The Lesson Plans of a Winning Teacher

Chapters

The Pony Who Just Wanted to Read
The Pony Who Just Wanted to Relax
The Pony Who Just Wanted to Reflect

The Pony Who Just Wanted to Read

I love my job. Really, I do. Granted, lots of ponies say that, but to be honest, I’ve seen lots of ponies doing jobs that they’re good at but don’t truly love. What I do is important enough to me that I don’t even know if I can really call what I do a ‘job.’ A job is something that you have to do, like homework. This, this a passion, a calling, and often not one that’s appreciated by its primary beneficiaries.

“So, if you turn to page fifty-three in your books, you’ll see that Silver Coin’s wise guidance to Princess Celestia helped establish the peace accord with the griffon nations that persists to this day...” I paused as the quiet groans inevitably came from the foals in the chairs behind me. I turned slightly, and could see several of them quickly looking away from the windows. “Now everypony, I know that history might not be interesting to you, but it’s important to at least have some understanding of it.”

“But Ms. Cheerilee, this stuff is boooooring! And it’s almost the weekend!” I didn’t even need to look to know who the protest came from. I turned my head further and fixed the speaker with a cool stare.

“Scootaloo, I am well aware of what day it is. And I’m sure that you’d want to avoid another talk with your parents.” I kept my smile to myself as Scootaloo flinched lower in her seat, the other foals in the class breaking out into giggles. The sun shining in the window caught my eye, and I smiled a little. “Although, since it is such a lovely day out, if you all can promise me to have your family drawings turned in at the start of class on Monday, I’ll let you get a little extra time off.”

I had to fight down a laugh as twelve heads bobbed in unison before my students hurriedly threw their supplies into saddlebags and galloped out the door. As it swung closed them, I settled back behind the desk to start grading the last quiz. Predictably, Sweetie Belle and Silver Spoon had gotten perfect scores. And as predictably, it looked like I would be having yet another parent-teacher conference with Snails's family, as well as Scootaloo's and Diamond Tiara's. Being a businesspony, I'd've thought Filthy Rich would take that much red ink a little more seriously. At least Apple Bloom and Keebler had improved their scores from last time.

Finally finishing the last of the quizzes, I looked up to see that the sun was getting close to the horizon, and pushed myself to my hooves. I tossed my saddlebags over my back and trotted out the door. I walked down the hall to the steps, but stopped as I saw the mailbox flag was up. That was odd, usually the mail was delivered before the start of the school day. Maybe they’d just scheduled Derpy to deliver, and she’d forgotten until the end of her run. I opened it, only seeing a single letter contained within.

Now more confused than ever, I pulled it out and felt my chest tighten as I saw the seal of the Equestrian Ministry of Education emblazoned in the top corner. I was barely aware of my rump hitting the ground, all my attention focused on that simple envelope. Briefly, I contemplated just putting the letter back into the mailbox, going home, and pretending I didn’t see anything at all. After all, six years running and I’d yet to see a letter from them that didn’t promise stressful nights and general frustration.

With a heavy sigh I opened the letter, wishing that for once I’d gotten a ‘Great job Cheerilee, nothing to throw off your schedule’ letter.

Ms. Cheerilee,

Your annual teacher’s inspection is coming due, and will be conducted one month from next Monday, by Mr. Proper Place. Please ensure that your class and materials are prepared for this inspection. If you have need to contact the Ministry of Education with any questions, the request must be submitted through the Ministry secretary in triplicate...

I skipped through much of the rest, the bureau-speak the same with every letter they’d ever sent.

...And in conclusion, this letter is considered to be official documentation of the Ministry of Education, and must be retained for all archival purposes.

Gold Star

Special Assistant to the Minister of Education

Chairpony of the Special Commission for the Continuation of Educational Excellence

“Oh, buck me. The world really does hate me, doesn’t it?”

I stared blankly at the page for a few seconds before hanging my head. Of course, the Ministry of Education never sends nice letters. How could I forget the inspection, it always happens in the spring. Although, given the strange events that’ve been happening ever since Twilight moved to town, from the dragon to the parasprites to that massive brawl over that doll... and that love poison...

I pushed myself back to my hooves, tucked the letter into my saddlebags, and started the walk across town to my home. I decided to swing through the market on the way, hoping to see some friendly faces to offset the gloom the letter had just dropped into my life.

“Hey Cheerilee!” I glanced over to see who was calling my name. Hearing Roseluck's voice put a bit of spring in my step and knocked me out of that little funk I'd been in.

“Hello Rose, how was your day?” I called as I trotted over toward her cart.

“Long, but not too bad. Ended up selling pretty much all of my flowers. How about you?” she asked as she stepped out from behind the cart. She was in the middle of stacking up her empty baskets, the cart already closed down.

“Well, the students are as lively as ever, but I got a letter from the Ministry of Education today. They want to conduct my inspection next month,” I said, trying to stay positive about it, but some of it must’ve come out sour, because Rose nodded sympathetically.

“Well, everypony around town knows how hard you work. Just don’t let it bother you too much.” She rummaged around the remaining baskets and selected a half-dozen assorted flowers. “Here, have these, they’ll make you feel better.”

“Thanks, Rose,” I said with a smile as I tucked the flowers into my bag, munching on a lily as I trotted away. I’d always thought Rose and I had a lot in common, we both worked hard, with little to no thanks from the targets of our efforts, yet in the end we both produced things of beauty. As I finished the lily, I craned my head around for another, not noticing the pink blur until it had collided with me, sending me, the flowers, and my saddlebags sprawling to the ground in a heap.

“Oh my gosh, I’m sorry Cheerilee, I didn’t see you there!” a high pitched voice chirped. I felt hooves grab hold of me and haul me to my hooves in a rush, saddlebags and my flowers somehow coming along for the ride.

“And good afternoon to you, Pinkie.” I shook my head to clear the last few stars out of my vision. “What has you so worked up at this time of day?” The tiny voice of reason in the back of my head was screaming at me about bad ideas as Pinkie opened her mouth.

“Weeeeeeeell... I was hanging out at Sugarcube Corner wondering when the day would be over so I could get to hang out with Rainbow Dash, and that’s when I met Fluttershy who was shopping for sweets for Angel, and then she left and then Rainbow Dash came to pay me a visit at the end of the day and we kissed and that was nice.” The unstoppable juggernaut paused for a second, a warm smile on her face; then the moment ended, and she was off again. “And then we got to talking and decided on a game of tag for what we’re going to do tonight! I won the last game but I don’t know if Rainbow liked my idea, so I was gonna let her win tonight.”

Pinkie looked like she was going to say something else when her left ear swiveled in a circle while her forelegs quivered. Then her ear suddenly snapped out, pointing up and behind her slightly. “There she is, see you later Cheerilee!” In another blur of pink, she was vanishing around the closest corner just as a rainbow-maned blur thudded to the ground.

“Ouch... Dangit, thought I had her that time. Hey Cheerilee.” Rainbow Dash took a second to pick herself up, fluttering her wings with a look of determination etched onto her muzzle. “I’m going to catch her now if it kills me!” I threw up a foreleg to shield myself from the dust Rainbow kicked up, though doing so meant that my flowers went everywhere in the backdraft. I felt the sneezes coming and tried to hold them back, but to no avail. Once I’d finally gotten the dust out of my nose, I double checked my saddlebags to make sure nothing else had been flung down the street.

I admit, I’d been as surprised as everypony else when Rainbow Dash had gotten together with Pinkie Pie, though a pony’d have to be blind to miss all the signs Pinkie had been laying out in the lead-up to last Hearts and Hooves Day. I involuntarily shuddered at the memory of my own misadventures that day, though at least no permanent harm had come of it.

Finally, I smiled as the familiar shape of my home came into view. I trotted inside and dropped the saddlebags by the door, the letter forgotten for the moment. I decided to get dinner first and headed for the kitchen and the icebox. I grabbed some of the leftover salad from yesterday and carried it back to the living room table. As I ate, I tried to relax, but the letter’s contents kept drifting back to the front of my mind.

This was not good. I mean, I did have a couple smart students in the class, but the grades of the rest were just not going to be up to snuff for the inspector. Finally, I couldn’t take it and got up to check my calendar. “26, 27, 28 days. Damn.”

My foul mood did get a little bit better as I spotted my note for tomorrow, though the onset of nervous fluttering in my stomach didn’t help. After the Crusaders’ attempt to set me up with Big Macintosh for Hearts and Hooves Day, we’d awkwardly avoided each other for weeks. Finally, he caught me in the market and asked if I’d be willing to give it another try. This time without dangerous alchemical drinks. It’d taken me a little thought on it, but I’d decided to give it a shot. All the times we’d spoken for parent-teacher conferences, or Family Appreciation Days, he’d seemed nice enough. And of course the gossip flying about the market had admittedly lent some interest. In any case, we’d decided on something simple, a dinner at a nice little restaurant just off Main Street. I’d heard from Twilight that their salads were absolutely wonderful.

I decided to unwind for a bit, and grabbed one of my nicer bottles from the wine cabinet. Especially after a long day of classes, I enjoyed a glass or two alongside a good book. I’d just gotten the latest Modus Operandi crime story, and had been looking forward to starting it all week. I trotted back into my living room, put the bottle on the table, sat down and opened the book to the first page.

I don’t remember how long I’d been reading, but I’d just gotten to where they were preparing to arrest the first suspect, and was giving thought to just dozing off on the couch, when I heard somepony knocking on the door. I scowled, yawned and set the book down. I walked across the room, and took a second to make sure I at least wouldn’t be scowling at whoever was there. I pulled the door open to see a very distraught Cloud Kicker standing there, and was about to ask what had her so worked up when she uttered a single, disastrous sentence

“I got tricked into foalsitting the Cutie Mark Crusaders.”

Well, that pretty much explained it all, actually. With a sigh, I nodded and started to follow her toward her house. With any luck, it would simply be sorting out whatever trouble the girls had gotten themselves into this time, and then I could go back home and get some sleep.

Oh who was I kidding. In case it wasn’t obvious, I didn’t do so well with being dragged out of my house to deal with the Crusaders in the middle of the night. I’m normally nowhere near this grouchy.

I glanced over at Cloud Kicker as we walked. I’d known of the pony’s penchant for promiscuity for some time before I’d actually met her at a town social function. Needless to say, I’d not been particularly pleased with her behavior. Although, the second or third sentence out of her mouth being about sex would have put almost anypony off. After the social, I’d been propositioned by the mare on more than one occasion. I’d always firmly rejected her, though to be honest I had been a little flattered. Everypony likes being told they’re pretty, even if it’s by the town nymphomaniac. Even my pointed assurances that I wasn’t interested in mares like that had only stopped her for about five seconds. Eventually, it just became easier to shrug it off and just get on with whatever she’d interrupted.

Fortunately, it wasn’t too far of a walk to her home, though I did allow myself a small flicker of hope at the sight of the house not on fire. Cloud Kicker hurried to the door and pulled it open, and I just stared.

It was far worse than I’d thought. Both the kitchen and the living room could be seen from the front door, a simple counter serving as the divide. Sweetie Belle was beaming at us from the kitchen, something beyond monstrous bubbling on the stovetop behind her. Dinky was standing nearby, a look of relief on her face and a discarded fire extinguisher on the floor. The grey foam had covered almost everything in the vicinity of the stove in a thick layer of sludge (at least I hoped it was just the foam, it could have been more of Sweetie’s infamous cooking).

And the living room fared no better, as I could see Applebloom, Scootaloo, and Alula in the middle of a brawl, shouting something about their sisters, or idol in Scootaloo’s case. However, it was Blossomforth, swaying drunkenly on her hooves with a broad smile on her face, slurring out something about a “practical demonstration” that was decidedly over the line for young fillies to hear that brought the whole mess together. A glass of what looked like lemonade was held in one hoof, though I was willing to bet my salary that it had more than that in it.

“Mah sister would totally beat Rainbow!” Apple Bloom hollered as she tugged on Scootaloo’s mane, keeping herself on top so the pegasus couldn’t get free.

“You take that back!” Scootaloo struggled, her wings buzzing.

“You’re both wrong! Kicky’d totally kick both their flanks!” Alula screamed as she leaped onto the pony pile.

“Hey girlsh!,” Blossomforth cried out excitedly, taking another swig from the glass, “Cloud Kicker’sh back! Now I can show you what I wash talkin’ about.”

I looked at Cloud Kicker in disbelief, then back to the utter anarchy, then again at Cloud Kicker. “How did this happen?” Realizing exactly which fillies were involved, I sighed and facehoofed. “Oh right, it’s them. I've got experience dealing with the girls – can you take Blossomforth?"

Her smile growing wider and decidedly more inappropriate, Blossom immediately let out a loud cry of “YESH CLOUD KICKER, TAKE ME! TAKE ME NOW!”

Facehoofing again, I took a breath to remind myself why I was here. “Girls? We’re going to let Miss Cloud Kicker take care of Miss Blossomforth, while we move the sleepover to my place for the night.”

Only Sweetie Belle and Dinky heard me, the others still in the throes of their fight. “But Miss Blossomforth said that we were gonna learn about the “facts of life”, and something about “banging”, though Rarity always yells at me when I bang things,” Sweetie Belle said confusedly.

Oh, Cloud Kicker definitely owed me for this. “Maybe another time, Sweetie. For now, why don’t you and Dinky get your things, I’ll get the others.”

I waded into the brawl and managed to separate the three with only a couple bruises and a small bite on my leg from Scootaloo. After I assured them it was alright, and that I wouldn’t tell their parents, I ushered all five of the girls out the door. As the door closed behind us, more of Blossomforth’s drunken ramblings reminded me pointedly of why I avoided heavy drinking.

“So, Miss Cheerilee, what did Miss Blossomforth mean when she said all tha’ stuff about tha’ facts of life?” Applebloom asked, tugging at her tangled mane.

“Yeah, I remember my parents mentioning something about it when I was just a little filly and Rarity was first moving out,” Sweetie Belle chimed in. “They sent me to my room though before I could hear what it was.”

I wracked my brain for a way to explain it, but the girls were already off, chattering amongst themselves. At least they were still all moving in the right direction.

“Maybe it’s ummm...” Dinky half-closed her eyes in thought. “Maybe it’s like some super secret grown-ups only thing. I mean, I remember Mommy talking to Sparkler about something a little while ago, and it sounded like grownup stuff, but she won’t tell me what it was.”

“Is that true, Miss Cheerilee?” Scootaloo asked suddenly.

I blinked, suddenly seeing a possible way out. “Yes! Of course, and that’s why we don’t want to tell fillies and colts until we’re sure they’re ready.”

The fillies thought this over in silence for a few seconds, before Scootaloo tilted her head. “But why not?”

I closed my eyes for a second and took a deep breath to calm myself. I may have more practice with it, but no adult likes to hear the infamous “Why?” After some thought, I decided to go with the answer my parents gave me and opened my eyes. "There are things, my dears, that are for children, and things that are for grown ups. Someday, and trust me, it will be all too soon, you'll be old enough to find out. But for tonight, enjoy your slumber party, as fillies, and save the adult stuff for the proper time, okay?"

Scootaloo frowned, but seemed to accept it. However, like clockwork, as I started to relax, Applebloom spoke up. “So, Miss Cheerilee, what did Miss Blossomforth mean when she was talkin’ to Miss Cloud Kicker about showin’ us a practical use for her swords?”

Alula frowned. “I always thought ya fought with them like normal. But Kicky always gets mad at me when I find her toy box.”

I shuddered despite myself. “Well, like I said, there are some things for adults to know-”

“I don’ think those were swords, swords are supposed to be hard and made of metal, aren’t they? Your sister’s were all made of that weird rubbery stuff,” Applebloom said, her eyebrows narrowed in thought.

“Maybe they were training swords, what do you think, Miss Cheerilee?”

Dear Princesses, just kill me now. Thankfully, my front door decided to intervene and make an appearance. “Well, here we are girls, how about we try and get some sleep?”

“But we’re not even tired yet!” The Crusaders protested. Alula and Dinky nodded in agreement as I opened the door and ushered them all inside. Making sure to secure my wine bottle out of their reach, I stifled a smile as I caught them staring at my bookshelves.

“Wow Ms. Cheerilee, you got a lot of books,” Dinky said quietly.

“Why thank you Dinky.” As I looked over my collection, I suddenly got an idea. “How about I help you all with some nice advance studying? The next section we’re going to cover is a little tough.”

Dinky and Sweetie seemed receptive to the idea, but the identical looks of skepticism that Applebloom, Scootaloo and Alula gave me shot down any chance of that offer working. “Well, maybe I could read you a story really quick?”

They all brightened at that, and I trotted over to my bookshelf. “Alright then, let’s see, I have-”

“Read us an action story!” Scootaloo and Applebloom shouted at once.

“No, we want a mystery!” Dinky and Alula replied eagerly.

Sweetie Belle blushed, giggling. “I want a romance...”

The five all glanced at each other, and after a second’s preparation of shifty glares, were embroiled in another shouting match in the middle of my living room. So much for calming them all down. In a mild frenzy, I scoured my shelves for something that might let me satisfy all their desires at once. No, no, maybe, no, aha! I seized the last title on the shelf and turned around to the arguing fillies, holding it up triumphantly. “How about... Young Daring Doo and the Hounds of Ponyville?”

The fillies all froze and turned their eyes to look up at the book.

“No way, I’ve only seen that book once, in Twilight’s library!” Scootaloo exclaimed. “And she never lets me check it out!”

I nodded. “Well, this book didn’t have a whole lot of copies made. I managed to get one reserved before they sold out. Now, if you want me to read it, let’s get you all settled in.” I helped them all get out their sleeping bags/cushions, and once I was sure they were at least tucked in, I pulled my couch around and settled down, putting my book aside for the moment. Turning to the first page, I cleared my throat.

“Young Daring Doo and the Hounds of Ponyville. Chapter One: A Howling at Midnight. This was it. The day she'd been preparing for for years, dreading from the moment she unearthed the first clue. She paused a moment to wipe away a bead of sweat, her still-healing wing twinging in protest. The greatest foe she had come across in her career lay just around the corner, poised and ready to attack at the first sign of weakness. She willed away the burning lead in her stomach, swallowed the bile that tinged her throat. With one final step, she plunged into the most horrifying situation her career had yet brought her to...” I paused for dramatic effect, grinning as the fillies’ eyes steadily widened, “freshmen lecture.”

“What?” Scootaloo shouted. “That’s so lame. Nopony’s scared of something dumb like that!”

I involuntarily shuddered a little. “You’d be surprised.” I still remembered that first day of class, those three innocent faces, entirely unaware of the terrors they’d unleash. “You’d really be surprised.” I didn’t realize I’d started staring into space until Dinky tugged on my leg. “Oh, right. Sorry girls.” I turned back to the book. “Where were we?”

I continued reading the tale, the fillies steadily growing sleepier as it wound on. I’d just gotten to the part where Daring had escaped the attack on the university by Ahuizotl and his feline minions, when I heard the chorus of snores I’d been hoping for. Closing the book, I stifled a yawn of my own as I carefully climbed off the couch. Putting the book back, I turned out the lights and trotted into my bedroom, closing the door behind me. Not a bad night, all things considered. At least the Crusaders had behaved themselves. Just to be safe, I rapped a hoof on the bedpost as I climbed under the sheets. No sense in tempting fate, after all. Shifting a bit to adjust, I sighed happily as I closed my eyes.

*****

I stretched, thoroughly enjoying the warmth of my sheets, and yawned as I opened my eyes. The night had passed by uneventfully, which, after my brain finished catching up with the rest of me, registered as a potential problem. Compounding the problem was the utter silence from the rest of my house. Tossing the sheets off, I rolled out of bed and made for the door, and that’s when the smell hit me. The overpowering odor of rotten fish and burning garbage. Feeling panic rising in my chest, I threw the door open and entered the living room.

I was dimly aware of my rump hitting the floor as I beheld the chaos that had befallen my home. Paperwork I’d made sure was put away had been dragged back out, and was now scattered everywhere. Scootaloo, Applebloom, and Alula were all cowering in the farthest corner of the room from the kitchen, and I felt like joining them when I saw what had found its way in.

Dinky was rocking back and forth, wrapped around my fire extinguisher like it was a security blanket, aiming the nozzle at the open door of my oven. The interior was filled with the foam, and I could only imagine what kind of horror dwelled within.

“Good morning, Miss Cheerilee!” Sweetie Belle chirped. “I wanted to make you breakfast for letting us stay the night!”

The Pony Who Just Wanted to Relax

I stared, open-mouthed, at the disaster that was my normally organized kitchen. “Sweetie Belle, I... this...” I trailed off, my brain just wasn’t prepared to deal with something like this right after waking up. I don’t think my brain would ever be ready for something like this.

Sweetie Belle’s smile started to fade. “You don’t like it, do you?”

I shook my head and forced a smile onto my face, desperately trying to quash the growing urge to panic. “No, I really do appreciate the gesture, Sweetie. But why don’t we try and see if I have something that everypony would like.” I trotted to the icebox and checked its contents, hoping I’d be able to wrestle my brain back into line. Okay, I had enough apples and carrots left to make a very simple breakfast for everypony, so at least there was that. Okay, crisis averted, calm restored. “Alright, let’s hurry up and eat. You don’t want to be late for school, do you?”

Apple Bloom raised a hoof. “But how can we be late, Miss Cheerilee? We’re here with you, after all.”

I opened my mouth to reply, but realized that she had a point. “Well, we don’t want to make the other students sit around with nothing to do, do we?” The fillies all thought it over and shook their heads. “Excellent, then why don’t you all go into the living room and eat. I’ll clean up the mess in here.”

Once I was alone in the kitchen I surveyed the smoking wasteland which had once been my stove. Somedays I wondered if Sweetie’s parents deliberately made her name rhyme with ‘megaspell.’ The foam from the fire extinguisher had formed a pretty thick layer of sludge, but I could clearly see the outline of one of my metal cooking pans on the center rack.

At least she hadn’t used the nice glassware. I dragged the garbage can over, gripped the pan gingerly, and tried my hardest not to think about what precisely Sweetie had been cooking. I thought about it for a second, then dumped the whole pan into the bin. I could always buy another one after school. After another few minutes of scrubbing, I decided that the stove was at least clean enough to leave for the day and trotted into the living room, grabbing the last apple out of my icebox on my way out. “Okay everypony, are you all ready to go?”

The girls all looked up from their bags. “Ummm, Miss Cheerilee, what do we do with our sleeping bags?” Sweetie Belle asked quietly.

“Well, you can just bring them with you,” I said with a smile. “We’ll just put them in the storage closet.” I devoured the apple in a few quick bites, and trotted toward the door, hefting my saddlebags onto my back. “Now let’s hurry, we don’t want to be late.”

I herded the fillies down the street, and hoped that the sympathetic looks my neighbors were giving me weren’t too obvious to the Crusaders. As inadvertently destructive as the three were, they were still fillies, and deserved at least some kindness. I took a few minutes to enjoy the feeling of the sun shining on my coat.

“Miss Cheerilee?” I looked down to see Sweetie Belle bumping up against me, her expression downcast. “Sorry again about messing up your kitchen.”

I sighed and leaned back to give her a reassuring nuzzle. “It’s okay, Sweetie Belle. I know you meant well and I do appreciate the gesture, but perhaps next time ask before using somepony’s kitchen supplies?”

Sweetie smiled and nodded. “Of course! Maybe the next time we have a sleepover, we could have it at your house and I can try again?”

I suppressed a shudder. Tartarus had a better chance of freezing over. “Well, perhaps I’ll lend you a hoof, alright?”

Sweetie beamed and hurried back to her friends. I shook my head, vainly hoping to forget the 'breakfast' she'd tried to cook for us. I’d definitely be supervising her if she ever tried cooking in my kitchen again.

The schoolhouse finally came into view, and I smiled as I saw that a few of the other students were still arriving. I shepherded them all inside and helped the Crusaders put their sleeping bags in the storage closet and trotted into the classroom.

“Okay everypony, let’s settle down.” I waited until all of the students were facing me before I nosed open the textbook. “Before we get started on our math, I’ve graded your quizzes from yesterday. There were several of you who did very well on it. Sweetie Belle, Silver Spoon, congratulations on getting perfect scores.” The two fillies beamed as I set the papers down on their desks. “Those of you who didn't do as well as they did and aren't happy with your grades shouldn't be discouraged. I’ll be holding a review session after class on Monday. If you feel like you want to get a firmer grasp on the material, or if you did not get a passing grade, then I recommend attending it.” I finished passing out the quizzes and trotted back to the front of the classroom. “And I hope you brought your history books today, we start covering The Lunar Rebellion and it’s impact on Equestrian society after math, and we’ll continue it after recess.”

I shook my head good-naturedly at the groans, before I picked up a piece of chalk and turned to the board, quickly drawing the beginning of the first equation. I glanced back at the book to make sure it was right, and then set the chalk down. “Okay, who can tell me what this equation is for, without looking in your books.” I tried not to smile as Archer, Scootaloo, Keebler, and Diamond Tiara took their hooves off their textbooks. I saw Sweetie Belle, Silver Spoon, and Alula all raising their hooves, and nodded toward Alula. At least today’s class was going to go well. “Alright Alula, why don’t you tell us?”

*****

It was a veritable stampede as the students charged out the door into the yard for recess. I settled down on the little patio by the door and started to eat when I noticed a shadow pass by overhead.

“Hey Cheerilee.” Cloud Kicker said as she landed next to me.

I sighed and set down my food. “Hello Cloud Kicker.”

The pegasus fluttered her wings a little. "Listen, sorry about last night. Things... kinda happened."

"I should certainly hope not,” I grumbled. ”You had five fillies in that house with you."

Cloud Kicker snorted. "Nah, no worries about that. Look, though--I really do appreciate the help, and I wanted to make it up to you."

I gave her a very skeptical look. Cloud Kicker had many ways of making things up to ponies ... most of which involved her getting as much out of it as the pony in question. Besides which--she was nice and all, but...

I think Cloud Kicker knew where my line of thought was heading, because she cut me off with a shake of her head. "Not like that, I think this goes a little beyond my usual thing. Anyway, Rarity originally was going to give me and Blossomforth a trip to the spa today at four as payment for foalsitting the Crusaders. When I mentioned you helped out, she extended the offer to you as well. Though after her behavior last night Blossom blew her shot, so I decided to invite Derpy instead. What do you say?”

I was tempted to just turn her down, but something stayed my hoof. As nice as a trip to the spa would be, having to go with Cloud Kicker wasn’t exactly at the top of my list of things to enjoy. But then again, given my workload and salary, I’d never actually been able to afford going before. Not to mention that given I had a date with Big Macintosh tonight, maybe going wasn’t such a bad idea. “You know, alright. I’ll go.”

“Cool. Is it okay if Derpy and I just meet you here? We’d need to pick up Alula, Sparkler and Dinky anyway.”

“I suppose that’ll be fine.” I hoped my ear hadn’t twitched.

“Great. I’ll see you here at around three-thirty?” She barely even waited for my nod before she trotted over to give Alula a quick nuzzle. A second later she was airborne, headed back toward the market.

I sighed and wondered if I’d just made a big mistake. Although, given that we were going to be in public, maybe some of Cloud Kicker’s worst shenanigans would be curtailed. I finished off my lunch and got to my hooves. “Alright everypony, you have five more minutes, then it’s time to finish our history lesson.” I smiled as the foals redoubled their playing, and made my way back into the building.

I decided to take a minute to myself, and looked around the room with a small smile. I nosed open the history book and started writing the next chapter’s title on the board along with the first few topics. The clock signalled the end of the five minutes with a soft chime, and I pushed open the window. “Alright everypony, let’s come back inside! It’s time to finish up for today!” I flicked an ear at the chorus of groans. “Now now, we’re almost done, no sense using up more of your weekend, is there?”

That served to motivate them, and they hurried back through the door in a rush. Once they’d all taken their seats, I picked up my pointer and tapped the title. “Okay, we were talking about how Celestia’s efforts to implement a consolidation program were actually increasing tensions. The pegasus military was steadfastly against surrendering their authority to the unicorns, while the earth pony-led Democratic Coalition was drawing a lot of negative attention from the unicorn nobility. Eventually, these tensions escalated into outright violence, sparked by an incident known as The Contested Election.”

Almost on cue, a half-dozen hooves shot into the air. “Yes Sweetie Belle?”

“I’m confused, Miss Cheerilee. If the vote for Chancellor of the Earth Ponies was done properly and Princess Celestia still won, then why would anypony say there was a problem with the election?”

“That is an excellent question.” I set the pointer down and turned to face the class.” However, while it’s easy for us to sit here after these events have happened and point out the mistakes made, it’s very hard to do that when the event is going on around you. Not to mention the time after Luna’s banishment to the moon was a very stressful time for ponies, and as I’m sure you know, not everypony reacts with composure when under stress.”

Scootaloo raised a hoof. “So then what happened with the Contested Election?”

“Well, as I explained earlier, the election for the office of Chancellor was coming up, and the candidate the earth ponies put forward was beginning to gain popularity due to the rising tensions between the tribes...”

*****

“Alright class, I will see you Monday. Enjoy your weekend, and remember – your family drawings are due on Monday!” I shouted as the students galloped out the door, plans already hatched to pass their time. I packed my textbooks and notes into my saddlebags, then trotted out into the hallway. “Okay you three, let’s get your sleeping bags out.” I opened the door and passed the Crusaders their bags. “And do try to stay out of trouble this weekend, okay?”

“Sure thing Miss Cheerilee! See you on Monday!” Apple Bloom shouted as they charged out the door.

Forget it Cheerilee, just let them go. No sense ruining your weekend again. Somepony else can take care of it. With a sigh I trotted down the hallway after them and out the door. I spotted Dinky and Alula on the steps and sat down next to them. “So girls, did you have any questions about the material we talked about in class? Anything you needed help with for your presentation about your family, Alula?”

Alula shook her head. “Nope, I was gonna study more with Dinky and Sparkler at the library. Is that okay?”

“Of course, Alula,” I said with a smile, before the sound of hoofsteps made me look up. “And speak of the pony. Hello, Sparkler.”

“Hey there, Cheerilee. Hi, Dinky!” Sparkler laughed as Dinky charged into a hug with her older sister. “Did you have fun last night?”

“Uh-huh! Though Mommy had to make a special delivery, so I was gonna spend the night at Miss Cloud Kicker’s house! And Alula, Sweetie Belle, Scootaloo and Apple Bloom were all gonna stay the night too! Though Miss Blossomforth got all funny, was saying some weird things to Miss Cloud Kicker, so we had to go spend the night at Miss Cheerilee’s house,” Dinky finished in a rush. “And Miss Cheerilee read us all a Daring Doo story before bed!”

Sparkler just stared for a second, then her eyes flicked up to me for confirmation. I nodded slightly and she sighed, her ear twitching. “Well, that’s just great. I’m glad you had fun Dinky.”

I started to open my mouth when I saw a shadow heading across the ground toward us. I glanced up, and stepped aside as Derpy fluttered in for a landing. At least this time she had things mostly sorted out and came to a perfect stop, only overshooting by a hoof or two. “Hello, Derpy.”

“Hi Cheerilee,” Derpy said with a smile. “Thank you so much for helping with Dinky last night. I’ll be sure to make it up to you.”

“Oh, that’s alright, Dinky was very well behaved.” I found myself wondering exactly how much Derpy knew about what had really gone on last night, but decided against asking. As much as I disagreed with Cloud Kicker’s lifestyle, I didn’t have it in me to start making more trouble for her.

“Kicky!” Alula’s joyful shout broke the awkward silence wonderfully as she rushed her older sister for a hug.

“Hey there ‘lula,” Cloud Kicker returned the hug.

“We started talking about the Lunar Rebellions, and then during recess I was talking with Archer about what she was going to draw for her family picture and...” At the pace she was going, she’d rival Pinkie Pie someday for most words spoken in a single breath.

Once Cloud Kicker had a break she scooped her sister up, ignoring the protests about being a big filly, and floated over with a few quick flaps.

“Hey. What’s the plan for the girls while we’re having our spa day?”

“Sparkler’s going to take them to the library to get some homework done,” Derpy answered.

Sparkler waved a hoof, an awkward smile on her face. “Yeah, I’ll take care of the girls. Don’t worry about them.”

Cloud Kicker chuckled. “Good luck, they can be a hooffull.”

I snorted, but let it slide. Granted, the Crusaders had demolished her kitchen as well, but she didn’t have to wake up to it. Plus she had a lot more than a teacher’s salary to fix the damage with.

We watched the girls trot off toward the library with a wave to their respective family members, then started to make our way toward the spa. As we were walking, I noticed that Cloud Kicker and Derpy were walking just a little closer together than usual. I would say I was surprised, but then again, it was Cloud Kicker.

The rest of the walk passed in silence, none of us really having that much to say to each other. As the spa came into view I glanced over at Cloud Kicker. “So, what exactly did Rarity set up for us?”

Cloud Kicker shrugged. “I dunno for sure--she just said something about the deluxe treatment.”

I blinked. “She paid for three deluxe spa treatments?” I double-checked the numbers in my head and winced. Something like that would take two month’s pay to afford for me. I’d definitely need to thank Rarity the next time I saw her, kitchen disasters or not.

We trotted up the steps and into the spa lobby. “Hey there Lotus, we’re here for our spa treatments,” Cloud Kicker said, grinning at the pony behind the counter.

“Oh, but of course, Miss Cloud Kicker,” Lotus replied with a bow. A second later her sister appeared in the doorway. “Aloe shall show you to the steam room, while I prepare the next stage of your visit with us today.”

Aloe led us down the hall to the steam room, making sure we were all comfortable before pouring a few ladles of water onto the heating stones. After a good half-hour of sweating, we were led to a room filled with couches, where we all received hooficures. Then came preenings for Derpy and Cloud Kicker, while I was given a massage. After sorting out how to walk again, we were given mane treatments and facials. Finally, we were led to the mud bath room, where the twins carefully eased us into our own pools.

After another half hour, Aloe trotted back in. “Miss Cloud Kicker, Miss Derpy, your massage couches are ready for you.”

“Cool. You coming Derpy?” Cloud Kicker asked as she got out of her pool and washed the mud off.

Derpy leaned back into the mud with a sigh. “I think I’m okay right here. I’ll catch up with you in a little while.”

“Suit yourself.” Cloud Kicker followed Aloe out of the room and down the hall.

Now that the two of us were alone, I decided to ask the question that started nagging at me on the walk over. “So, if you don’t mind me asking, what exactly do you see in her, Derpy?”

Derpy settled into the mud some more and stretched. “Cloud Kicker and I go way back--way past me moving here. We’ve been pretty close friends since Fight Camp and, well … she was always there for us. Dependable. Like, Applejack-dependable--she watched out for her friends.”

I nodded and squirmed a little to get comfortable myself. The spa mud sucked at my coat, almost a little too thick to move in. ”Well, I suppose that makes sense, but...” I trailed off, trying to figure out how to ask without hurting Derpy’s feelings.

“You wonder what a single mom sees in Ponyville’s premiere playpony?” Derpy asked with her usual bubbly smile.

I laughed awkwardly. “Sorry, was trying to think of a discrete way to ask.”

Derpy grinned, chuckling herself. “Don’t worry about it. Cloud Kicker and ‘discretion’ don’t always get along. Poor Sparkler put two and two together a little too quickly for her own good.”

I remembered the way Sparkler acted when Dinky had mentioned the sleepover and winced. “That must not have been a fun talk to have.”

Derpy shrugged her wings, the mud hiding most of the motion. “It was a bit awkward, but... well, I owed her the truth.” She paused for a second. “Dinky’s not quite ready for The Talk yet, but if things keep going as they are I might have to fill her in sooner rather than later.” She squirmed for a bit to keep the mud from settling. “But back to your question … there’s a lot more to Cloud Kicker than most ponies give her credit for. Not many of them can see past the wild-and-crazy playmare at first glance, but those of us who can see somepony who’s far less superficial than she puts on.” She lowered her voice slightly. “When I moved to town, she was one of the few ponies who went way out of her way to help me. That meant a lot to me, and now that I finally have some time on my hooves … I like spending it with her.”

I blinked. A reply like that had not been what I expected to hear from Derpy, of all ponies. Granted, I knew she was fairly sharp, but something like that? No wonder Dinky did so well with my side lesson on ethics two months ago. “Wow, I never really thought of it that way. I’ll admit though, I’d have never thought that Cloud Kicker would stay with anypony for longer than a day or two, given her ‘normal’ behavior.”

Derpy stared briefly into space for a second, then shook her head. “I think it’s mostly for the muffins.“

“I’ve not actually had any of your muffins Derpy,” I tilted my head. “Are they really that good?”

Derpy coughed awkwardly, then brightened. “The best! Pinkie taught me how to make them.”

I tilted my head in confusion before a very, very dirty thought crossed my mind. I came close to smacking my forehead before remembering where I was. “Er, right...” I floundered for a second, at a loss for words.

Derpy laughed heartily. “It does make my favorite snack a little awkward, doesn’t it?” There was another awkward pause. “Wait, that came out wrong...”

Now it was my turn to laugh. “Just a little.”

“I blame her,” Derpy pointed to the door with a wry snort. “Totally her influence. And fault.”

I smiled, leaning back against the provided cushion. “Well, I’m happy for you Derpy, I really am.”

“Thanks. So am I.” She carefully lifted a wing free and worked some mud in between a few of her feathers. “So … how’s Dinky doing in her classes?”

I nodded. “She’s doing very well with her math and science, but her reading comprehension could use a bit of improvement.”

“Mm, I’ll keep that in mind. Hopefully Sparkler or I can set some time aside to help, but we’re both pretty busy...” She trailed off with a frown.

I thought about it for a second. “Well, I can schedule some time after school if you and Sparkler can’t.”

Derpy quickly waved a hoof. “Thanks, but I wouldn’t want to cut into your schedule--you must be busy enough as it is with your regular classtimes.”

“Well, I don’t really have much that it’d interfere with right now, to be honest.” A slight edge of bitterness in my voice despite myself. I like my life being calm and predictable as much as the next pony, but the occasional spark of variety is welcome.

Derpy blinked. “Really? I’m--um...sorry?” She cleared her throat. “You don’t have a special somepony, nopony that’s caught your eye?”

I felt my cheeks burn as I ducked my head a little. “Well, now that you mention it...” I looked up as the door suddenly slammed open, a purple and gold blur nearly careening into the wall, but correcting itself and landing in front of Derpy’s pool. It was Cloud Kicker, her coat and mane disheveled and a little winded.

“Hey Cloud Kicker! What’s up?” Derpy asked with a bright smile.

“Not much.” She took a second to compose herself a little. “So anyway, I was wondering... um… Will you be upset if I bang other ponies?”

I sat there, stunned for a second, before I gasped in a breath. “How can you even ask something like that!? Isn’t she your fillyfriend?” I started to take another breath to continue, but Derpy waved a hoof to cut me off.

“It’s fine, Cloud Kicker.” She must’ve noticed me staring open-mouthed at her, and turned to face me. “Like I said, Cloud Kicker’s been my friend for years, Cheerilee. I know I couldn’t keep her to myself even if I wanted to.” She shot her a coy look. “I don’t mind if she has a little fun on the side – I know she likes my muffin enough to come back.”

Cloud Kicker grinned, then seemed to get a thought and looked at me. “Cheerilee, wanna come with?”

I scowled, irritated that she’d even consider asking me something like that, and in front of her fillyfriend no less. “I’m seeing somepony,” I said coldly. I wasn’t lying, technically.

“Oh. Sorry, didn’t know.” She started to move towards the door, then turned around. “I’ll have to ask the twins, but I don’t have any problem with him joining in.” At the deepend scowl on my face, she held a hoof up. “Kidding, kidding.”

“Wait Cloud Kicker!” Derpy waved her over, a shy grin on her face. “You came to ask my permission for twins?”

“Yeah?” Cloud Kicker took a few steps closer to the edge of the tub.

That was what Derpy had been waiting for. A pair of muddy hooves shot up out of the bath, wrapped themselves around her neck, and pulled her down into a kiss. A moment later, their combined weight tipped Cloud Kicker over, and the two of them plunged into the mud. That didn’t seem to slow them down, the two surfacing with their forelegs still around each other and their lips locked.

After a few minutes, punctuated by their grunts and the squelches of the mud, I finally coughed awkwardly to remind them I was still there. They separated with goofy smiles at each other, and as Cloud Kicker turned to leave, Derpy grabbed her hoof. “Have fun. And... you may want to rinse off first.”

Cloud Kicker beamed. “No time! Twins!” And with that, she wheeled about and galloped out the door in a muddy blur.

I blinked, then turned to Derpy. “Derpy, I don’t mean to offend, but why on Celestia’s good green earth are you okay with that? She’s your fillyfriend!”

Derpy took a second to readjust her wings from her make-out session with Cloud Kicker. “It’s who she is. Cloud Kicker is Cloud Kicker--I knew that when she started coming over and I’m not about to ask her to change that.”

I blinked. “Well... I guess I can understand that...”

Derpy opened her mouth to reply, but a moaning sigh from down the hall interrupted her. “Ahem. It’s--well, Cloud Kicker’s been a very open pony. It may seem a little--okay, really strange, but I really am okay with that.” Her ear flicked as a pair of giggling sighs drifted through the door.

I think if my ears twitched any harder, I’d be knocking myself cross-eyed.

“Oh, that trick, that’s a good one.” Derpy blushed and shot me a guilty smile. “Heh, not that you needed to know that. Sorry.”

I sighed in resignation, giving Derpy a wry smile. “It’s okay.”

Derpy twirled a hoof in the surface of the mud for a second. “So... what was that you were saying?”

I felt my cheeks starting to burn again. “Well... I did sort of get asked out for later tonight.”

A grin spread across Derpy’s face as she leaned forward. “Ohhohoho really? By whom?”

I smiled shyly and sank a little into the mud “...Big Macintosh,” I whispered.

Derpy’s eyes widened. “Ooh, nice! He’s a good pony, I think you’ll like him!”

“Yeah... I hope so...” I shuddered a little as unwelcome memories again surged back to the front of my brain.

Derpy stared at me in confusion, until something clicked and her ears flattened a little. “Oh! Um... Sorry. I heard about that from Berry. I don’t think this has anything to do with it. It’s out of your systems, and he really is nice.”

“I know that it’s gone... but still, just a bit of a touchy subject, you know?” I sighed, staring forlornly at the mud

Derpy nodded seriously. “I do … look, take it from me--don’t let one bad event ruin everything for you.”

I smiled thankfully at her. “I’ll try. Thanks Derpy.” My ears twitched as a particularly loud, gasping cry rang out. “You know, I think I ought to get going. It’s been a lot of fun, and I’ll be sure to let you know if Dinky needs any help with her studies.” I started floundering my way out of the mud, and nearly fell back in as the same cry came again.

Fortunately, Derpy was quicker than I was at extricating herself and helped steady me. Maybe a life of endless crash landings offered some benefit after all. “Okay. Thanks Cheerliee, it was good catching up with you.”

“It was.” I smiled and hurriedly trotted out the door for the shower, making sure to not even glance down the hall toward the massage room. No sense catching sight of something that might scar you for life after all.

*****

I trotted down the street from the spa, still trying to wrap my brain around how Derpy could even put up with Cloud Kicker’s antics. I finally had to just admit that Derpy was seeing something in her that I didn’t, and leave it at that.

The trip back to my house was thankfully short, and I dropped my saddlebags in their usual spot. I decided to give myself a once-over to make sure that I was cleaned off from the spa. I trotted in and eyed myself in the mirror. No sign of any mud, mane still a little damp, but holding its shape nicely.

I tilted my head and peered closer at my reflection. Something just felt... off. I glanced out to my little window garden and smiled as I saw some of my daisies blooming proudly. “That’s it!”

I walked over and carefully picked one, carrying it back to the bathroom and positioning it just above my left ear. Hopefully that would hold just fine. “Okay. You got this Cheerilee. It’s just dinner, nothing to worry about.” I trotted out the door and down the street, squinting a little against the light of the setting sun.

As I passed my neighbors, more than one of them took notice of the flower in my hair, the spring that was creeping into my step, and winked or grinned at me. I decided to ignore them, though I kept a smile on my face nonetheless. I wished my stomach would stop doing flip-flops though, it wasn’t making the walk any easier.

Finally, the restaurant came into view, and I slowed my pace as the butterfly feeling doubled. Was this really something I wanted to do? I mean, I liked the idea of going out with Big Macintosh as much as the next mare, and maybe some stallions, but I wanted it to be because of my choice. Not some alchemical concoction that drove my every action with my mind riding along in the passenger seat...

“May I help you, Madame?”

With a start, I realized I’d walked right up to the maître d', and smiled awkwardly. “Umm, I believe there’s a reservation for two, Cheerilee, and Macintosh Apple?” The last part came out a little more forced than I thought it would.

“Ah, but of course. Follow me please.” He led me through the tables to a small one, set for two. “I am afraid Mr. Apple has not arrived yet. Would you care for something to drink?”

“Just water, please.” He nodded and trotted smartly away. I settled onto my cushion and looked around at the other couples enjoying their dinners. Suddenly, I felt very out of place, and started getting that nervous feeling in my stomach again. I started fidgeting as I wondered what could be keeping Big Mac. Maybe he’d gotten cold hooves and decided not to show? No, I couldn’t start thinking like that. But what if...?

“Miss Cheerilee?” The voice was deep enough to pass for thunder.

I looked up, and the fluttering in my belly intensified. Big Macintosh stood there across the table from me, ears flicking nervously as he stared at me. Something seemed off about him, and I realized with a start that the yoke he always seemed to be wearing was absent, replaced by a simple bag for his bits. He looked like a completely different pony without it, and I stumbled for a greeting.

“Umm, hi, Macintosh,” I managed to get out, sounding a lot more formal than I’d intended.

He seemed to be at a loss for words, and sat down awkwardly. “You look... nice.”

“Thanks.” We both stared at each other awkwardly, and I finally broke it to stare at the ground, feeling my cheeks burning. I really hoped that it was dark enough he didn’t notice.

“Here is your water Madame. And for you, Sir?” the maître d' asked as he trotted back over, setting down the glass in front of me.

“Orange juice please,” he rumbled quietly.

“Very well. Your waiter will be with you shortly.” He trotted back toward the door and disappeared inside.

“Never thought I’d see an Apple drinking orange juice.” Horseapples, that sounded a lot funnier in my head. I folded my ears in embarrassment as he looked at me quizzically.

“Little variety don’t hurt,” he replied with a shrug of his shoulders.

“That is true.” I mentally kicked myself as the words left my mouth. I’d talked with him dozens of times before about Apple Bloom’s grades, why was it so hard now? I took a drink of my water in an effort to hide my sheepish blush.

“Hello, I’m Special Course, and I’ll be your waiter tonight,” a skinny colt said with a smile as he trotted up. He pulled two menus from his saddlebags and hoofed them over to us. “Our special tonight is a bowl of circle sliced potatoes, carrots, and mushrooms, seasoned carefully before being baked in our oven with hickory logs.”

I perused the menu for a few seconds before I came to a decision. “I think I’m going to go with the hazelnut spinach salad, light on the croutons, and with apple pieces.”

“An excellent choice, and for you sir?” The colt turned to Macintosh.

“Veggie stew. An’ salad,” he replied, taking another drink of his orange juice.

“Alright. I’ll be right back with your meal, just let me know if you need refills.” He hurried off into the restaurant.

I took another drink of my water and tried very hard to not stare at Macintosh, though every so often I could’ve sworn I caught him doing the same. Was he as nervous about this as I was? The silence was growing unbearable, and finally I had to say something. “So, is the farm doing well?”

“Eeyup.” He took another swig from his orange juice. “Apple Bloom’s studies goin’ well?”

“Yes.” For a moment I considered just leaving it at that – I didn’t want our date to turn into a guardian-teacher conference. However, after a sip of my water I couldn’t help adding. “Though she needs to study her math more, and her history homework was turned in late.”

“I’ll talk to ‘er.” The conversation sputtered out and we were reduced to staring awkwardly at the table and each other again. I glanced around the other tables and twitched caught Lily shooting me a snide glance. For a split second I wondered why, then remembered the stallion sitting across from the table from me. I don’t follow town gossip much, but it wasn’t difficult to hear about various attempts to lay claim to that apple tree. All ended in failure, punctuated by the orange guardian of Sweet Apple Acres and all the Apples within. Not even Cloud Kicker had ever managed to get past Applejack. I gulped as I realized the position that I now sat in, and wondered just what Applejack would do to me when she found out.

“Somethin’ wrong?” He tilted his head, then must’ve caught on to Lily’s staring. With a toss of his head he glared right back at her, and the chastised mare returned to her meal.

“Thanks,” I said with a small smile as I glanced down at the table.

“Don’ mention it.”

Special Course finally returned with our food and I gratefully began to eat. Almost immediately I had to make a mental note to thank Twilight for telling me about this place, their salads were wonderful.

“So...” Macintosh’s voice broke the renewed silence, the stallion tapping a hoof lightly on the ground, “How’re things?”

I stopped eating for a moment. Big Macintosh using proper grammar was in itself a rare event, but I’d not expected that question, to be honest. “I’m doing alright.” I remembered the impending teacher’s evaluation and hoped my voice hadn’t given it away.

“Trouble?” His voice was steady, rock-solid.

Damn, so much for keeping it to myself. “Well, there’s an evaluation coming up. For teachers all over Equestria, that is.” I sighed. “I’m just a little worried about it is all.” I took another mouthful of salad and chewed quietly.

“You’ll do fine.”

I smiled. “Thanks, Big Mac.” He nodded with a smile, and I felt my cheeks starting to burn again. I looked down to take another bite of salad and blinked as I saw the bowl was empty. “Well, that’s surprising. Do you... do you want to get some dessert?”

“Nnope.” Macintosh lifted the bag from around his neck, while I retrieved mine. He glanced at it for a second, and I thought he was going to offer to pay for the whole thing, but he dug out enough for his own meal, plus the tip.

I set my own bits down and got to my hooves. “Well, this has been a wonderful time, Mac.”

“Eeyup. I’ll walk you home.” He rose to his hooves and together we left the restaurant. Walking down the street, I found myself shooting him the occasional glance, and swore that I saw him doing the same. After another few minutes I found myself drifting closer, my side brushing against his. He initially shied away, but soon responded by leaning back. I smiled at him, my cheeks burning again. I started drifting even closer to him...

And that’s when it hit me. I remembered the last time I’d done this, and I abruptly shied a step away. From the embarrassed flicking of his ears, Macintosh had realized the same thing. The rest of the walk back passed silently, neither of us wanting to look at the other.

Finally, we arrived at my house, and I trotted up to the door. “Well, this was a very nice night Big Mac. I’ll... see you around.” I hesitated for a second, staring into his green eyes.

He stared back at me, seeming to be torn. But he finally smiled and started to turn to leave. “Eeyup.”

I suppose I should have seen it coming. His hoof slipped on my top step, and he started to fall. I began to move forward to try and catch him, as his other three legs braced himself. He started to lift his head back toward me as I finished moving forward, and we made contact.

We both froze. I felt the soft warmth of his lips against mine, and the heat that had been stubbornly living in my cheeks surged across my body. I wanted to pull away, maybe I should have, but I found myself leaning into it with a little sigh, feeling him beginning to do the same.

”He's my shmoopy-doopy sweety-weety pony pie.”

I froze. The memories surged back to the front, feeling myself saying and doing those things all on my own, without even making the choice in the first place. It’d just felt so... right. Just like now.

With a hissing gasp I broke the kiss and backed up against my door, breathing hard. Mac took a few steps back as well, looking equally distressed.

“I... I umm... I should get some sleep, lots of things to do tomorrow,” I stammered out, awkwardly reaching for the door handle behind me.

“Eeyup,” Mac answered as he glanced at the ground. “Ah’ll be seein’ ya around, then.” He turned and started to trot down the street, but then stopped and looked back. “If’n ya wouldn’t mind, that is. Ah’d hate to impose.” He hurried down the street before I could even answer. The fact that he’d been speaking in grammatically proper sentences was shocking enough to leave me at a loss for words in any case.

I opened my door and nearly fell in, walking slowly across the floor to my couch, where I just collapsed. I took a few shaky breaths to try and calm myself down. “It’s alright, you got checked out by both the hospital and Zecora. The love poison is out of your system, Cheerilee.”

But... Was it really? Could there have been a side effect that nopony knew about? Nopony had even really considered the concoction in the fable to be real. Maybe there was some lingering effect after all.

I brushed my lips with a hoof, feeling a lingering sensation of his lips pressed against mine, the heat from our bodies blending together. How good it felt to kiss him, accidentally or not.

“Is it really me feeling it though?” My house ignored the pleading question.

The Pony Who Just Wanted to Reflect

I woke up in pretty much the same position I’d fallen asleep in, if the crick in my neck was any indication. “Alright Cheerilee, you can do this. Just put one hoof in front of the other.” I repeated the little mantra to myself as I half rolled off the couch, and winced as my back protested. Alright, I was definitely going to get new cushions for that couch. Still muttering, I walked across the living room toward the hallway, and just beyond the bathroom. “Just gonna take things one step at a time.” As I passed the table, I noticed a plain notebook underneath it and swerved to the side. I opened it and frowned as I saw Apple Bloom’s name scrawled in the upper corner. “Well, I don’t have anything planned, I could always go by the Acres and return it...” I felt my face warm at the idea, and with a snort stamped it out. “And talk to Macintosh like a responsible adult about last night. Then I’ll go talk to Zecora and make sure everything’s alright.” My mind made up, I set the notebook on the table and continued into the bathroom.

Once in the shower, I made sure to slide the lever to warm first, then pressed the tile to start the water. I winced as the cold water briefly splashed me, but it quickly heated and I relaxed into it. As the water poured down, I shuffled a bit to get my coat completely saturated, then pressed the tile for the soap to mix in.

“I really ought to take showers more often. . .” I mused as I scrubbed down. “Can’t even remember the last time I took a long shower.” I closed my eyes as I stuck my head under the water, a pair of strong hooves gently massaged my shoulders. I could feel the soap as it washed off of me, my head draped across a strong, supportive neck. . .

I abruptly jerked back, out of the fantasy of a certain red stallion and the things I’d not mind doing together in the shower.

“Maybe I should go see Zecora first,” I muttered as I pressed the soap tile to shut it off. I let the last of the soap wash off, and carefully climbed out of the shower. Once I was dry, I walked back to my saddlebags, replaced the schoolbooks with Apple Bloom’s notebook, and trotted out the door.

The air outside was at least a little warmer than it had been yesterday, so that at least was a blessing. I trotted along the path toward the edge of town, thankful for the lack of stares at least. The grapevine had probably gotten word of my date as far as Canterlot by this point. I reached the intersection of Mane Lane and Canter Court, and started to turn right, toward Sweet Apple Acres before I caught my rebellious hooves and continued straight ahead. Soon, I found myself at the path that led into the Everfree Forest and hesitated for a moment, the low branches like gnarled claws reaching for me.

“Stop it Cheerilee. It’s just a bunch of trees. Fluttershy’s lived right on the edge her entire time here in Ponyville, and Zecora even further in. Just stick to the trail and you’ll be fine.” I took the first few steps haltingly, silently encouraging myself the whole time. When the trees didn’t reach down and snatch me up, I relaxed a hair and continued along the trail.

As the trees slowly pressed in on me, I found myself wondering what in the world would possess anypony to live out here. I don’t think anypony actually knew when Zecora had first made her home in the Everfree, just when she’d started coming into Ponyville. I still felt embarrassed about how we’d treated her before Twilight and her friends had pointed out how foolish we were being.

It was as I ducked under a low-hanging branch that a flock of birds chose to swoop out of the tree overhead. Their screeching cries sounded like the howl my mother used when she told me about the windigoes every Hearth’s Warming Eve. Ears flat, I did the only thing a self-respecting mare could do in my situation: I squealed like a filly and bolted forward along the path. My heart hammered in my chest as I blindly took the next turn, narrowly avoided a skid into a patch of blue flowers, and barreled into a clearing before I stopped.

I felt a wave of relief wash over me as I spotted what had to be Zecora’s hut across the clearing. Celestia knows I’d heard enough about it through Applebloom’s reports. I crossed the clearing, throat a little dry as I looked at the bizarre masks and other charms decorating the exterior. I realized I’d been standing on the doorstep for a few minutes and knocked.

A minute passed before I heard the sound of hoofsteps on wood, followed by the door creaking as it swung open. Zecora smiled warmly when she saw me. “Well hello, Miss Cheerilee. What is it that brings you to my tree?”

I returned the smile, though it felt a little forced. I had to admit, her nonstop rhyming was still something I was adjusting to. “Good morning Zecora, I’m just... well...” I fidgeted, more than a little embarrassed at bringing this up again.

Zecora seemed to pick up on my embarrassment and nodded reassuringly. “Please, make yourself comfortable. I’ll be with you as soon as I’m able.” She trotted to the low table against the far wall, where a number of jars were set out. She paused to set the lid back on one jar, gently coaxing a green tentacle back inside despite its best efforts.

I gulped nervously, trying to pretend I hadn’t seen that. “Um, thanks...” I walked across the room, making sure to give the jar a wide berth. “Well, I wanted to ask you about... about the love poison again.” I took a deep breath and tried to steady my nerves. “I... went on a date with Big Macintosh last night, and the memories... came back.”

Zecora paused in her straightening up, and nodded solemnly. “You want to be sure this is not a superficial cure. And for more than yourself--you worry for your stallion’s mental health.”

I was glad I hadn’t been drinking anything. “W-w-well, he’s not my... Anyway, I know you checked me out after Hearts and Hooves Day, but I just want to be sure, you know?”

Zecora clucked her tongue thoughtfully for a second, then smiled. “Would you like to quench your thirst, or proceed with the examination first? Either one would work for me--let me know which you prefer, Cheerilee.”

I thought about it for a few seconds. I did still want to go by the Acres, but otherwise had no plans for the day. “Some tea would be delightful, if it’s not too much trouble.”

“Don’t you worry, I’m in no hurry.” She began to open cabinets and rummage through them. “I’ll see what I have in-- ah! Chamomile, or jasmine. These are quick, though if you don’t mind a wait I have something more exotic.” She carefully slid another log onto the fire and carried over an ancient-looking kettle.

“Surprise me. I admit to enjoying new or unusual tea.” I blinked, then stifled a laugh at my impromptu rhyme.

Zecora joined in the smile. “I’ve spent many years in Equestria, but today I crave something from Zebrica.” As she added a few more herbs to the water, an oddly pleasant smell filled the room. “A rare and particular spice makes mediocre tea very nice. It’s a rare brew, as the leaves must be fairly old--but one I always enjoy as the weather turns cold.”

I nodded, though was seized by the beginnings of an idea taking root. Even with Twilight and her friends telling us she was okay, and her more frequent visits to town, it remained an unfortunate fact that Zecora didn’t have many friends within Ponyville. Maybe there was a way to change that, though. Even just teaching the class about the various herbs found within the Everfree would spice up the class a little, and a history lesson on Zebrica would be icing on the cake.

“On the topic of that disease, I find that this will clear the chest with ease. Though in my home snowfall is rare, the sickness still pops up there. For a brief duration I find that it will relieve the sensation.”

“That’s really interesting, Zecora.” I decided that asking her now was the best way to go about it. “Listen, I was wondering if I could ask you to come and do a lecture for my class? Most ponies don’t know anything about zebras, so I think it’d be fun to have the kids learn about something new that isn’t math.” I felt my conscience give me a little nudge and sighed. I at least owed her the truth. “There’s also the matter of my teacher’s inspection coming up next month, so I figure going a little off the beaten path couldn’t hurt.” I tried to chuckle, but it came out more than a little flat.

Zecora’s ears perked up and she smiled even wider. “I would be glad to speak with your students! Far too few know about the culture of my parents.” She winked. “If it helps your grade letter, then so much the better.”

I felt myself sag a little in relief and smiled gratefully. “Thank you, Zecora.”

She patted me on the shoulder. “It’s fine. Really, the pleasure is mine.” She glanced over as the teakettle started to whistle. “Excuse me, that would be the tea.”

I waited and watched curiously as Zecora deftly lifted the kettle off the fire, carried it over, and poured two cups for us. I lifted mine and sniffed at it, eyes wide as the heady aroma of the spices raced up my nose. I felt my chest relax a little as I held the breath in, and finally exhaled. “Zecora, this stuff really works! I might have to start coming out more often, unless I could trouble you for the recipe?”

Zecora frowned. “You should follow me to collect this bloom, or else it may just spell your doom. Most of the herbs are from normal flowers, but it’s the seeds from poison joke that give this brew its clearing power. Gathering and distillation takes practice and time, though the payoff is most worthwhile, I find.”

At the mention of that particular plant, I swallowed nervously. I remembered the time when Twilight and her friends had their run-in with it, and wasn’t keen on going through it myself. “I see... well, I’d love to come out more often.”

“You are more than welcome to come out,” she tried, but couldn’t quite hide the bitterness in her voice. “I would love the company when trouble is not about.”

I felt my ears fold back at the memories of the times when Ponyville had flown into a panic when Zecora came to town. “Look, I know the town apologized to you after the poison joke incident with Twilight and her friends, but I wanted to apologize again. What we did was wrong.”

Zecora waved a hoof, though her expression remained melancholic. “The mistakes and stereotypes are in the past.” She seemed to perk up. “I think I can help dispel them by speaking to your class.”

I nodded. “I know they’d love to have you. Applebloom wrote a very nice essay on you and the lesson her sister learned.”

Zecora blinked in surprise, before a smile broke out across her face. “Did she now? Bless her heart, that filly is off to a great start.” She inclined her head toward me. “Thanks to a good teacher, in no small part.”

I smiled and waved a hoof. “You give me too much credit. Applebloom is a wonderful student, I’m just helping what’s already there.”

“And helping her become a talented young mare. In spite of her impatience and pride, the door to her future is open wide. The teacher’s heart befits you, the perfect balance of patience, cheer, and wisdom too.”

I felt my cheeks burn and I ducked my head. “Well, I appreciate the compliment, thank you.” I finally took a sip of my tea, and blinked in surprise. “Oh my, this is delicious!”

Zecora took a sip from her own cup. “I'm glad for you to enjoy it as you do. This is the last of my store--I’ve been setting things aside to make more, though it may be the next moon before the poison joke is in full bloom. In keeping with its nature, the flowers are harmless in full moon’s light, and only when most would be asleep--around midnight.” She shrugged. “‘Tis a pity, the groves are a gorgeous sight.”

I nodded, but sat up straight as another idea struck me. “Zecora, you’re a genius! We could make a field trip of it for the class!”

She arched an eyebrow. “Giving my help I would not resent, but would that not require written consent? Poison Joke is dangerous to be around--exposing your students to it is a certain way to run your career into the ground.

I tapped a hoof on my chin. “Well, we’d need a couple of chaperones, but I think finding a few wouldn’t be too big a problem.”

Zecora nodded agreement. “Some older siblings or parents to help you.” She smirked. “Though if Macintosh came we’d need somepony for the two of you.”

I nearly choked on the mouthful of tea I had, and settled for spitting most of it on the floor, my cheeks burning.

Zecora laughed as she removed her hoof from covering her cup. “My, my. I can see he rather has caught your eye.”

I wiped my muzzle, and wished the heat in my face would go away. “Well, he asked me out, and I decided to give him a second chance.”

Zecora held out a small, homemade napkin with an apologetic smile. “I’m pleased you two did not let happenstance taint what could be a good experience.”

I took the napkin and finished cleaning off, a small smile on my face. “I am too.” I stared at the tea left in my cup, lost in my thoughts.

After a few seconds had passed, Zecora coughed gently. “I hate to break your reverie, but if you wish we can check for love poison rather quickly.”

I spluttered, and shot her an apologetic grin. “R-right. Of course.”

“The counter-potion is easy to brew, though it may taste foul to you. If you were me, I'd have tea on hoof, Cheerilee.” She trotted back to the arrangement of jars, including the one with the tentacle, and began to reorganize them.

I took another sip of tea, and settled for another look around the hut. I realized that potion ingredients covered nearly every free surface, and the few exposed spots had strange carved masks. I started trying to figure out their meaning, but then the memory of the jar with the tentacle reminded me that I might be better off not knowing.

Zecora deftly mixed several ingredients into a small cauldron, stirred them about briefly, then filled it with water. After a few seconds she nodded in satisfaction and poured the contents through a filter into a mug. “It is best to drink this with haste. Like most medicines, it has a terrible taste.”

I nodded, ears flat as I nervously peered into the mug. The liquid inside swirled innocuously, colored a deep reddish amber. A short laugh escaped as I glanced up at Zecora. “Sorry, just doesn’t look like I thought it would.” I lifted the mug and tossed back the contents in one go. That was the mistake, as the medicine burned its way slowly down my throat. I was reminded of the times as a filly when my mother would make me drink my cough medicine, and spluttered in much the same fashion. I coughed weakly for a few seconds and thumped my chest. “O-okay, so now what?”

“A period of waiting, though only a slight delay--not much more than the rest of the day. If Macintosh is taking his potion too, then he will be as well as you.” She refilled my tea and set out a small pot of honey with an apologetic smile. “I also think, though I am not sure, that you and he should remain apart until tomorrow and avoid each other’s allure. Separation traditions come from that age old tale due to the love poison's pull between male and female it became customary for the dress to have a veil.“

“I suppose that does make sense. I’d heard the legends when I was just a filly, but always thought it less... literal.” I shuddered a little, and it wasn’t from the aftertaste of the medicine.

“Such legends oft have a shred of truth--I remember hearing them in my youth.”

I started to nod, but froze as my brain reminded me of my plans for the rest of the day. “Actually... I was hoping to go by Sweet Apple Acres today, I need to return something of Apple Bloom’s. And I was hoping to talk to Macintosh, try to talk about last night.”

Zecora stared at me for a few long minutes, then nodded sharply. “Give it another hour, I think, and the poison’s sway will lose all power. In the meantime...allow me to mix up some of my tea.” She fidgeted slightly, ears pointed back. “And if I may impose, your company.”

I smiled. “Well, I suppose I could stay for a while longer. This tea is really good, and good tea is always better with friends.”

She smiled, and I realized it was one of the first genuine ones I’d seen on her since I arrived. “I would be glad to count you as such. I confess, I do not see them very much.”

I took another sip of tea. “I’d like that too. And I’m surprised, I would have thought Twilight and her friends would visit you more often.”

“Occasionally, though usually in crisis. Visits for visits’ sake are nicest, though I think it understandably sparse when it means venturing into Everfree.” Her eyes twitched away for a second, then back to mine.

I recognized that look from all the times one of my students was being evasive, but decided to not press it, and smiled. “Well, I’d be happy to come out and visit again.”

Her smile from before returned. “I would like that.” She took another sip of her tea.

I waited for her to finish the rhyme for almost five minutes before I realized she finally had nothing else to say, and finally had to concede that she wasn’t. I tried to stifle my shock with a chuckle and another sip of the tea.

Zecora simply smiled back as we let the morning pass us by.

I felt my nerves begin to fail as I trotted up the path to the Acres. The farmhouse was in view, and worryingly, a very familiar orange shape sat waiting on the porch. I very briefly thought about turning around and leaving, but this encounter was going to happen sooner or later. Might as well get it out of the way now.

I slowly made my up to the steps, not meeting Applejack’s eyes until I stood directly in front of her. “Good morning, Applejack.”

The silence was almost painful, until she finally took a breath. “So... yer datin’ my brother?”

I scuffed a hoof at the ground like a filly caught with the cookie jar open. “Umm... yes? I guess?”

She stared at me, her expression unreadable. “Ya guess. Huh.”

Something about her tone dug under my coat, and I flicked an ear. “I am.”

She leaned back slightly. “D’ya’ll actually like Mac, or is this just Applebloom’s ‘project’ spillin’ over?”

I shook my head. “I...” My mouth suddenly went dry and I paused, brain racing a mile a minute. This was the turning point, if I kept going there wouldn’t be any turning back. But then again, I’d already made that choice, last night. I swallowed the cotton and met Applejack’s eyes directly. “I do. And this has nothing to do with Apple Bloom. Not anymore.” I chuckled awkwardly as I remembered why I’d come out here in the first place. “Though Apple Bloom is what brings me by.” I reached into my saddlebags and dug out the notebook. “She left this behind after the sleepover.”

“That’s nice.” She stared at it for a second. “What is it?”

“Oh, just her notebook.”

“Oh.” She nodded. “Right, thanks. Cain’t have her fallin’ behind on her studies, she’s got places ta go.” After a second she inclined her head to me. “An’ she’s got the right teacher t’ take her there.”

I smiled and decided to mollify her. I didn't want to offend Applejack if she was trying to meet me halfway. “Well, thank you Applejack. But really, it’s all in Apple Bloom’s head. She just needs some coaxing to bring it out.”

She snorted. “You’re preachin’ t’ the choir on that one.” She tapped a hoof idly. “So... you and Mac.”

I felt myself fidget like a filly and took a calming breath. “Well after he asked me, I decided that I wanted to give it a real try.”

Applejack rolled her eyes. “This ain’t somethin’ ya ‘try’ at, Cheer. A pony’s heart ain’t somethin’ to jus’ try out like a lesson plan. Ya do more than mess up fer a day if ya don’t get it right.”

I scowled, my ears half-folded back. “Look, do I know if this is going to work? Hay no. But... last night I was happy, and I think Macintosh was too. And I don’t want to lose that.”

“That’s just ‘cause stallions got two heads to think with.“ Applejack replied with a snort.

My scowl deepened and I stamped my hoof. “Now just hold on a minute. He may be your brother, but that doesn’t give you the right to say something like that about him!”

“Ah know mah brother well enough to wanna make sure he’s safe from himself.” Her ears finally folded back as her eyes narrowed. “‘Sides, Ah ain’t quite sure you’re good enough fer him.”

I’d had enough of Applejack’s snide remarks and tossed my head. “I remember when ‘good enough’ resulted in some baked bads...”

Applejack’s only reply was an irritable snort.

I pressed my advantage and took a step forward. “You’re not your brother’s keeper, Applejack.” Though if things actually went anywhere between us, I’d find myself in such a position. Although, that might not be such a bad thing... I quietly shook my head free of the direction it was going and looked levelly at her. “I understand your concern for him, but you’re not helping.”

She narrowed her eyes again, though some of their prior conviction was missing. “Neither did a certain potion...” she muttered.

I snorted, my temper flaring up at the reminder. “Now that’s low, Applejack. That day wasn’t pleasant, for either of us.”

She took a half-step back, glancing at the ground for a second. “Ah know. Ah just wanna make sure that his head’s clear ‘afore he goes anywhere near a mare again.” She paused. “Or a stallion. Ah ain’t in a position t’judge.”

I lifted my ears and relaxed somewhat. “Well, I visited Zecora this morning, she says there’s no trace of it left in my system. She even made a counter-potion for me to make sure... maybe she could make one for Mac?”

She nodded. “Maybe... And then a good quarantine timezone.” She tapped a hoof on her chin. “A few decades oughta do it.”

I rolled my eyes and snorted good-naturedly. “How about a few days instead?”

Applejack flinched, but stood her ground. “Months?”

At that point I knew I had her beat and delivered my ultimatum. “Days, or I’ll start considering hours.”

Applejack abruptly brightened, as if she had an idea. “Yeah, a few days oughta make sure his head’s clear. Stallions’re thicker than us mares, ya know.”

I smiled broadly. “Of course, Applejack, that’s a wonderful idea.”

She paused, just as abruptly aware of the concession she’d just made. “Consarnit...”

I felt my smile tugging wider, but folded my ears back sheepishly. “Although, I was hoping to be able to talk to Macintosh today, is he around?”

She glanced up to her left, off toward the treeline. “He’s busy. With stuff. An’ things. Y’know how farmwork goes.”

I narrowed my eyes. I may not have known Applejack all that well, but years of teaching fillies and colts had taught me how to recognize when somepony’s being evasive. “Oh?”

Applejack swallowed nervously. “Eeyup. He’s, uh.....” she glanced away from me. “not comin’ up now, honest. Fer serious.”

I sighed. “Applejack, tell me the truth.” I adopted my so-called “teacher’s voice” that hadn’t yet failed to extract the truth from any of my students

She refused to my eyes. “Ah am. Element o’ Honesty, an’ all.” Her ears started flicking in time with each other, another sign she was lying through her teeth.

I just maintained my level stare. “I teach foals for a living, Applejack. Not a week goes by I don’t get one excuse or another about missing homework. Believe me, you need to be up pretty early in the morning to get one past me. Or have free punch. One of the two.”

She twitched a hoof feebly, as if to shoo somepony away. “Pretty early, that’s how early we Apples get up. T’ get t’ work.” She raised her voice. “On th’ other side of th’ farm. Eeyup!”

Surprised I hadn’t put it together sooner, I turned around to see a familiar red stallion looming behind me. My heart started pounding faster and I began to fidget again. “H-hello Mac.” I felt my ears start to fold back again and smiled a little.

“Hullo.” He glanced down, digging his forehoof at the ground a little.

“Ou-ya, ould-shay, ot-nay, e-bay, ere-hay,” Applejack whisper-shouted from behind me. “Am-scray, o-bray.”

Macintosh shook his head. “AJ, stop. Ah’ll take it from here.”

Applejack circled around behind him and started to push him toward the house. Well, more like tried, two furrows being dug out of the dirt as she strained against him. “C’mon bro, ya need a few days t’ get over yer potion an’ stuff.”

Macintosh sighed, then sat down hard, practically crushing Applejack underneath him. “AJ...”

She struggled frantically, her voice muffled by the mountain on top of her. “Mmmnf mmf mmmrrgle!”

I could literally do nothing but stare incredulously at the bizarre sight. After he pondered Applejack’s mumbles for a second, Macintosh nodded and shifted to let her up.

Applejack awkwardly got to her hooves and snorted a clod of dirt. “Consarnit ya big lummox! It’s fer yer own good!”

Macintosh didn’t reply, but simply turned his usual stare on her.

With an exasperated sigh, Applejack stamped her hooves. “Ya need th’ counter-potion ‘fore ye’re safe for sure around mares! Even Cheerliee’s sayin’ so.”

“Ah’ll take mah chances. Redheart said ah was fine.”

“Yeah, ah bet she did,” Applejack grumbled before she tossed her head. “Fine, fine. Ah wash mah hooves, an’ all that. If’n ya’ll need me, ah’ll be in the east field. Somepony ‘round here needs to check the trees,” she continued to grumble as she trotted away.

Macintosh just rolled his eyes and dusted himself off. I could only keep staring as Applejack continued toward the treeline, though I did flinch a bit when she turned around and gave me the classic ‘I’m watching you’ gesture. Once she was sure I’d gotten the message, she turned and disappeared into the trees.

Macintosh sighed and looked back to me. “Sorry ‘bout that. S’a sibling thing, I guess.”

“Right, umm...” I finally cobbled together enough of my thoughts to remember what had brought me here, and that I was still holding Applebloom’s notebook in my hoof. “Oh, right!” I held it out to him with a smile that I dearly hoped didn’t look forced. “Apple Bloom forgot this at my house the other night. I wanted to bring it back.”

Macintosh took it, but kept that stare leveled at me. Not that I was complaining, but it still felt awkward. “And?”

I sighed in resignation. “Well, I wanted... needed to talk to you, about last night.”

He was motionless, except for a very slight fidget of his hooves.

“I just... I was having such a wonderful time, but then... the memories came back again.” I glanced at the ground, my cheeks a little warm.

“Oh.” He coughed awkwardly. “M’sorry ‘bout that again. Ah’ve talked t’ Apple Bloom, she won’t be doin’ anything like this again.”

I waved my hoof, suddenly aware of how what I said must’ve sounded. “No, that’s not what I meant. I mean, I...” I was rambling, and huffed irritably as I took a breath to try again. “I just wanted to know if... if it was really ‘us’ last night.”

“It was.” A small smile made its way onto his muzzle. “Ah’m usually that terrible, datin’ an’ all. “

I felt my smile return, along with the warmth in my cheeks, and dug a hoof at the ground. “Well, I suppose...” I tried to convince myself that I could do this. It was such a simple thing, and yet fought my efforts to say it at every turn. “Maybe... maybe trying again would be nice. You know, to make sure and all.”

Macintosh smiled. “Eeyup.” As I peered closer, I could have sworn his face was a slight shade darker red.

“Well, would tomorrow work for you? Say around five?”

He thought for a few seconds. “Five-thirty? Gonna be hot tomorrow, Ah, uh … need t’ clean up first.”

I stared, my thoughts occupied by images of him coming back from a hard day’s work. Maybe I should look into expanding my shower... I snapped out of it in time to realize I’d been staring for too long. “O-of course. Five-thirty would be just fine.” I really hoped that hadn’t come out wrong.

Macintosh snorted in amusement, then nodded and turned toward the barn. It may have been my imagination, but he seemed to be in more of a hurry than his usual steady pace.

I managed to resist the urge to facehoof. He’d noticed. Well, at least it had just been him. I turned and started to trot back into town, and noticed that I had a little more spring in my step than normal. I was definitely looking forward to tomorrow.