped with his talent...the tap dancer." Sweetiebelle pointed out. "Well, if I remember correctly, he's a big time tap dancer now and an actor." Scootaloo said. Sweetiebelle fell back in her seat with a frustrated sigh. "Well, what do you suppose we do?" She asked, crossing her forehooves. Scootaloo looked around, lost in thought. Rumble's eyes widened suddenly. "What about Tender Taps, didn't they have a connection?" He asked. Scootaloo and Sweetiebelle looked at him. "Were you even paying attention?" Scootaloo griped. "We already mentioned him, there is no way we could even get him back here." Rumble smirked. "I think I know a way, Taps and I were good friends at one point, and if I remember correctly he owes me after I helped him with a stunt he couldn't do." Rumble looked at his hoof his smirk forming into a sly grin. Sweetiebelle stood up, "Then what are you waiting for," she started, "call him!" Rumble chuckled and left the room, leaving Sweetiebelle and Scootaloo alone. "Let's hope this works." Scootaloo said as they waited for Rumble to return. It wasn't long until he reappeared with a grin. "He said he would be here tomorrow, he doesn't know what the plan is." Sweetiebelle nodded and looked at Scootaloo. "Then that just leaves us to get Applebloom to meet him." She told her friend. Scootaloo smiled and stood up, holding her broken leg in the air. "I think I have an idea on how to do just that." She said with a smile. _____________________________________ Buttonmash groaned as he typed away at his computer, unaware of the outside world once more. His hooves stopped for a moment as his eyes scanned the words on the screen. "I knew I would find you here. But...but how? You once mentioned something about the feeling of the wind in your wings and mane. Rainybreeze closes her wings and blushes and-" he stared at the typo in front of him, a new form of frustration forming in his head. "Dammit!" He moved his mouse to the word and corrected it. He sighed and sat back in his chair, sliding down part of the way and groaning. "Why did I decide to do this again?" He questioned himself, his eyes still glued to the screen. He glanced at the clock and groaned once more. "Two in the morning and I'm not even done with this part of the script." He pushed back from the desk and stood up, popping his back on the way. Coffee was what he needed, he couldn't chance going to sleep, not tonight at least. He dragged himself into the kitchen and started his machine, watching it slowly make his beverage. He yawned and listened as the liquid churned and moved around, mixing the powder with the water. He tapped his hoof until finally the machine dinged loudly and poured him a cup of coffee. As he reached for the hot cup he heard some pony knocking on his door. He waited for them to leave, but to it continued forcing him to go towards the door. He was hoping that it wasn't some burglar and just an old friend. Luckily for him it was the latter as Sweetiebelle sat in the doorway. "What...what are you doing here, especially at this time?" Sweetiebelle chuckled with embarrassment. "I may have stayed out a little later than planned with Scootaloo, the boutique was locked and nopony was answering." Button arched a brow. "Spare key?" Sweetiebelle shook her head. "Rarity doesn't want to chance somepony getting in while she is asleep or gone." Buttonmash sighed. "What about Applebloom and Scootaloo?" "They both live pretty far away from here and I don't think I want to be out here, as a celebrity, something bad could happen." She said, standing up. Buttonmash sighed mentally this time, it wasn't that he didn't want her here, he was just hoping he'd get to work in peace. "Well come on in, no point in you staying out there." He told her, stepping to the side. Sweetiebelle trotted into his home and looked at him with a thankful smile. "Thanks Button, I don't think I will stay out this late again." She told him moving towards the couch. Button did his best to not stare at her flank as he closed the door and locked it. He turned back towards her as she leaned into the couch with a sigh. "That's the spot, it feels like I have been on my hooves all day." Button chuckled and walked back to the kitchen. "Would you like some coffee?" He asked. Sweetiebelle shook her head. "No thanks, I'm not big on coffee." She answered. He shrugged and grabbed his now lukewarm cup, taking a sip on the way back to the living room. "Why are you up so late?" Sweetiebelle asked as Buttonmash grabbed a coaster off of the coffee table. "Work." He simply replied, going back towards his desk. "Oh...and how's that coming along?" He shrugged in response as he sat down and placed his cup on the desk. "It's doing alright, just tired of typos and other mistakes." He said, clicking his mouse. Sweetiebelle sighed and slid down the couch slightly, her eyelids growing heavier by the minute. There was a long silence that followed soon after, the only sounds being Button on his computer and the clock ticking in his living room. Sweetiebelle had eventually drifted to sleep to the sounds her body falling to the side as she slept. Every now and then she would snore lightly, not loud enough to alarm Buttonmash, but what did alarm him was her sleep talk. It was more so a mumble, but it had caught the Stallion's attention quickly. Button shook his head as he now stood over his crush's sleeping form. She was beautiful even in sleep, but he felt as if she wouldn't be comfortable on the couch so he did what his mom used to do to him. He found a way to get her onto his back with some trouble, but she at least wasn't as heavy as he had first expected. He made his way to the staircase and wrapped his tail around her, holding her in place as he made the climb. He would stop every now and then when she would mumble or snore, making sure not to wake her up. He finally got to the top and took a few moments to rest. It was a struggle to not drop her or wake her or fall down the stairs with her, leaving him slightly exhausted. He then continued his trek to the right hallway where he opened his bedroom door and scooted in, using the moonlight to reveal a safe route to his bed. He pulled the covers back and slid Sweetiebelle off of him and onto the mattress, quickly sliding the covers onto her, he smiled. She moved around slightly, getting used to her new spot as Button contemplated kissing her forehead. He shook his head and blushed before leaving and heading back to his desk. He sighed as he continued his work, a new idea for a chapter in his head. Author's Note And that is chapter 5. This was a long time coming as I was struggling to figure out how to continue this story...especially after me and my special somepony had a falling out, but that is besides the point I hope you enjoyed. This is Silvermoon signing off...PEACE OUT! Chapter 6: A Day of Happiness.Sweetiebelle slowly opened her eyes, yawning and stretching as she did so. After several moments of blinking and stretching she took notice of the room she was in. It wasn't the living room, and she was no longer on the couch. Did she sleep trot up there? No that didn't make sense to her at all. Did Buttonmash carry her up there? She felt a sudden heat consume her cheeks. She did her best to shake that thought away, but was only able to push it to the back of her mind. Finally her cheeks returned to their normal color and she was able to leave the room without getting caught. She slowly made her way down the stairs and could hear Button typing on his keyboard. He had been up all night working on his game. Sweetiebelle made it to his office space and tapped on the wall to get his attention. He perked his ears and turned around with a tired grin and a new set of bags under his eyes. "You're awake. Did you sleep well?" He asked before yawning. "Better than you did, from the looks of it," She answered. "if you even closed your eyes." Buttonmash chuckled and turned back to his computer. "How did I even end up in your bed last night?" The thought had returned and now Sweetiebelle needed to know. "I carried you," he said bluntly. "you didn't look comfortable on the couch so I put you in my bed." He finished as he continued his typing. Sweetiebelle blushed hard and was happy, for once, that Button was looking at his computer. "Huh, well thank you." She thanked him and moved closer. "No problem." He answered and moved a hoof towards his mouse. Sweetiebelle quickly grabbed the mouse in her magic and moved it further away from him. "You can face me when you talk, ya know." She told him. He slid his chair towards the mouse and gripped in his hoof, tugging on it. "I'm kind of working here Belle, can I have my mouse back?" He asked, tugging alittle harder. Sweetiebelle rolled her eyes and moved the mouse towards her, causing him to face her. "This 'work' of yours isn't healthy, take a break and I will make us breakfast." Button shook his head. "No, I have work to do, I'm on a dead-" "You don't have a choice, if this goes on, you could seriously hurt yourself. Not to mention," she looked at what he was typing. "you aren't even typing full words anymore...you need to rest." She told him. "This is the second time you have stopped me from working, how would you feel if I stopped you from going to your concerts?" Sweetiebelle glared at him. "This has nothing to do with your career, but it has everything to do with you. I will not allow you to work in these conditions as long as I'm here." Buttonmash sighed. "Which is what, another two weeks? I mean you really think you can keep me from working when there are other ponies who want to see and speak to you, not to mention there would be more news articles and then Ponyville would be filled with-" "I don't care, your health is more important than some stupid reputation." She interrupted. Buttonmash rolled his eyes. "You do know if you ruin your reputation, everypony will look at you differently, right? I can tell you that first hoof, I'm a prime example of that. I did something great, I made a popular game and now I'm expected to make an even better one. Because I did so well with one game, all of Equestria is expecting something big...and if I fail them, I won't be able to step into the spotlight ever again without being tortured by all of the angry ponies." He told her, staring at the floor. "I dealt with hate from the last game, and even then I struggled with it. If I fail Equestria by delaying my game further or the game isn't liked I won't be able to step hoof in public again...I...I have to live up to their expectations." Sweetiebelle put a hoof to his chin and raised his eyes to meet hers. "Don't think like that Button. I deal with the same hate and although yes I struggle with it, I'm able to counter that stress and sadness with the happiness of many other fans. Some ponies are jealous, and others just don't like you, but your job isn't to please everypony...its to please as many ponies as you can, while keeping yourself happy and healthy." She told him with a warm smile. Buttonmash felt his cheeks get warm and his eyes widened as he felt Sweetiebelle's lips touch his. He didn't take long to embrace her kiss though and closed his eyes. Sweetiebelle didn't know what had come over her at that moment, but it felt right. After all, actions speak louder than words. They didn't separate until Button needed to breath. "What...what was that for?" He said, his heart skipping a beat. "For the stallion that I've fallen for of course." Sweetiebelle winked at him and pecked his cheek with another kiss. "Now I want you to go rest while I cook breakfast, alright?" Button nodded slowly as she trotted away. "What...just happened?" He asked himself as he placed a hoof on his lips. Buttonmash felt lightheaded and felt several emotions flowing through him, but only one remained in the end. This emotion he had felt before, one that had developed the minute he had seen Sweetiebelle in that light purple dress from their homecoming dance. He smiled and turned back to his computer. "One more day couldn't hurt...could it?" He said as he pulled up an email and sent in a delay notice before heading to his room and taking a nap. ...................................................... Sweetiebelle hummed a small tune as she added oats to the bowl. She had a large smile on her face as she did so, knowing that had been the best kiss of her life. She had kissed other stallions before, but none of them actually took her breathe away like that. She blushed at the thought of Button's lips against hers and did her best to not mess up their breakfast. She was also relieved to get that weight off her shoulders, she could finally express her emotions to Buttonmash. "Why did I not date him beforehoof? I wouldn't have had to deal with the heartbreak from those other colts." She asked herself as some other memories came back to her. He had always been there for her, any time she was struggling in class, he would help her study. Every time a pony broke her heart, he would lend her his shoulder to cry on. She had taken him for granted and now she understood how he felt. He had reached for her and she never reached back and now, she had to reach for him. _____________________________________ Button sighed and stared up at the ceiling, his hooves behind his head. He could still feel Sweetiebelle's soft lips and it made him smile before a new thought turned his smile around. One thing still hadn't changed, he couldn't jeopardize her reputation. She was a bigger celebrity and if she was in a relationship, she would lose several fans, especially stallions. To make matters worse she could get threatened because of it or worse. He shuddered at the thought and sat up. This couldn't continue, now he just had to break it to her that they wouldn't work out. He did his best to think of a way to stop this to just cut it off before it got too far, but nothing was working. Instead he kept picturing their future together and found it difficult to even try and consider ending what had just ignited. He was about to get out of bed when there was a knock on his door. "Button? Are you awake yet?" Sweetiebelle's voice called out as the door slowly opened. "Yeah, I'm up." He replied as she stepped into the room, a tray floating in her magic. "Good, I tried to make a special oat breakfast that Rarity told me about, but I may have burned it..." she chuckled in embarrassment. "So, instead, we are having just plain old oats, if that's ok with you?" She said. "That's fine, you didn't have to make anything special for me." He told her with a smile as she trotted over. She sat next to him, close enough that their fur brushed against each other. Button took his plate and started to eat as they sat on his bed silently. "So, um...I was wondering if you would like to go out later, for a picnic I mean?" Sweetiebelle broke the silence before shoving another bite into her mouth. Buttonmash glanced at her for a moment and swallowed before speaking. "Sure, I haven't had a picnic in awhile. Just let me get cleaned up first." He answered as he took another bite. He was trying to play it off like it wasn't a date. "Ok! so it's a date!" She said excitedly. Button groaned mentally, it wasn't like he didn't want this, but he cared too much about her to ruin what she had going. If this was back in highschool then things could've been different, but it wasn't. "Once I'm done eating, I'll head home and get myself freshened up." She mentioned. Buttonmash looked at her. "What time do you want to meet up?" He asked, trying to get the details. "How about you pick me up from the Boutique at five." Button looked at his clock, it was ten past eleven in the morning. Two o' clock wasn't a good time though, several ponies would be out and about. "Why not earlier, like two or three?" Button asked as he finished. "Scootaloo and I have plans with Applebloom at three so that's a no go. Why, is five not going to work for you?" Sweetiebelle stood up with tray and her now empty plate in her magic. Button shook his head, trying to think of an excuse. "No, I was just thinking it would be a bit more romantic to have it earlier." He told her with a slight brush. That excuse was slightly true, he had been taught that mares love a nice lunch in the sun. "Good." She started to levitate his plate out of his hooves. Buttonmash snatched it away though and quickly grabbed the other dishes. "I got these, you just go grab whatever you brought with you." He told her and quickly left the room before she could argue. She followed soon after and turned into the living room as he went into the kitchen. She grabbed her belongings and moved towards the door before hesitating and turning back around. "I'm heading back, I'll see you in a bit!" She called back as she went to open the door. Button practically sprinted out of his kitchen and slid to a stop in front of her. "You are the most impatient pony I have ever met." Buttonmash said with a mock glare. Sweetiebelle smiled in return and kissed his cheek again. Button turned a bright shade of pink for a moment and smiled. "Well I am a celebrity, and celebrities never wait for anypony." Sweetiebelle told him before trying to turn away. He stopped her and kissed her cheek before opening the door for her. Sweetiebelle did her best to hide her own blush as she stepped outside and left Button in his doorway. "I have been trying to get ahold of you for hours, Sweetiebelle!" Vanillabliss scolded Sweetiebelle who was still trying to hide her blush. "I'm sorry that I was busy and had my phone off, okay? You don't need to lecture me about it." Sweetiebelle argued back. Vanillabliss snorted at her response. "And just where have you been, Sweetiebelle, I had already checked with Applebloom and Scootaloo, the latter informing me that you left her home around two in the morning. Do you not realize how dangerous-" "You do realize this is my home right, everypony here already knows me so it's not dangerous, plus I found somewhere safe to stay and I'm here now aren't I?" She reminded her, leaning back in her chair. "Just because you are from here darling, doesn't mean you are safe out there when the moon is high." Rarity intervened as she stepped away from the sink. "You are a celebrity dear, anypony would do anything to be with you, trust me on that one." She added. "Now there is something else you brought up that I must know about as your sister, where did you stay last night?" Sweetiebelle hesitated and felt the warmth in her cheeks expand to her whole face. "Well that's none of your business," she replied, trying to play it off. "Actually it is. I need to know so I can check in with them if you ever go missing." Rarity told her. "Plus I want to know why you are as red as a tamato." Vanillabliss pointed out. Sweetiebelle sighed and looked at the table. "Buttonmash..." she mumbled quietly. Rarity leaned forward and arched a brow. "What was that, you are going to have to speak up darling." She said. "Buttonmash!" Sweetiebelle said quickly this time. Vanillabliss held a hoof to her mouth and squealed into it while Rarity simply smiled. "I knew it! You do like him!" Vanillabliss called out proudly. "Well it certainly took you long enough, didn't it?" Rarity said. "And from that blush, you did something didn't you?" Rarity added. Sweetiebelle looked at her sister. "We may have...kissed, but that's all I am going to say!" Sweetiebelle put a hoof in her manager's mouth, cutting her off. Rarity giggled quietly at her sister, earning herself a glare. "Now if you will excuse me, I need to get ready for our date and go meet up with Applebloom." Sweetiebelle told them as she left the room. Vanillabliss' jaw dropped before looking at Rarity. "I'd say you owe me twenty bits dear," Rarity said with a smirk. Vanillabliss snorted in response and left the room to get Rarity's bits. Rarity planned on giving the bits back as she wasn't a gambling mare, but she thought it might teach Vanillabliss a lesson. As Vanillabliss returned with the twenty bits Rarity began her lesson on gambling and started teaching her about generosity. ___________________________________________ Buttonmash sighed as the warm water hit his fur and mane. He pushed his mane back underneath the shower head more before grabbing the shampoo and putting a dollop of it on his hoof. He rubbed his hooves together and started to lather up his mane as he let his thoughts take over. One of his thoughts being about his upcoming date with Sweetiebelle, the other was about protecting her and her reputation. Truth be told, he considered himself selfish for wanting the first thought to take over. He wanted the date to go smoothly and make the mare of his dreams happier than any other mare, but he couldn't get that other thought out of his head. It lingered there throughout the rest of his day as he got ready for the date. These thoughts plagued him so badly that he had forgotten about his computer and when it dinged from an incoming email he didn't notice. He finished getting ready, his outfit being a bowtie that his dad gave him and left his home, locking the door as he did. He sighed and stepped off of his lawn and started his walk to the Carousel Boutique. He had hoped his bowtie would be subtle enough that he wouldn't have to worry about anypony asking about it. Unfortunately, that wasn't the case as some ponies would stop him every now and then and ask him about it. He would come up with a quick excuse and continue on his way until he eventually ended up at the door of the Boutique. He took a moment to breath and knocked on the door. He could hear some slight shuffling inside before the door opened with its signature welcoming jingle. He was greeted by Onyx who looked at him funny. "You know you could just come in right, this isn't a house." Button chuckled and rubbed the back of his head nervously. "I forget that sometimes." Button replied as Onyx stepped out of the way to let him in. Buttonmash stepped inside and went to the kitchen where Rarity was cooking something and Vanillabliss was typing on her laptop. "You're early." Vanillabliss looked up from her screen. Rarity turned around and smiled happily. "Not bad, although an actual suit would've been better." Rarity told him before turning back around. "Subtlety is the key Rarity." Buttonmash mentioned as he sat down at the table. "And why is that?" Rarity asked, not bothering to face him. "Well I believe we shouldn't have cameras in our face the whole time, not to mention this could hurt her reputation. I'm not fond on seeing what could happen if this gets out during her tour." Rarity hesitated and turned her head slightly. "He's not wrong, Rarity, anytime a singer or an actor gets into a romantic relationship, their fans go ballistic. It's really fifty-fifty though, some ponies accept it and still enjoy that pony or she loses fans, gets some threatening hate mail until it all dies down or the she breaks up with him." Button gulped at the Vanillabliss' statement. "Ponies are so demanding these days, but Button dear you need to let that go, it could leave a negative impact on you two," Rarity turned around and pointed a spoon at Button. "Just enjoy each other's company for the day and try to forget about that nonsense, okay?" She finished. Button sighed and smiled at Rarity. "That's better, now do me a big favor while you are out, make sure Sweetiebelle enjoys every moment with you." Button nodded as hoofsteps could be heard coming down the stairs. He stood up and prepared himself as the bell for the door jingled and Sweetiebelle entered the kitchen. Buttonmash's jaw hit the floor when Sweetiebelle came into view. She was wearing a pink dress that matched her physique and her mane was twisted into a braid that mixed its color perfectly. Rarity gasped and giggled happily with Vanillabliss who was now standing. "You look magnificent dear sister." Rarity complimented. "And from Button's face there, I'd think he likes it too." Vanillabliss teased. Sweetiebelle blushed and looked at Button, her eyes glistening in the kitchen light. "I...I love it." Was all Buttonmash could manage to say. She took his breathe away and he almost forgot how to breath. "Now you two go have fun before the day ends." Rarity told them. Sweetiebelle nodded and levitated a picnic basket over behind her as they left the Boutique. "So, where are they going? I was just about to show Buttonmash my new game!" Onyx said as he entered the kitchen. "And why were they so dressed up?" Vanillabliss chuckled quietly. "You will understand when you're older dear, now do me a favor and set the table." Onyx groaned in response and started on mumbling as he did what he was told. _______________________________________ "You do realize we are going on a picnic, right?" Button said. "Yes I know, but I haven't worn a dress for a date in ages, so I decided to now." Sweetiebelle replied with a smile. Button shrugged as they started to walk, catching the attention of more ponies as they did. "We have a lot of ponies staring at us, are you sure this is a good idea?" Button asked her. Sweetiebelle responded by wrapping her tail around his and leaning against him slightly. "I've never been more sure about this in my life." She told him, her cheeks a bright red color. Button blushed as well and did his best to ignore the eyes on them. He wrapped his tail around hers and soon found himself smiling. Soon they had both forgotten that they had an audience and walked silently towards Twilight's castle. "So where are we having the picnic at?" Button asked quietly. "I asked Twilight if we could use a spot behind the castle, away from wandering eyes and the paparazzi." She answered quickly. Button liked the idea of staying away from the paparazzi, less of a chance of their relationship getting out to the public sooner than expected. There was suddenly a weight shift where Sweetiebelle had been and her tail became untangled from his. "What's going-" he didn't get to respond as Sweetiebelle looked at him. His words got caught in his throat as he found himself entranced in her green eyes. They moved in sync and their lips met halfway as they closed their eyes. The world was gone from beneath them this time, both of their emotions flying all over the place as the ponies gasped around them. Some of them clapped their hooves together, others snorted in annoyance or jealousy. None of that mattered to them at the moment. At that time it was just Buttonmash and Sweetiebelle. They finally parted and Button did his best to not fall over as Sweetiebelle giggled at his movements. After a few moments Button finally got ahold of himself and he looked at Sweetiebelle. "Now what was that one for?" He asked. Sweetiebelle smiled in response and stood next to him again. "Because I couldn't help myself and I thought we might as well make it official." Buttonmash wanted to be mad at her for not at least consulting him about it, but he wasn't because he wanted it to be official too. "No sense in hiding it even though I think they already thought it was official with our tails intertwined." He told her. "Maybe, but now they definitely know." She responded as they started walking again to the castle. It wasn't long before they reached the doors and the two went inside. Twilight was waiting for them with a gentle smile. "Welcome back Sweetiebelle, and Buttonmash it is good to see you again." Button nodded. "It has been awhile hasn't it." He told her. Twilight looked at the two of them before turning away. "Follow me, I'll lead you to your spot." She gestured for them to follow her and started to walk away. The couple followed Twilight through the halls of the castle, trying not to lose her in fear of getting lost in the castle itself. "So how is it you know about this spot Twilight?" Buttonmash asked as they turned another corner. "I'm a princess, Button, so anytime I'm on a date I take them to this spot as to not draw attention to us and to not get the pony killed or taken hostage by somepony else. That's the big struggle of being a princess ya know, everypony is always looking for some sign of weakness." Twilight sighed as they got to two large doors. "Well here we are, have fun you two, but not too much fun." She told them before leaving them alone. "You ready?" Sweetiebelle asked Buttonmash who nodded in response. They opened the doors to reveal a nice patch of green grass and flowers. The two looked I'm awe as they did their best to find the perfect spot to put the blanket down. When they did they flapped the blanket in the air and set it down nicely before sitting on it and preparing their sandwiches. They began eating Button doing his best to not stare at the mare in front of him. She was even more beautiful with the sun's rays hitting her. She caught him staring in awe and blushed. "What, is there something in my teeth?" She questioned. Buttonmash's blush returned and he shook his head. "No...I'm just, enjoying the view." He told her. She smiled at him and moved closer. "You are too sweet." She leaned in for a kiss, but Button smiled and stopped her with a hoof. "You are so impatient sometimes, Belle." he told her and backed up alittle. "We should just relax and watch the sunset." He smiled. "But I don't wanna wait that long, what is this, payback?" She whined and pouted. Buttonmash did his best to not chuckle at her childish attitude. "Payback, what are you talking about?" Button asked. "I just don't want to rush anything, I want to enjoy this time with you in every way." She arched a brow unconvinced. "We have known each other for how long now, you have flirted with me for several years and now want to take things slow?" She tried to call his bluff that didn't exist. "I have always wanted to take my time with you, just like I do with my games." "So I'm just another game to you?" She glared at him. "N-no, not at all," he stuttered, realizing his mistake. "Its just, in my opinion, rushing things forces you to skip certain details that are important." Button started his explanation. "For instance, in my game I made sure to not miss anything, I made everything in detail on pixel at a time. The same goes for a relationship. If you rush it, you may miss something that could put a glitch in the relationship, that someone could exploit to a virus that would cause everything to crumble and break." He explained, somewhat confusing Sweetiebelle, but also leaving her with an understanding. "So it's like a mirror, if you get one with a small crack, it could expand to a point where it could shatter." She put it in her own words. Button looked at her and nodded. "Yeah, something like that!" He smiled before frowning. "Which...which is why I think we should just stick to the basics for now..." Buttonmash told her. Sweetiebelle looked down, a wave of sadness consuming her. "You mean we should just stick to small dates and pecks on the cheek." Button sighed. "Yeah, we don't want to mess this up, right? I'm not saying we don't ever have to...kiss, but keep it small and slowly build it up." He told her. This did nothing to fix her state, leaving Button perplexed. Sweetiebelle didn't want to take things slow, she wanted to enjoy what time she had left with Button in Ponyville before she went back on tour. "But what happens when I go back on tour? Do we just start from scratch?" Sweetiebelle felt her heart start to race, as anger replaced the sadness or that's what she thought it was. She had failed to realize, that it was actually fear, as her body began to shake. "Won't you get bored without me here? What...what...what if you leave me for another mare?" Button looked at her with his own horrified expression. "What are you talking about, Sweetiebelle? I'm not that kind of stallion." He said. "But, you never know until it happens Button, that's just it, I don't want to take things slow, I want to enjoy this time with you and I don't want to lose you when I leave." She confessed. "I felt that way too...that feeling was at its strongest the day you left..." Button sighed again, this was the best moment to explain how he had felt throughout all the time he had spent with Sweetiebelle. "I have always had that feeling, I think everypony experiences it at some point. The fear of losing the pony they were closest to, is not a feeling to be left unchecked. The day you left, I took it out on you, put all of my worst fears on you, I did the same with Scootaloo and Applebloom too, the difference was, I had completely abandoned them and when they tried to come back into my life, I snapped. My work became my drug, my addiction, and it has been keeping me in this loop that I was the one at fault for everything that had happened, I was the one that everypony lost. I had changed. Then you showed up and something changed. I don't know what it was, but now my heart beats regularly I have fallen asleep more often, I even tried to apologize to Applebloom for everything that had happened." Button looked at Sweetiebelle with a teary eyed smile. "In some ways, I think you saved me." Sweetiebelle felt tears come to her eyes as she her heart raced. She had saved him, even though it felt like he had saved her. Not only that, but she had completely rejected him for years and yet he still stuck around. He consoled her when she was upset, he was there to make her smile, he was the shoulder she cried on, the pony she came to for dating help, the pony who had given her ideas and told her to pursue her dream. He had waited for the right moment and the second he tried she left. He had even vented to her and instead of being that pony to talk to, she attacked him and left him in a bad place. That day their friendship shattered and now she knew why her life had been so empty on tour. She couldn't take it anymore and wrapped her hooves around him and placed her head into his shoulder as she sobbed as quietly as she could. Button wrapped his own hooves around her, and pulled her even closer to him. All negative thoughts leaving them as they held each other and watched the sun slowly set. They now understood each other in ways that friends could not, they were now a couple. It wasn't long before Sweetiebelle's quiet sobs turned into a quiet snore as she had fallen asleep against Buttonmash. The sun had long since set, leaving them in the moonlight. Buttonmash, on the other hoof, just stared at the moon, a gentle smile on his face as he still clung to Sweetiebelle. "So this is what its like to be in a true relationship." He whispered to the moon, trying to not wake Sweetiebelle. This was something that Buttonmash had wanted for years and now that it was his, he didn't want to ever do anything to ruin it. He looked down at the sleeping mare on his shoulder and lightly kissed her forehead. He then moved slightly and readjusted himself so that they were both laying down. Sweetiebelle squirmed and moved closer trying to get some warmth as a breeze blew against them. He wrapped a hoof around her before laying his head on hers. His eyes closed and he slowly drifted to sleep. ____________________♡♡♡____________________ "Mr. Mash!" Button's eyes opened slowly as a face appeared in his vision, his boss' face. Buttonmash jumped as he realized how close he was to the pony who was yelling at him to wake up. This caused Sweetiebelle to jump as well and fall on her back. Button smiled sheepishly at Sweetiebelle who glared at him in return. He then felt dread wash over him at the realization that Mr. Clearglass was in front of him. "Mr Clearglass? What are you doing here?" The unicorn stallion in front of him was slightly shorter than him, his fur a pale blue and his white mane and tail long and cut perfectly. His tie was the only dark color he had him, bearing a dark purple. "I was here to make sure my partner wasn't on his death bed from some unknown sickness, but it seems I was...unfortunately wrong." His voice was a mixture of raspy and smooth with a very elegant tone. He looked disappointed as well to see his partner choosing some mare over his project. "Well, thanks for worrying about me, but I'm fine. I was just spending time with-" "With a manipulative popstar, I know." Clearglass tried to finish Button's sentence. "I'm right here, ya know, and I'm not-" "Manipulative? I disagree, and even if you were not, you are keeping my partner from working." He interrupted Sweetiebelle, who started to sulk. Button glared at Clearglass. "You have no right to talk to her that way, if anything she is the reason I have remained your partner." He defended his marefriend. He was lying somewhat, as he never once thought about quitting, but he needed to be there for Sweetiebelle. "You have never been a good liar Mr. Mash, although I do commend you for standing up for the mare." He looked at Sweetiebelle. "I do apologize for what I said." Sweetiebelle grit her teeth. "Apology accepted." She said with a fake grin. She was slightly grumpy from being woken up so abruptly. "That still doesn't change the fact that you need to be working, Buttonmash, your fans are not exactly happy that you have delayed the game further, which is why I came to see if there was a good reason for the delays." Clearglass expressed his concern for his coworker. "I understand Clearglass, but I wanted to spend time with her," he leaned closer. "She has also been giving me ideas to better the game, I think I needed a mare's touch for this style of game and I'm getting one." He whispered. Clearglass smiled at the thought of the game being better. Buttonmash held an evil smile back. In truth, the only truth he had told Clearglass was that Sweetiebelle had helped with only a small portion of the game. Clearglass had accused the wrong pony of manipulation. Sweetiebelle just stared at the two stallions whispering to each other with a confused expression on her face. Clearglass straightened himself up and stepped past Buttomash with a hoof outstretched. "Once again I apologize for my comment, you must be Sweetiebelle, I am Clearglass, Button's business partner and friend." Sweetiebelle took his hoof and shook it as Buttonmash stayed behind Clearglass and smiled. "I must thank you, by the way." He mentioned, Button's eyes widened as he realized what Clearglass was doing. "Thank me for what?" Sweetiebelle asked, tilting her head. "For helping Button with our game, it means alot to me that you are helping him on his path." Sweetiebelle glanced at Button who was nodding for her to go with it. She smiled and nodded at Clearglass who smiled in return. "Well, I noticed he was having trouble with some of the characters so I made some adjustments and helped him with their personalities." "Ah, that is wonderful!" Clearglass stated excitedly before looking at Buttonmash who fixed his composure. "You have picked a fine mare Button, I am proud of you! Now if you'll excuse me, I have something else I need to attend to before I leave tomorrow, I expect some progress very soon Buttonmash, don't let your fans and I down." Button laughed uncomfortably as Clearglass started to trot away. "So that's your boss?" Sweetiebelle asked as she stood next to Button. "Yeah, he's a good pony, just transparent." Sweetiebelle smiled before looking at the stallion. "So how does his talent help you with your game." She asked. "His cutiemark is a computer with a paper on the screen...his talent revolves around his family business that makes computers." Buttonmash explained. "When we had first met he had this idea to promote both of our newest projects and we became partners. He may not seem nice, but his attitude is in his name, he's translucent. He likes to speak his mind even if it means offending somepony." Buttonmash continued as he started to pack up their picnic from yesterday. Sweetiebelle began to help before looking at the sky to see where the sun was at. It was high in the sky, they had slept until noon. Her eyes widened in shock and she dropped her basket. "Oh no, I was supposed to check on Applebloom and Tender Taps!" She said out loud. Button looked at her. "What do you mean?" He asked as she started to pack faster. "Scootaloo and I are trying to find a special somepony for Applebloom and before our date we had them meet and everything seemed fine, but I was supposed to check on them today." Button, still confused, just nodded and continued to pack. "Well, if you're in a hurry, go ahead and go, I'll pack all this up and drop it off at the boutique." He told her. Sweetiebelle looked up at him with eagerness. "Are you sure?" She asked with some concern. Buttonmash smiled and nodded. "Yeah, go on ahead, I'll see ya later." He reassured her before bidding her farewell. She turned to leave, but than turned back and hugged Button who was too surprised to hug her back. "Bye." Was all she said before galloping off. Her dress was still on and looked a little wrinkled but Button was sure she had a plan for it. ____________________♡♡♡____________________ Sweetiebelle threw her dress into one of Button's bushes as she galloped past, ponies looking at her funny as she continued towards Applebloom's house. sorry Button, but I'm in a hurry. she thought as she turned a corner. She had hoped everything was still going ok, considering what had happened yesterday. _____________________♡♡♡___________________ ONE DAY AGO "Sweetiebelle, why are we headin' to the train station?" Applebloom asked as the two mares walked through town. "What are you talking about?" Sweetiebelle asked trying to throw her off. "I know this path, you ain't exactly the best liar ya know." Sweetiebelle ignored her somewhat rude comment and continued onward. "You will see when we get there." She assured her friend who just shrugged and continued to follow. She was wearing her work attire, the only difference being her mane was now in a pony tail rather than her usual due. It wasn't long before the train station came into view and Sweetiebelle could see three ponies talking to each other at the bottom of the stairs. "Hey guys!" Scootaloo yelled as she noticed the two mares in the distance, waving her hoof at them. Beside her was Rumble who was chatting with an orange stallion in a suit. His purple mane was medium length and slicked back slightly. Sweetiebelle noticed immediately that Applebloom had turned the other way. "Now Ah see what y'all are doing, count me out!" Applebloom said as she started to leave. It seemed that Tender Taps had heard her as he turned his attention to the two mares. "Applebloom? Is that you?" He called out as he started to trot towards them. Sweetiebelle bit Applebloom's tail and whipped her around, surprising her. Applebloom glared at her before smiling at Tender Taps. "Hey Taps...How's it goin'?" She said awkwardly as Rumble and Scootaloo arrived next to Tender Taps. "You recognized me? Well that's good, I didn't know if I had changed too much." He chuckled. "I'm doing good, just taking a break to see Rumble." Applebloom looked unconvinced. "Uhuh, well it was nice talking to you Sweetiebelle, but Ah have to get to work." She turned away. "It was nice seeing you too, Tender Taps." She added before trying to trot off. "I thought you were off today?" Sweetiebelle mentioned. "Yeah, Ah was until Ah realized what was happening." She said bluntly before leaving the three ponies confused. "That's...different?" Tender Taps questioned before looking at us. "What is?" Scootaloo asked. "I don't remember her being so...blunt about something." "She's just a busy pony, you'll get used to it." Scootaloo added. "Maybe you should ask her out to lunch and get to know her better." Sweetiebelle advised him. "Now that, is a good idea, Sweetiebelle." ___________________♡♡♡_____________________ From what Sweetiebelle had found out from Scootaloo, Applebloom had accepted his invitation to lunch, and they were meeting today. The only problem was, that by the time she had found them, they were going their separate ways. Buttonmash on the other hoof had finally finished packing everything and was one turn away from the boutique when he noticed a small group of ponies outside of it with cameras and microphones. He turned back around the corner and went a different way to where he could sneak in through the back. The paparazzi had found Sweetiebelle, or at least where she was at. By the time he had reached the back of the boutique, the group had gotten bigger, and they were now yelling for Sweetiebelle to show herself. Buttonmash quietly knocked on the back door to which Onyx answered the door. "Button what-" Buttonmash placed a hoof to loud colt's mouth and pushed his way inside before closing the door quietly. Rarity came rushing to the back to see who was there and sighed in relief that the ponies hadn't found a way in. She locked the door with her magic and glared at Buttonmash. "What happened yesterday? You two never showed back up and now this crowd of ruffians have appeared!" She yelled at him over the loud crowd outside. "We both fell asleep, Rarity, I'm sorry." Buttonmash explained. "You better be, because now there is a crowd of ponies outside who are demanding answers from Sweetiebelle, who isn't with you I suppose." Buttonmash shook his head. "She had an errand to run before coming back." He told her as he placed the basket down. "Where's Vanillabliss?" "Trying to talk those crazy ponies into leaving, but she did give me this a moment ago." Rarity floated over a newspaper that had a picture of Button's and Sweetiebelle's kiss yesterday. "They want to know about it and Vanillabliss is having trouble trying to calm them down." Rarity said. "I didn't realize they would be this way after finding out!" Buttonmash told her in a concerning tone. Suddenly the crowd outside went quiet and Button's face turned pale. Sweetiebelle had returned home. Author's Note I've never been a fan of romances that wait to kiss right before the very end, be it TV shows, books, movies...I just don't like it so I decided to go ahead and do it. Otherwise hope you enjoyed the chapter PEACE OUT!! P.S. If I had a nickel for every time I typed "blushed" I would be rich. P.P.S. I have had a very chaotic couple of months and planned on releasing this exactly one month ago, I apologize for the delay. Chapter 7: Of Haunting Pasts and Bright FuturesAuthor's Note WARNING: This chapter contains things related to suicide and self harm, viewer discretion is advised... Otherwise sorry for the late chapter, Covid and several other factors have stopped me from writing, hopefully the next chapter won't take as long, please enjoy. Chapter 7: Of Haunting Pasts and Bright Futures "I am sorry ma'am, but the test results were false." "But that can't be right, we have been trying for so long!" The tears, the lies. "You can always adopt-" No...I want my own... "It could have something to do with your disability." My...disability...my...wings... Scootaloo did her best to hold a tired smile as Rumble cuddled up next to her. "You okay?" He asked, with which she responded with a slight nod. He sighed and sat back up. "Come on Scoots, ya know I can tell when something is wrong," he looked her in the eyes, "tell me." She kept the smile on her face. "I can fly, I'm sure of it!" She looked down at her cast, "I just didn't sleep well last night." She lied. "Scootaloo! Button go find help, now!" Scootaloo mentally winced as the memory replayed itself. "This cast doesn't really help with it," she chuckled as Rumble shook his head. "Is she gonna be alright?" He seemed so concerned. "She has fractured two bones in her foreleg, she should recover, but try to keep her from using it." "You can't keep using that as an excuse, there is something else you're not telling me." He had that same concern in his voice. She didn't need to tell him, he already knew. That look on his face told her that. "They're back?" She nodded once more as he pulled her in for a hug. "What do you need?" He said in her ear. "I need..." ___________________♡♡♡♡___________________ "Well that didn't take long?" Sweetie Belle said to herself as she sat down in the large green bubble. The paparazzi had completely surrounded her the minute one of them pointed her out, and this was the only spell she could think of. Luckily it also nullified any outside sounds, so it was nice and quiet in there. "Thank you, Twilight." She thanked her mentor as she stood and began to walk towards the boutique. The paparazzi proceeded to follow her as she made her way to her sister's home. "This is why I prefer to stay single." She felt herself frown at her past self. At the time she had just broken up with another celebrity because they didn't click. The paparazzi ate it up at the time, but eventually they found something else to put on the paper. She shook her head as one pony tried to force their way through the bubble, that pony then got sent backwards into the crowd. She shook her head in annoyance and continued to breathe for a second before finally standing back up. She needed to do something about this paparazzi before she overdid the spell. She had a lot of options, all of which would have her pass out before they would be completely gone. "Hey," a voice called from the outside, "do you want to let me in so I can help?" Sweetie Belle looked up and saw Button being pressed into the bubble. The paparazzi was now trying to swarm him with questions as well and he was starting to fall. She stood up and grabbed him with her hooves before heaving him into the bubble. "You really decided to push through this crowd." Sweetie Belle stood back up and brushed herself off. "What made you think that was a good idea?" She helped Button Mash to his hooves who chuckled in embarrassment. "Well, I didn't want you to have to face this alone, it was bound to happen at some point. I just thought there'd be more time." He responded and looked around the bubble. "Your magic has gotten stronger." He noted and poked the bubble with his hoof. "Yeah, when I did have free time, I practiced the spells that Twilight gave me," she then took notice of the crowd outside of the bubble. "Anyways, we should take care of this crowd so I don't have to give myself a headache later." Button nodded in agreement and turned to face the crowd with his hoof close to hers. "Alright, bring it on." He told himself confidently as the questions were thrown their way. _____________________♡♡♡♡_________________ "Ow, ow, ow." Sweetie rubbed a bag of ice on her horn as she sat in a chair. Button Mash sat next to her while Rarity sat across the table from them. "You overdid it again, Darling." Her sister said with a concerned tone. Sweetie Belle glared at her for a sec before sighing. "Well what would you have done in my situation. I'm a super star sis, I can't not protect myself." She told her, wincing slightly as the horn sparked for a second. Rarity shook her head and smirked. "Well, that's simple, I would have shrunk the bubble down as the day went on to lower the usage." Both Button and Sweetie Belle looked at Rarity with surprised confusion. Rarity's smirk became a wide smile, "what? You two are not the only ones to learn a few things from Twilight." She winked and pushed herself away from the table. "But, that aside, what you need is rest and little to no magic usage," she stood up. "we don't want you to end up in the hospital for Horn Cracks, now do we." She then left the two ponies alone in the kitchen. They were not alone for long though as Vanilla Bliss happily walked into the kitchen. "You two look really tired," she pointed at them with a hoof and dropped her smile. "Maybe both of you should call it a day and get some rest, hmm." The couple looked at each other for a moment and simultaneously sighed. "Yeah, maybe she's right," Button started before rising from his chair. "I have to get back to work anyways otherwise Glass is gonna kill me." He smiled, "Plus today has given me a few ideas as well." He leaned forward and pecked Sweetie Belle's forehead. "I'll see you tomorrow, alright, get some rest." Sweetie Belle nodded and watched him leave before looking at her manager. "What?" Bliss had the most ridiculous smile on her face. "Nothing, you two are just so cute together," she chuckled, "also I haven't seen you that red since your first concert." She mentioned before walking by and filling up a glass with water. "But your sister and I agree, you need rest, both of you do." "How so?" Sweetie asked. Bliss sighed and sat down. "It's simple, you stay here for a while, no going and seeing anybody and nobody is coming to see you." She explained and took a sip from her glass. "Rarity plans on having a chat with Button as well about it, so that you two don't bother each other as well." Well that's not very comforting. Sweetie Belle thought to herself before a stinging pain ran through her head. She winced and groaned. "Maybe you're right, maybe I should get some rest, but I doubt anypony will be able to get Button Mash to rest considering his boss is in town." "We'll just have to see, won't we dear?" Sweetie turned her head to see Rarity smirking devilishly. _____________________♡♡♡♡____________________ "You should relax more sis, you've been working too hard since Granny die...since she left us." "No, Ah Ain't workin' hard enough, look at the house, it's a mess, AJ." You would never understand how much this house made me happy. "You're one to talk, you used to work so hard that you'd mess up." Without Granny, the farm would've died, but now Ah can make the bits to hire workers. You left to become a rodeo star, and Big Mac started his own farm near Sugar Belle's home. That left me with the care of our farm, and for that, I'll never forgive y'all. "I think we'll take it." A blue colored mare said as she looked around the empty house. Apple Bloom shook her thoughts away and smiled happily. "That's great news ma'am let me go get the papers from my bags and Ah'll be right with you." Apple Bloom turned away and dropped her smile. The house she was in used to be Scootaloo's before her and Rumble got together, but not too long after that her parents decided to sell it. Apple Bloom was the fourth agent to try to sell it and now she was the final one. She sighed in relief and pulled a stack of papers out of her case as the buyer entered the room she was in, the kitchen. "Um, excuse me, Apple Bloom, um I think I changed my mind." Apple Bloom froze with the papers in her left hoof slowly falling off of them. Her eye twitched as she forced a smile back on to her face. She turned around slowly to see the mare had a disgusting look on her face. "What seems to be the problem...ma'am" She had to convince herself to keep her composure as the mare began to speak. "Um...there's a snake in the oven..." the mare pointed at the oven for Apple Bloom to see. She glanced in that direction and immediately noticed the slithering creature leaving the kitchen appliance. I thought I had told Flutter Shy to remove ALL of the animals. She sighed in frustration and then smiled at her buyer. "Can you just give me one second please." She then removed her phone from her suit pocket and moved into a different room while dialing Flutter Shy. The phone rang for a few seconds before a kind and calm voice greeted Apple Bloom. "Hello?" The voice said softly. "Hey, Flutter Shy, it's Apple Bloom, you did remove all of the animals, right?" There was a small pause before she responded. "I was able to get most of them to the sanctuary, but I could not get Iris the snake to move. She has eggs in the oven so she is very hostile right now." The mare said over the phone. Apple Bloom looked around the corner at the buyer with a smile before glaring at the snake, who was just staring at her. "Did you just say there were snake eggs...in the oven?" Apple Bloom whispered into the phone. "Mhm, all twenty eight of them." "TWENTY EIGHT!" Apple Bloom covered her mouth for a second before speaking normally. "Well, can't you just ya know, move the eggs and the snake?" She questioned her older friend who just sighed through the phone. "You know I can't do that Apple Bloom, Iris and her babies are there to stay." Apple Bloom felt a flash of anger rush through her. "Listen, Flutter Shy, Ah am trying desperately to sell this house to this buyer, Ah kinda need the snake out of the house, now." She told her through gritted teeth. Flutter Shy clicked her tongue in disappointment. "You know I can't do that, it's against the rules, also there is a chance that-" "I'm not asking anymore Flutter Shy, I need the snake out of this house..." she took a deep breath, "NOW!" She said firmly and sternly. Flutter Shy didn't say a word after that, instead she hung up the phone. "Flutter Shy? Flutter Shy?" Apple Bloom threw her phone away and groaned in annoyance. "Um...Apple Bloom, I am gonna head home now, I'm sorry that I couldn't take this house. I just don't want to take the chance of my colt getting bit by a snake." The mare said as Apple Bloom faked a smile once more and turned around. "Not a problem," she picked up her bag and walked over to the mare. "Y'all have a good day, Ah'm gonna try and wrangle this snake out of here." She nodded at the mare and left the building quickly and pulled her phone out once more. If she couldn't get Flutter Shy to remove the snake, she knew someone that could. She dialed the number and listened to it ring before a voice greeted her. "Apple Bloom?" The voice paused. "What's up?" Apple Bloom smiled. _____________________♡♡♡♡___________________ Button Mash sighed in relief as he sunk into his computer chair. "What a day." He told himself as he faced his computer. The chair creaked as he leaned forward and placed his hoof on the mouse and began to open up the files to his game. "But now," he moved his hooves to the keyboard. "it's time to get back to work." He smirked as the events of the past few days surged through his head, giving him idea after idea. A few hours passed by as Button Mash continued his typing. He hadn't typed that much in awhile, which meant that date with Sweetie Belle worked out perfectly. Plus, the little lie he had told Mr. Glass wasn't so much of a lie anymore. Button Mash smiled at his own thoughts as night began to fell, and he saved his work. There would be more work to do tomorrow, so he figured he would need his rest. Button Mash made his way up his stairs and to his room where he would have the best sleep of his life. ______________________♡♡♡♡__________________ Sweetie Belle sat with her sister and her manager with an ice bag on her horn. "I am not being a model for your batch of clothing, Rarity." Vanilla Bliss told the older mare sternly, crossing her hooves. " and even if I did, being a manager for Sweetie Belle is a full time job. I can't just abandon her because of an old dream of mine." She added. Rarity groaned in mock sadness. "But, dear your physique is perfect for my new brand and I-" She fell silent as Vanilla Bliss held up her hoof. "The answer is no Rarity, I'm sorry, but it's just not on the table for me anymore." She told the older mare. Sweetie Belle groaned and stood up, "but, you know what is on the table, me going to my room and enjoying some peace and quiet." She told them and winced as her horn sparked. Vanilla Bliss pointed at Sweetie as she made her way upstairs. "Told ya, full time job." Sweetie Belle rolled her eyes and shook her head as she reached the top of the stairs. She didn't have the energy to fight back nor did she really have a good say in it because Bliss was not completely wrong. She sighed in relief when she found the door to her old room and began to open it. "Hey, Aunt Belle." Onyx's voice called to her from the hallway alittle further down. Sweetie Belle gave a tired smile to her young nephew who waved at her from his own room. "Are you okay? You look really tired and your horn is...umm...sparkling?" He questioned for a second before trotting over. "Oh, I'm fine, I just overdid it with my magic is all." She looked at her nephew and a realization came over her. She had not seen her nephew since he was a small colt. "So what have you been up to, School going okay?" Onyx nodded his head and smiled. "School is going good, but ya know it's school, I'd much rather play my games at this point." He told her. "Speaking of games, do you wanna play one with me?" Sweetie Belle opened her mouth to reply but Onyx held up his hoof. "You kind of owe me, since you took Button Mash away from me." "You got me there," she sighed. "Sure why not, I'm gonna warn you though, I am not very good at them anymore." She told him as she followed him to his room. He opened the door as they continued their conversation. "So what game are we playing?" Onyx shrugged and sat down on his gaming chair, one that Sweetie Belle assumed was expensive. "I was thinking maybe you could actually just, watch me play Button's game and maybe help me at times." He smiled sheepishly. Sweetie Belle sighed and looked her nephew. "I told you I'm not very good at games anymore." "Well...just watch me then." Onyx said and booted up his computer. The screen flashed blue for a second before a name in bold, white letters popped up. Sweetie Belle read the name out loud. "Mr. Glass Productions. Huh he brands his computers with his name." Sweetie Belle pointed out as the computer finished booting up and Onyx smiled. He moved his cursor to one of the shortcut logos, a sword with a heart on the hilt, and clicked it. The screen turned black before a flashing light warning popped up and then a spinning sword after that. Midnight Onyx leaned forward with a smile, "here comes the best part." He said excitedly. The spinning sword disappeared and was soon replaced by a beautiful view of a castle on a mountain. Much closer to the screen though was a pony in knight's armor with a sword on his belt. The sword looked very similar to the icon from the desktop, except there was no heart on it. That's when the music kicked in and Onyx hummed the tune almost perfectly in sync. Sweetie Belle pointed at the animated artwork, "did Button draw all of that?" She asked. Midnight Onyx nodded and pointed at a tree that had a lot of detail involved. "Well this was his first game, so he didn't necessarily have the budget to pay anyone, so when it came to the artwork," he then pointed at the main character. "he made sure to practice non-stop for a while. I think he said something about working on this game since he was in school." He said happily. Sweetie Belle leaned closer to see if there were just some mistakes she was missing, but other than a leaf, everything looked perfect. "Now for the fun part!" The colt next to her said as he moved the cursor to the CONTINUE prompt and clicked it. The screen went dark again as the sword reappeared in the corner for a moment before a scene filled the monitor. "I have yet to be bested by a pony," a large red dragon roared on the screen as the pony from before ran up the mountain towards it. The dragon's voice reminded her of that time when Spike grew really big and kidnapped her sister. The screen zoomed in on the determined knight who gripped his sword with his teeth. "This dragon is the last obstacle before I reach the princess." he said as he dodged a boulder being hurled at him. "Just hang on a little longer." He then jumped at another boulder as the screen faded to black. Sweetie Belle noted the charming music and the acting as they were both decent. Onyx gripped the controller tight as the screen flashed to a third person view. "I'm gonna be honest, I have been stuck on this level for a week now." Onyx said with embarrassment as he made the knight dodge an incoming boulder. Sweetie Belle tapped her chin with a hoof, "normally Button usually would put a secret passage in his house whenever we played Minecraft," she recalled a painting with a hole behind it. "Maybe look for a fake wall?" She tried to advise her nephew. Midnight Onyx looked at her confused, but turned the character towards the mountain side as he dodged another boulder. The knight ran face first into a wall and didn't go through it. "I don't think he would do that Sweetie Belle." He told her as he continued up the mountain, dodging more boulders. She watched the screen closely, this was Button Mash here, so he wouldn't make a level this difficult unless there was a pathway. She finally saw it a piece of rock that was not the same color as the mountain. She pointed at it excitedly, "there, that rock is a different shade of gray!" She cried out, scaring the colt slightly. He made the knight run straight at the rock as a boulder flew over his head. Eventually he made it to the rock and went straight through it and into a tunnel. Onyx almost kept moving the knight forward but Sweetie Belle stopped his hoof with hers. This cave looked oddly familiar. "Hold on, Onyx, this cave may have some tricks." Onyx arched a brown and looked at her, "but it's a secret passage to make it easier to beat the level," he pointed at the screen, "why would Button Mash do that?" Sweetie Belle looked at the cave carefully. What Onyx said could be true, but this cave, or at least the entrance, looked just like the one from their Minecraft world. Sweetie Belle looked at the top corner of the screen and saw the Knight was at full health. "Hey, do me a favor and walk forward a bit." She asked him and leaned forward slightly. "But why?" He questioned with a confused tone. She shook her head, "just trust me and move forward." Midnight Onyx shrugged and gradually moved the Knight forward until a loud CLICK came through the speakers. Suddenly, two parts of the wall slammed shut right in front of the character. Sweetie Belle jumped with joy, "Ah Ha!" She cried out and landed on the bed. "I knew it, this is the exact same cave!" She smiled, "and if that's the case we can get through this cave easily." Onyx happily agreed and let her guide him through the secret passage. Eventually Onyx made it through and found himself standing before the dragon, who roared with rage. "How dare you stand atop my mountain with a sword pointed at me!" He bellowed as smoke rose from his nostrils. "Now I will burn you alive!" Onyx prepared for battle as Sweetie Belle watched with intrigue. "Just sit back and watch me beat this boss!" Onyx said and stuck his tongue out as the battle began. The boss had a pattern that was easy to follow, but Sweetie Belle wasn't really paying too much attention to the fight as she pulled out her phone and tried to text Button. That's when she noticed something, she didn't have his number. _____________________♡♡♡♡____________________ Scootaloo laid against Rumble's chest as her thoughts wondered back to their conversation from earlier. <<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<< "I need..." she hesitated for a few moments, "I need you to stay with me for awhile...I...I don't want you to go away again." Rumble looked at her with shock. Normally, she was pretty good about being alone and independent, but he had also never seen her this scared before. "Are...are you sure? I mean I don't want to annoy you or ya know take your time away from Sweetie Belle...and I..." Scootaloo stopped him with a kiss. It had been a long time since the two of them had actually done anything this romantic. They both decided to stop after her incident, because the therapist had mentioned that it might be one of the causes. They had agreed to small things like kisses on the cheek and maybe a peck on the lips but no further. This on the other hoof was completely different though. She placed a hoof on his chest and deepened the kiss as he finally gave in and closed his eyes. Rumble felt fireworks go off in his head as he wrapped his hooves around her neck. He hadn't felt this way since the two had their first kiss awhile back, but this almost felt better. The couple finally parted for air as Rumble stared deep into Scootaloo's purple eyes and smiled. "Fine, you convinced me." He rolled his eyes and tried to pull her closer, but she took advantage of the moment and pushed him on to his back. Rumble blushed as she stared at him from up top, but that feeling was then replaced with concern. She leaned in for another kiss, but he stopped her this time. "Are you sure about this?" She sighed and sat up. "I don't know," she moved off of him so he could sit up. "I mean I want to, but I don't want it to trigger anything again." She looked around trying to find the right words. "I really want a foal of my own, Rumble, a foal of our own." He watched her eyes begin to water. "But the more and more I think about it...the less faith I have in having one." He remained silent and let her continue. "I know we could adopt, I know we can keep trying, but how much more can we take...I take to keep this up!" The tears began to fall. "I'm not happy about any of this!" She threw her hooves out towards the house. "I'd trade it ALL for a foal, all of it except you. It's to the point where I could..." she stopped herself and took a deep breath. Rumble smiled softly and took the opportunity to put his hoof on the side of her cheek. "I don't know entirely what you are going through, but I do agree with you on the foal, but let me just say this, if you ever think I am going to leave you because you can't have a foal," he lifted her gaze to his. "Then you would be wrong, I didn't enter this relationship with you just to abandon you when things get tough." He caressed her cheek. "If anything, this makes me want to stay with you more. We might go through some rough patches here and there, but I wouldn't trade the good or bad to be with you." He closed his eyes and grinned. "Because, in the end, I will always be by your side." Scootaloo stared in awe at the stallion in front of her. The moon shined on him brightly as he spoke, and to her, his words meant everything. Both of their hearts pounded into their chests as they leaned towards each other and kissed once more. Scootaloo smiled a real smile for the first time in a long time, as she drifted to sleep with the sound of his heart in her ear. Chapter 8: Hard to Forget.Something has gone wrong. We don't seem to have an archived copy of that chapter.Chapter 4: Something Worth Remembering"That cake was delicious!" Buttonmash's mother said, licking her lips of any excess icing. The cake was gone, Button had one slice while his mother, had the rest. She ate it as if she had not eaten anything all day, devouring it rather quickly. Button smiled though, she enjoyed the cake, that was all the mattered to him. Even as they sat at the table discussing the events of the past couple of days, Buttonmash was just happy to see his mother smile. It had been awhile since he had last seen her, but he definitely had not seen her smile in months, well not since his dad was still alive. Her smile lingered as she belched and fell back in her chair slightly. "Oh my, I've never been this full before, thank you dear," Buttonmash smiled, "It's not a problem mom, you always took care of me, so I decided to take care of you," he pointed a hoof at her as he spoke, "I mean it's the least I can do," he finished as he pushed the chair out a little bit. His mom tried to say something when the door bell rang. "Oh Button, I think that's the paper, can you get it for me, I don't think I can move!" Button chuckled at his mother's comment as he stood from the table and made his way to the door, pausing only to look through the peephole, he opened the door. "Hey Feather Weight hows the business?" Button asked the tall stallion holding the paper. He and Buttonmash were close friends back in their grade school years, but afterwards Feather Weight became focused on the business path, learning more and more about the newspaper and even how to become the class valedictorian in the meantime. "It's actually going great, and it seems like your life is picking up as well," he replied with a wink. "What do you mean?" Button asked, reaching for the paper. Feather lifted up the newspaper to show what he was hinting at. On the front page sat an article with a picture in the center. POPSTAR FINDS HER SOULMATE IN THE FORM OF HEAD VIDEO GAME DESIGNER BUTTONMASH. It read and the picture below it was that of Sweetiebelle laughing at one of Button's comments. Button's eyes widened, "Oh no!" ...................................................... "What!" Sweetie looked at the article with an expression that could only be anger and astonishment. Vanillabliss sat across from her, a smirk on her face. "Just a friend huh," Sweetiebelle slammed the paper down, her eyes glaring daggers at her friend. Vanillabliss just shrugged and continued to smile. "He is just a friend Bliss, we haven't talked in ages and we didn't exactly leave our friendship intact when I left, even now I don't see him any differently than I did be-" "You're lying," Rarity butted in as she walked into the room, a black satin dress held above her in her magic. Sweetiebelle looked at her, "Excuse me?" Rarity stopped and looked back, "You are lying my dear sis-" "I am not!" Sweetiebelle yelled. "Yes you are, you tend to get very...aggressive when you lie, especially when you say 'excuse me' I'm your sister dear I know more about you than you realize, plus Onyx does the same thing," she added as she left the room once more. Vanillabliss giggled, "Ya know, I think I'm really starting to like your sister," she told Sweetiebelle as she pulled the newspaper back towards her. "Besides, what could be so wrong with this, you both seem very comfortable around each other, and I've never seen a picture of you laughing like this, you seem happier," Sweetiebelle sighed, "You just don't get it, even if I did like him, all of Equestria would be against it...he works in what some would call the nerd department while I am popular, those never mesh well, more so considering most of those relationships don't even end well," she told her friend as she pushed herself away from the table, "Not to mention that even if we were in a relationship we would be followed around like this," she gestured towards the picture, "And we would never escape," she finished as she left the room, leaving Vanillabliss alone in the dining room of the boutique. Vanillabliss studied the paper closely, she had really only known Sweetiebelle when she was working with her and had only become friends with her a month beforehoof. She could see it in that laugh that Sweetiebelle had feelings for him, but there was only so much you can read from a picture. She left the paper on the table as she stepped away from it, she needed to speak to somepony about these two and figure out exactly what had happened to them. ................................................. Sweetiebelle walked through Ponyville, well more like ran, as there was a paparazzi on her tail. She had dealt with them before, but this wasn't a topic she wanted to discuss, with anypony. She took a left turn into the marketplace and skidded to a stop. She was surrounded, many ponies crowding around her all asking the same question. "Why him?" They all seemed to say the same thing and the noise was starting to get to Sweetiebelle, flattening her ears and gritting her teeth, she did her best to hide from the cameras but to no avail she was trapped. She closed her eyes and fought back tears, this was ther worst part of her job, the cameras, the questions, the gossip, it was so hard to handle that some nights she just wished she could get away from it all or even go back in time and stop herself. She felt her horn start to work as she slowly started to cast a teleportation spell, she didn't like doing it as it made her sick, but she would do everything in her power to get away no matter the cost. Before she could finish though, a booming voice could be heard throughout the crowd, "Get away from Sweetiebelle, or else you will all be leaving Ponyville and are never to return!" The voice boomed and caused a sudden stillness and silence amongst the large group of ponies. In mere seconds all of the ponies ran in all directions, leaving Sweetiebelle alone with whoever had just saved her. When she had opened her eyes, she saw the one pony she least expected to see, Twilight Sparkle, her magic teacher and a close friend of her sister. She was flying above her glaring at anypony that tried to take a picture or even ask a question before finally landing in front of a shaking Sweetiebelle who had tears in her eyes. Twilight walked up to the mare and slowly helped her up, wrapping a wing around her in comfort, she guided her to the castle where Twilight did her princess duties and remained far enough away from the paparazzi so she could work. As the castle doors closed behind the two, Sweetiebelle hugged the princess as hard she could, stressed tears covering the lavender mare's fur as she hugged her young friend back. Twilight knew the stresses of popularity, as she was not only a princess, but an Element of Harmony. Sweetiebelle looked up at Twilight and sniffled. "Thank you," she managed to say as she stepped away from the princess. Twilight used her magic to clean off the tears and snot on her fur and then smiled at the popstar. "Anytime Sweetiebelle, after all you still are my student," she told the mare as they started to walk through the halls of the castle, the only sounds being that of the hoof steps of the two mares. It was almost ominous and uncomfortable, but it was soon broken by Twilight asking a question. "So, what was the deal with all of that?" She looked at Sweetiebelle who looked back at her. "Just a false article in the newspaper, but I didn't expect it to draw a paparazzi from Manehattan," she told her as she turned her attention back to what was in front of her. "What article?" Twilight asked curiously. "Oh nothing important, just a whole romantic mix up," she hinted. "I wish I could get a story like that," Twilight joked butting her shoulder into Sweetiebelle. "You really don't, especially if it was just a conversation between you and a friend that was taken differently," Sweetiebelle said. Twilight looked at her, "Who was the 'lucky' stallion," she teased, trying to once again lighten the mood. "Buttonmash," she mumbled in return. Twilight looked at her with confusion, "Buttonmash? Huh I thought you two always had a thing for each other?" Sweetiebelle blushed slightly, "N-no not at all he had something for Me, but who hasn't..." Twilight stopped dead in her tracks. "That didn't come out right...it's just complicated," she added fixing what she had said before. Twilight giggled, "Sure sounds like you do have a 'thing' for him, maybe the tables have turned hm," she joked once more. Sweetiebelle glared at her, "That's not funny, I thought you were here to help me, not become a one pony paparazzi," Twilight stepped back slightly, taken aback by those words. "You really have something for him," a raspy voice said behind Sweetiebelle. "Spike what did I tell you about eavesdropping!" Twilight yelled. "What? It's not like you were not interested either," he retorted with smirk. Twilight glared at him, "I have a few books in the library that need to be put up, can you be a good uncle and show Dawn where they go," Twilight said with an evil smile. Spike mumbled something under his breath as he left leaving the two mares alone again. "Sorry about that," she apologized. "It's fine, but in some ways he's not wrong," she admitted. "I can't say for sure, but I think I might like him, it's just I don't know yet," she finished. "Hey, admitting you like somepony is already a step forward Sweetiebelle, but you might be telling the wrong pony this," she said wisely. Sweetiebelle looked at her, "What do you mean," she asked, puzzled. Twilight smiled, "You have other friends and even the stallion himself to tell, so run along, my mother sense is tingling," she told her before teleporting away. Sweetiebelle sighed and made her way out of the castle. Twilight was right, but how did Sweetie come to reveal her feelings. She had to admit, being around him put butterflies in her stomach. She knew what love was, she saw it in Rumble and Scootaloo, now she just had to do it see it for herself and Button. ..................................................... Button had searched all over town for Sweetiebelle, and the moon was starting to rise. He wanted to apologize to Sweetiebelle for the article. He felt bad, she was here to relax and now a paparazzi was here. They had attacked him about an hour ago and he had finally snuck away. Now he just had to find Sweetiebelle, except nopony had seen her since she had entered Twilight's castle. He stopped and calmed himself, "This is Sweetiebelle here, she can handle herself, don't be foalish and just look for her. You know her well enough, where would she go, maybe the boutique? But I have already checked there. Maybe I should go check again?" Button told himself, a pony close by scampered off, probably freaked out by his behavior. "Buttonmash?" A familiar voice behind him. He turned with a smile, thinking it was Sweetiebelle, but it wasn't, it was Applebloom. She was wearing a suit with a small pink bow on her mane, she looked professional. "What're ya doing out here, and without your cart," she questioned annoyingly. Buttonmash looked at her, "Not in the mood Applebloom, I'm looking for somepony." Applebloom snickered, "Lemme guess, Sweetiebelle? She just got to Sweet Apple Acres an hour ago, Ah doubt she is still there, but you can always check, but don't get any ideas, I've already told her how much you've changed." Buttonmash sat down and sighed. "Listen Applebloom, I know that what I did was wrong, but you are in a pretty similar boat aren't you?" Buttonmash said. "Hardly, Ah still have time for my friends." Applebloom snorted, walking past him. Buttonmash knew he had messed up. When he had snapped at the girls a few years ago, he said things he didn't mean, and to make things worse none of them had tried to talk to him since. He turned and grabbed her tail with a hoof. "I know what I said was wrong, I just don't know how to apologize. The things I did-" "Were wrong? Ya have no idea Button. Words hurt!" Applebloom ripped her tail out of his hoof and faced him. "The things you said threw Scootaloo and Ah in the dirt, Scootaloo still hasn't forgotten it and Ah...Ah sure as Luna haven't even considered forgiveness! Do ya have any idea how hard it already was that ya didn't show up to Granny Smith's funeral, that you didn't even make it to Big Mac's wedding and then decided to snap at us for the things you did wrong!" She was in tears as she yelled. He had avoided them for so long and now it was all hitting him. Everything he had said, everything that had ruined the friendship between him and his friends. Buttonmash sat down as Applebloom glared at him. "Even now...ya say nothin', you just stare at the ground with whatever guilt ya have. Ah believe wholeheartedly what you said that night. Because only you could say something like that and mean it, just like ya did when Sweetiebelle left. Now do Scootaloo and Ah a favor, and leave Sweetiebelle alone. She doesn't need ya, all you'll do is hurt her." Applebloom turned away and continued her walk, wiping the tears from her eyes. Buttonmash did nothing to stop her, he just stared at the ground and watched as his tears hit it. He knew exactly what he had said, and knew all of it was unforgivable. He moved his hooves one last time and went home, knowing his game needed to be finished. ............................................................. Rarity was happy to see the article, and when Sweetiebelle had entered the boutique that night, she was more than ready to tease her younger sister. "Well it seems somepony is happy." Rarity said placing the article on the table. Sweetiebelle sipped at her soup, rolling her eyes in annoyance. She was happy, she had spent the rest of her day at Sweet Apple Acres, talking with Big Macintosh and Sugarbelle about their relationship. She knew what it was like to be in a relationship, but she had never been the one to want to confess her feelings. She wanted to know what it was like and she did get some answers, which is what she had hoped for. "Darling are you lovestruck or something?" Rarity asked, tilting her head. Sweetiebelle had dazed of into her thoughts. Sweetiebelle blushed, "Sorry, I just have a lot on my mind." She replied. "I can tell, you have finally fallen for him, haven't you." Sweetiebelle looked at her sister who was grinning from ear to ear. "What? No, I have just been catching up with ponies and the picture here was the aftermath of a joke." "Denial" Rarity sang and levitated the spoon to her mouth. Sweetiebelle glared at her, "Just because I said no doesn't mean anything." She told her sister. She then sighed, she was lying and her sister had already caught her. "You have never been a great liar dear sister, you should express yourself more. After all holding back leads to stress, and stress leads to wrinkles." Her sister taught, leaning back in her seat slightly. "Fine, ya caught me." "Aha!" Rarity chimed out, slamming her hooves on the table. Sweetiebelle shushed her and point her hoof up. "Your son is sleeping, keep it down." Rarity blushed and slid back. "Apologies, I let myself go alittle." She apologized. Sweetiebelle rolled her eyes. "Just don't say anything to anypony else, I don't want this getting to him or to a reporter, otherwise we will have put both of our careers in jeopardy." She wasn't wrong, a singer dating a game developer wasn't exactly welcome. The stallions that listened to Sweetiebelle's music would quit listening, and the gamers would probably boycott the game Button was making, believing it to be too mushy for the sake of her. Not only that but their fields didn't mix unless there was a reason for it. "I understand dear, I will hold back until something happens." Rarity promised. "Cross my heart, hope to fly, stick a cupcake in my eye." Rarity said, using Pinkie's signature promise. ............................................................. KNOCK KNOCK Buttonmash groaned and lifted his head from his keyboard once again. His mane was thrown around, bags sat underneath his eyes, and when he stood his legs shook. "Buttonmash, it's Sweetiebelle." Button froze and let Applebloom's words echo in his head. He went to sit back down but his leg gave out and fell face first into his desk. As he tried to lift himself up he heard a zap sound and saw a bright light. His vision was alittle blurry but he thought he could see a pony coming towards him. "Sweet Celestia, Button are you ok!" Sweetiebelle said trying to help him up. Buttonmash groaned in response and held himself up on his desk. "I'll...I'll be fine." He told her as his legs tried to give out again. "You are not fine, you can barely stand! Were you up all night?" Sweetiebelle cried out in concern. "Kinda have to be, I have a deadline." Button said, sitting back down and facing his computer. His jaw and muzzle hurt, but that didn't matter. "Well I don't care about some stupid deadline!" Sweetiebelle argued and spun him around to face her. "This is torture and you need rest." She said. "I don't have time to rest." Button quarreled. Sweetiebelle snorted and pulled him further away from his computer. stupid chair why do you have to have wheels? he scolded the chair in his thoughts as Sweetiebelle wheeled him to his couch. "Get on the couch, please." Sweetiebelle ordered politely. "No, I need to get my work done." Buttonmash told her. "I'm not taking no for an answer. Get. On. The couch." She demanded. Button shook his head and tried to wheel away, his chair bumping on something slightly. Sweetiebelle winced and grabbed her forehoof. "Ow." Button immediately moved back to her. "Are you ok?" He questioned, reaching for her hoof. He felt bad that he had hurt her. "I am now." "Wha-" he didn't get to finish as a hoof grabbed him and threw him onto the couch. "Gotcha, now where do you keep your blankets?" She said turning away from him. He tried to get up but realized he had magical shackles holding him to the couch. "Nice try, but I'm a good student of Twilight's, plus in your state it's not like you can do much anyway." She left the room in search of a blanket. This wasn't healthy for Buttonmash, and it really annoyed her that he put up a fight, but it was a fight she won, so less annoying. She couldn't find a blanket, so she just took the quilt from his bed and brought it downstairs. She gasped, he wasn't on the couch anymore. She peered around the corner to see him back on his computer, typing away at whatever he was working on. She snuck up behind him and wrapped the blanket around his eyes and chair and pulled him back towards the couch. "No, no! Let me go, Sweetiebelle!" She ignored his demands and hummed a tune as she repositioned him onto the couch, this time a blanket holding him down. She then sat in the computer chair and looked at her work. "I win." She smiled. Buttonmash sighed in annoyance. "You didn't win anything, and how in Celestia did you even get in here?" He asked. "Well I am Twilight's student." She responded, her mentor's words echoed in her head. Button tried to sit up but soon realized he couldn't. He peeked underneath the sheets and saw them tucked underneath the cushions with magic holding them under. "Like I said, I win." Sweetiebelle said. His ears flattened and he glared at his friend. "I have work to do Belle, now if you could let up that magic so I can-" "Nope, not until you rest." She interrupted. He struggled with blanket, tossing and turning, but to no avail he couldn't get free. Sweetiebelle giggled, his struggles amusing her. He pouted and turned towards the cushions. "Awww what's wrong, sad because a mare beat ya at something." Sweetiebelle taunted. He didn't answer and his breathing slowed. He had fallen asleep. well that was fast. Sweetiebelle told herself. She waited a bit longer just to make sure and then decided to explore the house. There was a lot of pictures on the walls, some art, others photos of Button, and some photos of other ponies. His living room wasn't large, but it held a couch and chair with a small table and a lamp. The walls were a grass green, and there was a set of stairs that acted as an exit along with and archway that led to the kitchen. The kitchen itself matched the living room but with a tile floor rather than wood. The stove and refrigerator contrasted the room nicely with a jet black color. There was also no dishes in the sink. She looked back in the living room to check on her friend and heard a grumble from the stallion. This grumble though didn't come from his mouth but rather his stomach. "When was the last time you ate?" Sweetiebelle asked the sleeping Buttonmash quietly. He snored in response, putting a smile on Sweetiebelle's face. She turned back to the kitchen and decided that he deserved a meal once he woke up. She wasn't the most talented in the kitchen, but she knew the basics and could make some simple dishes. She decided on something rather quickly and got to work. ......................................................... The smell of something good woke up Buttonmash from his slumber, something was being cooked. He slowly lifted his head off his couch and looked around, the memory of the events from earlier slowly pulling him back to reality. "How...how long was I out?" He asked, his eyes widening in fear. He knew Sweetiebelle was around somewhere, but the magic was now gone. He jumped off the couch and basically ran to his computer, not paying attention to the plate of pancakes on his table. "No, no! It's almost sundown, I'm gonna be behind!" He cried out. "Behind? From what I could tell there was more work in there to last you a month's break." A voice said behind him. He quickly turned to face Sweetiebelle who was levitating the plate of pancakes in front of her. "Well at least now you do." She added trotting up to him. "What...did you...do?" He did his best to hold back his anger. "Well for one I fleshed out some of your characters, most of them seemed one sided, and for two I did some editing," she made it to his side and set the plate down, "Here, see for yourself." He stared at the screen and scrolled down through all of the work, his eyes widening at how easily she had done this. "What, how did you figure it out?" She gave him a confused look. "I mean my characters, the stories that I had in mind, I had all of those...locked...away." the realization hit him and he reached into a drawer where a journal sat. Sweetiebelle looked away sheepishly. She had read his notes, thinking they were well just notes, but she could tell that some of the characters were based off of real ponies. She also found some entries from back in Button's highschool years, not realizing that they were that. When she turned back around she met his glare, one that scared her. "You read...through my personal journal!" He yelled. "I didn't realize it was personal at first, but when I read the scripts on the screen, they sounded very bland, I just wanted to help." She glared back at him, angry that he had yelled at her. Button's expression changed suddenly, his conversation with Applebloom coming back to him. He sat down in his chair and took a deep breathe. This needed to stop. "Just don't go through my stuff before asking, some of it is private and I don't need anypony seeing it," he then looked at her, "And I'm sorry for yelling, that...that was wrong of me." He added the apology. Sweetiebelle smiled in return and accepted his apology, slowly pushing the plate of pancakes towards him with her magic. He smiled back and took a bite, his eyes lighting up. "Sweet Celestia, these are amazing! Almost as good as mom's!" He said with a mouthful. She giggled as he took another bite. As he ate Sweetiebelle's mind wandered back to what she had seen in his journal. The entries in there focused on his life, but a lot of it also had to do with her and the other crusaders. There was no true mention of his affection towards her until the last of the entries. The entry was dated a week before she had started her big tour. She couldn't remember most of the words, but two sentences stuck out to her. I am going to try, I have to, it'll be my only chance. And then the last sentence. I was stupid to think she had anything for me, I just wish I could have said something. The sentences were from different time periods on the same same day. It would be two days after this entry that they would argue over everything that was going to happen and would ruin their friendship. "You okay?" Button asked, bringing her back to the present. She looked at the empty plate and then back at him. "Yeah, I'm fine, just day dreaming." She lied. He looked at her with a smile and stood back up. "I'm gonna go clean up the kitchen." He left the room and went to the kitchen. Sweetiebelle could hear the water running soon after, and walked to the living room to fix the couch. She folded the blanket as neatly as possible and then put it back where it came from before entering the kitchen. Button was cleaning off the pan that she had used to make the pancakes and from what she could tell he was focused on his task. She sat down at the small dining table in the room, waiting for him to get done. Twilight's advice echoed in Sweetiebelle's head, giving way for her nerves to creep in. She felt her heart rate pick up as he turned off the water, this was it. "Hey Button I-" there was a loud crash as the door in the other room swung open and then shut. Button, who had just finished drying his hooves, slowly crept to the archway. He was afraid that somepony was about to rob his home. "Button dear? Are you home?" His mother's voice called. Button sighed in relief, "In the kitchen, mom!" He called back returning to the sink long enough to put the remaining dishes in the soapy water. The mare entered the room with a pleasant smile on her face, not noticing Sweetiebelle at first. "Why did you swing the door open so hard? You could've broken something." He scolded in confusion. "The wind was picking up, I almost couldn't open it or even close it, I think I'm getting old." She laughed and turned towards Sweetiebelle. She gasped, "Am I interrupting something?" She asked politely. "Not at all, Sweetiebelle was just coming over to catch up some more." Button told his mother, leaving out his nap and the prepped food. "What's up? You look a little tired." Button asked as his mother sat down next to Sweetiebelle. He joined them and sat down opposite of Sweetiebelle. "Well I was coming over to make sure you were alright, you left on such short notice that I thought maybe one of your friends ended up in the hospital." She told him. Her reasoning was solid, mainly because after the article he just left, he didn't say goodbye or even leave a note. "And I didn't come over yesterday because I thought maybe you were working on your game after making sure everything was ok, but it surely doesn't seem that way." She tried to subtly gesture her eyes towards Sweetiebelle who took notice immediately. "No, no, something just came up and I was in a hurry, I am sorry for not saying something at least." His mother shook her head. "No don't be, if you are in a hurry then you don't have time for goodbyes, much less so when it's your mother, I don't think I would have let you go after the cake yesterday." Button laughed and rubbed the back of his head. he made his mother a cake, how sweet. Sweetiebelle thought. "So what were saying, Sweetiebelle?" Button asked, remembering her trying to say something earlier. Sweetiebelle looked at him and then his mother, would it be right of her to say something around his mother. In Sweetiebelle's mind she knew Button's mother probably didn't like her anymore, she did after all fight and hurt her son. She was also an adult, so hopefully she had gotten over their quarrel. Sweetiebelle sighed and looked at her crush, her heart threatening to jump out of her chest. "Um Button, I...I have been thinking about some things while I have been here...in Ponyville I mean...and I have come to a realization that-" there was a loud knock on the door, cutting off Sweetiebelle once more. The knock sounded frantic and Button didn't hesitate to run to the door. He swung the door open to reveal Vanillabliss, Sweetiebelle's manager. "Is Sweetiebelle here?" She asked, sweat running down her forehead. "Bliss? What's going on?" Sweetiebelle asked trotting up to the door. "It's your sister she is in the hospital!" Author's Note And that's chapter 4 I hope Rarity is ok.
PrologueRarity trotted along one of the many roads in Ponyville, a professional smile on her face, she was heading to Fluttershy's cottage, but needed to make a stop on the way, "Mom, we don't need to bother him," Rarity rolled her eyes and looked back at her son who was behind her, "Hush darling, I'm only going to have a chat with him before we go," she silenced him, "Mom, we really don't-" she glared at him, "Midnight Onyx, are you questioning your mother," she asked sternly, Her son sighed, "No," he looked down in shame, She faced the road once more, only to realize how close they were to their stop, and made a quick turn onto a small narrow path. She couldn't help but feel a little disgusted, the grass was tall, almost up to her flank, making the path to the door much more narrow. The house itself looked fine, its walls a nice white, the roof intact, but she wasn't here to discuss home management. She stepped up the small steps and looked back at her son who looked nervous and embarrassed at the same time. The dark blue colt was almost completely red, which contrasted well with his long, orange mane. She held back a laugh, "It's just Buttonmash dear, not your crush," she stated trying to calm him down, She rolled her eyes and faced the door, she couldn't say she wasn't nervous herself, she hadn't seen the colt since Sweetiebelle left on her tour, which was three years ago, since then Rarity had been too busy to go see anypony, she even missed Button's big reveal for his new game two years ago. Taking a deep breath she raised a hoof to knock when the door opened to reveal a stallion, Buttonmash. He wasn't looking at her though, instead he was looking at a computer that sat on a moving cart. It only took seconds for a stench to reach her nose, making her gag and scrunch up her muzzle, "Sweet Celestia, what is that horrendous smell," she cried out waving a hoof, "Sorry," Button mumbled under his breath, still staring blankly into the screen. After stepping back she got a good look at the younger stallion, his eyes were bloodshot and had bags from no sleep, his mane was a mess, and the stench was coming from him. His fur and face were pale, his posture was terrible, "Button...is...is that you-" Rarity lifted a hoof worryingly, and placed it on his shoulder, she didn't like doing it, but after changing diapers, it didn't phase her as much, "-you look sick dear...are...are you alright," he mumbled something under his breath, "I'm fine Rarity," he gave her a weak smile and shrugged her hoof off, "You don't look-" "It would be nice to chat right now, but I have some things I gotta do and I'm already behind schedule so if you will excuse me I gotta go," he said quickly, pushing his cart past her and Onyx and running down the road. "I tried to tell you mom, he is too busy to play and even too busy to talk," Onyx sighed and turned away, Rarity followed behind him silently as they made their way to Fluttershy's. __________________________ "I just don't understand, Button has always had time to play with the foals, he used to come with us for tea too," Rarity complained before sipping her tea. Rarity and Fluttershy were sitting on the pegasus's couch, their kids playing videogames upstairs. "Well...that was years ago, but umm you aren't wrong, Autumnleaf came to me the other day crying because Button wouldn't come to help finish her birdhouse, but after what has happened I understand why," Fluttershy exclaimed. "What happened," Rarity asked, Fluttershy perked her ears and lowered her glass, "The company he works for gave him a deadline, they apparently told him that he has until the end of this year to finish the game or he's out of the job," Rarity stood, "What..." "Yep, he has been working ever since, doesn't have time for anypony, not even Applebloom and Scootaloo could get him out of his house, he snapped at them saying he was too busy to do anything...poor thing, he doesn't have any time to be free and be with anypony, even his own mother," she sighed and finished her tea, "There isn't much we can do about it but wait until the deadline, I just hope he gets it done and takes a break, nopony should have to work that hard," she finished. Rarity looked at her and then grinned, "I think I know one pony who can get him out of his house," Fluttershy gave her a stern look, "I know what you're thinking Rarity, are you sure that's a good idea," "Darling, we have to help him or he could be this way forever, and we don't want that, do we," Fluttershy sighed in response, "No...but-" "Good, well I must go if I want to get a hold of her...ONYX TIME TO GO," she called out, "But...but-" the door closed ending the conversation. _____________________________ "can I speak to Sweetiebelle," Rarity asked over the phone, "What do you mean she's busy, my sister is never too busy to speak with me, put her on the phone, please," Rarity said, frustrated with the mare on the other side. "I will teleport to Manehattan right now if you do not put her on the phone...NOW," Rarity yelled into the phone, "Thank you," her smile returned, ()()()()()()()()()()()() Manehattan A white mare is taking off a show dress, her long, pink and purple mane straightened, except the bottom which curled naturally, she sighed in relief as she kicked the heels off, "Much better," she said falling on to the couch, "Sweetiebelle, your sister is on the phone," a mare called from the other room, "On my way," she replied rolling onto the floor and trotting into the next room, "Thank you Vanillabliss," she took the phone with her magic and raised it to her ear, "Hi sis, what's up," she answered happily, "Come home, in the middle of my tour...Rarity I told-" she fell silent, "I know I have been on tour for awhile but I just can't walk away," she walked back into the opposite room, "Fine, I will put things on hold and be there tomorrow morning, I swear Rarity, if you try to get me to stay for good I'm gonna hurt you," she said sternly, "Love ya too...bye," she hung up and dropped the phone, "Bliss, how long until my next concert," she asked her manager, "Three weeks," the mare replied, "That should be long enough then, schedule my flight to Ponyville for tomorrow and pack your bags, I'm going home," Author's Note Hey look at that another Sweetiemash story, this one will not be on hiatus like the other one this one along with Everfree Files will continue. Umm also this is my first attempt at a 3rd person story. I hope you enjoyed the prologue and will speak again when I release chapter 1. This is Silvermoon signing off...PEACE OUT!
Chapter 1: SurpriseKNOCK KNOCK KNOCK "Huh...what," Buttonmash lifted his head up, his fur pushed into his face from sleeping on his keyboard, "C...COMING!" He called out as the knocking continued. He jumped out of his chair and stepped over a half eaten hayburger and a book on romance before slipping on a bottle of ketchup and hitting his head on the wall. He groaned and opened the door that led to his living room and quickly but clumsily made it to the front door, "Hello?" He asked as he opened the door and rubbed his head with the other hoof. Rarity, a hoof on her nose, sat there with a smile, "Good Morning," she said in a sing song tune. He looked at his hoof for blood before placing it on the ground, "Morning," he replied with a weak smile, a yawn followed afterwards, "You really should get some sleep, Button, but that's beside the point-" she said as Button shrugged, "-you must get cleaned up and quickly," she added, "Why," was all Button could manage, "Because my sister is coming home for a few weeks to spend some vacation time before heading to Saddle Arabia for her next concert," she said, trying to maintain her cool, "S...Sweetiebelle is coming home," his eyes widened as Rarity nodded, "Isn't it wonderful," she said excitingly, but to her dismay Button remained silent, his expression changed from surprised to that of sadness, "Good for her," he replied. Button and Sweetiebelle hadn't been on good terms when she left, because of an argument between the two that ended up with him not even saying goodbye when she left. He doubted she wanted to see him now and plus he was too busy to get involved with her again or regain any kind of crush on her. Rarity on the other hoof looked confused, "I thought you would have been happy to hear-" "You thought wrong," he said quietly, Rarity didn't take the hint, "But-" "Just go Rarity," he closed the door, not giving her another chance to speak. Button sighed and let go of the knob, trotted back to his office, this time avoiding the ketchup, and sat back down in his chair. He relaxed his head against the headrest and stared at the wallpaper of computer, it was a photo of him and Sweetiebelle on the day of their graduation, the last photo they had ever taken together. He remembered that day, it was the day he chickened out of asking her out on a date, he would then try again on the day she left where he didn't get to ask her because she was too excited to leave Ponyville. He leaned forward and placed a hoof on the mouse, his mind in debate, did he turn off the computer and get cleaned up, or did he continue on the game. He had a similar debate like this every day and would always choose work over whatever option he had, but the consequences were worse for the new option. On one hoof, he could make up with Sweetiebelle and maybe respark some other friendships with the consequence of losing time to work. On the other hoof, he could continue working, but he would never get another chance like the one he had now. His cursor stayed in the center of the screen, moving back and forth between the power off icon and the game file. ()()()()()()()()()()()()()()()()()()()()()()() The train whistle blew, hinting that it was about to arrive at its next stop, Ponyville. Sweetiebelle, a smile on her face, signed a little filly's scrap book before passing the quill back to her manager, "Isn't it great," Vanillabliss said excitedly, taking the quill back with her light orange magic, "What?" Sweetiebelle asked, confused "I have been everywhere in Equestria except Ponyville, this is a whole new place for me," the mare said hopping up and down in her seat, "You've never been to Ponyville?" The mare nodded, "haven't had the time, you may be my first real celebrity, but I had been on the hunt for one when we met in Trottingham, so yes this is first trip to Ponyville," it was a rather lame excuse to Sweetie, but she shrugged it off. "I hope you enjoy it then," Sweetiebelle said. She looked at her friend, her fur was a light vanilla color, as her name implied, and her mane was a swirl of orange and white that reminded Sweetie of Mrs Cake's mane, but longer. Sweetie felt the train start to slow down as the whistle blew once more and the conductor's voice boom through the speakers above, "Attention to all ponies, we have reached our next stop, please remain seated until we stop and if this is your stop, gather your belongings and please leave your cabin in an orderly fashion, thank you," Sweetiebelle and Vanillabliss smiled at each other, "Ready to be attacked by all of your fans here," Bliss said, "I think my friends and family will be the ones attacking me this time," Sweetie replied with a smirk. The train stopped, letting out some steam as the cabin doors opened. Sweetiebelle and Vanillabliss grabbed their luggage, which was only three to four bags, the crew had stayed in Manehattan so there wouldn't be any issues, plus it was vacation time being used, so they had no reason to attend, nonetheless Sweetie and Bliss stepped off of the train and set their bags down to check everything, "I think we're set," Bliss grinned, "Looks like it, I guess we-" "Sweetiebelle?" A voice questioned from in front of them, Sweetiebelle looked up to see a bright orange, pegasus mare, her long, magenta mane spiked up at the top while the bottom straightened out, a cast covering her left forehoof, "Scootaloo?" Sweetiebelle said tearing up, "In the flesh," the mare replied with a smirk. Sweetiebelle trotted up to her slowly, "You look so different, and you lost your raspy...news," she said with wide eyes, "What am I the big bad timber wolf give your friend a hoofbump," Scootaloo said, holding up her good hoof. Sweetiebelle held up her hoof and collided it with Scootaloo's, "It's been awhile," Sweetiebelle exclaimed, "Too long of awhile," Scootaloo said, "Yeah...sorry," Sweetie said as Vanillabliss coughed, "Oh, this is my manger and friend, Vanillabliss," she said as Bliss held up a hoof, Scootaloo took her hoof and shook it, "Sweet, mind if I call ya V.B." Scootaloo asked dropping her hoof. Bliss shrugged, "Nope, kinda has a nice ring to it," she said happily, "Good because I would have called you it anyway," Scootaloo replied with a chuckle, Sweetiebelle shook her head, "Anyways come on I'll walk ya to Rarity's," the orange mare finished and turned away, nodding her head to follow. "Is she one of the Cutie Mark Crusaders you tell me about," Vanillabliss whispered as they started to trot after Scootaloo. Sweetiebelle nodded, "Yep, minus the cast, speaking of which, what happened to your leg," Scootaloo looked back, "Stunt gone wrong, should heal up in no time," she replied "Oh ok, is Applebloom around," "Yeah, she may be busy though, she has been trying to get a family a new home here, but they're strict on what they want, which is impossible," Scootaloo explained as they started to pass through a rather busy market. Vanillabliss kept tensing up, "Why isn't anypony trying to surround us, you'd expect a lot of fans to swarm us by now," she questioned. "Everypony here knows me, they may be fans, but they have proof that they know me in some way, so its going to be peaceful here," Sweetiebelle said, waving at a few ponies who waved back. "In other words, relax and enjoy your time here V.B." Scootaloo added with a wink. Vanillabliss took a deep breath and smiled relaxing her body a bit more, "There ya go," Sweetiebelle commented as they continued to her sister's home and boutique. The rest of the way was talkative with Sweetiebelle asking about everypony, the last pony being Buttonmash, which stopped Scootaloo in her tracks, "Buttonmash? Ummm...he's, different," Scootaloo stammered, "Like a good difference," Sweetiebelle asked, "Well...he's working on a new game," she chuckled nervously, "Uhuh," Vanillabliss butted in, "That doesn't sound promising Scootaloo," Sweetiebelle acknowledged. "Look it doesn't matter, lets just get to Rarity's," Scootaloo said sternly. Sweetiebelle sighed but followed as Scootaloo kept moving. It wasn't long until they approached the boutique, Scootaloo's walk was turning into a limp and her body tensed every time she stepped forward, but before Sweetie could ask if she was ok they were at the door, "This is your stop," Scootaloo announced before knocking. "COME IN!" A muffled voice called out on the other side. Scootaloo opened the door and stepped inside, Sweetiebelle and Vanillabliss followed into the dark building. Sweetiebelle opened her mouth to say something, but the lights turning on and a lot of ponies appearing out of nowhere yelling "SURPRISE," as loud as they could cut her off and made her jump. "Welcome home Sweetiebelle," Rarity said with outstretched hooves. Sweetiebelle, with half terrified half happy tears, hugged her sister, "Good to be home," she replied, "But, Celestia sis you didn't have to throw a party," she whispered, "Oh why not, everypony was anxious to see you, plus it gave Twilight's daughter a chance to practice a cloaking spell," she said happily. Sweetiebelle looked around, almost everypony was there, minus the few that moved and a certain brown stallion, everypony was there. As the party started, ponies fanned out, talking in groups or eating. Sweetiebelle decided to go to her group of friends first, which consisted of Scootaloo and Applebloom. Applebloom, was in a red dress which matched her mane that was put into a professional ponytail while a smaller pink bow held together what was loose, "You made it," she greeted the mare loudly, giving her a hug, "Glad Ah could, jus' finished up fer the day, the family Ah was helpin was extremely picky an' Ah ran outta houses ta show, so Ah gave 'em today and tamarraw ta decide on a home," she replied, returning the hug. Sweetiebelle took note on how her accent had hardened over the years. She was only able to speak to them for a minute before her sister told her she had more ponies to talk to and that she could hang out with them later. She trotted up to her sister who was talking to her friends and their husbands, "You obviously remember these ponies," Rarity said. Sweetiebelle smirked and pointed at Rainbow Dash, "Yeah, that's Fluttershy," she moved her hoof to Applejack, "That's Pinkie pie," she then moved it to Twilight, "That's Applejack," her hoof moved to Fluttershy, "That's Rainbow Dash," she finally pointed at Pinkie Pie, "And that's Twilight," she laughed as Rarity rolled her eyes. She heard a cough behind her and looked at Vanillabliss, "I'm getting there," she replied and used her magic to make her voice sound louder, "Attention everypony, although it was nice to see you all I have somepony you should all meet-" she looked at her friend, "-this is my manager and friend, Vanillabliss, I would appreciate it if you would all get to know her, otherwise carry on," she stopped the spell, "There...you happy," Vanillabliss blushed on response. Sweetiebelle sighed and continued to talk to her sister and her friends. ()()()()()()()()()()()()()()()()()()()()()()()() Buttonmash huffed and puffed as he ran, something he hadn't done in awhile, he was late, but hopefully not too late. He was hoping he could catch Sweetiebelle before she left, the party had ended about thirty minutes ago, something he had found out from Pinkie when he was getting ready to head to Rarity's to at least say something. He had lost track of time and wasn't too happy about it, he was going to try to kill two birds with one stone, something he shouldn't have tried in the first place. Finally, he made it to the boutique, his heart racing from both exhausten and anxiety, what if she didn't want to see him again, what if she was mad because he missed the party, there were so many cons that he couldn't point out the pros. As he approached the door he took a deep breath, and tried to calm down some. Rarity was pushing one of her poniquins back into place when the door opened and the bell sounded, "Sorry we're..." She looked up and froze when she saw a panting Buttonmash, "Button darling are you alright," she asked as she studied him. He looked and smelled cleaner, the bags under his eyes were less noticeable and his mane wasn't as thrown about, which meant he had tried to clean up a little at least, "Am...I...too late?" he asked in between each pant. She sighed and nodded, feeling bad for him. He muttered something that she couldn't make out and stamped the ground, hard, "No reason to be upset, dear, she should be back soon, until then how about you help me finish putting everything back where it goes," she said, placing a scarf around the plastic figure. He sighed and obeyed, putting poniquins back where they went while Rarity placed the right clothing on them. She took this time to ask some questions that had some needed answers, "So...how is the game coming along," she asked placing a hat on another poniquin. "Its going alright," he answered quickly. "Uhuh..." She thought for a moment and decided to ask about something she needed to know about, "What was the argument about," Button froze, "Argument?" He questioned, "Don't play foolish with me Buttonmash, I speak to my sister and your mother," she pointed a hoof at him, "It's...It's none of your concern Rarity...it's in the past," he replied, "Yes, because slamming a door in my face the moment I mention her obviously means it's in the past," she retorted. He opened his muzzle to argue but decided against it, letting him think for a second before replying, "I just don't-" he was cut off by the sound of the bell, "I'm home Rari-" Sweetiebelle's voice called out before stopping, "Buttonmash?" She asked, trying to get a look at him. He tensed and turned to face his ex-crush, "Hi...Sweetiebelle," Author's Note And that's a wrap for Chapter 1, sorry that it took me awhile, been busy. I have no idea when Chapter 2 will be out, but hopefully, maybe, soon, I don't really know. Anyways I just want to say thank you for the feedback, I appreciate it, really I do. I am trying to edit and work on my skill more, but it takes time. Otherwise I hope you enjoyed this chapter and hope you will stick around for the next one, I promise this story gets better. Anyways...this is Silvermoon signing off...PEACE OUT!
Chapter 2: Rekindling Old FriendshipsAuthor's Note WARNING there is a scene in here that may be considered suggestive... Otherwise enjoy the chapter. Chapter 2: Rekindling Old Friendships Sweetiebelle looked at her sister and then at the stallion in front of her, her eyes wide in shock, "What...what are you doing here," she asked, regaining her composure. "Helping your sister-" he turned and continued his previous task, "-is that a problem?" He said with a smile, She shook her head, "Not at all...um...Rarity, can I talk to you for a moment..." She looked at her smiling sister who nodded and followed her into the kitchen. Sweetie glared at her, "Did you come up with this," she asked, "Come up with what, Button being here, oh no darling, he missed the party and decided to help, so no I didn't plan anything," Rarity replied, "Hey Rarity...I have to get back to work...I will try to stop by tomorrow to see Onyx, alright?" Button called out from the other room, "Ok dear, have a good day and maybe get some rest," she called back, "I'll try," he finished before the sound of the bell signified he had left the building. "I better not find out you planned this sis," Sweetiebelle said, "I promise," Rarity lied. ()()()()()()()()()()()()()()()()()()()()() Button let out a sigh of relief, "At least I was able to see Sweetiebelle," he told himself as he walked away from the boutique. He shook his head, "Snap out of it Button, you have better things to do than to fall for her again," he said sternly before sighing and looking up. He waved at a passing pony when his ears caught the sound of galloping behind him, "BUTTON!" He jumped for he wasn't expecting a voice to yell his name. He turned to see a panting Sweetiebelle, "I...haven't...run like...that in...forever," she told herself and looked up at the confused stallion. "You okay Belle," Button called her by her nickname because Sweetie had always sounded awkward to him, "I'm fine," she said, regaining her composure. Button raised an eyebrow, "Ya sure, you look like you ran a marathon," she glared at him, "And you look like you fell on the ground and turned dirt brown," he opened his mouth to respond, but without hesitation Sweetiebelle used her magic to trip him. "Hmph, maybe next time don't insult me," she smiled evilly and stepped past him. He grunted as he pushed himself off the ground and rubbed his chin, "Right..." Button followed after her, "So what's up, you kind of just left your sister to finish cleaning up," Sweetiebelle shrugged, "She told me to go on and catch up with you," he snickered, "You're a horrible liar you know that," he said with a smirk, "Somepony spent some time with Applejack," she replied. Button snorted, "She isn't the only one, ever since you left I have spent time with everypony we knew, helping when ever I could, and being there when needed, I mean I've even gotten to know Diamond Tiara more," he looked down for a second, "Things have changed since you left...I'm sorry though, for how we left things, you weren't the only one that hated me after our argument, Applebloom and Scootaloo stopped talking to me completely," his ears drooped. That kind of explains Scoot's weird behavior when I asked about him. Sweetiebelle thought, "Speaking of them, Scootaloo says you're different, and with the expressions she gave me, it sounded bad, but you seem fine, unless you're hiding something." Buttonmash looked at her, "There is nothing to hide, I have changed for the better, not the worst, now I need to get ho-" he was cut off by a yelling mare, "SWEETIEBELLE!" Vanillabliss called from far away waving two hooves hoping her friend would see her, "Home..." Buttonmash restated, "Oh um ok...well it was nice catching up with you, maybe I will see you tomorrow," Sweetiebelle said with a smile. "Maybe," he said, before walking away. Sweetiebelle stared at him as he left, concern filled her heart. She needed to talk to her two friends and find out what was up. In the mean time she would talk to Vanillabliss and find out what needed to be done. Vanillabliss was still bouncing happily as Sweetiebelle trotted up to her, "Are you...okay," Sweetiebelle asked, raising a hoof and poking her friend. Vanillabliss stopped bouncing but kept her smile, "Youweretalkingtoa...a COLT!" She screamed making Sweetiebelle cringe and anypony close by stare at them. She laughed nervously and covered Vanillabliss' mouth with a hoof, "He's just a past friend, calm down, seriously, I don't need a scene," Sweetiebelle said slowly taking her hoof off her friend's face. Vanillabliss still looked excited, "That doesn't matter, he is also one of the coolest ponies around, Buttonmash, expert video game designer," Sweetiebelle raised an eyebrow, "He's made one game, and I didn't know you even played-" "He didn't just make one game, it won several awards and was even game of the year, it was a beautiful game, and the love story was fantastic, whoever he is with must be a lucky mare, because only a stallion whose been in love and has a special somepony can make a game like that!" Sweetiebelle rolled her eyes at her fanfillying friend, "It's a game Bliss, a game, there is nothing special about it, now come on, I need to go see Scootaloo," she turned and started making her way to her friend's, Vanillabliss bouncing a long beside her. _________________________ When the two mares arrived at Scootaloo's, the sun was starting to set, casting a shadow over her bright yellow and blue home. Her brown door still looked new and the welcome mat was barely covered in muck. Sweetiebelle lifted a hoof and knocked three times; it took a few minutes but the sound of something shuffling inside could be heard and the door opened. Scootaloo still in her cast stood in the doorway, the bags under her eyes revealed that she had been sleeping," "Hey guys," her voice was raspy, "What brings you here," "Umm I was coming to talk to you, but you seem..." "Sick...yeah I've been having trouble but I'm not sick, just tired, Rumble being out of town has kind of kept me up," Sweetiebelle raised an eyebrow, "Rumble? Are you saying you two-" "Are together, yes we are, in fact before he left town to go to his race he did this," she pushed her mane away from neck and revealed a chain with a ring on it, "HE PROPOSED! How long have you two been together," Vanillabliss chimed, "Two years...took him long enough though," Scootaloo replied, "I didn't realize you were one for romance Scootaloo," Sweetiebelle said, "Yeah, well I've changed a lot, and with my career on hold right now, romance seems to be the right medicine, sorta." Her friend replied, pushing her magenta mane back, "Umm...you want to come in?" She finished opening the door wider and stepping aside. The two mares nodded and stepped inside, and soon it hit Sweetiebelle that with Rumble being a racer and Scootaloo being a stuntspony, they made a lot of bits. The house was much larger on the inside, the ceiling was a good twelve feet high, the living room was extremely large, a black horseshoe shaped couch and a large television sat across from each other, a black tinted glass coffee table sat in the middle of the horseshoe. The walls were painted a bright orange and a walkway led to the kitchen. There was a spiral staircase that led to a second floor. A blanket and a few pillows were draped over the couch like a make shift bed. Vanillabliss was the first to speak, "Have you been sleeping on the couch," she asked pointing a hoof at the display. "Kinda have to, I'm not supposed to be straining my leg, I should be able to get to my bed in two or three weeks, the couch is comfortable though," Scootaloo replied. Sweetiebelle looked around for a moment, "Umm...not to be rude, but where's your bathroom," she asked turning a little red, "Straight towards the kitchen first door on your right," Scootaloo nodded her head towards the walkway. Sweetiebelle quickly made her way to the bathroom and shut the door behind her. She sighed and looked in the mirror, "Okay, calm down, this is Scootaloo, but different, she is getting married soon and is a very wealthy pony...this is definitely not the Scootaloo I remember," she turned on the sink and splashed cold water on her face, and immediately felt better. She sighed and looked into the mirror where something caught her eye, a small white stick was sticking out of the trash can. She turned around and without hesitating used her magic to lift the device out of the metal can. Her eyes widened at the sight of the failed pregnancy test, Are they trying...already, before they get married...or is Scootaloo cheating on Rumble, oh please don't be cheating. Sweetiebelle thought to herself before placing the test back in the trash can and leaving the bathroom, "Celestia, Sweetiebelle, what took you so long," Scootaloo said with a tired smile. "Nothing, just took my time," she replied, "Uhuh...so what's up," Scootaloo plopped down on to her couch and situated herself. Sweetiebelle sat down on her left, while Vanillabliss was on the right. Sweetiebelle looked at her friend and answered her previous question, "Nothing much, but I was able to see Buttonmash," Scootaloo looked at her, "You did huh, did he have his cart with him," she asked annoyed. "No he-" "-wait, what cart?" Sweetiebelle asked, "Ya know, the one with the computer on it, he takes it out with him when he is going somewhere so he can keep working," she described it, that same tone in her voice. "No, actually he showed up late to the party and was helping my sister when I got back," "He finally left his work home huh, that doesn't surprise me considering you're back in town," Scootaloo smirked. Sweetiebelle turned a slight red, "I'm pretty sure its a coincidence Scoots and it is my first day back so he probably wanted to say hi," Sweetiebelle said convincingly. "Sure, Belle, sure, what ever you say," Scootaloo said sarcastically. "Anyways, I am here to ask about him, he said that he's changed, a lot, but I don't understand, he told me he has helped everypony and has learned a lot of things, I was hoping you could elaborate a bit more on what he meant," Scootaloo sighed, "That was right after you left, he was helpful and was even one of the reasons Rumble and I got together, he gave him some confidence, I guess, but after finishing his first game and signing a contract for his next game, he slowly drifted away and became more engrossed in his job, he stopped playing with the foals, stopped helping everyone, and finally after he stopped sleeping and caring he snapped at me and Applebloom...we didn't blame him at the time but he got worse, and just stopped talking to everypony...only caring about that game, that stupid game," she sighed and looked down, "Is that why you are so uncomfortable when we talk about him?" Sweetiebelle asked. "Well...its more of I just don't want to talk about him, I can't really consider him a friend anymore and when he snapped it showed a new side of him, one that I hoped I would never see, one that I don't even want you to see," "I understand that, now I'm seeing the big picture," Sweetiebelle said, making the other two ponies perk their ears. "I should've known, come on Bliss, we have somewhere to be," all three stood, "Leaving already?" Scootaloo questioned. "I'll be back tomorrow, but I need to speak to my sister, it was nice seeing you again," Sweetiebelle replied hurrying towards the door. "Yeah nice seeing you again," Vanillabliss called out as the door closed behind them. __________________________ "Where are we going?" Vanillabliss asked but to no avail the mare in front of her didn't answer. Sweetiebelle had been lied to...again, but this time she wasn't going to let it slide like the last time. Rarity when I get there you better be prepared or else tonight isn't going to be fun, she thought to herself as the boutique came into view. She threw the door open with her magic and went inside her sister was humming to herself and knitting a piece of clothing, "Hello darling, you seem to be in a hurry," she said, not looking away from her work. "You lied to me...AGAIN," Sweetiebelle replied angrily as Bliss entered the building. "What ever do you mean dear sister," Rarity questioned innocently, finally turning and facing her sister, an eyebrow raised. "You know what I mean, don't you dare act innocent," Sweetiebelle growled. "Okay...say, I do know what you mean, hypothetically, what did I lie about exactly," Rarity said, acting as if she didn't know what her sister was talking about. "About trying to get me and Buttonmash together," Sweetiebelle said. Rarity closed her eyes and sighed, "I didn't lie to you about anything, yes I invited you here to try to help Buttonmash with his...predicament, I never intended for you two to fall head over hooves for each other, but good to know that you think of him that way," Rarity implied making her sister turn red with embarrassment. "That's not what I meant," Sweetiebelle retorted her face not changing color. "Your face says otherwise dear, anyways he isn't the only reason I had you come, I really wanted you to come see Onyx and I as well as see your old friends, you know, your tours are rather long and probably stressful, so I decided you needed a break, good to see you agree with me," Rarity added to her confession, "Speaking of which, I'm going out to get some things tomorrow, would you like to accompany me, we can stop by your favorite ice cream shop," she said with a smile, changing the subject. Sweetiebelle sighed and looked at her sister, the red disappearing, "I have some-" "Nope, no working, you need to enjoy yourself, I will handle the tasks at hand tomorrow, you go and spend time with your friends and family," Vanillabliss interrupted. "Are you-" "Sure? Yep, you need the relaxation anyways," Vanillabliss said with a grin. "Um...okay I guess I am free tomorrow, so sure sis, I'll join you," Sweetiebelle answered. "Wonderful!" Rarity squealed in delight. Sweetiebelle laughed nervously, "Yay,"
Chapter 3: More TimeSomething has gone wrong. We don't seem to have an archived copy of that chapter.
Chapter 5: When the Heart Falls"I don't know what happened, I heard her arguing with dad about coming and getting me, and then she fell and...and I'm sorry...this...this is all my fault..." Onyx cried out his apology. Twilight looked at him with her own tears. "It is not your fault, you saved your mother and did the right thing," she told him wrapping a wing around him. Buttonmash looked at Sweetiebelle who was doing her best to stay strong. She was sobbing quietly with Applebloom and Scootaloo trying to comfort her. Vanillabliss was off to the side not really knowing what to do, but she was teary eyed, Sweetiebelle was her friend after all. Rainbow Dash, Fluttershy, Applejack, and Pinkie Pie were all sitting in chairs talking and trying not to be nervous about the situation. Pinkie Pie wasn't doing so good though, she looked rather ill, her mane deflated and she looked pale. Buttonmash was going to try and talk to Sweetiebelle, but from the look that Applebloom was giving him, he decided against it. Instead he decided to help with Onyx, knowing that the colt always looked up to him, he could maybe take his mind off things. "Hey Twilight, how's Onyx doing," he asked the mare who smiled and faced him. "He keeps blaming himself, I don't really know how to handle this, I didn't fully raise Dawn, and she never had to deal with death so this isn't my thing for once. I would ask Pinkie, but she looks worse than him." Button smiled lightly, he didn't like this either, Rarity was always around to talk to him when no pony else would, she was like a sister to him. "Let me try, I think I know what to do," Twilight nodded and stepped to the side. Button sighed and moved past her to the small colt who was shaking uncontrollably. "Hey bud, how are you doing?" Button asked trying to start a conversation with the colt. Onyx didn't respond, instead he hugged Button's foreleg, crying into his fur. Button sighed and slowly rubbed the colt's mane, calming the kid as best he could. "Hey do you want to go and play ball outside, it'll take your mind off of things." Onyx looked at him and nodded. The two then started to walk to the door of the room before being stopped by Applebloom. "What do ya think you're doing?" She whispered before smiling at Onyx. Button glared at her and shook her hoof off of his foreleg. "Trying to help, now back off before you scare him..." he said before taking Onyx through the doors. "We are going to talk about this later." Applebloom told him as he left before returning to Sweetiebelle. Button rubbed his foreleg with his hoof. "She has quite a grip." He told himself and Onyx who had stopped crying. "What did she want?" He asked. "Just wanted to know where we were going." "Oh." Button pushed open another door before stepping into the elevator and hitting the button for the first floor. He looked at Onyx and smiled. "I'm sure she'll be ok...Rarity is a very strong pony, she will bounce back." He told the colt reassuringly, "For now let's just focus on the ball, don't want to knock you out with my Killing Throw." Onyx laughed at him. "As if, your Killing Throw is nothing compared to my Swooping Curveball." Buttonmash had successfully changed the kid's mood, hoping it would stay this way. He gripped a ball from the small toy chest in his hoof and they took it outside. "I don't think the staff will mind if we borrow this." He said, spinning the ball on his hoof. Onyx ran to the other side of the yard and waited for the ball. "You ready?" Button asked, prepping the ball in his hoof. "Bring it!" Onyx said, prepping himself. ................................................... The doctor came out of the room and looked around the lobby at the group of ponies. "Is there a relative that I can speak to in the room?" He asked, adjusting his glasses. Sweetiebelle stepped forward, "That would be me, her sister, our parents are still on their way." The doctor observed Sweetiebelle quickly. "Very well, come with me for a moment." He told her as politely as possible. She knew why he had this sort of behavior, you were not allowed to give any sort of emotion in the medical field as to not mislead the family. That wasn't important though, her sister on the other hoof was. "Your sister has suffered from a heart attack, now she is in stable condition and will recover, but this is a very strange case for us." The doctor said. Although Sweetiebelle was relieved that her sister would live, the strangeness of the case interested her. "Why is it strange?" She asked. The doctor wiped his glasses on his shirt with his magic and then placed them back on his muzzle. "Well your sister is in perfect health, for one, for two, from what your nephew has said, she gets in a lot of arguments with his father, so her heart should be some what used to the stress, although I am not ruling it out. There is one factor that does however that changes things, how much alcohol does she consume on a daily basis?" Sweetiebelle was taken aback by this question. She had never seen or even heard of her sister drinking. "Well, I have never seen her drink anything with alcohol in it, unless it is the basic cider samples from Sweet Apple Acres, but even then she was careful...why, what are you saying?" She became very defensive of Rarity especially of such an accusation. "Well because of her health being almost perfect, we decided to take some blood samples, and what came back was an alcohol level that exceeded that of how much a pony should have. Has there been anything other than her ex-husband that has hurt her or caused some sort of stress on her?" Sweetiebelle stepped back slightly and sat down, all of her memories with her sister running through her, trying to find any other hint of alcohol use. "Not that I can think of, she's always been a nice and caring pony, not even her job or child has caused her some form of stress..." she told the doctor who stayed silent for a moment. "Hmmm, there was some slight swelling in her heart, could be she is still heartbroken, as a heart swelling like that could cause Heartbreak Syndrome, combined with the alcohol levels, this could be the reasoning behind her sudden heart attack over a conflict through the phone." He said revealing more about the situation. "I advise that when she wakes up you get some information out of her so we can decide on what medication she may or may not need. This is of the upmost importance for this hospital as we haven't dealt with a case like this in quite a long time. Otherwise she should have a quick recovery, but if you can't get anything out of her, find the alcohol and get rid of it...it could be that the alcohol is also hurting her." Sweetiebelle nodded and went back to the lobby and told everypony the situation, including the alcohol. Everyone was happy to hear she would be ok, but Sweetiebelle could tell they were quite upset about the alcohol abuse. Something was up, and she was going to get to the bottom of it. ............................................................ When Buttonmash had gotten the news, he relayed most of it to Onyx, leaving out the alcohol part of it. Onyx was overjoyed about it all, his mother was going to be okay, he wouldn't have to live with his father. Button couldn't help but smile at the bouncing colt who now waited in the lobby for his mother to wake up. When she did wake up, Buttonmash had to hold him so that Sweetiebelle could explain everything to her along with the doctor. Rarity herself was quite astonished with the whole thing. "I did not realize I was consuming that much...I am terribly sorry for everypony that had to worry about me, I'm fine now, other than the bruise on my head." Sweetiebelle glared at her sister. "You are not fine, you could have died, Rarity, Onyx would be with his father who he despises." She told her, tears in her eyes. Rarity smiled and held open her hooves for a hug. "Now now, we know that would have never happened...plus after all of this, I am quite afraid of touching anything that has alcohol in it. I...I only picked up that habit, after he left me alone..." she said, her voice cracking slightly, tears forming in her eyes. "And...and afterwards, I couldn't stop the relaxing feeling felt rather amazing, and the taste of the liquid was really good and satisfying. It just felt so...right." she sobbed as Sweetiebelle took hold of her sister and hugged her. The two cried for a long time before the doctor interrupted then with a cough. "Now, Rarity as your doctor I really do not recommend alcohol. From what you have said, it almost sounds like you were very close to becoming an addict to the substance...if you do continue with it, the rehabilitation process is not only expensive, but it will physically and mentally hurt you. Which can lead to you hurting others, so I do not recommend it any further from this visit onward." Rarity wiped the snot off her muzzle with a tissue. "I completely understand, now if you don't mind me asking, when can I leave and get back to my field of work." She asked. "Since stress was another factor, I am going to let you leave today to go back home, but you will be on bed rest for at least two weeks. We can not have this happening again, do you understand?" The doctor told her sternly, a bit of concern could be heard in his tone. Rarity nodded once more and slowly stepped out of bed, holding on to the pole that held her IV bags. "Now that this is all over with, where is my Onyx?" She asked her sister. Sweetiebelle smiled. "He is in the lobby being held by Button, we didn't want him knowing about the whole alcohol situation." She told her as she helped her to the door. "You do know I can walk just fine, right darling, I'm just bringing this with me until my nurses come back to take these needles out of me." She told her sister who let go quickly. "Sorry, just trying to be caring," she laughed in embarrassment. Rarity gave her a thankful smile before opening the door and stepping out. Onyx squealed in delight and broke free from Button's grip. He hugged Rarity tightly who hugged him in return. Soon after everypony was hugging her, including Buttonmash who she thanked for helping with Onyx after Pinkie told her about his actions. Meanwhile, Applebloom and Button glared at each other, one still mad about the past, the other, frustrated with her anger. Sweetiebelle took quick notice of this and remembered Scootaloo's discomfort towards Button. Button was quick to leave the hospital, telling Rarity goodbye and wishing her a swift recovery before leaving. Sweetiebelle wanted to follow after him, but she decided against it. She had more important things to attend to. After everypony had gotten their words out to Rarity, Sweetiebelle and Onyx walked her home. "Don't forget you are not allowed to lift a hoof to work." Sweetie told her sister sternly as they walked. "You have nothing to worry about, dear sister, I believe I can obey a doctor." Onyx looked at Rarity, unconvinced. "Don't worry Aunt Belle, I think I can make sure she isn't working." He said. His mother glared at him, but Sweetiebelle stopped. "What did you just call me?" She asked, Belle was a name that Buttonmash used for her, the Crusaders used it too, but more so Button. "Aunt Belle? Well you are my aunt, and plus Button is right, it comes out better when you say it." He answered. Sweetiebelle looked at her nephew, who was smiling. "Oh really? And what else did you and Button talk about while you two were out there?" Sweetiebelle figured she could get some information about of Onyx. "Why should it matter to you, it's not like you like him anyways. Plus he did say it could ruin your reputation as a big celebrity." She blushed. so he does like me, even after everything. Sweetiebelle thought, unknowingly twirling her mane with her hoof. "Sweetiebelle are you alright? You're a little red in the face." Sweetiebelle jumped at her sister's voice. She thought about an excuse as quickly as she could. "Uh, um...I am still a little upset about the hospital." Rarity looked at her with almost the exact same expression that Onyx had given to her. he is definitely your son. Sweetiebelle joked in her head. "You don't have to lie to me, Sweetiebelle, if you like Buttonmash you really shouldn't hide it," Rarity told her, "And we both know that you are not the best with secrets, especially with your body language." Rarity pointed out the hoof in her mane. Sweetiebelle put her hoof back down and sighed. "You're one to talk," Rarity glared at her. "but you are right...I have found myself attracted to him." Onyx's smile broke into a large grin. "You like Buttonmash!" He yelled loudly. Sweetiebelle covered his mouth. The moon was in the sky, and ponies were sleeping. "Will you keep it down? I don't need anypony else knowing. Button is right about my reputation though. I'd lose money and fans, both of which I cannot afford to lose. I'm a young star, these things are not supposed to happen until I am older." She sighed in sadness. The three of them soon made it to the boutique and went inside. Rarity didn't need Onyx to hear what she was about to tell Sweetiebelle. Love was love, but Onyx was not old enough to understand it. The Hearts and Hooves Day incident from all those years ago came to her mind and her brain shuttered. It wasn't long until she ushered Onyx to bed, constantly telling him that she would be fine. She eventually Pinkie Promised him that she wouldn't work so now, she was really stuck. She came back down the stairs as Sweetiebelle tried to escape into the kitchen. "Hold it right there Sweetiebelle, we are going to have a chat about this reputation of yours." Sweetiebelle stopped and came back in the room, Vanillabliss tailing behind her. She had already went back to the house earlier and was eager to hear about the conversation. "Now miss Bliss, what ever is said can not be spoken of if Sweetiebelle does not want anything said, understood?" Vanillabliss nodded. "Yes ma'am. Just because I'm her manager doesn't mean I'm not her friend, I can hold any secret you throw at me." She told her with a salute. Rarity nodded and sat at the table offering two of the other seats to her sister and her friend. The two sat down and waited for Rarity to speak. "Now this...reputation of yours, how important is it to you?" She asked Sweetiebelle who looked at the table. "Well considering the fact that she is still rising amongst the ranks of stardom, I would say it is pretty important." Vanillabliss answered for Sweetiebelle with a smile. "You really remind me of myself sometimes, you know that Sweetiebelle?" Rarity told her. Rarity went back to her younger years, she could remember her times of doing whatever she could for fame. From helping Fancy Pants with a tuxedo, to opening up several boutiques, it all came back to her sophistication and reputation. That was until she met her special somepony and had her son Midnight Onyx. Her whole life changed after that, but she always put her family before her reputation. She hoped Sweetiebelle would have taken up on that too, but now she could tell her sister hadn't. "What do you mean?" Sweetiebelle asked in confusion. "You care more about your reputation than any of your relationships, although I do believe I did okay thanks to friendship. You, on the other hoof, decided to leave as soon as possible, which I personally believe that was what caused your conflict with Buttonmash." "That was not what our argument was about, it was never about me leaving!" Sweetiebelle slammed her hoof on the table. She was trying to forget about it, all of it. "Do you even remember what caused it, hm," Rarity responded, controlling herself. She didn't need to end up at the hospital again. "Did you or did you not quote one of his sentences...especially about what would happen to the crusaders...and what about all of your friends. I remember every detail about that explanation, because my sister's pain was more important than a piece of cloth." Rarity told her, reminding Sweetiebelle of everything. .............................................................. "Oh, hey Belle, what's up?" It had been a few years ago, Sweetiebelle was about to leave on her tour. The last ponies she needed to tell bye to was Buttonmash, and her sister and nephew. "Um...do you mind if I come in?" Button shook his head. "Mom is still out running errands, but I'm sure she won't mind." He said letting her enter his home. They had a small conversation, talking about their day and how Button's game was coming along. For him today was the day he was going to ask her out on a date, but he didn't prepare for her big reveal. "I'm going on a starter tour, and a big one at that!" She told him excitedly, hoping for him to be excited as well. He wasn't, instead he looked at the couch and then at his computer desk across the room, hiding his sadness. "Oh...um...that...that's great Belle." He said, his voice had gotten quiet. He already knew the consequences of being famous, he never wanted to be some big time celebrity. Everypony would be watching every move, looking for drama. This also meant he could never be with Sweetiebelle as her reputation would be on the line. "What? Is something wrong?" She asked, reaching out to him. He shook his head and tried his best to smile, failing miserably. "Are...you not happy for me? I thought you would have been just as excited to see me go big, following my dream." He dropped the act and sighed. "I...I am happy for you, but what about everypony here?" He asked. "What are you talking about?" He felt his face turn red with slight anger, it seemed like she jumped into it without a second guess. "Your sister? Your nephew? The Crusaders? What do you mean what am I talking about...you're just leaving all of us behind!" His voice started to raise, but he didn't care anymore, he never liked celebrities as every single one of them was snooty and acted like their friends were never important. He knew some didn't act like that, but from Sweetiebelle's expression, she had already forgotten them. "The girls already understand this, they told me to follow my dream...I...I am not leaving them behind!" She yelled back. The argument had begun. "I'm not just talking about the girls here! You were scheduled to help several young colts and fillies get their cutiemark or even help them find their purpose! You are quite literally leaving The Cutiemark Crusaders for some fame and glory!" Button reminded her. "You don't realize that I already knew what was going to happen, I'm doing this to get my life started! Applebloom has already started her business! Scootaloo is doing her best to help out Rumble! And you! You are working on your very own game! Where is my life supposed to begin?" "I don't know! But I do know one thing...you always let popularity get to your head! Do you not remember homecoming, it took me and the Crusaders everything in our power to get you that crown! Even getting you to date the star buck ball player to get you there! It was only when he cheated on you and then you yelling at Diamond Tiara for taking me to the dance that you realized it wasn't important!" He continued to throw out more examples. Tears were now falling off of Sweetiebelle's cheeks as he continued to yell more and more about her mistakes. "And then even now when I am about to ask you on a date...you decide that this tour is more important than everypony, including your family..." his voice died down and his anger slowly left his face. This was her chance to fight back. "I...will...always have family and friends to think about and keep me from going that far...if you would have listened to me you would understand that! But then again you have never listened to me! You have no idea what it is like to have a talent that can only be used in certain areas at certain times! Your life...and your reputation do not matter to other ponies! You sit here and berate me...yell at me...and yet you still didn't have the nerve to fight back against Diamond Tiara's coltfriend! You still never tried to go to a dance! And you still think that I would want to date a pony like you! An introvert, who cares only for himself and the few friends he has! Who thinks I should stay here so I could date him and throw my talent in the trash! I have always cared for anypony and everypony and yet I try to do something that benefits myself and I'm the bad guy! I don't think so, just like I do not think you and I could ever work as a couple!" And with that she ran out of the house and to the boutique, in tears. Buttonmash had said some of the most regrettable things that he had ever said, and those things would be the reason he became who he was today. A pony so focused on his career he could never say anything to hurt somepony, a time where he could cut himself away from the world. Unfortunately, that wouldn't happen yet. He made up for everything he said, helping everypony out and doing everything he could to wipe those words away, that is until his new project started and everything rushed back to Buttonmash. He would work profusely, with every single word he had said, echoing in his head like a broken record. ................................................................ Sweetiebelle felt tears stream down her face as everything came back to her. How could Buttonmash still like her after all of that. How could she still like him after all of the things he said. In truth she did like him, even after all of that, she still wanted to be with him. Every time he was around, she was light headed, and even seeing who he had become helped. His fatherly acts towards Onyx, his helpfulness to other ponies. His laugh, his smile, his focus of everything and everypony around him. It all made her feel happy inside in a way she had never felt before. "Darling? It's ok to be this way...even when I and Onyx's father were together, we fought, even mom and dad fight sometimes. Arguments can strengthen or hurt a relationship, but it all comes from the heart. Princess Cadence told me that once. She told me things about love that only I could dream of." Rarity advised. "Love is a difficult thing to understand, but there is one thing that everypony knows about it...if you and your partner truly love each other...then love will always prevail, even when times get rough." Vanillabliss added. She had been in several relationships, and understood what love could be. She had just never truly experienced it herself. Sweetiebelle looked at her friend and sister, a newfound smile on her face. "Thank you, for helping me understand what I need to do." She said. "Which is what, exactly?" Vanillabliss asked. "I'm going to tell Buttonmash how I feel, and hope he feels that way too!" She said, standing up from the table. "Wait, wait, if you are going to do this, then you must know something." Rarity stopped her. Sweetiebelle raised an eyebrow in confusion. "Buttonmash has been away from his game for some time now, and as Vanillabliss has told me, you were at his place earlier today. So I am sure you have seen him in some sort of trouble." Sweetiebelle remembered his lack of sleep. "Are you talking about his sleeping problem?" She said. "Oh, it more than a sleeping problem, he completely drops his social life to that of his computer. He almost never leaves unless he needs groceries, and when he does he brings a cart with that computer on it. The stories you have heard about him being helpful are true, but have you spoken to Scootaloo and Applebloom about his problem yet?" Rarity questioned. Sweetiebelle shook her head, but remembered the stand off that Buttonmash and Applebloom had. "Well Scootaloo did mention some of his problems I guess, but she was uncomfortable." "You should speak to Applebloom then about his problem. Unfortunately I believe it is going to take all three of you to get the Button you love back." .............................................................. "He ain't worth it Sweetiebelle, trust me, you deserve better." Applebloom told Sweetiebelle who had just finished explaining the situation to her. "Deserve better, Where did the Applebloom I know go?" Sweetiebelle asked, remembering how hard Applebloom tried to get Sweetiebelle to go on a date with Buttonmash. "Ah'm still me, but Buttonmash has changed and Scootaloo and Ah already tried to help 'im once, and we got insulted for it." Applebloom said, trying to keep her composure as she fixed her tie. "Well being insulted never stopped you before." Sweetiebelle told her. Applebloom sighed and faced her friend. "He was a friend, that's the difference, nothin' hurts more than a friend sayin' those things," Applebloom moved past Sweetiebelle and towards a table with a suitcase on it. "Not only that, he couldn't make it to Granny's funeral or even Big Mac's weddin'." She opened the suitcase with a angry snort and started checking the papers in it. Sweetiebelle let her read the papers and looked around the room. Applebloom's house was actually rather small almost a one story variant of Buttonmash's with the bedroom being in a hallway and a dining room. The walls were a royal purple with a white trim and most of the furniture looked like it was built by the Apple Family. There were some pictures of Applebloom with several other ponies, including some with what Sweetiebelle could guess were clients at their new homes. "I didn't make it either." Sweetiebelle defended Button as she picked up a picture of her and Applebloom in their school gala dresses. "Yeah well," Applebloom signed and closed the case. "You weren't in town an' he was." She said as she put some straps on the case. "Well if he was working than I don't see the problem with that, everypony has to make living and-" "Ya don't think Ah know that!" Applebloom interrupted, facing Sweetiebelle. "Ah could care less if he had showed up, but not only that, even afterwards he never showed any form of concern for me. Even before then with the wedding, he didn't even send a card to Big Macintosh and Sugarbelle, he didn't even congratulate them Sweetiebelle. Big Mac helped Button out a lot when it came to learning how to care for a yard, an' he repaid him by not showing up. Needless to say that Big Mac was hurt, he may be over it now, but the thought is still there." Sweetiebelle took a step back as Applebloom took a step forward. "So give me one good reason Ah should help him be happy. One reason that could completely change everything Ah just told you." Sweetiebelle looked at Applebloom. "For me, and the Cutiemark Crusaders, it would be like all three of us working together again, helping ponies and-" "It's not that easy...maybe the old me would have said yes the CMC and the ol' days, but not after everything he put me through, Ah'm sorry, but he just ain't worth it," Applebloom cut Sweetiebelle off and put the suitcase over her neck and shoulders. "So you're saying I'm not worth your time either." Applebloom looked at her. "Ah didn't say that." Sweetiebelle looked down. "You don't have to, you are about to go to work, that speaks volumes about how hypocritical you are." "What're you sayin'?" Applebloom arched a brow. "Nothing, just go sell that house," Sweetiebelle left the room. "And good luck." She finished before leaving Applebloom's house. ......................................................... Applebloom sighed as Sweetiebelle left her home. "She just doesn't get it." She told herself as she picked up a picture of her, her friends and Buttonmash in their graduation gowns. Applebloom missed those days and even now she wished she could forgive Buttonmash but she couldn't. Big Mac may have forgiven, for Celestia's sake Granny had probably forgiven him, but Applebloom couldn't. Now her friend, who she had pressured to at least try going on a date with him, was smitten. She hated love, not for the fact of being with somepony, but all of the drama, she couldn't get by it. Even when she held a crying Scootaloo because of what a doctor said about her body not being able to hold a child. She couldn't help but think about how Rumble would react and dump her when he could. But it all came full circle for her, Applebloom hated love. ............................................................. "Sure, I can help." Scootaloo told Sweetiebelle as she sat down. "Really?" Sweetiebelle questioned. She had just asked for her help and she just agreed without a second thought. "Yeah, I mean I owe him. If it wasn't for him, Rumble and I wouldn't be together." Scootaloo explained her reasoning. "Yeah if Button hadn't told me to toughen up, well we wouldn't be here." A voice called from the kitchen. Sweetiebelle jumped at his voice. "When did he get back?" She asked. "Yesterday, he decided to take a break to help take care of me." Sweetiebelle smiled. "Well how nice of him." "Yes well let's hope we can do something about Button. Did you get Applebloom on board?" Sweetiebelle sighed and shook her head. "No, I don't know what her problem is with him. I understand that he snapped and yelled at you two, but she can't seem to get over it." Sweetiebelle sighed and sat back on the couch frustrated. Scootaloo looked at Sweetiebelle as Rumble came out of the kitchen with some hay burgers on a tray. "Lunch is up." He said, setting the tray down and sitting next to Scootaloo. Scootaloo smiled and kissed his cheek. "Thanks love." She turned back to Sweetiebelle. "Buttonmash said some crazy things, but even now it amazes me that she is still upset. His worst insult towards her was calling her out on not having anypony to call her own, and then, well he insulted me about my problems. He apologized to me pretty quickly and I'm sure he has apologized to her by now, but in some ways I think she is jealous that she doesn't have special somepony. She has never tried to date anypony, remember we practically had to force her to go to the Winter Gala with Featherweight." Scootaloo explained. "Yeah, wait whatever happened to that colt who she helped with his talent...the tap dancer." Sweetiebelle pointed out. "Well, if I remember correctly, he's a big time tap dancer now and an actor." Scootaloo said. Sweetiebelle fell back in her seat with a frustrated sigh. "Well, what do you suppose we do?" She asked, crossing her forehooves. Scootaloo looked around, lost in thought. Rumble's eyes widened suddenly. "What about Tender Taps, didn't they have a connection?" He asked. Scootaloo and Sweetiebelle looked at him. "Were you even paying attention?" Scootaloo griped. "We already mentioned him, there is no way we could even get him back here." Rumble smirked. "I think I know a way, Taps and I were good friends at one point, and if I remember correctly he owes me after I helped him with a stunt he couldn't do." Rumble looked at his hoof his smirk forming into a sly grin. Sweetiebelle stood up, "Then what are you waiting for," she started, "call him!" Rumble chuckled and left the room, leaving Sweetiebelle and Scootaloo alone. "Let's hope this works." Scootaloo said as they waited for Rumble to return. It wasn't long until he reappeared with a grin. "He said he would be here tomorrow, he doesn't know what the plan is." Sweetiebelle nodded and looked at Scootaloo. "Then that just leaves us to get Applebloom to meet him." She told her friend. Scootaloo smiled and stood up, holding her broken leg in the air. "I think I have an idea on how to do just that." She said with a smile. _____________________________________ Buttonmash groaned as he typed away at his computer, unaware of the outside world once more. His hooves stopped for a moment as his eyes scanned the words on the screen. "I knew I would find you here. But...but how? You once mentioned something about the feeling of the wind in your wings and mane. Rainybreeze closes her wings and blushes and-" he stared at the typo in front of him, a new form of frustration forming in his head. "Dammit!" He moved his mouse to the word and corrected it. He sighed and sat back in his chair, sliding down part of the way and groaning. "Why did I decide to do this again?" He questioned himself, his eyes still glued to the screen. He glanced at the clock and groaned once more. "Two in the morning and I'm not even done with this part of the script." He pushed back from the desk and stood up, popping his back on the way. Coffee was what he needed, he couldn't chance going to sleep, not tonight at least. He dragged himself into the kitchen and started his machine, watching it slowly make his beverage. He yawned and listened as the liquid churned and moved around, mixing the powder with the water. He tapped his hoof until finally the machine dinged loudly and poured him a cup of coffee. As he reached for the hot cup he heard some pony knocking on his door. He waited for them to leave, but to it continued forcing him to go towards the door. He was hoping that it wasn't some burglar and just an old friend. Luckily for him it was the latter as Sweetiebelle sat in the doorway. "What...what are you doing here, especially at this time?" Sweetiebelle chuckled with embarrassment. "I may have stayed out a little later than planned with Scootaloo, the boutique was locked and nopony was answering." Button arched a brow. "Spare key?" Sweetiebelle shook her head. "Rarity doesn't want to chance somepony getting in while she is asleep or gone." Buttonmash sighed. "What about Applebloom and Scootaloo?" "They both live pretty far away from here and I don't think I want to be out here, as a celebrity, something bad could happen." She said, standing up. Buttonmash sighed mentally this time, it wasn't that he didn't want her here, he was just hoping he'd get to work in peace. "Well come on in, no point in you staying out there." He told her, stepping to the side. Sweetiebelle trotted into his home and looked at him with a thankful smile. "Thanks Button, I don't think I will stay out this late again." She told him moving towards the couch. Button did his best to not stare at her flank as he closed the door and locked it. He turned back towards her as she leaned into the couch with a sigh. "That's the spot, it feels like I have been on my hooves all day." Button chuckled and walked back to the kitchen. "Would you like some coffee?" He asked. Sweetiebelle shook her head. "No thanks, I'm not big on coffee." She answered. He shrugged and grabbed his now lukewarm cup, taking a sip on the way back to the living room. "Why are you up so late?" Sweetiebelle asked as Buttonmash grabbed a coaster off of the coffee table. "Work." He simply replied, going back towards his desk. "Oh...and how's that coming along?" He shrugged in response as he sat down and placed his cup on the desk. "It's doing alright, just tired of typos and other mistakes." He said, clicking his mouse. Sweetiebelle sighed and slid down the couch slightly, her eyelids growing heavier by the minute. There was a long silence that followed soon after, the only sounds being Button on his computer and the clock ticking in his living room. Sweetiebelle had eventually drifted to sleep to the sounds her body falling to the side as she slept. Every now and then she would snore lightly, not loud enough to alarm Buttonmash, but what did alarm him was her sleep talk. It was more so a mumble, but it had caught the Stallion's attention quickly. Button shook his head as he now stood over his crush's sleeping form. She was beautiful even in sleep, but he felt as if she wouldn't be comfortable on the couch so he did what his mom used to do to him. He found a way to get her onto his back with some trouble, but she at least wasn't as heavy as he had first expected. He made his way to the staircase and wrapped his tail around her, holding her in place as he made the climb. He would stop every now and then when she would mumble or snore, making sure not to wake her up. He finally got to the top and took a few moments to rest. It was a struggle to not drop her or wake her or fall down the stairs with her, leaving him slightly exhausted. He then continued his trek to the right hallway where he opened his bedroom door and scooted in, using the moonlight to reveal a safe route to his bed. He pulled the covers back and slid Sweetiebelle off of him and onto the mattress, quickly sliding the covers onto her, he smiled. She moved around slightly, getting used to her new spot as Button contemplated kissing her forehead. He shook his head and blushed before leaving and heading back to his desk. He sighed as he continued his work, a new idea for a chapter in his head. Author's Note And that is chapter 5. This was a long time coming as I was struggling to figure out how to continue this story...especially after me and my special somepony had a falling out, but that is besides the point I hope you enjoyed. This is Silvermoon signing off...PEACE OUT!
Chapter 6: A Day of Happiness.Sweetiebelle slowly opened her eyes, yawning and stretching as she did so. After several moments of blinking and stretching she took notice of the room she was in. It wasn't the living room, and she was no longer on the couch. Did she sleep trot up there? No that didn't make sense to her at all. Did Buttonmash carry her up there? She felt a sudden heat consume her cheeks. She did her best to shake that thought away, but was only able to push it to the back of her mind. Finally her cheeks returned to their normal color and she was able to leave the room without getting caught. She slowly made her way down the stairs and could hear Button typing on his keyboard. He had been up all night working on his game. Sweetiebelle made it to his office space and tapped on the wall to get his attention. He perked his ears and turned around with a tired grin and a new set of bags under his eyes. "You're awake. Did you sleep well?" He asked before yawning. "Better than you did, from the looks of it," She answered. "if you even closed your eyes." Buttonmash chuckled and turned back to his computer. "How did I even end up in your bed last night?" The thought had returned and now Sweetiebelle needed to know. "I carried you," he said bluntly. "you didn't look comfortable on the couch so I put you in my bed." He finished as he continued his typing. Sweetiebelle blushed hard and was happy, for once, that Button was looking at his computer. "Huh, well thank you." She thanked him and moved closer. "No problem." He answered and moved a hoof towards his mouse. Sweetiebelle quickly grabbed the mouse in her magic and moved it further away from him. "You can face me when you talk, ya know." She told him. He slid his chair towards the mouse and gripped in his hoof, tugging on it. "I'm kind of working here Belle, can I have my mouse back?" He asked, tugging alittle harder. Sweetiebelle rolled her eyes and moved the mouse towards her, causing him to face her. "This 'work' of yours isn't healthy, take a break and I will make us breakfast." Button shook his head. "No, I have work to do, I'm on a dead-" "You don't have a choice, if this goes on, you could seriously hurt yourself. Not to mention," she looked at what he was typing. "you aren't even typing full words anymore...you need to rest." She told him. "This is the second time you have stopped me from working, how would you feel if I stopped you from going to your concerts?" Sweetiebelle glared at him. "This has nothing to do with your career, but it has everything to do with you. I will not allow you to work in these conditions as long as I'm here." Buttonmash sighed. "Which is what, another two weeks? I mean you really think you can keep me from working when there are other ponies who want to see and speak to you, not to mention there would be more news articles and then Ponyville would be filled with-" "I don't care, your health is more important than some stupid reputation." She interrupted. Buttonmash rolled his eyes. "You do know if you ruin your reputation, everypony will look at you differently, right? I can tell you that first hoof, I'm a prime example of that. I did something great, I made a popular game and now I'm expected to make an even better one. Because I did so well with one game, all of Equestria is expecting something big...and if I fail them, I won't be able to step into the spotlight ever again without being tortured by all of the angry ponies." He told her, staring at the floor. "I dealt with hate from the last game, and even then I struggled with it. If I fail Equestria by delaying my game further or the game isn't liked I won't be able to step hoof in public again...I...I have to live up to their expectations." Sweetiebelle put a hoof to his chin and raised his eyes to meet hers. "Don't think like that Button. I deal with the same hate and although yes I struggle with it, I'm able to counter that stress and sadness with the happiness of many other fans. Some ponies are jealous, and others just don't like you, but your job isn't to please everypony...its to please as many ponies as you can, while keeping yourself happy and healthy." She told him with a warm smile. Buttonmash felt his cheeks get warm and his eyes widened as he felt Sweetiebelle's lips touch his. He didn't take long to embrace her kiss though and closed his eyes. Sweetiebelle didn't know what had come over her at that moment, but it felt right. After all, actions speak louder than words. They didn't separate until Button needed to breath. "What...what was that for?" He said, his heart skipping a beat. "For the stallion that I've fallen for of course." Sweetiebelle winked at him and pecked his cheek with another kiss. "Now I want you to go rest while I cook breakfast, alright?" Button nodded slowly as she trotted away. "What...just happened?" He asked himself as he placed a hoof on his lips. Buttonmash felt lightheaded and felt several emotions flowing through him, but only one remained in the end. This emotion he had felt before, one that had developed the minute he had seen Sweetiebelle in that light purple dress from their homecoming dance. He smiled and turned back to his computer. "One more day couldn't hurt...could it?" He said as he pulled up an email and sent in a delay notice before heading to his room and taking a nap. ...................................................... Sweetiebelle hummed a small tune as she added oats to the bowl. She had a large smile on her face as she did so, knowing that had been the best kiss of her life. She had kissed other stallions before, but none of them actually took her breathe away like that. She blushed at the thought of Button's lips against hers and did her best to not mess up their breakfast. She was also relieved to get that weight off her shoulders, she could finally express her emotions to Buttonmash. "Why did I not date him beforehoof? I wouldn't have had to deal with the heartbreak from those other colts." She asked herself as some other memories came back to her. He had always been there for her, any time she was struggling in class, he would help her study. Every time a pony broke her heart, he would lend her his shoulder to cry on. She had taken him for granted and now she understood how he felt. He had reached for her and she never reached back and now, she had to reach for him. _____________________________________ Button sighed and stared up at the ceiling, his hooves behind his head. He could still feel Sweetiebelle's soft lips and it made him smile before a new thought turned his smile around. One thing still hadn't changed, he couldn't jeopardize her reputation. She was a bigger celebrity and if she was in a relationship, she would lose several fans, especially stallions. To make matters worse she could get threatened because of it or worse. He shuddered at the thought and sat up. This couldn't continue, now he just had to break it to her that they wouldn't work out. He did his best to think of a way to stop this to just cut it off before it got too far, but nothing was working. Instead he kept picturing their future together and found it difficult to even try and consider ending what had just ignited. He was about to get out of bed when there was a knock on his door. "Button? Are you awake yet?" Sweetiebelle's voice called out as the door slowly opened. "Yeah, I'm up." He replied as she stepped into the room, a tray floating in her magic. "Good, I tried to make a special oat breakfast that Rarity told me about, but I may have burned it..." she chuckled in embarrassment. "So, instead, we are having just plain old oats, if that's ok with you?" She said. "That's fine, you didn't have to make anything special for me." He told her with a smile as she trotted over. She sat next to him, close enough that their fur brushed against each other. Button took his plate and started to eat as they sat on his bed silently. "So, um...I was wondering if you would like to go out later, for a picnic I mean?" Sweetiebelle broke the silence before shoving another bite into her mouth. Buttonmash glanced at her for a moment and swallowed before speaking. "Sure, I haven't had a picnic in awhile. Just let me get cleaned up first." He answered as he took another bite. He was trying to play it off like it wasn't a date. "Ok! so it's a date!" She said excitedly. Button groaned mentally, it wasn't like he didn't want this, but he cared too much about her to ruin what she had going. If this was back in highschool then things could've been different, but it wasn't. "Once I'm done eating, I'll head home and get myself freshened up." She mentioned. Buttonmash looked at her. "What time do you want to meet up?" He asked, trying to get the details. "How about you pick me up from the Boutique at five." Button looked at his clock, it was ten past eleven in the morning. Two o' clock wasn't a good time though, several ponies would be out and about. "Why not earlier, like two or three?" Button asked as he finished. "Scootaloo and I have plans with Applebloom at three so that's a no go. Why, is five not going to work for you?" Sweetiebelle stood up with tray and her now empty plate in her magic. Button shook his head, trying to think of an excuse. "No, I was just thinking it would be a bit more romantic to have it earlier." He told her with a slight brush. That excuse was slightly true, he had been taught that mares love a nice lunch in the sun. "Good." She started to levitate his plate out of his hooves. Buttonmash snatched it away though and quickly grabbed the other dishes. "I got these, you just go grab whatever you brought with you." He told her and quickly left the room before she could argue. She followed soon after and turned into the living room as he went into the kitchen. She grabbed her belongings and moved towards the door before hesitating and turning back around. "I'm heading back, I'll see you in a bit!" She called back as she went to open the door. Button practically sprinted out of his kitchen and slid to a stop in front of her. "You are the most impatient pony I have ever met." Buttonmash said with a mock glare. Sweetiebelle smiled in return and kissed his cheek again. Button turned a bright shade of pink for a moment and smiled. "Well I am a celebrity, and celebrities never wait for anypony." Sweetiebelle told him before trying to turn away. He stopped her and kissed her cheek before opening the door for her. Sweetiebelle did her best to hide her own blush as she stepped outside and left Button in his doorway. "I have been trying to get ahold of you for hours, Sweetiebelle!" Vanillabliss scolded Sweetiebelle who was still trying to hide her blush. "I'm sorry that I was busy and had my phone off, okay? You don't need to lecture me about it." Sweetiebelle argued back. Vanillabliss snorted at her response. "And just where have you been, Sweetiebelle, I had already checked with Applebloom and Scootaloo, the latter informing me that you left her home around two in the morning. Do you not realize how dangerous-" "You do realize this is my home right, everypony here already knows me so it's not dangerous, plus I found somewhere safe to stay and I'm here now aren't I?" She reminded her, leaning back in her chair. "Just because you are from here darling, doesn't mean you are safe out there when the moon is high." Rarity intervened as she stepped away from the sink. "You are a celebrity dear, anypony would do anything to be with you, trust me on that one." She added. "Now there is something else you brought up that I must know about as your sister, where did you stay last night?" Sweetiebelle hesitated and felt the warmth in her cheeks expand to her whole face. "Well that's none of your business," she replied, trying to play it off. "Actually it is. I need to know so I can check in with them if you ever go missing." Rarity told her. "Plus I want to know why you are as red as a tamato." Vanillabliss pointed out. Sweetiebelle sighed and looked at the table. "Buttonmash..." she mumbled quietly. Rarity leaned forward and arched a brow. "What was that, you are going to have to speak up darling." She said. "Buttonmash!" Sweetiebelle said quickly this time. Vanillabliss held a hoof to her mouth and squealed into it while Rarity simply smiled. "I knew it! You do like him!" Vanillabliss called out proudly. "Well it certainly took you long enough, didn't it?" Rarity said. "And from that blush, you did something didn't you?" Rarity added. Sweetiebelle looked at her sister. "We may have...kissed, but that's all I am going to say!" Sweetiebelle put a hoof in her manager's mouth, cutting her off. Rarity giggled quietly at her sister, earning herself a glare. "Now if you will excuse me, I need to get ready for our date and go meet up with Applebloom." Sweetiebelle told them as she left the room. Vanillabliss' jaw dropped before looking at Rarity. "I'd say you owe me twenty bits dear," Rarity said with a smirk. Vanillabliss snorted in response and left the room to get Rarity's bits. Rarity planned on giving the bits back as she wasn't a gambling mare, but she thought it might teach Vanillabliss a lesson. As Vanillabliss returned with the twenty bits Rarity began her lesson on gambling and started teaching her about generosity. ___________________________________________ Buttonmash sighed as the warm water hit his fur and mane. He pushed his mane back underneath the shower head more before grabbing the shampoo and putting a dollop of it on his hoof. He rubbed his hooves together and started to lather up his mane as he let his thoughts take over. One of his thoughts being about his upcoming date with Sweetiebelle, the other was about protecting her and her reputation. Truth be told, he considered himself selfish for wanting the first thought to take over. He wanted the date to go smoothly and make the mare of his dreams happier than any other mare, but he couldn't get that other thought out of his head. It lingered there throughout the rest of his day as he got ready for the date. These thoughts plagued him so badly that he had forgotten about his computer and when it dinged from an incoming email he didn't notice. He finished getting ready, his outfit being a bowtie that his dad gave him and left his home, locking the door as he did. He sighed and stepped off of his lawn and started his walk to the Carousel Boutique. He had hoped his bowtie would be subtle enough that he wouldn't have to worry about anypony asking about it. Unfortunately, that wasn't the case as some ponies would stop him every now and then and ask him about it. He would come up with a quick excuse and continue on his way until he eventually ended up at the door of the Boutique. He took a moment to breath and knocked on the door. He could hear some slight shuffling inside before the door opened with its signature welcoming jingle. He was greeted by Onyx who looked at him funny. "You know you could just come in right, this isn't a house." Button chuckled and rubbed the back of his head nervously. "I forget that sometimes." Button replied as Onyx stepped out of the way to let him in. Buttonmash stepped inside and went to the kitchen where Rarity was cooking something and Vanillabliss was typing on her laptop. "You're early." Vanillabliss looked up from her screen. Rarity turned around and smiled happily. "Not bad, although an actual suit would've been better." Rarity told him before turning back around. "Subtlety is the key Rarity." Buttonmash mentioned as he sat down at the table. "And why is that?" Rarity asked, not bothering to face him. "Well I believe we shouldn't have cameras in our face the whole time, not to mention this could hurt her reputation. I'm not fond on seeing what could happen if this gets out during her tour." Rarity hesitated and turned her head slightly. "He's not wrong, Rarity, anytime a singer or an actor gets into a romantic relationship, their fans go ballistic. It's really fifty-fifty though, some ponies accept it and still enjoy that pony or she loses fans, gets some threatening hate mail until it all dies down or the she breaks up with him." Button gulped at the Vanillabliss' statement. "Ponies are so demanding these days, but Button dear you need to let that go, it could leave a negative impact on you two," Rarity turned around and pointed a spoon at Button. "Just enjoy each other's company for the day and try to forget about that nonsense, okay?" She finished. Button sighed and smiled at Rarity. "That's better, now do me a big favor while you are out, make sure Sweetiebelle enjoys every moment with you." Button nodded as hoofsteps could be heard coming down the stairs. He stood up and prepared himself as the bell for the door jingled and Sweetiebelle entered the kitchen. Buttonmash's jaw hit the floor when Sweetiebelle came into view. She was wearing a pink dress that matched her physique and her mane was twisted into a braid that mixed its color perfectly. Rarity gasped and giggled happily with Vanillabliss who was now standing. "You look magnificent dear sister." Rarity complimented. "And from Button's face there, I'd think he likes it too." Vanillabliss teased. Sweetiebelle blushed and looked at Button, her eyes glistening in the kitchen light. "I...I love it." Was all Buttonmash could manage to say. She took his breathe away and he almost forgot how to breath. "Now you two go have fun before the day ends." Rarity told them. Sweetiebelle nodded and levitated a picnic basket over behind her as they left the Boutique. "So, where are they going? I was just about to show Buttonmash my new game!" Onyx said as he entered the kitchen. "And why were they so dressed up?" Vanillabliss chuckled quietly. "You will understand when you're older dear, now do me a favor and set the table." Onyx groaned in response and started on mumbling as he did what he was told. _______________________________________ "You do realize we are going on a picnic, right?" Button said. "Yes I know, but I haven't worn a dress for a date in ages, so I decided to now." Sweetiebelle replied with a smile. Button shrugged as they started to walk, catching the attention of more ponies as they did. "We have a lot of ponies staring at us, are you sure this is a good idea?" Button asked her. Sweetiebelle responded by wrapping her tail around his and leaning against him slightly. "I've never been more sure about this in my life." She told him, her cheeks a bright red color. Button blushed as well and did his best to ignore the eyes on them. He wrapped his tail around hers and soon found himself smiling. Soon they had both forgotten that they had an audience and walked silently towards Twilight's castle. "So where are we having the picnic at?" Button asked quietly. "I asked Twilight if we could use a spot behind the castle, away from wandering eyes and the paparazzi." She answered quickly. Button liked the idea of staying away from the paparazzi, less of a chance of their relationship getting out to the public sooner than expected. There was suddenly a weight shift where Sweetiebelle had been and her tail became untangled from his. "What's going-" he didn't get to respond as Sweetiebelle looked at him. His words got caught in his throat as he found himself entranced in her green eyes. They moved in sync and their lips met halfway as they closed their eyes. The world was gone from beneath them this time, both of their emotions flying all over the place as the ponies gasped around them. Some of them clapped their hooves together, others snorted in annoyance or jealousy. None of that mattered to them at the moment. At that time it was just Buttonmash and Sweetiebelle. They finally parted and Button did his best to not fall over as Sweetiebelle giggled at his movements. After a few moments Button finally got ahold of himself and he looked at Sweetiebelle. "Now what was that one for?" He asked. Sweetiebelle smiled in response and stood next to him again. "Because I couldn't help myself and I thought we might as well make it official." Buttonmash wanted to be mad at her for not at least consulting him about it, but he wasn't because he wanted it to be official too. "No sense in hiding it even though I think they already thought it was official with our tails intertwined." He told her. "Maybe, but now they definitely know." She responded as they started walking again to the castle. It wasn't long before they reached the doors and the two went inside. Twilight was waiting for them with a gentle smile. "Welcome back Sweetiebelle, and Buttonmash it is good to see you again." Button nodded. "It has been awhile hasn't it." He told her. Twilight looked at the two of them before turning away. "Follow me, I'll lead you to your spot." She gestured for them to follow her and started to walk away. The couple followed Twilight through the halls of the castle, trying not to lose her in fear of getting lost in the castle itself. "So how is it you know about this spot Twilight?" Buttonmash asked as they turned another corner. "I'm a princess, Button, so anytime I'm on a date I take them to this spot as to not draw attention to us and to not get the pony killed or taken hostage by somepony else. That's the big struggle of being a princess ya know, everypony is always looking for some sign of weakness." Twilight sighed as they got to two large doors. "Well here we are, have fun you two, but not too much fun." She told them before leaving them alone. "You ready?" Sweetiebelle asked Buttonmash who nodded in response. They opened the doors to reveal a nice patch of green grass and flowers. The two looked I'm awe as they did their best to find the perfect spot to put the blanket down. When they did they flapped the blanket in the air and set it down nicely before sitting on it and preparing their sandwiches. They began eating Button doing his best to not stare at the mare in front of him. She was even more beautiful with the sun's rays hitting her. She caught him staring in awe and blushed. "What, is there something in my teeth?" She questioned. Buttonmash's blush returned and he shook his head. "No...I'm just, enjoying the view." He told her. She smiled at him and moved closer. "You are too sweet." She leaned in for a kiss, but Button smiled and stopped her with a hoof. "You are so impatient sometimes, Belle." he told her and backed up alittle. "We should just relax and watch the sunset." He smiled. "But I don't wanna wait that long, what is this, payback?" She whined and pouted. Buttonmash did his best to not chuckle at her childish attitude. "Payback, what are you talking about?" Button asked. "I just don't want to rush anything, I want to enjoy this time with you in every way." She arched a brow unconvinced. "We have known each other for how long now, you have flirted with me for several years and now want to take things slow?" She tried to call his bluff that didn't exist. "I have always wanted to take my time with you, just like I do with my games." "So I'm just another game to you?" She glared at him. "N-no, not at all," he stuttered, realizing his mistake. "Its just, in my opinion, rushing things forces you to skip certain details that are important." Button started his explanation. "For instance, in my game I made sure to not miss anything, I made everything in detail on pixel at a time. The same goes for a relationship. If you rush it, you may miss something that could put a glitch in the relationship, that someone could exploit to a virus that would cause everything to crumble and break." He explained, somewhat confusing Sweetiebelle, but also leaving her with an understanding. "So it's like a mirror, if you get one with a small crack, it could expand to a point where it could shatter." She put it in her own words. Button looked at her and nodded. "Yeah, something like that!" He smiled before frowning. "Which...which is why I think we should just stick to the basics for now..." Buttonmash told her. Sweetiebelle looked down, a wave of sadness consuming her. "You mean we should just stick to small dates and pecks on the cheek." Button sighed. "Yeah, we don't want to mess this up, right? I'm not saying we don't ever have to...kiss, but keep it small and slowly build it up." He told her. This did nothing to fix her state, leaving Button perplexed. Sweetiebelle didn't want to take things slow, she wanted to enjoy what time she had left with Button in Ponyville before she went back on tour. "But what happens when I go back on tour? Do we just start from scratch?" Sweetiebelle felt her heart start to race, as anger replaced the sadness or that's what she thought it was. She had failed to realize, that it was actually fear, as her body began to shake. "Won't you get bored without me here? What...what...what if you leave me for another mare?" Button looked at her with his own horrified expression. "What are you talking about, Sweetiebelle? I'm not that kind of stallion." He said. "But, you never know until it happens Button, that's just it, I don't want to take things slow, I want to enjoy this time with you and I don't want to lose you when I leave." She confessed. "I felt that way too...that feeling was at its strongest the day you left..." Button sighed again, this was the best moment to explain how he had felt throughout all the time he had spent with Sweetiebelle. "I have always had that feeling, I think everypony experiences it at some point. The fear of losing the pony they were closest to, is not a feeling to be left unchecked. The day you left, I took it out on you, put all of my worst fears on you, I did the same with Scootaloo and Applebloom too, the difference was, I had completely abandoned them and when they tried to come back into my life, I snapped. My work became my drug, my addiction, and it has been keeping me in this loop that I was the one at fault for everything that had happened, I was the one that everypony lost. I had changed. Then you showed up and something changed. I don't know what it was, but now my heart beats regularly I have fallen asleep more often, I even tried to apologize to Applebloom for everything that had happened." Button looked at Sweetiebelle with a teary eyed smile. "In some ways, I think you saved me." Sweetiebelle felt tears come to her eyes as she her heart raced. She had saved him, even though it felt like he had saved her. Not only that, but she had completely rejected him for years and yet he still stuck around. He consoled her when she was upset, he was there to make her smile, he was the shoulder she cried on, the pony she came to for dating help, the pony who had given her ideas and told her to pursue her dream. He had waited for the right moment and the second he tried she left. He had even vented to her and instead of being that pony to talk to, she attacked him and left him in a bad place. That day their friendship shattered and now she knew why her life had been so empty on tour. She couldn't take it anymore and wrapped her hooves around him and placed her head into his shoulder as she sobbed as quietly as she could. Button wrapped his own hooves around her, and pulled her even closer to him. All negative thoughts leaving them as they held each other and watched the sun slowly set. They now understood each other in ways that friends could not, they were now a couple. It wasn't long before Sweetiebelle's quiet sobs turned into a quiet snore as she had fallen asleep against Buttonmash. The sun had long since set, leaving them in the moonlight. Buttonmash, on the other hoof, just stared at the moon, a gentle smile on his face as he still clung to Sweetiebelle. "So this is what its like to be in a true relationship." He whispered to the moon, trying to not wake Sweetiebelle. This was something that Buttonmash had wanted for years and now that it was his, he didn't want to ever do anything to ruin it. He looked down at the sleeping mare on his shoulder and lightly kissed her forehead. He then moved slightly and readjusted himself so that they were both laying down. Sweetiebelle squirmed and moved closer trying to get some warmth as a breeze blew against them. He wrapped a hoof around her before laying his head on hers. His eyes closed and he slowly drifted to sleep. ____________________♡♡♡____________________ "Mr. Mash!" Button's eyes opened slowly as a face appeared in his vision, his boss' face. Buttonmash jumped as he realized how close he was to the pony who was yelling at him to wake up. This caused Sweetiebelle to jump as well and fall on her back. Button smiled sheepishly at Sweetiebelle who glared at him in return. He then felt dread wash over him at the realization that Mr. Clearglass was in front of him. "Mr Clearglass? What are you doing here?" The unicorn stallion in front of him was slightly shorter than him, his fur a pale blue and his white mane and tail long and cut perfectly. His tie was the only dark color he had him, bearing a dark purple. "I was here to make sure my partner wasn't on his death bed from some unknown sickness, but it seems I was...unfortunately wrong." His voice was a mixture of raspy and smooth with a very elegant tone. He looked disappointed as well to see his partner choosing some mare over his project. "Well, thanks for worrying about me, but I'm fine. I was just spending time with-" "With a manipulative popstar, I know." Clearglass tried to finish Button's sentence. "I'm right here, ya know, and I'm not-" "Manipulative? I disagree, and even if you were not, you are keeping my partner from working." He interrupted Sweetiebelle, who started to sulk. Button glared at Clearglass. "You have no right to talk to her that way, if anything she is the reason I have remained your partner." He defended his marefriend. He was lying somewhat, as he never once thought about quitting, but he needed to be there for Sweetiebelle. "You have never been a good liar Mr. Mash, although I do commend you for standing up for the mare." He looked at Sweetiebelle. "I do apologize for what I said." Sweetiebelle grit her teeth. "Apology accepted." She said with a fake grin. She was slightly grumpy from being woken up so abruptly. "That still doesn't change the fact that you need to be working, Buttonmash, your fans are not exactly happy that you have delayed the game further, which is why I came to see if there was a good reason for the delays." Clearglass expressed his concern for his coworker. "I understand Clearglass, but I wanted to spend time with her," he leaned closer. "She has also been giving me ideas to better the game, I think I needed a mare's touch for this style of game and I'm getting one." He whispered. Clearglass smiled at the thought of the game being better. Buttonmash held an evil smile back. In truth, the only truth he had told Clearglass was that Sweetiebelle had helped with only a small portion of the game. Clearglass had accused the wrong pony of manipulation. Sweetiebelle just stared at the two stallions whispering to each other with a confused expression on her face. Clearglass straightened himself up and stepped past Buttomash with a hoof outstretched. "Once again I apologize for my comment, you must be Sweetiebelle, I am Clearglass, Button's business partner and friend." Sweetiebelle took his hoof and shook it as Buttonmash stayed behind Clearglass and smiled. "I must thank you, by the way." He mentioned, Button's eyes widened as he realized what Clearglass was doing. "Thank me for what?" Sweetiebelle asked, tilting her head. "For helping Button with our game, it means alot to me that you are helping him on his path." Sweetiebelle glanced at Button who was nodding for her to go with it. She smiled and nodded at Clearglass who smiled in return. "Well, I noticed he was having trouble with some of the characters so I made some adjustments and helped him with their personalities." "Ah, that is wonderful!" Clearglass stated excitedly before looking at Buttonmash who fixed his composure. "You have picked a fine mare Button, I am proud of you! Now if you'll excuse me, I have something else I need to attend to before I leave tomorrow, I expect some progress very soon Buttonmash, don't let your fans and I down." Button laughed uncomfortably as Clearglass started to trot away. "So that's your boss?" Sweetiebelle asked as she stood next to Button. "Yeah, he's a good pony, just transparent." Sweetiebelle smiled before looking at the stallion. "So how does his talent help you with your game." She asked. "His cutiemark is a computer with a paper on the screen...his talent revolves around his family business that makes computers." Buttonmash explained. "When we had first met he had this idea to promote both of our newest projects and we became partners. He may not seem nice, but his attitude is in his name, he's translucent. He likes to speak his mind even if it means offending somepony." Buttonmash continued as he started to pack up their picnic from yesterday. Sweetiebelle began to help before looking at the sky to see where the sun was at. It was high in the sky, they had slept until noon. Her eyes widened in shock and she dropped her basket. "Oh no, I was supposed to check on Applebloom and Tender Taps!" She said out loud. Button looked at her. "What do you mean?" He asked as she started to pack faster. "Scootaloo and I are trying to find a special somepony for Applebloom and before our date we had them meet and everything seemed fine, but I was supposed to check on them today." Button, still confused, just nodded and continued to pack. "Well, if you're in a hurry, go ahead and go, I'll pack all this up and drop it off at the boutique." He told her. Sweetiebelle looked up at him with eagerness. "Are you sure?" She asked with some concern. Buttonmash smiled and nodded. "Yeah, go on ahead, I'll see ya later." He reassured her before bidding her farewell. She turned to leave, but than turned back and hugged Button who was too surprised to hug her back. "Bye." Was all she said before galloping off. Her dress was still on and looked a little wrinkled but Button was sure she had a plan for it. ____________________♡♡♡____________________ Sweetiebelle threw her dress into one of Button's bushes as she galloped past, ponies looking at her funny as she continued towards Applebloom's house. sorry Button, but I'm in a hurry. she thought as she turned a corner. She had hoped everything was still going ok, considering what had happened yesterday. _____________________♡♡♡___________________ ONE DAY AGO "Sweetiebelle, why are we headin' to the train station?" Applebloom asked as the two mares walked through town. "What are you talking about?" Sweetiebelle asked trying to throw her off. "I know this path, you ain't exactly the best liar ya know." Sweetiebelle ignored her somewhat rude comment and continued onward. "You will see when we get there." She assured her friend who just shrugged and continued to follow. She was wearing her work attire, the only difference being her mane was now in a pony tail rather than her usual due. It wasn't long before the train station came into view and Sweetiebelle could see three ponies talking to each other at the bottom of the stairs. "Hey guys!" Scootaloo yelled as she noticed the two mares in the distance, waving her hoof at them. Beside her was Rumble who was chatting with an orange stallion in a suit. His purple mane was medium length and slicked back slightly. Sweetiebelle noticed immediately that Applebloom had turned the other way. "Now Ah see what y'all are doing, count me out!" Applebloom said as she started to leave. It seemed that Tender Taps had heard her as he turned his attention to the two mares. "Applebloom? Is that you?" He called out as he started to trot towards them. Sweetiebelle bit Applebloom's tail and whipped her around, surprising her. Applebloom glared at her before smiling at Tender Taps. "Hey Taps...How's it goin'?" She said awkwardly as Rumble and Scootaloo arrived next to Tender Taps. "You recognized me? Well that's good, I didn't know if I had changed too much." He chuckled. "I'm doing good, just taking a break to see Rumble." Applebloom looked unconvinced. "Uhuh, well it was nice talking to you Sweetiebelle, but Ah have to get to work." She turned away. "It was nice seeing you too, Tender Taps." She added before trying to trot off. "I thought you were off today?" Sweetiebelle mentioned. "Yeah, Ah was until Ah realized what was happening." She said bluntly before leaving the three ponies confused. "That's...different?" Tender Taps questioned before looking at us. "What is?" Scootaloo asked. "I don't remember her being so...blunt about something." "She's just a busy pony, you'll get used to it." Scootaloo added. "Maybe you should ask her out to lunch and get to know her better." Sweetiebelle advised him. "Now that, is a good idea, Sweetiebelle." ___________________♡♡♡_____________________ From what Sweetiebelle had found out from Scootaloo, Applebloom had accepted his invitation to lunch, and they were meeting today. The only problem was, that by the time she had found them, they were going their separate ways. Buttonmash on the other hoof had finally finished packing everything and was one turn away from the boutique when he noticed a small group of ponies outside of it with cameras and microphones. He turned back around the corner and went a different way to where he could sneak in through the back. The paparazzi had found Sweetiebelle, or at least where she was at. By the time he had reached the back of the boutique, the group had gotten bigger, and they were now yelling for Sweetiebelle to show herself. Buttonmash quietly knocked on the back door to which Onyx answered the door. "Button what-" Buttonmash placed a hoof to loud colt's mouth and pushed his way inside before closing the door quietly. Rarity came rushing to the back to see who was there and sighed in relief that the ponies hadn't found a way in. She locked the door with her magic and glared at Buttonmash. "What happened yesterday? You two never showed back up and now this crowd of ruffians have appeared!" She yelled at him over the loud crowd outside. "We both fell asleep, Rarity, I'm sorry." Buttonmash explained. "You better be, because now there is a crowd of ponies outside who are demanding answers from Sweetiebelle, who isn't with you I suppose." Buttonmash shook his head. "She had an errand to run before coming back." He told her as he placed the basket down. "Where's Vanillabliss?" "Trying to talk those crazy ponies into leaving, but she did give me this a moment ago." Rarity floated over a newspaper that had a picture of Button's and Sweetiebelle's kiss yesterday. "They want to know about it and Vanillabliss is having trouble trying to calm them down." Rarity said. "I didn't realize they would be this way after finding out!" Buttonmash told her in a concerning tone. Suddenly the crowd outside went quiet and Button's face turned pale. Sweetiebelle had returned home. Author's Note I've never been a fan of romances that wait to kiss right before the very end, be it TV shows, books, movies...I just don't like it so I decided to go ahead and do it. Otherwise hope you enjoyed the chapter PEACE OUT!! P.S. If I had a nickel for every time I typed "blushed" I would be rich. P.P.S. I have had a very chaotic couple of months and planned on releasing this exactly one month ago, I apologize for the delay.
Chapter 7: Of Haunting Pasts and Bright FuturesAuthor's Note WARNING: This chapter contains things related to suicide and self harm, viewer discretion is advised... Otherwise sorry for the late chapter, Covid and several other factors have stopped me from writing, hopefully the next chapter won't take as long, please enjoy. Chapter 7: Of Haunting Pasts and Bright Futures "I am sorry ma'am, but the test results were false." "But that can't be right, we have been trying for so long!" The tears, the lies. "You can always adopt-" No...I want my own... "It could have something to do with your disability." My...disability...my...wings... Scootaloo did her best to hold a tired smile as Rumble cuddled up next to her. "You okay?" He asked, with which she responded with a slight nod. He sighed and sat back up. "Come on Scoots, ya know I can tell when something is wrong," he looked her in the eyes, "tell me." She kept the smile on her face. "I can fly, I'm sure of it!" She looked down at her cast, "I just didn't sleep well last night." She lied. "Scootaloo! Button go find help, now!" Scootaloo mentally winced as the memory replayed itself. "This cast doesn't really help with it," she chuckled as Rumble shook his head. "Is she gonna be alright?" He seemed so concerned. "She has fractured two bones in her foreleg, she should recover, but try to keep her from using it." "You can't keep using that as an excuse, there is something else you're not telling me." He had that same concern in his voice. She didn't need to tell him, he already knew. That look on his face told her that. "They're back?" She nodded once more as he pulled her in for a hug. "What do you need?" He said in her ear. "I need..." ___________________♡♡♡♡___________________ "Well that didn't take long?" Sweetie Belle said to herself as she sat down in the large green bubble. The paparazzi had completely surrounded her the minute one of them pointed her out, and this was the only spell she could think of. Luckily it also nullified any outside sounds, so it was nice and quiet in there. "Thank you, Twilight." She thanked her mentor as she stood and began to walk towards the boutique. The paparazzi proceeded to follow her as she made her way to her sister's home. "This is why I prefer to stay single." She felt herself frown at her past self. At the time she had just broken up with another celebrity because they didn't click. The paparazzi ate it up at the time, but eventually they found something else to put on the paper. She shook her head as one pony tried to force their way through the bubble, that pony then got sent backwards into the crowd. She shook her head in annoyance and continued to breathe for a second before finally standing back up. She needed to do something about this paparazzi before she overdid the spell. She had a lot of options, all of which would have her pass out before they would be completely gone. "Hey," a voice called from the outside, "do you want to let me in so I can help?" Sweetie Belle looked up and saw Button being pressed into the bubble. The paparazzi was now trying to swarm him with questions as well and he was starting to fall. She stood up and grabbed him with her hooves before heaving him into the bubble. "You really decided to push through this crowd." Sweetie Belle stood back up and brushed herself off. "What made you think that was a good idea?" She helped Button Mash to his hooves who chuckled in embarrassment. "Well, I didn't want you to have to face this alone, it was bound to happen at some point. I just thought there'd be more time." He responded and looked around the bubble. "Your magic has gotten stronger." He noted and poked the bubble with his hoof. "Yeah, when I did have free time, I practiced the spells that Twilight gave me," she then took notice of the crowd outside of the bubble. "Anyways, we should take care of this crowd so I don't have to give myself a headache later." Button nodded in agreement and turned to face the crowd with his hoof close to hers. "Alright, bring it on." He told himself confidently as the questions were thrown their way. _____________________♡♡♡♡_________________ "Ow, ow, ow." Sweetie rubbed a bag of ice on her horn as she sat in a chair. Button Mash sat next to her while Rarity sat across the table from them. "You overdid it again, Darling." Her sister said with a concerned tone. Sweetie Belle glared at her for a sec before sighing. "Well what would you have done in my situation. I'm a super star sis, I can't not protect myself." She told her, wincing slightly as the horn sparked for a second. Rarity shook her head and smirked. "Well, that's simple, I would have shrunk the bubble down as the day went on to lower the usage." Both Button and Sweetie Belle looked at Rarity with surprised confusion. Rarity's smirk became a wide smile, "what? You two are not the only ones to learn a few things from Twilight." She winked and pushed herself away from the table. "But, that aside, what you need is rest and little to no magic usage," she stood up. "we don't want you to end up in the hospital for Horn Cracks, now do we." She then left the two ponies alone in the kitchen. They were not alone for long though as Vanilla Bliss happily walked into the kitchen. "You two look really tired," she pointed at them with a hoof and dropped her smile. "Maybe both of you should call it a day and get some rest, hmm." The couple looked at each other for a moment and simultaneously sighed. "Yeah, maybe she's right," Button started before rising from his chair. "I have to get back to work anyways otherwise Glass is gonna kill me." He smiled, "Plus today has given me a few ideas as well." He leaned forward and pecked Sweetie Belle's forehead. "I'll see you tomorrow, alright, get some rest." Sweetie Belle nodded and watched him leave before looking at her manager. "What?" Bliss had the most ridiculous smile on her face. "Nothing, you two are just so cute together," she chuckled, "also I haven't seen you that red since your first concert." She mentioned before walking by and filling up a glass with water. "But your sister and I agree, you need rest, both of you do." "How so?" Sweetie asked. Bliss sighed and sat down. "It's simple, you stay here for a while, no going and seeing anybody and nobody is coming to see you." She explained and took a sip from her glass. "Rarity plans on having a chat with Button as well about it, so that you two don't bother each other as well." Well that's not very comforting. Sweetie Belle thought to herself before a stinging pain ran through her head. She winced and groaned. "Maybe you're right, maybe I should get some rest, but I doubt anypony will be able to get Button Mash to rest considering his boss is in town." "We'll just have to see, won't we dear?" Sweetie turned her head to see Rarity smirking devilishly. _____________________♡♡♡♡____________________ "You should relax more sis, you've been working too hard since Granny die...since she left us." "No, Ah Ain't workin' hard enough, look at the house, it's a mess, AJ." You would never understand how much this house made me happy. "You're one to talk, you used to work so hard that you'd mess up." Without Granny, the farm would've died, but now Ah can make the bits to hire workers. You left to become a rodeo star, and Big Mac started his own farm near Sugar Belle's home. That left me with the care of our farm, and for that, I'll never forgive y'all. "I think we'll take it." A blue colored mare said as she looked around the empty house. Apple Bloom shook her thoughts away and smiled happily. "That's great news ma'am let me go get the papers from my bags and Ah'll be right with you." Apple Bloom turned away and dropped her smile. The house she was in used to be Scootaloo's before her and Rumble got together, but not too long after that her parents decided to sell it. Apple Bloom was the fourth agent to try to sell it and now she was the final one. She sighed in relief and pulled a stack of papers out of her case as the buyer entered the room she was in, the kitchen. "Um, excuse me, Apple Bloom, um I think I changed my mind." Apple Bloom froze with the papers in her left hoof slowly falling off of them. Her eye twitched as she forced a smile back on to her face. She turned around slowly to see the mare had a disgusting look on her face. "What seems to be the problem...ma'am" She had to convince herself to keep her composure as the mare began to speak. "Um...there's a snake in the oven..." the mare pointed at the oven for Apple Bloom to see. She glanced in that direction and immediately noticed the slithering creature leaving the kitchen appliance. I thought I had told Flutter Shy to remove ALL of the animals. She sighed in frustration and then smiled at her buyer. "Can you just give me one second please." She then removed her phone from her suit pocket and moved into a different room while dialing Flutter Shy. The phone rang for a few seconds before a kind and calm voice greeted Apple Bloom. "Hello?" The voice said softly. "Hey, Flutter Shy, it's Apple Bloom, you did remove all of the animals, right?" There was a small pause before she responded. "I was able to get most of them to the sanctuary, but I could not get Iris the snake to move. She has eggs in the oven so she is very hostile right now." The mare said over the phone. Apple Bloom looked around the corner at the buyer with a smile before glaring at the snake, who was just staring at her. "Did you just say there were snake eggs...in the oven?" Apple Bloom whispered into the phone. "Mhm, all twenty eight of them." "TWENTY EIGHT!" Apple Bloom covered her mouth for a second before speaking normally. "Well, can't you just ya know, move the eggs and the snake?" She questioned her older friend who just sighed through the phone. "You know I can't do that Apple Bloom, Iris and her babies are there to stay." Apple Bloom felt a flash of anger rush through her. "Listen, Flutter Shy, Ah am trying desperately to sell this house to this buyer, Ah kinda need the snake out of the house, now." She told her through gritted teeth. Flutter Shy clicked her tongue in disappointment. "You know I can't do that, it's against the rules, also there is a chance that-" "I'm not asking anymore Flutter Shy, I need the snake out of this house..." she took a deep breath, "NOW!" She said firmly and sternly. Flutter Shy didn't say a word after that, instead she hung up the phone. "Flutter Shy? Flutter Shy?" Apple Bloom threw her phone away and groaned in annoyance. "Um...Apple Bloom, I am gonna head home now, I'm sorry that I couldn't take this house. I just don't want to take the chance of my colt getting bit by a snake." The mare said as Apple Bloom faked a smile once more and turned around. "Not a problem," she picked up her bag and walked over to the mare. "Y'all have a good day, Ah'm gonna try and wrangle this snake out of here." She nodded at the mare and left the building quickly and pulled her phone out once more. If she couldn't get Flutter Shy to remove the snake, she knew someone that could. She dialed the number and listened to it ring before a voice greeted her. "Apple Bloom?" The voice paused. "What's up?" Apple Bloom smiled. _____________________♡♡♡♡___________________ Button Mash sighed in relief as he sunk into his computer chair. "What a day." He told himself as he faced his computer. The chair creaked as he leaned forward and placed his hoof on the mouse and began to open up the files to his game. "But now," he moved his hooves to the keyboard. "it's time to get back to work." He smirked as the events of the past few days surged through his head, giving him idea after idea. A few hours passed by as Button Mash continued his typing. He hadn't typed that much in awhile, which meant that date with Sweetie Belle worked out perfectly. Plus, the little lie he had told Mr. Glass wasn't so much of a lie anymore. Button Mash smiled at his own thoughts as night began to fell, and he saved his work. There would be more work to do tomorrow, so he figured he would need his rest. Button Mash made his way up his stairs and to his room where he would have the best sleep of his life. ______________________♡♡♡♡__________________ Sweetie Belle sat with her sister and her manager with an ice bag on her horn. "I am not being a model for your batch of clothing, Rarity." Vanilla Bliss told the older mare sternly, crossing her hooves. " and even if I did, being a manager for Sweetie Belle is a full time job. I can't just abandon her because of an old dream of mine." She added. Rarity groaned in mock sadness. "But, dear your physique is perfect for my new brand and I-" She fell silent as Vanilla Bliss held up her hoof. "The answer is no Rarity, I'm sorry, but it's just not on the table for me anymore." She told the older mare. Sweetie Belle groaned and stood up, "but, you know what is on the table, me going to my room and enjoying some peace and quiet." She told them and winced as her horn sparked. Vanilla Bliss pointed at Sweetie as she made her way upstairs. "Told ya, full time job." Sweetie Belle rolled her eyes and shook her head as she reached the top of the stairs. She didn't have the energy to fight back nor did she really have a good say in it because Bliss was not completely wrong. She sighed in relief when she found the door to her old room and began to open it. "Hey, Aunt Belle." Onyx's voice called to her from the hallway alittle further down. Sweetie Belle gave a tired smile to her young nephew who waved at her from his own room. "Are you okay? You look really tired and your horn is...umm...sparkling?" He questioned for a second before trotting over. "Oh, I'm fine, I just overdid it with my magic is all." She looked at her nephew and a realization came over her. She had not seen her nephew since he was a small colt. "So what have you been up to, School going okay?" Onyx nodded his head and smiled. "School is going good, but ya know it's school, I'd much rather play my games at this point." He told her. "Speaking of games, do you wanna play one with me?" Sweetie Belle opened her mouth to reply but Onyx held up his hoof. "You kind of owe me, since you took Button Mash away from me." "You got me there," she sighed. "Sure why not, I'm gonna warn you though, I am not very good at them anymore." She told him as she followed him to his room. He opened the door as they continued their conversation. "So what game are we playing?" Onyx shrugged and sat down on his gaming chair, one that Sweetie Belle assumed was expensive. "I was thinking maybe you could actually just, watch me play Button's game and maybe help me at times." He smiled sheepishly. Sweetie Belle sighed and looked her nephew. "I told you I'm not very good at games anymore." "Well...just watch me then." Onyx said and booted up his computer. The screen flashed blue for a second before a name in bold, white letters popped up. Sweetie Belle read the name out loud. "Mr. Glass Productions. Huh he brands his computers with his name." Sweetie Belle pointed out as the computer finished booting up and Onyx smiled. He moved his cursor to one of the shortcut logos, a sword with a heart on the hilt, and clicked it. The screen turned black before a flashing light warning popped up and then a spinning sword after that. Midnight Onyx leaned forward with a smile, "here comes the best part." He said excitedly. The spinning sword disappeared and was soon replaced by a beautiful view of a castle on a mountain. Much closer to the screen though was a pony in knight's armor with a sword on his belt. The sword looked very similar to the icon from the desktop, except there was no heart on it. That's when the music kicked in and Onyx hummed the tune almost perfectly in sync. Sweetie Belle pointed at the animated artwork, "did Button draw all of that?" She asked. Midnight Onyx nodded and pointed at a tree that had a lot of detail involved. "Well this was his first game, so he didn't necessarily have the budget to pay anyone, so when it came to the artwork," he then pointed at the main character. "he made sure to practice non-stop for a while. I think he said something about working on this game since he was in school." He said happily. Sweetie Belle leaned closer to see if there were just some mistakes she was missing, but other than a leaf, everything looked perfect. "Now for the fun part!" The colt next to her said as he moved the cursor to the CONTINUE prompt and clicked it. The screen went dark again as the sword reappeared in the corner for a moment before a scene filled the monitor. "I have yet to be bested by a pony," a large red dragon roared on the screen as the pony from before ran up the mountain towards it. The dragon's voice reminded her of that time when Spike grew really big and kidnapped her sister. The screen zoomed in on the determined knight who gripped his sword with his teeth. "This dragon is the last obstacle before I reach the princess." he said as he dodged a boulder being hurled at him. "Just hang on a little longer." He then jumped at another boulder as the screen faded to black. Sweetie Belle noted the charming music and the acting as they were both decent. Onyx gripped the controller tight as the screen flashed to a third person view. "I'm gonna be honest, I have been stuck on this level for a week now." Onyx said with embarrassment as he made the knight dodge an incoming boulder. Sweetie Belle tapped her chin with a hoof, "normally Button usually would put a secret passage in his house whenever we played Minecraft," she recalled a painting with a hole behind it. "Maybe look for a fake wall?" She tried to advise her nephew. Midnight Onyx looked at her confused, but turned the character towards the mountain side as he dodged another boulder. The knight ran face first into a wall and didn't go through it. "I don't think he would do that Sweetie Belle." He told her as he continued up the mountain, dodging more boulders. She watched the screen closely, this was Button Mash here, so he wouldn't make a level this difficult unless there was a pathway. She finally saw it a piece of rock that was not the same color as the mountain. She pointed at it excitedly, "there, that rock is a different shade of gray!" She cried out, scaring the colt slightly. He made the knight run straight at the rock as a boulder flew over his head. Eventually he made it to the rock and went straight through it and into a tunnel. Onyx almost kept moving the knight forward but Sweetie Belle stopped his hoof with hers. This cave looked oddly familiar. "Hold on, Onyx, this cave may have some tricks." Onyx arched a brown and looked at her, "but it's a secret passage to make it easier to beat the level," he pointed at the screen, "why would Button Mash do that?" Sweetie Belle looked at the cave carefully. What Onyx said could be true, but this cave, or at least the entrance, looked just like the one from their Minecraft world. Sweetie Belle looked at the top corner of the screen and saw the Knight was at full health. "Hey, do me a favor and walk forward a bit." She asked him and leaned forward slightly. "But why?" He questioned with a confused tone. She shook her head, "just trust me and move forward." Midnight Onyx shrugged and gradually moved the Knight forward until a loud CLICK came through the speakers. Suddenly, two parts of the wall slammed shut right in front of the character. Sweetie Belle jumped with joy, "Ah Ha!" She cried out and landed on the bed. "I knew it, this is the exact same cave!" She smiled, "and if that's the case we can get through this cave easily." Onyx happily agreed and let her guide him through the secret passage. Eventually Onyx made it through and found himself standing before the dragon, who roared with rage. "How dare you stand atop my mountain with a sword pointed at me!" He bellowed as smoke rose from his nostrils. "Now I will burn you alive!" Onyx prepared for battle as Sweetie Belle watched with intrigue. "Just sit back and watch me beat this boss!" Onyx said and stuck his tongue out as the battle began. The boss had a pattern that was easy to follow, but Sweetie Belle wasn't really paying too much attention to the fight as she pulled out her phone and tried to text Button. That's when she noticed something, she didn't have his number. _____________________♡♡♡♡____________________ Scootaloo laid against Rumble's chest as her thoughts wondered back to their conversation from earlier. <<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<< "I need..." she hesitated for a few moments, "I need you to stay with me for awhile...I...I don't want you to go away again." Rumble looked at her with shock. Normally, she was pretty good about being alone and independent, but he had also never seen her this scared before. "Are...are you sure? I mean I don't want to annoy you or ya know take your time away from Sweetie Belle...and I..." Scootaloo stopped him with a kiss. It had been a long time since the two of them had actually done anything this romantic. They both decided to stop after her incident, because the therapist had mentioned that it might be one of the causes. They had agreed to small things like kisses on the cheek and maybe a peck on the lips but no further. This on the other hoof was completely different though. She placed a hoof on his chest and deepened the kiss as he finally gave in and closed his eyes. Rumble felt fireworks go off in his head as he wrapped his hooves around her neck. He hadn't felt this way since the two had their first kiss awhile back, but this almost felt better. The couple finally parted for air as Rumble stared deep into Scootaloo's purple eyes and smiled. "Fine, you convinced me." He rolled his eyes and tried to pull her closer, but she took advantage of the moment and pushed him on to his back. Rumble blushed as she stared at him from up top, but that feeling was then replaced with concern. She leaned in for another kiss, but he stopped her this time. "Are you sure about this?" She sighed and sat up. "I don't know," she moved off of him so he could sit up. "I mean I want to, but I don't want it to trigger anything again." She looked around trying to find the right words. "I really want a foal of my own, Rumble, a foal of our own." He watched her eyes begin to water. "But the more and more I think about it...the less faith I have in having one." He remained silent and let her continue. "I know we could adopt, I know we can keep trying, but how much more can we take...I take to keep this up!" The tears began to fall. "I'm not happy about any of this!" She threw her hooves out towards the house. "I'd trade it ALL for a foal, all of it except you. It's to the point where I could..." she stopped herself and took a deep breath. Rumble smiled softly and took the opportunity to put his hoof on the side of her cheek. "I don't know entirely what you are going through, but I do agree with you on the foal, but let me just say this, if you ever think I am going to leave you because you can't have a foal," he lifted her gaze to his. "Then you would be wrong, I didn't enter this relationship with you just to abandon you when things get tough." He caressed her cheek. "If anything, this makes me want to stay with you more. We might go through some rough patches here and there, but I wouldn't trade the good or bad to be with you." He closed his eyes and grinned. "Because, in the end, I will always be by your side." Scootaloo stared in awe at the stallion in front of her. The moon shined on him brightly as he spoke, and to her, his words meant everything. Both of their hearts pounded into their chests as they leaned towards each other and kissed once more. Scootaloo smiled a real smile for the first time in a long time, as she drifted to sleep with the sound of his heart in her ear.
Chapter 8: Hard to Forget.Something has gone wrong. We don't seem to have an archived copy of that chapter.
Chapter 4: Something Worth Remembering"That cake was delicious!" Buttonmash's mother said, licking her lips of any excess icing. The cake was gone, Button had one slice while his mother, had the rest. She ate it as if she had not eaten anything all day, devouring it rather quickly. Button smiled though, she enjoyed the cake, that was all the mattered to him. Even as they sat at the table discussing the events of the past couple of days, Buttonmash was just happy to see his mother smile. It had been awhile since he had last seen her, but he definitely had not seen her smile in months, well not since his dad was still alive. Her smile lingered as she belched and fell back in her chair slightly. "Oh my, I've never been this full before, thank you dear," Buttonmash smiled, "It's not a problem mom, you always took care of me, so I decided to take care of you," he pointed a hoof at her as he spoke, "I mean it's the least I can do," he finished as he pushed the chair out a little bit. His mom tried to say something when the door bell rang. "Oh Button, I think that's the paper, can you get it for me, I don't think I can move!" Button chuckled at his mother's comment as he stood from the table and made his way to the door, pausing only to look through the peephole, he opened the door. "Hey Feather Weight hows the business?" Button asked the tall stallion holding the paper. He and Buttonmash were close friends back in their grade school years, but afterwards Feather Weight became focused on the business path, learning more and more about the newspaper and even how to become the class valedictorian in the meantime. "It's actually going great, and it seems like your life is picking up as well," he replied with a wink. "What do you mean?" Button asked, reaching for the paper. Feather lifted up the newspaper to show what he was hinting at. On the front page sat an article with a picture in the center. POPSTAR FINDS HER SOULMATE IN THE FORM OF HEAD VIDEO GAME DESIGNER BUTTONMASH. It read and the picture below it was that of Sweetiebelle laughing at one of Button's comments. Button's eyes widened, "Oh no!" ...................................................... "What!" Sweetie looked at the article with an expression that could only be anger and astonishment. Vanillabliss sat across from her, a smirk on her face. "Just a friend huh," Sweetiebelle slammed the paper down, her eyes glaring daggers at her friend. Vanillabliss just shrugged and continued to smile. "He is just a friend Bliss, we haven't talked in ages and we didn't exactly leave our friendship intact when I left, even now I don't see him any differently than I did be-" "You're lying," Rarity butted in as she walked into the room, a black satin dress held above her in her magic. Sweetiebelle looked at her, "Excuse me?" Rarity stopped and looked back, "You are lying my dear sis-" "I am not!" Sweetiebelle yelled. "Yes you are, you tend to get very...aggressive when you lie, especially when you say 'excuse me' I'm your sister dear I know more about you than you realize, plus Onyx does the same thing," she added as she left the room once more. Vanillabliss giggled, "Ya know, I think I'm really starting to like your sister," she told Sweetiebelle as she pulled the newspaper back towards her. "Besides, what could be so wrong with this, you both seem very comfortable around each other, and I've never seen a picture of you laughing like this, you seem happier," Sweetiebelle sighed, "You just don't get it, even if I did like him, all of Equestria would be against it...he works in what some would call the nerd department while I am popular, those never mesh well, more so considering most of those relationships don't even end well," she told her friend as she pushed herself away from the table, "Not to mention that even if we were in a relationship we would be followed around like this," she gestured towards the picture, "And we would never escape," she finished as she left the room, leaving Vanillabliss alone in the dining room of the boutique. Vanillabliss studied the paper closely, she had really only known Sweetiebelle when she was working with her and had only become friends with her a month beforehoof. She could see it in that laugh that Sweetiebelle had feelings for him, but there was only so much you can read from a picture. She left the paper on the table as she stepped away from it, she needed to speak to somepony about these two and figure out exactly what had happened to them. ................................................. Sweetiebelle walked through Ponyville, well more like ran, as there was a paparazzi on her tail. She had dealt with them before, but this wasn't a topic she wanted to discuss, with anypony. She took a left turn into the marketplace and skidded to a stop. She was surrounded, many ponies crowding around her all asking the same question. "Why him?" They all seemed to say the same thing and the noise was starting to get to Sweetiebelle, flattening her ears and gritting her teeth, she did her best to hide from the cameras but to no avail she was trapped. She closed her eyes and fought back tears, this was ther worst part of her job, the cameras, the questions, the gossip, it was so hard to handle that some nights she just wished she could get away from it all or even go back in time and stop herself. She felt her horn start to work as she slowly started to cast a teleportation spell, she didn't like doing it as it made her sick, but she would do everything in her power to get away no matter the cost. Before she could finish though, a booming voice could be heard throughout the crowd, "Get away from Sweetiebelle, or else you will all be leaving Ponyville and are never to return!" The voice boomed and caused a sudden stillness and silence amongst the large group of ponies. In mere seconds all of the ponies ran in all directions, leaving Sweetiebelle alone with whoever had just saved her. When she had opened her eyes, she saw the one pony she least expected to see, Twilight Sparkle, her magic teacher and a close friend of her sister. She was flying above her glaring at anypony that tried to take a picture or even ask a question before finally landing in front of a shaking Sweetiebelle who had tears in her eyes. Twilight walked up to the mare and slowly helped her up, wrapping a wing around her in comfort, she guided her to the castle where Twilight did her princess duties and remained far enough away from the paparazzi so she could work. As the castle doors closed behind the two, Sweetiebelle hugged the princess as hard she could, stressed tears covering the lavender mare's fur as she hugged her young friend back. Twilight knew the stresses of popularity, as she was not only a princess, but an Element of Harmony. Sweetiebelle looked up at Twilight and sniffled. "Thank you," she managed to say as she stepped away from the princess. Twilight used her magic to clean off the tears and snot on her fur and then smiled at the popstar. "Anytime Sweetiebelle, after all you still are my student," she told the mare as they started to walk through the halls of the castle, the only sounds being that of the hoof steps of the two mares. It was almost ominous and uncomfortable, but it was soon broken by Twilight asking a question. "So, what was the deal with all of that?" She looked at Sweetiebelle who looked back at her. "Just a false article in the newspaper, but I didn't expect it to draw a paparazzi from Manehattan," she told her as she turned her attention back to what was in front of her. "What article?" Twilight asked curiously. "Oh nothing important, just a whole romantic mix up," she hinted. "I wish I could get a story like that," Twilight joked butting her shoulder into Sweetiebelle. "You really don't, especially if it was just a conversation between you and a friend that was taken differently," Sweetiebelle said. Twilight looked at her, "Who was the 'lucky' stallion," she teased, trying to once again lighten the mood. "Buttonmash," she mumbled in return. Twilight looked at her with confusion, "Buttonmash? Huh I thought you two always had a thing for each other?" Sweetiebelle blushed slightly, "N-no not at all he had something for Me, but who hasn't..." Twilight stopped dead in her tracks. "That didn't come out right...it's just complicated," she added fixing what she had said before. Twilight giggled, "Sure sounds like you do have a 'thing' for him, maybe the tables have turned hm," she joked once more. Sweetiebelle glared at her, "That's not funny, I thought you were here to help me, not become a one pony paparazzi," Twilight stepped back slightly, taken aback by those words. "You really have something for him," a raspy voice said behind Sweetiebelle. "Spike what did I tell you about eavesdropping!" Twilight yelled. "What? It's not like you were not interested either," he retorted with smirk. Twilight glared at him, "I have a few books in the library that need to be put up, can you be a good uncle and show Dawn where they go," Twilight said with an evil smile. Spike mumbled something under his breath as he left leaving the two mares alone again. "Sorry about that," she apologized. "It's fine, but in some ways he's not wrong," she admitted. "I can't say for sure, but I think I might like him, it's just I don't know yet," she finished. "Hey, admitting you like somepony is already a step forward Sweetiebelle, but you might be telling the wrong pony this," she said wisely. Sweetiebelle looked at her, "What do you mean," she asked, puzzled. Twilight smiled, "You have other friends and even the stallion himself to tell, so run along, my mother sense is tingling," she told her before teleporting away. Sweetiebelle sighed and made her way out of the castle. Twilight was right, but how did Sweetie come to reveal her feelings. She had to admit, being around him put butterflies in her stomach. She knew what love was, she saw it in Rumble and Scootaloo, now she just had to do it see it for herself and Button. ..................................................... Button had searched all over town for Sweetiebelle, and the moon was starting to rise. He wanted to apologize to Sweetiebelle for the article. He felt bad, she was here to relax and now a paparazzi was here. They had attacked him about an hour ago and he had finally snuck away. Now he just had to find Sweetiebelle, except nopony had seen her since she had entered Twilight's castle. He stopped and calmed himself, "This is Sweetiebelle here, she can handle herself, don't be foalish and just look for her. You know her well enough, where would she go, maybe the boutique? But I have already checked there. Maybe I should go check again?" Button told himself, a pony close by scampered off, probably freaked out by his behavior. "Buttonmash?" A familiar voice behind him. He turned with a smile, thinking it was Sweetiebelle, but it wasn't, it was Applebloom. She was wearing a suit with a small pink bow on her mane, she looked professional. "What're ya doing out here, and without your cart," she questioned annoyingly. Buttonmash looked at her, "Not in the mood Applebloom, I'm looking for somepony." Applebloom snickered, "Lemme guess, Sweetiebelle? She just got to Sweet Apple Acres an hour ago, Ah doubt she is still there, but you can always check, but don't get any ideas, I've already told her how much you've changed." Buttonmash sat down and sighed. "Listen Applebloom, I know that what I did was wrong, but you are in a pretty similar boat aren't you?" Buttonmash said. "Hardly, Ah still have time for my friends." Applebloom snorted, walking past him. Buttonmash knew he had messed up. When he had snapped at the girls a few years ago, he said things he didn't mean, and to make things worse none of them had tried to talk to him since. He turned and grabbed her tail with a hoof. "I know what I said was wrong, I just don't know how to apologize. The things I did-" "Were wrong? Ya have no idea Button. Words hurt!" Applebloom ripped her tail out of his hoof and faced him. "The things you said threw Scootaloo and Ah in the dirt, Scootaloo still hasn't forgotten it and Ah...Ah sure as Luna haven't even considered forgiveness! Do ya have any idea how hard it already was that ya didn't show up to Granny Smith's funeral, that you didn't even make it to Big Mac's wedding and then decided to snap at us for the things you did wrong!" She was in tears as she yelled. He had avoided them for so long and now it was all hitting him. Everything he had said, everything that had ruined the friendship between him and his friends. Buttonmash sat down as Applebloom glared at him. "Even now...ya say nothin', you just stare at the ground with whatever guilt ya have. Ah believe wholeheartedly what you said that night. Because only you could say something like that and mean it, just like ya did when Sweetiebelle left. Now do Scootaloo and Ah a favor, and leave Sweetiebelle alone. She doesn't need ya, all you'll do is hurt her." Applebloom turned away and continued her walk, wiping the tears from her eyes. Buttonmash did nothing to stop her, he just stared at the ground and watched as his tears hit it. He knew exactly what he had said, and knew all of it was unforgivable. He moved his hooves one last time and went home, knowing his game needed to be finished. ............................................................. Rarity was happy to see the article, and when Sweetiebelle had entered the boutique that night, she was more than ready to tease her younger sister. "Well it seems somepony is happy." Rarity said placing the article on the table. Sweetiebelle sipped at her soup, rolling her eyes in annoyance. She was happy, she had spent the rest of her day at Sweet Apple Acres, talking with Big Macintosh and Sugarbelle about their relationship. She knew what it was like to be in a relationship, but she had never been the one to want to confess her feelings. She wanted to know what it was like and she did get some answers, which is what she had hoped for. "Darling are you lovestruck or something?" Rarity asked, tilting her head. Sweetiebelle had dazed of into her thoughts. Sweetiebelle blushed, "Sorry, I just have a lot on my mind." She replied. "I can tell, you have finally fallen for him, haven't you." Sweetiebelle looked at her sister who was grinning from ear to ear. "What? No, I have just been catching up with ponies and the picture here was the aftermath of a joke." "Denial" Rarity sang and levitated the spoon to her mouth. Sweetiebelle glared at her, "Just because I said no doesn't mean anything." She told her sister. She then sighed, she was lying and her sister had already caught her. "You have never been a great liar dear sister, you should express yourself more. After all holding back leads to stress, and stress leads to wrinkles." Her sister taught, leaning back in her seat slightly. "Fine, ya caught me." "Aha!" Rarity chimed out, slamming her hooves on the table. Sweetiebelle shushed her and point her hoof up. "Your son is sleeping, keep it down." Rarity blushed and slid back. "Apologies, I let myself go alittle." She apologized. Sweetiebelle rolled her eyes. "Just don't say anything to anypony else, I don't want this getting to him or to a reporter, otherwise we will have put both of our careers in jeopardy." She wasn't wrong, a singer dating a game developer wasn't exactly welcome. The stallions that listened to Sweetiebelle's music would quit listening, and the gamers would probably boycott the game Button was making, believing it to be too mushy for the sake of her. Not only that but their fields didn't mix unless there was a reason for it. "I understand dear, I will hold back until something happens." Rarity promised. "Cross my heart, hope to fly, stick a cupcake in my eye." Rarity said, using Pinkie's signature promise. ............................................................. KNOCK KNOCK Buttonmash groaned and lifted his head from his keyboard once again. His mane was thrown around, bags sat underneath his eyes, and when he stood his legs shook. "Buttonmash, it's Sweetiebelle." Button froze and let Applebloom's words echo in his head. He went to sit back down but his leg gave out and fell face first into his desk. As he tried to lift himself up he heard a zap sound and saw a bright light. His vision was alittle blurry but he thought he could see a pony coming towards him. "Sweet Celestia, Button are you ok!" Sweetiebelle said trying to help him up. Buttonmash groaned in response and held himself up on his desk. "I'll...I'll be fine." He told her as his legs tried to give out again. "You are not fine, you can barely stand! Were you up all night?" Sweetiebelle cried out in concern. "Kinda have to be, I have a deadline." Button said, sitting back down and facing his computer. His jaw and muzzle hurt, but that didn't matter. "Well I don't care about some stupid deadline!" Sweetiebelle argued and spun him around to face her. "This is torture and you need rest." She said. "I don't have time to rest." Button quarreled. Sweetiebelle snorted and pulled him further away from his computer. stupid chair why do you have to have wheels? he scolded the chair in his thoughts as Sweetiebelle wheeled him to his couch. "Get on the couch, please." Sweetiebelle ordered politely. "No, I need to get my work done." Buttonmash told her. "I'm not taking no for an answer. Get. On. The couch." She demanded. Button shook his head and tried to wheel away, his chair bumping on something slightly. Sweetiebelle winced and grabbed her forehoof. "Ow." Button immediately moved back to her. "Are you ok?" He questioned, reaching for her hoof. He felt bad that he had hurt her. "I am now." "Wha-" he didn't get to finish as a hoof grabbed him and threw him onto the couch. "Gotcha, now where do you keep your blankets?" She said turning away from him. He tried to get up but realized he had magical shackles holding him to the couch. "Nice try, but I'm a good student of Twilight's, plus in your state it's not like you can do much anyway." She left the room in search of a blanket. This wasn't healthy for Buttonmash, and it really annoyed her that he put up a fight, but it was a fight she won, so less annoying. She couldn't find a blanket, so she just took the quilt from his bed and brought it downstairs. She gasped, he wasn't on the couch anymore. She peered around the corner to see him back on his computer, typing away at whatever he was working on. She snuck up behind him and wrapped the blanket around his eyes and chair and pulled him back towards the couch. "No, no! Let me go, Sweetiebelle!" She ignored his demands and hummed a tune as she repositioned him onto the couch, this time a blanket holding him down. She then sat in the computer chair and looked at her work. "I win." She smiled. Buttonmash sighed in annoyance. "You didn't win anything, and how in Celestia did you even get in here?" He asked. "Well I am Twilight's student." She responded, her mentor's words echoed in her head. Button tried to sit up but soon realized he couldn't. He peeked underneath the sheets and saw them tucked underneath the cushions with magic holding them under. "Like I said, I win." Sweetiebelle said. His ears flattened and he glared at his friend. "I have work to do Belle, now if you could let up that magic so I can-" "Nope, not until you rest." She interrupted. He struggled with blanket, tossing and turning, but to no avail he couldn't get free. Sweetiebelle giggled, his struggles amusing her. He pouted and turned towards the cushions. "Awww what's wrong, sad because a mare beat ya at something." Sweetiebelle taunted. He didn't answer and his breathing slowed. He had fallen asleep. well that was fast. Sweetiebelle told herself. She waited a bit longer just to make sure and then decided to explore the house. There was a lot of pictures on the walls, some art, others photos of Button, and some photos of other ponies. His living room wasn't large, but it held a couch and chair with a small table and a lamp. The walls were a grass green, and there was a set of stairs that acted as an exit along with and archway that led to the kitchen. The kitchen itself matched the living room but with a tile floor rather than wood. The stove and refrigerator contrasted the room nicely with a jet black color. There was also no dishes in the sink. She looked back in the living room to check on her friend and heard a grumble from the stallion. This grumble though didn't come from his mouth but rather his stomach. "When was the last time you ate?" Sweetiebelle asked the sleeping Buttonmash quietly. He snored in response, putting a smile on Sweetiebelle's face. She turned back to the kitchen and decided that he deserved a meal once he woke up. She wasn't the most talented in the kitchen, but she knew the basics and could make some simple dishes. She decided on something rather quickly and got to work. ......................................................... The smell of something good woke up Buttonmash from his slumber, something was being cooked. He slowly lifted his head off his couch and looked around, the memory of the events from earlier slowly pulling him back to reality. "How...how long was I out?" He asked, his eyes widening in fear. He knew Sweetiebelle was around somewhere, but the magic was now gone. He jumped off the couch and basically ran to his computer, not paying attention to the plate of pancakes on his table. "No, no! It's almost sundown, I'm gonna be behind!" He cried out. "Behind? From what I could tell there was more work in there to last you a month's break." A voice said behind him. He quickly turned to face Sweetiebelle who was levitating the plate of pancakes in front of her. "Well at least now you do." She added trotting up to him. "What...did you...do?" He did his best to hold back his anger. "Well for one I fleshed out some of your characters, most of them seemed one sided, and for two I did some editing," she made it to his side and set the plate down, "Here, see for yourself." He stared at the screen and scrolled down through all of the work, his eyes widening at how easily she had done this. "What, how did you figure it out?" She gave him a confused look. "I mean my characters, the stories that I had in mind, I had all of those...locked...away." the realization hit him and he reached into a drawer where a journal sat. Sweetiebelle looked away sheepishly. She had read his notes, thinking they were well just notes, but she could tell that some of the characters were based off of real ponies. She also found some entries from back in Button's highschool years, not realizing that they were that. When she turned back around she met his glare, one that scared her. "You read...through my personal journal!" He yelled. "I didn't realize it was personal at first, but when I read the scripts on the screen, they sounded very bland, I just wanted to help." She glared back at him, angry that he had yelled at her. Button's expression changed suddenly, his conversation with Applebloom coming back to him. He sat down in his chair and took a deep breathe. This needed to stop. "Just don't go through my stuff before asking, some of it is private and I don't need anypony seeing it," he then looked at her, "And I'm sorry for yelling, that...that was wrong of me." He added the apology. Sweetiebelle smiled in return and accepted his apology, slowly pushing the plate of pancakes towards him with her magic. He smiled back and took a bite, his eyes lighting up. "Sweet Celestia, these are amazing! Almost as good as mom's!" He said with a mouthful. She giggled as he took another bite. As he ate Sweetiebelle's mind wandered back to what she had seen in his journal. The entries in there focused on his life, but a lot of it also had to do with her and the other crusaders. There was no true mention of his affection towards her until the last of the entries. The entry was dated a week before she had started her big tour. She couldn't remember most of the words, but two sentences stuck out to her. I am going to try, I have to, it'll be my only chance. And then the last sentence. I was stupid to think she had anything for me, I just wish I could have said something. The sentences were from different time periods on the same same day. It would be two days after this entry that they would argue over everything that was going to happen and would ruin their friendship. "You okay?" Button asked, bringing her back to the present. She looked at the empty plate and then back at him. "Yeah, I'm fine, just day dreaming." She lied. He looked at her with a smile and stood back up. "I'm gonna go clean up the kitchen." He left the room and went to the kitchen. Sweetiebelle could hear the water running soon after, and walked to the living room to fix the couch. She folded the blanket as neatly as possible and then put it back where it came from before entering the kitchen. Button was cleaning off the pan that she had used to make the pancakes and from what she could tell he was focused on his task. She sat down at the small dining table in the room, waiting for him to get done. Twilight's advice echoed in Sweetiebelle's head, giving way for her nerves to creep in. She felt her heart rate pick up as he turned off the water, this was it. "Hey Button I-" there was a loud crash as the door in the other room swung open and then shut. Button, who had just finished drying his hooves, slowly crept to the archway. He was afraid that somepony was about to rob his home. "Button dear? Are you home?" His mother's voice called. Button sighed in relief, "In the kitchen, mom!" He called back returning to the sink long enough to put the remaining dishes in the soapy water. The mare entered the room with a pleasant smile on her face, not noticing Sweetiebelle at first. "Why did you swing the door open so hard? You could've broken something." He scolded in confusion. "The wind was picking up, I almost couldn't open it or even close it, I think I'm getting old." She laughed and turned towards Sweetiebelle. She gasped, "Am I interrupting something?" She asked politely. "Not at all, Sweetiebelle was just coming over to catch up some more." Button told his mother, leaving out his nap and the prepped food. "What's up? You look a little tired." Button asked as his mother sat down next to Sweetiebelle. He joined them and sat down opposite of Sweetiebelle. "Well I was coming over to make sure you were alright, you left on such short notice that I thought maybe one of your friends ended up in the hospital." She told him. Her reasoning was solid, mainly because after the article he just left, he didn't say goodbye or even leave a note. "And I didn't come over yesterday because I thought maybe you were working on your game after making sure everything was ok, but it surely doesn't seem that way." She tried to subtly gesture her eyes towards Sweetiebelle who took notice immediately. "No, no, something just came up and I was in a hurry, I am sorry for not saying something at least." His mother shook her head. "No don't be, if you are in a hurry then you don't have time for goodbyes, much less so when it's your mother, I don't think I would have let you go after the cake yesterday." Button laughed and rubbed the back of his head. he made his mother a cake, how sweet. Sweetiebelle thought. "So what were saying, Sweetiebelle?" Button asked, remembering her trying to say something earlier. Sweetiebelle looked at him and then his mother, would it be right of her to say something around his mother. In Sweetiebelle's mind she knew Button's mother probably didn't like her anymore, she did after all fight and hurt her son. She was also an adult, so hopefully she had gotten over their quarrel. Sweetiebelle sighed and looked at her crush, her heart threatening to jump out of her chest. "Um Button, I...I have been thinking about some things while I have been here...in Ponyville I mean...and I have come to a realization that-" there was a loud knock on the door, cutting off Sweetiebelle once more. The knock sounded frantic and Button didn't hesitate to run to the door. He swung the door open to reveal Vanillabliss, Sweetiebelle's manager. "Is Sweetiebelle here?" She asked, sweat running down her forehead. "Bliss? What's going on?" Sweetiebelle asked trotting up to the door. "It's your sister she is in the hospital!" Author's Note And that's chapter 4 I hope Rarity is ok.
