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             My Little Pony Tales Next Chapter             
                   -by Snugglewarmscale-                   
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                         Chapter 1                         
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Chapter 1
Teddy felt very nervous as he sat in the waiting room of Ponyville hospital. He tapped his right hoof rapidly as he waited for the doctor to return. Across from him sat Sweetheart's parents. Sweethearts father was trying to comfort her mother. He looked nervously at the two. He immediately looked away the moment Mr. Heart glared at him.
He looked at the entrance to the ER praying. “Please, be okay Sweetheart.” The poor colt was on the verge of tears as he prayed again. “Please, be okay.”
Earlier that day at school Sweetheart had lost consciousness in the school cafeteria. She just fell to the floor. Her close friends and a few other shocked classmates surrounded her. They tried to wake her up. But, nothing was working. A few classmates thought she had just died right there. Thankfully, she had not passed on. Teddy was by her the whole time as he waited for the ambulance. The teachers tried to move him away as they had with the others. But, he stood beside her. When the medics got her in the ambulance. He didn't care how much trouble he got in. He rode with her in the vehicle.
The door to the ER swung open; catching their attention. Sweetheart's parents quickly walked up to the doctor. Teddy watched as they asked about her condition. He noticed that they were completely focused on the doctor. He looked at them and then at the doors. He repeated the movement a couple of times; before he got up and quickly walked towards the doors. He quickly pushed them open and walked into the ER. He saw the nurses' station and quickly approached it.
A nurse noticed him and asked. “Can I help you?”
He asked as calmly as he could. “Can you tell me where Sweetheart is, please?
She replied. “One moment.” She turned to her computer and began searching for the patient. As she did Teddy looked back at the doors. He hoped that she would find her room quickly before they walked in. He heard her say. “She is in room three zero nine.” He quickly took off towards the room. He didn't even hear her say. “But, she's not clear for visitors.”
He passed many rooms before he found hers. He looked at her through a clear glass window. She was resting peacefully in the bed; an IV machine hooked to one of her arms. Again the young colt wanted to cry. He looked over both of his shoulders again. Noticing the coast was clear for the moment. He walked to the door and gently opened it. He gently walked into the room and up to her bed.
He reached a hoof out to gently hold one of hers as he gently spoke. “Sweetheart.”
He gasped as he was suddenly grabbed from behind and dragged out of the room. Before he could say anything; he was pressed against a wall. He looked up just to see the glare of Sweetheart's father. The stallion looked like he was ready to kill him. His wife tried to pull him away. But, he was ready to deal with this colt.
The doctor approached the two and place a gentle hoof on the father. He spoke in a calming voice. “Mr. Heart, I know you're angry but now is not the time.” The doctor felt the stallion's glare fall on him. But, it did not deter him in the slightest. He continued. “Your daughter needs you.”
Mr. Heart glared at him for a few more seconds before sighing heavily. He then let go of Teddy but not before saying. “You are not allowed anywhere near my daughter. Understood!?”
Teddy nodded and dare not speak to him. Her parents and the doctor then entered the room. Slowly, Teddy sunk to the floor and sat there with his head down. He pulled his arms and legs in and hid his face. He cried into them; he cried his anger and his worry into them. He jumped as a gentle hoof touched his shoulder. He looked to see who was touching him.
A nurse asked him. “Are you okay?”
Teddy wanted to say yes. But, he had no more fight in him. He sighed and answered truthfully, “No.” He looked down at the floor; trying to hide the tear stains on his face.
The nurse sat next to him before asking. “Are you visiting someone?” He nodded and motioned towards the door to the room. She looked and sighed gratefully. She was taking care of the young mare in the room. She looked at him again; he was sad which was a dead giveaway. But, by the way, he looked; this was more of a worrying sadness rather than knowing. And, if he knew what she knew there was a good chance he was going to bolt. She had a good idea of what was about to happen. But, she asked anyway. “So, do you know?”
Teddy looked at her with a sad gaze and asked. “Do I know what?”
She motioned towards the door and answered. “About her current condition.” She asked him. “Do you know about it?”
Teddy wanted to shake his head. But, deep down he knew what was wrong with Sweetheart. He knew the from the moment she had fainted. He nodded and asked. “Is she?”
The nurse gave him a few points; most stallions his age would already be out the door and trying to hide. She looked at him with a serious looked and nodded before answering. “She is.”
He felt nervous under her gaze; a moment ago she was caring. Now she looked like she wanted to kill him. But, it didn't compare to how he felt just moments ago. He took in a deep breath and asked. “Two or Three months?”
Again the young stallion surprised her. His guess was a really good one; that meant one of two things. The two knew what they were doing or they were being safe and an “accident” had happened. She guessed the latter before answering. “Three months.” She then asked. “How do you feel?”
Teddy answered bluntly. “If I am going, to be honest. I feel like I'm going to throw up and I feel like a piece of shit.” He quickly apologized. “Sorry for my language. But, knowing that I had something to do with this.”
She nodded before adding. “Both of you did so it's not all on you.” She stood up and looked into the room. She saw the doctor walking to the door. She looked at him and motioned for him to stand up.
The doctor poked his head out of the room. The two looked at him while he focused on Teddy. He spoke to him. “She wants you.”
Teddy didn't need to be told twice. He quickly walked back into the room. He felt the glare of her father on him. But, he didn't care. All he cared about was the mare that was in the bed. The mare looked at him with a sad look. A look that all but shattered his heart. He stood on the opposite side of the bed.
Sweetheart called his name. “Teddy.” She reached out for him for a hug.
He replied. “Sweetheart.” He didn't care how close her father was; he reached down and hugged her.
Before Mr. Heart could do anything he felt a hoof grasp his shoulder. He turned and glared at the doctor, but it had little effect on him. The doctor had seen many things in his career. Things that most ponies would have nightmares over. But, he was not about to tolerate violence in this hospital. He knew this father wanted to tear the colt's head off. After all, he said it three times before they noticed he was missing. But, the moment he heard his patient cry out for said colt. Like any good doctor, he was going to provide responsible care to his patient. Either through medicine or the comfort of social interaction. Mr. Heart sighed as he backed down.
Teddy apologized to her. “I'm sorry, Sweetheart.” He tightened his hug on her a little.
Sweetheart replied. “Don't be.” She tried her best to fight back the tears. “We knew this could possibly happen.”
It was silent after the two had their small reunion. The doctor broke the silence with a cough to get everyone's attention. He confirmed to everyone in the room that Sweetheart was indeed pregnant. And, everyone pretty much knew Teddy was the father of the foal. Before any more could be said he wanted the answer to one question. How far along was she? Before he had to chase the parents to his patients' room. He had called for an ultrasound machine to be brought to the room. It didn't take long for a nurse to wheel the machine in.
He looked at the group and said. “I know all of you are going through a lot right now. But, I must ask you all to leave the room. I'll-.”
Sweetheart cut him off saying. “I want Teddy to stay.” Everyone in the room looked at her. She repeated. “Please, I want Teddy to stay.”
Her father wanted to tell her no, but the moment he saw the pleading look in her eyes. His resolve seemed to waiver a little. It was all but brought down when his wife placed a gentle hoof on his shoulder. While she suggested. “Let's just wait a moment outside dear. The doctor just needs a little room to do his work.” He glared once more at the colt just across from him. The colt that had done this to his baby girl. The colt he wouldn't mind putting six feet under himself. He took in a deep breath and slowly exhaled before nodding.
His wife thanked him. “Thank you, love.” The two began to walk out of the room. Before she stepped out into the hallway; she gazed back at her daughter. The machine had been moved closer to the bed and the nurse was applying the gel to her abdomen. She couldn't help but chuckle at the look on her daughter's face. She commented under her breath. “Still cold even after all this time.” She chuckled again before joining her husband in the hall.
To say Teddy was nervous was an understatement. The doctor gently moved the transducer- also known as a probe- over Sweethearts stomach. He held her hoof as they waited for the machine to see their child. The doctor eventually stopped his movements and seemed to focus on something. He moved the probe slightly.
He then said. “Okay,” He smiled as he looked at the parents-to-be. He turned the screen towards them; before he pointed at what appeared the be a small white dot on the screen. He spoke happily. “That right there.”
Sweetheart asked. “Is our baby?”
The doctor looked at her and smiled; her voice sounded both scared and happy. But, he had to correct her. He answered. “Babies.” Both he and the nurse nearly burst into a fit of laughter when they saw the looks of shock.
Sweetheart asked her voice barely above a whisper. “Twins?” The nurse and doctor nodded before she asked again. “I'm pregnant with twins?”
Teddy could feel the world around him fading. He looked at Sweetheart who appeared to either be talking to the nurse or the doctor. His gaze was glued to the screen. A screen that showed the image of his children. He gasped as a gentle hoof was placed on his shoulder. He turned to see who had grabbed him and saw the happy face of Sweetheart. Although she was crying he knew she was happy. He felt his own tears welling in his eyes. He tried to hold it back, but eventually, the tears started to fall. And, then the two hugged each other.
Both Mr. and Mrs. Heart waited patiently out in the hallway. Although it had only been a few minutes; for both of them, the minutes felt like hours. Mrs. Heart watched as her husband continued to pace back and forth. She swore he was going to wear a trench into the floor. But, she really couldn't blame him. Since they had known Teddy; they knew their daughter had a slight attraction to him. She still couldn't believe this was happening. It felt like they had just celebrated their Sweetheart's tenth birthday just yesterday. And, now here she was sixteen and pregnant. They had read stories like this in the local papers and heard about it in the news. But, neither of them thought that one of their children would experience this.
She caught sight of someone walking out of the room. To her surprise it was Teddy; he was holding something in one of his hooves. Her husband quickly stood beside her. She could feel the glare he was shooting at the colt that was walking up to them. Teddy said nothing to them; instead, he just looked at them before he held out a small folder to them. She took it and opened it. She nearly gasped as her eyes focused on the sonograms in front of her. Her husbands' attention was also grabbed by the images. Although, they couldn't believe that their family was going through this. The images of their first grandchild still filled them with happiness.
Mrs. Heart still asked. “Is this our grandchild?”
Teddy looked at her with a sad smile before he nodded and said. “Grandchildren.” Both parents' jaws nearly fell to the floor. He suppressed a chuckle as he pointed to the first image. “That's baby A.” He then pointed to the second one. “That's baby B.”
Both adults stared at the images before them; their daughter was pregnant with twins. Mrs. Heart had to resist the urge to scream out. While Mr. Heart was as still as a statue. It was a rather awkward moment in the hall. There was surprisingly little to no noise also.
After a few minutes had passed; Mr. Heart looked at his wife and said. “Dear, go be with our daughter.” His wife nodded and entered the room. He then looked at the colt and said calmly. “You walk with me.”
Teddy simply replied. “Yes, sir.”
Mr. Heart led him outside the hospital and to a nearby gas station. Normally any colt would be wondering what was about to happen. But, Teddy, was only worried about his mare-friend. A million thoughts raced through his mind. She already said she wanted to keep them. And, long ago when it all happened. He promised to stand by her no matter the outcome. He loved her. When they reached the gas station Mr. Heart told him to wait outside. He didn't protest or even try to run. He only sat down at one of the tables the station had set up.
He spoke to himself. “I'm so sorry, Sweetheart.” He felt terrible; not because they had been caught. But, because he mostly blamed himself for this. They were always warned, “It only takes one time.”. They were told how to prevent it by either not giving in or by being “safe”. But, even though they were “safe”. It still happened; Sweetheart was pregnant and they were going to be parents. He hid his face behind his hooves as the thoughts raced around his mind.
Mr. Heart called out to him. “Hey.”
Teddy sat up and looked at Mr. Heart. Who held out a bottle of root beer to him. Teddy looked at him and the drink. Mr. Heart just motioned for him to take it. He cautiously reached out and accepted the drink. Thanking him. “Thank you, sir.”. Mr. Heart only grunted as he sat down in the chair next to the colt. He had also gotten himself a drink- bottled tea- but he had also purchased himself a single cigarette.
Before he lit the cancer stick he looked at Teddy and said. “Stallion to Stallion. Don't tell my wife.” Teddy could only nod as he watched him light the cigarette. Before Teddy could say anything Mr. Heart spoke. “I gave up smoking as soon as I heard my wife was pregnant with Sweetheart.” He exhaled the smoke; making sure not to blow any towards the young stallion in front of him. He continued. “I made myself this promise. When I married I never smoked in the house or in front of my wife. If we were to have foals; I would give up smoking altogether.” He paused again to take another puff. He continued. “I also promised that if any punk colt got my daughter pregnant. I'd kill them.” He looked at Teddy and asked. “So, do you know what I'm gonna do, boy?”
Teddy was on the verge of a breakdown; he had the urge to run away. But, he didn't want to. He wanted to stay; to be with Sweetheart. He answered in a calm voice. “Whatever you want.” He closed his eyes and added. “I won't deny it.”
For a moment there was silence; broken only by the sound of the occasional passing car. The shocking moment was when Teddy felt a gentle hoof on his shoulder. And, then Mr. Heart saying. “I want to give you some words of advice.” Teddy looked at him and he finished. “Never start smoking. The nicotine withdrawals are hell. Plus, you'll spend a hundred dollars on cigarettes within the first week.” He then added. “This.” He motioned towards the cigarette. “Is just because of the current situation.” He then finished the last bit of it and crushed it out in the tray.
Teddy was beyond shocked; before he could say anything. Mr. Heart spoke. “I am very angry at you.” Teddy closed his mouth as the stallion continued. “I want to strangle you and I want to bury you alive.” He looked at him and continued. “But, certain words have been said and now I have two more reasons to never start smoking again.” He then explained. “Sweetheart, my baby girl. I heard when she said that “This was probably gonna happen.”. I'm curious as to why my daughter would say that. So, I'm going to ask you this. Stallion to Stallion.” There was a brief moment of silence before he asked. “How did this happen?”
Teddy knew what he meant and with a sigh, he answered. “It was an accident.” He quickly explained. “I don't mean as “we were being stupid. Thinking we'd be fine.” accident. We were being careful.” He added. “I was being careful.”
Mr. Heart questioned. “You?”
Teddy nodded and explained. “In school; all the boys and girls were separated into two groups.” He paused as Mr. Heart held one of his hooves up.
He then said. “I had the same class when I was in school. And, I have three kids.”
Teddy nodded and spoke again. “Well, after the class was over and after some really awkward tutoring sessions.” He quickly commented. “Sweetheart's really smart by the way. She helped me get my math grade up.”
Mr. Heart thanked him. “Thank you.” He then said. “But, don't try and change the subject.”
Teddy nodded and continued. “It wasn't until one of Lancer's parties.” He sighed as he shook his head. “It wasn't until then we really started seeing a different side of each other.” Teddy was getting more embarrassed and worried by the minute. Here he was talking to his mare-friends father about the events that lead up to the “accident.”. He wanted to stop but he also knew he was on some really thin ice. He continued. “When I was walking her home; we decided to cut through the park.”
Mr. Heart asked. “Why?”
He explained. “It saves about five minutes of walking. Plus, some flowers only bloom at night, and Sweetheart likes them.” Mr. Heart nodded making a mental note of that information for the future. Teddy continued. “That night as we walked together. One thing lead to another and we kissed. But, thankfully we were able to get control of ourselves before going too far.”
Mr. Heart questioned. “So why couldn't control yourselves again? Or at the least yourself.”
Teddy answered. “You're daughter is not only very beautiful Mr. Heart. But, she's also my closest friend.” He looked at him and added. “When we were younger. I was a jerk, a bully, I was a complete brat that everyone at the school hated. But, she stuck by me.” He paused a moment before saying. “Even when I was a complete jerk to her.” He sighed and continued. “As we entered high school; I already had a bad reputation. And, I knew everyone thought I was going to end up in jail. But, she showed them that I changed.” Tears started to form in his eyes again as he continued. “I made mistakes that I can never take back. But, she showed me that even I wasn't a lost cause. She showed them that I could also be a gentle colt. She encouraged both me and them not to give up on me.” When the tear fell he said the three words. “I love her.” He quickly wiped away his tears before he finished. “And, putting her through this was the last thing I wanted to do.”
Mr. Heart felt pride in his daughter. To hear this young stallion speak so highly of her made him happy. But, the fact of the matter was; his daughter was pregnant. And, it was apparently an “accident” he had to know how. He then said. “Explain.”
Teddy replied. “At first we tried to keep ourselves under control. But, it just kept getting harder and harder.” He saw the look Mr. Heart was giving him; he quickly defended the saying. “I meant no pun and I was not trying to be funny.” He heard Mr. Heart chuckle a little as he shook his head.
Mr. Heart replied. “It's alright.” After a small chuckle fit, he said. “Please, continue.”
Teddy nodded before speaking. “Like I said keeping ourselves under control got a little more difficult.” Mr. Heart nodded in approval of his choice of words. He continued. “And, there were times where we almost went past the point of no return. Although, we were trying to think with our brains. Our hearts wanted to take control.” He paused a moment before he said. “And then we learned how to be safe.”
Mr. Heart asked. “How?”
Teddy answered. “We were at the public library. We were studying for a history test.” He shook his head as he remembered that day. “When we were leaving; we heard the librarian talking with one of her friends. They were talking about “That”.”
Mr. Heart could only shake his head; although he was hoping to hear something else. He was happy that the two didn't learn about it in a lewd way. But, he still didn't like the fact that his daughter eavesdropped. He asked. “Did they talk about condoms?”
Teddy nodded before answering. “Yes.” He explained. “They didn't tell us that in school. They just explained how our bodies would be going through changes. And, how we would find ourselves being more attracted to the opposite sex.”
Mr. Heart commented. “If they're gonna call the class that. Why can't they just explain how to be safe.”
Teddy agreed. “I'm with you on that.” He quickly added. “But, if I'm gonna be honest. I wish I never learned about it. It's just confusing.”
Mr. Heart replied. “I'll give you some points for that.” He then asked. “Did you make my daughter buy those?”
Teddy answered. “No.” He explained. “She was embarrassed enough when we got caught. I was not about to put her through the embarrassment of buying condoms!” He quickly covered his mouth and looked around. He didn't mean to almost yell that last bit.
Mr. Heart nodded and said. “Okay, earned a little respect.” He then added. “I'll commend you for keeping yourself under control for as long as you did. And, for learning how to be safe. But, I have to ask.” He looked the stallion dead in the eyes and asked. “How did this “accident” happen?”
Again it was silent for a moment. Teddy sighed and answered. “When we were doing “it”. The condom broke.”
Mr. Heart pressed one of his hooves against his forehead. He knew what the stallion meant the moment he said the word. But, he had to be sure that was what he did mean. After all, there was another meaning for that word. One that he was slightly hoping to hear; that way he would have a good reason to be spending a few years in jail. But, after hearing all of this and what his daughter had said earlier. They were just hormonally driven teens trying to avoid this. But, fate decided to throw them a wild card.
He sighed before standing up and saying. “Young stallion. I want to make one thing clear to you.” He glared at him. “I want to kill you. And, you know I do.” He watched him nod before he continued. “But, I also know you're telling me the truth. A trait that is not supposed to be surprising. If you had told me anything else or if I had found out you forced her to do this. I'd have already killed you.” He watched him nod again before he continued. “That's why I'm going to say this.” He made sure the stallion was looking him in the eye as he listed two demands. “If you want to be allowed anywhere near my daughter. You have to do two things. One, you're going to tell your mother that she's going to be a grandmother.” Teddy nodded and Mr. Heart told him the second one. “Two, my daughter is not having my grandchildren out of wedlock. You're going to marry her.”
Teddy replied. “Yes, sir.”
Mr. Heart then warned him. “And, If I ever hear that you are trying to talk her into getting an abor-.”
Teddy nearly yelled. “I would rather kill myself before putting Sweetheart through that!” He was ready for a fight now. He glared right back at the stallion as he said. “I would never do that to her. Are we ready to be parents? no. did we want to be parents? no. Would I be like the bastard of a father who left my mother because she wouldn't kill me? Fuck, no!” He panted heavily as everything grew silent again. Tears once again filled his eyes and again he started to cry. He looked down to the ground and shut his eyes. He was so sick of crying now. Especially, since he was now crying about his father not wanting him.
Again he felt a gentle hoof on his shoulder. He looked up and surprisingly saw a caring look from Mr. Heart. It was then Mr. Heart surprised him with a hug. He cautiously returned it before the two broke it. Mr. Heart then motioned him to follow him before saying. “Come on young stallion. You're wife to be may wanna see you now.”
Teddy nodded and followed him back to the hospital. The future may be uncertain for them at the moment. But, he knew one thing. They were going to be parents and they were going to be together. He smiled sadly as he muttered to himself. “Guess our lives are over now.” Or were they just entering the next chapter?

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                         chapter 3                         
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chapter 3
Sweetheart gazed out the car window. She thought about her future; a future with twin foals and Teddy. At first, she was worried, then she was optimistic, and now she was numb to the thought. She honestly didn't know how she felt emotionally. Physically on the other hoof; she was extremely tired. She hadn't slept at all last night. She only rested her body with her eyes closed. Seeing her friends and seeing their reactions gave her a small boost of emotional encouragement. But, it was only a temporary boost. But, out of all this, she was still worried about Teddy. She knew he was okay. She didn't know how or why she felt how he felt. But, she did know he was okay and he was probably a wreck right now. Cars passed them on the street. Various ponies walked on the sidewalk. A few of them caught her eye; it was mares that were either holding their baby or had their child walking beside them.
She asked herself. “Am I ready for this?” She looked away from the window and up at the car's ceiling before asking. “Are we ready for this?”
Mr. Heart gazed at his daughter in the rearview mirror. She looked like she was bored; really he knew what she was going through. She was wondering if she was ready to be a parent. To be a mother. Really, nobody is ready for that responsibility. Nobody is ready to be a parent no matter how much they prepare. He looked at his wife and she looked at him with a sad smile. He smiled back at her before focusing back on the road in front of them. He saw their house and turned to pull into the driveway.
It didn't take long for the family to exit the vehicle and enter their home. Sweetheart was immediately tackled by her younger sisters. Peaches and Sugar asked her many questions. While her youngest, Sweet pea, just hugged her tightly. She chuckled a little as she replied to her sisters' questions and hugged Sweet pea back.
Mrs. Heart told her children. “Girls, please give your sister some space.” They looked at her and she continued. “She's still tired from her stay at the hospital and the doctor says she needs her rest.”
Sweetheart nodded at her mother while mouthing “Thank you.”. Her sisters got the message and started helping her up the stairs to her room. She chuckled again as her sisters helped her climb the stairs. She wasn't that tired but she enjoined making their days.
Mrs. Heart smiled lovingly at her daughters. She loved all of them and she felt a sense of pride seeing them help Sweetheart. As she saw them disappear upstairs; she locked the front door and joined her husband in the kitchen. He sat at the table; a hoof cradling his forehead as he sipped on some bourbon. She walked over and stood next to him; placing a gentle hoof on his shoulder. He looked at her; his voice void of emotion. She then pulled back a chair next to him and sat down. While he stood up and walked over to the cupboards and then to the refrigerator. He then returned to where he sat; only this time he sat a small glass with two ice cubes in front of her.
She told him. “You read my mind.”
He nodded and passed the bottle of bourbon to her. She took it and poured herself a shot. She sat there in silence with him. The two took small sips from their glasses. They didn't want to get drunk but after what their family just went through. Being drunk would probably be a good escape from this reality. They wanted to be angry at the colt that did this. But, at the same time after what her husband had told her. It seemed that Teddy wanted to take responsibility. Like him she had a little respect for him. But, at the same time, she was angry at him.
Mr. Heart asked her. “Are we ready for this love?”
She replied. “I don't even think they are ready for this dear.” She paused to take a sip of her bourbon before she continued. “Then again. Were we ready when we had Sweetheart?”
He shook his head before replying. “No, but we were at least married and we had a home.” His wife nodded before he continued. “Do you think we should convince her to give them up?”
Mrs. Heart looked at her husband; at first, she was shocked but to her shame. She considered suggesting it to Sweetheart at the hospital. But, the way she saw her daughter looking at the pictures of her children. It reminded her of how she felt when she saw her own sonograms. She sighed as she shook her head and said. “No.” She took another sip of her drink before continuing. “She's already going through enough. She doesn't need us adding more fuel to this fire.”
Mr. Heart could only nod as he took another sip. Last night was long and it looked like this day was going to be just as long. He still wanted to kill the colt responsible for this. He wanted to comfort his daughter; but, she still needed her space. He wanted to cry but at the same time, he was not sad. He was just a mess just like his wife.
He asked her. “So what do we do?”
She answered. “We just need to be there for her. That's all we really can do for now.”

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                         chapter 4                         
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chapter 4
Teddy groaned as he reached for his alarm clock; he pressed the button on top of it. The moment the annoying sound stopped he looked back up at the ceiling. He didn't know why he bothered setting an alarm. He hadn't slept at all last night and the night before he hardly got any sleep. He was too worried about Sweetheart. He wondered if she was okay? Was she angry? Was she sad? Did she hate him? He put the thoughts out of his mind as he remembered who he was thinking about. Sweetheart had to be the only pony who didn't know the definition of hate. She was if anything the true definition of love and kindness.
He whispered to himself. “Wish I could talk to her.”
He got out of his bed and walked out of his room and to the bathroom. He took a quick shower and got himself ready for the school day. He walked downstairs and into the kitchen. He made himself a quick breakfast; after he ate he cleaned the dishes he used and headed for the front door. He walked out and gently closed the door behind him. He felt the cool morning air on his body as he walked to the sidewalk. He looked up and smiled sadly as he remember how Sweetheart used to wait for him and they would walk to school together. He shook his head before he turned right. Normally, he would turn left and take the shortcut to school. But, the shortcut would take him right by her home.
As he walked down the sidewalk many thoughts ran through his head. But, there was one thought that he prioritized over the others. He needed to find a job. He knew a few shops in town were hiring part-time. That was good for him since he still had to attend school. But, the question was what job was good for him. He didn't have any skills other than playing soccer. That would mean he would have to learn one from the beginning. And, from what he was hearing most places hiring wanted ponies who were already experienced. So he was most likely not going to get hired any time soon. He groaned in anger as he passed a building. Only to turn around and walk back to the window. He was staring at a help-wanted poster.
He read it. “Help wanted: Both for pizza maker and delivery pony. Payment will be minimum wage. Hours flexible. Experience required: None.” As he finished reading he looked around; thankfully he was in the town square. Allowing him to see the time on the clock of the courthouse. He had another thirty minutes till school started. He smiled knowing he was only ten minutes away. He walked over to the door; thankfully the business was open.
He heard the ringing of a bell as he pushed the door open. The moment he entered; a mare walked from the back of the building. She greeted him with a smile. “Hello, welcome to Giara's.” She then informed him. “I know the sign says we're open. But, we're actually doing prep now and.” She paused once she noticed that the pony that had just walked in was a teenage colt and asked. “Shouldn't you be at the school already young sir?”
Teddy looked at her and replied. “Yes, but I left home early.” He explained. “I've got another Twenty minutes till school starts.” He asked. “I noticed that you're hiring. Is the position filled or can I apply for the job?”
The mare replied. “No, the position is not filled yet.” She then smiled before saying. “And, you're in luck. I'm the manager of the building.” She asked him. “Can you wait a moment please?”
Teddy nodded and she walked back to her office. He didn't have to wait long for her to return with two sheets of paper. One was a job interview sheet; which he patiently filled out. He would ask what each question on the sheet meant and she would happily explain it to him. The other sheet was for a special program they were doing with the school. If the pony was a student at the local school. So long as they kept their grades up in Math, English, and Science. They would allow the student to work for them even during school hours. Although, it discouraged him a little since he was not good at two of them. He straightened himself up and remembered. He wasn't doing this just for himself; he was doing it for three other ponies that were more important to him than anything. He was instructed to take the form to his principal and that he could report for the remainder of the week. But, he had to show proof that his grades were not slipping.
He spoke to himself. “If I'm gonna be able to work this job. I'm gonna need to study harder and I need to make sure I don't just goof off.” He nodded and smiled at the mare as he shook her hoof. Thanking her before heading out of the building and to the school.
As Teddy approached the entrance of the school; he felt nervous. When he reached the doors and pushed them open. He swore the creaking sound they usually made sounded eerier. The hallway was about the same; although the overhead lights were on. They were empty and quiet the only sound heard was his hoofsteps as he walked towards the principles office. He was used to going there. After all, he caused so much trouble for his classmates and the faculty. But, this time it felt like it took longer to get there.
Sweetheart stared up at the ceiling in her room. Her parents were letting her stay home until tomorrow. She was thankful for this; she hardly got any sleep last night. She wanted to see Teddy, but she knew her father still needed to calm down. Her mother was in the same boat as her father. She sighed as she got out of bed. She exited her room and headed for the bathroom. She wasn't feeling the morning sickness yet. But, the nurse warned her it was going to be horrible.
After freshening herself up she started to make her way downstairs. As she reached the stairs and started to walk down to the lower floor. She paused as she reached the middle of the stairs. She could hear voices in the living room. Her parents were talking to someone; she stepped down a little more. She recognized the third voice. It was Teddy's mother.
Mr. Heart asked. “So, your boy told you what happened?”
Mrs. Bear nodded before answering. “Yes.” She sighed before asking. “Are you going to make them give them up?”
At first, it was completely silent; so silent that one could hear the drop of a feather. After a little while, the silence was broken by Mrs. Heart. She answered. “No.” Mrs. Bear seemed to visually calm down. But, her mind was still a tornado of emotions.
Mr. Heart spoke. “At the hospital. Your son and I talked.” Everyone looked at him and he continued. “I will say this Mrs. Bear. Your boy has a very good head on his shoulders. He surprised me and he made me feel more pride in my daughter.” He sat down next to his wife before finishing. “He's a good colt and I believe he may make a fine father to my grand-foals. But, I did tell him she was not having them out of wedlock.”
Mrs. Bear nodded and replied. “I agree.” She sighed before asking. “How do you both feel about becoming Grandparents?”
Both Mr. and Mrs. Heart shook their heads. Mrs. Heart chuckled a little before answering. “I honestly didn't think I'd still be this young.” She chuckled a little more before finishing. “I thought I would have more gray hairs by the time my daughter had children.”
Mr. Heart laughed a little before saying. “You can take some of mine love.”
That caused both mares in the room to laugh. When the laughter died down Mrs. Bear looked towards the stairs. She then called Sweetheart down. “Sweetheart. You can come down all of us know that you're there.”
Sweetheart gasped wondering how they knew she was there listening to them. Slowly, she walked down the last few steps and entered the living room. She was a little nervous; wondering if she was going to be scolded. Instead, her mother motioned for her to join them on the couch. She calmly walked over and sat next to her mother. Mrs. Bear looked at her with a smile.
She greeted her. “Hello, Sweetheart.”
Sweetheart replied. “Hello, Mrs. Bear.”
She giggled a little at the nervousness in the poor teen's voice. She spoke to her. “No need to be nervous. We were just talking about our grand-foals.”
Sweetheart nodded and replied. “I heard.” She looked at her parents; she seemed to be a little hurt. Although she heard them say they weren't; she just wanted to make sure. “You don't want us to give them up?”
Her parents shook their heads before her father answered. “No, baby girl. We don't want you or Teddy to do that.” Her mother wrapped her hooves around her in a gentle hug. He continued. “We're not exactly thrilled about being grandparents this early, but we're also excited. All three of us want to meet our grand-foals.”
Her mother and Mrs. Bear nodded and she smiled. Her mother released her from the hug and the four sat in silence. There was a slight pressure in the air. A pressure only Sweetheart was feeling. She wanted to ask her father a question about Teddy. She wanted to know when she could see him again.
She spoke to her father. “Dad.” She paused a moment before she asked him. “When will I be able to see Teddy?” Her dad didn't answer right away. She knew he wouldn't. But, she needed the question answered. She pleaded with him. “Please, dad. When will I be able to see him again?”
At first, Mr. Heart didn't want to answer; even after the chat with Mrs. Bear. He didn't want that colt anywhere near his family still. But, at the same time, he knew his daughter was hurting. And, after what Mrs. Bear just told them. Before Sweetheart started eavesdropping on their conversation. He knew Teddy was also hurting.
He sighed heavily before answering. “Tomorrow.” He clarified. “You'll be able to see him tomorrow. But, both of us are going to be with you.”
Her mother nodded in agreement; while she smiled at both of them. She hugged her mother before she walked over to her father and hugged him. Whispering to him. “Thanks, dad.” She then kissed his cheek causing him to smile.

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                         chapter 2                         
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chapter 2
The drive back home felt long for Teddy. It wasn't because he had to tell his mom the news. Or that he was riding alone with Mr. Heart. It was the fact that Sweetheart had to stay overnight at the hospital. The doctor did reassure them that it was just to monitor her. And, they sounded confident that she would be released either tomorrow morning or afternoon. Teddy was happy knowing his girlfriend was okay. What he was nervous about was his mother's reaction to the news.
He wondered. “Will she be happy? Will she be upset?” His mind began to flood with questions.
Mr. Heart looked over at the stallion next to him. Poor colt looked like he was filled to the brim with worry. Although, he cared little about his mental state. He could understand his worry. After all, when he and his wife found out they were pregnant with Sweetheart. He was a nervous wreck not only telling his mom and dad but also when they told her parents. He could see his home in the distance. The drive would soon be over and he would be heading back to the hospital. Although the stallion made it clear he wasn't leaving her, and he was not going to make her give up their grand-baby. He still wanted him to stay away from his daughter for a couple of days. Or, at least until he could better resist the urge to strangle him.
The car stopped just in front of the house. Teddy looked over at Mr. Heart and thanked him. “Thank you, sir.” Mr. Heart only nodded but before he could drive away Teddy spoke. “Mr. Heart?”
He looked over and replied. “What?” The stallion may have earned a little respect from him. But, he was still angry.
Teddy, although he was extremely nervous. He asked. “Can you please tell Sweetheart I love her?”
Mr. Heart shot a glare at him; how dare this colt ask him to say that for him. But, his moment of anger died the moment he remembered what was said not too long ago. He stayed quiet for a moment before nodding his head. But, before Teddy could thank him. He said. “I'm still angry with you!” His voice sounded ruff. He continued. “Until I call and tell you. I don't want you near my daughter! Understood!?”
Teddy nodded and sadly complied. “Yes, sir.”
Mr. Heart quickly drove away; the vehicle's wheels screeched slightly from the sudden acceleration. Teddy watched as the vehicle left him there. He sighed heavily before he started walking towards his home. The walk up to the door felt long. He was worried about many things. But, what he was mostly worried about was Sweetheart. He stopped just in front of the welcome mat. He reached down and lifted one of the bottom corners. Underneath it was the key that he used to get into his home. After hiding the key underneath the mat and locking the door. He could hear the sound of hooves approaching. He turned to look just in time to see his mother.
She sighed heavily as she walked up to him. “Teddy.” She hugged him and he hugged her in return. She continued. “I'm so glad you're okay. When Mr. Heart called.”
Teddy held up his hoof causing her to stop talking. He had a serious look on his face; a look mixed with sadness. He spoke calmly. “Mom.” He paused a moment before he continued. “Sweetheart's.” He paused again; he was nervous and he felt like he was going to throw up. The look on her face was both caring and scared. He took in a deep breath and slowly exhaled. He told her. “Sweetheart....she's pregnant.” He hung his head in shame as he finished. “I'm the father.”
For a moment the two stood in the living in silence. The silence was starting to get to Teddy. The silence at the hospital, during the drive home, and now here with his mother. He just wished someone was yelling at him. That, someone, was chewing him out or just making some sort of noise.
His mother backed away from him; she was shocked to her very core. She looked at him with a look pleading for him to say it was a prank. To tell her this was just some sick prank. But, the way he looked at her said it all. Teddy couldn't take the silence anymore. He turned and quickly walked out of the house. The moment his hooves hit concrete he started running. He wasn't running away from his problems. He just wanted to get away from the damned silence. The silence that chased him from the hospital to his home.
Sweetheart slowly opened her eyes; at first, everything was blurry. But, after a few blinks, her vision cleared. She saw the ceiling of the hospital room she was in. She turned her head and looked at the IV hooked into her. She turned her head to look at her abdomen. She gently rubbed it; her mind still filled with wonder. She was pregnant with twins. She and Teddy were going to be parents.
She spoke in a soft voice. “Teddy.”
She turned towards the window and looked out it. Although she could only see the sky; she knew he was going through a lot of emotions. She knew he was blaming himself for all of this. She sighed as she turned and looked back at the ceiling. She knew the seriousness of the can of worms they just opened. But, at the same time, she felt excited. She turned to look out the window again. She felt a sense of dread and great worry. Along with it, she felt like she had just run a very long marathon.
She called out in worry. “Teddy?” She didn't know how she was feeling what he was. But, right now he was completely burnt out and exhausted. She didn't know where he was but she prayed that he was okay.
Teddy panted heavily as he lay on the ground. He had run from his home to some random destination. He didn't have any idea where he ran. He didn't even bother to focus on anything in front of him. He only wanted to get away from the silence. His heart hammered inside his chest. His lungs ached with every breath he breathed in and out. His muscles were sore. He was completely exhausted. But, all of that didn't compare to how he felt. Slowly, he turned himself and lay on his back. He stared up at the sky hoping to get some kind of answer.
He felt the wind cool his body; sighing heavily as he closed his eyes. He tried to forget how he was feeling. He began to wonder how Sweetheart felt. He assumed that she was scared and angry when he arrived at the hospital. But, the way she hugged him and how she spoke to him. He shook his head; that was so much like her. Worrying about others before worrying about herself. He opened his eyes again and looked at the sky. Watching clouds be moved by the wind. The thought of being a father was on his mind now. He didn't know how to feel about that information. He felt scared; scared that he wouldn't be good enough for them. After all his father didn't exactly set a good example for him.
He groaned loudly as he brought his hooves up to his forehead. He commented, “I'm such an idiot.”
A voice agreed with him. “That you are Teddy.”
He sat up quickly and looked around. Not too far away from him his friends Ace and Lancer walked toward him. He sighed as they walked up to him. He figured they were about to say all kinds of quirky remarks. But, to his surprise, they did the opposite. Both of them sat down beside him.
Confused he asked them. “Um, what are you two doing here?”
Ace answered. “Normally, we'd be practicing soccer here.” He saw Teddy look around; he must have not known he was at the public soccer field. He continued. “But, for now. Your mother had us looking for you.”
Teddy questioned. “My mom?”
Lancer nodded before saying. “Yeah, she didn't tell us why you ran off. But, she said you looked pretty upset.” He asked. “Is it about Sweetheart?”
Teddy asked immediately. “How do you know about that?”
Ace answered. “It happened in the cafeteria in front of almost everyone at school. It is the current gossip of the school.” He chuckled a little before finishing. “So, yeah. Everyone knows what's going on. We just want to know more details.”
Teddy watched as they stood up and Ace offered a hoof up. He grabbed hold of the hoof as he stood up. Lancer then suggested. “How about we talk more at the soda shop? You look like you need a pop.”
Teddy didn't say no to that; he only now felt how thirsty he was. The three started the walk to the building. Unlike the ice cream shop that Bon Bon worked at. The soda shop was more of a hole-in-the-wall pinball arcade. Mainly visited by the towns colts. The three sat at the counter and ordered three orange crème sodas.
Ace looked at his friend and asked. “Going back to earlier. Think you can tell us what's going on?”
Teddy looked at them; they were his friends and sometimes they would fool around with each other. But, this was a more serious matter and he knew they only wanted to know if he was okay. He took in a deep breath and said. “Ace......Lancer.” The two moved a little closer and he told them. “Sweetheart's pregnant.” Like before the silence he tried to get away from found him again. It was close to breaking his mind. He finished. “I'm the father.”
Like before he had the urge to run and get away from this silence. But, that urge was brought down as he felt a comforting hoof on his shoulder. He turned to look at his friend Lancer. He had a sad yet happy smile on his face. He heard him say. “Hey, congrats stallion.” The way his friend had said it was more happy rather than jokingly. He also noticed the caring look on his face. He felt a gentle arm go around his shoulders. He looked at Ace again just as he asked. “Boy or Girl buddy?”
Teddy answered with a slight smile. “Probably both. She's carrying two.”
The answer shocked Ace as he said. “Oh, wow.” He was tempted to say something. But, at the moment he felt things were still a little raw. So instead he asked. “How are you feeling?”
Teddy replied. “I'm worried. But, it's mostly about Sweetheart.” He looked up as the soda jerk placed their drinks in front of them. He thanked her. “Thanks.” She nodded and walked over to another customer. He took a quick sip of his soda and continued. “I'm worried about her and I'm scared for her.”
Lancer asked. “You're not scared?” He seemed a little shocked.
Teddy shook his head. “I'm completely terrified with a capital T.” He took another drink from his soda as he asked. “I mean I was not given a manual on how to be a dad.”
The two nodded and Ace asked. “So, she's gonna keep them?”
Teddy answered. “Both of us are.” He quickly said to the two. “If I hear either of you even suggest.”
Lancer quickly interrupted him. “No need to get defensive Teddy. Neither I nor Ace assumed you'd ever think that.” Ace nodded in agreement.
He thanked them. “Thanks, guys.” He smiled before turning back to the counter and laying his head on his folded hooves.
Ace asked him. “Tired?”
Teddy answered with a muffled voice. “Both physically and mentally.”
Lancer rubbed the back of his head; he nervously spoke. “Um, Teddy?” Teddy looked at him and he asked. “Don't have to answer. But, how did “IT” feel?”
Teddy looked at him with a deadpan expression. Before he said. “Lancer, if I was myself right now. I'd have already kicked your chair out from under you. And, we would already be brawling outside.” He took another drink from his soda before continuing. “But, since I'm not myself consider yourself lucky.”
Lancer chuckled and nodded before saying. “I won't ask again.”
The three sat in silence again each of them taking sips from their sodas. Lancer or Ace would glance at Teddy now and then. They weren't as worried for their friend as they were. But, they did wonder what else he was thinking. They already knew he was going to probably be a good father. He did almost yell at them and they hadn't even said or thought of the procedure. And, yes, they were still curious about how “IT” felt. But, out of respect for their friend they kept those questions out.
Teddy then commented. “This silence is killing me.”
Ace asked him. “What do you wanna do?”
He answered. “I just.” He paused a moment before he continued. “Really want to be with Sweetheart.” He crossed his arms on the counter and hid his face behind them. He tried his best to keep himself from breaking down. But, he started crying softly. He didn't sob or bawl. The tears simply fell and collected on the counter.
His friends gently wrapped a hoof around him and moved a little closer to him. They didn't care who saw them at the moment. A friend of theirs needed some form of comfort. When the soda jerk walked back. She was about to ask if everything was okay. But, Lancer simply looked at her and just nodded. She nodded and walked away; making a mental note to get them some refills after their moment.
The door to Sweetheart's room opened. She looked over and saw her father standing in the doorway. He smiled at her before saying. “Hey, pumpkin.” He stepped to the side and continued. “You have visitors.”
Sweetheart smiled happily as one by one her friends entered. Each of them had looks of worry as they approached her bedside. She tried to sit up; only to have Bon-Bon gently push her back down. Her parents looked at each other. Mr. Heart motioned for his wife to follow him. She nodded and stood up; before she walked out of the room. She walked over to Sweetheart and kissed her on her forehead.
As the two exited the room Sweetheart looked at her friends and asked them. “What are you all doing here? Isn't it a school day?”
Starlight answered. “Normally, yes. But, since yesterday everything at school has been a mess.”
Sweetheart asked her. “What do you mean?”
Starlight answered. “Someone were not exactly sure who. Said that the reason why you were taken to the hospital is because you were sick. Normally nothing like that would cause the school the close. But, the school our soccer team played against last week. Has several students out with the chickenpox.” She paused a moment shaking her head in slight frustration before finishing. “So, when the rumor got spread that you were sick. They closed the school for the day. Not, that I mind a day off from school. But, because of this we're gonna have to make this day up in summer.:
Sweetheart groaned as she rested her head back against the pillow. She was at the game last week; cheering happily for Teddy in the stands. She couldn't blame the pony who started the rumor. But, could they have at least gotten their facts straight first? She looked at her friends and said. “I'm glad all of you are here.” She then apologized. “I'm sorry if I made you worry.”
Bright eyes spoke up. “You don't have to apologize Sweetheart. You did nothing wrong.” The others agreed with her.
Melody added. “All of us wanted to know if you were okay.” She then asked. “Can you tell us what happened?”
At first, Sweetheart was nervous to say anything to them. But, these were her friends. Ponies that she had known since she was a foal. She took in a deep breath and exhaled before looking over at the stand next to her bed. The stand held the pictures of her two foals. She reached for them; only to have Patch grab it and hand it to her.
She smiled and thanked her. “Thanks, Patch.”
She looked at each of them before she looked down at the pictures. She was worried about how they would react. Would they be angry? Would they treat her like an outcast? She shook her head; why in the world did she think that?! These were her friends. No way they would think poorly of her. She then looked up at them and slowly turned the pictures around. She could hear them gasping in shock; she had her eyes shut as she waited for one of them to say something. She didn't expect to be caught in a group hug. Each of them held her as gently as they could. She cried a little as she tried her best to hug all of them back. After a moment they broke the hug; none of them had a dry face.
Clover spoke. “I can't believe the youngest out of us all is pregnant.” She chuckled a little as she held up the sonogram. She tried to see where the baby was, but it only looked like a strange black and white image. She moved closer to Sweetheart and asked her. “Where's the baby?”
Sweetheart could only giggle at the thought of their reaction. The others closed in around them as she pointed toward the image. She said. “Well, that's baby A”
Bon-Bon, Bright eyes, and Melody yelled. “What!?” While the others either screamed or squealed in both shock and joy. Did their friend just say what they thought she just said?
Sweetheart could only giggle as she heard various shouts of “No!”, “Are you kidding?!”, “You are not!”. She could only laugh as the news sank into her friends' brains. But, eventually, she was asked the question.
Melody was the one who asked. “Who's the father?”
Sweetheart at first didn't want to answer. But, she had a feeling they already had a guess on who it was. Again she took a deep breath and spoke. “It's.”
Bon-Bon interrupted her and said. “It's Teddy isn't it?”
Sweetheart was initially shocked; that was a really good guess. She only nodded and confirmed it. “Yes, he's the father.”
Starlight commented. “I knew it.”
Melody added. “Had a feeling it was him.”
Sweetheart could only shake her head as her friends talked amongst themselves. She smiled only to feel a tear fall onto one of her hooves. She was happy but at the same time, she felt sad. She felt like something was missing. No, not something someone. By the time her friends noticed what was happening. She was already crying heavily. She wasn't sobbing or weeping. She was just crying. Her friends got to her side and grouped hugged her again.