"SO SHE'S THUH ONE YA'VE HAD YER EYE ON ALL THIS TIME, MAC?"

It was probably a bad idea, to have revealed a secret like that to her, but she was my precious little sister, so I'd felt obligated to share. Applejack was meddlesome for sure, but she typically had my best interests at heart. Any time she made the decision to butt into my business things tended to turn out well...

Usually.

And besides, at the time, it's not like I'd told her who I had a crush on. No, she'd just gotten lucky after catching me admiring her tonight. A mistake on my part, sure, but not a big deal by any means.

Currently, my precocious younger sister was staring directly at the girl of my dreams. Unfortunately, she wasn't exactly being inconspicuous about it. I wasn't sure what she was scheming either, her green eyes narrowed in a scrutinizing expression as she stared.

Thankfully, the raucous music was enough to drown out even the loudest shouting Aj's small frame could muster and the target of her attention was enthralled by the blaring dubstep anyways, so I should've been safe. Being in the main room of our friend Rarity's mansion -- the room where most of the speakers were located -- made conversing at a reasonable volume pretty much impossible.

"E-eyup," I replied uncomfortably, scratching at the back of my head. Because I'd not spoken loud enough to be heard by her, I also nodded in the affirmative to make sure she understood me.

Miss Vinyl Scratch

The girl with skin as white as snow was bobbing her head to the frenetic beat of the song playing over the loudspeakers. Her beautiful shoulder length hair was equal parts blue and cyan and was swaying side to side along with her body. The black-rimmed glasses she wore were concealing her eyes,-- as usual --but they didn't make her any less cute... or breathtaking.

I was having trouble taking my eyes off of her, but at least I was doing a decent job hiding that fact, unlike my little sister. If she didn't stop soon Miss Scratch, or even worse, her girlfriend, might take notice.

Miss Octavia Melody

The prodigious cellist was almost always with the DJ. Whether arriving at or leaving school, in the cafeteria, at a party like this one, or at a fancy restaurant in Canterlot, it was a miracle to see one without the other close by during their free time. Although, they didn't have all the same classes together, so they were typically separated during those periods. Whenever they were together though, they were very... close. They were very touchy-feely with one another. Or at least, Miss Scratch was towards Miss Melody. After seeing such blatant public displays of affection for the umpteenth time, I was forced to come to the depressing conclusion that they had to be going steady for a while now.

That was one of the main reasons I'd never approached Miss Scratch before. I wasn't a coward or anything like that, I just wasn't in the business of breaking up happy couples. It's not like I had much to offer her anyway. I was a simple man, a farmer with simple interests and not much else. I didn't have any lofty ambitions for my future, mostly planning on getting my highschool diploma and then doing all I could to help my grandmother take care of Sweet Apple Acres, our land.

There wasn't much I had in common with Miss Scratch, though I noticed we were both fairly quiet people. I couldn't recall a single time I'd ever seen or heard her say a word, though I could be mistaken. Other than that, there wasn't much that came to mind that we shared.

...

There is one thing, though.

There was one thing that both of us mutually loved. For her, it was the most apparent thing in her life. Anyone could see that. For me, it was a confidential interest that not even my sister's knew about.

EDM.

Since as far back as I could remember I'd been a fan of country music. It kind of came with the territory, living on a farm and all. Ma and Pa loved it and their interest for it passed down to me and Aj. I can still recall countless nights dancing in the living room with my family, listening to records until we all passed out from exhaustion. Those are still some of my fondest memories with them.

And then out of nowhere... I got a call one night. There had been an accident. A car wreck. They were gone.

I couldn't listen to anything that reminded me of them after that. On occasion Aj or Apple Bloom, our youngest sister, would play songs our parents had listened to around the house. I'd fake a smile for my siblings' sake, -- trying to appear strong when I was anything but -- but I couldn't be around those songs any longer than a few seconds without completely breaking down. I missed them more than I could ever express. In particular, the memories Ma's favorite songs brought on were far too painful. And so, I made the decision to step out of my comfort zone after realizing I couldn't tolerate the genre any longer. I tried to find something new, something different.

Most genres of music were actually pretty similar to country. Rock and metal were essentially the same thing just with amplifiers. Hip-hop and R&B both utilized similar rhythms and lyrical flows. Pop had always been... tolerable, but at that time, it was way too saccharine for my tastes.

I wasn't a happy person then. I felt nothing, empty. I wanted to be angry. I wanted to feel angry. I wanted to listen to a genre that granted those wishes and while certain kinds of metal were appropriate for that, the bands and their lyrics were a bit... over the top, at least for my sensibilities.

Enter EDM. Electronic music was the perfect middle ground for what I was searching for. Fast and frantic, -- but not too edgy -- everything from D&B to dubstep made me feel things again. And while it was true they weren't positive emotions, at least I was feeling something.

That interest is what ultimately led me to her. I'd never been to a show or concert before, not even one for a country singer or band. I'd been to things like hoedowns sure... but those are something else entirely. Rumors of a student at Canterlot high holding a live EDM show had piqued my curiosity.

It was a quaint performance at the local pizzeria on a Friday night. There weren't many kids in attendance and it was easy to see she was just starting out, but as the music began to play and her body began to move to the beat, I couldn't help but become entranced.

The sounds. The sights. The feelings. It was different. She was different.

Since the moment I'd found out Ma and Pa were gone, the only thing I'd felt other than negative emotions was numbness. All of the stuff that I'd previously enjoyed -- things that made me happy or excited or optimistic -- no longer moved me. Even the electronic music I immersed myself in after the fact only ever managed to make me feel
things like irritation, anger, and sadness.

Witnessing the debut performance of the artist known as Dj Pon-3 was a life-changing experience for me. Watching her perform brought the feelings back. She wasn't an expert by any means, but seeing her give it her all, seeing her completely overcome by the music... it brought the feelings I lost when my parents died back into my life. She brought them back.

I wanted to talk to her then and there, at that initial show. I wanted to chat with the first girl I was ever actually interested in in that way, but she was the center of attention and I wasn't exactly the loudest or most attractive guy. Not to mention Miss Melody was there -- of course -- and she was basically playing bodyguard for the object of the crowds obsession the entire night.

I couldn't keep track of how many people left the venue disappointed that night because they hadn't gotten a chance to really talk with the musician. I didn't even take a chance, watching the entire debacle unfold while eating my meal and then leaving once I knew there'd be no opportunity for me to get past her "personal security".

From that night on she was constantly on my mind. I often dreamt about her shows and starting that Monday I began to watch her at school. It wasn't stalking or anything creepy like that. If she was in the vicinity, I felt obligated to give her my full attention, but I never sought her out or followed her.

Miss Scratch was every bit as captivating as her onstage persona, if not moreso. The way she walked when she went from class to class. The way she ate her lunch with a wide smile on her face. The way she covered her mouth to laugh, somehow making little to no sound but being just as elated as anyone else possibly could be. I liked her. I really liked her.

Life went on like that for a while. I'd attended every one of her shows and I admired her from afar, but I never thought anything might move beyond an unrequited crush. That is, until tonight.

The party was at its apex, numerous groups of people mingling here and there while others were dancing the night away. I couldn't be bothered with my peers or something like dancing. I tended to come to these soirées with Aj just to make sure my sister got home safely. Generally, she'd break off from me to spend time with our other friends.

I had no problems with that. Sometimes, I'd spend time with the Rainbooms too, but staying alone was my usual preference. Today, Aj must've noticed me staring because she'd left the others for a bit to come and... well, I wasn't really sure why she'd come over to me.

It can't be just ta poke fun at me... can it?

"SO YER GONNA TALK TUH HER TONIGHT THEN, RIGHT!?" she turned to face me, a look of fierce determination on her face.

Uhm... 'SCUSE ME!?

"Nope!" I shook my head, already panicking because I knew how she could get when she got an idea in her head.

"MAC!" she glared at me, an expression of fury coming to her face. "MA AND PA NEVER RAISED YA TUH BE NO COWARD! NOW GET OVER THERE AN TALK TUH HER!" she grabbed me by the arm, shoving me roughly in Miss Scratch's direction. "SHE'S ALL ALONE! NOW'S THUH PERFECT TIME!"

She wasn't big enough to move me. If I'd really wanted, I could've stayed firmly in place, leaning against the wall. But for some reason, her forcefulness paired with my own desire to interact with Miss Scratch must've caused me to cooperate with her wishes.

She IS alone.

I cautiously moved through the crowd towards her, Miss Melody no longer anywhere in sight. My heart was racing, sweat already beginning to show itself on my white undershirt as I drew closer and closer to her. Hopefully, she'd assume it was from dancing or something along those lines. She was leaning against the wall now, just like I had been, looking down at her phone. The change in musical genre once the new song had started must've been just as disappointing to her as it had been to me.

WAIT... what am ah supposed ta say?

I had no clue and due to the increased speed I was moving at I was feet away from her before I knew it. Even standing in front of her, I still couldn't come up with an answer. With the information I knew about her and Miss Melody's relationship, I really only wanted to speak with her and nothing more. Stuff like see who her favorite artist was, find out if she was working on any new songs, or maybe if she had any upcoming shows I didn't know about yet.

Regrettably, I couldn't think straight. I stood directly in front of her, completely silent.

...

I continued to stand in front of her, my mind searching for anything specific to try and start a conversation with.

...

She still hadn't noticed me, though I was smiling like a goofy idiot at the very prospect of having a conversation with her.

...

DO SOMETHIN', MACINTOSH!

I lifted a hand towards her.

YA CAN'T TOUCH HER!

I lowered said hand.

...

My sister walked up to stand right next to me, her sudden appearance making me jump in surprise.

Oh god...

She was well aware I wasn't a loud person. With the look she had on her face, she'd solve that problem fast, quick, and in a hurry.

"'SCUSE ME!" she shouted as loud as she could, but not even her best efforts could penetrate through the blasting music. Miss Scratch's attention remained on the screen of her device, drawing an angry blush to Aj's face.

I reached out to stop my sister as she lifted a hand towards the oblivious girl, but before I could catch her she was stopped by someone else.

Crap!

The sudden reappearance of Miss Melody was enough for Miss Scratch to lift her head. She looked around at the three of us, though it was hard to tell what she was thinking with her shades on. She must've noticed the irritated look on Aj's face because she laid a hand on Miss Melody's shoulder.

After a second, the cellist let go of my sister's wrist before pointing in the other direction and walking away. Miss Scratch smiled before jerking her head towards where her girlfriend went before following behind her.

I looked at my sister in confusion who returned my expression. With a defeated shrug she pulled me in the same direction as the others had gone.

We walked through several halls and doors, Miss Melody leading the way the entire trek. We'd passed by a bunch of couples, some talking, some doing... some pretty indecent things with one another. Miss Scratch and Miss Melody didn't seem to be bothered by the public displays of affection, but me and Aj turned our heads away from each and every one.

Ma and Pa had taught the two of us about modesty and times and places that were appropriate for those kinds of things. Out in public for everyone to see was not one of those places.

As we neared the entrance of the mansion the music was almost completely muffled, the only thing still easily heard the thumping bass. Regardless of the much quieter atmosphere, none of us said a word. Once we left the front doors of the mansion the four of us silently moved to the fountain in front of the building.

There were other people outside, but most of them were barely arriving at the party or were deciding to leave early. There were a few people here and there doing random things in the yard, but not many.

Miss Scratch stretched her arms high into the air, a yawn escaping her before she took a seat on the rim of the fountain facing us. Miss Melody turned our way as well, resting her hands on her hips as she waited for us to decide what we were going to do. My sister and I stood next to each other, neither of us moving to get more comfortable.

"What was THAT all about?" Aj rubbed her wrist with a hand. "Yer a lot stronger than ya look, missy," she glared at the cellist.

"My apologies," Octavia sighed, massaging her temples with her thumb and middle finger. "From where I was approaching, it appeared as if you were planning on striking Vinyl."

"Now why would ah ever do somethin' like that?" my sister scoffed bitterly. "Ah don't even know her."

"As I already stated," Miss Melody spoke through clenched teeth. "I made a mistake. Please excuse my lack of manners."

"Ah... fine," Aj relented, crossing her arms. "It's alright. No harm, no foul."

"Thank you," Miss Melody relaxed a touch. "Now then, why exactly did you two approach Vinyl?" she asked, though it wasn't a forceful inquiry, more a casual question. Still, it was a query I didn't want to answer.

"My brother wanted tuh speak with her," Applejack responded instantly.

Guess ah didn't have ta.

I groaned internally, running a hand down my face.

"And why is that?" Miss Melody asked as bluntly as Aj had answered, bringing an annoyed face to my sis.

"What's it tuh you? Ya her girlfriend or somethin'?" she snapped back, though her question didn't seem to faze the cellist at all.

"I'm her sister," she stated with a slight growl. Her answer nearly caused me to collapse.

S-sister!?

"Y'all don't look much like kin," Aj narrowed her eyes. Family and honesty were everything to my little sister. If Miss Melody was lying things were about to get really bad.

"Is something as trivial as one's appearance or blood the only indicator for whom their family is?" Miss Melody stood her ground as she crossed her arms as well. "I've seen you around school with your friends, Applejack," she smirked. "Do you not consider them to be your sisters?"

...

"Ah-" Aj had been defeated before she even began. "Ah suppose that's fair enough," she sighed. "Ah'm sorry."

"Apology accepted," Miss Melody smiled. "I simply happen to be very protective of
my sister," she glanced fondly at the girl sitting on the fountain. "Just ask your brother," her gaze fell on me.

M-ME!?

"Me!?" I blurted out, absolutely baffled by her words.

"Mac?" Aj looked at me, obviously just as confused as I was. I lifted my arms in an "I have no idea" gesture, both of us looking back at the cellist. She was thoroughly enjoying my confusion, her smile having brightened considerably as she giggled into the back of her hand.

"So your name is Mac, then?" she asked. "Short for Macintosh, I presume? I'd no idea you were related to Applejack."

"E... eyup?" I nodded, still befuddled by her. Miss Scratch seemed to be enjoying this just as much as her sister, a toothy grin on the DJ's face as she watched it unfold.

"Correct me if I'm wrong, Macintosh, but I don't believe you've ever missed one of DJ Pon-3's shows," she laid a hand on Miss Scratch's shoulder. "Am I wrong?"

Oh god she thinks ah'm uh stalker!

All three of their gazes were on me, a cold sweat breaking out at my forehead. Miss Melody was enjoying this way too much. Miss Scratch was hard to read because of her shades.

"Mac?" Aj was still confused. "What's she talkin' about?"

"Ya see..." I nervously scratched at the back of my head, trying to think of a way to get out of this.

Just run, Mac. Run an don't look back.

"Oh dear," Miss Melody covered her mouth with her hand, a look of concern suddenly on her face. "I haven't put you out, have I, Macintosh?" she quickly lifted her sister up by the arm, forcing her to walk over and stand before us. "This one has been positively thrilled by your dedication," Miss Melody gushed. Miss Scratch looked at the ground, her white cheeks gaining a rosy tint. "She searches for you first thing at every performance. You've not let her down once. It's really quite cute, if you ask me," Miss Melody smiled at her sister, adoration all over her face.

"So that's where you've been goin'," Aj slapped a hand across my back. "Ya shoulda said somethin', Mac."

My brain couldn't properly process any of what I'd just heard. It was still trying to play catch up, but there was definitely a smile on my face as I looked down at Miss Scratch.

Then... they aren't uh couple?

She looks fer me?

She... she noticed me at all?

"Why have you never come to see her after a show?" Miss Melody asked. Miss Scratch lifted her head, nodding in agreeance as she looked at me for an answer as well.

"Well..." I chuckled awkwardly. "Yer mighty intimidatin', Miss Melody." I decided honesty was the best policy.

"Geez, Mac..." Aj rubbed her face with her hand, exasperated by me and my answer.

"I'm..." Miss Melody looked flabbergasted by my reply for a moment before she burst out in a fit of laughter. Miss Scratch looked at her sister, shoving her gently with a smile on her face. "I'm sorry, I'm sorry!" she got out as soon as her fit died down, wiping a tear from her eye. "It's just, Vinyl said it was me, I just never believed her."

I looked back at the girl of my dreams to find her nodding again. She was adorable, I couldn't help but smile too.

"Such a silly-" The chime of something coming from Miss Melody's pocket cut her off, drawing our group's attention. She pulled her cell phone out, reading the screen. "Unfortunately, it appears it's time for us to take our leave, Vinyl," she typed a few words before returning the device to its place.

"So early?" Applejack sounded as disappointed as I felt, the smile fading from my face.

"Indeed. Father will throttle the two of us if we're late getting home," Miss Melody explained. Miss Scratch also appeared less vibrant at the disappointing news. She grabbed her sister's shoulder and shook it gently, pointing at the cellist's pocket and then at me.

"Oh! Right!" Miss Melody's face lit up. "You wouldn't happen to have a phone, would you, Macintosh?" she asked.

"E-eyup!" Without hesitating I reached into my pocket and pulled out my own cell. It was nothing fancy, but I was glad I'd gotten it. I held it in front of myself, Miss Scratch's adorable smile coming back as soon as she'd seen it.

"Do you mind?" Miss Melody asked.

"Nope." I wasn't certain what she was asking for, but as soon as Miss Scratch took it from my hand my heart skipped a beat.

"Splendid!" Miss Melody clapped her hands once. Her sister fiddled with my phone for a few moments before holding it out towards me. She looked so happy her joy made its way to my face.

I took the device back, a little confused as the siblings began to walk towards their car.

"This was interesting," Miss Melody called out to us as she opened the door to one of the most expensive looking convertibles I'd ever seen. "Have a wonderful night, Macintosh! And you as well, Applejack!"

"Uhhh, Y'all too!" Aj shouted back.

"Y-YEP!" I called out as well. The pair waved our way before getting into their car and driving away.

I couldn't have been more happy, though I was sad it was over. Still, I'd never expected something like that to happen so I was grateful.

"What did she-"

*Buzz*

As my little sister started to ask me a question my phone vibrated in my hand drawing our attention. As soon as I read the screen my heart felt as if it'd stopped.

12:30 AM
Text me when you get home, yeah?

++++++++++++++++

Later that night

++++++++++++++++

I was a nervous wreck. It was eight pm on the dot, just like she'd said. As I walked up to the entrance of the mansion, I forced my hands into the pockets of my jeans in an attempt to hide the trembling. I wasn't wearing anything too special; a slightly dressy button up over a white shirt, a newer pair of blue jeans, and my most formal boots made up my attire. Vinyl had said not to worry about my appearance, so I hadn't.

Standing at the front door though, seeing the enormity of their mansion, what I was wearing suddenly made me feel incredibly small in comparison. The place was almost as luxurious as Rarity's. From the outside it was easy to see there had to have been at least ten rooms within. Not only that, it was located in a gated community and on top of the secluded area, the front and back yards might've each been a football field in length.

I'd no idea they were so wealthy. Honestly, that didn't matter to me at all. Still shaking, I removed a hand from my pocket and pressed the doorbell gently with my thumb. It was a fancy one, playing a long complex series of chimes as opposed to the basic single ding-dong.

I took my other hand out of my pocket, hoping the night air would cool me off and make me a little less sweaty. In spite of my deepest wishes, I only had to wait for a few seconds. Octavia opened the door, a meek smile on her face.

"Good evening, Macintosh," she rested her hands behind her back. "I'd invite you in, but our parents are out. Must maintain proper etiquette and all of that."

"Sure," I nodded with a half-smile. I grew even more nervous at the sight of the one I couldn't perceive as anything other than a bodyguard. "Good evenin', Octavia," I tried to be as polite as her, a lofty challenge.

"You're looking a bit more dapper tonight," she lifted a hand towards my chest. "Trying to impress Vinyl?"

"Er," my cheeks heated up, a fact made more apparent by the growing smile on Octavia's face.

No point in fibbing.

"E-eyup." I scratched at my cheek with a finger, looking away.

"I don't believe you have to worry about that," she giggled. "Vinyl is already smitten with you, Macintosh."

SHE IS!?

My eyes had to have been bulging something fierce, but I managed not to blurt out my thoughts and recompose myself. I forced a calm expression, trying to hide the deep breath I'd taken.

"R-really!?" It was a genuine question.

"Why wouldn't she be?" Octavia lifted a playful eyebrow. "You're a strapping young lad. And you have been there supporting her efforts all this time," she laid a hand on my shoulder. "I don't know why, but for some reason you severely underestimate yourself, Macintosh," she offered me a sweet smile.

My head fell.

...

"Ah just-" As I was about to speak, echoing footsteps came towards the front door from within.

"Please, treat her well," Octavia whispered to me as she gave my shoulder a light squeeze. "She deserves it, Macintosh." The cellist looked sad for a second before she turned to face her approaching sister. Her smile immediately came back.

"Vinyl..." Octavia lifted a hand to her face, covering her mouth. Tears formed at the corners of her eyes. "You look amazing!"

Octavia stepped aside, letting me get an eyeful of the girl of my dreams.

W-whoa...

She was wearing a jet black halter top and skirt. Black boots were on her feet and fishnet stockings of the same color were on her legs. She had her sunglasses on and her hair was tied up in a ponytail.

"V-Vinyl..." I had to fight to keep my jaw from dropping. At school she was usually dressed pretty conservatively. DJ Pon-3 was a little more risqué with her outfits, but it was clear she wanted the focus to be on her music and not her body.

Right now, though? I couldn't stop staring. She blushed a deep crimson before shyly looking away.

"Mind your manners, Macintosh," Octavia playfully tapped my chin with her index finger. Despite my best efforts, my jaw had dropped. I closed my mouth, coughing and covering it to hide my embarrassment. I had to be as red as an apple.

"S-sorry!" I kept my hand in front of my mouth, concealing my smile.

"My sister looks breathtaking, wouldn't you agree, Macintosh?" Octavia grinned grabbing her by the shoulders and moving her out the door to stand directly in front of me. Vinyl kept her head down, though her blush hadn't abated at all.

"Eyup!" I nodded. My enthusiasm drew her gaze, her mouth opening slightly in what I assumed to be wonder.

"As I thought," Octavia giggled. "Don't bring her home too late... or too early. You two have fun!" Before either of us could react Octavia slammed the door shut.

The two of us looked at the door and then back at each other, though neither of us said a word. We simultaneously looked away, the both of us scratching at the back of our head.

Just say somethin', Mac.

I berated myself. It's not like she was making things hard. She'd done most of the work herself. All I had to do was come down here and pick her up.

"Ready?" I asked, drawing her attention. She smiled, nodding her head.

++++++++++++++++++++++

"So what did ya wanna see?" I asked as we walked up to buy our tickets. Vinyl pointed at a poster for a horror movie. A pretty popular one, if it was the one I was thinking of. Something about a family of cannibals massacring a bunch of teenagers. "Alright," I nodded before speaking to the worker to purchase our entry.

Her choice worked for me. I liked horror. It was a pretty fun genre. I bought the tickets before the two of us moved into the theater together.

Everything was going fine. Or at least, everything seemed to be going fine. She'd given my clothes a thumbs up, -- literally -- excitedly ran around my pickup like a child, and even played music from her phone in the truck on the way to the theater.

But she still hasn't said uh word ta me.

As we moved to the concessions area I looked down at her in the hopes that I might be able to glean some information on why that was. She smiled brightly up at me before she pointed at the line we were about to join. I returned her glee. Even if I was a swirling tempest of emotions on the inside, her giddiness made me feel like I was walking on clouds.

Still...

I wasn't sure if I'd done something wrong, and I was well aware she didn't talk much, but I'd not gotten a single word from her all night. I was no chatterbox myself, but even I said my yes' and no's. Vinyl wasn't doing that tonight. I wasn't actually sure if she ever did that.

As we neared the front of the line I got a devious thought.

"What would ya like, Vinyl?" I asked. She looked up at the menu, tapping her chin with a finger as she pondered for a moment. Her face lit up before she pointed up at an item on the menu. It was easy to see she wanted the combo number two, which was a large popcorn, a large soda, and a box of candy.

"Uh number three?" I tilted my head, staring at the menu. I stated the wrong choice on purpose just to see how she'd react. She frowned up at me, clearly annoyed. She jabbed a pair of fingers into my ribs forcing a yelp out of me.

Thankfully, nobody had been paying attention to us and the theater was loud enough that my embarrassing shout was completely drowned out. I rubbed my side with a hand, looking down at her with an impressed smile.

She's uh lot stronger than she looks.

She shook her head, pointing a finger upwards towards the ceiling.

I looked up, still acting like I was oblivious.

"There ain't nothin' on tha ceilin', Vinyl," I grinned looking back down at her. She crossed her arms, looking up at me like she was about to beat me to a bloody pulp any second.

"Ah'm kiddin', I lifted my hands in front of myself submissively, hoping to placate her. "Ya want uh number two."

She grinned, gently pressing a closed fist against my chest. I couldn't help but smile. The physical contact was sending surges of adrenaline through me. I didn't want her to move, but once we'd looked into each other's eyes for too long we turned away, both of us blushing fiercely.

I wanted to turn back to her and say something, but all my mind could come up with was "sorry".

"Sorry," I scratched at my cheek, refusing to look at her, however when I felt a gentle tug on my sleeve I couldn't resist looking down at her. She wasn't looking at me, her head still down. She pulled her phone out of her pocket before pointing at mine.

I pulled my own phone from my pocket. She tapped on her screen a few times.

*Buzz*

My phone vibrated. I checked it.

8:45 PM
Me too

I looked back at her, a twinge of regret making me wince.

"Don't worry about it," I put my phone away as I stepped up to the counter. She lifted her head and I tilted mine toward the counter so she'd join me. With a shining smile she walked up to stand next to me.

++++++++++++++++++++++

I placed our tray of food down in front of Vinyl before taking a seat across from her. She grabbed her burger and fries quickly, digging in before I'd even had a chance to unwrap mine.

I had been more than a little worried, not sure what her preferences were when it came to cuisine. I'd every intention of treating her on this date, but it wasn't like I was loaded or anything like that.

For her, I'd have paid for an expensive restaurant. Honestly, I'd have tried to pay for anything she wanted to do, no matter the cost. Like her sister had said; she deserved it. Thankfully, Vinyl hadn't asked for much and was happy with a movie and a simple burger joint.

Still, I felt a little cheap. She deserved to be given so much more than the little nothings she asked for, and I wanted to be the one to do so for her.

Starting on my own burger, I couldn't help but begin staring at her once again. She didn't seem to mind. To be honest, she didn't even seem to notice. She was ravenously tearing into her own food like she'd not eaten in days. It was adorable, but I noticed before that that was how she usually ate.

I was quickly coming to realize everything she did was adorable to me. Perhaps I was just as smitten with the girl as she was said to be with me.

Thus far, the night had been an absolute dream. I couldn't be any more happy. I couldn't remember the last time I'd been close to this happy either. I was a little scared that I might actually be dreaming.

I did my best to bury that concern, watching as Vinyl finished her burger and fries before I'd even made a decent dent in mine. She took a long drink from her straw before getting out her phone and typing fervently on it.

I assumed she was texting someone else so I decided to focus on my burger for the time being. I'd made an incorrect assumption.

*Buzz*

My phone started vibrating in my pocket. The unexpected feeling caused me to look her way. She had a smirk on her face, pointing down at my pocket.

I took it out, looking at the screen. She'd sent me a text.

11:25 PM
So what'd you think? Of the movie I mean

I chuckled, placing my phone face up on the table.

"Ah liked it," I took a bite of my burger. "Bubba was uh fun character."

She lit up hammering away at her phone once again.

*Buzz*

Another message.

11:27 AM
I KNOW RIGHT! I loved his chainsaw! That part where he cut up that guy in the wheelchair? BRILLIANT!

I agreed with a nod of my head, taking a sip of my drink.

"When he got that guy with the mallet," I chuckled.

She laughed the same way I'd seen so many times before from afar, covering her mouth with a hand and making literally no noise. It was even more endearing up close. Once she'd finished she sighed quietly, sending another message.

*Buzz*

11:29 AM
I'm really glad you liked it

*Buzz*

11:29 AM
Tavi doesn't like horror movies so I don't get to watch them much with other people

I finished off my food, taking another swig of my soda.

"Ah like horror uh lot," I smiled.

*Buzz*

11:31 AM
Cool

*Buzz*

11:31 AM
Cool

As an awkward silence settled over us Vinyl stared down at her screen, not pressing it anymore. I collected the leftover wrappers and whatnot onto the tray and got up to throw it away.

"Ya want anythin' else, Vinyl?" I asked. A slight shaking of her head was her only response. I moved to the trash and tossed everything, putting the empty tray above the trash so the workers could collect it to be used again.

Taking my seat, I noticed the awkwardness still hadn't fled so I decided to take a chance.

"Hey, Vinyl?" I leaned back in my chair, attempting to appear relaxed and casual while my heart was pounding in my chest. She looked up at me, her face still unreadable because of her shades.

"Do ya wanna," I couldn't think of a classy way of putting it, so I just threw a hail mary. "do ya wanna do somethin' like this again? With me, ah mean?" She stared at me, her expression still completely unreadable. Like a panicking buffoon, I continued. "Ah mean, we don't gotta see another movie. Unless ya want ta. I'd enjoy watchin' another movie with ya. But we can do somethin' else if ya wanna. I'm up fer anythin' if it's with you. We could-"

She lifted a hand, stopping me as a smile came to her lips. She refocused on her phone, tapping up a storm.

*Buzz*

11:40 AM
You know, you're kinda cute when you're flustered

Her message brought a burning blush to my cheeks, forcing me to look away. I scratched at the back of my neck, trying to think of some clever reply. Before I could come up with anything my phone vibrated again.

*Buzz*

11:42 AM
I'd love to go on another date with you, Mac

I lifted my gaze, stunned. Her beautiful smile made my heart skip a beat.

++++++++++++++++++++++

"So..." I stared straight ahead. Vinyl and I were sitting in my pickup in her circular driveway, just inside the open gate of her property. What I assumed to be her parents' vehicles and Octavia's McLaren were parked in front of us. We'd just gotten back to her house, half past midnight, and neither of us had said a word.

I really wasn't sure what to say or do, but I was definitely going to walk her back to her door and for that I needed to know what she wanted to do next. She'd not moved an inch and it seemed like she wanted to say -- well in her own way -- something.

Her phone was resting in her lap, still connected to my stereo. We'd listened to a few more songs on the way back to her home and she'd yet to disconnect it. As she lifted it I already knew what was coming, preemptively taking out my own device.

*Buzz*

12:33 AM
I'm sorry Mac

I looked at her in utter confusion. She kept her eyes on her phone.

"Fer what, Vinyl?" I wanted to reach out towards her, wanted to put a hand on her shoulder, or give her a hug, or anything. She looked so sad all of a sudden, I couldn't handle it.

*Buzz*

12:35 AM
It bothers you right? Me not saying anything?

I stared down at her message for a while. I wasn't really sure how to reply. It didn't bother me. She could communicate however she wanted and I'd like her either way. I couldn't say I wasn't curious though. Before Ma and Pa died I was a motormouth. If something bad had happened to her then...

"Honestly, Vinyl, it doesn't," I sighed, locking my eyes on my own device. "Ah like ya. Ah like ya somethin' fierce. If this is tha way yer comfortable communicatin' with me, then ah got no qualms with it."

The interior of the truck was dead silent for several minutes. I didn't have the courage to take my eyes off of my device. Just as I was about to fold and look her way I heard the tapping of her fingers against the screen of her phone. I waited anxiously.

*Buzz*

12:47 AM
When I was younger before Octavia's family took me in I lived with my parents

*Buzz*

12:47 AM
Mom and Dad fought with each other a lot

*Buzz*

12:48 AM
Mostly because of me

In the darkness I glanced sidelong at her, hoping she wouldn't notice me. She was still concentrated on her bright screen.

*Buzz*

12:48 AM
No matter how hard I tried I couldn't shut my mouth then

*Buzz*

12:49 AM
I loved them so much

*Buzz*

12:49 AM
I was happy

*Buzz*

12:49 AM
I guess they weren't and me running my mouth didn't help things

*Buzz*

12:50 AM
Mom would yell at me a lot because I never shut up

*Buzz*

12:50 AM
Dad would fight with her about it

*Buzz*

12:50 AM
Eventually she got tired of me

*Buzz*

12:51 AM
So she left

*Buzz*

12:52 AM
And then Dad did too

I could hear her sniffling. My heart ached for her, but I didn't know what I could possibly do. Sure, my parents were gone, but I'd lost them. Disaster had taken them away from us. They hadn't decided to leave us. That was... not something my mind could even comprehend.

*Buzz*

12:53 AM
Since then Tavi is the only one I've said anything to

*Buzz*

12:53 AM
Please try to understand I really like you and I

*Buzz*

12:53 AM
I'm scared you'll think I'm a freak or something cause I don't talk

I felt tears stinging at the corners of my eyes, but I knew what I had to do. I turned towards her, waiting until she returned my gaze. She did so reluctantly, the sadness she was feeling still emanating from her in thick waves.

"Ah understand, Vinyl," I declared confidently, looking directly into her shades. "If talking makes ya uncomfortable, ya don't have to say a word to me."

She stared at me with a frown, though it was easy to see a smile was tugging at the corners of her mouth. Again she pushed a closed fist against my shoulder for a moment, but this time she slowly opened her hand before moving to place it on my chest.

I stared down. She had to be able to feel my heart racing. I didn't mind. If it helped her trust me, helped her to understand that I was being honest, then I wouldn't object. I lifted my head to find the most beautiful pair of glistening maroon eyes I'd ever seen looking back at me. She'd lifted her sunglasses to the top of her head, looking at me with nothing in between us.

She had a slight smile on her face, but I was lost in her eyes. I'd never seen them before. They were hypnotizing, so beautiful that I couldn't really comprehend how that was possible. I'd always thought she was beyond attractive, but seeing her fierce red eyes for the first time... I couldn't believe how beautiful she was. It was as if they were glowing in the darkness of my truck.

It was at that moment that I knew, I was head over heels for this girl. Before I could say or do anything her face lit up again. She removed her hand, -- saddening me just a little -- picking up her phone and sending me another message.

*Buzz*

12:58 AM
Can I play one more song for you?

*Buzz*

12:58 AM
I think you'll like it

"Ah'm all ears," I grinned, watching her start the song with her phone.

It started off well enough, a light bit of piano mixed with-

...

It's her new song.

I knew it within seconds. I leaned forward, now completely mesmerized as it built up to its first substantial drop. About fifty seconds in her trademark wubs started. It was like I was in a trance, the synthesis of classical and dubstep taking me to another place. The melancholic drum beat giving way to strings and more piano.

Strangely enough, I felt myself start to tear up by the second drop. It was incredible. The emotions. The joy. The somber sound. I can't express exactly how it made me feel, but I realized by the third drop that I could listen to this song on repeat forever.

As it slowly winded down, I knew I had the goofiest grin on my face, but I didn't care. Vinyl was right. This really was her best song yet.

"That was amazin', Vinyl," I couldn't stop smiling.

*Buzz*

1:05 AM
You're the first one to hear it, Mac

*Buzz*

1:05 AM
Thanks for being so kind to me

I chuckled, typing my reply.

1:06 AM
<3

Author's Note

Vinyl's new song. If you've been in the fandom long then you know that "Addictia" was actually "Princess Addictia" and a Brony musician. This was my favorite song by them. It still makes me cry when I listen to it closely. It was originally based on Vinyl and Tavi's days at university together. A collaboration between the pair. They're still two of my favorite characters from MLP to this day.