My Feelings Have Shifted

by rarityxspike

Rating: teen
Tags: Spike, Rarity, Twilight Sparkle, Slice of Life, My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic, Romance, Princess Luna
Length: 45860

After Rarity has done something that Spike finds hard to forgive, he goes to talk to Luna. After talking with Luna he continues to have late-nights chats. When one night certain feelings emerge. Is he over Rarity?

After Spike learns how Rarity feels, he is angry, upset and feels used. Spike feels like he can't fully open up to anyone about what happened. After having a dream where he spoke to Princess Luna, he ends up going to Canterlot to see her, as he remembered that Luna has helped him in the past. He needed to talk to someone and get it off his chest. After speaking with Luna and spending a few days in Canterlot with Luna, Spike starts to see the Princess of the night in a different light. Does this mean that he is over Rarity? Is this connection a strong friendship or something more?

Sources for cover images
https://www.deviantart.com/rossdubyah
https://www.deviantart.com/coltsteelstallion
http://www.handandbeak.com/2019/07/spike-rarity-vector/png-spike-rarity-deviantart-pony-spike-vector/

Published 2019-10-15 23:00:02 UTC
Last updated 2024-05-09 14:57:36 UTC

Chapter 2 - The Next Morning

The next morning, Spike woke up feeling worse than the night before.

“Great! I was hoping it was a nightmare”. Spike said to himself as he walked out of his bedroom and into the kitchen. Spike poured some milk on his cereal and started to eat.

“Morning Spike”. Twilight said as she walked into the kitchen. She noticed Spike wasn't his upbeat self and that he was eating his cereal rather slowly.

“Everything okay, Spike?”. Twilight questioned. Spike looked up from the bowl to see Twilight with a concerned look on her face.

“Yeah, I'm still waking up”. Spike replied with a chuckle. Twilight smiled at the young dragon's response.

“Okay, well, I am going to study, so if you need me I'll be in the main hall”. Twilight informed. Spike looked up and nodded as he had a mouthful of cereal. Twilight smiled and made her way to the main hall. When Spike was sure Twilight was out of earshot he let out a sigh of relief.

“I don't know how long I can keep lying to Twilight like this”. Spike said as he put his head in his hands.

Rarity was pacing around her inspiration room. Her mane was a mess, her eyes were bloodshot with bags underneath them, her coat was untidy and she had makeup smeared all over her face.

“I should go and see him”. Rarity went to walk out of her inspiration room and then backs away.

“But he hates me”. Rarity thought out loud.

“So, I'll go and talk to him and work things out”. Rarity again makes her way to the door and again backs away.

“But he has probably told Twilight what I have done and she'll... she'll probably cast a spell to make me... explode or something!”. Rarity said with panic in her voice. The sun broke through Rarity's curtains and caught her eye. Rarity winced and raised her hoof to shield her eyes.

“My goodness! What is the bright light about?”. Rarity walked over to the curtains, pulled them back and what she saw shocked her.

“It's morn-- Have I bee-- How is-- What times is it?”. Rarity looked at the clock on the desk it read 7:03 am.

“I've been awake all night!?”. Then a thought came into Rarity's head.

“Oh my!”. She ran to the closest mirror to see her reflection. When she looked she gasped and raised her hoof to her mouth to hold back the urge to scream. When she was sure she wasn't going to scream, she slowly lowered her hoof.

“I look like I've been thrown into a dumpster, brush all the trash off of me and walked three miles to get home!”. Rarity took a deep breath and thought about what she had been doing all night.

“Maybe I'll be able to think straight after a bath”. Rarity reluctantly put her thoughts on hold as best she could and made her way upstairs to run her bath.

Spike was sat on his bed trying to read a comic, but he couldn't concentrate.

“I have to try and do something to take my mind off it!”. Spike said with annoyance. Spike put the comic book away and went to the main hall to see if Twilight needed any assistance. When Spike entered the main hall, he saw the purple alicorn with her wings tucked in and her eyes glued to a book. Spike took a deep breath, put on his best smile and walked towards Twilight.

“Hey Twilight, do you need any help?” Spike said in his best upbeat tone.

“Hmm...?”, Twilight looked up from her book. She saw the young dragon standing next to her.

“Oh, Spike. Umm...”, Twilight looked at everything she had in front of her.

“No, I think I am okay, but thank you, Spike” Twilight smiled.

“Oh, okay Twilight. I'm going to go for a walk”.

“Okay, Spike, but make sure your back in time to have some lunch”.

“I will, Twilight”. Spike made his way out of the main hall and out of the castle.

Chapter 3 - Twilight Finds Out

Rarity was drying herself off as fast as she could, she needed to go and speak to Spike. After drying herself, she threw the towel on the floor and rushed to the mirror. She applied her makeup quickly but made sure it still looked perfect. Then she burst through the door of the Carousel Boutique and sprinted through streets on Ponyville towards the castle.

Spike was walking trying to clear his head to no avail.

“Ugh! This usually works! I can't get this out of my head”. Deep down Spike knew that he'll keep thinking about it until he talks to someone about it.

“Who can I talk to? I don't want to tell any of my friends yet. I know I'll have to tell them eventually just... not yet”. Spike continued to walk, giving in to the thought, hoping it would pass at some point.

Running as fast as her legs would take her, Rarity finally reached the doors of the castle. She stood there catching her breath, before going in, but as her hoof touched the castle door, it didn't feel right just walking in, even though she knew it was perfectly alright for her to do so. After a second thought, Rarity decided to knock. It took about a minute for Twilight to come to the door.

“Oh! Hi Rarity! You know you don't have to knock”. Twilight smiled. Twilight's kindness confused Rarity, she thought for sure that Twilight would be angry with her.

“Sorry Twilight, I wanted to come over and apologise to Spike”. Twilight looked confused.

“Apologise for what?”

“For hurting him last night”. Now Twilight was more confused and concerned

“You what!?”. Rarity slightly jumped back from Twilight's sudden outburst.

“You mean... you don't know?” Rarity asked with worry in her voice.

“Know what, Rarity? What happened!?”. Twilight looked angry and concerned.

'What have I done?' thought Rarity. At first, Rarity didn't say anything she was too scared.

“Rarity! What...happened?”. Rarity knew she wasn't getting out of this one. Rarity took a deep breath.

“I was only dating Spike to show him what an actual relationship entails and to show him there is a difference between love and having a crush. Then I found out that he had feelings for me, so I had to end it as I couldn't have an actual relationship with him”. Twilight stood there in complete shock, unable to say anything.

“I was only trying to help him”. Rarity said quietly trying to get a response out of Twilight even though she was scared of what it might be.

Twilight just stood there not moving or responding.

“Twilight---”.

“You stupid mare!!”. Twilight yelled. Rarity jumped back.

“Twilight please---” Rarity started to plead.

“No! I don't want to hear it! You have NO excuse for toying with Spike's affections like that!”. Twilight was so angry her face had gone red. After a second or two, Twilight became aware of her anger, took a deep breath and exhaled.

“I think you should go”. Twilight said calmly. Rarity, with tears in her eyes, just nodded and left, as she was unable to say anything. Rarity heard the castle doors shut behind her as she was walking away.

'I need to find Spike?'. Rarity thought.

I need to talk to him. She then rushed towards the town to try and find the purple dragon.

Author's Note

I apologise for the chapters being so short. I do plan on writing longer chapters. Thank you for reading and your patience :twilightsmile:

Chapter 4 - The Talk

Spike was sitting on one of the benches in the park. Now and then, the events of the night before would leave his head, but it didn't take too long for them to come back again, but every time Spike thought of what happened, he realised something.

It...it doesn't seem to hurt so much anymore Spike slightly smiled.

Two mares walked by and Spike snapped out of his thoughts and realised that the park was almost full of stallions, mares, fillies and colts. He got a bit overwhelmed by the sudden realisation and decided to go to his secret place to continue his thinking on his own. After he made sure no one was looking he made his way to the place he liked to call 'Spike's Solitude'

Rarity was still running around Ponyville looking for Spike.

"Where are you, Spike?", Rarity thought out loud. Then, at that moment, Rarity had a thought. She remembered the time Spike showed her a special place on the outskirts of Ponyville that she had never seen before.

'This is where I come when things get too much for me or if I need time or peace to think'

'It's beautiful, Spike'

After recalling that memory Rarity sprinted as fast as she could to that special place.

"Oh Spike, please be there!" Rarity kept running as fast as she could until she got near the entrance, she subtly looked around and when she was sure nopony was watching she quickly went through the entrance and starting running towards 'Spike's Solitude'.

Spike was sat near a pond picking the grass and then dropping it back down. He decided to lay back and close his eyes, but it wasn't long before he heard a familiar voice that made him jump up.

"Spike...?", Rarity said softly. Spike turned around to see a very upset and out of breath Rarity.

"Oh, hi Rarity," Spike said as he turned back around and looked down at the pond in front of him. Rarity slowly walked over to him.

"Mind if I sit with you?" Rarity hesitantly asked. Spike looked up at her and then back at the pond before responding.

"Go ahead", Rarity sat next to Spike and was looking at the pond just like he was. There was silence for a good while before Rarity decided to break it.

"Thank you, Spike", Rarity said calmly. Spike looked up to Rarity slightly smiling, but still looking down at the pond.

"Thank me? What for?" Spike asked in confusion. Rarity looked down at Spike.

"For letting me be in your company in your special place", Rarity gave Spike a warm smile.

"Well, I don't hate your company"

"I'm glad to hear that, Spike, but I'm afraid Twilight doesn't feel the same way". Spike looked shocked and worried.

"But...why? I swear, Rarity, I didn't tell her anything---". Rarity stopped Spike by lightly covering his mouth with her hoof. Rarity lowered her hoof and looked at Spike in the eyes.

"I know you didn't, but I foolishly assumed you had, so I ran over this morning to apologise and then Twilight asked 'what for', so I ended up having to tell her". Rarity gave Spike a sorry look.

"Oh, and I'm guessing she wasn't too happy", Spike asked. Rarity shook her head,

"In a nutshell, I haven't seen her go that red since she accidentally drank the hot sauce when she first moved here"

Spike's eyes widened.

"Wow!" Spike started to think.

"I'm going to get bombarded with questions when I get back to the castle". Rarity could hear the uneasiness in the young dragon's voice.

"Sorry Spike, I didn't mean to create yet another problem"

Spike looked at Rarity to see that she was upset. Spike smiled at Rarity.

"It's okay, Rarity, you thought I had already told her". Rarity managed to give Spike a weak smile, but it quickly faded.

"It's not just that, Spike, it's... well... last night, I never meant to hurt you, I just---". Spike cut off Rarity because he knew what she was going to say.

"Rarity, it's okay, you don't have to explain yourself. I understand why you did it, it was a bit extreme, but you thought I was going to realise that relationships are more than just dates and flowers, or that I was too young". Rarity looked back own at the pond, realising how stupid and extreme her actions were.

"Yeah", Rarity responded, still upset.

"But being that I was ready and was handling it pretty well, I suppose maybe you see me differently now". Spike looked at Rarity which made her look at him in return. She smiled.

"Yeah, you're not a young dragon anymore. I have to admit you have become a mature dragon, thinking back on it, I'm impressed"

"Thank you, Rarity, but I will say, you did bring out the best in me" Spike smiled, then continued.

"Plus, when I think about it, I should've known". Rarity gave Spike a confused look.

"Whatever do you mean, Spike?". Rarity asked very confusedly. Spike slightly chuckled.

"Rarity, we were in a 'relationship' for six months and we never kissed, we never snuggled, and we never went on a date". Rarity, still upset and angry about her actions started to quietly cry and spoke with a soft and broken tone.

"I'm sorry, Spike". Rarity had started to cry, so he decided to reassure her.

"Rarity, honestly, it's okay, granted it still hurts, but I understand why you did it and to be honest, I find it quite funny how I didn't realise for so long". Rarity sniffled and managed to stop crying and give Spike a weak smile through her tears. Rarity wiped her eyes and just looked at Spike, and she seemed to notice something. Spike noticed Rarity was looking at him a bit differently.

"What is it, Rarity?" Spike asked.

"I truly do see you differently, Spike". Rarity smiled. Spike returned the smiled.

"In a good way, I hope". They both laugh.

"Yes, of course, is a good way". Rarity replied laughing some more. After they finished laughing, they realised it must've been gone lunchtime.

"Wow! It must be gone lunchtime". Spike said looking up at the sun. Rarity looked up herself.

"Yeah, I suppose you're right". Rarity responded. Spike looked at Rarity as she looked at him.

"I have had a lovely time with you today, Rarity" Spike smiled.

"I loved it too, Spike, but I feel if Twilight found out, she wouldn't be too happy".

“It's okay, Rarity, I won't tell her”

“I know you won't, Spike, it's just... I'd like to do it again sometime”. Spike looked at Rarity confused, but then he smiled.

“Me too”. Rarity's smile grew.

“I am so glad, can you do twelve-thirty on Saturday?”, Rarity asked.

“Of course I can, I'll meet you here”, Spike smiled.

“Right, well, so nopony notices us together, I'll leave first, then leave it a couple of minutes before you do”. Rarity made her way to the path that leads out of the secret place, just before she got there, she turned back to Spike who was watching her leave.

“Thank you again, Spike, see you Saturday”, Rarity couldn't stop smiling. Seeing Rarity happy made Spike smile.

“You're welcome, Rarity, see you Saturday”, Rarity nodded and made her way out of 'Spike's Solitude'. After he couldn't see Rarity anymore he turned back around to face the pond.

After a few minutes, Spike got up and made his way back to the castle, although he wasn't ready for all of Twilight's questions and a lecture, he knew he had to go home at some point. Spike made his way down the path and out of the secret entrance without being seen and starting walking through Ponyville, to get back to the castle.

Chapter 6 - The Permission To Go To Canterlot

Spike didn't sleep after his dream last night, he just decided to lay there and rest, and before he knew it, Celestia was raising the sun. Spike yawned and stretched.

"I suppose I better get up now!", Spike thought out loud, but then he remembered something.

"Oh yes! Canterlot!", Spike thought about how he could get there without telling anypony the reason why, as he didn't want any of his friends to feel hurt that he wanted to go all the way to Canterlot to talk to Luna, rather than stay in Ponyville and talk to them.

"Hmm... maybe I could ask Twilight when our next visit to Canterlot is", Spike thought.

As Spike walked into the main hall, he saw a tower of books on the table where the cutie map would usually be, and Twilight already halfway through a book.

"Morning Twilight", Spike greeted. There was no response from the purple alicorn. Spike sighed.

"Twilight!", Spike said raising his volume. Still no reaction or response. He sighed again and went over to the tower of books and moved some slightly. Twilight slowly looked up.

"Oh! Morning, Spike", Twilight smiled.

"Oh, I do get a response then", Spike said jokingly. Twilight gave the dragon a sorry smile.

"I'm sorry, Spike, I didn't hear you I was lost in this book"

"Shocker!", Spike said through a laugh. Twilight chuckled.

"Alright! I get it, but you know, I love to read", Twilight smiled, but it quickly faded when something crossed her mind.

"How are you feeling today, Spike?", Twilight said with a concerned look on her face. Spike's smile faded to a more neutral look.

"I'm okay, Twilight, honestly", Spike looked at the tower of books again, then back at Twilight.

"Twilight... have you even had breakfast?", Spike said with slight concern in his voice. Twilight slightly chuckled.

"Yes, don't worry, I had a bowl of oats before I started reading", Twilight said calming the dragon.

"Oh good!", Spike smiled, then he remembered his dream from last night.

"Umm, Twilight, when is our next visit to Canterlot?", Spike said hoping Twilight wouldn't ask why.

"Umm... Princess Celestia hasn't informed me of any duties, so I'm guessing not for a while", Twilight informed. Spike didn't like the sound of that, he did his best to hide his disappointment, but he knew he failed when he saw Twilight's concerned expression.

"What's wrong, Spike?" Did you want to go to Canterlot?", Twilight asked. Spike started to worry, he had to think of something quick.

"I... uhh... had a dream last night and I felt it was like a signal to go to Canterlot, but if there aren't any duties, I suppose it was just a dream", Spike nervously chuckled. Twilight could see right through the dragon', she thought then smiled

"Spike, would you like to visit Canterlot?", Twilight gave Spike a warm smile letting him know that everything is okay.

"...yeah, I do", Spike said rubbing the back of his neck. He looked back up at Twilight who was still smiling, then she started to think.

"Okay, Spike, how about this? You finish your chores for this week, then I can drop you off at Canterlot next week, as I won't need any assistance", Twilight suggested. Spike smiled at Twilight's idea, but then he noticed Twilight's wording.

"Wait... what do you mean by 'you can drop me off'', Twilight?", Spike asked with a puzzled look on his face. Twilight showed a sorry expression.

"Sorry, Spike, unfortunately, I'll still be busy, do you still want to go to Canterlot?", Twilight asked. The dragon perked up and smiled.

"Yeah, I'd still like to go", Spike smiled, Twilight returned the smile.

"Well, I better get on with my chores", Spike left the main hall and made his way to the library to start on his first task, sorting the books.

Chapter 7 - Everything Is Okay

"Are you nearly done, Spike, dear?", Rarity said loudly so Spike could hear her as he was in the kitchen.

"No, I am done", Spike replied with a slight chuckle while walking into the living room drying his claws. Rarity smiled.

"Thank you, Spike, you help out so much", Rarity then patted the seat next to her on the sofa.

"Come sit, I'd like to snuggle with my little Spikey-Wikey", Spike put down the towel and made his way over to the sofa with a big smile on his face. As he sat down, Rarity snuggled into his chest.

"I love these moments we have together", Spike said putting his arms around Rarity and started stroking her mane. Rarity cooed.

"Me too", Rarity smiled and looked up at Spike. Spike looked down at Rarity. As they looked at each other they got closer and closer until they k---

Rarity woke up and noticed herself snuggled into the pillow and nearly kissing it.

"Oh, my stars!", she said as she sat up. She rubbed her eyes.

"Another dream about him? But this time we were... never mind, it was just a dream", Rarity then got out of bed and started to make her way downstairs and make herself some breakfast.

"I'm so excited about today", Rarity said excitedly.

"I get to see, Spike", Rarity could feel herself getting overexcited.

"*clears throat* Now, Rarity, there's no need to act like that, it is very unladylike", Rarity said composing herself and started making her breakfast.

Spike was dusting the seats around the cutie map when Twilight walked in.

"Spike... you're up", Twilight said slightly shocked.

"Yep! Just thought I'd get an early start", Twilight started to get concerned.

"Spike, you've been working exceptionally hard all week, and now you're up early working, are you sure you're okay?", Spike finished the last seat at looked at Twilight to see that she was worried about him.

"What do you mean, Twilight? I'm okay", Spike said with confusion in his tone. Twilight hesitated before she spoke.

"Well... it's just that... recent events have happened and I'm worried that you're working so hard because you're trying to keep yourself busy so you don't have to deal with the hurt", Twilight said looking more concerned.

"Twilight, honestly, it's not that, I'm okay", Spike said, then he thought carefully about what he was about to say next.

"I do worry about yours and Rarity's friendship though, I understand what Rarity did was extreme, and out of order, but her heart was in the right place, she was trying to help me, and I don't want you two to not be friends because of this", Spike looked down at the floor. Twilight smiled and raised Spike's head to look at her.

"I understand, Spike, maybe I should talk to Rarity, it's just that, at that moment, I was shocked, hurt, and confused with the fact that I didn't hear it from you first", Twilight explained.

"I think we should go and see her today", Twilight continued. Spike started to worry, as he knew he was supposed to be meeting Rarity in secret today.

"Uhh... I don't know, Twilight, Saturday is usually her busiest days, maybe tomorrow would be best, as the shop will be closed", Spike said knowing full well, she wasn't opening the shop until after their meeting.

"No worries, Spike, we'll just pop over before she opens up the shop", Twilight said as she made her way to the kitchen. Spike knew this he wasn't going to be able to stop Twilight, so he sighed.

"Oh, okay", Spike said trying to hide his disappointment.

"Have you eaten, Spike?", Twilight called from the kitchen.

"Yeah!", he replied. Spike walked to the library part of the castle to see if he had incorrectly placed any books.

About an hour goes by and Spike was sat on his bed when he heard a knock.

"Come in, Twilight", Spike called. Twilight opens the door and steps into the dragon's bedroom.

"Ready to go and see Rarity?", Twilight asked, but she could see Spike was a bit uneasy.

"Oh, I'm sorry, Spike, I mean, if you're not ready to see Rarity just yet, I can go on my own", Twilight said feeling a bit guilty. Spike looked up at Twilight and gave her his best smile.

"No, it's okay, I'm ready, let's go", Spike got off his bed and passed Twilight in the doorway.

"Okay, if you're sure", said Twilight following Spike closing his bedroom door with her magic behind her.

Rarity was just putting on some makeup when she had a thought.

"Why do I feel the need to put in some extra effort?", she quickly brushed it off and continued with her makeup.

"Perfect", said Rarity as she looked at her makeup in the mirror. Suddenly there was a knock at the door.

"Who could that be this early?", Rarity walked over to the door and opened it to find Twilight standing there with Spike standing next to her. Rarity gulped.

"Umm... Twilight... what a pleasant surprise, what brings you by today", Rarity looked down at Spike and he mouthed the word 'sorry', Rarity looked back up at Twilight.

"I came to apologise for my outburst, Spike and I spoke and I know your heart was in the right place, even though was very extreme", Twilight said sincerely. Rarity sighed in relief.

"You don't have to apologise, Twilight, it was wrong and out of order, I'm sorry, I just hope we can still be friends", Rarity looked at the ground feeling guilty.

"Rarity, of course, we're still friends, I just had so many emotions and thoughts going through my head that I just exploded, we'll always be friends", Twilight said reassuring Rarity. Rarity lifted her head and smiled.

"Thank you, Twilight, you have no idea how much that means", Rarity continued to smile and Twilight returned the smile.

"Well, I hate to leave you so soon, but I wanted to let you know that everything is okay, we'll be on our way", Twilight took a few steps before Spike spoke.

"Twilight is it okay if I stay here, I feel like we need to talk", Spike rubbed the back of his neck, he didn't know how Twilight would react.

"Sorry, Spike, as you said, Rarity's busy days are Saturdays, it might be best to come back later", Twilight suggested.

"Oh, Twilight it's okay, I'm not opening until later today, and I feel we need to talk as well", Rarity said playing along with Spike's little lie.

"Well, okay, I suppose you deserve a break, Spike you certainly have been working hard this past week", Spike smiled at the fact that Twilight believed him.

"Well, I'll see you later", Twilight said as she waved and walked back to the castle. Rarity and Spike both waved until they couldn't see Twilight anymore, then they both walked into the boutique.

"I'm happy to see you, Spike", Rarity said smiling at the dragon.

"Me too, a couple of hours earlier than planned, but you know", Spike said as he chuckled.

"Would you like to head to 'Spike's Solitude' now or rest here for a bit and then go?", Rarity asked. Spike thought for a second.

"We can go now if you're ready, and we could take some snacks if you'd like", Spike suggested. Rarity beamed at the idea.

"Like a little picnic, what a splendid idea", Rarity went to the kitchen and grabbed a few snacks and put them in some Tupperware which she put in a saddlebag, it wasn't long before she was back in the living room.

"Ready, Spike?", Rarity asked.

"Ready, Rarity", Spike responded. Both Rarity and Spike headed to 'Spike's Solitude'.

Chapter 8 - I See Him Differently

Both Spike and Rarity looked around to see if anypony was looking before they headed into the entrance and walked to 'Spike's Solitude'.

"Ahh, we're finally here", Spike said walking towards the pond and sitting down. Rarity followed Spike to the pond, put down her saddlebag and sat down next to Spike.

"This is delightful", Rarity said while she led down on the grass. Spike looked at her and smiled.

"Can I tell you something, Rarity?", Spike while laying back and looking up at the sky. Rarity turned to face him.

"Of course, Spike", Rarity said smiling, Spike turned his head to look at Rarity.

"Not even Twilight knows about this place, when I come here she just thinks I've gone for a walk.

"So, before me, you were the only one who knew about this place?", Rarity asked.

"Yeah, but I'm glad I showed you because I do enjoy your company", Spike gave Rarity a warm smile.

"Well, Spike, I do feel very honoured and special that you trust me to know about your secret place", Rarity said. They both led there smiling and looking at each other, but while Rarity looked at Spike, she stopped seeing a little dragon who had a crush and started to see a very handsome dragon who she wanted to snuggle in to.

Oh my! I don't think it was just a dream, Rarity thought as she caught herself. Spike noticed Rarity's expression change.

"Are you okay, Rarity?", Spike asked as he sat up.

"Yes", Rarity said sitting up with him, "Sorry, I was just lost in thought". Spike was about to say something, but was stopped by his stomach growling.

"Would you like to eat?", Spike asked as he nervously laughed.

"Sounds like a good idea, Spike", Rarity said as she chuckled, and use her magic to levitate the Tupperware out of her saddlebag. They both started to pick at the snacks.

"So, Spike, I was thinking, would you like to make this a weekly thing?", Rarity said as she picked up another snack.

"What? Meeting here?", Spike said after he finished his mouthful.

"Yeah, every Saturday, would you like to?", Rarity gave Spike a warm smile.

"Yeah, that'd be nice", Spike returned the smile. They both started to eat the snacks again.

About an hour passed by and Spike and Rarity were led in the grass in a nice, comfortable silence.

"I almost forgot to tell you, I'm going to Canterlot, for a couple of days next week", Spike said breaking the silence.

"Oh, has Twilight got a royal duty?", Rarity asked.

"No, not exactly", Spike said not knowing if he should tell Rarity about his dream.

"What do you mean by 'not exactly' Spike?", Rarity asked confused. Deep down he knew he could tell Rarity anything, so he decided to just tell her.

"Well, I told Twilight I wanted to visit, which is true, but there's another reason, and you have to promise me you won't tell anypony", Spike gave Rarity quite a serious look.

"You have my word, Spike, cross my heart and hope to fly, stick a cupcake in my eye", Rarity did the actions as she made her promise.

"Okay, well, Princess Luna visited me in my dream, and we remembered how we used to talk all the time, so I thought I'd go and catch up with her", Rarity couldn't understand why Spike didn't want anypony to know the real reason, but she respected his wishes.

"That sounds lovely, it's always nice to catch up with an old friend", Spike's smile grew.

"Yeah, thank you, Rarity, I do feel like I can tell you anything", Spike hugged Rarity and she hugged him back. Rarity felt a warm sensation go through her body, it was nice, it felt... magical.

"You're welcome, Spike, I feel the same way towards you", their embrace lasted a while then suddenly they heard the Ponyville tower bell ring in the distance.

"Oh my! Is it that late already?", asked Rarity while she stopped hugging Spike. Spike looked up at the sun.

"I guess it is, I suppose we better go", Spike picked up the Tupperware, put it in Rarity's saddlebag and handed it to her.

"Thank you, Spike", Rarity took the saddlebag and put it on with her magic. They made their way down the path towards the entrance and managed to exit without being seen.

"Well, thank you for a wonderful outing, Spike", Rarity said as they walked towards her boutique.

"You're welcome, Rarity", Spike smiled.

"Same time, next week?", Rarity asked as she reached the front door.

"Are you sure, Rarity, what about your shop?", asked Spike concerned about her business.

"Don't worry, I'm sure my shop could handle a couple of hours off every Saturday", Rarity smiled, Spike returned the smile.

"Well, okay then, same time, next week", They gave each other a hug goodbye, Rarity made her way into her boutique and Spike made his way back to the castle.

Chapter 9 - I've Missed You

Spike groaned as the sun broke through his curtains and reached his eyes. The dragon rubbed his eyes, stretched and yawned.

"Spike! Are you up?", Twilight called from outside his room. Spike sat up.

"Yeah!", Spike called back, then Twilight walked in.

"Are you going to be ready to leave in an hour?", Twilight asked as she realised Spike was still in bed.

"Yeah, I'll be ready in an hour", Spike smiled at Twilight, she then left his room to let him get ready. Spike got out of bed made his bed and started to pack.

Fifty-five minutes had gone by, Twilight looked at the clock and sighed.

"He said he'd be ready", Twilight said thinking out loud.

"Spike! You have five---", she then saw the purple dragon stood in front of her ready with his bag beside him. "---minutes", Spike let out a laugh.

"Five minutes? Just enough time for some breakfast", Spike walked to the kitchen and grabbed a snack, and let Twilight know he was ready to go.

"I suppose we can head off a bit early if you'd like", Twilight suggested, Spike, nodded in agreement, grabbed his suitcase and headed outside with Twilight. When they were outside, Twilight looked at Spike's bag.

"Umm... Spike...", Spike looked to see what Twilight was looking at.

"Don't worry, Twilight it's going to be on my back", Twilight smiled.

"Oh, right, okay, you ready?", Spike nodded and got on Twilight's back, then they made their way to Canterlot.

Twilight landed quite abruptly, it made Spike nearly fall off her back.

"Oh! Sorry, Spike", Twilight said as Spike got off her back.

"It's okay, Twilight, do you have to go straight back to Ponyville?", Spike was hoping he could spend a little time with Twilight before she left, but he knew the answer as soon as he saw her expression.

"I'm afraid so, Spike, I have to get as many things done as I can, I don't know when Celestia will need me next", Spike was a little disappointed, but he remembered why he wanted to come to Canterlot and smiled.

"It's okay, Twilight, I understand", Twilight was happy to see that Spike was smiling.

"Maybe I can do what I need to do, and next time we can visit Canterlot together"

"Really?", Spike's smiled from ear to ear.

"Of course", Twilight smiled, "Are you going to be okay?", Spike gave Twilight a warm smile.

"Yeah, I mean, Celestia has said my bedroom at the castle is there whenever I need it", Twilight just looked at Spike, at first, Spike was confused, but then he knew what she meant.

"Oh! Yeah, I'll be okay, Rarity and I spoke remember", Twilight smiled at the dragon's response.

"I know, just making sure, I care about you, Spike"

"I know, Twilight, I care about you too", they both smiled at each other.

"Okay, well, I better be off, I'll see you in a couple of days", Twilight and Spike hugged each other goodbye, and then Twilight made her way back to Ponyville, Spike waved until he was sure Twilight couldn't see him and then he made his way to the castle.

Celestia was in her room, reading a book when she heard a knock on her door, she assumed it was Luna.

"Come in!", Spike opened the door and walked in to find Celestia reading.

"Can I help you, sister?", Celestia asked while still reading and assuming it was Luna. Spike quietly laughed.

"I'm not sure, is my bedroom still available?", Spike tried to say in his best Luna impression. Celestia looked up from her book, realising that it was Spike and not her sister.

"Oh my goodness! Spike! What a lovely surprise", Spike walked over to Celestia and they hugged.

"So what brings you to Canterlot?", Celestia asked excited to see the dragon.

"Well, Luna visited me in my dream and said I'm more than welcome to visit", Celestia smiled.

"We have both missed you and Twilight", Celestia looked at her opened, bedroom door and then back at Spike. "Where is Twilight?"

"Twilight couldn't stay and had to go back to Ponyville after dropping me off", Spike gave Celestia a sorry look. Celestia just smiled.

"My! That pony is always busy doing something", Celestia and Spike both laughed.

"Yeah, but she did say next time, she'll make sure she's done everything so she can stay for a bit longer", Celestia smiled knowing that Twilight would still like to come and visit.

"That'd be nice" Celestia kept smiling at the thought, "I think Luna will be very happy to see you", Spike smiled remembering his dream.

"I hope so, where is she?", Spike asked.

"She's also in her room", Celestia informed. Spike thanked Celestia and left her to read her book and made his way to go and see Luna.

Luna was looking out the window, up at the sky lost in thought, until she heard a knock on her door. Luna slightly jumped before walking over to her bedroom door. She opened it to see Spike standing there with a bag on his back and a smile on his face. Luna couldn't help, but smile.

"Spike! Oh my goodness, you're here!" she pulled Spike into a hug which he returned.

"Well, thank you for the invitation", Spike said still hugging Luna.

"It's been so long since we've spent time together like we used to"

"Yeah, but after Celestia told me I was going to be Twilight's assistant, I kinda got a bit too busy to spend time with you", Spike started to feel a bit upset remembering the past. Luna lifted Spike's head with her hoof.

"It's okay, Spike, it wasn't your fault and you're here now", Spike smiled, Luna returned the smile and was glad she made him feel better.

Spike and Luna ended up talking for hours, catching up, talking about how things have changed over the years until Luna's stomach rumbled, she looked out the window and saw the sun high.

"Oh! I hadn't realised it was lunchtime", Spike also looked out the window.

"Wow! We've been talking for hours!", Spike said while he looked back at Luna. Luna smiled

"Just like old times, right?", Spike returned the smile.

"Like it was only yesterday", they both headed out of the bedroom. Spike started to make his way out of the castle until he was stopped by Luna.

"Spike? Where are you going?", Spike turned around to face Luna.

"Oh, I was going to go to one of the cafés in Canterlot for lunch", Spike pointed his thumb behind him. Luna smiled.

"Nonsense Spike, my sister and I would be more than happy for you to join us for lunch", Spike was surprised, but couldn't help smiling.

"Really?", Spike walked towards Luna.

"Of course, come along", Luna said walking towards the dining hall as Spike followed.

Chapter 10 - I'm here!

Spike and Luna were making their way to the dining room when they saw Celestia coming out of her room.

"Feeling hungry too, sister", Luna asked Celestia smiled.

"Yes, will Spike be joining us?", Celestia asked noticing Spike.

"He will be", Luna smiled. Spike looked at both princesses.

"Thank you both, for letting me have lunch here at the castle", Luna and Celestia both gave Spike a warm smile.

"Don't be silly, Spike, I've known you since you've been a hatchling, it would only make sense for you to have lunch with us when you're visiting", Celestia explained. Spike smiled and they all made their way to the dining room.

"So, Spike told me you invited him through his dream, sister", Celestia said while sitting down to eat giving her sister a 'certain' smile. Luna blushed knowing full well what her sister was implying.

"As you know, it is my duty to enter one's dream, plus, I said he is more than welcome, isn't that right Spike?", Luna said trying to stop her sister from assuming anything.

"Yeah, that's right", Spike smiled. Luna gave her sister a 'see, I told you' look. Celestia smiled.

"I'm joking around with you, sister, no need to get so defensive", Celestia said before starting her lunch. Spike looked down at his plate at saw the finest Rubies he had ever seen.

"You got these for me", Spike said shocked. Luna smiled.

"We've been ageing them for a special occasion, like a certain dragon visiting", Luna said smiling.

"Well, it's very much appreciated, thank you both", Spike said tucking into his lunch, Luna smiled and started her lunch.

A little while went by before they all finished their lunch.

"Wow! I forgot how filling rubies can be, I'm so full, thank you again", Spike smiled.

"You're very welcome, Spike", Celestia replied. Just then Spike yawned, Luna chuckled.

"Food coma, Spike?", Luna said still chuckling. Spike also chuckled.

"Ha! Yeah, something like that", they all laughed.
"It's so nice to spend time together again", Spike said realising how happy he was. Both sisters agreed.

They all continued talking, laughing and catching up, a couple of hours went by.

"Well, I'm going to get back to that book, I was reading, lovely to catch up though, Spike, I haven't had a laugh like that in a while", Celestia said making her way to her room.

"Yeah, me too", Spike said, he then looked at Luna, and his expression changed.

"I need to talk to you about something", Spike asked looking quite down.

"I know", Luna smiled, "and I'm here", Luna said comfortingly. Spike smiled a thank you before they both got up and made their way to Luna's room.

They both entered the room, Luna sat on her bed and patted a space next to her inviting Spike to sit with her, Spike walked over and sat next to the princess. Spike sighed.

"You knew something was wrong as soon as you saw me, didn't you?", Spike asked Luna.

"Well, dreaming of a manticore chasing you would suggest something's on your mind, but I could sense that you were troubled", Luna smiled letting him know it was okay. Spike felt a sudden sensation go right through his body, he felt happier finding out Luna could sense when he was feeling down.

"That's nice to hear", Spike smiled. Luna returned the smile while placing a hoof on Spike's claw.

"And you know you can talk to me about anything", Spike smiled at Luna.

"Well, I've wanted to talk to somepony about what happened, but just didn't want any drama", Spike explained.

"I completely understand, but you know me, I won't speak unless prompted and I listen to all the details before making any judgments", Luna explained while keeping her hoof on Spike's claw.

"I remember", Spike smiled remembering how Luna listened to him and how he would listen to her. "Okay, well, I don't how to start it... umm... you know about the feelings I had for Rarity?", Spike started. Luna nodded. "Well, we got into a relationship, but after about six months, she tells me that she only asked me out because she wanted to show me what a relationship was truly about, assuming I thought it was all flowers, dates, rainbows and sunshine", Luna was shocked. "She broke it off because she could see that I completely understand what a relationship entails, and didn't want to be in a serious relationship with me", Luna kept her word and continued to listen. "I was angry at first because she knew how I felt, but recently I have found myself feeling less hurt whenever I think about it, am I becoming numb?" Luna took Spike's question as a prompt to talk.

"I don't think so, Spike, I think letting the thought pass through your mind has helped you heal from the hurt"', Luna was about to say more but thought maybe she hasn't heard all the details yet and let Spike continue.

"When I was in my secret place, she came to find me and apologised for her extreme behaviour, and even though I liked her company I didn't love it like before but also wasn't feeling as hurt because I know Rarity and I knew her heart was in the right place", Spike paused before continuing. "We agreed to meet up on Saturday just gone on, and we had a picnic, and I started to see her as a close friend rather than, well, how I usually see her, am I just pushing away the hurt?" Spike asked.

"It's good you and Rarity can remain friends after what happened, and, I don't think you're ignoring the hurt, I feel you're just maturing and handing things better", Luna thought about how Spike said he felt around Rarity. "Also, it sounds like you might be getting over Rarity. Spike was very surprised at what Luna said, after all these years could he seriously be getting over Rarity.

"I... I guess I never thought of that possibility", Spike said still shocked at the thought.

"It's completely understandable, Spike, you loved her for years", Luna explained. Spike nodded, then just kept thinking.

"I mean, it changes a lot of things since I did spend most of my time trying to impress her and working to get enough bits to take her out", Luna smiled. "What?", asked Spike noticing Luna's big smile.

"You're such a sweet dragon, Spike, and you have matured so much", Luna just looked at Spike and started to notice little things she admired, her smile grew.

"Luna? Are you okay?", Luna gently shook her head.

"Oh, my apologies, Spike, yes I am okay", just then she noticed the sun was being lowered by her sister. "Oh, looks like it's time to raise the moon", Luna started to make her way to the top of the castle to guard the night.

"I'll come with you", Spike said following her.

"You don't have to, Spike, you should go and get some rest". Luna smiled.

"I'm okay, Luna, honestly, remember how we used to talk all night?", Spike smiled.

"I do remember, one night you couldn't sleep, so I offered a listening ear and then we ended making it a nightly thing", Luna said remembering the nightly talks they had.

"So, may I join you?", Spike asked.

"Of course you can, Spike", Luna smiled. "But we better hurry otherwise my sister will be wondering why I haven't raised the moon", Luna said hurrying Spike.

Chapter 11 - New Strange Feelings

Spike and Luna quickly made their way to the top of the castle. When they made it Luna closed her eyes and used her magic to raise the moon. Spike stood there mesmerised. After the moon was raised Luna opened her eyes and turned to Spike who's eyes were wide and sparkling.

"Is everything alright, Spike?", Luna asked.

"Yeah! I just forgot how beautiful it was to see the moon being raised", Spike said still half mesmerised.

"I remember one night, I was feeling jealous of my sister, everyone would appreciate the sun she rose and just sleep and ignore the beautiful night while I raised the moon, I just felt like keeping the moon up, just so other ponies would appreciate my night as they did my sister's day", Luna shuddered thinking back and remembering how she felt that night. "But that was also the night you told me how beautiful it was, and it made me feel so much better and having just one dragon appreciate my night was enough", Spike smiled at the fact he was able to help Luna that night.

"Glad I could help", Spike said placing an arm around Luna's back. Luna turned to face Spike as they looked at each other they both smiled and then both pulled each other in for a hug. Luna cooed.

"I'm so glad you're here, Spike", Luna said still hugging Spike.

"Me too", Spike replied.

"I better start guarding the night", Luna said, reluctantly letting go of Spike.

"Oh right, of course", Spike said.

"Going back to our conversation, Spike, if you don't mind me asking, how does it feel to see Rarity as a friend rather than a potential somepony?" Luna asked curious to see how Spike felt after he explained how his feelings have changed. Spike was taken aback by the question and had to think before he answered. Luna noticed Spike was taking a while to answer the question.

"I apologise, Spike, it's too soon to ask", Luna said feeling guilty.

"No, I am more than happy to answer I was just thinking", Spike explained which made Luna feel a lot better. "I suppose in a way, it's kind of nice because I'll still do everything I can for her, but because I care for her as a friend and I won't go over the top, trying to impress her or anything, if that makes sense", Spike said sheepishly not knowing if what he just said made any sense. Luna smiled.

"It's okay, Spike, I knew what you meant", Luna said warmly.

"I've never had to explain myself to you, you've always understood me", Spike smiled. Spike started to feel tired after being up so early and staying so up late, he failed to hold back a yawn. Luna noticed Spike was looking a bit tired.

"You can go and rest Spike, honestly", Luna said caringly. Spike shook his head.

"No, I'm fine, honestly, I'll just sit here for a bit", Spike said as he sat down next to Luna.

"Okay, if you insist, Spike", Luna spent a few minutes just watching over the night before she looked up at her night sky and saw the beautiful stars.

"Spike, have you seen the stars tonight?", Luna asked, when she looked over at Spike, she saw the dragon curled up asleep, but she wasn't angry, she just smiled, he looked so cute, all curled up and comfortable, Luna used her magic to pick Spike up and gently put him in his bed. It wasn't long before Luna found herself lightly stroking Spike's head with her hoof. Luna then noticed she had a strange feeling come over her.

"Why do I feel the urge to snuggle up next to him?", Luna whispered to herself. She ignored the feeling, stopped stroking Spike's head and made her way back to the top of the castle to guard the night.

Chapter 12 - Spike's Feelings

Spike woke up and stretched, he then realised he was in his bed.

"I don't remember going to bed last night", Spike thought for a minute, "The last thing I remember is...", Spike then gasped as he remembered. "Luna!", Spike ran as fast as his legs would take him to the top of the castle.

"Luna?", Spike said as he reached the top of the castle, but all he saw was Celestia who just finished raising the sun. Celestia looked around.

"Morning, Spike, did you sleep well?", Celestia asked. Spike caught his breath before replying.

"I did, thank you", Spike smiled. Celestia then remembered what Spike said.

"Oh, if you're looking for Luna, she is most likely in her bedroom resting", Celestia smiled which Spike returned.

"Thank you", Spike said before making his way down the hallway of the castle to get to Luna's room. When he reached Luna's bedroom door he knocked and heard Luna say, "Come in!", he walked in to find Luna led on top of her bed resting.

"Oh, Spike, good morning, did you sleep well?", Luna smiled.

"I did, thank you", Spike walked over to Luna, "Look, I'm so sorry about last night, I didn't mean to fall asleep", Luna chuckled.

"It's okay, Spike, you were tired, you're body clock isn't the same as it used to be and I found it very sweet that you tried", Luna gave Spike a warm smile. Spike walked over to where Luna was.

"I'm glad you're not upset", Spike said with a smile and then yawned. Luna chuckled.

"Still tired?", Luna asked. Spike laughed.

"A bit drowsy still, maybe", Luna patted the space next to her indicating for Spike to sit next to her. Spike got up and led next to Luna. "I don't want to fall asleep on you again", Spike said realising how comfortable Luna's bed was.

"Don't worry, Spike, I am also resting, so I may fall asleep too", Luna said reassuring Spike that it was okay.

"Fair enough", Spike replied. There was a short moment of silence before he spoke again. "It was beautiful last night", Spike said remembering the view before he fell asleep.

"Yes, it was stunning, I love the night", Luna agreed.

"Me too", Spike nodded. Luna changed her position so she was facing Spike, and when he noticed he too changed his position to face Luna. They both looked at each other for a moment and started to smile.

"I love the way you're mane sparkles like the stars at night", Spike said noticing the sparkles in Luna's flowing mane. Luna blushed at Spike's compliment.

"Thank you, Spike", Luna said trying to hide the fact that she was blushing. Then the alicorn and the dragon yawned in unison.

"Wow! Perfectly in sync", Spike chuckled after his yawn.

"Yeah", Luna agreed also letting out a laugh. Spike sat up.

"Well, I better let you get some rest, I may reet some more myself", Luna gently stopped with her hoof.

"It's okay, Spike you can rest here if you'd like", Spike smiled and led back down, again, facing Luna.

"Thank you, Luna". They both yawned again at it wasn't long before they both fell asleep.

After about an hour, Spike woke up, and as he went to move he realised something was holding him, he looked down slightly to see Luna's hooves wrapped around him, it was then he realised the warmth of Luna's body against this. Spike started to worry, but then his worry instantly faded as he realised something.

'This feeling, it's the same feeling I got when Rarity used to give me a hug, does that mean I--' Spike stopped that thought straight away. No of course I don't, I'm just happy to see her again, but then Spike had another thought. If that's the case, why don't I want this to stop?', Spike moved slightly to get more comfortable, he then felt Luna move. Oh no, Spike thought, he stayed still and pretended to be asleep, then he felt her hold him tighter. Spike enjoyed the sensation of Luna holding him tighter, without thinking, he held Luna's hooves which were still around him. Luna opened her eyes at the feel of her hooves being held, then she realised that she was snuggled into Spike. Luna tried to slowly let go of Spike, not knowing he was awake, as she let go he turned around.

"I'm sorry, Spike, I was asleep, I didn't mean to--", Spike stopped her.

"It's okay, Luna, I uhh... I kinda liked it", Luna's eyes widened.

"You- you did!?" Luna asked.

"Y-Yeah", Spike replied nervously. Luna smiled.

"Me too, I just freaked out because I didn't know how you would react", Luna said with a sigh of relief. Spike then stretched his arms out indicating he'd like the snuggle to continue, Luna smiled as she put her hooves around him, they both pulled each other closer and smiled. Spike felt a familiar, but lovely sensation through his body.

Am I starting to fall for Luna?, Spike thought.

Chapter 13 - A Lovely Surprise

Spike was walking down the streets of Canterlot, thinking of the events of the morning. The way he felt around Luna, even when he thought about her, he'd get butterflies.

"This can't be right... can it?", Spike said to himself quietly. "I'll go and get a doughnut and try and clear my head", as Spike was walking to the doughnut shop, something caught his eye, there was a shop with little treats with tiny edible charms in the middle. Spike was trying to think where he had seen them before. Then he remembered.

"Oh yeah, these are Luna's favourite, I'll get some as a surprise", Spike said quietly as he made his way into the shop. He walked up to the counter and saw a tall, white unicorn with a pink mane.

"May I help you?", asked the unicorn.

"Oh, umm.. yeah, I was just wondering how much those little treats with edible charms were", Spike said excitedly.

"They're fifty bits each", stated the unicorn. Spike's eyes widened.

"Wow! They're expensive", Spike said still slightly shocked.

"I apologise, if you haven't--", Spike raised a claw to stopped the unicorn.

"No, it's okay, I just wasn't expecting it, how many different kinds are there?", Spike asked.

"There are five different flavours which are indicated by the charms", replied the unicorn.

"Okay, I would like one of each, please", the unicorn just stood shocked, she then managed to compose herself.

"Are you sure?", asked the unicorn.

"Yeah, they're a gift for somepony", the unicorn smiled.

"Oh, would you like them packed in a little box with a bow, no extra charge", Spike liked the idea.

"Sure, that sounds lovely, thank you", the unicorn smiled again and placed one of each treat into a cute, dark box that looked as beautiful as the night and tied it up with a black bow.

"That'll be two hundred and fifty bits, please", Spike pulled out his money pouch.

"This should be enough", the unicorn took the pouch, quickly counted two hundred and fifty bits and gave Spike back his pouch.

"Wow! I didn't realise I'd still have so much change", Spike said feeling the weight of his money pouch.

"Here you are", said the unicorn giving Spike the box with her magic. Spike smiled.

"Thank you", Spike said before leaving the shop. Spike looked at the box and couldn't wait to see Luna's face, he forgot all about getting a doughnut to clear his head and made his way to the castle.

As soon as Spike reached the castle, he headed straight to Luna's bedroom, he knocked and waited for her to say 'come in', before entering. He opened the door with one hand and held the box behind his back with the other. Luna was still resting on her bed, She saw Spike walked to towards her, with his hands behind his back.

"What have you got there, Spike?", Luna asked curiously. Spike smiled.

"A little surprise and gift for you", Spike said excitedly. Luna smiled.

"Aww, Spike that's so sweet, you shouldn't have", Luna gave Spike a warm smile.

"Okay, close your eyes, and I'll place it next to you", Luna covered her eyes with her hooves. Spike placed the box on the bed next to Luna. "Okay, you can open your eyes now", Luna opened her eyes and looked down to see a lovely box next to her, she picked it up with her magic and carefully untied the ribbon and took off the lid, her eyes widen when she saw what was inside.

"Are these--? These are my favourite treats", Luna said shocked.

"I know, I saw them and I remembered how much you loved them", Luna then realised there was one of each in the box.

"Spike, you got me one of each!? They're so expensive! You shouldn't have spent so much money on me"

"It's okay, Luna, I still have money left, and I wanted to get you something", Spike said trying to reassure Luna.

"Aww, you're so sweet, Spike, thank you so much, this is the nicest thing anypony has done for me in a while", Luna smiled and picked out one treat and ate it. Spike couldn't help, but smile and Luna beaming with happiness.

"Would you like one, Spike?", Luna asked after finishing her first treat.

"No, I got one of each for you", Spike continued to smile. Luna returned the smile.

"Thank you, Spike", Luna put the lid on and wrapped the box back up and placed it on the small table next to her bed. Luna noticed that Spike was still standing.

"You are allowed to sit next to me", Luna said with a laugh.

"Oh, right", Spike sat down next to Luna. They both looked at each other and couldn't help, but smile. Spike felt his heart flutter.

'I've never realised how beautiful Luna is, she's amazing', Spike had to snap out of his thoughts. Luna noticed Spike's slight flinch.

"Is everything okay, Spike?", Luna asked.

"Uhh...yeah... everything is... okay", Luna wasn't convinced. She placed a hoof on Spike's claw which made Spike's heart race.

"You know you can tell me anything", Luna said looking into Spike's eyes.

"I know, I'm just trying to work out some feelings", Spike said not wanting to tell Luna what he was thinking.

"I understand, Spike, after what you went through with Rarity, it's understandable that you feel unsure", Luna gave Spike a warm smile. "And that's okay, Spike returned the smile

"Thank you, Luna", Spike's belly rumbled, "Maybe it wasn't a good idea to skip breakfast", Luna looked out the window and saw the sun was at its peak.

"That's okay, Spike, it's lunchtime now anyway", Luna said getting up.

"Oh, fair enough", Spike said also getting off the bed and following Luna to the dining hall, on the way they saw Celestia.

"Hello, sister, me and Spike were going to have some lunch would you like to join us", Luna asked.

"Why not?", Celestia responded. Then Spike had a thought.

"Wait, I like to treat you both to lunch", Luna and Celestia were surprised.

"Spike, you don't have to do that", Celestia said.

"Yeah, I mean you already got me those treats", Celestia looked over at Luna.

"What treats?", Celestia asked.

"Oh, Spike was sweet enough to get me a small box full of my favourite treats, you know, the ones with tiny edible charms", Celestia's eyes widened as her younger sister told her, she looked at Spike who looked a bit nervous.

"Wow! Those treats are pretty expensive", Celestia said.

"I'd still like to treat you both to some lunch, as a thank you for keeping my room at the castle", Spike said trying to slightly change the subject.

"Well, if you insist, Spike", Celestia said still feeling a bit uneasy.

"Thank you, Spike", Luna said giving Spike a warm smile. Spike smiled back at Luna. Celestia noticed.

Well, this should be interesting, Celestia thought to herself.

"So, where would you both like to go? You can pick any place in Canterlot", Spike informed. Both Princesses thought.

"Oh, I know, how about that new place that's just opened up", Luna said trying to remember the name.

"You mean the Épices Florales?", Celestia asked, trying to help her sister remember.

"That's the one!", Luna smiled

"That place is supposed to be nice", Celestia thought out loud. "Okay, then we'll go to Épices Florales", Spike smiled.

"Lead the way, Princess", Spike said as he let both alicorns by and they all headed to Épices Florales.

Chapter 14 - An Interesting Lunch

When they arrived at Épices Florales, Spike walked up to the entrance and the bouncer pony stopped him.

"Excuse me, do you have a reservation?", the pony asked.

"Reservation?", Spike looked back as the two princesses caught him up, "I'm sorry, apparently you need a reservation to eat here", Spike told the alicorns disappointingly. The bouncer realised who Spike was talking to and he quickly fixed his posture.

"Oh, why, you're highnesses, what brings you to the Épices Florales?", the pony asked. Celestia looked up at the bouncer.

"Oh, well, we were going to have some lunch here, but we didn't make a reservation", the bouncer pony nervously laughed.

"Nonsense, you can dine here whenever you want, so what would it be a table for two?", the bouncer completely ignoring Spike's existence.

"Uhh...no, we would like a table for three, thank you", Luna said slightly annoyed knowing the bouncer was ignoring Spike. The bouncer then decided to acknowledge Spike.

"Ahh, I see, very well, follow me", the bouncer said leading into the restaurant.

As they walked in they were all mesmerised, the place looked amazing, everything was set out perfectly, pure white table cloths on each table, along with cushiony chairs.

"May we have a table for three for our royal highnesses and an acquaintance", the bouncer said to the mare behind the desk. Luna got slightly more frustrated with the bouncer, she composed herself and cleared her throat.

"Excuse me, sorry, there seems to be some misunderstanding, we would like a table for three, for myself, my sister and a close friend of ours", Luna said looking at the bouncer when she emphasized the word 'close'. The bouncer heard Luna's tone and didn't want to get into any trouble, so he bowed and returned outside. The mare behind the desk cleared her throat out of feeling awkward.

"Yes, we have a table for three, if you would follow me", the mare showed them to a table in a subtle area.

"We have this one which is slightly subtle, so you don't get bombarded with ponies or have ponies staring while you eat, or we have another table if you'd like", the mare smiled.

"This area is fine, thank you for being thoughtful", Celestia said gratefully.

"You're welcome, your highness", the mare bowed. "A waitress will be with you shortly", the mare said before returning to her desk at the front. Spike waited until the mare was out of earshot before speaking.

"Thank you, Luna", Spike said smiling at Luna.

"Don't mention it, Spike, I wasn't going to stand there and have them treat you like you don't exist or aren't important", Luna explained. Spike's smile grew, Luna returned the smile.

"Okay, well, you both can order whatever you want, my treat", Spike said still smiling and handing each alicorn a menu.

"Thank you again, Spike", Luna said taking the menu with her magic, while Celestia did the same.

"Yes, thank you, this place is lovely", Celestia said just before reading the menu. Both princesses looked at the menu then they both looked at each other concerned, Spike noticed as was confused.

"What's wrong? Isn't there anything you like?", Spike asked worried.

"No, it's the prices, Spike, look", Luna said showing him the menu. Spike looked at the prices, but it didn't bother him, he just smiled at Luna.

"It's okay order whatever you want, I have enough, as long as you're hap--- both happy, that's all that matters", Spike said catching what he was about to say and hoping nopony would notice.

Why did I almost say that!?, Spike thought to himself.

"Okay, as long as you're sure, Spike", Celestia said noticing Spike's almost Freudian slip. Spike nodded. Spike grabbed the third menu on the table and started looking to see if there's anything he'd like. After a couple of minutes, a waitress came over to their table.

"Are you all ready to order?", said the waitress with a smile.

"Yes, I'll have a number five, please", Celestia started.

"Okay, and is that with the mushy peas or the sweetcorn?", said the waitress, after writing down the order.

"Oh, umm... mushy peas, please", Celestia said not expecting the question.

"Of course, your highness, and for you your highness", said the waitress feeling awkward about her wording.

"May I have a number... ten, please?", said Luna looking up at the waitress who started to write down her order.

"Yes, your highness", the waitress then looked over at Spike.

"And for you, sir?", Spike quickly scanned over the menu one more time before replying.

"Umm... yeah make that two number ten's please", Spike said looking up at the waitress.

"Very well, would you like a small basket of bread to share as an appetiser at no extra cost", the mare said in a way you could tell she had said over one hundred times before. Spike, Luna and Celestia all looked at each other for a second then Celestia faced the mare.

"Yes, that would be lovely, thank you", Celestia smiled as did the waitress, then she nodded at went to put their order in and get a small basket of bread.

"This place is so lovely", Luna said looking around, with eyes sparkling like her mane, Spike looked at Luna.

Wow! She is so beautiful

Celestia looked at Spike and noticed him looking at her sister in a certain way. She smiled. Spike then realised what he was thinking.

Wait! What am I saying!? Spike then had a familiar feeling in his stomach. This feeling... it's similar to... Rarity

That's when Luna looked back at Spike and noticed him deep in thought.

"Spike... are you alright?" Luna asked. Spike slightly lifted his head to show he acknowledged Luna.

"Huh? Oh, yes, I'm okay, thank you, I'm glad you like the place", Spike smiled nervously. Luna smiled.

What a beautiful smile, Spike's nervous smile turned into a real, warm smile. Do I accept this?, before Spike could think anymore the waitress came back with the basket of bread.

"There you are, can I get any of you drinks?", the mare asked. Celestia picked up the menu and looked at their selection of drinks whilst Luna did the same.

"I'll have your green smoothie", started Celestia. Luna looked up at the waitress.

"I'll have your dark blue smoothie, please", the waitress nodded and look over to Spike.

"Just a water for me, thank you", Spike politely smiled.

"Of course, sparkling or regular?", the mare asked.

"Oh, regular, please", Spike answered.

"Of course, I'll be right back with your drinks", the mare made her way to the restaurant's kitchen. Celestia was the first to speak after a second of silence.

"Thank you again, Spike, for this lovely treat", Celestia gave Spike a warm smile.

"Thank you, Spike, and speaking of treats thank you, again for getting me my favourite treats this morning", Luna was smiling ear to ear.

"You're welcome, along with Twilight, both of you helped me become the dragon I am today", Spike smiled.

"You have certainly grown, Spike", said Celestia noticing Spike's height.

"Yeah, you have certainly... matured over the years", Luna said with a smile. Spike returned the smile, and for a second they just at each other and just as Celestia was about to say something.

"Here is your drink a green smoothie, a dark blue smoothie and still water", which made Spike and Luna stop looking at each other.

"Oh... uhh... thank you", Spike said looking at the drink and then the waitress. The waitress smiled.

"You're welcome, your food shouldn't be long now", the waitress informed.

"Thank you", said Luna. The waitress made her way to the kitchen.

"What was I saying?", Spike questioned.

"I was saying how you have matured over the years", Luna reminded Spike.

"Oh yeah, thank you, I was going to say how much I appreciate all your guidance", Spike while looking both at Luna and Celestia, the two sisters smiled.

"That's so lovely to hear", Celestia said still smiling. Luna nodded in agreement.

"You both mean so much to me and have done so much so I thought I'd treat you", Spike looking at Luna more than Celestia.

"You mean a lot to us", Luna replied.

This... may take while, Celestia thought while keeping a straight face.

After they had their meal, Spike paid the bill and they made their way back to the castle.

Chapter 15 - A Familiar Feeling

Spike, Luna and Celestia walked into the castle.

"I'm going to head to my bedroom to finish that book, thank you again, Spike, for taking us out", Celestia said just before heading to her bedroom.

"Yes, thank you for taking us out for a delightful meal", Luna said looking at Spike. Spike smiled at both princesses.

"You're welcome, after everything you've both done for me, it was the least I could do", Celestia smiled and then headed to her room. Spike looked at Luna.

"What were your plans for the rest of the day Luna?", Luna thought for a moment.

"I don't really have any, I was just going to go to my room and maybe have another one of those lovely treats you got me", Luna smiled which Spike returned.

"May I join you?", Spike said sheepishly not knowing if Luna wanted to be alone.

"Of course, I would love the company", Luna said just before heading to her bedroom, as Spike followed.

Spike and Luna walked into the bedroom and sat on the bed, Luna picked up the box and ate another one of her treats, little to Spike's knowledge, even though she wanted to, Luna was not eating the charms and putting them back in the box. As Luna put the box back, Spike led down on hos back, Luna smiled and led on her front, facing Spike.

"Another food coma, Spike?", Luna asked smiling. Spike slightly chuckled.

"Sort of"

"Feel free to rest, if you'd like", Luna said just before a yawn. Spike laughed.

"Are you sure you don't need to rest yourself?", Luna laughed.

"Maybe a little, I do need to guard the night later", Luna moved slightly closer to Spike. Spike hesitated before holding Luna, he then, without thinking, started stroking her mane, Luna then snuggled in more.

This feeling... it's... like how Rarity made me feel, but better, Spike looked at Luna's mane while he was stroking it and he was just so mesmerised by the way her mane flowed and how it perfectly represented the night, from the beautiful dark colour like the sky to the sparkles like the stars. After they both relaxed, it wasn't long before Luna fell asleep in Spike's arms, while he fell asleep with her snuggled into him.

A couple of hours later, both Luna and Spike woke up. They were both thinking the same thing.

I have never felt so comfortable in my life

"Evening", Spike said smiling.

"Evening, Spike", Luna said returning the smile. Spike reluctantly let go of Luna, and they both stretched and sat up on the bed. Spike looked at Luna.

She is so beautiful, just wow Spike then felt his heart palpitating in a familiar way, and that's when he thought, I think I might be falling for Luna. Just then they realised Celestia was lowering the sun.

"Oh! I better make my way up to raise the moon", Luna got up and started to make her way to the top of the castle.

"I'm right behind you", Spike said also getting up and following her. When they got to the top they both saw Celestia still lowering the sun. Luna started to raise the moon Celestia looked behind her when she saw the moon being raised.

"Oh, Luna, I was just about to come and see if you were awake", Celestia smiled. Luna finished raising the moon before speaking.

"I haven't long woken up, sister", Luna said with a chuckle. Celestia also chuckled.

"Well, I'm going to get some rest, have a nice night you two", Celestia said making her way down to her bedroom.

"Thank you", Luna and Spike said in unison. It didn't take long for Spike to get lost in his thoughts.

How come I've never felt this way before? Was I that obsessed with Rarity?. Luna noticed that Spike was lost in his thoughts.

"Everything okay, Spike?", Luna asked curiously.

"Huh? Oh, yeah, sorry just thinking", Luna gave Spike a warm smile.

"Anything you want to talk about?", Luna said letting Spike know he can tell her anything. Spike didn't what to do, he knew Luna liked his company but was she just being nice? Is it too soon after getting over Rarity? Am I really falling for her? Would it ruin our friendship?

"I just feel a little confused about a few things at the moment", Spike said with his head down. Luna didn't like seeing Spike like this, but she knew he would speak when he was ready.

"Is there anything you're not confused about?", Luna asked trying to help Spike. Spike thought for a moment.

"Well, I know I have enjoyed catching up and spending time with you, these past couple of days", Spike smiled thinking about the past two days.

"That's just made me think, Spike, I got so excited that you were here, I forgot to ask how long are you staying?", Luna asked. Spike's expression changed when he realised.

"I'm supposed to be heading back to Ponyville... tomorrow", Luna turned away as she felt her heart sink, she inconspicuously composed herself.

"Oh, okay, well, I have enjoyed your company", Spike knew Luna too well he could see through her facade.

"I don't want to go, I was going to ask Celestia, you and Twilight if I could stay longer", Spike said trying to look at Luna who kept looking away to hide her sadness, but then she looked at Spike.

"Really?", she said with a slight smile.

"Yes, so what do you say?", Luna pulled Spike into a big hug, which Spike returned.

"I say, yes, you can stay, and I know my sister will be okay with you staying longer", Luna said knowing Celestia would be more than happy to have Spike stay. Spike smiled knowing that Luna wanted him to stay as much as he wanted to stay. Both Spike and Luna just hugged for a while before letting go as Luna still had to guard the night.

"Okay, well, that just leaves one pony, Twilight, I just hope she doesn't need my help with anything", Spike said worrying Twilight would refuse as she would need help. "I'll just grab some paper and pen and send her a letter now", Spike left Luna for a minute and returned with paper and pen and began to write the letter, he then rolled it up and sent it off with his magical green flame. Luna looked confused when he sent it.

"I thought letters sent that way would only go to my sister"

"Normally yes, but over the past year, I have learned how to send messages to other ponies as well", Spike explained. Luna smiled. After a minute or so Spike received a reply from Twilight.

"What did Twilight say?", Luna said hoping Twilight said he could stay. Spike read the letter aloud.

"Dear Spike, it's so nice to hear you've had a lovely time, to be honest, there's nothing I need help with, so I am more than happy for you to stay, but I will need your help next week as I have a little more research to do on my next topic, and I'm sorry if that causes any inconvenience.

P.S. Yes, I will tell Rarity that you're staying another week in Canterlot"

"I'm so glad you can stay", Luna said excitedly, but then her expression changed to confused. "Why would she also be telling Rarity that you're staying?", Spike understood why Luna would be confused.

"Well, I was supposed to be meeting up with her this Saturday, so in the letter, I asked Twilight to let Rarity know that I can't make it", Spike explained.

"You cancelled your plans with Rarity to stay here?", Luna said in disbelief.

"Well, if I'm completely honest, I cancelled my plan with Rarity to stay here... with you", Luna trying to hold back some tears.

"Spike... that's so sweet", Luna said while composing herself. Spike smiled.

"Luna, I have had the best two days with you and I just don't want it to end yet", Luna gave Spike a warm smile.

"I feel the same way, Spike", they both hugged, and then Luna guarded the night Spike was by her side and managed to stay awake all night.

Chapter 16 - I Have Fallen For Him

"Spike could you come here for a second?", Rarity said from her inspiration room. Spike came walking in.

"Yes, Rarity how can I help?", Spike asked. Rarity looked at her new creation before answering Spike.

"What do you think of this new dress", Rarity asked looking back at Spike. Spike looked at the dress for a second before answering.

"It's beautiful, Rarity, all your creations are", Spike smiled.

"Really?", Rarity smiled. Spike walked over to Rarity at looked into her eyes.

"Yes, it takes somepony beautiful to create something beautiful", Spike said loving looking into Rarity's eyes. Rarity looked into Spike's eyes and felt her heart melt.

Rarity slightly opened her eyes.

"I love you, Spike", Rarity realised what she just said and woke up completely. "What? Another dream, but do I---?", Rarity thought about what she said, "I do! I have fallen for Spike?", she got up and then remembered something, "He's coming back from Canterlot today, I can't wait until Saturday, I must tell him today, I just hope he believes me", Rarity said thinking out loud and remembering what she had done.

Rarity, after getting ready and having breakfast, quickly made her way to the castle hoping Spike would be home from Canterlot.

"If he's not back, I can wait", Rarity said thinking she might be early. As she reached the castle she saw Twilight coming out.

"Twilight", Rarity said to get the purple alicorn's attention, Twilight looked around to see Rarity and walked over.

"Hi Rarity, I was just about to come and see you", Twilight informed.

"You were?", Rarity asked.

"Yeah, how come you came over here?" Twilight asked.

"I came to talk to Spike, is he not back yet?", Rarity asked hoping Twilight would say he was back.

"No, he sent me a letter last night from Canterlot saying he wanted to stay for a bit longer, and since I won't need any assistance until for a couple more days, I said he can stay until then", Rarity's expression changed almost instantly.

"Oh, I see, so why were you coming to see me?", Rarity asked trying to change the subject.

"Well, he asked me to let you know he won't be able to meet up with you on Saturday as planned", Rarity tried hard to hide her disappointment. Twilight could see Rarity was disappointed.

"It's okay, Rarity, he said he's okay after what happened", Twilight smiled trying to cheer up Rarity.

"It's not that, it's... something else", Rarity said hesitatingly. Twilight could see something was bothering Rarity.

"Would you like to come into the castle and talk about it?", Rarity thought for a moment and quickly came to the conclusion that Twilight would understand.

"Yes, that would be nice", Rarity gave Twilight the best smile she could.

Both ponies walked into the castle and entered the main hall, Rarity sat on her chair, Twilight could see Rarity was anxious.

"Would you like some tea, Rarity?", Twilight asked.

"That would be lovely, Twilight, thank you", Rarity smiled, then Twilight headed to the kitchen.

How do I even start it? Hey, you know how I faked a relationship with Spike and dumped him, well now I want a real one... yeah, because that's going to sound normal.

Before Rarity could think on how to tell Twilight, the purple alicorn came back with the tea. Twilight sat down and placed a cup in front of Rarity and herself with her magic.

"What's on your mind, Rarity?", Twilight asked. Rarity was still unsure on how to tell Twilight, so she just decided to wing it.

"Well, you know about the fake relationship I had with, Spike?", Rarity said trying to start. Twilight nodded.

"Well, it was nice having him around and caring about me", Twilight continued to listen to Rarity. "His cooking was amazing, the way he cleaned was perfect and I enjoyed his company", Rarity stopped to show that she wanted Twilight to talk.

"It's okay, Rarity, I'm not mad that you and Spike were going to meet up on Saturday, you don't have to explain how much he means to you, honestly, it's okay", Rarity took a deep breath as she knew she had to blatantly say it, as Twilight wasn't getting it.

"No, Twilight, I mean, I...I have fallen for Spike", Twilight was shocked, she had to compose herself before speaking,

"Wait! You fell for him now, after you dumped him because you didn't want to be with him?", Twilight said very confusedly.

"I know it sounds weird, but having him around for six months, and then not having him there made me realise how much I loved his company and recently I have been fantasising about wanting to do the things we never did like, snuggle, go on dates and... well you get the idea", Rarity stopped herself before she got carried away.

"You have truly fallen for Spike?", Twilight asked to confirm what Rarity had said.

"Yes, I have", Rarity said softly, "I came by to tell him, hoping he would believe me", Rarity explained.

"Right, I see, and you want to have a proper relationship with him?", Rarity nodded.

"Yes, I want to be his special somepony", Rarity smiled at the idea.

"Would you like me to write a letter, letting him know?", Twilight asked not knowing what Rarity wanted to do.

"No, it's okay, I'd rather tell him in person, I'll take him out and tell him when he comes back, I don't want to bother him while he's having a nice time in Canterlot", Twilight thought for a second and understood where Rarity was coming from.

"That makes sense, I can let you know when he is back if you'd like", Twilight suggested.

"Yes, thank you, Twilight, that will prevent me from coming over too early next time", Rarity sipped the last of her tea.

"Thank you for listening and being so understanding, Twilight", Twilight smiled.

"Of course, Rarity, as long as your sure your feelings are pure and true", Rarity smiled.

"Oh, believe me, they are", Rarity was so happy she managed to get it off her chest and it was met with a positive response.

"Well, I'm sure, Spike will be more than glad to hear that", Twilight smiled knowing how long Spike has had feelings for Rarity. Twilight noticed Rarity's cup was empty.

"Would you like another tea, Rarity?", Twilight asked.

"I would, thank you, Twilight", Twilight grabbed both cups with her magic and returned to two freshly brewed teas.

"There you are, Rarity", Twilight said as she placed the cup in front of Rarity whilst also sitting down a placing her tea in front of herself.

"Thank you, Twilight", Twilight and Rarity continued to talk about what Twilight was studying this week and the new things she has learnt about it.

After about an hour or so, Rarity realised the sun had gone down slightly.

"Oh, I hate to be rude, Twilight, but I must get back to my boutique, to finish my line for tomorrow", Twilight looked at the sun and also hadn't realised the time.

"Oh, sorry Rarity, I didn't notice it had gotten later", Twilight saw Rarity to the door and waved until she couldn't see her anymore, shut the castle doors and continued studying while Rarity made her way back to her boutique to finish her new line to sell the next day.

Chapter 17 - Just The Two Of Us

Spike opened his eyes to see Luna asleep on his chest, he smiled and started gently caressing Luna's back, that's when Luna, slowly opened her eyes, looked up at Spike, smiled, then led her head down on his chest again.

"Afternoon, Luna", Spike said with a smile.

"Afternoon, Spike", Luna said still smiling.

"Did you sleep well?", Spike asked while still caressing Luna's back. Luna looked up at Spike.

"I don't think I've ever slept so well", Spike smiled.

"Same", Luna stretched which made Spike let go, and then Spike stretched. After they both stretched, Spike's belly rumbled, Luna chuckled.

"Sounds like a certain dragon is hungry", then Luna's belly rumbled. Now it was Spike's turn to chuckle.

"And it sounds like a certain Princess is hungry", they both laughed. They both just looked at each other for a moment before Luna spoke.

"You have been so nice to me, getting me my favourite treats, keeping me company throughout the night, and treating me and my sister to lunch, so I'd like to take you out for lunch", Luna smiled.

"Really?", Spike asked, but he continued before Luna could answer, "I don't want you to feel obligated, I did those things because I wanted to", Luna smiled at Spike which reassured him.

"And I want to do this", Spike returned the smile.

"I would love that", Luna and Spike got up and left Luna's bedroom. As the dragon and princess were heading towards the castle doors they past Celestia in the hallway.

"Afternoon, sister, afternoon Spike", greeted Celestia

"Afternoon sister", replied Luna.

"Afternoon Celestia", replied Spike. Celestia could see the two were about to head out.

"Where are you two heading?", Celestia asked.

"Well, Spike has been so kind to me, I thought I'd treat him to lunch", Luna smiled.

"Just the two of you", Celestia asked hiding the fact she knew this would happen. Luna could see right through her sister's poker face.

"Why do you ask? Would you like to join us, sister?", Luna asked so her sister wouldn't start assuming things. Celestia smiled.

"No, I was just wondering as all, I have quite a few things to do today, you two go ahead, I'm okay", Luna just ignored her sister's 'certain smile', and left the castle with Spike.

"Where would you like to go for lunch, Spike?", Luna asked as they entered the streets of Canterlot. Spike thought for a moment.

"Do you like Spice Café, just down the road here?", Spike asked, Luna nodded.

"I haven't been there before I'd like to try it", so Spike led the way and they both made their way to Spice Café.

As they walked in everypony was in shock with one stallion accidentally spitting out his coffee. The brown stallion with a white mane, behind the till got more nervous as the two approached the counter.

"What brings you here, your highness?", the stallion just manage to say without stuttering.

"Me and a close friend of mine would like to have lunch here, is that possible?", Luna asked.

"Y-Yes, of course, please choose any table you like", the stallion said still nervous about a princess being at his café. Spike and Luna sat down at an empty table and all the other ponies in the café were whispering.

"What is the princess of the night doing, eating at a cheap café?"

"Is that Spike with her?"

"Where's Celestia?"

"I thought they'd be eating in the castle or at a 5-star restaurant or something"

Spike and Luna didn't acknowledge the whispers and looked at the menu, Luna's eyes widened.

"Spike are you sure you want to eat here?", Luna said as she looked up from the menu. Spike also looked up.

"Why? Is something wrong?", Spike said slightly worried.

"No, it's just the prices, they don't even come close to how much you've treated me", Spike smiled at Luna.

"The fact that it's just us two and we're together is enough for me", Luna blushed and smiled at Spike's compliment. A moment passed before a pink mare with a purple mane came to their table.

"Greetings your highness, what would like?", Luna looked back at the menu.

"Hmm... I'll have the special salad" the mare nodded.

"Of course and for you, sir?", the mare looked over to Spike.

"I'll have... the spice soup, please", the mare wrote down their order on a little notepad she had on her.

"Of course, and which spices would like with that", the mare asked.

"Oh, is it possible to have all the spices?", Spike asked unsure if it was an option.

"Of course it is", the mare smiled. "Can I get you two any drinks?", the mare said with a bit more confidence.

"I'll just have a water", Spike replied.

"I'll have the same", Luna said to the mare.

"Okay, your drinks will be here shortly", the mare smiled.

"Thank you", Spike just manage to say before the mare walked away.

"All the spices?", Luna asked. Spike smiled.

"What can I say? I love flavour", Luna let out a little laugh. Spike subtly looked around and can see other ponies were staring. "Are you going be okay here?", Spike said to Luna concerned.

"What do you mean?", Luna asked not realising what was going on.

"I mean, other ponies are... staring", Spike whispered the last word. Luna looked around making sure not to make eye contact with any of the ponies.

"Let them stare, I'm wanted to treat you to lunch and this is where you wanted to dine", Luna smiled and Spike returned the smile.

She truly is amazing and beautiful, Spike thought.

After they had lunch, Luna paid, and they both left the café.

"Well, that was actually quite delightful", Luna stated.

"You like that place then?", Spike asked.

"Yeah, the salad was certainly special", Luna smiled.

"Ahh, I see what you did there", they both laughed. "Thank you so much, Luna, for treating me to lunch", Spike smiled.

"You're very welcome, Spike", Luna also smiled, "Speaking of treats, I was thinking of heading back to the castle to have one of my treats as a dessert, unless there was something else you wanted to do", Spike slightly shook his head.

"No, I am happy for you to do that", Spike said just before they both headed to the castle.

Both the dragon and princess enter the bedroom and sit on the bed. Luna grab the box with her magic as she sat down and took the lid off and took one of the treats out. Spike just looked at Luna adoringly and as he once mention to Applejack about Rarity...

Who looks good when they're chewing?" Only Luna, Spike thought.

Luna again didn't eat the charm, but this time Spike noticed.

"You don't eat the charms?", Spike asked.

"Usually I do, but I had something planned for these ones", Luna smiled. Spike was intrigued.

"A plan? What are you going to do with them?", Spike asked.

"I'll show you", Luna then took the first charm out of the box with her magic, then she tapped it with her horn and all Spike could see was a white silhouette of light with the same shape as the charm, as the light dimmed, he saw the charm, but it didn't look any different.

"What did you do?", Spike asked, Luna handed him the charm when it reached his claw, he realised the charm was solid like metal.

"I'm planning of turning all the charms into actual charms?", Luna smiled.

"That's amazing", Spike said looking at the charm once more before handing it back to Luna. "You haven't done this before?".

"No, but this time these charms are special, they were given to me, by you", Spike blushed.

"That's so kind of you Luna, it makes me feels special", Luna placed the charm back in the box, put the lid on and put the box back on the side by her bed.

"You are special, Spike", Luna said moving closer to him, as she got right next to Spike, they just looked at each other, but this time was different, they weren't smiling, both of them swallowed, Luna moved even closer then Spike moved closer until their lips touched and they kissed. The kiss only lasted a moment, but it felt much longer afterwards they just looked at each other and smiled.

"I have been trying to find a way to tell you I have fallen for you", Spike said still smiling.

"Me too, but I think we both just said it", Luna couldn't stop smiling. They both led on the bed, happier than they've ever been, Spike turned to face Luna as she turned to face him.

"Luna?", Spike started.

"Yes, Spike?", Luna replied.

"Will you be my special somepony?", Spike asked. Luna nearly cried with happiness.

"Spike, you have made me feel, special, loved and appreciated since you've been here, I would love to be your special somepony", Luna fell into Spike's arms, they both led there cuddling each other. A few minutes passed before one of them spoke.

"Does this moment have to end?", Spike asked referring to the cuddle.

"Not just yet", Luna replied snuggling into Spike more. They both led there smiling that they finally found the one.

Chapter 18 - A Letter To Spike

Rarity just led on her bed, thinking,

Why did Spike want to stay longer? Did he not want to meet on Saturday?, Rarity thought out loud. Rarity just continued to stare at the ceiling. She was suddenly brought back to reality by the light coming through the curtains and shining on the ceiling. Rarity looked over to her window and saw that Celestia had started to raise the sun.

"Another sleepless night, I guess I shouldn't be surprised, with thoughts going around my head all night", Rarity said to herself, she then got out of bed, in the shower, brushed her mane, put on her make up on and made herself some breakfast.

The white unicorn, just sat staring at her breakfast instead of eating it, she then realised what she was doing.

Come on, Rarity, no sleeping and no eating is not a good combination, she then managed to finish her breakfast, but still couldn't stop thinking about Spike, and then a thought came to mind, "Maybe I could get Twilight to send a message to Spike, just I felt like I've spoken to him, that might help", Rarity quickly did the dishes from the night before and her breakfast, then made her way to the castle.

When the white unicorn made it to the castle, she took a deep breath before walking in.

"Twilight! Are you about?", Rarity called out.

"I'm in the main hall, Rarity", Twilight responded, Rarity walked into the main hall to Twilight reading a book.

"Twilight, darling, you heard me call out while reading a book?", Rarity said shocked. Twilight lifted her head to look at Rarity.

"Yes, I've been getting better at that", Twilight smiled and walked over to where Rarity was standing, "What brings you by today?", Rarity looked at the floor and lightly brushed her hoof back and forth for second before responding.

"I was wondering if you could send a letter to Spike for me", Rarity asked sheepishly.

"I thought you wanted to tell him in person", Twilight stated, remembering their previous conversation.

"Oh, I do, I just wanted to send a normal letter", Rarity smiled.

"Oh, okay, sure I don't mind doing that, would you like me to write or would like to write it?", Twilight asked.

"I would like to write it, Twilight", Twilight nodded and gave Rarity paper, a quill and some ink, Rarity went over to the seat that had her cutie mark on it and wrote a letter using her magic to control the quill, she then rolled it up and gave it to Twilight.

"Did you want me to send it straight away?", Twilight taking the letter with her magic.

Yes, please, Twilight", Rarity responded. Twilight closed her eyes, her horn then started to glow and as she tapped the letter, it glowed then disappeared. Twilight opened her eyes.

"There you go, it has been sent", Twilight smiled.

"It doesn't float away in a puff of green fire?", Rarity asked confused.

"Oh, no, Spike's the only one who can send letters using the green fire", Twilight explained. "Also your letter will just appear in front of him, rather than him belching it out, because only Celestia can send letters to Spike that way", Twilight further explained.

"Oh, fair enough, well thank you, Twilight", Rarity said gratefully. Twilight smiled.

"You're welcome, Rarity, if you don't mind me asking, what did you say in your letter", Twilight asked curiously.

"Oh nothing too special, I just asked how he was doing, hoping he's well, having a good time and that I look forward to seeing him on Saturday", Rarity smiled.

"I'm sure he's looking forward to seeing you too, Rarity", Twilight smiled. Rarity expression changed from a smile to a worried expression.

"Twilight... when I tell Spike... do you think he'll believe me?", Rarity said scared of the thought.

"I'm sure if you spoke to him first and then tell him how you feel, everything should work out", Twilight said trying to reassure Rarity who was now smiling again.

"Thank you, Twilight, I hate to be rude, but I'll be opening soon, so I must get back", Rarity said getting up from her seat.

"I completely understand, Rarity", Twilight said following Rarity to the castle's entrance. "Oh, if Spike responds, I'll send it straight to you, okay?", Rarity smiled.

"Thank you, Twilight, I appreciate that", Rarity said opening the castle doors, ready to leave.

"You're welcome, Rarity, see you later", Twilight said as Rarity started to make her way back home.

"See you later, Twilight", Rarity said waving, Twilight waved back and went back inside the castle as Rarity went back home to her boutique.

Will what I put in the letter make him come back sooner?, Rarity thought as she continued her journey home.

Chapter 19 - I Love You

Spike and Luna were both resting on the bed, Spike slightly jumped when he felt something hit his face.

"Huh? What?", Spike said sitting up, he looked around before looking down to see a rolled-up letter, which had now fallen to his lap.

"Everything alright, Spikey?", Luna asked sitting up.

"Yeah, sorry, this letter hit my face and made me jump", Luna smiled at Spike and Spike smiled and they gave each other a quick kiss. Spike took off the ribbon and unrolled the paper.

"Who's it from?", Luna asked curiously. There was a slight pause before Spike answered.

"It's from... Rarity", Spike was surprised. Luna noticed.

"Are you okay, Spike?", Luna asked.

"Yeah, I just expect a letter from her", Luna smiled and was glad to know Spike was okay.

"What did she say?", Luna said shuffling closer to Spike. Spike scanned the letter.

"She said she hopes I'm having a great time, she really missed me on Saturday, and that we... need to talk", Spike looked confused.

"Need to talk?", Luna was also confused.

"That's what it says, but I don't know what we need to talk about", Spike brushed it off, put the letter down and looked at Luna.

"What?", Luna asked noticing Spike looking at her.

"How can somepony look so good after just waking up?", Luna smiled at Spike's compliment, but then her smile dropped slightly.

"What's wrong, Luna?", Spike asked worryingly after noticing the princess' smile drop.

"I just remembered you have to go back tomorrow", Spike wasn't happy about the idea either.

"Can't you come with me?" Spike asked.

"Spike, you know that's not possible", they both looked down, but then Spike looked back up.

"I'm sure if I tell Twilight about us she'll---", Luna stopped Spike.

"I don't think you should tell Twilight or anypony just yet", Spike looked confused.

"Why?"

"Well, because of recent events, I don't want anypony thinking of our relationship as a rebound", Luna stated. Spike thought about what Luna said and agreed.

"That makes sense, but our relationship is pure and true", Spike smiled, and Luna returned the smile.

"I know that, and you know that, but other ponies may not see that way", Luna said still smiling.

"I understand, let's just enjoy what time we have left together", both Spike and Luna led back down and snuggled with each other.

----------A Few Hours Later----------

Luna opened her eyes.

Wow! I have never slept so much, but my perfect little dragon makes me feel so comfortable, Luna thought as she caressed Spike's head which slowly woke him.

"That's nice", Spike cooed. Luna kept caressing Spike's head until a thought popped into her head.

"Spikey, I know you're comfy, and I am too, but I think it's nearly time to raise the moon", Luna said as she stopped caressing Spike.

"Okay", Spike stretched, sat up and rubbed his eyes, Luna sat up to join him.

"Spike, I must say I have never slept so much, but you melt all my worries away, and I feel so relaxed", Luna and Spike smiled, then made their way upstairs, so Luna could raise the moon.

"It gets more beautiful everytime you do it", Spike said, Luna smiled

"You're so sweet, Spikey", Luna got closer to Spike and kissed him.

"Luna..."

"Yes, Spike", Spike seemed nervous, but he was sure about what he was going to say.

"I love you", Luna put her hoof to her mouth and started tearing up.

"Really?", Luna asked while trying to hold back her tears.

"Yes, I do, I love you", Spike said making his feelings clear.

"I love you too", Luna picked up Spike in her hooves, spun him around and gave him a massive kiss.

"You have made me the happiest dragon in all of Equestria", Spike said looking at Luna with pure love.

"And you have made me the happiest princess", Spike and Luna sat close to one another, admiring the beautiful night and each other.

Chapter 20 - I Don't Want You To Go

As Rarity opened her eyes. she saw the sun had already been raised.

"*gasp* Today's the day!", Rarity said rushing out of bed and getting herself ready. The white unicorn nearly messed up her make-up where she was so excited to see Spike, but then she remembered, "Oh, right, I have for Twilight to send me a letter letting me know that he's back", Rarity looked at the floor, but then picked herself up, "No matter! It gives me times to prepare the perfect picnic for us", Rarity got herself some breakfast and then started making the picnic, so it was perfect and ready for Spike's return.

Please, believe me, Spike, Rarity thought as she was making the picnic.

Spike and Luna were heading to her bedroom to rest.

"I'm quite tired", Spike said with a yawn, which made Luna yawn.

"Yeah, me too", Luna thought for a moment, "You don't have to go right now do you?", Luna said praying Spike would say no.

"Not right now, no", Spike said with a bit of sadness knowing he'd have to go soon.

"Did you maybe want to rest and snuggle for a bit?", Luna said with a smile. Spike returned the smile.

"I'd love to", Spike said as he and Luna walked into the bedroom. They both lead on the bed, Luna snuggled into Spike and he started to caress her flowing mane.

"Hmm...", Luna cooed.

----------One Hour Later----------

Twilight was in the main hall reading a book, when she took a sip of water she noticed the clock.

"Oh, I better go and pick up Spike", Twilight said leaving her book on the table. Remembering what Rarity said, Twilight quickly made sure the things she did to lessen Spike's chores were done, "Right, I better go", Twilight left the castle and flew to Canterlot.

Twilight landed, and made her way to get Spike. When she walked into the castle she saw Celestia.

"Celestia! Oh my goodness, it's been a while", Twilight said walking up to Celestia and hugging her.

"It has Twilight, are you staying for a bit?", Celestia said while realising the hug.

"Unfortunately not, I'm just here to pick up Spike, but next time I'm here I'm staying longer", Twilight said with a smile. Celestia returned the smile.

"Glad to hear it, and if you are looking for Spike, he and Luna are in her room", Celestia said making her way to her room.

"Thank you", Twilight said before making her way to Luna's room.

Spike and Luna were resting on her bed snuggled up.

"Are you awake?", Luna whispered. Spike smiled.

"Yeah", the purple dragon whispered back. They both let out a quiet laugh, then looked at each other and kissed each other before snuggling back up, which didn't long as it was interrupted by a knock on the door.

"Spike, Luna it's Twilight", Luna and Spike quickly sat up. Luna composed herself before speaking.

"Come in, Twilight", Twilight opened the door and Spike and Luna sat on the end of the bed.

"Hi Luna, it's so nice to see you, it's been a while", Twilight said with a smile.

"Likewise, Twilight", Luna said returning the smile.

So Spike are you ready to go?", Twilight asked. Spike and Luna tried to hide the fact that they were upset.

"Uhh... yeah, let me just grab my things and I'll meet you outside", Spike put on his best smile.

"Okay, I'll meet you outside", Twilight left Luna's room and shut the door behind her. When Luna was sure Twilight was out of earshot, she spoke

"I'm going to miss you so much, Spikey", Luna said a little upset.

"I'm going to miss you too, but I promise I'll be back as soon as possible", Spike said also a little upset but trying to help Luna feel a bit better. Luna wrapped her arms around Spike and he did the same to Luna, they both looked at each other after the hug and gave each other a long kiss.

"I love you, Spike", Luna said with no hesitation.

"I love you too, Luna", Spike said reluctantly letting go of Luna. "I'll see you as soon as, okay", Spike said before making his way to the door.

"Don't make it too long", Luna said before Spike opened the door. Spike turned around Luna while he had his claw on the handle.

"I won't", Spike and Luna just looked at each other for a moment before Spike opened the door and made his way outside. Luna sighed.

"I'll wait for you", Luna said quietly. As Spike was making his way to the entrance he saw Celestia coming out of her bedroom.

"Celestia! Thank you for letting me stay at the castle", Celestia looked to see Spike with all of his stuff packed and ready to go.

"That's quite alright, Spike, you're welcome anytime", Celestia said with a warm smile.

"I might just hold you to that", Spike said with a slight laugh, Celestia also laughed.

"Have a safe trip home, Spike", Celestia waved.

"Thank you, Celestia", Spike waved and left the castle.

"Hey Spike, you ready?", Spike slowly walked towards Twilight.

"Yeah", Spike was trying to hide the fact that he was a bit upset.

"Spike, is everything alright?", Twilight noticed the dragon's slow pace. Spike realised he wasn't doing a good job of hiding his and quickly perked up, so no suspicion was raised.

"Yeah, sorry, was in my own world", Spike chuckled.

"Oh, okay, fair enough", Spike got on Twilight's back and she flew back to Ponyville.

Chapter 21 - We Need To Talk

Twilight landed in Ponyville just in front of her castle. Spike off her back and both walked in.

"I'm going to go put my suitcase in my room", Spike said letting Twilight know where he was going. Twilight waited until she heard Spike's door shut and rushed to the main hall and wrote a letter to Rarity.

"Spike is going so happy", Twilight said quietly, but excitedly. The letter was gone in a flash.

Rarity was just drying her hooves from doing the dishes that she had been putting off when a letter appeared in front of her and fell on the floor. Rarity got excited, she put the towel on the side, picked up the letter and read it out loud.

"Dear Rarity,
I have just got back from Canterlot, just thought I'd let you both me and Spike are here. I'm so excited for you to tell him
- Twilight", Rarity beamed and rushed to the kitchen to get the picnic stuff and then rushed to the castle,

Twilight saw Spike come into the main hall.

"So, Spike how was Canterlot?", Twilight asked stalling, but also genuinely interested.

"It was good, I took Celestia and Luna out for a meal, I went to that Café that has the unique spices, and Celestia, Luna and I had a really good catch up", Spike smiled.

"That sound great, I'm glad you a great ti---", Twilight was interrupted by the main hall doors opening.

"Oh, hello Rarity", Twilight said pretending not to know why she was there. Spike looked around and saw Rarity standing at the main hall entrance

"Hello Rarity, what brings you by today?", Spike asked.

"Oh right, well, I came over to see if you were free to go on a picnic today", Rarity said excitedly.

"Oh, sorry, Rarity Twilight she needed my he---", Twilight cut off Spike

"You can go", Spike was shocked.

"Really?", Spike asked confused.

"Of course, you can help when you get back", Twilight said trying to hold in her excitement. Spike looked back over at Rarity.

"Well, I guess I am free", Spike said walking over to Rarity.

"Fabulous", Rarity said just before making her way out of the castle.

"Thank you, Twilight", Spike caught up with Rarity and they left the castle together.

Luna was sitting in her room missing Spike, remembering the past few days, she was suddenly brought out of her thought when she heard a quiet knock on her door.

"Sister? Are you awake?", Celestia said quietly, but loud enough to be heard through the door.

"Yes, I'm awake sister, you can come in", Celestia came in and saw Luna sitting on her bed.

"It's two o'clock would you like to come to the dining hall for some lunch", Luna sighed.

"It's okay, I'm not really hungry", Celestia knew something was up.

"What's wrong, sister?", Celestia went over and sat next to Luna on her bed.

"Nothing, I'm just not hungry", Luna tried her best to smile, but it wasn't fooling Celestia.

"First of all, that smile was not convincing, and second you know you can tell me anything", Celestia put her hoof on Luna's. Luna took a deep breath.

"Umm... well... Spike asked me to be his special somepony, and I said yes", Celestia already knew that was going to happen, but was confused why her sister was upset.

"That sounds like a good thing, why are you sad?", Celestia asked.

"I just miss him", Luna looked at her sister sincerely. Celestia thought for a moment.

"Then go to him", Celestia smiled.

"Huh?", Luna was confused.

"Have some lunch and go to him", Celestia said making sure Luna ate before going.

"But I can't leave", Luna said worryingly.

"Why not?", Celestia asked.

"Well--- because", Luna thought for a moment and realised she only assumed she couldn't leave the castle, then also realised she can go and see Spike. "I'll come and eat", Luna smiled. Luna and Celestia got up and made their way to the dining hall.

"You know I was worried you would think I was a rebound", Luna confessed to her sister.

"Oh, believe me, I know you and I know Spike, you are not a rebound", Celestia calmed Luna's nerves, they sat at the dining table and had lunch.

Rarity and Spike made it to Spike's solitude and sat by the pond.

"It's so lovely to see you again, Spike, I missed you on Saturday", Rarity said happy to see Spike again.

"It's nice to see you too, Rarity", Spike smiled. Rarity returned the smile but was also to hide the fact of how nervous she was.

Do I bring up what happened first? Do I just say it? Will he believe me? Do I say how much he means to me?, Rarity's mind was racing with all different questions but was brought out of her thoughts when Spike spoke.

"Rarity? Are you okay?", Rarity realised she wasn't hiding how nervous she was.

"Oh, uhh... yes, I'm okay, I just wanted to talk to you about something", Rarity smiled nervously. Then Spike remembered.

"Oh yeah, you said in your letter that we needed to talk", Spike said thinking about the letter.

"Oh, my wording might have been a bit strong, sorry", Rarity said knowing how urgent she made it sound.

"That's okay, what's up?", Spike took a bite out of one of the sandwiches, while Rarity was preparing herself.

"Well, when we were 'together', I did enjoy your company...", Rarity started.

"Rarity, honestly I'm okay, and I'm more than happy to still be your friend", Spike said thinking Rarity was trying to explain why she still wanted his company.

"Oh, I know, but Spike, I realised how much I missed your company", Rarity looked at Spike and her pupils grew. Spike didn't want to assume anything so he just asked.

"What do you mean?", Rarity realised she actually had to say it.

"Spikey, what I mean is that... I was hoping... maybe that... we could... maybe uhh... give a real relationship a go", Spike was so shocked.

"What!?", Spike said nearly choking on the sandwich.

"I know before I didn't think you knew what an actual relationship was like, but you've proved that you do and after not having you around, I realised how much I miss your company and... how much I had... fallen for you", Rarity said slowing down as she got to the end. Spike was in shock he couldn't even speak. Rarity picked up on this. "Spikey? Are you okay", Spike blinked a couple of times and then was able to speak.

"You've fallen for me?", Spike still couldn't believe it, the mare he has been trying to impress and loved for years finally loves him back, this is all he ever wanted, but not anymore.

"Yes, my Spikey-Wikey, I'm sorry it took me so long to realise", Rarity unaware of Spike's reaction as she was so happy to finally tell him, and pulled him into a massive hug. Spike returned the hug. Eventually, Rarity released the hug, but still had her arms around Spike, she just looked at him with pure love, and she kept moving her head closer, as she went to kiss him, Spike backed away.

"What's wrong, Spikey? Too soon?", Rarity was confused, why would Spike reject her? Spike was about to say, but then he remembered what Luna said.

...because of recent events, I don't want anypony thinking of our relationship as a rebound

"Uhh, no, I'm sorry, Rarity, how do I say this? Uhh... I don't really feel the same way anymore", Rarity started to tear up.

"Oh my, did I hurt you that badly? Spikey, I'm so sorry please forgive me!", Rarity pleaded.

"No, I mean... I have forgiven you, I just don't feel the same way anymore, I'm sorry", Rarity was shocked, Spike, the one who always helped her, the one who worked extra hard to take her out, the one who cooked and cleaned for her, saying he doesn't love her anymore, Rarity didn't want to believe it.

"Spike, honestly, if this is about how I acted, I promise my feelings are true, and things will be different", Rarity was thinking how nice it would be to snuggle into Spike in the evenings.

"Rarity, it hasn't anything to do with how you acted or what you have done, I just don't have feelings for you anymore, I'm sorry, but that's just how I feel", Spike took a deep breath after saying how he feels but could see how upset Rarity was.

"Spike...", is all Rarity managed to say before she started to cry quietly. Spike now started to feel bad.

"Rarity, I'm sorry, I didn't mean to hurt you", Spike gave Rarity a hug and Rarity returned the hug still sniffling. "I still love you as a friend, and I always will", Spike said trying to make Rarity feel better.

"T-Thank you, Spike", Rarity hugged Spike tighter.

Twilight was just finishing her lunch when she heard a knock coming from the main doors.

"I wonder who that could be", Twilight wondered. The alicorn walked to the main doors and opened them to see Princess Luna, standing there, patiently waiting.

"Greetings, Twilight", Luna said.

"Princess Luna, hi, what brings you to Ponyville?", Twilight asked.

"I came to see Spike, is he here?", Luna asked trying to remain formal. Twilight was confused.

"Spike? No, how come? Did he leave something in the castle?", Luna had to think quickly.

"No, I just needed to see him about something", Luna was being so formal Twilight thought Spike was in trouble.

"Oh my! Did he do something wrong?", Twilight started to get worried.

"Spike didn't do anything wrong, just needed to speak to him quickly, do you know where I could find him?", Luna asked.

"Not exactly, but I know he's on a date with Rarity", Luna's heart sank.

"A date? Are you sure?", Luna was hoping she misheard Twilight.

"Okay, well, not exactly, but you didn't hear this from me, but Rarity finally feels the same way", Twilight said excitedly.

"But she...", Luna stopped not knowing if Twilight knew. "Never mind", Luna sighed, then composed herself. "Do you know where they might have gone?", Luna asked trying to stay composed.

"No, sorry, Luna", Twilight said feeling a little helpless.

"No worries, Twilight, I'm sure I'll find him", Luna said hiding her sadness.

"Okay, sorry I couldn't help", Luna waved to Twilight before she shut the door and went back inside.

"It can't be a date... it just can't", Luna said quietly and trying not to cry.

Chapter 23 - Twilight Finds Out

Spike jumped at Rarity's voice so much that it broke the kiss.

"Rarity I... uhh...", Spike didn't know what to say.

"Greetings Rarity, Spike said he was having a picnic with you", Luna smiled unaware of what just happened. Rarity held back her tears once again.

"So, you two... are... together", Rarity finally managed to ask. Luna looked at Spike at smiled.

"Yeah, it happened while he was visiting Canterlot", Rarity had never seen Luna this happy, but her love for Spike overtook her.

"Well, Spike, it's nice to know you move on very quickly", Rarity said passive-aggressively.

"Quickly!? Rarity, I was in love with you for four years, how is that moving on quic---", Spike was cut off.

"I don't want to hear it... goodbye, Spike", Rarity walked away with her head held high, pretending as if nothing bothered her.

"What was that about?", Luna said shocked at Rarity's behaviour.

"I'll explain on the way back to the castle", Spike said trying to comprehend what just happened.

Spike and Luna were on their way to the castle.

"So she confessed her love towards you?", Luna asked.

"Yeah, it was, well, awkward, and at the time you understandably didn't want ponies thinking you were some sort of rebound", Spike explained.

"Yeah, I can imagine how awkward it must have been, and it definitely explains her behaviour", Luna said thinking about how Rarity acted.

"So, with that out the way, I'm so pleased you are here", Spike said trying to lighten the subject.

"Me too, and as I said I told my sister, and she doesn't think is some sort of rebound", Luna said smiling.

"So, you're ready for ponies to know?", Spike asked just making sure he understood what Luna was saying. Luna stopped and looked at Spike.

"Spikey, I don't care who knows, as long as I get to be around you", Luna said before giving Spike a kiss.

"I love you, Luna", Spike just looked at Luna and could see the love in her eyes.

"I love you too, Spike", Luna smiled, and Spike returned the smile, a moment passed before they realised what they were doing.

"Oh, we better continue making our way to the castle", Spike said with a bit of a laugh.

"Oh right, of course", Luna responded, also with a little laugh. Spike and Luna continued towards the castle. "What do you think Twilight will say?", Luna asked.

"I'm not sure, but first I want to ask her why she said Rarity and I were on a date when we were just talking", Spike said slightly frustrated.

Spike and Luna reached the castle, but both paused before going in.

"Are you sure you wanted to let her know?", Spike said checking if Luna was okay.

"Spikey, I've never been more sure about anything in my life", Luna said smiling. Spike took a deep breath and walked into the castle as Luna followed.

"Twilight! I'm back", Spike shouted so Twilight could hear, after a second or two he heard hoof steps running towards him.

"Spike! How did the---", Twilight stopped when she saw Luna. "Luna? What are you---where's Rarity?", Twilight was confused.

"Twilight, I need to talk to you", Spike said seriously.

"Oh, uhh... okay, let's all go to the main hall", Twilight said.

They all sat down, Spike looked nervous, and Luna put her hoof on Spike's claw which made him look up to see Luna smiling and she gave him a nod.

"So, Twilight, there was a reason I wanted to stay in Canterlot a bit longer", Spike started.

"Okay, and why was that?", Twilight asked still confused.

"Well, uhh... you see... I started to fall for Luna", Spike said nervously. At first, there was silence but then,

"WHAT!? Do you mean to tell me that because you and Rarity didn't work out, you went to Canterlot to make a move on Luna!?", Twilight was so angry.

"No, Twilight, it's not like that, I went to talk to Luna, I didn't go to make a move on her", Spike tried to explain. Twilight didn't listen.

"I can't believe you, Rarity finally falls for you and you do this!", Twilight took a breath, "is that why Luna's here because you did this? Are you in trouble? Am I in trouble?", Luna felt like she needed to speak up.

"Twilight I can assure you, my visit has nothing to do with anypony being in trouble, also Spike didn't make a move on me, we just ended up falling for each other", Luna explained.

"Wait, falling for... each other?", Twilight looked at Spike and then at Luna then back at Spike. "You two? You're... together?", Twilight asked.

"Yes, Twilight, Spikey and I are an item", Luna said with a smile. There was another moment of silence. Twilight looked at both the dragon and princess and calmed herself before talking.

"Sorry for the outburst, it's just that Rarity came to me, to tell me, she finally felt the same way Spike felt about her, I was excited because I knew how much you loved her Spike", Twilight said sincerely.

"It's okay, Twilight, we wanted to tell you first, of course after Celestia, but Rarity found out just after our picnic"

"Oh no! What did she say?", Twilight said worryingly knowing how Rarity felt.

"She said it's nice to know I move on very quickly in a quite passive-aggressive tone, and when I tried to explain, she cut me off, said she want to hear it, said goodbye and walked off", Spike rubbed the back of his due to his nervousness.

"Right, so she didn't take it well", Twilight sat there thinking. "You have really fallen for Luna?", Twilight asked Spike.

"Yeah, she makes me so happy", Spike looked at Luna with a massive smile on his face which made Luna smile. Twilight looked at them looking at each other and could see the love in their eyes.

"Okay, well, I'm glad you two are happy", Twilight said with a slight smile, as she was still worried about Rarity. "You said you tried to explain to Rarity?", Twilight asked making sure she heard Spike right.

"Yeah, but she didn't want to hear it", Spike replied.

"Okay, would you mind if I went and spoke to her, to see if she'll let you two talk to her?", Twilight asked, Spike looked and Luna and she smiled and nodded, Spike looked back at Twilight.

"No, we don't mind, it would be nice to be able to talk this out properly with her", Spike explained.

"Okay, well, you stay here, I'll see if Rarity will come and talk", Twilight stood up and made her way to the exit.

"Thank you, Twilight", Spike said before Twilight left.

"Wow! What unfortunate timing", Twilight said quietly said to herself as she left the castle.

Chapter 24 - He's Done Nothing Wrong

Twilight kept losing herself in her thought while she made her way to the Carousel Boutique.

What do I even say? She’s probably going to ask questions I don’t have any answers to! Is there a book on romance? Have I already read one and forgotten about it?

Twilight suddenly noticed she was at her destination and saw a closed sign hanging in the window. Twilight tried to go in, only to be met with a locked door.

“Rarity! It’s Twilight, can I come in and talk?” Twilight waited patiently for a response... nothing. “Rarity! Are you in there?” Twilight put her ear up to the door and could hear sobbing coming from a distance. “Something tells she can’t hear me,” Twilight said to herself out loud, the purple alicorn’s horn glowed and within a split second, she was on the other side of the door. “I hope she doesn’t mind,” Twilight said, feeling rude about just teleporting in. As she approached Rarity’s bedroom door, the sobbing got louder and louder. Twilight was hesitant to knock, but eventually did. “Rarity! It’s Twilight!”

“Twilight!? How did you get in? I locked the doors!” Rarity said through her sobs, shocked.

“I heard what happened, came to talk to you, and could hear you sobbing, so I teleported in, sorry, but I was worried,” Twilight explained. The white unicorn wiped her eyes, went over to the door, and opened it. Rarity’s appearance shocked Twilight, her mane was a mess, she had two thick black lines from her eyes to both sides of her chin because of her mascara running, and there were three empty ice cream tubs on the floor near her bed and a half-eaten tub with a spoon in it on her bed. Rarity said nothing and just went back to her bed and led down. Twilight walked into the bedroom and sat on the end of Rarity’s bed. There was a moment of silence before one of them spoke.

“So...” Rarity said, breaking the silence. “You heard what happened?” Rarity asked, trying not to cry again. Twilight sighed.

“Yeah, they both came to the castle and told me, I’m so sorry Rarity,” Twilight hung her head.

“How could he do this to me?”, Rarity asked, getting angry.

“Rarity, he did nothing, he just fell in love with somepony else,” Twilight tried to explain.

“Exactly! After everything I’ve done for him!”, Twilight was slightly confused.

“What you’ve done for him?” Rarity sat up.

“What are you suggesting, Twilight? That I have done nothing for Spike?” Rarity asked, offended.

“Oh, no, you have definitely done lots of things for Spike, but what about everything he has done for you?” Rarity wasn’t happy.

“What? Like going off with another mare? Whose side are you on?” Rarity led back down in a huff.

“I’m not on anyone’s side, Rarity, I’m just saying, Spike has done a lot for you in the past four years, giving you advice on the work, being a pincushion, he even helped you collected gems and didn’t eat any,” The face that all Rarity thought about was what Spike has done recently and not how he’s acted towards her in the past, frustrated Twilight. Rarity quickly sat up.

“He offered to do those things! I never made him do anything he didn’t want to do! Plus, I always gave him one gem after we finished collecting!” Rarity spoke louder than usual. She was getting really frustrated with Twilight.

“I know, I’m not saying you’re selfish, quite the opposite in fact”, Twilight said calmly, her tone seemed to calm down Rarity, noticing this Twilight took a deep breath. “Would you consider coming over and talking to him?” Rarity looked down and was fidgeting with her duvet. After a moment of silence, she looked up at Twilight and nodded. Twilight gave Rarity a warm smile.

“Is Luna still there as well?”, Rarity asked. Twilight didn’t want to answer, but she knew she had to.

“Yes, Luna is still, but I can ask her if she wouldn’t min---“

“No need, I was hoping she would still be there so I can apologise.” Twilight was relieved to hear Rarity was okay with Luna being there. Rarity got up from her bed. “Right, let me get myself ready and I’ll be over within the next fifteen minutes.” Twilight got up from Rarity's bed.

“Okay, Rarity I’ll see you in a bit”, Twilight made her way to the door, tried to open it, and then remembered about the doors being locked, Twilight was about to call Rarity, but decided to just teleport out instead and let Rarity get ready.

Chapter 25 - Let's Talk

Twilight walked into the castle feeling relieved, she took a deep breath, and walked into the main hall. She saw Spike and Luna still sitting down only this time they were sitting closer together.

“Excuse me, you two, not in the main hall,” Twilight said as a joke. Spike and Luna looked around to see the purple alicorn standing there with a smile on her face.

“We weren’t doing anything, Twilight,” Spike said, carrying on with the joke. Luna looked past Twilight.

“Twilight? Did it not go well with Rarity? She doesn’t seem to be with you,” Twilight looked over at Luna.

“Actually, it went really well, she’s going to be here in around ten to fifteen minutes, and she said she’s glad Luna’s still here,” Luna looked confused.

“Me? Why?” Twilight smiled.

“She wants to apologise,” Luna was more confused.

“Why? She didn’t say or do anything to me”, Twilight wasn’t too sure what Rarity was going to apologise to Luna for.

“I’ll let Rarity do the talking,” Luna nodded in agreement.

Rarity was getting ready at her own pace. On one hoof, she wanted to see Spike and Luna to apologise for her outburst, but on the other hoof, she wasn’t too happy about seeing Spike and Luna knowing they were a couple. Rarity was looking in the mirror, making sure she was presentable.

“It’s okay, Rarity, you love Spike, you want him to be happy, and Luna makes him happy,” Rarity said to her reflection.

’I just wish he was happy with me,’ Rarity thought as she hung her head. The white unicorn then composed herself.

“My feelings for Spike don’t excuse my actions,” Rarity took a deep breath and left her boutique and made her way to the castle.

“Are you nervous?” Spike asked Luna while holding her hoof.

“I am, I don’t think I have ever felt this nervous before,” Spike wrapped his arms around Luna, the purple alicorn cooed as she did the same, “Your hugs make me feel better,” Luna smiled.

“Your hugs make me feel safe,” Spike also smiled. They both eventually released each other from the hug, and a few seconds later, heard the castle doors open.

“Looks like she’s her,” Spike said, getting slightly nervous again. Luna put her hoof on Spike’s claw.

“You’re okay, we’re okay,” Spike took a deep breath and quickly exhaled. The main hall doors opened and Rarity walked in with Twilight behind her.

“Right, why don’t we sit,” Twilight said to Rarity. They were all sat around the big circle table. “Rarity?” Twilight prompted.

“First, Luna, I’d like to apologise for my outburst in front of you,” Rarity spoke softly.

“It’s okay, Rarity, Spike explained what happened so I understand why you acted the way you did,” Luna smiled, letting Rarity know it was indeed okay.

“While my actions and words were understandable it doesn’t mean they were acceptable, so I wanted to apologise to both of you,” Rarity took a breath before continuing, “Spike, I’m sorry for saying you moved on quickly, it was just a shock, I was so used to you wanting to spend so much time with me, that the change was sudden to me and I didn’t consider how much time you two spent together to, well, you know,” Rarity couldn’t bring herself to say certain terms just yet.

“I understand, Rarity, and I accept your apology, I was going to explain, but it looks like you’ve already said what I was going to say, this was gradual and unplanned, we just ended up falling for each other,” Rarity did her best to hold back her tears after hearing that term.

“So, what actually happened? How did you two end up getting together?” Twilight asked. Spike and Luna looked at each other and smiled.

“Well, like I said, we didn’t know it was going to happen, but Spike kept me company throughout the nights, like old times, so we were catching up, and talking a lot,” Luna explained.

“But, like, when did you realise you liked each other,” Spike and Luna looked at each other again, then to Rarity, then to Twilight. The purple alicorn then looked over at Rarity, who looked back. At first, the white unicorn was confused, but then she realised.

“Oh, it’s okay, you can explain, I’m good,” Rarity did her best to smile.

“There were times I questioned it, like when Luna hugged me, I’d want it to last for a long time,” Spike said awkwardly while also choosing words carefully.

“Spike made me feel so special, getting me treats, taking Celestia and I out for dinner, and just wanting to spend time with me and no matter what we were doing I enjoyed it,” Luna smiled, remembering the cuddles.

“We both found out we were trying to find ways to tell each other that we were falling for one another,” Spike explained.

“How did you end up finding out?” Twilight said, wanting to know how this happened. Both Spike and Luna felt awkward.

“Well, umm...” Spike started.

“Yeah, we...” Luna continued. The dragon just looked at each other, they both knew there was no other way to say it.

“We kissed,” Spike confessed. Even though Rarity had seen them kiss, knew they were together, she felt her heart break that little more when Spike said those words, but she composed herself, she wanted Spike to be happy.

“Well, I’m happy for you both, and if Spike is happy, I’m happy,” Even though Rarity was hurting, she gave both Spike and Luna a genuine smile.

“Thank you, Rarity, and we can still spend time together, as friends, of course,” Spike said genuinely, smiling back at Rarity.

“Forgive me, Spike, I would love to spend time with you, and I will, I just may need some time...” Rarity spoke softly.

“I understand, Rarity, whenever you are ready,” Spike gave Rarity a warm smile.

“Well, I best be off, my boutique won’t clean itself,” Rarity said, getting up from her seat.

“I’ll see you out,” Twilight followed her out. Spike took a deep breath.

“I think that went well”, Spike said looking at Luna.

“It went better than I thought it would,” Luna said, surprised.

Chapter 26 - Are You Going To Be Okay?

“Well, I best be off, my boutique won’t clean itself,” Rarity said, getting up from her seat.

“I’ll see you out,” Twilight followed her out. Both Twilight and Rarity made sure they got to the castle doors before speaking. “Are you sure you’re okay?” Rarity sighed.

“Not really, but I’m sure after some time, I will accept the fact that I was too late”

“I’m here if you need anything,” Twilight smiled. Rarity did her best to return the smile.

“Thank you, Twilight, but like I said to Spike, I think I just need some time,” Twilight nodded, and they said their goodbyes. The purple alicorn made her way back into the main hall.

“Well, that went slightly better than expected,” Twilight said as she walked into the main hall.

“Yeah, that’s what we were just saying,” Spike said, still sitting close to Luna.

“I... feel... horrible,” Luna struggled to speak.

“What?” Spike asked.

“I fe--... I am horrible,” Luna spoke slightly louder. Spike was so confused.

“Luna, where has this come from? You’re not horrible, you’re so kind, caring and sweet,” Spike said, worried about Luna.

“Spike, someone kind, wouldn’t ruin someone’s friendship with another pony,” Luna was angry at herself.

“Woah! Luna calm down, you have done nothing wrong, you didn’t ruin our friendship, we’re still friends,” Spike said trying to comfort Luna.

“But things won’t be the same,” Luna couldn’t stop blaming herself.

“Yeah, because things are different, I don’t like her, and she likes me,” Spike lifted Luna’s head to face him, “And we’re still friends, she just needs some time,” Spike smiled which made Luna smile, and they gave each other a kiss, “Feel better?” Spike asked.

“Yeah,” Luna smiled.

Twilight stood there with a shocked expression on her face Spike and Luna looked around to see Twilight shocked and not moving.

“Umm... Twilight, are you okay?” Twilight slightly shook her head and composed herself.

“I’m sorry, but I don’t think I’ve never seen Luna get so frazzled before,” Luna smiled.

“Even though it may not be as much as a normal pony, princesses can get frazzled too,” Twilight made her way to her seat.

“Fair enough,” Twilight said as she sat down.

Rarity opened the doors to her boutique, closed the door behind her, took a deep breath and sat on the floor as she exhaled.

“My Spikey,” Rarity couldn’t hold back her tears anymore.

Moments passed before Rarity realised she was still on the floor by the door.

“Oh, my! What’s the time!?” she looked outside, and it was getting dark. “My stars! How long have I been sitting there!?” Rarity got up and went to make herself some tea. After Rarity made the tea, she went to the lounge, carrying her tea with her magic and sat down, while placing her tea on the coffee table. The white unicorn looked around her lounge.

It just feels odd, she couldn’t get over how weird it was not having Spike around. I still want to have picnics with him, but it’s just going to be so difficult, Rarity kept thinking. Will I ever be ready?.

Chapter 27 - Am I Ready?

A couple of weeks have passed since Rarity had found out about Spike and Luna’s relationship, and by this time, everypony from Ponyville and Canterlot knew. Rarity had not opened her shop to the public nor has she left the boutique except for essentials and even then she wore a disguise.

“Oh, Opal! Why are you eating more than usual? I only went to the store a couple of days ago,” Rarity moaned, not wanting to go out. Opal just looked at her with disgust and walked off into another room. Rarity just continued to lie on the couch, thinking of every excuse she could to avoid going out, but then realised what she was doing. “Oh my goodness! This is ridiculous, I have to get myself out of this slump,” then she remembered why she stopped going out, “Ready or not, I’m inviting Spike out for a picnic tomorrow,” Rarity took a deep breath, and left the boutique and made her way to the market wearing no disguise.

Rarity went up to the counter. “Two bags of your finest cat food, please,” the mare behind the counter turned around.

“That’ll be four bits,” Rarity handed her the money, but was confused.

’She always says, ‘Back again already’ to me, has she just gotten used to me coming every other day now’, but then Rarity remembered, Oh yeah, I’m not wearing that disguise anymore.

Rarity got a few more things she needed from the market and went back to her boutique.

“Right! Feed Opal, put the shopping away, make a picnic, and then... invite Spike out,” Rarity found it very hard to say the last part. It still hurt, but she knew she couldn’t hide away forever.

While Rarity was making the sandwiches, she was thinking about Spike and thus was on autopilot and hadn’t realised she cut the sandwiches into hearts before putting in the basket, it wasn’t until she heard the butter knife tap the side that she realised she zoned out, “Oh, I guess I made them without thinking,” Rarity packed up the rest of the picnic and made her way to the castle, “I am so nervous, but a little bit excited to see Spikey again,” Rarity smiled.

Rarity was outside the castle doors.

’Have I left it too long?’ Rarity thought to herself. ’No! You’re finding reasons not to see him’, Rarity made herself push the castle doors open and walk in.

“Hello? Twilight? Are you here?” Rarity called out. Twilight came out of the main hall.

“Oh, hello, Rarity, how have you been? I haven’t seen you in a while,” Twilight said, surprised to see her.

“I’ve been... managing,” Rarity said in a defeated tone. Twilight noticed the picnic basket.

“Looks like you’re ready to see Spike again,” Rarity looked at the basket and smiled the best she could.

“Yes, I feel I’m ready to continue our little outings again, is he free?” Rarity asked, not knowing if Spike was even there.

“Yeah, he’s free, and I know he’ll be happy to see you,” Twilight smiled. “I’ll just get him or you,” Twilight went to Spike’s bedroom to get him. Rarity smiled.

’He’ll be happy to see me? Oh my goo--‘ then she stopped her thoughts, and her smile dropped, No, it just means he’s happy to see me as a friend

Momentarily, Spike came out, went up to Rarity and gave her a massive hug.

“It’s so good to see you, I’ve missed you,” Spike’s hug shocked Rarity, but felt so warm, soft, and gave Rarity the best feeling she has ever felt.

“I’ve missed you too”, Rarity returned the hug. Spike broke the hug, even though Rarity didn’t want it to end. “So, are you ready for our picnic?” Rarity asked with a smile, Spike returned the smile.

“I sure am!” Rarity was both happy and confused with Spike’s attitude towards her and her head was full of questions.

Did something happen between him and Luna?

Does he love me again?

How come Twilight wasn’t confused by his attitude?

What is going on?

Chapter 29 - Things Are Different

Rarity reached the exit of 'Spike's Solitude', but didn't see Spike. She went through and spotted Spike still walking away.

"Spike! Wait!" Rarity shouted. Spike turned around to see Rarity running towards him. "Please, just let me explain!" Spike just looked at her.

"I'm listening," Spike said sternly.

"You said you missed me and hugged me so warmly. I thought maybe you had feelings for me again," Rarity said, trying to explain. Spike scoffed.

"Yes, I missed you and hugged you. That's how I treat a friend. I don't have feelings for you. I am with Luna, just in case you forgot that. And if I had feelings for you again, I'd tell you so there wouldn't have been, or at least shouldn't have been, any confusion," Spike said, frustrated. Spike's tone and attitude angered Rarity.

"Oh, you'd tell me how you feel? Just like you told Luna how you felt?" Rarity asked, the second question being louder.

"I was worried that she would th---," Spike stopped himself. "Actually, why should I explain myself to you? You don't even care," Rarity realised what she said, and her feelings took over again.

"Spike, I'm sorry. I let my feelings get the better of me again," Spike just shook his head and rolled his eyes. Then he looked at Rarity and realised that she didn't mean the fact that she kissed him, she meant what she said about Luna and him. Spike sighed to calm himself down.

"Look Rarity, I know you're finding it hard, but you shouldn't invite me out with romantic intentions," Rarity was quick to respond.

"That wasn't my intention, Spike, honestly, I felt that this was going to be a friendly picnic between two friends. It was just nice to see your face light up again when you saw me, and your hugs felt so warm. I suppose I was caught up in the moment and with the way I feel---," Spike stopped her.

"Okay, I guess I understand. I mean, it makes sense, so there are no romantic intentions?" Rarity shook her head. "Okay, but anything else and I'm going home," Rarity smiled.

"I understand, I made special sandwiches for us," Rarity said, opening the basket to show Spike, forgetting how she cut them.

"Ooh, why are they speci---," Spike stopped as soon as he saw that sandwiches were heart-shaped. "Rarity..." Spike said calmly.

"Yes, Spike?" Rarity said smiling, oblivious to the fact that Spike's mood had changed.

"Is this a joke?" Spike said slightly more irritated.

"What ever do you mean, Spike?" Rarity was very confused why Spike was upset again. Spike pulled one of the heart-shaped sandwiches and pointed to it.

"No romantic intentions, huh?" Spike chucked the sandwich back in the basket. Rarity remembered she was in her own world when she made the sandwiches.

"Spike, that was a mistake. I was daydreaming when I made those. Plus, you can give hearts to friends, can't you?" Rarity said hoping Spike would believe and agree with her.

"Yes, you can Rarity, but with what just happened, and everything that's been said... I think maybe we should stop seeing each other, even as friends," Spike looked at the ground when he said the last bit. Rarity started to tear up.

"What!? Spike no, please, I---" Spike cut Rarity off.

"Listen, you thought you were ready, but it looks like you're not. And after that, I need some time as well. Maybe we'll be able to rekindle this friendship one day, but for now, all I can say is... goodbye, Rarity," Spike held out his claw. Rarity was going to fight it, but she could tell by Spike's tone and body language that he needed some time.

"Goodbye, Spike," Rarity said, choking up and holding back tears, while she let Spike shake her hoof. Spike took a deep breath, turned around, and made his way to the castle without a single glance back. Rarity just stood there, watching him get further and further away. When she could no longer see him, she sat down.

"I really messed up this time," Rarity said with her head down. As she blinked, a few tears started to fall.

Chapter 30 - The Pain Lingers

Spike walked slowly into the castle.

"Spike, is that you?" Twilight called.

"Yeah, Twilight, it's me," Spike responded. Twilight emerged from the main hall.

"How was your outing with Rarity?" Twilight asked, knowing that he had missed her. Spike sighed and shook his head.

"Not good..." Twilight was confused.

"What happened?" Spike was hesitant to tell her but didn't want to lie.

"She... kissed me," Twilight was shocked. She stood there with her mouth agape, unable to speak. "Uhh... Twilight, are you ok---?"

"She kissed you!?" Twilight cut Spike off.

"Yeah," Spike responded.

"And you let her!?"

"What!? No! It wasn't like that! We were just talking, then she looked at me, then kissed me, and I pushed her away immediately," Spike spoke quickly, fearing he would be thought of as a cheater. Twilight composed herself by taking a deep breath and exhaling.

"Sorry, Spike, I should've known you wouldn't do something like that. I was just shocked." Spike gave Twilight a little smile.

"It's alright, Twilight. I just wish Rarity didn't invite me out with romantic intentions when she knows I'm with Luna," Twilight was confused again.

"I don't think Rarity intended it to be romantic. I think her feelings got the better of her. Not saying what she did was acceptable, and maybe she should've given herself more time, but you know what she's like," Twilight didn't want Spike to think badly of Rarity.

"Twilight, I let her explain herself, and that's what she said. She was caught up in the moment, and because of her feelings, she kissed me. So I calmed myself down, and we decided to still have our picnic. But then she showed me these 'special' sandwiches she had made..." Spike rolled his eyes and shook his head. Twilight tilted her head slightly.

"What do you mean, 'special'?" Spike took a deep breath and exhaled before he spoke.

"Twilight... all the sandwiches were heart-shaped. She made those before she met up with me, meaning her intentions were most likely romantic."

"Right, I see. So what's happening between you and Rarity now?" Twilight said, curious about the young dragon's and unicorn's relationship.

"Well, I told her that even though she thought she was ready, it looks like she wasn't, and that I think we should stop seeing each other, even as friends, because after today, I need some time,"

"How did she take it?" Twilight asked, worried knowing how Rarity can be.

"She went to say something, but I cut her off. I said to her we may be able to rekindle this friendship, but we both need time," Spike shrugged as if to say that's it.

"Then you both said your goodbyes?" Twilight asked.

"Basically," Spike started walking towards his room. "I think I just need to rest. I promise I'll help you tomorrow, Twilight," Spike said, mentally drained.

"Spike!" Twilight called out. Spike turned to face her. "You don't have to work for the next four days, remember?" Spike looked to the side in thought, then he remembered Twilight saying she won't need any help and has everything she needs to finish.

"Oh yeah, sorry, Twilight. My brain isn't working properly at the moment," Spike gave the alicorn a weak smile, and Twilight returned the smile.

"I understand, Spike. I just thought I'd remind you, as you have enough on your plate, and I didn't want you stressing about helping me when you don't need to." Twilight continued to smile, Spike's smile slightly grew.

"Thank you, Twilight," Spike then went into his room, shut the door, and laid on his bed. "Something I once dreamed about became something I never wanted to happen." Spike tried to forget about what happened and rest. Due to feeling mentally drained, it wasn't long before he fell asleep.

Chapter 31 - What's Going On?

Spike decided to go for a midnight stroll, so he got up and left the castle. The young dragon walked around Ponyville for a while, lost in thought. Eventually, he arrived at the Carousel Boutique.

"Why did my subconscious bring me here?" Spike asked as he gazed at Rarity's shop and let out a sigh. "With time..." he thought. Spike continued walking around Ponyville and eventually decided to go to his special place. However, as he reached the entrance, he felt a slight uneasiness. He chose to ignore it and carry on.

Spike pushed back some bushes to get to the main place and saw a pony. As he got closer, he realized it was Rarity, with her back turned to him. She looked disheveled, with a frazzled mane, slightly dirty coat, and bits of grass stuck to her.

"Rarity?" There was no response, but Spike heard her crying. "Rarity, what are you doing here?" he asked again. Rarity turned around to face Spike, revealing a shocking sight: her face was smeared with makeup, her eyes were bloodshot, and she seemed to have forgotten to put on her false eyelashes.

"Spikey..." Rarity said with a small smile through her tears.

"Why did you come here?" Spike asked, wondering if she had come here to be alone or somehow knew he would turn up.

"Spikey... My Spikey..." Rarity wasn't moving, and her voice didn't sound as melodic as usual. Spike picked up on this.

"Rarity... are you okay?" Rarity just stared at the young dragon, not blinking once.

"My Spikey... you are mine," Rarity said, her expression changing from neutral to extreme rage. "YOU'RE MINE!!!" she went to grab Spike, who moved to run but fell over by the bushes. He looked back and could see Rarity slowly walking towards him.

"Rarity, what's gotten into you?"

"What's that, Spikey? You were joking? And you want to be mine? I'm glad to hear that. Come here and give me a kiss," Rarity continued to walk towards Spike. Spike just squeezed his eyes shut.

"No! I don't love you anymore, don't you understand that!?" Spike said loudly out of fear.

"What?" Spike heard a soft voice that wasn't Rarity's. Spike opened his eyes and saw Luna.

"Luna! Where did you come from?" Spike looked around. "Where's Rarity?" Spike was very confused.

"You don't love me anymore? And you're looking for Rarity?"

"What!? No!" Spike didn't know what was going on.

"What do you mean, no? I just heard you! How dare you play with my feelings!" Luna's horn glowed, and Spike tried to get up and run from her attack, but he couldn't move and just when he thought that he was going to get it, an alicorn flew down from the moon.

"Luna!? But you're there!" Spike was lost. How were two Lunas in front of him?

"Spike, I would never attack you over this. This Luna is an imposter," Spike went to say something but was cut off by the other Luna.

"Spike, I was just upset. I would never attack you. Don't believe her; she's the imposter," Spike just kept looking at both Lunas. "Come with me, Spike, and you'll see."

"Don't you dare touch Spike!" Luna stepped in front. "Spike, you have to--" the other Luna covered Luna's mouth.

"Don't listen to her, Spike. Just run, I'll hold her off," Spike didn't know what to do. Luna managed to move the other Luna's hoof from her mouth.

"Spike!"

"Spike!"

"You just need to wake up!" shouted one of the Lunas.

"AHH!" Spike opened his eyes, darted them around to see that he was in his bedroom. He took a deep breath to compose himself and lay back down. "What a nightmare," Spike just lay there, thinking. "Wait! That one must have been Luna!"

Chapter 32 - Rarity Kissed Me

Spike couldn’t sleep after his nightmare, but at least he could rest.

“I need to get to Canterlot and see Luna,” Spike thought out loud. Spike saw the sun’s rays break through his curtains, so got out of bed, opened the curtains and went to see if Twilight was up.

Spike walked into the main hall to see Twilight sat on her throne, with a cup of tea and a piece of hay toast in front of her.

“Morning, Spike,” Twilight when she saw the young dragon walk in.

“Morning Twilight,” Spike said slowly, as he was still tired. Twilight could see this.

“How are you feeling, Spike?” Twilight asked, remembering the events of the day before.

“A bit better,” Spike replied, then he remembered something, “Twilight, am I right in remembering you say I have four days off?” Twilight nodded, as she had just taken a bite of hay toast.

“Yes you are, Spike, how come?” Twilight asked after she finished her mouthful.

“I was thinking of going to see Luna,” Spike smiled at the thought of seeing Luna. Twilight could see the smile on the young dragon’s face, which made her smile.

“Okay, fair enough, would you like me to take you there,” Twilight offered.

“Only if you’re not too busy, Twilight, I don’t mind getting the train to Canterlot,” Spike smiled to let Twilight, it’s okay.

“Don’t be silly, Spike, I can get you there faster, so you can spend more time with Luna, you’ll have more bits to go out with her and I can start my project after I drop you off, assuming you want to go after breakfast,” Twilight smiled, which Spike returned.

“Umm... yeah,” Spike said, slightly embarrassed that Twilight knew when he wanted to go.

Spike was just finishing getting things ready when he heard Twilight called up to him.

“Spike! I have finished! I’m ready when you are!”

“Okay, Twilight!” Spike responded, packed the last things and made his outside.

Spike walked outside to see Twilight waiting and ready.

“Ready, Spike?” Twilight asked.

“Yes, and thank you for taking me, Twilight,” Spike smiled, which Twilight returned.

“You’re welcome, Spike, I can see how happy Luna makes you,” Spike suddenly remembered his nightmare, but played it off.

“Yeah, I know she’ll never hurt me,” Twilight smiled and then took off to Canterlot.

It didn’t take long for them to reach Canterlot. Spike got off Twilight’s back.

“Thank you again, Twilight,” Spike smiled.

“You’re welcome, Spike, I have to go now, but tell Celestia, I will be visiting next week after my project,” Twilight said, knowing Celestia will ask.

“Okay, see you later, Twilight,” Spike held his arms out for a hug.

“Have fun, Spike, I’ll see you in four days,” Twilight said as she hugged Spike. After the hug, Twilight flew back to Ponyville. Spike’s nightmare just kept playing around in his head, as he walked upstairs to reach the top of the castle. As he was walking across the hallway, he saw Celestia.

“Spike! How wonderful to see you again! Is this another surprise visit to Luna?” Celestia said quietly, not knowing if Luna knew the young dragon was coming.

“You could say that,” Spike smiled, then remembered, “Ooh, Twilight said she’ll be visiting next week, after she’s finished her project,” Celestia smiled.

“Wonderful! I look forward to her visit,” then Celestia leaned into Spike, “I’ll let you get to Luna, she’ll just be in her room resting,” Celestia went to her hall, while Spike made his way to Luna’s bedroom.

As Spike approached Luna’s bedroom door, he knocked.

“You may come in, sister, I’m not asleep, I’m just resting,” Spike heard through the door. He opened the door and saw Luna resting on her bed.

“Have you upgraded me to being your sister?” Spike asked jokingly. Luna looked up and saw Spike smiling at her. She quickly got up and ran over to Spike.

“Oh my goodness, Spike! You’re here! I’ve missed you, I’m so glad you’re okay, I was so worried after you had that nightmare,” Spike hugged Luna tighter. Eventually, they shut the bedroom door, and they both sat on the bed.

“Yeah, there were some events that day that may have caused that nightmare,” Spike said, wanted to, but also not wanting to tell Luna.

“Oh my goodness, Spikey, what happened,” Luna looked at Spike with concern, but also pure love. Spike looked into Luna’s eyes, and suddenly felt comfortable enough to tell her everything.

“Well, Rarity came by to see if I was free for a picnic...” Spike started.

“Okay, so she was ready to see you?” Luna responded after noticing Spike’s pause.

“That’s what I thought, anyway, we were just talking and all of a sudden her expression changed and... well... she kissed me, but I pushed her away immediately,” Spike didn’t know how Luna was going to react, and he heart was beating rapidly. Luna didn’t have any expressions on her face, which made Spike worry more.

“...oh, so she wasn’t ready to see you,” Luna chuckled. Spike was relieved and confused.

“You’re not mad?” Spike asked. Luna looked at Spike and the young dragon could see pure love, and stars as bright as the night sky in the princess’ eyes.

“No, of course not, your nightmare just makes more sense, I know you love me, and I love you so much, I will never hurt you,” Luna held her arms out for a hug which Spike accepted and they just led there enjoying each other’s company.

Chapter 33 - Maybe It's Time To Grow Up

As Rarity got back home, she tried to hold back tears as much as she could.

"I can't believe I messed up so badly that even our friendship has gone," Rarity thought out loud while unlocking the door to her boutique. The white unicorn didn't even bother turning the lights on; she just locked the door back up and went straight into the kitchen, set the picnic basket down, and opened up the freezer. "No Rarity! There's no need to get into a slump again. You messed up, so you must deal with the consequences," she closed the freezer and went to her room, "...but that doesn't mean I can't rest."

When Rarity reached her room, she closed the curtains and lay on her bed, thinking, ‘Spikey... I promise I'm happy for you.’

Spike and Luna were lying next to each other, just resting, when Luna remembered something.

"Oh, Spikey, I made something, and I wanted to show you," Luna sat up, as did Spike.

"What is it?" Spike asked curiously. Luna's horn glowed, and a bracelet from her bedside table floated towards them.

"Notice anything special?" Luna asked excitedly while using her magic to hand the bracelet to Spike.

"Hmm..." the young dragon inspected the bracelet, then he noticed the charms. "The charms! You made a charm bracelet and put the charms on it," Spike smiled, as did Luna.

"Yeah, after I finished those lovely treats you got me, you know I planned to turn them all into metal to make them into real charms, and I wanted to always keep them on me, but I didn't want to lose them, so unless I'm resting, I wear this," Spike had the biggest smile on his face.

"Luna, that's the sweetest thing anyone has ever done with a gift I've given them," Luna smiled at Spike's comment.

"Well, they're very special to me as a very special dragon gave them to me," Luna and Spike just smiled at each other before they kissed.

"I love you so much, Luna," Spike said, gazing into Luna's eyes.

"I love you too, Spike," Luna said, gazing back. Spike and Luna just hugged and laid back down on the bed, continuing to hug, and it wasn't long before they fell asleep.

Luna's eyes opened, and she realized she was laying on Spike's chest, and he had his arms around her. She smiled and felt so content, she just snuggled into Spike's chest a bit more, and then she felt Spike hold her slightly tighter.

"Mmm, that's nice," Luna sighed with contentment, and Spike just smiled. Then Spike had a thought.

‘This feels right. I don't want this to end. It's different and so much better than when Rarity used to hug me.’

‘Wow! I have fallen really hard for Luna.’ Spike didn't realize just how much he had fallen for Luna. With this thought, he smiled and continued to enjoy embracing Luna.

"Do we have to get up now?" Spike asked, stroking Luna's mane.

"Are you hungry?" Luna asked, slightly looking up at Spike.

"Not really," Spike responded.

"Then no, we don't," Luna said, smiling while snuggling back into Spike's chest. The young dragon just smiled at Luna and continued stroking her mane.

"Good," he responded quietly.

Rarity was sitting at her dining room table with a cup of tea, thinking out loud.

"I'm going to wait until I'm actually ready, no matter how long it takes, and if I'm ready before Spike, then I'll wait until he's ready."

"But what if he's never ready?"

"No, Rarity, we're going to stop that type of thinking just like we're stopping a certain type of behavior," Rarity took a sip of her tea and then had an idea. "Maybe it's time I review my actions, instead of just apologizing for them, and hoping for forgiveness," that's when Rarity said something she thought she'd never say. "Maybe it's time I do some self-reflection, and allow myself to grow as a pony," Rarity finished her tea, grabbed a notebook and pen, sat down in the living room, and started to reflect on the current situation

Chapter 34 - They're Both In Canterlot?

Rarity was in her room writing in a new book she had got, she stopped for a second and let out a sigh.

“I do feel slightly better for writing, I can now see my actions from other ponies' perspective,” Rarity slightly chuckled, “I suppose I can be a bit dramatic sometimes,” Rarity looked at the clock and realised it was lunch time. “Oh, I suppose it’s time to eat,” Rarity realised that she was looking after herself and not caught in a slump, “Wow! I suppose writing has been helping more than I thought, it’s only been a week,” Rarity said as she started cutting some salad to make herself a salad sandwich.

Twilight was making sure she had everything before she left for Canterlot.

“Quills, ink, paper, spare paper, books… I think that everything,” Twilight left the castle, used one of her pieces of paper to write a note and stuck it to the castle doors, she then took a deep breath, exhaled and flew to Canterlot.

Rarity was washing up whilst thinking out loud.

“I still feel butterflies when I think of Spike, I still love him, but I am happy for him, I truly am,” Rarity was brought out of her thoughts when she went to grab something and couldn’t feel anything as there were no dishes left. “Oh, I didn’t realise I had finished,” Rarity wiped her hooves and went to sit down in the lounge. The white unicorn sat down and started to think again. “Am I ready to see him though? Have I really reflected on all my actions?” Rarity wanted to see Spike, but she also wanted to make sure she was ready.

Twilight landed in Canterlot and decided to go straight to the castle. “I’m really looking forward to seeing Celestia, Luna and Spike,” Twilight smiled at the thought and continued making her way to the castle.

Twilight walked into the castle, went to Celestia’s room and knocked on the door.

“Come in!” Twilight heard from the otherside of the door, she opened the door to see Celestia laying on her bed reading.

“It's good getting into a good book, isn’t it?” Twilight said with a slight chuckle. Celestia looked up to see the purple alicorn smiling.

“Twilight! It’s so good to see you, Spike said you should be visiting soon,” Celestia got up and gave Twilight a hug which was returned. “So, how have your studies been going?” Celestia asked after the hug.

“They’ve been going well, but I have been trying to take time for myself as well,” Celeatia smiled at Twilight’s response.

“Time for yourself? Has that been easier without Spike around?” Celestia continued to smile, and Twilight returned the smile.

“It’s been the same really, because when we have both finished are tasks for the day, we kind of do our own thing for a bit, but I will say, I do miss him, considering we’re still usually in the same room when doing so,”

“That’s understandable, well, both Spike and Luna should be in their room,” Twilight noticed what Celestia said.

“Their room?” Twilight asked. Celestia smiled.

“Yes, Twilight, I mean they are together after all,” Twilight smiled.

“Fair enough, well, I’ll go and see them for a bit, but I will definitely catch up with you afterwards,” Twilight said, making her way out of Celestia’s room.

“I’d like that,” Celestia smiled, Twilight returned the smile, then left Celestia’s room, shutting the door behind her and started making her way to Luna and Spike’s room.

Luna and Spike were led down on the bed holding each other. Spike started stroking Luna’s mane. Luna cooed.

“That’s so nice,” Luna closed her eyes and enjoyed the sensation.

“It is nice to stroke your mane, yes,” Spike chuckled knowing what Luna meant.

“You know I mean,” Luna smiled. Spike looked at Luna, he just found her so beautiful, her soft coat, her flowing mane which resembled a beautiful night sky, that she, herself had created, the way she looks at him and the way she makes him feel. Spike gently pushed Luna’s head towards his and gave her a kiss which Luna instantly returned. After they just looked into each other’s eyes with pure love before…

*KNOCK KNOCK*

Both Spike and Luna jumped so much that they ended up letting go of each other. Luna composed herself as did Spike before saying anything.

“Come in!” Luna said sitting up,” Twilight walked in. Spike saw Twilight and was happy to see her.

“Twilight!” Spike got up from the bed and gave her a quick hug, which Twilight returned “I’ve missed you,” Twilight gave Spike a smile.

“I’ve missed you too,” Luna smiled at how much Spike and Twilight cared for each other, she loved how much he cares for his friends.

“It’s lovely to see you again, Twilight,” Luna said, still smiling. Twilight looked over to Luna.

“Lovely to see you too, Luna,” Spike walked over back to the bed, and Twilight walked in closing the door behind her. “So, how have you both been?” Spike and Luna looked at each other and smiled.

“We’ve been good, just spending time together, enjoying each other’s company,” Twilight smiled. She could see how happy the young dragon and the princess of the night made each other. Suddenly the purple alicorn saw something sparkle out of the corner of her eye.

“What’s that?” Twilight asked, looking in the direction of the sparkle. Luna looked over to where Twilight was looking and picked up a bracelet.

“Oh this? Well, when Spike first came over he was kind enough to get me one of each of my favourite treats, and instead of eating the charms, I turned them into actual charms and made it into a bracelet,” Spike and Luna smiled at each other.

“Aww, that’s actually really sweet, I’m glad you too are happy and are doing well,”

“What about you, Twilight? How have you been?” Luna asked.

“Well, I just finished my current project, so I’m feeling good,” Twilight smiled.

Rarity was still sitting down writing in her book, but she stopped and thought for a second.

’I feel… ready’, Rarity thought of seeing Spike, and even though she loved him, she didn’t feel bad at the thought of him not being ready yet. Rarity closed her book and got ready to leave.

“It’s okay, Rarity, it’s going to be okay no matter what he says,” Rarity said to herself just before the boutique and making her way to the castle.

Rarity started quietly humming a tune and within a few minutes she was at the castle. As the white unicorn approached the castle she could see a note on the door, so she went up to the door and read it.

’I’ve gone to Canterlot for a visit, I will be back Saturday’

“Oh…” Rarity’s smile slightly dropped. “They’re both in Canterlot?”

Chapter 35 - Dear Spike...

Rarity was trying to not let the situation get her down, but in the back of her mind, she was at least hoping she could send Spike an instant letter.

“Oh well, Rarity, I suppose it wasn’t meant to be today, I’ll try again Saturday, that’s usually the day we went out anyway,” with the thought of seeing Spike on Saturday she went back to her boutique to focus on her work.

Twilight just finished explaining her project to Spike and Luna.

“Well, no wonder it took you so long, Twilight,” Spike chuckled.

“How was I supposed to know that, that was going to happen?” Twilight laughed.

“Fair enough, I’ll give you that one,” Spike laughed. Luna was just smiling at Spike while he spoke to Twilight. Spike noticed this. “Luna?”

“Yes, Spike?” Luna responded, still smiling.

“You okay? You’re just looking at me?” Luna smiled.

“Am I not allowed to look at my handsome dragon?”

“Alright, you two, leave the lovely-dovey stuff until I have left the room,” they all laugh.

“No, I was just admiring how much Spike cares for everypony,” Spike smiled at Luna.

“Well, I tell you one thing Luna, I have never seen Spike this happy, so, thank you,” Luna gave Twilight a smile. “Well, I’m going to go and catch up with Celestia, maybe we can all go and do something later,” Twilight suggested.

“That’d be lovely,” Luna responded

“Yeah, I’m up for that,” Spike said not too long after Luna.

“Great!” Twilight smiled and left Luna’s (and Spike’s) room, shutting the door with her magic behind her.

Rarity was working on her new line while also lost in thought.

“Ouch!” it suddenly brought the white unicorn out of her thoughts after she accidentally stabbed herself with a pin. “It might be best to wait until I’ve processed these thoughts before I continue to work,” Rarity left her work room, grabbed her new book she had been writing, went into her living room and sat down.

“What am I thinking about the most?” Rarity asked herself out loud. “I suppose it would be that Spike wouldn’t want to see me, but he doesn’t know that I have self-reflecting, so maybe before I go and see him I should let him know what I’ve been doing, and how I’m feeling,” Rarity went to a new page in her book and began writing a draft letter on what she wanted to say in her letter to Spike.

Around late afternoon, Twilight and Celestia were just finishing catching up when Twilight’s stomach rumbled. Celestia let out a slight laugh.

“Sounds like a certain princess is hungry,” Celestia said with a smile, but her smile turned to slight surprise when her stomach rumbled, Twilight covered her mouth with her hoof to hide her smile.

“Yeah, it does,” Twilight said, removing her hoof from her mouth laughing. Both alicorns laughed for a second before Twilight remembered something, “Oh! When I saw Spike and Luna that we could all do something later, maybe we can all go out to eat,” Celestia thought for a second and remembered about the Épices Florales that Spike took her and Luna to.

“That sounds like a wonderful idea, you know, Spike took us to that new place called Épices Florales,” Twilight was surprised.

“Really?” Celestia nodded.

“He did, and I’d love to go there again,” Twilight thought about how fancy it’s supposed to be.

“Won’t we need a reservation or something?”

“Usually, yes, but last time we were there the bouncer said that we can eat there whenever we want,” Twilight chuckled a bit.

“Sounds like a good plan then, I’ll go and ask Spike and Luna if they’re up for it,” Twilight said, making her way to Celestia’s bedroom door.

Twilight made her way to Luna and Spike’s bedroom and knocked on the door.

“Come in!” Twilight heard through the door, she opened the door to find Spike and Luna sat on the edge of the bed.

“Hey Twilight,” Spike said when he saw the alicorn open the door.

“Hey Spike, Celestia told me how you took her and Luna to Épices Florales, and since we were both hungry she was thinking of going again, also, I remembered saying we can all do something together, would you like to join us?” Spike looked at Luna.

“Would you like to go to the Épices Florales again?” Luna smiled and nodded.

“Cool, so do you want to meet by the castle doors in about two minutes?” Twilight asked.

“Yeah, that’ll be fine,” Luna said.

“Great, see you in a bit,” Twilight said as she left the room and closed the door.

“I do really like that place, I’m excited,” Luna said, smiling.

“It’s so lovely… and the place is too, I suppose,” Spike said, trying not to laugh. Luna was confused, but then she understood what Spike meant.

“Spike, you are such a charmer,” Luna said laughing, Spike laughed with her.

Rarity was still writing in her book, reading her draft letter repeatedly, crossing things out, adding things in, rewording things, etc.

“Right, let’s see how it sounds now,” Rarity said out loud to herself

Dear Spike,

Over the past week, I have been reviewing my actions, and I want to say that I am deeply sorry for what I have said and done. I am truly happy that you have found happiness, and I hope you can find it in your heart to forgive me. Additionally, I hope that our picnics could continue, as I enjoy your company as a close friend of mine. I want you to know that I have been working on myself to become a better mare, and I hope I can remain your friend. However, if you don’t or can’t accept my apology and don’t want to see me again, I understand.

From Rarity

“Okay, if I keep tweaking, it’s never going to get sent, so that’s it. Time to write it out neatly and send it,” Rarity grabbed some paper and wrote the letter out.

Chapter 36 - A Princess's Blessing

Celestia, Twilight, Luna and Spike were walking back from the Épices Florales.

“I can’t believe it was the same bouncer,” Spike laughed

“Yeah, did you see the look on his face when he saw me?” Luna laughed

“It was a picture,” Twilight chuckled. “Honestly, I can’t believe he just ignored you last time.”

“Oh, don’t worry, Twilight, Luna put him in his place,” Spike smiled at Luna.

“Yes, my sister had quite a tone when talking to him or about him,” Celestia chuckled.

Spike and the three princesses finally made it back to the castle.

“Well, I feel like I need to rest after that food,” Luna said, walking into the castle.

“Yeah, I’m going to go to my room and end up falling asleep,” Twilight chuckled.

Everypony made their way to their rooms. When Spike and Luna got to their room, they just led on the bed, holding each other. Spike looked at Luna with pure love and felt his heart flutter.

“I’m so in love with you, Luna,” what Spike said, surprised Luna, but she was so happy she teared up. Spike noticed this and was concerned, “Luna? Are you okay? Did I say something wrong?” Luna gently shook her head.

“No, my Spikey, actually quite the opposite, you said you’re in love with me instead of say, you love me, and that makes me so happy,” Spike smiled.

“So, they’re tears of happiness?” Luna smiled.

“They are tears of happiness and pure love,”

“Well, I’m glad to hear that,” Spike pulled Luna closer to him.

“I’m so in love with you too, Spike, nopony or dragon has made me feel this way, I have never been so happy”, Luna continued to snuggle into Spike.

Both the princess of the night and the young dragon led in each other’s arms before they fell asleep.

A couple hours went by and Spike woke up, and he just looked at Luna, who was still sleeping.

’I want to spend the rest of my life with her’ Spike thought, not even realising his thoughts. ’Wait… I actually do… I want to marry her’ Spike was happy and excited at the thought of marrying Luna and spending his life with her, but he had a thought.

’I’ll need blessing and permission’,, Spike slipped out from underneath Luna’s arm without waking her up. Then he gently opened the door and went to Celestia’s room.

Celestia was in her room resting, but not sleeping, when she heard a gentle knock on the door.

“Celestia, are you awake?” Spike asked gently, not wanting to wake up the princess if she was asleep.

“Yes, Spike, I’m awake, you can come in,” Celestia smiled. Spike opened the door and walked into Celestia’s room. Spike had a lot of confidence and excitement on the way, but now he was in front of Celestia, he got a bit nervous.

“Celestia, you know how Luna and I have been together?”, Celestia nodded. “Well, I was wondering… umm… if it was okay to umm… I came to ask if… uhh… if I could have your permission and your blessing… to marry her,” Spike’s nerves almost got the better of him, but he managed to actually ask Celestia.

Celestia didn’t say anything or show any emotion, which worried Spike, eventually she gave him a smile.

“Spike, you have made my sister a very happy mare, and I can see a difference in both you and her. I’m more than happy to give both my permission and my blessing,” Spike let out a quiet sigh of relief before speaking.

“Thank you, Celestia, I really do appreciate it,” Spike smiled.

“You’re welcome, Spike, I appreciate you coming to ask me, oh, and may I give you a bit of advice before you leave?” Celestia saw Spike getting ready to go.

“Of course,” Spike stopped.

“She’s not into the traditional diamond ring, she’d probably prefer something darker, if you know what I mean,” Celestia gave Spike a wink. The young dragon knew what she meant.

“I see, thank you, Celestia,” Spike said, making his way out of the room.

“You’re welcome, Spike, and good luck,” Celestia said, just as Spike closed the door, Celestia couldn’t help, but smile.

Now, the question is how do I get a ring without Luna being around and without looking or acting suspicious… Spike thought for a second, ...maybe Twilight could help.

Spike made it to Twilight and knocked on the door gently, he was just about to say something when he heard Twilight’s voice.

“Come in,” Spike walked in to see Twilight just sitting on her bed.

“Hey Twilight, can I talk to you?” Twilight could hear a worry in Spike’s tone.

“Sure, here, come sit,” Twilight sat patting a space on the bed next to her. Spike shut the door behind him and sat next to Twilight. “Everything okay, Spike,” Twilight asked, concerned.

“Well, I asked Celestia for her permission and blessing to marry Luna,” Spike’s words shocked Twilight.

“You want to marry Luna!” Spike hushed Twilight.

“Can you not say it so loud? Luna has no idea and I don’t want the entire castle to know,” Twilight covered her mouth with her hooves and then uncovered her mouth to speak.

“Sorry, Spike, it just came as a surprise to me, please continue…” Twilight composed herself.

“Well, there are two things, one, I’d like you to give me away,” Twilight couldn’t believe what she was hearing.

“Give you away? Spike, it would an be honour,” Twilight said smiling.

“Well, I practically grew up with you and you raised me, so it seems only right,” Spike returned the smile.

“What’s the second thing?” Twilight asked, remembering what Spike said.

“Well, I need to try to get a ring, but I need to do it in a away, where Luna doesn’t find out, whether that is buying one when she is not with me, and/or doing it without looking or being suspicious,” Twilight thought for a second.

“Okay, I’m not sure how yet, but I will come up with a way to help you,”

“Thank you, Twilight,” Spike gave Twilight a hug.

“You’re welcome, Spike,” Twilight returned the hug.

“Right, I better get back before Luna wakes up and realises I’m gone,” Spike said, letting go of Twilight.

“Okay, Spike,” Spike made his way out of Twilight’s room. When the young dragon left, Twilight smiled.

“You have truly changed and grew up, Spike”

Chapter 37 - Luna's Perfect Gem

Twilight was sitting in her room, thinking.

’What can he do if they’re always together? Twilight couldn't think of a solution, so she rested and let her thoughts flow to clear her mind.

Spike made his way back to the room, being careful not to wake up Luna when he opened and closed the door. He led next to Luna on the bed and started gently caressing her cheek, and then starting stroking her mane.

“Mmm,” Luna cooed as she snuggled closer to Spike and slowly opened her eyes.

“Hello gorgeous,” Spike smiled, as did Luna

“Hello handsome,” they both chuckled and sat up.

“How was your sleep?” Spike asked Luna, who was rubbing her eyes.

“It was the best one I’ve had so far, and yours?” Luna asked.

“Same, it’s always amazing when I’m holding or snuggling into you,” Spike said, smiling.

Twilight was still resting when she had a thought.

’Maybe I can get it for him, but I don’t know if he’ll like or worse, if she’ll like it…’

Twilight started to think, then it hit her.

“Celestia!” Twilight got down from her bed and made her way to Celestia’s room.

Twilight knocked on Celestia’s bedroom door.

“Come in!” Twilight walked in, ready to tell Celestia her idea.

“Twilight, have you heard the news?” Celestia said quite excitedly.

“About Spike proposing to Luna, yes I have, and that’s why I have come to see you,” Twilight explained.

“Why? Is something wrong?” Celestia said, concerned.

“Spike came to me and asked me to give him away, which I’m honoured about, but he has also asked what he can do about getting a ring without Luna finding out, or his exact words were, ‘but I need to do it in a away, where Luna doesn’t find out, whether that is buying one when she is not with me, and/or doing it without looking or being suspicious’, but I have an idea,” Twilight said, smiling.

“And what would that be?”, Celestia asked curiously.

“Well, since they're always together, I considered getting the ring myself at first, but I don't know if Spike and/or Luna will like it. Then I realised you know them better than anyone else.”

“Well, I suppose I do,” Celestia thought for a second, “So, you were thinking that I should go and get the ring for Spike?” Celestia smiled.

“Yeah, because you know them so well, you know what they’ll both like, especially Luna,” Celestia was smiling, but then a thought entered her head.

“I don’t mind, and I think it’s a good idea, but if they’re always together, how do we let Spike know we’re getting it, have gotten it, or even give it to him?” Twilight’s smile dropped a bit. She hadn’t thought of that.

“I… don’t know,” Celestia and Twilight started thinking of ideas, a couple of moments passed before either one of them spoke.

“Maybe we could Spike a signal, one that Luna won’t notice,” Celestia brainstormed.

“Sounds like a good idea, but what could the signal be?” Twilight asked.

“Maybe a play on words, I’ll think of something,” Celestia stood up and walked towards her bedroom door.

“Where are you going?” Twilight asked, watching Celestia walk past her.

“To tell Spike and Luna that you and I are going shopping,” Celestia smiled.

“But Celestia Spike said he wanted it to be—,” Celestia stopping, smiling and raising her hoof. cut twilight off.

“I am aware, we’re not telling them what we’re shopping for. Follow my lead,” Celestia continued walking, Twilight nervously followed.

“Can I tell you something, Spike?” Luna asked.

“You can ask me anything, Luna,” Spike replied.

“When I showed you the bracelet I made, I thought you might want to eat the little gems,” Luna let out a slight laugh.

“I wouldn’t do that, I gave you the treats, so they were yours, and the gems are yours,” Spike smiled before continuing, “Plus, I don’t need gems, I have you,” Luna smiled, looking at Spike with pure love.

“Well, I may have my bracelet, but I have my perfect little gem, right here,” Luna said, pulling Spike in for a hug, which Spike instantly returned. A knock on their door interrupted their hug.

“Come in!” Luna said, loud enough, so anypony on the other side of the door could hear her. Celestia opened the door, with Twilight standing next to her.

“Hello, you two, everything okay?” Spike asked.

“Yes, everything is fine, we just came by to say we’re going out shopping, just in case you came looking for us later on,” Celestia started, Twilight knew it was her turn to talk.

“Yeah… I haven’t been to Canterlot in a while, so Celestia thought she’d take me around some shops.” Twilight hid her nerves very well.

“Yeah, it has been a while, so I am going to be showing her a whole ring of shops,” Celestia’s emphasis on the word ring was more ‘a lot of shops’ rather than ‘Spike we’re getting the ring’, but Twilight still instantly got the reference and looked and Spike to see if he also understood the reference. Spike looked at Twilight and smiled a second later, signalling he understood. Twilight smiled back.

“Okay, thank you for letting us know, sister,” Luna said, oblivious to her sister’s wording or emphasis.

“Alright, well, we’ll leave you two to it,” Celestia said while closing Spike and Luna’s bedroom door.

Twilight and Celestia made their way to high street and stopped in the first jewellers to have a look around. Once they entered the shop, they went in different directions. Twilight looked in a glass case and found a white gold ring with little diamonds embedded around a beautiful diamond in the centre.

“Celestia, I think I found an option.” Celestia came over and saw Twilight pointing at the white gold ring.

“Oh, Twilight, I forgot to tell you, my sister doesn’t like the traditional diamond ring, she prefers something darker, although she’d like the white gold ring, she won’t be a fan of the diamond,”

“Wow! I’m glad I didn’t go with my first thought. I would’ve been so wrong,” Twilight said, relieved Celestia was there. After about five minutes, they didn’t find anything, as ninety-nine percent of the rings were traditional. The two princesses stopped by the next jewellers, it was very similar to the previous one, which didn’t give them much hope, but they decided to look around, anyway. Another few minutes go by and no luck. Twilight and Celestia tried many different jewellers and the rings they came across were either traditional, too plain, had diamonds mixed in and the worst kind of all, fake. They didn’t want to give up, but they were running out of shops.

“Celestia, what are we going to do?” Twilight asked worriedly.

“I’m sure we’ll find something soon,” Twilight was about to reply when she saw something twinkle out the corner of her eye, she looked across to see what it was and it was an… interesting looking shop that seemed to sell a lot of different items, one of those items being rings.

“Celestia, look, that place sells rings,” Celestia looked at the shop, and was unsure, but knew not to judge a book by its cover (or a shop by its interior).

“It’s worth a try, I mean, none of the traditional jewellers seem to have what we’re looking for,” Celestia said with a chuckle. When both alicorns walked into the shop, a mare with a tanned coat and brown mane, which had blonde streaks, was standing behind the desk, and was stunned. She’d never thought in a million years royalty would visit her store.

“I suppose it wouldn’t hurt to ask, since there is a lot of stuff in here,” Twilight said, walking up to the counter. The mare behind the desk got more nervous as Twilight approached. She cleared her throat and tried to compose herself the best she could.

“How can I help you today, your highness?” her voice was still shaking.

“Hello, yes, I hope you can. We’ve visited almost every jeweller here in the high street, we’re looking for a white gold, onyx engagement ring. Would you perhaps have one of those?” The mare seemed delighted. She guided both Twilight and Celestia to the rings and pointed out the only onyx ring she had. The ring's design amazed both Twilight and Celestia - an onyx held by a cloud shape turned sideways with two infinity signs crossing both sides of the onyx. It was perfect.

“Is it real?” Twilight asked Celestia. The white alicorn picked up the ring and inspected it after a second or two, her eyes widened.

“It’s real,” Celestia smiled. Twilight turned to the tanned mare and smiled.

“We’ll take it, how much?” The tanned mare was happy that she had what the princesses were looking for and went to the desk, with Twilight and Celestia following.

“Let’s see…” the mare was tapping the till, “I can sell you that ring for one thousand bits.” Twilight and Celestia looked at each other and nodded. After sorting out some bits, the princesses paid five-hundred each for the ring. The tanned mare put the ring in a black box and gave it to Celestia with her magic.

“Thank you,” Celestia smiled.

“Thank you so much,” Twilight said, also smiling.

“No, no, thank you, your highness—es,” the mare got more nervous after her pause. Celestia and Twilight looked at each other, then looked at the mare and smiled, which calmed her nerves a bit.

“You’re very welcome,” Celestia said before leaving the store.

“I can’t believe how perfect that ring is,” Twilight said, after leaving the shop.

“It’s like it was meant to be, and the gem is perfect for Luna,” both Twilight and Celestia started making their way to the castle, stopping in a couple shops on the way, so it looked like they actually went shopping.

They made it back to the castle with a bag each and hid the bag with the ring in one of the two bags.

“Now, there’s just one more obstacle,” Celestia said before entering the castle.

“What’s that?” Twilight asked.

“Giving the ring to Spike without Luna seeing,” both alicorns looked at each other and smiled, knowing they’ll come up with something.

Chapter 38 - A Ring Of Compliments

“Okay, what do you love about me?” Luna asked, Spike smiled.

“Physically, I love the way your mane flows, and how the sparkles look like stars, I love the shape of your eyes, I love the colour and the feel of your coat, you have a gorgeous smile and how soft your lips are,” Luna smiled at Spike and gave a kiss. “Non-physically, I love how generous you are, you’re kind, the fact that we can have a laugh together, the way you appreciate every moment, you’re honest, loyal, the way you used your magic to turn edible charms into real charms so you had a charm bracelet from me, was so sweet, you’re so romantic, and you make me feel so loved and special,” Luna slightly teared up at Spike’s words.

“You’re the sweetest dragon in all the Equestria,” Luna pulled Spike in for a hug.

“So, that’s the only thing you love about me?” Spike said jokingly. Luna broke the hug.

“That is not true!” They both laughed.

“So, what else do you love about me?” Luna thought for a second.

“As you say, physically, I love your spines as they’re rounded, which makes it easier to snuggle into you, and your scales are surprisingly comfortable. I love your sparkling green eyes, and non-physically, I love how you love, you’re sweet, romantic, caring, and you love to snuggle, what more could I want,” Spike smiled and gave Luna a hug which she instantly returned and they sighed in contentment.

“You make me so happy,” Spike said, while hugging Luna.

“You make me happy too,” Luna said, while continuing to return Spike’s hug.

A few moments passed before the hug came to an end, then a second later, there was a knock on the door.

“Come in!” Twilight opened the door, with Celestia next to her.

“How did the shopping go?” Spike said, hoping for another signal.

“It went well. I actually found these sunglasses.” Twilight pulled some heart-shaped sunglasses she had bought. “How do they look?” Luna smiled.

“They’re cute, Twilight,” Spike was wondering if had missed a signal.

“Thank you, Luna. It was like finding the perfect little gem.” Luna looked at Celestia.

“And you sister, did you have a good time?” Celestia smiled.

“I did, thank you. I can show you what I bought later, if you’d like?”

“Are you guys hungry?” Twilight asked. Spike and Luna looked at each other and then back at Twilight.

“I guess we’re a little hungry,” Spike replied.

“Okay, well, would you like some dinner?” Spike thought for a second.

“Okay, sure, would you and Celestia like some help?” Spike asked. Twilight and Celestia looked at each other, Celestia gently shook her head.

“No, we should be okay.” Spike and Luna seemed surprised.

“Oh, okay, well, thank you for making the dinner,” Celestia smiled.

“It’s the least we can do for how much you’ve done, Spike,”

“Well, we better get dinner on the go, see you in around half an hour?” Twilight asked.

“Yeah, we’ll see you at the dinner table in half an hour,” Spike smiled, which Celestia and Twilight returned before leaving Spike and Luna’s room.

Celestia and Twilight make their way to the kitchen to prepare dinner.

“So, do you have any ideas?” Celestia asked.

“I was thinking I could put it somewhere, but then how do I tell Spike where I put it?” Twilight didn’t know what to do. Moments passed without the two alicorns saying any about the ring. Celestia went to pick up some sapphires to put with Spike’s dinner when she had an idea. She grabbed the sapphires and went back into the kitchen to tell Twilight.

“I have a plan,” Celestia said as she came through the door.

“About the ring?” Twilight asked. Celestia put the bowl of sapphires down on the counter.

“During dinner, they won’t be in their room, you could go and use the “restroom”, and put it underneath the bed, then when you come back you can ask Spike to do something that will get him out in the kitchen like refill your glass or something, and before dinner you can put a note where he’ll see it saying where you put the ring,” Twilight had never seen Celestia so excited about something before.

“That’s a great idea! Plus, you seem so excited about this too,” Twilight said, noticing Celestia’s tone.

“Twilight… my little sister is getting married, of course I’m excited,” Celestia said, smiling ear to ear.

"Has Spike asked or has she said yes yet?" Twilight asked, noticing Celestia's ‘are you serious right now’ look. Twilight noticed Celestia’s look. “What?”

“Have you seen those two? Do you really think she’s not going to say yes?” Twilight smiled.

“Okay, I see your point, but she may have a reason to say no. You don’t know what is going on in her head,” Celestia jokingly frowned.

“You spoil sport,” both Twilight and Celestia laughed. They continued to make dinner.

“So, the plan?” Celestia asked.

“The plan is great, thank you for helping me,” Twilight gave Celestia a smile, which the white alicorn returned.

“You’re welcome, Twilight. Let me grab a piece of paper and a quill, and then I’ll continue helping you with dinner.” Celestia went to grab what Twilight needed for the note.

’I hope all this goes well’ Celestia thought as she left the kitchen.

“What do you think they’re making?” Spike asked while stroking Luna’s mane while she laid on his chest. Luna looked up at the young dragon.

“Well,, if I know my sister, and adding the fact we had a big lunch, something simple like pasta with cheese,” Spike smiled

“I’m cool with that,” Luna smiled and snuggled back into Spike’s chest.

“Me too.” It wasn’t too long after there was a knock on the bedroom door. “Why is it always when I get comfy?” Luna said annoyingly, but jokingly. Spike let out a slight laugh as they both sat up. Luna went over to the door and opened it, and saw Twilight.

“Oh, I was waiting for you to say, ‘Come in!’” Twilight said, surprised that Luna answered the door, “I thought I would come and tell you dinner is ready since it has only been twenty minutes,” Twilight smiled, which Luna returned.

“Thank you, Twilight, we’ll be there now,” Luna informed.

“Great! See you in a minute.” Twilight made her way to the dining room.

Spike got up from the bed and the young dragon and the princess of the night walked to the dining room together.

Celestia and Twilight were already sitting at the table, patiently waiting for Spike and Luna. After everyone had sat down, they started to eat.

A few moments passed when Celestia looked at Twilight and Twilight looked back, they subtly nodded at each other.

“Excuse me, everypony, I just have to use the restroom,” Twilight smiled and left and when she was sure no one was looking she a “wrong turn” towards her bedroom, she went into her room grabbed the bag the ring and ring box was in and quietly left her bedroom and made her way to Luna and Spike’s room.

Everyone was still eating their dinner when Luna had finished her drink.

“Excuse me, while I just go to the kitchen to get a refill,” Celestia internally freaked out, but she couldn’t show it.

“I can do that, I need to, I need a refill myself,” Spike said before Luna stood up. Luna smiled at Spike.

“It’s okay, can refill both of ours,” Celestia was finding it so hard to show she was freaking out. She subtly took a deep breath and exhaled, trying to calm herself, but it didn’t work. Spike smiled back at Luna.

“Well, your highness, I can get a refill since you’re royalty and shouldn’t have to lift a hoof,” Spike said jokingly, as he got up and grabbed both his and Luna’s glass. Luna chuckled at Spike’s tone.

“Why thank you, kind sir,” Luna said, playing along with Spike’s joke. The young dragon bowed at Luna and went into the kitchen. Celestia felt a massive relief. She didn’t know what she would’ve done if Luna went into the kitchen first, and saw the note.

Twilight came out of Luna’s and Spike’s bedroom after placing the bag underneath the bed, and made her way back into the dining room. As she entered, she saw Celestia, Luna, but not Spike.

“Where’s Spike?” Twilight asked

“He’s just refilling our glasses,” Luna replied. Twilight sat down now, knowing that she shouldn’t have to do phase two of her plan.

Spike walked over to the sink to refill the glasses, as he leaned over to turn on the tap, the note fell on the floor, Spike didn’t notice and refilled the glasses and went back into the dining room with two glasses full of water.

“Here you go,” he said to Luna as he sat down and placed Luna’s drink on her coaster.

“Thank you,” Luna replied. Twilight and Celestia were confident that Spike saw the note and was just playing it off to not raise any suspicions. As Twilight had almost finished with her meal, she got up to refill her drink and noticed a note on the floor as she walked into the kitchen. She picked up and realised it was her note for Spike. Knowing he wouldn’t have just left on the floor she also released he hadn’t seen it yet, she freaked out a bit, but she did some quick thinking, stuck the note back up in a more noticeable position, refilled her glass and went into the dining room. Twilight had a plan, but Spike had finished, and everyone else was also almost finished with their meal. Twilight needed someone to finish their drink first, luckily as she was going to start thinking of another plan, the pony who hadn’t had a refill yet, Celestia, finished her drink and was still eating.

“Would you like some more water, Celestia?” Twilight asked, hoping she would say yes.

“Actually, I’d like some for after my meal,” but before Celestia could get up.

“Spike, since you have finished, would you mind refilling Celestia’s glass for her?” Spike grabbed the glass that Twilight was moving towards with her magic.

“I don’t mind,” Spike got up and went into the kitchen. As Spike walked over to the sink, he saw a note. He took it off of the sink and read it.

’Hey Spike, I have put the ring underneath the bed in yours and Luna’s bedroom, this is the only real onyx engagement ring we could find, but we think it’s perfect and we hope you do too

-Twilight‘

Spike smiled, refilled the glass and chucked the note in the bin. Spike went back into the dining room and gave Celestia her glass.

“I just need to use the restroom, I’ll be right back,” Spike said, heading towards the bedroom.

“There’s no need to head back, we’re all nearly finished, we’ll all be done by the time you get back,” Luna said, not wanting Spike to trouble himself with coming back, when there was no point.

“Okay, well, I guess, I’ll see you in the bedroom,” Luna nodded, as she had a mouth full of pasta and Spike made his way out of the dining room. Spike made sure no one was looking when he went into the bedroom. He entered the bedroom quietly, looked under the bed, took out the bag, and looked at the ring inside the box. Spike gasped.

"Thank you Celestia and Twilight, it's perfect!" Spike said to himself. "I'll pay them back for this," he thought out loud.. He then closed the ring box, and put it back underneath the bed and chucked the bag in the bin, just in time too, as not a second later Luna walked in.

“Spike! That was fast,” it shocked Luna, at how fast Spike seemed to go to the restroom and get back to the bedroom in just under a minute. Luna closed the door and yawned.

“Food coma setting in?” Spike asked. Luna went over to the bed and led down.

“Yeah, I just need a quick nap before I raise the moon, I have time,” Luna opened up her arms for a cuddle, Spike smiled and snuggled into Luna’s chest.

“I love the fact that you like me snuggling into your chest too,” Luna closed her eyes and smiled.

“Why would I not?” Spike smiled and closed his eyes and they fell asleep feeling special and loved.

Ten minutes had gone by and Luna opened up her eyes to find Spike still asleep on her chest. She moved slightly, trying not to wake him up, but he opened his eyes.

“I’m sorry, I didn’t mean to wake you,” Spike yawned and smiled.

“It’s okay,” Spike looked outside, and the sun was lowering up, “Time to raise the moon?” Luna looked outside to see what her sister was doing.

“Yeah, do you want to come with me?” Luna sat up, as did Spike.

“Always,” they made their way to the top of the castle where Celestia just finished setting the sun.

“Goodnight, sister, goodnight Spike” Celestia smiled as she walked by.

“Goodnight,” Spike and Luna said in unison. They smiled at each other for a second before Luna raised the moon. They looked back at each other.

“I love you, Luna,” Spike said, looking into Luna’s eyes.

“I love you too, Spike,” they gave each other a kiss and guarded the night together.

Chapter 39 - One Princess, One Ring, One Question

Spike and Luna were sleeping after guarding the night together. Spike slowly opened his eyes, to see Luna was only on his arm. Usually, he would pull her closer, but today was important. He had to get up before her, so he gently got his arm out from underneath her. Slowly, he got up and quietly left the bedroom.

“I’m so glad she’s not a light sleeper,” Spike said quietly to himself once he shut the bedroom door. Spike made way to the castle entrance and saw Celestia heading to her bedroom.

“Morning, Spike, you’re up early for someone who guarded the night,” Celestia smiled.

“Well, tonight I plan on proposing underneath her beautiful night, but I want to take her out first, I was thinking about Il Ristorante Romantico,” Celestia smiled.

“You remembered her favourite Italian restaurant,” Spike smiled and blushed at Celestia's comment. “Well, a little tip from me, you do need to make a reservation if you want a certain time slot,” Celestia informed.

“Thank you, Celestia, I’ll be sure to stop on my way to the flourist,” Spike began making his way to the castle’s entrance, but then he remembered, “Oh , before I go, how much do I owe for the ring you got?” Spike asked, wanting to pay Celestia and Twilight back. Celestia knew that Spike wanted to give Luna a special day.

“Leave it for today, I know you want to make Luna feel special, so maybe wait until tomorrow,” Celestia said, not wanting Spike to worry.

“Thank you, Celestia. Right, I better get things done before Luna wakes up,” Spike said, just before leaving the castle.

“You’re welcome, Spike, good luck,” Celestia said, while seeing Spike off.

Spike went to Il Ristorante Romantico. Inside, he saw couples and ponies on dates. The decoration was red, pink, white and had hearts, but it was not too much, it was nice. Spike walked in and saw a sign that said, ‘Wait here to be served, with no pony behind, so he patiently waited. It wasn’t long before a blue mare with a long blonde mane came to stand at the front.

“Sorry for your wait, sir,” she smiled.

“Oh, that’s okay, I haven’t been waiting long,” Spike said, letting the mare know it’s okay.

“Are you looking for a table?” the mare asked.

“Actually, I was wondering if I could make a reservation for today?” The mare was caught a bit off guard as ponies rarely make reservations on the day.

“Oh, I’d…uh… have to check,” the mare got a book with her magic and started scanning through the pages. “Unfortunately, the earliest we have today is later this evening at six o’clock,” the mare gave Spike a sorry look. Spike smiled.

“That’s perfect,” the mare was shocked.

“Oh, great, so how many are in your party?”

“Only two,” the mare wrote the reservation in.

“And I just need a name to put the reservation under,”

“You can put it under Spike,” Spike said confidently

“Okay, a party of two, under the name Spike, booked in for six o’clock this evening,” the mare said, double checking she had everything correct.

“Thank you, see you at six,” Spike waved as he left and made his way to the florist.

Spike went into the florist and looked around the perfect bouquet of roses, as he was looking he was losing hope as they all seemed to be too small or have other flowers mixed in. Eventually, he went up to the counter.

“Excuse me, have you got a bouquet of a dozen roses,” the pegasus behind the counter smiled and went to the back for a couple of seconds and came back with what looked like freshly bloomed roses. “They’re beautiful, how much?” Spike asked.

“Twenty bits,” the mare said softly. Spike counted twenty bits from his pouch and gave them to the mare behind the counter. She counted them, nodded and gave the bouquet of roses to Spike.

“Thank you,” Spike left the florist and had one last stop before heading to the castle, which was the bakery.

As Spike entered the bakery, the amazing smell of freshly baked goods instantly hit his nose.

“Mmm!” Spike went up to the counter, where a broad stallion was waiting.

“Hello sir, how can I help you today?” the stallion smiled. Spike smiled back.

“Hello, I would like two freshly baked croissants, please,”

“Coming right up,” the stallion grabbed two croissants, “Would you like them in the same bag or separate bags?”

“Oh, uhh… separate bags, please,” Spike said, not expecting the question. The stallion put each croissant into a bag.

“That’ll be ten bits,” Spike counted ten bits from his pouch and gave them to the stallion.

“Here you go,” the stallion counted the bits.

“Thank you,” the stallion gave the croissants to Spike, and he made his way back to the castle.

When Spike made it back to the castle, he went straight to the bedroom, opened the door, quietly to still see Luna sleeping. He walked in, closed the door, put down the croissants and leaned over to stroke Luna’s mane.

“Hmm,” Luna cooed, while trying to snuggle into Spike, and slowly opened her eyes when she realised she couldn’t feel him. Spike was standing there smiling with a beautiful bouquet of roses. Luna sat up and rubbed her eyes.

“Afternoon, gorgeous,” Spike chuckled. Luna looked over and processed the bouquet.

“Aww, Spike, they’re so beautiful, thank you, what’s the occasion?” Luna said, smelling the flowers.

“No occasion, I just love you so much,” Luna smiled, put the flowers on her bedside table and opened her arms for a hug. Spike sat on the bed and gave Luna a hug. While they were hugging, a smell hit Luna’s nose.

“I can smell… croissants,” Spike broke the hug and smiled.

“You have a good nose on you,” Spike leant down and grabbed the two croissant bags. “One for my gorgeous princess and one for me,” Spike chuckled while handing Luna her croissant.

“Spike, this is so thoughtful, I don’t know what I did to deserve you,” Luna smiled, and began eating her croissant.

“Just being yourself is enough, Luna,” they both smiled and continued eating their croissants.

Hours have passed. Spike and Luna have just spent the whole day together. Luna suddenly noticed something.

“Do you know what's weird?” Luna asked.

“What?”

“Twilight and my sister haven't come to check on us all day,” Luna laughed.

“Well, maybe because they know we're having dinner out,” Spike laughed. Luna stopped, confused.

“We are?” Spike stopped laughing, but continued to smile.

“Yeah, I made reservations for just us at six o’clock,” Luna beamed.

“You’re taking me out, where to?” Luna asked excitedly.

“Ahh, well, you’re just going to have and wait and see aren’t you,” Luna jokingly pouted

“That’s not fair,” Luna started to laugh. “No, but seriously, I’m excited,” Spike smiled

“Well, I suppose we better get ready,” Spike said, grabbing a tuxedo from the wardrobe.

“Ooh, we have to dress up, it must be a fancy place,” Luna said, while going to the wardrobe, looking through her dresses. “What do you think about this one, Spike?” Luna held up a dark blue dress, with stars all around and a moon that matched where her cutie mark is with a rim that looked like clouds. Spike stared in awe.

“That’s amazing, you’re going to look stunning in that,” Luna smiled. They both got changed, and headed towards the restaurant.

“Oh, so we’re not going to Épices Florales, because that’s back that way,” Luna said, looking back in that direction.

“No, we're going somewhere else,” Spike smiled. A few moments passed, and they arrived at Il Ristorante Romantico, Luna noticed.

“Oh, I forgot about that place, it’s my favourite Italian restaurant,” Spike chuckled.

“Well, I remember you saying that at one point, so I got us reservations here,” Luna slightly gasped.

“That was ages ago, and you remembered!? And you're taking me here!?” Spike laughed.

“Yes and yes, now come m’lady, let us enjoy a delicious Italian meal,” Spike held out his arm, and they walked into the restaurant together.

Spike and Luna walked up to the front of the house mare.

“Hi there, I have a reservation under Spike for six o’clock,” the mare looked through the book and found Spike’s name.

“Ahh, here you are, party of two. We have a table in the corner for you,” the mare said, pointing to the table. Spike looked at Luna, who nodded.

“Yeah, that is okay, thank you,”

“Right this way,” the mare guided them to their table and handed them a menu each. “Can I get you guys any drinks while you decide?”

“I’ll have water, please,” Luna replied.

“And for you, sir?”

“Make that two,” the mare smiled.

“Of course, be bright back with your waters,” the mare headed towards the kitchen. Both Luna and Spike picked up and looked at the menu.

“Wow! Everything has changed since I was last here, but it all looks delicious still.

A few moments passed, and the mare came back with the waters.

“Here you are. Are you ready to order or do you need a bit more time?” Spike looked at Luna, which made the mare look at Luna.

“Actually, yeah, I’ll have the honey and herb pizza,”

“Okay, is that with the hay fries or without,” the mare asked. Luna looked at Spike.

“Order whatever you, trust me, I have enough,” the mare smiled and Spike’s kind words. Luna smiled and looked back up at the mare.

“With the hayfries, thank you,” the mare nodded, wrote down Luna’s order and then looked over to Spike.

“And for you, sir?” Spike quickly scanned the menu again.

“Hmm… I’ll have the spicy spaghetti, please.”

“Of course and what level of spice would you like, Dolce, Medio, Piccante, Molto Piccante or Intenso,” the Italian didn’t throw Spike at all. He thought for a second.

“I was thinking Molto Piccante, as I like spice, but I’ll play it safe and go for Piccante,” the mare smiled.

“And would you like some parmesan to put on top?”

“Yes, please,” the mare finished writing down the order.

“Okay, I bring your food out as soon as it’s ready,”

“Thank you,” Spike said, just before the mare went to give their order to the chef. Spike looked back at Luna.

“What?” Luna smiled and asked, noticing Spike just looking at her.

“How did I get so lucky?” Luna’s smile grew.

“Believe me, Spike, I’m the lucky one,” Spike smiled and shook his head.

“Just look at you, you’re so beautiful, I love you,”

“I love you too,” they leaned and kissed each other, while being careful not to tip over their water.

They enjoyed their meal, Spike paid, and they talked for a while before leaving the restaurant, and continued to talk while they were walking back.

“Thank you so much for a delicious meal, Spike, it was so lovely,” Spike smiled.

“The food was amazing, but the company was perfect,” Spike said, smiling at Luna.

“I agree,” Luna smiled back.

“So, you’ve had a lovely evening?” Spike asked.

“Spike, I couldn’t have asked for a better evening, it was perfect, I can’t thank you enough for everything you’ve done for me, you have made me the happiest princess in the world,” Spike was so happy, he couldn’t believe how a mare could be so appreciative of all his love, care and effort.

“Well, you may be a princess of the night to every pony in Equestria, but you’re my one and only princess, you have made me so happy, I have never been happier,” Luna and Spike smiled at each other and had a long, passionate kiss before continuing to walk back to the castle.

Spike and Luna went straight to their room after getting back.

“I would love to just rest and cuddle you, but my sister will be lowering the sun in less than five minutes,” Luna said, feeling like she was disappointing Spike.

“It’s okay, Luna, I understand,” Luna gave Spike a weak smile and began made her way out of the bedroom and to the top of the castle to raise the moon, as she left the room, Spike quickly and quietly grabbed the ring box from under the bed, Luna peered her head around the door.

“Aren’t you coming?” Luna asked, confused.

“Yeah, I’m coming, the full stomach is slowing me down a bit,” Spike laughed, which made Luna smile.

They made it to the top of the castle as Celestia passed them, they all said goodnight to one another. Luna then raised the moon.

’This is perfect’ Spike thought.

“It’s so beautiful, you create the most gorgeous nights,” Luna turned around to face Spike.

“You make them perfect, Spike, the time I have spent with you has been the best time of my life,”

’This is it’ Spike took a deep breath before he spoke.

“Luna, I love you so much, you bring out the best in me, you never judge me, you appreciate all the things I do, I have never felt such intense feelings before, the time I have spent with you has made me happier than ever, you mean the world to me, and I never want to end, so I have an important question for you, my princess,” Spike got the ring box out, got down on one knee and opened the box to reveal the ring, “Luna… will you marry me?” Luna was in shock, which Spike expected, what he wasn’t ready for is that Luna wasn’t smiling and she wasn’t saying anything, she was supposed to be surprised for sure, but that’s it, this worried Spike, “Umm… Luna?” Spike said, still down on one knee.

“Spike… I—”

Chapter 40 - Rarity's Letter

“Spike…I…” Spike’s smile was completely gone. He didn’t know what to do.

“Luna?” Spike asked. Luna’s shocked expression changed into a slight smile as tears started to form in her eyes.

“I knew you loved me, but not this much,” Luna’s smile grew, “Yes, I will marry you,” Spike managed to smile after a massive sigh of relief. Spike took out the ring and placed it on Luna’s horn. They both hugged each other tight.

“You had me worried for a second there,” Spike said during the hug.

“I’m so sorry, Spikey, I was unaware of how much you really loved me,” Luna released the hug, “but now I know,” the princess of the night smiled at her fiancé.

Rarity was sitting on her couch, unaware that it was the middle of the night. She was just staring at the envelope that had Spike’s name on it, containing the letter that she wrote for him.

“Why haven’t I been able to send it?” Rarity thought out loud, “I don’t even have to use the postal service, I could just slip it underneath the castle doors,” Rarity looked outside, her eyes widened, she then looked over at the clock which read, ‘1:57am,’ “Oh, I suppose now, might not be the best time,” Rarity put the letter down and began to think, “I think it might be best to give to him in person, so we could talk about it after he has read it,” Rarity nodded to herself and went to bed, ”Things are going to be okay, Rarity, you just have to wait,” Rarity said to herself just before she close her eyes to try to get some sleep.

Luna was just lowering the moon, as Celestia reached the top of the castle.

“Morning sister,” Luna said with a massive smile on her face. Celestia saw the ring on Luna’s horn and smiled.

“Morning,” Celestia replied before looking at Spike, “I’m guessing last night went well then,” Spike smiled.

“Yes, thank you,” Luna looked confused.

“Wait, you knew Spike was going to propose?” Celestia let out a slight laugh.

“Yes, well, it was quite sweet how he came to ask for my permission and my blessing and after I gave him both he started planning the perfect day for you,” Luna looked at Spike who looked back at her.

“You… you really love me” Luna’s smile grew.

“I have fallen in love with you,” Spike smiled. Luna started to tear up.

“Alright, you two, I have a sun to rise,” they all laughed before Luna and Spike went to their room to rest.

“Come here,” Spike said, as he led on the bed and stretched his arms out. Luna smiled and joined the young dragon on the bed and snuggled into him. Spike then wrapped his arms around her.

“Mmm,” Luna cooed. Spike and Luna just led together relaxing before falling asleep snuggled into each other.

The sun cracked through Rarity’s curtains, but she didn’t notice as she had her sleep mask on. Opal was at the edge of Rarity and decided she was hungry, so she walked up to Rarity and started playing with her eye mask. Rarity groaned.

“Opal! Stop it!” Rarity said, gently flapping her arms about to try to shoo away Opal. The Persian cat was not happy with this and dug her claws into the mask, pulled it and then released her claws, making the mask smack against Rarity’s face.

“Ahh!” Rarity took off her eye mask. “Opal! You do not pull on a pony’s eye mask, it is uncouth,” Rarity got up, opened the curtains, went downstairs and gave Opal her food. “Honestly, I do not know where that cat gets her bad manners from,” Rarity looked at the clock which read, ‘11:48am’, “Well, that’s still no excuse for her bad manners, I’ve got up later than this,” Rarity said to herself while getting her breakfast.

Luna woke up still snuggled into Spike, she hugged him slightly tighter, which gently woke him up. Spike looked down at Luna and gave a long kiss.

“Morning, gorgeous,” Spike said after the kiss.

“Morning handsome,” Luna replied with a slight laugh, “Is there anything you wanted to do today?” Luna asked, snuggling into Spike more.

“Yes, but not right now. I’d rather just lay here with you for as long as possible,” they both smiled.

“What is it that you wanted to do today?” Luna asked curiously.

“I want to go to Ponyville, and spread the news about our engagement to our friends,” Luna smiled, “Is there anything you wanted to do today?” Spike asked. Luna thought for a second.

“Actually, yes, there was something I wanted to talk to my sister about,” Spike smiled.

“Fair enough, well, I can go back to Ponyville while you talk to your sister about… what exactly?” Spike said, as he realised Luna hadn’t actually said what she was going to talk about.

“About wedding preparations, because I liked to be prepared” the princess of the night and the young dragon smiled at one another.

“Okay, I’m going to see if Twilight can take me back and help me spread the news, but I promise I’ll be back tonight,” Spike assured Luna.

“Don’t stress too much, Spikey, make sure you make time to spend with your friends, as they are important too,”

“Thank you, Luna,” Spike looked into Luna’s eyes.

“Always,” Luna replied while looking into Spike’s eyes. They just looked at each other for a moment before they both leaned in for a kiss, which lasted longer than expected.

Rarity was just pacing around her living room, with her letter to Spike sitting on the table.

“Come on, Rarity, just post it, you can still talk after, you don’t have to give it to him in person,” Rarity picked up the letter with her magic, but then put it back down, “I don’t have to, but it would be better if I did,” Rarity stared at the letter, and then picked back up, “I don’t when they’ll be back,” Rarity put the letter back down, “I just really want to give it to him in person,” Rarity sat on the sofa in her living room in defeat.

Spike was on his way to Twilight’s room, when he saw the purple alicorn come out of her room.

“Twilight!” Spike called out. Twilight looked around to see Spike heading her way.

“Hey Spike, I heard from Celestia that Luna said, ‘Yes!’ Congratulations!,” Twilight’s smile couldn’t be bigger.

“Thank you, Twilight,” Spike said, returning the smile, “Twilight could I ask a favour?”

“Sure, what is it?”

“I was planning on going back to Ponyville to tell friends about the engagement. I was wondering if you could take me there and help me spread the news,” Spike asked. Twilight smiled at the young dragon.

“Of course, Spike, just let me know when you’re ready to go,” Spike smiled.

“Thank you, Twilight, I’m just going to let Luna know what you said and I’ll be ready to go,” Spike started walking before he finished his sentence.

“Okay,” Twilight chuckled and slightly shook her head.

Spike made it back to his and Luna’s bedroom and opened the door to find his gorgeous financée still laying on the bed.

“My my! Don’t you look gorgeous,” Spike said, with a slight laugh. Luna looked up to see Spike.

“Spikey!” Luna sat up with a massive smile on her face, “What did Twilight say?”

“She said she’s happy to take me back, so I can spread the news,” Spike smiled.

“Okay, but remember what I said,” Luna said.

“What’s that?” Spike asked, confused.

“Make time to spend with your friends as your relationship with them is important too,” Luna said lovingly, but seriously.

“Okay, Luna, I will spend time with friends, and not just spread the news,”

“Promise?” Luna asked. Spike went up to Luna and looked her in the eyes.

“Promise,” Spike said before giving Luna, which Luna returned. After the kiss, they hugged each other, before Spike went to find Twilight to let her know he was ready.

“I truly do love you,” Luna said out loud, even though was out of earshot.

Spike made his way back to Twilight’s room, he knocked on the door and he waited for a response.

“Come in!” Twilight said from the other side of the door. Spike walked into Twilight’s bedroom.

“Hey Twilight,” Spike said as he walked in.

“Hey Spike, are you ready to go?” Twilight said, walking towards Spike, who was by the door.

“Yep!” Twilight and Spike made their way out of the castle, Spike climbed onto Twilight’s back, and Twilight opened her wings, flew up and made her way to Ponyville.

Rarity was in her living room, re-reading the letter.

“Actually, because of how I have worded the end, it might be best to just slip it underneath the door,” Rarity put the letter back into the envelope, sealed it, wrote Spike on the back of the envelope, and made her way to the castle.

Rarity was almost there when she saw something in the sky, coming toward the castle, it didn’t take long to realise it was Spike and Twilight. Rarity immediately changed her plans in her head, she was going to give Spike the letter personally either alone or, if he didn’t want to see her, right now, well, in a minute or two. After Twilight landed, Spike got off her back and he saw Rarity walking towards the castle.

“Hello, Spike,” Rarity said, worrying about what Spike might do or say.

“Hey Rarity, what brings you here?” Spike asked, making it obvious that he’s not too bothered.

“I came by to deliver this letter for you, Spike, but since you’re here, I was wondering if we could go somewhere private, where you could read it and then we can talk about it,” Rarity saw Spike’s not too bothered expression, and it hurt her, but she tried not to show it.

“I appreciate that you came over here to personally deliver this letter that you have,” Spike shook his head slightly before continuing, “but I think going to have a private talk with you isn’t the best idea,” Rarity was hurt, but understood Spike’s response.

“I understand, may I still come in and give you the letter?” Rarity asked.

“Well…” Spike looked at Twilight who gave Spike a ‘it’s up to you expression’, “Okay, but I have some news after I have read the letter,” They all walked into the castle, Spike and Rarity sat down in the main hall, and Twilight went to make some tea for everyone. Rarity nervously hands Spike the envelope that contains her letter.

“After reading the last part, you can tell that my original intention was to deliver it rather than give it to you in person,” Rarity said, as Spike opened the envelope. There was silence while Spike was reading the letter until Twilight came in with the tea. She placed the tray down and sat down quietly. Spike finished reading the letter and looked up at Rarity, who didn’t say anything.

“I appreciate that you’ve made the effort to change, I accept your apology, but I’ll have to talk to Luna when it comes to the picnics,” Twilight placed a teacup cup in front of Spike and another one in front of Rarity.

“I completely understand, your relationship with Luna comes first,” Spike noticed that Rarity really had changed, she was speaking differently, holding herself differently and yet she still seemed to be… Rarity.

“That’s one main reason, but there’s another reason, which was my news,” Spike and Twilight were now smiling, “I asked Luna to marry me and she said yes,” two things surprised Rarity, one, the fact that Spike asked Luna and two, that she wasn’t hurt too badly by it, she was just happy for both Spike and Luna.

“Oh my goodness, Spike, congratulations,” Rarity got up, walked over to Spike and gave him a hug. It didn’t last long, but it was meaningful. Rarity went back to her seat and all three of them started drinking their tea.

“I’m glad you two managed to work things out,” Twilight said, after taking a sip of her tea. Spike and Rarity looked at each other and smiled.

“Me too,” Spike said, while Rarity nodded in agreement.

“So, what are you doing back in Ponyville?” Rarity asked, wondering why Spike wasn’t in Canterlot with his fiancée.

“Well, we’re in Ponyville to tell our friends about the engagement,” Rarity smiled, she could see how happy Spike was and that made her happy.

Chapter 41 - The Engaging Announcement

After Spike, Twilight, and Rarity finished their tea, the young dragon, and the alicorn went to spread the news, while the white unicorn made her way back to the Carousel Boutique. As Spike and Twilight were making their way to Sugarcube corner, they ran into Rainbow Dash.

“Hey Rainbow,” Spike said, walking towards the pegasus. Rainbow Dash noticed Spike and Twilight walking towards her.

“Hey guys! What’s up?”

“Spike has some exciting news,” Twilight smiled. Rainbow Dash looked at Spike.

“Oh yeah? What is it?” Rainbow asked curiously. Spike smiled and was ready to tell Rainbow.

“Luna and I are getting married,” Rainbow was shocked, she had to take a second to compose herself.

“You and… Luna?” Spike’s smile disappeared slightly after seeing Rainbow’s reaction.

“Yeah, why are you so shocked?” Spike asked, wondering why Rainbow had such a strong reaction. Rainbow thought for a second, Spike is close to Twilight, who is close to Celestia who is close to Luna, weirdly it made sense to her.

“Well, I suppose you are pretty close to the royals,” Spike felt confused as the blue pegasus didn’t answer his question, but he chose not to say anything and was simply relieved that she wasn’t so shocked. “Congratulations though, Spike,” she said.

“Thanks, we’re planning on telling all our friends today,” Spike informed. “We were on our way to Sugarcube Corner, to tell Pinkie,” Rainbow snickered.

“Does that mean we need to get ready for a ‘Spike and Luna just got engaged party’?” Spike and Twilight laughed.

“Yeah, probably,” Spike said, knowing what Pinkie was like.

“Okay, well, good luck with that, and again, congratulations.”

“Thank you,” Spike waved goodbye to Rainbow Dash and continued making his way to Sugarcube Corner with Twilight.

As they approached Sugarcube Corner, the smell of freshly baked goods grew stronger and stronger. Twilight walked in, with the young dragon beside her, to see Mrs. Cake behind the counter. They both walked up to the counter.

“Hello Mrs. Cake, is Pinkie Pie about?”

“Welcome Princess Twilight,” Mrs. Cake then saw Spike behind the alicorn, “Hello Spike,” Spike waved, “Yeah, she upstairs, it hasn’t gotten busy yet.

“Thank you,” Twilight said, as she made her way upstairs with Spike. The alicorn and the young dragon walked over to Pinkie’s bedroom door and knocked on it. Pinkie opened the door.

“TWILIGHT!” Pinkie screamed while she hugged Twilight as hard as she could.

“It’s good to see you too, Pinkie,” Twilight said, with what felt like her last breath, but Pinkie let go and Twilight could breathe again. Pinkie noticed Spike.

“Spike!” Pinkie hugged the young dragon, but he made sure he had a claw in front of his chest so Pinkie couldn’t hug him too tight, “What brings you both here today?” Pinkie asked.

“Well, Spike has some exciting news,” Twilight smiled. Pinkie looked down at Spike.

“Ooh! I love exciting news!” Pinkie said, jumping on the spot excitedly. Spike was about to say, but Pinkie stopped him with her hoof on his mouth, “Wait! Don’t tell me! Is it something to do with cupcakes?” Spike shook his head. Pinkie removed her hoof from Spike’s mouth, placed it on her chin, and began to think, “Is it about chocolate pudding?” Pinkie said, slightly drooling. Spike shook his head and decided to tell her since both of her guesses were sweet-related.

“Pinkie, Luna, and I are getting married,” Pinkie gasped, which made Twilight and Spike jump slightly.

“Oh, my goodness! This is the best news ever! Do you know what this means?” Both Twilight and Spike smiled as they knew what was coming, “A ‘My best dragon-friend and the Princess of the night are getting married’ party!!!” Pinkie screamed.

“That’s a bit of a mouthful, Pinkie, maybe you can just call it an engagement party,” Spike suggested.

“Great idea, Spike, a ‘My best dragon-friend and the Princess of the night are engaged to get married’ party.

“That’s even lon—” Pinkie ran downstairs before Spike could finish, “—ger,” Spike looked at Twilight, they both smiled knowing Pinkie was just being, well, Pinkie, and went downstairs. Pinkie was bouncing up and down in front of Mrs. Cake, giving her the information on how she wants to throw a party and what treats she wants her help with. As Twilight and Spike made it down the stairs, Mrs. Cake looked in their direction.

“Oh, Spike, congratulations!” Mrs. Cake just managed to say through Pinkie, which made Pinkie stop and face the dragon and alicorn herself.

“Congratulations, Spike,” Pinkie smiled.

“Thank you, Mrs. Cake, and thank you Pinkie,” Spike said.

“This is going to be the best party ever!” Pinkie said, throwing her arms up in the air.

“Thanks again, Pinkie, we’re going to tell the others,” Spike said, heading out. Pinkie was in her zone talking to Mrs. Cake, who looked to the side towards Spike and Twilight and gave a little wave, they both waved back and headed towards Sweet Apple Acres.

Applejack and Big Mac were bucking trees and harvesting the apples while Apple Bloom was catching and picking up the falling/fallen apples. The young filly turned around to run to the next tree and saw Twilight and Spike, she stopped in her tracks, put down the big bucket she had on her head, and waved.

”Hi Twilight! Hi Spike!” Applejack and Big Mac stopped harvesting when they heard Apple Bloom. The orange pony walked over to Twilight and the young dragon.

“Howdy guys! What brings you by today?” Twilight and Spike looked at each other, smiled, and then back at Applejack, “Good news, I’m guessing by your faces,”

“Yeah, I have good news... Luna and I are getting married,” Applejack was momentarily surprised, but then quickly processed what she just heard.

“Well, congratulations, Spike,” Applejack smiled.

“Oh, my god! Spike and Luna are getting married!!!” Apple Bloom said excitedly after overhearing what Spike said.

“Yeah, Spike wanted to come back to Ponyville and tell you, Rainbow, Pinkie, Fluttershy, and Rarity,” Applejack reacted to the last name.

“Umm… Have you told Rarity?” Applejack asked hesitantly. Spike looked confused.

“Yeah, she was the first one we told, as she was on her way to the castle as we were landing,” Spike explained.

“And how did she take it?”

“Pretty well, why do you ask?” Spike asked, growing more confused.

“Well, I know you two were together at some point,” Applejack said, not knowing why they broke up.

“Oh yeah, we’re okay, everything is great,” Spike smiled.

“Well then, congratulations again,” Applejack smiled. Big Mac tapped his hoof a few times to get Applejack’s and Apple Bloom’s attention to remind them that they still have harvesting to do.

“But, Big Brother, Spike, and Lu–” Applejack stopped her.

“It’s okay, lil’ sis, we still have a job to do,” Applejack said, letting Apple Bloom know that Big Mac’s reaction was understandable.

“It’s okay, Apple Bloom, we can catch up later,” Spike said. Apple Bloom smiled.

“Okay, well, see you later.”

“Yeah, we better get back to work, see you later,”

They all waved, then Twilight, and Spike made their way to Fluttershy’s cottage. As Apple Bloom was about to pick up her bucket, she heard a voice.

“Letter for Applejack!” the mail pony. Applejack was about to buck some apples down but stopped when she heard the mail pony. She walked over to the mail pony, who gave her the letter.

“Thank you, kindly,” Applejack said, as she received the letter. The mail pony tipped her hat and left. Apple Bloom walked over curiously.

“A letter? What does it say?” the young filly asked.

“I’m not sure,” Applejack opened the letter and found an invitation?” Applejack read the invitation, smiled, and gently shook her head.

“What is it, Applejack?” Apple Bloom asked.

“Listen to this, Pinkie Pie invites the Apple family to the ‘‘My best dragon-friend and the Princess of the night are engaged to get married’ party tonight at 8 pm,” Apple Bloom’s eyes widened.

“But we were literally just told!” Applejack laughed

“That’s Pinkie for you, sis. Come on, we better get this done if we’re gonna make it to the party,”

Twilight and Spike were walking down the path to Fluttershy’s cottage when they saw the yellow pegasus watering her plants.

“Hey Fluttershy,” Twilight said to get her attention.

“Oh, hey, Twilight, hey, Spike!” Fluttershy said, after looking up and noticing her two friends. Twilight and Spike went over to where Fluttershy was, but nothing could prepare them for what was about to happen, “So, Spike, congratulations, I didn’t know you and Luna were an item, I’m so happy for you two,” Fluttershy smiled. The purple alicorn and dragon were just gobsmacked for a second.

“Uhh… thanks Fluttershy, but how did you know? We were just coming to let you know,” Fluttershy looked a bit confused.

“Oh, well, I received this from the mail pony nearly five minutes ago,” she went into the front pocket of the satchel that she had on her back and took out a piece of paper. Twilight took what Fluttershy had with her magic and read it with Spike. The young dragon and alicorn smiled and gave Fluttershy back the invitation.

“What?” asked Fluttershy, wondering why they were both smiling.

“Fluttershy, we told Pinkie about the engagement less than ten minutes ago,” Fluttershy’s eyes widened.

“But how did she—? Pinkie is something else, isn’t she?” Fluttershy smiled.

“Yeah, definitely,” Twilight said, still smiling. “I guess I’ll see you at the party then,” Twilight said, seeing Fluttershy was still busy.

“Yeah, should be fun,” Fluttershy looked over towards Spike and smiled, “Congratulations again, Spike,”

“Thank you, Fluttershy,” Spike said, before waving goodbye along with Twilight and headed back to the castle.

“Do you think we should’ve told Pinkie last?” Spike asked Twilight.

“No, otherwise how would she have time to set up a ‘My best dragon-friend and the Princess of the night are engaged to get married party’, Twilight did her best to imitate Pinkie. Both Twilight and Spike laughed and continued making their way back to the castle.

Chapter 42 - The Surprise At The Party

Luna was resting in her room when there was a knock on her door.

“Come in, sister, I’m just resting,” Luna said, knowing no pony else would be at the door. Celestia opened the door, holding a piece of paper with her magic.

“Look at what I received from our mail pony,” Celestia said, walking into Luna’s room.

“What is it?” Celestia floated the paper over to Luna, who grabbed it with her magic. Celestia never replied, she just smiled and let Luna read it.

“Ha ha! I guess they’ve told Pinkie,” Luna laughed, as did Celestia.

“So, are you excited?” Celestia asked.

“Yeah, it looks like I’ll be seeing Spike a little sooner than I thought,”

“Well, of course you’d like that,” Celestia laughed, Luna pushed her sister lightly.

“Right, I’m going to get ready for later, I suppose you want to do the same?” Celestia asked.

“Yeah, I’m so excited,” Luna smiled.

Twilight and Spike were in the castle, and by this time, they too had received an invitation.

“I can’t believe Pinkie went with that name, it almost fills up the entire invitation, there’s almost no room for anything else,” Spike said, looking at Pinkie’s design.

“Well, you know Pinkie,” Spike said, putting the invitation down.

“I suppose,” both Spike and Twilight smiled. Suddenly Spike remembered what Luna said before he left, “Hey Twilight, do you want to know something funny?”

“What?” Twilight asked, seeing the young dragon smiling.

“Before I left Canterlot, Luna said, ‘Make time to spend with your friends, as your relationship with them is important too’, and I get to spend with all of them at once at a party,”

“Luna said that?” Twilight said, confusing Spike.

“Well, yeah, why wouldn’t she? She didn’t want me to not see my friends just because we’re together now,” Spike said, still puzzled why Twilight would ask that. The purple alicorn thought for a second.

“You’re right, Spike, Luna wouldn’t want to isolate or have you isolate yourself from anypony,” Twilight said, smiling at the young dragon, showing her understanding. Spike looked at the clock.

“Well, it’s a couple of hours before the party. Do you want something to eat and rest before getting ready?” Spike asked.

“That sounds like a great idea, were you going to make something?”

“Just a sandwich, since there’ll be a lot of food at the party later, I’ve been to plenty of Pinkie’s parties to know that,” Both Spike and Twilight laughed as they made their way to the kitchen.

Rarity was sitting on her sofa, thinking about whether she should go or not.

“What is everypony going to say? Surely they heard what I did to Spike by now,” Rarity was quite worried, but then she looked at the invitation. “Would they invite me, if they hated me?” Rarity started to think. “I suppose they wouldn’t,” Rarity got up and started making her way to her wardrobe. “I should probably decide what I’m going to wear.” The white unicorn went upstairs and opened her wardrobe. She started looking through her dresses until she came across a gorgeous pink and purple one, but then she saw something around the neck.

“What is that?” she thought out loud as she got closer. It didn’t take long for Rarity to realise what it was, and her eyes widened. It was the gold necklace she made to hold the fire ruby that Spike gave her, with the fire ruby still in it. Rarity just stared at the necklace for a few seconds, “Spikey-Wikey,” she shook her head, then smiled, “He is so selfless,” The white unicorn continued to look through her dresses and found a sky blue dress with white accents, “This one is perfect,”

Pinkie Pie was sprinting around, putting all the party food out on the tables.

“Uh… Pinkie, your friends will be here any minute,” Mrs. Cake said, looking at the clock. Pinkie skidded to a stop and smiled.

“I know, Mrs. Cake, I’m trying to get all the food out as quickly as possible,” The pink pony started sprinting around again, unaware of what Mrs. Cake was implying, the light blue pony sighed.

“Pinkie! What about the decor?” Pinkie put the last of the food on the table,

“Don’t worry, Mrs. Cake, I have my party cannon for that,” The pink pony pulled out a cannon out of nowhere and lit it. Mrs. Cake closed her eyes and shielded herself with her hoof when Pinkie set off her cannon, but after she opened her eyes, she saw the whole place was now decorated, but what was strange was that there was no party cannon afterwards.

Seconds went by before the first guests arrived, Princess Celestia and Princess Luna. Pinkie ran over and greeted both princesses.

“Princess Celestia and the bride-to-be, welcome,”

“Thank you for the party, Pinkie,” Luna smiled.

“Well, duh… how could I not throw a party when the best princess of the night and my favourite dragon friend are getting married?" Both Princesses smiled, “Ooh, Luna, do you want to know something exciting?”

“Most definitely!” Luna beamed.

“Spike doesn’t know, I’ve invited you, he’s going to be SO HAPPY!!!”

“This is going to be fun,” Celestia said, nudging her sister.

“Please come in and have some food,” Pinkie said, moving out of the way so both princesses could get by.

“Thank you, again Pinkie,” Luna said, making her way in with Celestia next to her.

“You’re welcome,” Pinkie beamed.

“Howdy y’all,” Applejack said, walking through, Pinkie rushed over.

“Hey Applejack,” then Pinkie saw Applejack was holding a plate covered in tinfoil, “Ooo, whatcha got there?” the pink pony sniffed, "Whatever it is, it smells good,” Applejack smiled.

“I made a few Apple Turnovers for the party,” Applejack lifted the tinfoil slightly so Pinkie could see.

“They look delicious! Thank you Applejack, please come in, the bride-to-be is already here,” Applejack looked behind Pinkie to see both Princess Celestia and Princess Luna.

“Howdy Princesses!” Pinkie stopped Applejack just as she was about to walk in.

“Hey Applejack, do you wanna know the best part?” Applejack was curious about why the pink pony was more excited than usual (and that was saying something).

“What?”

“Spike doesn’t know Luna is coming!” Applejack smiled.

“Well, he is definitely going to be surprised,” Pinkie let Applejack by and the orange pony put the plate she was holding on the table and started speaking to the princesses

Pinkie was about to join when she saw something out of the corner of her eye, she turned around and saw her next guests arriving.

“Hey Dashie, Hey Fluttershy,”

“Hey Pinkie,” Rainbow Dash responded.

“Hi Pinkie,” Fluttershy said afterwards.

“The Princesses and Applejack are already here, come in and join them,”

“Thank you, Pinkie,” Rainbow Dash went over and said hello to everypony.

“Thank you, Pinkie, this place looks lovely,” Fluttershy said, admiring the decor.

“You can thank my trusted party cannon,” Pinkie again pulls out her cannon from nowhere.

“Thank you, party cannon,” Fluttershy said as a joke. Both Pinkie and Fluttershy laughed before they went over and joined everypony, that’s when Pinkie realised nopony was eating.

“Everypony, you don’t need to wait, please enjoy the food,”

“Thank you, Pinkie,” Rainbow Dash said, before picking up a cupcake.

A few moments passed, before Rarity walked in, still very nervous about what the girls might say. Pinkie bounced over to the white unicorn.

“Hey Rarity! Please come in and join us!” Pinkie had a massive smile on her face.

’This doesn’t seem like it’s going to be too bad, but Pinkie is like that’

Pinkie and Rarity walked over to everypony.

“Hey everypony,” Rarity said, as she approached the group.

“Howdy Rarity,” Applejack greeted.

“Ooo, Rarity, your dress looks lovely,” Fluttershy complimented

“Thank you, Fluttershy,” Rarity smiled.

“Pinkie… Applejack, Celestia, and Luna told me that Spike doesn’t know that Luna’s coming, is that true?” Rainbow Dash asked. Pinkie beamed.

“YES! I changed the time on Twilight and Spike’s invitation, so they would come after everypony else. He is going to be so surprised when he sees Luna!” Pinkie bounced up and down in excitement.

“Wait! So you’re telling me… Twilight doesn’t know?” Pinkie stopped bouncing.

“I guess not,” Pinkie gasped, “That means she’s going to be surprised too,” Pinkie continued bouncing. Everypony was thinking about how Twilight might feel about being ‘late’.

“Uhh… maybe you should explain to her why, when she gets here,” Fluttershy suggested. Pinkie stopped bouncing.

“Good idea, Fluttershy, she might wonder why everypony is here and why some snacks have already been eaten when she arrives.”

“Hey everypony, do you think I should hide?” Luna suggested. Pinkie gasped in excitement.

“And surprise Spike, that is such a fun idea, where should we hide you?” Pinkie started looking around.

“Behind the counter?” Applejack suggested.

“That’s not a bad idea, Applejack,” Rainbow Dash agreed. Luna made her way behind the counter.

“Wouldn't it be suspicious if I’m here without Luna?” Celestia questioned.

“Hmm… you do have a point,”

“Then they both hide behind the counter!” Pinkie beamed.

Luna and Celestia exchanged glances, smiled, and then Celestia moved behind the counter as both princesses crouched down, taking care to conceal their flowing manes.

“Perfect!” Pinkie said excitedly. Then Applejack tapped Pinkie on the shoulder.

“And just in time too,” the orange had noticed Twilight and Spike coming towards the entrance. “Right, we’ll stall Spike while you tell Twilight what’s going on, okay?” Pinkie nodded.

“Hello, oh everypony is already here,” Twilight said, puzzled.

“Hey Spike, congratulations!” Rainbow Dash called.

“Hey Rainbow, thank you,” both Spike and Twilight went over to join the others, but Pinkie stopped Twilight.

“What’s up, Pinkie?” Twilight asked, confused as to why the pink pony was not letting her by.

“I had you bring Spike later because I invited Luna as a surprise, so she and Celestia are hiding behind the counter,” Twilight smiled.

“Oh my goodness, Pinkie, he’s going to be so happy, thank you,” Pinkie smiled, and then both ponies went over and joined the rest of the group.

“Congrats, Spike,” Applejack smiled at Spike.

“Thank you, Applejack, thank you, everypony,” Spike said gratefully.

“I’m truly happy for you, Spike,” Rarity said softly. Spike turned around to face Rarity.

“Thank you, Rarity, and thank you for coming,” Rarity smiled.

“You’re welcome,” Spike smiled, but it wasn’t full.

“Is something wrong, Spike?” asked Twilight

“No, I love the fact that we’re all here together, it’s just I’m starting to miss Luna,”

“Well, we can’t have that, I simply won’t allow it,” Luna said, getting out from underneath the counter, smiling. Spike looked around and felt shocked, but also happy.

“Hey Spike, look who I invited!” Pinkie exclaimed excitedly. Upon hearing this, Celestia also stood up, but Spike’s attention was solely on Luna. Spike ran over to the princess of the night and embraced her, while also giving her a couple of kisses.

“Luna! I can’t believe you’re here! I missed you!”

“I miss you too, Spike,” they just embraced each other.

“Uhh, guys, not to ruin the moment, but isn’t this supposed to be a party?” Rainbow Dash asked.

“Oh, right,” Spike said, letting go of Luna and letting the princesses get out from behind the counter.

“Let’s get this party started,” Pinkie said, putting some music on.

Chapter 1 - The Argument

“Wait...what!?” Spike said in shock.

“I am sorry Spike, I never meant to hurt you”. Rarity stood there with tears in her eyes, trying so hard to calm the young dragon down.

“Hurt me!? You led me on! You knew EXACTLY how I felt about you!”. Rarity flinched.

“I thought it was a harmless little crush”, Spike was taken aback by Rarity's assumption. He couldn't believe what he was hearing, he thought Rarity finally felt the same way.

“Rarity! You led me on!”

“Spike! I wanted to show you what a relationship entailed. As I said, I thought it was a crush, I had no idea it would come to this”. Rarity responded holding her tears back.

“What the actual hell!? That is the most ridiculous thing I've heard in my life!!”. Spike was so angry, he couldn't even think straight, all he knew was that he had to get out of that boutique. Spike took a deep breath and headed for the door.

“I have to go”, Rarity ran after him.

“Spike! Wait!”

“No, Rarity! With time I may be able to forgive you, but I will never forget how you truly feel about me”. Spike placed his claw on the handle.

“You don't have to worry about me any longer, Rarity, I'll stop bothering you and move on”. Rarity gasped. “Spik---”. Spike turned around and cut her off.

“So thank you for making it easier! See you around, Rarity”. Spike pulled down the handle and left the boutique before Rarity could say another word. Rarity couldn't move, she could only let her tears roll down her face and let out a little whisper.

“My Spikey-Wikey... I'm sorry”.

Spike walked towards the castle and didn't even think of looking back.

When Spike got to the castle he decided not to go in, instead, he decided to sit outside the front door and look at the stars. As he was looking up, he noticed two stars in particular. A few seconds passed by and the stars started to take the form of the sparkle in Rarity's eyes. Spike quickly snapped out of his daydream and shook his head.

“No! I have to forget about her!”. Spike said to himself. It wasn't long before the cold, night air managed to get underneath Spike's scales and he had to go inside. As he walked in he went straight to his bedroom, and as his head hit the pillow.

“Spike!! Is that you!?”. Spike groaned as he didn't want to talk to anyone.

“Yeah, Twilight, it's me!”. Spike reluctantly responded. Twilight walked into Spike's bedroom.

“Did you have a lovely time at Rarity's?”. Twilight asked with a smile on her face. Spike didn't want to talk let alone answer questions, so he responded simply.

“Yeah, it was great!”. Spike tried his best to smile. Twilight noticed the young dragon's weak smile and tilted her head slightly.

“Are you sure? You seem down. Has something happened?” Twilight questioned.

“No, nothing has happened, sorry Twilight, I am just tired”. Spike lied as he got into his bed. Twilight smiled and made her way out of Spike's bedroom.

“Okay, goodnight Spike”

“Goodnight, Twilight”. After Twilight shut the door, Spike rolled onto his back and stared at the ceiling. The night's events kept running through his head. Eventually, he couldn't take it any longer and he started to quietly cry.

“How could I be so stupid?”. Spike whispered to himself.

Spike cried until no more tears would fall and he fell asleep after he managed to stop sniffling.

Chapter 5 - An Explanation With A Royal Invitation

Spike stood outside the castle, trying to mentally prepare himself for a 'royal' outburst. He gently pushed one of the castle doors open, and to his surprise, it didn't squeak.

"Huh? Twilight must've oiled these doors", Spike said to himself. Then a voice came from the other room.

"I didn't have to, there's a spell for that", Twilight came out of the room, with an annoyed look. Spike was about to explain himself, but then he remembered he's not supposed to know, and he made a promise to Rarity.

"Hey Twilight, are you okay? You seem annoyed", Spike said pretending to be clueless. Twilight walked over to Spike.

"Rarity popped by to see you today," Twilight said glaring down at the dragon. Spike inconspicuously gulped.

"Oh, uhh... did she? Did you tell her I went for a walk?" Spike said trying to not look worried.

"Yeah, she came to apologise about last night's events", Twilight was waiting for Spike to say something when she realised he wasn't going to, so she continued,

"Is there something you want to tell me, Spike?", Twilight asked getting more annoyed at the dragon's silence. The young dragon sighed.

"Okay, Twilight, the truth is Rarity and I, aren't together anymore, she explained that she was only going out with me because she didn't think I knew that there's more to a relationship than just, well, you know, the honeymoon phase", Spike looked down to the floor. Twilight's expression went from annoyed to sympathetic.

"I know, Spike, Rarity told me, but it would've been better to hear it from you first, why didn't you tell me?", Twilight asked. Spike looked up at Twilight and saw she wasn't annoyed anymore.

"I'm sorry, Twilight, I promise I was going to tell you, but I just wasn't ready last night, it hurt too much", Spike explained. Twilight gave Spike a sympathetic smile.

"It's okay, Spike, I understand, I'm sorry for my little outburst, and thank you for telling me", Spike managed to make himself smile a little. Twilight cleared her throat.

"Well, I'm going to get back to that book, you have no chores that need to be done, so feel free to relax".

"Thanks, Twilight", after they both smiled Twilight went into the other room and Spike went to his bedroom.

Spike walked into his bedroom and shut the door. After he led down on his bed, it wasn't long before he fell asleep.

----------Spike's Dream----------

"Huh? Where am I?", Spike said out loud, while looking around. After realising where he was, he suddenly became scared and confused.

"How did I end up in the Everfree Forest?", Spike tried to keep calm.

"It's okay, Spike, you've been here before, so you should be able to find your way out", Spike looked around one more time, found a path and started to follow it.

Spike started to hum a tune to try and distract himself from his scary thoughts. All of a sudden he heard a roar from behind him, he turned around to see a manticore running towards him. Spike yelled and started sprinting.

"GAAH! Where did that come from!?", as Spike looked behind to see how close the manticore was, he tripped over a log and fell face-first on the ground, he quickly turned over on his back and saw the manticore, close and approaching him slowly. Spike panicked and started kicking his legs until he felt his back hit a tree. As the manticore approached it slowly started to glow into a blinding light, Spike shielded his eyes and when he managed to open his eyes again, instead of seeing a manticore, he saw Princess Luna.

"Luna! Boy, am I glad to see you", Spike said finally managing to get up.

"Likewise, Spike", Luna smiled.

"Thank you for saving me, but what are you doing in the Everfree Forest?", Spike asked.

"You're welcome, Spike, I assure you, you are safe, also it is my duty to enter other's dreams", Luna explained.

"Wait, I'm dreaming?", Spike asked while looking at himself.

"Yes, this is a dream", Luna saw that Spike wasn't too happy.

"Is everything okay, Spike?", Luna asked. Spike looked up to see a concerned alicorn.

"Yeah, I guess", Spike sighed, Luna wasn't convinced.

"Spike, you can talk to me, remember how we used to talk before you moved to Ponyville"

"Oh yeah! I miss those", suddenly Spike could feel himself waking up.

"You're more than welcome to come to Canterlot, Spike", Luna said as she and everything around her started to fade.

----------End Of Spike's Dream----------

Spike woke up, remembering what Luna said.

"Maybe I should go to Canterlot", Spike thought out loud.

Chapter 22 - I Don't Care Who Knows

Luna was running around Ponyville with her mind racing, 'Is it because I told him not to tell anyone? Does he think I'm embarrassed by him? I'm not! What have I done? Come on Luna, Spike said he loves you, he wouldn't do this, he wouldn't hurt you' Luna took a deep breath, but it didn't work 'I just need to find him!'.

"I never meant to hurt you", Spike said softly.

"I know, I was just surprised, you felt that way for a long time, I never thought of the possibility of you moving on", Rarity replied, staring down at the pond, "I never meant to hurt you either", Rarity said after a moment of silence.

"I know, but I started to believe that there was no possibility of you feeling the same way", Spike said looking at Rarity's reflection, the white unicorn noticed at looked at Spike's reflection. There were a few minutes of silence before one of them spoke, "the picnic was lovely, by the way". Rarity looked at the basket.

"We haven't really touched it have we", Rarity said noticing only around three to four sandwiches had been eaten. Spike looked at Rarity.

"I think we both understand why", Rarity looked at Spike, then looked down at the pond.

"...yeah"

"Well, I think it'll be best if we head off now", Rarity said standing up. Spike also stood up.

"Maybe you're right, I'll leave first this time", Spike said making his way out of his special place, before leaving completely he turned around and saw Rarity with a defeated look, he didn't feel the same way, but it still hurt him to see her like this, but eventually he turned back around and left.

"Goodbye, Spike", Rarity said softly, holding her tears back. Spike was out near the entrance of his special he let out a big sigh.

"Why now?", Spike asked himself out loud

"SPIKE!!!", Spike jumped at the sudden outburst of somepony calling his name, he looked around and saw Luna running towards him.

"Luna?", Spike couldn't believe his eyes. Luna finally reached Spike and gave him a massive hug which Spike returned.

"Spike, I'm so glad I found you, I missed you so much", Luna released Spike from her embrace.

"I missed you too, what are you doing here?", Spike asked excitedly.

"I came to tell you something, then Twilight you were on a date with Rarity, so I've been all over Ponyville looking for you hoping it wasn't true", Luna said relieved.

"I was with Rarity, we were just having one of our weekly picnics early since I missed the last one, it wasn't a date, why would Twilight assume it was a date?", Spike explained

"I'm so glad it wasn't true", Luna could finally let her mind rest.

"Why would it be? I love you, I'd love to take you on a date though", Spike smiled, "So what did you come to tell me?", Spike asked remembering what Luna said.

"Oh right! I just wanted to tell you that I told my sister about us and that I'm proud to be your special somepony, and I don't care who knows" before Spike could say anything Luna's lips met his.

"Spike? Luna?", Rarity came out of the entrance of Spike's Solitude, and couldn't believe what she was seeing.

Chapter 28 - Does He Love Me?

There was a moment of silence while Spike and Rarity were walking. The young dragon didn’t seem to mind, but it slightly bothered Rarity.

“So, are we heading to Spike’s solitude?” Rarity asked. Spike looked up at her.

“Where else would we go?” Spike asked, confused.

“Of course, I was just checking,” Rarity said with a nervous laugh.

Once they reached the entrance, they made sure no one was looking and made their way down to the area they usually have their picnic.

“This is so lovely,” Rarity said, sitting down, forgetting a beautiful ‘Spike’s Solitude’ was.

“Yeah, it’s been a while since you’ve been here,” Spike said, looking around.

“Spike... can I ask you something?” Rarity asked nervously.

“Of course, what’s up, Rarity?” Spike said, smiling.

“Did you really miss me?” Spike’s smile changed to a confused look.

“Why would you ask that? Of course I missed you,” Rarity smiled, but it didn’t last long. “You know you’re special to me,” Spike said with a warm smile.

“I am?” Rarity asked, confused.

“Of course, I thought you knew that,” Rarity smiled and she couldn’t stop.

“That warms my heart, Spike, thank you,” Spike and Rarity just smiled at each other for a second.

“Shall we eat?” Spike’s question brought Rarity out of her daze.

“Oh yes, of course, I packed something special for you,” Spike got excited.

“Oooh, is it ruby and cucumber sandwiches?” Spike said half joking, but also wishing he was right.

“Not quite, it’s sapphire and cucumber sandwiches!” Rarity said, pulling them out of the basket and showing them to Spike.

“Sapphire!? That’s better than rubies! Rarity you shouldn’t have gone through so much trouble, I know how hard these are to find, also you love using sapphires with your dresses,” Rarity waved a hoof at Spike.

“Meeting up with you again is a very special occasion and calls for the finest feast,” Rarity said with a chuckle, which made Spike do the same.

“I have missed this so much, I love spending time with you,” Spike said, smiling.

“Me too, you’re very special to me,” Rarity said, also smiling.

“As are you, to me, Rarity,” Rarity opened her arms for a hug, which Spike accepted. It didn’t last long, but Rarity didn’t mind. She was with Spike, that’s all that mattered. Rarity looked at Spike.

The way he is looking at me, is it like before?

Spike looked at Rarity, confused, but Rarity didn’t notice Spike’s expression had changed.

He said I’m special to him

He’s so happy to see me

He must love me again

And I still love him

Rarity lent in and locked lips with Spike, but felt a firm push which broke the kiss.

“RARITY! WHAT THE HELL!?” Spike wiped his lips with his claws, “I CAN’T BELIEVE YOU JUST DID THAT!” Spike stood up, “This picnic is over,” Spike walked away.

“Spike! WAIT!” Rarity went after him.