Every Storm Runs Out Of Rainby TheKing2001ChaptersChapter One RaindropsChapter Two RaindropsChapter Three CloudkickerChapter Four CloudkickerChapter Five RaindropsChapter Six CloudkickerChapter One RaindropsI flapped my wings half heartedly. It was a long day of cloudbusting, I pulled a fourteen hour shift because one of the part time weather team pegasi called in. I was exhausted. Rainbow Dash is a pretty intense boss. I lazily looked down as I flew to my house when I had to fly back around after seeing what I thought was a filly sleeping under a cardboard shelter. After doing my loop back around, I gently landed on the ground and looked around. Sure enough, there was an orange pegasus with a matted mane and dirty fur wrapped up in a news paper under a badly built cardboard shelter. I was sure she was asleep till her eyes shot opened at the sound of me approaching cautiously. "Hey kid." She instantly shot up shaking and backed against the wall of the restaurant her "shelter" was next to. "Stay back", she stammered. "I'll fight you if you try to ponynap me." I sat down on my haunches. "Why would I try to ponynap you? That wouldn't be epic of me, now would it?" I wasn't that great at keeping up with the lingo fillies and colts used these days, but if it calmed her down then that's a win in my book. "Because you're a stranger and strangers ponynap fillies all the time." Wow, this kid was raised right I thought to myself. Strangers could be pretty dangerous at times. "And you'll probably take me to the Rainbow Factory to have me killed or turned into glue or something evil", she continued. I gave a laugh at that and she looked confused at me. "The Rainbow Factory, huh? They still using that myth to keep fillies and colts behaving well?" The Rainbow Factory was a story they had used at flight school when I was a filly to keep us in line. "Uh, I'm not sure", she admitted. "I heard two ponies talking about it a few weeks ago". She still was leaning against the wall but her shaking had almost entirely stopped. Think Raindrops, I told myself, how else to I get her to calm down? I touched my chest with a hoof. "I'm Raindrops, what's your name?" She warily made eye contact with me again. "I'm Scootaloo." Why did that name sound familiar? I racked my brain till I remembered the boss mentioning her one night at work. "I know you. You're the bosses sister or something right? Why you out here and not with her?" She maintained eye contact. "Who's your boss? Is it some mafia pony leading a prostitution ring?" My eyes got slightly wide. Who in Equestria gave kids these wild imaginations? I shook my head quickly. "No, my boss is Rainbow Da-" I barely could finish my sentence before she moved in a blurr and I was on my back with her standing on my chest excitedly. Where the hay did this energy come from? "Oh my gosh! You know Rainbow Dash!" She practically screamed in my face. I nodded. "We went to flight school together". That was the wrong thing to say because that only served to make her more energetic. Nice going Raindrops, I thought dryly to myself, you're getting attacked by a filly that has probably had too much pop and candy. I did get her to come out of her shell though like I wanted so I shouldn't be complaining. She then started to pepper me with questions like did I have any pictures of young Rainbow Dash, what was it like being in the same school as her. I honestly couldn't make out the rest with how fast she popped them questions out. She instantly stopped and hopped off me and started nervously pacing. "Oh my heavens, what if she finds out about me? She'll never think I'm awesome anymore?" She started panicking. I stood up and looked down at her and she instantly shrank down in fear. I realized my standing position could be a bit intimidating so I stepped back. "She doesn't know?" That surprised me, I thought the boss knew everything about her sister. Kinda complicated my opinion of Rainbow, a good sister wouldn't have let her family survive on the streets. "She doesn't. Please don't tell her, she'll think I'm a loser", Scootaloo started to beg. I raised a hoof and she shrank back in fear. I quickly lowered it. Something really bad must have happened to this filly for her to get afraid at me just standing over her, I decided. I gave her the warmest smile my tired mind could muster. "Come with me", I instructed. She warily looked at me. "Where to? Oh Luna, you're gonna use me as a drug mule, aren't you?" My Celestia, I groaned to myself internally. This filly and her wildly overactive imagination. I shook my head. "No of course not. I don't even know where somepony would start a business like that. It's cold outside, my house is warm and has actual food instead of whatever you eat out here. What do you say?" Scootaloo looked back at her "shelter" and back at me. "I don't want to be a bother", she said while looking down at her hooves. I kneeled down and put a hoof under her chin, forcing her to make eye contact. "I offered. You aren't being a bother because I extended the invitation. Don't think you are one". I started to walk away and threw a glance over my shoulder and saw her watching me. "I have a bunch of ice cream I was gonna share, but since you wanna stay here, I guess more for me". I faced forward and slowly started to walk before I heard hooves running up to me and I glanced down smiling. She was gazing up at me. I knew the ice cream trick would work, it always did on my younger sister. She gave a big yawn and started teetering over. I quickly shot out a wing and helped her stay up straight. I couldn't help but give a giggle. "Somepony looks pretty tired", I teased lightly. I lifted her up carefully with my wing and gently set her on my back. I took off into the sky. After ten minutes, I felt something snuggling into me and heard a light snoring. I spared a quick glance back at my passenger and saw her sleeping on my back, face shoved into my mane. She does look pretty cute when sleeping, I decided. I forgot how cute fillies were after my sister grew up. I quickly landed on my cloud houses front steps and wiped my hooves off on the mat. I pushed the door open and walked in. I laid her down in my bed and joined her, wrapping a wing around her. Soon enough I was passed out alongside her. A few hours later I woke up and the sunlight was shining through the window. Snuggled against me still was Scootaloo. I gave a sleepy smile and got up from the bed and stretched my wings. I knew enough about fillies that breakfast was the most important part of the day, especially for one as hyperactive as Scootaloo. I'd heard the rumors about what her and her friends could get into. They almost burnt down Roselucks, Daisy's and Lily's flower stand by some crazy circumstance. Nopony really knew how they managed that but CMC insurance became a thing in Ponyville pretty quickly after that fiasco. Working my way to the cupboard, I started nosing around till I found the pancake and batter mix. It was just me and Scootaloo, my wife was out on assistant manager weather team business in Cloudsdale and wouldn't be back till a few days from now. I completely forgot about Cloudkicker. I should probably explain why I have a filly sharing our bed when she gets home. I also forgot she didn't want a foal or filly or anything like that. I don't really know how I can forgot something like this to be honest. Oh well, she'll understand and come around I thought to myself as I set out on making the pancakes for me and my little guest. A few moments later, i heard a tiny yawn accompanied by hoofsteps. I glanced behind me and Scootaloo was standing behind me, rubbing her eyes. I gave a big smile her direction. "Good morning sleepyhead. You want pancakes?" She gave a eager nod. "Can I help?" She asked eagerly. I put a hoof on my chin in thought and grinned. "You can get the syrup out of the cupboard. Top of the cupboard". I pointed with a hoof. I turned back to my cooking when I heard a falling sound. I turned around and saw Scootaloo tumbling to the ground with the syrup in her mouth from the top cupboard. How she got up there by climbing alone I'll never know. I picked her up and the bottle with a wing and dusted her off smirking. "Why in Equestria did you climb up there silly? Why not just fly up there?" She looked down sadly and I immediately felt bad like I said something wrong. I turned the stove off, we had enough pancakes cooked for more than enough of us. I knelt down and tucked my legs under me and looked her in the eyes. "What's wrong, kiddo?" "I can't fly. My wings are damaged and will never heal properly", she told me. I instantly felt bad. Being a Pegasus and being grounded was a curse to us. Our wings gave us a certain freedom unicorns and earth ponies didn't have. More importantly, I felt stupid bringing her to a cloudhouse when she couldn't get up or down. "Well, I'll help you. When me or Cloudy aren't here, I'll talk to Cherry Berry about taking you up here in her balloon". I ruffled her mane and smiled. "We will sort something out". She finally gave a small smile. "Okay". "After we eat though, you need a bath. Your mane and coat is messy as heck". I smiled. Scootaloo sheepishly rubbed the back of her head. "Yeah I haven't had a shower in a while. Last time was five weeks ago when I slept over at Raritys with Sweetie Belle and Applebloom". To say I was surprised would be the understatement of the century. How did none of her friends parents or sister notice something going on? I wondered idly to myself as I started putting Scootaloos pancakes together. I slide the plate to her on the table and got her a glass of milk and passed it to her. I finally got my plate and drink and by the time I sat down, she had gotten over halfway done with her food. "Wow kid, you're hungry", I teased her playfully. She stopped eating and swallowed and looked down. "I'm sorry Miss Raindrops". I waved a hoof in the air. "Don't worry, I was just teasing you. And you don't gotta call me Miss Raindrops. Makes me feel old". The filly across me nodded slowly and went back to eating. I placed my hooves on the table. "So, do you got school today?" "Yeah. It's boring though i don't like it". I gave a laugh. "I didn't either. I only really liked history and science class. We should get your shower so we can get you to school". Ten minutes later, I was sitting on the couch while Scootaloo showered. She was pretty much a typical filly other than being homeless of course. She may not show it, but she certainly cared about her mane and coat. I trotted up to the door and knocked on it. "Scootaloo, it's time to get you to school. I know the shower is nice but it'll be here after school". I heard a grumble from the other side of the door. I softly snickered at that as the door opened. "I'm ready". I knelt down and smiled. "Hop on and I'll fly us there". Scootaloo quickly clambered on and I stood up walking out the door and quickly flew to her school. "Can you not tell Miss Cheerilee about finding me? I want it to be a secret". I gave a quick nod. "It's our secret for now. When Cloudy gets here, I'll have to tell her though since you're staying here". She nodded as we landed down in front of the school. "Hey Scootaloo", I heard a filly yell as Scootaloo slid off my back. Apple Bloom came into our view pretty quick and she eyed me. "Are you her mom or sumthing?" I noticed Scootaloo tense up and I wrapped a wing around her. "I'm a friend of hers. Just dropping her off for school". Applebloom nodded after continuing to stare at me. "Okay", she shrugged and turned back to Scootaloo. "Sweetie is gonna meet us in the class room". Scootaloo gave a quick nod and the two walked into their class. I had to get to work so I immediately took off to go do my work. It was gonna be a busy day, we were due for a massive week long storm for the farms. I was really loving spending time with Scootaloo so work was gonna be a pain in the ass to deal with. It was worth it though to attempt to give Scootaloo a good day. Chapter Two RaindropsA few days have passed and Scootaloo was settling in nicely. The few days I worked over i got Cherry Berry to watch over Scootaloo. And Cloudkicker was coming home today from Cloudsdale so I could finally talk about us adopting Scootaloo. Hopefully she will be a bit more open than the last time I mentioned wanting to adopt. The last time we argued over it, I chose to sleep on the couch for a few days. Scootaloo was sitting on the couch reading a comic that Twilights dragon Spike had loaned out to her. I was making dinner in the kitchen when the front door opened. I excitedly flew out to greet my wife. Cloudkicker looked utterly exhausted standing in the doorway and tossed her saddle bags off. I stepped up and nuzzled her. "Hey Cloudy, how was Cloudsdale?" She gave a exaggerated sigh. "It was so boring. I mean sure, it was cool to learn about others methods there but it just isn't practical nor necessary to have a four hour presentation for ten minutes of information". I could believe that. I was kinda glad Rainbow didn't promote me to assistant manager. The money woulda been nice but the late nights doing paperwork just isn't for me. A blur of orange and purple was next to me suddenly. I smiled down and ruffled her mane. "Whats up, kid?" I asked. "Can I go do some crusading with Sweetie Belle and Applebloom? We wanna try to get our cutie marks in baking and Pinkie Pie already agreed if we got permission from the ponies we stay with. So can I?" My smile grew bigger. Sweet Celestia, this filly was adorable. "Sure thing. I'll fly you down there after I talk with Cloudy". Cloudkicker had been staring back amd at both of us before looking at me. I jerked my head to the bedroom. After she walked in and I closed the door, she started talking. "Who the hay is that?" She demanded. I waved a hoof nonchalantly. "That's Scootaloo. She's been staying here for a bit". "Well clearly", Cloudkicker snorted. "But why? I don't want to have a kid right now". "She was sleeping in a bucking alley way wrapped up in a news paper and under a shoddy built cardboard house. What was I supposed to, leave her?" I could feel my temper growing. "Maybe take her to the nearest orphanage or Rainbow Dash?" My wings started to flare out a bit like they did when pegasi got angry. "That's an awful idea. She connected to me. Taking her to an orphanage would ruin all the work I did to get her to open up. And she asked me to not tell Rainbow", I snapped. Cloudkicker started to get angry too based on her facial expression. "Look, I know you were an orphan and you want to prevent anypony from going there but I'm not really interested in having a foal tearing up the place. Not right now at least. You can just take her somewhere else and somepony else can take care of her. Besides, I kinda thought we could work out some stress in bed". She started to move a hoof to my mane and I slapped it away and she stared in surprise which quickly turned back to anger. My blood started boiling. I absolutely despise when ponies bring up me being in the system. "Seriously? I'm not gonna pawn her off on somepony else". The door opened before either of us could say anything. Scootaloo was standing there staring at us afraid. All my anger disappeared. "Hey Scootaloo, ready to go?" She gave a soft nod. I glared at Cloudkicker. "Pack a bag. We're leaving, Scootaloo". She and Cloudkicker blinked. Scootaloo nodded and went to pack. "Where are you gonna go, Rainy? Its a raining mess out there!" "Anywhere but here", I scoffed and glared angrily at her. "I can't believe you would even suggest shoving her onto somepony else". I yanked a suitcase out and started packing a rain coat along with some other necessities. Toothbrush, hair brush, toothpaste etc. Cloudkicker just stood there helplessly watching. I stormed to the doorway of the house where Scootaloo was waiting. "Hop on. We're gonna stay away for a few days till Cloudkicker here gets herself together". I fixed a final glare at her while Scootaloo nervously climbed on. "Just stay. I'll sleep on the couch", Cloudkicker tried to beg. I quickly cut her off with a wave of my hoof. "We will pass". She shuffled nervously. "When will you be back?" She asked quietly. "When you act like a grown up and not a jackass". I instantly bit my tongue after cursing in front of the filly on my back. At that, I took off flying out the door. At a glance back, I saw Cloudkicker standing outside in the rain staring after us before kicking a cloud and walking back inside. I landed outside of a house and pounded on the door. A tired Daisy opened the door. "Hey Raindrops, whats happening?" She greeted me and gave me a quick nuzzle. She looked confused when she saw the suitcase and Scootaloo on my back. I sighed. "Me and Cloudkicker got into a fight. Can me and Scootaloo stay for a few nights?" Daisy nodded. "Follow me, Lily and Rose were eating last I checked at the table". I followed my friend in and her sisters were eating like she had guessed. I waved a hoof half-heartedly. "Hey Roseluck, hey Lily". "How's it going?" Lily asked. "Been better", I admitted. "Me and Cloud got into a fight". "She and Scootaloo will be staying here for a bit", Daisy spoke up. "Why do you have Scootaloo exactly?" Roseluck questioned me nervously. I glanced down at Scootaloo who had slipped off my back. "You can tell them if you want kid, up to you". She nodded. Once she told the three sisters, Daisy gave her a pretty tight hug. "You two can stay as long as you want". Lily and Rose nodded. "Are we still doing my baking lessons with Pinkie?" "I don't know, are you sure you're up to it? It's been a pretty wild evening". Scootaloo slumped down onto the floor, nodded and then passed out snoring. I rolled my eyes while Daisy laughed. "Well, looks like that plan is canceled", she teased. "I suppose so", I chuckled. Lily started taking my suit case upstairs. "We kept that upstairs bed room already made, just in case you might need it". I nodded my thanks and sighed. "I just don't get why she wanted me to pawn Scootaloo off to an orphanage or Dash. It's ridiculous, she's opened up to me". Roseluck nodded. "I agree. For what it's worth, she's a good filly. Minus you know, almost burning down the flower stand that one time". I gave a soft laugh. "I remember that. Lily wanted to kill her". Rose stepped up and hugged me again. "I'm sure Cloudy and you will sort it out and she'll come around. As wild as she is, if you need somepony to watch Scoots when you're busy, I can make the time". She gave me a quick nuzzle and smiled at me. "Thanks Rosie". We headed upstairs to join Daisy and Lily while I carried Scootaloo. After I set her down on the bed, Scootaloo eyes flicked open. "Raindrops?" Me and the sisters stopped and gazed at her. "Yeah kid?" I asked her smiling. "Why does your wife hate me?" I immediately sat down next to her and stroked her mane. A coughing sound came from the doorway and I glanced up and saw that Roseluck turned angry red and Daisy's eyes matched her upset look. "She doesn't hate you. She will come around, shes just confused". I hugged her. "I promise". She nodded and fell back asleep. The sisters left the room and Lily shut the door smiling and all three headed downstairs. Once they were downstairs, Lily looked at her sisters. "We gotta talk sense into Cloudkicker". Daisy nodded vehemently and narrowed her eyes. "I agree". Roseluck just stood quietly and then realized something. "We can't confront Cloudkicker about this". "Why the hell not?" Lily demanded spinning on her sister. "Because if we tell her we know about it,then she will realize that Rainy and Scootaloo are most likely staying with us". Rose explained. Daisy sat down. "I didn't think about that. So we do nothing?" Rose grinned and shook her head. "I have something in mind, just wait". Lily and Daisy exchanged wary looks. The last time Rose said she had something in mind, it didn't end well. Chapter Three CloudkickerAfter Raindrops ran out with Scootaloo, I curled up on the cloud couch by the fire place and tried to stop shaking. I hated admitting i had been crying. Sure, we've spent nights apart before but not after a big fight like this. I made it a point to never ask where she went to stay or ask around town. I knew once she had a few days to calm down she would came back. I felt a hoof gently stroking my mane. "Are you feeling better that you got done crying?" Blossomforth asked me. I sniffled and nodded a bit. "Yeah, i think so. I may have fucked up with Raindrops tonight but we just got married four months. That's a big change and I'm still getting used to it and she goes and springs up adopting. And she already has Scootaloo here. I can only adapt to one big change at time. Besides, I'm not sure I'd even BE a good mom. You remember my college days, what if my kid or adopted kid turns out like me?" "Fair point, she shouldn't have sprung this on you so soon. As long as I've known Raindrops, she's always been enthusiastic about wanting a foal of her own. Especially considering-" Blossom clamped her mouth shut. I fixed a stare at her. "Considering what?" Blossom sighed. "Cloudy, there's a lot you don't know still. You have to ask her directly. I'd be betraying her trust if I told you." After thinking for a minute, I nodded. "Fair enough. I can't ask you to do something you're not comfortable with. Do you think we could get White Lightning to talk to her? She's super close with Rainy." Blossom inhaled. "I suppose but we should wait. Give it a day or two to settle down, the fight just happened tonight. Besides, what if she went there and you accidentally make things worse?" I hadn't thought of that. I gave another nod and conceded. "You're right, I just hate sitting and waiting." Blossom cracked a smile at that. "I know the feeling. At the same time, we all know Raindrops personality. She can't just sit by and watch when something like a homeless filly is out there and she can help. It's just not she is, she's gonna do everything to make it right and solve the problem. It's part of the Raindrops charm." I laughed at that. "I do love that about her". We sat in silence with my head resting on her lap while she rubbed my back softly. "Can you stay with me tonight?" I asked softly. "I don't wanna be alone". Blossom nodded. "Of course". She helped me up and flew me to her bed. After we got under the covers, she snuggled up to me. "Thanks Blossom, you're a good friend". She giggled. "I know. Goodnight Cloudy". A few days I woke up and headed outside to go get to morning paper. For some odd reason, there was a bunch of wilting roses thrown up to the house covering it. "What the fuck?" I muttered. I saw three figures covered in black cloaks running away. "You get back here this instant and clean this up, you hear me!" I yelled and shook a hoof at them. I could have flown and got them but the motivation wasn't there. "Nice decorations", I heard Blossom comment sarcastically. Turning around, I saw her eating a rose. "Pretty delicious too". I rolled my eyes. "I'm happy for you. Who even has this many dead roses?" Blossom shrugged and continued eating. "Let's just get inside before we get attacked with daffodils next", I scoffed. Blossom perked up. "That would be nice, a daffodil sandwich sounds good". I rolled my eyes again as I walked past her. "I have some in the fridge". Why the fuck would anyone even go to this effort and cover the house. It's even on the roof, my Celestia". I complained and Blossom snickered. Four blocks away, theee ponies stopped running. One threw the hood off panting. "Really Rose, that was your idea?" Daisy scoffed trying to catch her breath. "Yeah what the hell was that?" Lily demanded. Roseluck rolled her eyes. "It's symbolic. They are wilting roses, which symbolizes we're upset at her but they are also roses which means we still love her even if we are mad at her". Daisy tapped a hoof in thought. "I never thought of it like that", she commented. 'Yeah me neither", Lily admitted. "Thank you", Rose said proudly. "Just one problem", Lily stated raising a hoof. "What if she puts two and two together and it comes back to us? Then not only are we screwed, so is Rainy and Scootaloo if Cloudy comes by". Daisy nodded her agreement and looked to Rose expectantly. Rose sighed. "I didn't think of that". Both her sisters groaned and Daisy facehoofed. "But!" Rose continued, "I took all the tags off saying they belong to our flower stand and considering Blossomforth was up there with her and everypony knows Blossom loves to eat flowers, the evidence will be gone". "And how do you know it was Blossomforth up there?" Lily questioned with a raised eyebrow. Rose scoffed and rolled her eyes. "Please, there's only one Pegasus in Ponyville with a watermelon colored mane. Besides, I assumed Cloudkicker would be frustrated and get her to talk about the situation, just like Raindrops did with us". A sound of a Pegasus landing behind them startled them. "So it was you guys who decorated Cloudkickers house with flowers", Blossom stated coolly. "Thanks for the breakfast by the way". "I have no idea what you're talking about", Daisy said quickly. Blossom rolled her eyes. "I'm not stupid, there's only one place in town where that many roses could have come from". Lily glared at Roseluck. "Nice job sis". "Fine it was us", Roseluck sighed tossing her hooves up. "Are you gonna tell her?" Blossom shook her head to surprise of the three sisters. "Under one condition", Blossom stated. "You convince Raindrops to meet her. I already talked Cloudkicker into it and got her side. I love them both, but this drama is so petty". Daisy nodded. "I agree. It's been a few days maybe Raindrops has calmed down too". Blossom inhaled. "Work has been awkward with them too. They've been just trying to avoid each other. Kinda hard to manage a small towns weather and avoid each other while doing it". "I never thought about that", Lily said. "How's Scootaloo?" Blossom asked. "Shes doing fine. Except for the fact she thinks Cloudkicker hates her". Rose admitted. Blossom sighed again and sat down on her haunches. "She doesn't hate her at all, she just doesn't think she's ready for parenthood or would be a good mom. She just got married and thinks it's too soon. Two big changes in a ponys life is a lot to handle". Rose nodded thoughtfully. "Maybe she can tell Scootaloo that in person". "What are you thinking?" Daisy asked. "Scootaloo gets out of school at about three pm. Blossom, can you subtly influence Cloud to go meet Scootaloo? We'll distract Raindrops for a bit". Blossom nodded. "I can do that. My shift starts in thirty minutes, I gotta get to the weather teams meet up spot. Hopefully Raindrops and Cloudkicker aren't there killing each other". "Alright excellent", Lily beamed. Blossom started to fly away. She waved a hoof at them. "Thanks again for the breakfast". The three sisters waved goodbye. "That Blossom is a very good and friendly pony", Lily mused. "Mhm", Daisy agreed. Rose could only nod her agreement. "Hey Silverspeed, help Raindrops with those clouds over there please", I called out. Silverspeed gave me a quick salute. "You got it boss". She zipped off. I heard wings flapping behind me and caught a quick glimpse of a rainbow mane. "Hey Dash". "Hey Kicker. Everything going good here?" Rainbow questioned. "Yeah, why wouldn't it be?" I replied idly. "You and Raindrops haven't been talking the last few days at work and she's more grumpy than usual. Typically you guys always work together with Blossomforth". I sighed and watched a bird fly by. "We're just having some problems is all. We will get through it, we always do. Just wish I could go back in time and put a hoof in my mouth". Rainbow settled on a cloud floating nearby. "Whatcha fight about?" She asked looking at me. I sighed again. "She brought up adopting again. This time, she had a filly there. She found her homeless on the street". Rainbow sat up straighter. "Woah. Good on her for getting her off the streets, it's been raining hard. A filly could get sick in this weather". I nodded absentmindedly. "I didn't even have a problem with her being there temporarily, hell I don't even mind her being there permanently. I just wish she could communicate a little better. Let me know me beforehand what's going". Rainbow nodded. "I get what you mean. Maybe she was afraid you'd kick her and the filly out". I glared at Rainbow. "I wouldn't have done that to her or Scoot-the filly she found". Rainbow tensed up. "What name did you almost say?" She asked staring me in the eyes. Fuck, I thought to myself. "Nothing, boss". Rainbow analyzed me, staring a hole into me with her eyes so concentrated I started to sweat a little bit. "I know you're lying but I won't push it. You two can tell me about it later". I gave a sigh of relief. "Thanks boss". Another set of pegasi joined us on the cloud. "Hey Cloudy", Blossom said. "Whats up Blossom? Hey Parasol", I greeted the two members of my squad. "Hey boss", Parasol answered smiling. Rainbow grunted. "Why are you so smiley today?" Parasol shrugged grinning. "Can't a pony be happy for no reason?" "No". Came Dashes reply. "Aren't you friends with Pinkie Pie? Isn't she definition of being happy for no reason?" Parasol pressed. Rainbow turned red blushing. "That doesn't count". Her blushing didn't get past me and I grinned. "Looks like little Dashie has a crush". I snickered. "I do not!" Rainbow exclaimed, turning even redder. Parasol laughed. "She's a tomato, didn't know Dash had it in her". Blossom rolled her eyes. "Shut up. I have uh clouds to bust", Rainbow grumbled before taking off, face still red leaving the three of us laughing. I turned to my teammates. "Anything you two need help with?" They shook their heads. "We're here to help YOU" Parasol stated proudly pushing her hoof against my chest. "Uh huh and how's that?" I asked. Blossom sighed. "This drama between you and Raindrops is going on too long. Look at her, does she look happy?" I glanced over at Raindrops who was idly pushing a cloud. She did look pretty miserable. "She doesn't, no. There's nothing I can do, she just won't talk to me", I admitted. "That's not technically true though boss", Parasol said. "How do you figure?" I asked gazing at her. "Go talk to Scootaloo when school gets out, tell her everything you told me the other night. She can tell Raindrops and Rainy will come looking for you", Blossom stated. "I'm not sure thats a good idea", I admitted. "What if it backfires?" "It won't", Parasol said confidently. Blossom nodded her agreement. I sighed. "Fine". Blossom clapped her hooves excitedly. "You better get going, school gets out in ten minutes", Blossom pointed out. Oh shit, I thought. I quickly hugged Blossom and Parasol. "Thanks you two. Can you cover for me?" I asked Blossom. She quickly nodded grinning and I took off towards the school. As I flew away, I heard a loud whistle. Glancing up, I saw Sassaflash and White Lightning looking down grinning. "Go get em boss", Sassaflash cheered as she stomped her hooves together. White Lightning tossed a salute my way. I sat on a cloud over the school, watching and waiting for Scootaloo to come. I felt slightly awkward doing so, like I was some sort of stalker pony. Finally I saw her coming out with the other CMC. I took off and landed next to her. "Hey kid", I said with a smile. Her two friends jumped and she looked afraid. I instantly was kicking myself. "Uhm hi", she said nervously. "You got a minute kid? We should talk about stuff". Her eyes darted back and forth nervously. Apple Bloom looked at me with narrowed eyes. "Ya ain't going alone with her. Ya might try to ponynap her". I rolled my eyes. "I won't ponynap her. Heck, I'm close friends with her mentor figure pony. Been for a long, long time. Kinda stupid to mess that up now". Apple Bloom and Sweetie Belle looked to each other. "We still wanna come with. Scoots been acting weird and we want answers. First that yellow Pegasus drops her off and now you're here to talk to Scootaloo", Sweetie decided. I rolled my eyes. "That yellow Pegasus is my wife", I scoffed. "Oh", Apple Bloom said. "Okay then, have fun Scootaloo", Sweetie Belle said running off with Applebloom. Being alone with Scootaloo was awkward. I rubbed the back of my head. "So you probably have questions", I stated. "Why do you hate me, what did I do to you? Is it because I ate the last of the pasta? If so I'm sorry", Scootaloo said quickly looking down. I folded my legs under me and sat down looking at her. "I don't hate you, kid. I just wasn't expecting a filly at home. I just got married and Rainy puts adoption up in my face right after one big change. I didn't think I'd be a good mom". Scootaloo looked away. "You never even gave me one night or tried". I exhaled. "I know. And I'm sorry for that. I'm willing to try now". Scootaloo looked back at me and I could see a faint level of excitement in her eyes. "Really?", she asked excitedly. I nodded and smiled at her. "I just need you to do me a favor". "What's that?" She asked me warily. "Tell Raindrops what I told you and that I want to talk to her about this. That's all", I promised her. Scootaloo looked to be thinking for a moment before nodding. "Alright, I'll do it. But if you are mean to her I'll beat you up!" She puffed her chest up. I grinned and tousled her mane. "Sure you will". A few hours later I heard the front door opening. Considering we live in a cloudhouse, you really have to listen for things like doors opening and such. I was curled up in a ball freezing on the couch when I heard Raindrops exclaim, "why the buck is it so cold in here?" A few moments past and I felt the house starting to warm. Raindrops floated into the living and saw me shivering on the couch. "What the hell, Cloudy?" She demanded. I forced my self to look up. "W-whats up?" I asked my teeth chattering. I felt Raindrops quickly wrap her wings around me and I felt warmer. "Thanks", I managed to get put. "Why is it so cold in here?" I shrugged. "Figured if Scootaloo is gonna be staying here permanently, I might as well force myself to know how it feels to sleep in cold weather like the winters I'm assuming she slept through". Raindrops glared down at me and I shrunk under her gaze. She gave an exhale. "You absolute idiot. This was a dumb idea, freezing yourself would leave me with no wife". Then she froze and started to smile. "Wait, did you say she can stay permanently?" I nodded. "Yes. It was stupid of me to be mad about you helping her. I was afraid I'd be a terrible mom. Plus I wasn't sure about a big change as this at first". Raindrops quickly nuzzled me. I glanced around, "where is Scootaloo?" "Rose is watching her and Ruby. Teaching them how to grow flowers for cutie marks. She also has a fire extinguisher ready just in case". We sat in silence, cuddling for a bit while Raindrops warmed me with her wings. "I did my research and already set up an appointment with Wildfire tomorrow to work on the adoption papers", I said softly. Raindrops jumped up and squeeled. I had never heard that noise from her before and trust me, I heard a lot of different noises from her. "I literally can not say how much I love you right now", she exclaimed and then put a hoof on her chin and appeared to be thought then grinned at me wickedly. I gave a smirk her way and ran a hoof along her wing. "Actually I have an idea", she said still wearing her grin and dragged me to the bedroom. Let's just say we did a lot more than just sleep. Chapter Four CloudkickerMe and Raindrops sat in the brown office. Wildfire was across from us pushing paperwork our way. "I just need both of you two to sign here". She explained as she handed two quills. We both signed at the dotted lines and pushed the papers back. "So adoption takes time. This is the hard part, she can't technically stay with you during this process because she was never given to you two to foster in the first place". Raindrops opened her mouth and closed it. I put a wing over her back. "So does that mean we can't get Scootaloo?" I questioned. Wildfire held up a hoof. "I didn't say that. She just needs to stay with somepony else while the process goes through. Rules and all". She shuffled through some papers in a drawer. "That said, I do have a same sex couple in town who have fostered for me before. Good ponies, great with kids, steady jobs. You two can arrange with either of them to spend time with Scootaloo but one of them has to be there because again, paperwork and rules", Wildlife calmly explained. "What type of ponies are they?" Raindrops asked. "Ones a musician, ones a candy maker". "I meant like race but I have an idea of you're talking about now". I gave a nod in agreement. "Is there anything else for us to sign?" Wildfire shook her head. "Nope but I will give you Scootaloos file from the Baltimare Orphange along with her medical records and background. Wait here". She flew out the room down the hall. "So, are you excited?" I asked my wife smiling. She grinned at me and started bouncing around. "Absolutely. I've waited for a moment like this my entire life. Speaking from experience, being adopted is the greatest feeling a pony can have". "So Blossom was talking to me and she mentioned something but said I needed to ask you about it and refused to tell me when I asked. Something other than you being adopted is why you wanted to do this", I said. "We can talk about that later at home. After I get some alcohol in me, it isn't a conversation for public", Raindrops explained. "Here we are, I just need one of you to sign this paper saying you received the file and accept it", Wildfire floated back in and set it down. I picked up a quill, signed and put the heavy file in my saddlebag. She folded her forelegs at her desk. "I'll also have to come by your house at some point to check it and make sure it's filly proof. Procedure. What day works best?" I looked at Raindrops. "We both got this Wednesday off work". Wildfire nodded and made a note. "Excellent, I'll stop by at one pm and we can get it over with. Any questions?" We shook our heads. "Excellent, I'll see you guys then". She waved as we flew out her office. "White Lightning offered to meet us for dinner tonight at a restaurant downtown. You game?" Raindrops asked. I gave a grin. "Always". After getting ready at home, we went to meet our co worker. "Hey Whitey", Raindrops greeted as she leaned in for a hug which White Lightning happily returned. "Hey boss", she nodded to me. I waved a hoof nonchalantly. "We're not at work, Cloudkicker or Cloud is fine". White Lightning grinned and nodded and we followed her to a table. Immediately a waiter was there. "What would you three like to drink?" The unicorn questioned smiling. "I'll take a glass of water", Raindrops said. "I'll have the same", White Lightning piped up. The waiter scribbled on his pad of paper and turned to me. "And you miss?" "I'll have a Moors Light, please and thank you". Raindrops raised an eyebrow at that. "Alright, two glasses of water and one Moors Light. I'll be right out with it". He trotted to the back. "So, Moors Light huh? Never pegged you for a beer gal", White Lightning teased. I shrugged and gave a grin. "I really gotta be in the mood for it", I explained. White Lightning had a wicked smile on her face. "Speaking of being in the mood, has Scootaloo walked in on you two yet?" Raindrops face went bright red and I snickered at her. "Nah she hasn't thankfully. That'd be horrible but funny years from now", I admitted. White Lightning grin got bigger as she placed her hooves on top of each other. "Speaking of walking in on ponies, guess who I walked in on the other day". Raindrops found her voice and quit blushing. "Who?" White Lightning gave a laugh and leaned back. "Sea Swirl and Sassaflash. They were exploring each other very extensively". I grinned at the idea of her two roommates getting caught and laughed. "About time they got together", I admitted. "They've been dancing around it for months now, especially after how Sea Swirl was there to help her through Caramels break up with her". Raindrops nodded and smirked. "So, is it hard to get to sleep with them two exploring as you put it?" White Lightning shook her head. "Nah, Sea Swirl usually casts a spell so the rest of the house can't hear them. Thank Luna for that". I rolled my eyes. "The best part of sex is making everypony hear you", I scoffed. "Ow", I exclaimed and feigned severe pain after Raindrops hit me in the shoulder. "Two waters and a Moors Light", the waiter returned and slide our drinks to us. "Are you ready to order?" I looked at my companions and shrugged. "I'll have a grilled daisy sandwich with cheese and tomatoes". "Fried eggplant and zucchini for me please", White Lightning requested smiling. Raindrops glanced down at her menu. "I'll just have alfredo with extra cheese and tomatoes please". The waiter nodded after writing our orders down. "I'll be back with your food when it's ready". He took our menus in his magic and trotted back off. I took a sip of my beer and sighed internally. "So", White Lightning began, taking a sip of her water. "You two excited? About being parents?" "Yes", me and Raindrops said in unison and smiled at each other. White Lightning sighed. "I wish I could experience that. You two are lucky and have each other. All I have is an empty house that I go to after each shift ends. It's partially why I appreciate these outings we have every few weeks". I reached over and placed a hoof over hers. "That could always change, you never know what happens in the future", I said soothingly. "Will it? I don't even know if I'll be alive four weeks from now, the future is so unpredictable and I hate that. I like knowing what's going to happen", White replied softly. Raindrops gave a sigh. "You know, when me and Cloudkicker first met, I never knew this is where it would end up. I always thought it was just friends with benefits. You can't worry about the little things and just live your life", Raindrops concluded her speech. I nodded in agreement. "What she said. Hell, I didn't even think I was worthy of her at first but you'll find somepony Whitey. I'd be willing to bet there's a pony out there right now thinking how you do". White smiled up at us. "You really think so? I won't be lonely forever?" "I'm certain of it. Besides, you have us and you can always come over to spend the night whenever you feel lonely", I said confidently. Raindrops nodded her agreement smiling. "Well, it looks like our food is coming so enough sadness for now", White said as she glanced over at our water coming over with trays. The rest of the night went by with us laughing and telling jokes before we said goodnight to White Lightning. We flew home in silence before Raindrops suddenly stopped and landed on a cloud. I stopped and looked back at her. "Uhm, are you alright?" "No", she replied. I settled down on the cloud and waited for her to speak. After a few moments, she started to speak. "I can't have kids like it's physically impossible. The doctors don't know why but I can't have them normally. It's why I'm so interested in adopting". I wrapped a wing around her and she snuggled into my embrace. "You know, I'm glad you didn't tell me", I admitted. She pushed a hoof against my chest. "What, why," she asked glaring at me. "Because think, if you did tell me, we would have adopted the first filly or colt we saw and never would have been able to get Scootaloo", I explained. Raindrops sighed. "That makes sense. We should get back, Cloudchaser is probably wondering where we are". The next day, we dropped down in front of a house and knocked. A mint green unicorn opened it, grinning. "Hi! I'm Lyra!" She said enthusiastically. "Hey Lyra", I grinned and hoofbumped her. Lyra's grin grew bigger. "Hey Cloudy, been a while. Sorry just woke up and didn't recognize ya." Lyra said. I smiled back. "It's all good. We got Scootaloo here for ya to foster for a bit while we hammer out the adoption details." Bon Bon trotted up. "Lyra! Let them in, don't make them stay out on the doorstep." She gently pushed Lyra aside who rolled her eyes and quickly ushered us in. "Hey Bon Bon", Raindrops smiled. "Heya, Rainy. Haven't seen you drop by the shop recently." Raindrops rubbed her head sheepishly. "Uh yeah sorry, work and Scootaloo has been keeping me busy." Scootaloo shot up onto the couch. "Hi Miss Bon and Miss Heartstrings." She chirped. Lyra giggled. "Please, just Lyra. Besides you know us. You don't gotta call us that." Bon Bon nodded her agreement. "So," I focused on the two in front of me. "How often can we see her, how strict are you?" "I'm more of the strict parent who focuses on discipline", Bon Bon said. "But don't worry, I'm not strict where it's screaming or anything like that, just time outs, grounding, sending them to their room", she hastily added at Raindrops concerned expression. "I focus on fun", Lyra piped in. "But I can be serious when I need to." "Alright, that sounds good to me." I spoke up. "I just don't want her feeling like we're all out to just make her life miserable, is all. You guys seem like the happy medium of strict but fun", Raindrops piped in. "She won't. I guarantee it. You two seem like good ponies." Bon Bon said. Lyra nodded. "So I get to stay with them for how long?" Scootaloo asked shyly. Bon Bon knelt down in front of her. "Only for a little bit kiddo and then you'll be right back with Rainy and Cloudkicker." She said smiling softly. "But don't worry, you'll be eating all sorts of good stuff. Candy, Bon Bons amazing cooking and I'll take you out to restaurants when we have the spare bits." Lyra piped in grinning. "But make sure it's not too much candy", Raindrops added. "Too much is bad for a filly." I smirked and elbowed her. "You're sounding like a mom already." Bon Bon sagely nodded. "I'll make sure she doesn't get too much candy. Same with Lyra." I breathed a sigh of relief. "We brought all her stuff already. A couple toys, her favorite blanket stuff like that." Bon Bon smiled. "Excellent. We should get her to the spare room, it's already set up." Raindrops stood up and Scootaloo crawled on her back. "Let's get you to sleep, filly." The other adults followed her into the room as she tucked Scootaloo in. "We will be back as soon as we get accepted." Raindrops promised. "Sleep well kiddo." I added smiling. Scootaloo smiled and then passed out snoring. The four of us giggled softly and left the room. Since it was late, me and Raindrops flew home to a night of popcorn, movies and a great night of sleep. I could tell she was dreaming of Scootaloo with how often she murmured her name. Quite adorable, honestly. Chapter Five RaindropsMe and Cloudkicker sat on the bench watching Scootaloo play with Ruby Pinch on the playground of Ponyvilles Park. Lyra sat next me, taking a lick of her strawberry ice cream. "Looks like Scootaloo made a new friend." Lyra said, smirking. I nodded and smiled. I took a lick of my vanilla waffle cone. "So she's been adapting well? Any nightmares?" Lyra shook her head. "Well, she had one nightmare but she came and slept between me and Bonnie. She's gotten along with Twist really good too. Plus, it helps that they go to school together." I forgot Twist was Bon Bons younger sister. Cloudkicker finished her chocolate ice cream and nodded before turning to me. I couldn't help but snicker. "What? What is it?" She asked. Lyra burst out laughing. "You have some ice cream, well everywhere." Cloudkicker had chocolate ice cream all over her muzzle. Lyra levitated a wet napkin to her face and cleaned it off before throwing the napkin away. "Thanks." Cloudkicker said sheepishly. Lyra grinned at us. "Soo, Wildfire dropped by the other day." I shot up and stared at her. "And?" Lyra's smile turned evil. "I can't say. But it's a good surprise." I sat back down. "I hate surprises", I grumbled. "You liked the surprise I gave you that one time in Manehatten at the hotel." Cloudkicker pointed out. I turned a bright shade of red while Lyra chuckled. "Wildfire stopped by too. With a few exceptions, the house is pretty much good enough for a filly. She is concerned about it being a cloudhouse and Scootaloo can't really fly. Can't even really lift herself off the ground." I hastily said to change the topic. Lyra nodded. "I noticed that too. She really likes when I lift her up with my magic and pretend she's flying." I chuckled. "She did hook us with an expert in flight rehab. Said if anypony can help her, it's him." "Where's Bon Bon?" Cloudkicker asked looking around. Lyra waved a hoof. "She's working at the store today, it's about three thirty when school gets out so it's usually busy. She's got Twist helping her out today. Typically I'm there for the rush hour but Scootaloo had a play date with Berry's daughter." I gave a nod. "I didn't know Scootaloo knew Ruby." Lyra nodded as she kept watching the two fillies playing. "They go to school together. They both hate Diamond Tiara and Silverspoon.' Lyra explained. "Scootaloo had some very colorful language she used when describing Diamond Tiara. Bon Bon ended up washing her mouth out with soap. Let's just say, that filly is very creative when it comes to making up cuss words and insults." Cloudkicker gave a chuckle at that. "What did she say?" She asked, still chuckling. "She is the first pony I've ever met who combined the words bitch whore asshole together and make it sound reasonably insulting." I gave a cough at that. "Living on the streets probably encouraged that behavior." I muttered and the two other mares grew serious. "Is Diamond Tiara really that bad?" Lyra nodded. "She's come in the shop a few times. Very rude and vain. Typical rich pony. Her mom isn't that much better. I overheard Scootaloo talking to Twist about it. Apparently Diamond constantly harasses her for not having her cutie mark and not being able to fly. She goes after the other two crusaders just as bad too." Lyra admitted. I gave a soft growl at that knowledge. I've seen the pink earth pony around before but never hung out around her. That was gonna quickly change, I'd smack that filly if she disrespected Scootaloo in front of me. Her mom can get the work too. I don't care, these hooves are made for all ages. Okay that sounded bad, I admitted silently. I don't go around hitting foals or fillies. I'd certainly make an exception for Diamond though. "And I said, I really don't care. I'm gonna sit here damn it and play my lyre because this is a public park. Go tell somepony who actually gives a flying feather." Lyra chuckled and Cloudkicker gave a quick laugh. I was shaken out of my musing by that. I didn't realize Lyra had started a new story. "I can't believe you told Mayor Mare that." Cloudkicker chuckled. Lyra shrugged. "I don't take attitude from anypony. I don't care if they have a bad day, they gonna show me respect damn it. She later apologized and I accepted but still. Earning extra bits by playing my lyre is beneficial as hell for me and Bonnie." Lyra grumbled. Scootaloo ran up to Cloudkicker. "Cloud, can me and Ruby have a sleep over with Miss Lyra and Miss Bon Bon." Scootaloo pleaded, putting on her best puppy dog eyes. Cloudkicker ruffled her mane grinning. "Well technically you have to ask Lyra for permission, but I don't see why not." she looked confused when Scootaloo wrapped her hooves around her neck in a hug. "You're the best, thanks!" Scootaloo ran over to Ruby. "She said yes!" Cloudkicker raised a hoof. "Wait, I didn't say that." she called out after the two but was drowned out over the sounds of the playing colts and fillies. Lyra chuckled. "It'll be fine, Dinky can come over too. Maybe Noi will come along." She told the pegasus. "What movie should we watch?" Cloudkicker asked as she rummaged through our movie drawer. We got something called a TV for a Christmas gift one year. Apparently they are new and in development. Crazy things. I can't fathom the idea of watching a movie at home instead of going to the theater but it is a bit more convenient. I really don't know how the things work but apparently it created a lot of new jobs for the pegasi. Which is really good for us. If we ever get fired from the weather service, we can always get jobs for the TV bureau. A knock on the door got our attention and Cloudkicker groaned. "Movie night will have to wait I guess." She hovered to the door and opened. I joined her at the door to greet our guest. "Hey Wildfire, how's it going?" I greeted her eagerly. She landed on the cloud doorstep and smiled at us. "We have to talk." she said simply. Chapter Six Cloudkicker“I can’t do this,” Scootaloo whined. I stood on a cloud with her a few miles up in the sky. I forget what attempt this was at getting her to try to step off the cloud and try to fly. “Yes you can,” I said with a smile. “You are a strong filly. You just gotta figure out how to control your wings.” “I can’t okay?” Scootaloo grumbled as I sighed quietly. “I’ll never be able to fly. I’m going to be stuck on the ground with Sweetie Belle and Apple Bloom. At least I can hang out with them.” “Cmon, let’s go home,” I said as I tossed her on my back with a wing. She instinctively wrapped her hooves around my neck as I took off. The cloud underneath us dissipated from the force as I dove down as Scootaloos screaming made me look back in fear of her falling off. I sighed in relief of her screaming in excitement, not fear. I landed on the mat of our cloudhouse, shaking off some rain from the rain clouds we had flown too close to. I trotted inside as Scootaloo jumped off my back with shaky hooves as I chuckled. “Have fun?” Raindrops asked with a grin as she finished setting the table. I hadn’t known we had been gone for that long. “Yeah!” Scootaloo giggled as she hugged Raindrops. I felt a slight pang of jealousy that I pushed down. Raindrops was Scootaloos favorite evidently. “Cloudkicker took me flying. It was fun!” “Is that so?” Raindrops chuckled and mussed her mane. “I bet it was fun. I remember we used to fly together as fillies all the time. She used to give me rides all the time when I was tired after school.” I blushed slightly as we all sat down at the cloud table. I had forgotten about all that. It was crazy to think I’ve know Raindrops for about twelve years or so. “Can I go play with Sweetie Belle and Apple Bloom tomorrow?” Scootaloo asked hopefully and I felt that jealousy rise up again. “No,” I said sternly as Raindrops raised an eyebrow. “Me and you have plans. Now eat up, you have an early night. It’s going to be a long flight.” “Where are we going?” Scootaloo asked eagerly as she started eating. “Oh you’ll see,” I winked as I started eating myself and ignored Raindrops look she was giving me. I yawned as I settled into our bed as Raindrops finished her shower and entered the room. She had the same irritated look on her face as she laid down next to me and shimmied under the covers. “What was that about?” Raindrops asked finally. “At dinner. I had plans with Scootaloo tomorrow.” “I do too,” I grunted as I faced her. “You’re her favorite. Why don’t I get to do things with her?” “You took her flying tonight!” “And?” I challenged and gulped nervously at her angry expression. “Seriously? Where are you even taking her?” Raindrops demanded as she narrowed her eyes. “To Cloudsdale. But evidently you have a problem with me trying to spend time with the filly you want as our daughter! Emphasis on OURS!” I shouted as Raindrops flinched. “Oh, that’s rich coming from the mare who didn’t even want her!” Raindrops shot back angrily. The door creaked open as we both froze as Scootaloo peaked inside nervously. “Moms?” Scootaloo traced a hoof on the door as we looked at her slowly. “You aren’t fighting over me, are you?” We quickly looked at each other instead and sighed. “We were yeah,” Raindrops admitted as Scootaloo flinched with wide eyes. “But it’s okay. Couples fight, it’s normal and yes will fight over you somedays. We’re sorry you had to hear that.” “Yeah,” I agreed as Scootaloo jumped up on the bed. “We’re sorry. Rainy and I are having a discussion is all. Mind you, a heated conversation but a conversation.” “Why?” “It’s complicated. Don’t worry about it just yet kid,” Raindrops rubbed Scootaloos head with a hoof. “Just go back to sleep.” Scootaloo nodded as she snuck under Raindrops wing and I looked away with a scoff. I jumped as I felt something pushed up against me. Raindrops gave me an encouraging nod as I tentatively wrapped a wing around the filly as Scootaloo started snoring quietly and I smiled. “I’m sorry,” I muttered as I stroked Scootaloo with a wing. “Me too. You can take Scootaloo tomorrow if you want. I can reschedule our plans,” Raindrops said as she touched me with a hoof. “Nah you can. It’s fine.” “Okay. How was her flying anyway?” I sighed as I stared down at the quietly sleeping filly. “It didn’t happen. She was too afraid to get off the cloud, let alone try to fly. Rainbow said something about her wings not developing properly. I honestly don’t know if she will fly ever.” Raindrops sighed as a breeze pushed the curtains aside and we all three shivered as I instinctively pulled Scootaloo closer. I was surprised she passed out that fast. Then again, she was half asleep when she came in. “I think I may know a pony. He’s a bit well unorthodox in his teachings but he’s a good pony. He means well but most don’t like him.” “Why?” I asked worriedly as I yawned. “The same reason ponies don’t like Derpy. Ponies care so much about physical attributes but never look at the pony inside.” I had to give it to her, she was spitting facts as Scootaloo would call it. Derpy was a close friend of the two of us. I can’t remember how many fights I had to break up between Raindrops and outsiders insulting Derpy. Hell, even Golden Harvest fought a few ponies. I thought only Raindrops had an anger like that. An angry Golden Harvest or Carrot Top as she allowed her very close friends to call her is a very scary sight. Trust me on this. “Hey you know something?” Raindrops asked as she nudged me with a grin. “What?” “She called us moms. That includes you. She likes you Cloudy, you’ll see. You took her flying today. You know how much she loves being taken for flights.” “You’re right. She did,” I muttered as we yawned in unison. “Wow.” “Feels good, doesn’t it?” “Yeah, yeah it does. Now let’s go to sleep finally. I’m exhausted and you have plans tomorrow.” Raindrops nodded as we curled up with Scootaloo between as I closed my eyes to sleep.
Chapter One RaindropsI flapped my wings half heartedly. It was a long day of cloudbusting, I pulled a fourteen hour shift because one of the part time weather team pegasi called in. I was exhausted. Rainbow Dash is a pretty intense boss. I lazily looked down as I flew to my house when I had to fly back around after seeing what I thought was a filly sleeping under a cardboard shelter. After doing my loop back around, I gently landed on the ground and looked around. Sure enough, there was an orange pegasus with a matted mane and dirty fur wrapped up in a news paper under a badly built cardboard shelter. I was sure she was asleep till her eyes shot opened at the sound of me approaching cautiously. "Hey kid." She instantly shot up shaking and backed against the wall of the restaurant her "shelter" was next to. "Stay back", she stammered. "I'll fight you if you try to ponynap me." I sat down on my haunches. "Why would I try to ponynap you? That wouldn't be epic of me, now would it?" I wasn't that great at keeping up with the lingo fillies and colts used these days, but if it calmed her down then that's a win in my book. "Because you're a stranger and strangers ponynap fillies all the time." Wow, this kid was raised right I thought to myself. Strangers could be pretty dangerous at times. "And you'll probably take me to the Rainbow Factory to have me killed or turned into glue or something evil", she continued. I gave a laugh at that and she looked confused at me. "The Rainbow Factory, huh? They still using that myth to keep fillies and colts behaving well?" The Rainbow Factory was a story they had used at flight school when I was a filly to keep us in line. "Uh, I'm not sure", she admitted. "I heard two ponies talking about it a few weeks ago". She still was leaning against the wall but her shaking had almost entirely stopped. Think Raindrops, I told myself, how else to I get her to calm down? I touched my chest with a hoof. "I'm Raindrops, what's your name?" She warily made eye contact with me again. "I'm Scootaloo." Why did that name sound familiar? I racked my brain till I remembered the boss mentioning her one night at work. "I know you. You're the bosses sister or something right? Why you out here and not with her?" She maintained eye contact. "Who's your boss? Is it some mafia pony leading a prostitution ring?" My eyes got slightly wide. Who in Equestria gave kids these wild imaginations? I shook my head quickly. "No, my boss is Rainbow Da-" I barely could finish my sentence before she moved in a blurr and I was on my back with her standing on my chest excitedly. Where the hay did this energy come from? "Oh my gosh! You know Rainbow Dash!" She practically screamed in my face. I nodded. "We went to flight school together". That was the wrong thing to say because that only served to make her more energetic. Nice going Raindrops, I thought dryly to myself, you're getting attacked by a filly that has probably had too much pop and candy. I did get her to come out of her shell though like I wanted so I shouldn't be complaining. She then started to pepper me with questions like did I have any pictures of young Rainbow Dash, what was it like being in the same school as her. I honestly couldn't make out the rest with how fast she popped them questions out. She instantly stopped and hopped off me and started nervously pacing. "Oh my heavens, what if she finds out about me? She'll never think I'm awesome anymore?" She started panicking. I stood up and looked down at her and she instantly shrank down in fear. I realized my standing position could be a bit intimidating so I stepped back. "She doesn't know?" That surprised me, I thought the boss knew everything about her sister. Kinda complicated my opinion of Rainbow, a good sister wouldn't have let her family survive on the streets. "She doesn't. Please don't tell her, she'll think I'm a loser", Scootaloo started to beg. I raised a hoof and she shrank back in fear. I quickly lowered it. Something really bad must have happened to this filly for her to get afraid at me just standing over her, I decided. I gave her the warmest smile my tired mind could muster. "Come with me", I instructed. She warily looked at me. "Where to? Oh Luna, you're gonna use me as a drug mule, aren't you?" My Celestia, I groaned to myself internally. This filly and her wildly overactive imagination. I shook my head. "No of course not. I don't even know where somepony would start a business like that. It's cold outside, my house is warm and has actual food instead of whatever you eat out here. What do you say?" Scootaloo looked back at her "shelter" and back at me. "I don't want to be a bother", she said while looking down at her hooves. I kneeled down and put a hoof under her chin, forcing her to make eye contact. "I offered. You aren't being a bother because I extended the invitation. Don't think you are one". I started to walk away and threw a glance over my shoulder and saw her watching me. "I have a bunch of ice cream I was gonna share, but since you wanna stay here, I guess more for me". I faced forward and slowly started to walk before I heard hooves running up to me and I glanced down smiling. She was gazing up at me. I knew the ice cream trick would work, it always did on my younger sister. She gave a big yawn and started teetering over. I quickly shot out a wing and helped her stay up straight. I couldn't help but give a giggle. "Somepony looks pretty tired", I teased lightly. I lifted her up carefully with my wing and gently set her on my back. I took off into the sky. After ten minutes, I felt something snuggling into me and heard a light snoring. I spared a quick glance back at my passenger and saw her sleeping on my back, face shoved into my mane. She does look pretty cute when sleeping, I decided. I forgot how cute fillies were after my sister grew up. I quickly landed on my cloud houses front steps and wiped my hooves off on the mat. I pushed the door open and walked in. I laid her down in my bed and joined her, wrapping a wing around her. Soon enough I was passed out alongside her. A few hours later I woke up and the sunlight was shining through the window. Snuggled against me still was Scootaloo. I gave a sleepy smile and got up from the bed and stretched my wings. I knew enough about fillies that breakfast was the most important part of the day, especially for one as hyperactive as Scootaloo. I'd heard the rumors about what her and her friends could get into. They almost burnt down Roselucks, Daisy's and Lily's flower stand by some crazy circumstance. Nopony really knew how they managed that but CMC insurance became a thing in Ponyville pretty quickly after that fiasco. Working my way to the cupboard, I started nosing around till I found the pancake and batter mix. It was just me and Scootaloo, my wife was out on assistant manager weather team business in Cloudsdale and wouldn't be back till a few days from now. I completely forgot about Cloudkicker. I should probably explain why I have a filly sharing our bed when she gets home. I also forgot she didn't want a foal or filly or anything like that. I don't really know how I can forgot something like this to be honest. Oh well, she'll understand and come around I thought to myself as I set out on making the pancakes for me and my little guest. A few moments later, i heard a tiny yawn accompanied by hoofsteps. I glanced behind me and Scootaloo was standing behind me, rubbing her eyes. I gave a big smile her direction. "Good morning sleepyhead. You want pancakes?" She gave a eager nod. "Can I help?" She asked eagerly. I put a hoof on my chin in thought and grinned. "You can get the syrup out of the cupboard. Top of the cupboard". I pointed with a hoof. I turned back to my cooking when I heard a falling sound. I turned around and saw Scootaloo tumbling to the ground with the syrup in her mouth from the top cupboard. How she got up there by climbing alone I'll never know. I picked her up and the bottle with a wing and dusted her off smirking. "Why in Equestria did you climb up there silly? Why not just fly up there?" She looked down sadly and I immediately felt bad like I said something wrong. I turned the stove off, we had enough pancakes cooked for more than enough of us. I knelt down and tucked my legs under me and looked her in the eyes. "What's wrong, kiddo?" "I can't fly. My wings are damaged and will never heal properly", she told me. I instantly felt bad. Being a Pegasus and being grounded was a curse to us. Our wings gave us a certain freedom unicorns and earth ponies didn't have. More importantly, I felt stupid bringing her to a cloudhouse when she couldn't get up or down. "Well, I'll help you. When me or Cloudy aren't here, I'll talk to Cherry Berry about taking you up here in her balloon". I ruffled her mane and smiled. "We will sort something out". She finally gave a small smile. "Okay". "After we eat though, you need a bath. Your mane and coat is messy as heck". I smiled. Scootaloo sheepishly rubbed the back of her head. "Yeah I haven't had a shower in a while. Last time was five weeks ago when I slept over at Raritys with Sweetie Belle and Applebloom". To say I was surprised would be the understatement of the century. How did none of her friends parents or sister notice something going on? I wondered idly to myself as I started putting Scootaloos pancakes together. I slide the plate to her on the table and got her a glass of milk and passed it to her. I finally got my plate and drink and by the time I sat down, she had gotten over halfway done with her food. "Wow kid, you're hungry", I teased her playfully. She stopped eating and swallowed and looked down. "I'm sorry Miss Raindrops". I waved a hoof in the air. "Don't worry, I was just teasing you. And you don't gotta call me Miss Raindrops. Makes me feel old". The filly across me nodded slowly and went back to eating. I placed my hooves on the table. "So, do you got school today?" "Yeah. It's boring though i don't like it". I gave a laugh. "I didn't either. I only really liked history and science class. We should get your shower so we can get you to school". Ten minutes later, I was sitting on the couch while Scootaloo showered. She was pretty much a typical filly other than being homeless of course. She may not show it, but she certainly cared about her mane and coat. I trotted up to the door and knocked on it. "Scootaloo, it's time to get you to school. I know the shower is nice but it'll be here after school". I heard a grumble from the other side of the door. I softly snickered at that as the door opened. "I'm ready". I knelt down and smiled. "Hop on and I'll fly us there". Scootaloo quickly clambered on and I stood up walking out the door and quickly flew to her school. "Can you not tell Miss Cheerilee about finding me? I want it to be a secret". I gave a quick nod. "It's our secret for now. When Cloudy gets here, I'll have to tell her though since you're staying here". She nodded as we landed down in front of the school. "Hey Scootaloo", I heard a filly yell as Scootaloo slid off my back. Apple Bloom came into our view pretty quick and she eyed me. "Are you her mom or sumthing?" I noticed Scootaloo tense up and I wrapped a wing around her. "I'm a friend of hers. Just dropping her off for school". Applebloom nodded after continuing to stare at me. "Okay", she shrugged and turned back to Scootaloo. "Sweetie is gonna meet us in the class room". Scootaloo gave a quick nod and the two walked into their class. I had to get to work so I immediately took off to go do my work. It was gonna be a busy day, we were due for a massive week long storm for the farms. I was really loving spending time with Scootaloo so work was gonna be a pain in the ass to deal with. It was worth it though to attempt to give Scootaloo a good day.
Chapter Two RaindropsA few days have passed and Scootaloo was settling in nicely. The few days I worked over i got Cherry Berry to watch over Scootaloo. And Cloudkicker was coming home today from Cloudsdale so I could finally talk about us adopting Scootaloo. Hopefully she will be a bit more open than the last time I mentioned wanting to adopt. The last time we argued over it, I chose to sleep on the couch for a few days. Scootaloo was sitting on the couch reading a comic that Twilights dragon Spike had loaned out to her. I was making dinner in the kitchen when the front door opened. I excitedly flew out to greet my wife. Cloudkicker looked utterly exhausted standing in the doorway and tossed her saddle bags off. I stepped up and nuzzled her. "Hey Cloudy, how was Cloudsdale?" She gave a exaggerated sigh. "It was so boring. I mean sure, it was cool to learn about others methods there but it just isn't practical nor necessary to have a four hour presentation for ten minutes of information". I could believe that. I was kinda glad Rainbow didn't promote me to assistant manager. The money woulda been nice but the late nights doing paperwork just isn't for me. A blur of orange and purple was next to me suddenly. I smiled down and ruffled her mane. "Whats up, kid?" I asked. "Can I go do some crusading with Sweetie Belle and Applebloom? We wanna try to get our cutie marks in baking and Pinkie Pie already agreed if we got permission from the ponies we stay with. So can I?" My smile grew bigger. Sweet Celestia, this filly was adorable. "Sure thing. I'll fly you down there after I talk with Cloudy". Cloudkicker had been staring back amd at both of us before looking at me. I jerked my head to the bedroom. After she walked in and I closed the door, she started talking. "Who the hay is that?" She demanded. I waved a hoof nonchalantly. "That's Scootaloo. She's been staying here for a bit". "Well clearly", Cloudkicker snorted. "But why? I don't want to have a kid right now". "She was sleeping in a bucking alley way wrapped up in a news paper and under a shoddy built cardboard house. What was I supposed to, leave her?" I could feel my temper growing. "Maybe take her to the nearest orphanage or Rainbow Dash?" My wings started to flare out a bit like they did when pegasi got angry. "That's an awful idea. She connected to me. Taking her to an orphanage would ruin all the work I did to get her to open up. And she asked me to not tell Rainbow", I snapped. Cloudkicker started to get angry too based on her facial expression. "Look, I know you were an orphan and you want to prevent anypony from going there but I'm not really interested in having a foal tearing up the place. Not right now at least. You can just take her somewhere else and somepony else can take care of her. Besides, I kinda thought we could work out some stress in bed". She started to move a hoof to my mane and I slapped it away and she stared in surprise which quickly turned back to anger. My blood started boiling. I absolutely despise when ponies bring up me being in the system. "Seriously? I'm not gonna pawn her off on somepony else". The door opened before either of us could say anything. Scootaloo was standing there staring at us afraid. All my anger disappeared. "Hey Scootaloo, ready to go?" She gave a soft nod. I glared at Cloudkicker. "Pack a bag. We're leaving, Scootaloo". She and Cloudkicker blinked. Scootaloo nodded and went to pack. "Where are you gonna go, Rainy? Its a raining mess out there!" "Anywhere but here", I scoffed and glared angrily at her. "I can't believe you would even suggest shoving her onto somepony else". I yanked a suitcase out and started packing a rain coat along with some other necessities. Toothbrush, hair brush, toothpaste etc. Cloudkicker just stood there helplessly watching. I stormed to the doorway of the house where Scootaloo was waiting. "Hop on. We're gonna stay away for a few days till Cloudkicker here gets herself together". I fixed a final glare at her while Scootaloo nervously climbed on. "Just stay. I'll sleep on the couch", Cloudkicker tried to beg. I quickly cut her off with a wave of my hoof. "We will pass". She shuffled nervously. "When will you be back?" She asked quietly. "When you act like a grown up and not a jackass". I instantly bit my tongue after cursing in front of the filly on my back. At that, I took off flying out the door. At a glance back, I saw Cloudkicker standing outside in the rain staring after us before kicking a cloud and walking back inside. I landed outside of a house and pounded on the door. A tired Daisy opened the door. "Hey Raindrops, whats happening?" She greeted me and gave me a quick nuzzle. She looked confused when she saw the suitcase and Scootaloo on my back. I sighed. "Me and Cloudkicker got into a fight. Can me and Scootaloo stay for a few nights?" Daisy nodded. "Follow me, Lily and Rose were eating last I checked at the table". I followed my friend in and her sisters were eating like she had guessed. I waved a hoof half-heartedly. "Hey Roseluck, hey Lily". "How's it going?" Lily asked. "Been better", I admitted. "Me and Cloud got into a fight". "She and Scootaloo will be staying here for a bit", Daisy spoke up. "Why do you have Scootaloo exactly?" Roseluck questioned me nervously. I glanced down at Scootaloo who had slipped off my back. "You can tell them if you want kid, up to you". She nodded. Once she told the three sisters, Daisy gave her a pretty tight hug. "You two can stay as long as you want". Lily and Rose nodded. "Are we still doing my baking lessons with Pinkie?" "I don't know, are you sure you're up to it? It's been a pretty wild evening". Scootaloo slumped down onto the floor, nodded and then passed out snoring. I rolled my eyes while Daisy laughed. "Well, looks like that plan is canceled", she teased. "I suppose so", I chuckled. Lily started taking my suit case upstairs. "We kept that upstairs bed room already made, just in case you might need it". I nodded my thanks and sighed. "I just don't get why she wanted me to pawn Scootaloo off to an orphanage or Dash. It's ridiculous, she's opened up to me". Roseluck nodded. "I agree. For what it's worth, she's a good filly. Minus you know, almost burning down the flower stand that one time". I gave a soft laugh. "I remember that. Lily wanted to kill her". Rose stepped up and hugged me again. "I'm sure Cloudy and you will sort it out and she'll come around. As wild as she is, if you need somepony to watch Scoots when you're busy, I can make the time". She gave me a quick nuzzle and smiled at me. "Thanks Rosie". We headed upstairs to join Daisy and Lily while I carried Scootaloo. After I set her down on the bed, Scootaloo eyes flicked open. "Raindrops?" Me and the sisters stopped and gazed at her. "Yeah kid?" I asked her smiling. "Why does your wife hate me?" I immediately sat down next to her and stroked her mane. A coughing sound came from the doorway and I glanced up and saw that Roseluck turned angry red and Daisy's eyes matched her upset look. "She doesn't hate you. She will come around, shes just confused". I hugged her. "I promise". She nodded and fell back asleep. The sisters left the room and Lily shut the door smiling and all three headed downstairs. Once they were downstairs, Lily looked at her sisters. "We gotta talk sense into Cloudkicker". Daisy nodded vehemently and narrowed her eyes. "I agree". Roseluck just stood quietly and then realized something. "We can't confront Cloudkicker about this". "Why the hell not?" Lily demanded spinning on her sister. "Because if we tell her we know about it,then she will realize that Rainy and Scootaloo are most likely staying with us". Rose explained. Daisy sat down. "I didn't think about that. So we do nothing?" Rose grinned and shook her head. "I have something in mind, just wait". Lily and Daisy exchanged wary looks. The last time Rose said she had something in mind, it didn't end well.
Chapter Three CloudkickerAfter Raindrops ran out with Scootaloo, I curled up on the cloud couch by the fire place and tried to stop shaking. I hated admitting i had been crying. Sure, we've spent nights apart before but not after a big fight like this. I made it a point to never ask where she went to stay or ask around town. I knew once she had a few days to calm down she would came back. I felt a hoof gently stroking my mane. "Are you feeling better that you got done crying?" Blossomforth asked me. I sniffled and nodded a bit. "Yeah, i think so. I may have fucked up with Raindrops tonight but we just got married four months. That's a big change and I'm still getting used to it and she goes and springs up adopting. And she already has Scootaloo here. I can only adapt to one big change at time. Besides, I'm not sure I'd even BE a good mom. You remember my college days, what if my kid or adopted kid turns out like me?" "Fair point, she shouldn't have sprung this on you so soon. As long as I've known Raindrops, she's always been enthusiastic about wanting a foal of her own. Especially considering-" Blossom clamped her mouth shut. I fixed a stare at her. "Considering what?" Blossom sighed. "Cloudy, there's a lot you don't know still. You have to ask her directly. I'd be betraying her trust if I told you." After thinking for a minute, I nodded. "Fair enough. I can't ask you to do something you're not comfortable with. Do you think we could get White Lightning to talk to her? She's super close with Rainy." Blossom inhaled. "I suppose but we should wait. Give it a day or two to settle down, the fight just happened tonight. Besides, what if she went there and you accidentally make things worse?" I hadn't thought of that. I gave another nod and conceded. "You're right, I just hate sitting and waiting." Blossom cracked a smile at that. "I know the feeling. At the same time, we all know Raindrops personality. She can't just sit by and watch when something like a homeless filly is out there and she can help. It's just not she is, she's gonna do everything to make it right and solve the problem. It's part of the Raindrops charm." I laughed at that. "I do love that about her". We sat in silence with my head resting on her lap while she rubbed my back softly. "Can you stay with me tonight?" I asked softly. "I don't wanna be alone". Blossom nodded. "Of course". She helped me up and flew me to her bed. After we got under the covers, she snuggled up to me. "Thanks Blossom, you're a good friend". She giggled. "I know. Goodnight Cloudy". A few days I woke up and headed outside to go get to morning paper. For some odd reason, there was a bunch of wilting roses thrown up to the house covering it. "What the fuck?" I muttered. I saw three figures covered in black cloaks running away. "You get back here this instant and clean this up, you hear me!" I yelled and shook a hoof at them. I could have flown and got them but the motivation wasn't there. "Nice decorations", I heard Blossom comment sarcastically. Turning around, I saw her eating a rose. "Pretty delicious too". I rolled my eyes. "I'm happy for you. Who even has this many dead roses?" Blossom shrugged and continued eating. "Let's just get inside before we get attacked with daffodils next", I scoffed. Blossom perked up. "That would be nice, a daffodil sandwich sounds good". I rolled my eyes again as I walked past her. "I have some in the fridge". Why the fuck would anyone even go to this effort and cover the house. It's even on the roof, my Celestia". I complained and Blossom snickered. Four blocks away, theee ponies stopped running. One threw the hood off panting. "Really Rose, that was your idea?" Daisy scoffed trying to catch her breath. "Yeah what the hell was that?" Lily demanded. Roseluck rolled her eyes. "It's symbolic. They are wilting roses, which symbolizes we're upset at her but they are also roses which means we still love her even if we are mad at her". Daisy tapped a hoof in thought. "I never thought of it like that", she commented. 'Yeah me neither", Lily admitted. "Thank you", Rose said proudly. "Just one problem", Lily stated raising a hoof. "What if she puts two and two together and it comes back to us? Then not only are we screwed, so is Rainy and Scootaloo if Cloudy comes by". Daisy nodded her agreement and looked to Rose expectantly. Rose sighed. "I didn't think of that". Both her sisters groaned and Daisy facehoofed. "But!" Rose continued, "I took all the tags off saying they belong to our flower stand and considering Blossomforth was up there with her and everypony knows Blossom loves to eat flowers, the evidence will be gone". "And how do you know it was Blossomforth up there?" Lily questioned with a raised eyebrow. Rose scoffed and rolled her eyes. "Please, there's only one Pegasus in Ponyville with a watermelon colored mane. Besides, I assumed Cloudkicker would be frustrated and get her to talk about the situation, just like Raindrops did with us". A sound of a Pegasus landing behind them startled them. "So it was you guys who decorated Cloudkickers house with flowers", Blossom stated coolly. "Thanks for the breakfast by the way". "I have no idea what you're talking about", Daisy said quickly. Blossom rolled her eyes. "I'm not stupid, there's only one place in town where that many roses could have come from". Lily glared at Roseluck. "Nice job sis". "Fine it was us", Roseluck sighed tossing her hooves up. "Are you gonna tell her?" Blossom shook her head to surprise of the three sisters. "Under one condition", Blossom stated. "You convince Raindrops to meet her. I already talked Cloudkicker into it and got her side. I love them both, but this drama is so petty". Daisy nodded. "I agree. It's been a few days maybe Raindrops has calmed down too". Blossom inhaled. "Work has been awkward with them too. They've been just trying to avoid each other. Kinda hard to manage a small towns weather and avoid each other while doing it". "I never thought about that", Lily said. "How's Scootaloo?" Blossom asked. "Shes doing fine. Except for the fact she thinks Cloudkicker hates her". Rose admitted. Blossom sighed again and sat down on her haunches. "She doesn't hate her at all, she just doesn't think she's ready for parenthood or would be a good mom. She just got married and thinks it's too soon. Two big changes in a ponys life is a lot to handle". Rose nodded thoughtfully. "Maybe she can tell Scootaloo that in person". "What are you thinking?" Daisy asked. "Scootaloo gets out of school at about three pm. Blossom, can you subtly influence Cloud to go meet Scootaloo? We'll distract Raindrops for a bit". Blossom nodded. "I can do that. My shift starts in thirty minutes, I gotta get to the weather teams meet up spot. Hopefully Raindrops and Cloudkicker aren't there killing each other". "Alright excellent", Lily beamed. Blossom started to fly away. She waved a hoof at them. "Thanks again for the breakfast". The three sisters waved goodbye. "That Blossom is a very good and friendly pony", Lily mused. "Mhm", Daisy agreed. Rose could only nod her agreement. "Hey Silverspeed, help Raindrops with those clouds over there please", I called out. Silverspeed gave me a quick salute. "You got it boss". She zipped off. I heard wings flapping behind me and caught a quick glimpse of a rainbow mane. "Hey Dash". "Hey Kicker. Everything going good here?" Rainbow questioned. "Yeah, why wouldn't it be?" I replied idly. "You and Raindrops haven't been talking the last few days at work and she's more grumpy than usual. Typically you guys always work together with Blossomforth". I sighed and watched a bird fly by. "We're just having some problems is all. We will get through it, we always do. Just wish I could go back in time and put a hoof in my mouth". Rainbow settled on a cloud floating nearby. "Whatcha fight about?" She asked looking at me. I sighed again. "She brought up adopting again. This time, she had a filly there. She found her homeless on the street". Rainbow sat up straighter. "Woah. Good on her for getting her off the streets, it's been raining hard. A filly could get sick in this weather". I nodded absentmindedly. "I didn't even have a problem with her being there temporarily, hell I don't even mind her being there permanently. I just wish she could communicate a little better. Let me know me beforehand what's going". Rainbow nodded. "I get what you mean. Maybe she was afraid you'd kick her and the filly out". I glared at Rainbow. "I wouldn't have done that to her or Scoot-the filly she found". Rainbow tensed up. "What name did you almost say?" She asked staring me in the eyes. Fuck, I thought to myself. "Nothing, boss". Rainbow analyzed me, staring a hole into me with her eyes so concentrated I started to sweat a little bit. "I know you're lying but I won't push it. You two can tell me about it later". I gave a sigh of relief. "Thanks boss". Another set of pegasi joined us on the cloud. "Hey Cloudy", Blossom said. "Whats up Blossom? Hey Parasol", I greeted the two members of my squad. "Hey boss", Parasol answered smiling. Rainbow grunted. "Why are you so smiley today?" Parasol shrugged grinning. "Can't a pony be happy for no reason?" "No". Came Dashes reply. "Aren't you friends with Pinkie Pie? Isn't she definition of being happy for no reason?" Parasol pressed. Rainbow turned red blushing. "That doesn't count". Her blushing didn't get past me and I grinned. "Looks like little Dashie has a crush". I snickered. "I do not!" Rainbow exclaimed, turning even redder. Parasol laughed. "She's a tomato, didn't know Dash had it in her". Blossom rolled her eyes. "Shut up. I have uh clouds to bust", Rainbow grumbled before taking off, face still red leaving the three of us laughing. I turned to my teammates. "Anything you two need help with?" They shook their heads. "We're here to help YOU" Parasol stated proudly pushing her hoof against my chest. "Uh huh and how's that?" I asked. Blossom sighed. "This drama between you and Raindrops is going on too long. Look at her, does she look happy?" I glanced over at Raindrops who was idly pushing a cloud. She did look pretty miserable. "She doesn't, no. There's nothing I can do, she just won't talk to me", I admitted. "That's not technically true though boss", Parasol said. "How do you figure?" I asked gazing at her. "Go talk to Scootaloo when school gets out, tell her everything you told me the other night. She can tell Raindrops and Rainy will come looking for you", Blossom stated. "I'm not sure thats a good idea", I admitted. "What if it backfires?" "It won't", Parasol said confidently. Blossom nodded her agreement. I sighed. "Fine". Blossom clapped her hooves excitedly. "You better get going, school gets out in ten minutes", Blossom pointed out. Oh shit, I thought. I quickly hugged Blossom and Parasol. "Thanks you two. Can you cover for me?" I asked Blossom. She quickly nodded grinning and I took off towards the school. As I flew away, I heard a loud whistle. Glancing up, I saw Sassaflash and White Lightning looking down grinning. "Go get em boss", Sassaflash cheered as she stomped her hooves together. White Lightning tossed a salute my way. I sat on a cloud over the school, watching and waiting for Scootaloo to come. I felt slightly awkward doing so, like I was some sort of stalker pony. Finally I saw her coming out with the other CMC. I took off and landed next to her. "Hey kid", I said with a smile. Her two friends jumped and she looked afraid. I instantly was kicking myself. "Uhm hi", she said nervously. "You got a minute kid? We should talk about stuff". Her eyes darted back and forth nervously. Apple Bloom looked at me with narrowed eyes. "Ya ain't going alone with her. Ya might try to ponynap her". I rolled my eyes. "I won't ponynap her. Heck, I'm close friends with her mentor figure pony. Been for a long, long time. Kinda stupid to mess that up now". Apple Bloom and Sweetie Belle looked to each other. "We still wanna come with. Scoots been acting weird and we want answers. First that yellow Pegasus drops her off and now you're here to talk to Scootaloo", Sweetie decided. I rolled my eyes. "That yellow Pegasus is my wife", I scoffed. "Oh", Apple Bloom said. "Okay then, have fun Scootaloo", Sweetie Belle said running off with Applebloom. Being alone with Scootaloo was awkward. I rubbed the back of my head. "So you probably have questions", I stated. "Why do you hate me, what did I do to you? Is it because I ate the last of the pasta? If so I'm sorry", Scootaloo said quickly looking down. I folded my legs under me and sat down looking at her. "I don't hate you, kid. I just wasn't expecting a filly at home. I just got married and Rainy puts adoption up in my face right after one big change. I didn't think I'd be a good mom". Scootaloo looked away. "You never even gave me one night or tried". I exhaled. "I know. And I'm sorry for that. I'm willing to try now". Scootaloo looked back at me and I could see a faint level of excitement in her eyes. "Really?", she asked excitedly. I nodded and smiled at her. "I just need you to do me a favor". "What's that?" She asked me warily. "Tell Raindrops what I told you and that I want to talk to her about this. That's all", I promised her. Scootaloo looked to be thinking for a moment before nodding. "Alright, I'll do it. But if you are mean to her I'll beat you up!" She puffed her chest up. I grinned and tousled her mane. "Sure you will". A few hours later I heard the front door opening. Considering we live in a cloudhouse, you really have to listen for things like doors opening and such. I was curled up in a ball freezing on the couch when I heard Raindrops exclaim, "why the buck is it so cold in here?" A few moments past and I felt the house starting to warm. Raindrops floated into the living and saw me shivering on the couch. "What the hell, Cloudy?" She demanded. I forced my self to look up. "W-whats up?" I asked my teeth chattering. I felt Raindrops quickly wrap her wings around me and I felt warmer. "Thanks", I managed to get put. "Why is it so cold in here?" I shrugged. "Figured if Scootaloo is gonna be staying here permanently, I might as well force myself to know how it feels to sleep in cold weather like the winters I'm assuming she slept through". Raindrops glared down at me and I shrunk under her gaze. She gave an exhale. "You absolute idiot. This was a dumb idea, freezing yourself would leave me with no wife". Then she froze and started to smile. "Wait, did you say she can stay permanently?" I nodded. "Yes. It was stupid of me to be mad about you helping her. I was afraid I'd be a terrible mom. Plus I wasn't sure about a big change as this at first". Raindrops quickly nuzzled me. I glanced around, "where is Scootaloo?" "Rose is watching her and Ruby. Teaching them how to grow flowers for cutie marks. She also has a fire extinguisher ready just in case". We sat in silence, cuddling for a bit while Raindrops warmed me with her wings. "I did my research and already set up an appointment with Wildfire tomorrow to work on the adoption papers", I said softly. Raindrops jumped up and squeeled. I had never heard that noise from her before and trust me, I heard a lot of different noises from her. "I literally can not say how much I love you right now", she exclaimed and then put a hoof on her chin and appeared to be thought then grinned at me wickedly. I gave a smirk her way and ran a hoof along her wing. "Actually I have an idea", she said still wearing her grin and dragged me to the bedroom. Let's just say we did a lot more than just sleep.
Chapter Four CloudkickerMe and Raindrops sat in the brown office. Wildfire was across from us pushing paperwork our way. "I just need both of you two to sign here". She explained as she handed two quills. We both signed at the dotted lines and pushed the papers back. "So adoption takes time. This is the hard part, she can't technically stay with you during this process because she was never given to you two to foster in the first place". Raindrops opened her mouth and closed it. I put a wing over her back. "So does that mean we can't get Scootaloo?" I questioned. Wildfire held up a hoof. "I didn't say that. She just needs to stay with somepony else while the process goes through. Rules and all". She shuffled through some papers in a drawer. "That said, I do have a same sex couple in town who have fostered for me before. Good ponies, great with kids, steady jobs. You two can arrange with either of them to spend time with Scootaloo but one of them has to be there because again, paperwork and rules", Wildlife calmly explained. "What type of ponies are they?" Raindrops asked. "Ones a musician, ones a candy maker". "I meant like race but I have an idea of you're talking about now". I gave a nod in agreement. "Is there anything else for us to sign?" Wildfire shook her head. "Nope but I will give you Scootaloos file from the Baltimare Orphange along with her medical records and background. Wait here". She flew out the room down the hall. "So, are you excited?" I asked my wife smiling. She grinned at me and started bouncing around. "Absolutely. I've waited for a moment like this my entire life. Speaking from experience, being adopted is the greatest feeling a pony can have". "So Blossom was talking to me and she mentioned something but said I needed to ask you about it and refused to tell me when I asked. Something other than you being adopted is why you wanted to do this", I said. "We can talk about that later at home. After I get some alcohol in me, it isn't a conversation for public", Raindrops explained. "Here we are, I just need one of you to sign this paper saying you received the file and accept it", Wildfire floated back in and set it down. I picked up a quill, signed and put the heavy file in my saddlebag. She folded her forelegs at her desk. "I'll also have to come by your house at some point to check it and make sure it's filly proof. Procedure. What day works best?" I looked at Raindrops. "We both got this Wednesday off work". Wildfire nodded and made a note. "Excellent, I'll stop by at one pm and we can get it over with. Any questions?" We shook our heads. "Excellent, I'll see you guys then". She waved as we flew out her office. "White Lightning offered to meet us for dinner tonight at a restaurant downtown. You game?" Raindrops asked. I gave a grin. "Always". After getting ready at home, we went to meet our co worker. "Hey Whitey", Raindrops greeted as she leaned in for a hug which White Lightning happily returned. "Hey boss", she nodded to me. I waved a hoof nonchalantly. "We're not at work, Cloudkicker or Cloud is fine". White Lightning grinned and nodded and we followed her to a table. Immediately a waiter was there. "What would you three like to drink?" The unicorn questioned smiling. "I'll take a glass of water", Raindrops said. "I'll have the same", White Lightning piped up. The waiter scribbled on his pad of paper and turned to me. "And you miss?" "I'll have a Moors Light, please and thank you". Raindrops raised an eyebrow at that. "Alright, two glasses of water and one Moors Light. I'll be right out with it". He trotted to the back. "So, Moors Light huh? Never pegged you for a beer gal", White Lightning teased. I shrugged and gave a grin. "I really gotta be in the mood for it", I explained. White Lightning had a wicked smile on her face. "Speaking of being in the mood, has Scootaloo walked in on you two yet?" Raindrops face went bright red and I snickered at her. "Nah she hasn't thankfully. That'd be horrible but funny years from now", I admitted. White Lightning grin got bigger as she placed her hooves on top of each other. "Speaking of walking in on ponies, guess who I walked in on the other day". Raindrops found her voice and quit blushing. "Who?" White Lightning gave a laugh and leaned back. "Sea Swirl and Sassaflash. They were exploring each other very extensively". I grinned at the idea of her two roommates getting caught and laughed. "About time they got together", I admitted. "They've been dancing around it for months now, especially after how Sea Swirl was there to help her through Caramels break up with her". Raindrops nodded and smirked. "So, is it hard to get to sleep with them two exploring as you put it?" White Lightning shook her head. "Nah, Sea Swirl usually casts a spell so the rest of the house can't hear them. Thank Luna for that". I rolled my eyes. "The best part of sex is making everypony hear you", I scoffed. "Ow", I exclaimed and feigned severe pain after Raindrops hit me in the shoulder. "Two waters and a Moors Light", the waiter returned and slide our drinks to us. "Are you ready to order?" I looked at my companions and shrugged. "I'll have a grilled daisy sandwich with cheese and tomatoes". "Fried eggplant and zucchini for me please", White Lightning requested smiling. Raindrops glanced down at her menu. "I'll just have alfredo with extra cheese and tomatoes please". The waiter nodded after writing our orders down. "I'll be back with your food when it's ready". He took our menus in his magic and trotted back off. I took a sip of my beer and sighed internally. "So", White Lightning began, taking a sip of her water. "You two excited? About being parents?" "Yes", me and Raindrops said in unison and smiled at each other. White Lightning sighed. "I wish I could experience that. You two are lucky and have each other. All I have is an empty house that I go to after each shift ends. It's partially why I appreciate these outings we have every few weeks". I reached over and placed a hoof over hers. "That could always change, you never know what happens in the future", I said soothingly. "Will it? I don't even know if I'll be alive four weeks from now, the future is so unpredictable and I hate that. I like knowing what's going to happen", White replied softly. Raindrops gave a sigh. "You know, when me and Cloudkicker first met, I never knew this is where it would end up. I always thought it was just friends with benefits. You can't worry about the little things and just live your life", Raindrops concluded her speech. I nodded in agreement. "What she said. Hell, I didn't even think I was worthy of her at first but you'll find somepony Whitey. I'd be willing to bet there's a pony out there right now thinking how you do". White smiled up at us. "You really think so? I won't be lonely forever?" "I'm certain of it. Besides, you have us and you can always come over to spend the night whenever you feel lonely", I said confidently. Raindrops nodded her agreement smiling. "Well, it looks like our food is coming so enough sadness for now", White said as she glanced over at our water coming over with trays. The rest of the night went by with us laughing and telling jokes before we said goodnight to White Lightning. We flew home in silence before Raindrops suddenly stopped and landed on a cloud. I stopped and looked back at her. "Uhm, are you alright?" "No", she replied. I settled down on the cloud and waited for her to speak. After a few moments, she started to speak. "I can't have kids like it's physically impossible. The doctors don't know why but I can't have them normally. It's why I'm so interested in adopting". I wrapped a wing around her and she snuggled into my embrace. "You know, I'm glad you didn't tell me", I admitted. She pushed a hoof against my chest. "What, why," she asked glaring at me. "Because think, if you did tell me, we would have adopted the first filly or colt we saw and never would have been able to get Scootaloo", I explained. Raindrops sighed. "That makes sense. We should get back, Cloudchaser is probably wondering where we are". The next day, we dropped down in front of a house and knocked. A mint green unicorn opened it, grinning. "Hi! I'm Lyra!" She said enthusiastically. "Hey Lyra", I grinned and hoofbumped her. Lyra's grin grew bigger. "Hey Cloudy, been a while. Sorry just woke up and didn't recognize ya." Lyra said. I smiled back. "It's all good. We got Scootaloo here for ya to foster for a bit while we hammer out the adoption details." Bon Bon trotted up. "Lyra! Let them in, don't make them stay out on the doorstep." She gently pushed Lyra aside who rolled her eyes and quickly ushered us in. "Hey Bon Bon", Raindrops smiled. "Heya, Rainy. Haven't seen you drop by the shop recently." Raindrops rubbed her head sheepishly. "Uh yeah sorry, work and Scootaloo has been keeping me busy." Scootaloo shot up onto the couch. "Hi Miss Bon and Miss Heartstrings." She chirped. Lyra giggled. "Please, just Lyra. Besides you know us. You don't gotta call us that." Bon Bon nodded her agreement. "So," I focused on the two in front of me. "How often can we see her, how strict are you?" "I'm more of the strict parent who focuses on discipline", Bon Bon said. "But don't worry, I'm not strict where it's screaming or anything like that, just time outs, grounding, sending them to their room", she hastily added at Raindrops concerned expression. "I focus on fun", Lyra piped in. "But I can be serious when I need to." "Alright, that sounds good to me." I spoke up. "I just don't want her feeling like we're all out to just make her life miserable, is all. You guys seem like the happy medium of strict but fun", Raindrops piped in. "She won't. I guarantee it. You two seem like good ponies." Bon Bon said. Lyra nodded. "So I get to stay with them for how long?" Scootaloo asked shyly. Bon Bon knelt down in front of her. "Only for a little bit kiddo and then you'll be right back with Rainy and Cloudkicker." She said smiling softly. "But don't worry, you'll be eating all sorts of good stuff. Candy, Bon Bons amazing cooking and I'll take you out to restaurants when we have the spare bits." Lyra piped in grinning. "But make sure it's not too much candy", Raindrops added. "Too much is bad for a filly." I smirked and elbowed her. "You're sounding like a mom already." Bon Bon sagely nodded. "I'll make sure she doesn't get too much candy. Same with Lyra." I breathed a sigh of relief. "We brought all her stuff already. A couple toys, her favorite blanket stuff like that." Bon Bon smiled. "Excellent. We should get her to the spare room, it's already set up." Raindrops stood up and Scootaloo crawled on her back. "Let's get you to sleep, filly." The other adults followed her into the room as she tucked Scootaloo in. "We will be back as soon as we get accepted." Raindrops promised. "Sleep well kiddo." I added smiling. Scootaloo smiled and then passed out snoring. The four of us giggled softly and left the room. Since it was late, me and Raindrops flew home to a night of popcorn, movies and a great night of sleep. I could tell she was dreaming of Scootaloo with how often she murmured her name. Quite adorable, honestly.
Chapter Five RaindropsMe and Cloudkicker sat on the bench watching Scootaloo play with Ruby Pinch on the playground of Ponyvilles Park. Lyra sat next me, taking a lick of her strawberry ice cream. "Looks like Scootaloo made a new friend." Lyra said, smirking. I nodded and smiled. I took a lick of my vanilla waffle cone. "So she's been adapting well? Any nightmares?" Lyra shook her head. "Well, she had one nightmare but she came and slept between me and Bonnie. She's gotten along with Twist really good too. Plus, it helps that they go to school together." I forgot Twist was Bon Bons younger sister. Cloudkicker finished her chocolate ice cream and nodded before turning to me. I couldn't help but snicker. "What? What is it?" She asked. Lyra burst out laughing. "You have some ice cream, well everywhere." Cloudkicker had chocolate ice cream all over her muzzle. Lyra levitated a wet napkin to her face and cleaned it off before throwing the napkin away. "Thanks." Cloudkicker said sheepishly. Lyra grinned at us. "Soo, Wildfire dropped by the other day." I shot up and stared at her. "And?" Lyra's smile turned evil. "I can't say. But it's a good surprise." I sat back down. "I hate surprises", I grumbled. "You liked the surprise I gave you that one time in Manehatten at the hotel." Cloudkicker pointed out. I turned a bright shade of red while Lyra chuckled. "Wildfire stopped by too. With a few exceptions, the house is pretty much good enough for a filly. She is concerned about it being a cloudhouse and Scootaloo can't really fly. Can't even really lift herself off the ground." I hastily said to change the topic. Lyra nodded. "I noticed that too. She really likes when I lift her up with my magic and pretend she's flying." I chuckled. "She did hook us with an expert in flight rehab. Said if anypony can help her, it's him." "Where's Bon Bon?" Cloudkicker asked looking around. Lyra waved a hoof. "She's working at the store today, it's about three thirty when school gets out so it's usually busy. She's got Twist helping her out today. Typically I'm there for the rush hour but Scootaloo had a play date with Berry's daughter." I gave a nod. "I didn't know Scootaloo knew Ruby." Lyra nodded as she kept watching the two fillies playing. "They go to school together. They both hate Diamond Tiara and Silverspoon.' Lyra explained. "Scootaloo had some very colorful language she used when describing Diamond Tiara. Bon Bon ended up washing her mouth out with soap. Let's just say, that filly is very creative when it comes to making up cuss words and insults." Cloudkicker gave a chuckle at that. "What did she say?" She asked, still chuckling. "She is the first pony I've ever met who combined the words bitch whore asshole together and make it sound reasonably insulting." I gave a cough at that. "Living on the streets probably encouraged that behavior." I muttered and the two other mares grew serious. "Is Diamond Tiara really that bad?" Lyra nodded. "She's come in the shop a few times. Very rude and vain. Typical rich pony. Her mom isn't that much better. I overheard Scootaloo talking to Twist about it. Apparently Diamond constantly harasses her for not having her cutie mark and not being able to fly. She goes after the other two crusaders just as bad too." Lyra admitted. I gave a soft growl at that knowledge. I've seen the pink earth pony around before but never hung out around her. That was gonna quickly change, I'd smack that filly if she disrespected Scootaloo in front of me. Her mom can get the work too. I don't care, these hooves are made for all ages. Okay that sounded bad, I admitted silently. I don't go around hitting foals or fillies. I'd certainly make an exception for Diamond though. "And I said, I really don't care. I'm gonna sit here damn it and play my lyre because this is a public park. Go tell somepony who actually gives a flying feather." Lyra chuckled and Cloudkicker gave a quick laugh. I was shaken out of my musing by that. I didn't realize Lyra had started a new story. "I can't believe you told Mayor Mare that." Cloudkicker chuckled. Lyra shrugged. "I don't take attitude from anypony. I don't care if they have a bad day, they gonna show me respect damn it. She later apologized and I accepted but still. Earning extra bits by playing my lyre is beneficial as hell for me and Bonnie." Lyra grumbled. Scootaloo ran up to Cloudkicker. "Cloud, can me and Ruby have a sleep over with Miss Lyra and Miss Bon Bon." Scootaloo pleaded, putting on her best puppy dog eyes. Cloudkicker ruffled her mane grinning. "Well technically you have to ask Lyra for permission, but I don't see why not." she looked confused when Scootaloo wrapped her hooves around her neck in a hug. "You're the best, thanks!" Scootaloo ran over to Ruby. "She said yes!" Cloudkicker raised a hoof. "Wait, I didn't say that." she called out after the two but was drowned out over the sounds of the playing colts and fillies. Lyra chuckled. "It'll be fine, Dinky can come over too. Maybe Noi will come along." She told the pegasus. "What movie should we watch?" Cloudkicker asked as she rummaged through our movie drawer. We got something called a TV for a Christmas gift one year. Apparently they are new and in development. Crazy things. I can't fathom the idea of watching a movie at home instead of going to the theater but it is a bit more convenient. I really don't know how the things work but apparently it created a lot of new jobs for the pegasi. Which is really good for us. If we ever get fired from the weather service, we can always get jobs for the TV bureau. A knock on the door got our attention and Cloudkicker groaned. "Movie night will have to wait I guess." She hovered to the door and opened. I joined her at the door to greet our guest. "Hey Wildfire, how's it going?" I greeted her eagerly. She landed on the cloud doorstep and smiled at us. "We have to talk." she said simply.
Chapter Six Cloudkicker“I can’t do this,” Scootaloo whined. I stood on a cloud with her a few miles up in the sky. I forget what attempt this was at getting her to try to step off the cloud and try to fly. “Yes you can,” I said with a smile. “You are a strong filly. You just gotta figure out how to control your wings.” “I can’t okay?” Scootaloo grumbled as I sighed quietly. “I’ll never be able to fly. I’m going to be stuck on the ground with Sweetie Belle and Apple Bloom. At least I can hang out with them.” “Cmon, let’s go home,” I said as I tossed her on my back with a wing. She instinctively wrapped her hooves around my neck as I took off. The cloud underneath us dissipated from the force as I dove down as Scootaloos screaming made me look back in fear of her falling off. I sighed in relief of her screaming in excitement, not fear. I landed on the mat of our cloudhouse, shaking off some rain from the rain clouds we had flown too close to. I trotted inside as Scootaloo jumped off my back with shaky hooves as I chuckled. “Have fun?” Raindrops asked with a grin as she finished setting the table. I hadn’t known we had been gone for that long. “Yeah!” Scootaloo giggled as she hugged Raindrops. I felt a slight pang of jealousy that I pushed down. Raindrops was Scootaloos favorite evidently. “Cloudkicker took me flying. It was fun!” “Is that so?” Raindrops chuckled and mussed her mane. “I bet it was fun. I remember we used to fly together as fillies all the time. She used to give me rides all the time when I was tired after school.” I blushed slightly as we all sat down at the cloud table. I had forgotten about all that. It was crazy to think I’ve know Raindrops for about twelve years or so. “Can I go play with Sweetie Belle and Apple Bloom tomorrow?” Scootaloo asked hopefully and I felt that jealousy rise up again. “No,” I said sternly as Raindrops raised an eyebrow. “Me and you have plans. Now eat up, you have an early night. It’s going to be a long flight.” “Where are we going?” Scootaloo asked eagerly as she started eating. “Oh you’ll see,” I winked as I started eating myself and ignored Raindrops look she was giving me. I yawned as I settled into our bed as Raindrops finished her shower and entered the room. She had the same irritated look on her face as she laid down next to me and shimmied under the covers. “What was that about?” Raindrops asked finally. “At dinner. I had plans with Scootaloo tomorrow.” “I do too,” I grunted as I faced her. “You’re her favorite. Why don’t I get to do things with her?” “You took her flying tonight!” “And?” I challenged and gulped nervously at her angry expression. “Seriously? Where are you even taking her?” Raindrops demanded as she narrowed her eyes. “To Cloudsdale. But evidently you have a problem with me trying to spend time with the filly you want as our daughter! Emphasis on OURS!” I shouted as Raindrops flinched. “Oh, that’s rich coming from the mare who didn’t even want her!” Raindrops shot back angrily. The door creaked open as we both froze as Scootaloo peaked inside nervously. “Moms?” Scootaloo traced a hoof on the door as we looked at her slowly. “You aren’t fighting over me, are you?” We quickly looked at each other instead and sighed. “We were yeah,” Raindrops admitted as Scootaloo flinched with wide eyes. “But it’s okay. Couples fight, it’s normal and yes will fight over you somedays. We’re sorry you had to hear that.” “Yeah,” I agreed as Scootaloo jumped up on the bed. “We’re sorry. Rainy and I are having a discussion is all. Mind you, a heated conversation but a conversation.” “Why?” “It’s complicated. Don’t worry about it just yet kid,” Raindrops rubbed Scootaloos head with a hoof. “Just go back to sleep.” Scootaloo nodded as she snuck under Raindrops wing and I looked away with a scoff. I jumped as I felt something pushed up against me. Raindrops gave me an encouraging nod as I tentatively wrapped a wing around the filly as Scootaloo started snoring quietly and I smiled. “I’m sorry,” I muttered as I stroked Scootaloo with a wing. “Me too. You can take Scootaloo tomorrow if you want. I can reschedule our plans,” Raindrops said as she touched me with a hoof. “Nah you can. It’s fine.” “Okay. How was her flying anyway?” I sighed as I stared down at the quietly sleeping filly. “It didn’t happen. She was too afraid to get off the cloud, let alone try to fly. Rainbow said something about her wings not developing properly. I honestly don’t know if she will fly ever.” Raindrops sighed as a breeze pushed the curtains aside and we all three shivered as I instinctively pulled Scootaloo closer. I was surprised she passed out that fast. Then again, she was half asleep when she came in. “I think I may know a pony. He’s a bit well unorthodox in his teachings but he’s a good pony. He means well but most don’t like him.” “Why?” I asked worriedly as I yawned. “The same reason ponies don’t like Derpy. Ponies care so much about physical attributes but never look at the pony inside.” I had to give it to her, she was spitting facts as Scootaloo would call it. Derpy was a close friend of the two of us. I can’t remember how many fights I had to break up between Raindrops and outsiders insulting Derpy. Hell, even Golden Harvest fought a few ponies. I thought only Raindrops had an anger like that. An angry Golden Harvest or Carrot Top as she allowed her very close friends to call her is a very scary sight. Trust me on this. “Hey you know something?” Raindrops asked as she nudged me with a grin. “What?” “She called us moms. That includes you. She likes you Cloudy, you’ll see. You took her flying today. You know how much she loves being taken for flights.” “You’re right. She did,” I muttered as we yawned in unison. “Wow.” “Feels good, doesn’t it?” “Yeah, yeah it does. Now let’s go to sleep finally. I’m exhausted and you have plans tomorrow.” Raindrops nodded as we curled up with Scootaloo between as I closed my eyes to sleep.
