Make them budge

by Aurora_Glow

Rating: everyone
Tags: Romance, Comedy, Slice of Life, Flash Sentry, Twilight Sparkle, Main 6, My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic, Princess Cadance, Flurry Heart
Length: 10085

Flurry Heart plays matchmaker. Again. Because her auntie Twily really needs help.

Twilight had bumped into Flash Sentry again. At this point, it seemed like a ritual. Rainbow Dash and Applejack had even started taking bets on how many times the bump was going to happen each time they went to the Crystal Empire. Looks like Flurry Heart will have to take matters into her own hooves this time. This time even her mommy was going to help! Just one problem. Her dad can never know.

Published 2023-10-11 17:00:01 UTC
Last updated 2023-10-20 16:19:48 UTC

Trip to the Crystal Empire

Twilight looked out the window of the train, a dreamy look on her face. The girls were taking a trip to the Crystal Empire to visit Shining Armor, Cadance and Flurry Heart. Spike had decided that he wanted to stay in Ponyville for a "guy's night" with Big Mac and Discord. Twilight had been more than happy to accept the invitation when Shining Armor told her to visit, eager to visit her family. But that wasn't the only reason she was so excited. Twilight also wanted to see a certain pony...

"Thinking of somepony?" a familiar voice asked, snapping Twilight out of her thoughts.

Twilight looked over at Rarity, who was smirking. "I'd recognize that look anywhere darling," Rarity said. "Somepony's in love! I think I know who you're thinking about!" Rarity sing-songed.

Twilight blushed. "No I'm not!" she protested. "I'm just really really excited to see my family!"

Rarity gave her a look, not buying the act one bit. "Darling, you can't fool me!" she said. "It's a lady's instinct. So, thinking about Flash Sentry again? He is quite dashing."

Twilight blushed harder. "No," she stubbornly said. "I was not thinking about Flash. He's just a friend."

Over the years, Twilight had gained a friend in Flash Sentry. You can only bump into the same pony so many times till you actually start having a conversation after all. It started with Twilight getting too guilty when she bumped in Flash for the hundredth time, so she gave him an apology card and treated him out to lunch. One thing led to another, and now she exchanges weekly letters with Flash. He became a really good friend of Twilight's. That didn't seem to have stopped her from bumping into Flash though. But they were just really good friends, and Twilight definitely didn't have a crush on Flash.

"But Twilight," Starlight said, joining into the conversation. "Don't you remember? The day Flurry Heart forced me to confront my feelings about Sunburst? I said that my relationship with Sunburst was just like the one you had with Flash . And since I'm dating Sunburst now..."

Twilight looked daggers at the smirking unicorn. "We. Are. Just. Friends," Twilight growled. But that only made the smirks on Rarity and Starlight's faces grow larger, making the alicorn facehoof.

"Oh puh-lease Twilight," Rainbow said. "We all know you fancy that guy. Speaking of which A.J, I bet you five bits that Twilight bumps into Flash three times this trip."

Applejack smiled. "You're on. I bet Twilight bumps into Flash two times," she said. The two mares spit onto their hooves and shook them.

A confused Twilight watched them. "Umm girls? What are you doing?" she asked.

"Didn't you know sugarcube?" Applejack said. "Me and Rainbow take bets on how many times you'll bump into Flash each time we are gonna meet him. Sometimes the others join in too. By the way, who wants to make a bet this time?"

"I think I'll sit this one out," Rarity said. "But you girls have fun." "I'll sit this round out as well," Starlight said. "But please do tell me the results. I'd love to know if anything really happens this time round." Twilight glared at her, and Starlight simply shrugged.

"I bet she'll bump into Flash five times!" Pinkie said, bouncing in her seat. "We have a looooong trip in front of us!" Twilight turned to glare at Pinkie. "That's ridiculous! I'm not going to bump into Flash that many times! I don't think I'll even bump into him at all!" Twilight exclaimed, frustrated.

"Umm... I bet she'll bump into Flash one time," Fluttershy spoke up. Twilight stared at the yellow pegasus, aghast. "Fluttershy! Not you too!" Twilight said exasperatly. Fluttershy only shrank back into her seat and avoided her friend's gaze. "Well, you do bump into Flash an awful lot..." she said in a voice no louder than a whisper. Twilight could only groan. There was no reasoning with her friends.

"Oh come on Twi! It's been six years!" Rainbow exclaimed. "Since you still haven't made a move on him, the least we can do is have fun with the whole thing." Twilight's glare intensified. "How many times do I have to say this? WE. ARE. JUST. FRIENDS!" the mare shouted, causing the other passengers to look at her. "Oops. Sorry," she apologized, covering her mouth with her hoof, embarrassed.

Luckily for her, the train arrived at the Crystal Empire at that moment. The group walked out and found Cadance, Flurry Heart and Sunburst waiting for them.

Cadance and Twilight did their special greeting dance, while Starlight excitedly ran towards her coltfriend, nuzzling him and giving him a peck on the cheek. Sunburst nuzzled her back. The other girls went to greet Cadance and Flurry. Flurry excitedly gave each of her aunts a great big hug.

Twilight looked at Starlight and Sunburst. Both had happy smiles on their faces and were catching up. Her mind couldn’t help but drift towards a certain orange pegasus. Wait what? No no no no no! she panicked internally. I'm not in love with Flash! He's just a friend. Nothing more. Just a friend... right?

She shook her head to clear herself of her thoughts. To her right, Cadance looked at her sister in law knowingly, recognizing the look on her face. You can't fool the princess of love after all.

"Cadance, Flash Sentry is still stationed at the castle? Right?" Rainbow Dash asked, noticing her friend's look as well.

Cadance sniggered. "He is!" she answered. "But I did make sure that his schedule was a bit less full this week. Speaking of which, what are you girls' bets this time round?"

"YOU KNEW?" Twilight asked, alarmed. "Does everypony speculate and bet on my love life that I don't have? What else are you guys betting on?"

"Don't be silly," Cadance said. "Of course not all ponies are speculating or betting! Shining Armor doesn't know. Who knows what his reaction's gonna be when he finds out. We keep it from him."

"Yeah!" Pinkie said. The pink pony bounced up and down, unbothered by the frown on Twilight's face. "If he finds out that his little sister has a crush, he might destroy Flash! And we don't want that silly. So he doesn't know about the bets."

Twilight said nothing, only fuming silently.

"Also Cadance, to answer your question, I had bet that Twilight's gonna bump into Flash three times, Applejack had bet she's gonna bump into him twice," Rainbow said. "And Pinkie said five times, while Fluttershy said once." Cadance nodded, smiling, while Twilight only glared harder.

Meanwhile, Flurry Heart watched the adults talk and cocked her head to a side. Auntie Twily's acting weird, she thought. Why's she grumpy? Who are they talking about again? Who's Flash? That name sounds familier... Oh! He's the nice guard who sometimes gives me lollipops! I like him! I wonder why they are talking about him?

Author's Note

Phew! This took me a few days cause I had a nasty creative block. I'll admit, the starting isn't as good as I wanted it to be. But it'll have to do for now I guess. Maybe it'll get better later on. As usual, constructive criticism is always welcome.

Also, a little disclaimer. Some of the "spelling mistakes" you see might not be spelling mistakes. For example, "colour" or "favourite" aren't mistakes. I go to a school that uses British english. Hence, I use the British way of spelling stuff.

P.S: I have no idea how to type in a country accent, so please don't mind the fact that Applejack sounds a bit less country than normal.

The first bump

"Bye girls! Sunburst and I have a date!" Starlight said, before quickly trotting away.

"Bye Starlight!" Twilight, Applejack, Rainbow Dash, Rarity and Pinkie waved. Fluttershy had already gone off to see the crystal ewes. The pegasus couldn't wait to see the tiny little sheep again. Cadance was handling a few affairs of the Crystal Empire, and Shining Armor was training the new recruits for the crystal guard.

Twilight and her friends continued to walk down the hallway. "So what do you girls want to do this time?" Twilight asked. She didn't notice that her friends had hung back a bit, nor did she notice how each one of the girls had a knowing smile on her face. "We can go souvenir shopping. I'm sure Spike would love some jewels. Or we can— Oof! Owww..."

Twilight slammed straight into something cold and hard and fell on her rump. She rubbed her head, and looked up to see concerned, dashing, blue eyes looking back down at her. A familiar orange pegasus was standing in front of her.

"Are you okay your highness?" Flash asked, handing Twilight a hoof and pulling her up. "We've got to stop bumping into each other like this."

Twilight blushed. "So...sorry. I don't know why I'm always doing it," she apologized. "Also what have I said about using my title?" Flash chuckled. "I know I know," he said. "I can just call you Twilight."

"Strike one! That's one bump down!" Rainbow cheered from behind, doing a loop-de-loop in the air, causing Twilight to glare at her.

"Rainbow! Will you guys stop betting on my life?" Twilight scolded lightly. Rainbow only shrugged and landed back on the ground. "None can do Twi," she said.

"Auntie Twily!" a voice called out, preventing Twilight from making a retort. A light pink bundle of joy came bounding towards the group. "There you are! I've been looking everywhere for you!" Flurry stopped in front of Twilight, and looked up at her aunt with pleading eyes. "Can you bake with me? Pleeeaaase?" Flurry asked. "It was so fun baking with Auntie Starlight last time, but I want to do it with you this time!"

Twilight smiled. How could she resist those wide, adorable eyes? "Sure thing Flurry," she replied. "That's what best aunts forever are for, right?" she asked and winked.

Flurry giggled and nodded. It was then that she took notice to the rest of the ponies in the group. Her other aunts were there. That wasn't out of the ordinary. But why is Mr. Flash here? Weren't Mommy and the other aunties talking about him earlier today? Oh well. I'll find out why sooner or later... I wonder if Mr. Flash has any lollipops for me today? she thought.

"Hiya Mr. Flash!" she greeted, turning her attention to the guard. "Can I please have a lollipop?" Laughing, Flash gave her a pink lollipop, which Flurry happily took. "Here you go Princess Flurry," he said with a smile. "Thank you!" Flurry said gleefully.

"Aww, that's so sweet Flash! So you always do that?" Twilight asked curiously. The stallion blushed at the princess's compliment. "I only give her a lollipop every once in a while. Don't want Princess Flurry to get any cavities," he said.

Twilight smiled. "How thoughtful of you," she said. Flash blushed harder at her words, but Twilight didn't seem to notice. Her friends did though, and so did Flurry.

Rarity watched the exchange, when an idea suddenly popped up into her head. She whispered something into Applejack's ear, who grinned and nodded.

Rarity cleared her throat, which made Twilight and Flash look at her. "Me and the rest of the girl's are planning to head to the crystal spa," she said.

"We are?" Rainbow asked, surprised. Pinkie had a similar look on her face. Applejack elbowed them and subtly pointed to Twilight and Flash. Rainbow's eyes widened. "Yeah we are we are!" she said quickly and gave an awkward laugh. "Just forgot that's all."

"Twilight here will be baking with Flurry Heart. If you don't have anything else to do, would you mind spending time with dear Twilight here Flash?" Rarity continued.

"Ooh yes please!" Flurry said. "Can Mr. Flash please join us Auntie Twily?" The other girls looked at Twilight expectantly. "He's a guard. You can't just expect him to drop everything at once," Twilight protested with a frown.

"Actually my shift's ending right now," Flash said, taking off his helmet. There was a hint of added perkiness in his voice, which went unnoticed by all except for Flurry. "And I'd be happy to bake with you and Flurry Twilight. I just need to put my armor back to the barracks. I'll meet you at the kitchen?" "Fine," Twilight said, relenting. "if you say so..."

She watched Flash disappear when he made a turn further down the hallway, then turned to face her friends. "What was that for?" she asked.

"Silly Twilight!" Pinkie said. "Aren't you happy to spend some time with your good friend?" Twilight blushed again. "Yes but—" "Then it's all good!" Pinkie said, cutting Twilight off. "So why don't you want to spend time with me? It's not like you like him or anything! You said that he was just a friend!" Twilight glowered and her friends sniggered.

"Come on let's go girls," Rainbow said, flying off. "Let Twilight spend time with her really really really good friend." The rest of the girls followed her, leaving Twilight to glare at their shadows.

Flurry watched the whole thing. Her eyes widened in realization. Auntie Twily blushed when she bumped into Mr. Flash, and blushed again when Auntie Pinkie asked whether or not she was excited to spend time with him, she analyzed. Mr. Flash blushed when Auntie Twily complimented him... And he seemed quite excited to spend time with Auntie Twily... Ohhh! That's why Auntie Twily was acting weird. She likes Mr. Flash! And Mr. Flash likes her too! Looks like it's time for me to try to be like Mommy again! Maybe Mommy can even help this time! Matchmaker time!

Author's Note

The next chapter might be a bit similar to the baking chapter I did in my last fic "Give them a push", but I'm having a creative block right now, and this is the only idea I have for the time being. It's why this chapter is a bit shorter than normal. I think I might edit this later. I promise the other chapters won't be similar. Also, I'll be honest. I don't really know how to write a story with so many characters, so there probably won't be many scenes with all of the mane 6. Especially not scenes with the mane 6, Starlight, Cadance, Flurry, Shining and Flash. That's just torture.

Baking fun

"So what's next Flurry?" Twilight asked.

Flurry squinted at the cook book in front of her. "One cup of water and half a cup of oil," the filly said. "Then we mix it all together and roll out the dough to cut the cookies! My favorite part!"

Twilight chuckled. "Can you pass me the oil please Flash?" she asked. Flash nodded and handed her the needed ingredient. Twilight reached for it, and her hoof accidentally touched that of Flash's.

The ponies blushed at the contact, looking away from each other bashfully. Twilight muttered a quick apology before fully taking the oil out of Flash's grasp and pouring it into the mixing bowl. She avoided Flash's gaze the entire time.

Flurry watched the exchange with a grin, gears turning in her head. What can I do this time... she wondered. I don't think I can repeat what I did with Auntie Starlight and Uncle Sunburst...

"Flurry, do you want to mix?" Twilight's voice brought Flurry out of her thoughts. Flurry happily flew over to her aunt and took the mixing spoon from her. Mixing was one of her favorite steps.

"I'll go get the cookie cutters," Twilight said. A lightbulb went off in Flurry's head as she thought of a plan. She waited till Twilight was done rummaging through the cupboards to get the cookie cutters, and powered up her horn.

Neither Twilight nor Flash noticed how a book slid in front of Twilight's hoof while she was walking back towards their baking station.

The mare tripped over the book. "Woah!" exclaimed Twilight. Flash's eyes grew wide when he realized what was happening, and he rushed forward to catch the falling princess just in time. Flurry smiled, looking up from her mixing. Her plan was working well.

"Careful there Twilight. You really need to watch where you're going," he chuckled, holding Twilight in his hooves.

Twilight blushed and scrambled to get back onto her own hooves. "Thanks Flash," she said. Looking behind her to find the culprit for the reason of her stumble, her eyes landed on a book lying on the floor. "Why's there a cook book on the floor anyway? I swear it wasn't there a few minutes ago..." she wondered out loud.

Flash shrugged. "Beats me," he said. "But let's put it away. Don't want to trip on it again." Twilight nodded in agreement, and with a wave of magic, the cook book was back on the shelf.

"How's the mixing going Flurry," Flash asked, turning his attention to the young alicorn. "Done!" Flurry answered. She dumped the mixed dough onto the counter. "Now we roll it!"

Twilight split the dough into three parts. "No wait!" Flurry shouted, causing Twilight to look at her, confused. "What's wrong sweetie?" she asked.

Flurry gave her a toothy grin. "I wanna split the dough into four parts!" she said, taking the dough into her own hooves. "One for me, one for Mommy and Daddy, one for you, and one for Mr. Flash!"

"That's very sweet of you Flurry," Twilight cooed. Flurry smiled and gave her and Flash a section of dough each. "I'm not done Auntie Twily!" she said. Twilight raised an eyebrow.

"I'll make the cookies for me, Mommy and Daddy, while you make them for Mr. Flash! And Mr. Flash, you can make them for Auntie Twily!" Flurry continued. "Make sure to fill them with lots of love!"

Flash and Twilight looked at each other then shrugged. The three ponies started to roll their doughs flat.

Soon, it was time for cookie cutting. "So what cookie shapes do you want Flurry?" Flash asked, holding up a box full of cookie cutters.

Flurry hunted through the box until she finally found the cutters she was looking for. "I want a snowflake for me, a crown for Mommy and a shield for Daddy," she said, holding up three cookie cutters. "Now you're turn Mr. Flash! Remember! Your cookies are for Auntie Twily!"

Flash looked at his options. A particular cutter shaped liked Twilight's cutie mark caught his eye. "I'll do a star for her," he said. "And I'll do a lightening bolt for you Flash," Twilight said, pulling out a cookie cutter from the box.

Flurry looked at their choices. It's missing something... she thought. I l know!

She rummaged through the box, before taking out two heart shaped cookie cutters. "You two should use these as well," she urged. 'Or else the cookies won't be filled with lots of love!"

"So we'll be giving each other heart cookies?" Twilight asked. Flurry nodded. “Yes!” she said. “Because you two are friends and friends love each other!”

Twilight and Flash both blushed at the “l” word. “If that’s what you want Flurry,” Twilight said, taking the heart shaped cookie cutter. Flash did the same.

Keep yourself together Twilight! Flash is just a friend! Twilight thought, scolding herself internally. But if he’s just a friend, why did I blush when Flurry said that I loved him? Wait no no no no no! I can’t think like that! He’s just a friend…

“So Flash,” Twilight said while cutting up her cookies. “Why don’t you use Flurry’s title when talking to her? It took you so long to stop using mine.”

Flash shrugged. “She made it a royal order,” he said. “Said that if you weren’t going to use your title all the time, neither was she.”

Twilight looked at Flurry, surprised. “You did?” She asked. Flurry nodded.

“You told me that just because we are princess, it doesn’t mean that we should be treated differently Auntie Twily!” said the filly. “Which is why I don’t like using my title!”

Twilight chuckled, happy that her niece knew how to be humble. “You know Twilight,” Flash said. “I think you are a terrific aunt to Flurry. She looks up to you a lot. She’s always talking about you after all.”

The princess smiled. "You do?" she looked at Flurry, eyes shining. Flurry nodded, earning her a hug from her aunt. Flash smiled at the sweet gesture.

"Come on you two," he said, pointing a hoof at their half-cut dough. "Let's finish cutting these and pop these in the oven."

A little accident

The three ponies were cleaning up their mess while waiting for the cookies to be baked. Though the castle had maids to help with the cleaning, Twilight insisted that they did it themselves. Something that Flash and Flurry happily agreed to. Nopony was comfortable with having somepony else cleaning up their own mess.

Twilight scrubbed the last stain off the table. “All done!” she said cheerfully, putting away the cleaning cloth. Just then, the timer rang. “Just in time! Cookies are done!”

The princess grabbed a pair of mittens and went to the oven. She opened the oven door, unintentionally touching it, burning her hoof. “Ouch!” she yelped. Looking at her hoof, Twilight realized that a tiny part had turned red.

Flash and Flurry ran over to her in concern. Flash reached for Twilight’s hoof, looking at her for permission. "Can I?" he asked. Twilight nodded. Gently taking her hoof in hand, Flash inspected it carefully. He didn’t notice the growing blush on Twilight’s face. “It’s definitely scalded, but it’s nothing too serious,” he said. “Come on. Let’s get the wound sterilized and put a bandage on it.”

Flash gently led Twilight to the first aid kit in the kitchen. He got out an alcohol wipe and gently rubbed it over Twilight’s scalded hoof. Twilight winced in pain, a look which both Flash and Flurry took notice to.

“Are you okay Auntie Twily?” Flurry asked with a distressed look on her face. Twilight forced a smile on her face, not wanting Flurry to be worried. “I’m fine Flurry,” she said. “It just hurts a little that’s all.”

“Just bear it for a little more Twilight,” Flash said, concern laced in his voice. “There! Done!” He took out a bandage and plastered a bandage on the wound. Twilight touched the now covered burn, wincing a bit.

A giddy smile rested on Flurry’s face when an idea came to her head. “Mr. Flash, why don’t you give Auntie Twily a kiss?” she asked innocently. “Mommy always kisses my boo boos to make me feel better.”

Twilight and Flash both blushed. “I… I don’t think that’s needed Flurry,” Twilight stuttered. “Why don’t you give me a kiss instead?” Flash nodded agreeingly beside her, looking away from Twilight. Flurry deflated a bit but nodded. Looks like that idea was a bust. She gave Twilight a quick kiss on her bandage, then wrapped her hooves around her aunt and gave her a big hug.

“Thank you Flurry,” Twilight said, chuckling. “I feel all better now.” Flurry smiled up at her, happy to play a part in making Twilight feel happier.

Flash cleared his throat. “Hate to break up the moment, but the cookies are still in the oven,” he said. An alarmed look struck Twilight’s face. “I’ll go get them right now!” she said.

An orange hoof appeared in front of her, stopping Twilight in her tracks. “I don’t think so Twilight,” Flash said. “You just hurt yourself. I’ll go get the cookies.”

Twilight pouted but stayed in her place knowing that Flash was right. It didn’t take long before the stallion had gotten all the cookies out and had laid them all on the table.

“Can I eat one now?” Flurry asked. Twilight giggled. “Sure thing Flurry, but do be careful. These are really hot.” Flurry nodded before gingerly taking a cookie and slowly taking a bite.

“Yum!” she said. She quickly but carefully put the rest of the cookie in her mouth, leaving the corners of her mouth full of crumbs.

Twilight laughed at the adorable sight. “Glad you like it Flurry,” she said, wiping the corners of her niece’s mouth. “Your mommy and daddy should be done with work now Let’s go give the cookies to them.”

“These are delicious honey!” Cadance said. Flurry beamed at the compliment. “I chose the shapes for you and Daddy! And Auntie Twily and Mr. Flash chose the shapes for each other!”

“And I think you did a wonderful job Flurry,” Shining Armor said, eating another cookie. He glanced at his little sister, then caught sight of the bandage on her hoof.

"Twily, what happed to your hoof?" Shining asked. "Oh I accidentally burned myself," Twilight replied. "Don't worry. Flash helped me patch the wound right back up."

Shining's eyes narrowed. "He did?" Looking at Flash's and Twilight's plates, an alarmed expression appeared on his face.

“Twily, if you and Flash chose the shapes for each other, why are there hearts?” Shining asked, glaring at Flash. The guard shrank back into his seat, his face turning red. “Flurry helped us pick these out,” Twilight answered quickly, her own face turning pink.

Shining looked at his daughter, who nodded. He looked back at Twilight and Flash, his glare on the stallion not softening. “Good. Because if I find out that there’s any funny business going on between you two…” he threatened. Flash turned a few shades paler and nodded his head quickly, while Twilight rolled her eyes beside him.

Cadance glanced at the heart shaped cookies as well, and the smile on her face grew. Sounds like Flurry’s getting busy again… she mused. Maybe I can lend a hoof this time…

“I’m heading to the library now,” Twilight said, getting off her seat. The cookies had been finished, and Shining Armor had already end back to work to finish up some paper work. There was still quite a few hours before dinner. Twilight wanted to spend a bit of time reading before she ate.

Cadance nodded. “Actually, where are the rest of the girls?” she asked, tilting her head to the side. “Rarity took them out to the spa after telling Flash to help me and Flurry with the baking,” Twilight answered.

Cadance smiled. Sounds like Flurry wasn’t the only one with a matchmaking plan. “Flash,” she said, turning to the pegasus, a twinkle in her eye. “Can you go with Twilight to the library?”

“Sure thing your highness,” Flash said. Twilight shook her head. “that won’t be needed,” she said. “I remember the way.” “He’s going with you to keep you company Twilight,” Cadance said. “Wouldn’t it be more fun if somepony was there with you?”

Twilight pursed her lips. “I guess I could use some company,” she said. “Well then Flash, come on! I wanna squeeze as much reading time as I can.”

Chuckling, Flash followed Twilight out the room. Once Cadance was sure that they were gone from earshot, she turned to her daughter. "Sweetie, were you trying to be a matchmaker again?" she asked, raising an eyebrow.

Flurry smiled sheepishly. "Maybe..." she replied, her ears flopping down. "Are you mad Mommy?"

Cadance smiled reassuringly at her daughter. "Not at all honey," she said. "In fact, those two have been dancing around the subject for years. I'd say you did a good thing Flurry."

Flurry furrowed her brow in confusion. "But Mommy, Auntie Twily and Mr. Flash didn't dance at all today!" she pointed out, making Cadance giggle. "It means that they've been avoiding confronting their true feelings Flurry," she said. Flurry nodded, happy to learn something new.

"But in the meantime, what do you say I help you with your little plan?" Cadance continued. Flurry looked up to her mother, her eyes shining. "Really Mommy?" she asked in disbelief. Her mother nodded. "I've been itching to intervene for years," Cadance admitted. "So do you want my help?"

"Yes please!" Flurry said, giving Cadance a big hug. "I think your other aunties would be happy to help as well," Cadance said, ruffling Flurry's mane. "Why do you think they left you and Flash alone to bake?"

Flurry giggled. That makes so much more sense now, she thought. Auntie Rainbow was quite confused when Auntie Rarity mentioned the spa... "Let's tell them later!" the foal said eagerly. She couldn't wait to think of another plan and put it into action!

Cadance nodded. "Just one thing," she said. "Don't let Daddy know about all this okay? He's gonna be very mad when he realizes that we are trying to set up Auntie Twily with Mr. Flash. You saw how he was ready to destroy Flash when he noticed the heart cookies right?"

Flurry nodded. "But why would Daddy be mad?" she asked, puzzled. "Shouldn't he be happy Auntie Twily found somepony to love?" "He's just overprotective," Cadance answered, waving her hoof dismissively. "Twilight is his little sister afterall. Don't worry, he'll come around eventually. Now, let's come up with a plan to get Auntie Twily and Mr. Flash together!"

Flurry cheered, and the mother and daughter duo got to work. One thing was for certain. The next few days aren't going to be easy for Twilight and Flash...

Girl's night

Author's Note

Ran into some problems with this chapter. For some reason, a bunch of my words suddenly disappeared. So it might be a little different from before.

Girl's night

"You really don't have to do this for me Flash," Twilight said as she entered the library, Flash by her side. "I'm fine with reading alone."

Flash smiled. "I know," he said. "But company is always better. Plus, I like reading as well. I wouldn't mind reading a book or two before my night shift."

Twilight perked up at his words. "You like reading as well?" she asked. "What genre do you like?" "I mostly read adventure stories," the guard replied. "Daring Do is my favorite series."

"Really?" exclaimed Twilight. "It's mine as well! I especially love Daring Do and the Quest for the Sapphire Stone!" Flash's eyes grew wide. "No way!" he said. "That's my favourite one as well!"

"You know, I think Cadance recently stocked up the library with Daring Do books," Twilight said. "We can grab a book to read each, then discuss the contents every time we finish a chapter!"

Flash nodded, and it didn't take long for Twilight to find two copies of Daring Do and the Quest for the Sapphire Stone. Both ponies settled down to read, and hours flew by as they happily talked about their favourite book.

Unbeknownst to them, the rest of the girls had already returned from their trip to the spa, or in Fluttershy's case, from her trip to the petting zoo, and were currently in a meeting with Cadance and Flurry to discuss how to move Twilight and Flash's little situation along...

Two pegasi, two earth ponies, one unicorn and two alicorns were seated around a table.

"So what did ya call us in here for?" Applejack asked. Cadance nudged Flurry. "You tell them honey," she said. "It was your idea after all."

Flurry Heart nodded. "I wanna get Auntie Twily and Mr. Flash together!" she said. "Mommy agreed to help, but I want you guys' help as well Aunties!"

The ponies chuckled. How could they say no to that? "Okie dokie lokie flurry!" Pinkie chirped. "What do you want us to do?"

"That's what we are here for! We're gonna think of ideas now," Cadance said. "Twilight and Flash are in the library reading right now, so they won't bother us. Neither will Shining. he's working on paperwork."

"Well... umm... I think the first thing we have to do is to get Twilight to be honest with herself," Fluttershy spoke up. "Right now, I don't think she's really acknowledging the fact that she has a crush..."

The others nodded their heads in agreement. "Then why not a girl's night tonight?" Cadance suggested. "We can corner Twilight then. It helps that the five of you, plus Twilight and Starlight, are staying in the same room. Speaking of which, where is Starlight?"

"Oh she's still on her date with Sunburst," Rarity answered. "But don't worry darling. She said that she would be back before dinner."

"Can I go to the girl's night as well Mommy?" Flurry piped up. Cadance chuckled but shook her head. "I'm afraid not Flurry. You can't stay up past your bedtime." Flurry pouted. "Don't worry sweetie," Cadance comforted. "you can be part of the other parts of the plan. In fact, since this was your idea, you can lead the rest of the project. How does that sound?"

Flurry smiled happily. "Why not make Auntie Twily and Mr. Flash go out foor lunch together?" she asked. Cadance put her hoof to her chin, thinking about the plan for a bit. "I think that can work Flurry," she said.

"I think I know how we can pull it off..." Flurry said. "But I'll need help..." "Sweet!" exclaimed Rainbow. "What can we do to assist?"

Flurry smirked, then told them all about her plan...

The hours flew by. Flash left to start his night shift. Twilight went to have dinner with her friends and family. Food was served and eaten.

"What do you think about a girl's night tonight Twilight?" Pinkie asked, finishing the last of her food. "Cadance can join us."

Cadance nodded. "Yeah Twilight! It'll be fun!" she exclaimed. Twilight smiled. "How can I say no?" the princess of friendship said. "Girl's night it is!"

Cadance clapped her hooves in delight. "Oh by the way Shining, you'll have to put Flurry to bed tonight." Shining nodded. "What do you think off reading a bedtime story tonight together Flurry." Flurry grinned at her father. She loved reading.

"Ooh it's gonna be exciting!" Twilight said. "I haven't had a girl's night in forever!"

"Oh I reckon it's going to be exciting alright," Applejack murmured, sharing a knowing smirk with Rainbow and Starlight. The girls had told Starlight about their plans before dinner, and Starlight happily agreed to play along.

Twilight raised an eyebrow. "What's with that look?" she asked. "Nothing nothing!" Starlight reassured. Twilight glared at them, but let the matter drop.

"And then he took me to the Crystal Empire Kite Museum. I got to learn all about the traditional kites of the Crystal Empire!" Starlight finished, her eyes shining. "Aww how sweet!" Twilight exclaimed.

All the girls, plus Cadance were on the floor of their temporary shared bedroom. Starlight had just finished sharing all about her date with Sunburst.

"Twilight, you seem to be into romance an awful lot these days," Cadance smiled knowingly. "No I'm not!" Twilight denied, turning red.

"The romance books in your to be read bookshelf back home begs to differ, Starlight pointed out. Twilight glared at her, while Starlight simply shrugged. "Don't look at me like that! It's not my fault we live in the same place!"

I knew putting those books out was a terrible idea, Twilight thought with an inward groan.

"I just happen to like reading romance lately!" she protested.

"So why do you blush and stutter every time you bump into Flash Sentry?" Rainbow said with a smirk. "And why do you sigh dreamily on the train when we come to the Crystal Empire darling?" Rarity asked. "And why do you look dejected, sad and mopey when we leave this place?" Fluttershy added in a whisper. "Ooh ooh! And why do you wait for Flash's letters every week and get super excited once they come as if they are as important as cupcakes when everpony knows that nothing is more important than cupcakes?" Pinkie said, all in one breath.

Twilight could only scowl, unable to counter any one of her friend's points. "That's... that's only because Flash is a really good friend. I. Don't. Have. A. Crush. On. Flash. Sentry," Twilight growled. I don't know the first thing about love or crushes! I'm the princess of friendship, not the princess of love! she thought. That's Cadance's job! I can't have something I don't understand! Right?

Cadance wrapped a wing around Twilight, as if sensing her thoughts. "Twilight, just because you don't understand romantic love, doesn't mean that you can't have a crush," she said. "Doesn't your stomach get butterflies every time you see Flash?"

Starlight nodded in agreement. "I know I get very excited and happy every time I see Sunburst," she pointed out.

Fed up with all this talk about her love life, Twilight stood up. "I'm going to bed," she said, avoiding her friend's gazes. "Good night."

She climbed onto her bed and buried her head underneath the covers. Are they right? Do I have a crush? Twilight wondered. I... I probably don't right? Whatever I'm feeling, it's just me treating Flash as a friend!

The rest of the girls looked at Twilight, sighing. This was going to be harder than they thought. Time to put the next part of the plan in action...

Time for phase two

Morning came. Twilight lazily opened her eyes, stretching wide before glancing at the clock. Her eyes widened in realization.

"Girls! Time to get up!" she shouted, causing her friends to open their eyes one by one. "We're late! We're supposed to meet Cadance and Shining Armour for breakfast! Get up get up!"

The alicorn dashed around the room madly, desperate to get ready as quickly as possible. Her friends watched her from their beds. From their own experiences, they knew that at times like these, it was best to leave Twilight alone.

"Come on! It's time to go!" Twilight urged. She opened the door and ran through without looking where she was going, slamming straight into a plate of golden armour.

Twilight rubbed her sore horn. "Oww..." she muttered. A hoof helped her up, and Twilight looked up to see who she had slammed into. "Oh my gosh! I'm so sorry Flash," she said. Flash only laughed.

"It's okay Twilight," he said kindly. "You do seem to be in quite a hurry. I can tell just by looking at your mane." A confused look rested on Twilight's face, but realization hit her when she lifted her hoof up to touch her mane. It was as tangled as ever. Looks like I forgot to brush it earlier... she thought, grimacing.

"Anyway, what are you doing here Flash?" Twilight asked. "Princess Cadance sent me here to see what's keeping you guys," answered Flash. "She got a bit worried when she realized you of all ponies was late. But it seems like you six will need a bit more time. I'll just report to her and Captain Shining Armour about your little situation."

Twilight nodded with a blush on her face, embarrassed that Flash had to see her in this state. She watched Flash leave, then turned to go back into the room.

To her shock and exasperation, six faces, each displaying various levels of guiltiness, stared back at her. "Strike two!" Pinkie giggled. "Fluttershy's out!" Twilight only glared at her friends, unimpressed.

"Just go get ready," she sighed.

After Rarity finally finished getting ready (mostly due to Applejack and Rainbow Dash hiding the remainder of her beauty products), the ponies went down for breakfast, which turned out to be scrumptious waffles. Needless to say, breakfast was eaten swiftly.

Once breakfast was almost finished, Flurry nudged Starlight, subtly cocking her head towards Twilight. It was time to kick off phase two of their plan.

"Twilight, Sunburst told me about a delicious place for hayburgers yesterday," Starlight said, putting down her fork. "Wanna go there for dinner?"

Twilight gulped down the last of meal. "Sure!" she said. "But I do want to do some research in the library this afternoon. There's an interesting research paper about the history of Crystal Empire baskets I want to do. Just give me the restaurant name, and I'll meet you there?"

Shining Armor, Rainbow Dash and Applejack snuffled chuckles. Only Twilight can think that a research paper about baskets sounds interesting.

"Sounds like a plan!" Starlight replied. "The place is called Crystal Delights. "

"Do you guys want to join?" Twilight asked, looking around the table.

"I promised Flurry I'd teach her tricks today," Rainbow shrugged, while Flurry nodded beside her.

"Me and Pinkie are try out the traditional Crystal Empire food," Applejack said.

"Terribly sorry darling. I'm going fabric shopping, and Fluttershy promised she'd help me pick some out as well." answered Rarity.

"I can join you Twily," Shining Armour said. Cadance shook her head. "Why not let Starlight and Twilight have dinner on their own. I have lots of paperwork today. You promised me you'd help out sometimes dear," Cadance said cheerfully. "And guess what? That time is tonight! But don't worry Twilight. I'll help you make a booking for the restaurant later."

"Looks like it's just us Starlight!" Twilight said. It did seem a bit strange how ever single pony was unavailable, but she brushed it off. Probably just a coincidence.

Let's see, Starlight said that the name of the place was Crystal Delights, and the crystal pony I asked just now said it was around here...

Twilight was wandering aroung the streets, trying to find the hayburger place Starlight told her to go to. Aha! Here it is!

In front of her was a quaint little restaurant. A mouth watering aroma went through Twilight's nose, making her stomach grumble. Twilight noticed the long line of ponies by the entrance. It seems as though this place was really popular.

Thank Celestia Cadance made a booking, Twilight thought. She walked towards the receptionist by the entrance.

"Hi! I believe Princess Cadance has made a booking for two?" Twilight said.

The receptionist flipped through the notebook in front of her, finally stopping at a page. "Ah yes. Please follow me Princess Twilight. Princess Cadance told us you were coming," she said, leading Twilight inside. She brought the princess to a table for two by a window.

Twilight thanked the lady, sitting down in the chair. She flipped through the menu. They sure have quite a selection here, she thought. No wonder Sunburst recommended this place.

Twilight suddenly had the urge to go to the bathroom. Getting off her chair, she never realized what, or rather who, she was heading straight into.

Crash! Twilight bumped into a pony. Luckily for her, this time she didn't fall on her flank. Her eyes widened when she saw who she had ran into.

"Sorry Flash. Again," she said. "But what are you doing here?" "I could ask you the same question Twilight," Flash answered.

"I was gonna have dinner with Starlight. The others were all unavailable," Twilight said. "Rainbow's teaching Flurry tricks, Applejack and Pinkie are trying out Crystal Empire food, Rarity and Fluttershy are shopping for fabrics, and Cadance and Shining Armour have work to do."

"Wait Princess Cadance is busy?" asked a shocked Flash. "She was the one who told me to meet her here! And I think I overheard Starlight saying something about going on a date with Sunburst..."

It was Twilight's turn to be shocked. "Wait what?" she exclaimed. "And I don't think Applejack and Pinkie are trying out Crystal Empire food. Believe it or not, they don't have much food here. I should know. I've been living here for the past seven years."

Twilight groaned. "That probably means the others were lying about their previous commitments as well," she muttered. Should have known better than trust them after last night's conversation...

"What was that?" Flash asked. "Nothing!" Twilight answered. "Well, since we're both here, might as well eat together right? If you don't mind that is..." Flash shook his head. "Not at all Twilight," he said.

"I'll just head to the bathroom real quick," said Twilight, continuing on her way. Note to myself, destroy my friends when I go back...

Author's Note

To the people who disliked this fic, may I know what I can improve on so that I can do better?

Dinner for two

"One double cheese hayburger with extra hay for the lady, and one lettuce hayburger for the sir," the waiter said, putting down two plates. Twilight and Flash thanked the waiter, who answered with a small bow and left the table.

"I'm surprised Princess Cadance was able to book a table here in such a short notice," Flash said, taking a bit of his burger. "You have to book tables at least a day in advance here."

Twilight looked at him, surprised. "Really?" she asked, narrowing her eyes slightly. Flash responded with a nod. "This restaurant is quite popular in the empire. After all, they do serve the best hayburgers here," he said.

But Starlight only asked me if I could come today... How long have they been planning this "unexpected" dinner? she wondered. I most definitely made the wrong choice trusting them...

Outside the window, six pairs of eyes were watching the two ponies inside with interest.

"Why did I have to hide in a bush again? It's ruining my mane!" Rarity complained. Flurry giggled. "Silly Auntie Rarity," she said. "How else are we supposed to spy on Mr. Flash and Auntie Twily?"

"Clever of ya to ask your ma' to book a table by the window yesterday Flurry," Applejack said. "I have to say, this is a great view."

"Oh by the way Applejack, you lost the bet," Rainbow Dash reminded. "Twilight just bumped into Flash for the third time this trip. Which means I'm winning right now!"

"I’m still in the game Dashie!” Pinkie giggled. “Once Twilight bumps into Flash two more times, the bits are mine!”

“Umm girls?” Fluttershy murmured. “Maybe we should be quiet? In case they here us. If you don’t mind that is…”

The girls nodded and quieted down, continuing their spying mission.

"This is the best hayburger I've ever had," Twilight said, her mouth full. Flash laughed. "There's a reason why this place is so popular," he said. "I've wanted to come here since forever, but everytime I try to, something comes up with the crystal guard. Last time my friend wanted to switch shifts with me to surprise his marefriend."

"Aww, how sweet!" Twilight exclaimed. He's quite a caring stallion... Wait no! Don't think like that! He's just a friend... she thought. Though as of now, I think I might be having second thoughts on the whole thing... Maybe the girls were right last night...

Oblivious to Twilight's inner conflictions, Flash shrugged. "I know he would have done the same for me," he said. "If I had a marefriend that is."

"You know, I never had the chance to ask you. What made you become a guard?" Twilight asked. "Was it your dad? One of your letters did mention how he was a guard as well."

Flash smiled. "You're right," he said. "I did join the guard because of me dad. He was an old captain of the Canterlot royal guards, but died in combat when I was a young colt." A sad smile washed over his face. "I joined the guard to honor him."

Twilight smiled sympathetically, putting her hoof on the stallion's own. "I'm sure he would be very proud of you," she said, touched. Flash smiled, blushing at their hooves' contact. The two ponies stared into each other's eyes, unable to look away. They leaned closer and closer towards each other, until...

"Your desserts have arrived," a voice interrupted. Twilight and Flash jerked back, looking towards the source of the sound. A waiter stood by their table, holding two plates of desserts.

"One ice cream sundae for the lady, and one plate of chocolate waffles for you sir," the water said, putting down the plates before taking his leave. Twilight and Flash kept their eyes trained on their desserts, averting the gaze of each other. Both were not too willing to talk about their little moment from just now.

Twilight heard noise which sounded like a series of groans. "Did you here that?" she asked, finally looking at Flash. Flash tilted his head. "Heard what?" he asked, frowning. Twilight shook her head. "Must have been my imagination I guess."

"You've got to be kidding me," Rainbow complained. "They were so close!" "I'm just not so sure how much longer of this I can take!" Rarity exclaimed.

"Umm... maybe we can give them a little bit more time?" Fluttershy suggested meekly. "We've waited for so long. There's no harm in waiting a bit more." Her friends nodded their heads. What else could they do?

Meanwhile, Flurry was pouting. "Too bad Mommy banned me from using a bubble again," she grumbled. "That worked so well with Auntie Starlight and Uncle Sunburst."

Pinkie pat her head encouragingly. "Cheer up Flurry," she said. "I'm sure Flash and Twilight will get together soon." Flurry only sighed.

Twilight and Flash were deep in a conversation about Daring Do. Both have elected to simply ignore their embarrassing moment from just now.

"And it was so cool how she took the key right out of the crumbling temple," Flash said. Twilight giggled at his excitedness. She was always happy to talk about her favourite books with her friends. It wasn't often that you met somepony as passionate about reading as she was.

"I know right!" she said. "That's one of my favourite parts! A.K Yearling is a master storyteller!"

Flash glanced at their empty plates. "Looks like we're done here," he observed. "Ready to head home? I don't think Captain Shining Armour would be too happy with you if you got back late."

Twilight nodded. "I'll get the bill," she said, waving the waiter over. "No let me," Flash argued. "What kind of stallion would I be if I let the mare take the bill." "No no, let me," insisted the princess. "I told you to stay to eat after all. It's only fair that I pay."

The two continued their banter, never realizing that the waiter had already arrived with their bill. "Ahem," he cleared his throat, cutting the two short. "I believe this argument isn't necessary. Princess Cadance has already told us to send your bill to her."

"Oh," said Twilight. She turned to Flash. "Guess that solves our problem." Cadance, what are you up to... she thought.

"It certainly does," Flash laughed. "Allow me to walk you back?"

"With pleasure," Twilight answered with a smile. The two ponies left the restaurant and walked to the castle. the moon casting a soft glow on them.

Behind them, a large bush trailed after them, following their every step. The bush had a mission. It had to get to the castle before Flash and Twilight for everything to go according to plan.

Finally did it

Flurry flapped her wings, looking into one of the castle windows. Her two victims were sure to pass through the hallway the window was facing, which made this the perfect place to put her plan into action.

"You ready Auntie Rainbow?" the filly asked. "Am I?" Rainbow answered, sitting on top of a black storm cloud that was positioned above the window. "You should see me in action on Nightmare Night! Just tell me when those two walk past, then I'll strike. 'Kay?"

Nodding, Flurry flew a bit lower so that she was barely visible to the ponies inside the castle. I really hope this works... she thought.

Twilight walked through the hallways of the Crystal Castle, accompanied by Flash. "Thanks for having dinner with me Flash," she said. "Thanks for letting me have it with you," Flash replied with a grin.

The two stopped by a window, blissfully unaware of the two ponies outside it, watching their every move. "It's a beautiful night isn't it," Flash said. Twilight nodded, enjoying the beautiful view of the glimmering stars.

Suddenly, there was a flash of light, followed by a loud crack. Twilight was taken by shock. She jumped high up, startled. To her surprise, she was caught by Flash.

Twilight looked up, looking deep into Flash's eyes. The stallion did the same thing. The two were lost in each other's gaze, and this time, there weren't any waiters around to interrupt them.

Impulsiveness took over Twilight's mind. She reached her head up and pecked Flash on the cheek. Realizing what she had done, the lavender alicorn scrambled to her hooves. "Oh my gosh. I'm so sorry. I don't know what came over me," she furiously apologized.

Flash laughed. "You've got nothing to apologize for Twilight. In fact, I... kind of liked it..." he admitted bashfully. Twilight could only gawk at him, gobsmacked. "You... you did?" she stuttered, looking down. She tried to take deep breaths, but her brain wasn't complying.

Oh my gosh. I actually did it! I kissed Flash! Twilight thought. Wait. That means I actually do like him as somepony more than a friend... Oh dear... What have I gotten myself into?

The panic was evident on her face. Flash gently lifted Twilight's chin with a hoof. "Yes, I did like it," he said. "In fact, I like you Twilight Sparkle. I just wasn't sure if you felt the same way..."

"Well I wasn't sure either, but then the girls said that I did like you, and I found out that Rainbow and Applejack had been taking bets on us, and Rarity and Fluttershy and Starlight and Pinkie sometimes join in as well, and Cadance was very sure that I did like you, but I still wasn't sure, then just now at dinner I started to realize that maybe I did like you, and—"

Twilight's rant was silenced when Flash pressed a kiss to her lips, taking Twilight by surprise. Her eyes widened to the size of saucers. Coming to her senses, Twilight started kissing back. She thoroughly enjoyed every moment of the kiss, knowing very well that she would treasure and remember the moment forever.

After what felt like an eternity, Flash and Twilight finally pulled away. Both ponies were blushing hard. "So Twlight, will you be my marefriend?" Flash asked shyly.

Twilight didn't answer him, but instead gave him another kiss again. "Does that answer your question?" she said, giving him a timid yet coy smile. Flash smiled, wrapping his hooves and wings around Twilight. Twilight gladly returned the hug.

"Aww how cute!" a familiar voice said in the near distance. "Shhh! Pinkie!" said another. Twilight rolled her eyes. She'd recognize those voices anywhere.

"You can come out now girls," she said with a sigh, getting out of her embrace with Flash. Four very guilty ponies emerged from the corner of the hallway. Applejack smirked at Twilight, which made the the princess groan.

"Not. A. Word," she stated. The smirk on Applejack's face only grew. "Wasn't gonna say anything Twi," she said.

Twilight's eyes narrowed when she noticed something strange. "Girls, why are their leaves in your manes?" she asked, pointing to their unkept manes. She glared at her friends when something clicked inside her brain. "There did seem to be an abnormally sized bush outside the window of the restaurant just now... I wasn't imagining things when I heard things, was I?"

The ponies chuckled nervously. "Don't know what you are going on about darling," Rarity said, anxiously patting her frazzled mane. "We were out all day. We just... ran through a bush just now. That's all." Twilight's glare intensified. Wait. That lightening didn't come out of nowhere. There wasn't a cloud in the sky just now! Unless...

"Where are Rainbow and Flurry?" she asked. Her friends avoided her pointed gaze. "Still practicing tricks," Pinkie answered quickly. "At this time of day?" Twilight challenged, raising an eyebrow.

"Did somepony say our names?" Rainbow asked. She and Flurry flew towards the group. Twilight turned her death glare towards the newcomers, making both of them shrink back a bit.

"Rainbow Dash! Just the pony I wanted to see!" Twilight said. Rainbow opened her mouth, but the look Twilight was shooting her silenced the blue pegasus immediately. "So? Did you have fun teaching Flurry how to make and stomp on storm clouds?"

"Twilight, I know it seems bad, but we were only trying to speed things along," Rainbow tried to explain. Twilight's scowl didn't soften. Flash wrapped a wing around his new marefriend. "Relax Twilight," he said soothingly. "They were only trying to help."

Twilight closed her eyes took a deep breath, finally calming down. Sensing the change in her friend's mood, Pinkie deemed it safe enough to reach into her mane and take out a piece of paper.

"So! Let's see who won the how long will it take Twilight to get together with Flash bet!" she chirped. "The what now?" Twilight asked, her eye twitching. Flash rubbed her back reassuringly. He was trying to hold back chuckles of his own.

"Let's see!" Pinkie continued, completely ignoring Twilight. "Rainbow said ten years, Applejack said five, Rarity said two, I said four, and Fluttershy said six! Fluttershy wins! Everypony give her ten bits each later!"

Rainbow Dash grumbled slightly. "Knew I shouldn't have bet ten years," she muttered.

"You bet on how long it would take me to confess as well!" Twilight asked. Her friends nodded. "It did seem like a fun activity," Fluttershy said.

"Don't be sad Auntie Twily," Flurry said. "The whole matchmaking thing was my idea."

The princess of friendship could only sigh. She didn't want to know what other bets her friends had going on. She leaned on Flash a little bit for comfort.

Unfortunately, it was at that moment Shining Armour and Cadance chose to appear in the hallway. Shining immediately noticed the proximity of Twilight and Flash's bodies.

"FLASH SENTRY! TWILIGHT SPARKLE!" he shouted. Flash's and Twilight's eyes widened in fear. "WHAT ARE YOU DOING?"

"Umm... you see Shining... I'm dating now! Surprise?" Twilight said nervously. Shining glowered, sending Flash a death glare. "I thought I told you Sentry," he growled. "No funny business with my sister. You are now fired. YOU HEARD ME?"

Cadance gave her husband a glare of her own. "And as princess, I hereby overrule Captain Shining Armour's decision to fire Flash Sentry," she said. Shining looked at her pleadingly. "But Twily—"

"No buts," Cadance said firmly. "Honestly. You know Flash! He's a nice pony! Lay off the protective big brother will you?" Shining grumbled. "Fine," he said. "But don't think you're in the clear Sentry. If you hurt one hair of my sister's, you will wish you had been banished to the moon. ARE WE CLEAR?"

Flash stood up straight and saluted, cold sweat dripping off his forehead. "YES SIR!" he said.

Cadance rolled her eyes, then turned her attention to her daughter. "Congratulations honey. Your plan worked," she said. Flurry grinned back at her.

Shining looked back and forth between his wife and daughter. "Wait," he said. "You got them together Flurry?" Flurry gave a nervous giggle. "Maybe?" she said, causing Shining to sigh. He was betrayed by his own daughter. The rest of the group laughed.

"Come on," Applejack said, walking away. "Let's give the lovebirds some space. We can eat something. We haven't had dinner yet after all." Pinkie's stomach grumbled, as if agreeing.

The ponies walked away (Shining Armour was reluctantly dragged off by Cadance and Flurry Heart), and soon, Flash and Twilight were alone once again.

"Care to join me in the library to read a book your highness?" Flash asked with a grin. Twilight giggled. "I would love to, my dear sir," she answered.

Smiling, the new couple walked off to the library. A new chapter in the book of their lives was beginning, and they can't wait to start reading it.

Author's Note

To those who read my whole story, thank you. Thank you for bearing with me throughout the entire fic. Thank you for not minding my grammatical mistakes, Thank you for all the comments that helped me improve.

I’m already working on the storyline for my next Flurry Heart matchmaking fic, Hint: It’s about a certain pair of super duper party ponies! Stay tuned!