It's a cool night, as I shut the window to Flurry's room. Because it's winter, the winds blow a lot more around this time of year. During the winter, I wear a thick jacket, which I have around my waist. I look back to Flurry, snuggled in her bed, giving me a tired smile.
"Feel warm?" I asked, sitting down beside her.
"I am," she said, before giving out a yawn. "Can you tell me a bedtime story?"
"What kind of story?"
"A love story."
"Perhaps I'll tell you the story of beauty and the beast."
"Beast?" she repeated, unknown of the story.
"It's a fairy tale back where I'm from. It's a story about love between a lady and a beast..."
My name is Gabe, a thirty-seven-year-old human living in the Crystal Empire. My job is rather easy, look after the death of her father. I came here five years ago, during a time where princess Cadance was going through a horrible time. I honestly don't know how I got here, but back on Earth, I remember grocery shopping, until some shots were fired before everything went black. I guess I died and I ended up coming to Equestria for a second chance.
Anyway, when I arrived, I was sent to prison for the time being until I met princess Cadance. I was so scared out of my mind that I'm somehow in a world full of humanoid ponies and such, but when I met Cadance, all the fear just disappeared. She sat with me calmly and interviewed. Things went slow, but good. After the talk, I was released and she taught me about Equestria and how the world works, including the events of her husband passing. She brought me to his grave, paying my respects, even though I didn't know him much. Cadance told me that he passed due to a strong illness.
Looking at his grave, I felt bad for his widowed wife and daughter, who was just a year old. For making me a citizen of Equestria, I returned the favor by asking to be the babysitter of her daughter. Judging by the first impression, she was unsure, but she still allowed me to do so. Since then, I looked after the little tike whenever Cadance was out and about dealing with royal things. Little Flurry Heart is such a handful, but she enjoyed my company. It was hard at first, but I got used to it.
During these years, I watched the little filly grow into a well mannered princess. She still has much to learn, but we'll get there. As much as I loved being here at the Crystal Empire, I do miss home. I had a nice life, a girlfriend who made me great pound cake and a well paid job. As much as I'll miss Earth, I accepted the fact that I now live here in Equestria.
"And so," I continued, wrapping up the story, "The prince and Beauty lived happily ever after."
Flurry Heart sleeps peacefully in her bed, bringing a smile onto my face. Every time I see her, I think back to what me and Helen could've had. I was so nervous to being a father, but now that I look after Flurry, I feel rather bad that I could never make Helen's dream come true.
I reach to my left, turning off the lamp, making the room dimly lit, as Luna's moon shines upon the floor. I quietly make my way towards the door, opening it slowly, then shutting it as I exit.
"Hey there, Gabe," said a female voice to my right, making me flinch.
I look towards the source, seeing princess Cadance standing before me wearing her usual princess gown. It's dark pink, a large rose around the right shoulder, and a nice white hem tip. Her tail behind her is combed to perfection, along with her hair slicked down with curls at the bottom. I should add that she is about a few inches taller than I because, well, she's a giant humanoid horse and I'm just human. Besides her height, she's very beautiful. In fact, she's too beautiful that I have difficulty to even speak.
"H-hey there, C-Cadance," I stuttered.
"What's the matter?" she asked, cocking a brow. "You're stuttering again."
"It's okay, y-your highness," I said, undoing the arms of my jacket around my waist. "I'm fine. Everything is f-fine with Flurry. She's sleeping in bed."
"That's good," she said, stretching out her hand, gripping onto a large sack of bits. "Also, here's the bits you deserve."
"Don't you th-think you're giving me too much?" I asked, zipping the jacket on.
"You deserve the bits," she chuckled. "You've been such a nice guy around my daughter and I really like how you make her smile. Whenever I see her smile, I want to thank you very much for that."
"Y-you're welcome," I said, as I held onto the sack. "Look, I know it's hard for you, dealing with the loss of your husband and again, I'm glad to look over her. She's like the daughter my girlfriend and I never had."
"You had a special somepony?" she asked with interest.
"I once did," I said, walking with her towards the exit.
"What was her name?"
"It was Helen."
"What a pretty name?"
"Thanks. She and I met around in Autumn. We met at Starbucks, which is a place to get coffee. I was on a rush to work, carrying four cups in my hand and out of the blue, I saw her going past me. We both made eye contact and I knew she was the one."
"Love at first sight?"
"Indeed... looks like we both lost someone we love, huh?"
"I guess."
"May I ask you something, but if you don't want to answer, I understand."
"What is it?"
"Have you ever thought about... getting remarried?"
"I... don't know how to answer that."
"Don't worry, Cadance," I said, patting her arm. "You'll find someone- I mean, somepony out there."
"You're too kind," she replied, patting my head like I was a dog.
As we make it to the entrance of the castle, I look back to her, smiling.
"Have a great night, your highness," I said, making her smile, holding her clasping her hands gently down.
"I'll see you tomorrow, Gabe."
I exit the castle, walking down the stairs to the exit.
"Phew," I said to myself. "That kid was a handful today, but at least we had a good time, and that's all that matters."
Morning gives me a chill, as I walk into the living room with myself wrapped in blankets. My teeth chatter, as I drop my blankets to the floor, coming up to the fireplace. I place three logs inside, with a page of the Crystal Daily News, which wasn't so important. I light a match and watch the page burn, as it slowly makes its way to the logs beneath. I sit down, watching the flames grow with a few crackles. I stretch out my hands, warming them as a warm embrace of heat comes onto me.
"Today is gonna be another cold one," I said to myself, looking towards my left to see little snowflakes falling down from the light clouds above. "And a perfect day to go shopping before going to the castle."
Since the beginning of this year, I planned on buying some gifts for Flurry and Cadance. Christmas is something alien to them or any pony. Hearth's Warming is the day ponies celebrate the founding of Equestria, for the human race, it's Christmas.
The morning goes good, as I sit on my couch and drink a cup of warm tea. I watch outside my window, seeing ponies walk by one another, smiling, chatting with friends or loved ones. A few fillies throwing snowballs at one another, one having a snowball stuck in her horn made me chuckle. I proceed to drinking my tea, having a nice little tingle down my throat from the lemon flavor.
Suddenly, a knock on my door catches my attention. I place my tea down, walking up to whoever is there with myself wearing but a long-sleeved shirt and checkered PJ bottoms. As I open it, I am greeted by a soldier from the castle. He wore his helmet and usual armor, along with holding onto his spear to his side.
"Good morning, Sir," I said. "May I help you?"
"The majesty wanted me to hand you this," he replied, handing me a letter with Cadance's cutie mark as the seal.
"Oh! Thank you."
I grab ahold of it and bring saluted the soldier.
"Have a great Christ- I mean, Hearth's Warming Eve, Sir."
"You too, Sir Gabe."
He walks off, as I return inside the comforts of my home, curious to what Cadance wanted me to know. I sit back down onto my couch, opening up the letter, written in red ink.
It reads as followed:
Dear Gabe,
Since you've been working so hard the past few months, I thought, you know, why don't you come here later tonight and have dinner with me and Flurry? Dinner will be ready around seven O'clock, okay? Relax for the rest of the day and enjoy yourself.
See you soon,
Cadance
Boy, is she making today easy for me. This is a great opportunity for me to go out and buy some gifts for them. I place the note down and make my way to the shower, gotta be clean for today, then take another for tonights dinner.
I walk along the square, making my way to the toy story for Flurry's present. I want to buy her the biggest stuffed animal they have there, if there are any. The wind blows past me, as a shover comes onto me. During this season, it's much colder and I always wear a thick coat, a dark green scarf, boots, and mittens. I totally forgot to bring them yesterday due to me somehow not noticing how cold they were the moment I was close to the castle.
Suddenly, my foot fell into a deep part of snow that I fell face first. I lifted my face, seeing a few stares of ponies and a few fillies around me.
"Need help?" said a female voice to my right.
I look up, seeing a ruby crystal hand reaching towards me. I reach out, grabbing the strangers hand, helping me back up. I look to her, a mare about an inch and a half taller than I. She wears a yellow coat, a purple scarf, and had a little scar on her nose.
"Thanks you, miss," I said, wiping off the snow on me.
"No problem," she said kindly.
"Didn't see it coming," I chuckled awkwardly.
"It happens."
"May I ask the name of the mare who helped me?"
"My name is Sweet Ruby."
"My name is Gabriel, but you can call me Gabe for short."
"Pleasure to meet you. Where are you off to?"
"The toy store," I said, as I take a few steps, pointing towards the said store. "Buying a large stuffed animal for Flurry Heart."
"Flurry heart?!" she said with surprise.
"Yep. That and I need to buy something for the princess herself."
"Well," she said, as the two of us walk together, "I just so happen to be going where you're going as well. My daughter wants a small stuffed bird."
"That's cute," I chuckled.
"I never knew I was going to ask the human this question, but are you and the princess... you know?"
"Huh?" I said, coming to a complete halt. "What do you mean 'you know'?"
"Are you two, in a relationship?"
"What?! Nah! I just go there to babysit Flurry Heart whenever Cadance is busy. It was a favor, in return for making me a citizen here in Equestria."
"Sounds like you do like her, lover boy," she joked, flicking my right cheek.
"I'm not in love with her!" I shouted out of embarrassment. "I'm doing something nice for her in return for her kindness!"
"Sure you are," she snickered, walking closer to the toy store.
I grunt, making my way to the doors of the toy store. As I entered, a bell rings, allowing those who are close by to the door to know of my presence. As I walk further in, the store is much larger than it looks outside. There are many shelves of books, toys, plushies, little puzzles, etc.
"Welcome to Filly Toys, human." said an employee, a yellow mare wearing a stripped uniform. "What brings you here? A discount on buy a stuffed animal, get one free? Buy two puzzles for five bits?"
"Not really," I answered. "Was wondering if you have any large stuffed animals?"
"Oh! You mean the large stuffed bears?"
"Yeah."
"Come along," she said, as I followed.
Around the store, many mares and stallions rush around the store, buying as much as they can before somepony else takes it. Even ponies have Black Fridays and are like a war zone.
We make our way to the end of the store, the employee points out three large stuffed bears. One with Pink fur, one with brown fur, and one with white fur.
"Here you go, Sir. Any of these interest you?"
"How much are they?"
"They're about twenty bits."
"I'm buying them for a certain princess."
"Flurry Heart?" she wondered.
"That's the one."
"Well, because you're giving it for the princess, you'll get the discount of fifteen bits."
"Really? No joke?"
"No joke."
"Can I have it shipped there today?"
"Certainly," she nodded.
"Can I pay you now?"
"Sure. No charge for shipping."
I reach into my chest pocket of my jacket, pulling out the right amount of bits.
"Thank you," she smiled, as I handed her the change. "Have a wonderful Hearth's Warming Eve, human."
"It's Gabe, actually."
"Thanks for stopping by, Gabe."
It's eleven PM, as I sit inside a coffee shop, sitting close to the window. I sip on my mocha, watching the snow fall outside. As I place my cup down, I look back to my surroundings, seeing ponies talking to one another, along with a few people whispering to each other, looking at me. I ignored them, probably talking about how weird I look or something I don't need to know.
"Hey mista," said a small kiddy voice.
I look to my right, seeing no one in front of me.
"Down here," continued the voice.
I look down, seeing a small filly, she was at the age of four, handing me a cupcake with green frosting and red sprinkles. The little filly is a bright red crystal pony, with eye color that looks rather similar to somepony I met earlier today.
"Is that for me?" I asked.
"Yeah," she nodded. "My mama was making cupcakes and she... and she... and she wanted to give you one."
"That's very sweet of your mother," I said, taking the cupcake from his tiny hands. "Where is your mama?"
The filly pointed to her left, making me look down the booths to see a familiar face that made the hairs on the back of my head stand up. Sweet Ruby smiled, waving her hand up high to catch my attention.
"Oh!" I said with surprise. "Your mama is Sweet Ruby?"
"Yep," said the giggling filly.
"May I come and sit with you two?"
"You may, Gabey," she giggled.
I move out of my booth, following the filly, seeing the mare I met earlier this morning.
"Well, well, well," I said, sitting across from Sweet and her child. "If it isn't Sweet Rose. We meet again."
"You must like me or something," she smirked, making me blush.
"N-no. I don't have any feelings toward you, but I would like to consider us as acquaintances."
"Are you sure?"
"Y-yeah."
"You're easy to tease," she giggled. "What brings you here?"
"Just wanted a cup of coffee and think about what I can buy for princess Cadance."
"Pwincess Cadance?" said the filly with surprise. "Buy her a wuby or a necklace. Ladies love dat."
"My little Red knows that a lady likes," said Sweet, hugging her daughter.
"You two look alike," I chuckle.
"You think so?"
"You two slightly have the same color fur."
"Dat's sweet of you, Gabe," said Red.
"You're welcome, little tike," I reply, before having another sip of coffee.
"So, lover boy," joked Sweet. "What's your plan? What're you gonna buy princess Cadance?"
"Do you know where I can buy diamonds and such? I really don't usually buy that kind of stuff, but I will for today."
"There's Crazy Diamond's Shine not too far."
"Where's that?"
"When you're done here, go to your right and walk a few buildings down."
"Thanks," I said, looking to the cupcake in my hand.
I bring it up to me and take a bite into it, making my tastebuds go crazy with joy.
"Whoa," I let out. "This is possibly the best cupcake I ever had."
"Glad you like them," she said. "But they're not nearly as good as Pinkie Pie's from Ponyville's Sugar Cube Corner."
"You're quite a good baker," I said, making her cheeks go slightly red.
"Well, thank you."
"Well," I said, taking another sip of my coffee, finishing the little of what's left. "I have to get going."
"Aw!" whined Red. "But I just met you! I wanna be fwiends with you!"
"You must really like me around," I chuckled, placing my now empty cup down. "Okay, I'll stick around longer. I have plenty of time."
"Yay!" clapped Red.
"So, what are you two up to?"
"I'm gonna go take this little sunshine over to grandmas soon."
"Gwandma is gonna make us some pie."
"Sounds like fun."
"What's Hearth's Warming Eve like back where you're from?" asked Sweet.
"We have Christmas back on Earth," I explained. "A guy named Santa Clause goes to people's homes at night during this time of the year and gives presents to all the good children. Those who are bad will get coal or meet... well, you now know of Christmas."
"Meet who?"
"Who?" asked Red. "Who do you meet if you're bad?"
"His name is... Krampus," I answered.
"Who's Krampus?" asked Sweet.
"Krampus is a creature that catches the most naughtiest of children and takes them to the underworld to punish them."
"Scawy," said Red, gripping onto her mother's coat.
"Sounds scary," said Sweet, patting her daughter's head.
"Sorry I brought it up, but you wanted to know."
"I pwefer Santa," said Red, letting go of her mother.
"He is better," I nod. "That's why children must be good on Christmas."
"It's very interesting," said Sweet. "Knowing of a different culture."
"There are many cultures back on Earth, but it's too much for me to even explain."
"No problem."
"Gabe," said Ruby. "What are you gonna get pwincess Cadance? Is my idea perfect?"
"Oh! Well, I think I'll have to go and buy her a pendant. One with a heart in the middle. If they don't have that, I'll buy her a necklace."
"Sounds womantic," said Red, giggling.
"Buying her an expensive gift proves that you do like Cadance," giggled Sweet, making me blush.
"I don't love her," I retort, shaking my head. "She is beautiful, but I never loved her."
"Come on, Gaberiel," smirked Sweet. "Admit it. You love the princess."
"She's beautiful, is all. Even if I wanted to fall for her, she's gonna go after a handsome stallion. I don't think I'm her type. I'm a few inches smaller than her, I have no magic, and all I do is babysit Flurry Heart."
"How long have you been looking after little Flurry?"
"Five years."
"Wow! Five years?"
"Time flies by so quickly," I said, biting into the cupcake.
"If you've been with her these five years, haven't you noticed that she hasn't been with another stallion since the passing of Shining Armor?"
"Y-yeah? Your point?"
"If she hasn't been searching for a stallion since then, then that must mean she likes you. She's shy to say it, but I'm certain she likes you for being a close father figure to Flurry Heart."
"I think you're on to something, but... I kinda agree with you there. Being with Flurry makes me feel like a father."
"I think she does like you, lover boy. Are you seeing her later today?"
"She invited me for dinner tonight."
"Sounds lovely. Now advice, be polite, don't be a pig during-"
"I know how it works, Sweet Ruby," I interrupted. "I dated before."
"You used to have a special somepony?"
"Who was her name?" asked Red.
"She wasn't a pony, but her name was Helen. We met during my job at a sandwich joint and we hit off pretty well. Now that I'm here, I have to move on."
"Gabriel," smiled Sweet. "you need to find somepony. Cadance will feel so much lively if you two fell in love. Time for the both of you to find love again. Now get going and buy her something nice."
I get up from my seat, going to Sweet Ruby's side and hugging her.
"Thank you for being such a great friend," I said, feeling her hugging me back.
"Anytime, Gabe."
We break the hug, as I pat the little Red's mane.
"Thanks for your help, too, Reddy," I chuckled, making the little filly smile.
"You're welcome," replied Red.
"See you guys around," I said, waving them goodbye.
"See ya," waved Red, along with Sweet Ruby.
I open the door, entering inside Crazy Diamond's Shine, finishing the last bite of Sweet Ruby's cupcake. The store itself is rather quiet, was expecting some mares fighting one another over jewelry or something crazy. The inside is white, with some necklaces and pendants on the right side of the store, hanging on the walls.
"Oh!" shouted a female voice, catching my attention.
Coming up to me is a mare wearing a black sweater with a diamond in the middle. The mare herself is young, wearing grey glasses, her mane is white as snow, green eyes, and dark gray fur. Her height however, is different to most of the mares I've met. She's about an inch smaller than I am.
"Hello, miss," I greeted.
"I never expected the human to enter here," she said with surprise, looking up from my chest to my face. "What're you looking for, honey?"
"Well," I said, looking towards the pendants. "I'm looking for a pendant for princess Cadance."
"Princess Cadance?!" she said with surprise. "A gift for her?"
"Y-yes, miss."
"It's Crazy Diamond, human," she giggled. "Come, come, come. I know exactly what she would love."
"Thanks," I said, following behind her. "It's Gabriel, by the way. You can also call me Gabe, for short."
"Well, Gabriel," she said, going to the back of the front counter. "I've been saving this for a while."
She reaches down, shuffling through drawers.
"Ah! Here it is!"
She reels up, holding a hand-sized diamond version of Cadance's cutie mark. The heart gleams, telling me to buy it.
"This is perfect, Miss Diamond," I said, amazed by its beauty.
"Plan on buying it?"
"Indeed."
"That'll be twenty-five bits."
I reach into my coat pocket, pulling out my sack of bits. I handed her the amount I needed, making her smile.
"Thank you very much, Gabriel," she said, handing me the bag with the cutie mark diamond inside.
"You're welcome," I said, putting my nearly empty sack back in my coat pocket. "Say, why aren't that many ponies in here?"
"Well, my establishment is rather new. We opened early this month and so far, not a lot really care."
"Why not put some fliers around? It'll help spread the word."
"Oh! How can I be so clueless?!"
"Do that and ponies will be lining up to get some jewelry from you."
"Thank you, sweetie. Have a great day."
"You too," I said, grabbing the bag and exiting the store.
As I make my way home, I began thinking back on Sweet Ruby talked about. Do I really love Cadance? Am I her type? It's hard to believe that she would have feelings for me. I'm just a babysitter and I'm human. She's beautiful, but out of my league.
It's 6:45 PM, as I make my way through the snow towards the castle, winds blowing harder during the day. The wind blows me back, telling me to give up, which I wouldn't.
"I'm not gonna let this damn wind push me back," I grunt, taking another step into the snow.
Ahead, I see the castle, making me push myself harder towards it. I grip onto Cadance's gift, holding it up to my chest, not wanting to let it blow away. sure, this jewel is a bit heavy, but not enough weight for the wind to catch it. I make my way to one of the entrances, knocking on its door.
"Hey there!" I shouted, hoping somepony could hear me. "It's Gabe! I come for dinner! Open the door, please!"
In one moment, the door opens, making me rush inside, feeling the cold breeze disappear and letting myself feel the heat from within the castle. I look to my left, a soldier walks up to me, holding a spear with his left hand. He was five inches taller than I, black fur, and a scar on his left arm.
"Sure is cold out there, isn't it?" he said, sniffling.
"It really is," I replied. "You don't sound good. Cold?"
"Y-yeah," he said, giving out another sniffle. "I was to wait for you and bring you in."
"Well, you did your job. Don't you guys get days off?"
"We do. I can go now."
"Please, good Sir," I said, taking off my scarf. "Take this. You need it more than I do."
"I can't," he declined, shaking his head.
"Better than being sick at home for tomorrow. Please, take it."
"If you insist," he said, taking the scarf gently from my hand,wrapping it around his neck. "Wow, this feel very soft."
"Now get going, soldier. Have a great Hearth's Warming Eve."
"You too," he said, walking past me, exiting the castle.
I walk up the stairs, curious to what Cadance has for dinner. I bet it's salad, which is okay. I haven't ate much today, so my stomach is ready to be filled. As I make it to the top, I make it to the throne room, no pony to be seen, expect for the thrones. Suddenly, a delicious aroma catches my nose, making my mouth nearly water.
"Something smells good," I said, following the scent.
My nose brings me to the doors that stand in front of the throne room. I give the doors a few knocks, hoping they are prepared and prepped for my arrival.
"Um, hello? It's me, Gabe."
"Oh, Gabe," said Cadance from the other side.
As she opens the doors, the aroma of cooking grew stronger and a warm wraps around me. In front of me stood Cadance, wearing the dress from when I first met her. Her mane shined, with the bottom curled up a little, making it look at though they were tentacles of an octopus.
"You came right on time," she smiled.
I couldn't speak, I was astounded by her beauty. She looks like she came out of a painting.
"Gabe?" she said, cocking a brow. "You okay?"
"Uh," I said, bringing myself to reality. "Sorry. I spaced out."
"Come on in, silly," she giggled, grabbing my left arm. "By the way, is that a gift for me?"
"Indeed it is."
"You're too sweet. Come, come, come. Dinner will be ready shortly."
She drags me to my chair, as I look upon the long table, as though we were gonna have many guests of royalty coming in.
"Quite a table," I said. "Anypony else coming?"
"No," she replied. "Just you."
As we reach to the end of the table, there was Flurry Heart, wearing a pink dress, her mane slicked down, wearing eyeliner, and smiling big.
"Hey there, Flurry," I said.
"Thankyousomuchfortheteddy," she said quickly.
"Y-you're welcome," I chuckled.
Cadance sits down on her chair at the end of the table, with a chair beside it, as though it were made for somepony of royalty. Like Cadance's, it has red leather on the slip and for the back.
Please, Gabe," she said warmly. "Sit."
"Okay," I said, placing the present beside the chair and making myself comfortable. "This is rather comfy."
"I'm glad you are."
"Thanks, Gabe," said Flurry. "I really love the teddy."
"Glad you like it, kiddo."
"You spoil her," giggled Cadance.
"It's Christ- I mean, Hearth's Warming Eve."
"What's Hearth's Warming Eve where you're from?" asked Flurry. "Do human kids get presints?"
"They do, but it's called Christmas where I'm from. Santa comes to houses and brings presents to all the good kids. Bad kids get coal."
"Santa?" questioned Cadance.
"He's a big fat guy who works at the north pole and looks down his list for who was naughty or nice. The elves, they work on the toys and gifts."
"Sounds like a nice guy," said Flurry.
"Christmas is a time of forgiving and to be with family."
"Sounds very sweet," said Cadance. "What did you do with your family on Christmas?"
"We usually gather, talking to one another, having dinner. It's rather nice to see family, even if we live far apart."
"Your customs sound very sweet."
"By the way, Cadance, I love whatever your cooks are making. I can smell it from the throne room."
"We have mashed potatoes, salad, fresh baked bread, it's the best in the crystal empire."
"Sounds delicious."
The doors from Cadance's right open, showing waiters holding operate dishes. One, carrying a bottle of wine with two glasses on his other hand.
"Dinner is served, your highness," said one of the waiters, as the rest put down the dishes.
The wine glasses were given to us, the waiter was a dark blue crystal pony. Like the others, he too wore a tux of light blue with black pants. He goes to Cadance, pouring her wine. He then looks to me, pouring wine into my cup.
"I'd like to toast you, Gabriel," said Cadance, holding up her glass to me, "for a great Hearth's Warming Eve and a great role model to Flurry Heart."
"Thank you," I said, clinking her glass.
I usually don't drink, but when I took a sip of it, it tasted so good. Better than the wine back on Earth.
"How is the taste?" asked Cadance.
"It's pretty good. Better than back on Earth."
"It's very popular, this wine as of late. It's called Grape Divine."
"Sounds delicious."
"Mom, what do we have for desert?"
"We have some chocolate cake for us to share."
"Yummy!" said Flurry with joy.
Time went by, as I carry a tired Flurry to her bedroom.
"Gabe?" she said, before giving out a yawn.
"Yes, little princess?"
"Do you love mommy?"
"Wha? Well... I don't know. Why'd you ask that?"
"Mommy always feels happy when you are here. Will you marry her?"
"Um... I don't know how to answer that, kiddo."
With a free hand, I reach for the door handle. I walk towards the bed and got her snuggly warm. Flurry shifts, looking at me with a tired smile.
"You'd... be a good... daddy."
And just like that, the little princess fell asleep. I sit beside her, as she sleeps soundly in her bed. I look up to Luna's moon, seeing it glow into the bedroom floor.
"Is she sleeping?" whispered Cadance from the door.
"Yes," I whispered back, getting up and walking towards her.
As I exit, Cadance looks back at Flurry before shutting the door.
"Well, thank you for the meal, Cadance," I said, noticing her holding up the present.
"You're very welcome," she smiled. "May I open this?"
"Go right ahead."
She carefully opens the wrappings, as pieces fall to the floor. As she reaches to the box, she opens it, her mouth and eyes open widely.
"My gosh," she said, speechless.
"I hope you like it. I bought it from a new place."
"This is very sweet of you, Gabe."
She comes close to me, kneeling down a bit to plant her lips upon my right cheek. I can feel the blood rushing up to my face, feeling rather warm.
"Y-you're welcome, Cadance," I said, feeling rather good for myself.
"I'll treasure this," she said, holding the box close to her chest.
"Anything for the princess."
"Gabe, could you stay here for the night? It's a cold nightmare out there."
"I didn't bring anything to wear for a stay in."
"Come with me," she said, grabbing my hand. "I'll take you to my quarters."
"Q-quarters?"
Her room is rather warm, a fireplace across from the bed, burning to a crisp. I sit at the end of her bed, as Cadance changes in her bathroom. Sitting there, I think of what's to happen next? Where will I sleep? Why would she bring me into her room?
"Uh, Cadance?" I called out.
"Yes, Gabe?" she said from her bathroom.
"Where am I to sleep? Don't you have a guest bedrooms?"
"Well..."
The bathroom door creaks, making my heart race, wondering what she's wearing. I turn around slowly, seeing Cadance wearing a dark pink nightgown, her hair slicked down, giving me a sultry glare. I turn away, my heart racing.
"I was wondering if we can share this bed?"
"Sh-share?"
"Mhm."
She sits beside me, her hands on her lap. I look to her, seeing a blush on her cheeks.
"Gabe, I know you like me."
"Y-you do?"
"I'm the princess of love, silly," she said, giving me a nudge on my shoulder.
"I guess I keep forgetting about that part."
"You're too shy to even say how beautiful I am, even though you want to. When you saw me before dinner, I knew you thought I was very beautiful. I want to know if you're being honest."
"Okay, you got me," I said, feeling the blood rush up to my face again. "I do like you. You're a very pretty mare and being here feels like I'm truly home. I... wanted to fall for you, but I'm nothing. I'm not royalty or anything superior. I'm just me and that's all I'm gonna be."
Cadence's hands grab my head, pulling me closer to hers. I look deep into her eyes, giving me a serious stare.
"You are not nothing," she said. "You are a great human being. You're great with Flurry and you're the kindest soul I know. You are special to this family."
"But... but I-"
Her lips press against mine, making my heart skip a beat. Suddenly, my mind was going blank. I felt like I could fly to the heavens. She slowly pulls her head away, looking into my eyes.
"Shhh," she said, placing a finger on my lips. "You are special. You may not think you are, but you are to me and Flurry. I really do like you."
She takes her finger away from my lips, before rubbing her muzzle against my nose. I couldn't help but chuckle, along with getting a giggle out of her.
"Cadance, you really are a sweet beauty."
"Would my special human want another kiss?"
She puckers up, slowly placing another kiss upon my lips. With another kiss, my body felt very light, as though I were as a piece of paper in Cadance's hands. I press upon her lips, feeling a little of her breathing tickle my cheeks. I pull away, seeing her smiling tenderly.
"Cadance... your smile always makes my day."
"You flatter me."
Her horn glows, noticing the zipper of my coat going down, revealing my black long-sleeved shirt. I take it off, dropping it to the floor. Her magic goes to the zipper of my pants, making me hold onto the button before she could even budge it.
"What's wrong, Gabe?" she asked, as the aura around her horn disappears.
"I'm rather nervous. It's been a while since I done this."
"You don't need to worry. We'll go easy."
"Okay."
I reach down, pulling down my zipper to see a bulge in my boxers. Cadance gets off the bed, sitting between my legs to get a better view of my bulge. With her hands, she pulls down my pants and boxers, making my member pop up freely.
"So this is what a human penis looks like," she said, looking at it intently. "Can't wait to see what this little guy can do."
She opens her mouth, wrapping her lips around the head, sucking it tenderly. The hairs on the back of my head stand, as she cradles the balls, pumping them gently.
"M-my G-God, Cadance," I moan. "You're g-good at this."
She chuckles, pulling her mouth away from my member, licking the tip. She swirls around the head, then gives it flicks from the bottom to the very tip. Gotta say, Helen never gave me a blowjob before. I never knew they could feel nearly as good as a pussy.
"Your cock has such a nice taste," she said, taking her hand from my balls and stroking my saliva coated member. "Haven't done this in a while. Good to know I'm still good at it."
"What next?"
She giggles, taking her hand away from my member and giving me a slight push, bringing my back to the bed. I lean my head, seeing Cadance crawl on top of me, like a cat ready to pounce on its prey. She brings her head above mine, blocking the right side of the room with her mane. She takes her right arm, swirling her finger on my chest, looking at me with dreamy eyes.
"Why don't you give this princess love for my pussy?" she giggles.
She takes her hand from my chest, pulling up her nightgown to see the silhouette of my member standing proud. She places her hand back down near my right shoulder, slowly bringing herself down.
"I'm gonna put it in," she purrs.
I the feel her nether reign touching the tip of the head, making Cadance give out a tiny moan, before putting my entire member inside. My cock pulsed, feeling her pussy wrap around it. I feel her warm breath going down to my neck, looking to me.
"Are you sure you want this, Cadance?"
She brings her head closer to me, planting her lips on my right cheek.
"I do."
She slowly moves up, then back down, our moans coming together. She continues her deed, as I look up to her, seeing the pleasure in her eyes. I bring my right arm, placing it upon her right breast, making her coo.
"Want my breasts now?" she asked.
"Y-yeah," I said, squeezing the breast a little harder.
"L-like that," she moans. "Keep groping like that."
She picks up the pace, bringing herself harder down onto me, as her ass slaps against my pelvis, bringing my cock a little further in. I shudder, feeling so warm and hot, not from the fire, but from body heat radiating from one another. I haven't had this feeling in so long.
"G-Gabe," she moans. "Y-you feel so good. Are y-you enjoying this?"
"I am, C-Cadance," I moan, feeling my balls tightening. "I think I'm about to cum!"
"Already?! N-not yet! A little more!"
Her ass slams down on me harder, as I try my best to hold in my load. I grip onto the blankets, clenching my teeth hard, doing my best. In just five seconds, I can't hold it any longer, I had to cum.
"I'm c-cumming," I said, as I rise up.
My warm love juices pump inside Cadance, as I held her waist, my face planted between her breasts, feeling her feathers pop open, along with a long loud moan. As I pump all of what I can release, I can feel Cadance's wings fold back up, along with her left hand onto my back, and her right hand on my head.
"I'm sorry, Cadance," I said, looking up to her.
"It's okay, sweetie," she said, stroking my hair. "You did your best."
"Cadance, do you want me to stay here with you?"
"Hm?"
"Well, I know it seems early to say this, but would you mind if we dated?"
"Um...well..."
"If it ruins your image, I understand."
I pull out of Cadance, turning my back towards her.
"Ruin my image?"
"Well, I'm no person of royalty and I'm not as strong as Shining Armor. I have no magic and nor do I-"
I get cut off, as Cadance wraps her arms around me, squishing her breasts on my back.
"Gabe, I'd love you whether you're royalty or not. Shining Armor wasn't royal when I met him."
"He wasn't?"
"Yeah. He was a solider I fell in love with."
"So... would you like us to be together? I'm willing to take things slow."
"Of course, silly," she giggles, kissing my cheek. "Tomorrow, you'll be next to me with the royals."
"You want me to be with you? At a royal dinner?"
"You're my guest of honor."
"That's very sweet of you, Cadance."
"You're gonna have a great time with us. These dinners are rather fun. You'll get to know more about us. We'll even get to know more of you."
"I'm down with that. Reminds me of home."
Cadance then gives out a long yawn.
"Oh my goodness," said Cadance. "I'm getting sleepy. I wanna cuddle."
"C-cuddle?"
Cadance bring the both os us to our sides on the bed, she holds me gently, as her wing spreads open, wrapping around me like a blanket. The feathers themselves feel warm and soft. I rest my head, as I feel Cadance's above mine.
"Goodnight, Gabriel," said a sleepy Cadance.
"Goodnight, princess Cadance."
As we snuggle together, I drifted off to sleep. During my sleep, I dreamed of our wedding. Everypony in the Crystal Empire, along with Sweet and her daughter giving me the thumbs up, making me wonder if I chuckled in my sleep. I may not be royalty now, but I'm glad to help Cadance back on her hooves again. I feel like such a great person.
Author's Note
Phew! This is the longest story I've written yet